Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Cathy McLeod brought welcome news to Forest Grove and Cariboo Regional District Area H residents on April 11.
McLeod presented the 94 Lions with a $60,000 grant to be put toward the purchase of a new ice plant for the curling rink.
She explained the federal government recognizes the challenges facing small communities, as well as large urban areas.
“In 2012, a decision was made to create community initiatives regarding aging infrastructure and other needs, such as broadband access and more physicians in rural areas.
“It is important to have recreation in a community and curling is a sport for all ages. I congratulate those who worked on the application for the grant. I realize it is not an easy task and the timing was perfect, as this was a one-time grant.”
94 Lions president Chris Cummings and secretary Doug Smith were the grant writers.
Cummings spoke on the Lions’ mandate to serve the community with various projects that benefit everyone.
Smith reviewed the history of curling in the Grove where it has been an important part of winter since the early 1950s, when it was played on an outdoor rink.
Students from Forest Grove Elementary School were in attendance at the ceremony. Curling lessons were an important part of the school’s physical education program.
Also in attendance was CRD Area H Director Margo Wagner and representatives from the Legion, Ladies Auxiliary, Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department, the school’s Community and Parents Advisory Council, as well as the Recreation Society, Walking Club and 50 Plus.