Meridian Source - June 23, 2022 by Meridian Source

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

VOLUME 4 I ISSUE 52 SEE PAGES 15-34 FOR OUR 2022 GRADUATION FEATURE

The RCMP Musical Ride put on quite a show this weekend at the Lloyd Ex. Videre Images by Jason Whiting

Local ice warrior cuts $15,000 cheque for Lloydminster KidSport TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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Travis Levitsky was all smiles on Monday evening as he presented a $15,000 cheque to Lloydminster KidSport. The funds were raised through corporate sponsorships Levitsky acquired prior to competing in the Ice Wars International debut event on May

21 at the River Cree Casino in Edmonton. Although a relatively new organization, Ice Wars International has taken combat sports to a new level and has been dubbed prize fighting on ice. Ice Wars fights feature the toughest players in the sport of hockey, and here’s the catch, there’s no hockey

being played. “We’re here today for KidSport, Ice Wars International, and some sponsorship for that last event we had on at River Cree,” said Levitsky. “We got some sponsorship money to put some advertisement for local companies I’ve worked with and who have sponsored me in

events before, and we decided to donate all of that money to KidSport here in Lloydminster.” Companies that sponsored Levitsky had their logos printed onto the pant covers he wore the night of the event. “I just wanted to get some exposure on KidSport and the importance of sports in a lot of kids’ lives,” he said.

“My nephew, Kage Miazga, he used to and still donates money that he makes to a good cause and a good charity, so if he can do something like that, why can’t anybody else, you know?” Growing up, playing various sports was a big part of Levitsky’s life and he knows the benefits that come

from playing sports at a young age. Having seen those benefits firsthand, Levitsky felt the need to give back. “It’s one of those things where sports has been really beneficial in my life, and if it’s beneficial in my life, I’m sure it’s beneficial in other kids’ lives,” he said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Kids the real winners of Ice Wars International

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Travis Levitsky couldn’t hold back his happiness on Monday night as he presented a $15,000 cheque to Lloydminster KidSport alongside his daughter and community sponsors. FROM PAGE 1

“Getting kids involved in sport is hugely important,” he said. “Some of these kids, if they have problems at home or they’re not rooted at school, their way to get away is sports, and that’s maybe going to be the best teaching or part of their life; when they have a positive coach in a sport, that may be what turns them around, going from a bad path to a good path.” Kaley McLeod, chair of Lloydminster KidSport, couldn’t thank Levitsky enough for the donation as she knows how far the funds will go within the organization. “We were very surprised when we found out. Travis kind of called me out of the blue, and we’re super appreciative. Lloydminster is full of a lot of very worthwhile nonprofit associations, so the fact he chose us is pretty amazing,” said McLeod. “As you can imagine, coming out of another recession, everyone’s kind of trying to dig from the same place, so this is amazing. “It will fund up to 30 kids in sport that couldn’t afford it without this help.”

With all of KidSport funding coming in from grants and donations, McLeod added just how special and timely Levitsky’s donation was. “It’s huge. The kids we support wouldn’t be able to participate in organized sport if it wasn’t for people like ourselves,” she said.

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You could have all the money in the world, but if you don’t do anything with it, what’s the point?

“On an annual basis, we fund anywhere from 125-150 kids, on average, to the tune of roughly $500 per child. But in some of the worst years, that wasn’t all that long ago, we funded 300 kids to the tune of nearly $100,000.” McLeod also touched on the fact the number of kids needing financial assistance for sports has gone up over the years. “The need coming through the recession as well as kids just wanting to get back out and into sport that never had a desire before (has gone up),” she said. “Just the

desire to reconnect and get out and be social.” For Levitsky, he’s not finished with Ice Wars and is already getting amped up for his next event. “There’s three more events that we’re involved in and the next event is Aug. 6 at the River Cree,” he said. “I’m trying to get Ice Wars International to be a part of this and I’m going to challenge everybody to see if they can match any donations we get. If it’s not for KidSport Lloydminster, it’ll have something to do with sports, so we’re just in talks right now about that stuff, but I’d love to try and raise more money as well as more awareness.” Regardless of which organization receives funding from future events, it was important to Levitsky to keep those funds local. “I didn’t have to do this, but all of those companies gave me money to sponsor me and put their logos on national TV, and we decided to help out a good cause and challenge some people,” he said. “You could have all the money in the world, but if you don’t do anything with it, what’s the point?”

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Dozens of storylines at car show

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Rob MacDougall, owner of this 1976 Corvette, checks out his 383 supercharged engine that puts out 670 hp. The vehicle was one of several muscle cars on display at the Servus Sports Centre on Saturday. GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Every car has a story. That was the case at this year’s Just Kruzin’ Show and Shine, with each classic and modified vehicle on view for judging at the Servus Sports Centre on Saturday. “It’s been somewhere, somebody’s dug it out of a bush, somebody’s got it from an uncle or grandpa or something, so there’s some really great stories that go with these cars,” said show chair, Gerry Duhaime. Duhaime’s personal pride and joy is a ‘41 Ford street rod he acquired from a buddy who was downsizing and was free to choose the pick of the litter. “I said the truck,” said Duhaime to cap off his story in a nutshell. The show also turned into a car wash with a couple of morning showers. “With the weather we’ve had all week, we didn’t know what to expect,” said Duhaime as the skies cleared for the rest of the day. Duhaime estimates there were about 40 club vehicles and about 180 in total, with several vehicles standing out in his mind. “There’s been a lot of trucks come in. There’s been a sweet little Cor-

vette, there’s been so much to look at, a beautiful old Cadillac, there’s some beautiful lines on it. There’s been some really cool vehicles here,” he said. Just Kruzin’ president, Patrick Gareau, said there were quite a few vehicles from Saskatchewan that they haven’t seen before and some rare cars like a 1970 Road Runner Superbird. “There’s a couple of ‘40s cars, a few hotrods that we’ve never seen before with the flathead V-8 engine,” said Gareau. He says the attraction of old cars with owners and spectators is a personal thing. “For some people, it’s nostalgia from when they were younger. Some people just have a love of the look and the feel and the way people look when you drive by,” explained Gareau. For Kayla Iverson, nothing beats her beloved 1969 Volkswagen Beetle. She spoke about her VW from the driver’s seat with her dad, Chris Wandler, on board as it rained outside. “I’ve owned other Volkswagens, but this is my only antique,” said Iverson with her window rolled down for this roving reporter.

“I’ve always really enjoyed them. I love them; they’re fun.” Wandler noted he had an old International truck and when Iverson pointed out his brother had a VW, he quipped, “I rolled it” to wrap up their story with a laugh. While it rained, Grant Nikiwski spoke about his ongoing restoration of a 1937 Plymouth P3 Touring Deluxe car he picked up 11 months ago to the day. In fact, he was doing a memorial for its former owner, Boyd McConnell, who died before achieving his dream to restore it to its original condition. “I put the whole thing together. When I brought it home it was in pails, buckets on the back of a trailer, parts of it were in my truck,” said Nikiwski. “All Boyd had done

was painted the frame and installed the motor. The body was hanging from the rafters in his shop, so I installed everything and made it run.” Nikiwski says it was a labour of love working on it over the winter. “Boyd’s goal was to leave it all original and that’s what I’m doing. It’s a 6-volt system,” he said, noting it runs beautifully on the highway. A new Mack mobile repair truck on display from Canadian Forces Wainwright also attracted a lot of attention along with onboard tours. “It’s for fixing vehicles out in the field,” said Private Oegema. “It’s something we’ve wanted to do for a couple of months just for publicity to promote the Canadian Armed Forces and to show off our new Mack trucks.”

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Grant Nikiwaski is restoring this 1937 Plymouth to its original condition to honour the memory and dream of its former owner, Boyd McConnell, who passed away.

He says it’s an amazing show with a lot of awesome cars.

“I’m excited to be here,” he said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Richer retires and sells UCG

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Paul Richer has retired at 63 years of age and sold his Universal Consulting Group Ltd. business to four employees. Staff threw a party for him last Friday with well-wishers dropping by the office to congratulate him during a BBQ. GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Paul Richer came to Lloydminster in 1980 with a mattress tied to the roof of his car

and the hope of scoring a job in construction drafting. He has left those modest expectations in the dust over the years

to become a family man, volunteer and respected business owner. Richer, who is now 63, brought everyone up to speed on

his life and times during his surprise retirement party last Friday at Universal Consulting Group Ltd. (UCG), which he built from scratch. “It’s a great day of just enjoying the fruits of those years of work,” said Richer, with friends family and colleagues dropping by to wish him well and enjoy an open barbecue. He also took the opportunity to reveal he has sold his architectural design company to four employeepartners, Kevin Jacques, Shari Klenk, Kim Procyshen and Erin Rommel and their three employees. “There’s definitely a transition plan and I’ll be here for a few months to help the new owners out,” said Richer. “There’s a high volume of work happening right now and expected to come, so it’s a good story for everyone.” Work was also plentiful when 22-year-old Richer left his hometown of St. Paul for a job interview with Craftex Builders for a project in Islay, backed by his drafting diploma from Lakeland College. He didn’t get that job, but he found work the same day with Chimo lumber. “I started with nothing and a hand drafting board that fit in the back seat of the car and started with that in the apartment and sold lumber for Chimo in

the day and drafted at night,” recalled Richer. The job lasted just two years when the company went into receivership. “I took a month off and went to Europe and came back and went back to work. The oil patch was going strong and there was all kind of construction going,” said Richer. He founded Universal in 1985 specializing in architectural design and construction management, and looking back over the past 35 years in business, he says, for the most part, Lloydminster has been a good place for a business. “We’ve had two bad times in Lloydminster and it seemed to be when the Trudeau government happened to be in place,” he said. “But barring that, Lloydminster’s always been on a growth spurt and good to us.” UCG has designed a slew of commercial residential and retail buildings in Lloydminster, including several car dealerships as well as the design and construction of the Medical Building beside the Lloydminster Medical Clinic. “We’ve done foundation drawings, even for Tim Hortons,” said Richer, who estimates they’ve designed 50-60 industrial shops over the years. UCG’s suite of services includes interior design, consulting, engineering procurement and 3D modelling with some tweaks

in mind for the new ownership group. “If anything, we are going to look at increasing some of our services to branch out to different areas in the design field,” said Jacques. Diversification is also top of mind for Rommel, who is UCG’s interior design technologist. “Different seasons bring in more types of work, so the more diversified the better,” she said, noting new projects are keeping them busy during the business transition. “It’s picking up really good this year,” said Rommel. Richer is confident the new ownership group has the knowledge and experience to succeed. “It’s people that I know dearly and I know they will do very well,” he said. Aside from helping with the transition, Richer plans to continue his volunteer work as a member of the Rotary Club of Lloydminster and chair of the Lloydminster and District Health Advisory Council. “I am very excited for him,” said his wife, Kim, who manages the LloydMall. “He’s worked very hard his entire life. I am excited to see him slow down a little bit. He volunteers a lot in the community. He’ll be still super busy. Of course, he’s going to help the staff with the new ownership.”

Skies clear for another successful Just Kruzin’ Show and Shine FROM PAGE 3

The rain temporarily suspended sales of dozens of old vehicle catalogues and manuals by Sarah Hockridge, recreational programmer for the Lloydminster Museum + Archives. “You’ve got your Pontiacs, Chevs, GMs,

some Fords, you name it we’ve got it. They date back to the early ‘50s up to the ‘80s,” said Hockridge, noting most of them are museum duplicates. They were priced from $5 to $50 depending on the size. “We have 14 boxes

of manuals and catalogues. This is the greatest venue to bring them to because we’ve got a lot of car enthusiasts and collectors,” said Hockridge. “We have sold quite a few already. GMs are popular and some Pontiacs are popular.”

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Jayden Cornet honoured by E.S. Laird

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

A bench built by E.S. Laird Middle School teacher Morgan Mann was unveiled last Wednesday afternoon during the school’s first all-student assembly since the pandemic. The bench was built to memorialize the life of Jayden Cornet, a former student at E.S. Laird who took his own life in 2019 at the age of 15. TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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Jayden Cornet would have graduated from high school this year, but after enduring severe bullying while in middle school, the young man who loved to give and help others took his own life in 2019 at the age of 15. The loss of life was felt throughout the community, and since his passing, a great deal has been done in regard to suicide prevention and suicide awareness. Last Wednesday afternoon, E.S. Laird Middle School held its first all-student assembly since the pandemic. The assembly’s special guest was Jayden’s mother, Desiree Cornet-Wile, who has turned her son’s suicide into a preventative talking piece among young people. Cornet-Wile started a non-profit called Mothers Against Bullying

(M.A.B) and shares her message of “Be a buddy, not a bully,” as often as she can. During the assembly, a bench, handmade by teacher Morgan Mann to memorialize Jayden, was unveiled at the school before being moved to its permanent home on the rugby field. Three trees, representing Cornet-Wile’s three children, were also planted in the school’s yard. “Mr. Mann put his heart and soul into this bench,” said CornetWile. “Mr. Mann is an earth angel he just doesn’t realize it yet, and my son looked up to him. This was my son’s happy place and this bench and today’s ceremony are way more than I expected. “Jayden got involved in everything from yearbook to rugby, so this was a way to celebrate a young man who was lost

very young.” Even without a bench in his honour, Jayden’s legacy won’t soon be forgotten at E.S. Laird. “The staff here talk about being a leader and helping out and being kind, and they talk about everything Jayden did and embodied,” said Cornet-Wile. “He just lived to help people and loved life.” For Mann, who taught Jayden throughout his years at E.S. Laird, having the opportunity to build this bench in Jayden’s honour was special. “It’s a legacy piece in his name and to remember him, but it was an opportunity for us to bring our students together and recognize and show a true Sabre and what that embodies, and Jayden was,” said Mann. “He was involved

in everything and was good to people. He had great relationships with students and staff and was somebody we hope our young people emulate as they spend their time here at E.S. Laird.” As Cornet-Wile said, “We use Jayden’s name to spread a word of kindness and so these kids know they’re not alone; that’s what keeps me going.” “All I want to do is reach the children and help them know they’re not alone and to enjoy life instead of taking on all the hardships they do, especially at such a young age,” she said. “It’s so important to talk about this stuff. Along with the bullying is an aspect of mental health, so it’s important to talk about suicide and mental health and get these kids talking.”

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Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Desiree Cornet-Wile and her son London released balloons in Jayden Cornet’s honour last Wednesday afternoon as part of an assembly at E.S. Laird Middle School.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Area seniors equipped to stop abuse

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Lloydminster seniors

are up to speed on how to identify, report and prevent elder abuse.

About 150 seniors turned up at the Legacy Centre last Thurs-

day for a free Food for a Thought breakfast presentation hosted

by Lloydminster Elder Abuse Prevention (LEAP). LEAP member and MC Neil Harris says elder abuse locally is m o r e p r e v al e nt th an people think. “It’s often a hidden situation in families, so this creates more awareness with the concerns around elder abuse and what resources are available for people and where they can go to get help,” said Harris. The event was held in partnership with Synergy Credit Union and Family and Community Support Services, 24 hours after World Elder Abuse Day recognition. Financial abuse is one of the most comm o n f o r ms o f se ni o r abuse in Canada. Organizers lined up presentations on different types of elder abuse including financial, emotional, sexual and neglect. “The most talked about in Lloydminster would be fraud and financial, but there is a big stigma on other types of abuses like physical or medication abuses,” said community development coordinator, Amber Fast with the City of Lloydminster. “It’s hard for a lot of seniors to stick up for themselves when they are in that situation. We want to reduce the stigma and show there are people in our community that are there to help.” The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) in Regina estimates one in three people in Saskatchewan knows a senior who has been a victim of financial abuse.

“That high number tells us that seniors need to be aware of the many forms financial abuse can take and must exercise caution when involving someone in financial decisions,” said FCAA securities division executive director Dean Murrison in a news release. The FCAA warns seniors are particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation by fraudsters or occasionally unethical family members. The most common forms of elder financial abuse in Saskatchewan are family loans not being repaid, misuse of debit cards, credit cards, or online banking by family members or others with access. Abuse can also result from seniors being pressured to give monetary gifts involuntarily or to sign documents they did not understand. Fraud prevention in Lloydminster was the topic of a joint presentation by internal auditor Cheryl Kirzinger and privacy officer Heidi Miller from Synergy Credit Union. “Seniors need to be very aware; there seems to be an escalation in the last few years focusing on vulnerable people, elders or people who are challenged in some way,” said Kirzinger. “Seniors need to be very aware they are targets.” Miller’s goal was to provide tips on how to ensure your private details are kept private and how to protect yourself from online scams and phone frauds. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Cutter Rally introduces bursary program TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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After 20 years of fundraising to better the care provided in the cancer ward of the Lloydminster Hospital, the Cutter Poker Rally for Cancer committee decided it was time to leave a different kind of legacy behind. The rally has a storied tradition in the Border City that has touched the lives of many. Over the years, a total of $120,000 has been raised to support various projects in the cancer ward through the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF). After this year’s rally raised a total of $12,015.12, the committee thought now FROM PAGE 6

If a Lloydminster senior has faced financial exploitation or other forms of elder abuse, they can call the crisis hotline at the Lloydminster Interval Home at 780-875-0966 or text: 780-808-1777. “As the supports for older adults facilitator, we can do one-on-one support for older adults that are impacted by elder abuse,” said Interval Home’s crisis support manager, Diane Milley. She says they can collaborate with different agencies too to work together to support any individual victim of elder abuse. Milley also delivered a presentation called, It’s Not Right to rec-

was the time to start a professional development bursary to benefit staff at the Lloydminster Hospital. “Our committee is trying to establish a legacy for the Poker Cutter Rally group,” said Mike Sidoryk, who just took over as chairman of the committee after longtime chairperson Della Wist retired from the position. “To do that, we thought the perfect way would be to establish a bursary we can contribute to, and it will live for a long time and support the continued development of cancer care for the next 30-40 years, and we’re quite excited about that.” With just over $12,000 raised this ognize signs of elder abuse. It was aptly subtitled, N eig h b o urs, F rien ds and Family For Older Adults. “As bystanders, we notice signs of trouble when things don’t look right. Sometimes people don’t realize the situation they are in is not a healthy one,” said Milley. In addition to her LEAP role, Graham is the manager of the Lloydminster Housing Authority who advises seniors to talk to somebody if they suspect abuse. “For example with Lloydminster Housing Authority at Hall’s Holme we keep an eye on our individuals and they can always come

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Lloydminster Region Health Foundation CEO, Stephanie Munro, centre left, was pleased to receive a cheque for $12,015.12 from Cutter Poker Rally for Cancer representatives Ron MacDonald, Della Wist and Mike Sidoryk on Tuesday. Funds from the cutter rally usually go towards purchasing new equipment for the Lloydminster Hospital’s cancer ward, but this year’s funds are being used to start a professional development bursary for hospital staff.

year, Sidoryk explained $10,000 was donated to the bursary and to one of us and we can intervene and stop the financial and physical abuse,” said Graham. “The police can get involved it’s fraud; it’s stealing. You can do quite a few things.” RCMP Const. Melanie Flynn was also on hand to speak individually with seniors. She br ou g ht a har d c op y of the RCMP Seniors’ Guidebook To Safety and Security available online. The event was bookended by a mindfulness session and a presentation from the Alberta Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee, which provides support for personal and financial matters to vulnerable Albertans and their families.

$2,000 was used to purchase a new blanket warmer in the cancer ward. “We really feel the continued education to help our staff will be a long-living benefit to our entire community.” LRHF CEO, Stephanie Munro, was thrilled with the donation as she knows how important professional development is. “A heartfelt thankyou to Della, Mike, Ron and their entire committee for continuing to fund enhancements

to the cancer ward right here in our community,” she said. “This year’s new bursary, which they are funding, is just amazing. It’s going to be a true benefit to the staff working at the chemo department in Lloydminster. “They’re changing gears a little bit. Rather than funding equipment or actual tangible things, they’re leaning towards the start of a bursary and it will be called the Poker Cutter Rally for Cancer Professional Develop-

ment Bursary, in which staff that are employed within our Lloydminster Hospital chemo department can actually apply for professional development funding.” This being Wist’s last year as chair, she said she was pleased with the amount of money raised and noted the turnout was better than she anticipated. “People stepped up and the donations for the silent auction were absolutely phenomenal,” she said.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

An evening at the Raider Gala BRYNT BELIZAR SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

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Since the beginning of quarantine, Holy Rosary High School held their very first Raider Gala.

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On the eve of June 8, students flooded through the gym doors with enough of them for a conversation to be almost unheard of, unless in close proximity.

Due to COVID restrictions, they have been unable to hold many public gatherings such as the gala, but now that threat of COVID has declined, the first Raider Gala since the announcement of schools closing in March 2020 officially began. The Grade 11s and 12s were all too familiar with the event, but for the 8s, 9s, and 10s, this was their very first experience. On the eve of June 8, students flooded through the gym doors with enough of them for a conversation to be almost unheard of, unless in close proximity. Most of the students were dressed to the nines, illuminating the room with a brilliant celebratory atmosphere. As the students patiently waited for the main courses of the event to begin, they distracted themselves with refreshments and goodies provided by the kitchen. To pass the time, the students occupied themselves with the games that had been arranged for a fun pastime. The games included small contests of poker, a mini ai r h o ck e y t a b l e a n d even an arm-wrestling match with the teach-

ers who eagerly awaited their opponents. Not only could they play games, but a booth had also been established with props hung on a rack for students to record their memories with their phones and cameras. The night was truly one to remember for the inexperienced and familiar students. As the gala reached its peak, the main course of the events neared. The first was the auction of various items that could only be bought with the exclusive currency of the school, Raider bucks. Items included a virtual headset, a beach volleyball set and even gift cards that were auctioned off. Plenty of students bid for the items with some even bidding hundreds of raider bucks which made continuous exclamations from the crowd. The bids were fierce as students upped the price one after another before one eventually had to concede and the winner claimed the prize. The unceasing bidding alone became entertainment for most of the crowd that refrained from spending their raider bucks. The students that did claim their prizes soon became broke from their relentless bidding. Soon after the auction concluded, the time for awards for the most outstanding students arrived. The awards varied from members of certain projects like the students that participated in the BEBA projects to exceptional sports players who dominated with their performances. Music played in the background as the students enjoyed their diversions from the schoolwork that awaited them the next day. And with final exams awaiting them, the gala was a good opportunity to have some fun.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

PAGE 10 Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint Let’s get Dallas Smith on the border!

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

Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca

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

2017

esterday, SiriusXM Canada announced the top 16 finalists in its coast-to-coast Music Town search, which began May 26. Voting is now open for the 16 communities competing at their chance to host headlining Canadian artists Arkells, Dallas Smith, Walk off the Earth, or 2Frères in their own backyard. After receiving enthusiastic submissions from over 400 unique communities across the country, SiriusXM Canada narrowed down the entries to 16 finalist commu nit ie s, acr oss four different regions – Eastern Canada, Quebec, Ontario and Western Canada –

Singer/songwriter Dallas Smith. File Photo based on heartfelt stories describing what makes each community special.

Church Directory

Earning one of the coveted spots is Lloydminster, whose passionate nominations from the local community exemplified hometown pride and a love of music. The Border City will be competing against Estevan, Nanaimo, and Sylvan Lake in the Western region to win an epic concert experience from Dallas Smith. One nomination read, “Our town is the Border town and what’s better than having a great performer be on the edge. Lloydminster has been through a lot these past few years. With the Alberta economy, Lloydminster has seen many downturns since we are mainly an oil town. I have lived here for the past eight years. With the downturn, I have to say Lloydminster has still been

an amazing town with helping each other out whenever and wherever they can. What’s a better way than to say thank you and to continue bringing spirit to the town.” Another nomination read, “We are a small(ish) city with a lot of city pride. But being the size we are, we don’t get a lot of major concerts. Usually having to travel 2-plus hours to either Edmonton or Saskatoon. However, the concerts we do get here always have a good turnout because we love to have fun.” Starting yesterday, Canadians can vote and rally behind Lloydminster to propel us to the top and win the epic concert experience. Voting is now open for the top 16 within the regions at musictown. siriusxm.ca.

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Opinion

PAGE 11 Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Leeway from Lloyd: Building on Bike for Breakfast STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

The recent Bike Breakfast Ride for charity is helping to stoke me for the Gran Fondo Badlands race in Drumheller this weekend. Based on my 80-kilometre breakfast ride, I figure I can go all out for 75 km in Drumheller as I did a few years ago in windy conditions. It’s also easier to be motivated when you are always in contact with other riders since these race-against-theclock events attract a ton of cyclists of all abilities and ages. Even though there weren’t many cyclists in the Bike for

Breakfast charity ride, they still raised a ton money, but it may be possible to raise more if they turn it into a gran fondo and add it to the Western Canadian circuit. Registration fees could go toward the charity so cyclists wouldn’t have to seek donations to take part and it would raise the profile of the event and the sport. There could still be prizes for the most money raised as an added incentive. The course for the breakfast ride on fresh Saskatchewan pavement to Lone Rock and back for the 80km is perfect with virtually no traffic and no big hills. Adding a gran fondo to the fundraiser will also bring a lot of people from out of

Photo courtesy of Jessie Mann Photography town. I will be one of several tourists in Drumheller, so why not reverse the flow and bring people here to spend money? While most cyclists race a gran fondo, but some opt just to take in the surroundings or enjoy the feeding stations. In

Drumheller, one of the turnaround pitstops is the Wayne Hotel Baconsaurus station. With a Lloyd gran fondo, bike shops would rake in business that week while highlighting the need for some better safer roads for cycling in Lloydminster,

notably on 12 Street and 75 Ave. It would be great to get grants to build a bike path beside those routes, but until then, how about reducing the speed limit to 60 km/hr. It’s time to become a bikefriendly and safe city.

City launches budget engagement: Your City, Your Dollar MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The City of Lloydminster is seeking the community’s input on budget priorities as Administration begins preparing the 2023 municipal budget. Property owners and residents will have the opportunity to share their voice on municipal spending priorities through an interactive, virtual budget engagement process available at YourVoiceLloyd.ca/ Budget2023. The survey is open until 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 8. “Each year the Your City, Your Dollar engagement campaign is an opportunity for ratepayers and residents to tell Administration and Council what services and programs matter most to them,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “Respondents can share their ideas for how services could be provided more efficiently and help influence the allocation of financial resources.” The interactive survey invites residents to comment on six service areas: government ser-

vices, protective services, transportation services, social programs and services, recreation and cultural services and economic development. Throughout the interactive survey, based on the 2022 residential mill rate, respondents can: - add their property assessment value to see how increasing or decreasing service lev-

els could affect their potential future municipal taxation rates; - draft, edit and submit a budget and compare against anonymous submissions; and - engage with other respondents through the feedback left on responses. This year’s survey also incorporates the city’s trails and sidewalks network as the City plans for net-

work improvements in 2023. Submitted feed-

back may impact how the improvements are

implemented. CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

WANTED

Canadian Prairie Pickers

DEAD OR ALIVE

are once again touring the area!

DEAD OR ALIVE

are once again touring the area!

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets. Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$ $

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

$ $

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets. Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$ $

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

$ $

PAYING HIGHEST PRICES

To arrange a free, discreet in-home visit

call Kellie at 1-778-257-9019 Bonded since 1967

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.

Playschool Pre-registration Southridge Playschool & Kindergym has opened up their registration for the fall 2022-2023 classes. They offer one day a week for three-yearolds and one or two days a week for four and five-year-olds. They have also qualified for the Affordability Grant! For more information please call Mrs. Pat 780-872-9523. Bingo at the Moose The Moose Lodge, located at 5213-57 Street, Lloydminster, hosts bingo nights every Monday and Wednesday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. The Moose also hosts crib tournaments every second Sunday of the month. Start time is 10 a.m. The cost to play is $10 and lunch is $12. Bring Your Own Vinyl Nights Have some old records lying around? The 4th Meridian Brewing Company, located at Unit 6 2626 50 Ave., is hosting Bring Your Own Vinyl nights every Tuesday during regular business hours, 4-9 p.m. Open Mic at 4th Meridian The 4th Meridian Brewing Company, located at Unit 6 2626 50 Ave., hosts weekly open mic nights on Wednesdays starting at 7 p.m. Come out and share your talent with the community! Criggage Doublers Tourney The Legacy Centre is

Passport to YLL

Thursday, June 23, 2022

hosting a criggabe doubles tournament on June 23. Cost to play is $10 and begins at 10 a.m. Lunch is available for $12. Everyone welcome! For more info contact Legacy office at 780-875-4584. Celebrate Helena Pike’s 95th birthday The public is welcome to join Helena Pike as she celebrates her 95th birthday! Helena’s party will be held on June 25 from 2-4 p.m. at the Pine Island Suites, 102 5th Ave., Maidstone, Sask. No gifts, please. Downtown Streetfest The 11th annual Streetfest is taking place this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout downtown Lloydminster. The fun officially kicks off with a pancake breakfast at the Olive Tree’s Community Kitchen from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The breakfast is by donation and is presented by the Lloydminster Fire Fighter’s Association. Wander the downtown streets and enjoy an art market, food vendors, entertainment, exhibitor booths, main stage performers, Kids Zone and more! Shop locally at our community’s downtown core and celebrate the beginning of summer! Radio Feild Day Presentation The local Sask Alta Radio Club invites the public to view the Amatuer Radio hobby on June 26 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. They will be set up at the Southminster School 10 minutes south east of Lloy-

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

dminster. Every June, more than 40,000 hams throughout North America set up t emporary t ransmit ting stations in public places to demonstrate ham radio’s science, skill and service to our communities and our nation. It combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach, and technical skills all in a single event. Field Day has been an annual event since 1933, and remains the most popular event in ham radio. She Shed Draw! Join the Royal Canadian Legion Lloydminster Branch #39 for the Grand Prize draw in their She Shed Raffle on Friday July 1! First Prize is a She Shed valued at $10,000! Tickets are $10 each and available at Cliff Rose for Clothes, Coldwell Banker, Midway Towing and at the Legion on Friday and Saturday. Proceeds support the Legion. Lottery License # RR21-0580 Ferry History Book Launch The Frenchman Butte Heritage Centre is hosting a book launch for Crossing the River, A Cable Ferry History by Carol Light on July 1 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Book includes a map for $35. Crossing the River is a history that includes the ferries from the Meridian to the Lashburn crossing and covers the late 1880’s to 1986. Come and visit author Carol Light and former ferry passenger Tom

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Saskatchewan minister responsible for mental health and addictions/rural and remote health/ seniors, Everett Hindley, right, began a one-day tour of local health facilities at the Lloydminster Hospital Wednesday morning. Joining him left front: Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young, who organized the event, Stephanie Munro, CEO of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation, Lisa Yushchyshyn, acute care manager, hospital and Mayor Gerald Aalbers. Back row includes Dr. Lyle Grant, executive director of acute care (NW) Saskatchewan Health Authority and Dr. Joan Wheat-Hozack orthopedic surgeon, hospital. Check out next week’s Source for the full story.

Hougham, see a model ferry demonstration, take home a free ferry bookmark, and have a free game of mini-golf. Sandy Beach Summer Market The Sandy Beach Summer Market returns on Sunday, July 3 for another year of arts, crafts, and food. Summer markets are scheduled to take place on Canada Day weekend

FROM PAGE 11

The City’s budget supports municipal services, such as, but not limited to: - recreation programs and facilities, park amenities, waste collection, snow plowing, roadway maintenance;

as well as Labour Day weekend. Once again they will have the Kidz Zone with an arts and crafts tent, a bounce house and more. The entertainment stage will run all day as well. If you are interested in becoming a vendor or entertaining, please visit our website at www.sbmarket.ca

per is being held on Sunday, Sept. 25 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. More details to follow closer to the event.

Fort Pitt Fall Supper The Fort Pitt Fall Sup-

Hillmond Hall Turkey Supper The Hillmond Hall is pleased to annouce they have selected a date for their annual Turkey Supper. The supper will be held on Oct. 2. Details to follow closer to the event.

- public safety and social programs and services; - capital infrastructure, including roads, pathways and buildings; and - the initiatives outlined in Lloydminster’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

The City of Lloydminster is committed to providing open engagement opportunities. Those who cannot access the online survey may request a physical survey by calling City Hall at 780-875-6184, Ext. 2322.

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Ribfest 2022 another sizzling success TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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Barbecue lovers followed their noses to the Lloyd Ex this past weekend as Border City Connects held its 3rd Annual Ribfest.

“

I know our rib guys are really happy, especially Saturday since there were line ups for ribs from 3 p.m. right until 9 p.m..

After the success of the event’s first two years, which were drive-thru-style, Border City Connects executive director, Glenn Fagnan, was excited to bring the event back again, only this year it was a live event. “It feels a bit different,” he said on Sunday afternoon. “We’ve certainly experienced some learning curves here today, but it’s been

really good. I think people are really enjoying the vibe of it as well as the music. We’ve had beer gardens all weekend as well, so a lot of people are coming in, enjoying their ribs and having a beer; it’s all good.” This year’s festival included ribs from newcomer Blazin’ BBQ, and returning were crowd favourites Pistol Pete’s, Billy’s Bones BBQ, and Buckeye BBQ. Fagnan also noted the lines at each of the four vendors were consistent all weekend with lines reaching as great as 30-40 people. “The crowds have b een trem en do us all weekend. I know our rib guys are really happy, especially Saturday since there were line-ups for ribs from 3 p.m. right until 9 p.m.,” said Fagnan. Funds raised throughout the weekend go towards supporting Border City Connects’ services. Border City Connects, formerly known

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source as the Lloydminster Handivan Society, provides transportation to the residents of Lloydminster and area that have special needs or mobility issues. “Funds are going to support our operational side to things,” said Fagnan. “We’ve been getting nailed on the fuel side of things and it’s costing us twice as much now on the operation side of

things, so our costs have gone up quite significantly, so funds raised are going towards basic operation.” F a g n a n a l s o explained ridership has been steady as of late, with a bit of a lull during the pandemic. “One of our divisions is Border City Express,” he said. “We use it to help people in wheelchairs or who have disabilities, both physi-

cally and or intellectually, so that ridership has really increased now that the pandemic has slowed down and facilities are back to where they used to be.” Of course, raising funds to help keep the transportation service operation is important, but Fagnan also pointed out the importance of awareness. “We were known as the Lloydmin-

ster Handivan for 42 years. Two years ago we rebranded things from the Lloydminster Handivan to Border City Connects because of the different divisions we have,” he said. “Since the rebranding, the challenge has been for people to recognize Border City Connects as the Handivan society, and this event is really good for that.”

Lloydminster Comprehensive High School teacher heads federation GEOFF LEE

WRITER

.................................. Hail to the chief. The Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) is tipping its hat to teacher Samantha Becotte, who is the new president-elect of the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. The math and chemistry teacher at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School (LCHS) will assume her one-

year term on July 1, according to a news release on June 20. “As president, I aim to be a strong voice for teachers while advocating for highquality public education in Saskatchewan,” said Becotte. The LPSD notes Becotte will be the seventh female president in the STF’s history and has a passion for women in leadership and wishes her well.

Becotte is also excited about the new role and said, “I am honoured by the trust that teachers have placed in me to represent them as the president of the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. She notes she will miss being a member of LCHS staff and being in a classroom with students next year, but is excited for the new challenges the role will bring. “Although there will be

challenges common to all school divisions in Saskatchewan, I recognize that the experiences of teachers and students in the schools across the province are unique,” she said. Becotte says she also looks forward to working with education sector partners and stakeholders to help ensure that the diverse needs of Saskatchewan students are met.

Supplied Photo

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

Ethan Adams

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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CLASS OF 2022 Amy Dobranski

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Highway 16 West, Range Road 14 Lloydminster, AB | 780.875.4471

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CONGRATULATIONS

Class of 2022 7701 44 St Unit 103, Lloydminster, AB 780-744-0321

Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Congratulations graduates of 22!

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

Left to right: Brooke McNalley, Sawyer Swanson, Edward Waters, Amber Duke Kneeling Left to Right: Matthew Beatty, Kaeden Molle - Photo take by Shannon McNalley

(Front left to right) Danielle Klasen, Aaliyah Delgado, Jaylin Beattie, Heidi Spornitz, Hannah Strayer and Alana Wallgren (Back left to right) Zane LaPierre, Grady Tipler, Ethan Kelley, Easton Wildeboer, Devin Kelley and Ryan Chesterman

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Congratulations Class of 2022!

5502 - 59 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES OF 22!

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Back row, starting on the left: Zachary Allan, Autumn Fleming, Zoe Allan, Parker Selte, Anna Cruz Urquia, Aaron Baker, Tianna Faltermeier, Colby Svean, Presley Adams, Ethan Beck, Riley Zajic, Maddy Smith, Cole Fleming Front brown (sitting) starting on the left: Owen Clarke, Josiah Danaher, Genesis Parkinson, Rylan Teasdale, Brenna Mayo, Aydon McLean, Liam Houcher

Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Left to right: Carson Peters, William Downie, Shana Flicek, Kadence Saunders, Lynn Perez, Gabe Andrango, Taylor Wells, Tirzah Zajonz, Nathanial Paterson, Jared O’Grady

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Emerson Oakes

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Kegan Pearson

Nicole Peregrym

Charlize Reeds

Trystan Russell

Ryker Saam

Tory Scott

Josephine Simmons

Kiandra Skinner

Brayden Slack

Kayla Stelmaschuk

Brianna Tabish

Hailey Tabish

CONGRATULATIONS Graduates of 2022! You did it! Roberta Thomas

Connor Tiller

Paige Weekusk

Paige Zack

LLOYD LANES

lloydlanesbowling.com 780-875-6898

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Last week’s Northwestern Sask crop report MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Seeding has mostly finished up in the region and producers were very happy to receive some rain last week. The rain will help improve growing conditions in parts of the region that were struggling with lack of moisture and where crop growth was stunted. More rain is in the forecast for the region and while it will be appreciated, producers would like some warm sunny days to accelerate crop growth. The Turtleford area received 59 mm, the Glaslyn and St. Walburg areas 40 mm, the Medstead area 36 mm, the Duck Lake area 34 mm and the North Battleford area 28 mm. The rain has helped improve topsoil moisture in the region.

File Photo Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 78 per cent adequate, 18 per cent short and two per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as five per cent surplus, 70 per cent adequate, 22 per cent short and three per cent very short. Regionally, 67 per cent of the spring cereals, 52 per cent of the oilseed crops and 70 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal

stages of development for this time of year. Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 63 per cent of the spring wheat, 67 per of the canola and 69 per cent of the peas being in good condition at this time. The main sources of crop damage this week were wind, drought and flea beetles. Producers are now getting into the full swing of in crop spraying for weeds and insect pests.

Thursday, June 23, 2022

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Bea Fisher bursting to bring back NYE Gala TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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The Border City’s biggest New Year’s Eve bash is back! Last Thursday, the Bea Fisher Group of Companies announced the return of its New Year’s Eve Gala, with this year’s theme being New Orleans. In 2019, Bea Fisher first announced it planned to host three successive New Year’s Eve galas with the goal of raising $250,000 for some large-scale improvements and upgrades at care homes here in Lloydminster. “We got through year one and needless to say, we haven’t been able to tackle years two and three yet due to COVID,” said Kim Crockett, marketing business coordinator at Bea Fisher, noting the theme in 2019 was New York City. “I think it’s important to look back and see what that fundraiser

accomplished. Almost $90K was raised after all of the expenses were paid. With that money, we funded new shingles for three of our care come facilities in Lloyd. We undertook a major landscaping project to alleviate some water issues, we constructed a large deck at one of our care homes so those with mobility issues could get outside and enjoy their backyard; and the biggest project we undertook was a complete redevelopment of one of our basement suites and designed it around the specific needs of the individual who lives in that suite.” With this year’s theme being New Orleans, Crockett can’t wait to see what the room looks like on the night of the event and noted it’ll be worth staying in town for. “There’s going to be a real New Orleans theme, feel, sight,

Bea Fisher New Year’s Eve Gala sponsors gathered last week to announce the return of this year’s event. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source sounds, taste, everything you can think of, that’s what’s going to be the flavour of that night,” he said. “We recognize travel restrictions are starting to lift and people will have an opportunity to travel this New Year, but Bea Fisher is going to give you every reason to stick around and make the foundation event a reason to stay home on New Year’s Eve.” Although the event is

still six months away, Crockett said there’s no time like the present when planning a worthwhile event. “There’s a big wait on things right now, and I think we need to start planning six months ahead, that’s not unusual these days we’re finding,” he said. “We did that the first time around and we’re really glad that we did. It gave people the opportunity to circle that date on the calen-

dar well in advance, giving them something to look forward to.” Tickets are not for sale at the moment, but Crockett did note that information will be released in the fall. And of course, events like this wouldn’t be made possible without the support from community sponsors and partners. “Not all of the gold button sponsors could make it here today,” said Crockett during

last week’s press conference, “but I certainly want to mention them. Redhead Equipment, Fortune Oilfield Construction, Nissan Lloydminster, Musgrave Agencies, Rusway Construction, Speedy Glass and Aztec Safety.” Additional sponsorship is always welcome, and anyone interested in sponsoring the 2022 Bea Fisher New Year’s Eve Gala is encouraged to contact Crockett at 780-875-3633.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Searching for the facts and truth

File Photo

WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN

What did onlookers think about the early beginnings of the Lloydminster settlement on Canada’s western frontier? In a letter to the Lloydminster Times Editor in 1905, the writer’s answer was

simple, “It thinks just what it has been told.” Reports were about a number of English farmers who developed the territory and produced such wealth it would make farmers in the east “dream of the pot of gold at the bottom of a Western rainbow.” Their ocean voyage was depicted as a holiday trip and the trek by

train to Saskatoon as a glorious picnic. The writer was searching for the facts and truth about the well-educated English pioneers. He continued by saying that this is just the class of people who are going to make the colony a place to be admired. Its inhabitants will be envied for their success.

Anyone wanting to buy farmland in 10 years will find one of the most beautiful farming districts on the continent. They’ll find folks who dragged themselves over the wagon trail through mud and slush and faced all kinds of hardships, have not worked for nothing. Their land will bring astonishing prices and make buyers wish they had bought land when it was available in the past. Another letter to the editor was signed, Greenhorn. He was happy to hear the colonists were willing to adopt the most suitable farming methods; however, their energies weren’t applied properly due to a lack of experience with western farming. He suggested teaching these inexperienced farmers through infor-

mative columns printed in the newspaper. A few words of practical advice and encouragement are much more refreshing than adverse criticism. Greenhorn made a p r o f o u nd sta te me nt, “How few of us take the trouble to stop a few minutes and congratulate a neighbour for work well done; or even pause to help and advise him when he is in difficulties. Just a few words of advice and encouragement, the cost is nothing but the recompense is beyond price.” The correspondent suggested a weekly agriculture column, written by men with experience working the land in this part of the country. A Canadian’s advice to those who intend to farm also shared his thoughts. Some of the settlers and immigrants

were very dissatisfied and left the area soon thereafter to head back to the old country. There was always a fair percentage who couldn’t tough it out and left before realizing their first harvest from the land or what the weather was really like. Those who stay long enough will see what the land is capable of providing and will succeed. Those who stick it out for 10-12 years on their homesteads will be rich men. He encouraged folks to stick with it through the rough times and very soon you can proudly say, “This i s al l mi ne ” and w i l l have the patent for 160 acres in your pocket. As more settlers arrived, set up their homesteads and became successful, they were no longer on Canada’s western frontier. They were home.

PAGE 39 Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Real Estate

Yards, the too often forgotten attraction while catching up with each other’s lives, or simply to quietly sit and listen to the birds in the nearby trees. Many of the yard designs I have seen tell a story about the owner.

File Photo

MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

Watch almost any Home and Garden television show and the landscaping adjacent to the house being rehabbed seems almost a second thought or a

type of staging to draw a potential buyer in. Buyers searching for their next home often key on kitchens, bathrooms, or interior finishing; very little time is spent walking around outside. That’s too bad, for a well-kept yard often indicates how well the

structure it surrounds has been maintained. Maybe I’m biased but my front and back decks are a very important part of our family’s life in the three seasons of the year we can use them. It is our retreat, a place to have coffee or other refreshments

One was a South African professional couple, educated in Britain, who recreated an English country garden just out their back door. No lawn; just shrubbery of different heights,

walking paths, and numerous perennials. It was a quiet haven in the middle of the city and no doubt reminded them of a wonderful time in their life. CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

Sports Kids triathlon back on track PAGE 40

Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Photos by Geoff Lee Meridian Source

A volunteer directs swimmers to the bike staging area during the 7th annual ATB Financial Kids of Steel Triathlon at Bud Miller All Seasons Park last Friday.

Swim, cycle, run and repeat year after year. The 7th annual ATB Financial Kid of Steel Triathlon got underway after a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, with 675 kids competing at Bud Miller All Seasons Park on June 17. Students from the Lloydminster Catholic and public school divisions vied for individual and team medals in different distances under the direction of race director, Anthony Bender. “It’s great. Watching those kids that are so excited about participating in an event and competing and having some fun. This is what this is all about,” said Bender.

He noted the turnout was encouraging considering more than 800 athletes took part in the last pre-COVID event. “We’ve got to get it back on people’s calendars again. It’s so great to see people supporting it. It’s a great event for kids,” he said. He walked the youngest group of triathletes through their paces outside the Bioclean Aquatic Centre, carefully explaining what to do at each stage in ‘kid speak’. “When you get across the finish line you are going to get a medal,” he said to the kids softly. “When you get across the finish line there is going to be pizza. There are also going to be subs and chocolate milk— all good stuff for you,

and if you see people in an orange shirt, make sure you say thank you. That’s what makes this possible.”

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Watching those kids that are so excited about participating in an event and competing and having some fun.

Helping out is a nobrainer for Tracy Matthews, who coordinates an army of volunteers every year. “I love bringing the community together and watching the kids be excited about something and showing them they can be successful,” said Matthews.

“It’s a big job, but I have the same people, for the most part, year after year, and they all know what to do. Everyone wants to help at an event like this.” Ditto for Jim Taylor, owner of Grindin Gears Bikes ‘N Boards, who was on-site again prechecking kids’ bikes to ensure they were functional and safe. “It’s nice to see this many kids out willing to participate,” said Taylor. “There’s over 650 kids involved. The organizers that continue to put this on ask me to come back every year; it’s something you can’t say no to.” Bender also tipped his hat to the City of Lloydminster, support sponsors and title sponsor ATB Financial for keeping the event going all these years. Lloydminster ATB branch manager, Brad Asseltine, was all smiles ready to declare all systems go. “The turnout is fabulous, the rain broke and the sun came out for us today, so that’s wonderful,” he said just prior to the official start. “It’s been a wet week and I am really happy today to see everyone back here after a couple of years layoff.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Building confidence in youth through sport

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Anthony Bender, ATB Financial Kids of Steel Triathlon organizer, gives the youngest group of kids some last-minute instructions before they start their swim at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre last Friday. FROM PAGE 40

Asseltine says his game plan was to “be hanging out at the finish line cheering on the participants as they come across the final sprint.” Bender says the event is well-timed to promote summer bike and water safety as the school year comes to an end. “There’s lots of methods to the madness of putting this event together for the kids,” he said, including competition. “The idea is they will

participate as a team and eventually they’ll get confident enough to do it on their own, so that’s the idea behind it.” One of the most confident teams was the Grade 4 trio of Charles, who was swimming for the first time, with his cycling buddy Gabriel and Lincoln, a runner. When asked if they were going to kick butt, Lincoln quipped, “Oh heck yes, that’s not even a question.” Charle’s mom, Jessica Lawrence, arrived in cheerleader mode and

said she is proud of her son. “He’s been doing it for a couple of years now, always in a team. I think knowing how to work with your teammates is very important for these kids, especially at a young age,” said Lawrence. While young Franklin, a Grade 2 triathlete at Winston Churchill, was amped to run on a team, his mom, Christy Franklin, declared she was there to “feed him good snacks and cheer him on.”

Tell a story with your yard FROM PAGE 39

Then there was the Egyptian couple with the Mediterranean oasis; rock and water features with little alcoves inviting the visitor to stop and relax. Or the Japanese garden, a mixture of small, manicured trees, with a steadily evolving sand sculpture at ground level, reflecting the mood of the owner. Covid restrictions of the past couple of years proved the worth of having a view out of your home office; maybe as simple as

placing a couple of bird feeders a few feet away to encourage the visit of feathered friends. Early in our marriage my wife and I lived in Brooks. One of our neighbours owned a Greek restaurant, and both his front and back yard were dedicated to roses. Unconventional yes, but beautiful beyond words when in bloom. Every evening people would stop and admire the colours and smell the perfume, often engaging in conversation with him as he watered and pruned.

Today, we are starting to see people plant specifically for bees or convert the green carpet lawn to something more practical like vegetables. So, the house may be your castle, but the yard can be a reflection of your soul. Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster and an active partner in his family’s livestock operation. Comments on this article are welcome either by emailing vernmcclelland@remax.net or calling 306-821-0611.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

PAGE 42 Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Sask potash producers ramp up production MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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In response to the growing demand and escalating concern around global food security, Saskatchewan’s potash sector is ramping up production. Saskatchewan is positioning itself to fill the market gaps left as a result of the sanctions placed on Russia

and Belarus. “Global interest in Saskatchewan is at an all-time high as countries look to us as an ethical and reliable producer for their resource needs,” said Energy and Resources Minister Jim Reiter. “We are proud of our world-class potash sector for stepping up to meet growing global

demand for decades to come.” The Mosaic Company, K+S Potash Canada and Nutrien Ltd. have all announced planned potash production increases at their Saskatchewan facilities in response to global supply uncertainty. Nutrien announced they will be rampingup annual potash production capability to 18 million tonnes by 2025. This represents an increase of more than 5.0 million tonnes, or 40 per cent, compared to 2020, and will lead to approximately 350 new

jobs in the province. “In addition to increasing potash production by more than 2.0 million tonnes since 2020, Nutrien will invest in the province of Saskatchewan to accelerate potash production capability to 18 million tonnes by 2025, and continue evaluating a pathway to 23 million tonnes,” Nutrien CEO Ken Seitz said, K+S Potash recently announced plans to increase production to 4.0 million tonnes per year over the next few decades at their Bethune facility. K+S is looking

to hire more than 70 new employees to carry out these operations. Mosaic is also taking action to increase its annual potash operating capability by a further 1.5 million tonnes by the second half of 2023 at their new Esterhazy K3 operation and Colonsay mine. Since resuming production at Colonsay in 2021, Mosaic has added 150 jobs at the site. BHP is looking to accelerate the timeframe for the construction of its $12 billion Jansen project, and several other compa-

nies have new potash mine projects at varying stages of development. Saskatchewan is the largest potash producer in the world and the sole producer in Canada, typically accounting for about 30 per cent of global potash production. Over the last 15 years, the potash industry has committed approximately $30 billion of investment for new mines and expansions.

PAGE 43 Thursday, June 23, 2022 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

HEALTH

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

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Local Business Directory Laura Jacques-Gilmour

NOREEN STYACKO Noreen was born in November 1971 to John and Joan Styacko of Loon Lake, SK. Noreen passed away May 5th, 2022 in Stettler, AB. Noreen was the youngest of three sisters – oldest Heidi (Balla), middle Cindy (Schreiber). The following is written by Cindy Noreen enjoyed growing up on the farm, and in later years she took pictures (summer and winter) of almost every aspect of the farm, from fields, to trees and buildings. When looking through her photo album she had a handwritten note saying “I will miss this place” beside one of these pictures. Of all three girls, Noreen was the one to challenge things the most, including our parents. It was anything from her curfew to what she wore. At the same time, she was also the one who noticed things. If someone was feeling down or if someone needed help, she was very attuned to people’s feelings and was always there to lend a hand or shoulder. Noreen loved to challenge things, and admitted that if someone told her she couldn’t, or shouldn’t do something, then that was exactly what she was going to do, and she did. Mom and I even tried reverse psychology on her, thinking this might be an avenue, but apparently she read that book too – because it didn’t work. Noreen was fierce in her loyalty to friends and family and these connections were

extremely important to her, and she remained close to a couple of friends she attended school with from Grades 1 to 12. Because of the age difference between us girls, it wasn’t always easy to connect growing up – we always seemed out of sync. Although, I do remember reading her favorite book over and over again, as she always requested the same one to be read to her which drove me crazy, but she loved it. Noreen had some of the best Fisher Price toys, and I gladly joined her in playing with them (easy bake oven anyone!). Maybe it was the simplicity of the easy bake oven, I don’t know, but as an adult Noreen never really mastered cooking and it was something she dearly wished she could do better. As the years passed, things became easier between us, as adults we were able to re-connect and our discussions became more frequent, and many times it involved long conservations. I remember one particular phone call that lasted more than 4½ hours! I believe that day we solved every issue there was, from world peace to family matters. We didn’t always agree, but we respected each others opinions and could debate matters for hours. After high school Noreen had various jobs, from making chocolate to being a receptionist in a lawyers office. The job she had the longest was with my Aunt and Uncle in Hinton assisting them with their business. It was there that she remarked how well my Aunt handled customers, and admired how well they ran their successful business. Noreen did so well, that my Aunt and Uncle would leave her alone so that they could go off and enjoy some well deserved holidays without having to worry. Noreen was adventerous, and she would relay some stories to me; although I am pretty sure some of them were watered down (for my benefit) and I

honestly didn’t feel brave enough to ask if there was more to the story than what she was telling me – because if I had, and if there was, Noreen wouldn’t hesitate to tell me. Her motto was, don’t ask if you don’t want to know the answer. Someone once remarked that Noreen would never be brave enough to skydive. Well, off she went and did just that. Then there was the time she and a friend jumped on a plane to Hawaii because they thought it was a good idea – just a backpack, and with no place to stay when they landed. They spent the first night sleeping on the beach, then hitchhiked into the nearest town. Needless to say I was horrified, while she thought it was a great adventure. One job in particular was to be the most important one of all – this consisted of seismic work in the Alberta rockies – and it was where she would meet her future partner of almost 30 years. They met on a particularly cold day, and as Noreen hated the cold, she wasn’t in the best of moods. As the day wore on, her future partner (Sheldon Weir) arrived to drive one of the trucks to the next seismic location. Noreen was in the truck trying to warm up, and as the route to this particular location was dangerous, Sheldon told her “you have to get out because I don’t want you hurt if something was to happen”. Noreen’s reply to him was “I am not getting out of this %#%& truck, I’m cold!!”. Keep in mind, this was their first meeting, AND he was Noreen’s boss. Apparently, Noreen’s attitude didn’t faze him. I think he liked this feisty girls attitude, because when he left his position to go to work elsewhere, he gave Noreen his number and said “If you are ever in Calgary give me a call and we can go out for supper”. A period of time later, Noreen happened to be in Calgary and gave Sheldon a call. They went out for supper, bonded over pasta - and that was that, they were together

ever since that first date. Noreen was diagnosed with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) in 2005. I remember a time prior to her diagnosis when we were up visiting the farm for Christmas, and after supper while we were doing dishes Noreen whispered to me “I feel numb from the waist down” – my look of shock and confusion got her laughing, then I started laughing. When we both finally calmed down, it was then that she said she was having some concerning issues – of course it was no longer funny. Noreen persued and obtained her Massage Therapist license, but sadly, after all that hard work and studying she never got to practice, as MS was starting to affect her hands to the degree that practicing massage would have been too painful. Noreen was blessed to have traveled to some special places, one being her absolute favourite - Paris. Sheldon said she was in heaven looking out from their room at the Eiffel Tower all lit up at night. There was something about the history that appealed so much to Noreen, and even though MS slowed her down, she was insistent on walking through the catacombs, immersed in the history surrounding her. There were other adventures with Sheldon too, such as a Caribbean Cruise, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Australia/Tasmania, New Orleans and even a move to Costa Rica for a couple of years. Noreen loved her time in Costa Rica from reading her books while floating in the pool, to joining others from the complex to sit outside and watch the sunset every evening. There were many trips to BC wine country as Noreen loved red wine and port. Sheldon is a fabulous cook and he enjoyed nothing better than cooking for Noreen, or for friends and family when they visited. When Sheldon would have to go away for his job, which sometimes could be anywhere from 3-5

weeks, he ensured the fridge and freezer were stocked with all sorts of wonderful pre-cooked dishes that all Noreen had to do was pop in the microwave. I was always amazed when she would tell me what she would be having for supper that night. I am immensely grateful to Sheldon who was Noreen’s partner for almost 30 years. In the beginning, we were all bewildered when we finally got to meet this special guy. Noreen had an outgoing nature and revelled in seemingly rebelling against everything and anything, and here was this shy, quiet, reserved, seemingly introverted person, who was so hard to get a word out of – so opposite Noreen’s personality. But it quickly became apparent that they were completely in love with each other. I have never seen such adoration in any other couple I have ever met. They completely lived and breathed for each other. Sheldon’s devotion and love never diminished when Noreen was diagnosed with MS. In fact, the seemingly impossible happened, he became even more devoted, caring and nuturing, always thinking of Noreen and ensuring her best interests were taken care of, or that she was always thought about when he was away working. They were also parents to, and loved their fur babies, their dogs Khaos, Maria, Marfer and most recently Jaxx, each being both company and a comfort to Noreen when Sheldon was away working. Noreen faced MS with determination – she wasn’t its prisioner. She investigated everything from assisted death to something I had never heard of before, and something she wanted for herself when the time came – bio-cremation. She explained to me how this worked (little did I know that less than 6 months later we would be fullfilling that wish with aqua-cremation). She seemed comforted at the time when

talking to me, knowing that this process would have little to no adverse affect on the planet and that she would once again be part of nature and the world she loved so much. She certainly opened my eyes to a possiblity I hadn’t known existed. In true Noreen fashion, her thirst for knowledge and understanding put her ahead of the rest of us in exploring other possiblities, while at the same time being kind to nature. May 5th changed everything for me and my family when we received the news that Noreen was gone. Of everything that MS took from her, it was COVID that rocked our lives. On a Tuesday she was showing symptoms and by Thursday morning she was gone. I am still in disbelief. I want to call her like I always do, and still today when something happens (good or bad) the first thing I think about is “I should give Noreen a call”. As a family you are not prepared to hear that kind of news – particularly when it is sudden. The grief we are all feeling at the loss of someone we loved so much is immense, it will remain a part of us, and we will just have to learn to accept being altered by this and remember Noreen through pictures and personal memories. You expect to have your siblings around as you get older to discuss life’s ups and downs, and when they are no longer there, it creates an empty hole nothing can fill. Noreen, you will forever be in our hearts and minds. Lovingly remembered and missed Sheldon Weir, John and Joan Styacko, Cindy and Gordon Schreiber and numerous friends and family A scattering of ashes at important places in Noreen’s life, including a celebration of life, will take place at a later date. Contributions in memory of Noreen can be made at any local animal shelter

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Celebrations

Thursday, June 23, 2022

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

June 16 Answers

ACROSS 1. Pig’s food 5. Research place 8. Spring event 12. Exec’s car 13. Back in time 14. Convertible, e.g. 15. Squadron 16. Ink holder 17. Emit fumes 18. Patch the roof, again 20. Small mark 22. Ceramic slab 25. ____ the town red 29. Flashing lights 32. Internal 33. Fruity dessert 34. American buffalo

June 16 Answers

36. Toll 37. Boise’s site 39. Occurrence 41. Hosiery fabric 42. Stash 43. Question 45. Of the nose 49. Dolt 52. Conditions 55. Hubbub: hyph. 56. Has 57. Forty winks 58. Musical staff sign 59. Exultant joy 60. Desertlike 61. Give a party

DOWN 1. Defame 2. Phone wire 3. Skip 4. Mashed veggie 5. Child’s seat 6. Time period 7. Join firmly 8. Kilt pattern 9. Tinge 10. Wolfed down 11. Chinese skillet 19. Satin strips 21. Belief 23. Flower wreath 24. Roadway hazards 26. Data 27. Requirement

28. Family ____ 29. Rotate 30. In order 31. Authentic 35. Select 38. Raspy, as a voice 40. Fabric sample 44. Type 46. Alone 47. Lemon coolers 48. Storage area 49. Swamp 50. Night bird 51. ____ and all 53. Distant 54. Snoop

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

Introduce your new addition here in next week’s issue for FREE! Come in and fill out a form or email admin@meridiansource.ca Deadline is Tuesday at noon for the Thursday edition.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Congratulations GRADUATES! NEW PRICES

NEW LISTINGS 2903A 51 AVENUE

3102 - 45 AVENUE

• Check out this 5 bed, 2 bath AB raised bungalow with finished basement. • Central air, fireplace, deck, back lane access, double detached heated garage & RV parking!

• Updated bi-level in a great SK side location, steps from a school & across from Jaycee Park. • Large west facing backyard with a deck and double detached garage.

300,000

MLS A1228321

SMALL TOWN - BIG VALUE PARADISE VALLEY

240,000

COMMERCIAL

MLS A1229418

MAPLES II

LOTS, LAND & ACREAGES

LASHBURN

B SE 23-51-27 W3RD

STREAMSTOWN LOTS 1, 2, 3 & 18

AB AB

225,000 MLS A1127173

174,900 MLS A1210422

MARSHALL

167,500 MLS A1144831

224,900

MLS A1141945

89,900

MLS A1141937

104,900 MLS A1213061

294,500 MLS A1227412

235,000 MLS A1192398

155,000 MLS A1131974

224,400 MLS A1175434

MURPHY LAKE

BRIGHTSAND LAKE SUNNY ACRES

62,000

MLS A1132580

170,000 MLS A1213158

COMMERCIAL

249,900 MLS A1225481

159,500 MLS A1080099

HWY 17 C2 ZONING

139,900 MLS A1188583

PARADISE HILL

KITSCOTY LOT

949,000 MLS A1152166

PLAZA 51

MLS A1185001

COWAN LAKE

$ SK 45,000 EACH MLS A1124696 MLS A1124706

99,900

AFFORDABLE STARTER HOMES

STREAMSTOWN LOTS 13-17

MAIDSTONE

650,000 MLS A1192323

450,000 MLS A1169429

28,000

MLS A1212530

19,900

MLS A1138167

RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES ALBERTA

3315 - 51 Ave 2917 - 51 Ave. 5675 - 43 St. 2917 - 51 Ave. 3009 - 57A Ave. 3007 - 57A Ave. 2917 - 51 Ave. 2917 - 51 Ave. 5661 - 43 St. 6608 - 42 St. 2903A 51 Ave 2902 - 55 Ave. 5913 - 41 St. 5907 - 41 St.

RETAIL SPACE

4801 - 47 Ave. 4008 - 41 Ave. 4729 - 18 St. 3709 - 42 Ave.

1 Bed, 1 Bath 1 Bed, 1 Bath 1 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 1 Bath 1 Bed, 1 Bath 1 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 1 Bath 3 Bed, 2 Bath 2 Bed, 2 Bath 5 Bed, 2 Bath 5 Bed, 2 Bath 4 Bed, 3 Bath 5 Bed, 5 Bath

$600 $650 $700 $800 $800 $800 $850 $900 $1000 $1100 $1600 $1600 $1800 $1800

SASKATCHEWAN 4 Bed, 3 Bath 3 Bed, 2 Bath 4 Bed, 3 Bath 4 Bed, 3 Bath

$1200 $1250 $1450 $1900

JULY 1 READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! JULY 1 READY! READY! READY! READY! READY! JULY 1 JULY 1

APPLY ONLINE TODAY SK

128,000 MLS A1197890

119,000 MLS A1206550

225,000 MLS A1158194

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

Brad Gilbert Jennifer Gilbert Broker/Owner Associate Broker

Rick Schesnuk Caleb McLean Realtor® Associate Broker

Each office is independently owned & operated.

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

Judy Bexson Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343

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