Meridian Source - Dec. 12, 2024 by Meridian Source

ON KING’S COURT

Rustlers women’s basketball players speak out on coach’s firing

The firing of Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball head coach Chris King isn’t sitting well with players.

The Rustlers announced a coach change in a statement on Dec. 5.

“Chris King is no longer the head coach,” read the statement. “Work is underway to hire an interim head coach for the team. The Rustlers resume play in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference on Jan. 17.”

The news comes after King was put on administrative leave on Nov. 28 after a former player allegedly filed a complaint with the college.

King has bled green and gold for 17 years and is the most high-decorated coach in the program’s history.

King’s players were completely dumbfounded by the news. Many even stated they’re done playing basketball at Lakeland due to the way the college handled the investigation process, which they are calling an injustice.

“Chris being gone … I don’t know if I’m even coming back. We don’t know as a team, I don’t know as an individual, and they don’t know as a college,” said newly-acquired Rustler Andria Stitt.

The players stand behind their coach and went as far as leaving hundreds of post-it notes with messages supporting King throughout

the college.

Fifth-year Rustler Sarah Dacuycuy, third-year Susan Ayaa and Stitt spoke about their coach’s situation on a recent episode of the Shaun Newman Podcast after the Source initially broke the story on Dec. 5.

The 40-minute interview tells the tale of a devastated basketball program left in the dark until it was too late.

“This happened in September and the investigation process was trash,” said Stitt on the Shaun Newman Podcast. “We didn’t get a say, and everything blew up at once. In my opinion, it was a very one-sided investigation and I don’t think they thought about how it would affect the team.”

“It was a slap in the face and the communication was really (bad) for the program,” added Dacuycuy.

“From suspension to him being terminated, he wasn’t allowed to speak to us. We’ve been practising but he hasn’t been allowed in the gym.”

The three discussed the incident that snowballed into King’s release, stating it was unfair and out of the blue.

“Our team made a collective mistake. Just like any other team, if something happens, you have to run for it,” said Ayaa.

“We were at practise and yes, we had to run,” explained Stitt. “We were all tired and upset. It got to a point where someone went down. That

happens in athletics. It was not anyone’s fault and we never want to see that happen to anybody, nor do our coaches.”

“They aided to her while we walked to the other side of the gym. A couple minutes after that she was able to get up and walk out of the gym. Everything seemed OK. We all talked to her, made sure she was OK.”

Stitt explained things seemed to go back to normal after the September incident but, there was clearly more at play.

“Four months later, we’re here,” said Stitt. “What are the false accusations and what’s been said? We were there, no protocol was broken, no one was disrespected or neglected. I don’t know how this case went from zero to 10.”

With so many unanswered ques -

tions, the majority of King’s players are unsure what the future holds or if they’ll continue to play for Lakeland College.

“People don’t understand how much this is affecting us on a personally, not just through basketball,” said Dacuycuy. “Everybody needs to know the truth. It’s just lies and lies, and that’s not what this program is about. Chris built us into the best people we know we can be.”

“Chris’ goal for us isn’t just basketball, it’s about making us better people and about our futures,” added Ayaa.

The Source continues to investigate the situation at Lakeland College. The Source can confirm the investigation into coach King was done by a thirdparty organization.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Post-it notes with messages of support for Chris King can be found throughout Lakeland College. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

SEE INSIDE FOR OUR ANNUAL SEASON’S GREETINGS BOOK

Santa serves up smiles over weekend

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Citizens were filled with festive anticipation as hundreds of kids awaited the arrival of the

on Dec. 7.

We do this so families can spend time together without worrying about any monetary pressures.

Lloydminster’s 17th annual Here Comes Santa Claus Day brought families together for a fun-filled day of free community activities.

The event, held downtown, featured everything from bouncy castles and horse-drawn carriage rides to hot dogs and photo booths.

Organizer Kurt Price explained the mission behind the day.

“We do this so families can spend time together without worrying about any monetary pressures,” he said.

“Everything’s free, mom and dad don’t have to worry about anything— just come down and enjoy the day.”

Multiple holiday favourites made special appearances for families.

“We had clowns, Santa, the Grinch, horse-carriage rides, cotton candy, and a wiener roast,” said Price. “It’s all about fun.”

At Walkn’ on Water Toys, Rudolph and Bumble greeted visitors outside the store. Owner Delia Morgan-Tate highlighted the importance of the event for families.

“It’s a day families can gather for free events around town,” she said. “It’s just nice to see our customers.”

Morgan-Tate shared her excitement about hosting the beloved characters.

“This is the fourth year we’ve had them, and they’re always happy to come back to the toy store,” she said. “It’s fun to see them cooperating and not trying to eat each other!”

For the kids, the day was pure magic.

“The kids love seeing Santa Claus and booing the Grinch. It’s such a warm feeling seeing their smiles,” said Price.

The International Association of Firefighters’ local chapter also played a key role. Member Jerry Conlon explained their involvement.

“We’re here to support the community we serve,” said Conlon. “It’s one of many community-oriented events we’ve participated in this year.”

Conlon and the firefighters kept busy cooking over 1,000 hot dogs donated by Synergy Credit Union.

“We just hope people have a great time,” he added. “The weather’s beautiful and there are so many great events happening.”

The event relied heavily on local sponsors and volunteers, whose efforts made it possible.

“We can’t do this without our sponsors,” Price emphasized. “Sobeys, Synergy Credit Union, and Century 21 Drive come back every year without hesitation.”

The Downtown Area Redevelopment Committee also played a critical role in organizing activities.

“Without them, we wouldn’t have carriage rides or many of the other

“It’s about gathering, having fun, and being together,” Morgan-Tate said. “That’s what this day is all about.”

big man in red

things we do,” Price said.

As the day concluded, the focus remained on family, community, and holiday spirit.

Dan Gray Meridian Source Photo

Bonnyville health board continues advocacy

Bonnyville Council heard from a local group looking to spearhead health advocacy in the community.

The Bonnyville Health Centre Community Board, chaired by Audrey Campbell, has recently begun its work again.

“We’ve been kind of stagnant as a board for about five to 10 years, we’ve got a new board and some vibrant, passionate members on our board,” said Campbell. “We’ve decided that we need to educate our community about who we are and what we do.”

Bonnyville Covenant Health Centre is an acute care facility and a continuing care centre that provides a full range of health services.

The hospital building is owned by Alberta Health Services (AHS) while it’s managed by Covenant Health. All capital funding comes from AHS, most of the operational funding comes from Covenant.

There are seven board members, and they are always looking for more to join.

“We advocate for our centre, we advocate for Covenant Health, and the health needs of our community,” she said.

Campbell says the loss of any health services could be the difference between life and death.

“As a rural health care provider, Bonnyville Community Hospital faces unique challenges in supporting the greater northeastern Alberta population,” she said. “The hospital and the community need

greater support to ensure access to comprehensive care.”

She says the long-term care facility can accommodate 30 residents and there are 33 acute care beds.

“Bonnyville’s emergency room faces high demand relative to its capacity, leading to longer wait times as staff work tirelessly to manage patient flow,” said Campbell.

“Due to lack of staff availability at the Bonnyville health centre and neighbouring sites as well as a lack of funding to support specialized medical professionals.”

She says patients are facing longer waits for critical care.

“During peak seasons such as flu or local events, demand on emergency services can spike which exacerbates wait times as health care providers struggle to manage increased patient volumes,” said Campbell.

She says addressing the root causes of emergency room congestion requires community-wide efforts. These efforts can include initiatives promoting preventative care and non-urgent treatment options.

“Stakeholders including governments, health care providers, and the community must collaborate on long term solutions, such as infrastructure investments, staffing initiatives and public education.”

She says these initiatives can help improve wait times and patient outcomes.

Campbell hopes to get dialogue going between the hospital, the community, and the government to create action. She wants the municipality to

advocate for enhanced funding for the facility to maintain and enhance the existing programs.

An example of something within the municipality’s control would include providing funding for a handy bus to get people to and from destinations.

She says the parking lot is something they want to do something about.

“And of course, there’s that favourite of all municipal discussions is the parking lot. I’m sure you get a lot of feedback from your citizens about the parking lot at the hospital. We all want to do something about that,” said Campbell.

Campbell says they also need a CT scanner. The plan is for the Bonnyville Health Foundation to try to raise funds to get the device. In the new operating room design, there is room for a new scanner, according to Campbell.

Coun. Brian McEvoy echoes the critical need for a CT scanner in the community.

“The CT scanner is really interesting to me, that is something that is desperately needed in the community. It benefits us in so many ways, I look at it as a great way of recruiting physicians because they want to be able to get their patients diagnosed in their community and that will go a long way to it,” he said.

He says the cost of the scanner will be high, but he will continue lobbying people to think about contributing to it.

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Mount Joy ready to shred

It’s shaping up to be a whale of a new ski season at Mount Joy Snow Resort as they hope to open on Jan. 4.

Whales are piles of manmade snow with humps of the white stuff ready to spread on the slopes throughout the season when needed.

“We’ve got lots of snow piled up there. We’ve had a really successful start to the snowmaking,” said resort president Dean Peters.

“We’ll see what the temperature does here in the next little while. We’ll get another good snowmaking session when the temperature drops.

“We’re leaving some whales out there.”

Cre ws discovered some whales made last year using a Snowmax additive lasted into May.

The reservoir is currently refilling for another snowmaking session when the temperature drops.

In the meantime, crews have been packing down natural snow for a good base.

“We’re happy with how everything’s going,” said Peters.

The start of the 2024/25 season will be the 59th for the resort that is lucky to dodge a bullet.

The T-bar rope recently passed a special nondestructive test, delaying the need to replace it immediately as initially feared.

A new inspection method showed damaged parts of the rope were significantly less than the previous test earlier this year.

Since it’s an outside investigation containing personal information, the details of the investigation will likely never see the light of day.

“He’s been coaching for 17 years and he’s built this program from the groud up,” said Dacuycuy. “It doesn’t make sense how one thing could give such a harsh punishment to a coach we knew didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Replacing it would hav e been almost catastrophic,” said Peters. He estimates a new rope wouldn’t arrive until the end of February at the earliest.

“Thankfully, we don’t have to worry about that anymore,” he said.

Certifying officials will check all the lifts over on Dec. 16 to ensure another year of safe operations.

Ski passes are on sale now with no increase from last year when the resort only opened one weekend due to an unseasonably warm winter in Western Canada.

“We were charging $5 for lift tickets and $5 for rentals,” recalled Peters. It was kind of like avoiding turning the lights off altogether.”

The hunt for new volunteers who can sign up for various duties on the resort website is ongoing.

Mount Joy has also hired a part-time employee thanks to a $150,000 grant from Strathcona Resources earlier this year, which provides $50,000 a year over three years.

“It’s g ood to have an employee out there that we can assign tasks,” said Peters.

“He will make snow when it’s the best time. He’s doing a lot of maintenance on the facility and the lifts.”

Peters says he’s also cleaning up a lot of details for the lift inspection.

“So there’s a few items that need to be checked and verified,” he said.

“We’re ready for another great year.”

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Photo

LPSD educator earns top award

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

The Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) is tipping its hat to former board chair David Thompson.

The recent retiree is the recipient of the prestigious Award of Distinction granted by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association (SSBA).

The award is the SSBA’s highest honour, presented to Thompson during the organization’s annual general assembly in Regina by Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty on Dec. 2.

“I am truly honoured to receive the Award of Distinction from the SSBA, and I am deeply grateful for this recognition. Education has been my

life’s work, and I’ve been privileged to dedicate 62 years to a field that shapes futures and builds communities,” said Thompson.

“

I share this honour with the incredible colleagues, educators, and students who have inspired me along the way.

His journey over six decades in education spans roles as a teacher, school leader, director of education, and for the last 14 years, trustee with LPSD.

During eight of those years, he served as board chair, guiding the division with unwavering commitment and vision.

Thompson completed his final term as chair in October.

“Serving as board chair with LPSD has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my journey, and I share this honour with the incredible colleagues, educators, and students who have inspired me along the way,” said Thompson.

His tenure with LPSD is marked by notable achievements, including overseeing the construction of College Park School and leading efforts on the recent major addition to Lloydminster Comprehensive High School.

LPSD says Thompson dedicated countless hours as board chair to ensuring these projects were successful, advocating for resources to meet the unique challenges of funding a border-city school division.

“Congratulations, David Thompson, on this well-deserved recognition,” said LPSD.

“Your dedication to education has made a lasting impact on the Lloydminster community and beyond.”

Lloyd utility increase

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Lloydminster’s fees and charges bylaw received its first reading following a Nov. 25 council meeting.

Administration brought forward the fees and charges bylaw to council for approval to ensure fees are clear, organized and consolidated into a single document.

The bylaw includes the 5 per cent utility increase as proposed in the budget.

moves forward

said Hill.

The rates in the bylaw are outlined for the next three years but remain subject to change base on annual budget review and council approval. The bylaw provides a comprehensive listing of all fees and charges from the various city departments.

“This is something that we saw in the last two years, administration brought this forward to the previous council and certainly made it a lot easier to find on the city website, the fees associated with whatever they were going to do,” Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

Aalbers followed up by asking if everyone who needed to view the document had seen it.

“As was presented in the budget, the utility rates went up five per cent, so that includes your landfill, your stormwater, your water. Those revenues and rates those go to support the utility’s fund which is 100 per cent self-supported,” said Ryan Hill, financial planning and analysis manager at the City of Lloydminster.

Recreation and culture rates are also increasing.

“The rec and culture rates, they range anywhere from a 2 to 6 per cent increase. That includes your parks and green spaces, your arenas, your pools the Servus Sports Centre. Those rates help to recover a part of the expenses,”

Hill confirmed the respective managers have gone through the document, ensuring they’re good with the rates present in the bylaw.

Schedules B, C and D in the bylaw were reorganized to align with the new organizational structure. Schedule B covers corporate services, schedule C covers operations and schedule D covers community development services.

Council passed the first reading.

More at meridiansource.ca

HEALTH BOARD FROM PAGE 4

Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau says this committee will help steer the advocacy in the right direction.

“It’s really nice to see this committee revived, we have a

really strong health foundation, but we need the advocacy group and that is where your committee is going to come in greatly,” she said. “Thank you for the points you gave us, I think if we’re all talking on the same points and going in the same direction hopefully, we can get things moving for our hospitals.”

The intention of the presentation to council was to share information about the hospital and community health with council.

Supplied Photo

Former LPSD board chair, David Thompson, centre, and Audrey Trombley, right, from Southeast Cornerstone School Division, received the Award of Distinction by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association from Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty, left, at SSBA’s annual general assembly in Regina on Dec. 2

Red Bicycle caps off 10 years with donations

Red Bicycle Communications is celebrating 10 years in Lloydminster by giving back to the community.

Our goal isn’t just to provide employment and contribute through taxes alone but to maximize our impact on our community.

Over the past year, they’ve been making donations in the amount of $1,000 to 10 different community organizations as part of the 10-year celebration.

Jill Kelly, owner of Red Bicycle, says she was inspired by her father.

“My dad, Bryan Morrison, has run a business in Lloydminster for as long as I can remember,” said Kelly.

“Growing up, I always remember him asking, ‘What are we doing for the community?’ As a business owner myself, I’m honoured to follow that legacy. Our goal isn’t just to provide employment and contribute through taxes alone but to maximize our impact on our community. I want to live in a city that thrives both socially and economically, and I’m proud to contribute to that vision.”

The year-long donation campaign

was driven by Red Bicycle’s belief in building both a socially and economically thriving city according to the company.

The organizations are staples in the community including:

- The Olive Tree

- Lloydminster Art Academy (through Lloydminster Public School Division)

- Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre

- Border City Connects

- North American Chuckwagon Championship

- Lloydminster Men’s Shelter

- Thorpe Recovery Centre

- Lakeland College

- SPARK Foundation

- Border Paws Animal Shelter

SPARK Foundation CEO Angela Rooks-Trotzuk says the support is important.

“We’ve gotten to know Red Bicycle over the past year and enjoyed working with them,” she said. “Their sup -

port means the world to us.”

The decision on what organizations to donate to was made by Red Bicycle staff as they evaluated the impact each group had on the community.

Red Bicycle supports other projects such as Red Bicycle’s Women in Business event, KT&Co’s Inspiring Women’s Conference, Rustler’s Game Changers event, and the Downtown Lloydminster Marketing Contest.

The company was founded in January 2014.

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Photo courtesy of Red Bicycle Communications

Gift giving Santa tours local schools

Santa Claus is in town this week handing out treat bags to young students at all elementary schools.

The jolly one donned in red, popped into Queen Elizabeth School on Monday to visit Kindergarten to Grade 2 kids.

“We’re coming to see all the little kids this morning. It’s exciting for everybody. Ho. ho, ho,” said Santa as he came through the door.

“I brought Mrs. Claus with me and a couple of elves. I need all the help I can get.”

The early Christmas visit is part of Project Santa run by the Kiwanis Club for the past 40 years.

It’s the favourite event of the year for club secretary Vera Gallant who has been at it since 1998.

“It sure is and why wouldn’t it be when we have just about 2,000 little kids that we get hugs from and lots of smiles,” she said.

The deal is every child gets a bag stuffed with

a toy, chocolate, Christmas candy, a candy cane, chips, cheesies and a Christmas orange.

The Santa Project costs around $6-7,000 a year and Gallant says it’s worth every penny.

“Is it ever when you see all the smiles,” she said.

“We’re continually fundraising so we can continue with our project.”

It’s also one of the happiest times of the school year according to principal Ryan Mather.

“Oh, kids love it. Santa comes in from Kiwanis; they support us and they get to meet Santa and say hi to him,” said Mather.

“Each kid leaves with a little gift bag too.”

The Santa visit followed a driver appreciation breakfast that morning at the school.

“We appreciate all of our bus drivers. We have 13 buses at Queen Elizabeth,” said Mather.

Christmas activities at Q.E. kicked off on Dec. 2 when the School Community Council’s parent group dropped by to decorate the hallways.

“Then we have our Christmas gala which is like a Christmas concert which is also kind of an activity night as well,” said Mather.

The last day of school before the holiday break is Dec. 20.

The parent group will be back on Dec.16 to put on a free Christmas turkey meal with all the trimmings for kids and staff.

Community pitches in after Grinch steals extension cords

secretary for Kiwanis Lloydminster.

some, they really keep an eye out.

The Festival of Lights is recovering after a Grinch tried to steal their Christmas spirit.

However, the Kiwanis Club is extremely thankful to the public for stepping up to help.

“We had a bunch of cords stolen on Dec. 7, and 8, so half of our park was in the dark,” said Vera Gallant,

“A neighbour then loaned us a few cords and some community members donated a bunch of cords to us.”

She said a monetary donation and donation of cords should have them back up and running again soon. Additionally, they plan to install deterrents to prevent it from happening again.

“The neighbourhood is really awe -

I think this will make them more aware,” expressed Gallant. “We are hoping to put up a couple of spotlights so once our Christmas lights are turned off, any motion and the floodlights would come on.”

She is thankful the show will go on.

“Thank you to all the community for the support and donations

we’ve received to keep it up and running. We received one monetary donation today, and I just had 19 cards donated as well. Thank you, everyone.”

They hope the Grinch stays away and the spirit of Christmas and their lights at the park will stay intact throughout the rest of the season. If you would like to help out you can contact the club on Facebook.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Photo

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Experience sleep expertise at Cloud 9

When it comes to the value of a good night’s sleep, a quality mattress is priceless.

Our big thing is, you can buy a mattress today and sleep on it tonight. Nobody else can say that.

That’s the thinking of Dale Cross, general manager at Lloydminster’s newest one-stop snooze shop, Cloud 9 Sleep.

Cloud 9 opened on Oct. 15 at 2920 50 Ave., Lloydminster, Alta. beside Beachcomber Hot Tubs at R&D Plumbing.

The locally owned and operated business is the brainchild of Cross, who has over 30 years of experience in the mattress business, and local businessman Doug Wilson.

“Our big thing is, you can buy a mattress today and sleep on it tonight,” said Cross. “Nobody else can say that … usually you have to wait two weeks, but we have local warehouses full of stock.”

The name of the game is customer satisfaction at Cloud 9 Sleep. That starts with selling the right mattress.

“We have 25 different beds in here,”

said Cross. “You can try the different beds … there’s 25 different feels, 25 different stories, the number of coils, the amount of upholstery.”

Cross explained many factors go into choosing the right mattress. For example, whether someone is a side sleeper or a back sleeper.

“We sell a total sleep system,” said Cross, noting mattresses should be replaced every seven to 10 years.

“You’ll try out pillows and figure out what kind of pillow you like. We’ll take that pillow and try differ -

ent beds.”

Cloud 9 Sleep carries Kingsdown, Serta, Springwell and Simmons brand mattresses. They also, however, carry adjustable beds out of Barrie, Ont. called Harmony.

“We try to work with as many Canadian companies as we can,” said Cross.

Cross explained physically laying on a bed before buying it is very important.

“How do you buy a bed without laying on it?” asked Cross. “We see

a lot of people who tried the box beds and realized they weren’t as advertised.”

Cross and Wilson are excited about the future of the new business.

“The premise of the business is local guys trying to do good, give people fair pricing, and sell them the right product,” explained Cross.

“We’re really pushing the fact we’re local. We’re excited to support local sports and charities, and we’re already members of the Chamber of Commerce.”

REASONS WHY YOU NEED A NEW MATTRESS

Reason 3 of 9

You feel your partner at night turning around?

Cross

30+ years experience as a western Canada Manufacturers Representative for Springwall and Kingsdown, Mattress expert and GM of Cloud 9

TFSA limit to

rise on Jan. 1

they’ll be able to contribute an additional $7,000 in 2025.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will increase the total amount that Canadians can contribute to a tax-free saving account (TFSA) by $7,000 as of Jan. 1.

The limit increase is indexed to inflation annually, and it matches this year’s amount, which was $500 more than in 2023 and $1,000 more than the $6,000 annual limit from 2019 to 2022.

This means that for those who have already contributed the maximum allowable amount into their TFSA up until the end of this year,

For those who have contributed less than the maximum, any unused contribution room is carried forward starting from the day they became eligible, either in 2009 when the TFSA program began, or when they turned 18 if that was in the years since.

With the $7,000 increase in 2025, the total contribution room available for someone who has never contributed to a TFSA and was at least 18 years of age when it was first introduced will be $102,000, up from $95,000 this year.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Adobe Stock Photo

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Viewpoint

Leave it to Weaver: No King No Ring!

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Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca

The court of public opinion ...

EDITOR

TAYLOR WEAVER

News of Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball head coach Chris King getting fired rocked the Border City.

I’ve been covering Rustlers’ athletics for over a decade, and when I checked the weekend scores last Monday and saw two forfeits on their record, I knew something wasn’t right.

play after King was placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. King was fired seven days after being put on administrative leave.

The whole situation has garnered more questions than answers ... and the answers the Source want seem impossible to get. Well, that’s by design.

more trauma and grief for King and his players.

Will we ever know the details of this investigation? I’m not sure, but I definitely haven’t given up hope.

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As reported in last week’s Meridian Source , the team, under the direction of one of the most decorated coaches in Canadian sports history, hadn’t lost a game in two calendar years.

The forfeits came after the entire team decided to stand behind the coach and not

My plan was to file a Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) with the college to obtain a copy of the investigation. I wanted to see what it said, who was interviewed, and the reasons King was fired.

Well, after numerous phone calls with Lakeland, the story is, it was an outside investigation and the information will never be released. End of story.

If you ask me, handling things this way only caused

For me, Lakeland College doesn’t have a women’s basketball team without Chris King. I’ve known King for as long as I’ve lived in Lloyd and hate seeing what’s happening to him. It’s also safe to say the majority of the community is with me after seeing an outpouring of supporting on social media. Current coaches were offered King’s job and turned it down. A number of his players stated they’re not sure if they’re coming back to play. What’s next? We’re all curious to see what the future holds.

More at meridiansource.ca

Chris’ A-Z: The not-so-firm border markers

The border markers, they make Lloydminster unique, and a potentially frustrating place to be. Quite often we hear from local politicians saying it’s difficult to be on a border, working with

70 Ave. - 41St.

62 Ave. - 56 St.

52 Ave. - Barr Colony School

66 Ave. - 41 St.

52 St. - Cenovus Reﬁnery

27 St. - ST. Joseph School

36 St. - 54 Ave. Hydro Site

27 St. - 52 Ave. Messum Park

39 St. - Holy Rosary School

Hwy 16 - 66 Ave.

59 Ave. - 29 St. Bud Miller Park

65 Ave. - 35 St. - ST. Thomas School

Hwy 16 - 80 Ave.

23 St. - 54 Ave. Hwy 16 - 62 Ave.

two governments who don’t want to cooperate. I kept hearing about the markers, but frankly, I wasn’t sure what people were talking about until someone pointed out these towering red landmarks. Yes, I am not an observant fellow.

It all started in 1990, at that time, the markers were to be five, not four. Council was split and only approved the construction once a border marker was removed. Lloydminster was set to receive $260,000 in lottery funding from the Tourism Industry Association of Alberta to cover most of the $300,000 project.

Construction kicked off in August of 1993, but the controversy didn’t end there. An allegedly secret letter to Mayor Pat Gulak stated the project needed to be re-evaluated due to public outcry. Gulak stated she received a letter after the first one saying the project was good to go.

Two weeks after construction kicked off, MLA Steve West was the bearer of bad news as funding for the project was cut. The contractor, DawsonWallace, was ordered to cease construction.

The city was now left with four $60,000 holes in the ground. The debate continued and letters to the editor poured into local papers.

“Why do our city leaders want to pretend that we have the money to live so flamboyantly,” wrote Kevin Ramsay in the Sept. 29, 1993 edition of the Lloydminster Times . A letter from a Bruce Macdonald argued the city should have waited until the funding was assured and irrevocable, which sounds oddly familiar.

City council ended up voting in favour of completing the project with a vote of 4-3. The city would use the 1993 surplus to complete the project and Gulak said taxes would not rise.

Opposition continued and the once-dormant Lloydminster Ratepayers Association reappeared.

Thursday, December 12, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Leeway from Lloyd: World juniors better than Santa

Forget about Christmas gifts and Santa Claus. The real joy of the festive season this year will be watching the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Ottawa, especially if Canada wins.

The last time the tournament was played in Ottawa was in 2009, and who can forget Jordan Eberle scoring the tying goal in the dying seconds of the semi final against Russia and his 6-5 shootout winner. The team went on to capture gold in a 5-1 win over Sweden in the final. I hope history

repeats itself.

As fans may recall, the Grinch hit the tournament last year in Sweden when Canada finished a dismal fifth. They went into the event as backto-back gold medalists. Also, the Euro time zone sucked, which added to the miserable outcome for fans like me.

This year, Canada is in Group A with the defending United States, Finland, Germany and Latvia. Canada kicks of the action against Finland on Dec. 26, at 7:30 p.m. EST or 5:30 p.m. MST.

The gold-medal game will be played on Jan. 5 and some Canadian players will be household names by then. They will join the likes of Eberle, Conor Bedard, Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid in an endless string of Canadian hockey heroes.

There is already lots of hype for this year’s tour -

ney. TSN is celebrating 35 years of the World Junior Hockey Championship being aired on the network by counting down the 35 best moments from the tournament.

I will always remember seeing 16-year-old Wayne Gretzky on TV for the first time dominate the 1978 World Junior Championship in Montreal. Canada, however, won the bronze.

The TSN highlights make it seem like the tournament is already underway, but the selection camp doesn’t end until Dec. 13. Canada should ice one of its strongest teams in years with so many top NHL prospects to choose from.

Goaltending, of course, is always one of the biggest factors and question marks. Let’s hope our guy can stand on his head and help win gold to wrap up the holiday season.

Gray Matters: Hiding the news in Lloydminster?

I’ve noticed something about the news in our community. Some individuals and organizations in Lloydminster hope no one finds out instead of willingly coming forward with information.

Newsrooms once brimmed with investigative journalists tirelessly chasing down every situation. For example, when fire chiefs resign, emergencies stay quiet, and coaches lose their jobs. Journalists who would, on a hunch, be able to dedicate the time and break those stories. Unfortunately, the days of digging for the sake of digging to find something have gone the way of the dodo bird.

Perhaps that’s why individuals in our community believe they can act under the radar without being exposed. Why do they believe they are above reproach and questioning on some issues?

I commend my editor, Taylor, for going above and beyond last week and not backing down. Breaking the news on Lakeland women’s basketball coach Chris King being investigated and then fired is the type of journalism this community needs. However, it doesn’t come easily.

Stories like that take time and

In 2000, a marker was removed so engineers could study how to make them firmer. The oscillating of the markers alarmed some residents. I get it, that would scare me if the markers were moving in any way.

Looking back the project mir -

finesse. We need to be factual, fair, and accurate. We need to be able to confront individuals who may not want the information shared. This scandal may forever taint the image of women’s basketball at Lakeland College. However, keeping it hushhush and under the rug can’t fly in our community anymore.

To the girls who have chosen to stand behind their coach, mazel tov, it takes character and dedication to do what’s right. Regardless of the personal sacrifice you may be making, standing up for your beliefs is an important life lesson.

To the college, for hiring an outside third-party investigator so that no information on the investigation will ever become public, well played and noted.

Moving on ... recently, while attending a collision scene, I was asked not to post a story about it by an individual involved. Unfortunately, the incident called for the use of multiple taxpayer-funded resources and closed a main highway. Our job requires us to be the eyes and ears of our community and hold taxpayer spending accountable.

Additionally, spreading the information as quickly and accurately as possible through multiple means prevents many community members from coming to investigate themselves. This leads to less traffic congestion, fewer on-lookers, and a safer

rors one that we may see in the common day, public outcry, city money to be spent, provincial issues, it all looks familiar.

Now the border markers stand as a symbol of Lloydminster’s uniqueness and a permanent fixture from a previous mayor and council.

environment for everyone at the scene.

Kudos to those individuals and corporations who share information willingly. It doesn’t go unnoticed.

Journalists would rather work with information provided than dig for something that shouldn’t be hidden. We aren’t against the latter, but why

do we hide the news in Lloyd? what does it accomplish?

CHRIS’

File Photo

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.

Passport to YLL

To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147

Cards, games, food, meetings, live music

Intro to Square Dancing

Modern square dancing lessons are being offered every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at 511549 Ave. Walk to the beat of music by following simple instructions from the caller. Come alone or bring a friend. Wear whatever is comfortable. First evening is FREE. For more info, contact 780-872-2493 or visit SquareDanceLloydArea.com

Bingo at the Moose Lodge Bingo will be held every Monday and Wednesday, except holidays, at Moose Lodge 5213 57 St., Lloydmin -

ster. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games starting at 7 p.m. Must be at least 18 to play.

Legacy Christmas Supper/Dance

The Legacy Centre’s Christmas supper and dance is on Dec. 13. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m. Supper served at 6 p.m. then dance the night away to the tunes of Lloyd’s Memory Lane. Tickets must be purchased or reserved by noon on Dec. 12. Cost is $25/person, all members and guests welcome. Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more details.

Islay Crub Tournament

The Islay Community Association is hosting a crib tournament on Dec. 14 in the Islay Hall. Doors open at 9 a.m., registration cut-off is 10 a.m. Cost is $25 per person which includes noon lunch. Please pre-register by calling Linda at 780-581-0570.

Moose Lodge Breakfast

The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a breakfast from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Dec. 15 at the Moose Hall, 5213 57 St., Lloydminster, Alta. Cost is $13/person, youth 6-12 are $5 and children five and under eat free. Breakfast includes eggs. bacon, sausages, toast, pancakes and waffles.

Border City Métis Society AGM

The Border City Métis Society Local #75 is hosting its annual general meeting on Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. The meeting will be held in the John Ross Building (Border City Aboriginal Head Start) at 5009-48 Ave. in the basement hall. Members only.

Islay Jamboree

There will be a jamboree at the Islay Community Hall at 1 p.m. on Dec. 15. Admission is $15, participants free. Everyone welcome, lunch served! Contact Dixie at 780-7442204 for more details.

Lloydminster Senior Citizens Society AGM

The general meeting for the Lloydminster Senior Citizens Society is at the Legacy Centre on Dec. 16. The meeting is being held in the boardroom at 10:30 a.m. All members are encouraged to attend. Call the Legacy office at 780875-4584 for more details.

Christmas in Song

Come out to Grace United Church, 4708 50 Ave., on Dec. 20 for Christmas in Song , a concert by Karen Fawcett, Michelle Andres and Kim Drury. The show is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 and are available at the church or at the door.

Special Alcurve Community Hall Potluck

The Alcurve Community Hall is

hosting a special potluck dinner on Dec. 22. Dinner is at 5:30 p.m. and a special guest in red and white will be welcomed at 7:30 p.m. Please bring a wrapped gift for your child with their first and last name and From Santa on the tag. Questions? Call Kay at 780-808-6783 for details.

Christmas on the Farm

You’re invited to the Marwayne Community Hall’s holiday party! The party starts at 9 p.m. on Dec. 27 and will take place at the Marwayne Ag Society’s community hall. Tickets are $20 at the door, 14 and under get in for free. There will be a DJ, midnight lunch and drinks. Let’s celebrate the season together!

New Year’s Eve Dance

The Legacy Centre is hosting a New Year’s Eve Dance on Dec. 31. Doors open and cocktails at 7:30 p.m. Lunch served at 10 p.m. Dance in the new year to the tunes of The Plaiders from Red Deer. Advance tickets only! Cost is $35/member or $40 for non members. Everyone is welcome! The Legecy Centre will be closed the week of Christmas, so purchase your tickets early. They will be open on Dec. 30/31 for tickets if they aren’t sold out. Call the Legacy Centre office at 780-875-4584 for more details.

Alcurve Hall New Year’s Eve Dance

The Alcurve Hall is hosting a New Year’s Eve Dance on Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Attendees must be 18 years old to attend. Music by the Prairie Dogs, midnight lunch will be beef on a bun. Pre-purchased tickets are $35 or $40 at the door. Contact Debbie at 780-8080015, Kay at 780-808-6783, or Maureen at 780-808-0260 for more details.

Singles Cribbage Tournament

The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a singles cribbage tournament on Jan. 19 from 1-4:30 p.m. Entry fee is $20, 10 games guaranteed with prizes awarded to the top finishers. Must register by Jan. 16. For more information or to register, contact Bruce at 780-522-6972.

Lloydminster Christmas drive a huge success

On Nov. 30, Lloydminster First Responders hosted their 2nd annual Kick Off to Christmas Toy and Food Drive.

The event supported The Olive Tree and The Salvation Army, two organizations that assist hundreds of families in need during the holiday season.

This year’s drive was a resounding success, raising, over $2,500 in cash donations, 4,800 pounds of food and approximately $15,000 worth of toys.

Organizers thanked Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart, Canadian Tire, and the City of Lloydminster for their generous partnerships and contributions. Local media also played a key role in promoting the event, while youth volunteers braved the cold to assist.

The biggest thanks went to Lloydminster residents and surrounding communities. Their generosity will help brighten Christmas for countless children and families.

The event was a collaborative effort by Lloydminster RCMP, Lloydminster Rescue Squad, Medavie Health Services West, and Lloydminster Fire Department.

Onion Lake RCMP investigating murder

On Dec. 6 at about 6 a.m., Onion Lake RCMP responded to reports of gunshots on Onion Lake Cree Nation.

Shortly after, officers received another report of a seriously-injured man at a local medical centre in Onion Lake. Emergency responders pronounced the 37-year-old man, identified as Jesse Heathen, dead at the scene. Heathen was a resident of Onion Lake Cree Nation.

sified as a homicide. Investigators released his name to encourage the public to provide tips.

The Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Unit is investigating Heathen’s death, which has been clas -

Police are asking anyone who saw suspicious activity on Onion Lake Cree Nation between midnight and 6 a.m. on Dec. 6 to come forward.

Meanwhile, information can be

reported to Saskatchewan RCMP at 310RCMP or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Further updates will follow as the investigation continues. If public safety risks arise, authorities will issue warnings immediately.

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Supplied Photo

Lloydminster to replace water screen

STAFF WRITER

Lloydminster is looking at replacing one of its water screens that was installed in 1982.

The travelling water screen is responsible for removing large debris from the river water. In July 2024, the screen was taken offline due to a mechanical failure.

An assessment was conducted by Evoqua Water Technologies which indicated a significant number of parts that need to be replaced.

Given the age of the screen, parts are no longer in the normal production schedule and the supplier recommends a full replacement. The repair of the screen would be more costly than simply installing a new screen.

“We had asked two proposals, one was just to repair that cost is significantly higher than actually doing a full replacement, the reason being is the original material is no longer in production. So it would have to be custom produced for the city and at the same time we wouldn’t have any warranty if we did a repair,” said Karen Dela Rosa, director of environmental services.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers says these projects are important to complete.

“Certainly, this is very important as we’ve discussed in this council chamber for the last couple of years, most recently with the City of Calgary’s water experiences I think that we’d be in deep trou-

ble if we didn’t give good direction to administration to ensure that we have a good supply of clean drinking water and be able to bring it out of the river,” he said.

Equipment delivery is anticipated in May 2025 with the dive crew scheduled for installation shortly after. Installation is expected to be completed in 10 days.

This project was included in the 2025 capital budget request in the amount of $1,025,000 to be funded by Environmental Services Capital Reserve and Cenovus Energy.

Council approved two motions related to this project.

The first motion saw council commit $619,680 from the Environmental Services capital reserve for the project.

The other motion had council approve the sole source procurement award of the river intake travelling water screen replacement equipment supply and installation to Evoqua Water Technologies in the amount of $530,180.

Downtown Area Redevelopment committee gains new member

Council has approved the appointment of Stephanie Lindsay to the Downtown Area Redevelopment Committee (DARC) for a two-year term.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers thanked those who expressed interest in being on the committee.

“I’ll start by saying thank you to the four candidates that their names forward, always appreciate interest in our community especially in DARC,” he said.

The selection process for the appointments were held between May 24 and July 18 receiving four new applications and five existing committee members.

Lloydminster (Hwy 16 East)

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR BOOKINGS CALL:

Woody Woodman 306-821-6310

Brody Brooks 306-240-6504

Jim Pulyk 780-787-0646

Kyle Soderberg 306-883-7374

Aidan Nielsen-Clark 306-491-5987

Brian Romanowicz 780-207-0290

Blair Jackson 780-853-0069

Ryan Noble 306-839-7949

Larry Anderson 780-853-0528

Ofﬁce 306-825-8831

The candidate chosen was unable to fulfill their committee to the committee and another suitable candidate was chose.

Lindsay’s appointment will last until Sept. 1, 2026.

At the March 27 council meeting council approved the updated terms of reference for DARC. The committee is established to advise on the

implementation of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan (DARP). The plan acts as a framework for the redevelopment of downtown Lloydminster. From the construction of roads and infrastructure to public space and events, the DARP outlines an action plan intended to revive the downtown and make it a showpiece of Lloydminster.

Saturday, December 14th

Brent & Brad Moore of Rabbit Lake, SK

200 Cows & 30 heifers, Charolais X & Black/Red Simmental X, bred for February 20th calving. Cows were exposed to Charolais bulls for the ﬁrst 3 weeks, Red & Black Simmental and Charolais bulls for the remainder of the breeding season. Full herd health with ScourGaurd & Vitamin A. For more information call Brent at 780-870-1292 or Aidan at 306-491-5987.

Aidan Nielsen-Clark, Don Clark & Tanya Nielsen of Spiritwood, SK

50 cows exposed to Charolais & Red Simmental bulls, for February 20th calving. Full herd health, with Scourgaurd & Vitamin A. For more information call Aidan at 306-491-5987.

Fore See Cattle Co. of Vegreville, AB

80 Early Calving Black & red Simmental X heifers. Exposed March 30th to May 24th for January 10th calving. Bred to Duralta Farms Black Angus bulls. Have had Bovishield Gold FP5 & Ultabac 7 Pre Breeding, again this fall with Ivomec and Scourgaurd. For more information contact Rod at 780-632-5500 or Jim at 780-787-0646.

The

Robinsons of Glendon, AB

60 fancy Red Simmental heifers bred to Black & Red Angus bulls, to start calving March 10th for 60 days. For more information contact Shawn 780-210-6831

250 Black & RWF SImm X heifers bred to Black Angus bulls for April Calving from the Amyotte’s of Mallaig AB, Phil 780-645-1688.

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Source File Photo

December 12, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

ARMS BATTLE ON BORDER

The Canadian Brewhouse in Lloydminster became a battleground for strength and technique on Dec. 7 as arm wrestlers from Alberta and Saskatchewan clashed in the Border Rivals 3- Arm Wrestling Supermatch Invitational.

The evening celebrated the sport’s rising popularity and brought together competitors from both sides of the provincial border for a unique showdown.

Organizer Travis Robertson, who doubles as a promoter, explained the event’s importance.

“We have a good club here,” Robertson said. “It’s the border city, so there’s quite a bit of competition on both the Alberta and Saskatchewan sides. This allows both provinces to come together for one event.”

Arm wrestling, a sport rooted in ancient traditions, has gained traction worldwide since its official competitive debut in the 1950s. Additionally, it combines raw power, precision, and technique, making it accessible to participants of varying strength levels. This balance of talents was on full display during the Lloydminster event.

For those interested in trying the sport, Robertson encouraged joining local clubs.

“Look up your local arm wrestling club on Facebook,” he said. “We have one called Lloydminster Arm Benders, and we practise every Tuesday

night at 7 p.m.”

Competitor Dakota Shipton, representing Alberta, emphasized the event’s significance.

“I’ve travelled all over, but events like this are really special, Robertson is awesome and puts on great events for us.” said Shipton. “It’s a fun way for me to arm wrestle people I don’t always get to compete against.”

The event also served as a reminder of the sport’s accessibility. Shipton encouraged anyone with interest in the sport to try it.

“The worst that happens is you don’t like it and move on, but a lot of people try it and love it.” He added, “It’s way more than just strength. I’ve beaten so many guys stronger than me because my technique was better.”

The Border Bash wasn’t just about the competitors; the venue played a key role in creating a lively atmosphere. Cord Harvey, owner of the Canadian Brewhouse, explained why hosting the event was important.

“It’s just fun, and it gets people familiar with Lloyd and our establishment,” Harvey said.

As the night concluded, the camaraderie and competition underscored the growing appeal of arm wrestling in the region. Robertson had a few parting words for participants at the event.

“Good luck to everyone. I hope everybody stays safe, has fun, and brings their all.”

Dan Gray Meridian Source Photos

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Off the gridiron – football builds character

The character-building of football was on full display this year in Lloydminster. Although both schools had different outcomes from their seasons, players’ personal growth was seen throughout.

Lloyd Comp Barons’ held a banquet to recognize their award winners through the year. Guest speaker Riley Richardson, a University of Alberta linebacker and former Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Baron

spoke about character. He emphasized the life lessons he’s learned while playing football. Including how you choose your character traits, you don’t get them by accident.

“Every day you wake up and you need to choose your character,” he said. “You need to choose what you look like, what you smell like, what you eat, the first words that come out of your mouth.”

Baron’s Senior Football head Kiren Link concurs with that assessment.

“Football requires dedication and

selflessness. You need to lift weights and work hard when no one is watching. You need to be accountable to your teammates. It requires individuals to put the needs of the team before their own,” said Link. “Football is very physically demandingit requires mental fortitude for long periods of time. The process of getting better at football helps individuals develop the skills of accountability, teamwork, and resilience.”

Richardson shared valuable insights about how football shapes individuals, teaching lessons that extend far beyond the field. Additionally, through his own experiences, he illustrated how the sport demands integrity, perseverance, teamwork and character. He believes football helps shape you and described his former teammate, Devin Russell, as someone who exemplified true character.

“Devin was a smaller guy, but he showed up to every practice, every event, regardless of the temperature,” Richardson recalls. “He had an infectious attitude and just the will to win and get better.”

Despite not getting much playing time, Devin’s dedication to the team never wavered.

“He wasn’t here to show off or be the star, He was literally just here for the team.” This selflessness, Richardson notes, is what football teaches: to play for the team, not the individual. “Devin didn’t need the ball to prove a point,” he said. “He just wanted to see the team win.”

Richardson asserted that football builds character in all players, whether they’re on the field or not. Additionally, the sport requires players to show up, give their best, and support each other.

“In this program, you have the opportunity to do something very special, you can set the foundation. If you can learn to get tight-knit together and truly learn how to play for each other, you’ll be unstoppable.”

He encourages players to lean into the relationships the game gives

them. “Football has a way to give you back,” he said. “Even way after it’s done. I have countless best friends I would do anything for, guys I met through this program.”

At Holy Rosary, head coach Vince Orieux, believes the sport is a powerful catalyst for character building. It teaches them life lessons beyond the field.

Through training, teamwork, and competition, players learn the importance of discipline, resilience, and perseverance as they face physical and mental challenges. The camaraderie built among teammates builds a sense of belonging and teaches the value of teamwork and trust, which are essential skills for success as these student-athletes move from high school into post-secondary and beyond,” stated Orieux. Additionally, dealing wins and losses fosters humility and sportsmanship, teaching athletes how to handle both success and overcome adversity with class and dignity.”

Student-athletes balance academics and sports; they develop skills in time management, commitment and leadership.

“These character-building values help to shape high school football players into responsible and successful members of their school and broader communities,” said Orieux. For Richardson, football isn’t just a game—it’s a transformative experience that shapes individuals for life. Meanwhile, his message to the next generation of players was clear: build your character, support your teammates, and never lose sight of what truly matters. The gridiron isn’t just about winning games; it’s about growing as individuals, making lifelong connections, and developing the kind of character that will serve you for the rest of your life.

In conclusion, he left them with a life lesson.

“Find a way to demand the best of your teammates in their worst times so that in your worst times, they can demand the best of you.”

Bobcats representing at World Junior A Challenge

Lloydminster Bobcats Teague McAllister and Zack Birch are members of Team Canada West at the 2024 World Junior A Challenge. Furthermore, Team Canada West also named McAllister as captain.

The Junior A Challenge started on Dec. 9 and wraps up on Dec. 15. The players will be joining Bobcats general manager, Nigel Dube, who will be entering his second year as director of operations for Team Canada West after winning gold last year at the event in Truro, N.S. News of McAllister and Birch’s invi-

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

tation to selection camp was made on Nov. 28.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Teague McAllister. Source File Photo

Day Gray Meridian Source

Holy Rosary hosts hoops tournament

On Dec. 6 and 7, Holy Rosary High School hosted a junior boys and girls basketball tournament

The event brought together eight boys’ and eight girls’ teams from both sides of the border.

Coach Wendy Orieux of Holy Rosa-

ry’s junior boys’ basketball team stressed the significance of this opportunity.

“I think it’s important that our junior high students also get to be showcased on a big stage,” said Orieux. “We often are highlighting our senior athletes, so it’s really nice to get our junior athletes in a show -

case event. This gives them their moment and inspires them to see what lies ahead.”

Teams from places like North Battleford, Sherwood Park, Cold Lake, Wainwright, and Vermilion participated, making the event a true Midwest basketball showcase.

For many players, this marked the beginning of their season and provided invaluable game experience.

Evan Sazdov, a player for the Holy Rosary junior boys’ team, expressed the pride his team felt playing at home.

“We get to represent how we play, who we are, and show other schools this is our home and crowd,” he said.

The tournament also set the stage for Holy Rosary’s senior basketball events, scheduled after Christmas.

“This is the first tournament of the year, and it builds excitement for what’s next,” said Orieux.

The weekend was a celebration of teamwork, determination, and community, marking an impressive start to the junior basketball season.

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Dan Gray Meridian Source Photos

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Word on the beat: Traffic

Sooner or later the topic of traffic was going to come up.

Thousands of motorists, passengers, and pedestrians move about the city every day. Numerous by laws, provincial, and federal statutes govern this movement.

You can consider all this for two reasons: safety and traffic flow. Pedestrians are included as they can be charged for various offenses regarding roads and vehicle traffic.

A pedestrian does not have the right of way at all times; however, when a pedestrian does have the right of way, due diligence to their own safety should still be a priority. As a pedestrian, walk defensively to avoid any collisions with vehicles.

If a pedestrian is crossing a roadway committing an offence and is hit by a vehicle, they would most likely be at fault. This could be jaywalking or crossing at a controlled intersection against the control device indication. For both drivers and pedestrians, safety should be the number one goal and not an attitude of ‘I am in the right’.

Bicycle riders must also be aware of their requirements when on or near roadways.

There is not enough space here to go over all situations or offences so if you ride a bike, please research the requirements in riding to remain

safe and legally compliant.

Driving offences are made by either unknowing drivers or those who knowingly disregard the laws.

Every fully licenced driver in Canada is required to pass a written and road test requiring most basic driving laws to be demonstrated during the driving exam. Requirements such as seatbelts, distracted driving, turn signal use, speed, intersections, lane use, etc. are basic and not one Canadian driver can say they aren’t aware of them.

The mere fact that a person possesses a valid driver’s licence compels them to know all the laws that govern driving in the province in which they are driving.

Do all drivers know all the laws? No, offenses like driving a golf cart on a road without a drivers license and the requirement for your vehicle hood to have a primary and secondary latch may not be widely known, but that does not absolve a driver.

By operating a motor vehicle on a roadway, or in the case of a pedestrian walking, all drivers and pedestrians are accepting the responsibility of the laws.

If a driver has questions about a particular area of a roadway, such as a multi-entrance-exit intersection, it is best to find out how to navigate it legally.

Also, every driver is responsible for any vehicle

WE ARE HIRING

they are driving, whether or not they own it, in meeting all legal requirements.

Should you disagree with a driving law, don’t argue with an officer about it as we don’t create the laws. Fines are a way to address offences and an arguing abusive driver will most often negate discretion being exercised by an officer. There is a process to contest a violation ticket and it is best to follow that.

- Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown, is the NCO in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP detachtment’s General Investigation Section. Stay tuned for future articles from the Lloydminster RCMP.

Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

PAGE 20

Thursday, December 12, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

306-825-5111

admin@meridiansource.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS ESTATE OF ELFENESH NEGASH HINTZ WHO DIED ON MAY 25, 2021

If you have a claim against this estate, you must ﬁle your claim by January 18, 2025 and provide details of your claim with Public Trustee

at 4th Floor, 103365-97 St Edmonton, AB T5J 3Z8

Phone: (780) 427-2744

Fax: (780) 422-9136 and provide details of your claim.

If you do not ﬁle by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

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ADS 1 FOR $25 OR 2 FOR $40

1 FOR $25 OR 2 FOR $40

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

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AGPRO SEEDS - BUYING HEATED CANOLA, FEED BARLEY & FEED GRAIN. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! For Bids Call/Text: 306-8730481, Email: sales@ agproseeds.com

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-4051228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

Method of Payment: Cash Visa MC Cheque

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Mom(Gloria), Shalene, Shannon, Kent Tanya, Terence and family Tamara, Curtis and family Trista, Mark and family Connie, D’Artagnon, Jocelyn

HEATHER LAYN (NEE CARLSON) LUMLEY: Heather Layn (nee Carlson) Lumley was born December 31, 1942, in Stettler Alberta, and died on November 23, 2024 at the U of A hospital. She married Allan George Lumley July 31,1959 and moved to the Dewberry area to farm. Our mother loved to ride her horse Velvet, and when she could, went on trail rides and participated in the Gymkhana events at the Greenlawn Old Timer’s picnic on July 1. In the early 1970’s she worked for a time as a helper at the Heinsburg Post Ofﬁce and then became a long-time employee at Nelson Homes in Lloydminster. She moved to Edmonton in 1994 to be with her partner. She leaves to mourn her partner Cyril Konkin, her three children Karen Lumley (Pat Haiste), David Lumley and Keith Lumley (Melissa

Pitcher), nine grandchildren: Evelyn, Ashley, Cassie, Jamie, Brandon, Kaiden, Hunter, Zachariah and Xander, ten great grandchildren, two sisters Sharon Carlson and Joyce Lunevich, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Ella Mae Carlson and Charles Laverne Carlson, and her sister Ruby Van Straten. While the family misses her, it is a great relief to know she is no longer in pain and suffering. Our mother did not want a funeral and there will be no service. The family thanks you for all of you who have reached out and offered your condolences. Our mother had a soft spot for the homeless and if it calls to you, your donations to help the homeless and general kindness to those less fortunate would be appreciated.