Meridian Source - February 15, 2024

Thursday, February 15, 2024

VOLUME 6 I ISSUE 34

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Winterfest full of family fun JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

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Folks of all ages are in for a treat at this year’s Winterfest event.

The event offers an array of free activities at five different locations throughout the Border City this coming holiday Monday, which also happens to be Family Day. “It’s just a way for everyone to stay active in the wintertime and have fun and meet others in the community,” said Sandra Brown, recreation programmer for the City of Lloydminster.

“This would be about the second year that we’ve done it at five different facilities. Not everybody has transportation, and so we tried to find something

in every neighbourhood that we possibly could.”

Winterfest will feature free activities at the following locations: Servus Sports Centre, Bioclean Aquatic Centre, Bud Miller All Seasons Park, Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre, and the Lloydminster Museum and Archives.

The Servus Sports Centre will offer both indoor and outdoor activities.

“There will be public skating, and in the morning we’ll have indoor shinny with the Lloydminster Bandits, and then in the afternoon it’ll switch to family puck and stick,” said Brown.

“Bounce units for all ages, right from toddlers to adults. And

The frozen pond at Bud Miller All Seasons Park was packed with skaters during last year’s Winterfest activities. Source File Photo interactive games such as archery, pedal gokarts, a bungee ride, and families can race against each other in the extreme race obstacle course for bragging rights.”

Something new at

this year’s event is a giant game area.

“These are giantsized childhood games, such as operation, Jenga, stacking cups, and a gigantic whacka-mole, which is a lot of fun to watch!”

The Bioclean Aquatic Centre will feature free public swimming and they’re going to put up their large obstacle course.

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Lopez elected to council in landslide victory GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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A swearing-in ceremony at City Hall is in the works on Feb. 20 to welcome David Lopez as the city’s new councillor following his

landslide win in Tuesday’s by-election.

Lopez garnered a total of 736 votes well ahead of runner-up Fred Sirett with 367 votes and Darrell Dunn in third among the

eight candidates in the race for one seat.

“I was excited and humbled at the same time,” said Lopez who will be sworn in at 11 a.m. with more details to follow.

He also took a moment to reflect on the key to his winning campaign platform.

“I think it’s fiscal responsibility, wanting to make sure the tax dollars that are being

spent are spent in a manner that is good for everybody,” said Lopez.

“I think people resonated with what I was saying.”

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Landslide win lands Lopez council seat

David Lopez enjoys a warm welcome as a new member of the Rotary Club of Lloydminster. File Photo FROM PAGE 1

The other voting results were Leo Aguinaldo 154, Ben Harrisons 119, Stan Bugiera 56, Corey McKee 9 and Hamid Rahmanian 6.

The vote count includes results from a mobile poll, an advance poll and by-election day.

Lopez is now looking forward to a day’s worth of meetings, lectures and seminars to bring him up to speed on how city council and City Hall works.

He can’t wait to get down to business at his first council meeting on Feb. 26 and share

what he can bring to the table.

“I think I will bring the perspective of a small business owner, someone that wants to make sure that every dollar spent is in an appropriate manner,” said Lopez.

The 48-year-old Lloydminster resident calls himself an entrepreneur who runs restaurants, a construction company and does property management and rentals in Lloyd.

As for the other candidates, Lopez said, “Thank you for putting your name out and

showing there’s people that are concerned with what’s happening in the city—and we all want to make a change and make this the best place to live.”

Sirett, meanwhile, is already campaigning to seek a seat on council in the Nov. 13 municipal election.

“I have a passion to be on city council so that was always the plan,” said Sirett who congratulated Lopez.

“I wish him all the best and I hope he fits in. I’ve run on the platform of bringing the people and City Hall together and I hope he listens to the people.”

Sirett is among a group of concerned citizens who planned to present a petition to City Hall on Wednesday, advocating the city does not take out a $3.1 million loan to build a maintenance shed at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Club.

“It will be a hot issue and I hope David listens

to the people,” he said.

Sirett also let on he was d isappoint ed by his second-place result in the balloting, partly blaming low voter turnout with only 1,636 votes cast out of 20,000 eligible voters in the city.

“I felt we did better. We door knocked, we went to the businesses and had a lot of support and I don’t feel people came out and voted,” he said.

“But I am a bit disappointed because I hear a lot of people that have concerns and they need to come out and vote whether it’s for me or David or the next guy.”

He calls voter apathy one of the weaknesses of our democracy.

“People aren’t availing themselves WINTERFEST FROM PAGE 1

“Bud Miller will have colouring in the nature room, a skating party with a DJ, horse-drawn wagon rides, shinny on the ice,” said Brown.

Across town at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre curling club members will be on hand for anyone who wants to try out the sport. They ask that you book a time slot on arrival and bring indoor shoes.

“And we’ll have a craft set up and there will be hot refreshments there as well,” said Brown.

The Lloydminster

of the vote; let alone they don’t know the issues that each person is talking about, they don’t even know the

guys,” said Sirett.

“There’s a great pool of ignorance there and it’s a very important thing.”

Lloyd RCMP town hall tonight

H

ave you ever wondered what priorities police are focusing on? Do you have a question for the police you’ve always wanted answered?

The Lloydminster RCMP invites everyone to attend tonight’s town hall meeting at 6 p.m. in the OTS Room of the Servus Sports Centre, located at 5212 12 Street.

Members of the Lloydminster RCMP

Museum and Archives will also be a popular choice for fun and learning as they offer free admission, a craft in the art studio, and heritage demos. Last year nearly 1,000 people visited the museum on Family Day. Brown says all of the options for free family fun wouldn’t be possible without all of the sponsors and volunteers.

“A huge shoutout.

We could not do Winterfest without the amazing support of the sponsors. L&A CPA LLP, this is their third year as our presenting sponsor for Winterfest

will be on hand to seek input from the community regarding policing priorities for the next fiscal year as well as updates from various units within the Lloydminster RCMP. RCMP members will also on hand to answer any other questions about overall detachment operations and community safety.

The Lloydminster RCMP looks forward to seeing you there!

and they’ve been awesome to deal with.”

“We’re so thankful for the support of our volunteers as well, they lend so much to the spirit of this event,” said Brown, adding anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to contact her at the Servus Sports Centre.

“Winterfest is for everyone—from toddlers, right up to seniors and we encourage everyone to come out.”

Visit Lloydminster. ca/Winterfest for a full activity schedule and list of sponsors.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Indigenous storyteller shares gift

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Cynthia Young holds up a wolf pelt for some Grade 3 students to look at before walking around the room to let them pet it if they choose to.

JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

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February is Indigenous storytelling month, a time to pass on traditional knowledge verbally, as it has been for thousands of years.

Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) Indigenous programming coordinator Cynthia Young will be busy all month, sharing her storytelling gift with students.

Mrs. Ursaki’s Grade 3 class was one of the many classes who booked in for a session with Young at Holy Rosary High School’s Indigenous Learning Centre.

“My favourite part was getting to feel the buffalo skin, the fur.

It was very fluffy and then the back was kinda rough,” said Grade 3 student Milo Guenther.

“I learned different words in Cree.”

Guenther’s classmate Hendrix Gartner also enjoyed Young’s presentation on Feb. 8.

“I liked getting to learn all about the animals and stuff, and getting to feel the buffalo hide,” he said.

Young taught students about various animals and their significance in Indigenous culture, using stories and other learning materials that could be passed around for students to look at.

One of the interesting things she shared was how the behaviour

of animals and insects can help predict the weather. She used hornet nesting locations as an example.

“They build them high if there’s going to be a lot of snow. Last year they built them in the ground. Do we have a lot of snow this year?

No,” she said as the children chimed in to answer along with her.

“You learn to pay

attention to your land, and what the animals show you. They’ll always know what kind of seasons are coming.”

Another animal Young featured during her presentation was the buffalo.

“He gives us food, he gives us clothing, tools.

Also, his stomach was used to carry water. All kinds of stuff is used on these animals. His

hoof can be opened and cooked, and there’s a marrow in there. Same with moose,” said Young.

“They learned all about their animals and the stuff they can use from their animals because that’s all we had. We had to live in the bush, we had to take care of ourselves.”

Mahihkan (wolf) is another animal whose behaviour is very important to look at, and Young is masterful at tying these teachings to students’ lives.

“When they move their packs to different areas, they put the old ones in front. They put the other mahihkan, and then in the back they have their best mahihkan,” Young explained.

“So that if anybody comes and attacks them from the back they are able to take care of everybody. That’s how we should be. We should take care of each other.

“Pretty soon you’ll be in Grade 8 here, and Grade 12. Look around, take care of one

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another. Be kind to one another. Make sure we all get there, just like mahikan teaches us.”

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Tour brings big names to Juba JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

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The Great Canadian Roadtrip tour is making a pitstop in Lloyd on Feb. 26.

The tour features awardwinning country artists Michelle Wright, Jason McCoy, and Doc Walker.

Chris Thorsteinson and Dave Wasyliw (Doc Walker) began playing music together nearly three decades ago in Westbourne, MB. “His sister and my sister were around the same age, and they were a couple of years older than us. Dave and I were the younger brothers.

We started a rock band when we were 12 or 13 years old,”

said Thorsteinson.

Thirty years, 14 Canadian Country Music Association Awards, 21 Top 10 Canadian country radio singles, and a JUNO Award later, they’re still fan-focused and excited for their stop in the Border City.

“Yo u kn o w , a lot of t he time, tours will only hit the big cities, right … I’m from a town of 50 people,” said Thorsteinson.

“I really love playing small towns because there’s not a ton of entertainment coming through, so people really appreciate it and it kind of makes me feel like I’m at home,” he said, adding this won’t be the first time the duo has played in Lloyd.

“We’ve played quite a few times in and around Lloydminster. I think back in the bar days. We’ve been traveling the prairies for years.”

Thorsteinson says the road trip has been a lot of fun so far.

“We’re on the road with Michelle

Wright and Jason McCoy, two Canadian country music hall of famers. They’re amazing. It is quite an interesting show, it’s pretty rare you’re going to see something like this,” he said.

“It’s something the fans have really been enjoying.”

Thorsteinson hopes the tour isn’t just a one-time thing, since they’ve gotten such a positive response across Canada.

“In the fall we’re going to be heading out to the east coast with this Great Canadian Road Trip tour,” he said.

“I’ve got a really good feeling about this lineup, and this show that we’ve put together … I don’t think it’s

just going to be one tour I think it’s going to be an ongoing thing. Hopefully for a long time.”

For tickets, visit vicjubatheatre.ca.

Doc Walker’s Chris Thorsteinson and Dave Wasyliw are ready to hit the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Feb. 26. File Photo

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Chirping hypes badges hockey charity GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.

Expect a bit of both at this year’s Todd Gustavson Battle of the Badges Memorial Hockey Tournament at the Centennial Civic Centre when the puck drops on March 9 at 12:30 p.m.

It’s billed as a fun community fundraising event for the Salvation Army Food Bank and The Olive Tree but the game itself could turn out to be a 9-11 clash.

That became apparent during a presentation by fire chief Aaron Buckingham at the Rotary Club of Lloydminster’s Monday meeting.

Buckingham made it clear the Lloydminster Fire Department wants to retain the trophy they won for the first time last year from Lloydminster RCMP and will pull out all the stops.

“We’re pretty proud of our victory last year and we hope to keep that going this year,” he said.

“We have our bag of tricks for sure. I can’t really disclose ahead of time what we’re going to do but we’re feeling pretty confident.”

Buckingham noted he used to play for the RCMP having done some work for the detachment for a few years, until they cut him from their team last year but he had the last laugh.

“I was pretty cranky abo u t tha t , s o I q ui t being a city councillor and gave up everything else just to join the fire department to show the RCMP what they missed last year by cutting me,” joked Buckingham.

He noted the cops haven’t gotten over that loss with the 7th edition of the tournament looming.

“The RCMP has affectionately named our team something I’m not going to share with you, but I don’t like it,” Buckingham told Rotarians.

“So we’re coming up with a rebuttal to

the team name they’ve given us.”

He says both departments want to do stuff together, but he stressed, “The bottom line is, police officers need heroes too and that’s why there’s firefighters.”

All joking aside, Buckingham says the game is for charity.

“Basically what we want to do is raise money for the food bank and food for the food banks,” he said.

“They run low after Christmas so this will help to restock the shelves for the busy Easter weekend.”

He said the event is always great and it’s for the community.

“That’s what we do it for. It’s just a way for our emergency services to get in front of the public,” Buckingham.

The event is open for all ages and admission is by cash donation or non-perishable food items.

Half of the proceeds will go to The Olive Tree supported by the RCMP with the rest going to the Salvation Army Food backed by the firefighters.

Monetary donations will go toward youth

mentorship programs at Big Brothers, Big Sisters Lloydminster who will also sell 50/50 tickets.

The event promotes the “more the merrier” concept with some Lloydminster minor hockey players playing a game during the intermissions.

more community participation.

“We also have the public and Catholic school divisions doing a food bank drive and they are in the process right now of raising tons of food for these food bank charities,” he said.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Lloydminster Fire Chief Aaron Buckingham (pictured above) and paid-on-call firefighter Brayden Williard brought the Rotary Club of Lloydminster up to speed on the upcoming Battle of the Badges hockey game for charity.

“We want to get as many people involved as we possibly can,” said Buckingham.

The event is being coordinated by paid on-call firefighter, Brayden Williard, who is rounding up even

Williard explained the tournament started out as just a fun thing for the fire department and the RCMP to compete against each other for a bit.

“After our late fire chief Todd (Gustavson)

passed away, we dedicated the game to him,” he said.

“It’s my favourite event with the fire

department every year.

It’s a lot of fun. It’s great to see the community support good causes and everything.”

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

It’s Carnaval week at St. Thomas JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

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This week students at École St. Thomas enjoyed an array of fun activities while learning about French culture.

For Grade 6 student Lincoln Joy, it’s become something he

looks forward to each year since his first Carnaval in Kindergarten.

“We do this thing where you go rolling down with scooters and you hit like pins, and that’s really fun,” said Joy. “Also, I just tried bannock for the first

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time today, with butter and jam. That was really good.”

Pr incipal Chant ale Salt says Carnaval can be tricky sometimes, due to the weather, but this year things are going well.

“The weather has definitely been a challenge and this year we were actually worried we wouldn’t even have enough snow to do La Tire, luckily we got snow in the nick of time,” said Salt.

“We’re actually very fortunate this year, with the weather being so mild that the students can enjoy the outdoors. This year is just right.”

La Tire is a dollop of maple syrup, served over snow, like a maple syrup popsicle.

“The favourite thing from year to year is La Tire. That is an all-time favourite. It is a nice, sweet treat and every student looks forward to it,” said Salt.

Cooking bannock was another studentfavourite at Carnaval this year. That activity was led by Cynthia and Mike Young.

There are other presentations and workshops happening

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Teacher Rick Lucas dishes out La Tire to some Grade 7 students during École St. Thomas Carnaval events.

throughout the week as well.

“One of them is La Troupe du Jour, they are doing some acting workshops with st u d ent s, act ing and improvisation,” said Young.

“And then we have The Great Balanzo who

will be doing workshops and circus performances, juggling acts and those kinds of things, with our Grade 5 to 7s.”

There are indoor and outdoor activities going on all week to help keep the French culture alive and well

within the school.

“It is a celebration of French language and French culture. It’s a tradition that began in Quebec many many years ago, and we celebrate it over here to help promote that language and culture with our students,” said Salt.

First graders count to 100 days GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Hip hip hooray, it’s the 100th day.

Rendell Park School turned into a party zone Tuesday with teachers and parent volunteers helping Grade 1 students celebrate their first 100 days of schooling.

“It’s a significant date in the school year,” said principal Sheldon Gallagher.

“It kind of marks about half way—100 is a good building block for numeracy with 1s, 10s and 100s, so it fits really well for curriculum too.”

“It’s great to see all the parents out here supporting us and supporting the kids in their education too.”

“We probably have 20 or more parents down there right now helping out. There’s lot of small activities for the kids to do. It’s a fun day for everybody.”

Grade 1 teacher, Melanie McLeod led by example, sporting a T-shirt with the “Hip, Hip Hooray” wording

Rendell Park School first graders Elliot McVey, left, and Brooks Baun celebrated their first 100 days of school by making necklaces with 100 Fruit Loops on Tuesday. Geoff Lee Photo

to cheerlead the event for the kids who have learned to count to 100 this year.

“We have prepared a bunch of centres for the students,” said McLeod.

“So there are different centres based off our curriculum, so we have (things like) math activities, writing activities and arts and crafts.

“Also each student brought in their own 100 day project representing 100 by ones, twos, fives or 10s” The only thing that didn’t add up to 100 was having about 92 students participate in the activity day.

The kids creations

ranged from a hockey rink made from Lego to a model of Jurassic Park, all somehow based on the number 100.

“I am amazed every year. You ask for one thing and you get 92 different projects; it’s amazing,” said McLeod.

“Everybody is all smiles. They’re learning and they don’t know it.”

McLeod says the event couldn’t happen as smoothly as it did without those volunteer parents.

“It is really amazing to have them back in the building participating with all of the children,” she said.

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Kids process block coding GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Computer coding can be fun to learn.

A class of Grade 5 and 6 students at Barr Colony School found that out during a twoday workshop on block coding last week.

It’s being taught throughout the Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) by education technology consultant Cornelius Krahn.

“Block coding is a way to introduce computer science concepts to younger students,” said Krahn.

“It is coding for computers for technology, but it’s done in a simpler way so they can understand the concepts and be successful the right way instead of using text-based coding.”

A l l o f t h e s t ud e nt s were tasked with coding a Micro Bit brand processor connected to to do different things.

“They will code on Chromebook on a website, then they will transfer that code to the microprocessor that will run the program they’ve just created,” said Krahn “That processor has different (LED) lights and a speaker so they can code it to make different animation or to make music.”

After sixth grader Dylan Sieben learned how to code and “do Micro Bit stuff and do animations,” he said he created a “countdown to to a rocket ship going off.”

However, like a lot of first time kid coders, he ran into a problem he needed help to fix.

“It went too fast and I didn’t know how to stop that. Mr. Krahn told me how to fix it b e c ause like t h e re was a delay time so it makes it go slower,” said Dylan.

“

It is coding for computers for technology, but it’s done in a simpler way so they can understand the concepts and be successful the right way instead of using textbased coding.

Krahn says block coding is an easy way for them to learn because it’s like building with Lego blocks.

“They have instant success because we start simple and then we get more complicated as the day goes on,” he explained.

Krahn says LPSD wants to introduce young students to technology to get them to realize this is something they could do in the future.

“Their life is going to be very inundated with technology and so this is a way for them to understand how technology works and possibly consider using technology in their future careers,”

he said.

That rang a bell with Lily Sellers, one of 50 girls who took a memorable coding workshop for girls last year at College Park and is eager to learn more with a Micro Bit. “It was amazing,” she said.

“We learned how to program it so if we shake it it does a sad face, and if you pet it it does a smiley face and we learned a lot about coding and stuff like how to type your name and how to do step counting.”

This time around, everyone in her Grade 6 class was learning to how to create their own animation and name tags and lots of other cool stuff, as she put it.

“I tried to make myself an animation where a guy does a jumping jack and then he sees this balloon coming and he grabs it,” she said.

She said they also made a step counter.

“We programmed it so whenever we stepped it would count.

It was a lot of fun,” said Lily.

Krahn says he was awarded a $15,000 grant from a group called Calysto from the University of British Columbia to purchase the Micro Bits valued at about $30 each.

“Not only are they learning coding they get to keep these and take them home and continue working with them,” said Krahn.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Education technology consultant Cornelius Krahn, with the Lloydminster Public School Division, works with Grade 6 student Lily Sellers on her block coded animation project during a two-day workshop at Barr Colony last week.

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Who’s ready for Irish Pub Night Carnival?

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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It’s time to don your favourite green, gather with friends and get ready for an evening of games, dancing, and fun as the Border City Rotary Club preps to paint the town green.

The club is pleased to be present Irish Pub Night Carnival, which will be taking over the Lloydminster Exhibition’s Culligan Water Building on March 16.

The fun-filled night kicks off at 7 p.m. with music from breakout country artist Garrett Gregory.

Early-bird tickets are available until March 7 at a cost of $40 and will be $50 after that date.

Tickets are avail-

able at https://bitly. ws/3dd9R. This year’s event carries a Carnival theme, something the club’s fundraising chair, Karla Whiting, is looking forward to.

“We’re upping the ante and making it more entertaining for our guests,” she said. “So we’re bringing in a circus hula hoop dancer, thanks to Rotarian Jackie Tomayer, who has all the connections through the Lloyd Ex. “We’re also really excited to have Garrett back,” said Whiting.

“He’s a ton of fun and we’re so lucky to be able to bring him back.”

Get your tickets before they’re all sold out!

Kitscoty RCMP keeps citizens warm

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Spring weather may be right around the corner, but temperatures are still in the negatives and winter weather is upon us.

The Kitscoty RCMP, along with the County of Vermilion River Fire Services, made sure the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter was stocked up for the rest of the winter season by donating four large bags of winter clothing, which were dropped off at the

shelter last Thursday.

“Please consider donating any warm clothing, boots, hats or gloves to those in need in our community”, said Const. Jordan O’Quinn, Kitscoty RCMP. “Let’s make sure our shelters are well stocked and can keep helping our community, and its vulnerable population safe.”

To donate to the shelter, please visit: Make a Donation — Lloydminster Men’s Shelter (lsacs.ca).

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PAGE 10 Thursday, February 15, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint Letter to the editor ...

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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

2017

A heart-felt thank-you to the community

O

n Feb. 17, 2023, almost a year to the day, I found out I had a battle ahead of me after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

The past year has been nothing short of an emotional roller coaster, to say the least, but I wanted to take some time to thank the entire community for the unbelievable amount of support I’ve received since my diagnosis.

I’ve worked at The Proper Eats & Drinks for the last five years and had to take time off for treatment and recovery.

During my time off, the owners of The Proper, Jess and Nader, started collecting donations in the lounge to help offset the financial burden this journey would have on myself and my amazing husband, Brian.

I was absolutely blown away by

the amount of support I received.

Whether it was through donations at The Proper, or the surprise I got from people with The Lori Craven Memorial Foundation, to name a few, it all means so much. Thank you.

I couldn’t imagine going through this without the support I’ve had, and even with the help, it’s still been a struggle financially; I’m still living on credit cards, but I can’t imagine going through this without having the community I have.

The help I received is a very big deal and I just want people to know I’m very grateful.

Going through what I did, I already knew this was a great community, and whenever someone needs help, everyone rallies around them and steps up, but I’ve never been on the receiving end of that support, nor did

I ever think I would be ... that’s why I take it personally when people call Lloyd a sh*t hole ... it’s not; the people in this community are great, and I knew that.

To the Lori Craven Memorial Foundation and everyone who plays in it and makes it a big thing every year, thank you. I still can’t believe this happened, but one night I was serving a table and when I brought them their tab, they surprised me with a $6,000 donation; they were from the Lori Craven foundation ... I was floored.

The financial support has lifted such a weight off my shoulders and I couldn’t imagine going through this alone, so again, thank you Lloydminster, you never cease to amaze me.

- Charli Gogowich

Border Banter with Benoit-Leipert: Focus on family Family Day is coming up, and not only is it a nice reprieve from school or work, but it’s also a great opportunity to spend time together.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes, building a snowman, or checking out one of the many Winterfest activities happening around town, it’s a day to make memories that will last a lifetime.

There’s always time for family outings in summer, but this Family Day holiday gives everyone a chance to enjoy some winter activities as well.

One of my fondest memories of family day was in 2016.

Shaun was working in the oilfield at the time, so we were lucky he was on days off and could

join us. I can’t think about that day without giggling.

Our older boys would have been 14ish and the younger two kids, eight and six. Just the right age that everyone could enjoy a good toboggan ride.

It was a mild, sunny

winter day with lots of fresh powder and we decided to go check out the hill across the road.

What a great time!

Before we knew it we had spent hours out on that hill. We had a SkiDoo or two at the time too, so the big kids

took turns giving the little kids rides. It was just the best day!

One of the last runs of the day I was able to capture on my smartphone. It’s one of those videos that I’ll go to if I’m having a bad day and need a laugh.

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PAGE 11 Thursday, February 15, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: What the heck is hockey culture?

STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

There has been a lot of talk lately about hockey culture needing to change, but few people take the time to explain what hockey culture is and who is responsible for it.

To me, hockey is a way of life that is no different from any other sector of society or sports when it comes to cover-ups, on-thejob injuries, sexual assaults, scandals etc.

A jury found former U.S. President Donald Trump, for instance,

liable for sexually abusing an advice columnist in 1996, awarding her $5 million in damages.

Most of the criticism about hockey stems from recent sexual assault charges laid against five members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior Hockey Team.

If th ere’s a h o c key culture that needs fixing, Hockey Canada should be on the priority list.

In 2022, a woman identified as E.M. in court documents launched a lawsuit alleging she was sexually assaulted by eight members of the world

BORDER BANTER FROM PAGE 10

Shaun decided to try one of the kid-sized sleds with hilarious results.

He took a tumble or two, and the noises he made were

junior team.

She sued Hockey Canada, eight players and the Canadian Hockey League for $3.5 million.

It was later learned Hockey Canada had been secretly using registration fees for sexual assault lawsuits.

Now Hockey Canada says none of the players from the 2018 team are allowed to play for Canada in Olympic and world championships hockey.

How does Hockey Canada have the right to tell law-abiding citizens who had nothing to do with the alleged sexual assault, they

oddly hilarious.

As he came to a stop you could hear him yell “Ahhhhh, I got snow in my butt!” (he may have used a different word), and then you

don’t have the right to play for Canada?

There may be public guilt by association, but they are not legally guilty of any infraction. That’s why Hockey Canada needs to disband and be replaced by a group that is above board and supports the rights of Canadians to represent their country.

That’s good hockey culture to me.

It’s also positive that more players are revealing issues of hazing, racism, sexism, silencing, and consequences to their mental and physical health.

However, it seems to

hear all the kids laughing.

Some of them falling down in the snow, belly-laughing. It’s one of those rare moments I’m so grateful I captured forever.

File Photo me most of these things are allowed to happen by those in authority within hockey hierarchies with the pressure to win and conform.

Players also experience pressure to perform, play through injuries with fears of being traded, benched or ostracized for speak-

Especially now that those teenagers have grown up and moved out, and those little kids are now teenagers. Eight years can fly by faster than a slick sled on a

ing out, but that is no different than any other sport or walk of life.

However, the game will be better without organizational homophobia, drug and alcohol use and violence. Society would too. Who is willing to drop the puck first for change?

snowy hill.

Enjoy making memories this Family Day, and don’t forget to take a few photos or videos.

You won’t regret it!

12

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Passport to YLL

Thursday, February 15, 2024

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.

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

Cards, games and live music Spades Tourney The Legacy Centre is hosting a Spades tournament on Feb. 15. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/person.

Lunch is also available for $12/person. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780875-4584.

High Valley @ The Vic Multi-platinum country group High Valley will be taking the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Feb. 16 for a 7:30 p.m. show.

Tickets are only $65 and are available online or at the Vic Juba box office.

Islay Jamboree There will be a jamboree on Feb. 18 at the Islay Community Hall at 1 p.m. Admission is $15, participants free.

Everyone welcome.

Lunch Served. For more info, call Dixie at 780744-2204.

Crib Doubles Tourney The Legacy Centre is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Feb. 22. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/ person. Lunch is also available for $12/person. Everyone welcome!

Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584.

Pancake Breakfast The Legacy Centre is hosting a pancake breakfast from 9-11 a.m. on Feb. 25. Cost is $12/person at the door, $6/12 and under.

EVERYONE WELCOME! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more details.

The Great Canadian Roadtrip The Vic Juba Community Theatre is pleased to present The Great Canadian Roadtrip with Doc Walker, Michelle Wright and Jason McCoy on Feb. 26

at 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss three legends of Canadian Country music come back to their roots this winter! Tickets are $71 and are available on the theatre’s website and in-person at the box office.

Legacy Bus Trip The Legacy Centre is hosting a bus trip on Feb. 28 for brunch and a show (A Night With The King starring Matt Cage– North American Renowned Elvis Tribute Show). The bus leaves the Legacy at 7:30 a.m. and returns to Lloydminster around 5:30 p.m. Cost is $189/person, which includes transportation, brunch and the show! Call the Legacy office at 780875-4584 for more details.

- Have something you’d like listed? Email it to taylor@meridiansource.ca

Fun for the whole family Coldest Night of The Year The Annual Coldest Night of the Year Walk for the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter will be held at Bud Miller All Seasons Park on Feb. 24. This is a team event to raise money for the men’s shelter. Registration starts at 4 p.m.

- opening address, the walk and finishes with a light supper. This is a family friendly event.

You can register online with the Blue Sea Found at ion or r e gist er at the park the day of the event.

Anne of Green Gables – The Ballet The Lloydminster Concert Series Association is excited to host Anne of Green Gables– The Ballet at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Thursday, March 7 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $55 for adults and $5

for students. Contact the theatre’s box office at 780-872-7400 for more info.

The Bellamy Brothers The Vic Juba Community Theatre will be hosting country music legends The Bellamy Brothers (yes, it’s really the original brothers) on Tuesday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 and available online or at the Vic Juba box office. Call 780872-7400 for more info.

Hotel California @ The Vic VaughnCo Entertainment is excited to bring the original Eagles tribute, Hotel California, to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 20 for a 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 each and available online or at the theatre’s box office. Call 780-872-7400 for more info.

Taylor Swift Tribute The Vic Juba Community Theatre is excited to bring a Taylor Swift Tribute featuring Katy Ellis to the Border City on Wednesday, Nov. 13 for a 7:30 p.m. show.

Tickets are $39 each and are available online or at the theatre’s box office. Call 780-8727400 for more info.

North Bend Jam The North Bend Musical Jam is the second Sunday of each month from 1-4:30 p.m. It will feature musicians and dancers; all music lovers welcome. Jams will be held on Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10. The Hall is wheelchair accessible; everyone welcome!

BINGO IS BACK! Bingo is back at the Moose Lodge every Monday and Wednesday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.

Lloyd RCMP investigate possible exposive device

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Last Wednesday at roughly 3 p.m., Lloydminster RCMP were conducting a search of a vehicle in the Best Buy parking lot in

Lloydminster.

During the search, officers located a potential explosive device.

Out of an abundance of caution, police contained the area and

waited for the Alberta RCMP Explosive Disposal Unit to arrive.

Police remained on scene until roughly 9 p.m. when the device was deemed non-hazardous.

Sports Barons to scrum with parents PAGE 13

Thursday, February 15, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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

Kieran Link, head coach of the Barons football team at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School, will huddle with parents this week to roll out the plans for the school’s new junior squad.

“

People are pretty excited.

It’s going be excellent for the school community and another opportunity for people from the surrounding area to play some bantam football.

Link has organized a meet-up in the school’s library on Feb. 15 at 7:30 p.m. to introduce the game plan for the bantam Barons team, playing out of the Saskatoon Kinsmen Football League this fall.

“We’ll be filling them in about the new program for the Grade 8s and 9s, who is eligible to play, what our philosophy and vision is, and give them information about the new program,” said Link.

He says LCHS will have an information night for Grade 8 and 9 students that parents can also attend at

a later date.

“We’re just getting the word out right now,” said Link, who is overseeing the program.

He says there will be roughly 10 teams from North Battleford, Prince Albert, Martensville, Saskatoon and the surrounding area in the Saskatoon league.

“People are pretty excited, honestly. It’s going be excellent for the school community and another opportunity for people from the surrounding area to play some bantam football,” he said.

The Jr. Barons will likely play seven or eight home and away games from late August to November.

The opportunity to field a bantam team to join the Saskatoon league results from the $28.8 million expansion of LCHS, which will welcome 300 Grade 9 students for the 2024-25 school year. “ O u r s c h o o l expanded to have Grade 9 students in the fall and we wanted to provide an opportunity to have football within the school for those players and the surrounding community to play Barons football at the bantam level,” explained Link.

LCHS reached out to the Saskatoon league after the senior Barons switched to the North

Source File Photo

The Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Barons football program will soon include a junior bantam team to join the Saskatoon Kinsmen Football League this fall. An information meeting for parents will be held on Feb. 15 in the school library at 7:30 p.m.

Saskatchewan Football League last year.

“We got in touch with them and they were happy to have us in the Saskatoon League, so really excited for it,” said Link.

The Jr. Barons will play 12-man tackle football with fundraising already underway.

“So we’re in the process of acquiring equipment and we’re excited to hit the ground running with a spring camp in June that will go on at LCHS,” said Link.

The camp will run for two weeks to introduce the Grade 8s and 9s to Barons junior football.

“It will give them an

idea of our schemes and systems, so it’s ‘little taster’ in the spring and in the fall they will be playing proper games and we’ll be practising a few times a week,” said Link.

He anticipates having at least 40 players on the roster and hopes for more.

“We’ll see what the demand is,” he said.

Link says the field staff will include defensive specialist, Cole Bloxan, offensive specialist, Justin Kelly and a head coach yet to be named.

“There will be a variety of other coaches as well,” he said.

Link will be telling parents he has yet to nail down the exact registration fees, but he expects it will cost about $500 a player.

“If money’s an issue, there’s KidSport grants available to offset costs,” he said.

Link also wants to tell parents about the values that football imparts.

“It involves the kids in the school community for sure and I think some of the values we try to instill (are things) like discipline, hard work, teamwork, managing your time properly, being accountable,” he said.

“Those kind of character things carry over to the classroom. Those skillsets carry over to academics as well.”

Link says a Jr. Barons team will also serve as a development team for the Sr. Barons.

“We’ll have more people in the school division playing Barons football.”

In the meantime, Link is focused on tackling a lengthy to-do list to get ready for the new league.

“We have to order equipment, instil our schemes and systems and we’ve got to recruit kids to play football for the Barons,” he said.

14

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, February 15, 2024

U18 AAA Lancers split weekend TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Left: U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers forward Zach Nelson celebrates a first-period equalizer against the Edmonton Jr. Oilers Blue at the Centennial Civic Centre on Saturday evening. Nelson also got the team’s third and final goal on Sunday as the Lancers beat the Blue 3-1 in Edmonton. Right: Lancers starting goaltender Malakai Zwiers makes a save on Saturday night at the Civic Centre. Zwiers stopped 42 of 47 shots on Saturday and 39 of 40 on Sunday.

The regular season may be winding down, but the U18 Lancers are still giving it their all with a home and away split over the weekend.

The Lancers (1217-0-3-3) hosted the Edmonton Jr. Oilers Blue (19-12-0-1-2) at the Civic Centre on Saturday night, losing 5-2, before heading to Leduc on Sunday, beating the Oil Kings (13-17-0-3-2) 3-1 at the Aspen Arena Leduc Recreation Centre.

Currently sitting seventh in Alberta Elite Hockey League U18 AAA north standings, the Lancers will have to wait until next year to fight for playoff contention, but there have been many lessons learned along the way.

The Oilers struck first on Saturday with a goal from Max Algarer at 1:02 in the first. Lloyd’s Zach Nelson was quick to answer at 2:49 with assists from Rylan Wieler and Landon Fallscheer,

but Edmonton’s Nathan Duffett snuck a second shot past Lloyd goaltender Malakai Zwiers before the end of the first for a 2-1 game.

After a scoreless second, captain Cayden Wildeman tied it up at 3:36 in the third with assists from Nelson and Wieler.

Wildeman’s goal, however, wouldn’t be enough as the Oilers got three more past Zwiers in the third for a 5-2 final.

With retaliation in mind, the Lancers travelled to Leduc on Sunday where they had better luck against the Oil Kings, besting the home team 3-1.

Lloyd’s Carter Gore-

niuk was first to score at 4:15 in the first with assists from Jesse Tkach and Rylan Wieler.

Adryan Bugiera made it a 2-0 game at 3:35 in the second with assists from Rhett Romanchuk and Wieler before Oil Kings’ forward Maclin Davie got his team within one at 7:11 in the second.

Davie may have gotten the Oil Kings on the board, but Lloyd’s Zach Nelson got his 13th of the season at 17:12 in the third for a 3-1 final.

The Lancers hosted the Oilers Blue last night at the Civic Centre and will host the Oilers Orange this Sunday at 5:15 p.m. for their last home game of the season.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

15

Bandits playoffs start tonight vs. Ice TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

The Lloydminster Bandits (21-8-2) finished the regular season on a high note with a 6-2 win over the Vegreville Rangers (5-26) last Saturday, setting them up to face off against the Cold Lake Ice in a best-of-seven first round of North Eastern Alberta Junior B Hockey League (NEAJBHL) playoffs.

The St. Paul Canadiens (24-4) are projected to make

quick work of the Onion Lake Border Chiefs (0-30-1) with the winner of their best-ofseven series playing the winner of the Wainwright Bisons (26-5) and Rangers’ series.

The winner of the Bandit/Ice series will take on the winner of the Vermilion Tigers (20-9-1-1) and Killam Wheat Kings (13-17-1-0) series.

Playoffs begin tonight at 8 p.m. at the Centennial Civic Centre as the Bandits host

the Ice in Game 1 of the bestof-seven series.

Game 2 is scheduled for Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Civic with Games 3 and 4 being played in Cold Lake on Feb. 18 at 4 p.m. Feb. 21 at 8 p.m.

The series returns to the Border City for Game 5 on Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m. If needed, Game 6 will be held in Cold Lake on Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. with Game 7 scheduled in Lloyd at 8 p.m. on Feb. 27.

Source File Photo

Sask Alta hockey league heats up midway through first round TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

Source File Photo

Blink, and you may miss the first round of Sask Alta Hockey League (SAHL) playoff action.

With eight teams duking it out in four best-of-five series, it’s still anyone’s championship, but the favourites are pretty clear.

The first-place Paradise Hill Hawks currently lead the Elk Point Eks 2-0 after big

6-0 and 9-3 wins.

The Hawks are hoping to close out their series with the Elks this weekend with Game 3 scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Paradise Hill.

The Lashburn Flyers lead Vermilion 2-0 after beating the Rock 12-0 and 12-3. Game 3 was played last night in Vermilion.

The Dewberry Mustangs and Hillmond Hitmen are tied 1-1

with Game 3 played last night in Dewberry.

The Hitmen beat the Mustangs 6-5 in Game 1 before the Mustangs tied it up with a 2-1 win.

The fourth and final quarter-final series has already wrapped up with the Wainwright Rustlers beating the Meadow Lake Broncos in three straight games, advancing them to the second round.

16

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, February 15, 2024

BUSY MONTH FOR BOBCATS

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Top: Lloydminster Bobcats forward Ben Aucoin, who’s racked up 21 goals and 27 assists for 48 points in 51 games this season, makes sure Camrose Kodiaks’ goaltender Elliott Pratt did his pre-game groin stretches on Saturday night at the Civic Centre as the ‘Cats beat the Kodiaks 4-1. Bottom: Camrose’s Elliott Pratt reacts after allowing one of four ‘Cats goals on Saturday.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

The Lloydminster Bobcats’ (28-23) February got a whole lot busier last Wednesday after the AJHL added

several games to the team’s home and away schedules.

As of last Wednesday, the Bobcats were left with two February road games after back-

to-back home wins over the Olds Grizzlys (1034-3-3) and Camrose Kodiaks (18-27-0-6) on Feb. 2 and 3.

An update from the league, which was

released late Wednesday, saw two home and one road game added to the schedule.

The first homer took place last Saturday against the Kodiaks as the ‘Cats shutdown Camrose 4-1. The second added home game is scheduled for Feb. 23 when the Drayton Valley Thunder (16-32-2) come to town.

Saturday’s crowd turnout may not have been as impressive as last weekends’, but that didn’t stop the boys as they defeated Camrose for the second straight game.

‘Cats assistant captain

Kade Fendelet was first to light the lamp with his 10th goal of the season at 1:24 in the first with assists from Blake

Setter and Ishan Mittoo to give the Bobcats a 1-0 lead going into the second frame.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

17

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Bobcats assistant captain Kade Fendelet charges the net to light the lamp during first period action against the Camrose Kodiaks at the Civic Centre on Saturday night. Fendelet got the ‘Cats first goal of the night at 1:24 in the first before getting the team’s fourth and final empty-netter 18 minutes into the third with an assist from Luke Fritz. Fritzie also got the ‘Cats second goal of the night at 2:40 in the second with assists from Caden Steinke and Remy Spooner.

‘CATS FROM PAGE 16

Luke Fritz got the ‘Cats second goal of the night at 2:40 in the second with assists from Caden Steinke and Remy Spooner before Ben Aucoin got his 21st of the season

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Lloydminster Bobcats, from left to right, Kade Fendelet (behind Mittoo) celebrates his first goal of the night against the Camrose Kodiaks with teammates Ishan Mittoo, Blake Setter and Michael Carter. Mittoo also got his 19th assist of the season on Saturday night off a secondperiod Ben Aucoin powerplay goal, giving Aucoin 21 goals this year. Aucion is currently ranked 9th overall in league scoring.

at 12:02 on the powerplay making it a 3-0 game with assists from Mittoo and Brody Juck.

Kodiaks forward Owen Lansing would answer back at 19:54 in the second, breaking

‘Cats goaltender Jack Solomon’s shutout to make it 3-1 going into the third.

With two minutes remaining in regulation, Fendelet was able to get his 11th of the year from an empty

24023KK0 24023KK1

netter with the assist going to Fritz.

The ‘Cats were in Whitecourt on Tuesday

where they suffered a 4-2 loss at the hands of the Wolverines and head to Olds this Sat-

urday before hosting the Thunder next Friday for a 7 p.m. puck drop at the Civic.

18

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, February 15, 2024

YOUR SOURCE FOR SPORTS STATS AFHL – U18 AAA PWM Steelers

AJHL – Lloydminster Bobcats

GP

W

L

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

GP

W

L

OTL

SOL

PTS

GF

GA

White 26 Fire 26 Slash 24 Steelers (5) 25 Raiders 24

17 17 14 6 2

7 8 10 17 20

2 1 0 1 1

0 0 0 1 1

52 51 39 18 7

92 79 53 35 22

37 38 47 94 130

Wolverines Pontiacs Dragons Canucks Bobcats (5)

51 53 53 52 52

30 28 26 27 28

16 22 20 22 24

4 3 4 1 0

1 0 3 2 0

65 59 59 57 56

167 189 181 151 179

130 163 163 176 186

AFHL – U18 AA (North) Musgrave Agencies Steelers

NEAJBHL – Lloydminster Bandits

GP

W

L

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

Pandas 25 Fury 26 Sharks 24 Steelers (5) 24 Storm 25

15 13 13 11 3

7 10 9 13 21

0 0 1 0 1

3 3 1 0 1

45 39 36 28 9

79 68 53 63 40

57 58 54 70 128

Canadiens 31 Bisons 31 Bandits (3) 31 Tigers 31 Wheat Kings 31

W

L

OTL

SOL

PTS

GF

GA

27 26 21 20 13

4 5 8 9 17

0 0 2 1 1

0 0 0 1 0

54 52 44 42 27

210 197 165 165 118

60 76 99 72 137

AEHL – U18 AAA (North) Green Mile Lancers

AFHL – U15 AA (North) Richardson Jewellery Steelers

GP

GP

W

L

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

GP

W

L-T

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

Pandas Black 27 Steelers (2) 26 Pandas Gold 28 Chargers 26 Royals 27

21 21 14 10 6

5 5 12 12 15

0 0 1 4 3

1 0 1 0 3

63 60 41 31 23

123 115 65 77 75

59 56 83 91 126

Oilers Blue Rangers Oil Kings Lancers (7) Storm

34 35 35 35 33

19 14 13 12 7

12-2 16-1 17-2 17-3 22-2

0 0 0 0 0

1 4 3 3 2

41 33 31 30 18

127 125 110 113 83

94 125 136 147 155

AFHL – U13 AA (North) Western Financial Steelers

GP

Steelers (1) 21 Bolts 22 Monarchs 21 Storm 21 Wildcats 21

W

L-T

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

21 16 15 11 10

0 5-1 6 10 9-2

0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0

42 33 30 22 22

169 140 108 82 78

44 76 40 63 58

AEHL – U17 AAA (North) Rohan Lancers

GP

W

L-T

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

Saints Storm Bulldogs Rangers Lancers (11)

30 26 27 28 27

7 8 6 3 3

18-3 16-1 17-4 21-3 22-2

0 0 0 0 0

2 1 0 1 0

19 18 16 10 8

71 77 72 55 48

113 130 105 127 134

RUSTLERS ATHLETICS

AEHL – U15 AAA (North) Lancers

Women’s GP Hockey

W-L

PTS

GF

GA

STRK

GP

W

L-T

SOL

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

LAKE (1) 23 RDP 22 NAIT 21

19-4 17-5 16-5

57 51 49

109 80 74

36 25 29

Won 6 Won 2 Won 3

Men’s MP Volleyball

W-L

PTS

SW

SL

STRK

Saints 30 Squires 27 Lions 27 Lancers (8) 30 Oil Kings 31

11 12 12 10 8

14-1 13-1 13-2 17-3 20-1

0 0 0 0 0

4 1 0 0 2

27 26 26 23 19

79 104 101 97 78

104 105 113 136 130

KC 19 LAKE (2) 19 NAIT 18

16-3 13-6 13-5

32 26 26

52 42 43

17 26 27

Won 6 Won 5 Lost 1

Women’s MP Volleyball

W-L

PTS

SW

SL

STRK

GP

W

L

T-D

OTL

PTS

GF

GA

LAKE (1) 19 UAA 19 TKU 19

18-1 16-3 16-3

36 32 32

55 51 51

5 21 17

Won 15 Won 9 Won 4

Women’s GP Basketball

W-L

PTS

PF

PA

STRK

LAKE (1) 18 TKU 18 CUE 18

18-0 12-6 10-8

36 24 20

1,422 1,327 1,181

961 1,077 1,099

Won 18 Won 1 Won 2

KC 18 LAKE (2) 18 NWP 18

15-3 10-8 9-9

30 20 18

1,595 1,459 1,376

1,298 1,438 1,407

Lost 2 Lost 2 Won 2

Paradise Hill Lashburn Wainwright Hillmond Dewberry Meadow Lake Vermilion Elk Point Kitscoty

16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16 16

13 13 11 11 9 8 5 2 0

2 3 5 5 6 8 11 13 14

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-1 0

1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2

27 26 22 22 19 16 10 4 2

119 149 106 94 88 77 40 33 21

40 54 54 67 59 64 110 136 143

Men’s GP Basketball

W-L

PTS

PF

PA

STRK

SaskAlta Senior Hockey League

*All stats as of noon on Wednesday

PAGE 19 Thursday, February 15, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Sask sets agricultural export records MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry has posted record agrifood exports for the fourth consecutive year with shipments totalling $20.2B for 2023.

The leading agrifood export commodities in 2023 were non-durum wheat, canola seed, canola oil, durum, lentils and canola meal. The top five international market destinations were the United States, China, Japan, Mexico and Algeria.

“Strong export numbers demonstrate the world-class sustainability and reliability of our province’s agriculture sector,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison.

“As we have already surpassed our 2030 Growth Plan target of $20 billion in agrifood exports, this milestone not only reflects the dedication of Saskatchewan farmers, but also the global demand for the highquality agricultural products that they consistently deliver.”

In addition to raw commodities, processed products are a key contributor to the province’s agricultural exports.

With canola oil as Saskatchewan’s third highest agri-food

export and canola meal the sixth, these products provide an opportunity to reach the 2030 Growth Plan target of increasing agriculture value-added revenue to $10 billion.

Sask’s exports have grown by more than 52.1 per cent since 2013. Trade and investment offices around the world support Saskatchewan companies seeking investment opportunities and promoting trade.

The province looks forward to continuing to expand exports, opening new markets and sharing Saskatch-

File Photo ewan’s story with the world.

24023DE0 24023DE1

PAGE 20 Thursday, February 15, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

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WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX “ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252

HEALTH

FOR RENT

ROOM FOR RENT IN MAIDSTONE, SK

$500 / month • Shared Bathroom

& Laundry • Looking for one quiet renter

Available January 15th Call or text Leah at 306-903-7735 ANNOUNCEMENTS EGG FARMERS OF ALBERTA is pleased to announce that our New Entrant Program will be running in 2024! *FEBRUARY 22, 2024 - webinar information session #1; *MAY 1, 2024 - application window opens; *MAY 2, 2024 - webinar information session #2; *JUNE 25, 2024 - deadline for applications. For more information and to register for the townhall webinars, please visit https://eggs.ab.ca/ healthy-farms/newentrant-program/

Advertise your classified in this space.

Call 306-825-5111

MISCELLANEOUS PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 49 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306649.1405 or visit www. swna.com for details.

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-649-1405 to find out how!

Got A NEWS SCOOP? Send it our way! taylor@meridiansource.ca

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

21

22

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Church Directory

3” wide version BROAD REACH at an AFFORDABLE PRICE

Advertise Province-wide

799

$

with a combined circulation of over 650,000 for only...

Ask about the

Value Ad Network

plus GST

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association

toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 email classifieds@awna.com

or visit your community newspaper

3.75” wide version BROAD REACH at an AFFORDABLE PRICE

799

Advertise $ Province-wide with a combined circulation of over 650,000 for only...

Ask about the

Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association

toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 email classifieds@awna.com

FOR SALE

or visit your community newspaper

2013 Dodge 6.7 Cummins Laramie

• 6” BDS lift with 37” tires • EGR delete • Fully loaded • Detailed receipts for all work done, too many upgrades to list • Very clean truck and well looked after

35,000

$

OR BEST OFFER Please call for more information 306-307-2785

plus GST

Thursday, February 15, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER:

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER:

HOROSCOPE

ACROSS 1. Seclude 5. Acted like 9. Health club 12. Point-scoring serves 13. Identical 14. Join forces with 15. Allowed to be used 16. Comes first 18. Young chicken 20. Holiday drink 21. Comforted 24. Lighthearted 28. Twinkle 31. For heaven’s ____!

32. “____ Town” (play) 33. Roost 36. Vigor's partner

37. Sis’s sibs 39. Lasagna seasoning 41. Conveyed 42. Laundry machine 43. Fear 45. Waits in secret 49. Coiled 54. Tiny 55. Female pronoun 56. Fantasy 57. Make a splash 58. Chatter 59. Tot 60. Evergreen plants

DOWN 1. 50% 2. Cake froster 3. Declare untrue 4. Repute 5. Deadly reptile 6. Duffer’s goal 7. Edit text 8. Art ____ 9. Downhearted 10. Bakery offering 11. TV airings 17. Breakfast order 19. Incline 22. Look upon 23. Fielder’s muff 25. Volcano’s output 26. Like

27. Sample 28. Large quantity 29. Angler’s bait 30. Smooth, as clothes 34. Mew 35. Scoundrel 38. Lead actor 40. “____ Old Men” 42. Impede 44. Power unit 46. Peeve 47. Be informed 48. Drinks daintily 49. Wary 50. Pod vegetable 51. Tick off 52. Antlered animal 53. Barely passing grade

MOVIE SHOWTIMES

23

24

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Celebrate a Safe and Happy Family Day Weekend!

HOMES IN QUAINT COMMUNITIES

LLOYDMINSTER

FEATURED LISTING 3314 - 50 AVENUE

PENDING

MAIDSTONE

Centrally located, nicely maintained highway frontage commercial building.

• Single storey, 2,250 sq. ft., anchor tenants in place and plenty of parking.

•

BONNYVILLE

549,000

$

SK $340,000 MLS A2074376

AB $269,900 MLS A2104987

KITSCOTY

PARADISE VALLEY

AB

AB $350,000 MLS A2093384

NEW PRICES MAIDSTONE

AB $223,900 MLS A2074820

AB $180,000 MLS A1237024

MARWAYNE

MAIDSTONE

AB $337,880 MLS A2104973

LLOYDMINSTER

SK $85,000 MLS A2099788 AB $239,900 MLS A2101722

WIDE OPEN SPACES 50523 RGE. RD. 3281

AB $168,500 MLS A2033529

SK $164,500 MLS A2066024

SK $279,900 MLS A1234912

LASHBURN

PARADISE HILL

NOVA VILLAGE

SK $99,900 MLS A2049089

MAIDSTONE

ST. WALBURG

SK $82,500 MLS A2100758

SK $68,500 MLS A2101009

AB $224,500 MLS A2086625

RETREAT TO A TRANQUIL LAKE SETTING BRIGHTSAND LAKE

MAKWA LAKE

RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES

ALBERTA

BRANCH LAKE

SK $399,000 MLS A2084847

2 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 2 Bath 2 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 2 Bath

UNIT #116

UNIT #124

UNIT #128

$1100 $1200 $1250 $1400

READY! READY! READY! MAR. 1

$800 $1150 $1200 $1400 $1400 $1700

READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY!

SASKATCHEWAN

SK $362,500 MLS A2039201

PLAZA 44 COMMERCIAL LEASE SPACE

322010 TWP. RD. 480

SK $325,000 MLS A1242971 SK $200,000 MLS A2059948

5607 - 31 St. 6608 - 42 St. 6608 - 42 St. 5202 - 49 St. SK $425,000 MLS A2066759

NE-PT-14-54-20 W3RD

SK $450,000 MLS A2086491 SK $389,900 MLS A2070377

323074 TWP. RD. 480

SK $209,900 MLS A2103328

327467 TWP. RD. 510

SK $772,000 MLS A2065793 SK $589,900 MLS A2065797

SW-12-51-28 W3RD

SK $144,500 MLS A2022315

MLS A2024177

4516 - 46 St. (Main Floor) 3901 - 50 Ave 4003 - 50 Ave. 4729 - 18 St. 4906 - 36 St. 4634/4636 - 45 St.

2 Bed, 1 Bath 3 Bed, 1 Bath 3 Bed, 1 Bath 3 Bed, 2 Bath 4 Bed, 2 Bath 3 Bed, 2 Bath

APPLY ONLINE TODAY AB 13.50/sq.ft. MLS A2055846 AB 12.50/sq.ft. MLS A2037478 AB 9.50/sq.ft. MLS A2037491 $

$

$

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

Brad Gilbert Jennifer Gilbert Broker (SK) Broker (AB)

Rick Schesnuk Caleb McLean Realtor® Associate Broker

Each office is independently owned & operated.

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 Sandy Hardy Realtor®

Judy Bexson Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343

facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Brandon King Property Manager

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty