Monday, August 17, 2026

📰 News

TRU and the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology have signed an agreement aimed at expanding Indigenous education. The memorandum of understanding took effect August 11 and creates a framework for the two institutions to develop projects together. Possibilities include Indigenous-language credentials and TRU programs delivered with NVIT on campus, online or through other formats. The agreement also commits both schools to culturally safe practices while preserving their independence. (Castanet)

A new Western Canada Women’s Conference is coming to TRU from October 14 to 16. The Interior Women’s Centre Society and the Canadian Association of Women Centre Societies are organizing the first annual gathering, which will bring researchers, service providers, policymakers and community leaders together. Sessions will focus on gender equity, access to health care, economic advancement, safety and reproductive justice. (Castanet)

A proposed Upper Sahali land change is heading to a large public hearing. Kamloops council voted 7–1 to advance an application that would remove nearly 30 hectares near Albert McGowan Park from the Agricultural Land Reserve. The owner has submitted reports arguing the land is unsuitable for farming and could support housing; an opposing petition has drawn nearly 3,000 signatures. The September 1 hearing will be held at Sandman Centre because the City expects more attendees than city hall can accommodate. The Agricultural Land Commission would make the final exclusion decision if council supports the application afterward. (Castanet)

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🏛️ What Changed

Interior Health services have resumed in Clinton after being suspended during the Pear Lake wildfire evacuation. The community’s evacuation order was downgraded to an alert Saturday, and health services began returning Sunday after being offline since July 24. Home Health patients can call 1-800-707-8550 to arrange an appointment, although not every local service is available yet. (CFJC Today)

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🚨 Safety

The Ainslie Creek wildfire advanced about 1.2 kilometres along its southern flank over the weekend. The 65,086-hectare fire reached the Alexandra Tunnel area and sent debris and rocks onto Highway 1 as activity increased Saturday. Crews contained a four-hectare spot fire near Gilt Creek, completed a fuel-free line between the Fraser and Anderson rivers and kept structural protection in place around Prospect Creek and Nooaitch. Warmer, drier weather could increase activity again. (Castanet)

Several planned ignitions are being prepared around the Pear Lake wildfire, but they will proceed only if conditions are suitable. BC Wildfire Service says Saturday rain provided short-term help on parts of the 159,317-hectare fire before a return to hot, dry weather. Proposed burns would connect the fire to existing control lines on its south, northwest and eastern flanks, while crews continue monitoring and mopping up near 70 Mile House and Green Lake. (Castanet)

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📅 Events

The Kamloops Events directory has 398 listings from 24 local calendars. Here are five things happening Monday.

Park Play Days comes to West Highlands Park from 10 a.m. to noon. The free family drop-in brings games and activities to 1185 Links Way. (City of Kamloops)

The Summer Reading Club wraps up with a party at the North Kamloops Library. Families can drop in for temporary tattoos, crafts, sensory bins, games, prizes and a clue hunt. (TNRL)

Tech Help Cafe offers one-on-one help with phones, tablets and laptops. Teen Tech Tutors from KPAL will be at the downtown Kamloops Library, with snacks available while visitors wait. The program is for adults. (TNRL)

Oscars Hollow plays Music in the Park at 7 p.m. The free Canadiana set takes place at the Riverside Park Rotary Bandshell. (City of Kamloops)

ArtZone Summer Camp begins a five-day run at Sun Peaks. The day camp combines art, movement and group activities from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Friday. (Sun Peaks Resort)

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🛣️ Roads & Weather

☀️ Monday is expected to be sunny with a high near 32°C. The latest AQHI reading was 3.59, in the moderate-risk range, and a yellow air-quality warning remains active. Tuesday should bring a mix of sun and cloud with another high near 32°C.

Wildfire activity may affect travel through the Fraser Canyon. Debris and rock fell onto Highway 1 as the Ainslie Creek fire moved south over the weekend. Check conditions immediately before leaving and expect fire crews to remain active in the corridor. (Castanet)

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🎮 Daily Game

Hexle: identify the exact colour from its hexadecimal code.