Meridian Source - December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

VOLUME 1 I ISSUE 25

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Protesters catch ear of Trudeau GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Lloydminster protesters hope their clear messages of economic and political discontent in the west will generate a continued flood of concrete support from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Several hundred people, many of them wearing y e l l o w ve s t s a nd carrying placards decrying everything from carbon taxes, stalled oil pipelines, the UN migration pact and equalization payments filled both sides of 44 Street in front of City Hall on Saturday.

“We want to see some jobs for Albertans and see some support from our government. We’ve got a lot of hurting people in Alberta and Saskatchewan—all over the west is hurting,” said rally organizer Charlie Medlicott.

Following another weekend rally of 1,000 protesters in Calgary, the federal government announced a $1.6 billion stimulus package for Alberta’s energy companies on Tuesday.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Charlie Medlicott, left, who organized Saturday’s protest in front of City Hall, vented her thoughts with a placard about PM Justin Trudeau. Other protesters held banners decrying the lack of pipelines, the carbon tax, jobs, the UN migration pact and Bill C-69 on pipeline reviews. The federal government responded on Tuesday with a $1.6 billion stimulus fund package for Alberta’s oil companies that are hard hit by discounted oil prices.

The funding for companies reeling from low oil prices might take some of the sting out of

the criticism of Ottawa voiced during the Lloydminster protest.

“The east doesn’t

seem to recognize us— they left us off the national address on Canada Day; the car-

bon tax is killing everybody and for people who are already hurting and unemployed, it’s

just a bigger kick in the teeth,” said Medlicott.

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Peaceful protest makes stand in Border City FROM PAGE 1

Medlicott says everyone at the rally wants Ottawa to hear what Albertans have to say and noted nobody’s happy with Canada signing the UN migration pact this month either.

“That’s a decision Canadians were never given an option on and we don’t think that’s right,” said Medlicott.

The non-binding pact sets out objectives for treating global migrants humanely and efficiently while cracking down on illegal movements across borders.

Protester Maureen Weeres was eager to let Trudeau know how his government’s neglect of Alberta’s oil sector is affecting her personally.

“I’m an oilfield worker who has been laid off recently by the last round of cuts and when you look at what’s happening to our oil industry it’s just a shame. I feel like I want to raise my voice and collectively maybe somebody’s going to listen,” she said.

Tuesday’s federal support package includes $1 billion in funding through Export Development Canada for companies to invest in new technologies

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source and $500 million in commercial financing over three years from the Business Development Bank.

Retiree Wayne King, the former owner of Grit Industries in Lloydminster and North Battleford came to the rally to thump his chest for the type of response the Trudeau government has started to make.

“We believe that we’ve been neglected out west here; we’re trying to bring some attention to us,” he said.

King says with the discount Alberta’s oil producers are getting

for Western Canadian crude, he thinks we need to be more visible and our approach needs to be a little bit more aggressive than what it has been in the past.

“I’m here to support the movement,” he said.

Medlicott once worked for CanSafe Safety Services as an oilfield safety person and says just about everyone she knows is affected by the downturn in oil.

“It doesn’t matter if they’re working in a retail store or grocery store or oilfield supply

store or the patch itself —everyone is having hours cut back, having layoffs hit, and to be honest, there is no jobs to be had out there,” she said.

“Our government needs to step up and do something for Canada.”

Her fiance Dan Amant, a long haul trucker who once owned Hurricane Industries says he sees nothing but oil prosperity when he drives through the United States.

“Trump has done an amazing job, Trudeau really sucks.”

City to move forward with DMAF application TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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There’s still one more get out of jail free card for the City of Lloydminster after all the paperwork has been filed.

Members of city council gave approval to administration to submit the full Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) application on Monday, which includes all paperwork associated with the

$50-55M project scenario threshold and agrees to the potential City of Lloydminster contributions for the full duration of the agreement (20182028).

“What was being asked today was, ‘will city council support the application’ and the motion was carried and I think the important comment is we aren’t committed,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers following Monday’s

meeting of council.

“The get out of jail free comment (made during council) is regarding that if we don’t like what the federal government comes back to us with on this one, we can take a pass and say we would rat her go it alone or wait until another program comes around.”

The funding will be used to assist in the completion of upgrades noted in the 2015 Stormwater Mas-

ter Plan.

The capital budget asks will be part of the annual capital budget allocation.

It is anticipated that no more than $2.2M will be allocated on an annual basis. The user fees to cover the debenture payments would be derived from the Stormwater utility operation reserves.

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Wheaton awarded LGCC pro shop contract Look for the ELEVEN PIPERS PIPING & TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING in today’s paper for the 12 Days of Christmas Contest.

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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The City of Lloydminster recently got out of the restaurant business when the food and beverage contract at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre (LGCC) was awarded to Harvest to Home, and how they pro shop contract has been taken care of.

At Monday’s meeting of city council, members approved the pro shop contract for the LGCC to golf pro Marty Wheaton.

The contract consist s of a a f ive-y e ar deal with an option to renew the contract for an additional three years, at a cost of: year one $225,000, year two $230,625, year three $236,400, year four $242,300, and

year five$248,500.

In addition, that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to sign and seal all necessary documents.

With the dissolution of the Lloydminster Facilities Corporation as of Dec. 31 a contractor was needed to maintain pro shop services and the mayor and members of council are looking forward to the future with Wheaton.

“What I hope helps people understand is we’ve seperated things.

When you walk into the pro shop and want to buy a set of golf tees and some balls you’ll be supporting the contractor, but if you’re renting a golf cart or paying green fees, that will be coming to the city for revenue,” said Mayor Ger-

File Photo ald Aalbers. “It’s seperating the business side, and I’m sure Marty will continue to have golfing attire and golf clubs for sale, which he has invested interest in, and now the taxpayers won’t be owning the inventory at the end of the year if so some reason it doesn’t sell, and that’s part of the business plan.”

Aalbers also added that since Wheaton already has some skin in the game when it comes to the sport, and if he

continues to improve operations at the LGCC, the City should see additional revenue with more users actively using the course.

“Marty is very familiar with the golf course and as we talked about as well, it was a very clear, open, and transparent (decision),” said Aalbers.

“Marty knows what he’s getting into and I believe he’s ready to move forward as a contractor in his new business.”

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Always remember somebody loves you TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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The Lloydminster Kinsmen Club made the rounds to area schools last week in the spirit of spreading Christmas cheer with their 34th annual Santa Project.

Each year the local Kinsmen Club fills bags with a small toy, chocolates, a candy cane, a Christmas orange, a small bag of chips, which are all nut-free, and Santa, Mrs. Claus and a handful of elves make sure each student receives a bag for Christmas.

The Santa Project all started at Rendall Park School 34 years ago when the school only had 12 children in attendance.

The school saw a need for an event geared towards their special needs students to bring them Christmas joy, and after teachers approached the Kinsmen Club with the idea the rest is history, and now every student in Lloydminster receives a gift bag.

“Today is about bringing joy into the lives of little children, giving them hope because some of them need hope, and love, they need to know that somebody loves them,” said club member and organizer Vera Gallant, who was once again donning her best Mrs.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Five-year-old Annabella Alyward of Rendell Park Elementary School was all smiles when it was her turn to tell Santa what she wanted for Christmas this year.

Clause outfit.

“The kids have kept it going over the years because some of the stories they’ve told us are amazing. We don’t have much time with them but they share enough that we say ‘you know this is a lot of work, but it’s worth every minute of it because we can bring a little bit of joy into their lives.’”

The tradition with the Santa Project is members and friends and family of members come together on a Monday evening to pack all of the gift bags, and from Tues-

day to Thursday Santa makes his stops to area schools spreading cheer and bringing smiles to the faces of Border City youth.

“Yesterday we heard ‘I don’t want anything for myself but bring my sister a little present,’ and when that happens we get the name of that family and we try to make sure that family has Christmas presents, so we kind of extent it just beyond the kids in the classrooms,” said Gallant at Rendall Park last Thursday.

“We are here to serve the children and try to

change the community and the world, one child at a time. If we can change the life of one little child we’ve succeeded.”

Gallant is one of many Kinsmen members who love what they do as members of the community, which shines through as she couldn’t help but give each and every student a big hug before they received their gift.

When asked what she was saying to the kids before they sat on Santa’s lap she was almost left speechless, but said, “Always remember somebody loves you.”

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Bomb threat temporarily closes mall

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Members of the Lloydminster RCMP and Lloydminster Fire Department secure an entrance on the south side of the LloydMall last Friday when a bomb threat temporarily closed the mall.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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At approximately 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 14, Lloydminster RCMP responded to a bomb threat at the Lloyd mall.

“Lloydminster RCMP responded immediately evacuating the mall to ensure the safety of the

patrons as well as those working inside the mall.

We’ve also alerted those in schools ne arby as well as the residential area,” said Const. Grant Kirzinger of the Lloydminster RCMP. Const. Kirzinger confirmed on Wednesday morning that the inci-

dent is still under investigation and that the Lloydminster RCMP will continue to look into the matter and ensure the safety of the public.

Kirzinger also confirmed the threat at the LloydMall differed from those made on Dec. 13 across Canada.

Drive with caution this Christmas Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Emergency vehicles were called to the scene of a motor vehicle crash on Highway 17 Wednesday afternoon. With the holiday season underway RCMP are advising motorists to drive safely.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

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Award fetes Lloyd’s needs survey

File Photo GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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A City of Lloydminster and the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF) have proven two heads are better than one by earning an award for a collaborative project.

The city’s Social Programs and Services Department and the LRHF received provincial recognition for their joint effort to

u n d e rt ake a f o rc e f u l social-needs initiative in the city The city accepted the Family and Community Support Services of Alberta Award of Excellence at the FCSSAA annual conference in Edmonton on Nov. 29.

The Lloydminster project partners teamed up in 2017 to conduct a social needs assessment designed

to engage residents and measu re ind icators relating to social well-being.

The ‘Lloyd Needs’ campaign netted 2,168 completed surveys and involved several community stakeholders through focus groups, interviews and conversations.

Patrick Lancaster, manager of Social Programs and Services, said the enthusiastic

collaboration of many local social organizations helped drive inclusive participation in the social needs assessment.

“We were successful in leveraging a large array of community connections and collecting input from portions of our population that sometimes go underrepresented,” he said.

“The impacts of this report have just begun to be felt in this community and we look forward to what the future has in store.”

Malcolm Radke, chief executive officer, LRHF, said the findings of the ‘Lloyd Needs’ campaign have already influenced a recent decision by local healthcare leaders to bring additional support to mental health in Lloydminster.

The award recognizes civic programs

or projects that have helped to strengthen the social fabric of their community.

“The Lloyd Needs campaign and the Community Social Needs Assessment report will benefit the residents of Lloydmin-

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ster for many years to come,” said Vicki Van Vliet Vaitkunas, president, FCSSAA. “It provides a new lens with which to view the community, which was achieved through collaboration with community partners.”

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

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Mount Joy thanks snow angels

Submitted Photo

Dekker Oilfield Services delivered a 12,000 lb. generator on site at Mount Joy Snow Resort last Wednesday afternoon. The rebuilt generator (from two generators ) will run the water pump for snowmaking. The project resulted from a long list of volunteer and paid help including trucking

by Spectra Oilfield Services. The resort plans to open on Jan. 5.

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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The spirit of Christmas will help to whiten the slopes at Mount Joy Snow Resort for the upcoming 2019 season.

“Everything should

be a go to open on Jan. 5,” said Ray Tatro, vice-president of the resort.

Tatro worked his connections successfully to secure a replacement generator for snowmaking in advance of the

start of the resort’s 53rd season.

“This will definitely run the water pump and there is a chance it could run one cannon so we don’t need a second engine running,” he said.

The generator was placed on site last Wednesday night and ready for the gas and electric hookups with a successful test firing on Saturday.

Unfortunately the water pump motor failed but was expected to be ready for a restart earlier this week along with the generator.

Dean Peters, the resort president noted a previous plan to overhaul the old generator that failed last spring was feasible until it became clear a lot of replacements parts are simply not available.

“About the time we figured fixing the old generator wasn’t going to be the best bet, then this other deal came along,” he said.

“There’s lots of people that we need to thank for that.”

Tatro says it couldn’t have happened without some “super commit-

ted people” who really wanted to help the out with a mix of volunteer and billed hours.

He said they ended up making one generator from two that

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were donated by Gear Energy as surplus with Mantl Canada sharing a lot of the credit for their fine tuning work.

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PAGE 10 Thursday, December 20, 2018 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 Susan Cross susan@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 Gone but never forgotten EDITOR Taylor Weaver

Tuesday morning was a difficult one for my family as my uncle Wayne passed away in hospital in Ontario.

I guess you could say he was always a favourite uncle for my brother and I growing up (I’m speaking for him on the subject but I’m sure he would back me up on this one).

Uncle Wayne had been living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for some time and not long after being in palliative care, he was gone.

From the conversations I had over the past year or two with family members back in Ontario he was sick and tired of being sick and tired and was done with suffering.

I guess it was his time to go.

Wayne was going to be 70 years old this year and I feel very fortunate to have been able to pay him a visit this past

summer for a coffee and donut with my mom and brother whilst out east.

You know how every family has that one quirky member that everyone absolutely adores because of how unique they are and because they can always make you laugh or bring a smile to your face?

That was my uncle Wayne.

When I was young the phone would ring and if my dad picked up and his older brother was on the other end of the line the words “You dum basteeerd!” could be heard throughout the house, as this was always how the two of them always greeted each other. It really didn’t matter what the situation was.

That’s just the way it was.

Of course my brother and I would instantly crack up because we were too young to use such language, but found it profoundly funny, every time.

His sense of humour is something everyone couldn’t help but love and those he’s with now are lucky to have such a lovely soul in their midst.

One thing I will NEVER forget is his favourite article of clothing which was worn every Christmas for as long as I can remember.

It was a simple button worn over his heart, like a political pin during election season, only his read “Ho Ho Ho My Ass.” I only have good memories of my uncle Wayne. The man who could always make someone laugh and smile no matter how dark a situation they were going through.

And the man was smooth.

Whether it be family reunions, a birthday party, whatever it was, he was the guy to plant a big kiss on almost everyone in the room.

He loved everyone.

So this one’s for you Wayne Weaver, you lovable uncle who taught my dad how to swim by throwing him in the Trent River when he didn’t know how to doggie paddle (good thing you were a lifeguard at the time!).

I guess you got the last laugh this Christmas.

You will be missed, but never forgotten. Stand easy. Love you.

Letters to the Editor We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca

PAGE 11 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Best and worst Christmases STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

Everyone including myself has a favourite Christmas and probably one they would like to wish away. The best ever for me would be 1956 when a seven year me beat my sister down the stairs to the tree at our home in Ottawa and couldn’t believe all the stuff that Santa left us.

T h e v i s i b l e unwrapped stuff was an electric train for me and a bicycle for my sister. I remember yelling to my sister that she got a bike and that I got a train with a lot more gifts for both of us than we

were used to.

Also in Ottawa there was one memorable Christmas with no snow but a ditch down the road had a two or three foot wide patch of frozen ice on it.

It was just perfect to try out my new skates and put some holes in my new hockey socks too as my parents and sister watched in wonder as I toe picked my way down the street to heaven knows where.

The story grew into a family legend.

Probably the worst Christmas I had was probably in my second year at Ryerson in Toronto back in 1974 knowing my dad and mom were getting divorced.

My mom became mentally ill when I was a kid and she was medicated heavily that Christmas in ‘74 leaving me with very little to celebrate or feel good about other than having a mom around.

She is still alive at age 95 and living in a nursing home in North York in Ontario.

Last year was a bad Christmas too as I suffered at home through a painful medical issue.

When I lived in B.C. I would usually celebrate Christmas Day by skiing all day.

However, one year in Nelson, me and six of the finest runners in the West Kootenay region laced up for a 10 kilometre run with a photo shoot at the beginning.

I have that photo mounted on my wall and remember all the names and who was the fastest—it wasn’t me— but it’s one of my favourite holiday keepsakes.

When this Christmas rolls around what will keep me going is remembering all the good times while planning what bike races I will register

for in the 2019 season. That should get

me through to next Christmas and take

care of making new year’s resolutions.

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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.

EVERY TUESDAY — VOLLEYBALL Drop in volleyball from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Takes place at the Servus Sports Centre and everyone is welcome, non-competitive and no experience is necessary.

Come for fun and exercise and meet some great people.

EVERY TUESDAY — ADAPTED YOGA From 10 – 11 a.m. at the Community Service Centre. For more information please contact AnnDee at 780-871-0513.

EVERY TUESDAY — DIABETES 102 The new schedule for PNRHA Diabetes Education Classes is ready! Everyone starts with Diabetes 101 and then follows up with Diabetes 102 (people on diabetes pills) or Diabete s 103 (p e o p l e on insulin). All classes are scheduled on a Tuesday morning from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Please contact Nancy Johnston at 306-820-6096 or Helen Rogers at 306-820-6291 to pre-register.

EVERY TUESDAY — SENIORS MEET The Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meets at the Legacy Centre from noon - 1:30 p.m. Lunch is available for $8.

Please reserve before Tuesday morning at 780-875-4584. Everyone welcome.

Passport to YLL

Thursday, December 20, 2018

EVERY TUESDAY – DIABETES CLINICS The new schedule is out for Diabetes Education Classes with Saskatchewan Health Authority. Everyone starts with Diabetes 101 and follows up with Diabetes 102 and 103. All classes are scheduled on a Tuesday morning from 8:15 a.m. until noon.

To register call Janis at 306-820-4887.

EVERY WEDNESDAY — CRAFTERNOON Join Midwest Family Connections at the lower level of Prairie North Plaza and bring your budding artist to explore and create with materials in the craft centre.

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

Tournament on Dec. 20 with play starting at 10 a.m. It’s $10 play and $10 for lunch. Call the Legacy Centre for more info 780-875-4584.

DEC. 21 –MY CITY CHRISTMAS Join us for a free community WHOBILATION!! MyVictory presents a “Grinchmas” experience. Come tour Whoville and maybe even meet the “Mean One” himself. Enjoy a feast of Grinch goodies, cotton candy and hot chocolate, with Grinch Games for the whole family. As well there will be Who-Music and a brief message of Christmas cheer! Gather your little “Whos” and get ready to sing, sing, sing! Tickets and more information available at https:// mycity.christmas/ lloydminster-tickets/ DEC. 21 – CHRISTMAS PUBNIGHT

EVERY TUESDAY & SATURDAY — FARMER’S MARKET Downtown Farmer’s Market at the Fred North Community Centre (5002 51 Avenue, Lloydminster) from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Tues) 10 a.m. 4 p.m. (Sat) We’re on Facebook.

DEC. 20 – WHIST TOURNEY The Legacy Centre is hosting a Whist

Christmas Public night is being held at the Legacy Centre on Dec. 21. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m. with supper at 6 p.m. then dance the evening away to the tunes of “Melody Lane.” Cost of admission is $15/person at the door. All members and guests welcome.

Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more information.

DEC. 31 – NEW YEARS AT THE LEGACY

New Years Eve Dance at the Legacy Centre on

Dec. 31. Doors open and cocktails at 7:30 p.m. with dancin’ to start at 8 p.m. Band is “Memory Lane.” Lunch served at 10:30 p.m. Dance into 2019 at midnight ... ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY PLEASE! Cost is $35/person ... purchase tickets early as we sell out fast for this event! Call Legacy office for more info at 780-875-4584

DEC. 31 – HILLMONDS’s NEW YEARS EVE Hillmond’s New Years Eve Fire and Ice event will be taking place on Dec. 31 at the Hillmond Memorial Hall with karaoke at 7 p.m. and dance from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Cash bar, midnight lunch and tickets are $10 each or $40 per family.

Contact Duane Perillat at 306-821-2165 or duaneperillat@ gmail.com for more details.

JAN. 8 – CHILDREN’S GRIEF SUPPORT

Walking Through Grief Society is offering children’s grief support, Hope After LossAudra’s Legacy. Sessions for 10 weeks will begin Jan. 8 Lloydminster, Mid West Family Connections Tuesday 6:30-8 p.m. and Vermilion Monday 6:30-8 p.m. or Tues. 4-5:30 at J.R Robson school. Pre Registration necessary.

Registration deadline Dec. 14. Registration cost $20. individual or family subsidy available. To register contact 780-846-2576 or 780871-1750

JAN. 9 – FUN WITH NUMBERS

Lloydminster Learning Council will be

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Representatives from seven charities and/or service clubs each received $500 from this year’s Unifor Local 658-A donation of $3,500 collected from union dues. Cheques were presented on Monday by union president Randy Mark, second from left in front row, to Parkinson Association of Alberta, ALS Society of Alberta, Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, the Lloydminister Kinettes, LIoydminster Interval Home, Jubilee Jems and Lloydminster Salvation Army. Unifor has been doing this for more than 30 years to give back to the community.

offering Fun With Numbers, Jan 9 - Feb 13, 2019, Families come together once a week for 6 weeks. A program for parents/caregivers of children (4-6 years) which uses stories, games and rhymes to develop numeracy skills in a fun and meaningful way. Free Call 780875-5763 to register for classes.

JAN. 17 – FREE LEGAL CLINIC

FREE Legal Advice Clinics by Community Legal Clinic, 441952 Avenue, Lloydminster, January 17, March 21, May 16, July 18, August 15, October 17 and December 19, 2019.

Call 1-587-789-0727 for eligibility and bookings.

Watc h o u r Fac e bo o k page for more details.

LLOYDMINSTER LEARNING COUNCIL

- Registration Night for English Language Programs, Monday January 21, 2019, 6:30-7:30pm, Community Services Building, Workshop Room, 4419 - 52 Ave. Fee: No

Charge, Call 780-8755763 for any questions - Keyboarding, Wed. Jan 30, 2019, 6:308:30pm, Learn proper hand positioning to touch type to improve speed & accuracy, Fee: $40.00, Call 780-8755763 to register - Technology Series for Adults, 5 Wednesdays, Feb 6-Mar 6, 2019, 6:30-8:30pm, Fee: $125.00, Call 780-875-5763 to register - English Language Classes being offered: Beginner, Advanced, Intermediate, 10 weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, January 29 - April 4, 2019, 7:00-9:00pm, Fee: No Charge, Call 780-8755763 to register - English Language Classes for Women, 10 weeks, Wednesdays, January 30 - April 3, 2019, 1:00-3:00pm, Learn day to day conversational English, pronunciation, reading and writing for everyday activities (work, doctor appointments, children’s school), Fee: No Charge, Call 780875-5763 to register

Thursday, December 20, 2018

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Snow resort preps for upcoming season FROM PAGE 9

RL Electric Motor Rewinding rebuilt the generator taking pieces from the two units to make one with the Cou nt y of Vermilion River connecting the gas and Aecom Electric tying in the generator.

Each of the two generators used for the project weighs about 12,000 lb.

“We had good trucking companies that came to the plate for us too with pickers,” said Tatro.

He noted having a working generator takes a huge weight off his back.

“Holy smokes, I don’t know how much sleep I’ve missed in the last six months—I slept like a baby last night,” he said.

This week’s warm spell should put snowmaking on hold, but the hill has a good base from previous snowfalls.

“The snow that got on the hill, we packed down so the coverage there is

Submitted Photo pretty good right now,” said Peters.

He says in the past when they started snowmaking in early December, they often lost everything they made by a mid December thaw.

“There’s base everywhere; I think you could ski it right now, there is enough coverage,” said Peters who is counting down the days to the opening.

“There’s been a lot of volunteer hours put in the last two months and it will nice to have people on the slopes again

for sure—everybody is excited about that.”

Peter says this year they expect to have the terrain park open on the first day of operations as well.

The Ski and Snowboard School still has a few spaces open for lessons with the ability to handle more than the 15 skiers and 10 snowboarders who enrolled last season.

Trent Wobeser, resort secretary and head ski instructor says to date, enrolment is about 3/4 full to historical numbers.

“We’ve got more instructors that have stepped forward this year; we can take more kids as well this year,” said Wobeser.

Wobeser is also one of four certified ski patrollers who will keep everyone safe in their red jackets.

One of the intangible improvements for skiers and snowboarders in the new season is a new motor to drive the rope tow.

The resort also replaced an older high mileage snowmobile with a newer one.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

A Merry Christmas to one and all

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s we approach Christmas, my family and I would like to extend wishes for a very merry and blessed Christmas to you and yours.

Though Christmas is a joyous season for many, there are also those who face hardships this time of year and we offer those people our prayers and support.

I hope that whatever

your circumstance, you will see some joy, experience some love and know that you are important.

I hope that in whatever way you are able, you will join me in sharing the Christmas spirit with all those around you.

At this time of year, it is particularly important to do what we can to support those less fortunate through donations to

hampers, gifts, prayers and even donations of your time.

This is also a perfect time of year to connect with your neighbours.

Let’s make Lloydminster an even friendlier place.

Your smile, your kind words and generous heart will fill others with the Christmas spirit and bring light

and life to the world.

I would like to take the time to thank all the organizers, volunteers, donors and supporters of the many toy drives, food drives, meals and various other ways we as a community reach out and support each other.

Our businesses and residents demonstrate

time and time again that we are a people who care and who will do everything we can to make sure everyone is taken care of.

The heart and soul of Lloydminster is one that fills me with great joy.

On behalf of my fellow City Council members and the rest of the team at the City

15

of Lloydminster, I wish you a very merry Christmas and happy New Year.

May your festive celebrations bring peace and prosperity to you and yours in 2019.I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

- Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers City of Lloydminster

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Denham advertises with the funnies GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

Submitted Photo

Graphic artist Josh Price, the nephew of Dave Voellmecke, the new vehicle sales manager at Denham Chrysler, uses an iPad to draw a comic strip ad for the dealership published weekly on page 3 of the Meridian Source. Price lives in Kamloops B.C. and receives an email script from Voellmecke to incorporate into the artwork.

Denham Chrysler Ltd. is reinventing the wheel of advertising so to speak with an old fashioned comic strip to help market vehicles and sales events.

The comic strip is the brainchild of Dave Voellmecke, the dealership’s new vehicle sales manager.

He hooked up with his artistic nephew Josh Price in Kamloops British Columbia who draws the comic with Voellmecke’s scripts for publication each week on page 3 of the Meridian Source.

“It was something I’d been thinking about for a lot of years,” said Voellmecke, who got things rolling after he saw some of Price’s artwork during a trip to his nephew’s place.

“It was kind of nice to be able to work with him and figure things out because it’s some-

thing we had never done before.”

The 34-year-old Price has worked off and on as a graphic artist with a lifetime interest in cartoons.

“I have been drawing for a long time since I was very young.

I’ve always had a passion for comics,” he said.

Voellmecke says Denham launched the three or four panel strip in November with plans to continue to run it in the newspaper to attract people to pick up the comic strip and in turn, the information that is in the ad.

“For the first month, it’s been specials that we have on or things that are going on at the dealership,” he said.

“It will probably spread out from there with other departments if we continue to see success with it.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

New traffic measures take effect Jan. 1

File Photo CITY OF LLOYDMINSTER

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

Residents are advised Bylaw No. 09-2018 the Traffic Bylaw comes into effect January 1, 2019.

The bylaw implements several measures to increase driver and pedestrian safety including: • updated school zone hours 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• updated playground zone hours 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.

• schools with playgrounds operate as playground zones • mandatory bike helmets for riders under 18 • U-turns are forbidden in school zones and playground zones • unhitched trailers and hitched trailers are permitted on the street for up to 48 hours, unhitched trailers must be properly blocked • permits are required for work trailers and can be found at www.lloyd-

minster.ca/permits • speed limit adjustments to Highway 17 North and Hwy 16 East Council approved the bylaw during the regular Council meeting on September 24.

Administration held a Your Voice night on April 19 and a public hearing April 30, 2018 to gather resident feedback and priorities regarding traffic safety.

The full Traffic Bylaw can be found at www. lloydminster.ca/bylaw.

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Reinventing the wheel with cartoons

FROM PAGE 17

Price says decades ago, companies did a lot of product placements through comic strips that Denham has revived.

“It was kind of an old style of advertisement that has since faded because of the evolution of print media and the Internet and what not,” he said.

“I think for a lot of people it would be unique now to see a product being sold through a cartoon comic strip.”

The fun part of the strip is that it features the caricatures of about six sales employees who are not identified by name.

“I think we will keep the intrigue of it without the names,” said Voellmecke.

He said they are fictional characters loosely based on people who work at the dealership, but are recognizable to staff and many regular customers who have read the strip.

“It’s always worth a smile that’s for sure,”

said Voellmecke, who sent photos of the employees to Price to work from.

“

It was kind of an old style of advertisement that has since faded because of the evolution of print media and the Internet and what not

Price says he made a couple of revisions from feedback noting for the most part everyone was happy with their caricature.

“I did a sort of caricature of them in a style that was consistent,” he said.

To some observers, the characters appear to have a Flintstones look to them, but Price says if that’s the case, it is unintentional.

“I guess I get a lot of inspiration from the older comics,” said Price.

He grew up reading syndicated comics like Hi and Lois, Beetle Bai-

ley and The Lockhorns.

“I do have more of a vintage flair to my style just because I enjoy that old time style,” he said.

He has yet to meet any of the Denham sales staff in person, but he would like to.

“My grandma lives out by Humboldt, so when I make a trip out there I’d like to visit Uncle Dave and see the dealership,” said Price.

Price says he draws the strip on his iPad soon after Voellmecke emails the script to him.

“It’s foremost an ad, so we don’t bury the fact that we are selling anything. That’s pretty much right up front,” he said.

“My job is to kind of add that kind of cartoon flair to it, the humour subtle, the character narrative and the things that arise from doing the artwork itself. It actually works out pretty good.”

Voellmecke says they are all having fun with it right now and they’ll see how it works and where it goes from here.

“There are so many unknowns with it right now which direction we will go with it,” he said.

For his part, Price gives kudos to his uncle for trying to dif-

ferentiate his advertising from the usual template typically seen with car advertising in newspapers.

“They all appear to be the same,” said Price.

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“I know my uncle has been in the business as long as the dealership has been there, so he probably had a good idea of how he might change that.”

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Arrive alive, don’t drink and drive MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

This holiday season remember to stay safe on the roads and never operate a motor vehicle while impaired.

Impaired driving is the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada.

In 2017, there were more than 69,000 impaired driving incidents reported by the police, including almost 3,500 drug-impaired driving incidents.

As of Dec. 18 alcoholrelated impaired driving laws were updated in the Criminal Code of Canada in order to become comparable with drugimpaired driving laws that were reformed earlier this year.

The new laws will give police officers the authority to demand breathalyzer tests from any driver they pull over. Previously, officers could only test drivers if they had a reasonable suspicion the per son was impair ed .

Any driver who refuses to take the test can be charged.

These stronger laws are similar to ones in several other countries around the world, such as Australia, Denmark, France and Germany.

In Ireland, mandatory screening reduced the number of road deaths by about 40 per cent in the first four years it was enforced.

Before Dec. 18, drivers could use the “bolus drinking defence,� arguing that they consumed alcohol just before driving and it was not absorbed yet.

The new law eliminates this defence, by making it illegal to be at or over the alcohol limit within two hours of being behind the wheel.

The new law also bumps up the maximum penalties for many alcohol-impaired driving offences.

Formerly, the mandatory minimum fines were: $1,000 for first offence, 30 days imprisonment for second offence, and 120 days in jail for a third offence.

These are the penalties now - First offence, with blood alcohol content of 80-119 mg: mandatory minimum $1,000 fine - First offence, with blood alcohol content of 120-159 mg: mandatory minimum $1,500 fine - First offence, with blood alcohol

File Photo content of 160 mg or more: mandatory minimum $2,500 fine - First offence, but refuse to be tested: mandatory minimum $2,000 fine - Second offence: mandatory minimum 30 days imprisonment - Third or more offence: mandatory minimum 120 days imprisonment - Maximum penalties for impaired driving causing no bodily harm or death: summary conviction carries two years less a day imprisonment, indictment carries 10 years imprisonment - Maximum penalties for impaired driving causing bodily harm: Summary conviction for less severe injuries carries two years less a day imprisonment, indictment carries 14 years imprisonment - Maximum penalty impaired driving causing death: life imprisonment

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Foresters report annual food scoop

File Photo GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

There is no such thing as old news to Foresters Financial especially when it’s just breaking now.

That’s the case with the group’s previously unheralded donation of $2,200 worth of groceries to the Salvation Army Food bank made on Oct. 27.

Members of Foresters, including those in the Lloydminster area, can apply for a $2,000 grant or two each year to support a community cause as they did to restock the shelves of the food bank.

“We have to do two projects a year and we had one guy do one in Wainwright then I decided to do one in town here with the Salvation Army,” said

Barb Berard, the Lloyd group’s legacy leader.

“It was just a regular donation because I know they need it year round.”

“

This year we just picked the food bank. I was talking with someone at the food bank and they said they could really use it

The total included a $200 contribution in food from the Co-op Marketplace that Berard says is super to work with.

Berard says she was too busy to publicize the donation at the time,

but is broadcasting plans now to help the food bank again next year because it did so much good.

“I know they have programs for kids who don’t have food on the weekend. We thought that was a good idea,” she said.

Last year, Foresters donated backpacks and supplies for the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter on Dec. 30.

“This year we just picked the food bank. I was talking with someone at the food bank and they said they could really use it,” said Berard.

Foresters Financial and Foresters are trade name of the Independent Order of Foresters, a fraternal benefit society and its subsidiaries.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

A Christmas message from Dr. Richard Starke I

t is the season of Christmas and celebration.

It is the season of reflection and moving our thoughts from the past year and into the coming of a new year.

“

Take the time to be a blessing of love to others this Christmas season

Looking over the past year I have listened to and understand the hardships of many Alberta families who this Christmas find themselves concerned with the economic situation of our province.

The loss of jobs in the energy industry over the past few years has left many families hurting.

I would encourage neighbours and friends across our constituency to reach out to help each other once again.

Take the time to be a blessing of love to others this Christmas season.

I would also like to thank our men and women in uniform who are serving at home and around the world.

Christmas can be a hard time for military families and we continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you also to the medical and emergency workers who staff our hospitals, RCMP, ambulance and fire for your service not only over the holiday season but also all year long.

In reflection as MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster on my hope for our province I think of Jeremiah 29:11.

It is my prayer not only for this constituency but for our amazing province and the many incredible people who live here.

May the promise of

Jeremiah 29:11 not only be the promise of today but the promise of all our tomorrows – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

In keeping with the spirit of the season, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

All the best in 2019!

- Dr. Richard Starke MLA, VermilionLloydminster Constituency

File Photo

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

A

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Letter to the editor ...

bout 5:30 p.m. on Sunday I wheeled into Burger King to access the drive-thru.

It is a tight turn to get into and I noticed there was a long line up.

I managed to pull up behind a half ton

that had his back end sticking out and realized I was blocking the entrance to the parking area.

Beautiful Downtown Lloydminster

I justified this by thinking that the line would start to move right away and I would be able to clear the entrance.

In about two minutes the line moved and I was able to pull straight in behind the half ton.

It was at this time that I looked in my rear view mirror and realized there was a car parked off to the side that had been waiting to get into the drive-thru.

If our positions were reversed I know I would

have been flickering my lights and leaning on my horn, but this person sat patiently waiting to get in line.

I’ve done a number of bonehead things in my 83 years but thankfully there was enough room for me to reverse and I was able to allow this person to take their rightful place in line.

When I got to the window to pay for and pick up my order I was told by the server that the car in front of me had paid for my food.

I had a hard time wrapping my head around this and I couldn’t understand what had just happened.

Christmas Spirit?

I know from now on I’m going to try to be a kinder person.

Thank you stranger for the example you set and also thank you for the chicken nuggets my wife and I enjoyed for our supper Sunday night.

- About to pay it forward

‘Tis the season for fire safety

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While celebrating the holiday season, Albertans are reminded to keep fire safety in mind so their families stay safe.

Your homes may be bustling with activity and it’s easy to get distracted.

When cooking, keep an eye on the stove and other hot appliances.

Blow out candles before going to bed and do not overload electrical outlets with Christmas lights, cellphone cords and other devices.

File Photo “With the busy holiday season upon us, I urge folks to keep fire safety top of mind,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs Shaye Anderson.

“Nothing is more important as we gather with family and friends than making sure we all stay safe.”

People should plan and practise a fire escape plan that has two exits.

Make sure your home is equipped with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that work.

Test them monthly and replace batteries annually.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

27

Trouble for Santa!

PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

Twas Christmas Eve as Santa, lumbered gladly from his bed.

Kissed the little woman, and made sure the cat was fed.

Then sliding on his slippers, hurried off with measured stride.

Across to yonder window, where he took a look outside.

The elves were busy w o rking , as t h e y fe d and hitched the team.

So Santa ate his porridge, thickly laced with sugared cream.

He washed it down with coffee, 20 biscuits and some cake.

Oatmeal cookies, crispy waffles, pumpkin pie and a chocolate shake.

Then, sighing rather loudly, Santa loosened off his belt.

Being chubby was his

trademark! There were others to look svelte.

“It’s ready,” Sparky bellowed, leaning in through Santa’s door.

But Santa only nodded, as he toyed with eating more.

Reluctantly he gathered up his coat, his mitts, his hat, And waddled to the kitchen, where his lovely wife was sat.

Concerned he might feel peckish, Mrs. Claus had made a lunch, And reaching down to grab it, Santa whispered, “Thanks a bunch.”

He threw it to his shoulder, as he hastened to the sleigh, But, as he hopped aboard it, Santa’s crimson pants gave way!

They made a fearful rending, as they tore

from stem to stern.

And dropped around his ankles (causing Santa’s face to burn).

A gasp went up about him. Elvish faces turned away.

They couldn’t bear to see him, with his pants in disarray.

Till Sparky, ever helpful, bounded in to Santa’s aid.

He’d always worked for Santa, (though the elf had ne’re been paid).

“I’ll save you,” Sparky hollered, and he tore his small coat off, Ran up to cover Santa, but then, with an awkward cough…

He noticed that his jacket, was for sure too small to work, And several of the reindeer, bent their heads to hide a smirk.

Soon, every elf came dashing, just to see what they could do.

The pants were pinned and stapled.

Yikes! (They even tried some glue).

But no one could repair them. There was nothing could be done.

So Santa, in his boxers, sadly said, “Well, it’s been fun.”

“But I can’t fly the midnight sky, or leap down chimney’s hot, In nothing more than cotton briefs! Nope – Christmas Eve is shot.”

Then Sparky led the others, in a call for Mrs. Claus.

Where, rushing to the rescue, she was met with wild applause.

The elves stood back in wonder, as she peered at ole St. Nick, And making a deci-

sion cried, “Go get my ball gown. QUICK!” She snipped, and fussed and stitched it, wrapping fabric round his girth.

Till Santa stood resplendent – and the elves collapsed in mirth.

They toppled into snowbanks, rolling round and round the square.

They giggled and they chortled, till he fixed them with a glare.

For Santa, in this getup, had now lost his manly pride, “Looks great!” insisted Sparky, but, of course the elf had lied.

So Santa, thus attired, thanked his wife and turned to walk.

(Although it wasn’t easy to manoeuver in a frock).

He whistled to his reindeer, jumped headlong into the sleigh, And with the presents loaded, they rose up and flew away.

Yet, before he made his exit, I could clearly hear him yell, “This velvet dress is one thing, but … THE PANTYHOSE ARE HELL!” Merry Christmas to all my readers and a wonderful New Year!

28

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

British maintain gardening prestige by going radical GREEN FILE MARK & BEN CULLEN

One of the highlights of 2018 for us was a father-son trip to England to look at public gardens.

The images we associate with “English gardens” are rolling lawns, rose collections, walled spaces and neatly trimmed hedges.

We love these images, and they are at the foundation of what is arguably the greatest gardening culture in the world.

But British gardens are changing.

In the last 20 years, garden culture in the U.K. has produced some radically different gardens which turn gardening conventions on their head.

Eden Project in Cornwall is a completely different approach to a public garden.

Built in a former quarry which served the likes of Royal Doulton for 160 years, the garden represents a £141 million ($238

million CAD) investment – an obvious testament to the British public’s commitment to gardening. Opened in 2001, the centrepiece of Eden project are two enormous “biomes”, one of which emulates a rainforest ecoregion and the other a Mediterranean ecoregion.

The domes, which are powered by onsite geothermal power contain thousands of plants native to their respective ecoregions.

Each region is explained beautifully with educational signage and helpful staff.

On the exterior grounds surrounding the domes is a botanical garden featuring plants native to Cornwall and larger-thanlife sculpture works which promote environmental awareness.

An abandoned clay pit makes a perfect setting for a garden – the walls of the old quarry give it a “secret garden of the

lost earth” kind of feel alluded to by “Eden”.

Meandering pathways through organically shaped landscapes make getting lost feel like an adventure.

And it is this feeling of adventure that makes Eden Project appealing to all ages, with incredible plant specimens, local and exotic, dotted among whimsical design elements, it makes for an excellent place of new discovery in a place of very old history.

The Eden Project is a giant “Science Centre” dedicated to the role of plants in our world.

Oudolf Field at Hauser + Wirth Durslade Farm near Somerset opened in 2014 and brings gardening to the 21st century while respecting the past.

Piet Oudolf, who is actually Dutch, is a landscape designer, best known for his w o r k o n ne w e r p r o j ects such as New York City’s Highline and Chicago’s Millennium Park.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

29

Supporting Albertans throughout the holidays MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Government services will remain available 24/7 to help Albertans who need support during the holidays.

While the holiday season is a festive time, for many it can also be a stressful time of year and add additional pressures.

“If any Albertan is facing difficulties over the holidays, we want them to know they’re not alone,” said Minister of Community and Social Services Irfan Sabir.

“Help is available any time, day or night.

Please reach out if you’re in need and support will be there.”

Important phone numbers If you require help to meet emergency basic needs over the holidays, call the Emergency Income Support Contact Centre at 1-866-6445135 or visit Alberta.ca for a list of all government services available over the holiday season.

For those facing a situation of family violence, call the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and in more than 170 languages, or through online chat daily, from noon to 8 p.m. There are also more phone lines that

can help: Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-387-KIDS (5437) Bullying Helpline: 1-888-456-2323 The Mental Health Help Line is also available 24/7 and can provide support to anyone with mental health concerns at 1-877-303-2642.

During the holiday

closure – from Dec. 24, 2018 to Jan. 1, 2019 – essential services and resources that support the health, safety and security of Albertans will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Non-urgent services will resume on Jan. 2, 2019.

British maintain gardening prestige by going radical continued FROM PAGE 28

In all his work, Oudolf pioneers the “New Perennial movement”.

H e h a s be e n d o i n g this since the ‘80s.

A recent documentary of his life called “Five Seasons: the gardens of Piet Oudolf” follows him through the design process for the garden at Hauser + Wirth’s farm-gallery. Oudolf’s strength is appreciating plants at every stage of the life cycle including

fall and decay (hence the “fifth season”).

This made our late October visit the perfect time of year to appreciate his work.

The ornamental grasses were deliberately left standing and impressed us with their structure, the leafy shrubs showed off their fall colours and countless flowers, many foraged by birds and other wildlife.

An Oudolf garden

never really “peaks”, rather, it evolves naturally through each season.

As a result, any time of year is a great time to experience a visit.

The farm-gallery of Hauser + Wirth Durslade is also worth exploring while you’re there.

It is one of an international chain of galleries by the Zurich-based dealers, and while it is likely the last of their

galleries we will visit (the rest don’t have gardens to our knowledge), the 1760’s farm-buildings-turned-galleries make for a fairly casual setting to experience high-art.

Since its restoration, it has returned to its roots as a working freerange farm which supplies the onsite Roth Bar & Grill, and various other out buildings, house artists in resi-

dence and workshops.

Two gardens manifestly “non- British”, one with outer-space like biomes and the other Swiss-owned with a Dutch designer, managed to stop us in our tracks and inspired us in whole new ways. Living proof that the best in the gardening world still happens in Britain.

Mark Cullen is an expert gardener,

author, broadcaster, tree advocate and Member of the Order of Canada. His son Ben is a fourth-generation urban gardener and graduate of University of Guelph and Dalhousie University in Halifax. Follow them at markcullen.com, @ markcullengardening, on Facebook and bi-weekly on Global TV’s National Morning Show.

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

PAGE 31 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

Blazers on a journey toward the Good Deeds Cup JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

A couple of local hockey teams are making a difference off the ice this season.

The Lloydminster peewee city league team 1 and 2 Blazers have spent the past month donating their time and energy to help raise funds for their selected charity while lending a hand wherever they may be needed.

The hockey players are completing these activities through their participation in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup, which is a national competition that will reward $100,000 to the winning peewee team’s charity of their choice.

“We’ve done two bottle drives and raised $4,000 and one food drive that raised 230 bags of food,” said Blazers 2 centre Trystan Miskiw. “We played games with the seniors for a couple of hours. We wrapped presents for the kids in the Interval Home and we bought some presents for them.”

Blazers 2 captain Parker Spence said they’ve spent a little bit of time each week since

the mid-November start of the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup volunteering as a team in an effort to win $100,000 for the Interval Home.

He said they’ve raised about $7,000 in total since their coach, Troy Temple, asked if they’d like to participate in the competition.

The Blazers 1 team enjoyed an hour-long intermission between games against the Paradise Valley Jets and Kitscoty Knights on Saturday making shapes out of Rice Krispies squares.

The players then posted photos of the creations on the Rice Krispies’ Treats for Toys gallery page as part of their drive to raise funds for The Salvation Army.

“Our coach registered us into this,” said Blazers 1 centre Brylar Chevrier. “We started off by going to Sobeys and ringing (Salvation Army Christmas Kettle) bells. We (also) helped bag groceries for the workers, so they didn’t have to do as much.

And now we’re doing this. Every picture that we take, (Rice Krispies) is going to donate $20 to The Salvation Army.”

The Lloydminster peewee city league team 2 Blazers have raised $7,000 for the Interval Home this season through their participation in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup.

Jorja Weigel, a defenceman for the Blazers 1, noted they have quadrupled their goal of raising $500, which was set by coach Paul Rousson at the beginning of the campaign. Her brother Max, who also plays defence for the Blazers 1, added this off-ice work is for a good cause and they’re happy to contribute to it.

“This is teaching us to be better people and not just worrying about ourselves,” said Blazers 2 blueliner Brady Hill. “We should worry about people who don’t have as much as us.”

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

The Lloydminster peewee city league 1 Blazers designed Rice Krispies’ Treats for Toys creations between their Saturday morning and afternoon games in an attempt to raise funds for The Salvation Army.

32

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Cobras win Triple Ball title

The College Park School Cobras, with back row from left, coach Arrin Heinrichs, Skylar Heinrichs, Maeve Smith, Mandy Ilunga, Laurie Hadwin, Karter Dougan, Payton Cote, Ashlyn Kuchler; front row, Ricky Ilunga, Nix Andersen, Owen Wynnychuk, Dagan Thiessen, Carsten Campbell and Gavin Heise, won the Lloydminster Public School Division Triple Ball championship on home court in early December.

Submitted

Basketball gold

The Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Barons senior boys basketball team, with back row from left, coach Jeff Wilson, Elliott Clendening, Keishawn Kreke, Rylan Parsons, Garret Hatchard, Nikita Akophjonov, Diaz Lagrone, manager Travis Niekamp, coach Scott Lumbard; front row, David Dimaano, Eric Stewart, Kyle Dawson Dacung, Sahil Mirza and Rhenz Santiago, missing is Ethan Morris, captured gold at the John Paul II tournament in North Battleford this past weekend.

Submitted

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

33

Hitmen and Bandits come together for a good cause JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

Two communities and their respective hockey heroes are standing together in support of a good cause.

The Hillmond Hitmen and Lloydminster Bandits renewed their humanitarian partnership this holiday season by skating in front of a huge crowd of well-wishers during the teams’ third annual charity game at the Hillmond Arena on Saturday night.

The players and hundreds of fans in attendance descended on the rink in support of three Hillmond families in need along with the Bandits choice charities of the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter and Lloydminster Handi-van Services.

Jesse Stansfield, a Hillmond native suiting up for his hometown team this winter after spending the past four seasons with the

Bandits, said it takes upwards of 100 volunteers to stage the annual charity game.

He said it’s a ton of work to gather the 130-plus silent auction items, publicize the game and make the event a night to remember for the participating players, their fans and the volunteers on hand, but the benefits it creates makes the effort worthwhile.

“It’s great for the community to have a game like this,” added Bandits forward Tegan Peters. “We wanted to come out and support Hillmond and raise some money for a good cause.”

Hillmond Hitmen committee member Ken Rutherford noted this year’s recipients of Virginia GervaisMcKenzie, Marlene McKechnie and the Camden Richert family are all struggling this year in some way shape or form.

He said hopefully

the proceeds generated from the silent auction along with half of the funds gathered through admissions and the bar, with the other half going to Lloydminster Handi-van Services, will help ease their way through these challenges.

Rutherford said the past two events have generated $20,000 to $25,000 for the families in need. He said a struggling economy is creating difficulties for everyone in the region, but they’re still hoping to raise the same amount through this year’s game.

“We live in a really special community that always gives,” said Rutherford. “Hillmond is known for that and we’ve seen it here again tonight with more (silent auction) items donated than last year and the bidding is still going on as I speak.”

Stansfield noted his family benefited from the Hitmen and Ban-

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

The Lloydminster Bandits and Hillmond Hitmen came together to support three local families in need as well as the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter and Lloydminster Handi-van Services during their third annual charity game at the Hillmond Arena on Saturday.

dits first charity game.

He said now playing in a third contest and seeing how it’s still helping people battle through the struggles they’re facing is a humbling experience.

“It’s just great to see everybody, the two organizations and a couple of different communities put together this event for families in need,” said Stansfield. “It’s a little bit of support at this time of year. It means a lot.”

We will be closed from Monday, December 24 to Friday, December 28 and will reopen Monday, December 31.

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34

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Steelers skate with Team Alberta JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

Team Alberta will rely on the play of three Lloydminster PWM midget AAA Steelers in its quest for a third Canada Winter Games gold medal.

Steelers goaltender Bella McKee, left wing Payton Laumbach and right wing Hayleigh Craig will skate with Team Alberta at the Canada Winter Games under-18 female hockey competition in Red Deer from Feb. 24 to March 2.

The girls made the 20-man provincial roster by battling their way through an 80-player spring session, a week-long summer camp cut down to 46 and finally a weekend series of games involving the last 27 to 29 hopefuls competing against the University of Alberta Pandas this past September.

“I can definitely say as soon as I found out (that I made it) it was surreal,” said Laumbach, 17. “The camps leading up to it were a grind and sometimes you

wanted to just throw the skates in. But, right now, it’s actually here and we’re on the team. When the roster was released, it’s crazy the feeling that you get (knowing you’ll) represent your province and play in the Canada Winter Games.

It’s awesome.”

McKee, 17, noted they were on the bus travelling to Wilcox, Sask., for the Mandi Schwartz Tournament when the roster was posted. She said their overall focus may have been on defending their 2017 gold medal during the weekend, but the main g o al t hat d ay w as c he cking their phones to see who made Team Alberta.

“It’s a huge honour and a crazy lucky experience to be able to be the home province,” said McKee. “Not everybody gets a chance at the Canada Winter Games.

So, we’re lucky. And to host it is just, I wouldn’t say more pressure, but it’s more exciting.”

Craig, 16, said the tryouts seemed to revolve around

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Lloydminster PWM midget AAA Steelers, from left, goalie Bella McKee, right wing Hayleigh Craig and left wing Payton Laumbach will compete for Team Alberta in the Canada Winter Games.

speed drills and agility. She said they were told to get the puck moving while also showing off their skills and the roles they could play.

A grinding forward able to work the penalty kill, go on the forecheck and sacrifice the body for shot blocks is how Craig describes her game. Laumbach notes she looks to light the lamp and get the energy up while on the ice, while McKee competes hard to deny the opposition’s scorers.

“We rely on her,” said

Laumbach, about the Steelers tender. “She is definitely a player who everyone respects because she is our last line of defence and does stop many of the shots that come to her.”

Laumbach noted they’ll join Team Alberta this weekend at the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre in Red Deer for a pre-Christmas camp, but their next action with the squad won’t come until just before the national championships start.

Craig added their teammates on the Steelers seem to be looking up to them since the selection, so they’ll also be trying to step in as players who can be counted on through and beyond the Games.

“It’s a big opportunity,” said McKee. “We can use it as an awesome experience and then come back to our team and make our team better. It’s a stepping stone for us to come in our playing careers.”

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

35

Two or three cycles around the basketball court SPORTS EDITOR JAMIE HARKINS

Sorry, but once again I am unable to focus on any single topic.

So, dear readers, it’ll be two or three cycles around the lines for us.

First off, how in the heck do the Lakeland College Rustler athletes manage to fit in studying for their exams?

The Rustlers men’s and women’s volleyball teams, which are both doing well this year with 7-5 and 11-1 records, respectively, through the first half of the season, had a week-and-a-half off between Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) games and the start of exams, while the school’s basketball teams only scored two full days of frantic studying before their court turned into several long columns of desks.

Isn’t that a bit of a

quick turnaround from giving their all for the school team to putting pen to paper on everything learned in the past three months?

Remember, dear readers, these kids spent the semester trying to fit in attending classes, writing essays, reading text books and completing assignments around almostdaily practices and weekend games spread across the province.

The Rustlers women’s basketball team (7-5) turned a corner in the latter half of the opening semester winning their past four contests. The men’s side (6-6) also headed into exams and a needed break after picking up four straight wins to end the half.

The start of exams on Dec. 4 merely represented the close to trying to balance studies and other activities through the first semester as the two

weeks previous are when all the end-ofterm work became due. I have no idea how they do it and I can’t help but admire their ability to balance sports and studies.

All right, let’s move on to the next topic.

Isn’t it about time for the Border City to host an Alberta Football high school championship weekend?

The Lloydminster Comprehensive High School (LCHS) Barons beat the Okotoks Holy Trinity Academy Knights 22-7 to capture an Alberta Schools Athletic Conference championship late last month in Fort McMurray. The Holy Rosary High School (HRHS) Raiders brought home a silver medal from the Alberta Bowl finals.

The football fields at LCHS and HRHS can easily accommodate a series of games and the traffic into Lloydminster would be a late November boost to

local hotels and restaurants. The Border City needs an Alberta Bowl and our kids deserve the right to play for a provincial championship in front of their hometown fans.

And, here’s a final note.

The Meridian Source has started a monthly Factory Sports Athlete of the Month feature.

The chosen athlete will be rewarded with their biography showcased in the paper along with a $25 gift certificate to

18123AA1

Factory Sports.

If you know of a deserving athlete, please email sports@ meridiansource.ca with a 125-word explanation as to why the athlete should be featured as well as an accompanying photo.

36

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

The Lloydminster Synergy Credit Union atom Blazers celebrate their Art Roberge Memorial Tournament Tier 2 championship at the Servus Sport Centre on Sunday.

Blazers win Art Roberge Memorial gold JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

The Lloydminster Synergy Credit Union atom Blazers used a strong 10-minute spell at the opening of the second period and a battendown-the-hatches work ethic throughout the third to capture their first trophy of the season.

The Blazers toppled the Provost Blades 7-2 in the Art Roberge Memorial Tournament Tier 2 championship at

the Servus Sports Centre on Sunday evening.

The win also marked a bit of redemption for the Blazers considering their sole blemish at the competition came against the Blades about 24 hours earlier.

“We could win a gold medal here and we just really wanted it badly,” said Blazers left wing Jordan Beattie.

“This was one of the times that we could come back and win something good.”

The Blades’ Ayden Locke put his team up 1-0 less than three minutes into the first period, but it was short-lived thanks to Prince Starr.

The Blazers captain tied the contest five-and-a-half minutes in and scored the go-ahead marker halfway through the frame when he corralled a loose puck near the corner before swiftly skating it out front for a short-side backhander.

Blazers right wing Cohen

Aultman and the Blades’ Madden Levert exchanged goals in the latter half of the evenly-played opening frame. However, it was all Blazers in the second as the Border City boys continually pressed the Blades in their own zone resulting in scores

by Starr, with two, and defenceman Gavin Tocher.

“We would dump it and then we’d chase it,” said Starr. “We kept doing that and then we would back-

check and forecheck hard.”

The Blades took the play to their opposition in the third period, but a few key saves

by Blazers goalie Damon Cey including a diving stop on a Keaton Stempfle one-timer at the side of the net kept Lloydminster in the lead.

Blazers right wing Charles Mackay put a cap on the action in the dying minutes with an insurance marker.

“This is awesome,” said Tocher. “It feels really good.”

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PAGE 37 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Real Estate

Angels amongst us MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

She was dying.

It was just before Christmas and I was on a tour of the care facility in my capacity as the health region’s Chief Executive Officer.

The nurse in charge of the unit told me in the hallway the elderly woman in the next room did not have many days left and they were doing everything possible to make her comfortable.

When I introduced myself, she asked me to sit and visit for a few minutes. The nurse left us to attend another patient.

I reached out to touch her hand and she held mine in hers with a surprisingly firm grip.

So, I sat down next to her hospital bed, and we quietly talked about life, family, and friends.

Her parents had come to area from Nova Scotia to take up a homestead in the early 1900s’.

The first winter, her

File Photo father had left to work in a lumber camp, leaving his wife and two little girls, ages four and six, behind in a one room log shack.

It was bitterly cold for weeks on end, and soon the pile of wood that had been put aside in the fall would be running out.

Mother and daughters slept in their clothes; the draft from the incessant winter wind could not be avoided.

The cabin’s cook-

stove seemed to have a voracious appetite for the remaining meager supply.

The water in the kettle would freeze overnight, as did the “slop” pail.

Several days before Christmas two bachelors who lived several miles away across the valley came into the yard driving a team of horses covered in frost.

Behind them on the sleigh was a load of poplar trees.

After a cup of tea with mother and some

teasing of the children, the men went out and proceeded to “buck up” the wood to a size to fit in the stove.

Her grateful mother invited them to return for a Christmas meal, and t he f i ve o f t h e m celebrated it together.

There may have been no presents exchanged that day, but laughter lit up the dwelling.

The lady in the bed said her mother told the girls as they were being tucked in to bed later that

night to never forget angels were not just in heaven but also walked amongst them.

As I took my leave, I gave her a hug knowing we would never see each other again.

What a precious gift I had received; a personal testimony of the importance of reaching out to help our neighbours without thought of compensation in return.

Let us not forget what is truly important in life – family, friends,

community, faith.

I know the people of the Midwest will support each other through these difficult economic times, just as our forefathers did.

It’s our heritage.

Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster. He can be reached at 780-8082700, through www. vernmcclelland.com or by following the Midwest Group Lloydminster on Facebook.

38

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

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PAGE 39 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Agriculture

New crop missions tackle difficult durum markets SCOTT HEPWORTH SASK WHEAT DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

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

The Canadian Wheat New Crop Missions 2018 are well underway.

These are missions organized and coordinated through three organizations: Cereals Canada, Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi) and the Canadian Grain Commission.

They take place over six weeks in November and December and include missions to 17 of our top markets for wheat and durum.

I feel honoured to be one of the farmers who will be representing all western Canadian farmers during these missions.

I am currently part of the delegation that is focused on Canada’s leading durum markets including Morocco, Algeria and Italy.

It is not an easy time for durum growers today, with durum prices well below the cost of production.

The primary goal of the missions is to inform our top customers about the quality of the 2018 harvest and how they can expect Canadian wheat and durum to perform in their mills, bakeries and pasta, couscous and Asian noodle plants.

The missions are also about maintaining relationships and dialog with customers.

These relationships, which are important during times of normal trade, become even more critical when issues arise that impede the free flow of agricultural commodities.

Canadian exports of durum account for approximately 50% of the world’s durum trade.

So, when the demand for Canadian exports are down the world price follows.

And demand is down in two of our leading markets – Italy and Algeria.

In Italy we are seeing the impact of the protectionist country of origin labelling laws and the campaign against Canadian durum being run by the Italian farm group Coldiretti.

“

I feel honoured to be one of the farmers who will be representing all western Canadian farmers during these missions

Algeria has focused on their larger than normal domestic crop to serve their domestic market – but this durum is not of the same quality as Canadian.

Saskatchewan produces approximately 80 percent of the durum grown in Canada, so the participation of a Saskatchewan farmer is a natural fit.

The goal of our trip is to re-enforce the value of Canadian durum in markets that are not buying like they have in the past and to support customers, like Morocco, who

remain loyal customers.

This is the first year Sask Wheat has attended the missions and I am looking forward to telling a Saskatchewan grain farmer’s story to our customers.

The missions give farmers the opportunity to speak directly to our customers, letting them know how the decisions we make on our farms maintains the Canadian brand of clean, consistent, quality wheat.

When the mission visits Italy we will be meeting with customers oneon-one to help restore the free flow of trade in this important durum market. We will also be meeting with farm groups in Italy who support science-based rules of trade.

The issue of Italian country of origin labelling for pasta will be discussed as will Italian concerns about pesticide residues.

On the latter issue, farmers can do a great deal to keep markets open by following the best management practices to limit residues and mycotoxins.

I will also have the opportunity to talk about the sustainability of

modern Canadian agriculture.

Canadian farmers have a good story to tell.

Modern agricultural practices are reducing fuel use, improving soil health, reducing erosion, sequestering carbon and allowing us to produce crops even in drought conditions.

At the same time, we are increasing the quality of the crop we deliver into international markets.

The new crop missions include the entire Canadian value chain. The Canadian industry cooperating in customer support and development efforts.

The voice of farmers is a critical component of the presentations.

The missions also allow farmers to hear questions and concerns from customers’ first-hand.

This is extremely important, especially in

a growing protectionist trade environment.

PAGE 40 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE

A

Careers

Amazon announces new fulfillment centre in Edmonton metro region

mazon announced Monday plans for a new fulfillment centre in Leduc County, creating more than 600 full-time jobs with opportunities for career training and development by 2020.

The 1-million-squarefoot customer fulfillment facility will be Amazon’s second in

Alberta, where it currently employs more than 1,500 full-time associates in Rocky View County.

“Our ability to create over 600 goodpaying jobs with great benefits is thanks to the network of support we’ve received and the skilled workf o rc e in t he re g io n,” said G lenn S o mm er-

ville, Director of Amazon Operations in Canada. “We’re grateful for the welcome we’ve received from government and community leaders and excited by our growth in Alberta and ability to better serve our customers.”

Once open, the new facility will be Amazon’s 11th fulfillment facility in Canada and joins Amazon’s current fulfillment centres in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario.

“We are working hard to encourage investment, diversification and the creation of more good jobs in Alberta,” said Alberta Premier Rachel Notley. “Today’s announcement by Amazon means hundreds of jobs and more opportunities are on their way, helping to make life better for more Alberta workers and families. I want to congratulate Amazon

for once again investing in Alberta and thank everyone who helped to make this investment possible.”

Associates at the more than 1,000,000-squarefoot facility will pick, pack and ship larger customer items such as outdoor equipment, patio furniture and bicycles. Full-time employees at Amazon receive competitive hourly wages, medical, vision and dental coverage, RRSP contribution matching, stock awards, and performance-based bonuses starting on day one.

“This announcement

by Amazon is another vote of confidence in the Edmonton region as an economic hub in Alberta,” said Amarjeet Sohi, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Mill Woods and Minister of Natural Resources. “The new centre will spark

NEWSAPER CARRIERS required

For more information email admin@meridiansource.ca or call 306.825.5111

economic activity and create good-paying jobs in our region. I look forward to construction beginning next year.”

Amazon also offers employees access to innovative programs like Career Choice, where it will pay up to 95 per cent of tuition for courses related to indemand fields, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon. Since the program’s launch, more than 16,000 employees across the globe have pursued degrees in game design and visual communications, nursing, IT programming and radiology, to name a few.

“It is an absolute pleasure to welcome Amazon to our community,” says Tanni Doblanko, Mayor of Leduc County.

“We couldn’t be more proud that Amazon has selected Leduc County

as the location of its newest fulfillment centre in Canada. Amazon’s expansion will create well-paying, stable jobs for our citizens and help diversify and strengthen our local economy, the long-term sustainability of our region and our community-at-large.

Leduc County is an ideal location for world-class businesses to set up or expand their operations, as evidenced by the fact Fortune 500 companies such as Amazon want to invest here.”

“We welcome Amazon’s expansion into the Edmonton Metro region,” said Don Iveson, Mayor of Edmonton. “This expansion will create more local jobs and contribute to our regional economic prosperity.”

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PAGE 41 Thursday, December 20, 2018 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

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Wanted

PASTURE LAND FOR SALE by tender: Approx. 40 acres in the County of Vermilion River #24.

SE 2-56-1 W4. Subject to the following conditions: Highest or any bid not necessarily excepted. We have the right to reserve and reject all bids. Until closing January 20th, 2019. Tender for the purchase of the above land can be sent by email to: joannehenning@telus.net WILD FUR WANTED: or call: 780-871-3162.

Real Estate Coyote, fox etc. home: 780-755-3860 BLANKET THE PROVINCE cell: 780-842-7153

PLEASE RECYCLE

THIS PAPER

with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach over 105 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details 1-800282-6903 ext 228; www.awna.com.

FARM LAND WANTED

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these conditions?

ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and hundreds more. All ages and medical conditions qualify. Call The Benefits Program 1800-211-3550 or send a text message with your name and mailing address to 403-980-3605 for your FREE benefits package.

Livestock WANTED pasture within one hour of Lloydminster or closer, has to be well Fenced, lots of water, supervised would be nice.

Needed for 20 to 25 pairs from May 20 approximately till Oct 1 approx. Will hear your options, money is not an issue for the right situation. Call 780-2052334

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Thursday, December 20, 2018

Obituaries & Memoriams

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

JIMMY, May our Heavenly Father and the angels around you bring you love and peace.

Like you for always. Love you forever.

We miss you Love Mom and Dad

What is lovely never dies, but passes into other loveliness.

Thomas Bailey Aldrich

To remember a loved one or share their memories, place a memoriam or obituary in the Meridian Source by calling...

306-825-5111

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Local Business Directory

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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780.875.7433

WHITECOURT 780.778.3091

METRIXGROUP.CA

Advertise your services in our Business Directory!

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306.825.5111

Celebrations Share your jubilations, love and best wishes in the Meridian Source newspaper.

LLOYDMINSTER

Call 306-825-5111

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 20, 2018

HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN

December 22 – January 19 You’ll start to wrap your Christmas gifts. Take the time to infuse a little bit of magic to spoil your loved ones and children. You’ll impress a lot of people this year.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18 A special project will make you the centre of attention this week. Maybe you’re planning a spontaneous trip for your family or a big event to celebrate the holidays.

PISCES

February 19 – March 20 You’ll receive many invitations from friends for different activities, but you’ll feel like staying home. At the last minute you’ll change your mind and you’ll be happy you did.

ARIES

March 21– April 19 You’ll have a hard time sticking to a budget when it comes to your Christmas shopping.

You may find yourself being more generous with some people than others.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20 At this time of year, you may find yourself being spread too thin financially. Prioritize your spending this week. You may have to choose between Christmas gifts, social events or a family vacation.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21 Even if the festivities haven’t officially started, your home will already be full of people. If you have young children, expect them to set up camp with their friends before the holidays start.

SUDOKU December 13 Answers

Meridian Source’s Birth Announcements If you wish to have your baby’s birth announcement published in our Thursday edition of the Meridian Source FREE OF CHARGE, please come in and fill out a form or email admin@meridiansource.ca Deadline is Tuesday at noon for the Thursday edition.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22 You’ll let yourself get carried away by the magic of Christmas, even if you didn’t plan on it. You’ll spend your time and energy on social causes that are important to you and you’ll spread cheer to people who need it most.

LEO July 23 – August 22 Let yourself be swept into the holiday spirit.

You’ll be surrounded by big groups of people all week. You’ll finish your Christmas shopping at a crowded mall, and you’ll have a great time. Enjoy the craziness of the season.

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22 You’ll want more this week. You’re craving adventure and new experiences, so you’ll start thinking about a trip to the tropics. You may even start to look into opportunities for working abroad.

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22 Going back to school may be just what you need to advance your career. You’ll be presented with an opportunity that can make you a lot of money, which will make your financial situation easier.

SCORPIO

October 23 – November 21 Re-evaluate who you keep in your circle of friends, and concentrate on your partner and family. Don’t waste your time on people who drain your energy or create drama in your life.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 – December 21 Just as they do every year, the people closest to you will expect you to plan all the holiday celebrations. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to other people and give yourself a break.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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Thursday, December 20, 2018