Meridian Source - January 25, 2024 by Meridian Source

Thursday, January 25, 2024

VOLUME 6 I ISSUE 31

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Jake Vaadeland and the Sturgeon River Boys returned to the Vic Juba Community Theatre last Thursday for a sold-out show, put on by the Lloydminster Concert Series. The organization’s next show will be Anne of Green Gables – The Ballet on March 8. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Seniors back sober living action GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Tyler Lorenz, executive director of the Residents in Recovery Society, is banking on hope and support from the community to secure more funds for their sober living treatment and outpatient

day programs. The two high-demand addiction treatment services in Lloydminster have been cancelled due to zero funding from the Alberta government and cuts to funding from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). The organization

issued a news release about the cancellations on Jan. 8. A new crack has since appeared in the funding door at SHA, as Lorenz explained at the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meeting last Tuesday.

“We just got an invitation on Monday to provide information on our program to determine if we are a qualified provider of sober living services,” he said. “That’s due on Feb. 9, so that will allow us the opportunity, if we’re approved, as a

qualified supplier to present a funding proposal to the Saskatchewan government.” Lorenz is not sure what the rationale is for the invitation, given the pre and post-sober living program was the society’s first service offered in the commu-

nity when their doors opened. “It’s hard to say. It seems a little repetitive,” said Lorenz, who is frustrated by political jurisdiction. “That’s always been our biggest issue for sure.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Tyler Lorenz, left, executive director of Residents in Recovery, responds to a question from Graham Brown, president of Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society, following a presentation last Tuesday. RIR FROM PAGE 1

“R i g ht n o w, w e ’r e going to focus on family treatment until the oppor tunit y ar ises t hat we get back to doing sober living like we want,” he said. Lorenz says Residents in Recover y only receives about 23 per cent of its sober liv ing day programming budget f rom t he Sa sk atche wan government. “ T h a t d o e s n’t p a y the bill,” he said.

Recent cuts to income suppor t pro g ra m s i n bot h provi nc e s m ade it tou g h for r e c o ve r i ng r e s i dents to pay the $540 monthly rent from the shelter allowance for those core programs. L o r e n z s a y s i t ’s also clear in the new application that SHA is on ly intere sted in funding Saskatchewan beds for Saskatchewan residents. “So w r ite to your ML A or the minister

of health,” he said. “The more pressure the better. It is going to affect this community. It’s going to have an immediate negative effect.” L oren z wa s stoked to hear the Concerned C it i zens Societ y ha s written a letter of support for the new applic at ion fol low i ng h i s presentation. “ S o m a ny of t he m have been huge sup por ters of our pro g r a m ,” s a id L or en z , who noted there were mor e t h a n 10 0 p e o ple on the wait list for the two programs that were cut. He s a y s t he r e h a s a l w a y s b e e n a hu ge demand for pre-sober liv ing, but also for family treatment programs that currently has a waiting list of 27 families. “With mental health and addictions on the r i se, p o s t- C OV ID, more needs to be done,” said Lorenz.

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Kitscoty RCMP lay forcible confinement, firearm charges

n Jan. 15 at approximately 1:40 a.m., Kitscoty RCMP responded to a disturbance call on Range Road 12, just outside of Lloydminster. Upon arrival, one male suspect was identified. Initial investigation revealed that the suspect had used a weapon to hold two females against their will. A search warrant was obtained for the residence. As a result of the warrant, multi-

ples items were seized, including: - Rifles; - Handguns; - Prohibited weapons and devices; - Ammunition; and - Drugs. As a result of the investigation, Lloydminster resident Dustin Lee Fialkowski, 36, has been charged with: - Forcible Confinement; - Pointing a Firearm; - Using a firearm in the commission of an offence; - Uttering Threats;

- Assault with a weapon; - Possession of a Prohibited weapon x2; - Possession of Prohibited Device x2; - Unsafe storage of firearms x11; and - Possession of body armor while unauthorized. Fialkowski was brought before a justice of the peace and released on conditions. He is to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Lloydminster on Feb. 6.

Sask RCMP lay charges in 2022 homicide

n July 1, 2022, Onion Lake RCMP received a report of an injured adult male located in a camper next to a residence on the Onion Lake Cree Nation. Officers immediately responded and located a seriously injured 46-year-old male. He was transported to hospital where he later died. The circumstances surrounding his death were investigated by the Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crime Unit along with Onion Lake Detachment, North Battleford General Investigation Section and Forensic Identifi-

cation Services, and Lloydminster RCMP Police Dog Services. As a result of continued investigation by Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes, 21-year-old Dennis Cardinal from Onion Lake was arrested in Onion Lake on Nov. 29, 2023. On Dec. 11, 2023, 30-year-old Kimberly Thunderchild from Lloydminster was arrested in Edmonton. Cardinal and Thunderchild were each charged with one count of firstdegree murder, Section 235(1), Criminal Code and appeared in Lloydminster Provincial Court on Jan. 17.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Gun show hits the mark

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source Photos

Outdoor enthusiasts gathered indoors at the Servus Sports Centre over the weekend at the 2024 Lloydminster Gun and Outdoor Sportsman Show. Over 2,300 people took in the two-day show. JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

.................................. The 2024 Lloydminster Gun and Outdoor Sportsman Show saw a lot of traffic over the weekend. Event chairperson, Janelle Mysko, said the line-up of outdoor enthusiasts stretched to the outside of the building at one point on Saturday morning, with over 2,300 people taking in the two-day show.

“Everyone was really excited about the new vendors that had come,” said Mysko, adding last year was their first year since COVID, so some of the vendors had retired from their ventures or moved on. “So last year, we really went boots-tothe-ground and tried to call up some new vendors to attend our show. We were really excited about some of the new ones there.”

“There were some airsoft people. We’ve never really had anything for airsoft guns there before, but with the ammunition shortage … it’s kind of hard. So, this is an alternative for people to shoot.”

Another major attraction to the show was that both Alberta and Saskatchewan chief firearms officers (CFOs) were there. “They speed up the gun transfers and the licence checks—so we actually had lots of rifles leaving the building that same day, which is really great,” said Mysko. Lloydminster Fish and Game Association president Dwayne Davison said he was happy with the turnout as well. “It was a very busy weekend, for sure. I talked to a few people right after the show … we had some positive comments back,” said Davison, adding the numbers were up from last year. With the 2024 show is in the books, the Association is looking forward to this weekend’s annual Family Wild lif e and Award s Banquet, set for Saturday evening at the WLS Convention Centre. “We’re very much looking forward to the banquet. It’ll be good. We’re looking forward to having a magician there for the entertainment—magicians always go over good; everybody enjoys that,” said Davison.

“We’re happy that people come out to support us. It helps us to d o ou r p r o j e c ts, and

support the youth in the community. We look forward to doing it every year.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Mr. and Mrs. Aalbers for mayor GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers with his campaign manager and wife, Christine, kicked off his re-election bid at City Hall last Thursday prior to the Nov. 13 municipal election. Geoff Lee Photo

I approve of this message. That’s what Christine Aalbers said in a nutshell when her husband, Gerald, declared he is seeking his third term as the mayor of Lloydminster in the Nov. 13 municipal election. Christine took a moment to talk about how well they work together in the community and on the election trail at the official campaign kickoff at City Hall last Thursday. “You know one of the best parts is how much Gerald enjoys his job. It’s been such a privilege to walk alongside. I end up being his chauffeur a lot of the time,” said Christine. “We go to meetings in Regina, we go to meetings in Edmonton, we go to meetings in Calgary—all over the place and because of that he can work, I’ll drive; we’ll get there and we still have a life together.” Christine adopted her First Lady persona in 2016 when Gerald was first elected and in 2020 when he was acclaimed. Gerald is hoping he’s not the only mayoral candidate again. “I would certainly welcome anyone to step forward. I think that would bring on some great debate and discussion,” he said with a look of approval from Christine. The Aalbers have been married for nearly 35 years and have three adult children who have all left home which works out well for Christine to fill up her social calendar. “So it’s been a real blessing having Gerald in this position. He loves his job,” she said. “There’s the odd morning where I hear ‘oh, oh’ from the other room and I’m like ‘what’s going on’ and I think ‘oh they’ve changed ministers again and I’ve got to meet a whole bunch of new people.’

“So that’s one of the challenges of being mayor, but honestly, he’s never enjoyed a job more and that makes my life amazing as well.”

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The only promise I will make today is one of the same as in 2016 when I first started this journey to be open, honest, transparent about the city out affairs and the actions of city council and city administration for all residents.

Gerald kicked off his campaign speech noting he and Christine have been able to attend numerous events and celebrations around the city since he’s been the mayor. “I can’t think of a better place to work, live, raise a family or retire. With these things in mind and what more to accomplish I want to state my intentions today,” said Gerald. He’s kicked off his 2024 campaign the same way he did seven years ago—early and with a simple pledge. “The only promise I will make today is one of the same as in 2016 when I first started this journey to be open, honest, transparent about the city out affairs and the actions of city council and city administration for all residents,” said Gerald. “Thank you for joining Christine and me today as we look forward to continuing to serve our community in 2024 and beyond.” He also noted he and Christine are in good health and their family is okay too, but the decision to run again wasn’t a slam dunk. “This was a bit of a tough decision,” he said, adding, that being the mayor “has been

very rewarding for myself and Christine.” He says the first challenge the city will face in the lead-up to the municipal election will be the 2024 budgets of Alberta and Saskatchewan and what’s in those for the city. Aalbers is also banking on his track record to get him re-elected, citing the new community wastewater treatment plant, the rebuilding and relocation of Fire Hall No. 1, and a new museum and archives building location among his top achievements as mayor the past seven years. “At this moment, we are building the brand new Cenovus Energy Hub which will allow for many amenities while replacing the Centennial Civic Centre,” he said looking ahead. A by-election will be held on Feb. 13 for one vacant council seat contested by eight candidates. Christine provided some advice for the new councillor on what they can expect from her perspective as the mayor’s wife. “It’s definitely a commitment. From my side, there’s no predictability when there’s a council meeting as to when it will be over,” said Christine. She says the package Gerald gets every week has to be read through. “You have to know what’s going on and get all the details, so you can actually make good decisions.” She said that includes conducting city business within two bordering provinces. “I think we didn’t know going in how much the border plays a role in Alberta and Saskatchewan at the same time,” said Christine. “That part has actually been fabulous because it gives such a diversity to what Lloydminster is.”

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Mother Teresa students kickoff donut campaign

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Lloydminster Rescue Squad chief, Norm Namur, was all-hands-on-deck last week as he helped Mother Teresa Early Childhood Learning Centre students Ashton Robb and Kia Patel paint donuts on the windows at Sobeys to kick off the school’s third-annual donut campaign to raise money for local non-profits. TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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Donuts are caloriefree when eaten for a good cause. That was the thinking of Mother Teresa Early Childhood Learning Centre Grade 1 teacher Paige Kindopp as she and her students kicked off the school’s third-

annual donut campaign last Thursday. As in years past, students will design kindness-themed donuts, which will then be brought to life by the team at Sobeys and sold to benefit local nonprofit organizations. To officially get this year’s campaign

going, students painted donuts on the windows of Sobeys, whose owners, Michelle and Kevin Rusteika, partnered with Kindopp and her kids three years ago as they saw the potential benefits within the community. “I am so excited for the campaign and I’m

really excited to see what our community brings to the table this year,” said Kindopp at the kickoff, noting this year’s fundraising goal is $10,000. Recipients of this year’s funding are yet to be determined, but last year’s campaign helped out the Lloydminster Rescue Squad, Border Paws Animal Shelter, formerly known as the SPCA, Furbabies, Big Brothers Big Sisters, KidSport, and the Goat’s Christmas Wish. The school is holding a local organization awareness fair today to determine which non-profits will receive funding this year. Donuts officially hit the shelves at Sobeys on Sunday, with Kindopp and Michelle Rusteika, who makes all of the sticky treats, encouraging local organizations to challenge each other throughout the threeweek campaign. “I totally intend to smash that $10K goal out of the park,” said

Agri-Visions sets sights on year ahead JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

.................................. Even though it’s still winter, the spring growing season is just around the corner. This year’s AgriVisions event on Feb.14-15 at the Lloyd Ex promises something for everyone in the ag industry. “This year we actually have three panels … we only usually have one. We’re doing a succession planning panel, we are doing a drought panel and an agronomy panel,” said Lloyd Ex event administrator, Tammy Dyck. “Drought, I think is going to be a huge issue for our farmers this year, with the fact that we didn’t have much moisture before and we don’t have much snow now.” She said there will be discussions about drought readiness for both grain and cattle farmers, with insight from professionals.

“Dr. Trent Wennekamp is a veterinarian here at the Lloyd Animal Hospital,” said Dyck. “He’s going to speak about avoiding cattle health disasters in a drought, so I think it’s stuff that is definitely going to be affecting our farmers.” Along with drought, there will be speakers on several agricultural topics including sustainability, direct marketing, and improved logistics to name a few. The event will also feature a trade show, breakfast, and lunch buffets, as well as the Heart of the Farm Banquet, at the WLS Convention Center on Feb. 14. “The Heart of the Farm Banquet, sponsored by Weir Veterinary Services, and NFP sponsors our keynote sp eaker,” said D yc k, adding this year’s keynote speaker is Vance Crowe, who will speak at the banquet as well as

Source File Photo on the second day. “He’s a versatile speaker. For us, he’ll be talking about the art of picking up nails—the point of that being how to create conversations that build trust and influence outcomes,” Dyck explained. “The next day his topic is going to be bringing together urban and rural. He’s going to speak about how to bring those two together and have an understanding for both.” Dyck described the event as one of the Lloyd Ex originals, as it has been around for

over 25 years, with a name change in 2014 from the Cattleman’s Corral/Crop-visions to its current name, which encompasses everything agriculture. This year’s trade show is sold out, and there will be raffle prizes and a Valentine’s-themed door prize, due to the timing of the event. For tickets visit Lloydex.com, buy them in person at the Lloyd Ex office, or the at the door on the day of. Although Dyck says “The banquet usually sells out, so get your tickets soon.”

Rusteika, noting the campaign is a team effort. “I become the chief donut dipper for three weeks. My kids help, we have a couple of high

school helpers that volunteer on weekends; it’s huge.” Don’t forget, those donuts are calorie-free since they’re for a great cause!

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Onion Lake health faces challenges 225 members. Over the years, it’s been facing mounting challenges from changing demographics, increasing health needs and restrictive funding under the Canada health transfer.

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For years, they’ve just been trying to absorb us with the provincial health system and so forth, but we’re saying no. We have our Treaty Right To Health and we want our own health care system.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Albert Jimmy, director of Onion Lake Health Board Inc., teamed up with his associate director, Lori Worthing, for a presentation on the services they provide band members along with some funding challenges at the Rotary Club of Lloydminster’s Monday lunch. GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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The Onion Lake Health Board Inc. would be in a healthier position with more federal funding, or better yet, operate its own healthcare system. Those were some of

the messages board director, Albert Jimmy and associate director, Lori Worthing, shared in a p resen tatio n on Onion Lake’s health services at the Rotary Club of Lloydminster’s Monday lunch. Jimmy says more

provincial and federal funding is needed to expand the services in their community health plan, which serves more than 7,000 band members, including 5,000 residents on the reserve. “The challenge we are

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always facing is funding from the federal government. That’s a unique issue and our Treaty Right to Health is a unique issue,” said Jimmy. Treaty 6 includes a medicine chest clause the federal court interpreted in 1935 as meaning all medicines, drugs or medical supplies are to be supplied free of charge to “Treaty Indians.” “We’ve been negotiating the Treaty Right to Health on a needs basis,” said Jimmy. “That’s ongoing; there will be a meeting with the federal government people from Ottawa next Tuesday.” Jimmy told Rotary the health board was formed in 1993 and has grown to employ

A First Nations health transformation is in the works recommending the federal government should be a funding and governance partner with First Nations instead of designing and delivering health care programs for them. “What Onion Lake is trying to do is to promote our own First Nations health system,” said Jimmy. “For years, they’ve just been trying to absorb us with the provincial health system and so forth, but we’re saying no. We have our Treaty Right To Health and we want our own health care system.” In the meantime, Worthing told Rotary “We are this close” to signing an agreement

with the Saskatchewan Health Authority for 15 detox beds. “So we’ll be opening that to Saskatchewan and Alberta band members,” said Worthing. The detox beds will be housed in the existing Ekweskeet Healing Lodge, an alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre on the reserve. Ekweskeet is a Cree word meaning turn your life around. “We are looking at building a new detox centre in the future to go to 25 beds,” added Worthing who notes the board has also applied for funding to build a 20-bed shelter for women and children. Worthing oversees everything from primary health and Home Care and assisted living to EMS and asset management and reports directly to Jimmy. Jimmy says their current system is based on Western medicine but they’ve managed to incorporate traditional Cree medicine and healers too, including a role for elders. “They play an important role. We have in-house elders who work alongside for any advice,” said Jimmy. “They also work with the employees in the wellness centre advising about the protocols and ceremonies including smudging. We also have a land-based program that teaches things like traditional hunting.”

Province, physicians reach tentative contract agreement MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The provincial government and the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) have reached a tentative four-year contract agreement for the period April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2026. “We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement for a fair and competitive compensation package that supports our ongoing retention and recruitment efforts,” said Health Minister Everett Hindley said. “We value the physicians in our province and appreciate the com-

mitment and dedication they have shown over the past number of years.” SMA President Dr. Annette Epp noted the tentative agreement is still subject to a ratification vote. “The SMA Board of Directors is recommending that members accept the tentative agreement, which addresses priorities raised by physicians during the negotiations,” Dr. Epp said. Details of the agreement will not be released until the ratification process has been completed. The ratification vote closes on Feb. 2.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Tipi Teachings unite students

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Holy Rosary student Aiden Leland makes a presentation to a class of Grade 7 students at Father Gorman School on Jan. 19. JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

.................................. When Aiden Leland, a Grade 9 student at HRHS, completed Grade 7 in Father Gorman School, he didn’t know he’d be back so soon—as a teacher.

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Each pole has a meaning. Each pole has a value, and all those things were our parenting tools. So when they were taken from us we lost our parenting skills for awhile, not just from the tipi—from many other things.

He and Lloydminster Catholic School Division Indigenous programming coordinator Cynthia Young recently made presentations to Father Gorman Students about the meaning of the Tipi in Indigenous culture. “I’m Métis, so I get to learn stuff too. Mrs. Young is teaching me,” said Leland, adding the things he finds most interesting about the tipi is how mice are kept away by surrounding it with moss, and how they manage to raise the tipis, even though the buffalo hides are so heavy. The goal is for Indig-

enous culture to be implemented, understood, and acknowledged throughout LCSD schools, with Young at the helm. Currently, École St. Thomas has a dreamcatcher, St. Joseph’s School has a medicine wheel, and Father Gorman School will soon have a tipi display in the hallway as a permanent learning resource. Tipi teachings will then expand to St. Mary’s and Mother Theresa Schools, as Holy Rosary already has many Indigenous symbols, including a tipi. “We’re not so worried about Holy, but I want all of the elementary students to have a foundation because you need that understanding and that knowledge … and then that will spread, it’ll spread like wildfire,” said Young. “We’re growing our roots—to make sure all these kids have a good foundation, a tree standing strong. That’s the concept I try and incorporate when I’m doing the Indigenous teachings.” Young said there’s a lot more to a tipi than most people realize. Each part of the tipi has a meaning, and she aims to share her knowledge—which was passed on by area Elders and her parents. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

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 the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation CEO, and former city councillor Stephanie Munro. If you didn’t do what you do for a living, what would you be doing? I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, but a journalist would be right near the top … I just always want to make an impactful difference in the lives of others.

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

Whatever the kids and my husband decide to make before I head to church. I love breakfast food, but it’s my least favourite to make.

If you could see one concert, what would it be? Black Eyed Peas reunion??

Who was your childhood celebrity crush?

Jonathon Taylor Thomas … that ages me.

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

What’s your dream car?

I’m not really into the materialistic idea of vehicles … I really wanted a Ninebot Segway Scooter for Christmas and got that … so my dream is already a reality. Be sure to watch for me cruising the streets once the snow melts.

What’s your fast-food guilty pleasure?

I do like McDonald’s fries and chicken nuggets, Arby’s mozza sticks are close too ...

Last book you couldn’t put down?

Maria’s special … it’s a go-to!

What’s your favourite vacation destination?

With four kids we haven’t travelled as much as we would like, but I’d say definitely the Philippines, if you’ve never been. Your perspective on life and appreciation for things we take for granted will drastically change.

What’s your weirdest habit?

I’m currently reading Sanfransicko … definitely a good read if you’re interested in the unhoused pandemic in North America.

I will actually reverse down the road if I cross a black cat’s path, I knock on wood all of the time, won’t put new shoes on the table before they are worn, so many superstitions.

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

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

My grandpa Rusty … miss him every day!

What’s the one thing you haven’t done that you’d love to do?

I already have a few, so that limits the options.

Does winning the lottery count?

What is your favourite TV show?

What’s the best thing about Lloydminster?

I’m not really one to watch TV, but one series my husband and I did watch and I enjoyed was Suits. I “may have” wanted to become a lawyer afterwards.

If we’re buying you’re having....

The people, Lloydminster has a special connection amongst its residents. Everyone always rallies together in a time of need. There is nowhere I’d rather call home.

I have a running playlist that I currently listen to most days, which is an eclectic mix of all genres.

none of us do. Live every day to the fullest and never let others opinion of you decide your destiny. If you always know in your heart that you’ve done things with the best intentions, that’s all that matters.” And “Never do anything I’d be ashamed for my mother to find out about.”

Who’s your hero?

My mom and dad … they are the most understanding people I have ever met in my life. They always welcomed my brothers and my friends into our home as if they were their own and do to this day. They love each other’s company, go grocery shopping and to the gym together. They are separate individuals, but complement each other so well.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

I’m not sure that’s PG enough for print in the local newspaper!

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Loud chewers, like I actually have to get up and remove myself from the area. It causes me such anxiety.

What are your words to live by?

“You don’t know what’s next …

Jonathan Taylor Thomas. File Photo

PAGE 10 Thursday, January 25, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

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 Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca Staff Writer Jeannette Benoit Leipert jeannette@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Cory Harvie cory@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Andrea Allen andrea@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Bailey Keebaugh bailey@meridiansource.ca Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Production Manager: Amanda Richard Distribution: distribution@meridiansource.ca 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

Viewpoint Border Banter with Benoit-Leipert: Mental health matters This time of the year can be a bit depressing, that’s for sure. We get less sunlight, it’s darn cold, and financially it can be a tough time as well—recovering from the Christmas season. The recent event, Strength in Unity, which was put on by the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation was very well-timed, in my opinion. Kudos to the organizers for bringing such inspiring speakers to Lloyd. Over the past 10-25 years the stigma around mental health has really been lifted. It’s something people feel more and more comfortable talking about, and it’s healthy for people to talk about it, and relate to one another. I recently read an article with some interesting statistics around mental illness in Canada. Half of Canadians will have faced some level of mental health issues by the time they turn 40, and I’m not really surprised by that. I have struggled with anxiety all of my life, but it was tough to identify at first. After all, how do we know what anxiety feels like if we’re born with it? It didn’t really surface until it was triggered by a driving incident here in Lloyd, when I was about 21 years old. I almost hit another car, and it was my fault. That was when I had my first panic attack. Anyone who has experienced one knows, it’s horrible. Especially the first one. It’s hard to breath, your heart races and your hands and feet go numb or tingly. (That’s my experience anyway) Mine normally last

File Photo between 10-20 minutes, but others have said theirs last for up to an hour. I can’t imagine an hour of that, truly. When the dust settles, and the symptoms wear off you feel utterly exhausted. After the first attack, I visited my doctor and she prescribed something for anxiety. I was a chronic worrier and over-thinker, but I just thought everyone else did that too. The thing about anxiety is, just when you think everything is moving along nicely it will rear its head. I was on my way to work Tuesday morning in the heavy fog. The roads were partially covered, but didn’t seem icy. I’ve had my driver’s licence for 24 years and have never been in an accident. I’ve driven the same route hundreds of times, and was on a paved township road, heading toward a secondary highway. I slowed down to 80-85 due to the visibility. I wasn’t distracted, not changing the radio station or adjusting my seat, or anything else. Suddenly, there was a stop sign 5-10 feet in front of me. I didn’t feel the rumble strips or see the other caution signs that preceded the stop sign. I was in the middle of a secondary highway in the dense fog doing 80 km per hour. I tried breaking for an instant, but it was clear there was no use.

I must have some pretty amazing guardian angels looking out for me! As soon as I was across,l I hit the brakes and came to a stop. As I glanced in the rear-view mirror a semi went by on the highway, going south. It would have hit the driver’s side.

I could feel that old familiar anxiety creeping back but was able to stop in impending panic attack and slowly make it back home. I made the trip once the sun rose and the fog cleared up a bit, but I’ll never look at that intersection the same way.

PAGE 11 Thursday, January 25, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Teachers need more class funding STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

The two one-day province-wide strikes of Saskatchewan teachers, including 462 in Lloydminster, seemed to generate a lot of support from parents and other stakeholders, given they were held on some of the coldest days of the year. More picketing may be coming. The strike job action is all about demanding the government return to the bargaining table to discuss working and learning conditions. These include class size, class complexity and student resources. Their last four-year contract expired in August 2023. Having to go on strike makes me realize being a teacher is not an easy job these days especially dealing with students with mental health, violent behaviours and gender identity issues and a whole myriad of concerns that boggle the mind including a growing number of immigrants who may have language or cultural challenges. Some naysayers, however, think teachers

have it easy with professional development days and lots of time off during school breaks and holidays etc. From personal family experience, I know that’s not the case. My dad was a teacher and principal of several schools in Ontario, but his first teaching stint in Ottawa in the 1950s paid him a salary of about $3,000 a year. He had to sell ice cream part-time to put beans on the table and coal in the furnace. Back then, most homes had a chute in their basement for the delivery of coal. He couldn’t afford many lumps on his salary and fried bread was our usual breakfast of necessity during those lean years. When school was out in the summer, my dad took university courses to get one of his two masters degrees, which led to a new job with better pay in Toronto. If you just had a BA you were going nowhere in education, so summer vacations were when my dad improved his prom o t i o n a l o p p o r t u n ities and his pay scale steadily rose. He also became the

These Lloydminster teachers and kids warded off the cold with a firepit during the second province-wide strike of Saskatchewan teachers on Monday fronting the LloydMall. The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation warns more job action is likely if the government continues to refuse to negotiate class size and complexity in a new bargaining agreement. Geoff Lee Meridian Source president of the North York Teachers’ Federation in his later teaching year and helped to bargain for better pensions. Back then was I was in public school, class sizes were also fairly large with us baby boomers, but I don’t recall teachers having to deal with the same issues that make teaching today way more stressful. I’m giving the striking teachers an A for effort on a very cold day.

TIPI TEACHINGS FROM PAGE 7

“Each pole has a meaning. Each pole has a value, and all those things were our parenting tools. So when they were taken from us we lost our parenting skills for awhile, not just from the tipi—from many other things,” said Young. “And traditionally—kayâs (a long time ago), women took care of the tipi. Now you’ll see men putting it up and stuff, that’s just how we’ve changed and evolved.” Sharing her Indigenous culture is something Young is passionate about, and she has been in the classroom for 22 years now, at first as an EA working with Indigenous students before transitioning to her current position. “Any chance that we have to teach about the culture, we’ll take, and the more people that know about our culture,” said Young.

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Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

LCSD Indigenous programming coordinator Cynthia Young fields questions from students and teachers following a presentation.

“That’s that seed that’s going to grow that field of people that have an understanding and acknowledgement, and a good foundation of the culture. That’s what we want.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Passport to YLL

Thursday, January 25, 2024

CALENDAR OF EVENTS The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.

All-candidates forum set for Monday

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

Cards, games and live music Crib Doubles Tourney The Legacy Centre is hosting a doubles crib tournament on Jan. 25. Bring your part ner ou t f or a 10 a.m. start, cost to play is $10. Lunch is available for $12. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-8754584 for more details. Dewberry Crib Tourney The Dewbery Seniors Crib Tournament is being held on Saturday, Jan. 27. Registration is at 10:15 a.m., hot lunch is available for $25.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Fred Sirett, Stan Bugiera and Darrell Dunn, candidates in the upcoming Lloydminster by-election, attended the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meeting on Tuesday and will be joined by other contenders Leo Aguinaldo, Ben Harrison, David Lopez, Corey McKee, and Hamid Rahmanian, at an all-candidates forum at Lloyd Ex on Jan. 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30. The debate and question period is presented by the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce.

Fun for the whole family Crib Doubles Tourney The Moose Lodge is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Feb. 11 at 10 a.m. Registration is from 9-9:45 a.m., 12 games guaranteed. Cost is $25/person, which includes a hot lunch. Enter as a team or an individual. Tea Cup Candle Making There will be a tea cup candle making workshop and English tea party at Church Stay, Alta. in Mannville on Feb. 25 from 3-6 p.m. North Bend Jam The North Bend Musical Jam is the second Sunday of each month from 1-4:30 p.m. It will feature musicians and dancers; all music lovers welcome. Jams will be held on

Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10. The Hall is wheelchair accessible; everyone welcome!

Inspiring Women Conference Lloydminster’s Inspiring Women Conference, put on by KT and Company, will return to the Border City on Feb. 1 for an epic day of inspiration from some incredible women. The daylong event will take place at the Lloydminster Exhibition and will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $97.18 and are available through Eventbrite.

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

Kaiser Tournament The Legacy Centre is hosting a Kaiser Tournament on Feb. 1. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/ person. Lunch is also available for $12/person. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584.

Playschool Pre-registration Southridge Playschool & Kindergym has opened up their registration for 20232024 classes. They offer oneday a week for three-yearolds and one or two days a week for four/five-year-olds. They have also qualified for the Affordability Grant. For more information please call 780-872-9523.

Supper/Dance The Legacy Centre is hosting a February supper/dance on Feb. 9. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m. and supper starts at 6 p.m. Dance the night away to the tunes of Saskatoon’s Memory Lane. Tickets are $25/ person – ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY. Please purchase or reserve tickets before noon on Feb. 8. All mem-

bers welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584. Kelly Taylor plays Marwayne Comedy Night Join Kelly Taylor at the Marwayne Community Hall on Feb. 10 for a night of comedy. This in-person event promises to be a rib-tickling experience for everyone in attendance. Funds raised go towards upgrading the playground equipment at our school! Tickets are $70.56 and available at EventBrite. Dewberry Jamboree The Dewberry Jamboree is being held on Feb. 10 with a 2 p.m. start time. Supper is at 5 p.m. with music to follow. Tickets are $20. Aaron Pritchett at the Vic Country music star Aaron Pritchett brings The Liquored Up Tour to the Border City with special guests Cory Marks and Matt Lang on Monday, Feb. 12 for a 7:30 p.m. show. General admission tickets are $68 and available at the Vic Juba website or box office. Spades Tourney The Legacy Centre is hosting a Spad e s tou rname nt on Feb. 15. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/ person. Lunch is also available for $12/person. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584. High Valley @ The Vic Multi-platinum country group High Valley will be taking the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Feb. 16 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are only $65 and are available online or at the Vic Juba box office.

Crib Doubles Tourney The Legacy Centre is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Feb. 22. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/person. Lunch is also available for $12/person. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780875-4584. Pancake Breakfast The Legacy Centre is hosting a pancake breakfast from 9-11 a.m. on Feb. 25. Cost is $12/person at the door, $6/12 and under. EVERYONE WELCOME! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more details. The Great Canadian Roadtrip The Vic Juba Community Theatre is pleased to present The Great Canadian Roadtrip with Doc Walker, Michelle Wright and Jason McCoy on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss three legends of Canadian Country music come back to their roots this winter! Tickets are $71 and are available on the theatre’s website and inperson at the box office. Legacy Bus Trip The Legacy Centre is hosting a bus trip on Feb. 28 for brunch and a show (A Night With The King starring Matt Cage– North American Renowned Elvis Tribute Show). The bus leaves the Legacy at 7:30 a.m. and returns to Lloydminster around 5:30 p.m. Cost is $189/person, which includes transportation, brunch and the show! Call the Legacy office at 780875-4584 for more details. - Have something you’d like listed in our community calendar? Email the info to taylor@meridiansource.ca

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

A Guide to

Post-secondary education

Sask Polytech welding apprentice crowned Miss Rodeo Agribition

SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECH SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

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“As long as dedication is there, it can take you anywhere. I have so much passion and dedication for welding and rodeo,” said Arianna Dyck, who was crowned the first Miss Rodeo Agribition in November. Currently studying welding at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Moose Jaw campus for her level-one technical training, Dyck is taking apprenticeship training through an agreement with her employer and the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. “When I’m not training at Sask Polytech, I’m out in the field working and getting experience,” Dyck explains. Ready to add Miss Rodeo Agribition duties to her schedule, the new official brand ambassador of the Canadian Western Agribition (CWA) says she’s received great support from her peers and instructors at Sask Polytech. “With the title, I currently have of Miss Rodeo Agribition, I want to show people to follow their heart and do what they want to do because, in the end, they will live a more fulfilling life,” she notes. As part of the competition, Dyck had to do rodeo challenges, present

a speech and complete an interview. Highlighting life in a skilled trade where women are underrepresented was a key element in her platform. “I talked about women in the trades because it’s a topic that’s important to me. For me, it means a lot being a minority in such a male-dominated industry. With my journey in welding, I want to show women that we can do it just the same as anybody else. No matter who you are, you can do anything,” she says. Her interview also stood out to the panel of judges, recalls Shaun Kindopp, CWA CEO. “Arianna’s interview was fantastic. By the end of it, people wanted to jump up on the table. She’s a great speaker and a wonderful first Miss Rodeo Agribition,” he explains, noting she was among three finalists vying for the crown. Dyck’s passion for rodeo and barrel racing flourished in high school, which is also when she discovered welding. As she explored her postsecondary options, she knew Sask Polytech was the right fit to achieve her career goals. “Sask Polytech has resources like short course options. I had the opportunity to try Metalworking Madness,” she says. The Continuing Education course geared to underrepresented groups including females, Indigenous people, newcomers, people with disabilities and youth enabled Dyck to further solidify her career choice. “It was very insightful and helped guide me towards being a welder.” For the next year, Dyck will travel to various communities and schools to represent the CWA as Miss Rodeo Agribition. With her future as bright as welding sparks, Dyck plans on advancing her career and continuing to be a competitor in rodeos. In three years, she sees herself as having completed the welder journeyperson certification and continuing to be a voice for women in the field. “Trades are an awesome place to work. I want to be an advocate for women in trades, and I want to keep pursuing my love of barrel racing and improve my horsemanship.” Learn more at saskpolytech.ca.

Supplied Photos

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

A Guide to

Post-secondary education

Finding purpose in supporting others E

rnest Torniado always knew he wanted to help others. Trained as a massage therapist, Torniado enjoyed the ability to work closely with his patients to discover suitable treatment plans, but due to the repetitive nature of the work, he found himself in a state of burnout, considering other opportunities. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced him out of work for three months, he was ready to find a new career in the healthcare industry. A path to physiotherapy

With an interest in physiotherapy, Torniado moved from Saskatchewan to enroll in the Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physical Therapist Assistant (OTA/PTA) diploma at Medicine Hat College (MHC). This two-year program trains students to work under the direction of occupational therapists and physiotherapists, helping clients to successfully perform daily activities and mobilize after illness or injury. “Becoming a therapy assistant allowed me to continue working within the health-

care scope, but more so on the rehab side,” explains Torniado, who began the OTA/PTA program in Fall 2020 with an initial plan to pursue physiotherapy. He chose MHC for its ability to transfer the diploma to institutions like Athabasca University, Thompson Rivers University and University of Calgary for degree completion. Upon finishing the program in 2022, he returned to Saskatchewan and took a role as an OTA at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. His role focuses on helping patients perform daily activities

independently, such as getting dressed, feeding, and cleaning themselves. “Working in a hospital, I’m able to see patients under different types of conditions and levels of abilities and I’m able to create a relationship with them. I like seeing their progress to recovery and getting them out of the hospital.” As the main point of contact throughout their treatment, Torniado enjoys being an advocate for his patients and working close ly wit h occu p ational therapists to find and adjust recovery

plans, based on patient needs. Supporting student success Now, still closely linked to his educational roots, Torniado supports current MHC students during their practicum placements. Seeing an ongoing demand for OTA/PTAs in Saskatchewan, he hopes graduates will return to support hospitals and rehabilitation centers in need of staff. “When I started my job at St. Paul’s, one of four hospitals here in Saskatoon, I was only the second or third therapy assistant ever to be hired. Currently,

I am the only therapy assistant working in the whole hospital, covering eight wards, so there is definitely a need for therapy assistants.” Torniado believes empathetic individuals with a passion for helpi n g o t h e r s a n d m a king a difference in their patient’s recovery journeys would be most successful in an occupational therapy assistant role. To learn more about becoming an OTA/ PTA, or other rewarding careers, visit www. mhc.ab.ca/SKStudents and find your path with us.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

A Guide to

Post-secondary education

Looking local for your next career move? Look no further than Suncrest College!

rom the trades to University education, the daunting task of post-secondary education becomes a lot less nerve-wracking when you can do it in your own backyard. That’s something Suncrest College is able to offer, with the largest region of Saskatchewan’s regional college network, Saskatchewan’s southeast and southcentral areas benefit from the work done at the College. One of the biggest worries for students post-graduation is finding employment. What if your educational institution did that work for you? That’s just another one of the benefits of Suncrest. The College meets regularly with industry experts to identify any needs and then strategically implements programming to ensure that post-grad, there’s employment ready for you. That’s just one less stress you’ll need to worry about at Suncrest College. Another stress for those in post-secondary ? F inanc e s . We l l , instead of having to

File Photo move to “the big city,” or relocate outside of Saskatchewan, why not stay where you’ve familiarized yourself? Why not stay where you are, and keep that job you’ve had for years? Why pay more to live when there’s an option at home? Just a few more advantages of enrolling at the College! And don’t even get us started on the small class sizes, the additional resources, and the talented staff that keeps the College recognized — not just regionally, but across Western Canada and beyond. We are here to not just suit your needs, but to give you every tool imaginable to find your success — and ultimately, your desired career, too! When it comes to the programming Suncrest is able to offer across the 11 campuses within the region, the delivery is vast and will allow you to choose your path. Want to be a firefighter? Look no further than Saskatchewan’s only professional firefighting training program. Want to get into the health field? Take your Nursing degree here

at home, or become a Continuing Care Assistant, there’s even Practical Nursing to fit your needs and your goals. Want to get into the trades? Well, we have multiple state-of-theart shops all across the region, and we can pave that next path for you. From welding to power engineering, to industrial mechanics and electrical, we can find a way to fit your needs. Want a degree from Saskatchewan’s universities? You can do that too, right at Suncrest College. If you’re just looking to fill one year of your university schooling too, you can do that at Suncrest as well. Even one year spent at Suncrest could benefit you immensely, with the ability to save and shave your overall debt upon graduation. There’s also corporate training, if you’re looking for something to help develop your skills, increase your certificate training, or want to try something new — the possibilities are endless at Suncrest College. Visit our website today to learn what your future has in store at Suncrest College.

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

A Guide to

Post-secondary education

USask College of Nursing expands nursing education KYLIE KELSO SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

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Since 2012, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Nursing has been offering the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at various locations throughout Saskatchewan. At the end of 2023, USask Nursing announced the addition of two distributed nursing sites – Lloydminster and North Battleford. Beginning September 2024, students interested in taking the BSN program will be able to complete their entire degree at USask campuses in Saskatoon and Prince Albert or at nursing sites in La Ronge, Îleà-la-Crosse, Yorkton, Lloydminster, and North Battleford.

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“We have listened to the residents of Saskatchewan and expanded to locations in the province where students previously could not access our BSN program,” said USask College of Nursing dean Dr. Solina Richter (DCur). “It is important our program offering is inclusive of rural areas of the province that have been previously underserved.” The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven to be successful at distributed sites in La Ronge, Île-à-la-Crosse, and Yorkton. Since the first students entered the BSN program in La Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse in September 2012, 66 nursing students have completed their degree in northern Saskatchewan. Since starting the program in Yorkton in 2014, 81 students have graduated.

When nursing students complete their degree in their community, the majority of graduates stay and practice there. Our northern communities need northern nurses, who are familiar with the culture and people. Saskatchewan has a large Indigenous population, particularly in northern Saskatchewan. “In order to provide quality nursing care, we must actively contribute to a representative nursing workforce that is responsive to the needs of the province,” said Dr. Richter. “We have a long history of Indigenous student success and are recognized as having the highest number of self-declared Indigenous nursing students in the country; 16.6 per cent of seats in the BSN program are reserved for Indigenous applicants.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Runners to chill out at Runderland GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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A lot of local and outof-town runners are warming up to the idea of racing around Bud Miller All Seasons Park in the cold to beat the winter blues.

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Lloyd’s coming together and really showing that want for being outside and doing outside activities.

Dozens of runners have already registered with the Lloydminster Runners Club to compete in 5km or 10km races at the second edition of Winter Runderland on Feb. 3. “We’ve got people coming from Saskatoon, Edmonton, kind of all over the place. It’s really nice,” said race director Chris Bogue with the count at 65 a week ago. “People are excited. They’re loving it again. Lloyd’s coming together and really showing that want for being outside and doing outside activities, especially in the winter.” Winter Runderland is presented by Midwest Endurance with Taryn and Mackenzie Brown helping Bogue to pull the organizing strings with ALX Pump Jack as the

USASK FROM PAGE 16

By expanding to Lloydminster and North Battleford, the College of Nursing aims to ensure all students in Saskatchewan have access to registered nursing education. When these students complete their nursing degree, they will help to fill unmet registered nursing workforce needs in northwest Saskatchewan. “By offering the BSN program at our distributed nursing sites, we are giving students the op po rtuni t y t o l e a rn where they live in La Ronge, Île-à-la-Crosse,

returning title sponsor. “They’ve kind of taken on that role, so we thank them for showing us they are supporting the community through running,” said Bogue. He expects race day will be warmer than last year when the temperature dipped to -35C. “This year it looks like it’s trending a lot nicer, so hopefully we’ll get more people out for that and the wind stays away, so it’s not whisking across the lake,” he said. Both distances take place on a flat out and back 2.5km course around Bud Miller lake that 5km runners do once and 10km runners twice. The registration package pickup takes place from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. inside the PSM Park Centre prior to the mass start at 10 a.m. at the mercy of Mother Nature. “Running in the winter can be for everybody, but sometimes it’s not for everybody as people are scared of the cold,” said Bogue. “When it’s all done you can say ‘I raced my five kilometres or my 10 kilometres in the freezing cold and I’m done and time for a warm coffee.” Runner’s World recommends runners wear layers, warm up properly and keep their extremities comfy by wearing gloves or mit-

tens and toques or beanies in the cold. Bogue agrees with that advice, adding if you feel warm at the start line you’re going to get way too hot and sweat and end up freezing. “People get out there and do it. If you do everything correctly, there’s not a lot of risk running in the cold,” he said. Post-race events include an awards presentation starting at 10:45 a.m. to celebrate the top three and female finishers in both distances as well as finisher medals for everyone who completes the distance. Check the Lloydminster Runners website for more details.

Yorkton, Lloydminster, and North Battleford,” adds Dr. Richter. “We are decreasing the likelihood of these rural and remote communities experiencing a registered nursing shortage, as the students who complete their nursing education in these communities, will likely practice in the community once licensed.” The USask BSN is a 1+3 program. Students take their preprofessional year at USask campuses in Saskatoon and Prince Albert, at the University of Regina, or at

a number of regional colleges throughout the province. The remaining three years are completed through the College of Nursing in Saskatoon (USask Campus), Prince Albert (USask Prince Albert Campus), La Ronge or Îleà-la-Crosse (Northlands College), Yorkton (Suncrest College), Lloydminster (Lakeland College), and North Battleford (North West College). For mor e inf or mation on the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing, please visit nursing.usask.ca.

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Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Family forged in tradition

Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source

Father and son Dmitrii Federov (left) and Egor Makarov show their wares to a group of customers on Sunday at the 2024 Lloydminster Gun and Outdoor Sportsman Show. JEANNETTE BENOIT-LEIPERT STAFF WRITER

.................................. A father-son team brought more than goods to the 2024 Lloydminster Gun andOutdoor Sportsman Show. Not only did they display their handcrafted knives and other

unique items, but they also provided a chance for people to learn about Siberian culture. Originally from the Sakha Republic, Egor Makarov and his son Dmitrii Federov, came to Canada seven years ago and currently run their business; Sakha

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Knife, out of Calgary. “I design all of the knives myself,” said Makarov, who is also a photographer, producer, traveller, and collector. He has taken many award-winning photos and produced documentary films showcasing the beauty of his northern homeland. The most popular of those is called ‘24 Snow’. “As long as I remember, I have always

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“It really depends on the knife, but most knives take over 80-100 hours,” said Federov. “Everything is natural. The process itself comes from making the blade from Iron ore.” There are other things they forge as well, including a Siberian music instrument—called a jew harp, and scissors. “In Siberia, men give scissors to their wives as a gift. It’s like a lucky charm. They are very sharp and can be used to cut fabrics and lots of things. Even the jewelry Makarov wore at the show was made of natural materials. “That is horses’ hair, it’s braided,” said Makarov. “And this is cherry stone from Siberia”, he said, pointing to the lilaccoloured stone around his neck. Federov said his father likes coming to Lloydminster because the temperatures are cooler than in Calgary, and it reminds him of their homeland. “He likes the cold temperature, he wants to buy a little house up north.”

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been attracted and charmed by stories and hidden secrets of my native land,” said Makarov, who is an adventurer at heart. In the winter of 2021, he supported Nikita Gretsi (London, UK) in the first leg of his 1,000 km expedition. Gretsi rode on Sakha horses along the deadly Road of Bones and Makarov rode 500 kilometres on reindeer with the famous Swedish travel blogger

Mikael Strandberg. Another one of his passions is mountaineering. He has climbed several of the highest peaks in the world: Mount Elbrus (5642 m) in Europe, Denali (6190 m) in Alaska in North America and Aconcagua (6961 m) in Argentina in South America. Makarov and his team of metal workers bring their culture to life through their handmade items, each using only natural Siberian materials, which aren’t often easy to harvest, considering their homeland of the Sakha Republic sees very extreme climatic shifts. In the winter the temperatures fall as low as -70 degrees, and summer often sees +35. Woolly mammoths once roamed his homel and , w h i c h Fe d o ro v explained, pointing to the handle of a knife. “This is from a mammoth tusk, found in the permafrost.” When asked how long it would take to make a knife such as that— including the forging of the blade and handle construction, he said it’s not a quick process.

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preventing and reducing the health harms of smoking, second-hand smoke and vaping, particularly among youth. Smoking and tobacco use, and the growing use of vaping products continue to negatively affect the health of Albertans. Since the introduction of vaping products, the rate of use among Alberta youth aged 15 to 19 rose to 35 per cent in 2020 from 19 per cent in 2013. The longterm harms to children are not yet fully known, though immediate risks include lung injury, nicotine poisoning and addiction. The government’s new Tobacco and Vaping Reduction Strategy builds upon the 2012 Creating Tobacco-

Free Futures: Alberta’s Strategy to Prevent and Reduce Tobacco Use and supports initiatives to reduce the use of tobacco and vaping products in the province. From 2015 to 2021, the previous strategy guided work by Alberta’s government and its partners that led to a decrease from 18.4 per cent to 11.5 per cent in the province’s overall smoking rate. This new strategy will support efforts to further reduce tobacco and vaping product use, particularly among younger Albertans. “This significant reduction of smoking deserves recognition and gratitude to our health and community partners who

have worked tirelessly with us to achieve this progress and who have played a pivotal role in shaping the strategy,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health. “(Congrats) to each Albertan who has made the choice to either quit smoking or made the proactive decision to not start in the first place. We have made great strides, but there is more work to be done, especially in our vaping reduction strategy.” The Tobacco and Vaping Reduction Strategy includes strategies related to prevention, protection, cessation and capacity building. The strategy commits to: CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Guitar concert hits the right notes GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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A guitar concert at the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School (LCHS) drama room was a nail-biting experience for some Grade 10 and 11 students—with a lot at stake. “It’s a performance and a final, so it’s kind of a double whammy,” explained music teacher Stephen Davis last Wednesday while grading each student. It was the final exam for his guitar 20 and 30 classes. Davis says he hands out a songbook at the beginning of the year and students can choose from a selection of those songs for the finals. Kiera Curtis, a Grade 11 student taking a Grade 10 class, chose a song called Farewell and aced it scoring a mark of 95 from Davis. “Honestly, it was nerve-wracking but it was a lot of fun too,” said the teen who loves

playing the guitar in class. “Mr. Davis makes it really enjoyable to play guitar in the classroom.” “I really like finding myself in my music and really getting into the guitar and strumming a lot.” She has her own sixstring acoustic guitar that she practices a lot at home and plans to give it to her little brother as soon as she grows out of it. The guitar program was started by Davis, who earned a music degree playing the instrument. He plans to expand the program with a new guitar 30 class next year for Grade 12s. The current crop of guitar 20 and 30 students played in the LCHS garage band the day before the finals. They will also conduct some community performances soon and take part in another garage band perfor-

mance in June. That’s music to the ears of Grade 11 student, Autumn MacDonald who calls the guitar and music her hobby. “I have a few guitars at home and I play at the restaurant I cook at in the summer,” she said. She also called her final exam, however, “nerve-wracking” just like a few of her classmates did. “I’ve never felt nervous playing in front of people, but playing in front of people my age is really scary,” she said. She was worried about peer pressure but did well, thinking she got a 75 or an 80 on the finals, playing Hotel California by the Eagles. “I hadn’t played it until today so it was good,” said MacDonald. She also plays the piano and the ukulele. “I really like music,” she said, putting country at the top of her list with Zach Bryan her favourite artist.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Marcus Alexander played a few licks on this classical guitar during a guitar concert for Grade 10 and 11 students at the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School drama room last Thursday.

The teen also gave some kudos to Davis. “He’s really good. He’s

really good at interacting with people in our class and he made it like

a group of friends in the class. I really enjoyed that,” she said.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

How good is goodwill? MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

One of the interesting aspects of being a commercial Realtor is when requested to sell a small business. You must be very careful at the approach taken as experience has taught me I may not get “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth!” At least at the start and possibly not ever. Of course, my first question always is “Why is it for sale?” I may as well ask, as it will also be the lead-off inquiry one will get from prospective buyers. Full disclosure of the seller’s motivation, what assets are included in the sale, and a true financial picture is like peeling an onion; one must be patient when doing so and may shed a few tears along

the way. The actual reason for selling, and the stated one, can be as different as night and day. One restaurant owner told me she was retiring and moving to British Columbia to be close to family when in fact she chose to start up a new café in a larger center down the road because the current site was going to need a lot of work in order to bring up to an acceptable public health standard. A flower shop proprietor couldn’t sustain what appeared to be a thriving operation due to an escalating alcohol problem causing her to miss commitments to provide products for weddings and funerals. And we both know those families will never forget. One unhappy person will turn away 10 potential customers. Some sellers don’t just

want out now, but right now, and are prepared to throw the keys at anyone who has a heartbeat, while others play the market every year or so to see if someone will bite at their unsubstantiated price. The listings which pull at my heartstrings are those involving an owner who gave great service and is well respected in the community, but privately tells you they have a significant health condition or terminal illness. They just don’t want to leave their long-time staff without employment or force customers to go out of town for what they need. Then there is the vague concept called “goodwill”. An old court case in England defined goodwill as “nothing more than the probability that old customers will continue to patronize the same shop.” At the sale, it is measured by the excess paid over the value of the assets of the real estate involved. With many small businesses, the owner has done little more than buy themselves a job. Someone wanting to start

up a similar business will balance the risk with the reward, most often deciding to build their own “brand”, deciding not to pay for somebody else’s client list for people who may or may not come through their door. This applies to my business as well as a host of others. Over the years, retiring veteran professionals have tried to introduce their clients to a designated successor with the expectation their delegate will pay a referral fee. Most of the time the client and exiting service provider may have enjoyed a relationship built on trust and if you were to dig into it there is likely an undescribed connection as simple as they went to school together or played on the same sports team. When that personal link is broken, the client will often seize the opportunity to choose somebody else than the designate to work with. Goodwill can be tied to a location which genuinely is attractive to the customer base, but you must be careful the value is not already built into the property itself. In a larger business, if the

existing owner has built a strong management team supported by competent line staff, it is possible the customers will see no need to switch service providers; great, life goes on. But for many businesses, this is rare. For one thing, the competition will seize the opportunity to hire those top performers away if they can, seeking to bring a customer base with them. And just like clients, the staff usually stayed with the previous owner out of loyalty. Remove the connection, and they too will look around for opportunities. That’s why I always look internally first to see if someone already on the team could buy the business. The new owner might have been under the old owner’s nose all along; just wasn’t asked! 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.

PAGE 21 Thursday, January 25, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

Rustlers women’s hoopsters 14-0

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Top: The excitement coming from the Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball team’s bench was infectious on Saturday afternoon as the ladies beat the Keyano College Huskies 76-65 after being tied 34-34 at the half. The Rustlers also hosted the Huskies on Friday night, which resulted in an 84-53 blowout in favour of the home team. Bottom: Rustlers’ guard Susan Ayaa applies pressure under the basket during second-half action at the Lakeland gym on Saturday afternoon. Ayaa played 19 minutes, made four of 11 field-goal attempts, and was 4-4 for free-throw attempts. TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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The Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball team is unstoppable. With a 14-0 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) record,

the ladies have put up 1,121 points, allowed 768, and remain at the top of the Canadian Collegiate (CCAA) Athletic Conference national rankings for the eighth week in a row. The Rustlers hosted

the Keyano College Huskies (5-9) for backto-back homers last weekend, steamrolling KC 84-53 on Friday before an almost tooclose-for-comfort win on Saturday afternoon. Tied 34-34 at the

half, the Rustlers hit the court with the drive and determination head coach Chris King is used to seeing from his team. King did, however, say Saturday’s game was a humbling experience that showed his players they’re not superhumans, after all. “Anyone can beat us at any time, and that’s the same as any team anywhere,” said King. “I think you’re seeing teams across Canada dropping games they

maybe shouldn’t if you look at the standings. To come out on top of this game was huge for us, but more importantly we had to battle.” Blowing out the majority of teams they face, King said Saturday was needed. “We’ve been playing pretty good basketball, but it was nice to have a close game today. “All the things we did poorly today hurt us, and I think Keyano did a great job executing. Their game plan was

solid and we really had to work today.” King also noted last weekend felt like playoff basketball from a team who’s ready to host CCAA women’s nationals from March 13-16, something freshman point guard Hineaupounamu (Missy) Nuku is looking forward to. “Oh my God, I’m so excited. I’m so excited about hosting nationals,” said Nuku after Saturday’s win. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Left: Fifth-year Rustlers guard Hailey Somers gets up close and personal with Emma Tomchuk of the Keyano Huskies at the Lakeland gym on Saturday afternoon. Right: Rustlers point guard Hineaupounamu Nuku directs traffic during second-half action on Saturday afternoon.

RUSTLERS FROM PAGE 21

Nuku, who hails from New Zealand, played 24 minutes and put up nine points on Friday before playing 34 minutes and putting up 23 on Saturday. “The feeling’s good to win both games to get a

sweep, but it was definitely a tough game to play,” she said after Saturday’s win. “The first game we got away with a couple of things, but they really came out on us in the second game. It was a good win, but also, we

have a lot of things to work on for playoffs and nationals.” Returning to the court for the second half, Nuku explained the team had to get its confidence back and prove to themselves they deserve to be in the

position they are. “We had to prove we could come together, go out there and get the win for ourselves,” she said. Nuku also noted a 14-0 record feels amazing, but there’s still lots of ball to play this season. “We had to adapt a lot, so I think for us, it ’s on t he d ef ensive side. When that defensive side is good, our

offence comes along, so (we’ll be working on) our defence for the next couple weeks and for playoffs,” she said. “We’ve got shooters all around so we’re not too worried about offence, but defence is (what) we’re going to be training for the next couple of weeks.” When asked about Nuku’s performance, coach King was quick to

say “Kid’s a stud.” “I thought she made some good decisions down the stretch. She probably had around 10 assists, so she can dominate any game, really,” said King. “As the game got close, her play got better and better, and that’s what we need out of her as a point guard, but also as a freshman learning all these things.”

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

‘Cats claw back for weekend sweep

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

It was another wild weekend for the Lloydminster Bobcats (2521) as they picked up six points with back-toto-back home wins over the Fort McMurray Oil Barons (13-28-2-3). Friday saw the ‘Cats embarrass the MOB 7-0 as goaltender Jack Solomon earned his fifth shutout of the year. ‘Cats forward Ben Aucoin opened the scoring at 17:01 in the first before Caden Steinke and Luke Fritz joined the party in the second. Steinke scored at 4:29 and 18:45 (his sixth and seventh of the season), with Fritz filling the gap with his fifth of the year at 16:10. With a 4-0 lead and 20 minutes of hockey to play, the ‘Cats weren’t done. The third period saw goals from assistant captain Kade Fendelet (his ninth of the year),

Ryan Redekopp (3) and Alessio Nardelli (3). With the confidence of Friday’s win in tow, the ‘Cats hit the ice on Saturday with Teague McAllister opening the scoring two minutes into the first frame. Saturday, however, wasn’t going as smoothly as the ‘Cats may have hoped as they found themselves down 4-2 after 4o minutes. Determined to get the win, the boys found ways to beat MOB netminder Gage Stewart with goals from Redekopp (4), defenceman Michael Carter (2) and a second of the night from Teague McAllister, his fourth of the season. The ‘Cats were scheduled to host the Spruce Grove Saints last night at the Civic, but the game was cancelled due to recent shake-ups throughout the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL).

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

Left: ‘Cats forward Teague McAllister, who potted two goals against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons on Saturday night, gets in the face of the MOB’s Chad Lebeau in front of the Bobcats bench. Right: Bobcats captain Caden Cabana wins a draw over the MOB on Saturday night at the Civic Centre. After beating Fort Mac 7-0 on Friday night, the ‘Cats clawed back to win 5-4 after being down 4-2 after 40 minutes. Bottom: Teague McAllister celebrates his first goal of the night with captain Caden Cabana at 2:17 in the first on Saturday night. McAllister also got the night’s game-winner at 15:45 in the third for a 5-4 win.

Last week, news broke that the Brooks Bandits, Okotoks Oilers, Sherwood Park Crusaders, Blackfalds Bulldogs and the Saints were slated to leave the AJHL for the independent BCHL. Check next week’s Source for league updates and a status report from the Bobcats. The ‘Cats are on the road for the rest of the month with a game in Drayton Valley on Jan. 26, Spruce Grove on Jan. 27, and Camrose on Jan. 31.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

KC BEST BOYS’ RUSTLERS TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

It was a tough weekend for the secondplace Lakeland College Rustlers men’s basketball (9-5) team after back-t0-back losses to the first-place Keyano College Huskies (13-1). Currently eight points behind KC in the ACAC north standings, the Rustlers put up a solid effort on Friday night, losing 76-74 before a 91-84 loss on Saturday. In 14 games, the Rustlers have put up 1,183 points, allowed 1,115, and are 5-2 at home and 4-2 on the road. With only a handful of games remaining on the regular season

schedule, the boys are on the road until Feb. 10, when they return to the Lakeland gym to

host the SAIT Trojans at 3 p.m. The Rustlers then host the Red Deer Poly-

technic Kings on Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. and the Olds College Broncos on Feb. 17 at 8 p.m.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Top: Rustlers guard/forward Favour Ugbah shows off some reach on Saturday afternoon as the Lakeland College Rustlers hosted the Keyano Huskies. Bottom: Rustlers guard/forward Andre McFadden moves up court on Saturday against the KC Huskies.

SMOKING/VAPING FROM PAGE 5

- Initiating a public education campaign aimed primarily at youth. Developing online sales instructions for retailers pertaining to their role in limiting sales to youth in the online retail environment. - Developing a guidance document for educators in partnership with Alberta Health Services and school officials to assist with the rise in vaping product use in schools. - Continuing the work of the

Tobacco and Vaping Enforcement Team. - Continuing to respect the use of ceremonial tobacco by First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in traditional spiritual and cultural practices. - Establishing a provincial advisory committee to monitor use of commercial smoking and vaping products, guide prevention and reduction efforts, and make the recommendations needed for ongoing progress.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Alberta Sheriffs boost highway safety

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Alberta’s Sheriff Highway Patrol (SHP) removed more than 1,200 impaired drivers from the province’s roads in 2023. In July 2021, the SHP was granted the authority to investigate impaired driving and other criminal offences. Since then, SHP has caught almost 4,000 impaired drivers on provincial highways, increasing the safety of Albertans across the province. “Impaired driving is considered the leading criminal cause of death in Canada. By empowering the Sheriff Highway Patrol to take impaired drivers off our highways, Alberta’s government is helping make our roads safer for everyone who uses them,” said Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services. “The Sheriff Highway Patrol is providing an outstanding example of what dedicated

officers can achieve when they’re given the right tools for the job. I would like to thank the Alberta Sheriffs for their hard work in ensuring we all get home safe.” In addition to impaired driving, the SHP’s priorities include speed, distracted driving and commercial vehicle safety enforcement. In 2023, the SHP wrote 59,583 tickets related to these violations and other traffic safety offences. SHP officers also help the RCMP by keeping units on patrol and available to respond to other incidents. Expanding the authority of the SHP in 2021 was part of the Rural Alberta Provincial Integrated Defence (RAPID) Response initiative designed to strengthen law enforcement presence in remote and sparsely populated areas. The new funding is also being used to train and equip members of the SHP to answer calls

for assistance from the RCMP as part of a planned expansion of the RAPID Response initiative. Between December 2023 and June 2024, the Alberta Sheriffs will complete training for three SHP recruit classes, resulting in 74 new officers ready for deployment. An additional class of 30 is expected to begin in fall 2024. “I commend members of the Sheriff Highway Patrol for the commitment and focus they’ve shown toward preventing and detecting impaired driving: their efforts have surely saved lives,” said Bob Andrews, acting chief, Alberta Sheriffs. “The work they do every day across our province helps ensure people reach their destination safely.” The SHP also regularly conducts commercial vehicle inspections to further ensure the safety of Alberta drivers and passengers. In 2023, the SHP conducted 12,154 inspections on regulated commercial vehicles, which include trucks over 4,500 kilograms, motor coaches and school buses. While conducting these inspections last year, SHP members found out-of-service violations in 4,723 cases, or 39 per cent of vehicles. Out-of-service violations stem

mainly from mechanical faults that require immediate repair but can also result from drivers exceeding limits on hours of service

and other regulatory offences. Of the 1,217 impaired drivers caught by the SHP in 2023, 50 were commercial drivers

exceeding Alberta’s zero-tolerance standards for drug and alcohol use behind the wheel of commercial vehicles.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Crown land grazing rates frozen for ‘24

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The Government of Saskatchewan is freezing the 2024 Crown land grazing rate at 2022 levels as the industry continues to deal with the effects of several years of dry conditions. Producers who must reduce their stocking rates on leased Crown land due to drought will also again be eligible for a rent reduction.

“The beef cattle sector continues to experience challenges with tight margins and ongoing concerns related to multiple years of dry conditions,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said. “Producers are valuable stewards of Saskatchewan’s grasslands. Maintaining rates at the existing level, and offering a reduction in some scenarios, will help producers plan for 2024.”

Crown grazing rates are set annually using a formula based on fall cattle prices and the long-term stocking rate of each parcel of land. The rate freeze applies to all grazing leases in Saskatchewan. This is the second consecutive year that rates have been maintained at existing levels. The rat e red u ct ion will apply in situations where an individual lessee or pasture

association must reduce the number of animals grazing Crown leases by 20 per cent or more, compared to the approved long-term carrying capacity of that land, due to the dry conditions. This program helps to protect and maintain the sustainability of Crown land for the long term. “SCA appreciates the government’s recognition of the challenges our produc-

ers have faced through the ongoing drought,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association Chair Keith Day said. “With the price of feed and freight continuing to increase, freezing the grazing rates for another year goes a long way to help producers manage their costs.” Saskatchewan has approximately 6 million acres of Crown land under grazing leases.

Feds/Sask Govt. invest $6M in livestock, forage research

total of $6.8 million in funding was a n n o u n c e d b y C a n ada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit for livestock and forage research activities on Tuesday. Provided through the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), this investment will support a total of 30 new research projects for 2024. This year’s funding is a nearly 14 per cent increase compared to last year. “Investments like these are helping the agriculture sector prepare for the future,” said MacAulay. “These research projects will help our farmers adopt more sustainable practices and new

methods to counter the effects of drought, diseases and other environmental challenges they face, so they can stay competitive and protect their bottom line.” “We need our livestock producers to stay competitive and profitable, and they do that by staying innovative through new ideas which become best practices,” added Marit. “Investments in agricultural research help Saskatchewan maintain its status as a go-to jurisdiction when it comes to sustainably feeding the world while meeting our economic goals for the end of this decade and beyond.” This year’s projects, which are awarded funding on an annual competitive basis, focus on topics such as the development of a rapid and sensitive pathogen surveillance method for

Bovine Respiratory Disease in cattle, the development of new red clover cultivars for Western Canada, and African Swine Fever preparedness with a focus on evaluating manure management and treatment strategies and understanding pathogen survival in mortality management. In addition to the federal-provincial ADF funding, a total of $478,597 for eight livestock and forage projects was contributed by five industry cofunders: - Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association - Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission - Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission - Saskatchewan Pulse Growers - Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Thursday, January 25, 2024 LIVESTOCK $6 FROM PAGE 26

“We are very enthusiastic about supporting research and development of new red clover cultivars adapted to seed production in Saskatchewan and relevant to use in domestic and export markets,” said Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission Executive Director Jo-Anne Relf-Eckstein. “Red clover is an efficient source of organic nitrogen, improves soil health and reduces erosion during the winter while providing a habitat for pollinators and supporting honey production. With its high protein content, it’s also an important crop for the ruminant industry, and maintaining a consistent supply of high-quality adapted seed sources helps support livestock producers. The ‘dream team’ assembled for this unprecedented research project creates a collaborative opportunity to support Saskatchewan’s seed growers and forage seed exporters, livestock producers and the provincial bio-economy.” The ADF is supported through Sustainable CAP, a five-year, $3.5 billion investment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that helps to advance Canada’s agrifood and agri-product sectors. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

It’s Family Literacy Week in Sask!

oin the Government of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Literacy Network (SLN) and Family Literacy Hubs in celebrating Family Literacy Week! Jan. 27 will mark the 25th anniversary of Family Literacy Day in Canada, with the national theme ‘Let’s Have a Family Party! / Fêtons en famille!’ to commemorate this milestone, the province will be celebrating Family Literacy Week from Jan. 22-28. “Family literacy initiatives create bonds between children and their families that foster moments of shared learning and growth,” said Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Literacy and learning contribute to the betterment of our province.” In 2023-24, the Ministry of Education has allocated more than $1.1 million for literacy initiatives. This includes $576,000 to support family literacy programming for nine Family Literacy Hubs around the province.

File Photo The SLN and Family Literacy Hubs work collaboratively with early learning, schools, libraries, and communities to provide family literacy programs, services, and support for families. On Friday, Jan. 26, and Saturday, Jan. 27, beginning both days at 10:30 a.m. CST, everyone is invited to virtually join Saskatchewan author Khodi Dill for Family Literacy Day. Dill will share his book “Welcome to the

OPEN PAPER ROUTE

AVAILABLE

Cypher” and answer audience questions. “Welcome to the Cypher,” is the English-language theme book for Family Literacy Day in Saskatchewan. The book showcases music, language, community, relationships and the power of words. Sign up at www.saskliteracy.ca/ cypher. “When families do everyday activities together, they are learning together, too,” SLN Executive Director Phae-

dra Hitchings said. “Having a family party adds the enjoyment that makes learning fun. Whether you share stories or celebrate with music, dance or food, your family party is a memorable way to build family connections and enhance literacy skills.” Gravelbourg-based Collège Mathieu will provide province-wide French language family literacy programming and resources related to this year’s theme ‘Fêtons en famille!

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PAGE 28 Thursday, January 25, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Sask realigns approach to illicit drug use

nder the new Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions, the Government of Saskatchewan is focused on getting more people the treatment they need to overcome addictions and live healthy, safe lives in recovery. As part of the transition to a Recovery-Oriented System of Care, changes are being made to how the healthcare system responds to illicit drug use issues. The provision of pipes for smoking methamphetamine, crack cocaine and other illicit drugs will be discontinued. The practice of providing materials with instructions on how to use illicit drugs will also be discontinued. No third-party organization will be permitted to use

File Photo funding provided by the Ministry of Health or the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) for these purposes. “Providing taxpayerfunded pipes for smoking illicit drugs and instructions for how to use them sends the wrong message to people who we want to help,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Tim McLeod said. “Instead, the message coming from the healthcare system should be that there is hope for recovery, and there is help available through treatment.” Announced in Fall 2023, Saskatchewan’s new Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions will add at least 500 more addiction treatment spaces to the publicly funded healthcare system to

double treatment capacity. A total of 168 treatment spaces have been announced so far, including 26 posttreatment spaces at St. Joseph’s Addiction Recovery Centre in Estevan, 32 intensive outpatient treatment spaces through Possibilities Recovery Centre in Saskatoon, 36 virtual treatment spaces through EHN Canada, 14 inpatient treatment spaces at the former Drumming Hill Youth Centre facility in North Battleford, and 60 inpatient treatment spaces through EHN Canada near Lumsden, close to Regina. Work is also underway to implement a central intake system to make treatment more easily accessible to people when they need it. “ The goal of t he healt h care system should always be getting people the treatment they need to overcome addictions and live healthy, safe lives in recovery,” said McLeod. “How the health care system responds to people who have yet to walk the path to recovery needs to strike a balance with public safety priorities.” Consistent with public safety priorities, naloxone

will continue to be provided for free through the Take Home Naloxone program. Since it was introduced in 2015, over 40,000 people have been trained to use naloxone and nearly 10,000 overdoses have been reversed by members of the public with naloxone provided by the program. Take Home Naloxone kits are available free of charge at over 400 locations across Saskatchewan, with more locations to come. To assist law enforcement and the health care system with monitoring the toxicity of illicit drugs, and to help users better understand the risks associated with illicit drugs, test strips for fentanyl and benzodiazepine contamination will also continue to be available. T h e u s e o f d r u g - c h e c king infrared spectrometers will also continue for the same purpose. A new Provincial Drug Alert System was recently launched to further enhance these efforts. The goal of drug alerts is to increase awareness of the dangers associated with illicit drugs and the presence of other toxic substances that further increase the risk of

overdose and death. To strike a balance with public safety priorities, needle exchanges will be required to operate on an exchange basis. Getting back used needles that can be littered in communities or otherwise improperly disposed of is a core purpose of needle exchanges. The other core purpose is to reduce the spread of bloodborne illnesses such as HIV and hepatitis C to avoid pressure on the healthcare system that can result from the spread of bloodborne illnesses. To support people struggling with addictions and other at-risk individuals in the community, new Community Wellness Buses are planned for 2024 with a mandate to provide primary health care services, assistance with accessing services and supports, and referrals for other services that they may need. Changes throughout the health care system are effective immediately. Savings that result will be redirected to enhancing needle pickup services. Needle exchanges will be required to provide this service in the communities in which they operate.

Classifieds

PAGE 29 Thursday, January 25, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

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Highway frontage, 1947 lease space in Meridian Plaza. • Well maintained building with plenty of parking. Immediate occupancy is available. •

SK $12.00 sq.ft. MLS A2084190

SK $389,900 MLS A2070377 SK $325,000 MLS A1242971 SK $200,000 MLS A2059948

SERENE RETREATS AWAIT! BRIGHTSAND LAKE

LATEST LLOYDMINSTER GEMS

MAKWA LAKE

BRANCH LAKE

SK $425,000 MLS A2066759 SK $399,000 MLS A2084847 SK $362,500 MLS A2039201

9 SUITE COMPLEX

AB $759,900 MLS A2011386 SK $449,500 MLS A2021785

UNEARTH YOUR DREAMS - LAND LISTINGS PT-NE-01-54-20-W3RD

COWAN LAKE LOTS

PARADISE HILL LOT

AB $350,000 MLS A2093384 SK $279,900 MLS A1234912 SK $259,900 MLS A2076591

MLS A1234097 MLS A1234104 $ SK 45,000 EACH

PENDING

NOVA VILLAGE CONDO

SK $14,500 MLS A1243713

EMBRACE COMMUNITY LIVING

PENDING MAIDSTONE

PENDING

KITSCOTY

GOODSOIL

AB $224,500 MLS A2086625 AB $179,900 MLS A2100987

RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES SK $340,000 MLS A2074376 SK $335,000 MLS A2058459 AB $223,900 MLS A2074820

PARADISE VALLEY

MARWAYNE

MAIDSTONE

ALBERTA 5607 - 31 St.

2 Bed, 1 Bath

$1100

READY!

6608 - 42 St.

2 Bed, 2 Bath

$1200

FEB. 1

SASKATCHEWAN 4516 - 46 St. (Main Floor)

2 Bed, 1 Bath

$800

READY!

4003 - 50 Ave.

3 Bed, 1 Bath

$1200

READY!

AB $199,900 MLS A1237024 AB $168,500 MLS A2033529 SK $164,500 MLS A2066024

4729 - 18 St.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1400

READY!

PARADISE HILL

4729 - 18 St.

4 Bed, 3 Bath

$1450

READY!

4634/4636 - 45 St.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1750

READY!

LASHBURN

MAIDSTONE

APPLY ONLINE TODAY SK $144,500 MLS A2022315

SK $99,900 MLS A2049089

SK $95,000 MLS A2099788

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

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

Rick Schesnuk Caleb McLean Realtor® Associate Broker

Each office is independently owned & operated.

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

Judy Bexson Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343

facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Brandon King Property Manager

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty