Meridian Source - April 2, 2020 by Meridian Source

Thursday, April 2, 2020

VOLUME 2 I ISSUE 40

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Thank you to our readers for sharing these amazing photos with us during these difficult times. We encourage everyone to continue to share how they are practicing social distancing via the Meridian Sourceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page! Stay safe everyone!

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Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

Sask records first COVID-19 related death MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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On Sunday, March 29, two Saskatchewan residents, located in separate parts of the province, died in hospital as a result of complications related to COVID-19. The two fatalities represent the first deaths in Saskatchewan tied to the COVID19 pandemic. One was related to travel. Both people were in their 70s. As of March 31, the province of Saskatchewan has 20 new, confirmed cases of COVID19, bringing the provincial total to 184. Five people are in hospital across the province, including four in acute care and one in the intensive care unit (ICU): - One inpatient case is located in the north, and three in Saskatoon. - One ICU case is located in Regina. - At least eight cases are a result of local transmission. The rest are travelrelated or clusterrelated due to exposure at mass gatherings. - Five cases concern individuals 19 years of age and under; all other cases are adults. - 80 cases are in the

File Photo 20-44 age range; 62 are in the 45-64 range; and 29 are in the 65-plus range. - 55 per cent of the cases are males and 45 per cent are females. - Six more people have recovered from the virus, bringing the provincial total to 14. There may be more cases yet to be reported to Public Health. To date, 10,126 COVID-19 tests have been performed in Saskatchewan. The province continues to be a national leader in testing, with an aggressive strategy aimed at identifying and preventing the spread of the virus as quickly and effectively as possible. Case surveillance and testing information, including regional locations of confirmed/ presumptive cases are available at www. saskatchewan.ca/ COVID19.

Government Redeploying Staff to Focus on Priorities The Government of Saskatchewan is taking steps to identify key skill sets in all ministries in an effort to deploy additional staff to critical functional areas. Now, supplemental resources are required to handle contact tracing needs, staff call centres and public inquiries. The province will continue to allocate as many resources as possible to address the COVID-19 challenge. The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) already has up to 150 people involved in contact tracing. Over the coming days, 50 additional staff from across the government will be moved into this key role. The need for additional resources will be assessed as the situa-

tion evolves. Multiple Testing Sites Open Across the Province As of March 30, there are more than 40 communities in Saskatchewan where COVID19 testing is available. Testing locations will continue to be expanded as demand warrants. The current list of communities where testing is available can be found on www.saskatchewan.ca/ COVID19 under Testing Information. Testing is by referrals only. If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms (fever, cough or breathing issues), please use the online self-assessment tool at www.saskatchewan.ca/ COVID19 and call 811 or your family physician. Public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov. sk.ca.

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Thursday, April 2, 2020

THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS CMO of Lloydminster Hospital offers thanks to community LLOYDMINSTER REGION HEALTH FOUNDATION

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Following the COVID-19 outbreak, the Lloydminster Region Health F o u n d a t i o n ( L R HF ), through their commu-

nity donors, were able to provide healthcare staff with meals, coffee, cards of encouragement, and personal protective equipment with more to come. The generosity of the community compelled

Dr. Kevin Govender, Chief Medical Officer, Lloydminster Hospital to provide a thank you to the public. “I want to extend the sincerest gratitude from all of Lloydminster and area healthcare profes-

sionals to the community of Lloydminster for their overwhelming support during these trying times. With the generous help of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation donors and numerous members of our fantastic community, we’ve been able t o acqu ire the personal protective equipment that we need

to provide safe care to our patients,” he said. “Your efforts are much appreciated. I want to take this opportunity to plead with all of you to exercise social distancing during this time. It’s the only way to ensure that we minimize the spread of COVID-19. Stay safe!” Govender, along with other healthcare pro-

fessionals, is urging the public to maintain social distancing guidelines to keep each other and our community as a whole safe. The LRHF will keep taking donations throughout the coming months of uncertainty to continue to provide healthcare professionals with the support that may be required.

COVID-19 by the numbers Alberta (as of March 31) Zone Calgary Edmonton North Central South

Total Cases 422 164 46 45 12

Saskatchewan (as of March 31) Region North/Far North Central Saskatoon South Regina

Total Cases 40 9 90 6 39

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

Quarantine self-care: how to remain sane MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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During these difficult times, it’s normal to experience anxiety, insomnia, sadness and despair after a few days or weeks of being cooped up at home. With mental and physical health being a top priority, here are a few tips to help ease any symptoms of depression you may feel during this period. Stay in touch Whether it’s via phone, text message, video chat or social media, there are many ways to connect with loved ones while you’re in quarantine. Besides, the pandemic is a good reason to reach out to old friends. During these stressful times, they’ll likely appreciate the distraction. If you’re working from home, make sure to schedule virtual meetings with your clients and co-workers. This will help create a sense of normalcy and keep up morale. Take care of yourself Focus on maintaining your physical health as well as your mental health.

File Photo Wash your hands often, eat balanced meals, drink lots of water, exercise daily and get enough sleep. Additionally, remember to laugh. Lighten the mood at home by watching a comedy, listening to a funny podcast or reading a silly comic book. Seek help If you’re in self-isolation, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the resources available to you. This includes reaching out to health professionals and dedicated volunteers who are just a phone call or a keyboard click away.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

StartUp Zooms in for small businesses GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. StartUp Lloydminster is thinking outside the box to help entre-

preneurs and small businesses outlast the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization is touting the use of

Zoom video conference technology, used to hold their first virtual annual general meeting on March 26, as a way for clients to network while maintaining social distancing. “We’re seeing that as a very popular resource tool to use,” said new StartUp chair Sharon Herbus. “It’s definitely different times and it’s allowing us opportunities to learn new things and provide different ways of communication as we move forward.” The technology fits StartUp’s role to support entrepreneurs by offering business coaching, networking opportunities and professional learning events. Herbus says COVID19 is an opportunity for the organization to provide support and help people through this challenge. “It’s an opportunity for new businesses to look at new educational opportunities or new ways for them to connect as well,” she said. That was the theme of the AGM, also voiced by Lloydminster mayor Gerald Aalbers, who offered greetings from the city. Aalbers noted the use of Zoom is a historic moment for StartUp and one that shows the important role StartUp can play as COVID-19 takes its

toll on the economy. “We are in some very interesting times. We’ve got some challenges that lie ahead of us and I think StartUp Lloydminster will play a huge role moving forward once we get past the pandemic,” said Aalbers. The organization will be aided in 2020 by the addition of new board members Jason Whiting, Ken Rutherford and Michelle Benning by acclamation at the AGM. Former board chair Diane Harms will stay on as a returning board member. The new StartUp board held its first meeting of the year following the AGM. The board will work with StartUp partners including Alberta Innovates and its resident regional technology development advisor, Kara Johnston. “StartUp Lloydminster and the regional Innovation Alberta network is going to play a critical role in the coming months and years as we rebound from the economic disaster that we are facing right now,” said Johnston. StartUp is also entering the second year of its threeyear partnership with Alberta Innovates. The virtual AGM was moderated by acting executive director Gle-

nys Reeves-Gibbs who touched on some of the highlights of the past year. “Our events have been very popular, especially our lunch and learns,” she said. Reeves-Gibbs says StartUp will continue to host their popular regular lunch and learns during the COVID-19 crisis via Zoom. On funding, she told the AGM StartUp Canada gave the Lloyd chapter a grant to host a workshop they called a “design jam” on how businesses can build resilience during this turbulent downturn. “We had 12 business people and city people call and non-profit people who were involved in this, and they came up with some excellent ideas on how we can support businesses in these difficult times,” said Reeves-Gibbs. The City of Lloydminster is also providing some funding in 2020. StartUp Lloydminster helped 136 coaching clients in the past year and of those, 46 got to the business launch stage and are operating today. They also served 26 communities through their business services in the two border provinces and expanded their online marketing. StartUp hosted the first Open City Women in Business in March 2019 to coin-

cide with International Women’ s Day, and has expanded their online marketing. “Kudos to Rhiannon Greening who posts events on What’s Happening in Lloydminster,” said ReevesGibbs. StartUp also works with Community Futures, next door to their new location and collaborative workspace they took over in January. “The other exciting thing that’s happened to us this year is Community Futures was awarded a $1.1 million grant to promote female entrepreneurship,” said Reeves-Gibbs. The project covers 50 Community Futures, with Lloydminster as the lead Community Futures for the project. One of the metrics is to develop Project Gazelle Incubators, and StartUp Lloyd is hosting the first Project Gazelle incubator. “That means there’s been some enhancements in regards to our business coaching services. Equipment enhancements are coming shortly,” said Reeves-Gibbs. “We are excited to be the first Project Gazelle incubator through the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy for northern Alberta and northwestern Saskatchewan.”

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

A message from the Lloydminster RCMP INSP. LEE BRACHMANN LLOYDMINSTER RCMP

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With the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, I know there are bound to be questions about policing in the City of Lloydminster. I wanted to take a moment to let you all know what the Lloydminster RCMP is doing in order to, hopefully, allay some of your public safety concerns. First and foremost, please know and trust that the Lloydminster RCMP is still here and we are continuing to protect and serve Lloydminster. During this time, some of our services are being delivered in a different manner than usual; however, we are providing a full spectrum of policing services. For instance, if

your matter does not require the physical presence of a police officer, we have a group of officers who will follow up with you via telephone and other applicable electronic means to ensure your complaint is logged and investigated. If your complaint requires the physical presence of police officers, they will be dispatched as per usual. Our dispatchers and police officers will make the decision whether or not a call requires a police officer to attend. All you have to do is call. When you call our dispatchers, they will ask you questions about any potential COVID-19 risk that may be present. They are doing this for the protection of our

police officers, who are equipped with personal protective equipment. If you forget to tell the dispatchers something about your COVID-19 risk, it is essential you tell this information to a police officer as soon as possible so they can take necessary infection prevention steps to protect themselves. Remember, it is very important that our officers remain safe and healthy so they can continue to deliver essential and important policing services in our city. If you physically attend the RCMP detachment, you will notice that we have signage on our inner door and we are restricting access into our detachment. At this time, non-essential criminal record

checks and civil finger-

prints are being deferred.

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OUR DOORS MAY BE CLOSED, BUT WE’RE STILL HERE FOR YOU. SGI branch issuing and claims ofﬁces are closed to the public due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but assistance is still available. Here’s how: •

Phone or email us, or visit MySGI.ca. Many transactions can be done online, like renewing your plates, ﬁling an auto claim, making a driver’s licence payment and more.

•

You can also contact your licence issuer or SGI CANADA broker, or call SGI’s Customer Service Centre at 1-844-855-2744.

•

Appointments are available for transactions that must be done in person.

Other service impacts: •

Road test appointments have been temporarily suspended, but written tests are still available by appointment.

•

SGI will continue to provide appraisal services for vehicles that are non-driveable. All other auto claims will be dispatched to a collision repair partner for appraisal.

Visit sgi.sk.ca/covid-19 for full details. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to serve you as best as possible during these difﬁcult circumstances.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Provincial investment kick-starts KXL pipeline MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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A $1.5 billion government investment in the Keystone XL (KXL) p i p e l i n e p ro j e c t w i l l accelerate construction, ensuring it is operational by 2023. The Government of Alberta has finalized an agreement with Calgarybased TC Energy Corporation to provide financial support to accelerate the construction of the KXL pipeline starting April 1. This investment will include $1.5 billion in equity investment in 2020 followed by a $6 billion loan guarantee in 2021. The project is expected to be completed and in service in 2023. This agreement is the culmination of six months of negotiations, as well as rigorous vetting by government officials and outside industry experts to ensure the success of this project while minimizing risk to taxpayers. The gover nment is backstopping the projFROM PAGE 7

However, if you require an urgent criminal record check and you are employed in the healthcare field, your criminal record and vulnerable sector checks will be processed as a priority, so you can continue your

ect to enable TC Energy to begin immediate construction on the Alberta portion of the pipeline. This will ensure the earliest possible date of completion.

The project will create over 1,400 direct and 5,400 indirect jobs in Alberta during construction and will generate an estimated $30 billion in tax and royalty revenues for future generations of Albertans and Canadians. “We cannot wait for the end of the pandemic and the global recession to act. There are steps we must make now to build our future

focussed on jobs, the economy, and pipelines,” said Premier Jason Kenney on Tuesday. “Today, we are moving forward with a project that is essential to our future prosperity. This investment in Keystone XL is a bold move to re-take control of our province’s economic destiny and put it firmly back in the hands of the owners of our natural resources, the people of Alberta. The Government of Alberta is confident that this is a wise investment. After construction is complete, we will be able to sell our shares at profit. In addition, the project will have a net return of over $30 billion to the Alberta taxpayer through royalties and higher prices for Alberta oil in the next 20 years.” Once operational, Keystone XL will provide North America with a stable, secure supply of crude oil, reducing reliance on supply from OPEC. The pipeline will carry at least 830,000 barrels per

day of Alberta crude, significantly increasing the province’s takeaway capacity and helping to protect the value of its energy resources. Right now, Alberta’s oil export capacity is limited by the lack of pipelines. Without the ability to export more oil, there is no incentive for producers to invest in more production in Alberta. Construction will begin immediately in Alberta, at the Canada-U.S. border, in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. The Keystone XL Pipeline offers a safe, reliable and environmentally responsible way to deliver crude oil from western Canadian oil fields to Gulf Coast refineries in the U.S. The project will run from Hardisty, Alberta, to Steele City, Nebraska and will cover 1,947 kilometres. Given the significance of this issue, the Government will present a related motion for debate and vote this week.

important work. When you attend the RCMP Detachment, please call our dispatch line. You will then speak with a dispatcher who will assess your request and your COVID-19 risk and provide you with instructions about how

we can best serve you. Rest assured the Lloydminster RCMP Detachment is here and we are continuing our task of keeping the community safe during this uncertain time. While we do this, we are also doing everything we can to limit the

spread of COVID-19. We encourage everyone to support our health care partners by doing their part as well. Please stay home, follow the direction of healthcare experts, and keep yourselves and your families safe and healthy.

“

We cannot wait for the end of the pandemic and the global recession to act. There are steps we must make now to build our future focussed on jobs, the economy, and pipelines.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

During these turbulent times, we would like to highlight the continued courage and commitment of everyone who works in the health care, law enforcement, food service and utility sectors. We are extremely grateful.

PAGE 10 Thursday, April 2, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint

5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 Toll Free: 1-800-327-3899 Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday The MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday. All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion. Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.

Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca

Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca

Sports Editor Jamie Harkins sports@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Catherine Kruining catherine@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca

Publisher Reid Keebaugh Production Manager Amanda Richard Classified advertising admin@meridiansource.ca Newspaper delivery If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.

2017

Leave it to Weaver COVID-19 can’t keep us down!

EDITOR Taylor Weaver

So, as all of you are aware by now, the world as we know it just got flipped-turned upside down, so I’d like to take a minute, just sit right there, I’ll tell you how the Meridian Source ain’t goin’ nowhere. These are monumental moments in the lives of people all over the globe, and through all of the negatives and unknowns, we will continue to print on Thursdays and keep our website and social media as up-to-date as possible.

We reached out on Facebook last week asking readers to share photos showing how they are practicing social distancing, and the response was overwhelmingly positive! Whether it’s tic-tactoe through a window with Grandma, baking and arts and crafts, or visiting a grandparent via a second-floor balcony because in-person contact isn’t possible, we’re all in this together. Those reader photos helped shape today’s front page, with a little more visual assistance from Lloyd’s well-known “swamp sign” on 75 Ave south of Best Buy.

I’ve personally seen some very positive messages and videos on social media from local businesses and residents, and I can’t wait to see what else is being cooked up! I c o u l d n’t h e l p bu t giggl e watching COVID-19-related Instagram videos from Spiro’s Restaurant and Wayside Dental. Check them out; they’re hilarious and sure to make you smile. Keep sharing those messages of positivity, stay inside as much as humanly possible, and be good to thy neighbour! See you next week, and make sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more news and COVID-19 updates.

Leeway from Lloyd Quarantined then and now STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

Travellers returning from other countries now have to self isolate for 14 days under the Quarantine Act. That may seem odd to people who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any symptoms or mild symptoms, but the Act is there to protect others from illness. That means no walks outside or allowing visitors to your residence. Being quarantined made perfect sense to me and my sister way back in public school in Ontario when we both came down with whooping cough. Unlike COVID-19, which is a virus, whooping cough is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria and is a serious respiratory infection. Like COVID-19, it is also highly contagious. The distinctive hack-

ing cough left us with zero doubt we were sick and had to stay home. I believe a quarantine notice was posted on our door by health authorities and I have a copy of the quarantine order in my memorabilia in a passport-size booklet. Also unlike COVID19, which affects seniors and people with compromised immune systems the worst, whooping cough is a disease of children and youth. Our parents were in little danger of catching it from us. It was hard being quarantined as kids when no one else that we knew of had the disease. With COVID-19, everyone is in the same boat and there is no stigma to being quarantined, as we faced as a single-family case. Staying inside the house was not an issue as we spent most of the time lying down and

reaching for the Kleenex. Being quarantined, we also missed a week of school. Being quarantined for COVID-19 isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as Spartan as whooping cough in the late 1950s w he n t he r e w as limited black and white TV reception. Most of all who are social distancing at home to stay healthy can stay entertained with 24/7 Internet, cellphones and TV and make use of all that home gym equipment that collected dust. We can also walk around the block while keeping our distance from others. The downturn of being quarantined with my sister is that she destroyed me in Chinese Checkers. I think I beat her at pick up sticks though! I knew we were getting better when I resumed cheat ing playing the card game Fish and she caught me doing it!!

Thursday, April 2, 2020

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Thursday, April 2, 2020

Church Directory

Sask announces Social Services Pandemic Response MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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On Tuesday, the Saskatchewan government announced the Ministry of Social Services Pandemic Response. The response will support vulnerable Saskatchewan citizens and the organizations that serve them by leveraging existing resources within the system, adapting policies and allocating new resources. “Our government is committed to providing supports to vulnerable citizens in Saskatchewan through this time of uncertainty,” said Social Services Minister Paul Merriman. “The Social Services Pandemic Response provides additional funding to emergency shelters across the province while leveraging existing resources, including vacant social housing units, to ensure each client has the support they require.” The Social Services Pandemic Response includes measures to provide additional funding to emergency shelters, modifies service delivery models to accommodate capacity pressures due to physical distancing and the need for clients to selfisolate. The response also includes measures to ease the burden on existing clients as they work with the Ministry of Social Services. Pandemic Emergency Shelter Support The government is announcing one-time

additional funding of $171,000 targeted at meeting extra cost pressure emergency shelters are experiencing as they continue to serve those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. This brings funds raised for emergency shelters to a total of $3.93 million. Organizations receiving the increase are the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter; YWCA Regina My Aunt’s Place; YWCA Prince Albert; YWCA Saskatoon; Lighthouse Saskatoon; Lighthouse North Battleford; Salvation Army Saskatoon; Salvation Army Regina; Soul’s Harbour Regina and Soul’s Harbour Moose Jaw. These organizations currently provide more than 300 beds for individuals who need emergency shelter and support. Modified Service Delivery Model The Emergency Shelter Response also includes a modified delivery model adapting the Cold Weather Strategy to respond to pressures created by COVID-19. When emergency shelters are unable to meet the needs of an individual or family because of capacity pressures, Social Services will support those in need with funds for emergency hotel stays and will work to transition clients to permanent housing. If a client is required by Public Health to self-isolate due to COVID-19 symptoms or exposure, that per-

son will be transitioned to safe accommodation such as a hotel or an individual housing unit. Individuals who have, or are suspected of having, COVID19 and lack money to meet their basic needs should apply for any Federal Benefits they would be eligible for. Those needing immediate emergency help, such as food or shelter, can contact the local service centre, their worker or the Client Service Centre at 1-866-221-5200. Support for Children, Youth and Families Social Services is acting on the request from the Saskatchewan Youth in Care and Custody Network to delay transitions to independence for young people. This means that any youth that “ages out of care” during the COVID-19 pandemic will not be transitioned out of their current housing. Caseworkers are contacting impacted youth and their caregivers to ensure that supports and services continue. To help families receiving the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), any families who were receiving part-time benefits because their children were attending school will receive full-time benefits, retroactive to March 1. The CCS helps parents with low to moderate incomes with the costs of licensed child care. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

It’s all about good taste, isn’t it? PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

During this time of alarming updates and depressing news, I think it’s more important than ever to take a moment to relax and breathe. I write this tale in hopes of bringing you that moment. Recently, I read of a burglar who hunkered down for more than six weeks in the roof of a Washington State grocery store. Apparently, the man was discovered when employees of the market complained the legs of an unidentified man had been seen dangling from the ceiling. I can understand that. If I spotted the legs of an unidentified man dangling from the ceil-

ing at my workplace, I might voice a few complaints too. Surveillance video showed the man skulking through the aisles late at night, dressed in black and filling a large duffel bag with stolen goods before crawling back into the loft through a vent. After four hours of searching the ventilation system, authorities found the man lurking in the rafters with his latest spoils; 28 cartons of cigarettes and a wheel of artisanal cheese worth $394.97. (Perfect example of fact being stranger than fiction.) While doubtless a thief and most certainly a trespasser, you have to admit this guy had good taste. Clearly, he didn’t choose cheddar, make off with mozzarella, or

vamoose with Velveeta. Nope, he crept into the artisanal section of the market and rolled a $400 wheel of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese into his sack. Of course, I have to wonder how he’d eventually sell the majority for profit. Do people buy cheese on the black market? “Psst, hey bud,” our robber might hiss from a darkened alley, flipping back the front panels of his long, black trench coat to reveal several crumbling wedges of Monterey Jack tucked into the inside pockets. “You wanna buy some cheese?” Then, after a furtive scan of the area for coppers, he’d whisper dramatically, “It’s artisanal.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Saskatchewan government rolls outs pandemic response FROM PAGE 12

New Saskatchewan Housing Benefit The Saskatchewan Housing Corporation began accepting applications for the new

Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB) on April 1. The SHB is a federal-provincial program delivered through the National Housing Strategy. It aligns with

the strategy’s principles of people, communities, and partnerships. It also aligns with the province’s focus on helping people in the greatest housing need.

Take Part. Get Paid. The next provincial election is coming up in 2020, and we need workers! Did you know that you can make up to $230 for working election day, and even more for working during advance voting? To be eligible to work you must be:

A Saskatchewan resident (lived in SK for at least 6 months before the date election was called)

At least 16 years old for most election jobs

Apply online at elections.sk.ca/takepart or by calling 1.877.958.8683.

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SHB is a monthly benefit available to eligible households, including seniors, families, couples and singles. It will be available to Saskatchewan renters who: - rent from a community housing provider, such as a non-profit housing provider or cooperative; - pay more than 50

per cent of household income on rent and utilities; - have incomes and assets below the program limits; and - are no t re c e i vi ng another government benefit to help with their housing/shelter costs. Clients will receive a benefit based on their household composition:

- Eligible households that require one bedroom, such as single individuals or couples, will receive $150 per month. - Households that require two bedrooms will receive $200 per month. - Households that require three or more bedrooms will receive $250 per month.

FROM PAGE 13

and raspberry jam. Although Elvis Presley too, enjoyed outlandish foods such as bacon, peanut butter and grape jelly sandwiches, I still think it’s revolting. Nonetheless, my uncle was quick to defend himself. “People eat turkey with cranberry sauce all the time and no one thinks THEY’RE crazy,” he protested, tearing off another hunk of his preferred snack. “No one gives THEM a hard time.” To punctuate his

remarks, he reached f o r a ba g o f Sa l ti ne s perched beside him at the dinner table, buttered one lavishly and stuck a dog crumble on top. “There’s not a particle of difference between the two,” he finished, deftly tossing the cracker into the drooling mouth of a hound waiting patiently at his feet. Great. Not only has the man damaged his o w n ta ste bu d s, h e ’s corrupted the dog’s too! Good taste?

This rather bizarre tale leads me to mention another taste peculiarity I’ve taken note of within my own family. Of course, while I classify it as a peculiarity, my uncle Dick believes he is, and I quote, “a discerning connoisseur.” However, this man, who unashamedly enjoys the occasional peanut butter and onion sandwich (VILE), has also acquired a great fondness for the very same snack, but prepared with bologna

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Sports

Bobcat looks forward to another shot with Warriors JAMIE HARKINS

WRITER

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Jagger Firkus can’t wait to get back on the ice.

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You’re so much more comfortable because your team knows you’re not just a guy who’s there. You’re there to get better and help your team.

The Lloydminster Inland Steel midget AAA Bobcats centre/ right wing finished the 2019-20 season on a seven-game call-up with the Western Hockey League’s Moose Jaw Warriors. Firkus played 12 games in total with the Warriors this past winter tallying one goal and two points. “I’m more of a playmaker who finds open teammates and makes other teams come toward me,” said Firkus, who scored 10 goals and recorded 34 points in 30 games with the Bobcats. “But, with the Warriors, I had to focus more on defence because there is so much more skill up in that league. You have to make sure you’re always paying attention to where you are on the ice.”

Photo by Nick Pettigrew/Moose Jaw Warriors

Jagger Firkus played 12 games with the Moose Jaw Warriors this season.

Firkus, 15, was drafted 82nd overall by the Warriors last spring following an outstanding final year with the Lloydminster bantam AAA Bobcats that saw the Irma product pot 33 goals and 65 points in 30 games. The five-foot-eight and 146-pound forward also doesn’t shy away from big matches, producing 20 points in nine playoff contests the past two seasons as well as six goals and eight points at the prestigious Mac’s Tournament over the Christmas holidays. “That was the (best) experience of my life so far just being in the hotel for the whole week with your team,” he said, noting the coaches

kept them game-ready off the ice leading to a breakout performance by his line that includes Chase Renton and Caden Cabana. “It’s obviously great hockey there because it’s such an elite tournament. It was just a good experience. I loved it.” The Warriors made their first call to Firkus in mid-to-late November for an away game against the Medicine Hat Tigers and a home date with the Calgary Hitmen. He went back up to the Warriors on Jan. 24 and 25 for a home-andhome series versus the Swift Current Broncos, where the rookie scored his first WHL goal. “It was just a great shot by my D-man that

I got a stick on and it deflected into the net,” said Firkus. “It helps your confidence a ton. You’re so much more comfortable because your team knows you’re not just a guy who’s there. You’re there to get better and help your team.” Firkus’ last game with the Warriors came on March 10 against the Saskatoon Blades with the WHL, pausing the season shortly afterwards due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Warriors coaching staff has since told Firkus to build strength over the summer months and come into camp next fall with the same work ethic that got him this first shot at major junior hockey.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

A means to an end for the Davidson Leader SPORTS EDITOR JAMIE HARKINS

I don’t know if I

should feel sorry for Tara de Ryk or happy that she made it out. What I do know is

her unconventional method of keeping the Davidson Leader alive worked.

Her second goal of finding a new path in life away from the newspaper business also came through. Unable to sell the Leader after years of trying, de Ryk printed an article on the front page of the Nov. 27 issue entitled ‘win your own publication’ that received comment from across Saskatchewan. In the story, de Ryk offered the Leader for the total cost of $1 to the winner of a 500word essay contest on why they would be the perfect fit to take over the paper. Dan Senick, the owner of a community newspaper in Saskatoon, took the prize. He has promised to bring new life to the 116-year old publication while also keeping its favourite features including Flo Shaw’s column, the Yesteryear News and nearby town reports intact. This is a victory for de Ryk, but I’m not sure

if I can say the same for community newspapers. However, I do wish both de Ryk and Senick the best. I got my start as a full-time newspaper reporter at the Leader almost eight years ago. For 26 months, I lived and worked in the small town of 1,000 trying to bring their stories to life on the printed page. De Ryk taught me a lead doesn’t need to explain the whole story, but should be kept as lively as possible to drag the readers in. She also showed me how to properly design a page, what the benefits of a good headline are and the importance of never including partisan attacks when reporting on politics. Most importantly, she taught me that community newspapers have to be cheerleaders and supporters of the people it serves. But, to still remember the absolute need to remain objective and honest.

Newspapers appear to be on the way out. It’s a bummer to those who value community journalism, like you, dear readers, and to the writers who want to share local stories. A September 2018 report by Public Policy Forum notes 169 local media outlets closed and another 54 reduced services between 2008 and 2016. The number of articles covering city hall during this time declined 38 per cent while court reporting fell 30 per cent. De Ryk cut her teeth as a court reporter in Alberta before moving to Saskatoon with her husband in 1999. She spent the next 20 years travelling the one-hour trek along Highway 11 between the River City and Davidson to write, edit, sell advertising, design and even distribute the Leader. CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

PAGE 17 Thursday, April 2, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Agriculture

Govts. announce crop insurance extension shared 40 per cent by participating producers, 36 per cent by the Government of Can-

ada and 24 per cent by the Government of Saskatchewan. Administrative expenses are

fully funded by governments, 60 per cent by Canada and 40 per cent by Saskatchewan.

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

..................................

On Monday, Federal Agriculture and AgriFood Minister, MarieClaude Bibeau and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit, announced the deadline to apply, reinstate, cancel or make changes to Crop Insurance contracts is extended to April 13. “Canada is fortunate to have such dedicated, hard-working farmers who put high-quality food on our tables daily,” said Bibeau. “By offering Saskatchewan producers this extension, we are giving them the flexibility they need to get their job done in challenging times like these.” “It is critical for our government to continue to support Saskatchewan agriculture,” Marit said. “We understand the challenges producers faced over the last year including evolv-

ing situations like the COVID-19 pandemic that continue to add to these uncertainties.” Producers interested in Crop Insurance coverage for the 2020 year now have an additional two weeks to finalize their contracts. Extending the Crop Insurance deadline gives producers more time to prepare and make decisions regarding all aspects of their business, including risk management. Despite new guidelines concerning service delivery, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) continues to support Saskatchewan producers as we approach the 2020 growing season. Knowledgeable staff are available to assist producers

by phone at 1-888-9350000 or email at customer.service@scic.ca. Current customers can also use SCIC’s online application, CropConnect, available at www.scic.ca/cropconnect, to enter insurance selections, add or delete crops, change program options and choose coverage levels. Crop Insurance is a Business Risk Management program supported through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3 billion commitment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada’s agrifood and agri-products sectors. U nd e r Cr op Insu r ance, premiums for most programs are

20041UU0

FROM PAGE 16

Leaving the industry must have been a challenge, but I understand the need to move into something new. I just wish a young aspiring journalist would have come along sooner to take the paper off her hands before the ‘win your own publication’ contest. Either way, I guess, the job is done. De Ryk is free and the Leader continues.

TRIPLE PROTECTION 15W-40

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Lakeland Ag Sciences dean wins dairy award MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

..................................

Lakeland College was over the moon on Monday as they announced Josie Van Lent was honoured with the John J Kennelly Western Canadian Dairy Seminar Award of Merit. The award was presented to Van Lent, dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences, at the Western Canadian Dairy Seminar in Red Deer on March 11. The award is given annually to recognize a substantial contribution to the western Canadian dairy industry in the areas of education, training or technology transfer. The award is presented at the Western Canadian Dairy Seminar, a gathering of dairy producers, technology transfer specialists,

researchers and dairy service representatives to discuss emerging issues and recent research. Van Lent has been a key figure in Lakeland’s involvement in the dairy industry since she joined the college in 2007. “I’m humbled and honoured by this award,” said Van Lent. “Our partnership with the dairy industry is so important to the work we do at Lakeland, and receiving any sort of recognition for it is just validation that we are meeting the needs of this amazing industry. None of it would be possible without the contributions of all the people I work with, and I share this honour with them. I would like to especially acknowledge our dairy

team, including students, faculty, and farm staff, and our associate dean, Geoff Brown, who has provided great support to that team. I also share this award with Alberta Milk, their board of directors, their research and extension committee and people like Mike Slomp. The industry is strategic and focused and so easy to work with.” Van Lent also acknowledges the University of Alberta dairy faculty and staff and the University of Calgary’s Veterinarian Medicine School faculty for their support and mentorship on dairy research. Van Lent’s leadership was vital to the construction of the Dairy Learning Centre that opened at the Vermilion campus in 2017 and expanded the stu-

Photo courtesy of Lakeland College dent-managed learning concept at the college. The facility reflects the highest industry standards and features state-of-the-art technology in robotic and conventional milking and feeding systems. With these systems, animal science technology students in the dairy major delve into what it takes to lead in the dairy industry.

With guidance from faculty and farm staff, the Dairy Student-Managed Farm manages a herd of 320 dairy animals with the goal of improving the production, health and longevity of the herd through genetic advancements. They are involved with breeding cows, moving heifers, monthly herd health visits by the vet, milk-

ing, regular nutritional consultant visits and hoof trimming. At the end of the academic year, the SMF unit shares its realworld results. Van Lent was also an important figure in establishing a partnership with Alberta Milk, who has presented Lakeland with eight Milk Quality awards to date.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

PAGE 20 Thursday, April 2, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

Classifieds

HousEs For rEnt

auCtions

FEEd & sEEd

Coming EvEnts

House For Rent 5 bedroom home, on quiet cul-de-sac. Alberta side. Extremely beautiful home. 4 bay garage. Call Ross 250-808-3605 or email pilgram4@gmail.com

AUCTIONS are our business! Contact Copeland Auctions Ltd. located in Lloydminster, AB for all your auction needs. Call Russ 780-870-1181 or visit our website: www.copelandauctions.co m

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Free Delivery! Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

DRAGGINS CAR SHOW CANCELLED - The Draggins Car Show, scheduled for April 10 and 11 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon has been cancelled. We extend a heartfelt and sincere thank you to all of our sponsors, vendors, entrants and volunteers for all their work in planning and participating in the planning of this show. We look forward to our next car show April 2nd and 3rd, 2021. For further information please visit our website; Draggins.com.

EmploymEnt opportunitiEs

FEEd & sEEd

land For salE

misCEllanEous

Land For Sale RM of Eldon SW 24-4924W3, 1/4 section 1980 Tandem IH Grain Truck 466 Turbo - Auto Good condition

HEaltH / FitnEss

1989 CIH -7140 FWD Tractor. Shedded, Good condition 2015 GMC all terrain 135000K, 1/2 Ton. Very good condition please call 306-893-4013

Advertise your classified in this space. Call 306-825-5111

notiCEs

Coming EvEnts

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association's Blanket Advertising Conditions on our w e b s i t e a t www.swna.com. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Legal Notices

Agriculture

Call to place your Memoriam or Obituary. 306-825-5111

CLASSIFIED ADS 1 for $15 or 2 for $25

*Based on 20 words additional words 15¢ each Prices do not include GST

Livestock The Supreme Speckle Park Bull & Female Sale, Friday, April 17, 2:00 pm at Notta Ranch, Neilburg, SK Selling Speckle Park yearling and two year old bulls, with a select group of females. These genetics are being offered by Notta Ranch, Spots ‘N Sprouts, and Ravenworth Cattle. For more information or a catalogue contact T Bar C Cattle Co. at 306-220-5006. View the catalogue online at www.BuyAgro.com . Watch and bid online at www.DLMS.ca (PL #116061)

To ensure efficient newspaper delivery, please make sure of the following: • Sidewalks are cleared and clean • Mailbox is visible • Mailbox is emptied on a regular basis • Pets are tied or in a fenced yard (306) 825-5111

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Local Business Directory

Outdoor Advertising

TOGETHER... LET’S STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 Our team is here to help with products your business may require to help bring awareness to the seriousness of this world-wide pandemic. If you have an idea or require anything printed, we are here to help. Let’s spread the message, NOT the virus.

CALL US TODAY 306.825.5111

Floor & Wall Decals

Signage Sandwich Boards

Thursday, April 2, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN

December 22 – January 19 Compromises will need to be made if you want there to be harmony around you. You’ll be in charge of organizing a professional event that will bring many people together.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18 At work, you do your best to make all your customers happy, but some people just can’t be satisfied. Don’t take it personally; you’ll still accomplish the impossible.

PISCES

February 19 – March 20 If you’re single, you’ll be more popular than ever and will fall in love at first sight. Take the time to get to know the other person before declaring your love.

ARIES

March 21– April 19 You’ll finally succeed in selling your home. If you’ve lived there for many years, you’ll feel nostalgic and maybe a little rueful about the change.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20 You have everything it takes to become a public figure. Your ideas and opinions could bring people together to defend your interests. People will listen attentively to what you have to say.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21 A complicated financial situation won’t make a difficult romantic relationship any easier. It’s important to be affectionate with your partner, despite your concerns.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22 You’ll start the week ready to conquer the world. However, certain people will be upset and as a result, you may not be very kind to them.

LEO July 23 – August 22 Some reflection about your career is a must this week. Your health concerns will lead you to make a lifestyle change that eliminates stress. Prepare yourself for a new beginning.

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22 Your social life will be in full swing this week. You’ll be surrounded by people and you’ll accept every invitation, regardless of how much it strains your budget.

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22 You’re inspired to begin a new project. Making the right decisions now will guarantee that you have a comfortable retirement later. The future is built one day at a time.

CROSSWORD

SCORPIO

October 23 – November 21 You may take a spontaneous trip with friends this week. Travel and communication may be difficult, however, so you’ll need to learn to let go.

SAGITTARIUS

March 26 Answers

November 22 – December 21 A meeting at the bank is all it takes to secure the financing you need for a certain project. As a result, you’ll be thrust into action this week. In your personal life, affection takes on new importance.

SUDOKU March 26 Answers

ACROSS 1. Current craze 4. Scale 8. Sailor’s word 12. Tiny Tim’s instrument, for short 13. Checkup 14. Zilch 15. Basketball hoop part 16. Rosemary, e.g. 17. Golfers’ pegs 18. Insulting 20. Large truck 22. Manta ____ 24. School break 28. Millionaires’ properties 32. Kind of wave 33. Soft light

34. Brief doze 36. Carpet’s surface 37. Getups 39. Discussed formally 41. Music lover’s equipment 43. Mouse’s cousin 44. Unit of length 46. Gives the impression 50. During 53. Side of Manhattan 55. Sever 56. Extended 57. Away from the weather 58. Deface 59. Yearn 60. Gains 61. Home for swine

DOWN 1. Mink and sable 2. Like 3. Moore of “Ghost” 4. Warm again 5. Have an ____ to grind 6. Paves 7. Fire remnant 8. Expect 9. Gardening implement 10. ____, two, three . . . 11. Definitely! 19. Castle’s entrance 21. Faced 23. Tokyo currency 25. Red-pencil 26. Shoppers’ delight 27. Santa’s chariot

28. Scrambled and sunnyside up items 29. Blind section 30. Shredded 31. Sorrowful 35. Apiece 38. Lieberman or Kennedy: abbr. 40. Moistens a turkey 42. Indian or Arctic 45. ____ and hearty 47. Stately trees 48. Ditch of defense 49. Lively 50. European peak 51. Miss Piggy’s “me” 52. Hotel 54. Tennis-match division

May you touch dragonflies & stars, dance with fairies & talk to the moon. Meridian Source’s Birth Announcements If you wish to have your baby’s birth announcement published in our May you grow up with love & gracious hearts & people who care. Thursday edition of the Meridian Source FREE OF CHARGE, please come in and fill out a form or email admin@meridiansource.ca Welcome to the world little one. It’s been waiting for you! Deadline is Tuesday at noon for the Thursday edition.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Rentals

Real Estate NEW LISTINGS

Property Management

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