Freezing temps didn’t stop Winterfest fun
While Lloydminster’s freezing temperatures may have hindered some Winterfest activities, families still got out to enjoy some fun.
This year’s Family Day event featured activities at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre, Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre, Lloydminster Museum and Archives and the Servus Sports Centre.
“Its become kind of a tradition for folks and families to celebrate the day together,” said Sandra Brown, recreation programmer for the City of Lloydminster.
Despite the cold weather, people poured out of their warm homes to experience the fun across Lloydminster.
“We actually keep track of attendants and its very good, It’s traditional to be very cold for Winterfest and a few days, but it really doesn’t keep people from coming out,” said Brown.
Over the years, the city tries to mix up what activities are offered to keep it fresh.
“We keep a mix, we have traditional activities and we always add in some
new attractions. This year, there’s been a few changes at the Servus Sports Centre. We’ve added a couple of new bounce units, one is a moonwalk and it’s almost like you’re walking in craters on the moon,” said Brown.
The events at Bud Miller All Seasons Park were cancelled this year due to temperatures dipping down to -30 C with the windchill bringing it to below -40 C.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
Bea Fisher auction bargains creating buzz
The Bea Fisher Foundation is buzzing with excitement ahead of its thirdannual online auction.
Interested buyers can preview the items up to grabs at beafisherauction. com/auctions/. The auction officially goes live from 7 a.m. on Feb. 21 to 6 p.m. on March 1.
Proceeds from this year’s auction will help purchase a wheelchair-
accessible van, something the foundation uses regularly.
“We have just over 120 individuals that use our service now. In the course of a week, it’s not unusual for upwards of 100 people to need transportation in the community,” said Kim Crockett, marketing and business development coordinator, Bea Fisher Foundation.
They need to get out to visit friends, shopping, some have work commitments … everything we need to get out of the house for, they do too, but they need some help with that.
“They need to get out to visit friends, shopping, some have work commitments … everything we need to get out of the house for, they do too, but they need some help with that.”
Crockett explained the cost of a new van has doubled since their last acquisition.
“The Fred North Foundation donated a van worth $80K in 2018, that same van is now $160K,” said Crockett. “It’s going to take a community to raise that kind of money, and we know Lloydminster always pitches in.”
Items include outdoor adventure packs, alcohol/cooler packs, auto detailing and buff packages, golf packs, a romantic sleigh ride for two, and much more.
Lloyd RCMP seize firearm after raid
Lloydminster RCMP seized a firearm and drugs on Feb. 13 during a search of a home on 49 Ave.
Police executed the warrant as part of a firearms trafficking investigation. Officers found a shotgun, a magazine, a small amount of methamphetamine, and unstamped tobacco.
Zach Gayton, 18, of Lloydminster, was arrested. He faces several charges, including
weapons trafficking, unsafe firearm storage, possession of an unauthorized firearm, and possessing a forged document.
Gayton was remanded into custody after appearing before a justice of the peace. He is scheduled to appear in Saskatchewan Provincial Court in Lloydminster on Feb. 19.
RCMP also remind the public about the risks of sharing police activity on social media in real time. They say doing so can compromise officer and public safety, reveal tactics to suspects, spread misinformation, and affect legal proceedings.
The investigation is ongoing, but police say they are working to disrupt illegal firearms trafficking in the area.
Anyone with information about crime in the area, including drug or firearm trafficking, is urged to contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400.
presented by Kristine Knourek
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Adobe Stock Photo
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
New arena begins to take shape
of, we’re hosting a radiothon on April 9. Planning has begun and is going well and our annual golf tournament will be on June 26,” he said.
Lloydminster’s brand new state-of-the-art arena is working towards completion.
Construction has now entered the winter months and much of the work is now indoors. The end of the last quarter saw some more procurement being done.
“Q4 2024 concluded with the Wayfinding signage contractor procured, Cowan Graphics Inc of Edmonton was awarded the interior wayfinding signage contract for the project,” said Joel Turcotte, director of recreation and cultural services for the City of Lloydminster at the Feb. 10 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting.
The project team is currently working on the tender for the kitchen equipment, which will be procured in Q1 of 2025. They are also working on procurement timelines for furniture, fixtures and equipment.
Construction has been ongoing month after month.
Roof insulation was completed on the low roofs on the north and east sides of the building in October. On the exterior of the building, insulated metal panel installation was completed. The exterior steel stud and drywall was completed as well.
The hard landscaping contractor completed the first asphalt lift in the southern portion of the parking lot. The rest of the exposed parking lot was winterized and will be paved in the spring.
Major mechanical and electrical equipment has been delivered to the site and are being moved to their final locations. Concrete sidewalks have been poured along the west side of 39 Ave. Gas lines were completed and connected to the building by ATCO Gas.
November marked the completion of insulating all the low roofs and starting to insulate the community rink roof. The glass contractor began preparing to install glass. Painters substantially completed walls in dressing room areas surrounding the event area.
As December and January rolled around major milestones were marked.
“Some milestones done, in October we had the structural steel and metal decking, in November finish trades mobilized to site, in December concourse and suite level framing complete and January the event arena pad pour,” said Turcotte.
Work continued in January on the event arena pad, preparing for the pour that took place at the end of the month.
Turcotte also spoke about sponsorships and clarified the length of investment.
“The only note I will make, is they’re all 10-year sponsorships, except Cenovus Energy is a 15-year commitment,” he said.
Turcotte shed some light on upcoming fundraising events.
“A few upcoming events I should speak
Coun. Jim Taylor asked about specifics of user groups leasing the facility for use and if there had been any signed for the new arena.
“The Bobcats will need to move, we’re having really good discussions with the Bobcats. There’s one or two items we’re still discussing, but things are going really well, I’d say that’s true with all our tenants right now. Some of them have different questions, some things we’re working through for the most part. The draft agreements we have with them are going extremely well,” said Turcotte.
Taylor asked if there were other assets available to sponsor.
“We’ve been working really hard to make sure we don’t have too many logos, we’ve heard that issue in the community before with the Civic Centre,” said Turcotte.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers said the conversation about raising money will soon shift.
“Today we’re still talking sponsorship, soon, we’re going to be talking donations,” said Aalbers. “If somebody wants to make that $1,000 donation, $5,000 from a business, they will get recognition. We haven’t focused our energy maybe as much as where the sponsorship has been at this point.”
“I think that distinction between the donation and the sponsorship is really important and we’re starting to walk across that bridge now,” said Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson.
She said it’s important people understand the story of why this arena is important to help garner donations.
Diachuk said people will hear the story through the radiothon on New Country 95.9.
“One of the challenges, and building on what you’re saying, the
city can’t be a not-for-profit group. It really limits our flexibility and ability to do some of the things we would like to do. Relative to telling a story, that’s kind of the intent behind the radiothon. We will have people talking about their experiences or their stories,” he said.
Fundraising efforts are ongoing and the team is working to secure sponsorships for the remaining assets. Available sponsorship opportunities include outdoor arena naming, parking lot signs, water filling station branding and dressing room naming.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy City of Lloydminster
Public heard in land use bylaw draft
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Have your say, again, with Lloydminster’s proposed land use bylaw.
The multiple-year-in-the-making bylaw update is once again before council for consideration.
The bylaw was granted first reading at the Sept. 9, 2024 council meeting before a motion to amend it was presented prior to public commentary at the Oct. 7, 2024 council meeting.
“Every municipality in Alberta and Saskatchewan is required to hold a land use bylaw. This is standard practice in the planning world to see regular updates to the land use bylaw every five to 10 years. Our last bylaw was approved in 2016,” said Natasha Pidkowa, manager of planning with the City of Lloydminster.
The bylaw has seen a number of changes since it was last updated.
“Since 2016, there have been nearly 60 amendments to the land use bylaw. This also shows administration a comprehensive review of the bylaw could be beneficial to the development of the city,” said Pidkowa.
The city has been extensively engaging the public in the updating process.
“We’ve had a total of two city-wide mailouts, we’ve engaged with over 1,000 residents and had over 500 survey responses,” said Pidkowa.
She also spoke to some of the changes proposed in this draft of the land use bylaw.
“One of the big things is we’ve increased the allowable lot coverage from 50 to 60 per cent to allow for increased flexibility of what owners can do on their property,” said Pidkowa. “We’ve added
regulations for emerging development trends such as, community gardens, microbreweries, alternative energy solutions and shipping containers.”
The major update includes the changing of districts, reducing the number to allow for more flexibility.
“Currently in our land use bylaw, there’s 28 highly-specific districts that often hinder development applications and are subject to a lengthy and extensive redistricting processing. The land use bylaw proposes to address this by bringing 28 districts into 18 more flexible districts,” said Pidkowa. “We brought residential districts from seven to four, direct control districts from seven to two, created a new downtown commercial district, a new recreation and entertainment district, a business industrial district and a general commercial district.”
Districts were further broken down into specific categories.
“We broke out the residential (districts) into three use categories, a low-density residential district, a medium-density residential district and a high-density residential district,” said Pidkowa.
The low-density district is aimed at singledetached homes and secondary suite dwellings as permitted uses. Two-unit dwellings and additional dwellings are discretionary uses in the low-density district.
Medium density will allow for multi-unit dwellings, apartments, additional unit and two-unit dwellings as permitted uses. Seven plus units are discretionary in this district.
High-density districts will include multi-unit dwellings, apartments and mixed-use buildings as permitted uses.
Up to 50 dwelling units as permitted while more than 51 will be discretionary.
“We did have a maximum density of one to two units per lot with 15 units per hectare. This is acknowledged because we do have a lot of single-family homes that are developed in a bare land condominium style development. In those cases, we did need to acknowledge a max density for that. With that density, I want to clarify to council this is not intended to see row houses and townhouses and that,” said Pidkowa.
She was speaking to lots like the Lakeshore Estates in Lloydminster, which are single-family homes built in a bare land condominium style in low-density disricts.
Following the public hearing in October 2024, community support centres were updated and broken up into three categories, warming shelter, minor and major. There are also proposed regulations which would create a buffer distance of 100 metres from parks, schools and childcare facilities for major community support centres. They may also need to complete a good-neighbour commitment and/or a safe environment assessment.
Next steps for the land use bylaw will include one-on-one interviews with interested parties available upon request ranging from Feb. 18 to March 21.
A public referral period will be from March 3 to March 21 and a public hearing is proposed for April 28.
The bylaw will return to council at a proposed date of April 7 for first reading.
Following the proposed April 28 public hearing, second and third readings may be granted at the May 5 council meeting.
Educators celebrated
Did you send an apple with your child for their teacher last week?
Saskatchewan recognized teachers and school staff from Feb. 9-15. The week honours their dedication and impact on students.
Education minister, Everett Hindley, highlighted the vital role of educators.
“From providing skills and knowledge in the classroom to supporting student activities, teachers and school staff provide the foundation for lifelong learning,” said Hindley.
The Saskatchewan Association of School Councils (SASC) also expressed gratitude.
“As we celebrate Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week across the province, we would like to recognize teachers and school staff for their ongoing commitment and dedication to the students and families they serve,” said SASC director Joy Bastness.
Meanwhile, school divisions across Saskatchewan are joining the celebrations. Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) director of education, Nigel McCarthy, praised staff efforts.
“Our LCSD teachers and staff are a gift to this community. They lift our children up with knowledge, support and faith,” he said.
Additionally, McCarthy stressed the staff’s lasting impact on students.
“They walk alongside children as they grow from excited 5-year-olds to adventurous teens to accomplished graduates ready to address the world with confidence.”
The Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) also recognized its staff.
“This week, we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week and take the time to recognize the incredible dedication of every staff member across LPSD,” said LPSD director of education Jason Neville.
Neville also highlighted the contributions of all school workers.
“From teachers and educational assistants to administrators, custodians, bus drivers and support staff. We are grateful for our LPSD team, as everyone plays a vital role in creating a supportive and enriching environment for our students,” he said.
Schools and community councils held events throughout the week. The celebrations recognize the hard work and dedication of those who support students daily.
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DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy LCSD
Students celebrate with Bonhomme
The arrival of Bonhomme de Carnaval saw students at École St. Thomas blow the school’s roof off during French culture celebrations.
The school’s annual celebration kicked off on Feb. 10 and brought winter traditions to life through music, food, and outdoor activities.
“We are celebrating our Carnaval de Québec here in Lloydminster,” said Rachel Jazowski, principal of École St. Thomas. “It’s our annual French winter cultural celebration that we hold at the school every year.”
The event features traditional FrenchCanadian activities, however, one of the most popular is la tire d’érable, a maple syrup treat made on snow. Students also enjoy French dancing, wooden spoon music, and outdoor games. Furthermore, Bonhomme de Carnaval, the festival’s famous snowman mascot, will visit classrooms throughout the week.
“This helps keep French culture alive in our community,” said Jazowski. “Lloydminster has a smaller French-Canadian population, so this event raises awareness of our traditions and heritage.”
The school’s celebration is part of a larger effort to promote French language learning. Nigel McCarthy, director of education for the Lloydminster Catholic School Division, said Carnaval brings people together.
“As we celebrate Carnaval, we are celebrating winter in a way that brings the community together,” said McCarthy. “We are building ice castles, tasting la tire sur la neige, and sharing the magic of École St. Thomas with our entire city in song, dance, food, and laughter.”
Meanwhile, McCarthy said French immersion opens doors for students.
“For me, French immersion has opened the doors to an exciting career, confident travel, and an understanding of the world,” he said. “When we learn French through celebration, we open those doors to our students.”
Meanwhile, Jazowski hopes students leave the event with a love for French culture.
“I hope they see that being part of a French community is fun, energetic, and engaging,” she said.
The school will have a variety of activities throughout the week, including skating, sledding, and traditional music.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Dan Gray Meridian Source Photo
Sunrise Run supports mental health projects
The Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF) won’t run out of good things to say about its newest fundraiser anytime soon.
(Mental health affects everyone) and if it doesn’t today, it will tomorrow. It’s often hidden by a lot of individuals as well, so understanding the signs and making connections is very important.
Registration for the LRHF’s inaugural 5 km Sunrise Run, in partnership with Synergy Credit Union and Saskatoon’s 321 Go Running, is now open. The fun run departs from the Synergy Vault on May 10 with net proceeds supporting local mental health initiatives through Project Sunrise.
LRHF CEO, Stephanie Munro, invites walkers, runners and families to join the party and celebrate the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle, while supporting an important cause.
“One in three people in our community suffer from mental health issues. Project Sunrise helps fund so many amazing programs in our community to be proactive in the mental health realm while supporting those suffering with mental health,” said Munro at the Feb. 13 kickoff.
“Through the run, all net proceeds go back to the LRHF and Project Sunrise, helping with programs for those suffering with mental health problems.”
Synergy’s title sponsor of $50,000 per year for three years is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sponsorship.
“Amongst that are our other amazing sponsors
that have also stepped up. Overall, we’re hoping to reach the goal of $150K as a gross profit for the day,” said Munro.
“This run is about community, mental health, and showing how strong we are together.”
Newly-appointed Synergy Credit Union CEO, Trevor Beaton, explained mental health is something the financial institution takes very seriously.
“When I think about mental health, anything we can do to support it (is important),” said Beaton.
“We see mental health as our biggest factor in our disability benefits plan. It’s a challenge I think we need to work to face.”
Like cancer, mental health is something that affects everyone.
“It does, and if it doesn’t today, it will tomorrow,” said Beaton. “It’s often hidden by a lot of individuals as well, so understanding the signs and making connections is very important.”
Registration is $59.50 for adults and $39.99 for youth five-15 years old before taxes. Registration fees include a tech t-shirt, a custom medal, and food and healthy snacks at the finish line. Early-bird pricing is available until March 14 at 11:59 p.m.
Race package pick-up will be at Holy Rosary High School from 5-8 p.m. on May 9 and 8:30-9:30 a.m. on May 10.
The starter gun goes off at 10 a.m. on May 10. The race will start and finish at the Synergy Vault.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
STARS provides fire department training
STARS landing zone safety, communication, and coordination were hot topics at Vermilion’s fire hall on Feb. 12.
Nearly two dozen firefighters from across the County of Vermilion (CVR) rendezvoused with a STARS representative for training on this technical procedure.
“The STARS landing course is an important aspect of emergency services, especially in rural settings. STARS puts these informative courses on as a part of their outreach program. (It’s) for any of the frontline staff that may have to utilize their services in general,” stated Austin Armitage, CVR protective services operations officer.
STARS provides real-life scenarios, videos, and slideshows as the basis for discussions on the roles and responsibilities of department personnel.
“This course is important because it gives first responders the knowledge in how to set up a landing zone and coordinate with the pilot,” Armitage noted.
It’s essential from the air ambulance’s perspective as well.
“When we respond to scene calls—such as landing on a highway or in a field—we rely on local fire departments to be part of the team. They set up the landing zone, ensure there are no obstacles, keep traffic clear. (They also) communicate with the pilots about any risks in the area,” said STARS flight director, Jason Arthur. “We also prioritize working with them, providing training from an aviation perspective to help them establish a safe landing zone.”
Departments across the province receive these training sessions for free with the support of TCEnergy in Calgary.
CVR uses the air ambulance service a few times yearly for tough calls, making this training essential for team members.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy STARS
Lloydminster library enjoys successful year
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
It was a big year for the Lloydminster Public Library.
Executive director of the Lloydminster Public Library, Cheryl Sikora, updated Lloydminster council on all the events the library has undertaken over the last year.
Most notably, over the last year, the library has been working towards municipal status, moving from the Lakeland Library Region to a municipally-run library.
“We had a great year in 2024 and I’m very excited to have the opportunity to tell you all about it,” said Sikora at the Feb. 10 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting.
They saw more than 100,000 visitors in 2024 with an average of 360 people visiting per day in July and August.
A tradition was recently started to help bring in more people when the weather outside got worse.
“We started a tradition in 2023 of having a rainy-day program so we had something prepared in advance. As soon as there was a rainy day, that triggered the program. This year we had a glow day,” said Sikora.
While it may not have rained that day, she said they still had over 500 people come through the library to make glow jellyfish and play games.
All day, every day, drop-in activities also continued.
“Community members really appreciated there was something to do, multiple things to do in the library all day every day in the summer months,” said Sikora.
Another indicator of the success the library saw was 130 new card registrations per month. Thi number, however, doesn’t tell the whole story.
“It’s important to note you don’t actually need a library card to use many of the library services. So we attracted more new patrons than 130,” said Sikora.
The meeting rooms were also a hot commodity.
“We have regular bookings from church groups and homeschool groups and we host many small groups. Its become quite popular with teenagers during exam time to come book one of our meeting spaces,” she said. Programming at the library was successful, which saw an increase of more than 10,000 participants from the previous year.
“In 2024 we offered over 400 programs with an average of 20 people per program, which is up from 16 people per program in 2023,” said Sikora. She said they’re still very focused on children’s programming and they’re working on increasing teen and adult programming. Some of the successful programs include LPL in the wild, school break programs, website design classes, adult tech literacy classes and lunch in the library among others.
The focus for next year will include preschool programming, senior programming and youth programming.
The library also went into the community doing outreach with visits to Pioneer Lodge and Dr. Hemstock Retirement Residence and Hearthstone Place. They also expanded service to Jubilee Home and did delivery and pickup to Points West Living and Dr. Cooke Extended Care Centre. Bin delivery was done by Border City Connects.
A collection development lead was hired in 2024 and the programming team was expanded. The focus for the following year will be expanding roles of library assistants and a new collective bargaining agreement will be negotiated.
Through some funding obtained from the city, the library was also able to add a self-checkout machine.
“It’s new and up and running. We’re really busy at the library, so the selfcheckout allows people who don’t have time to wait to sign out their books themselves,” said Sikora.
“It also allows for some privacy. Not everybody wants everybody in their business, to know what kind of books they’re reading and what kind of support they need.”
A new book bike service will also be coming to the library this spring.
“Inside you can store about 200 books, in the spring of 2025 our on-location offerings at the library will offer borrowing services,” said Sikora. The book bike will hit the ground offering expanded borrowing services.
In 2025, the library is looking at finding an artist in residence, building an active living library and expanding on location and school break programming. They are dreaming big, with thoughts of potentially adding a kitchen, more seating, more shelf space and larger program rooms.
Coun. Michael Diachuk spoke about the energy Sikora brings to the library.
“I’ve never seen a librarian come and do a presentation and bring this energy, and I enjoy it,” he said. “I honestly believe that energy and vision is a big part of the success of the library.”
Diachuk acknowledges the location in the mall as part of the success of the library.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers also had high praise for the success of the library.
“We are, I believe the fastest growing library in Saskatchewan. Many com-
pliments to yourself and your team as well as the board that has led to where we’re at,” he said. “Thank you for your efforts, please that with your team and let them know that we appreciate it.”
Photo courtesy Lloydminster Public Library
Thursday, February 20, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Viewpoint
Leave it to Weaver: Who’s ready for post-season college sports?
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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
EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER
Temperatures are expected to rise to 5 C by Saturday, but if you’re still looking for something to do over the weekend, I suggest taking in the high-level volleyball at Lakeland College.
The Rustlers host the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) 2025 Men’s Volleyball Championship from Feb. 20-22. The three-day championship features the top four teams from the ACAC north and south, including the host team, your Lakeland College Rustlers.
Under the direction of coach, Taylor Dyer, the Rustlers first match will be played tonight (Feb. 20) at 6 p.m. against the Olds Broncos. The rest is up to the boys.
The Rustlers finished the regular season second overall in the ACAC north with a 14-5 record.
In other Lakeland College news, the undefeated women’s volleyball team is off to Camrose this weekend for the ACAC women’s championship. Do the Rustlers have another provincial or national championship in women’s volleyball in the future? We’ll know soon!
The Rustlers women’s hockey team start playoffs on Feb. 28 at home against the SAIT Trojans. The best-of-three series starts at the Russ Robertson Arena on Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Game 2 will be played at 7 p.m. on March 1, and if needed, Game 3 is scheduled for 4:45 p.m. on March 2.
The men’s basketball team will also be at Briercrest Academy from Feb. 27 to March 1 for the men’s basketball finals.
If that wasn’t enough excitement, the Rustlers also host the ACAC futsal provincials from March 7-9. The final schedule for futsal finals will be posted after this weekend’s regional competition.
See you in the gym!
Letter to the editor: To engage or not engage – that is the question
Acouple of weeks ago I was sitting in Council observing the discussion when an item came up, the debate of which, left me astounded.
The item stated: That Council of the City of Lloydminster AB/SK endorse Gerald S. Aalbers to stand for election of FCM’s (the Federation of Canadian Municipalities) Board of Directors.
Now, as a matter of protocol, Mayor Aalbers was required to leave chambers during the debate for reasons of “conflict-of-interest,” and therefore had no contribution to the debate.
Anyone who knows me is aware I’ve been involved in politics one way or another for a good part of my life, and when I’m not running for something, I have my fingers in the “advocacy” pie for one cause or another.
Political advocacy involves a great deal more than simply running your mouth and waving your arms about your favourite cause.
Universities offer courses on political advocacy. Political parties provide training to their members to get people behind their particular cause and put pressure on government. Groups such as the ACLU, Canadian Civil Liberties Association and here locally, Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society and the Advocating for Lloydminster Healthcare Facebook Page, are all active advocacy groups for various causes.
Indeed, the latter two groups, by working together along with the Saskatchewan NDP, have done an incredibly effective job of advocating to the provincial government and making life very uncomfort -
able for them by highlighting failings in the health system. Advocacy is not something that just happens, it must be proactive.
The FCM has been around for a long time. Their website states: “Canadian municipalities came together in 1901 as the Union of Canadian Municipalities (UCM). The Dominion Conference of Mayors was established in 1935 and by 1937 the two national bodies joined as the Canadian Federation of Mayors and Municipalities—renamed the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in 1976.”
This is a country-wide organization that’s been advocating to all levels of government for a mere 124 years. Do they have some nutty positions that we here may not agree with? Absolutely! But how does cowering in our little community, being afraid of those nutty views, refusing to be a part of the discussion and debate and advocating our position on these issues help us?
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL
Pursuant to Subsection 204 (1) of The Municipalities Act, notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Marshall for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the assessor from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Monday – Friday on the following days with the exception statutory holidays.
February 14, 2025 to April 14, 2025 inclusive
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or appeal against the assessment may contact the assessor at the Town of Marshall, Box 125, Marshall, SK S0M 1R0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $200.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Kara Lindal, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, postmarked no later than the 14th day of April, 2025.
Dated this 14th day of February, 2025 Linda E. Row, Assessor
Thursday, February 20, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Chris’ A-Z: Rescuing Lloydminster
If you’re in an emergency you would call 911, which makes sense as the system is designed to take your call and dispatch someone quickly to aid you.
There’s the fire department, ambulance service and police. They can all be sent out to assist you depending on your emergency.
If you end up in a truly precarious position needing specialized help, that’s where rescue squads come in.
Lloydminster’s rescue squad started through humble beginnings, people wanting to give their time and help out.
In 1984, the squad was comprised of six members: Don Whiting, Norm Namur, Ted Skinner, Graham Howie, Syd Cox and Brian Crockett. That same year, they began a rebuild of a 550tool truck that was donated by Mobil Oil.
They were on-call for the first time in March of 1985, and over 40 years later, (yes it’s been that long, I know, hard to believe,) the group is still entirely volunteer-based. As part of the services the squad provides in the rural municipalities, they also added two paid positions in 2013, chief and deputy chief.
In their first year, the squad attended six calls. Eventually, the squad expanded, and they acquired new equipment thanks to help from the community.
In 2018 they responded to over 100 calls. The growth from where they started is quite striking. The group was clearly needed and was filling a void in Lloydminster.
In an excerpt from Bordering on Greatness, it talks about Don Whiting and how he would travel to schools and organizations stressing preventative measures such as using a seatbelt and not drinking and driving. He even had graphic photos of injury and death at accident scenes. He hoped seeing them would save a life.
I found the photography aspect the most interesting. I have vivid memories of being young and
Gray Matters: Chinese interference, Carney and corruption
It should come as no surprise our upcoming election could be riddled with foreign interference.
It’s already been a problem in the Liberal leadership race with Chrystia Freeland being the target of a Chinese-led campaign.
If they have that pull in a leadership election, can they even be stopped in a general election?
With the names of possibly influenced MP’s during the previous campaign not publicly available, what stops them from doing it again?
Furthermore, is candidate Mark Carney their preferred Liberal leader pick? Who do they want Canadians to pick in the general election?
That leads to the obvious question: why? But we will get there in a minute.
Everyone points to Carney as Canada’s next Prime Minister once he wins the leadership race on March 9. An unelected citizen, just like you and me, will get to decide the future of our country. He could even invoke the Emergencies Act due to tariffs and avoid a general election if he saw fit.
He could also call a snap election to take advantage of the polls, which show the Conservative Party losing support nationwide.
How easily forgotten are the multiple crises and scandals when you’re made to believe your existence is being threatened?
Cost of living, housing and carbon tax are still huge problems brought to you by the Liberals, but no one wants to talk about that anymore.
This leads me back to why the Chinese might want a Carney and the Liberals in the next federal government.
He’s not tied to an anti-Chinese party, so he might be more likely to build a relationship with their country. He’s got global influence and trade ties, meaning he might already be pre-disposed to their importance on a global stage.
Third, he’s not “Timbit Trump,” something Liberal leadership candidate and MP Karina Gould said on CBC, referring to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.
If Carney and the Liberals, with possibly some foreign interference, can convince enough Canadians the above perception could be accurate, Western Canada could be in for another four years of not mattering to power brokers east of Manitoba.
seeing photos and videos of accidents due to some form of negligence. I am someone who is more easily influenced by photographs of graphic scenes to the point where I will always wear my seatbelt no matter what and never have a drink before getting into the car, not that I drink anyway.
The Lloydminster Rescue Squad has been doing a lot of good for the community for decades, and at the end of this column I’d like to thank all the brave first responders and people who volunteer their time to ensure we live a safer life.
Photo courtesy Lloyd Rescue Facebook
Thursday, February 20, 2025
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.
Passport to YLL
To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147
Cards, games, food, meetings, live music
Intro to Square Dancing
Modern square dancing lessons are being offered every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at 5115 - 49 Ave. Walk to the beat of music by following simple instructions from the caller. Come alone or bring a friend. Wear whatever is comfortable. First evening is FREE. For more info, contact 780-872-2493 or visit SquareDanceLloydArea.com
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo will be held every Monday and Wednesday, except holidays, at Moose Lodge 5213 57 St., Lloydminster. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games starting at 7 p.m. Must be at least 18 to play.
Diabetes Exercise Classes
The Saskatchewan Health Authority is hosting diabetes education classes every Monday and Wednesday from 2-3 p.m. Classes are held in Suite 109 of the Prairie North Plaza. Please call 306-820-2597 to register. This class is free
Spades Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Spades tournament on Feb. 20 starting at 10 a.m. Cost is $10 to play and $10 for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Dewberry Seniors Cribbage
The Dewberry Seniors are hosting a cribbage tournament on Saturday Feb. 22 with registration by 10:15 a.m. Cost for the day is $25 which includes dinner.
Legacy Pancake Breakfast
The Legacy Centre is hosting a pancake breakfast from 9-11 a.m. on Feb. 23.
Cost is $12/person or $6/child 12 years and under. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Kaiser Tournament
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a Kaiser tournament on Feb. 23 from 12-12:45 p.m. Registration closes on Feb. 20. Bring a partner for an afternoon of Kaiser and fun. Cost is $25/player, which includes chili, snacks, and coffee or tea. Call Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more.
Cribbage Doubles Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Cribbage doubles tournament on Feb. 27. Play begins at 10 a.m.. The cost is $10/person to play and $12/person for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Snowed In Comedy Tour
The Snowed In Comedy Tour returns to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Feb. 27 for a 7:30 p.m. show. This year’s tour features Dan Quinn, Erica Sigurdson, Paul Myrehaug, Pete Zedlacher Tickets are $56.70 for adults, $25.70 for students and $46.20 for seniors.
TeleMiracle Funday at the Legacy Centre
The Legacy Centre is hosting TeleMiracle FunDay on Feb. 28. Registration is at 8:45 a.m. and play begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $20/person for the day! There will be crib and floor curling in the morning, then lunch, then a court whist tournament in the afternoon. Sign up sheet will be posted on Feb. 10. Come have a fun day and help raise money for Telemiracle 49! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Sister Grace at the Dewberry Hall
The Dewberry Community Hall is featuring “Sister Grace” on Saturday, March 1. Doors open at 4 p.m. with music at 4:30 p.m. Supper to follow at 5 p.m. and then music continuing after supper. Cost is $20/person, youth (10-16) for $10, children under 10 free.
Islay Doubles Crib Tournament
The Islay Community Assocation is hosting a doubles crib tournament on March 8 in the Islay Hall. Doors open at 9 a.m., registration cut-off is 10 a.m. Cost is $25 per person which includes noon lunch. Please pre-register by calling Linda at 780-581-0570.
4-H Club Pancake Breakfast
The Hillmond 4-H Club pancake supper, dessert bingo and silent auction is on Sunday, March 30 at the Hillmond Hall. Pancakes 4:30 p.m. Dessert Bingo starting at 5:30 p.m. Every bingo wins a dessert item! Silent auction items available to bid on.
- Have something you’d like to see in our community calendar? Email the details to taylor@meridiansource.ca
LETTER TO EDITOR FROM PAGE 10
You can not have any influence on a discussion if you are not a part of it. If your voice isn’t heard at the debating table, that’s on you.
Frankly, if you didn’t bother to vote, and the vast majority of our community didn’t bother in our last civic election, you really have no right to whine and complain about your circumstances such as taxes or street cleaning, for example.
Asking the question: what, specifically, will we get back from this effort, is utterly naive. Advocacy is about exerting influence, convincing people of your position, building relationships, trust and comfort levels. Predicting specific results is not possible. But, if you’re not at the table, it’s guaranteed nobody will listen or care about your position.
As a final point, I know the impact that Mayor Aalbers can have when he’s at the table, working a room, rubbing elbows with a politician. When he calls their offices they take his call because they know he’s not being partisan, but working to the benefit of his community and the larger communities we live in. A quick example: at a discussion with some easterners who were criticizing bitumen as being evil, he pointed out, with a chuckle, that without bitumen, there were no paved roads to drive on. The discussion took a long pause.
You can never be certain of the impact you can have in an advocacy environment, but you can be guaranteed that if you aren’t there you won’t have any impact.
- Darrell Dunn
Vermilion home to new pumper
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
The County of Vermilion River has added a new fire truck to its fleet.
Rocky Mountain Phoenix of Red Deer delivered the 2025 Freightliner M2 106 pumper/rescue truck on Feb. 12.
The truck features wildland interface capabilities. It replaces an aging front-line unit, which will move to reserve status in Dewberry.
“This truck is a fine example of the collaboration between all our county fire districts,” said director of protective services Kirk Hughes. “Right from the beginning, we engaged front-line staff, pump operators, and our vehicle maintenance technician to help build this truck from the ground up.”
Hughes said the county hopes this design will serve as the standard for future pumpers.
Vermilion Fire Chief, Anton Krys, and Hughes officially took delivery from Steve McEachern at 2 p.m. on Feb. 12. Furthermore, the truck immediately went into service upon delivery.
Members of both county and town councils attended the ceremony. Attendees included Kevin Martin from the Town of Vermilion as well as Reeve Marty
The new pumper enhances fire and rescue protection for residents and ratepayers. Meanwhile, the county remains committed to maintaining a high level of emergency service.
ALERT operation solidifying safety in Lloydminster
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) arrested three men from Montreal involved in a Canada-wide human trafficking network with ties to Lloydminster.
The year-long investigation, called Project Endgame, was led by ALERT’s Human Trafficking unit. It involved Edmonton police, RCMP, and Quebec’s joint forces Anti-Pimping team.
Police arrested Clyde Elien-Abbot, 31, in Edmonton on Jan. 31. Kevin Dorcelus-Cetoute, 31, and Jean Rodnil Dubois, 31, were arrested on July 23, 2024.
“Project Endgame exhausted all resources and avenues to bring charges against the suspects and end this cycle of sexualized violence and degradation,” said ALERT’s Staff Sgt. Chris Hayes.
The investigation saw the perpetrators work in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Lloydminster, Red Deer, Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Cold Lake, and Estevan.
Investigators believe the suspects forced victims to perform sex acts daily. If the victims resisted, they were assaulted, threatened, and degraded.
Police laid 23 charges related to human trafficking and executed search warrants in Edmonton,
Montreal, and Red Deer.
Elien-Abbot faces charges including trafficking in persons, procuring, advertising sexual services, money laundering, and animal cruelty.
Dorcelus-Cetoute and Dubois face charges including sexual assault, assault, trafficking in persons, procuring, and uttering threats.
The accused remain in custody. Elien-Abbot’s bail hearing is set for Feb. 19. Dorcelus-Cetoute and Dubois are scheduled for court on March 7.
ALERT’s Project Endgame linked this case to a 2021 investigation that led to charges against Dorcelus-Cetoute.
Baker, Deputy Reeve Leslie Cusack, Coun. Stacey Hryciuk, and Coun. Jason Stelmaschuk from the county.
Supplied Photo
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Schools’ seamless levy falls short
A program so seamless families in Lloydminster may not know it exists.
“It’s seamless, I would be surprised if many families in our division knew what comes from Alberta and what comes from Saskatchewan,” said Jason Neville, Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) director of education.
Lloydminster council heard an update from the Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) and LPSD at the Feb. 10 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting.
The topic in question surrounded the seamless levy partnership the two divisions use to equalize school offerings.
“Why do we have a levy? Because school boards can’t levy taxes by themselves. The seamless levy was a solution arrived at between provincial discussions and city discussions involving multiple ministers, particularly from Saskatchewan, to say how do we equalize services when we are funded differently from different provinces,” said Nigel McCarthy, LCSD director of education. “It has been a work in progress for us really from the 2012/13
year to the present.”
McCarthy spoke about the importance of having a strong education system in the community.
“A strong education system grows the community, the key findings over the last 10 years or the questions we get over the last 10 years are about those who are coming to the city, about coming to a border city. There are two sides to it. How does that work? Do I get an Alberta diploma?” he said. “It’s about doctors who, when they move here, one of their primary concerns is how are my children going to get educated.”
The seamless levy aims to equalize opportunities for students on both sides of the Lloydminster border. It responds specifically to the city charter, which says that no matter where you are as a resident of the city, you shouldn’t be disadvantaged.
“Imagine if we snowplowed differently in Saskatchewan than Alberta,” said McCarthy as an example of what things would be like without this levy.
The seamless levy supports specific items such as pre-kindergarten, over-age students, driver education, EAL (English as an additional language) services and First Nations’ education.
During the question-and-answer period following the presentation, Coun. Jim Taylor asked if they could give an example of the difference between Saskatchewan and Alberta, asking who pays for driver training and how the seamless levy is applied.
Taylor followed up by asking if there was a particular item that expends the most funding from the seamless levy.
“Each school system responds slightly differently to the students it receives on an annual basis. You would see differences in where we might expend more or less depending on the program of highest need we see for that year,” said McCarthy.
Taylor’s final question specified the significance of a shortfall when it came to funding.
“That would be different year to year, especially the over-age student one. Those students graduate out and you might have a bigger group for one or two years.” said Neville. “It’s dependant on needs. Some may have higher needs resulting in higher funding needed to go towards them.”
McCarthy provided more specific numbers on how it affects the Catholic division.
“For us, on an annual basis over the last year, it was a 40 per cent shortfall over the funds, 40 per cent more investment needed to be made,” he said.
McCarthy says it was a relatively high-cost year. He says transportation needs for intensive-needs students doubled over the last year.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson asked if there was a sense of who would be saying no to our community if the levy wasn’t in place.
“With me being new to the city, I don’t know how many people even understand it would be different,” said Neville. “I don’t think you would notice it until it was gone, then you would have people going ‘Well, how come I’m on the Alberta side and I don’t get what happens just across the street.’”
Mayor Gerald Aalbers chimed in with the idea of funding a specific program and pursuing conversations with ministers about potential funding.
“Letting the minister of jobs, trades and economy in Alberta know they’re missing an opportunity for future employees,” said Aalbers.
Specifically speaking to the over-age program, Aalbers says the success of the Avery Outreach School is a testament to the success these levy-funded programs have.
“To see the work that’s done there and how we’ve been able to turn out graduates from our public school system that are contributing members of society as soon as they walk out,” he said.
Council accepted the presentation as information.
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
15
Thursday, February 20, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
BANDITS TIED WITH WHEAT KINGS IN ROUND ONE
The Lloydminster Bandits couldn’t stave off the Killam Wheat Kings in Game 2 of North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League (NEAJBHL) playoff action. The Bandits and Wheat Kings are tied 1-1 in a best-of-seven firstround series.
Game 1 saw a 5-0 Bandits’ win at the Centennial Civic Centre on Feb. 13 before a 5-4 OT win for the Wheat Kings on Feb. 16.
Thursday’s win featured goals from Corvan Stewart, Joel Webb, Adryan Bugiera, Cayden Wildeman and Aidan Martens.
Sunday’s game saw the Wheat Kings equalize the series 31 seconds into overtime. The 60 minutes of hockey played before OT, however, had the crowd on their feet.
Killam’s Jack Teasdale struck first at 7:16 in the first before Evan Golby gave the Wheat Kings a 2-0 lead on the power play at 5:36. Bandits sharpshooter Kade Dennett got on the board at 4:52 before Killam’s Aidan Borgel made it 3-1 with 1:55 left in the opening frame. Koston Eaton, however, got the Bandits within one with 1:14 on the clock.
The second period featured a lone Aiden Martens goal, tying the game 3-3.
The third saw a shorthanded goal from Killam’s Jordan Gagnon at 12:01. Bandits captain, Joel Webb, however, got a shorthanded goal of his own at 5:04, forcing overtime.
Borgel put the nail in the coffin for the Bandits 31 seconds into OT for a 5-4 Wheat King’s win.
The boys in black and red head to Killam this Wednesday (Feb. 19) for an 8 p.m. puck drop. The series returns to the Centennial Civic Centre for Game 5 on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos
Lloydminster Bobcats look to bounce back
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Lloydminster Bobcats were shut out at home after a long road trip but managed to find some success back on the road.
The ‘Cats spent seven games on the road and have been experiencing a slide in February losing five of the last eight.
Bobcats played host to the south division number one team the Canmore Eagles. The ‘Cats are currently sitting in third in the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s (AJHL) North Division with 52 points, trailing the Grand Prairie Storm by three points.
Despite putting 35 shots on goal, the Bobcats could not find the back of the net against the Eagles. The visiting team scored near the end of the first period in the only goal of the game.
The ‘Cats had a day turnaround before they were off to Devon to take on the Xtreme. The third-place Bobcats were looking to return to the win column as they took on the Xtreme who sit in last place in the AJHL north division.
This time the Bobcats were quick out the gate as Ben Costantino scored an unassisted goal just minutes into the first. Another goal at the end of the first period for the visiting ‘Cats gave them a 2-0 lead heading into the second. The second period saw no scoring despite the Xtreme recording five penalties in the period.
Luke Fritz found the back of the net twice in the third period bringing the final score to 4-0 for the Bobcats.
The short two-game road trip wrapped up for the Bobcats as they bested the Grand Prarie Storm on the road on Feb. 18.
The visiting ‘Cats got off to a strong start scoring midway through the first period. The second period also saw scoring from just the Bobcas as tehy recorded two more bringing their lead to 3-0 heading into the third.
With a second shutout in the works the Bobcats hits the ice but were not able to hold onto the scoreless win as the Storm scored shortly into the third period. The Bobcats answered back with another to seal the game at a 4-1 win over the north divisions second place team. This also brought the Bobcats within three points of second place.
The ‘Cats have some time to rest before returning home on Sunday f0r a 2:30 p.m.game against the Drayton Valley Thunder.
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
Give and take for Rustlers hockey
Community, hard work, and passion are the blocks the Lakeland College Rustlers Women’s hockey team was built on.
At a recent Rotary Club of Lloydminster meeting, head coach Morgan Mann and players Asha Petrie and Julianna Giacobbo shared what makes their program unique. The team relies on local support, and in return, they give back.
“I think our group has a different mindset. It’s not about what the program can do for them; it’s about what they can do for the program and for the community.
The Rustlers take pride in their deep ties to Lloydminster. Players not only compete at a high level, they also engage with fans and sponsors.
“Our professors come to our games and watch us play,” said Mann. “If a player needs extra help with school, it’s there. That’s something really special about being at Lakeland College.”
The team appreciates unmatched community support.
The Rustlers lead the league in attendance, something Mann credits to relationships in the city.
“We have the highest attendance in the league,” he said. “It’s because of how involved we are. The way we’re funded creates real connections.”
Giacobbo agreed. She said the team knows how important it is to be visible in the community.
“We get to know our sponsors,” said Giacobbo. “We’re out there making connections, and people want to come support us because of that.”
This support system helps players on and off the ice, and according to Petrie, community participation is a constant for the team. Whether it’s helping at local schools or visiting sponsors, they make sure to give back.
“We’re always out in the community,” said Petrie. “It’s great to have that connection with the people who support us.”
Mann says it’s all about the player’s mentality.
“I think our group has a different mindset. It’s not about what the program can do for them; it’s about what they can do for the program and for the community,” said Mann. “We run hockey schools in the summer. We run them over Christmas. We run them during the February break. It gives our players a chance to give back and keeps us connected with young players in the area.”
Lloydminster has a strong hockey culture, and the Rustlers are a big part of it.
“This is a real hockey town,” Mann said. “We’ve hosted big events like Hockey Day in Canada. Now, the U18 PWM AAA Steelers are hosting the Esso Cup. There’s a lot of passion for the game here.”
Petrie said she feels the support every time she steps on the ice.
“It means a lot knowing the community is behind us,” she said. “We see the same faces in the stands, and they follow our journey. That’s special.”
The Rustlers will soon move into the new Cenovus Energy Hub, and while the transition is exciting, it comes with challenges.
“At Russ Robertson, we get 500 or 600 fans,” Mann said. “It feels like they’re wrapped around the rink. That’s an incredible atmosphere.”
The new rink will seat 700 fans, keeping that close feeling, but, there are financial hurdles.
“We had a dressing room in an ATCO oilfield trailer,” Mann said. “It was donated, and we gutted it to make it our own. We can’t move it, so now we must rent a space. We have to be smart with our dollars.”
Sustaining the Rustlers program will take continued support. Mann said the foundation is strong, but the team must keep building.
“We’ve been lucky to have local people involved,” he said. “If that changes, we’ll need to find other ways to keep things going.”
Giacobbo knows how much the program means to its players and fans.
“This team gives us a place to grow as players and as people,” she said. “It’s about more than just hockey.”
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Dan Gray Meridian Source
Asha Petrie and Julianna Giacobbo of the Lakeland College Rustlers women’s hockey team speak at a recent Rotary Club of Lloydminster meeting
Rustlers men split weekend series
The Lakeland College Rustlers split a home andaway series against the NAIT Ooks.
The first game saw the Rustlers play host to the Ooks for some Valentine’s Day action. The Rustlers were on a tear winning their last four. That momentum carried into the game as the Rustlers took it in four sets, 25-22, 25-22, 21-25 and 25-19.
The Rustlers battled in the first set after being down four points early. Once the hometown team found a lead they managed to hold on sealing the three sets they needed to win.
Aiden Maier recorded 13 kills and Brock Tomyn recorded 11 leading the Rustlers to victory.
With the win, the Rustlers secured second place in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference north, giving them the opportunity to play younger players the following night in Edmonton.
The Ooks looked dominant taking the game in three sets, 25-21, 25-15, 25-21.
Despite a big win the night before the Rustlers couldn’t manage to find their feet. The Ooks controlled the three sets never giving the visiting team the lead.
Now, the Rustlers host the men’s volleyball championships this week, Feb. 20, 21 and 22. Their tournament kicks off against the Olds College Broncos at 6 p.m. Feb 20.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos
Rustlers women wrap lossless season
they remain undefeated.
The Lakeland College Rustlers women’s volleyball team has ended the season on a high note as
The women played host to the NAIT Ooks in Valentine’s Day action. The Rustlers looked dominant at home as they quickly dismantled the visiting team.
Following the Friday game, the two teams were off to NAIT for the final regular season game.
Rustlers had a strong first set but couldn’t hold onto a lead dropping it 22-25. It was a quick barrage of points from the visiting Rustlers before the Ooks found their footing making for a close second set. It was the Rustlers who would take the second set 25-20 and not looking back finish the game in two sets, 25-17 and 25-16.
The Rustlers are headed to the University of Alberta Augustana where the Vikings will host this years women’s volleyball tournament. Rustlers kick off their tournament against the SAIT Trojans Feb. 20 at 3 p.m.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source Photos
Word on the beat: Accused release
Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE
Every time police arrest or detain a person they have to be released or go before a judge or justice to speak to release.
The manner they are dealt with depends on many factors specific to their arrest and them as an individual.
Police have the authority to release individuals, which is the lowest level of release. A person may have been arrested and released unconditionally. This means they have no conditions to their release. Often for a less serious crime or the type of crime, this would allow for a person to be released on conditions by an officer.
Typically, something like shoplifting would get a person released with conditions to stay away from the place they allegedly stole something from and to attend court. They may also be compelled to provide fingerprints and photos under the Identification of Criminals Act
Police officers are only authorized to put lesser restrictive conditions on a person if we release them. If we can provide rationale as to why more stringent conditions would be required, we then take them before a judge or justice.
Any conditions placed on an individual must be related to their alleged crime or their criminal history. The more serious the offence and the longer their criminal history is, the more stringent the conditions, to the point they are held in custody as they face allegations.
If they were consuming alcohol or drugs while they committed their alleged crime, then abstention conditions would be appropriate.
If they weren’t drinking or had taken drugs, that condition wouldn’t typi -
cally be added to their release conditions. If they possessed a knife in the commission of their crime they may end up with a condition only allowing them possession of a knife for food preparation or maybe something like a box cutter if their employer required it.
Conditions are placed on a person to lessen the chance they will reoffend in the same way.
A nighttime curfew could be imposed if they are on conditions due to something they did at night. If a crime was committed during the day, it would be difficult to justify a nighttime curfew.
Conditions that a person not be within a county, town or city can also be put on people. Driving restrictions and conditions that a person not be in the company of other specific people can also be added. Generally, when a person is on conditions not to be in the presence of, or be in contact with, other specific people, it is usually because the others were also involved in the alleged crime.
Judges and justices can be very creative with their conditions, providing more wraparound conditions than police officers. But remember, each condition must speak directly to the crime they have been accused of.
With people accused of committing offenses, the law puts a priority on less conditions rather than more or holding them in custody saving that for more serious allegations.
- Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown, is the NCO in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP detachtment’s General Investigation Section. Stay tuned for future articles from the Lloydminster RCMP.
RCMP lay 64 charges: Marshall theft solved
RCMP has charged three people in connection with a Landis bank robbery and a series of ATM thefts across Saskatchewan, including incidents in Neilburg and Marshall.
North Battleford RCMP’s Provincial General Investigation Section (GIS) laid 64 charges after investigating crimes that happened between Nov. 2024 and Jan. 1.
Police say break-ins, thefts, and attempted thefts occurred in multiple communities, including Neilburg, Marshall, Dodsland, Rosetown, Gull Lake, Lemberg, Wolseley, Craven, Battleford, Perdue, Mosquito, Grizzly Bear’s Head, and Lean Man First Nation.
“This investigation involved extensive resources and large-scale coordination across multiple detachment areas,” said Sgt. Adam Buckingham, Officer in Charge of North Battleford GIS. “The number of crimes solved highlights the strong collaboration between RCMP support units and front-line officers.”
Investigators identified suspects and executed a search warrant at a residence in Biggar on Feb. 5. Officers seized evidence linked to the Landis bank robbery and ATM thefts.
Two suspects, Sheena Benoit, 36, and Joshua Meszaros, 33, were arrested at the scene.
Benoit, also known as Sheena Harrabek, faces 16 charges, including break and enter, theft over $5,000, and mischief over $5,000. Meszaros faces 24 charges, including disguised with intent, break and enter, theft over $5,000, and mischief.
A third suspect, Jeremy Seery, 48, of Rosetown, was arrested on Feb. 12. He faces 24 charges, including robbery with an offensive weapon, break and enter, disguise with intent, and theft.
Benoit and Meszaros are set to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 7. Seery is scheduled to appear on April 14.
ALERT’s safety network coordinators believe there may be more victims. Police encourage them to come forward.
Traffickers often control victims using coercion, violence, or threats. Signs of trafficking include:
• A person showing fear, anxiety, or depression.
• Signs of physical abuse like bruises or burns.
• A person not having control of their own money, ID, or movements.
• Someone being unable to speak freely or always watched by another person. Anyone who suspects human trafficking should contact police.
ALERT FROM PAGE 13
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
PAGE 21
Thursday, February 20, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
306-825-5111
bailey@meridiansource.ca
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