Meridian Source - January 30, 2020

Thursday, January 30, 2020

VOLUME 2 I ISSUE 31

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

SEE INSIDE FOR OUR 2020 WEDDING PLANNER SUPPLEMENT

Going Beyond Borders to create Circle of Change TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

Staff and students throughout the Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) and Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) continue to make positive waves in the community with the Beyond Borders Circle of Change (BBCOC) community coalition.

Initially formed in 2008 to support and fund Challenge Days, BBCOC has grown to provide training to youth facilitators to promote and educate students in all LPSD and LCSD schools in healthy youth relationships and bullying prevention.

“We are a coalition with members from health, education, and a couple of nonprofit organizations in Lloydminster, so we work together to promote initiatives and programs throughout our community that enhance kindness and work on fostering a community of compassion and caring for one another,” said Melissa Plamondon, school counsellor at Holy Rosary High School and Beyond Borders Circle of Change committee chair.

With the Lloydminster and District Co-op’s annual Kindness Wins campaign kicking off on Feb. 3, BBCOC is once again on board by provid-

ing grants to all schools and the Lloydminster Youth Centre to create a project with a focus on kindness to positively impact people in the community.

“We have two Red Cross RespectEd program teams in both Holy Rosary and Lloyd Comp, and these teams are comprised of student volunteers who we train to become youth facilitators, and they go out to every elementary school in the community and give presentations on bullying prevention and help youth relationships,” Plamondon said, adding how BBCOC found inspiration through the Kindness Wins campaign and wanted to take it one step further.

“Every school applies and we get the joy of reading through all of these grants. They’re super diverse and there’s everything from a grandparent’s dance to, over at Holy Rosary, we do a Kindness van and deliver hot choc-

olate and cookies to everyone and anyone in the community on Pink Day,” she said, adding schools are also in the process of making blankets as well as a hot meal for the men’s shelter.

“We think (kindness wins) is one of our biggest messages of the year,” echoed Leanne Melnechenko, a school counsellor at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School.

“We really want to have that feeling in our community

where it ’s not j u st a bo u t acceptance or tolerance, it’s about everybody being together and being able to work together and share that kindness and feel the warmth and smiles from it.”

The LPSD and LCSD will be promoting kindness and positive messages throughout the month of February both inside and outside the classroom, and encourage the community to get involved.

“We need to promote kindness to youth,” said Melnechenko. “We live in a culture today where sometimes that message is missed. We report on the violence and the bad news, and kids really need to be able to buy into how great it is to spread kindness.”

If you would like to support BBCOC and this year’s campaign, be sure to pick up some Kindness Wins gear as part of the Lloydminster Co-op campaign, clothing goes on sale this Monday.

The BBCOC coalition is excited to once again share the love as they work with the Lloydminster and District Co-op’s Kindness Wins campaign.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

2

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Lorenz issues SOS to community GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

Residents in Recovery is nearly broke and in danger of closing their downtown facility at the end of February without a financial lifeline.

Residents in Recovery Society director, Tyler Lorenz, is hoping they can buy time for expected-government funding by raising $35,000 and keep operating in some capacity beyond Feb. 29.

The Society is fully funded by donations that have gone into a steep decline while outstanding bills need to be paid.

“As long as we have the money to maintain operations we’ll stay and hope one of our funding proposals with the government actually gets approved,” he said.

Lorenz said they have three funding proposals in the system with the Saskatchewan government while the Alberta

government is still evaluating where they want to allocate addictions treatment funding.

“They are looking more at treatment than harm reduction, which is good news for us,” said Lorenz.

“I think they will be coming out with some requests for proposals in the near future.”

Lorenz says it will be disappointing if they close in February since they have some major fundraising plans for the summer.

“If we can get through to May we’ll be good for the summer and into the fall,” he said.

“It’s just a matter of us getting to that point.”

Lorenz says Residents in Recovery programs have saved governments well over $200,000 since its inception through the reduction of shelter costs, jail time and first responder and health

care costs.

In an effort to scale back operations, the facility is no longer offering pre-treatment sober living in the community despite a waiting list of more than 70 people.

Lorenz says that is unfortunate for Lloydminster, knowing pretreatment sober living is the most cost-effective option in a continuum of care for addicts after jail or detox.

“If they are just left on their own and have no support they just don’t have the capability of staying sober until treatment,” said Lorenz.

He says if the facilities close, the Society intends to keep operating at least two of the three sober-living homes in the community for post-treatment sober living clients only.

Lorenz issued a news release last week asking the community to

donate funds through the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation website.

“It is our hope that we will be able to raise the necessary funds in time to avert losing such a necessary program for our community’s most vulnerable,” he said.

“We’ve supported over 300 people already with their addiction struggles and countless families.”

Lorenz says the financial hardship at Residents in Recovery means by the beginning of February, he will be running the facility on his own.

He says if the facility does close he will stay on in a part-time capacity to administer the post-treatment sober living.

Lorenz says they have cut costs to the bone and couldn’t save a dime by relocating.

“Our landlord has

Lloydminster RCMP charge four after stolen vehicle located MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

On Jan. 24, Lloydminster RCMP located a stolen vehicle in a parking lot behind an apartment building in the 3800 block of 52 Avenue.

During the investigation, a male was observed entering the vehicle. Police attempted to arrest the individual but he fled

into an apartment in the building.

Officers, with the assistance of RCMP Police Dog Services and the General Investigative Section, followed the suspect into the apartment where five individuals were located. All five were arrested without incident. Three stolen firearms, electronics and a

small amount of narcotics were discovered.

Robert James Howard, 27, of no-fixed-address, Timothy James Prior, 35, of Lloydminster Saskatchewan, Sakara Tsa Scovill, 27, of Lloydminster Alberta and Amber Desiree Whitstone, 22, of Onion Lake Saskatchewan were charged with the following: · Unauthorized pos-

session of a firearm (x3) · Possession of property obtained by crime (x5) · Possession of a controlled substance Additionally, Timothy James Prior was charged with resisting arrest.

All four were released after a judicial hearing and are scheduled to appear in Alberta Provincial Court on Feb. 11.

given us an incredible deal here. Our rent is well below market value for the city, so

3

we wouldn’t find anything that would meet our needs for anything cheaper,” said Lorenz.

4

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Hockey Day a huge success for Hillmond TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

The final whistle blew last week, but the official financial totals are now in.

Hockey Day in Saskatchewan, hosted last weekend in Hillmond, Sask, brought friends, family and some NHL celebrities to the Hillmond Arena to celebrate hockey and community.

The weekend included a celebrity game with Wade Redden and friends, a banquet at the Lloydminster Exh featuring The Dirt Rich Band and SJHL action to name a few.

“It was a great opportunity because as many people know, Hillmond is not a big place, but we have a big surrounding area, so it was a great opportunity for everybody of all ages to come together,” said Hockey Day in Saskatchewan committee member Katie Clark, who is also a Grade 2 teacher at Hillmond

Videre Images By Jason Whiting Central School. “Thursday night was our celebrity night with Wade Redden and friends, and that was probably our busiest night. Even though it was -45C, it was a packed house, and the fire chief said there were over 450 people there.”

Overall, a total of $205,000 was raised, a number that had Clark and other committee members’ mouths to the floor.

“It was amazing and it exceeded my expectations,” she said. “We were hoping for $100,000, and

if we raised that much we would have been ecstatic.

“Two days after the event we sat in my classroom going through numbers and they just kept growing and growing. We kept going back to make sure we didn’t make any mistakes.”

Clark also noted a large portion of funds raised came in through local sponsorships, including $25,000 from Crude Master Transport as well as $25,000 from the Fred North Foundation to match what was raised on Fri-

day night at the banquet in Lloydminster.

Funds raised over the weekend will be going right back into the community to support the future of hockey.

“We need to get new boards in Hillmond.

Our boards and glass are 32 years old and came from the original Silver Dome,” she said. “So they developed a new rink and transferred the old boards over.

“They’ve been useful but have been falling apart over the last couple of years, so we would like to purchase new boards and glass.”

Thursday, January 30, 2020

STARS doubles flights to Lloyd sity,” she said, with STARS dating back to 1985.

STARS has flown more than 42,000 missions to date with more than 800 missions in Saskatchewan in 2019 and more than 1,400 in Alberta.

“

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Tammy Beauregard, development officer for STARS in Saskatoon, was invited to speak to the Rotary Club of Lloydminster on Monday. STARS flew 31 missions to Lloydminster in 2019, up from 15 in 2018.

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

STARS air ambulance completed one of their first public relations missions from Saskatoon to Lloydminster in 2020 to the delight of the Rotary Club of Lloydminster.

Tammy Beauregard, development officer for major gifts with STARS, was invited to speak to Rotary on Monday about their air ambulance operations in Saskatchewan.

Her agenda included talking about STARS, bringing awareness, updates, thank yous and ways to support STARS. Beauregard drove to Lloyd, while noting STARS made 15 flights to Lloyd in 2018. That number jumped to 31 in 2019 following the opening of a new helipad at the Lloydminster Hospital.

She says having the helipad may have contributed to the doubling

of flights to our city.

“That’s amazing, because of your guys’ support of having that helipad, you have been able to save so many lives,” said Beauregard.

She says it’s those critical patients that are inside the hospital sometimes that need the air ambulance.

“Certainly, it does allow a little bit faster transportation, being able to land right here and then also our landing pad on top of the hospital in Saskatoon as well,” said Beauregard.

“The one in Saskatoon saves about 25 minutes off of each call.”

Beauregard says STARS stands for Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service, which operates as a registered non-profit emergency medical service providing rapid transportation for the critically ill and injured in Western Canada.

“We fight for life. We were born out of neces-

That’s amazing because of your guys’ support of having that helipad, you have been able to save so many lives.

Beauregard touched on the role of the STARS Emergency Link Centre 24-hour medical emergency communication centre that coordinates flights from Western Canada.

Each helicopter acts as a mini Intensive Care Unit, carrying equipment such as a ventilator, defibrillator, and ultrasound along with drugs and O negative blood onboard.

STARS is actively raising funds to replace the nine helicopters in their fleet with new H145 helicopters.

“You will see this helicopter come into Lloydminster from Saskatoon,” said Beauregard, noting each helicopter costs about $13 million with $25 million left to raise by 2022.

She says the STARS lottery in Saskatchewan and Alberta is one of the largest fundrais-

ers they have in both provinces.

“We love to promote our lottery and get everybody to purchase our tickets. The Alberta lottery is on right now as we speak and you get that if you’re an Albertan,” said Beauregard.

The Saskatchewan lottery starts in May. Beauregard says Lloydminster residents can help raise funds for STARS through third-party events or by donating money.

“We have some different projects that are on the go right now like the lottery,” said Beauregard.

“We have, on the Saskatchewan side, an SJHL 50/ 50—cor poration donations we’re looking for as well— foundations, wills, legacy (funds).”

Beauregard says in Saskatchewan, STARS is funded 50/50 by government funds and donations, noting it costs about $10.5 million to run each base in Saskatoon and Regina.

She says the 50/50 funding with donations allows STARS to be more innovative.

“You can use those dollars to do more education to fund more research etc.,” she said.

She says the decision to stock O negative blood on board along with ultrasound came from Saskatchewan.

STARS was also the first civilian air carrier to use night vision goggle technology in Canada due to the donations they receive.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

5

6

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Women convening for inspiration

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

Positive feedback from past events and a last-minute Lloyd mentality could lead to a sold-out ninth annual Inspiring Women Conference.

The 2020 IWC is

expected to draw more than 300 women to the Lloydminster Stockade Convention Centre on Feb. 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of personal and professional development.

“I think it’s an important thing for women to

come to and attend. It’s definitely a good day and a lot of connections can be made, business and personal,” said Terra Weaver.

“It’s looking like attendance will be really good again this year.”

Weaver and Kelly Sidoryk co-own KT & Company that presents the conference year after year with a repeat formula for success.

“I think probably the best parts that keep it going are the connections that we get to make and the women at the conference get to make,” said Weaver.

“We make a lot of business connections and a lot of personal connections and you get really good positive feedback, and people leave the conference feeling motivated to move it forward with their business and their personal lives.”

Tickets are available at Olive & Birch Designs, Brixton Shoes & Accessories and online at eventbrite.ca.

This year’s IWC will kick off with the popular Inspiring Women panel of local female personalities, with Heather Klages as the perennial master of ceremonies.

“We are really excited about that panel,” said Weaver.

The lineup includes Bonny Macnab, a local artist, farmer, horticulturalist, business owner and Leanne Hawes, chief executive officer of the Lloydminster &

District Co-op.

They will be joined

by Amber L’Heureux, a Lakeland College graduate and the first female professional chuckwagon driver in the CPCA. The panellists will keep their presentations to the conference theme of creating your vision for the next decade.

“It’s focusing on your own development, your own growth and trying to get people to look forward to this new year positively in the business and their personal life,” said Weaver.

Further inspiration will be provided by keynote speaker Carrie Doll, a former CTV news anchor in Edmonton and the current host of her Inner Circle podcast.

Weaver says Doll was the first pick of the five or six candidates they interviewed for the conference with her background as a story teller and motivational speaker.

“Another part of what Carrie Doll talks about and this is part of creating your vision—everybody has a story—how do we share our story with other people and how do we make that work for us as we move forward in this next decade,” said Weaver.

“So it’s a little bit of how to share your story and how to feel confident finding your own voice.”

The IWC also

Supplied Photo

Carrie Doll, a former journalist with CTV in Edmonton, will be the keynote motivational speaker at the Inspiring Women Conference at the Lloydminster Stockade Convention Centre on Feb. 6.

includes four sponsored breakout sessions with different topics of interest for women to choose from.

A presenter from Leckie and Associates will talk about entrepreneurial accounting and creating your own small business and how they can help with that.

A couple of women from Lakeland College and Synergy Credit Union will address online security and fraud and how to protect yourself.

Jill Kelly, an account director at Red Bicycle Communications, will talk about social media wellness, while

Heather Reid, a registered dietitian with knowledge of kinesiology, will speak about health and wellness.

The title sponsorship of the conference is shared by the Lloydminster and District Co-op, Lakeland College and Synergy Credit Union.

“Sponsorship has been strong,” said Weaver.

“We’re aware that the economy all throughout Alberta is a little bit difficult right now, so we are really thankful to our sponsors because it helps us keep the ticket prices down so that it’s affordable.”

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Provincial Youth Council member meets with MLA

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Holy Rosary High School student and Saskatchewan Youth Council member, Nate Bergen, met with Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young last week to talk about ideas he’s bringing to the Youth Council table.

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

It’s straight to business for Holy Rosary Hig h School stud e nt and Saskatchewan Youth Council member Nate Bergen as he sat down with local politicians last week.

Bergen is one of 12 students from across the province to represent their school and home town in the student-led group, which will work directly with the minister of education and other government officials to express their thoughts on important issues and topics concerning themselves and their peers.

“We’ve had one meeting so far and we have a second one Feb.

1,” said Bergen.

“We’ve been discussing here with MLA Colleen Young, the Lloydminster Catholic School Division, MP Rosemarie Falk, and (HRHS principal) Mr. (Vince) Orieux about how we can help influence me and support me along the whole journey of the youth council.”

A couple of hot topics on Bergen’s mind right off the hop were mental health and financial literacy, two things he says are not talked about enough.

“The first meeting we had we all introduced our own ideas and I brought up mental health and finan-

cial literacy and how we can implement that into the school system, and I think everyone really agreed with those, so I think we’re going to find a way to slowly implement them and find a way to make it work,” he said.

Bergen also noted having a voice where it might otherwise not be heard is important.

“I think them hearing what we have to say, because we experience school every day (is important), so we can bring an aspect that they can’t see, and they can understand where we come from and make improvements and tweaks.”

Ll o y d mins t e r M LA Colleen Young was excited to sit down with Bergen, and spoke of the importance of having that voice heard.

“We’re into a new curriculum design in the province, and part of this youth council in putting it together, as well as the curriculum advisory team the min-

ister has put together, are part of bringing contribution to what the new curriculum will

look like in the province of Saskatchewan, so I think it’s very important we hear from our stu-

7

dents and our youth of today, (and) where they want to see the future of education.”

8

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Home Depot invests in partner GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

The Lloydminster Home Depot location hosted a partnership building event this week sealed with two cheque presentations to the Lloydminster Interval Home Society.

Home Depot store manager, Duane Brown, presented the first

cheque for $14,776 to go towards the Lloydminster Interval Home’s Bridging the Gap capital campaign to expand their emergency shelter.

The second cheque was a $25,000 Home Depot Canada Foundation grant for the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre for local programming.

“The Interval Home Society and the youth centre—their involvement in those projects are exactly what we’re a part of,” said Brown.

“It means so much for us to be in with them.”

It was equally thrilling for Leanne Wildeman, resource development manager for Interval Home, to be a fun-

d r aiser par t ner wit h Home Depot and receive two cheques at once.

“It’s fantastic. We’re really excited about the great impact and the partnership Home Depot has had with the Lloydminster Interval Home right now and in years past—it just means a lot,” said Wildeman.

She says the Home Depot donation pushes the Bridging the Gap capital campaign towards their $415,00 fundraising goal.

Home Depot initially raised about $7,300 for Interval Home’s plans to add 12 beds to the shelter during Home Depot’s Orange Door campaign to open doors for homeless youth.

Brown says funds were raised in-store through customer donations as well as through staff activities and event s in December, with the total matched by the Orange Door Foundation.

He says that led them

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Micheline Huard, program manager with the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre, and Leanne Wildeman, resource development manager of the Lloydminster Interval Home, accepted a Home Depot Foundation grant cheque for $25,000 on Tuesday for the youth centre from Tom Irvine, assistant manager of Home Depot, left, and Duane Brown store manager on the right.

to present a cheque for $14,776.

“This store ended up with the second-highest participation rate in all of Canada for associates and customers participating in how they give back to our community,” said Brown.

“I think it goes to show how proud the team is here about where we live in the community we’re a part of.”

The Orange Door fundraiser takes place twice a year during late spring and summer and just before Christmas.

Wildeman says their $25,000 grant for the youth centre is a Com-

munity Impact Grant from The Home Depot Canada Foundation and is the second time the y’ve re ce ive d one since partnering with Home Depot.

“It’s a huge piece for the youth centre and we were able to use that towards the programming that happens in the youth centre,” said Wildeman.

“It’s very important to know that businesses and partners like the Home Depot store in Lloydminster, as well as the foundation nationally, are really looking out for our youth.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

9

PAGE 10 Thursday, January 30, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint

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

Sports Editor Jamie Harkins sports@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Catherine Kruining catherine@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca

Publisher Reid Keebaugh Production Manager Amanda Richard Classified advertising admin@meridiansource.ca Newspaper delivery If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.

2017

Letter to the editor ...

F

eb. 2, World Wetlands Day, forces all of us to come to terms with an environmental crisis happening right in our own backyard.

It’s a crisis just as damaging as those being experienced by rainforests, coral reefs and the Australian Outback.

The loss of wetlands in Alberta, in Canada and around the world continues at an incredible rate.

Using historical data and mapping, it’s estimated that 70 per cent of wetlands in settled areas of Canada are no longer.

And, just as damaging as wetland loss is to people and the planet, so too is the decline of biodiversity that occurs when these valuable ecosystems are lost.

This year’s theme for World Wetlands Day is Wetlands and Biodiversity.

Biodiversity is a measure of the variety of plants and animals in an environment. The biodiversity associated with wetlands is among the highest

in the world.

High biodiversity is an indicator that the environment is healthy; reduced biodiversity is a warning that the environment and ecosystems are under stress, have been damaged or are being damaged.

When species are lost, the impact is perpetual. At home, Canad a’s St at e o f th e B i r d s report says that our country has lost 40 to 60 per cent of shorebird, grassland bird, and aerial insectivore (birds that feed on insects while flying such as swallows) populations.

A North American study reveals that nearly three billion birds have disappeared since 1970 in Canada and the U.S. It’s an alarming statistic that sheds light to an overlooked biodiversity crisis.

Often wetland loss is the result of human activity past and present.

While we know the value of wetlands relative to biodiversity and the environment, we continue to lose wetlands out-

right and damage many of those that remain.

But there is hope. Work

by Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) and its many partners is helping bird populations – especially waterfowl – make a comeback, and in some cases, thrive.

The DUC community, which includes landowners, donors, volunteers, staff, government, scientific experts, outdoor enthusiasts and industry stands committed to conserving wetlands and the biodiversity they support through science-based efforts and programs.

The challenge ahead of all of us now – and you – is continuing to respond to the global call to conserve wetlands and associated habitat.

Learn how you can help save wetlands and promote biodiversity at www.ducks.ca.

- Ron Maher, manager, Provincial Operations – Alberta Ducks Unlimited Canada

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

PAGE 11 Thursday, January 30, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Snow shovel artists and amateurs STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

The recent big dumps of snow in Newfoundland and smaller dumps in Lloydminster seem to bring out a multitude of folks with different attitudes and approaches to shovelling or snow blowing.

Some folks are out shovelling while it snows thinking, one would presume, they c a n get a h e a d o f t h e game with a quick early clearance.

What do carpenters say: measure twice and cut once. Your neighbours in the trades are laughing.

Other people don’t give a hoot ever and just drive over the mess in their tire tracks all winter and wait for spring to melt all the leftovers.

What amuses me are the people who somehow think they are in a competition for neatness with meticulously contoured snow banks and nary a snowflake left on the driveway.

They are the Michelangelos of winter.

A packed tire track w il l d riv e t he m n u t s thinking the snow police will knock on their door any second.

They act as if the queen is secretly on her way to award tidiness medals to locals in their driveways.

They probably need therapy during strong winds!

Other folks step outside with a shovel in hand and dress or act like they are blazing a trail for the next generation of Barr Colonists headed this way on a wagon train through dangerous territory.

Everyone get down— Arapahoe! Someone stir the stew.

Those frontier days are over folks, so there is no need to clear snow from beyond the boundaries of your own driveway to include the first six feet of city roads fronting your yard.

Young grandma is likely to find her way in an SUV with GPS and a

killer sound system.

If you must fantasize, stay indoors and watch Mountain Men on reality TV. Some snow shovelling tools of the trade are also worth talking about, especially those noisy, carbon-emitting snowblowers that were actually purchased as leaf blowers.

Nothing beats a little physical exercise with a shovel while over breathing carbon dioxide.

The heart attack thing is overblown and you can rationalize a pack of potato chips with all those calories burned off.

See you in the gym though if it doesn’t snow for a while!

Thanks, Louise Lundberg for sharing this great photo with us!

To see your photo in the paper, email them to taylor@meridiansource.ca

12

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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.

BINGO EVERY MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY Bingo is held every Monday and Wednesday at the Moose Lodge, at 5213-57 Street, with a 7 p.m. start.

EVERY MONDAY EXCEPT LONG WEEKENDS There will be Square Dancing from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Legacy Centre, 5101 - 46 Street, BACK Door (West door). Singles & Couples: inexpensive FUN & ACTION in a Co-operative, Brain Active, Mildly Aerobic Environment. Your first evening is free. No experience needed. Call Kendall, 306825-3770, or email Esther, moment101@hotmail.com for more info.

EVERY TUESDAY — VOLLEYBALL Drop in volleyball from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Takes place at the Servus Sports Centre and everyone is welcome, noncompetitive and no experience is necessary. Come for fun and exercise and meet some great people.

EVERY TUESDAY — ADAPTED YOGA From 10 – 11 a.m. at the Community Service Centre. For more information please contact Ann-Dee at 780-871-0513.

EVERY TUESDAY — DIABETES 102 The new schedule for PNRHA Diabetes Education Classes is ready! Everyone starts with Diabetes 101 and then follows up with Diabetes 102 (people on diabetes pills) or Diabetes 103 (people on insulin).

All classes are scheduled on a Tuesday morning from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Please contact Nancy Johnston at 306-820-6096 or H e l e n R o g e r s a t 306-820-6291 to pre-register.

Passport to YLL

Thursday, January 30, 2020

EVERY TUESDAY — SENIORS MEET The Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meets at the Legacy Centre from noon - 1:30 p.m. Lunch is available for $8.

Please reserve before Tuesday morning at 780-875-4584.

Everyone welcome.

EVERY WEDNESDAY — CRAFTERNOON Join Midwest Family Connections at the lower level of Prairie North Plaza and bring your budding artist to explore and create with materials in the craft centre.

EVERY SATURDAY — FARMER’S MARKET Downtown Farmer’s Market at the Fred North Community Centre (5002 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster) from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Sat) We’re on Facebook.

FEB. 6 – KAISER TOURNEY The Legacy Centre is hosting a Kaiser Tournament on Feb. 6. Play begins at 10 a.m., cost is $10 to play and $10 for lunch. Everyone welcome. Call the Legacy Centre at 780-8754584 for more information.

FEB. 7 – LEGACY SUPPER The Legacy Centre is hosting a monthly supper/dance on Feb. 7. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m. and supper is served at 6 p.m. Menu is roast beef with entertainment after supper by the Studio EncoreHighland Dancers, then dance the night away to te tunes of Memory Lane. Tickets are $22 per person, please reserve before Feb. 6. Call the Legacy Centre at 780-875-4584 for more information.

FEB. 8 – CONCERT AT NEILBURG COMMUNITY HALL Classic country, new country and old rock ‘n roll! All

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

featured at the upcoming concert by Travis Dolter and the Travis Dolter band on Saturday, Feb. 8, presented by the Manitou Pioneers Museum.

Location: Neilburg Community Hall, Neilburg, Sk. Time (M.S.T.): Cocktails - 5 p.m., Dinner - 6 p.m. (by Coolidge Country Catering), Concert 7:30 p.m. In addition to great food and great music there will be a Door Prize, Draws and a Cash Bar to round out the evening. (Must be 19 years or older to attend). Tickets are $50 each or buy and reserve a table for $400. Tickets available from Marsden or Neilburg Credit Unions or any member of the Museum.

More info? Please phone Dale H at 306-893-8242 FEB. 14 – VALENTINE’S DAY TEA The Lloydminster Loving Care Auxiliary Special Valentine’s Day Tea is being held on Feb. 14 at 7402, 29 St, Lloydminster. The Bake Sale and Tea is scheduled from 1:30 3:30 p.m and includes door prizes, raffles, crafts, and mystery prizes. Admission is $3 and everyone is welcome. Guilded tours of the cottages are available. For more information please contact Recreation at 780-874-3920 or Karen at 306-825-3295.

FEB. 20 – 500 CARD TOURNEY The Legacy Centre is hosting a 500 Card Tournament on Feb. 20. Play begins at 10 a.m., cost is $10 to play and $10 for lunch. Everyone welcome. Call the Legacy Centre at 780-8754584 for more information.

FEB. 25 – PANCAKE BREAKFAST There will be a pancake breakfast at St. John’s Anglican Church on Feb. 25 from 5-6:30 p.m. Adults are $8 and children 12 and under are $5.

Everyone welcome!

FEB. 26 – SPONSORSHIP WORKSHOP Are you a local non-profit, charity or community organization looking to secure more corporate sponsorship dollars? Are you in the hunt to get more renewals from existing sponsors? If so, you will want to attend the City of Lloydminster’s Sponsorship 101 Workshop! The workshop is being held on Feb. 26 from 1:30-5 p.m. at the City of Lloydminster Operations Centre: Training Room, 6623 52 Street, Lloydminster. Registration is $10 and refundable upon attendance.

FEB. 29 – OVERNIGHT TRIP TO CAMROSE The Legacy Centre is off for an overnight trip to Camrose from Feb. 29 to March 1 with shopping in downtown Camrose upon arrival. Hotel stay, supper and show at the Camrose Casino Resort plus breakfast the next morning included. The Show is a Tribute to “Dolly & Reba,” should be a good one! A great “ONENIGHT GET-AWAY”! Call Legacy office for more info and cost at 780-875-4584 MARCH 3 – QUIT SMOKING Have you thought about quitting smoking? The Saskatchewan Health Authority is here to help with a support group help at PNHC, Suite 115, 4910-to Street. Support group starts on March 3 from 6-8 p.m. for six weeks. To register please call 306-820-6243.

LLOYDMINSTER LEARNING COUNCIL - Registration Night for English Language Programs, Monday Jan. 21, 2020, 6:307:30 p.m., Community Services Building, Workshop Room, 4419 - 52 Ave. Fee: No Charge, Call 780-8755763 for any questions

- Technology Series for Adults, 5 Wednesdays, March 6, to April 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Fee: $125.00, Call 780-8755763 to register - English Language Classes being offered: Beginner, Advanced, Intermediate, 10 weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan. 29 - April 4, 2020, 7-9 p.m., Fee: No Charge, Call 780-875-5763 to register - English Language Classes for Women, 10 weeks, Wednesdays, Jan. 30 - April 3, 2020, 1-3 p.m., Learn day to day conversational English, pronunciation, reading and writing for everyday activities (work, doctor appointments, children’s school), Fee: No Charge, Call 780-875-5763 to register - Registration Night for English Language Programs, Tuesday January 21, 2020 6:30-7:30pm, Community Services Building, Workshop Room, 4419 - 52 Ave. Fee: No Charge, Call 780-8755763 for any questions - English Language Classes for Women, 10 weeks, Wednesdays, January 29 - April 1, 2020, 1-3 p.m., Learn day to day conversational English, pronunciation, reading and writing for everyday activities (work, doctor appointments, children’s school), Fee: No Charge, Call 780-875-5763 to register - Technology Series for Seniors, 5 Wednesdays, Feb 5 - Mar 4, 2020 6:308:30pm, Fee: $125.00, Call 780-875-5763 to register Conversational Spanish for Travelers, 10 weeks, Tuesdays, Feb 25 - Apr 28, 2020, 7:00-9:00pm, Fee: $125.00, Call 780-875-5763 to register - Microsoft Office Series, 5 Tuesdays, Feb 25 - Mar 24, 2020, 6:30-8:30pm, Fee: $125.00, Call 780-875-5763 to register

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Student-led podcasts go public

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

College Park School launched its Grade 7’s Talk to Experts podcast project on Friday.

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

College Park School has turned into a podcast learning factory with its Grade 7’s Talk to Experts program.

Each week there’s a new host, a new guest and a new topic.

The school celebrated the first release of four of 24 student-based podcast interviews with local experts in the community on Friday. “ F o r te a c h i n g p ur poses, a podcast covers multiple subjects, and the really good thing about it is that you base

your podcast guest, the person you invite in, on personal interest,” said teacher Cornelius Krahn.

“Generally, it’s someone they know already as it’s a little bit easier to talk to an adult that they already know.”

Student Isaiah Kippenhuck chose to make a podcast on parkour.

He interviewed Eric Rhinehart as a local expert in the art of traversing over natural and man-made obstacles, which parkour is all about.

“I feel Eric is really

good with parkour and he knows what he’s talking about,” said Isaiah, noting it was a fun project.

“If you ever wanted to make one it’s pretty easy. All you need is a mic and a recording and you’re pretty much done.”

A podcast is an audio recording that’s available online.

Rhinehart was on hand for the launch and said he loves that the school is doing podcasting because it’s the next way of making money online.

“People are starting to make money off Facebook, Instagram—all social media platforms and this is another one of those ways,” he said.

“I’m super excited that the school system is doing this and showing them new ways to make a living.”

Jim Taylor, the owner of Grindin Gears, was thrilled to be interviewed by student Tristan Lazert for a podcast as an out-

door sports expert.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Home Depot helps local non-profit FROM PAGE 8

Wildeman says that partnership at the youth centre is really key.

“The programs and the availability of our services to youth in the community are all free, and that’s largely in part due to great partners like Home Depot,” she said.

Brown says Interval Home Society personnel like Wildeman are great to work with.

“We’ve been able to do some other events. We also have what we call ‘Team Depot’ where we go out in the community with our own associates and do projects together,” said Brown.

“It’s such a great way to be part of this great community that we live in.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

13

14

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Talk to Experts program goes live at College Park FROM PAGE 13

“It was awesome.

I wasn’t sure what to expect and they had it fully set up professionally with all their questions laid out,” said Taylor.

“It was a 45-minute interview. Hopefully, I said something smart enough that they could use it.”

Lazert says the fun part of the whole thing for him was bringing

Taylor in and talking to him since he hadn’t seen him for a while.

“I asked him about his family, how he started his business and what his major injuries were while doing his sports,” said Tristan.

“It was a fun process, but it was very difficult because the editing was pretty tough.”

Taylor thinks anyone who listens to the podcasts will see how responsible the kids are

with technology and how forward-thinking a teacher like Krahn is to put something like this in the classroom.

“It’s like a mini business to show them what they can do with technology, and then on top of it, talk to a bunch of people in the community that work in the community,” said Taylor.

Krahn says the podcasts integrate science, technology, engi-

neering, art and math together in order to give the kids an education they can take into the real world.

He says now that it’s officially launched, they plan to release a new podcast every Friday and can be heard on any podcast engine or by logging in to anchor.fmcornelius/ krahn locally.

“The kids, now that they see that it’s out and see the reaction that it’s

getting, I’m sure that we will get our guests coming in and we get them all recorded and ready to go by the deadline,” he said.

“It’s a year-long project, but it’s a small project for each kid. We just roll with it as the year goes by.”

Krahn says the kids come up with a topic they would like to investigate or a person they would like to invite in while their

classmates suggest questions to them.

The host student then chooses which questions they would like to borrow and picks three or four students from the class to come during the interview time.

“At the end, we have an open mic time, which is the students’ favourite mic time because if their question didn’t get chosen, they can ask the guest a question,” said Krahn.

Beautiful Downtown Lloydminster Downtown Lloydminster

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Walk for charity on Coldest Night File Photo GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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

Lloydminster will be in lockstep with about 140 other communities across Canada during the upcoming Coldest Night of the Year charity walk.

The local version of the annual walk will take place downtown the evening of Feb. 22 from 4-8 p.m. with registration at cnoy.org.

Funds raised from individuals, teams and donations will go to the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, which supports the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, the new dropin centre, and secondstage housing.

“It’s an important fundraiser,” said Val-

erie Lazicki, executive director of the coalition society.

Lazicki describes the event as a familyfriendly walk downt o w n o u t in t h e c o l d in the winter for people to feel what it’s like for people who are outdoors year-round in our community.

The publicity campaign is well timed with the recent spate of Arctic temperatures as low as -50C with the windchill, bringing changes to the operation of the men’s shelter and dropin centre.

“We have modified how we provide our services to keep people indoors,” said Lazicki.

“We’ve had our lobby open evenings for the

last couple of weeks just making sure anyone who walks through the door —encouraging them to stay safe and warm.”

Lazicki says they also altered the times for the drop-in centre— opening early in the morning so people can go straight from the shelter to the drop-in centre.

The shelter opened this past fall upstairs at the back of St. John’s Minister Anglican Church and has been a godsend for clients this winter.

“It has been amazing. We are really happy with how well it’s been received, not only by the clients who are accessing our services there, but also just the amount of volunteers who have stepped forward and said, ‘I want to be involved, I want to help’; it’s been really, really great, said Lazicki.

She is also hoping it will be cold for the charity walk to drive home

the message.

“It’s impactful when you are walking the streets and you realize how fast you get cold when you are walking outside in the evening in the winter,” said Lazicki.

She says people can walk as far as they want, noting some people have walked up to 15 kilometres before to support a good cause.

“It’s open to everyone and we have young people who enter a family team and they fundraise for their family team,” said Lazicki.

She says 106.1 The GOAT will be conducting another one of their annual sock drives for the Coldest Night event as well.

The walk will start and end at Grace United Church with a stop at the drop-in centre.

“It’s a chance to go up to our drop-in centre and grab something quick to eat or drink on the route and carry on,”

said Lazicki.

Finishers are invited to stay for some hot chilli at Grace United and take part in a silent auction.

15

“We have speeches from our local dignitaries; there’s a nice chance to chat with everybody,” said Lazicki.

16

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Books out and listening in for Family Literacy Day

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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

If you wanted to be one of the cool kids last

week it was ‘to the last page or bust’ as the Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) cele-

brated Family Literacy Day in Saskatchewan.

A literary tradition that spans over a decade,

Church Directory

Family Literacy Day, which was on Monday, but celebrated across the LCSD on Friday, promotes the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.

An exciting part of the day for staff and students is having guest readers in to read to students, something Father Gorman Community School principal, Scott Young, knows is a highlight for students.

“This afternoon we have a range of people coming in, including politicians and local business owners, to talk about their role in the community and promote literacy and read to those classrooms,” said Young.

“It’s evolved, and every year it’s a bit different in terms of what our visitors are doing, but ultimately it’s to promote literacy and explain their role in the community.”

Young also added how having fresh faces in the classroom spreading a positive message about

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright MLA Garth Rowswell reads to students at Father Gorman Community School last week as the LCSD celebrated Family Literacy Day across the division.

reading is very important, but it also gets the kids excited about learning different roles in the community.

“I think we forget what elementary school was like sometimes, because once we’re adults we all have our jobs and stuff, and I think elementary school, there’s a bit of magic here, this is the place where we get Christmas fever and we get to be introduced to those books that are exciting, and it’s nice when adults from within

the community can come in and see the good things the teachers and kids are doing,” he said.

“I think if we took one part away, it wouldn’t be the same. It’s everybody who’s coming together and we’re trying to celebrate as many aspects of literacy as we can where we’re drawing in science and math, and having those community members in is key in terms of role models and understanding what it is that happens beyond the school walls.”

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

A Roman adventure (part two) PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

My friend Cindy and I packed a lot of sights into our week in Rome, but none was more interesting than our visit to see the Necropolis (city of the dead), an ancient burial ground that lies deep beneath the Vatican City.

Tip: to see this amazing site, request special permission from the Scavi (excavations office) and book tickets by emailing them at least three months in advance since only a few timed visits are allowed each day.

With great anticipation, we began our tour by descending a steep flight of steps with 10 others, and slipping through sliding glass doors into the damp, dimly lit and uneven corridors leading to the crypts; ending up beneath the Basilica at the believed tomb of St. Peter himself.

Talk about walking through time!

We ended this fascinating day by strolling the narrow cobblestoned lanes of Trastevere, on the west bank of the Tiber River. The area is filled with pubs and excellent restaurants, so choosing one shouldn’t be too hard, right?

Several waiters leaned from their doorways in a pool of warm, orange light, beckoning us to enter, while delicious smells, boisterous conversations and the clatter of dishes tempted us to step inside ivy-covered restaurants that oozed charm.

But we didn’t stop. We were looking for just the right place.

More and more people began to fill the streets; all with single-minded purpose. They were headed for the tastiest places to eat.

Did we follow them?

N o . D id w e c o nsider the locals would know where to go? No. Were we a couple of dum-

mies? Yes. We saw people lining up to get into many of the dining establishments, but we didn’t want to stand in line. Lining up is for chumps.

Finally, we spied a forlorn little restaurant around the corner from the crowds.

A place as empty as the mausoleums we had visited that afternoon. A place where the entire staff stood beseechingly at the door, their dark eyes pleading us to step through the portal and seat ourselves. So we did.

Hurriedly they swarmed us, gratitude written across their faces. A menu was thrust into our cold hands and the worst wine I’ve ever tasted was glugged into my glass.

We were smothered with uncomfortable attention. Once our meals were delivered (with much bowing and scraping) the waitress hovered over the back of Cindy’s chair, vulture-

like; eyeing every morsel she lifted to her lips.

Another waiter swept the floor beside us, taking sideways glances at our plates.

Still, another cleaned and re-cleaned every table within a 10-foot radius; watching our faces anxiously.

This scrutiny was offputting, but it wasn’t the worst part. The food was, in a word, TERRIBLE. Flabby pasta, a few crumbles of mystery meat and a heavyhanded plying of the oil jug. Bleah.

Manfully we laboured through a small portion of it and then dashed to freedom. No wonder they had looked so pleading. Tip: local people know the best places to eat; follow them, even if it means waiting in line.

So, there you go, a few tips brought to you

straight from the streets of Rome. Hmm—perhaps I should have been a travel writer. Move over, Rick Steves!

17

Follow Helen or order books online at myprairiewool.com.

PAGE 18 Thursday, January 30, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

Far-away Steelers embrace chance to play JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

The Lloydminster PWM midget AAA Steelers are Alberta’s team.

The hockey club primarily dresses players from the Border City and its surrounding communities including Kitscoty, Marwayne, Vermilion, Viking and Wainwright.

But, it also welcomes athletes from the far-off locales of Bowden, Banff, Lethbridge and Beaverlodge.

Goaltender Misty Rey, 15, defenceman/forward Kiera Gorrigsen, 16, blueliner Morgan Davidson, 15, and left wing Jensyn Wallan, 16, left their families and friends to play for the Steelers this season.

The move away from home is the first of its kind for each of the girls and they all have different rationales for the timing, but the constant of having a chance to play meaningful games, improve as players and grow as young women remains throughout.

“It’s not a decision you make overnight,” said Rey, who’s hometown of Bowden lies 440 kilometres southwest near the City of Olds.

“I weighed out all the pros a n d c o ns a n d I just w en t with Lloyd because it’s what I liked. The community is really nice and really supportive of the Steelers. And, I think my parents were

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Steelers rookies, from left, Morgan Davidson, Misty Rey, Kiera Gorrigsen and Jensyn Wallan travelled from far-off locales to play AAA hockey this season.

also very supportive. They wouldn’t hold me back or anything.”

Rey learned about the opportunity to play for the Steelers during a chance encounter with head coach Tyler Scott at a showcase event last season.

She then came to the Steelers’ identification camp, liked what she saw and signed on to play.

“I never really thought of coming up to Lloyd,” said Rey, a charge of the Loney billet family.

“I always thought I’d be in central Alberta with Calgary or Okotoks or Red Deer.

But, actually at the challenge when all the north teams won I was ‘ok, if it’s a new generation coming up and all of

them are from the north then the north teams will be good.’

I started looking at the north and it was a good thing that Lloyd contacted us.”

Rey and Davidson noted they didn’t know their billet families before the move, but each praised the welcoming and good-hearted nature shown this winter.

The latter has even stepped up to help her Coulter family caregivers by volunteering to babysit at times.

“My billets have a oneyear-old and a four-year-old, so they’re a bit wild,” said Davidson, one of three Lethbridge products on the Steelers counting Hayleigh Craig and Jadynn Morden. “It’s a bit different, but I’m getting used to it.”

Gorrigsen met her billet sister, Taylor Robinson, at a hockey camp in Canmore and Banff a few years ago and said they stayed in touch making the transition easy.

Wallan said her billet, Sheri Garnier, went to university with her mom and the two are very much alike.

“I was thinking of going to Red Deer, but Lloyd appealed to me way more,” said Wallan, who travelled 741 km from the northwest community of Beaverlodge to suit up for the Steelers this season.

“What Tyler said to me and the offers he gave me is a lot more appealing. The school is a major one. It’s a smaller school, so it’s a lot easier environment. Also, I find the pracising in the morning

and the dry-land after school gives you so much time to do homework.”

Wallan and Gorrigsen complete Grade 11 studies at Kitscoty High School, while Rey and Davidson roam the institution’s hallways as tenth-graders.

Having someone to lean on in their new environments has helped make the move a positive experience, added the girls, but it’s the Steelers’ great dynamic on-ice and in the room that has got them through the ups and downs of a hockey season.

Gorrigsen, a natural defenceman from Banff playing forward on the Prairies this winter, called the year a rollercoaster due to the high of winning the Calgary Firestarter tournament in the preseason, only to fall back in the early weeks of the regular campaign and fluctuate between wins and losses in the following months.

She said they seem to be playing to the other clubs’ level, but the hope is that it can be turned around this weekend when they compete at the St. Mary’s tournament in Winnipeg.

“A couple of weekends ago, before Christmas, we started to find our team,” said Gorrigsen. “Like, where we shine from other teams. We’re skilled, but we just have to focus.”

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

19

Junior curlers savour taste of bonspiel action JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

A chance to gain a first experience and get in a bit of exercise has been realized for a group of young Border City athletes.

Around 80 players took to the ice for the annual Viv Backer Junior Curling Bonspiel at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre this past Friday to Sunday.

The 14-and-under and 20-and-under division curlers enjoyed a fun skills competition, an opportunity to win lots of prizes and threeto-five games in front of a cheering crowd of parents, siblings and friends.

“It’s always a lot of fun,” said Aryn Thibault, skip of the 14-and-under A event champions.

“You get to meet a lot of people if you curl with a team. If you’re curing with a new team, and I did last year, it’s kind of confusing, but you get the hang of it. And, it’s just fun to learn new stuff in a bonspiel close to home.”

Team Thibault, which includes third Kamdyn Bauldic, second Aila Quiring and

lead Emmah Knorr, earned a come-from-behind 7-3 win against the foursome of Ryanna Deeks, Kye Kleinsasser, Sawyer Gerich and Eli Kleinsasser in the final on Sunday afternoon.

The two rinks seemed locked in trying to score the win, but that didn’t stop them from giving each other high fives after a made shot and even taking a break midmatch to help the younger kids on an adjacent sheet measure a couple of close stones.

“We had to make sure that we didn’t let them in the house as much because when we let them in they counted a n d s t o l e ,” s a i d T h i b a u l t about their winning strategy. “It also helped that we had the hammer. So, we just had to make sure we kept the house clear with just our rocks in there.”

Ryan Armstrong, an organizer of the bonspiel, said Backer was a longtime junior curling coach in Lloydminster who also played competitively. He said it’s believed the event has been held annually for the past 25 to

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

The Viv Backer Junior Curling Bonspiel 14-and-under A event featured curlers, from left, Eli Kleinsasser, Sawyer Gerich, Kye Kleinsasser, Ryanna Deeks, Aryn Thibault, Kamdyn Bauldic, Aila Quiring and Emmah Knorr.

30 years stretching back to before Backer’s name was attached with its purpose continually being to provide kids an enjoyable weekend playing the game.

“This was my first bonspiel,” said Armstrong. “I would hazard to guess that a lot of the local kids, the Lloydminster kids, this is their first bonspiel. Some of them are on teams just put together for this weekend.

Some of them have teams

they play with all year. But, it’s all about fun and getting them out.”

The Chauvin rink of Holder Moncrieff, William Waters, Landon McNally and Lily Moncrieff won the 14-andunder B event, while the foursome of Taison Behm, Brody Herman, Dylan Delorme and Mattix Frankton took the C final. Team Gau, with Colten Gau, Spencer Rogan, Austin Aalbers and Cameron Aalbers finished atop the A side in the

20-and-under division.

T h e B l e s s e d S ac r ame nt mixed squad of Gracyn Golinowski, Draidyn Gibb, Nika Aalbers and Hailey Baumgartner won the older kids’ B event. On the C side, the rink of Nate Bergan, Reed Balam, Matthew Tait and Damian Papp came in first.

“We went 5-0,” noted Thibault. “We tried our best.

There were a couple of tough games, but we got through it.

It was fun.”

20

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Crusaders get the better of Raiders in Hot Hoops final JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

A good defence wins basketball games.

North Battleford’s John Paul II School Crusaders athlete Ron Dalida pointed out that fact during a postgame scrum following their 65-56 Hot Hoops championship

win against the Holy Rosary High School Raiders at College Park School on Saturday evening.

The point guard noted defending and playing with heart is how they’ve approached every competition this season, and it’s paying off.

“We just play real hard,” said Dalida.

“And, we move the ball.”

The Crusaders and Raiders exchanged point for point during the opening quarter of the Lloydminster Public School Division tournament final, but the game turned in the second.

T h e R a i d e r s pounded the ball inside only to lose possession on the periphery leading to a quick Crusaders bomb down the court for an open bucket.

The tactic led the Crusaders to a 21-11 quarter win and 38-25 advantage at the half.

A Raiders pushback in the third and fourth quarters slimmed the margin, but it couldn’t rectify the damage already done.

“I don’t think we

were communicating enough, but they were working hard,” said Raiders small forward Elkan Ekhator. “We tried our best.”

The Bishop Lloyd Middle School Lancers bested the E.S. Laird Middle School Sabres 54-48 for the Hot Hoops bronze.

The College Park School Cobras took the consolation final 60-57 versus the Unity Comprehensive School Warriors.

The Lloydminster middle school basketball teams start city playoffs this week. The district finals run Feb. 7 to 8.

“The season is going pretty good,” said Ekhator, noting the Raiders are 10-3. “At practice we’re just going to take this loss, reflect on it and work really hard.”

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Raiders guard Joevi Casinto looks for an open teammate.

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

21

Rustlers ready to make push toward playoffs JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

The Lakeland College Rustlers men’s basketball team is in a battle to make the postseason.

The Rustlers, 8-8, sit in fifth place in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) North Division.

With the University of Alberta-Augustana Vikings (10-4) scoring an automatic berth to the ACAC championships as the tournament host, the Rustlers must climb past either the Concordia University of Edmon-

ton Thunder (10-6) or Northern Alberta Institute of Technology Ooks (10-8) during the next five weekends to earn a playoff spot.

The team’s final three weekends of the regular season include homeand-home series against the Vikings, Thunder and Ooks, making for an all-or-nothing finish.

But, the initial test will come this Friday and Saturday when the Rustlers host the Grande Prairie Regional College Wolves (2-14), which knocked off the North’s first-place Key-

Roadrunners win silver

ano College Huskies (14-2) on Saturday.

Sheray Thomas, head coach of the Rustlers, said every contest from now to the beginning of the postseason is a playoff game.

He said that starts with playing the right way against the Wolves at the Lakeland gym this weekend.

“We’ve got to sustain our defence and come out with focus,” said Thomas. “On the offensive side, we’ve got to share the ball, shoot it well and rebound it. If we cover the rebound-

The Rendall Park School Roadrunners boys basketball team, with back row from left, coach Craig Blythe, Konlan Topp, Jake Redden, Carson Krchov, Kyle Graf, coach Scott Lyons; front row, Jory Wagner, Kaden Rooks, Steinar Hundeby, Darrien Croy and Conner Frerichs (missing is coach Dayna Inkster), captured a silver medal at the Lloydminster Catholic School Division tournament this past weekend.

Submitted

ing and we’re able to sustain our defence as far as putting pressure on teams to get some easy turnovers and some easy points, we’ll be in a good position.

If not, it’s going to be tough.”

Thomas noted the boys have been following the plan over the past stretch earning three wins before the Christmas break and going 2-2 since returning. He added the two losses early in the sec-

ond semester against the Huskies were hardfought and settled on just a few miscues here and there.

“We’ve just got to come with our game,” said Rustlers point guard Adrian Richards.

“We have to play our best game. There are no nights off. If we take a night off, it’s going to slip away from us.”

Richards said they’re confident that this push into a playoff spot will be successful.

He said they just have to focus on defence, communicate and be on the same page starting with their next two games versus the Wolves.

“We have to get these wins against Grande Prairie, which is in last place, but just beat Keyano that’s in first place and ranked fourth in the country,” said Thomas.

“So, every game is a battle. Every game is a test.”

22

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Keeping a promise The Kitscoty midget Pitbulls, with back row from left, coach Ian Keichinger, Riley McKay, Kian Keichinger, Rhett Laycock, Carter Carnduff, Dillon Johnston, Colby Svean, Gage Wolfe, Jackson Koening; front row, Linden Koening, Jarret Earl, Dylan Stephenson, Ryker Saam, Mason Walker, Josh Davidson, Nate Johnston and Kegan Pearson (missing is players Blake Keichinger and Kaden Heape and coaches Chris Laycock and Scott Svean), have a coach who keeps his word. Ian Keichinger, the Pitbulls assistant bench boss, got his ticket drawn to have a chance at the $20,000 Scoro prize at Kitscoty Hockey Day on Dec. 14. Before heading onto the ice to try his luck, one of the boys asked if he’d give them each $100 if he makes the shot. He replied ‘sure, why not’ and proceeded to get the puck in on his first attempt. True to his word, Keichinger gave each of the 18 Pitbulls players a framed $100 bill with an attached note reading ‘When you are down on your luck, have a bit of mine.’

Submitted 20015SS1

Riptides swim at Blue Bear

Lloydminster Riptides swimmers Ava Benoit, Robyn Coleman, Landon Daschuk, Matia Kuehn, Austin Midgley, Makayla Price, Abbie Redden, Peyton Taylor and Julia de la Torre competed at the Blue Bear Invitational in Edmonton from Jan. 17 to 19. Daschuk finished ninth in the 400-metre freestyle event.

Kuehn captured bronze in the 50-m freestyle and placed fifth and sixth, respectively, in the 100-m backstroke and 200-m backstroke. Redden came in fourth in the 100-m breaststroke and seventh in the 50-m breaststroke. Taylor finished sixth in the 100-m breaststroke.

Submitted

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

23

24

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Agriculture Reduce red tape to make Canada more competative and innovative MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

As the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) continues to shed light on the issue of paper burden and over-regulation during Red Tape Awareness Week, a recent CFIB survey reveals 95 per cent of farmers agree reducing red tape for small businesses like theirs would help Canada become more competitive and innovative.

“We know farmers must compete on the world stage so cutting through unnecessary red tape is just one low-cost way governments can help make farm businesses more nimble and competitive,” said Marilyn Braun-Pollon, CFIB’s

vice-president for Western Canada and Agri-business.

“We are not talking about deregulation and removing those imp o rtant ru l e s that are in place to protect Canada’s food supply, we are talking about reducing unnecessary red tape that farmers face everyday.”

Red tape can include confusing forms, poor government customer service and excessive or outdated regulations.

When farmers were asked which federal government agencies had the most room to reduce red tape (e.g. streamline rules, simplify language, shorten forms) without negatively affecting health, safety and environmental outcomes, the top

five were: - Canada Revenue Agency (60 per cent) - Statistics Canada (58 per cent) - Environment Canada and Climate Change Canada (56 per cent) - Service Canada (Temporary Foreign Worker processing, Records of Employment) (53 per cent) - Canadian Food Inspection Agency (44 per cent) “On the one hand I am happy to be exonerated of this wrongful charge; on the other, I am very angry that a government agency can do this and have little or no apparent consequence,” said Ken Falk, owner of Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry, British Columbia.

PAGE 25 Thursday, January 30, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Saskatchewan modernizes pipeline regulations Province introduces first electronic pipeline registry in Canada MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

The Government of Saskatchewan is modernizing and strengthening its regulatory oversight of oil and gas pipeline infrastructure in the province, with the proclamation of the Pipelines Amendment Act, 2019 (the Act).

“

The introduction of substantial enhancements to our pipeline licensing system will also provide more efficiency and regulatory certainty for our oil and gas sector.

“This is the culmination of several years work and delivers on our promise, made in 2017, to ensure that Saskatchewan citizens and our environment are protected to the highest standard,”

Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre said.

“The introduction of substantial enhancements to our pipeline licensing system will also provide more efficiency and regulatory certainty for our oil and gas sector.”

In recent years, the province has enhanced regulatory systems to monitor and review pipeline construction and operations, with more stringent inspection, investigation, penalty and audit powers.

The new Act and regulatio n s w ill ex p an d regulatory oversight to include retroactive licensing of approximately 80,000 flowlines across the province over the next four years and more stringent scrutiny of applications at higher-risk locations, such as waterways.

With these changes, the Ministry of Energy and Resources has fully addressed all outstanding issues raised by the Provincial Auditor regarding the integrity and safety of pipelines in Saskatchewan.

File Photo This is the first system of its kind in Canada to adopt an entirely electronic registry of pipeline licensing and administration.

The Act establishes a new module in the Integrated Resource Information System (IRIS) for an Online license registry, similar to the Saskatchewan Land Titles Registry, which will issue and administer licenses for the oil,

gas and mining sectors. “ I n d e ve l o p i n g t h e pipeline regulatory framework, the Government of Saskatchewan worked to ensure both regulatory efficiency and predictability for operators,” Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) Vice-President of Western Canada Operations, Brad Herald said.

“The new pipeline module, with its Online

licensing registry, highlights the province’s commitment to monitoring and upholding the highest standards of safety for the public and the environment; standards that are also continuing priorities for industry.”

The new system will also streamline the review of applications and reduce the time required for routine approvals. In addi-

tion, the introduction of administrative penalties will complete the overall compliance framework tied to pipeline regulation.

The Pipelines Administration and Licensing Regulations are now in effect, along with Directive PNG034: Saskatchewan Pipelines Code, which clarifies and enhances requirements set out in previous regulations.

26

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

PAGE 27 Thursday, January 30, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

Announcements POWER ENGINEERS! Steam Smart has posted new exam preparation courses for people working on their next steam ticket. 2A1, 2A2, 3B2 www.SteamSmart.ca.

employment opportunities

Classifieds Miscellaneous

Feed & Seed

manufactured homes

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver.

Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.

CLASSIFIED ADS 1 for $15 or 2 for $25

*Based on 20 words additional words 15¢ each Prices do not include GST

employment opportunities

INNISFAIL LIONS CLUB, operating managers Anthony Henday Campground looking to hire interested couple to caretake from May 1 to October 1, 2020. Contact Tom 403-358-8135.

SEEKING A CAREER in the Community Newspaper business? Post your resume for free right where the publishers are looking.

Visit http://awna.com/resumes_add.

Wanted WILD FUR WANTED: Coyote, fox etc. home: 780-755-3860 cell: 780-842-7153

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

Health / Fitness HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT? Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30, 000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1844-453-5372.

IS NEWS YOUR GIG? Shootin' the Breeze has a full-time position open for a weekly newspaper reporter in Pincher Creek, AB. For job description and details, please contact S h a n n o n ; publisher@shootinthebreeze.ca.

FULL-TIME REPORTER for LJI 14-month contract (extension possibility). Journalism Degree or 3 years experience. Must relocate to Swan Hills, AB. Contact P u b l i s h e r a t sgazette@telusplanet.net.

Follow us on Social Media

Hiring full-time owner/operators to pull company 53' triaxle flatdecks. We work mainly in between the provinces of AB, SK, BC. The guys are currently taking home after fuel between $9,000.00 to $12,000.00/month. Most of our work is done Sunday to Friday with some exceptions once in a while. You must have 2 years flatdeck exp. Company fuel cards available after the first week worked. Must have own plates, insurance and WCB. Call Dave at 800917-9021.

Services Offered

Agriculture

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. PionLivestock eer Acceptance Corp.

Member BBB. Call 1-877Blairs.Ag "Pursuit of 987-1420. www.pioneerExcellence" Bull Sale west.com.

Tuesday, February 4, 1:00 pm at the Jackson Cattle Co. sale facility in Sedley, Health / Fitness SK. Featuring 120 Two Year Old Black and Red Angus bulls. For more sale information or a catalogue call Kevin 306-365-7922, Blake 306-528-7484 or T Bar C Cattle Co. at 306220-5006. View the catalogue online at www.buyagro.com (PL #116061)

Vacation / Travel

For Sale

Miscellaneous METAL ROOFING & SIDING. 37+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 24-48 hour Express Service available at supporting Distributors.

Call 1-888-263-8254.

Feed & Seed HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.

FARM LAND WANTED

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 100 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 200; www.awna.com.

28

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Legal Notices

To ensure efficient newspaper delivery, please make sure of the following: • Sidewalks are cleared and clean • Mailbox is visible • Mailbox is emptied on a regular basis • Pets are tied or in a fenced yard (306) 825-5111

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Obituaries & Memoriams

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Obituaries & Memoriams

“What is lovely never dies, but passes into other loveliness.�

Thomas Bailey Aldrich

To remember a loved one or share their memories, place a memoriam or obituary in the Meridian Source by calling

306-825-5111

29

30

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Obituaries & Memoriams

Local Business Directory

Thursday, January 30, 2020

MERIDIAN SOURCE

31

HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN

December 22 – January 19 Your circle of friends will get bigger. At work and in your personal life, you’ll be very chatty at the beginning of the week, which will allow you to place yourself on the forefront and make some important deals.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18 Before making a big purchase, be sure to check your budget and make certain the thing you want is something you need. With a little patience, you’ll be more satisfied and get a better price.

PISCES

February 19 – March 20 Expect a hectic week that includes some unforeseen expenses. Happily, a raise will more than make up for it and will also ensure you’re looked after in your old age.

ARIES

March 21– April 19 A few steps back are sometimes needed in order to gain momentum and accomplish something amazing. Notably, you’ll be inspired to create a masterpiece.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20 Your friends will suggest some fun activities or even a vacation. A stroke of genius will allow you to solve part of your financial problems, even if the solution is a bit complicated.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21 Your popularity will help you plan an event that brings many people together. At work, you’ll organize an urgent meeting that’ll be such a success it may turn into a party.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22 You’ll be inspired by a life-changing voyage or class. You’ll make enchanting discoveries that guide you toward a new form of spirituality.

LEO July 23 – August 22 Emotions will run high this week, which should inspire you to have a more active social life. A type of spiritual awakening will guide you toward new goals.

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22 You have to make an important decision, but not before thinking carefully. Changes may be necessary in order to achieve your goals.

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22 It’ll be a busy week at work, but that won’t stop you from making sure the house is clean.

You need a tidy environment in order to be happy.

CROSSWORD

SCORPIO

October 23 – November 21 Your self-esteem will go up a notch, encouraging you to accomplish things you didn’t think possible in your professional and personal life. You’ll have the chance to make yourself look good and be recognized by your peers.

SAGITTARIUS

January 23 Answers

November 22 – December 21 Whether you’re single or not, you’ll fall in love at first sight, which will take over everything.

You’ll hear about a birth in the family, bringing great joy to all around you.

SUDOKU January 23 Answers

ACROSS 1. Rowing blades 5. Stereo component 8. Woeful exclamation 12. Fib 13. Tell an untruth 14. ____ tie 15. Certain bean 16. Traveler’s stop 17. Unattractive 18. ____ India Company 19. Go to see 21. Utilize 23. Job or story 27. Black-ink item 30. Write hastily 31. Rarer than rare

32. Owl’s question?

33. Contest site 35. Mine yield 36. Young chap 37. However 38. Piggy-bank fillers 40. Formed 42. Pigpen 43. Full-grown 45. Makes mistakes 49. Barking sounds 52. Bumper ____ 53. Oaf 54. Petitions 55. Memorable time 56. Motionless 57. ____-jerk reaction

58. Earth’s upper atmosphere 59. Intense DOWN 1. Stare 2. Vocal solo 3. Borders 4. Sculpture 5. Breathing 6. Skirt type 7. Retiree’s income 8. Borders on 9. Type of cabin 10. “____ That Jazz” 11. Nutritious bean 20. Unbroken 22. Remained 24. Branding tool

25. Game missile 26. She-sheep 27. Piercing tools 28. Iranian prince, once 29. Baking ingredient 30. 707, e.g.

34. Marks down 39. Facial feature 41. Old-fashioned 42. Wander 44. Songbird 46. Went by bus 47. ____ of thumb 48. Tread 49. “___ Me No Questions” 50. Gallop 51. Professional charge

May you touch dragonflies & stars, dance with fairies & talk to the moon. Meridian Source’s Birth Announcements If you wish to have your baby’s birth announcement published in our May you grow up with love & gracious hearts & people who care.

Thursday edition of the Meridian Source FREE OF CHARGE, please come in and fill out a form or email admin@meridiansource.ca Welcome to the world little one. It’s been waiting for you!

Deadline is Tuesday at noon for the Thursday edition.

32

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Rentals

Real Estate NEW LISTING

Property Management FEATURED LISTING

22 1 AVENUE EAST

NEW PRICE

PT SW 33-48-2-W4TH

ST

• Spacious 5 bed / 2 bath family home on three pristine lots in Marshall.

• Includes double detached garage.

Immediate possession available. $

• Rural acreage with stunning panoramic views with a spacious 1500 sq. ft. mobile home.

• Fenced for horses, shelter, sheds & garage included. Just 20 minutes to Lloyd! $

SK

AB

249,900

MLS 65843

329,900

MLS 65851

AB

LEADING YOU HOME

$

315,000 MLS 65094

STREAMSTOWN

SK

$

AB

$

720,000

MLS 64318

AB

$585,000

MLS 65413

SK

$534,900

MLS 64733

AB

$487,500

MLS 65067

AB

$485,000

MLS 65054

AB

$

469,900

MLS 64622

AB

$419,900

MLS 64860

AB

$400,000

MLS 65130

SK

$

70,000 MLS 65483

389,900

MLS 65488

PECK LAKE

359,900

MLS 64979

SK

$350,000

MLS 65736

AB

$339,900

MLS 64117

AB

$337,200

MLS 65493

AB

$

333,900

MLS 65357

299,900

MLS 64095

AB

$282,000

MLS 65365

AB

$275,900

MLS 64978

AB

$

275,000

MLS 65430

AB

$264,900

MLS 65552

AB

$

AB

$

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, February 1st 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm 3917 - 71ST AVENUE

Hosted by: Judy Bexson

309,900

$

AB

249,900

$

MLS 65459

AB

$199,900

MLS 65276

AB

$115,900

MLS 65745

AB

MLS 65542

COUNTRY LIVING TRADES CONSIDERED

3 KM TO LLOYD

AB

775,000

$

MLS 64999

SK

$499,900

MLS 64968

PRIVATE QUARTER SECTION

SK

$495,000

MLS 65171

11 AFFORDABLE ACRES

SK

$189,900

AB

$109,900

Rick Schesnuk Realtor®

Jennifer Gilbert Pattie Todd Associate Broker Associate Broker Brad Gilbert Broker/Owner

MLS 65640

7 ACRE PARCEL

MLS 64431

Judy Bexson Realtor®

Each office is independently owned & operated.

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 Jackie Gartner Associate Broker

Sandy Hardy Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343 facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Amanda Warner Realtor®

Caleb McLean Realtor®

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty