Meridian Source - January 6, 2022 by Meridian Source

Thursday, January 6, 2022

VOLUME 4 I ISSUE 28

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Pioneer Lodge plans $23.5 million add-on GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Pioneer Lodge seniors’ residence is hoping to generate community and political support for a proposed three-storey expansion to meet the growing demand for spaces and healthcare. The addition would create 90 new units, including 51 for couples at an estimated cost of $23.5 million and possibly provide care to the level a resident needs it. “Pioneer had over 100 names on a waiting list going into COVID to join a 132-unit facility,” said Pioneer House and Lodge administrator Joy Bell. “The need for Lodge level is still there. We currently have just under 60 names on the waiting list.” Bell points out about 70 Lodge residents have been assessed by Saskatchewan Home Care in the past year as needing level 3 or level 4 care, and one person who requires a longterm care facility.

“As we are sitting with people that have increasing needs, and we are struggling to meet those, there’s no place for those people to go,” said Bell. “It’s definitely very clear, there is a need in our area for all levels of care.” The expansion will add to the current 42 ground-level units, using the existing building footprint. Bell presented the plan and conceptual drawings to the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society in mid-December with a key mission in mind from Pioneer’s management board. “What we’re trying to do is rally support from the provincial and federal governments and educate people in our area on what could be,” explained Bell. “We need to have the people in Edmonton and in Regina understand what the needs of our area are.” Bell noted 35 per cent of Pioneer residents come from Saskatche-

wan, but the province provides no funding to the facility. “The care for our residents comes from Saskatchewan Home Care, so the only thing they can provide is scheduled care,” she said. Alberta’s deputy minister of seniors and housing, Lisa Sadownik, has accepted an invitation from Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers to tour Lloyd and Pioneer shortly. Bell says their hope is to sell Alberta on the need to support the expansion and different levels of care. Pioneer Lodge is an independent senior living facility with Level 2 care only, while Pioneer House provides supported living care for 44 residents needing Level 4 and 4D care. “We want Pioneer to have the contract (Alberta Health Services) to provide the level of care for the whole facility not just Pioneer House,” said Bell. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Videre Images by Jason Whiting

Local photographer, Jason Whiting of Videre Images, captured this beautiful photo on New Year’s Eve at Candle Lake Golf Course. We at the Meridian Source wish you all a great 2022!

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Pioneer pumped on expansion pitch

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Pioneer House and Lodge administrator, Joy Bell, unveiled a proposal for a $23.5 million expansion of Pioneer Lodge at the last Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meeting of 2021. The facility is seeking community and government support for a three to fourstorey addition. FROM PAGE 1

“We want to grow our care team, so we can meet the needs of our residents at the Lodge level. Pioneer also wants to negotiate with AHS to have flex spaces (beds) in the expansion to boost in-service care. “The idea behind flex space is, each unit will have the ability to support an individual at any level of need,” Bell explained. She says if an assessment is made noting a resident needs Level 3 care, Home Care assistant time would be provided to meet the need while enabling that senior to stay in the community. “The main benefit is we’re meeting people’s needs in their home communities in their comfort zone,” said Bell. “Because we can meet people’s needs

quickly because we’re adjusting staff to do it, we can keep them at that level longer.” Bell believes this would also take a lot of pressure off the acute care system long-term care beds. She says flex space is a newer concept that will require more investigation before they can promise anything, but Graham Brown, president of Seniors Society, likes the idea. “It’s a good one because it allows them to change the level of service as the client requires it. It’s really a patient-focused solution,” said Brown. “We feel long-term spaces are always a concern in our community, so it’s going to be something we need to be promoting and working on continuously.” Pioneer board is also floating the idea of adding a fourth storey to

create life lease condos to support the cost of construction. “You’re on the right track,” said Dr. Raff Sayeed, who noted those units would provide a low-income-housing niche for a single person or couple who could eventually become a Lodge resident. Lloydminster Region Health Foundation CEO, Malcolm Radke, also voiced enthusiasm for the project. “The last time they did an expansion for the Pioneer House, we helped them with the local fundraising portion of the campaign,” said Radke. “If the provincial government is interested, then I am sure the community will certainly be ready as well.” Bell says they could be shovel-ready by the spring of 2023 if things fall into place quickly.

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Mount Joy to attempt cold opener

Geoff Lee File Photo

Snowboarders and skiers are hyped for an attempted season opening at Mount Joy Snow Resort this Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting. GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. When Mother Nature speaks, Mount Joy Snow Resort listens. The climate authority frowned on an early startup two days after Christmas but has yet to advise resort president, Chris Bogue, on the officially planned season opener Jan. 8-9. “We’re going to try to open it up for this weekend as long as Mother Nature is okay with it,” said Bogue on Tu es day , w i t h a ne w extreme cold warning in effect from Environment Canada. “It doesn’t look great for Saturday, but Sunday looks like it will be okay and then after that, it should be smooth sailing for the rest of the foreseeable future.” Bogue warns if it’s colder than -25C or -30C with the windchill, then they won’t be opening in keeping with their inclement weather policy. Skiers and snowboarders are advised to stay tuned to the resort’s Facebook page and local radio alerts for the opening status. “Everyone seems like they’re pretty stoked to get back out and get back on the slopes and try it out,” said Bogue. Meanwhile, Canada West Ski Areas Asso-

ciation that represents ski hills in Western Canada, cautions area employees and volunteers to be aware of signs of cold stress and take extra steps to keep warm and cover exposed skin. They note Alberta OH&S has prepared some online resources about working in extreme temperatures. The link is ohs-pubstore.labour.alberta.ca/ gs006. Bogue said everything was set to go for an early opening on Dec. 27, “but Mother Nature just said nay” during the first extreme cold warning of the winter from Environment Canada. “It sounds like all the other ski areas in our area did the same

thing, they were all closed,” said Bogue. He says during the initial cold snap, they didn’t send their groomer out or attempt to make snow. “We’ve learned our lesson in the past— trying to do anything when it’s brutally cold, usually ends in cold people and broken equipment,” said Bogue. “So we said, we’re going to make ‘snow when it’s optimum’ and that’s what we’ve done and we’ve done a very good job.” In the past two weeks, however; Mother Nature has dumped a ton of natural snow on Mount Joy that awaits fresh tracks when the hill opens. “It’s going to be awe-

some out there,” said Bogue, who noted the groomer was packing fresh snow on Tuesday on top of a solid base of man-made snow. “We don’t have visual confirmation, but I imagine the glades will be in good shape for our skiers and snowboarders as well with the snow that fell in the last 36 hours.” Bogue said the volunteer snowmaking crew did an amazing job getting the base down and getting the hill ready in case Mother Nature d id n’t come t hrou gh with snow. “We can’t really plan for that,” said Bogue. Mount Joy is also following the same COVID “tailgating” protocols as last year with skiers and snowboarders required to warm up or eat food in their own vehicles. “We have to be the reason we have a season. If we break any of these regulations, we can get shut down,” Bogue explained. “We’re not asking for QR codes or proof of vaccination, but we are asking people on the inside of the building to pick-up only for food— and masks and social distancing.” Bogue says skiing is one of the most COVID-friendly activities you can do. “You’re outside in the fresh air, people aren’t grouped up—with us not having chairs or gondolas. We can really space people better,” he said.

Just to be safe, the resort is recommending

masks outside along with social distancing.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

JOIN US FOR OUR

GRAND OP E N I N G JANUARY 28

Scheduled Library Tours

Tours are scheduled for: 10 a.m., 12 p.m. 2 p.m, 4 p.m, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tours are approximately 20 minutes each. No reservations are required.

JANUARY 29

Children's Story Time with Ann Campbell

Join Ann Campbell from 10:30-11:30 a.m. as she reads her very own children's book "Just a Party" and create a disco ball you can take home for a party of your own.

Joy of Journalling Works hop with Michele Charles Gustafson

In this author's visit and mini-workshop, Michele will share personal stories from her own journal journey and how it helped her design a life she loves. Join us from 1-2 p.m. and stay for the book signing after!

JANUARY 30

Community Showcase

Join us from 2-4 p.m. at the LloydMall as we feature local community groups, including dancing, singing, musical theatre and more!

JANUARY 31

Virtual Reading with Marie Donais Calder

Marie Donais Calder has authored a series of books based on real people, centering around her father and his experiences during the war in Germany. This reading is geared for seniors and takes place from 10:30-11:15 a.m.

FEBRUARY 1

Teen Anime Club Kick-off

The kickoff runs from 4-5 p.m. and features a session of Rakugo, the traditional Japanese art of storytelling. Share silly and spooky short stories of your own or choose to read from one of the short stories provided.

Conveniently located at the LloydMall Call 780-875-0850 or visit www.lloydminster.info for more details.

City and mayor rush into 2022 GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers expects the city to put the pedal to the metal this year to check off an impressive list of projects in the works. The city is off to a fast start in January with the soft re-opening of the Lloydminster Public Library on Wednesday at its new location in the LloydMall. Aalbers says there will be an official opening later in the month following an expected site selection for a proposed new event arena to replace the Centennial Civic Centre on Thursday. “The top priority in 2022 is moving forward on several projects on the infrastructure side, starting with working towards a new arena,” said Aalbers in a late-December outlook for 2022. He said there were about five different arena locations in the city being proposed and looked at. The city issued a news release on Jan. 4 noting the city is expected to pick the site at a special meeting of Council on Jan. 6 at 1:30 p.m. The estimated cost of the arena is approximately $50 million, including potential site infrastructure. The city has submitted a full grant application to Saskatchewan Investing in Canada Infrastructure for the bulk of arena funding with the city to contribute about $14 million. Aalbers says the construction yardsticks will continue to move further ahead in February with an infrastructure build at the $81 million wastewater treatment plant. “It’s kind of out of sight out of mind, but all of a sudden within a couple of weeks, you’ll see a building erected. It’s a pre-cast building that’s going to arrive in February,” said Aalbers. Moving ahead, he said the next major project milestone will be the opening of the new Fire Hall No. 1 in late spring or early summer. Ground was broken on the $7.1 million Fire Hall at 3752-47 St. last April. Aalbers says the city will continue to pursue economic development opportunities and try to make our community more attractive and better for the businesses in 2022. He notes the seniors housing subdivision, Wellings of Lloydminster at 72 Ave. and 29 St., by private developer Nautical Lands Group is shovel ready following site prep in 2021. “They started work and went at it pretty hard. We look forward to seeing continued development there this year,” said Aalbers. He also believes Canadian Tire plans to construct their new building this year just west of Marks

File Photo

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

Work Warehouse. Aalbers says the city will continue to have its hands full in 2022 dealing with bi-provincial issues that impact city residents, headed by healthcare challenges. “We’re going to continue to lobby and work with the two governments and the ministries to improve the quality of delivery of healthcare services,” said the mayor. Aalbers says healthcare is a pretty broad topic and includes Netcare (Alberta) and eHealth (Saskatchewan) to ensure information flows easily from doctors and diagnostic information. He notes EMS is still on people’s minds to resolve the issues with two providers currently serving the city. “There’s a whole raft of other healthcare items,” said Aalbers. “The other one would be the economic recovery, making sure both provinces are in sync with the work we’re doing and us working jointly with them to encourage development for new opportunities.” The mayor says Lloydminster residents will have a lot of events to enjoy this year, especially at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds. “We’re going to have two sets of chuckwagon (races) this year just like last year and they’re planning for a fair,” said Aalbers. There’s the North American Chuckwagon Championship in July and the CPCA Finals in August. “We’ll see what the back half of the year brings,” he said. Aalbers has little time to look back at 2021, but he notes the highlight of the past year was the resiliency of people and businesses during a year of the pandemic.

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

United Way knows Seniors Need Santa, Too TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

The Lloydminster and District United Way knows that Seniors Need Santa, Too, which is why they provided roughly 800 seniors with $25 Co-op gift cards for Christmas. The local United Way started the Seniors Need Santa, Too campaign after seeing seniors have basic needs at Christmas time, such as groceries and toiletries. The United Way teamed up with the Lloydminster and District Co-op through its Spread a Little Love campaign to help area seniors have an extra special Christmas. “The Lloydminster and District Co-op has its annual Spread a Little Love campaign, and every year on the tree there are requests for presents such as storybooks. Last year they saw a big transition,

which was an even bigger transition this year, to requests for more central items such as food, etc., so we felt like we wanted to do something for the seniors,” said Lloydminster and District United Way board member, Tricia Hunter, just before the holidays. “We’re giving every senior on the Spread a Little Love campaign a $25 gift card to the Co-op so they can get those extra items as they need them.” With over 800 seniors in Lloydminster and the surrounding area identified by The Olive Tree as ‘in need’ this year, Hunter reached out to the community for support. “With the community coming forward, we had numero us do natio ns come in from across the city including support from Sip Graze Love, Rec-Tech Power Products, Excel Insur-

ance Group Lloydminster, Sabre Machining, Denham Chrysler, Westridge Buick/GMC,” she said. Hunter explained she was talking about the campaign while on the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation’s annual Gift To Health radiothon fundraiser on Dec. 7 and was blown away by what happened next. “While we were doing the interview, Boundary Ford heard we were short $10,000 to meet our $18,000 goal, and today we’re here picking up a cheque for $10,000 to get us to our goal.” “I think it’s very important to recognize the needs in the community, especially those needs that may sometimes be overlooked,” said Carly Pollard, marketing manager, Boundary Ford. “It’s important for us to find the needs of all of our community mem-

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Boundary Ford Gives Foundation representatives present a cheque for $10,000 to the Lloydminster and District United Way to support its Seniors Need Santa, Too campaign.

bers, and if there’s ever an opportunity for us to help out and give back, that’s something that Boundary Ford Gives likes to do and that’s what we will continue to do.” Hunter went on to explain how it was community teamwork that prevailed and got the job done. “The Co-op had all of their gifts to deliver, and since they already

had the names of the seniors, we just piggybacked off of their list,” said Hunter. “We attached a Christmas card and the gift cards from the United Way to the Co-op’s Spread a Little Love gift, so each senior on the list gets two gifts,” she said. “The Olive Tree does the work identifying the need in the community, so we thought joining them and working with

the Co-op would be a great idea.” Hunter also noted the excitement everyone involved has been experiencing. “Every time we go to the care homes the staff gets excited because they’re the ones who see those Christmas-morning expressions when they get to open gifts – while knowing someone was thinking about them.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Seniors lobby Pioneer build “We know the bi-provincial city challenges us at the greatest of times. We will continue to persevere,” he said.

“

I am convinced in my heart, if it hadn’t been for the support of this group and citizens as a whole in Lloydminster, we wouldn’t have Pioneer House today.

Geoff Lee File Photo

Graham Brown, president of the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society pictured speaking at an outdoor meeting at the Legacy Centre last fall, is hoping the Alberta government will fully support funding for a planned expansion of Pioneer Lodge to meet the demand. On the right is Ruby Trudel with the seniors’ group. GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. It’s no surprise Pioneer Lodge administrator Joy Bell pitched a proposal for a $23.5 million expansion of the seniors’ facility at the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society. “They’ve always been a very supportive group,” said Bell following the December meeting. “I am convinced in my heart, if it hadn’t

been for the support of this group and citizens as a whole in Lloydminster, we wouldn’t have Pioneer House today.” Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers, Dr. Raff Sayeed, MLA Colleen Young and Lloydminster Region Health Foundation CEO Malcolm Radke, also attended the presentation. “We’re happy to see support from the city for the same project,” said Seniors Care Society, president Graham

Brown, who facilitated the gathering at the Legacy Centre. “The city is very supportive of our group and we’re very supportive of the politicking and lobbying they are doing continually to improve healthcare in Lloydminster, especially for seniors.” Pioneer’s management board is advocating a funding partnership between Alberta and the federal government to cover the cost

of construction. Bell notes 35 per cent of Pioneer residents are from Saskatchewan, but the province doesn’t provide any funding to the facility. “The care for our residents comes from Saskatchewan Home Care, so the only thing they can provide is scheduled care,” she said. Aalbers says the challenge is this is a provincial matter, referring to many healthcare funding issues.

Brown says the plan looks good, despite the challenge in Lloydminster having to work with two governments on seniors’ issues. “We’re sure supportive of Pioneer Lodge being able to get the funding to build this facility,” he said. The Pioneer expansion plan is the latest issue added to the list of seniors’ lobbying priorities in 2022. “One of the main things were going to be looking at in 2022 is the amount of long-term beds. As we heard from Pioneer Lodge, there are still huge waiting lists for Levels 2, 3 and

4,” said Brown. “That’s going to be key for us working this year.” Brown says they will be activating the committee for long-term spaces in the Lloydminster working group in 2022 to work on fulfilling more needs in the community. “When we’re talking about long-term spaces in Lloydminster we mean the region. That’s the area we’re working to fill the need for,” explained Brown. He is also pleased to know Alberta’s deputy minister of seniors and housing is coming to Lloydminster soon to tour Pioneer Lodge. “Joy was presenting that today and it’s a great idea,” said Brown. “I love the fact it is a community-driven solution. It’s driven by a community board and community people.” He thinks Pioneer’s assessment of the community needs is very good. Pioneer is advocating to supply the level of care residents need so they don’t have to move to another care facility as they age. “There’s lots of flexibility for all levels of service, which is just fantastic,” Brown said.

Cenovus selling Tucker for $800M GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Cenovus Energy expects to complete the sale of its Tucker thermal asset for $800 million in cash by the end of January. Proceeds from this transaction announced in December will further accelerate the

company’s reduction of net debt and enhance its capacity to increase shareholder returns. The sale enabled Cenovus to realize nearly $2 billion in asset sales in 2021. “This is yet another example of Cenovus seizing opportunities to generate

incremental value for shareholders,” said Alex Pourbaix, Cenovus’s president and chief executive officer in a statement. Tucker is located near Cold Lake, Alberta and is expected to produce between 18,000 and 21,000 barrels of oil a day in 2022.

File Photo

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Lloyd fund dealer penalized MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Guy Edward Dudding, a former director with Investors Group Financial Services Inc. in Lloydminster, has been fined $990,600 by the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada (MFDA) following a penalty hearing on five misconduct allegations. The former branch manager is also permanently banned from conducting securities related business in any capacity while in the employ of or associated with any MFDA member company. The penalty hearing was held by videoconference on Dec. 17 in Calgary before a threemember Hearing Panel of the MFDA’s Prairie Regional Council. Dudding was employed at Investors Group from April 2007 to May 3, 2019 when he was terminated as a result of the misconduct.

He was also registered with MFDA in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Ontario until May 2019, but all business in question was conducted in Lloydminster. The total fine includes $845,600 with respect to an allegation Dudding misappropriated or failed to account for client monies between June 2015 and May 2019. Dudding was fined $20,000 for personal financial dealings pertaining to borrowing money from a client contrary to conflict

of interest policies and procedures of Investors Group and MFDA rules. This allegation covered the period between November 2016 to February 2017. A fine of $25,000 was levied against Dudding for providing a falsified account statement to a client on or about May 9 2017. The statement misled the client about the whereabouts of their investments and monies. The penalty against Dudding includes a $50,000 fine for making a false of mislead-

ing statement between August 2015 and March 2020 to Investors Group or MDFA staff d u ring t he cou rse of investigations into his conduct. A second $50,000 fine pertains to failure to cooperate with the MFDA staff’s investigation commencing in March 2020. The fines include $20,000 for costs of the hearing proceedings. Dudding was the branch manager at Investors Group from March 2014 and September 2017.

New Year tax changes costly GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Taxpayers in Alberta and Saskatchewan are bracing for the cold reality of higher taxes this year to go with the current cold snap. Many of the hikes are outlined in the Canadian Taxpayers Federation’s 2022 New Year’s Tax Changes report released on Dec. 27. Albertans struggling with high inflation and problems posed by the pandemic will get hit once again by income tax “bracket creep” introduced in the province’s 2019 budget. Bracket creep happens when governments don’t move tax brackets with inflation and inflation automatically bumps taxpayers into a higher tax bracket, even though they can’t actually afford to buy more. In 2022, bracket creep will cost an Alberta taxpayer between $44.50 and $141.13, depending on income, but Saskatch-

ewan taxpayers are off the hook. Saskatchewan rein de xe d its p e rso n al income tax brackets to the same indexation rate (2.4 per cent) as the federal government in 2021. This means that going forward, residents of Saskatchewan will not be pushed into higher tax brackets due to inflation. Small businesses in Saskatchewan will be hit by higher taxes this year and in 2023. The Saskatchewan g o v e rn m e n t re d uc e d the small business tax rate from two per cent to zero per cent on Oct.

1, 2020, to support local businesses during the pandemic. But the government is increasing the tax rate to one per cent on July 1 and two per cent in 2023. The CTF’s report outlines other major federal tax changes in 2022 affecting both provinces such as: Taxpayers making $40,000 or more will see the federal government deduct more money for Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan. The CPP tax increase will cost workers and businesses an extra $333 each

The EI tax increase will cost each worker an extra $63and businesses an extra $89. The increase in the federal personal basic amount will save taxpayers $89. The federal carbon tax will increase for the third time during the pandemic to 11 cents per litre of gasoline on April 1. Alcohol taxes will increase for the third time during the pandemic on April 1. Taxes already account for about half of the price of beer, 65 per cent of the price of wine and more than threequarters of the price of spirits.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

New cameras help with travel planning

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding motorists to make a plan to travel safely with the Highway Hotline. “The Highway Hotline receives millions of web visits and phone calls annually and our government continues to build a safer Saskatchewan,” said Highways Minister Fred

Bradshaw. “We are listening to the public, and our citizens have indicated they would like to see more cameras available to help plan for travel.” An additional 10 new cameras will be used by travellers as well as ministry staff, who monitor highways across the province and report road conditions through the Hotline. The new camera loca-

tions are as follows: • Highway 1 near Secretan, east of Chaplin • Highway 1 at the junction of Highway 37 near Gull Lake • Highway 4 at the junction of Highway 3 near Glaslyn • Highway 7 near Alsask • Highway 9 north of Highway 209 junction near Moose Mountain • Highway 9 at the junction of Highway

22012BS0

229 between Yorkton and Canora • Highway 10 at Melville • Highway 16 at the junction of Highway 2 near Colonsay • Highway 39 east of the Estevan Bypass • Highway 39 north of the U.S. border near Roche Percee Closer to home, there is currently a camera operating on Highway 3 near Paradise Hill,

northeast of the Border City. Highway Hotline staff receive regular u p d a t e s f r o m e qu i p ment operators in the field across Saskatchewan’s 26,000 km provi nc i al h i gh w a y ne twork to provide the latest road conditions for drivers as quickly as possible. The office for the Highway Hotline, Saskatchewan’s provincial road information system, is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week during the winter months to ensure updates are entered as quickly as possible into our online and voicemail system. Highway Hotline updates can be found on saskatchewan.ca/ highwayhotline. The Highway Hotline Facebook page provides

general information about weather alerts and snowplow safety. It can be found at: www. facebook.com/SaskatchewanHighwayHotline. You can also follow us on Twitter @ SkGovHwyHotline. The Hotline also provides automated road updates by telephone. You can access this information and hear a recording of the latest road information by dialling 511. The Ministry of Highways’ Customer Service Centre can answer all your questions or concerns regarding signage, work zone, winter maintenance and more. Reach out by calling 1-844-SKHIWAY, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. or visit us online at saskatchewan.ca/skhiway.

Lloyd linked to Telus 5G

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Telus has expanded its next-generation 5G network to Lloydminster residents and businesses. The local upgrade is part of an ongoing $14.5 billion investment by Telus in infrastructure and operations in Alberta through 2024. Telus touts the service as Canada’s fastest 5G network. “The significant investments we are

making in our worldleading network to rapidly expand our 5G footprint is enabling us to connect the citizens of Lloydminster to the people, resources and critical information they need as we continue to navigate the global pandemic,” said Darren Entwistle, president and CEO in a recent statement. “Now more than ever, Telus is committed to keeping Canadians connected, productive and

healthy.” Telus says the technology lays the foundation to power new applications serving enhanced business, health and educational outcomes for the benefit of Albertans. Since 2000, Telus has invested nearly $240 billion nationally in network infrastructure, operations and spectrum across Canada, including more than $51 billion in technology and operations in Alberta.

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Traditions from near and far to ponder PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

I’ve been reading up on the reasons behind a few of the betterknown New Year’s Eve traditions, and several from other countries I’ve never heard of before. So hang on to your shiny paper hat because now you’re going to hear ‘em too. Let’s start with the best-known: fireworks and noisemakers. This custom was founded from an ancient fear of evil spirits. E v ery on e , p a r t i c ularly Stephen King, knows only the foulest of wicked treachery lurks in the shadows, waiting to pounce on us unawares. And who needs that problem hanging around as we usher in the New Year? Enter horns, whistles, and bright, flashing lights. It was believed that loud noises and sparkling explosions, set off at the stroke of midnight, would scare away these spectres of misfortune, and bring us favour. In Spain, a new year’s tradition is to eat 12 green grapes, one for each month of good luck. Unfortunately, it’s necessary to gobble the first grape as midnight strikes, swallow it, and quickly get another down upon each successive stroke of the clock. Failure to swallow the last grape before the

12th strike dies away leaves you as the recipient of bad luck, a throat clogged with partially masticated fruit, and in possible need of medical intervention. How about changing your underwear for good luck? (Not to mention mom’s admonition to don clean undies in case of a car accident). In some Latin countries, it’s believed the colour of your underpants on New Year’s Eve will either negatively or positively affect your immediate future. Red is thought to bring love and romance into your life, and yellow is all about prosperity. If you can manag e t o c o m b in e b o t h colours, well—you got it made in the shade! In Denmark, it’s customary to throw dishes against the doors of friends and neighbours. If you wake up to a huge pile of smashed crockery on your doorstep, you’re not only popular, you’re set up for good fortune throughout the coming year. Actually, I think I might try this. I was going to take a box of old plates over to my brother’s house at midnight on New Year’s Eve, stealthily tiptoe onto his deck, and hurl them, one-by-one, at his door. Goodness knows he could use a year of luck. Of course, I might also need luck, to escape when he furiously

File Photo lunges outside to clobber the fool at his door. Another interesting tradition is in Naples where people discard old possessions to symbolize a new beginning. This is accomplished by tossing anything from kitchen appliances to furniture off their balconies. While most folks throw small, squashy items out the window, walking along a street at the prescribed hour could potentially be hazardous to your health should someone choose to lob a stove off the deck. Therefore, this little-known fact can also double as sound travel advice when planning a trip to Italy. In Scottish folklore, there’s an ancient cus-

tom called first-footing that carries on to this day. When a stranger (it must be a man with dark hair), is welcomed into the home at midnight, it’s seen as a sign of luck and prosperity

for the coming year. This partiality harkens back to the days of Viking invasion when a blonde-haired man barging through the door, often wielding an axe, could carry nega-

tive consequences. Whatever traditions you follow to usher in the new year, I wish you well. May we all enjoy health, happiness, and prosperity in 2022.

PAGE 10 Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint Leave it to Weaver:

5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 Toll Free: 1-800-327-3899 Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday THE MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday. All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion. Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.

Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca

When’s the deep freeze getting unplugged? EDITOR Taylor Weaver

Well, I can’t say I’ve formed a five-year holiday tradition involving personal injury, such as the gentleman to my right, but, I did have myself a pretty darn good Christmas break. The only problem? It was too darn cold to do much of anything outside! Yes, that’s right, I’d like to talk a little bit about the weather last week, but first, back to Christmas. This Christmas was full of

firsts for me, but the most noticeable was the fact there were two kids in the house on Christmas morning ... don’t worry, they’re my girlfriend’s nieces! Christmas truly is different with kids, and in a fun way. Watching for reactions as adults open gifts is one thing, but watching kids open Christmas gifts is both hilarious and heartwarming. I also made sure the stockings were loaded up and hung with care after my better half fell asleep before the kids! We had an agreement to set an alarm for 1:30 a.m. in case we both fell

asleep, but after both kids were sleeping, I figured I’d get things finished so we could both sleep; smart, right? I hope everyone had a great Christmas filled with good memories and is ready to kick 2022 in the butt! Oh, right, the weather. I was hoping this first column back would be filled with tales of outdoor activities over the Christmas break, but when it’s below -32C with the wind for over a week and peaks at -46C, you’re likely not going to want to go outside, right? Until next time.

Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca

Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Production Manager: Amanda Richard CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca NEWSPAPER DELIVERY If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca

2017

Mike from Canmore Submitted to the Meridian Source

Thanks, Mike from Canmore, for sharing this beautiful photo with us. Keep up the great work, and remember, don’t look directly into the sun!

Fatal collision causes highway closure

n Jan. 3 at approximately 2:50 p.m., Maidstone RCMP were dispatched to a three vehicle collision on Highway 16, approximately 1km west of Maidstone. Initial investigation has determined that a pickup truck and a snow plow collided. A second pickup truck then collided with the snow plow. There were four occupants in the second pickup truck. A 47-year-old female and a

24-year-old female, both from Beaumont, Alta, were pronounced deceased at the scene. The adult male driver and an adult male passenger were transported to hospital with what are described as non-lifethreatening injuries. Saskatchewan RCMP does not have an update on their conditions. The adult male driver of the first pickup truck was also transported to hospital with what are described as non-life-

threatening injuries. The adult male driver of the snow plow was not injured. Highway 16 was closed for the on-scene investigation, but has since re-opened. Maidstone RCMP thanks Maidstone Waseca and District Fire and Rescue and local EMS for their on-scene assistance in challenging weather conditions. Maidstone RCMP and a Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Reconstructionist continue to investigate.

PAGE 11 Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Resolve to bubble wrap self STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

This year I am resolving to bubble wrap myself when Christmas rolls around again. I have injured myself during this time of the year at least five years in a row. Most recently, I tripped over my own skate lace and over extended my bum shoulder to break my fall. Fortunately, what felt like a near shoulder dislocation and intense pain for a few seconds isn’t nearly as bad eight days downwind of my

fall. I am already back swimming, but I can’t do any freestyle for awhile until I rehab everything. Maybe I should resolve to find a “let yourself go” class to avoid these sports related injuries. Most people are like me, however, and want to bring about some personal new year change like losing weight, starting an exercise program or buying a gyn pass. January is always a good time to resolve to be fitter and healthier if you are not either. Back in my 20s, I

smoked two packs a day and drank way too much booze. I guess that’s how resolutions are born from a need or desire to change. I “quit” smoking for the first time at age 31 and ran a marathon a year later in three hours and 23 minutes, then got into downhill skiing, hockey, swimming and triathlons in the 80s. I finally kicked the nicotine habit for good 22 years ago after giving up all booze 36 years ago simply preferring fitness as a lifestyle choice. Letting myself go ain’t going to happen. I have already resolved

File Photo to compete in at least one100 kilometre cycling races this year. COVID ended up cancelling most bike events last year and I had a concussion to boot that I am nearly recovered

from. It’s been a long recovery process and I miss the competition. When you are in the over 70 category, you have a good shot of finishing first in your age group. Part of the for-

mula is also staying healthy which is different from being fit. With that in mind, I am resolving not even to sneeze or bump into anything in 2022 especially next Christmas.

Province outlines steps for schools to continue safely MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

With in-class learning resuming across the province today, schools will continue to provide notification of COVID-19 cases based on self-reporting from students and staff. With the announcement that asymptomatic, vaccinated individuals no longer require a confirmatory PCR test following a positive rapid antigen test, schools are updating their process for notifying close contacts of cases, with an aim to ensure that there continues to be timely notification. “We know that inclass learning is critically important to students’ overall mental and physical health and development,” said Education Minister Dustin Duncan. “That is why the Government of Saskatchewan is supporting all students and staff in finding ways to reduce risk while we learn to live with COVID in our everyday lives. School staff have done a phenomenal job in ensuring our

schools remain as safe as possible while continuing to ensure that parents have access to timely information about COVID in our communities.” P o sitiv e C OVID -19 test results for schoolbased staff or students, from either rapid antigen or PCR tests, must be reported to the local school office. The school will then send a notification to parents/guardians of the class and/or bus cohort that may be considered close contacts. Fully vaccinated students and staff who are close contacts will fol-

low the current process of self-monitoring. They are able to attend school and other activities as long as they remain asymptomatic. Fully vaccinated students and staff who test positive are required to self-isolate for five days. Students who are close contacts to cases in non-household settings (i.e. at school, daycare, public recreation activities) and not fully vaccinated are able to continue to attend school, take the bus and attend child care as long as they are

asymptomatic. They are not per-

mitted to attend any extra-curricular activi-

ties for the 10 day selfmonitoring period.

12 12

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

12 12

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

14 14

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Greeting the New Year WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN

As folks enjoyed the holiday season and said goodbye to 1910, many social activities, meetings and winter goingson took place or were planned for the upcoming months. A whist drive was held in Marshall with prizes awarded for the highest number of points. Bert Krugg was victorious over Budd H. Burt, the lightweight champion of Minnesota during a wrestling match held at the schoolhouse. The victor aspired to win in one hour and was able to do so in 40 minutes of actual wrestling time. The traditional sport of wrestling wasn’t just for men as two boys who were taught and trained at home showed immense skill. They had great ability in defence and attack. The annual Grain Growers social and dance was held at the Marshall schoolhouse. Local talent performed during the program and a dance concluded the evening’s entertainment. Folks in Harlan enjoyed a spirited round of Christmas festivities and holiday activities. The youth helped clear

off a rink for skating and hockey enthusiasts had their own regulation rink for playing. A group of young folks visited from Onion Lake and on a return visit, they played the first hockey game of the season. Notices were posted of the upcoming ratepayers meeting to decide whether Harlan should form a school district. The Lloydminster branch of the United Farmers of Alberta (UFA) held their annual general meeting on New Year’s Eve. A delegate was selected to attend the annual convention in Calgary and positions on the executive committee were elected. A small account balance was carried forward for 1911. At midnight many tired youngsters left the Blackfoot schoolhouse social after celebrating the beginning of the school break. Organized by Miss Ferguson, their teacher, the evening was a huge success. Prizes were awarded by the Warden of the Nelson Shield for best boy, best scholar, attendance and big books for little boys. A box social at the Flowerdale school was scheduled on Jan. 12 hosted by the UFA.

Their scales had been busy as the neighbouring farmers found it very convenient to load cars here. Miss Warren, would not be returning to teach after the Westdene schoolhouse closed for the holidays. The pupils put on an enjoyable show for their families. It w as no te d , “ T h e work exhibited on the wall of the schoolroom showed whilst Miss Warren had been in charge, that she had done her work well, and that the scholars had responded nobly to her efforts.” She would be sadly missed. New moving pictures at Wood’s Hall were scheduled for mid-January by the manager of the Western Cinematograph Company. Merchants offered substantial sales for the purchase of new year’s gifts. 1910 had been a bad year for crops and farmers were encouraged to trade their goods at the Marshall Cash Stores for fair value. An opera show at the Drill Hall was one of many January events to look forward to. No matter their age, pioneer folks looked forward to social activities which added excitement to their daily routines.

Church Directory

Thursday, January 6, 2022

5921 - 50 Avenue (306) 825-5111

MERIDIAN SOURCE

PAGE 16 Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

Bobcats skating into bright future TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

With two-thirds of the season in the books, the Lloydminster Bobcats are back from the Christmas break

and ready to keep the momentum they’ve been building over the last few months. With a 60-game regular season, as of Tuesday, the Bobcats

(20-18-1) sit fifth in the AJHL North division behind the Spruce Grove Saints, Fort McMurray Oil Barons, the Bonnyville Pontiacs and the Drayton Valley Thunder. Nigel Dube, Bobcats head coach and general manager, said he’s happy with the way the team’s been operating on and off the ice and is looking forward to seeing what the rest of the season brings. “I think that no one is ever satisfied, but for the first two-thirds of the season our guys have worked really hard and they’re understanding that when they do the work, success can come with it, and I think that’s a big part

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Bobcats forward Mack Stewart pots a goal on home ice against the Olds Grizzlys in a midDecember game to wrap up 2021.

of it to continue, move forward, and build on what’s been going on,” he said. “This is probably the closest team I’ve ever coached as far as the dressing room and the guys in it,” he said. “When you talk about a family and a culture that’s built around each other, it’s fun as a coach to step back and watch because those guys want the best for each other, they feed off each other, and they bring a lot of energy, and I think that brings excitement to the rink.” Looking ahead at the team’s schedule, Dube knows it won’t be an easy road, but he has confidence in his team’s ability. “The north is such a hard division, there’s no doubt there, but for us, we just have to continue what we’re doing,”

he said. “You have to be on every night to give yourself a chance, and our guys are hungry to win. That’s the biggest part, and we just have to be ready to go every game. “Looking down the schedule, we play a lot of home games from January into February, so I think that adds to it, and being at home at the Civic is always great because we’re playing in front of our fans with great energy.” The ‘Cats are also still chomping at the bit to hit their target of 200 goals by the end of the regular season through a partnership with Boundary Ford and the Boundary Ford Gives Foundation, which was announced in November of 2021. For every goal the ‘Cats score, Boundary Ford Gives donates

$25 to the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre. If the team hits 200 goals (including preseason goals) by the end of the regular season, Boundary will double the total donation. “It’s exciting, and again, it was a playerdriven initiative to partner with Boundary Ford and gi v e bac k to th e Lloydminster Youth Centre,” said Dube. The team also wrapped 2021 on a high note with Mack Stewart being named an AJHL Player of the Week following a seven-point performance from Dec. 6-12, and Tanner Fincaryk named Player of the Week following a seven-point performance from Dec. 13-19. The ‘Cats are back on home ice on Jan. 12 to host the Drayton Valley Thunder.

PAGE 17 Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Agriculture

Farm transition day coming up MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

The second annual Farm Transition Appreciation Day will take place nationally on Jan. 11. Farm Transition day was created to acknowledge farm transition is a complex process, and to encourage and celebrate progress. Over the next 10 years, 75 per cent of farms will change hands, yet according to the Agricultural Census, only 8 per cent of Canada’s farmers have a written transition plan.

Farm transition day is an opportunity to share stories, advice and encourage farmers throughout their farm transition journey through a national social media campaign and learning events across Canada. The event is being promoted by Farm Management Canada, Farm Credit Canada, BDO and the Canadian Association of Farm Advisors. “Now more than ever we need to focus on our wins and share best practices on how

to do succession well,” said Maggie Van Camp, BDO’s national agricultural practice development leader. “More importantly, we need to celebrate our generational farm families, who are the resilient and strong cornerstone of this country.” The event provides an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the past year – celebrating achievements and identifying next steps with the support of industry experts. Farmers, organi-

zations and agribusinesses across the country are encouraged to share their farm tran-

sition success stories, tips, resources and tools to create a coast-tocoast buzz around farm

transition and encourage Canada’s farmers to continue their transition journey.

Water security agency releases 2021 conditions at freeze-up report

eather modelling data indicates that parts of central and northern Saskatchewan could see wetterthan-normal conditions between December and March, and near-normal precipitation for the rest of Saskatchewan. Due to minimal runoff in spring 2021 followed by what was generally a hot and dry summer, most agricultural areas of the province are currently experiencing drier than norma l mo i s t ure c o nd i tions. Conditions are driest starting in the central area of the province around Saskatoon and extending in a south-westerly direction toward Rosetown, down through Leader and then to the Maple Creek area. While most larger water supply reservoirs across southern and central Saskatchewan have ade-

winter. In Saskatchewan’s grain belt region, where conditions at freeze-up were much drier, the capacity of the soils and storage capacity within wetland areas will be quate supplies, some higher, reducing the surface water users who risk of above-normal rely on smaller reser- runoff come spring. At t his t ime , t he r e voirs or dugouts have been impacted by the are no areas where the Water Security Agency dry conditions. Below normal rainfall ( W S A ) b e l i e v e s t h a t was also received across there is a heightened the north throughout risk of above-normal the 2021 growing sea- spring runoff in 2022. son. With the wet con- C u r r e n t l o n g - r a n g e ditions in 2020, water forecasts and climate levels remained high indices suggest neart h r o u g h o u t t h e f i r s t normal to above-norhalf of the year but have mal precipitation and since tapered to near below-normal tempernormal heading into a t u r e s o v e r t h e w i nter months for much of freeze-up. Winter flows in north- the province. However, ern areas are expected given the current moisto continue to drop to ture conditions, even slightly below normal an above-normal snowpack is not likely to over the course of the version 3” wide

Summer Village of Island Lake Request for Proposals

Development Officer Position The Summer Village of Island Lake, being Alberta’s largest Summer Village and located on the shores of Island Lake, approximately 20 minutes northwest of the Town of Athabasca, is looking for an outgoing and enthusiastic individual to fulfill a part time contract position for a Development Officer services within our community.

Please visit online for complete details and instructions:

www.islandlake.ca

Summer Village of Island Lake, Box 8, Alberta Beach, T0E 0A0

svislandlake@wildwillowenterprises.com Position will be open until a suitable candidate is found

yield an above normal snowmelt runoff. WSA issues the Conditions at Freeze up Report during the late fall/early winter period. Freeze-up conditions, in combination with the winter snowpack, become the initial base for the spring snowmelt runoff forecast.

This report gives an early indication of areas that are more vulnerable to potentially above or below normal runoff in the spring. It is not a spring runoff forecast, as winter snow accumulation is an integral component in the runoff yield during the melt and is impossible to

predict at this juncture. Modelling is compiled with data from various sources including Environment and Climate Change Canada and the U.S. National Weather Service. The initial Spring Runoff Outlook for 2022 will be issued in early February.

18 18

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Firefighters to play key role in addiction treatment

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

A first in Canada, firefighters in Edmonton are joining the fight against opioid overdose by supporting immediate access to addiction treatment and supporting families. Albertans in Edmonton struggling with opioid addiction can now visit their local fire station and immediately connect with the newly-

expanded Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP) to start treatment. The VODP will then conduct an intake assessment and work with the individual to determine the most appropriate medication treatment. This includes gold standard opioid treatment medications like Suboxone and the recently announced

Sublocade injection. “The recovery-oriented system of care we’re building is ensuring Albertans have access to options for treatment and recovery everywhere they turn,” said Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Mike Ellis. “Fire stations are a trusted presence across Edmonton and firefighters are well-positioned to support individuals

and families who are struggling with addiction to access treatment and supports. This innovative new initiative will connect more people with life-saving addiction treatment and recovery options.” Families of substance users can also attend their local fire hall to receive information about family sup-

port and be connected with Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) Society. PEP Society is a provincial resource for families struggling with a loved one’s substance use. “Firefighters are an integral part of the community response to addiction and we are well-positioned to engage with the community and help connect them with treatment,” said Joe Zatylny, chief, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services. “As part of a comprehensive recoveryoriented continuum of care, everyone should be able to quickly and efficiently connect with life-saving services. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services is proud to partner with Alberta’s government and Alberta Health Services to expand access to care for Edmontonians.” Thanks to a provin-

cial grant of $100,000, Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) Society was able to create a provincial toll-free line to support families across Alberta. Any family member of someone struggling with addiction can contact Parents Empowering Parents by calling 1-877-991-2737 and connect with a professional on days, evenings and weekends. This toll-free line, however, is not a crisis line. If you are in crisis, please call 911. Emergency response representatives and community partners were also involved in the development of the Digital Overdose Response System (DORS), a mobile app designed to help protect Albertans from a fatal overdose. The app is currently available in Calgary, Edmonton and surrounding communities.

Careers Live with no regrets PAGE 19

Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

He asked me to sit for a while, offering a cup of coffee and freshlymade muffins as an incentive. I was there to obtain his signature approving an offer we had negotiated with a young family wanting to buy his home. It was mid-afternoon of a busy day in a fullyscheduled week in midDecember, but I simply couldn’t say no, after all, we both knew he was dying. We had first met years ago when he and his wife had asked me to sell their land upon retirement from farming. Our team was also tasked with finding them the right home to buy in the city. It was meant to be a thank you gift to his wife, who had put up with a drafty old 1½

storey house they had inherited as newlyweds from his parents when grandma and grandpa made way for the new generation by moving to town. He had always promised she could have something special to call her own. It took 40-plus years, but he made good on his commitment. Unfortunately, his wife died suddenly from cardiac arrest one November evening only a few years after moving in. Neither of them expected her to go first; after all, didn’t women always outlive their husbands? Now poor health was forcing him to seek support for his activities of daily living. He could have moved to a care facility closer to one of his adult children, but as he told me, why leave town now as th e do c to rs had to ld him the cancer would

soon overcome his body. So, we sat and talked as friends do about the changes he had seen in farming during his lifetime, how his grandchildren were so adept at using computers and cellphones, and why the federal government would never understand the west. COVID had isolated him from the few friends who were still

alive, with only one brave enough to regularly come over to play cards and enjoy the occasional hot toddy. Yet, despite everything that could pull him down, he still maintained a quiet humour and sense of optimism. So, I finally asked, “how do you cope, knowing your life will soon draw to a close?” He laughed, then said

“Many people never get the chance to live like I have lived. I have been surrounded by love. I leave my children and grandchildren safe and healthy. I will meet the Lord with no regrets.” As I drove away that day, I couldn’t help but smile at the gift given to me. Live life with no regrets. Love your family. Prepare for the next chapter.

Wishing you and yours a great holiday season, may this next year be the best you have ever lived. Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster 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.

Amendments to Saskatchewan Employment Act now in force

tudents, contract workers and volunteers in the province will now be protected against harassment including, sexual harassment, while in the workplace. Legislation came into force on Jan. 1, which clarifies the definition of harassment includes any unwelcome action of a sexual nature. In addition, independent contractors, stu-

dents and volunteers will be included in the definition of workers protected from any form of harassment. “This legislation will ensure that contract workers, students and volunteers can go to their jobs without concerns about being exposed to harassment,” said Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan.

“We want to protect all workers from harassment and create safe, healthy workplaces.” Additional amendments to The Saskatchewan Employment Act include: - removing the requirement for the Labour Relations Board to exclude supervisory employees from the same bargaining unit as those they supervise unless the employer

and union have entered an irrevocable election. Instead, the board will be given authority to determine the appropriate bargaining unit, which may include a unit comprised only of supervisors. Transition provisions have been included which authorize the board to hear applications from employers or unions to amend existing certification orders which exclude supervisors from the bargaining units; and - providing protection for public and private sector employers that comply with the new COVID-19 vaccination regulations that provides employees with the choice of showing evidence of being fully vaccinated or evidence of a nega-

tive COVID-19 test at

least every seven days.

20 20

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 6, 2022

PAGE 21 Thursday, January 6, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Winter Road Haul 2022 Class 1 Drivers needed for deliveries in MB & NW Ont.

(800) 665-4302 ext. 251 or email:

orderdesk@ penneroil.ca FREIGHTLAND CARRIERS, a tri-axle air ride flatdeck carrier is looking for Owner/Operators to run Alberta only or the 3 Western Provinces. Must have own plates, insurance & WCB. Truck gross revenue is an average of $20,000/month. Call 1-800-917-9021 or email: dispatch@ freightland.ca.

FEED & SEED

Classifieds SERVICES

NOTICES

CERTIFIED SEED. WHEAT – AAC Goodwin, AAC Penhold, AC Sadash, CDC Go, Go Early, Pintail. OATS - AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC Arborg, CDC SO1 Super Oat, ORE 3542M. BARLEY – Amisk, Busby, Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea, Forage Peas. Polish Canola, Spring Triticale. mastinseeds. com; 403-556-2609

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: CRIMINAL RECORD? Buying Oats, Barley, Why suffer employWheat, Canola, Peas, Advertisements and ment/licensing loss? Screenings, Mixed statements conTravel/business opporGrains. Dry, Wet, tained herein are tunities? Be embarHeated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Pay- rassed? Think: Criminal the sole responsibility of the persons Pardon. US entry ment. In House Trucks, or entities that post waiver. Record purge. In House Excreta the advertisement, File destruction. Free Cleaning. Vac Rental. consultation. 1-800- and the Saskatchewan 1-888-483-8789 Weekly Newspaper 347-2540. www. Association and accesslegalmjf.com. membership do not AGPRO SEEDS: BUYING BLANKET THE PROVHEAVY EQUIPmake any warranty HEATED, DAMAGED MENT FOR SALE INCE with a classified as to the accuracy, CANOLA. On farm ad. Only $269 (based completeness, PROVINCE-WIDE CLASpickup, prompt on 25 words or less). truthfulness or SIFIEDS. 51 local com- payment! TOP PRICES Reach almost 90 reliability of such munity newspapers, PAID IN SASK. Phone: weekly newspapers. advertisements. For distributing to over 306-873-3006 or Visit Call NOW for details. greater informa450 communities, inAGPRO website for 1-800-282-6903 Ext tion on advertising cluding 14 cities. Reach bids: agproseeds.com 225; www.awna.com. conditions, please over 550,000 readers consult the Asweekly. Call 306MISCELLANEOUS HEALTH / FITNESS sociation’s Blanket 649.1405 or visit www. Advertising Condiswna.com for details. tions on our website at www.swna.com. FEED & SEED

AUTO PARTS GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-2826903, 780-434-8746 X225. www.awna.com.

CLASSIFIED ADS

1 FOR $15 OR 2 FOR $25 *Based on 20 words - additional words 15¢ each *Prices do not include GST

Name:_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number:_____________________________________________________________ Method of Payment: Cash

Visa

Cheque

Credit Card #:_______________________________________________Exp:__________ Number of Issues: _________________________________________________________ Ad Heading:_____________________________________________________________________ Ad Text:____________________________________________________________________________

APARTMENTS FOR RENT MAR-NAN MANOR

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT LLOYDMINSTER, AB Includes washer, dryer, range, range hood, dishwasher, partial a/c, 1 parking stall with plug-in, balcony, 815 sq/ft

$875 / month Ages 40 plus, couples preferred. Phone for information 306-830-8220 780-214-0908

LAND FOR SALE AGRICULTURE

FARMLAND WANTED I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

HIP/KNEE Replacement? Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $30,000 Lump sum refund. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide! Providing assistance during Covid.

Expert Help:

1-844-453-5372

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

AUCTIONS AUCTIONS are our business! Contact Copeland Auctions Ltd. located in Lloydminster, AB for all your auction needs. Call Russ 780-870-1181 or visit our website: www.copelandauctions.co m

Total # of words:___________ Total Cost:_______________

Integrity Post Frame Buildings SINCE 2008

Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

sales@ Integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com

Call 306-825-5111 or Drop off at 5921 - 50 Avenue Lloydminster, SK

*Deadline for Thursday’s issue: Tuesday at noon

22 22

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Obituaries & Memoriams

Thursday, January 6, 2022

We’re hiring

NEWSPAPER CARRIERS! We’re looking for carriers to join our newspaper delivery team. This is a great opportunity to earn extra cash!

Thursday, January 6, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

24 24

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Wishing you

Thursday, January 6, 2022

PEACE

PROSPERITY

GOOD HEALTH

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES FOR SALE GLEN E. NEILSON INDUSTRIAL PARK

HWY 17 C2 ZONING

HAPPINESS

for 2022

NEW LISTING NE PT 14-54-20 W3RD

RETAIL OPPORTNITY

• Country home with 14.64 Acres & a 1704 sq. ft. 4 bed, 3 bath upgraded bungalow. • Includes a 60' x 40' wood heated shop, and is minutes from Bronson Forest & Brightsand Lake!

395,000

949,000 MLS A1152166

315,000 MLS A1143470

225,000 MLS A1158194

CONDOS - AFFORDABLE CAREFREE LIVING CORNERSTONE

157,500 MLS A1160458

NOVA

599,900 MLS A1071380

154,500 MLS A1105049

32083 TWP RD 560

249,500 MLS A1160468

PT NE 21-51-25 W3RD

474,500 MLS A1135698

PT NW 20-50-27 W3RD

127,000 MLS A1158092

194,900 MLS A1146868

460,000 MLS A1166880

PT SW 18-44-27 W3RD

164,900 MLS A1163592

IMMEDIATE POSSESSION 469,900 MLS A1124822

PENDING

355,505 MLS A1132665

419,900 MLS A1155543

325,000 MLS A1157541

399,900 MLS A1156329

RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES

ALBERTA

SE-22-50-19 W3RD

A HOME FOR EVERY BUDGET

NEW PRICES

LA TIERRA

MAKE YOUR MOVE TO THE COUNTRY! PT-SW-30-50-26 W3RD

MLS A1164892

3009 – 57A Ave. 3007 – 57A Ave. 5651 – 43 St. 3315 – 51 Ave. 2917 – 51 Ave. 5101 – 18 St. 5617 – 51 St. 5110 – 54A St. 4102 - 69 Ave. 6608 – 42 St. 5202 – 49 St. 5506 – 50A Ave. 6802 - 42 St. 3908 - 52 Ave. 6027 - 18 St.

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

$800 $850 $850 $900 $900 $900 $950 $1000 $1100 $1100 $1200 $1250 $1300 $1300 $1725

READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! FEB. 1ST READY! READY! READY! FEB. 1ST JAN. 15TH READY! READY! READY!

SASKATCHEWAN AB

279,500 MLS A1160446

224,900 MLS A1158490

219,000 MLS A1131227

4710 – 45 St.

2 Bed, 1 Bath

4629 - 46 St.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1000

4321 - 32 St.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1250 READY!

4501 - 39 St.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1550 READY!

$900 READY! FEB 1ST

APPLY ONLINE TODAY AB

155,000 MLS A1131974

129,900 MLS A1153824

119,500 MLS A1156301

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

Brad Gilbert Jennifer Gilbert Broker/Owner Associate Broker

Rick Schesnuk Caleb McLean Realtor® Associate Broker

Each office is independently owned & operated.

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

Judy Bexson Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343

facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty