Meridian Source

A DEADLY ANNIVERSARY

Coldest Night sees best year yet

It may be called the Coldest Night of the Year, but mild weekend temperatures had Lloydminster residents out in droves for the annual fundraising walk.

This year’s event not only saw a record number of walkers, it also saw the most money raised to date, bringing in $40,412. Funds from the walk support The Lloydminster Men’s Shelter’s search for a new home.

“I can’t believe our numbers this year. It’s the

best result we’ve had so far,” said Kagan Kneen, organizer and men’s shelter executive director. “We had 121 registered walkers and we beat our $35,000 fundraising goal before we even started; that’s super exciting.”

“I’m impressed with the city, community sponsors and members of the community for stepping up,” he said.

When asked why he thought this year’s event saw more support than the past, Kneen explained it could be due to conversations around town.

“I think that’s a big thing. There’s a lot more visibility, not just in Lloydminster, but in every major city that has shelter facilities. It’s a tough time right now.”

Although Kneen was pleased with the weather, he did note he wished it was colder.

“I wanted it to be cold because the whole point of this is for people to experience what it’s like to be unhoused and not have a shelter facility available,” said Kneen.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Ukrainian Canadians marched at city hall on Feb. 23 and 24 to mark three years of war with Russia. See Page 2 for more. Taylor Weaver Photo

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Future uncertain as war in Ukraine rages on

The fight may be raging at home, but local Ukrainian Canadians feel support against a war they want to end.

A sea of blue and yellow could be seen at Lloydminster City Hall on Feb. 23 and 24 as members of the local Ukrainian community marked the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.

Sunday’s crowd of roughly 30 enjoyed encouraging honks from passing motorists while sharing their message.

“We want to save our land, our traditions, our people,” said Lloyd resident and Ukraine native Iryna Lukomska.

The former vocational school vice principal moved to Canada in 2022 after the war broke out.

“It was horrible. We didn’t know what happened in our town,” she said. “I was living in the centre of Ukraine, and most events were in the eastern part. We didn’t know what was going on, our phones and internet connection weren’t working.”

Ten days later, Lukomska left her native town and headed to Poland. Three months later, she moved to Canada.

“Canada’s very support of Ukraine, what we’re fighting for, especially for our independence, freedom, our land,” she said, noting she loves the work she does at Odyssey Community Childcare Society.

“I’m working with small kids and it’s a very good opportunity for me. I love it, and I love the community here. They’re very good people.”

The war has also been top-of-mind for Ukrainian native Liliia Savchuk.

“We have a really big (Ukrainian) community here in Lloydminster,” said Savchuk. “I want to tell everybody ‘Don’t be afraid, support Ukraine, donate, love Ukraine, and help each other.’ That’s what we need to know.”

Savchuk has lived in Canada for roughly 10 years and continues to fight for her beliefs and homeland.

“I’m worried about the future but I’m hopeful the world will stand together with Ukraine. If not, Russia will go through Europe. They won’t stop in Ukraine,” she said, noting things have gotten worse in the last year with the reelection of President Donald Trump.

“When Trump won the presidential election, it got worse. He was doing bad things and didn’t understand what was going on in the real world.”

The Russian invasion of major Ukrainian cities started on Feb. 24, 2022. As of January 2025, roughly 46,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed with an additional 390,000 wounded. A total of 12,600 civilians have also been killed. Russian death tolls come in around 95,000, however, military analysts consulted by researchers estimate the list only represents 45 to 65 per cent of Russia’s total casualties.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Taylor Weaver Meriian Source Photos

Coldest night warms hearts

“Standing here doing registration, I’m still chilled, so I can’t imagine what it’s like in -40 C.”

Kneen explained that finding a new home for the men’s shelter has been a challenge.

“

There’s a lot of very positive stories coming from that background and that’s a strong initiative for us to support.

“We’re actively still looking for a new building,” he said. “We’re working with the city and other organizations to see where we can try to find that space that’s going to work for our clients as well as the community.”

Terrance Wagner and his team, Tiz the Seazin to be Freezin, are longtime supporters of the walk and raised $8,999.50 this year. The Cenovus employee and coldest night team captain explained the fundraiser is something everyone can get on board with.

“There’s a lot of donation matching from Cenovus employees and the Cenovus Cares Program,” said Wagner. “We’re Cenovus ambassadors here and Cenovus Cares matches our donations. When we make a personal donation, they match it.”

Wagner, who is also a member of the Knights of Columbus, explained that everyone should volunteer and give back to the community.

“The Knights like to do a lot for the men’s shelter. We’ve had brother Knights struggle over the years and they’ve been in respite care, using the shelter,” he said.

“There’s a lot of very positive stories coming from that background and that’s a strong initiative for us to support.”

COLDEST NIGHT FROM PAGE 1

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

Kiwanis marks 41 years with celebration

The Kiwanis Club of Lloydminster recently celebrated 41 years in the community with a dinner at Spiro’s.

The small club of around a dozen members

joined to celebrate their accomplishments. Meanwhile, a visit from the Lt. Governor Terry Ross coincided with the induction of one new member to the club, Gordon Flath.

Locally, the Kiwanis Club shines with its Santa project, music festival, and the annual Festival of Lights each December. However, the organization mainly focuses on helping kids with vari -

ous requests and requirements throughout the year.

“It was a wonderful night of celebrating what our club stands for,” said club secretary Vera Gallant. “We’ve been around for 41 years and look forward to a bright future.”

To join the club, head over to their website for more information.

Submitted by The Kiwanis Club of Lloydminster

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Public transit decision still in limbo

Despite the Transportation Master Plan being completed in Lloydminster in May 2024, the future of public transit in the border city is still unknown.

The master plan surveyed over 2,500 people. More than half of those surveyed live on the Alberta side.

“There was some options that we looked at. One of the challenges is the number of participants of the survey were huge, 2,500 plus, but 80 per cent of them owned their own vehicle,” said Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

The survey captured nearly 10 per cent of the overall population with 84 per cent of those expressing support for public transit in Lloyd. Of those surveyed, seven per cent were unsure.

The master plan identified a medium-level service as the preferred choice as it provides citywide service coverage with relatively high access to transit service at the neighbourhood level.

The master plan also showed the increase of seniors taxi vouchers being used reaching almost 25,000 in 2023.

Notably from the feedback, respondents identified taxi trips as being too expensive at $15 oneway. There was also a concern for the potential raising of taxes in Lloydminster.

The master plan was presented over half a year ago and there still has yet to be movement on a decision regarding public transit.

“Right now, its gone back to administration looking at some further refinement. Certainly there’s been some discussion and I’ve chatted with some people and they’ve asked,” said Aalbers.

Adding to the potential cost of the transit plan would be building any facilities as a central meeting point for the buses. Aalbers says there is a good solution in the city.

“A facility such as the mall, what we saw in the original proposal from the consultant that just did the work. Would it work or not, or is it possible? Yeah, it’s possible. The mall plays a huge role in this,” he said.

He says the mall would also see benefits from this arrangement.

“Because we need a central hub and if we didn’t have to build another, it would make a lot of sense to take advantage. I think the mall would also see the advantages of being a gathering place,” said Aalbers.

Despite the master plan being completed recently, Aalbers says there’s money set aside for another study.

“There was some money set aside to do some

future study this year in the budget,” he said.

While the details of what another study would look like are still unknown, Aalbers comments the federal election casts doubt on the idea of public transit.

“There’s so many factors around public transit that for us to step forward and say we’re going to do x today or tomorrow, I’d be very hesitant to lead the charge until we know what we have, the direction of the federal government,” said Aalbers, explaining the operational cost coming back to the city is something they’ll have to consider.

At a recent council meeting, Coun. Michael Diachuk spoke to the importance of public transit in Lloyd.

“From my perspective, I think one of the things we’ve talked about is looking at some alternatives for transit. I believe the only way we’re gonna be successful is with a partnerships with the school divisions as well as the college. We all need to work together around that,” he said.

Diachuk was speaking specifically to the need for public transit serving both school districts and the college.

He says he wants to be able to create a transit model the schools could tap into and use.

“This is one where, we as a city, can’t go on it alone. I think virtually every transit program we’ve seen that works is still losing money. We want to see transit as a shift in culture where students see it as an alternative to every kid getting a car when they’re 16 years old,” said Diachuk.

Aalbers says Border City Connects works with the school districts to provide transportation.

“I understand Border City Connects has a contract with both school boards to ensure those individuals that aren’t able to use an ordinary school bus have access to transportation to the school,” he said.

“We need to have some in-depth conversations with two school boards, with Lakeland College.”

Aalbers says the plan is in administration’s hands for further refinement.

“I think we really need to dig in a little deeper with administration and find what is the potential usage,” he said.

Explore all of what Lloydminster has to offer with the Spring Guide, featuring events and programs taking place from April through June, and Summer Fun Camps in July and August. Lloydminster.ca/Guides

RIBBON SKIRT MAKING

MAR 1 • 10 AM - 4 PM • $100

Make your very own beautiful Ribbon Skirt. Materials are provided, please bring your own sewing machine. 780-874-3720

Lloydminster.ca/LMAProgram

CHESS CLUB

MAR 13 • 6-7:30 PM • $5

Up for a game? We welcome chess enthusiasts of all skill levels. Join us for a friendly match, share strategies, and learn from each other. 780-874-3720

Lloydminster.ca/LMAPrograms

FROM BARTER TO BITCOIN: THE HISTORY OF MONEY

MAR 18 • 6-7:30 PM • AGES 13+ • $5

Explore the history of money, from ancient bartering to digital transactions, and discover its impact on civilizations, economies, and daily life. 780-874-3720

Lloydminster.ca/LMAPrograms

SERVUS SPORTS CENTRE

Learn how to transform your stories through self-expression and make sentences “pop” with a unique sports-based approach. 780-875-4529

Lloydminster.ca/Register

MAR 28 • 6-8 PM • $22 AGES 7-11

Explore how science and sports are connected, erupt a snow volcano and more! 780-875-4529

Lloydminster.ca/Register

Stock Photo

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Bonnyville theatre closer to securing loan

Local Business Directory

lease agreement with Bonnyville Centralized High School, as they hold the assets.

The future of the Strathcona Performing Arts Centre is looking a little brighter as Bonnyville council has given first reading to a loan bylaw.

At the Jan. 28 council meeting, the Clayton Bellamy Foundation for the Arts came as a delegation to guarantee a loan to complete the theatre. The remaining amount to complete the performing arts centre is $1.1 million. The foundation already has a $300,000 loan from the Northern Lights School Division, leaving them $800,000 short.

The foundation requested the remaining shortfall from the Town of Bonnyville, where they discussed the matter.

Since the Jan. 28 meeting, administration has worked to create a bylaw and presented it at the Feb. 11 meeting.

The bylaw states the amount of money to be loaned is up to $800,000 for the purpose of completing the theatre. The term of the loan is three years with five per cent yearly interest.

Coun. Byron Johnson suggested a longer term for the loan.

“I’d like to give them every opportunity for success and maybe move it to four years so they would have three years just in case,” he said.

Johnson also outlined the importance of this project and getting another theatre stage, as Bonnyville has produced a lot of talent from the area, speaking in favour of the bylaw.

Coun. Kayla Blanchette raised some concerns regarding the loan agreement.

“What I didn’t see in the loan agreement was any sort of security on this loan,” she said.

Administration clarified any improvements in the performing arts centre would be under the

It was also noted the Clayton Bellamy Foundation for the Arts was not willing to provide a personal guarantee for the loan. A guarantee is something Coun. David Sharun would like to see, even if it was just a small amount of the overall loan.

He spoke in favour of the project and its impact to the community.

“This is a project we need in our community. It’s so important. I’ve been involved in theatre and the fine arts since I was in high school, to have something like this in our community is a bonus,” said Sharun.

He did have questions regarding the loan default process in the bylaw.

“If they do go into default, what happens then? I couldn’t really see or it’s not clear in there what the next steps would be,” said Sharun.

According to administration, if the loan is defaulted, the next steps would be legal proceedings.

Coun. Neil Langridge acknowledged the work the foundation’s been doing.

“The foundation has done a good job surrounding themselves with business-minded people. Its been a change seeing some of our community leaders on their board helping them try to get to the finish line on this,” he said.

Mayor Elisa Brosseau says the risk in this loan is worth it.

“I do believe this is good risk for the betterment of the community,” she said.

An amendment was made to make the loan to the foundation four years as opposed to three.

Administration will now advertise the bylaw and bring it back to a future council meeting for second and third reading.

SVFFA hosting training in Britannia

An upcoming training session in the R.M. of Britannia aims to keep firefighters safe while teaching the basics.

The session, operated by the Saskatchewan Volunteer Firefighter Association (SVFFA), is open to any new or old firefighter wanting to review the basics. The fire hall will host the training program on March 8 and 9.

The course combines three

essentials of fire fighting. The lessons teach participants how to predict fire behaviour and take necessary actions to control or prevent it. Additionally, the program includes training on the proper identification, use, and maintenance of personal protective clothing.

Longtime firefighter and SVFFA vice president, Aaron Buckingham, stresses the importance of this training.

“There are basic things fire -

fighters do on almost every call. If you’re brilliant at the basics, you can be ready for the not-sobasic,” said Buckingham, noting he often hears people ask “Why are we learning this or teaching this again?” or how the training is boring.

“In my opinion, none of it’s boring if its going to save the lives of people or your fellow firefighters and bring everyone home safe at the end of the night,” he said.

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

Courtesy Clayton Bellamy Foundation of the Arts

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

RCMP fire shots, pursue and arrest two

Lloydminster RCMP arrested two men after a stolen vehicle crashed into a home on Feb. 20.

RCMP officers found the stolen vehicle around 1 p.m. It was occupied at the time. During the interaction, a confrontation took place. An officer fired their gun, and the vehicle sped away.

A short time later the vehicle crashed into a residence. Officers arrested two people. No injuries were reported.

Jeffrey Gervais, 31, of Lloydminster, faces several charges, including:

• Assault on a police officer with a weapon

• Dangerous driving

• Theft of a motor vehicle

• Possession of stolen property over $5,000

• Fleeing from police

• Resisting arrest

• Failing to comply with a release order (two counts)

• Driving while prohibited

A Justice of the Peace remanded him into custody. He will appear in Lloydminster court in Alberta on Feb. 25.

Treston Cataract, 28, of Lloydminster, also faces charges. They include:

• Theft of a motor vehicle

• Possession of stolen property over $5,000

• Resisting arrest

A Justice of the Peace released Cataract on a Release Order. He will appear in Lloydminster court in Alberta on March 11.

Aaron Foster case sees continued delay in court system

Aaron Foster, 42, a former Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association (LMHA) board member facing multiple charges of fraud and theft, had his court case delayed for the second time on Feb. 18.

The Alberta Provincial Court in Lloydminster initially scheduled the case for Jan. 28 and Feb. 18. How -

ever, he will now have his chance to file a plea on March 11.

Additionally, Foster is facing four charges: fraud over $5,000, theft over $5,000, criminal breach of trust and false pretense.

The Lloydminster RCMP‘s investigation found Foster allegedly stole over $300,000 from the association through fraud and theft over a fiveyear period.

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Stock Photo

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Dan Gray Meridian Source

Each month, the Source highlights one member of the community as a fun way to bring us all closer together!

This month, we featured Kurt Price from the Live with Kurt Price show !

If you didn’t do what you do for a living, what would you be doing?

Santa Claus (If you know, you know!).

It’s Sunday morning, what are you having for breakfast?

I’m having two sausage McMuffins.

If you could see one concert, what would it be?

Queen! Best Rock Band of ALL TIME!

If you could have one super power, what would it be?

Understanding women.

What was your childhood celebrity crush?

Alyssa Milano from Who’s the Boss. What, we’re pretty much the same age.

What is your favourite TV show?

WKRP Cincinnati - Season 1 Episode 7- Turkeys Away.

What’s your dream car?

At my age, something I can get in and out of easily, lol. Let’s go with A 2025 Platinum Nissan Armada.

What’s your fast-food guilty pleasure?

Baconator, I’m a meatatarian, it’s a personal choice.

Last book you couldn’t

put down?

Big Shout out here to local author, Jack Lindquist, Valley of the Turtle Shirt Men. I have the new book by Jack, haven’t read it yet.

Which person, alive or dead, would you like to have dinner with?

Let’s go with somebody fun here and say John Candy.

What’s the one thing you haven’t done that you’d

love to do?

Travel to Europe to see the places our veterans fought to liberate and keep us free.

What’s the best thing about Lloydminster?

The people, and as a bonus because I grew up in Sask and, visit Ontario now, no PST or HST.

If we’re buying you’re having....

A Tomahawk steak with mac and cheese and bacon bits. I already told you, I’m a meatatarian.

What’s your favourite vacation destination?

Disneyland, glad we went before the dollar tanked cause now, Yikes!

What’s your weirdest habit?

I cross my legs like a frog when I sleep.

What’s currently playing in your car or on your smartphone right now?

Cher, Heart of Stone album. The 50th SNL Anniversary made me break it out.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

When two semis drive through Lloyd on Highway 16 side by side from one end to the other!

What are your words to live by?

We’re here for a good time, not a long time.

Who’s your hero?

There are several people I admire that have taught me to be generous with my time and dollars and give back when I can. My Dad, Paul Klassan, Ken Baker just to name a few.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

I dressed up like Cupid on a resort in Mexico and shot people with my love bow and arrow. I split my pants at the Bobcats Golf Tournament in front of everyone. I walked out on stage at a sold-out Vic Juba to introduce a celebrity and forgot her name.

I could go on and on and on and on and I haven’t even mentioned bathrooms yet.

Supplied Photo

FCM no more for Vermilion council

CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

The Town of Vermilion will not be renewing their membership to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).

FCM advocates for local communities to ensure their citizens’ needs are reflected in federal policies and programs.

Following the Feb. 4 council meeting, Vermilion council postponed the motion to rejoin FCM to a future council meeting. They also requested additional information as to what FCM offers to them.

At the Feb. 18 council meeting, council got the opportunity to review an email correspondence from FCM.

“I feel there’s a benefit, it is a budgeted item already, it is in your budget, it’s $1169.10 it’s not a large amount but ultimately it’s up to you guys,” said interim CAO Mike van der Torre.

Deputy Mayor Joshua Rayment started the discussion, still not sold on the use of money to remain with FCM.

“I feel if we could take that $1169 and put it towards our payment to the (Vermilion) Chamber of Commerce, I’d rather see that. I feel that is something that affects local people local businesses. I feel like FCM, even their email is just repeating the rhetoric that’s on their website they just excluded all of the stuff we don’t care about at the local level,” he said.

The issues FCM covers were also an issue with Rayment.

“Our concern locally isn’t climate change and equity programs and things like that. We’re here to make sure our municipality runs and runs in a straightforward fashion. I think supporting our municipality is key. I just see that other committees and groups would more well-serve the funding we have available,” he said.

Other councillors voiced their opposition to the idea of rejoining FCM.

“I’m not really sold on what they sent back to us it seems very big city,” said Coun. Paul Conlon.

Coun. Robert Snow says the town needs to be smart with how they spend their money.

“Our role as council is being wise and prudent where our money goes. We want to see that return we want to see the perceived value when we’re spend -

ing money.”

The motion to renew their FCM membership was unanimously defeated by council.

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Photo

Thursday, February 27, 2025

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On Wednesdays, we wear pink!

Pink Shirt Day takes over Lloydminster

Pink Shirt Day was yesterday, Feb. 26, and we at the Meridian Source proudly support the initiative each year.

Pink Shirt Day is an annual anti-bullying event held in Canada and New Zealand. Each year, participants wear pink to raise awareness about bullying, particularly in schools.

Pink Shirt Day was started in 2007, and locally, has raised over $42,000 since the Lloydminster and District Co-op brought it to the border city 15 years ago.

Funds raised throughout the campaign will support various non-profit organizaitons through Beyond Borders Circle of Change.

Thursday, February 27, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Chris’ A-Z: It all started with a moo

Have you ever found something and thought to yourself, this might be worth a lot of money?

Well, for a certain farmer in the 1920s, that thought never crossed his mind.

Many Lloydminster residents might be familiar with the story of Charlie the farmer, the guy who struck oil for the first time in the border city. It all started on his farm in 1925 where Charles Martin Marren, or Charlie to the locals, was worried about his cows having enough water to drink.

Luckily for Marren, a 160-foot well would find water and it was exactly what he needed for those warm summer months when the slew dried up. Fortunately, or unfortunately for the farmer, the cows refused to drink from the well.

In 1926, The Lloydminster Times reported Marren didn’t think anything of it. It wouldn’t be until a visitor from Edmonton took a sample of the water and sent it out to the University of Alberta to be analyzed.

Now, I’m not always the most brilliant guy,

but one thing I always find myself doing is asking why.

If my cows weren’t drinking from a brand new well I just dug up, I’d assume it was poisoned or something. I obviously couldn’t test it myself as I am a writer not a scientist, but still, I would want the why.

When the test results of the water came back it was found to be 75 per cent petroleum distillate. Marren struck gold, or oil, in this case.

This sent The Times into an excited frenzy and spurred an oil rush in Lloydminster.

In local drilling, natural gas was struck in the 1930s and eventually, Husky came to town in the 1940s with its refinery. Heavy oil would be utilized to create asphalt amongst other things.

I just think of how this whole story could’ve been different. Imagine a world where Marren doesn’t think anything of the water, and no one recommends getting it tested.

I’m guessing oil would’ve still been found in the modern age, but Lloydminster would look a lot different.

It would be less likely a refinery would come to town, meaning the surrounding industry would be largely focused on agriculture.

It all makes for a fascinating tale that started with a cow.

Gray Matters: Carts, trash

With the warming weather, my wife and I took our outside-deprived puppy for some much-needed exercise this weekend. The observations made on those trips got me thinking about a well-known thought experiment.

The Thomas Hobbes’ “State of Nature”, described in his book, Leviathan (1651), asks the question what would happen if we didn’t have laws. This weekend showed me the answer, at least here in Lloyd.

We began our trip at the local grocery store, where customers don’t have to return carts to stalls or designated areas. Although most people appear to adhere to the request to return their retail roller to a receptacle, some did not.

No laws require it, so some people decide they don’t have to.

Next, we ventured to Bud Miller All Seasons Park. Signs posted throughout the park state a bylaw requiring pet owners to pick up after their pets. So, a law to enforce what I hope most pet owners consider common sense.

One trip around the loop will tell you, although many responsible pet owners pick up their pets number-two, again, many do not.

I was appalled to see the number of feces, big and small, that dot the trails.

Apparently there is no regard to the safety of other pets and small children who also traverse the area. So, even with a law in place, some in our society flout it and believe it doesn’t apply to them.

Last but not least, as the snow melts around town, we see loads of hidden goodies near our home.

and lawless society

It was bad enough in the fall when students at a local high school blatantly left garbage throughout their parking lot.

The dropped bags, wrappers, and cups blew willy-nilly everywhere in the neighbourhood. Now, the same garbage is starting to plug up local drainage grates, preventing proper relief from thankfully-melting snowbanks.

There is a law in place for that one, too. Public littering is part of another bylaw in the City of Lloydminster.

The Hobbes theory concludes in part that life would be solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short without laws. A weekend excursion into our community has me believing, he might have been right.

GRACE UNITED CHURCH

25024KK0

File Photo

Thursday, February 27, 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

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.

Info Session and Round Table Discussion on Healthcare

Attention all Lloydminster First Nations, (off Reserve), Metis, Non-Status & Inuit. The AMNSIS and Midwest Indigenous Society presents a free soup and bannock lunch and discussion at the Kinsmen Hall (5622 -50 Ave. ) on March 2 at noon. Adults 16 and over only please, please like our Facebook post if you plan on attending so we know how much food to provide!

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

Maidstone United Church is hosting a shrove Tuesday pancake breakfast on March 4 from 5-7 p.m. Adults are $12, kids 6-12 are $8, under five eat free. Menu includes pancakes, sausages, eggs, hashbrowns, ice cream and fruit toppings, and beverages.

Islay

Doubles Crib Tournament

The Islay Community Association 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.

Marwayne Ladies Night

The 3rd annual Marwayne Ladies Night is scheduled for March 29. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and Jennie Ogilvie: Canada’s Unconventional Medium, takes the stage at 7 p.m. The fundraiser will support the town’s Agriplex Improvement Project with new ice surfaces and brine lines, a new ice plant, boards, bleachers and plexiglass.

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.

Lloyd healthcare continues waiting game

Vancouver-based company bid just over $254,000 for the job.

Health services in Lloydminster and area are currently under review, including at the hospital.

During a recent Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meeting, Paul Richer, chair of the Lloydminster and District Health Advisory Council provided an update on the hospital file. He noted a new needs assessment is underway.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) recently awarded Cornerstone Planning Group Partnership the needs assessment contract. The

“The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of healthcare facilities and services in Lloydminster. Then compare them with similarsized municipalities,” said Richer. “This will help identify gaps or areas where the local health system could be improved.”

According to Richer, the company intends to visit Lloydminster only once while conducting multiple virtual interviews with community members, including himself.

He said another group would need to study the assessment before action could be taken, something the SHA refused to comment on when contacted.

Due to Lloyd’s border location, Alberta and Sas -

katchewan agreed to move forward with a new needs assessment. The hospital last underwent a needs assessment in 2013.

“This needs assessment evaluates the current and projected utilization of health services across a number of service lines and is not connected to specific facility replacement or development planning,” continued Graham.

“The outcomes of this study will be used by Alberta and Saskatchewan health authorities to help identify and prioritize potential infrastructure projects.”

Richer is concerned about when and how it will be used. Project completion and the next steps are unclear, and he wants action.

“It’s crucial that once the report is delivered, we do not let it sit idle like previous reports,” said Richer. “We need to study the findings carefully and take action, ensuring the government and health authorities follow through.”

According to Richer, this study could take up to 12 months. This means no significant changes to our local healthcare landscape will happen until at least 2026.

No new buildings or additions are expected until the review is complete.

Source File Photo

Thursday, February 27, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

The Lloydminster Bandits are second-round bound after eliminating the Killam Wheat Kings in Game 5 of North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League (NEAJBHL) playoff action.

The nail in the coffin came on Feb. 23 when the Bandits beat the Wheat Kings 7-4 at the Centennial Civic Centre. The Bandits opened the best-of-seven series with a 5-0 win before a 5-4 OT loss on home.

“It was a great first series with Killam. We started the series playing tight defense and got a shutout in Game 1 then learned some tougher lessons on how not to protect the lead in Game 2,” said head coach Josh Dudding. “All the credit to Killam, they pushed back hard and won in OT.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

BANDITS SECOND ROUND BOUND

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

NOTICE is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM of Wilton No. 472 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the ofﬁce of the assessor:

Monday - Friday (excluding Statutory Holidays)

8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

March 7, 2025 to May 7, 2025

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the RM of Wilton No. 472, Box 40 Marshall, SK S0M 1R0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by an appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful:

Bandits prep for Tigers in round two

FROM PAGE 15

The series travelled to Killam for Games 3 and 4 where the Wheat Kings beat the Bandits 5-4 in OT on Feb. 19 ahead of a 6-1 Bandits win on Feb. 21.

“We headed to Killam for two tough games, that’s gotta be one of the hardest barns to win in, for sure. Credit to their fans and how they play there,” said Dudding. “We came home and were really focused on playing defensive hockey.”

All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the RM of Wilton No. 472. All appeals must be submitted by May 7, 2025 to:

Secretary of the Board of Revision

Kara Lindal secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to RM of Wilton No. 472, Box 40 Marshall SK S0M 1R0 and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.

Dated at Marshall, Saskatchewan, March 7, 2025

Jill Parton Assessor

It was do-or-die for Killam when the series returned to the border city for Game 5 on Feb. 23 as the Bandits held a 3-1 lead.

Captain Joel Webb opened the scoring 30 seconds into Sunday’s game before Killam’s Chase Rombough got the equalizer.

Webb also opened second-period scoring with a power-play goal at 12:17 before Aidan Martens made it 3-1 for the Bandits at 9:47.

Jordan Gagnon got the Wheat Kings within one with a power-play goal at 7:41. Silas Reeds, however, potted a rocket from the blue line to end the second frame for a 4-2 Bandits lead.

Gagnon and Carter Hogman beat Bandits goaltender Shae Stewart

in the third, Zander Varty, Jayden Plamondon and Ben Rawluk, however, also capitalized on Wheat Kings netminder Ethan Edwards for a 7-4 final.

“We have the maturity level being an older team,” said Dudding of this year’s team. “We have quite a few 20-year-olds, and the mentality is we have to get it done this year because, unfortunately, you only get to keep four over-ages. Everybody is motivated in that room, for sure.”

The Bandits face the Vermilion Tigers in the second round of NEAJBHL playoffs. The puck drops at the Centennial Civic Centre for Game 1 on Feb. 27 at 8 p.m.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Rustlers crush Rattlers in weekend sweep

The Lakeland College Rustlers women’s hockey team dominated the Medicine Hat College Rattlers in back-to-back games last weekend, outscoring their opponents 14-1 over two games.

The team also celebrated its firstever graduate ahead of the Feb. 21 game.

Mackenzie Stafford has played hockey for Lakeland for seven years. She is just one of a handful of original team members left with the Rustlers.

“She’s disciplined and committed, always. Always first to the rink for a 7 a.m. practice,” said head coach Morgan Mann.

Her commitment to the team as well as her schoolwork didn’t go unnoticed.

“Mac is going to be an incredible nurse,” said Mann. I know this firsthand from inside hospital sources, she has demonstrated the skills to be a firstclass nurse.”

Stafford was gifted a framed jersey with a photo inside as recognition for her dedication to the team.

Then, it was time to drop the puck.

Lakeland shut out Medicine Hat 8-0 on Feb. 21, leaving no doubt who the better team on the ice was.

The Rustlers jumped out early, scoring four goals in the first period.

Addison Eurich opened the scoring just two minutes into the game. Claudia Lammers,

Keyra Buziak and Stafford each added goals before the first intermission.

The second period saw more of the same. Lakeland scored four more times, including a powerplay goal from Alyssa Shaw. Belle Smith assisted on four goals. Goaltender Janae Neufeld stopped all 18 shots she faced, earning the shutout.

The next night (Feb. 22), Lakeland put on another winning effort. The Rustlers defeated the Rattlers 6-1. Medicine Hat opened the scoring on a powerplay goal by Kiyra Kletzel, but Lakeland responded quickly. Ella Wingert, Hailey Carothers, and Brooklyn Salewski each found the net.

Lakeland continued to dominate in the second period. Ellie Baril and Salewski extended the lead. The third period saw one final goal from Janay Williams.

Lakeland goalie Mackenzie GouldSharpe made five saves in the win. Penalties were a major factor over the weekend. Medicine Hat had 24 penalty minutes on Friday and 29 minutes on Saturday. Lakeland’s

power play capitalized once but controlled the play throughout.

The Rustlers are set to start playoffs next weekend. Game One of the playoffs is at the Russ Robertson Arena on Feb. 28 at 7 p.m.

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Dan Gray Meridian Source

Bobcats back in win column

Fritz named AJHL Player of Week

The boys in black and orange are back in the win column after besting opponents in four of their last five games.

The ‘Cats most recent success was found on home ice with a 6-3 win over the Drayton Valley Thunder on Feb. 23. Before the win, the Bobcats beat Grande Prairie 4-1 on Feb. 18, the Devon Xtreme 4-0 on Feb. 17 and the Olds Grizzlys 5-1 on Feb. 12.

The team’s only loss in recent wee ks came at the hands of the Camrose Kodiaks with a 1-0 win on Feb. 15 at the Centennial Civic Centre.

The ‘Cats are back at the Civic this weekend to host Olds on Feb. 28 and Drumheller on March 1.

In other Bobcats’ news, forward Luke Fritz was recently named the Canalta Hotels AJHL Player of the Week. Fritz recorded three multipoint games between Feb. 17-23.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Photos courtesy of JD Photography

Rustlers men’s volleyball finish fourth

The Lakeland College Rustlers men’s volleyball team’s season came to an end over the weekend with a fourth-place finish in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference championship.

The Rustlers started championship weekend with a 3-2 win over the Olds College Broncos on Feb. 20 before a 3-0 semi-final loss to the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings on Feb. 21.

Saturday saw the Rustlers take on the Keyano College Huskies for bronze. The Huskies bested the Rustlers 3-0 for the bronze.

Saturday’s gold-medal game saw the Red Deer Kings best the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks 3-1 for the provincial win.

The Red Deer Kings will travel to Niverville, Man., next week for Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association nationals.

25024DD0

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Word on the beat: Public not at risk

Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

After a violent incident occurs, police may put out a media release stating there is no risk to the public. This means factors are known in which the public is not generally at risk, however, an explanation of the factors is not provided.

The main reason for the lack or information being released is due to investigative strategy/integrity or privacy issues.

If an incident occurred where two people were deceased and police are not looking for a suspect, this typically would indicate a murder-suicide. Police do not report suicides to the media, however, in a case of a murder-suicide, it may be reported due to the murder.

If we say we aren’t looking for a suspect, that means we either have them in custody, they are deceased, or possibly previously incarcerated. It is also possible the suspect doesn’t know we suspect them but have enough evidence to know their identity and just don’t want them to know we know, yet.

Generally, when we restrict the public dissemination of information related to a suspect, it can be for the integrity of the investigation. What this often means is, even a bit of information being released may inhibit an investigation.

This could be because we don’t want to tip off a suspect due to an investigation and need to keep it as quiet as possible.

Please know that consideration for the public and providing information is always involved as more serious incidents happen but we do have laws to follow. The Privacy Act identifies information that has restrictions on what can be made public, as do other laws. The Youth Criminal Justice Act prohibits us from releasing a person’s identifying information if they are under the age of 18.

The law allows us to release the name of an adult who has been charged with a criminal offense. Once we swear/affirm a document called an Information,

which is the formal process of laying a criminal charge, we are allowed to tell you who and why. The information in those media releases is limited because we aren’t laying out an investigation but we do recognize that sometimes people have many questions about the charges.

The court appearance location and date of a person charged are usually in our media releases because now the public can attend and watch the proceedings. Details are presented by the Crown Attorney outlining the circumstances of the charge and if it goes to trial, you can attend and hear everything about the incident and subsequent investigation.

Considerations on releasing information to the public are not merely done because people are curious.

If an incident could have significant media coverage then we will likely do a release. If there is an identified risk to the public, then a media release will be sent out. It is a bit of ‘if you need to know, you’ll be informed’, but please know, information isn’t held back ‘just because’.

- 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.

Over 250 calls kept RCMP busy

in January

Traffic-related incidents, property crimes and reports of suspicious activity kept Vermilion RCMP in January.

They answered 273 calls for service in the first month of the year. Police responded to 116 traffic or vehicle complaints. Meanwhile, they also investigated 43 property crimes and 14 crimes against people. Furthermore, officers attended 24 traffic collisions and three reports of suspicious persons or vehicles. Of the 43 property crimes, 12 were mischief-related, five were break-ins, and 12 were thefts. Police also investigated six fraud cases and three stolen vehicles. RCMP received 11 calls about spousal abuse. Additionally, they also responded to five mental health concerns.

Officers laid 54 charges in Janu ary; 19 were crimi nal charges, 31 were provincial offences, and four were drugrelated.

DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER

Adobe Stock Photo

PAGE 21

Thursday, February 27, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

306-825-5111

bailey@meridiansource.ca

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