Meridian Source - July 18, 2019

Thursday, July 18, 2019

VOLUME 2 I ISSUE 3

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Taking steps to end mental health stigma TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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You may be able to walk the walk, but can you walk the talk?

That’s what Lloydminster’s Paul Laberge wants to know on Aug. 26 when he will begin a 270 km, six-day walk from Saskatoon to the Border City to raise funds and awareness for the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation’s (LRHF) mental health initiative Project Sunrise.

Appropriately titled “Let’s Walk the Talk,” Laberge is looking forward to getting on the road to raise awareness for something he holds close to his heart.

The Laberge family lost their father almost a year ago to the day when he took his own life, and Paul was the one to find his father in the same spot he had previously attempted suicide.

This tragic and traumatic experience drove Laberge to want to end any stigmas involved with mental health as he knows how it can affect the lives of people

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Lloydminster’s Paul Laberge is gearing up for his “Let’s Walk the Talk” 270 km walk from Saskatoon to the Border City to raise money and awareness for Lloydminster Region Health Foundation’s mental health initiative Project Sunrise.

around the world.

“Mental health is all around us. The last time

I did research I found the number of suicides involving men aged

20-50 was very high, and one of those men was my dad who was

50,” said Laberge “When that happened with my dad I knew we

needed to do more, and I feel something needs to be done with mental health.”

Laberge’s first idea for an awareness walk was to walk from British Columbia to Lloydminster but after doing some calculations a walk from Saskatoon to Lloydminster seemed more in the cards in regards to time.

“Saskatoon is like a second home for me having spent lots of time there visiting family, and I wanted to finish it in Lloyd because I’m a Lloydminster kid,” he said.

With the walk spanning over six days, Laberge explained he planned things this way, because it may only take him two or three days to complete the walk, but he thought going through the tough physical experience over a longer period of time might help him understand what people living with from mental health go through each day.

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Community Services Building to be decommissioned TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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City council voted in favour of the decommissioning of the Community Services Building, which is home to such tenants as the Chamber of Commerce and the Lloydminster Bobcats, at a regular meeting of council on June 24.

The building has served the community for roughly 70 years, and after a review of maintenance and required repairs that would cost roughly $2 million to get the building to meet safety codes, the decision to decommission was made.

Council also requested a recommendation for the future use of the land.

“Buildings are like cars. It gets to a point when it’s no longer feasible to restore it,” said Coun. Ken Baker during the council meeting.

Mayor Gerald Aalbers agreed with Baker, main-

taining the building in its current state is costing taxpayers money.

“

Every single tax payer is paying a price to keep that building running. Having the decommissioning being on June 30, 2020 is the right move.

“It certainly served its purpose, and remember it was a school prior to my time and repurposed from the school division to the city, and it reached its point,” said Mayor Aalbers.

“When you look at it from a few blocks away it looks pretty sharp, but when you get inside the windows are all original wood windows, and there’s a long list of items after that.”

Coun. Jonanthan Tor-

File Photo resan also pointed out during the meeting that $2M isn’t a smart business investment for the city, something Mayor Aalbers agreed with.

“I think most people would agree at that time do you say ‘we’ve made an investment that’s given back to us, and it’s not a cost-recovery operation. We’re not in the business of being a commercial renter and it was costing taxpayers money to have that building on hand.”

With the decommissioning effective June 30, 2020, tenants were informed of the possible decommissioning of the building on many occasions, so the decision did not come as a surprise.

“The tenants in the Community Services Building you see are permanent fixtures but there are 17 or more other groups that come in and utilize those facilities for their meetings.,” said Coun. Aaron Buckingham.

“I’ve got a long history in that building having been the Chamber of Commerce president for 10 years, and meetings there, so it’s a difficult thing, but the community is subsidizing the losses on that building.

“Every single taxpayer is paying a price to keep that building running. Having the decommissioning being on June 30, 2020, is the right move.”

Walking in honour of his father and save lives FROM PAGE 1

“You can’t pick when you want to be depressed or have anxiety, and those six days, I think by day four which is 50 km, I think I’ll be tired, frustrated, wanting to quit,” he said.

“Out of three people, one person will never experience mental health. The second person will know someone who’s dealing with it, and the third one will deal with depression and anxiety.”

Laberge is looking forward to making new friends along the way and has a number of people already signed up to walk with him.

The group will be making stops along the route and spending their evenings at community centres and halls to save costs on hotels.

Laberge explained the last four years have been tough for him personally while living with mental health, and after losing his father a year ago he was recently diagnosed with PTSD. “I was the one who found my dad in August and I have flashbacks of that as well as events that have happened since 2015,” he said.

“I was always trying to remind my dad he has lots to live for and life was worth living, so spending a lot of time with him over the past number of years has taught me a lot about mental health.”

The partnership between Let’s Walk the Talk and Project Sunrise was a perfect fit, as it offers resources the Laberge family could

have benefitted from a year ago.

“Paul’s a childhood friend of mine, so when I heard the news about him losing his dad, that one hit pretty close to home for me,” said Malcolm Radke, CEO, LRHF. “The family support has been amazing and right off the bat Paul said ‘OK how do we raise awareness about mental health and get people talking about it so we stop losing the lives of middle-aged men in our community,’ and he jumped on it and planned this massive walk.”

Donations can be made online or by contacting Paul directly.

Donations can also be made in honour of someone or on behalf of an organization.

“Of course he wants

to raise lots of money and Project Sunrise was a good fit, especially considering the mental health type beds we’re trying to bring to bring into this community would have been just what he and his family needed and weren’t there for them,” said Radke.

“It’s also a great way for Paul to pay it forward to the next family but also raise awareness and hopefully save some lives.”

For mor e inf or mation on Laberge’s mission and the walk or to make a donation, visit Let’s Walk the Talk on Facebook or on the LRHF website.

Laberge would also like to thank current and potential sponsors such as Popeye’s Supplements for their support.

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Servus centre gets a workover GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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The Servus Sports Centre is in the midst of a tune-up after 13 years of operations.

Work is about to begin to complete an LED lighting upgrade at the facility while staff and users of the fitness centre are starting to see security and functional improvements.

Plans are also on the drawing board to improve security and access to the elevator and the fitness track on the third floor.

“The end goal is we really want to operate as lean as possible so the taxpayer isn’t paying for anymore than they have to,” said Heather Dow, manager of the Servus centre.

“The goal is to be really smart on how we move forward and how we design our general maintenance on this building and what we can do to make it run most efficiently.”

Dow says operational efficiencies are behind changes that began a couple of weeks ago to the member check-in area of the fitness area.

Crews have replaced the old desk and relocated it closer to a new towel station and the laundry room for the person running the desk.

“We’re trying to make the most of that one person that’s on the best we can and still serve our gym members to their highest abilities,” said Dow. “We’re two weeks

in and I think we’ve had some really positive feedback—they are excited to see what’s coming next.”

Dow says they are now looking at installing a turnstile or some sort of control barrier where gym users would scan the sign-in software before proceeding.

“We have a lot of people who walk in without paying and we’ve noted that,” said Dow. “We’re really trying to do our due diligence to provide that security and help our bottom line as well.”

A new check-in setup will also help to prevent theft from the gym change rooms.

“It was only a year ago that a lady lost her vehicle from the locker room, so we want to ensure we have security in place so only members are allowed to be swiped in,” said Dow. “We want to provide a level of safety to our gym members as well.”

The Servus centre has had a security officer on contract since last September with Paladin Security onsite since Jan. 2.

“They have been amazing. We want to give our customers a friendly reminder if they forgot a wristband and really just provide security in the building” said Dow.” They have also received some input on possible changes to the layout of gym equipment with a decision to

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Heather Dow, manager of the Servus Sports Centre, says work is underway to improve operational efficiencies at the Centre, including an improved customer check-in area at the gym and the second phase of LED lighting in the facility.

make this fall.

The Servus centre is also looking at a budgeted project in the next few months to have Thyssenkrupp, the elevator provider, install a security limiting device, The system would provide regular track users with a proximity card on their membership to access the track from the ground floor elevator.

“We are trying to limit people on the track that haven’t paid to be there,” said Dow. “We find there is a lot of usage of the elevator that gets vandalized, there’s people on the track that aren’t meant to be there, and we want to make sure it’s safe for our gym users.”

The Servus centre is also mulling over future ideas such as adding some distance decals for 100, 200 and 300 metres on the track and adding something to make it exciting for kids.

“It will all depend on budgetary functions on what we can do,” said Dow. Meanwhile, the LED phase 2 fixtures have been ordered with the contractor Harris Electric to begin installing lighting in the fitness c e nt r e , f i e l d h o u s e s , main corridors and the parking lot within a month.

LED lighting in the arenas, change rooms, admin offices and the track area was completed in 2018.

“They provide better lighting and reduce our carbon footprint for the facility and cut down the maintenance cost,” said Dow. “The return on the investment for these LED lights is three to five years.”

Dow says the lights in the fitness centre will be changed after hours so users aren’t disrupted and the fieldhouse will be closed for a couple of days.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Sexual Assault Services complete major upgrade to centre

Supplied Photo

Fred North recently made a sizeable donation to Lloydminster Sexual Assault Services which was used to finish renovations in 1927 community building.

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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To be in line with Sexual Assault Awareness Month in May, Lloydminster Sexual Assault Services (LSAS) had a ribbon-cutting and open house to celebrate some exciting changes in their 1927 community building.

Thanks to the generosity of the Fred North Charitable Foundation, the Ryken Group LTD, as well as a number of private donations, the Little Bear Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, the Farmer’s Floor, as well as the newly formed North Ryken Enhanced Services could finally be unveiled.

As the LSAS grew the need for expansion and renovation was needed, and in the fall of 2017 the organization decided to repair and refurbish the basement.

The idea was to include a community training and education space and the area was to the named the Farmer’s Floor and be used to provide community members and families the opportunity to learn about the prevention of sexual violence, response skills and supporting survivors.

The Little Bear Child and Youth Advocacy Centre was a dream for the LSAS for a number of years as they wanted

to have a multi-purpose space to support individuals and families affected by sexual violence as they went through reporting it, the investigation, and the court process.

“It was important to host the open house in the month of May to recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month and it was a great way to celebrate all of our services coming together with the help of many partners,” said Community relations coordinator Carly Pollard.

“We were able to finish up renovations to the building so it feels warm, safe, and a fun environment for

our clients.”

In recognition of the generous donation from the Fred North Charitable Foundation and Ryken Group LTD, the LSAS wanted to honour the organizations by renaming the enhanced branch of their services the “North Ryken Enhanced Services.”

The work took roughly 18 months to complete and as Pollard explained, “the work was done with a lot of generosity and grace.”

“This was really quite a process because we needed the building to be just right for our clients,” said Pollard.

“This space is used for a variety of different things and we are so fortunate to have hunmble and generous people like Fred North in the community.”

When asked what could be said to Fred on behalf of LSAS the answer was simple, “Thank you. With this partnership and this help we are able to now provide more services to out community, something we’ll be forever thankful for.”

For more information on the LSAS visit their website at http://www. lloydminstersexualassault.com or call 306825-8255.

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Church Directory

Charity ranch grips arm wrestlers GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Harold Stephan doesn’t have to twist anyone’s arm to organize an arm wrestling championship at Battle River Ranch Camp—but he might if he competes.

Stephan is the director of the non-profit ranch and he’s inviting men and women to compete at the Run to the Ranch Arm Wrestling Champions fundraiser on Aug. 3.

The schedule includes a greased pig contest for kids, a poker bike rally and oodles of entertainment on location about 42 kilometres south of Lloydminster on Highway 17.

“I’ve got prizes for that and all kinds of sponsors. It’s just turning into a fun fun weekend,” said Stephan.

He says the arm wrestling idea was pitched to him over lunch recently by wrestler Doug Rue from Red Deer who was in the 1987 movie, Over the Top, starring Sylvester Stallone.

“It’s over the top for me because I just can’t believe this has come together,” said Stephan, who oversees the trades and life skills opportunity programs at the ranch for the Crossman Ministries.

“We got talking about this event and he said

‘have you ever thought of doing arm wrestling out there’ and I said ‘wow, that’s something I never thought of.’ I enjoy arm wrestling and I was pretty good at in my day—and then he started telling me about it.”

Rue is organizing the arm wrestling event that will kick off with coaching sessions at 10 a.m. followed by registration at 1 p.m. and the competition in three weight categories from 2-6 p.m.

“He’s bringing with him two to four other national champions,” said Stephan.

“We’ve got great prizes from great sponsors; you are not going to want to miss this event.”

Rue’s wife Wanda is also an arm wrestler who will help run the women’s event.

The arm wrestling competition will likely include a few members from the Lloydminster Armbenders club that are ready to lock wrists.

Seven members of the club competed at nationals in Edmonton over the past weekend.

“I don’t know how many we’ll be sending, but whoever is around, I imagine we’ll have a half a dozen for sure,” said Chris Robinson club president.

“Some of our members have a couple of

Supplied Photo

Arm wrestler Doug Rue, who was in the 1987 movie Over the Top, and his wife Wanda, who also arm wrestles, met up with Battle River Ranch Camp director Harold Stephan at The Proper restaurant in Lloydminster to pitch a Run to the Ranch arm wrestling event on Aug. 3. The event is part of a daylong family fundraiser and includes supper and Kenny Mac as a headline act.

kids competing and we’ve got a couple of women.”

Robinson is stoked to hear about the ranch event and says he’s very familiar with that Over the Top flick that Rue was in.

The main character, played by Stallone, is a long-haul truck driver who tries to win back his alienated son while becoming a champion arm wrestler.

“I know that movie.

It plays on my loop in my garage,” said Robinson with a laugh.

Stephan says anywhere from 50 to 250 competitors could take part.

“I just don’t know what’s going to happen. I’ve got people calling from Edmonton already,” he said.

The gate admission for all the events is $20 a person.

The motorcycle modified poker rally begins at 2 p.m. and will head to Macklin, Provost and Wainwright then back to the ranch camp.

Pulled pork will be served for supper starting at 6 p.m. followed by the presentation of arm wrestling prizes and poker rally winners.

Kenny Mac will perform on stage starting at 8 p.m.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Planting seeds for Ag succession GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Farmers and ranchers are not immune to death or taxes.

Those are two good reasons for succession planning according to consultant and rancher Kelly Sidoryk, whose family went through the process herself.

Sidoryk is a member of Holistic Management International that advocates a whole farm/ranch planning process based on decision-making over finances, the land and people.

“An offshoot of that is my work with succession planning with agriculture families that goes beyond, be ca u s e t h a t a p p l i e s to all of them, regardless of what production model they are engaged in,” said Sidoryk.

She spoke about the succession planning component of holistic management at the Rotary Club of Lloydminster meeting on Monday calling herself a facilitator and an entrepreneur too.

Sidoryk says in the next 10 to 15 years in North America, 70 per cent of agriculture operations are going to be transitioning into the next generation.

“There isn’t a lot of

planning for that and part of that is, because in agriculture, we become pretty good at production,” she said.

“

An offshoot of that is my work with succession planning with agriculture families that goes beyond, because that applies to all of them, regardless of what production model they are engaged in.

She says farmers and ranchers are good at finances and marketing too, but the weak link is starting those conversations about succession planning before engaging the professionals.

“We need accountants, lawyers in all of that, but we need to start having those important conversations first,” said Sidoryk.

She says succession p lan n in g is b rin g in g people together to have those conversations.

Sidoryk says the assets in agriculture

operations have really increased in value and families need to be mindful of how those are going to transition along with ever-changing legalities and tax rules.

“The first step is sitting down and talking about what is best for our future and our operation,” said Sidoryk.

As a consultant, Sidoryk can start that succession conversation with a few guiding questions on what the family really values and what they want their operation to look like in five to 20 years.

She says the stages of transitioning are preparing for the challenges ahead, entering the business, learning to work together, dealing with newcomers, passing the baton to the next generation and then taking the baton.

Sidoryk says she went through the process herself as a successor and now her kids are poised to take over their cattle grazing operations.

She says three keys to the process are a formalized strategic planning process, having an outside board of directors (informal) with experts in that role and holding regular family meetings.

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Colonial Days wraps up to beat of Trooper

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Top left: Trooper frontman Ra McGuire proved the band still knows how to have a good time on Saturday night to wrap up Colonial Days. Bottom left: Al Harlow of Prism made sure fair goers got their money’s worth on Thursday night during the Boundary Ford Concert Series.

Bottom right: Steven Page, formerly of Canadian legends the Barenaked Ladies, played some classics as well as newer solo songs on Wednesday night to kick off Colonial Days.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

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Rates of syphilis in Alberta on the rise

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Infectious and congenital syphilis rates have escalated across Alberta over the past five years, with a sharp increase in 2018.

The rapid increase in syphilis cases has spurred Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, to declare a provincial outbreak and encourage Albertans to get tested and protect themselves.

“We need to emphasize for all Albertans: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a

risk to anyone who is sexually active, particularly people who have new sex partners and are not using protection,” said Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw.

“I encourage anyone who is sexually active to get tested regularly.

Anyone in Alberta can access STI testing and treatment for free.”

In response to the sharp rise in 2018, a provincial outbreak coordination committee composed of Alberta Health, Alberta Health Services (AHS) and other provincial

health officials has been activated.

Over the next three months, the committee will develop a coordinated strategy and determine concrete actions to increase STI testing, promote public awareness and reduce the overall number of syphilis cases in Alberta.

“Sexual health is an important part of overall health. We are working with community partners to remove the stigma and increase awareness about STI testing services throughout Alberta,” said Dr. Laura McDougall, Senior Medical Officer of Health, AHS. “If you are sexually active, make regular STI testing part of your health routine.”

A total of 1,536 cases of infectious syphilis were reported in 2018 compared to 161 in 2014, almost a tenfold increase.

The rate of infectious syphilis has not been this high in Alberta since 1948.

Congenital syphilis, which occurs when a child is born to a mother with syphilis, is a severe, disabling and life-threatening disease.

While congenital syphilis cases were rare before the outbreak, there were 22 congenital syphilis cases between 2014 and 2018, one of which was stillborn.

Consistent and correct condom use is important protection against STIs such as syphilis.

Like other STIs, the symptoms of syphilis may not be obvious.

Health experts recommend sexually active people, regardless of gender, age or sexual orientation, get tested every three to six months if they: • have a sexual partner with a known STI

• have a new sexual partner or multiple or anonymous sexual partners • have previous history of an STI diagnosis • have been sexually assaulted Prenatal care including syphilis testing is available for all Albertans. It is critical that anyone who is pregnant seeks early pre-

natal care and testing for syphilis during pregnancy.

Anyone experiencing STI-related symptoms should seek testing through their local health-care provider.

Call Health Link at 811, visit an STI or sexual health clinic or speak to a family doctor to find testing and treatment options.

PAGE 10 Thursday, July 18, 2019 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

Through the reader’s lens

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.

Sharon Crush Submitted to the Meridian Source

Thanks Sharon for this great photo of ripening canola doubles up in reflections in the lake!

If you would like to see your photos in the Meridian Source please email them to taylor@meridiansoure.ca

2017

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, July 18, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Tour de France runs on scenery STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

I have been watching the Tour de France on TV on and off for the past few years and it’s quite the spectacle.

The team racing, breakaways, category points and different colour jersey awards are hard to follow, but the best part is the incredible scenery and historical sites.

Talk about a priceless gift for French tourism with endless scenes and dialogue showcasing ancient churches and chateaus to draw you in, not to mention the superhuman speed and skill of the cyclists.

Too bad the ATB Tour of Alberta was cancelled in 2018 after five years of providing viewers with similar looks at the beauty of Alberta and its communities.

At its peak, the global TV audience was estimated to be 40 million while injecting about $25 million into the provincial economy.

Unfortunately, it lost money each year despite going from six days to four days in the final years, leaving sponsors and supporters in a financial hole.

It’s amazing that the Tour de France has been going on since 1903 except for suspensions during the two world wars.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the awarding of the yellow jersey to stage winners to wear.

Edmonton’s Alex Stieda was the first North American to win a yellow jersey in the 1986 race.

This year Canadian Michael Woods on the EF Education First team crashed on stage 8 causing defending tour winner Geraint Thomas with Ineos to fall along with a teammate with 15 kilometres to the finish.

In typical Canadian fashion, Woods apologized for causing Thomas a 20-second loss to his classification rival Thibaut Pinot with Groupama-FDJ. It’s too bad a Canadian company doesn’t fund an eight member team

in the tour. The sponsorship exposure would be enormous given the 21 stages on the tour.

Elite women aspire to compete in the annual Giro Rosa, a 10 stage race in Italy that coincides with the Tour de France.

Vermilion area pro cyclist Alison

Jackson noted earlier that her Tibco-SVB team is not riding in the Giro this year.

The 30-year-old just won her second straight BC Superweek race in New Westminster last week. Let’s cheer for Alison who is putting Vermilion in the spotlight.

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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.

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, non-competitive and no experience is necessary.

Come for fun and exercise and meet some great people.

EVERY FOURTH TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH There is a Parkinson Disease Support Group every fourth Tuesday of the month at Southridge Community Church from 2-4 p.m. put on by the Parkinson Association of Alberta.

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).

Al l c l as s e s are sc heduled on a Tuesday morning from 8:15 a.m. to noon.

P l e a s e c o n t a c t 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.

EVERY TUESDAY & SATURDAY — FARMER’S MARKET Downtown Farmer’s Market at the Fred North Community Centre (5002 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster) from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Tues) 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Sat) We’re on Facebook.

Passport to YLL

EVERY THURSDAY – FARMER’S MARKET The Border City Farmer’s Market takes place ever y Thursday at the Servus Sports Centre (5202-12 st.) from 12-6 p.m.

EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY – LABIS WALKING PROGRAM Brain injury survivors are invited to join the Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society (LABIS) Walking Program on Tuesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Servus Sports Centre. It is free of charge.

For more info please call 306-825-7212.

PLAYSCHOOL PREREGISTRATION Southridge Playschool is open for preregistration for the 2019-2020 school year.

We offer a structured, play based program for your 3-5 year old to learn & grow. For more information or to tour the facility, please call Mrs. P at 780-871-2345. We are located at 6310-50 Ave. WORLD WAR WOMEN From June 29 until Sept.

20 the Lloydminster Cultural and Science Centre is pleased to present their stories in the special exhibition, World War Women.

Divided into four thematic zones, World War Women uses artifacts, images, audiovisuals and archival materials to delve into the personal stories of Canadian women during the World Wars.

Visitors will meet women from volunteer organizations, wartime workplaces and branches of the military — such as Joan Arnoldi and Mary Plummer, who

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

founded the Canadian Field Comforts Commission; Ada Sylvester, who worked at the Canadian Car and Foundry plant in present-day Thunder Bay, Ontario; and photographer Lorna Stanger of the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service. The exhibition also includes the stories of some of the more than 100,000 grieving wives, mothers and sisters who lost loved ones during the wars.

Together, these stories paint a picture of how women’s lives and social roles were transformed in wartime.

Their experiences forged a new understanding of women’s capabilities, both within society and within themselves.

JULY 18 – FREE LEGAL CLINIC There will be a free legal clinic today from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at t he Commu nit y Services Building, 4419 - 52 Avenue Lloydminster. Call 1-587-789-0727 for eligibility and appointments.

JULY 19 – CHARITY BBQ On July 19 Border City Furniture (4817 50 Avenue) will be hosting a Charity BBQ from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to The Libbie Young Centre, who address mental health issues by providing life skills, supportive living, day programming and educational services for the citizens of Lloydminster and area. We are proud to provide hamburgers, smokies, beverages and even RIBS ON A BUN!!

Cost is purely by donation, so please give generously to help such a great organization!!!

JULY 24 – PUB NIGHT Pub night at the Legacy

Centre is being hosted on July 24. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m., supper served at 6 p.m. Dance the evening away to the tunes of the “Krazy Kanucks,” Lyle Bakers band. Admission is $15 per person at the door.

All members and guests Welcome! Call Legacy Cent re f or more i nf o at 7 80 875-4584.

JULY 25 – MOTHERS FIRST A weekly group for new mothers to connect with one another, share experiences & to learn about and pract ice se lf -c ar e . M e e t i ng i s from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and is being hosted at Midwest Family Connections, #103, 4910 - 50 Street Lloydminster. Discussions will focus on the experiences and needs of new mothers who may be concerned about or experiencing anxiety, stress or Postpartum Depression (PPD). One-on-one support is also available. Call 306-825-5911 to set up an appointment.

JULY 26 – DAY-AWAY The Legacy Centre hosting a “DAY-AWAY” Bus Trip to Rosthern, Saskatchewan on Friday, July 26. We are off to the Station Arts Centre. Luncheon and theatre production of “Blow Wind” written and directed

by Daniel Macdonald, cost of the trip is $125/person (includes bus ride- Columbine Coachlines, lunch & the Production. Supper in North Battleford on the way home is at your expense. Call Legacy Centre for more info at 780-875-4584.

HEALTHCARE AUXILIARY SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE The Lloydminster Healthcare Auxiliary is

offering a $600 Joan Bellward Scholarship to a Grade 12 graduate accepted into a degree nursing program, as well as a $600 Healthcare Bursary to a Grade 12 graduate accepted into health-care related fields. Applicants must reside in Lloydminster and district. Applications are available from your high school counsellor or from Wilma Bodnard at 780875-4936. Applications are due on Aug. 20.

LLOYDMINSTER LEARNING COUNCIL Books for Babies, Program for Moms, Dads and/ or caregivers & babies (newborn to 1 year) 4 weeks - Mondays Sept 30-Oct 28 (No class Oct 14), 10:3011:30 a.m. OR Thursdays Oct 31-Nov 28 (No class Nov 14) 10 - 11 a.m. OR Tuesdays, Feb 4-Mar 3, 2020 (No class Feb 18) 10 11 a.m. Fee: No charge, Call 780-875-5763 to register.

Registration Night for English Language Programs, Monday Sept. 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Community Services Building, Workshop Room, 4419 - 52 Ave. Fee: No Charge, Call 780875-5763 for any questions.

English Language Classes being offered: Beginner, Advanced, Intermediate, 10 weeks, Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 24 - Nov. 28, 7 9 p.m., Fee: No Charge, Call 780-875-5763 to register.

English Language Classes for Women, 10 weeks, Wednesdays, Sept. 25 Nov. 27, 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.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Flowers and fruit to beat the band GREEN FILE MARK & BEN CULLEN

When is a gardenvariety plant more than a plant?

When it provides

multiple functions.

Take flowering trees and shrubs that produce fruit, for example.

While the flowers bring joy and energy to your garden, (not to mention an abundance of pollen for pollinat-

ing insects and hummingbirds) the fruit can be useful, even if it is not edible to humans.

Many birds enjoy foraging the fruit as it matures.

Right now, cedar

waxwings are flocking to Mark’s 27 crabapple trees.

While the fruit was born on the trees last year, it survived the winter and is now distilled enough to attract hungry birds.

This is the perfect time of year to consider adding some permanent trees and shrubs to your yard that will give you multiple levels of satisfaction and pleasure.

Retailers are loaded up with inventory of stock and this weekend is a great time to plant.

Here are our favourites: Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia) European Mountain Ash has been a favourite specimen tree for generations.

Brilliant in spring with masses of umbel shaped flowers followed by clusters of bright orange fruit hanging like small Christmas ornaments

Supplied Photo in autumn.

A favourite of cardinals and waxwings and Baltimore orioles. A great tree for a small to medium-sized yard.

The variety Cardinal Royal matures to 10 meters high and 5 meters wide.

Mulberry (Morus) The weeping varieties of mulberry were once very popular, but now the Russian mulberry standard tree has become a great choice for small gardens.

Be sure to buy a fruiting variety if you want the fruit.

We have received more than one complaint that the fruit is “dirty” especially when the tree is located near a driveway.

Mulberry juice is not a joy to remove from the finish of your car.

However, tucked into a corner of your yard, this tree will provide lots of entertainment as monarch butterflies are drawn to the blooms.

Robins and other birds flock to it when the berries become ripe mid-summer.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Thursday, July 18, 2019

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Major seal coating projects have begun More than 400 kilometres of seal coating are planned or under way in Saskatchewan this summer.

During the construc-

tion of a seal coat, hot liquid asphalt is applied to the road surface before crushed gravel is spread over the asphalt and packed down. This process creates a waterproof layer that seals

the cracks and protects the surface.

“Seal coating prolongs pavement life and has proven to be a cost-effective treatment,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister

FROM PAGE 14

ter hardy. Native.

the tree or the ground beneath, wasps are attracted to the sweet, rotting pulp. It is a good policy to commit yourself to picking fruit when it becomes ripe whether you plan on using it or not.

Mark Cullen is an expert gardener, author, broadcaster, tree advocate and Member of the Order of Canada. His son Ben is a fourth-generation urban gardener and graduate of University of Guelph and Dalhousie University in Halifax. Follow them at markcullen.com, @markcullengardening, and on Facebook.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) A prolific bloomer that greets the spring with some of the earliest colour in the neighbourhood.

Mark has 16 of these, where they take the spotlight not once but twice every season. In late April/early May, the soft white flowers appear, followed by early summer purple fruit that attract a variety of birds.

Serviceberry lends itself well to pruning and shaping, so it works well in tight spaces. In an open area, it will grow up to 7 meters tall. Very win-

Edibles: don’t ignore edible fruiting plants.

All of them must flower before they produce fruit, that is an irrefutable law of nature.

Some put on a great show in spring: apples, pears, cherries, plums and peaches, to name a few. Some produce an abundance of fruit reliably. Apples and pears come to mind, as they are reliably winter hardy, regardless of winter weather.

Keep in mind that songbirds are not attracted to most edible fruit, cherries being a notable exception.

When fruit is left on

Lori Carr said. “Please drive carefully and slow

down so our crews can do their work safely and

return home at the end of the day.”

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Am I really that old?

Beautiful Downtown Lloydminster Supplied Photo

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It’s recently been made painfully obvious to me I’m not as young as I’d like to think. Am I on a downhill slide?

Over the hill? Ready to kick the proverbial bucket?

NO! However, a couple of situations have certainly caused me to think.

The first was while school was still in.

A bright, intelligent young girl named Molly was called onto the school’s stage to receive the Academic Proficiency Award for Grade 6.

As she happily ascended the stairs I plodded backward into the dark recesses of my mind t o t he y ear I attended Grade 6 in Marshall School.

My teacher was in fact Molly’s relative, Jean Pryor. Now let me see, Mrs. Pryor was her grandmother, but how far back?

My brow furrowed in thought. I went to school with Molly’s grandmother, which in turn would make her mother Molly’s great grandmother, which would make my Grade 6 teacher – wait – Molly’s GREAT, GREAT

GRANDMOTHER! Holy crap, could this be true? I must be bloody ancient. How in the heck could this girl’s great, great grandmother have been MY teacher?

I sat quietly for a time, wishing I could go home and lie down; reflecting upon the enormity of this revelation and my everadvancing age. How depressing.

On the lighter side, Mrs. Pryor was a lovely lady and a fine teacher.

There were no loose vowels or dangling participles in her classroom by golly.

We learned to write using proper grammar and sentence structure, or she’d want to know why not.

Of course, she was probably good at teaching math too, but I wouldn’t know. I was there in body only.

(Some of my best poetry was written during math class.) In any case, she was a dandy teacher.

Hope I told her that.

The next grim reminder was last week at my 40-year school reunion. Did you catch that? FORTY FLIPPIN’ YEARS. Only old people attend such events – right? Can it really have been that long since my class-

mates and I darkened the halls of Lloydminster’s Comprehensive High School? Forty years since we slumped in our desks wearing the obligatory feather jacket? Forty years ago that we slipped out of class to drink milkshakes at DQ? Can it be?

Nevertheless, it was a lovely evening enjoyed by all. Eighty of the roughly 200 grads from the class of 1979 were there and thanks to Joan Evans-Suggett, who organized the whole affair, there was much reminiscing, laughter and fun. It was wonderful to see everyone and catch up on what was happening in their lives after so long.

So, as you can plainly see, in some ways it’s been a tough few weeks for me. Perhaps, in light of these happenings, I should be lining up a headstone for myself and preplanning my funeral arrangements.

Maybe pick out an attractive yet sombre outfit for burial and have it hanging in the closet – waiting. Nah. I think I’ll wing it like I always do.

Age be-darned.

If you enjoy reading Helen’s stories please visit: myprairiewool. com

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Unbridled Power WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN

The other day I stopped at a red light and looked around the busy Lloydminster intersection as vehicles sped by.

Some came dangerously close to one another thinking the other insignificant driver would politely move over without any fanfare.

It got me thinking about the early settlements and what it was like for animals to initially share the road with motorized vehicles.

It must have been rather traumatizing for the horses and oxen to share the road with a “horseless carriage” and eventually noisy tractors.

Naturally, in the early days, horses had the right of way. Wagons tended to pull towards the left which incidentally is why British folks drive on the opposite side of the road.

Canada did not continue this tradition.

What did folks think when they were introduced to motorized vehicles?

Was it an easy “sell” to the farmer to switch from animal power to motorized power?

I’m thinking there had to be some resistance and hesitancy in doing so.

It would have been a challenging decision as the benefits had to far outweigh the disadvantages.

Motorized vehicles are a faster means of transportation and more work could be completed in a shorter length of time.

Automobiles and tractors are a mechanical advantage providing an overall increased efficiency on the farm.

Now more land was available for growing a cash crop rather than feed crop for horses and oxen.

Horses powered the farm but a tractor

File Photo allowed time for other things including looking ahead to the future.

Tractors and their technology allowed for more productive time to enjoy other pursuits whatever they may be.

The development of better methods of transportation led to the need for garages, g as statio n s, dealerships, law enforcement and auto clubs.

Naturally, with any type of progress, the increase of taxes followed.

Having more efficient travel led to tourism which benefited local economies. Over time, mechanical and road improvements were made out of necessity.

The price of a motorized vehicle wasn’t the only reason for purchasing a specific model; its prestige was an important factor for the more affluent buyers.

Dealers were competitive, “Amazing what a new car can do for you!”

The early beginnings of General Motors of Canada began with the McLaughlin family.

Originally they carved and sold axe handles before getting into the carriage building business and then establishing the McLaughlin Motor Car Company.

They proudly produced 154 cars in 1908 and prided themselves on their high level of wor kmanship and craftsmanship.

History repeats itself. Electric automobiles are not a modern invention.

The original electric automobiles (circa 1800s) were developed by various inventors.

The electric car took a back seat to the massproduced gas powered Model-T which had a much lower price tag.

Automobiles provide a technological record of another era alongside hoof prints on the prairie.

They transformed history.

These machines of our past deserve to be preserved and their stories shared. Let’s ensure this part of our heritage doesn’t rust away.

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Things not to do if you are selling property MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

Sometimes as a Real-

tor you just shake your head, shrug your shoulders, sigh, and move on to the next file.

An early mentor of

mine in real estate said it was a numbers game.

Eighty per cent of the transactions would proceed as they should, the remaining 20 per cent could turn you into an alcoholic.

I used to think it was buyers who were the main stressors; but oddly enough, these days that space is equally shared with sellers.

So, here are some quick tips on how not to sell property.

Don’t overprice. Buyers, and certainly their lenders, are quite aware of what is available in the marketplace.

All they need to do is go on their phone or tablet, and the information is there, along with supporting photos.

Don’t overprice. Yes, I am saying it again but in the context of the old wives’ tale which states asking a golden price will generate a golden return.

If a quarter of land is worth $300,000, then

File Photo asking $500,000 won’t increase anybody’s desire to look at it.

Be responsible. If you have a week to go before the new owner takes possession, and the hot water heater springs a leak, replace it.

Or a hailstorm pokes holes in the vinyl siding on the back of the house, call your insurance agent.

Don’t feign surprise when your Realtor phones you the afternoon following possession to tell you there is an upset buyer.

Act like an adult.

Don’t ask your Realtor to provide an opinion of value on a property you have no intention of listing with him or her.

Either call an appraiser or agree on a fee for their services.

Realtors make their living by selling advice.

Taking four to six hours out of their day without the prospect of compensation is like asking them to turn their grocery money over to you.

It is simply not fair.

Be respectful. I have no problem if people

want to be self-represented in the sale of their home, but if I bring a qualified buyer to you, expect to fairly compensate me.

Anybody can sell one house; try doing it once a week for life. It’s a different ball game!

Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster and can be reached at (780) 808-2700, through www.vernmcclelland.remax.ca or by following on Facebook @LloydminsterMidwest Group.

Sports Rustlers ready for new recruits PAGE 19

Thursday, July 18, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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A new class of student athletes will begin studies at Lakeland College and step onto the pitch for the Rustlers men’s soccer team this fall.

The Rustlers will potentially field 18 or 19 firstyear players during the 2019 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) season.

The crop includes a large group of athletes coming in from Saskatchewan, a few players who call Alberta and British Columbia home and a contingent of newcomers who learned the game on fields dotting the United States, Italy and Saudi Arabia.

Kevin Wagner, head coach of the Rustlers men’s soccer team, said they’ll dress a lineup of players averaging 18 years of age, so it will be boys playing against men during a few of their contests. He said the recruiting process stretches over years starting with an Alberta-Saskatchewan regional group of players who compete in exhibition matches throughout the spring and summer against older and younger aged clubs.

“The younger teams (present) an opportunity for us to play games of value, but also to recruit some of those players for future years,” said Wagner. “One of the players that I recruited in Saskatoon, he was here playing against us in August last year. So was Carter Wall. He’s a local player who was playing for a Saskatoon team.”

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

New Rustlers men’s soccer team recruits, from left, Dylan Miner and Mitchell Wagner helped a few of their future teammates run a sports camp at Lakeland College on Monday morning.

Wagner said these visiting Grades 11 and 12 players get a chance to see the campus and learn the benefits of becoming a Rustler.

He said follow-up starts in September in an attempt to get them to commit for the next season.

“From what I’ve seen in my tenure here, recruitment is about (finding) successful people,” he said. “They’re young, so they’re going to make young mistakes. But, I’m looking for people who want to do very well in the classroom, on the field and

make good decisions in the community. That might mean they’re not as good of a soccer player, but that they’re going to be successful people and grow into successful adults.”

First-year Rustlers, and Lloydminster Comprehen-

sive High School graduates, Dylan Miner and Mitchell Wagner joined a few of their future teammates during a summer soccer camp at Lakeland College on Monday morning. Miner, 18, will start working toward a Business degree at the school this September, while Mitchell, 18, is joining the University Transfer program.

“It’s close to home, so it’s a good opportunity to continue with my schooling,” said Miner, who is expected to play fullback for the Rustlers. “I’ve known Kevin for a while, so I’m used to the coaching and know what’s expected. I enjoy all the training, so it’s good for me to play here.”

Mitchell said energy and a positive attitude are attributes he can bring to the club. He said earning a starting spot as a centreback or striker are his goals on the field, but achieving good marks in the classroom hold the same value.

“We have 18 kids who are going to be here as firstyear players,” said Wagner.

“That’s a lot of learning to do, but it doesn’t mean just soccer. They’re going to be living away from home for the first time, in a new community for the first time, having new living arrangements for the first time and having new responsibilities.

I think we at Lakeland with our soccer program have a very large role fostering their early adulthood as to what they’re going to become professionally and just through their life journey.”

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

Bobcats make blockbuster trade JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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The Lloydminster Bobcats have added experience to the back end as well as talent and potential at the forward corps in a major trade with the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.

T h e B o b c a t s acquired sophomore forwards Chad MacLean, 17, and Nolen Coventry, 18, as well as third-year defenceman Gunner Kinniburgh, 19, from the Oil Barons in exchange for centre Hunter Lamb, 19, wing Logan Bromhead, 20, and rear guard Andrew Smiley, 19, on Tuesday.

Both MacLean and Coventry recorded six goals and 10 assists as rookies with the Oil Barons last sea-

son, while Kinniburgh tallied one goal and seven points during his second full season as a shutdown defender in Fort McMurray.

“These are players we were interested in all the way back to January,” said Nigel Dube, head coach and general manager of the Bobcats.

“We tracked them through the year, saw their progress and liked what they were capable of doing. We also identified them as players to watch around the league.

We were able to, after the season’s end, get into talks with Fort McMurray and make things come true.”

Dube said they didn’t hesitate in shipping out the team’s top two leading scor-

ers in Lamb and Bromhead to make the deal happen. He said Kinniburgh has over 100 games of AJHL experience and will manage their back end this season, while the ceiling on MacLean and Coventry is very high.

“Going back to when they were in bantam, every time in their second and third years they increased statistics wise,” he said.

“For a projection of these two players, we see the same thing happening. They played behind a very deep lineup in Fort McMurray last year and stayed in there for significant games, but were put in limited roles at times. We want to open up those roles and give them more opportunity.”

Thursday, July 18, 2019

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Meridian FC capture provincial championship JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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Lloydminster soccer is back on the map.

The Meridian under-15 boys Football Club captured gold at the SaskTel Youth Provincial Championships in Swift Current on July 7.

Momentum and coming together as a team led the mix of under-13 and U15 players to the title, which seemed far out of reach at the start of the three-day tournament.

Sean Moorhead, a centre-

back for the Meridian FC, said every player contributed to the win.

He said they came in younger, smaller and with a bit less fanfare than their competition thanks to only reaching the semifinals the past two tournaments, but they were determined to finish with gold and left everything on the pitch to get it.

“We all worked as a team,” said Moorhead, 15. “We all cheered each other on. There was no negative talk on the field. We pushed each other

Submitted

The Meridian FC, with back row from left, manager Angela Willcock, Nixon Villeneuve, coach John Campbell, Grayden Garrett, Ben Schellenberg, Deakon Weinkauf, Carter Cooper, Ryden Gratton, Darris Weinkauf, Andrew Lwanga, Sean Moorhead, coach Danny Schneider, coach Shelley Cooper; front row, Gradey Drury, Rhesa Peterson, Brody Brataschuk, Cayl Cooper, Isaiah Nedelko, Lui Campbell and Cole Taylor, won the U15 SaskTel Youth Provincial Championship in Swift Current earlier this month.

to do better and we all just wanted to win.”

The Meridian FC went 2-0-1 through round-robin play including a 3-0 shutout of host Swift Current United in their second match. The boys then eliminated the United with a 2-1 win in the semifinals setting up a contest against the Prince Albert Celtics on championship Sunday.

“They were much bigger,” said Moorhead. “They were taller and stronger than us, so we had to play a very physical game. We just have a very strong back line and we moved the ball up. Even though we’re a small team, we played physical.”

Tied 0-0 after 90 minutes, the Celtics and Meridian FC went into an opening round of five penalty kicks. They came out tied 2-2 forcing sudden death, which Deakon Weinkauf ended on the Meridian FC’s sixth attempt.

John Campbell, head coach of the Meridian FC, said four U13 players took a step forward to compete in U15 soccer this season. He said they played a regular

Meridian FC head coach John Campbell rallies the troops.

role on the team and more than held their own against the bigger and more experienced competition faced over the course of their April to July season.

“They’re strong,” said Campbell. “You wouldn’t have really noticed any difference. What happens now is the U13’s we had will move up to U15 for the winter. So, it was a really good experience for them as well.”

Campbell said the boys learned to play together and to their strengths this year as

Submitted

evidenced by their finishes in the two tournaments previous to provincials. He said they gelled at Swift Current not allowing a goal until the semis and played an amazing game in the final.

“It was the last time a few of the guys were going to be playing for us, so it was good to take home a win for them,” added Moorhead.

“The whole season, all the work in practice and even though we didn’t do as well in past tournaments, we knew that we could win.”

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

The hazards of buying a sports jersey SPORTS EDITOR JAMIE HARKINS

It’s difficult trying to conduct a normal summer life of dozing off in the middle of baseball games with all that noise coming from the basketball court.

In the past three weeks, NBA stars Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler, Al Horford, Mike Conley, Bojan Bogdanovic, Kemba Walker, Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul have changed teams.

But, don’t run out and buy Paul’s new Oklahoma City Thunder jersey just yet because most reports indicate he’ll be flipped again before the season starts.

I am fixated on free agency and the reasons why some players stay while others decide to go. Usually that attention is centred on hockey and generally revolves around TSN’s Canada Day coverage, but the big news of Mike Smith signing with the Edmonton Oil-

ers and Cam Talbot joining the Calgary Flames didn’t really quench that thirst this year.

As noted before in this space, we all have our hockey, baseball and basketball heroes. Growing up, I adored Joe Nieuwendyk and proudly sported his Flames No. 25 jersey throughout middle school.

I finally got the chance to meet Nieuwendyk a couple of decades later. However, he was wearing the hated Toronto Maple Leaf colours at the time.

The temptation of picking up a new jersey has occupied my thoughts over the years, but whenever I feel ready to lay down $200 for a shirt the question of how long would I be able to wear it always comes to mind. Going retro may be the answer as Bobby Orr Boston Bruins sweaters, Mickey Mantle New York Yankees garb and Dell Curry Toronto Raptors jerseys never seem to go out of fashion.

The Yankees have the best jersey in sport, hands down,

but they likely went into luxury tax territory to get it.

I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing either, but I have to say the Montreal Canadiens and Leafs have the best looking hockey sweaters.

The NBA, forget about it. It’s the New York Knicks all the way. Although once again we’re into must-buy retro jerseys here.

The funny thing about basketball is a few of the players mentioned in the second paragraph weren’t actually free agents. They either demanded out despite signing only a couple of years before or, in the case of George, were moved for an exorbitant sum because another free agent, Leonard, demanded him as a teammate in order to agree to terms.

The quick-pace NBA player movement is exciting in an otherwise pretty boring hockey off-season and forgettable Toronto Blue Jays baseball campaign. But, it brings the question of do you cheer for a player or the team.

Some stars do go home proven by Guy Lafleur’s return to la belle province in the late 80s. Others, though much less frequently, ride out an entire career in one city as Dirk Nowitzki completed as a lifetime Dallas Maverick.

There isn’t one player

among the three leagues who I can pinpoint as a franchise mainstay moving forward, which makes jersey selection a tough nut to crack.

As for going retro, I always liked Wayne Gretzky’s St. Louis Blues sweater even if that affair only lasted a few months.

Great experiences through soccer

The Lakeland College Rustlers men’s soccer team puts a couple of kids through attacking and defending drills during the start of their summer camp at the school on Monday morning.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Local girls lead the United to gold JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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A trio of Lloydminster soccer players helped Swift Current United capture a provincial gold medal earlier this month.

Border City girls Haylee Rogers, Gillian Studer and Mackenzie Metke took to the field with the under17 United at the SaskTel Youth Provincial Championships in Swift Current from July 5 to 7.

The United went 1-0-2 over round-robin play securing a berth in the final against the Prince Albert Celtics.

“It was a close game,” said Haylee Rogers, 16, who manned the defensive line for the United.

“We were usually held toward the middle of the field. We had a couple of breakthroughs, big ones, but missed the net several times.

They also had a couple of breakthroughs that looked extremely promising, but couldn’t put it in or Jasmine (Temoshawsky) saved it.”

Rogers said the defensive play and physical nature of the game made both teams’ emotions boil over in the waning minutes.

She said they ultimately needed extra time to decide the contest with the United pulling through on penalty kicks.

The girls joined the United thanks to the help of Meridian Soccer

director Kevin Wagner.

There wasn’t a local team that catered to the trio’s needs as top-end players, so Wagner contacted a coach with the United which quickly accepted the athletes as welcome additions.

“

We were usually held toward the middle of the field. We had a couple of breakthroughs, big ones, but missed the net several times.

They suited up for the United in three tournaments including provincials this season, noted Rogers, but the majority of their training continued to be centred in Lloydminster. She added their teammates in Swift Current accepted them with open arms making it an easy adjustment to the new club.

The provincial gold medal marked Rogers third. The Grade 11 student at Holy Rosary High School also captured a U17 championship with the United the previous summer and a U15 indoor title as a member of the Meridian FC last spring.

“It’s a good experie n c e ,” s h e s ai d . “ W e had a good team and a good coach. It feels great to get to win.”

Final home game Northwest Prairie Pirates pitcher Dray Souchotte gets a hit against the Saskatoon Diamondbacks.

Th e U 1 8 P i r a t e s c o m pleted the home portion of their regular-season schedule with a doubleheader against the Diamondbacks at Wallace Field on Sunday.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

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PAGE 24 Thursday, July 18, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Agriculture

Last week in the field

File Photo

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Crops across the province are advancing as a result of the warm weather and moist u r e , alt hou g h cr op s are behind or at their normal developmental stages.

Sixty-seven per cent of the fall cereals and 32 per cent of the spring cereals are in the heading stage, while 38 per cent of the canola and mustard and 54 per cent of the pulse crops are flowering.

19073MM1 19072MM2

Crop conditions vary greatly across the province, with the majority in poor-togood condition.

Livestock produc-

“

Crops across the province are advancing as a result of the warm weather and moisture, although crops are behind or at their normal developmental stages.

ers now have seven per cent of the hay crop cut and three per cent baled or put into silage.

Hay quality is rated as one per cent excellent, 47 per cent good, 33 per cent fair and 19 per cent poor.

Many swaths are significantly smaller than normal due to the lack of moisture this spring.

Although many pastures have greened-up from the moisture, they are expected to have a reduced carrying capacity.

Pasture conditions are rated as three per cent excellent, 38 per cent good, 42 per cent fair, 15 per cent poor and two per cent very

poor.

Rainfall last week ranged from trace amounts to 92 mm in the Kelliher area.

The Grenfell area reported up to 80 mm of rain, the Leader area 35 mm, the Foam Lake area 26 mm, the Macklin area 25 mm, the Humboldt area 8 mm and the Glaslyn area 48 mm.

There were also reports of strong winds and hail causing damage to crops.

Provincially, topsoil moisture on cropland is rated as two per cent surplus, 79 per cent adequate, 18 per cent short and one per cent very short.

Topsoil moisture on the hay land and pasture is rated as one per cent surplus, 75 per cent adequate, 22 per cent short and two per cent very short.

Producers have been applying fungicides, where warranted, on pulse, cereal and oilseed crops.

Other sources of crop damage this week include localized flooding, strong winds, hail, lack of moisture and insects such as grasshoppers. Root rots have also caused some damage in pulse crops.

Farmers are busy haying, scouting for insects and disease, repairing equipment and hauling grain.

PAGE 25 Thursday, July 18, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Consultations begin on farm freedom and safety MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Albertans can now participate in an online survey to help shape the future of farm workplace legislation.

Farms and ranches operate differently than other employers in Alberta. The previous government’s Bill 6 was passed with limited public input and in the face of strong opposition from farmers.

This government will repeal Bill 6 and introduce the Farm Freedom and Safety Act after a period of extensive consultation.

“Alberta farmers need common-sense rules that promote farm safety – not process, not red tape,” said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Devin Dreeshen.

“We’re going to repeal Bill 6, and I plan to meet with farmers this summer to develop the legislation to replace it.”

Minister Dreeshen will undertake a consultation tour this summer, meeting with farmers, ranchers and organizations across the province.

“I appreciate that Minister Dreeshen is seeking feedback from the farm and ranch community in advance of tabling new farm safety legislation. We all value farm safety and employee protec-

tion, but recognize we are a unique work environment with unique requirements,” said Allison Ammeter, central Alberta farmer.

“I appreciate our collective voice will be heard by the government while crafting this bill.”

In response to initial discussions with agriculture organizations, the government will seek input on: recognizing that a farm is unlike other businesses, and that farmers and ranchers require flexibility in meeting workplace standards requiring employers to have workplace insurance but allowing a choice of market insurance or the Workers’ Compensation Board, if basic coverage standards are met exempting small farms from employment standards legislation, similar to New Brunswick promoting education and best practices to improve farm safety minimizing red tape and reducing the regulatory burden on farmers and ranchers, while still ensuring basic safety standards An online survey is also available to members of the public looking to share their views.

Quick facts - The online survey is open until Aug. 31, 2019.

File Photo - Minister Dreeshen has already met with ke y ind u s t ry l e ad e rs and will be at events across the province this summer, seeking input

from Alberta’s farmers and ranchers.

- The minister and other MLAs will participate in grassroots conversations with

In addition to the 40,000 readers you get with advertising your job ad in the Meridian Source, your job ad is posted on our Facebook page for FREE!

306-825-5111

Albertans about the Farm Freedom and Safety Act throughout the summer.

- This engagement fulfils the govern-

ment’s commitment to launch immediate, comprehensive consultations with farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers.

PAGE 26 Thursday, July 18, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

Announcements

Classifieds

Coming Events

business opportunities

VERNA PEEBLES (nee McArthur) 90TH BIRTHDAY. An open house in celebration will be held Saturday, July 27, 2019 1:00-5:00pm Renfrew Community Association 811 Radford Road NE, Calgary 403-520-7732 / VernaPeebles90@gmail.com.

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Trouble walking or other conditions causing restrictions in daily activities? Up to $50,000.00 in Refunds & Benefits available. CALL NOW! Disability Tax Credit 1-844-453-5372. BBB Approved.

Feed & Seed

FARM LAND WANTED

manufactured homes

manufactured homes

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, 1877-250-5252.

Coming Events FIREARMS WANTED FOR AUGUST 17th, 2019 Live & Online Auction: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria, Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, individual items. Contact Paul.

Switzer’s Auction: TollFree 1-800-694-2609; info@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com .

Health / Fitness

Services Offered

employment opportunities

Miscellaneous

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach over 100 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details 1-800282-6903 ext 200; www.awna.com.

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

Member BBB. Call 1-877987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

JOURNALISTS, Graphic Artists, Marketing and more. Alberta's weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online. Free.

Visit: www.awna.com/resumes_add.php.

Auctions AUCTIONS are our business! Contact Copeland Auctions Ltd. located in Lloydminster, AB for your online or onsite auction needs. Call Russ 780-8701181 or visit our website: www.copelandauctions.co m

SOBEYS IN OLDS, ALBERTA is seeking a fulltime Meat Cutter. Includes benefits and vacation accrued. Please email resume to: sby5436olds@sobeys.com , Attn. Rob.

PLEASE RECYCLE

THIS PAPER

Feed & Seed

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.

Auctions COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE - Falher, AB. Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Unreserved Auction, July 29 Grande Prairie Site.

0.21+/- Title Acres, 6649 +/- sq ft building. Paul Dixon. 780-518-6249; rbauction.com/realestate.

LOOKING TO HIRE YOUR NEXT EMPLOYEE through the IMIA process? Our award-winning immigration company is at your service! Contact Murray at 306-231-5618; email mrgeorge@sasktel.net.

Real Estate FOR SALE: 6.25 acres, 25 KMS North of Westlock on Hwy 44. Asking $57,900.00. Phone 780349-0560.

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these conditions?

ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing and hundreds more. All For Sale ages & medical conditions qualify. Call the benefits METAL ROOFING & SIDprogram 1-(800)-211- ING. 37+ colours available 3550 or send a text mes- at over 55 Distributors. 40 sage with your name and year warranty. 24-48 hour mailing address to 403- Express Service available 980-3605 for your free be- at supporting Distributors. nefits package.

Call 1-888-263-8254.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Obituaries & Memoriams

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, July 18, 2019

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.�

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

306-825-5111

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Local Business Directory

Celebrations

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, July 18, 2019

HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN

CANCER

June 22 – July 22

December 22 – January 19

You’ll cleanse your circle of friends in order to spend more time with those that count. A trip or getaway with your real friends will provide you with memories you’ll cherish forever.

Self-esteem is essential to developing one’s personality. You’ll accomplish something that you’re proud of and that takes you far. If you’re single, your newfound confidence will attract the attention of your future partner.

LEO

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18

July 23 – August 22

You don’t need to travel to have a great vacation. Some of the best times are spent at home with friends and family. A little organization is all it takes to bring everyone together.

Some lucrative real estate deals may be in the works. Renovations may double your house’s value and you’ll appreciate the upgrade to your home. Friends will suggest a spontaneous activity.

PISCES

VIRGO

February 19 – March 20

August 23 – September 22

You won’t be able to stay still this week and you’ll have lots of stories to tell. You’ll spend hours getting to know people from all walks of life. Your thirst for knowledge is insatiable.

The idea of a trip will take root this week. You may even be inspired to make a pilgrimage.

You’ll open yourself to spirituality by practising new techniques.

ARIES

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22

March 21– April 19 You’ll play catch up after many delays and much confusion. You’ll devote your vacation to a big home improvement project. You’ll find ways to achieve your professional and personal goals.

You’ll have to deal with strong emotions this week. People will take advantage of your generosity. Try not to go past your financial or physical capabilities. Fatigue and stress don’t go well together.

TAURUS

SCORPIO

April 20 – May 20

October 23 – November 21

You’ll feel the need to move, expand your circle of friends and strengthen your relationships with those closest to you. You’ll have trouble keeping track of all the social activities that your new popularity affords you.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21 If your health slows you down, take the time to catch up on your sleep. With many colleagues on vacation, you’ll be working overtime. Luckily, you’ll be well compensated for your efforts.

You’re not always the most accommodating person, but luckily, you know how to create harmony around you. Your popularity may mean that you have to choose between two interesting invitations from friends.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 – December 21 You won’t take any time off until you’ve completed every task on your to-do list. You’ll be particularly proud of a big clean-up or work done around the house. Your family will need your help this week.

SUDOKU July 11 Answers

Meridian Source’s Birth Announcements If you wish to have your baby’s birth announcement published in our Thursday edition of the Meridian Source FREE OF CHARGE, please come in and fill out a form or email admin@meridiansource.ca Deadline is Tuesday at noon for the Thursday edition.

Kayla Kohut & Brenden Pope are proud to announce the arrival of their

Son, Ace Alexander Pope born on June 24, 2019

Kristen & Travis MacDonald are proud to announce the arrival of their

Daughter, Millie Jae MacDonald born on July 6, 2019

Robyn & Dustin Milne are proud to announce the arrival of their

Son, Brody Dustin Milne born on July 9, 2019

Thursday, July 18, 2019

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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32

Thursday, July 18, 2019

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Make Your Move!

NEW LISTINGS

3905 - 41ST AVENUE

PENDING

3307 - 65TH AVENUE

• 5 bed / 3 bath SK side modified bi-level backing the lake in Larson Grove.

• Open concept main floor, triple car garage, in-law suite potential! $

• Attractive bi-level located in Parkview within walking distance to schools & parks.

• Great, well maintained family home! $

SK

AB

534,900

MLS 64733

3810 - 41 AVENUE

MLS 64713

1,200,000

$

SK

MLS 63765

MURPHY LAKE

• Adorable raised bungalow with 2 bedrooms up, hardwood floors & a fully finished basement.

• In the great neighbourhood of Larson Grove. $

• .31 acres of lakefront property at Murphy Lake!

• Perfect setup for a cabin with a walkout basement that leads right to your shore! $

SK

SK

309,900

MLS 64695

TURTLE LAKE

85,000

MLS 64710

$

SK

NEW PRICES

Saturday, July 20th 1:00 - 3:00 PM

TURTLE LAKE

334,900

ST

OPEN HOUSE

LAKE PROPERTIES

635,000

MLS 63769

TURTLE LAKE

TURTLE LAKE

SE 25-49-26 W3RD $675,000 - MLS 63910

Hwy 16 E, left onto Burke Rd., 9.7 km to RR3260, N 3.5 km to sign

Hosted by: Judy Bexson

AB

449,900

$

MLS 64531

SK

403,500

$

MLS 63784

79,900

$

SK

MLS 62967

465,000

$

SK

MLS 63305

PECK LAKE

AB

699,900

$

MLS 64175

AB

497,000

$

MLS 64285

AB

399,900

$

MLS 62317

SK

384,900

$

MLS 63936

379,900

$

SK

MLS 64421

LAC DES ISLES

AB

299,900

$

MLS 64095

AB

$

297,000

MLS 64214

AB

259,000

$

MLS 63925

256,000

$

AB

MLS 64311

149,000

$

SK

MLS 62215

RIDDLE PLACE BIG RIVER

AB

249,900

$

MLS 63739

SK

234,900

$

MLS 63474

SK

228,900

$

MLS 64478

SK

$

191,000

MLS 63669

SK

STARTING OUT OR DOWNSIZING? CONSIDER A CONDO!

MLS 64604 MLS 64607

45,000 each

$

BRIGHTSAND LAKE

AB

264,900

$

MLS 62742

SK

249,000

$

MLS 63519

SK

246,900

$

MLS 63506

SK

244,900

$

MLS 63568

59,000

$

SK

MLS 62731

CITY SIDE REALTY Brad Gilbert Broker/Owner

Jennifer Gilbert Associate Broker

Jackie Gartner Pattie Todd Associate Broker Associate Broker

780.875.3343

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 www.lloydminsterrealestate.ca www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com www.facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Real Estate, Rentals & Property Management

Rick Schesnuk Realtor

Judy Bexson Realtor

Amanda Warner Realtor

Sandy Hardy Realtor

®

®

®

®

32

Thursday, July 18, 2019

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Make Your Move!

NEW LISTINGS

3905 - 41ST AVENUE

PENDING

3307 - 65TH AVENUE

• 5 bed / 3 bath SK side modified bi-level backing the lake in Larson Grove.

• Open concept main floor, triple car garage, in-law suite potential! $

• Attractive bi-level located in Parkview within walking distance to schools & parks.

• Great, well maintained family home! $

SK

AB

534,900

MLS 64733

3810 - 41 AVENUE

MLS 64713

1,200,000

$

SK

MLS 63765

MURPHY LAKE

• Adorable raised bungalow with 2 bedrooms up, hardwood floors & a fully finished basement.

• In the great neighbourhood of Larson Grove. $

• .31 acres of lakefront property at Murphy Lake!

• Perfect setup for a cabin with a walkout basement that leads right to your shore! $

SK

SK

309,900

MLS 64695

TURTLE LAKE

85,000

MLS 64710

$

SK

NEW PRICES

Saturday, July 20th 1:00 - 3:00 PM

TURTLE LAKE

334,900

ST

OPEN HOUSE

LAKE PROPERTIES

635,000

MLS 63769

TURTLE LAKE

TURTLE LAKE

SE 25-49-26 W3RD $675,000 - MLS 63910

Hwy 16 E, left onto Burke Rd., 9.7 km to RR3260, N 3.5 km to sign

Hosted by: Judy Bexson

AB

449,900

$

MLS 64531

SK

403,500

$

MLS 63784

79,900

$

SK

MLS 62967

465,000

$

SK

MLS 63305

PECK LAKE

AB

699,900

$

MLS 64175

AB

497,000

$

MLS 64285

AB

399,900

$

MLS 62317

SK

384,900

$

MLS 63936

379,900

$

SK

MLS 64421

LAC DES ISLES

AB

299,900

$

MLS 64095

AB

$

297,000

MLS 64214

AB

259,000

$

MLS 63925

256,000

$

AB

MLS 64311

149,000

$

SK

MLS 62215

RIDDLE PLACE BIG RIVER

AB

249,900

$

MLS 63739

SK

234,900

$

MLS 63474

SK

228,900

$

MLS 64478

SK

$

191,000

MLS 63669

SK

STARTING OUT OR DOWNSIZING? CONSIDER A CONDO!

MLS 64604 MLS 64607

45,000 each

$

BRIGHTSAND LAKE

AB

264,900

$

MLS 62742

SK

249,000

$

MLS 63519

SK

246,900

$

MLS 63506

SK

244,900

$

MLS 63568

59,000

$

SK

MLS 62731

CITY SIDE REALTY Brad Gilbert Broker/Owner

Jennifer Gilbert Associate Broker

Jackie Gartner Pattie Todd Associate Broker Associate Broker

780.875.3343

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 www.lloydminsterrealestate.ca www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com www.facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Real Estate, Rentals & Property Management

Rick Schesnuk Realtor

Judy Bexson Realtor

Amanda Warner Realtor

Sandy Hardy Realtor

®

®

®

®