Meridian Source - February 22, 2024

Wobeser enters hall of fame

in 1961. Their three children Kelly, Wendy and Brady were all born in Lloydminster.

The Heart of the Farm Banquet, held in conjunction with Agri-Visions, was the event chosen for a very special presentation to a longtime supporter of the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association.

Jean Wobeser was officially inducted into the Lloyd Ex Hall of Fame in recognition of over 60 years of dedication.

“To say that I was honoured when Jean asked me to speak tonight would be the understatement of a lifetime,” said Sheila Phillips, who went on to explain her relationship with the Wobeser family.

“In 1973 on Neville Goss’s playground, a life-long friendship began between me and her oldest daughter Kelly. Kelly encouraged me to join Lloydminster’s Silver Spur Light Horse 4-H Club.”

“Her mom Jean, was the general leader. Jean led a very active club, bringing in an array of specialists to see that we not only learned to ride well but also had instruction from vets, farriers and feed specialists.”

She was born in Spalding, Sask. and loved animals from an early age, growing up on the farm.

Jean and her husband Dennis relocated to Lloydminster

“Jean became involved in the horse activities at the Lloyd ex. One of Jean’s early activities was leading the local 4-H club, which she did for over 25 years,” said Phillips.

“She was the first female president of the Lloyd Ag Ex and served from 1994 to 1995. Over the years she was on numerous other committees.”

The Lloydminster fair was always a big event for Jean and family, as it has always included a strong horse component.

“The Wobeser motorhome would park on the exhibition grounds for the duration of the fair and the Silver Spur (horse show). But aside from sleeping there, Jean spent the rest of her time volunteering in one capacity or another,” said Phillips, adding it’s very likely the only event she ever missed was Achievement Day in 1973.

“That day she gave birth to Brady!”

In 1983, after getting a Golden Lab named Dixie, Wobeser began to focus on canine obedience and training.

“Her passion could likely be defined as a facilitator of building strong humancanine relationships. She has given countless duos basic dog instruction, dog obedience

instruction,” said Phillips.

“Jean became very successful in both obedience and search and rescue. Jean’s continued passion and enthusiasm for helping build harmonious canine partnerships is infectious.”

Phillips said she has been asked before, how long Wobeser has ‘worked’ for the Lloyd Ex. And the answer is

always the same.

“The fact is she was always a volunteer, who volunteered without expectation,” said Phillips.

“As individuals, we are grateful to have been influenced, taught, and mentored by Jean Wobeser. As a community, we are truly blessed by her over 60 years of active volunteerism.”

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Jean Wobeser was inducted into the Lloyd Ex Hall of Fame by committee chair, Garth George (left) and vice-chair Gord King at last Saturday’s Heart of the Farm Banquet.

JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

SEE INSIDE FOR YOUR COPY OF THE CITY OF LLOYDMINSTER SPRING 2024 PROGRAM GUIDE

Councillor Lopez test drives seat

attend his first official meeting.

not just the wants,” stressed Lopez.

David Lopez can now officially introduce himself as a Lloydminster councillor.

The 48-year-old Lloydminster small business owner and entrepreneur took the oath of office in a swearing-in ceremony in Council Chambers at City Hall on Tuesday.

It was his first day on the job after winning a by-election for one seat on council on Feb. 13.

It was also time for him to define his election promise to bring a new perspective of fiscal responsibility to council.

“I think we really need to take a look at the tax dollars and how we’re spending those dollars, making sure we are being responsible with the dollars the citizens of Lloydminster pay,” explained Lopez in his first media interview.

He says the city’s plans to borrow $3.1 million for a new maintenance shed at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Club is top of mind in the community and will be back on council agenda on Feb. 26 when Lopez will

“Everybody’s talking about it. We really need to look at it as a council. We have to start going for our needs and not our wants,” said Lopez.

“I think we really need to take a look at the tax dollars and how we’re spending those dollars, making sure we are being responsible with the dollars the citizens of Lloydminster pay.

Council gave the first reading to a city bylaw to borrow up to $3.1 to replace the existing shed at its Jan. 22 meeting. That triggered a citizen’s group to submit a petition opposing the borrowing to the city last week.

“If we want this maintenance shop, it’s different if we need this maintenance shop. I really feel we need to look at the needs and

The swearing-in ceremony was officiated by city clerk, Doug Rodwell with Lopez’s wife, Michelle, and their sons Elijah and Jonah by his side.

Afterwards, he also swore he took the oath without any lingering butterflies.

“You know what I’m not nervous. I was ready. I wanted to do this for years and I knew I wanted to get into this and I was ready; I was prepared. I wanted it, so I’m excited for the challenge,” he said.

“My son (Elijah) flew in from St. Catherines, so it was nice to have my whole family and celebrate this new beginning, this new venture in our lives.”

Elijah is studying kinesiology at Brock and is on the varsity rowing team.

Next up for Coun. Lopez is orientation on Feb. 22.

“Thursday, I’m having my orientation day—I’m here getting my computer and my keycard and all the orientation I need to be a councillor here in the city,” he said.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers, left, looks on as city clerk, Doug Rodwell, officially swears in David Lopez to city council following his by-election win on Feb. 13. On the right is Lopez’s wife, Michelle, and sons Elijah and Jonah inside Council Chambers on Tuesday.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Skip picked for Oilman of the Year

goal to make sure it was a fun event, competitive to some, but mainly fun to involve people from the oilfield,” he said.

The organizing committee is shooting for 30 teams this year, which Armstrong says is a big change from the way it once was back in the heydays of oilfield spiels.

“I can remember when we used to have 128 teams and we’d get 160 entries. Of course, the industry is changed and a lot of things have changed,” he said.

“If they can keep it where it’s at it’s a pretty positive event.”

progressed and grew from there,” he said.

Granite worked with contractors to provide pipefitting, welding, construction and plant maintenance when they sold out in 2010 and Armstrong retired.

Looking back, he said “I guess technology is the biggest change. There’s just so many things now controlled remotely.”

He says he misses a lot of people in the industry, but he is enjoying retirement spending time at the lake, travelling and playing golf.

(Bruce) Mouat from Scotland who won the world’s last year. We curled Mike McEwen

who is representing Saskatchewan in the Brier.”

Monte Armstrong is expected to be the star of this year’s 55th annual Lloydminster Oil and Gas Open Bonspiel.

“I was quite happy about it. It’s an honour to be chosen. I look forward to the evening.

The Lloydminster curling skip will head into the event at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre from March 14 to 17 as the defending A Event champ and more importantly, this year’s Oilman of the Year.

The award will be presented to him during the tournament banquet at the WLS Convention Centre on March 15 with a sizeable family entourage in tow, including dozens of other well-wishers.

Armstrong may be sporting a tan from an ongoing family holiday in Palm Springs, California, where he got the call from banquet chair, Derren Weimer, during a bonspiel committee meeting in Lloydminster.

“I was quite happy about it. It’s an honour to be chosen. I look forward to the eve -

ning,” said Armstrong, adding, “I’ll get a few things to talk about before that.”

Being the Oilman of the Year is more about recognition for Armstrong’s work behind the scenes and accomplishments in the oil and gas industry over a 34-year career, than his own curling prowess.

As proof of that, Armstrong can tell you he’s held every position on the committee for over 40 years, including president, but he’s not sure how many bonspiels wins he’s notched.

“I think with the win last year, that might have been the 8th time. I got some young guys that enjoy playing the game, too, playing with me,” he said.

Armstrong stepped down from committee work a couple of years ago, leaving a legacy of volunteerism with the bonspiel and in the community.

He helped start the Heavy Oil Mixed Bonspiel, the Lloydminster Junior Bonspiel, served on the Oilmen’s Golf Tournament Committee for 20 years, and even coached minor hockey, for example.

For Armstrong, the oilmen’s has always been a fun event as a volunteer and competitive player.

“That was kind of my

He says the oilmen’s is also a great opportunity to network in the industry.

“Anytime you can get a group of people together, it’s always good,” said Armstrong.

The long version of Armstrong’s oilfield career will be read out loud at the banquet, but in a nutshell, his career highlight was launching Granite Oilfield Services with his wife, Chris, and coowners Blair Denny and his wife, Linda.

“We worked together in similar businesses before, but when there was a downturn things kind of changed. When

“Right now, I am very busy with family,” he said.

The Armstrongs have three adult sons who all curl and live in Lloyd along with a daughter in Saskatoon and three grandchildren.

Family members were cheering on Armstrong and his sons Tyson and Ryan, and their curling buddy, Al Dmytryshyn, taking on world-class competition at the Astec Safety Challenge held here in January.

“My sons were actually invited to play in it and they asked me to curl with them, so that was kind of a bonus for me,” said Armstrong, who called it a great

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Meridian Source File Photo Monte Armstrong, second from left, is this year’s Lloydminster Oil and Gas Open Bonspiel’s Oilman of the Year and will receive the honours at the WLS Convention Centre banquet on March 15.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Cattle producers herd for drought tips

at the clinic as a result of that,” Wennekamp told the audience.

“I just thought it would be a good time to talk about some of the stuff we can see in droughts.”

Wennekamp told the Source there’s lots of different impacts drought has, but feed and water are the biggest ones.

“As the amount of water reduces, the water quality can get worse, so there could be some health impacts from that,” he said.

drought plans should identify the group or class of livestock to be de-stocked first if necessary and at what point each group will be removed if the drought persists.

Another strategy is the importance to monitor for toxic or poisonous plants, which are more likely to be grazed during dry years.

Drought management strategies should also be a permanent part of every grazing plan.

Drought is a hot topic issue for cattle producers who came to AgriVisions to hear veterinarian Trent Wennekamp with the Lloydminster Animal Hospital talk about prevention measures.

“What I’m going to do today is talk about a bunch of different cases and things that I’ve seen and other over the years and other veterinarians have seen where there were dry conditions that led to cattle health issues,” said Wennekamp at Lloyd Ex on Feb. 14.

“So —just to try to look at those cases and the impacts of them and give producers some ways to reduce the chance of those things happening.”

His technical talk in the speaker’s lounge was titled, Avoiding Cattle Health Disasters in a Drought.

“It seems timely that it’s looking a bit like there’s not enough snow and we’ve had a couple of dry years as we’ve been seeing a few issues

ARMSTRONG FROM PAGE 3

“There can be a lot of impacts of feed quality from drought conditions and then also trying to utilize feeds that maybe we don’t use on a normal basis, so there’s some potential risks from that as well.”

Wennekamp also notes there’s a lot of health impacts to both the cow and the calf from drought conditions.

“It’s not so much diseases, it’s just deficiencies and different types of toxins they can get into, so weeds can be an issue,” he said.

“The amount of different toxins in the water can increase as there’s less water available and things like that.”

Wennekamp says fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to avoid problems as long as you’re careful.

In his talk, he noted the Beef Cattle Research Council, for example, provides some tips noting the importance of feed testing and water testing during times of drought.

They also advise

He says at that calibre of curling, they don’t miss a whole lot of shots.

“We wanted to be competitive against them and we had a couple of good games. One game we should have won, we were up three, but let it slip away,” he said.

Armstrong skipped for that team and will skip at the oilmen’s too, say-

Wennekamp told cattle producers on hand to be alert for an increase in cow/calf abortions this spring due to drought.

Using the online slido.com audience polling tool, 55 percent of attendees correctly guessed the acceptable abortion rate in a beef herd is 1 per cent.

Wennekamp said anything over that is something to be worried about.

“Let’s say you have a 300 cow/calf herd. You get that first abortion freeze it; the second one freeze it; the third one at that point, you should phone your vet. That’s kind of the general rule of thumb,” said Wennekamp.

He says many times that’s an abnormal fetus and that’s not a big deal, but stressed once you get over that 1 per cent, it’s time to start doing something about it.

He says ideally if you are seeing any abortions in your herd you would freeze them and save them.

“We can actually do something on those and actually test them.”

ing it’s easier on his 65-year-old body.

“I’m not in perfect condition for curling, but it’s a game I enjoy and something I always try to work at a little bit to stay in the best shape you can,” he said.

“I’m not a sweeper, so skipping, I don’t have to be in peak condition like the sweepers do. So far it’s worked.”

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Veterinarian Trent Wennekamp with the Lloydminster Animal Hospital.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Town hall sparks ‘unhoused’ dilemma

JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

The Lloydminster RCMP held a town hall meeting last week, which was open to the public.

Those in attendance were encouraged to ask questions throughout the presentation and offer their input as to what they think should be focused on within the Lloyd detachment.

“Our priorities are developed through consultations with the community, and through my police officers on the ground. They see things every day, through mayor and council because they talk to the constituents all of the time, and then through general complaints,” explained Lloydminster RCMP detachment’s Commander Brian Nicholl.

One of the hot topics during the community engagement part of the evening was homelessness within the city.

“Right now we need a shelter and we need a warming facility. As a community, we need those services,” said Nicholl.

“Do you want it in your neighbourhood? I say that not to be rude to anybody because, no, I definitely don’t. I do not want those services in my neighbourhood

because I do not want what it brings.”

He explained whether the shelter is in a residential area or a commercial area, there will be complaints either way.

“I’m trying to make everybody think a little bit more, and a little bit broader. There is no simple solution, because believe me if there was, we would already be doing it,” said Nicholl.

“The amount of time and money and effort that my unit and the City of Lloydminster have put into trying to fix this problem, you would be astounded.”

He said they often arrive for work at the detachment in the morning and find people sleeping in their foyer.

“It’s not illegal to be

homeless. It’s not illegal to want to use the bathroom. It’s illegal to cause mischief, it’s not illegal to have a mental-health issue,” said Nicholl.

“So, that’s a social issue, it’s not a policing issue. Unfortunately, it generally turns into a policing issue.”

Some of the priorities identified for this year are traffic and crime reduction in general.

On the traffic side of things, the areas of most concern are impaired driving and speeding.

“These are the things that unfortunately end in loss of life sometimes,” said Sgt. Brad Mouland.

In terms of crime reduction, Mouland said that’s a large part of their detachment.

“With our Gen -

eral Investigation Section (GIS), we do have crime reduction teams, so we have members that stop vehicles, stop gang members, find drugs, guns etc,” he explained.

“Prolific offenders, they check people’s residences for curfews at night, they follow up with parolees.”

One of the people in attendance asked whether gangs were operating within Lloydminster.

“Are they here? For sure. Are they as prevalent as they are in say, Edmonton? No. Every community has a touch of it,” said Commander Nicholl.

“Our community is not overrun by it, by any stretch of the imagination. We don’t hear about gangs every day. Let’s put it that way.”

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source Sgt. Brad Mouland and Lloydminster detachment commander Brian Nicholl lead a town hall meeting at the Servus Sports Centre OTS Room on Feb. 15.

Trail dedication pleasant surprise

JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

The Cutter Rally for Cancer is fast approaching, and this year the trail will have a name.

The trail will now be known as the Ron C MacDonald Trail, a testament to MacDonald’s unwavering dedication to the success of the event ever since the first rally in 2003.

“Ron is always there. He’s the first guy to show up in the morning and the last guy to go home at night. It’s amazing,” said rally cochair Mike Sidoryk.

“We are very honoured to have dedicated the trail for all of the hard work that Ron has done up to today, and what he is going to contribute for the future.”

The committee was able to keep the dedication a surprise right up until the presentation, at noon on Feb. 14. They also made the draw for the early bird prize of $500, which went to Niki Crockett of Provost.

“We’ve been working on this surprise since we started our planning for this coming year,” said Sidoryk.

“Of course, Ron still

comes to our meetings. It was very hard to keep that surprise a surprise, which we managed to pull off.”

“I take aerial photos of properties. I check on livestock, I do gutter checks and roof checks and special events.

Co-chair Tammy Hampel says what MacDonald does is a very important part of the cutter rally. He keeps the trails groomed, builds up crossings, and ensures the trails are free of any obstacles, making them safe for the drivers and horses.

“He has stuck with this right from the beginning. He took it on, and made the trails work for us. We changed the route a couple of times and he worked with it,” she said.

“He’s worked with the landowners, and he’s made it a safe, really pleasant trail for us drivers to be out on. He’s done a fabulous job for 20 straight years.”

MacDonald’s wife Doreen was also helpful in making the surprise dedication a reality.

“Doreen was really really helpful with bringing us some pictures and signage. His favourite colour is red, which is where that came from. We worked together well on it and I think we pulled it off,” said Hampel.

Sidoryk says the success of the event rests on the hearts of the committee of volunteers who run it, many of whom have been touched by cancer in some way.

“It’s the agriculture/ horse community that’s here giving back to supporting our cancer care,” he said.

“Cancer has touched each and every one of us. Ron is dedicated to supporting the horse industry and as well, our cancer care.”

Since 2003 the event has raised more than $170,000 toward upgrades in cancer care in Lloydminster.

This year’s rally is set to go Saturday with registration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and supper to follow at 5 p.m.

For further information visit www.cutterrallyforcancer.com.

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

The Cutter Rally for Cancer trail was officially named after Ron C. MacDonald for his many years of service and dedication in keeping the trail groomed and safe. From left: cutter rally co-chair Tammy Hampel, Doreen MacDonald, Ron MacDonald, and rally cochair, Mike Sidoryk.

Tech student gets recognition

JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

A local Grade 11 student was recently thanked for her time and effort in livestreaming nine Lloydminster Catholic School Division Christmas concerts throughout December 2023.

Mya Tupper took on the volunteer position, directing every part of the production with some guidance from Jason Whiting of Videre Images.

She was presented with a $500 scholarship to go toward her future education.

“I’ve been looking into going to Vancouver film school for about a year and a half now, since I realized that film is my passion, and honestly anything in the media,” said Tupper.

“I love the opportunity that I’ve been given to be able to do this, and I’m so excited for my future in media. I’d really love to pursue this.”

LCSD board chair Paula Scott says Tupper’s leadership was apparent.

“She led the team for the live streaming that we were able to do from the Vic Juba. She took control and led the other students and made it just a spectacular event for everybody, and just did a fantastic job so we wanted to recognize her exceptional work for our school division,” said Scott.

“We have created a scholarship for students who do exceptional work in the school division, and so we were able to award that to her this year.”

The fact the productions were livestreamed was an important thing for any relatives who couldn’t physically attend the concerts.

“For me, personally, because I don’t have students in elementary school anymore so I’m able to watch the livestream and not

take up the place for a parent or grandparent who wants to be there,” explained Scott.

“And for family who is far away, it’s a great opportunity. You get to see more of the performance because it focuses in on all of the kids … it’s really

impressive the work that they do in the live streams.”

Tupper says her love for all things media began after taking photography and communication media courses from teacher Skye Ferguson.

I’m glad that Miss

Ferguson gave me the opportunity. It’s just knowing that I have the experience and the project that we’ve made, it’s really fun, it’s really awesome to just be able to grow,” said Tupper.

“I want this to really be able to continue after me. I want to be able

to build this and have other students get to do this after me, and I really want to see this grow into a thing that can stay something for so long,” she said, adding media has become such an important part of our society, especially since COVID.

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Mya Tupper receives praise from LCSD board chair, Paula Scott, in front of her peers for the work she has done in livestreaming Christmas concerts. LCSD is looking to do more and more event streaming, possibly expanding into the world of sports in the near future.

A great day for winter play

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert and Geoff Lee Meridian Source Photos Winterfest activities took over the Border City on Family Day Monday with events at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre, Bud Miller All Seasons Park, the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre, the Lloydminster Museum and Archives and the Servus Sports Centre. All activities were free thanks to the event’s sponsors, such as the presenting sponsor, L&A CPA LLP, and many more.

Thursday,

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As I look at my list of stories this week, I notice a common theme.

Three of the stories I’ve written or I’m working on centre around amazing women in our community. Women of all different ages and backgrounds.

Lady leaders from Lloyd who have gone above and beyond.

The first one is about a young woman who has given her own spare time to help out doing something she’s passionate about, while helping others.

Mya Tupper directed nine livestream performances over the Christmas season so that those who couldn’t make it out to see their loved ones perform, could watch from the comfort of their own homes.

I was also present at the recent induction of

Jean Wobeser into the Lloyd Ex Hall of Fame during the Heart of the Farm Banquet. What an amazing female role model, volunteering so much of her time, all while raising a family and running a business. Truly inspirational!

Earlier that same day, I was asked to join other members of the media to recognize another outstanding female in our community at the office of Colleen Young.

Young presented Jean Fells with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal for her grit and determination as a pioneer of Saskatchewan after the Second World War, when she came from the United Kingdom to Canada as a war bride.

They settled on a piece of land in Saskatchewan with no utilities or running water and had to make do. They ran a successful farm and gave back to the community

whenever possible.

There is no shortage of spectacular women in this city, and it shows. Kudos ladies!

Keep in mind we are currently working on a special publication

here at The Source , called Today’s Woman.

If you have a nomination for a woman you think deserves to be featured email your suggestion to taylor@ meridiansource.ca.

File Photo

Leeway from Lloyd: Peace out planet Earth

WRITER GEOFF LEE

I think we need an alien invasion to unite us all instead of pointing or shooting weapons at each other in an endless string of wars or senseless daily mass shootings in our cities.

It seems the world has gone to hell in a handbasket with wars raging in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine and peacemaking in crisis. Fending off aliens could help unite us.

In Asia, China continues its sabre-rattling against Taiwan and North Korea continues its posturing by lobbying missiles toward Japan which leads to an endless war of words.

Add to the mix Houthis in Yemen attacking international shipping to create more global political and economic instability.

Diplomatic efforts to end fighting are failing. More leaders are pursuing their ends militarily. More believe they can get away with it like Russia’s Putin.

Maybe leaders should exchange chocolates or fruit baskets since handshakes don’t work.

All that Valentine’s Day love didn’t go viral this year to rulers of warring factions.

It’s appalling to have learned at least 12 employees of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees played a direct role in the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.

When an international peacekeeping organization goes rogue, you know it’s time for a change in leadership.

Weak leadership is one of the reasons for

all this global trouble. Joe Biden is more like his sleepy Joe nickname with his memory issues and Donald Trump is an old, loose cannon who breaks the law.

Our own Justin Trudeau is probably also past his “best before date” according to many opinion columns and polls.

There don’t seem to be any leaders or any country that stands out from the fray as doing good things for the world.

Should aliens come

Through the reader’s lens

in peace as they did in the 1951 movie, The Day the Earth Stopped Moving, heed the words of the alien Klaatu. “Your choice

is simple: join us and live in peace, or pursue your present course and face obliteration. We shall be waiting for your answer.”

That sounds like a familiar threat to me, so our answer is, we will shoot first and ask questions later! That’s what we do best!

STAFF

File Photo

Mike From Canmore Submitted to the Source Does this train bridge look familiar? If so, it’s likely due to the fact it’s been made famous by HBO’s hit show The Last of Us. Canmore’s landmark Engine Bridge, once a tribute to a rich mining history, is now a popular tourist attraction in the mountain town.

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.

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.

Passport to YLL

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

Cards, games and live music

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 inperson 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 780-875-4584 for more details.

Lashburn Crib Tourney

The Lashburn Seniors Centre is hosting a 19 crib tournament on March 4. When you get a “19” hand or crib, you get to peg 19 points. Teams and singles welcome. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. and the tournament starts at 10 a.m. Cost is $10–snacks and beverages available for

$5. The Lashburn Senior’s Centre is located on Main Street beside the post office. For more information, call 306-821-2457.

Crib Doubles Tourney

The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a doubles crib tournament on March 10. Registration is from 9-9:45 a.m. and play begins at 10 a.m. Twelve games guaranteed. The cost to play is $25/player, which includes hot lunch. Enter as a team or as an individual (they will team you up.

- 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 Foundation or register 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 upgrader turnaround nears

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER ..................................

Cenovus is continuing to prepare for a major turnaround at the Lloydminster Upgrader starting in the second quarter in April.

The Calgary-based company will also be hosting an investor day on March 5 to update its corporate strategy and detailed five-year plans, including its Lloydminster operations.

These upcoming events were reported with the release of the company’s fourth quarter and year-end 2023

results on Feb. 15.

Cenovus’ president and CEO, Jon McKenzie, said the strong performance of the Lloydminster upgrader and refinery in 2023 has continued in the first quarter of 2024 with the turnaround of the Lloyd upgrader to tap the brakes on production.

“We anticipate the quarterly throughput impact to be about 42,000 to 46,000 barrels a day, consistent with guidance,” said McKenzie.

“And coming out of the turnaround, we expect the Lloyd com -

Grain and cattle producers in Saskatchewan facing a water crunch due to drought conditions can turn to the Ministry of Agriculture for relief.

The first step is to talk to someone like Trish Johnson, a program specialist from

plex to continue to run reliably, with high rates of utilization for the foreseeable future.”

McKenzie noted the production of 106,600 barrels a day at Lloyd -

minster thermal projects in the fourth quarter was in line with the prior quarter of 2023. In addition, he said the company’s upstream business con-

tinued to build on operating momentum in the fourth quarter.

“We increased production to nearly 810,000 barrels of oil per day, our highest

Drought relief funds close at hand

the ministry’s North Battleford regional office who headed up an information booth at the Lloyd Ex AgriVisions Feb. 14-15.

“We’re happy to be in Lloydminster; we don’t get here that often, so to attend the trade show here and talk to producers is very exciting for us for sure,” said Johnson.

“We do have funding for producers through the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program.”

The FRWIP is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership program.

“So producers who are looking to develop a new water source for agriculture use, whether it’s livestock

watering or crop spraying, we have funding assistance to develop new dugouts, pipelines and wells,” explained Johnson.

“It’s a 50 per cent rebate of eligible costs to eligible producers.”

To be eligible, an applicant needs to earn a minimum of $50,000 of gross farm

quarterly number for this year and the second highest in the company’s history. This is something we are extraordinarily proud of,” said McKenzie.

income in Saskatchewan, be 18 years of age or older and have a premises ID number if they have livestock.

“The Farm and Ranch Infrastructure Program is one of our flagship programs and it’s our most popular program, especially in years of drought or dry conditions,” added Johnson.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

Source File Photo

Drones becoming new workhorse

that will take pictures of things the human eye can’t see.

“That will give the information to the sprayer drone and how to apply the right amount or variable rate application,” said Harter.

The Mavic 3 is also great for checking cattle, crop health monitoring and thermal analysis.

age you’re going to be spreading about 3m over the canopy with the T40.

“It has many capabilities between the spraying and granular tank too, so it’s a very versatile unit,” said Mousset adding it has some advantages over ground vehicle sprayers.

He says they just started selling them six months ago and they’ve already sold about half a dozen T40s and Mavic 3s.

Spraying applications by drones is a new technology that Mousset thinks is only going to get bigger and better from here on out.

Why drive a priceywheeled sprayer when a drone can do the job at a fraction of the cost?

That’s what a lot of farmers who checked out the Rocky Mountain Drones sold by Flaman at the Lloyd Ex AgriVisions show on Feb. 14-15, may be asking themselves today.

Flaman sales agents

Nick Harter and Chris Mousset say it’s a nobrainer decision with their flagship DJI Agras T40 drone priced at just $40,000 with three batteries and a charger included.

“In the agricultural sector, the sprayer drones are the big ticket items,” said Harter.

The Agras T40

combines mapping, spraying and spreading functions with a 40-litre capacity, and the speed to cover 42 acres per hour with a 10m spray swath.

The spreader tank can hold up to 52 kilograms of granular material.

Flaman also has a Mavic 3 Enterprise series drone with a multi-spectral camera

The big Agras T40 drone can be used for crop spraying and granular fertilizer spreading, but the application of a pesticide by drone in Canada is currently not allowed and is under review.

An advanced pilot’s licence is also required to operate the T40, but Mousset, who has a licence, says the drone almost flies itself.

“There’s a lot of safety stuff between the radar it has and obstacle avoidance. It’s very easy for someone to learn,” he said.

He says on aver -

“If you have pasture with uneven terrain, you’re able to get in with this,” he said.

“When you’re using the multi-spectral Mavic 3 you’re able to provide more precise hits.

“Also the way it applies the product, it’s got centrifugal nozzles on it, so you getting that prop wash vortex so it’s a very efficient way to spray.”

While Harter is based in Fairview, Mousset is on the drone team in Lethbridge

“I assist the salesmen with the sales side of things as well as service and repair on the DJI product,” said Mousset.

“I see them becoming very common and probably become larger and more efficient as the years go,” he said.

Having the drones at Agri-Visions acted as eye candy for passersby.

“We want to spread awareness with these drones to show people the capabilities are very versatile with them and really educate folks and show them the amount of money you can save with having an application like this.

“Everybody is very intrigued, very curious about the possibility with these drones, so it’s been very positive,” said Harter.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Flaman sales reps, Chris Mousset, left, from Lethbridge and Nick Harter of Fairview, were busy at Agri-Visions at the Lloyd Ex Feb. 14-15 promoting their lines of Rocky Mountain drones for spraying applications. Behind them is the DJI Agras T40 drone.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

More addiction treatment spaces open in Lloyd

On Tuesday Mental Health and Addictions Minister, Tim McLeod, announced 15 new addictions treatment spaces at the Thorpe Recovery Centre near Lloydminster.

The new spaces will help adults access inpatient addictions treatment and will be open to all Saskatchewan residents.

“The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to getting people the support they need as they start their recovery journey,” McLeod said.

“The new spaces at Thorpe Recovery Centre are part of our promise to add 500 addictions treatment spaces across the province, which is a key pillar of Saskatchewan’s new Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions.”

The new spaces in Lloydminster bring the total number of treatment spaces that have been announced under Saskatchewan’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions to 183.

This includes 26 post-treatment spaces at St. Joseph’s Addiction Recovery Centre in Estevan, 32 intensive outpatient treat -

ment spaces through Possibilities Recovery Center in Saskatoon, 14 inpatient addictions treatment spaces at the former Drumming Hill Youth Centre facility in North Battleford, 60 inpatient treatment spaces in Lumsden, and 36 virtual spaces through EHN Canada.

This exceeds the Government of Saskatchewan’s original commitment to add 150 addictions treatment spaces and advances toward the new target of adding 500 more spaces.

Thorpe Recovery Centre was one of the successful proponents chosen through a competitive Request for Proposals process initiated by the Ministry of Health and the Saskatchewan Health Authority seeking addictions treatment services, including intensive outpatient, inpatient treatment services and recovery or transitional services.

The Ministry of Health has issued a Request for Supplier Qualification for approximately 250 more addictions treatment spaces across the province and anticipates several new spaces will open in the coming months.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

A tale

My son Grant and I had a booth in last week’s Agri-Visions show at the Lloydminster Exhibition.

We’ve been present at the event for a few years, and it is always a good opportunity to catch up with former, current, and prospective clients.

Thank you to everyone who dropped by; it was great to touch base

with so many attendees.

It was an incredibly busy two days, and my apologies if we missed you. One person said they came by four times before one of us was available for a chat.

This year was a particularly educational

experience; we heard many different perspectives on farmland and people’s thoughts about the future.

One thing is clear, the two generations on many of today’s family farms don’t always share the same outlook. They may own and manage an operation together, but their approach to business planning and decision-making is guided by distinctly different principles.

I was very impressed with what I heard from the younger (under 50) farmers, male and female, and their commitment to a balanced lifestyle with children as the core.

working away from the family home base, possibly as an agronomist, lender, or in some type of associated profession.

Their spouses also often have their own academic credentials, work experience, and income, so it is only natural a couple will make the decisions on all big-ticket items together going forward.

ship won’t last long!

During the tradeshow, we also met one-on-one with a half dozen lenders as the local folk brought their provincial bosses around.

All the traditional bankers emphasized they loan not on security but on the ability of the farm to service the debt for the foreseeable future.

Obviously, the younger generation of farm owner-managers needs to be able to lay out their plans and strategy in a format the lender will endorse, while the older generation may not need outside financial support at all.

Simply put, they don’t have to justify their decisions to purchase or not purchase, whether it be equipment, inputs, or land to anyone but themselves.

Increasingly, we are seeing younger farmers quietly turning to equity partners for land acquisition rather than to the traditional lenders; someone who will share the outcomes and risks of this increasingly complex business.

Land to them is an asset, a part of a business unit, something to be made used efficiently.

It needs to serve the farm, and the family it supports, not the other way around.

These younger managers have usually obtained a diploma or degree in agriculture after high school, then spent five to 10 years

In one case, the family patriarch was chewing on me for allowing up to 24 hours during the bidding rounds of a progressive tender stating the time it took was too stressful, while his daughter and son-inlaw were telling Grant how the extra hours, not minutes as in online auction, allowed them to fully discuss next steps after the children were settled in for the night.

Personally, I think guys my age are used to making many of these financial choices without consulting with their spouse, while the next generation is much more inclusive.

They better be or probably the relation -

The support may come from a brother, cousin, friend, accountant, lawyer, or a formal investment group specializing in helping farms grow.

It’s been that way in commercial properties for decades; so, it is not surprising agricultural property has attracted interest as it is seen as a stable part of any investment portfolio.

Next week, I will discuss what the older owners of farmland should be thinking about.

Times are changing, and their family wealth is at stake.

Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster, a partner in The McClelland Group, and an active partner in his family’s livestock operation. Comments on this article are welcome either by emailing vernmcclelland@ remax.net or calling 306-821-0611.

MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

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ASK THE MONEY LADY

CHRISTINE IBBOTSON SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

Dear Money Lady

Readers:

Due to our persistent inflation that exceeds the central bank’s targets here in Canada and south of the border, it is unlikely we will see the interest rate cuts this year that many people are waiting for.

Those of you in variable mortgages or who have a mortgage up for renewal this year may already feel like we’re in a recession. So, what should we do?

Preparation is the key, and if you can, start now so you can be ahead of everyone else. The further we get into a recession, the harder it will be to pursue strategies to weather it. Remember that a recession will not last forever, and really it is a necessary part of every healthy economic business cycle (which usually occurs 1-2 times every decade). Here

are the five basic tips to plan for 2024.

- Reduce spending, especially spending on non-essentials. Tightening up your budget is a necessity so that you can save an emergency fund. Aim to save the equivalent of three months’ take-home income so that if you need to switch jobs you have a buffer.

- Pay off credit card debts and any other consumer loans. Do not carry balances month over month. You want to ensure you will have access to credit if needed in the future and the best way to make the banks believe you are a good lending risk is to eliminate any and all revolving debt.

Never live off your bank overdraft limit –and if you are using it and find it hard to stop, close it down. Supplementing your income with credit must stop, not just in recessionary times, but in order to learn to live within

your income.

Be prepared to lose your job. Always keep an up-to-date resume and consider updating your skills regularly. If you can, why not consider a recession-proof job?

- These would include jobs in municipal, provincial or federal governments, jobs in health care, or jobs in education.

- Stay invested in the market. Resist the urge to sell your stock portfolio or rebalance your positions. During economic downturns, people tend to liquidate underperforming stock. This always tends to be the worst mistake one can make since you lock in the losses by selling during a market downturn. Instead, look at this time as a “sale in the market” and a time to continue following your investment strategy by buying more stock that is now offered at lower pricing. Remember, the losses

aren’t real until you sell.

Stay optimistic. Your good habits are responsible for your success in life, but your bad habits are to blame for your problems and frustrations. Let go of the past thoughts that hold you back and wake up every day with a positive attitude towards your job, your family, and your life.

- Oftentimes, people need to go through a difficult life moment to realize their full potential and believe in what they are truly capable of.

I honestly believe that even during the

most challenging situations we each face, there has to be some good that comes from it. Rather than succumbing to a pessimistic outlook, try to challenge your current situation to find the good that can be gained from it. Difficult times are temporary. Learning from them makes us stronger.

If we’re facing a recession this year, then so be it. Remember, that after every recession, comes an economic expansion phase when the economy starts growing again, governments pull back restric-

tions and we are in for a ride through another bull market. Recessions happen regularly, and this one is no different from the last. It is all part of our capitalistic cycle, so sit back and ride it out with everyone else, it won’t take too long till it’s over.

Good Luck and Best Wishes, Money Lady

Christine Ibbotson, Author, Finance Writer, National

Radio Host, and now on CTV Morning Live, and CTV News @6 syndicated across Canada. Send your questions through her website at askthemoneylady.ca

File Photo

Carbon tax removal drops Sask inflation

released today by Statistics Canada.

The Saskatchewan Government’s decision to remove the federal carbon tax from home heating helped reduce Saskatchewan’s inflation rate to 1.9 per cent, down from 2.7 per cent in December, according to the latest Consumer Price Index report

Statistics Canada specifically identifies the removal of the federal carbon tax on natural gas as having a significant impact, saying:

“In Saskatchewan, the collection of the carbon levy ceased in January 2024, contributing to the province’s

year-over-year price decline of natural gas (-26.6 per cent).”

Crown Investments Minister Dustin Duncan said this provides a clear example of what the federal government needs to do if it really wanted to drive down the cost of living for Canadian families.

“If they are actually seri -

ous about fighting inflation, the federal government needs to remove the carbon tax on everyone and everything,” Duncan said. “This shows how much impact it has, just removing it on home heating in one province. Imagine the significant impact it would have on gas prices, grocery prices

and everything else we produce and transport in Canada if the federal government scrapped the carbon tax.

“Instead, they are fully committed to another carbon tax increase on April 1. It shows they really don’t care about the impact is it having on Canadian families struggling with the cost of living.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

Sonogram training coming to Suncrest College

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

Saskatchewan students who want to train to provide ultrasound services can soon do so closer to home.

“This new program at Suncrest College will attract students from across Saskatchewan, help meet the demand for diagnostic services, and ultimately speed up treatment for our residents.

Suncrest College will offer a new provincial Diagnostic Medical Sonography Advanced

TDiploma program in Yorkton, Sask. beginning this fall.

“Our government is committed to increasing training capacity for high demand health professions, and giving our students more opportunities for rewarding careers,” Advanced Education Minister Gordon Wyant said.

“This new program at Suncrest College will attract students from across Saskatchewan, help meet the demand for diagnostic services, and ultimately speed up treatment for our residents.”

“We are thrilled to bring this program to Suncrest College and to the province of Saskatchewan,” added Suncrest College CEO Alison Dubreuil.

“This new innovative training program

reflects our commitment to excellence and ensures we contribute to the development of the health care workforce

for Saskatchewan.”

The Ministries of Advanced Education and Immigration and Career Training will

provide funding to support the program. The Health Foundation of East Central Saskatchewan has offered to raise

$300K for equipment costs. Other community donors will support the remaining capital costs.

Alberta ready for 2024 wildfire season

he impacts of the 2023 season showed Albertans the importance of a collective approach to dealing with disaster.

Alberta is experiencing warmer-than-normal temperatures and below-average precipitation in many areas of the province, leading to heightened wildfire risk. To better direct resources to new and existing wildfires, Alberta has declared an early start to the 2024 wildfire season.

Declaring the beginning of the 2024 wildfire season provides additional mea -

sures to Alberta Wildfire, including the use of the fire ban and restriction system to help reduce humancaused wildfires in response to hazardous conditions. Furthermore, any Albertan who has burning planned in the Forest Protection Area will require a permit.

“Alberta’s government will face the coming wildfire season head-on, and we will do whatever is necessary to help Albertans and their communities stay safe from the impacts of wildfire,” said Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen.

“I want to encourage Albertans to remain vigilant and recreate responsibly.”

On top of the early declaration, Forestry and Parks is preparing for additional firefighters. If passed, Budget 2024 will include funding to hire 100 new firefighters, which will result in five additional 20-person crews.

As the province has entered the 2024 wildfire season, Alberta’s government encourages all Albertans to become familiar with FireSmart principles and to take an active role in wildfire prevention and mitigation by

preparing their properties and communities accordingly.

Albertans are urged to exercise extreme caution in forested areas

and to avoid burning under warm, dry and windy conditions.

Supporting women in the trucking industry

Alberta’s government is providing $2.8 million to Women Building Futures to help more women train for jobs as

professional drivers in commercial trucking.

More than ever, drivers are needed in the commercial transportation sector to help get Alberta products

to market and ensure communities have access to essential goods and services.

In Alberta, women represent only 2.9 per cent of commer -

gramming that teaches skills, builds confidence and connects graduates to good jobs as drivers with companies that are committed to creating safe and inclusive workplaces.

“Alberta has a shortage of skilled drivers, which impacts the supply chain and creates inflationary pressures,” said Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen.

“Fewer than three per cent of Class 1 drivers in Alberta are women, and by providing grants to support organizations like Women Building Futures, we can help people get good-paying jobs and alleviate critical shortages in trucking.”

ipate in our province’s growing economy,” said Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

Tanya Fir.

“Our province is stronger when more women are in the driver’s seat, and through funding like this, we can help women gain meaningful employment and help continue Alberta’s impressive economic momentum.”

Women Building Futures is a non-profit organization that offers programs and support services to help women explore and connect to careers that pay above a living wage.

cial truckers, below the national rate of four per cent. There are approximately 4,260 transport truck driver job vacancies in the province.

To help address these labour shortages in the commercial trucking industry, in 2022-23 Alberta’s government committed $40 million over four years to provide commercial driver training grants to unemployed and underemployed Albertans.

This $2.8-million funding commitment over two years will help Women Building Futures provide pro -

Ensuring women in Alberta have access to good quality jobs and can succeed in fulfilling careers is crucial to the province’s success. Alberta consistently leads the country with the highest employment rate for women, and last month, women’s unemployment again dropped below five per cent. This funding will help prepare more unemployed and underemployed women for successful careers that mean a regular paycheque for their families and a stronger economy.

“Alberta’s government is dedicated to ensuring women can fully partic-

The organization plays an important role in supporting women in industries where they are traditionally underrepresented like commercial transportation, construction trades, operations and supply chain.

“Women Building Futures is proud to stay at the forefront of leading change for women entering new careers in commercial transportation,” said Carol Moen, president and CEO, Women Building Futures.

“By partnering with employers that value and work to make inclusive workspaces – and with tremendous support from the Government of Alberta – we will see more women driving to an economically secure future.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

Golden girls wrap perfect season

What’s better than a perfect 21-0 season?

How about representing your zone and earning a gold medal at the 2024 Alberta Winter Games in Grande Prairie?

“I still haven’t taken off my gold medal.

For the U13 AA Western Financial Steelers, playing out of the Alberta Female Hockey League, that pipe dream became a reality last weekend when the ladies defeated the St. Albert Raiders Bolts 7-2 in the gold-medal game.

Head coach, Ryan Payne, couldn’t have been happier with the way the weekend turned out, or the entire season for that matter.

After winning zones through playdowns against the Lakeland team in a best-of-three series, the Steelers punched their ticket to the Games, a firsttime experience for the majority of players.

“Representing our Zone in the Games was a great experience for us as coaches as well as all the players,” said Payne.

“Grande Prairie did a great job. They bused us up there, had a big opening ceremony, and it was neat to see the girls experience all of that.”

Payne also noted Hockey Alberta provided branded jerseys to each of the players, adding to the experience.

“They felt like they were in the show,” said Payne. “All the pucks and everything was official Hockey Alberta merch, which the girls thought was really cool.”

The Games’ experience was a first for right winger Kamryn Gervais,

who said it was something she won’t soon forget.

“It was really enjoyable and fun being with your team the whole weekend,” said the 12-year-old forward.

“Being able to win really helped us as a group and it uplifted everyone.”

Of the 7-2 final, Gervais explained the entire team gave it their all, something they’ve been doing all year.

“Everyone worked hard and contributed; it was a group win,” she said.

“We’re all best friends with each other, and it’s so cool to win games and have that experience as a group.”

winger Harper Clark, the team’s gold-medal win was the highlight of the weekend.

“The gold-medal game was my favourite part,” said Clark, who scored one of the team’s seven goals.

“That was also definitely the biggest game I’ve played in.”

Looking back at a perfect 21-0 season, Clark noted she thought the team gelled really well and hopes to see a similar roster next season.

“I’ve played with most of the girls in spring hockey last year,” said Clark, who lives in Edgerton.

3” wide version

For 12-year-old left

“I’m hoping to play for the same next year, and I still haven’t taken off my gold medal.”

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3.75” wide version

Supplied Photo

The U13 AA Western Financial Steelers were all smiles after winning a gold medal at the 2024 Alberta Winter Games, held in Grande Prairie from Feb. 16-19. The Steelers (Zone 7) beat the St. Albert Raiders Bolts (Zone 5) 7-2 in the final after tournament-long dominance.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Rustlers hockey set for final push

weekend, the Rustlers will face the fourthplace SAIT Trojans (9-14-2) in the first round of Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference post-season action, but Mann isn’t counting chickens, yet.

“

It’s a nice achievement to finish first, but it would also give us homeice advantage in our barn with our fans, which would be nice to have going into the playoffs. It’s a big weekend.

teed, by any means.”

The puck drops at 7 p.m. at the Russ Robertson on Friday and Saturday night.

Following the team’s action-packed two days of gameplay, they’re hosting a “Celebration of Hockey” event at Bud Miller All Seasons Park in partnership with the Boundary Ford Gives Foundation.

From 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, the Rustlers invite anyone and everyone to play some old-fashioned shinny hockey on Bud Miller’s frozen pond.

There will be music pumping throughout the afternoon as well as a weiner roast.

It all boils down to two final games and playoff implications are on the line.

The Apex Automation Lakeland College Rustlers women’s ice hockey team wants to pack the Russ Robertson this weekend as they host the NAIT Ooks in their final two regular-season games of the year.

The Rustlers (19-41), under the direction of head coach Morgan Mann, had a stellar January recording three wins and one loss before an undefeated February with six straight wins.

The ladies started the month with a threepeat weekend over the SAIT Trojans, besting them 2-0 on Feb. 2, 6-1 on Feb. 3 and 6-3 on Feb.

4. The Rustlers were in

Medicine Hat the following weekend where they racked up points over the Rattlers with big 9-0, 9-1 and 11-1 wins.

Mann explained the team is looking at this weekend as the final push, and unlike Whose Line Is It Anyway, every point matters.

“They’re two league games, but we’re trying to prepare for them as if they’re playoff games

because they have playoff implications for us,” said Mann.

“If we can get a point out of the weekend, that’ll put us in first for the year. It’s a nice achievement to finish first, but it would also give us a home-ice advantage in our barn with our fans, which would be nice to have going into the playoffs. It’s a big weekend.”

If all goes well this

“We’re certainly hopeful for a point this weekend, and we’re doing everything we can to prepare for it,” he said.

“NAIT’s a tough opponent; a really tough opponent and have played us tough. For whatever reason, we’ve had good success against Red Deer this year. Of the top three teams, it’s a saw-off, so a point isn’t guaran -

“Boundary Ford Gives does a lot of great things in the community and we’re sure glad to be involved with them,” said Mann.

“We think this is a really appropriate way to do something in the community at the grassroots level, so we’re inviting everyone to come play some shinny hockey on the pond. It’s very simple and it’s open to everybody, boys, girls, young and old.”

Meridian Source File Photo

The Apex Automation Lakeland College Rustlers women’s ice hockey team does battle with the SAIT Trojans at the Russ Robertson last weekend. The Rustlers host the NAIT Ooks this weekend in their final two home games of the regular season.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

‘Cats back after burying Grizzlys

WEAVER EDITOR

The Lloydminster Bobcats are having a red-hot February.

The boys started the month on home ice beating the Olds Grizzlys 5-2 on Feb. 2 before defeating the Canmore Eagles 4-1 on Feb. 3.

The ‘Cats were back at the Civic Centre on Feb. 10, besting the Camrose Kodiaks 4-1 before suffering a 4-2 loss to the Wolverines in Whitecourt on Valentine’s Day.

The ‘Cats host the Drayton Valley Thunder tomorrow night at the Civic Centre after burying the Grizzlys 9-1 at the Olds Sportsplex on Feb. 17.

Last Saturday was a big night for a handful of Bobcats, mainly Ben Aucoin, who finally completed the elusive natural hat trick 1:22 inside the second period before scoring a fourth goal at 9:25 in the same frame.

Aucoin’s first goal, the team’s first of the night, came on the power play at 4:59 in the first with assists from Ryan Redekopp and Caden Steinke. Aucoin’s second goal came at 14:56 with assists from Michael Carter and Remy Spooner.

The Aucoin natty hatty, also a power-play goal, came at 1:22 in the second. Assists would again go to Redekopp and Steinke.

‘Cats assistant captain Kade Fendelet was quick to follow Aucoin’s third goal with a gino of his own at 3:49 in the second with assists from Luke Fritz and Redekopp.

Olds’ Devun Olfert was able to get the Grizzlys on the board at 6:33 in the second, but the ‘Cats kept going as Aucoin potted his fourth goal of the night, his 25th of the year, with assists from Alessio Nardelli and Jamie Weller, at 9:25 in the second.

Fritz would finish out the ‘Cats secondperiod scoring with a goal at 19:25. Fritz’ goal saw Ishan Mittoo

get his first assist of the night and a fourth for Redekopp.

‘Cats captain, Caden Cabana, came out firing in the third with a short-handed goal at 0:48 into the frame with the assist going to Aucoin.

Cabana scored his second of the night a little over five minutes later with assists going to Teague McAllister and Aidan LaRose. The ‘Cats’ final goal of the night came off the tape of Mittoo on the powerplay at 14:28 in the third with the assist going to Blake Setter.

The ‘Cats are looking for redemption tomorrow night against the Thunder after losing 4-1 in Drayton Valley on Jan. 26, but after Saturday’s big win, the bench is in good spirits.

“The room’s great right now,” said Aucoin on Tuesday after practice, noting he hasn’t scored four goals in 60 minutes since Bantam.

“A win like (Saturday’s) really brings us together more, the vibes were good at practice today.”

The ‘Cats host the Thunder on Friday before heading to Camrose on Saturday for

their final game of the month, and Aucoin and the boys are hoping to see a packed rink.

“We’re definitely going to take it to them on Friday,” said Aucoin.

“When we lost to Drayton, that was not our game, and we know we can be a lot better against them at home.”

From a coach’s perspective, there wasn’t much to dislike about last Saturday’s win, something bench boss Brad Rihela liked to see.

“The guys stuck to the plan and we found some early success with that, and with Aucoin breaking it open in the second, it made things a little easier,” said Rihela.

Despite the hoopla created by the win, Rihela explained it’s all about the next game.

“We’ve got a great group of kids who have really committed. The focus level is really good.”

Looking at the postseason, Aucoin said the team is embracing recent league changes and aiming for a long run.

“We’re excited for it, we think we can make it far,” he said.

“The Centennial Cup is our goal.”

For Rihela, the plan is to continue to instill habits that will be transferable to playoff hockey.

“We’ve got a lot of younger players who haven’t seen playoff hockey yet, and it’s def-

initely a jump,” he said.

“Your competitiveness and urgency have to be at an extremely high rate, and that’s something we’re focused on.”

This Friday is also Pink in the Rink night in support of Canadian Natural Resources Anti

Bullying and the Lloydminster and District Co-op’s Kindness Wins campaign. Everyone in attendance is encouraged to wear pink, and anyone 18 and under wearing pink gets in for free.

The puck drops at 7 p.m. at the Civic.

24024ds1

TAYLOR

Bobcats forward Ben Aucoin. Source File Photo

STEELERS FEEL STING AFTER WEEKEND LOSSES

It was a tough weekend for the U18 AAA PWM Steelers, but as the saying goes, it ain’t over ‘till it’s over. Playing out of the Alberta Female Hockey League, the Steelers (6-19-1-1) currently sit fifth in the standings with 18 points and three games remaining in

the season.

The Steelers hosted the Red Deer Sutter Fund Chiefs for backto-back homers at the Servus Sports Centre over the weekend, dropping Saturday’s game 4-1 before a tough 6-0 loss on Sunday afternoon.

The ladies are back at the Servus Sports Centre this Saturday for a 3 p.m. puck

drop against the Rocky Mountain Raiders (3-22-1-1) on the Rusway ice pad.

The month of March will also likely fly by for the Steelers with only two games on the schedule.

The Steelers will finish their season with back-to-back home games against the fourth-place St. Albert Raiders Slash (14-12).

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Top: Steelers centre Ryann Rekimowich gets set for a faceoff against the Red Deer Sutter Fund Chiefs on Sunday afternoon at the Servus Sports Centre. The Steelers hosted the Chiefs twice over the weekend, dropping both games.

Bandits ice Cold Lake, lead series 3-0

The Lloydminster Bandits may have closed out their firstround playoff series over the Cold Lake Ice last night, but our crystal ball isn’t working right now, so your guess is as good as ours.

The Bandits had a three-game lead going into Wednesday’s road bout after taking Game 1 3-1 on Feb. 15, Game 2 7-4 on Feb. 17 and Game 3 4-2 this past Monday.

Game 1 saw a goal from Jace Gunderson and two from sharp -

shooter Jayden Plamondon at home before Game 2’s big 7-4 win. Plamondon, Aden Stratton and Brady Gamble each got a goal in Game 2, with Ben Rawluk potting four.

Game 3 wasn’t as one-sided as the last meeting, but the Ban -

dits still came away with a 4-2 win with goals from Rawluk, Plamondon, Stratton and Ethan Jubinville-Morin.

Game 4 was played in Cold Lake last night with Game 5 scheduled for Feb. 24 and Game 6 for Feb. 25 (if needed).

Be sure to keep an eye on the Source and the team’s Facebook page for further updates.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

Top left: Bandits forward Ben Rawluk gets the biscuit past Cold Lake Ice goaltender Mark Peddle at the Centennial Civic Centre last Saturday night. The Bandits had a three-game lead over the Ice going into Game 4, played last night in Cold Lake. Top right: Koston Eaton lets Cold Lake Ice captain Carter Breen know he’s there on Saturday night at the Civic Centre. Bottom: Bandits captain Joel Webb blows a tire during second-period action on Saturday at the Civic Centre against Cold Lake.

Local racecar engineer wins big in New Zealand

Local racecar engineer, Dylan Dunsmore, working for M2 Competition in the Castrol Toyota FR Oceania Championship in New Zealand, won the feature race at Christchurch on Feb 10.

With his driver, Liam Sceats of New Zealand, they won the prestigious Lady Wigram Trophy.

Sceats is currently sitting in second place in the championship, only 54 points behind the leader, with three

races remaining. The Castrol Toyota FR Series is a 15-race event with stops at five different race tracks throughout New Zealand. The series concluded at Cromwell, New Zealand on Feb. 16 -17 with the run -

ning of the New Zealand Grand Prix. Dunsmore and Sceats took the checkered flag on Feb. 17 winning the 68th running of the event.

After the series, Dunsmore will return to his three-car team

with TJ Speed Motorsports based out of Indianapolis to compete in the USF Pro 2000 series.

The series consists of an eight-city race stop starting on March 8 in St. Petersburg, Florida and conclud -

ing on Aug, 25 in Portland, Oregon. This year, the TJ Speed Team will also be engineering in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Series which will commence on March 13 in Sebring, Florida.

Local racecar engineer Dylan Dunsmore, far right. Supplied Photo

Rustlers celebrate perfect season

10-point night.

Saturday also saw big nights for Ally Pilgrim with 14 points, Jaden Cook, 12, and Hailey Somers, 11.

The Rustlers will get their first taste of playoff action at home this Saturday when they host the winner of Friday’s Keyano College/University of Alberta Augustana game. Tip-off is at 6 p.m. Saturday.

It doesn’t get much better than this.

The Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball team (20-0) wrapped a perfect regular season last weekend with back-to-back wins over Red Deer (17-4) and Olds College (1-20).

The Rustlers weren’t sure what to expect

when the second-place Red Deer Polytechnic Queens rolled into town last Friday, but with strong play on both sides of the ball, the Rustlers bested the Queens in a tight 61-52 win. Leading 26-8 at the half, the Rustlers keep finding ways to take down their toughest opponents.

Following Friday’s close win, the Rustlers

hosted the Broncos for a 72-28 blowout to end the regular season on a high note.

Rustlers reservist Susan Ayaa had a phenomenal weekend, earning herself 12 points on Friday before putting up another 17 against the Old College Broncos on Saturday.

Elliot Lieffers also had a big Friday for the home team with a

If all goes well, the Rustlers will find themselves in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference gold-medal game at 8 p.m. on March 2 at Lethbridge College.

For head coach, Chris King, the blood, sweat and tears that went into this season are all prep work for March 13-16 when the Rustlers host the CCAA championship.

Tickets as well as all-access passes for nationals are currently available at gorustlers.ca.

3.2”

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

Left: Rustlers third-year guard Makylla Vachon drives to the net on Saturday night as Lakeland College hosted the Old Broncos for the women’s basketball team’s final regular season game of the year. Right: Rustlers guard Susan Ayaa wasn’t letting anyone take the ball from her on Saturday night against the Olds Broncos.

Sonography training get added to Suncrest offerings

“The Health Foundation strives to expand the quality of health care and medical services in east central Saskatchewan,” foundation executive director Ross Fisher said.

“Through this training partnership with Suncrest College, we hope to address sonography and other hard to recruit careers in health care and revitalize our local services.”

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers provide ultrasound tests for patients and are in high demand in communities across the province. Saskatchewan residents who want to become sonographers currently go to Alberta to access training seats that are reserved for Saskatchewan students and complete the clinical component of their training in Saskatchewan.

The government’s recent expansion of seats in this program have been secured until at least 202425. Students may also compete for a nonreserved seat at other institutions outside Saskatchewan.

“This new sonography program is another important step for our government to deliver on a key pillar in our Health Human Resources

Action Plan to Recruit, Train, Incentivize and Retain,” Health Minister Everett Hindley said. “I look forward to newly trained sonographers joining our health workforce and building a rewarding career in Saskatchewan.”

Suncrest College is accepting applications until May 15 for the new 28-month program’s first annual intake of six students in fall 2024.

The program will be offered in partnership with Manitoba’s Red River College Polytechnic, which will provide program support and instruction delivered by expert faculty.

Hands on learning will take place in Suncrest’s new on-campus imaging lab. Clinical placements will be provided in hospitals across the province through the Saskatchewan Health

Authority. This initiative supports the goals in Saskatchewan’s Health Human Resources Action Plan, which aims to Recruit, Train, Incentivize and Retain health care providers in a range of key professions. For information about Saskatchewan’s training seat expansions in priority health programs, visit: saskatchewan.ca/hhrtrain.

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Church Directory

KATHLEEN “KAY” JOYCE KOSTERIVA

DECEMBER 30, 1937 - FEBRUARY 27, 1999

In loving memory of our Mom / Grandma who has been gone 25 years.

Always loved

Never forgotten

Forever missed

Love,

Son Dale Kosteriva (Colleen)

Daughter Lori (Darren) Castellan

Daughter Diane (Kevin) Fix

Grandchildren Karrah (Dennis) Radke and family; Staci Kosteriva (Kyle) and family; Cole (Jasmine) Kosteriva and family; Brantin Fix (Hillary); Justine Fix (Dylan)

Daughter-in-Law Donna Kosteriva (Al)

GARRETT LEE MORRISON

SEPTEMBER 17, 1985 – FEBRUARY 26, 2017

AGE 31

TO OUR SON

Of all the precious gifts in life, However great or small, To have you as our son, Was the greatest gift of all. Forever loved, missed, and remembered, Mom and Dad