Meridian Source - Mar. 14, 2019

Thursday, March 14, 2019

VOLUME 1 I ISSUE 37

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

SEE PAGES 21-44 FOR OUR 2019 AGRICULTURE WEEK FEATURE | CHECK INSIDE FOR YOUR 2019 SHOWCASE GUIDE

Freezin’ for a reason

Writer to unmask oil enemies GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Meridian Source sales manager Deanna Wandler showed her support for Border City Connects on Saturday morning with superhuman strength alongside many other community members as they took the plunge into frigid water to raise money for the non-profit organization. For more photos see Pages 18-19.

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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The water in the hot tub couldn’t have been any warmer after an icy plunge in roughly four feet of frigid water.

Border City Connect’s polar plunge was another big success with 16 community members

braving the elements and tested their insanity all in the name of raising money for a great organization.

“We’re here to raise money for Border City Connects and due to the fire we had last year we lost some of our vans and we’re try-

ing to replace vans, and a lot of costs incurred running Border City Connects,” said organization president Bobbi Stevenson.

“We rely on donations to keep us going.”

Mayor Gerald Aalbers agreed to take this year’s plunge per-

mitting $15,000 was raised. Funds were a bit short when it was time to jump but Fred North stepped up to the plate with a cheque for $7,500 to get the mayor to his goal. Final totals will be published upon release.

The Oilfield Technical Society is helping to blow the lid off a little known energy conspiracy that affects all residents of Lloydminster.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers spilled the beans at Monday’s Rotary Club of Lloydminster lunch about an upcoming presentation on a U.S.-based campaign to stop the development of Alberta’s oil sands and pipelines like the Trans Mountain expansion.

“On March 28, a group of individuals in the OTS club is bringing Vivian Krause, a writer, blogger and researcher to speak about the challenges the Canadian oil industry has,” said Aalbers.

“She has a slide presentation I have seen and it outlines what the Canadian oil and gas industry is facing and that industry affects everyone in

this room.”

Krause is a resident in North Vancouver who has an Internet blog at fair-questions.com.

She has exposed the money trail by U.S. oil interests to keep Canada’s oil and gas industry landlocked.

Krause is currently writing a series of articles about the funding of environmental and elections activism.

Her presentation will take place at the Vic Juba Community Theatre at 7 p.m. at a cost of $13.50 for a seat.

“I would really encourage you to put that on your calendar; I encourage everyone to come out,” said Aalbers.

“The presentation is mind-boggling. It’s just incredible. She left the environmental movement and she is speaking for oil and gas.”

OTS is the organizing group behind the biennial Lloydminster Heavy Oil Show.

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Bonspiel “Oilman” a.k.a. Santa GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Here comes Santa Claus.

That’s how John Stanyer might be affectionately introduced as this year’s Oilman of the Year at the Heavy Crude Open Bonspiel banquet at the Stockade Convention Centre on Friday night.

His Santa persona fits the criteria for a recipient to have worked in the oilfield for many years while contributing to the community as Stanyer has in many ways.

He started growing a white beard in 2017 and volunteered as Santa in the 2018 Here Comes Santa Claus downtown Christmas event.

The 67-year-old retiree plans to do it again this year too.

“That’s my new vocation,” he joked after hinting about it last fall in his speech as Oilfield Technical Society (OTS) chairman of the 2018 heavy oil show in Lloydminster.

“The first thing I said was ‘ho, ho ho’— that got a few laughs,” he said.

Stanyer may not allude to being Santa in his appreciation speech at the banquet since he’s been on so many committees including chairing the bonspiel committee for the past 10 years.

He’s held every conceivable role

including president of the organizing committee dating back to 1990.

“I’ve done all the entries and done the spreadsheets for the teams, sent out the entries, done the billing, done the banking—pretty much everything,” said Stanyer.

This year’s 52nd annual bonspiel from March 14-17 will be his last one helping out and he only accepted the Oilman honour after a couple of other candidates couldn’t commit to it.

As past chairman, Stanyer has been the guy who phones oilman candidates to ask if they accept the role, so this year it was different being on the other end of the call.

The call came from this year’s chairman Monte Armstrong, who worked with Stanyer on his last job at Weatherford where he took early retirement in February 2015.

“It’s a nice honour. It shows that they’ve recognized what you’ve done not only what you’ve done in the oilpatch but what you’ve done in the community as well,” said Stanyer.

He

has two daughters, three step grandkids, two sisters and a brother, some of whom will be in attendance at the banquet along with other family, friends and curlers.

His biography notes he was born in Wainwright and his family moved to Lloydminster in 1953.

Stanyer says his dad made a living in various refineries and spent his last working years at a local canola plant while he spent all of his own oilfield career in the support services sector.

He got his start in June 1980 with Franklin Supply and moved to Dominion Oilfield in 1985. Then in 1994, he got a job with BMW Monarch that was later purchased by Weatherford where he did many jobs.

“I did shipping and receiving, safety inspections and driver evaluations and all that sort of stuff,” said Stanyer.

Over the years, Stanyer curled in about 20 oilmen’s bonspiels winning the top A-event team in 2008 with the Doug Zingel rink.

Stanyer has at least a 40-year record of volunteering in Lloyd explaining he can’t say no.

“I’ve volunteered at the museum when they used to do breakfast, I’ve cooked breakfast. I’ve been on two

separate committees for the Cancer Society and just did a checkpoint for the cutter rally in February,” he said.

“At one point I think I was on seven different committees.”

Stanyer has also held all kinds of executive positions on the OTS in the last 35 years logging six years as president and the past five as secretary.

The bonspiel at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre is run by its own committee of volunteers and supported by sponsors and donors.

This year’s event has 36 teams with the opening ceremonies Thursday night including the unveiling of Stanyer’s portrait as Oilman of the Year—with his beard intact.

“I was thinking of shaving it off for the portrait and my youngster daughter said ‘dad you can’t do it – you got to think of the kids,’ ” he said.

He says he was a little leery of being Santa at first, but he warmed up to it really quickly.

“What really kind of broke the ice was this little girl about four years old came running out and wrapped he r ar ms ar ou nd me and said I love you Santa so I thought OK this ain’t going to be so bad,” he said.

“They invited me back for the Santa Claus Day and the Parade of Lights.”

John Stanyer, the long-time past chairman of the Heavy Crude Open Bonspiel, is this year’s Oilman of the Year and will be feted at Friday’s banquet for his oilfield career and volunteerism including playing Santa to the delight of youngsters.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Church Directory Call our sales team if you would like to advertise your church in our directory

306-825-5111

Top cop disarms Rotarians GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Lee Brachmann, the new commander of the Lloydminster RCMP Detachment, charmed the Rotary Club of Lloydminster with his informal introduction in plain clothes.

Brachmann came to the Monday lunch meeting simply to talk casually about himself, his police background and his priorities for the local detachment.

He also offered a positive first impression of the city since his arrival last November to replace inspector Neill Pearson who transferred to Edmonton earlier in 2018.

“I think Lloydminster is a fantastic community. Everybody so far has been very welcoming to me so I’m excited to be here and happy to be here in this role as the commander for the Lloydminster R C M P D e t a c h m e n t ,” said Brachmann.

Brachmann laced up last weekend in the Battle of the Badges char-

ity hockey game against the Lloydminster Fire Department, calling it a great community event.

“It was great to see everyone come out and support the emergency services in the community,” he said.

Brachmann has a wife and three daughters who followed him to Lloydminster from his last position as a non-commissioned officer for Eastern Alberta District where he provided oversight to eight detachments.

He brings over 14 years of experience in Alberta to the Border City, including posts as the commander of the St. Paul and Killam detachments.

Brachmann has also served with the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit in Calgary.

He says right now his number one priority is to get into the community and make sure people feel safe.

Brachmann noted

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Lee Brachmann the new commander of the Lloydminster RCMP Detachment introduced himself at the Rotary Club of Lloydminster Monday lunch and spoke about the detachment’s proactive policing approach to crime reduction.

Lloydminster is seeing an increase in areas of property crime, specifically vehicle thefts, mischief, damage to property similar to recent trends in rural Alberta and Saskatchewan.

He says those types of trends lend themselves to a proactive policing approach the

Lloydminster detachment is taking.

“We’re lucky in Lloydminster; we do have a number of programs, community groups and RCMP units dedicated to proactive policing that leads into our overall crime reduction strategy,” he said.

He noted the detachment has a two-person crime reduction team in Lloydminster.

“Their sole job is to focus on things like determining where the crime hotspots are occurring in the city and developing strategies for dealing with those certain hotspot locations,” said Brachmann.

He says that unit also deals with the small number of individual offenders that create large amounts of issues and concerns in the community.

Brachmann says it tough to determine the number one crime priority, however.

“There are trends we are seeing as far as property crime, and drugs issues as well and a couple of other issues I’d like to tackle, as well as traffic safety and promoting community relations,” he said.

“I like to take a proactive stance—preventive as well as proactive.”

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Recreation Access Program to offer discounted facility admission CITY OF LLOYDMINSTER

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Lloydminster City Council has approved implementation of a new program offering low-cost access to municipal recreation facilities.

Through the Recreation Access Program (RAP), low-income residents or persons receiving Assured Income for the Severely Handi-

capped (AISH), or Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID), may qualify for discounted memberships and admission to city facilities, including the Servus Sports Centre, the Bioclean Aquatic Centre, the Lloydminster Cultural and Science Centre and the Lloydminster Outdoor Pool.

“Our Council believes

that families managing through financial limitations should not face barriers to recreation and cultural opportunities,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “The new Recreation Access Program reflects our community’s long-standing commitment to supporting healthy, active lifestyles for all who call Lloydminster home. We hope to see

qualifying individuals take advantage of these discounted rates.”

Information on RAP applications and eligibility criteria is available at www.lloydminster.ca/rap; forms may also be requested at any City of Lloydminster recreation facility. For more information call 780-875-6184 ex 2909 or 2919 or email fcss@ lloydminster.ca.

City backs Resource Communities of Canada Coalition MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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A decision during Monday’s council meeting has the City of Lloydminster in support of the Resource Communities of Canada Coalition (RCCC).

This all came about after the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) requested communities pass resolutions of support for the RCCC as the AUMA president met with municipalities across Western Canada to discuss forming a Resource Communities of Canada Coalition.

All AUMA members are invited to become involved in the movement as the intent is to focus on an education

campaign at the FCM Conference being held in Quebec this year, Bill C-69 Advocacy, and formally establishing a Resource Communities of Canada Coalition.

With the country’s resource industry being the backbone of the economy and the Border City playing such a large role in the resource economy, support on a local level might get the word out of the struggles and impact the current economy has on residents.

“I think it speaks to our community. Our community is resource based: agriculture, oil and gas,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

“So having that spokesperson and organization at that level

(is perfect) so we can share that message with other communities. We need to help convey to people that we are very sustainable and environmentally sensitive to production and development and that’s what’s going on today.”

AUMA will be providing an educational campaign at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference directed at elected officials which will encompass the positive benefits of the resource and energy sectors.

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Chamber pitches Bill C-69 debate GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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Bill C-69 could be debated in Lloydminster by some of Canada’s parliamentary Senators.

That’s what the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is advocating on behalf of its members with respect to Bill-C-69 that aims to overhaul the review process for pipeline projects in Canada.

Chamber president Dabir Naqvi spoke about the pitch following a presentation on a new energy vision for Alberta by the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers at the Travelodge last Thursday.

“We’ve just sent a letter to the Senators asking them to have a discussion on that bill right here in Lloyd— that letter just went out yesterday,” said Naqvi.

“We are supporting our energy industry with respect to getting these pipelines approved.”

The Chamber’s message has the support of CAPP president Tim McMillan who outlined a four-point “vote for energy” platform for any political party to adapt in the next provincial election.

“Our vision is that we can double investment in the next few years; that we can double the growth rate globally and overtake China and Iran

on the oil side and Iraq and Qatar on the gas side,” said McMillan.

He says to do we need to have efficient market access, an investment policy that attracts dollars, a climate change policy that doesn’t impede investment and a more efficient regulatory system.

“My intent is all parties would adopt it,” said McMillan.

“Because of that we have been very clear on what would grow the Alberta economy and being clear and crisp on that, I think it gives all parties the ability to grasp on to those solutions.”

McMillan sees Chambers of Commerce in the province particularly the Lloydminster Chamber as an ally in CAPP’s campaign to ensure Albertans vote for energy when they go to the polls.

“No Chamber in the country knows the energy business better than the Lloydminster Chamber,” he said “So where we can partner, where we can work together and that’s on most things, we should.”

When it comes to improving market access with new pipelines Naqvi says it’s important for local businesses to ensure our products have access to export markets than just the U.S. “We organized this

presentation and I think it was very important to hear Tim as to what CAPP is doing for our oil and gas producing companies,” said Naqvi.

McMillan told the Chamber that Alberta is hurting from the current challenges facing the province’s oil and gas industry and says the local impact is very personal for him.

McMillan grew up in the area, owned his own oil company and was a former Minister of Energy and Resources and Lloydminster MLA in one of his four cabinets positions with the Saskatchewan Party from 2010-2014.

“This is my home and it’s very apparent things aren’t abstract and they’re real, the lack of activity affects every one of those that work in the oil and gas field and those that don’t,” he said.

“As in a community like Lloydminster, we’re all in this together.”

CAPP’s new Alberta Energy Platform, Oil and Natural Gas Priorities for a Prosperous Alberta, will be a blueprint for a similar energy policy recommendation for federal political parties to adapt in the 2019 fall election.

“We have a role to inform and debate to inform Canadians they’re making their decision in the fall,” said McMillan.

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LCSD talks new and exciting programs at expo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Current and future students at Holy Rosary High School (HRHS) will get a sneak peak at the future of learning at tonight’s HRHS EXPO. “It’s been about five months of work with a large team of people and we’ve developed a bunch of new courses that combine the traditional courses in addition to some new and exciting stuff to put a new twist on the educational aspect to try to get kids ready for 21st century jobs,” said principal HRHS Vince Orieux.

“We have a lot of new courses and one of them is the school of Kinesiology, which is going to combine some psychology and phys-ed.”

The new courses are being unveiled to students throughout the day with future incoming students and their

p a r e n t s i n v i t e d t o is what we’re going attend an open house t o b e a b l e t o r e v e a l and information ses- o n T h u r s d a y w i t h sion at 7 p.m. just a different direc“We have tion with an expo set some of up in the the progymnagramming We’ve sium and choices developed a every subwith some bunch of new ject and o f t h e course will steam and courses that be able to stem of combine the explain the scitraditional and disence and cuss the courses in math but programs then addaddition to within i n g a n some new and their arts comexciting stuff learning ponent teams. to that, to put a new “At the while baltwist on the start of the ancing the educational school year education aspect to try to we asked for the teachers to get kids ready for child.” volunteer Orieux 21st century jobs some time also to three added quite large how the think tanks and every new courses will bengroup had a different efit a wide variety of focus, and one group students as not each w a s p ro g ra m m i n g a t individual learns the Holy Rosary, so the same way so educar e s u l t o f t h e i r w o r k tors have to constantly

“

keep it fresh and challenge studens and keep giving them different ways to learn.

“Not everybody can sit at a desk and listen to a lecture and be successful, you have to develop new ways to attract kids so they can be successful,” he said.

“We are still going to have the traditional classes, but we’re also now able to offer something different for those kids who learn in a different way. It’s a little more interactive and there’s more exploration. The kids are inquisitive and they learn by asking and by doing, and we’re going to be able to offer that for some of our kids.”

F o r mo re inf orma tion on Holy Rosary’s new couses feel free to attend tonight’s open house at 7 p.m. at the school, located at 6611 39 St A, Lloydminster, Alta.

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FROM PAGE 4

Brachmann says the detachment is taking a holistic view to proactive policing in Lloydminster by also dealing with social issues like addictions with underlying criminality.

“We’re lucky to

Thursday, March 14, 2019

have our School Resource Officer program as well in all the schools,” he said adding the RCMP also works closely with groups like Citizens on Patrol.

“We’re happy to engage with the community and get their

thoughts on the what the issues are,” said Brachmann.

In a related matter, Brachmann urges residents to buy tickets for the upcoming RCMP Ball on March 23 in a charity partnership with Midwest Victim Services.

A sign of things to come

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

The installation of the Urban Planet sign at Lloyd Mall was officially completed last Friday in advance of the store opening to be announced. The fashion retailer occupies about 20,000 sq.ft. in the space vacated by the closure of Sears.

Thursday, March 14, 2019

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Students reconcile shared history

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Grade 5 Winston Churchill School students from left: Benz Braza, Madi Yew and Naomi Brand show off an exhibit their class made to explain the impact that residential schools had on the culture of Cree First Nations.

GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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There are two sides to every story including the little-told history of Lloydminster from the perspective of First Nations and Métis.

That’s changing thanks to a reconciliation project and exhibit called Strengthening Your Path driven by Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) students in partnership with the Lloydminster Cultural and Science Centre (LCSC).

“We thought it would be great to partner with the LCSC and ask our students to create exhibits and displays that reflected their learning around recon-

ciliation,” said Shirley Groat, coordinator of learning and instruction at LPSD. “It’s been a learning journey and a journey of reconciliation for both of our students and teachers.”

The exhibit explores the shared history between First Nations people and all Canadians while imagining a future of togetherness and it runs until April 25 at LCSC. “All of the displays are reflecting questions students have been asking,” said Groat.

“Students have learned from our local Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers

so it’s really been an inspiring project for many of our students.”

Strengthening Your Path has been a rewarding experience for Cheryl Thomas, Aboriginal co-ordinator at LPSD who teaches Cree to various grades.

“It’s really focussing into the Cree language and culture— how so many teachings are involved in our language and building that relationship,” said Thomas.

She says the project is an important part of the reconciliation process.

“What we have here is a really good start and you can see where the interest is growing for the children and how it came together here. I love it,’” said Thomas.

The projects spun from “small fire groups” at each school with students selected as leaders for creating the displays for the exhibit.

Some of the exhibit projects at the LCSC range from studentmade videos of Indigenous culture and photographs of project processes including school wall murals along with artifacts.

The hands-on learning was an eye opener for some Grade 5 students at Winston Churchill School, who communicated the impact residential schools had on local Cree culture in a creative way.

“We found a desk

and we decided to put (glue) pictures on it to kind of speak to the people who went through going to residential schools and the loss of the culture and the traditions and their language,” said Naomi Brand.

As for lessons learned, Brand said “we have to know the mistakes we made in the past so it doesn’t happen again in the future.”

Her classmate Benz Braza says the group project taught them more about Indigenous history than they would get in a classroom.

“Usually, we don’t talk about residential schools, but when I was in the small fires group I learned a bit more than I usually did,” said Braza.

“I enjoyed how we got to represent the First Nations and put down the pictures— I am pretty sure what

First Nations would get what the meaning was.”

The project is in keeping with First Nations and treaty education and reconciliation being taught in all Saskatchewan schools as recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission “Calls to Action” around education.

“I think students

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were really take in by all the different teachings that they learned because they had so many questions and they were really good questions,” said Thomas.

“It shows that they were learning and were engaged in the teachings in the sharing path.”

PAGE 10 Thursday, March 14, 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

Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Catherine Kruining catherine@meridiansource.ca

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

2017

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Lloydminster Firefighters Association treasurer Kevin Lider, left and vice-president Brad Martin, presented a cheque for $1,050 to Glenn Fagnan, director of Border City Connects, for operational costs of the Fred North Charitable Foundation sponsored buses. The presentation took place yesterday.

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, March 14, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Flatheads roundly wrong STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

The world is flat.

That’s what some people actually believe or want to believe despite living in the sciencebased 21st century.

It seems we not only live in the most technologically advanced age, but we also live in the age of conspiracy theories that allows Medieval flat earth thinkers to flourish.

That’s why it is so funny to watch the Netflix documentary Behind The Curve.

Bob Knodel, a host on the Flat Earth YouTube channel, tries to use a laser gyroscope —a device used to detect rotation—to help their cause, but instead manages to disprove his own theory!!!

But it’s no wonder since 99.99 per cent of us know the world is round, so this is just pure entertain-

ment into conspiracy nut bars.

Conspiracy theorists believe someone or something or some secret society is covering up the truth.

Flat earth folks like to believe NASA photos showing the earth, moon etc as round are photoshopped, while failing to note many photos were taken from space well before anyone could doctor a photo.

Conspiracy creators

act as bad detectives who come up with a t heor y t he n f ind a fact or two to support it while ignoring all other evidence to the contrary.

Only they know the moon landing was fake, 911 was planned by the U.S. government and either the CIA, the Russians, the Cubans or the mob killed Kennedy instead of the lowly Oswald?

Oh, ya did you know Elvis faked his own

death and is secretly working in Canada as a senior Walmart greeter?

If you didn’t, you are probably reading or watching fake news from CBC or CNN or NBC or the Meridian Source for heaven’s sake!!!

Conspiracy people love to engage in magical thinking as an alternative to any knowledge they sadly lack, especially in science or history.

Through the reader’s lens

Top: John Van Cleemput Submitted

Thank you John for sharing this image titled “little pearls”

Right: Louise Lundberg Submitted

Thank you Louise Lundberg for this great photo of a sun dog.

If you would like to see your photographs in the paper please email them to taylor@meridiansource.ca

That’s why we have all those Hitler’s Secret Flying Saucer club crap shows on TV, or shows purporting aliens must have built everything ancient because conspiracy theorists can’t figure out how they did it.

If they had only graduated at least from high school they might have a clue— unless of course, they a re o ne o f th e ma ny androids amongst us!

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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 MONDAY EXCEPT LONG WEEKENDS –MODERN SQUARE DANCING Modern Square Dancing from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m, Legacy Centre, 5101 - 46 Street, BACK Door (West door) All ages welcome! No experience necessary, No partner required, No costume expected. Learning fun maneuvers to lively music in a team! Your first evening is free, only $5 afterwards. Call Kendall, 306-825-3770, or email Esther, moment101@ hotmail.com for more info.

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

EVERY 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). All classes are scheduled on a Tuesday morning from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Please

Passport to YLL

contact Nancy Johnston at 306-820-6096 or H e l e n R o g e r s a t 306-820-6291 to pre-register.

EVERY TUESDAY — SENIORS MEET The Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society meets at the Legacy Centre from noon until 1:30 p.m. Lunch is available for $10. Please reserve before Tuesday morning at 780-875-4584.

Everyone welcome.

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.

EVERY THURSDAY AND SATURDAY – FARMER’S MARKET The Border City Farmer’s Market takes place every Thursday and Saturday at the Servus Sports Centre (5202-12 st.) from 12-6 p.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

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.

To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147 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. MARCH 15 – IRISH STEW SUPPER There will be an Irish stew supper on Friday March 15 at the Moose Home, 5213 57 Street, cocktails at 5 p.m., supper at 6 p.m. adults are $10, children 7-12 $5 and 6 and under are free. Hosted by the Women of the Moose, and food will also be collected for the food bank if anyone would like to bring donations.

MARCH 16 – LENTEN MISSION Holy Spirit Catholic Church Lenten Mission “A Call to Mercy” Saint Mother Teresa Saturday, March 16 3 p.m.

Moleben to Saint Mother Teresa 3:30 p.m. Talk “A Call to Mercy” by Mykhailo 4:30 p.m. Vesper followed by Pot Luck Supper Good Will offering accepted, 5120 - 54A Street Lloydminster.

MARCH 16 – ST. PATRICK’S SUPPER AND DANCE St. Patrick’s Supper and Dance at the Frenchmann Butte Legion Hall on March 16. Happy goes from 5-6 p.m. Ethnic supper from 6-7 p.m. with dance and social to follow from 7-11 p.m. Tickets sold at the door $25 per person for the whole night or $15 for just the dance.

Live jams by Memory Lane, and all proceeds go to the Frenchman Butte Legion.

See you there and sport your best Irish attire.

MARCH 17 – MOOSE BREAKFAST There will be a Moose Breakfast on Sunday March

17 at 5213-57 Street, Lloydminster, Alta from 8:3011 a.m. at a cost of $8 per plate/ Come and enjoy breakfast prepared by the men of the Loyal Order of the Moose. Don’t forget to wear something green!

MARCH 17 – CRIBBAGE TOURNAMENT Criggabe tournament at the Frenchmann Butte Legion Hall. Cost is $10 to play and lunch is $10. Play starts at noon. Everyone welcome.

MARCH 17 – OPEN MIC AFTERNOON There will be an open mic event on March 17 from 2-4 p.m. at the Masonic Hall 4009 49 Ave. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. and artist sign up begins at 1:15 p.m. Admission is $10 and includes stew and a bun. The event is presented by the Order of the Eastern Star Lloydminster Chapter #76. For more information or to pre-register: Heather 403-391-0646.

MARCH 20 – FAMILY LITERACY Lloydminster Learning Council Association is offering Introduction to Fami l y Li t e ra c y , We d . M a r c h 20, 9:00am - 4:00pm. Join us for a fun packed day to increase awareness of “literacy”, “family” and “family literacy”. This workshop is for anyone working with families. Fee: No charge, call 780-875-5763 to register.

MARCH 23 – PIE DAY Pie Day will be held at Grace United Church on Sat. March 23 from 2-4 p.m.

Pie and refreshments will be served with donations to Affirm United. We will share stories from LBGTQ+ families and learn more about becoming genuinely inclu-

sive. Everyone is welcome at Grace United Church, 4708 50 Avenue, Lloydminster.

MARCH 24 –CRIBBAGE TOURNEY A Cribbage Tournament will be held at Hillmond Hall on Sunday March 24 starting at 11 a.m. Daylight Savings Time. Lunch served at noon. Come and join in on an afternoon of fun and fellowship.You do mot need a partner to participate.

MARCH 24 – 4-H PANCAKE SUPPER The Hillmond 4-H Beef Club is hosting a pancake breakfast on March 24 at 4:30 p.m. at the Hillmond Hall. Pie Bingo & Cake Auction to fillow at 5:30 p.m.

Every bingo wins a pie!

Silent auction items available to bid on.

MARCH 27 – RECYCLING INFORMATION What? Where? How? to Recycle! Find out on Wednesday, March 27th at 10 a.m. at Grace United Church Hall, 4708 50 Avenue in Lloydminster. Representatives from Blue Wave Recycling and the City of Lloydminster will bring us up to date information.

Everyone welcome for coffee and information.

APRIL 7 – GREEN SHIRT DAY Wear green on April 7 in honour of the Logan Boulet Effect and support organ and tissue donation.

APRIL 18 – FAMILY EASTER DANCE Annual Family Easter Dance at the Lone Rock hall on April 18 from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Price is: $5.00 per person. -- Come join us for fun and dancing with the kids.

The Easter Bunny will probably hop on in as well … see you there.

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Rivalry ends in draw, two groups benefit

TAYLOR WEAVER

EDITOR

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It was a hard-fought battle for charity and when the final horn was heard the Lloydminster Fire Department (LFD) had broken the Lloydminster RCMP’s winning streak with a 6-6 tie.

The two organizations benefiting from

this year’s Todd Gustavson Memorial Hockey Tournament are the Salvation Army as well as Mother Theresa School.

Totals from Saturday’s fundraising efforts have not been completely tallied yet but will be announced once completed.

“They’ll be talking

about this game for a long time. It was a great battle between your fire department and RCMP and it was a lot of fun. It ended up being a 6-6 tie and it was great to have to community out and there were lots of members of the community out to support us and we’re really

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

thankful,” said Lloydminster fire Chief Jordan Newton.

“It was a hard-fought battle out there. The RCMP, they always have their sticks up high, getting on you, but we battled through and persevered, and we kept it tight. We did a lot of off-ice training over the summer last year and we’ve been doing a lot of training through the winter, where the RCMP, they’re slackin’ a little bit. You could tell their diets weren’t up to par and they put on a couple extra pounds which really showed in their skating.”

Const. Grant Kirzinger of the Lloydminster RCMP was quick to defend his teammates and was quicker to make note of some questionable practices by the LFD. CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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Battle of the Badges chirps set stage for next year

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos FROM PAGE 14

“Fire Chief Newton had a really good recruiting strategy, first check box, have you played Junior A hockey or better, and I think honestly the biggest thing, it wasn’t our diet or whether or not we’ve been working out, it’s’ actually now since the firefighters have that new job where they get to have two barbecues and two sleepovers, they’re fully

rested and ready to go for this hockey game, and we did see them put a little hard pressure on us at the end, but unfortunately for them they just couldn’t come out on top and it ended as a 6-6 game.”

The RCMP had a trick up their sleeve and mid-way through the first 35-minute period someone dressed in riot gear made their way onto the ice with a piece of

plexiglass cut to size to help their goaltender block the net. The fire department’s answer to this? Some good old fashioned police tape wrapped around their entire net.

“If you want something done right, you call the police, if you want to call somebody that’s going to do an imitation that’s not going to do so well, you call the firefighters,” Kirzinger said with a laugh.

Both Newton and Kirzinger would like to thank Redhead Equipment, Musgrave Agencies and Gold Horse for helping make Saturday possible and are already looking forward to next year’s game.

“In order to break this tie I think we really actually have to have an inquiry with the city into their hiring practises, and I’m 100 per cent confident that none of those three individuals that I got to play against this year have actually done a single shift as a firefighter, so we might have to look into that a little closer because I just want to remind Newton, the RCMP is a national organization and they’re all employees by us, and we have a lot of skilled individuals across Canada,” said Kirzinger.

“One-day contracts are a thing, so watch out Newton, they might be signed.”

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Fiddlers not playing on Burns’ roof GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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The Burns will be hosting another concert

at their home this Friday night for a couple of powerhouse fiddle musicians who will put

toe-tapping into overdrive Nadine Landry and Stephen “Sammy” Lind will perform the fifth of six Home Routes concerts held at the home of Hal and Rhonda Burns this season for travelling artists.

‘We’re pretty excited about it. They’re real traditionalists,” said Hal. Landry and Lind are based in Gaspe, Quebec and are members of the Foghorn Stringband, the Cajun Country Revival and the Dirk Powell band.

“He’s very prolific on the fiddle and he’s also a banjo player, but he’s probably more known for his fiddle playing,” said Hal. “We haven’t had many fiddle players at our house, so I think he’s going to be a really good one.

Their new recording “Granddad’s Favorite” reflects their versatil-

Supplied Photo

Hal and Rhonda Burns are hosting a Home Routes concert for travelling old-time Cajun artists Stephen Lind and Nadine Landry Friday night at their home in Lloydminster.

ity in genres and instrumentation with Landry also comfortable on guitar and upright bass.

“They do a lot oldtime stuff; they do fiddle tunes and we’ve heard them sing; she does some cajun type stuff where she’ll sing in French—it’s very

ASK THE EXPERTS

authentic and very traditional, but it’s really cool stuff.

“It will be something new for us.”

The home concert address is 5732-51 Street in Lloydminster with the doors open at 7 p.m. with a good turnout expected for the Friday nighter.

“People tend to loosen up on Fridays because they don’t have to be at work the next day,” he said, To confirm a seat, phone the Burns’ at

780-872-1079 or 639536-0955 or email them at lloydminsterhomeroutes@gmail.com with tickets $20 a person at the door.

As usual children 12 and under are free with guests advised to bring their own beverages to go with a free concert snack at intermission.

The Burns will wrap up this year’s Home Routes concert series with a performance

by Pat Temple and the HiLO Players on April 13.

RCMP charge two in hockey fight MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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On Feb. 18 at approximately 10 p.m., Lloydminster RCMP were notified of a fight at a hockey arena in the 5400 block of 49 Avenue.

Members were told that 2 referees, aged 36 and 24, were assaulted in the change room after a Junior B hockey game by the family members of a player in the game.

Scott Pay ne , 5 1, of Lloydminster, and Jayden Payne, 23, of Lloydminster were each charged with assault in relation to the skirmish.

Both were released on their own recognizance for Provincial Court on Monday, April 8, 2019 “This type of behav-

iour has no place in our hockey community,” says Const. Michael Hagel.

“As adults you are responsible to set a good example for the youth playing the game.”

Lloydminster RCMP are asking the public’s assistance for any information in relation to this incident.

Please contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780808-8400 or your local police if you have any information.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.

P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Thursday, March 14, 2019

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Slow down, save a life MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Motorists travelling west on Highway 16 just outside of Lloydminster last Thursday night would have seen some bright lights on the side of the road as emergency crews were out spreading awareness of road-side safety.

The Lloydminster Rescue Squad was joined by the Britannia Fire Department, Action Towing, Blackfoot Fire Department, Midway Towing, County of Vermilion River, and WPD Ambulance to help spread the mes-

sage for drivers to slow down while passing an emergency vehicle or emergency scene to help ensure everyone gets home safely at night.

“The response on the highway was good,” said Lloydminster Rescue Squad deputy chief Ryan LeBlanc.

“Even though we were out there raising awareness, we still had the odd vehicle going by much faster than 60 km/h, and even if you’re not in an emergency situation and just raising awareness like this, we still had people going through, even with the

amount of vehicles we had out there last night, we still had people going through quite fast.

“Ultimately the majority of people did slow down and they gave us a honk, and it was a good turnout and we appreciate the support from the community.”

The main thing to remember, as it is the law staes, “When an emergency vehicle is approaching you from behind you’re supposed to pull over to the right and stop, and when you’re passing an emergency vehicle, whether

it be a tow truck or an emergency vehicle, you are required to slow

RM of Wilton road weight restriction changes As of 12:01 a.m., Friday March 15, travel on RM of Wilton #472 municipal roads will be permitted at Wilton Primary weight (approximately equivalent to Sask primary weight),

unless otherwise posted. Please note the following conditions: · Travel on roads with permanent weight restrictions is still permitted at the posted limit, unless a Letter of

Permission is obtained from the NWMS permit office. · Tri Steer permits are available by special permission only. Please call NWMS permit office for more information.

· Please be aware that steer axle weight will be part of GVW for penalty purposes.

Please visit www. nwroadpermits.com or http://www.rmwilton. ca for daily updates.

down to 60 km/h,” said

LeBlanc.

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Taking the plunge Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Left: Brett Holden from Prime Time Local News takes a dip into the freezing water this past Saturday morning at the Centennial Civic Centre in support of Border City Connects.

Right: Tyler Morrissette, president of the Rotary Club of Lloydminster, came out to not only support Border City Connects by getting a bit cold, he also decided to sport as much Rider gear as possible to rally more support.

Thursday, March 14, 2019

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Cold for a cause Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Top: Becky Schille, director at the Olive Tree, sports a fleece unicorn costume, wasn’t warm for long after taking a leap into the tank at the Centennial Civic Centre on Saturday morning to support Border City Connects.

Bottom: Mayor Gerald Aalbers quickly recovers from the shock of the cold on Saturday morning after taking the polar plunge for a great cause.

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Licensed Child Care Centre spaces allocated across province

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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T h e G o v e r n ment of Saskatchewan announced today that nearly 130 more licensed child care centre spaces have been allocated in Saskatoon, Delisle, Regina, Moose Jaw and Humboldt.

Funding is being provided through the

Canada-Saskatchewan Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Agreement.

“I am proud of our government’s commitment to providing affordable child care options to families throughout the province,” Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon Wyant said.

“We are looking forward to seeing the positive impact of additional child care spaces in these communities.”

“The Government of Canada is committed to helping families access quality early learning and child care so that more children and parents have the support they need,”

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said Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

“

I am proud of our government’s commitment to providing affordable child care options to families throughout the province

“Today’s announcement will make life a little bit easier for more parents across Saskatchewan who want t o ensu re t heir children are in good hands.”

The spaces are being allocated as follows: - YMCA in Saskatoon – 19 spaces

- Vanscoy and District Early Learning Center Inc. in Delisle 32 spaces - Eastview Daycare Inc. in Regina – 30 spaces - Northwest Child Development Centre Inc. in Moose Jaw – 23 spaces - Elizabeth Place Inc. in Humboldt – 21 spaces - La Cooperative francaise centre educatif Gard ‘Amis in Regina – three spaces “These new spaces are allowing us to move forward with what will become Delisle’s first licensed child care facility,” Vanscoy and District Early Learning Center Director Tobi Torre sa n sai d . “ A c h i l d care centre is greatly needed in this growing community, and we are

happy to soon be able to provide more supports for our region’s young families.”

Almost 1,300 child care centre spaces have been allocated across Saskatchewan since the ELCC Agreement was signed in March 2018.

With the addition of these spaces, the government will have allocated funding for 7,116 new spaces since 20 0 7 - a 7 6 p e r c e nt increase in the number of spaces in that time.

The Government of Saskatchewan prioritizes allocating new child care spaces in communities where there is both a high need for child care and a higher level of vulnerability, and to organizations that are ready to move forward with centre development.

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Province proclaims Agriculture Literacy Month MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed the month of March as Agriculture Literacy Month.

Agriculture Literacy Month brings agriculture to life in classrooms around the province as farmers, ranchers and members of the agriculture industry help students

to learn about, connect to and understand the industry.

“It should be important for everyone to understand how their food is produced because the continued success of the agriculture industry relies heavily on their support and understanding,” said Agriculture Minister David Marit.

“This month is an opportunity to build

trust by teaching children about modern food production and answering their questions.”

This year’s theme, food waste, will allow students to explore their role in sustainability.

“Last year more than 2,000 Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month classroom presentations took place in schools across our province, providing

“

It should be important for everyone to understand how their food is produced because the continued success of the agriculture industry relies heavily on their support and understanding

more than 8,000 students with an opportunity to learn more about our agriculture sector,” said Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon

Wyant.

“Learning about the food production process and how everyone plays a role is a valuable opportunity for all our students.”

“March is a time for farmers, ranchers and everyone deeply connected to agriculture to share their personal agriculture story with kids,” Agriculture in the Classroom Executive Director Sara Shymko said.

“This year, we are asking volunteers to give a personal example of how they are helping to reduce the problem of food waste.”

File Photo

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Lakeland plows alumnus $ into land GEOFF LEE

WRITER

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The student-managed farm at Lakeland College has yielded another generous donation from a former agricultural student.

“

Lakeland’s agricultural sciences programming is essential for future generations of farmers and other agricultural professionals. I have the opportunity to help a lot of students and I am proud to do so

Roy Kubica, a class of 1966 Ag alumnus and a retired farmer, donated $500,000 earlier this month at a special ceremony at the Vermilion campus.

The funds will be used to increase Lakeland’s land base, which Kubica says is vital for the college to continue its work in expanding agricultural student-led learning opportunities.

“Lakeland’s agricultural sciences programming is essential for future generations of farmers and other agricultural professionals.

I have the opportunity to help a lot of students and I am proud to do so,” said Kubica.

Lakeland has purchased two adjoining quarters with 309 acres of quality cropland with funding provided

by Kubica and other donors.

“It is really going to alleviate some of the challenges that we have in growth in particular in our farmland,” said Dr. Alice WainwrightStewart, president and CEO of Lakeland.

Enrolment in crop technology and animal science technology has

increased by 196 per cent from 2011 to 266 students at the start of the 2018-19 academic year.

“Roy’s donation has been awesome for us.

Because of his donation. we don’t have to put the brakes on our students’ innovation,” said Wainwright-Stewart.

Wainwright-Stewart s a y s t h e c am p u s h as many crop students that will have opportunities to really look at some of the things they want to do because of the land purchase.

“We have the acres now to try new things and test different ideas which is essential to what we’re trying to create here at Lakeland College programming,” she said.

Kubica’s donation builds on a similar $500,000 donation Judy Sweet gifted the campus last fall to increase Lakeland’s farm base.

“That was a terrific donation that helped us expand our cropland as well,” said WainwrightStewart.

“She understands farming and you need land to do some of the different outcomes we are trying to do here.”

Sweet also provided financial support of the modernization and expansion of the GN Sweet Livestock Research Facility which opened in 2016 in memory of her late husband Garth.

“Judy and Roy have just done some amazing things to help Lakeland with our growing numbers,” said Wainwright-Stewart.

The newly acquired land is located about six kilometres west of the Vermilion campus and within close proximity to other college land.

The purchase supports Lakeland’s strategic priorities of commercial agriculture production and Agbased applied research.

A dedication ceremony will be held in the future to commemorate Kubica and fellow donors who made this land purchase a possibility for Lakeland.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Supplied Photo

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Farmers “take the pledge” to celebrate safety

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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In honour of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) running March 10-16, Ag for Life is encouraging families to Take the Pledge for their

chance to win a safety prize pack valued at $250.

The purpose of the pledge is to encourage families to take time and celebrate Strong and Safe Farms, the theme for this year’s

campaign.

Since its creation, Ag for Life has been an advocate for rural and farm safety education and is aligned with partners who share the same dedication to safe practices.

“Participating with the Canadian Agriculture Safety Association on the CASW campaign is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of safe agriculture amongst children,

youth and adults,” said Ag for Life CEO, Luree Williamson.

“Agriculture is the second largest industry in Alberta and an important part of our way of life, so we see the safety of all those

involved as a high priority. Encouraging our farm families and communities to take the pledge during CASW is a great way to raise the awareness of keeping everyone safe,” adds Williamson.

Lakeland College gets financial bump to increase land base FROM PAGE 23

Lakeland has an

alumnus and gift program with no limit as

to what donors such as Kubica and Sweet

have in mind with their money.

“Both of these particular donors had put restrictions on what they wanted and they specifically were interested in purchasing new land,” said Wainwright-Stewart.

“I have put it in my mind that I am giving away a farm,” said Kubica, who retired from farming with his brother Rick in the Thorhild, Alta., area in 2017.

Kubica stays in touch with fellow alumni by attending Homecoming celebrations in June, as well as alumni

socials in Edmonton and Westlock.

He has donated to the Annual Giving Campaign and, since 2013, Kubica has contributed to the college’s student awards program.

In addition, he established the Roy J. Kubica Agriculture Scholarship in 2015 with eight students receiving this award to date.

“I see everything at the college growing and doing well, and I am happy to do my part to help it continue,” said Kubica.

Wainwright-Stewart

noted the generosity of former students also helps to support student-led events like the upcoming President’s Gala in Lloydminster and Feast on the Farm in Vermilion.

“It’s all about supporting our student bursaries. We can do the little extra things here by the generous donations of our community our alumnus and our partners,” she said.

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Cut Knife rancher takes top spot in Calgary MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Dreams really do come true.

That was the way Cal Ramsay of Carlrams Ranching Ltd. in Cut Knife, Sask. described taking home the Grand Champion banner from the Calgary Bull Sale last weekend.

Out of province entries have been allowed to compete in Calgary for roughly six years but this is the first time Ramsay competed at the big show.

“The overall experience was awesome and this is one of the larger

shows that we’ve competed in,” said Ramsay.

Cal’s father Carl started the ranch in 1948 and the tradition lives on through Cal and his wife Marilyn, son Carl and his family, and daughter Robin and her family, making them the third generation at Carlrams.

“We took two bulls down just because it’s something we wanted to do. We got to judge it in 2006 or 2007, and my daughter and I wanted to take some bulls down because it’s kind of a prestigious sale, and we were lucky

Supplied Photo

enough to have the grand champion and the best pair of bulls,” said Ramsay.

“So the hard worked paid off.”

This isn’t Ramsay’s first grand champion bull as he took home a banner from Maple Creek, Sask. roughly 15 years ago, but this recent win holds a special place in the family’s heart with the prestige that Calgary carries.

In Ramsay’s words, the lesson learned and taken away from the experience in Calgary is that dreams can come true and hard work pays off.

The most rewarding aspect of being a part of the local cattle industry for Ramsay is the positive reactions he gets from people who are admiring his bulls.

“I started doing this when I was six-yearsold and that was 55 years ago,” he said.

Supplied Photo

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Farm safety a top priority with youth education

File Photo

Students learned about many different safety topics from animal and grain safety to rail safety and tractor safety at last year’s Progressive Agriculture Safety Day. This is a seven-year-old program which helps to promote safety as to prevent farm-related injuries or death.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Keeping kids safe is always priority num-

ber one, but on the farm there are many things many people don’t think about when

it comes to safety.

The Lloydminster Exhibition Association is excited and ramp-

ing up for another Farm Safety Day for kids of all backgrounds who attend Lloydminster schools.

“Farm Safety day is a great day for kids from rural and urban backgrounds to come here and learn about everything safety related on the farm,” said Lloydminster Exh Ag manager Sydney Lake.

“So, we talk about livestock safety, PTOs and tractors, farm machinery, grain safety, ATVs, electricity, power, water and bike safety … every year it’s a little bit different but we usually have between six to eight stations that they tour around to and we have volunteers who lead each station and explain the dangers and hazards with that specific piece of equipment.”

Most of the safety stations are designed to incorporate hands-on activities to further benefits the students.

“At the grain station they have to pull something out of a garbage container full of grain to simulate the force if you were to get stuck in a

grain bin. Helmet safety is another big one and we talk about what could happen if you’re in an accident and not wearing a helmet,” said Lake.

“ATCO has been great over the years and always have a display about underground and overhead powerlines that’s always really eye opening for the kids.”

Another one of many stations Lake mentioned was the combine and bailer station where a straw-filled dummy is sent through farm equipment to demonstrate how serious things can get when you’re not paying attention to safety.

“Kids who grew up on farms are more used to the kinds of things we talk about on Farm Safety Day, but even kids that live in town or small communities still get the chance to visit farms, and it’s important to know these things,” she said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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Learning about how your food got to your plate MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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On April 17 roughly 1,400 school children from Lloydminster and surrounding area will flock to the Lloydminster Exh for their annual Ag Education Day. “We have Grade 1 and 2 students from both school divisions in Lloydminster and surrounding communities come in, and we have three sessions for the day,” said Lloydminster Exh ag manager Sydney Lake.

“With the Lloydminster Co-op being our major sponsor, when the

kids walk through the doors here they basically enter a mini grocery store that we’ve built.”

The mini market includes all the basics such as fruits, vegetables, meat p roducts, grain products.

The students also get to w atc h a video th e Co-op put together a couple of years ago to help them better understand where it is their food comes from.

After the video, the kids enter the Alberta building to learn from seven education stations.

File Photo

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

Making farm safety fun and interactive to help educate FROM PAGE 26

“These are all life skills and they’re crucial.”

A big part of the day’s events is encouraging the kids to learn as much as possible and then take that information home with

them and use it as often as possible.

“Farming accidents are actually on the rise and the statistics are mind blowing as to how many farming accidents happen each year and children are involved in a portion

of those accidents,” said Lake. “It’s crucial that they use these life skills so they remember to be careful when they’re jumping off of a piece of farming equipment or even just mowing the grass.

“We want to keep

everything in mind, even if it’s as simple as what kind of shoes they’re going to wear.”

Lake noted how one of the more common accidents they talk to the kids about involve ATVs and how if you’re not careful there can

be serious consequences.

“If you’re at the lake in the summer or live on an acreage where ATVing is a big part of living in the Prairies, ATV rollovers are a big issue,” she said.

“So we stress wear-

ing a helmet when on an ATV or a bike, anything like that, and it’s a simple but powerful message.”

Farm Safety Day is taking place at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds on May 9.

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Fun in and out of the classroom

File Photo FROM PAGE 27

“We have a grain station, horses, pigs, dairy, beef and grain,” said Lake.

“There’s a lot of moving parts with that many kids coming through and we couldn’t do this without our volunteers. They’re rockstars that day.”

The volunteers at each station have a number of years of experience with Ag Education Day and Lake explained they love what they do to help the kids out.

“At each station the

volunteers explain the basics of what the stations about, so if it’s an animal station they’ll talk about what the baby or mom are called and how you feed and look after them, as well as how you can use their by-products.”

With seven exciting stations to tour through, Lake explained one of the most fun stations for the kids is the dairy station due to the artificial milkable cow they have on site.

“We fill the cow up with milk replacement and the kids get a

File Photo chance to milk the cow which they think is the absolute coolest thing and the looks on their faces are just priceless.

“At the chicken station, the kids also get the opportunity to hold real baby chicks.”

Ag Education Day is being held at the Lloydminster Exh on April 17.

File Photo

Thursday, March 14, 2019

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Southeast Asia trade mission to promote Saskatchewan’s agri-food strengths MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison is showcasing Saskatchewan’s dynamic

agri-food industry and associated trade and investment opportunities while strengthening existing relationships during a mission to Southeast

Asia this week.

Harrison left last Friday for a six-day trade mission (March 10-15) to Singapore and the Philippines (Manila). He is meet-

ing with a number of food processing and agriculture companies in both countries and encouraging them to purchase additional agricultural products from Saskatchewan suppliers while strengthening existing trade ties.

“Saskatchewan has what the world, and particularly Southeast Asia, needs, ‘food, fuel and fertilizer,’” Harrison said.

“Saskatchewan is a world-leading producer of sustainable food, fuel and fertilizer, which gives us the unique ability to work with South East Asia to enhance its food and energy security.”

The minister is using this mission to promote the new trade opportunities

with Saskatchewan and Canada that the recently signed Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTTP) affords Asian nations.

“

Saskatchewan has what the world, and particularly Southeast Asia, needs, ‘food, fuel and fertilizer.

He is also showcasing Saskatchewan’s leadership in agricultural biotechnology, life sciences and profile the province’s strong ties through immigration with the Philippines, and encourage companies based in Singapore and the Philippines to

invest in Saskatchewan.

“More than 31,000 newcomers from the Philippines have made Saskatchewan their new home in the last decade,” Harrison said. “I firmly believe that there is huge opportunity for increased trade between our province and the Philippines.

Historically, signifi c ant tr a d e o p p o r tu nities have followed such substantial population shifts.”

Saskatchewan has exported $7.9 billion worth of goods and services to Asia in 2017, including $1.2 billion to Singapore, the Philippines and the other member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

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Record crop insurance coverage for Saskatchewan producers in 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced enhancements to the 2019 Crop Insurance Program in late February.

Once again, Saskatchewan producers can access the highest coverage in program history as the Crop Insurance Program evolves and continues to adapt to the changing agricultural landscape in the province.

“Insurance-based

programs help to ensure farmers have the tools they need to maintain and grow their business,” said MacAulay. “Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, our government is working closely with provinces and territories to ensure we have business risk management programs that meet the needs of farmers.”

“By investing in sound risk management programming, we are providing a foundation for our agriculture industry to grow,” Marit said. “We want farmers to be innova-

tive, make sound business decisions, and propel the industry forward as agriculture continues to be a major driver of our provincial economy.”

On average, Crop Insurance coverage levels are increasing to a record $230 per acre, up from $216 per acre in 2018. The average coverage remains strong due to the success of Saskatchewan producers’ ongoing improvements in crop production with an increase in overall yields. Premiums have remained relatively steady, with the premium per acre only

slightly increased to an average of $8.61 per acre, up from $8.41 in 2018.

Producers faced ongoing challenges throughout the 2018 growing season. Excess moisture delayed seeding, dry conditions and localized flooding challenged summer growing, and early frost and snowfall delayed harvest. Compensation for producers is estimated to reach $300 million in claims.

Despite the challenging growing season, there continues to be a strong balance of funds allowing the Saskatch-

ewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) to keep premiums low for producers. There are a number of enhancements for the Crop Insurance Program in 2019.

SCIC continues to work with industry to ensure its programs are meeting the needs of producers and advancements in agriculture. SCIC understands no two farms are the same, which is why Crop Insurance offers coverage based on a producer’s own yields rather than the average of their area. A producer’s insurance pack-

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age can be custom-fit through a huge selection of price options, coverage levels and other program features to meet their own risk management needs.

“When the grass and hay don’t grow, when the weather doesn’t cooperate or when animals are lost to predators, farmers and ranchers need insurance programs to help them replace the feed and livestock they are expecting to have,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association District 5 Director Levi Hull said.

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Evolving to make sure you’re covered when needed FROM PAGE 31

“These programs help producers address those uncontrollable risks and provide some management tools. Combine the se programs with the price assurance of WLPIP and we are confident there is a full suite of insurance options available.”

Since 2015, SCIC has engaged with producers and the agriculture industry.

They identified insured values for grazing acres as the main priority, indicating coverage needs to more accurately represent the cost of replacing lost grazing production.

For 2019, insured values on tame and native grazing are significantly increased to better reflect the losses producers experience during a shortfall in forage production.

Another enhancement for forage and grain corn producers includes the introduc-

tion of the Corn Rainfall Program.

This program provides coverage against lack of moisture for corn acres.

Claims are triggered when precipitation is below 80 per cent of the long-term average at any of the weather stations across the province.

Corn acres grown for grain, grazing or silage are now eligible for protection through this new Corn Rainfall Program and the Corn Heat Unit Program.

Also new for 2019, both programs will provide an establishment benefit of $90 per acre on corn crops that fail to adequately establish or suffer damage before June 20.

“We appreciate the enhancements announced today to make forage insurance coverage more reflective of local precipitation conditions and forage production capacity,” Saskatchewan

Stock Growers Associat ion Zone 1 Chair Henry McCarthy said.

“These enhancements are a positive step in enabling producers to better manage their forage production risks.”

This year, 55 new weather stations will be added throughout the province to increase SCIC’s weather data network and to ensure the weather information captured is more reflective of the farms it represents.

Producers have more options to select a representative weather station for their pastureland, through the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program.

A larger selection of weather station options for corn acres is available through the Corn Rainfall Program and/or the Corn Heat Unit Program.

Almost all agricultural land in Saskatchewan will be within 30 kilometres of an eligible

weather station.

“SARM is pleased with the enhancements SCIC has announced to the suite of Crop Insurance Programs,” SARM Division 4 Director Harvey Malanowich said.

“We’ve been seeking many of the changes and have been active in t he Forage Insu rance working group.

We believe the addition of over 50 weather stations will enhance the Forage Rainfall Insurance and the new Corn Rainfall Programs and will equip farmers and ranchers in Saskatchewan to best inform their business decisions.”

SCIC also works closely with the Winter Cereal Development Commission.

Understanding the challenges fall weather conditions can have on seeding winter cereal crops, SCIC extended the fall seeding deadline to September 30.

This provides producers an additional 15 days to

File Photo be eligible for winterkill insurance when seeding fall rye and winter wheat.

March 31 is the deadline for producers to apply or make changes to their Crop Insurance contract.

SCIC has 21 offices across the province with knowledgeable staff who can help producers

review the range of features and options available to customize coverage to the needs of their operation.

Producers who prefer to do their business online are encouraged to use CropConnect to review coverage, options and make their insurance package selections.

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Safety on farms must be a priority CANADA SAFETY COUNCIL

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As society evolves, some professions come and go. For instance, there aren’t very many elevator operators in the world anymore.

Gone are the days of town criers. You won’t see many librarians organizing their microfiche catalogues, nor are VHS repair technicians in high demand.

On the other hand, other professions are evergreen, continuously in demand and vital even in the face of technological advancement.

And agriculture, it should go without saying, continues to be one of the most important industries in Canada.

To mark this year’s National Farm Safety Week, March 14 - 20, the Canada Safety Council wants to remind Canadians that fatalities and injuries on the farm are wholly preventable through pre-

emptive awareness and preparedness.

According to the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, overall fatality rates continue to be on the decline, at a rate of approximately 1.1 per cent year over year.

In 2012, the most recent year for which data is available, the industry saw 60 fatalities in Canada. This is down from 75 reported fatalities in 2011 and 91 in 2010.

Given the demographic of farmers, it should also come as no surprise that male adults continue to experience the highest fatality rates.

Between 2003 and 2012, men over the age of 15 accounted for roughly 83 per cent of all fatalities, with a fairly even split between men aged 15-59 and those aged 60 or older.

“The agricultural domain has tradition-

ally been a male-driven industry,” said Jack Smith, president of the Canada Safety Council.

“While this context explains the demographics a bit more logically, the fact remains that too many people continue to lose their lives on farms.

The statistics are trending in a positive direction - let’s keep building on that momentum and help prevent needless fatalities.”

This is not to diminish the importance of family-run farms, which tend to be fairly common. However, as the statistics show, the bulk of the fatalities are males.

Unsurprisingly, the bulk of these fatalities occur during the summer months, peaking in July and September, with rollovers being the leading cause of fatalities during this peak season.

They contributed

File Photo to 19 per cent of total fatalities between June and November.

Additionally, machinery rollovers, runovers and being pinned or struck by a component contributing to 44 per cent of overall fatalities year-round, putting emphasis on the importance of a healthy respect for agricultural machinery.

Reading the owner’s manual continues to be a farmer’s best asset.

With correct maintenance and operation, machines are inherently designed to keep their

users safe.

Trust that the manufacturer knows the best use for the machine and stick to it, even if it means taking the long way around rather than driving up a steep hill.

“Shortcuts too often lead to tragedy,” said Smith. “Safety isn’t a switch to be flicked on when it’s convenient.

It needs to be an attitude, a constant presence that pervades every action and every moment.”

Visual inspection before riding, preventative maintenance and

appropriate caution and judgment are all key components in ensuring the safety of anyone using a machine in the line of work.

And, of course, it’s crucial to ensure that machines in operation are given a wide berth by both adults and children.

Reaping the benefits of a hard farming season is a satisfying feeling, and the Canada Safety Council urges you to take steps to ensure you and your loved ones are alive to enjoy it. Happy harvesting!

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New chair and board members elected to the Canola Council of Canada

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Charlene Bradley has been elected the new Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canola Council of Canada (CCC). Bradley is vicechair of SaskCanola. She succeeds David Dzisiak who finished his twoyear term as chair and is stepping down from the

board as a director.

“On behalf of the board, I’d like to thank our outgoing board members David Dsiziak and Neil Arbuckle for their leadership and long-standing commitment to the canola industry,” says Bradley.

“We also warmly welcome three new directors as we continue to

work towards our Keep it Coming 2025 goals.”

New to the CCC Board of Directors are: - Garth Hodges, BASF, nominated by life science companies - Ryan Law, Bunge, nominated by the Canadian Oilseed Processors Association - Brad Orr, Corteva Agriscience, nominated

by life science companies To provide a strong voice for all segments of the industry, CCC directors are nominated by organizations representing growers, processors and exporters, as well as life science companies.

“Guided by our new work plan, and a strong and well-aligned value

chain and board, the Canola Council is wellpositioned to move the industry forward and respond to tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities,” says Bradley.

The new board was announced at the CCC’s Annual General Meeting held as part of the Canadian Crops Convention in Montreal.

The event also included the launch of the CCC’s 2018 annual report: The Power of Partnership as well as a presentation to the Honourable Gerry Ritz, recipient of a CCC Honourary Life Membership Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the canola industry.

Agricultural Safety Week proclaimed in Saskatchewan MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March 10-16, as Agricultural Safety Week in Saskatchewan.

“Self-care is a vital piece of farm safety,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said.

“This week serves as an important reminder to take care of ourselves by getting adequate

rest, taking breaks and being aware of dangerous areas where we work. Safety should be top of mind, because at the end of the day we all want to come home safely to our families.”

Each year, Saskatchewan’s Agricultural Safety Week is recognized in conjunction with Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, a partnership between

the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association and the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, as a way of raising awareness of on-farm safety issues.

“Regardless of the injury, safety is the responsibility of everyone,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “We encourage everyone to keep

their mind on the task at hand and think about safety in everything that you do.”

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is focused on creating safe and strong farms by empowering farmers, farm families and farming communities to build, grow, and lead the agricultural industry in safety and sustainability.

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A flower show within a garden festival GREEN FILE MARK & BEN CULLEN

Canada Blooms runs until March 17. While the amazing feature gardens receive a lot of attention and praise, the Flower Show is equally amazing, for different reasons.

The Garden Club of

Toronto, a volunteer organization that has been dedicated to promoting the benefits of horticulture for more than 75 years, provides all the inspiration and horsepower for this multi-faceted section of the festival program.

Amateurs only Imagine, over 600 floral design and

indoor plant entries.

This is by far the biggest show of its’ kind in the country. All entries are made by amateur gardeners and many of them are grown on windowsills just like yours.

All entries are judged by trained, certified panelists with prizes awarded to winners in each of the five day displays plus a

grand prize for the best entries over the tenday life of the festival.

“

Imagine, over 600 floral design and indoor plant entries. This is by far the biggest show of its’ kind in the country.

All entries are made by amateur gardeners and many of them are grown on windowsills just like yours

Global Floral Artists Be sure to look for the outstanding floral designs in the “International” category. Competitors from India, Barbados, France, England, U.S. and of course Canada are on display

down the main aisle of the festival. Once again, you may be distracted by the feature gardens and many other visual treats as you wonder down this aisle. Be sure to stop and observe the high standards of artistry and craftmanship in each of these 10 international floral arrangements.

This is the only international juried flower show of its kind in Canada. In the past, some of the Canadian winners of this competition have gone on to compete in the “Worlds”, and several have won gold.

New – Floral Artist of the Year This year, 20 flower arranging competitors, both amateurs and professionals, compete Friday, March 15th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the festival floor. This is a public competition for all visitors to see in an

“imposed competition”, which is floral-code for “every competitor receives the exact same plant material to work with”. Certified judges will determine who will be the next Canada Blooms Floral Artist of the Year.

We think this sounds a lot like the makings of a new TV reality show, and you can be there in person.

Volunteers Canada Blooms relies on volunteers to make it tick and the Floral Hall, Floral Walk and all the entries in the amateur floral categories are no exception. All are organized and planned by volunteers, 600 in all.

Think about that: 12 bus loads of unpaid people, dedicated to creating the most exciting and colourful display for us to enjoy.

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Blooming to life this spring

FROM PAGE 38

Why do they do it?

We are sure that the answer is different for each person that volunteers. However, we have no doubt that there is a common goal of creating beauty using what Mother Nature provides us.

That, and the opportunity to work together with myriad people from every walk of life and age group. Ben volunteers with the Design Committee, which is charged with the task of making each edition of Canada Blooms different and exciting.

He reports, “It is incredible, the creative output I have witnessed from this team over the nine months leading up to the festival – original output by experienced horticulturalists.”

Canada Blooms is a festival, not a show.

Unlike other public events of this kind, Canada Blooms is a not-for-profit organization owned and managed by two not-forprofits: The Garden Club of Toronto and Landscape Ontario, our professional trade organization.

As you indulge yourself in the colour, fragrance and artistry of this amazing event be mindful that none of it would happen without the enthusiastic participation of volunteers.

While they do what they do for the love of gardening, they also do it for us – the attendees.

It takes a lot of planning, talent and passion to pull off something this special.

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 Uni-

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Supplied Photo versity of Guelph and Dalhousie University

in Halifax. Follow them at markcullen.com, @

markcullengardening, on Facebook and bi-

weekly on Global TV’s National Morning Show.

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$5.5M in funding to go to livestock research MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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To kick off 2019, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay and Saskatche-

wan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced more than $5.5 million in funding for 34 livestock and forage-related research projects through Sas-

katchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) and the Strategic Field Program (SFP).

The ADF and SFP are supported through

File Photo the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $388 million investment in strategic initiatives for Saskatchewan agriculture by the federal and provincial governments.

“Our government supports the growth of an innovative, competitive, and marketoriented Canadian agriculture sector,” MacAulay said. “This funding will allow for vital advancements in agricultural research that will support new discoveries in our livestock and forage industries that will bene-

fit farmers, producers, and agribusinesses in Saskatchewan and all across the country.”

“By funding research here in Saskatchewan, we’re not only committing to the biosciences sector, we’re investing in the future of our producers and agribusinesses,” Marit said. “ADF support is granted to projects that focus on areas of concern to Saskatchewan producers, and by supporting this research we’re investing in the future of our industry.”

Support from the

ADF is awarded on a competitive basis to projects that create future growth opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of the industry.

Projects funded through the ADF have gone on to create new knowledge and technologies that benefit farmers and ranchers, food processors and agribusinesses. From enhancing biosecurity, to improved vaccines, to breeding forage varieties beneficial for Saskatchewan soil, the projects supported through the ADF aim to improve Saskatchewan agriculture.

Under the SFP, funding is available for rigorous field level demonstrations and/or the evaluation of targeted practices and technologies, which will support extension delivery while advancing the objectives of the industry.

The initial project supported under this program will be confirming guidelines for beef cattle consumption of sulphate in drinking water. The research is being conducted at the University of Saskatchewan’s Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence.

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Investing in the future of the ag industry

FROM PAGE 40

“This project is exactly the type of work the Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence is designed to support – tackling the challenges of the agriculture sector,” University of Saskatchewan Livestock and Forage Centre of cxcellence director Kris Ringwall said. “The research will provide clear and meaningful results that are sciencebased. Livestock producers, by incorporating the new guidelines into their operations, will be expanding their management options and, in turn, increasing the livestock sector’s revenue.”

The ADF projects supported this year will examine a variety of areas of interest to producers, including: developing enhanced biosecurity and animal welfare measures for livestock in transit by improving the design of the trailers they are transported in, determining if eartip necrosis in pigs is an infectious disease and monitoring postfire recovery of forages on native grasslands.

In addition to funds committed by the federal and provincial governments, the ADF is also supported by industry groups and other organizations. Live-

stock and forage projects are also receiving more than $320,000 from the following organizations: The Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board, Alberta Beef Producers, the Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission and the Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission.

“These investments will benefit the beef sector, and a prosperous beef sector will help grow Saskatchewan’s economy,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association chair Rick Toney said. “We want to build upon the

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File Photo industry’s competitiveness by advanc-

ing beef and forage production methods

through research and innovations.”

19033CN0 19033CN1

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Report details farmer insurance needs and availabilty in Canada T

he Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) today released its report, “Safety & Health Insurance Available and Farmer Insurance Needs.”

This first-of-its-kind report examines health

and disability available to Canadian farmers.

“The report was commissioned in order to gain a better understanding of what insurance farmers can access and to identify any gaps in that insurance,” said CASA executive director Marcel Hacault.

The report underscores the availability of health insurance through both provincial farm organizations and from insurance carriers. Nearly all provincial farm organizations across Canada offer health insurance plans to their members.

The report also details the uptake of the provincial farm health insurance plans to be fairly low, from as much as 5 per cent of members, to as low as under 1 per cent.

“We were surprised to find that insurance plans are readily available to farmers through

farm groups and other means,” said Hacault.

The report also recommends comparing farmer health insurance uptake to that of other small businesses.

Expense, complexity, and employee retention are all factors that small businesses, including farms, contend with in making

decisions on purchasing health insurance.

Other highlights of the report include: - Mental Health insurance coverage is a significant unmet need.

- Disability insurance is needed but is undervalued by farmers.

File Photo

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Canola Council expresses confidence in quality of Canadian product

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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At the Canadian Crops Convention in Montreal, the Canola Council of Canada met with Canada’s Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister, Marie-Claude Bibeau and with Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to stress the importance and urgency of

responding to China’s decision to restrict imports of Canadian canola from one company amid concerns about certain pests.

“The canola value chain is concerned about how Chinese restrictions impact our growers and the entire industry,” says Jim Everson, president of the Canola Council.

“It’s important to resolve the issue quickly so we can resume stable trade that benefits both countries.”

Minister Bibeau indicated that China’s decision to suspend canola seed exports from one company remains a top priority of the Government of Canada.

Plant health experts are working with China to resolve concerns raised about pests as soon as possible.

“If China’s concern is with specific quality issues, we should be able to resolve it quickly,” says Everson. “ We have f u ll confidence in the quality of Canadian canola exports and our quality assurance systems.”

Demand for highquality oil and protein remains strong in China, and Canada

remains a reliable and sustainable supplier of food to the Chinese market.

China is an important market for Canada’s canola industry, as approximately 40% of our exports of canola and canola products ar e consu me d t he r e .

According to Statistics Canada, 2018 canola seed exports to China were worth $2.7 billion.

The Canola Council of Canada is a full value chain organization representing canola growers, processors, life science companies and exporters.

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Keep it Coming 2025 is the strategic plan to ensure the canola industry’s continued growth, demand, stability and success – achieving 52 bushels per acre to meet global market demand of 26 million metric tonnes by the year 2025.

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Livin’ in a deep freeze PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

Enough of living life in a deep freeze!

Day after day, incessantly cold weather causes problems for both man and beast, and we here on the farm were no exception.

“

Even the barn was not warm enough when one calf was born on a desperately cold day when Bill found him shivering pitifully in the straw, shortly after birth

Let’s hope it keeps warming up and spring soon appears on the horizon.

Along with frozen pipes, livestock waterers and equipment failure, frigid temperatures are also hard on animals.

Even the barn was not warm enough when one calf was born on a desperately cold day when Bill found him shivering pitifully in the straw, shortly after birth.

Wrapping him in a blanket, Bill carried him into the farmhouse, laid him carefully near the heat and rubbed him down vigorously so he could dry off and warm up.

Happily, this did him a world of good and he was up and looking for

milk in no time.

Wild animals aren’t as fortunate. Long, cold winters can be very hard on deer and moose populations.

Out in Manitoba, my uncle, and others that live in their tiny village have taken to feeding a group of about seven deer.

They scatter apples, carrots and oats in their backyards and then keep an eye trained toward the windows, hoping to catch sight of the animals as they steal silently in to nibble under cover of darkness.

I have to admit I expressed a certain amount of distrust over my Uncle-hunter extraordinaire-Don’s true intentions.

I may very well have cast the word “baiting” into our conversation, but he hastened to assure me this was not the case.

Like many people who hunt, he respects and loves nature. He would never abuse it.

Also thanks to the stupid cold, one other, horrible situation arose which I must relate in an effort to somehow purge its memory.

It involves our German Shepard, Chili, the dog who chewed a gaping hole through the wall while inside recovering from a broken leg.

The same dog who trod heavily across my stomach looking for

treats while I lay prostrate on the ground with a bad back.

The identical hound that dropped a dripping lump of partially gnawed cat crap into my waiting palm one dark and dreadful night.

During the extreme cold, we keep Chili in the house while we’re at work (after allowing her a good long run in the morning and another at noon).

On this day, however, we unlocked the front door to find her prancing joyfully amid clouds of a most putrid stench which stained the air with a greenish hue.

Oh no.

I followed these palpable fumes around a corner and – horrors – into my writing room.

There, at one end of a lovely area rug, I’d purchased (at no small expense) was a vast , brown, steaming, pile of poop the size of a small badger!

(Don’t argue with me people. It was HUGE.) Also, in some bizarre attempt to punctuate her success, she squatted a further five times across the muted paisley patterns of my carpeting to fully evacuate the remainder of her bowels.

AHH! Thankfully, we managed to air-lift the carpet out the door and into the snow where it now lies rigid and lumpish; the stark, frozen reminder of a glacial day and a dog’s innards.

What better representation of a bloody cold winter could you have?

What happens when you don’t advertise?

Very little.

News Media Canada Médias d’Info Canada

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FROM AROUND THE PROVINCE

Clean tech innovation cuts emissions, creates jobs MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Alberta’s Climate Leadership Plan is helping major industries reduce emissions and create jobs while cutting costs and becoming

more competitive.

Emissions Reduction Alberta is funding more than a dozen new clean technology projects across the province, while Energy Efficiency Alberta is support19033BG0 19033BG1

ing small and mediumsized oil and gas companies to reduce methane emissions through upgrades.

“Innovation is a key part of Alberta’s economic and environmental success, and our industries continue to show tremendous leadership,” said Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks and Minister responsible for the Climate Change Office.

“Clean technology investments lead to made-in-Alberta solutions that support jobs, protect our environment, and point Alberta toward a healthy, prosperous future.”

From Fort McMurray to Waterton, 16 innovative clean technology projects will receive funding through Emmisions Reduction Alberta’s (ERA) $100-million Biotechnology, Electricity and Sustainable Transportation (BEST) Challenge –

File Photo the largest challenge in ERA’s history.

These projects have a combined value of $600 million and the potential to reduce a total of 2.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 – the same as taking 530,700 cars off the road. These projects will also result in 114 new jobs.

“Our BEST Challenge is about accelerating the most promising clean technology solutions across multiple sec-

tors – from new solar opportunities in coalimpacted communities to efficient fleet solutions,” said Emissions Reduction Alberta CEO Steve MacDonald.

“These projects will be a showcase for innovative technologies that can be adopted in communities across Alberta.

They support economic growth, community health and demonstrate environmental leadership on a national and global scale.”

The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) is working to develop and demonstrate a 700-kilometreplus-range zero emission truck. These trucks will reduce greenhouse gas emissions through improved fuel efficiency of the fuel cell hybrid drivetrain. Sequestering carbon at the hydrogen generation facility will result in even greater emissions reductions.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

Amazing Graze Healthy stands of forage are the answer to many a farmer’s prayer.

It serves as a consistent grazing source, prevents soil erosion, retains nutrients and contributes to a better bottom line for farms. The 2019 Forage Program from Ducks Unlimited Canada and Nutrien Ag SolutionsTM is available 19032DD0 now and features the extensive line-up of Proven® Seed forage varieties.

This could be the miracle you’ve been waiting for.

Get $100 per 50lb bag back on forage seed.

For more information contact Bryon Wolters Z 780-581-8396 Z b_wolters@ducks.ca ducks.ca/resources/landowners

Proven® Seed is a registered trademark of Nutrien Ag Solutions (Canada) Inc. Nutrien Ag Solutions™ and Design is a trademark of Nutrien Ag Solutions, Inc.

Thursday, March 14, 2019

FROM AROUND THE PROVINCE

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Killam RCMP charge two men for string of copper wire and fuel thefts in Flagstaff County MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Killam and Viking RCMP responded to a break and enter in progress at an oil field site in Flagstaff County.

Two males were arrested following a search in an open field for a white Dodge truck.

The arrest would not have been possible without the assis-

tance of three Flagstaff County locals.

Gregory Bader, age 41 of Red Deer, was charged with three counts of break and enter to commit, five counts of mischief over $5000, one count of theft over $5000, one count of theft under $5000, two attempted thefts, one count of possessing break-in instruments, one count of prowling

at a dwelling house, five counts of breaching conditions of his recognizance, one count of breach of probation order and five counts for trespassing.

Fernando Barrett, age 41 of Grande Prairie, was charged with one count of breaking and entering with intent to commit an indictable offence, one count of possessing break-in instru-

ments for the purpose of committing and indictable offence, one count of trespassing and three counts of breaching conditions of his recognizance.

Both suspects were held for a bail hearing and remanded to custody shortly thereafter.

The white Dodge Ram had been the subject of many complaints from January

11, 2019 until March 6, 2019 for causing damages, stealing fuel and stealing copper wire at four different locations involving oil lease site s and business and residence.

Furthermore, the subjects also attempted to steal fuel at a residence and completed the offence of fuel theft at a business. The estimated value of damages caused is between

$100 000 – $200 000.

Killam RCMP would like to thank the public for actively being on the lookout for this vehicle and suspicious activity over the past two months.

The arrest of these two individuals would not have been possible without all of the public’s tips, calls of suspicious activity and assistance in apprehending them safely.

The future with the use of clean technology FROM PAGE 46

“This is a very exciting project for the AMTA and our member companies. This initiative is primarily about moving freight on Alberta’s highways with zero emissions, but it is also about the future of the Alberta economy,” said Chris Nash, president, Alberta Motor Transport Association.

“Alberta is in the transportation fuel business, and that business is changing. The AZETEC project demonstrates that Alberta’s commercial

transportation industry is leading the transitio n to w ards inno vative, zero-emission transportation that meets the province’s unique needs.”

Another funding recipient, eCAMION, is working on a project to transition Alberta’s buses from diesel to electric. Its first-ofa-kind charging system could lower installation an d o p e rat in g c o st s, encouraging broader and faster adoption across the province. eCAMION will partner with the City of Edmonton on a trial of its fastcharge technology.

Government is providing an additional $5 million to support the continued success of Energy Efficiency Alberta’s (EEA) popular $10-million Methane Emissions Reduction initiative.

The program has alr ead y mad e it easier for 30 small and medium-sized oil and gas companies to address methane waste through energyefficient equipment upgrades, which also helps facilities hire more staff, reduce annual emissions and boost competitiveness.

To date, 2,534 appli-

cations are approved, with at least 1,500 more anticipated by March 31.

“Through methane-reduction education and deployment

of existing technologies, companies ultimately have the ability to become more competitive and efficient,” Monica Curtis, CEO, Energy Efficiency

Alberta.

“This announcement will result in a great collaboration to further our methane-reduction programming for the oil and gas sector.”

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FROM AROUND THE PROVINCE

Historic agreement protects northern boreal forest MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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The newly created Kitaskino Nuwenëné Wildland conserves natural landscapes and watersheds while sup-

porting traditional Indigenous uses and sustainable development.

The wildland will preserve more than 160,000 hectares of land just south of Wood

Buffalo National Park, protecting the PeaceAthabasca watershed and increasing ecological int e gr it y and habitat for species at risk such as woodland caribou and the Ronald Lake Bison herd.

Kitaskino Nuwenëné means “our land” in both Cree and Dene.

“This is a truly remarkable accomplishment and I’m thrilled that indust ry , government and Indigenous communities worked together to make this boreal protection plan a reality,” said Alberta Minister of Environment and Parks Shannon Phillips.

“The Kitaskino Nuwenëné Wildland will help sustain local wildlife, protect critical watersheds and ensure the exercise of treaty rights and traditional uses for future generations to come.”

Initially proposed

by Mikisew Cree First

19033NP0 19033NP1

File Photo Nation, the wildland will safeguard their way of life while addressing concerns raised in a 2016 UNESCO report on Wood Buffalo National Park. It adds to the largest contiguous area of boreal protected land in the world.

“I am excited to be working together with the Province of Alberta, Mikisew Cree First Nation, industry partners and other Indigenous communities on this Quick Start project as part of Canada’s Nature Legacy,”

said federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna.

“This is a great example of what can happen when we work together to protect important habitats for species at risk, like caribou and bison. This is an important milestone in creation and conservation which will help us reach our goal of doubling the amount of nature we’re protecting in Canada’s lands and oceans.”

By voluntarily relinquishing oilsands

and mining leases in response to Indigenous Peoples’ concerns, industry champions Teck, Cenovus Energy and Imperial played a vital role in securing the land base for the new wildland.

Previously proposed as the Biodiversity Stewardship Area, the new wildland is the result of months of collaborative discussion between Indigenous groups, industry and other stakeholders, and federal and provincial governments, as well as public consultation.

19033TS1 19033TS2

Thursday, March 14, 2019

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Better protecting consumers with bill of rights MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

A new document will boost consumer confidence by educating Albertans about their rights when making a purchase.

“

We know that educated consumers are confident consumers. The Consumer Bill of Rights will help educate people making purchases in Alberta

The one-of-akind Consumer Bill of Rights follows four years of work to strengthen consumer protection rules in Alberta. The simple two-page document is the first of its kind in Canada. It summarizes the main protections in the Consumer Protection Act into an easyto-digest format that will help people understand their rights, be protected from potential financial losses and know where to turn if they’re treated unfairly.

“We know that educated consumers are confident consumers.

The Consumer Bill of Rights will help educate people making purchases in Alberta,” said Minister of Service Alberta Brian Malkinson.

“It’s another exam-

ple of how our government is standing up for everyday Albertans.

From cracking down on payday lending to banning door-to-door energy sales and ticket bots, we’ve spent four years beefing up consumer protection in Alberta.

This new Consumer Bill of Rights is a step forward that ties together much of our recent work on this file.”

The Consumer Bill of Rights can be viewed online, and businesses are encouraged to print the document and share it with consumers.

The government’s consumer protection record includes: Consumer protection laws Strengthened protections in areas consumers said were the highest priority including: - Banning the use of ticket-buying bots and improved consumer access to refunds from resellers.

- Introducing industry-wide standards for vehicle sales and repairs to improve accountability in the sector and better protect consumers from unexpected or unauthorized charges.

- Introducing a licensing framework for high-cost lenders to ensure responsible op erations and help consumers better understand the nature of high-cost credit products.

Payday lending Put an end to 600 per cent interest rates on payday loans to help prevent people from becoming trapped in a cycle of debt.

Today, payday loan borrowers pay lower fees, have more time to pay off their loans and are paying them off in smaller installments.

Door-to-door sales Put an end to misleading, aggressive sales t act ics by banning door-to-door sale of energy products and services. The ban includes furnaces, hot water tanks, air conditioners, windows, energy audits, and electricity and natural gas contracts.

advocate’s ability to report on the perfor-

mance of gas and electricity companies to

help consumers make well-informed choices.

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Electricity price cap Introduced a price cap to make life more affordable and ensure electricity bills are fair and reasonable.

New home buyer protection Introduced a builder licensing framework to protect consumers as well as the reputation of good builders.

Condominium living Introduced condo regulations to improve buying and living in a condo.

Utilities Consumer Advocate Expanded the advocate’s free mediation services to water bills and improved the

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Thursday, March 14, 2019

FROM AROUND THE PROVINCE

MERIDIAN SOURCE

New provincial crime watch system launched in Saskatchewan

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

Saskatchewan residents located in the southern part of the province have a new way to get information about criminal activity in their area directly from the RCMP. RCMP detachment commanders will use the Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network to send text messages, emails or phone calls to residents.

People can sign up and choose how they would like to get these advisories.

The Government of Saskatchewan is providing approximately $50,000 for the RCMP to initially launch this system in southern Saskatchewan.

The RCMP will evaluate the effectiveness of the program and the possibility of using it

across Saskatchewan.

“We know that people across our province want information to help keep their family and home safe,” said Corrections and Policing Minister Christine Tell.

“The Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network allows people to get reliable information right from the RCMP.” “When an RCMP detachment becomes aware of an incident or crime, they can issue an advisory via the system and local residents who have signed up for the program will become aware of what happened,” said Saskatchewan RCMP Commanding Officer Assistant Commissioner Mark Fisher.

“Equipped with this information, citizens will be in a better position to provide tips and

51

File Photo information to their local RCMP.” “We want rural residents to feel safe in our communities,” Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities President Ray Orb

said.

“With the reinvigoration of Rural Crime Watch Associations in the province and the addition of the Provincial Response Team, this mass notification

system adds to the basket of tools and peace of mind for our members.”

“By receiving advisories and reporting crimes or suspicious activities, residents can help foster

resilient hometowns that actively prevent crime, enhancing public safety,” Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association President Gordon Barnhart said.

PAGE 52 Thursday, March 14, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

White belt accomplishes the incredible JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

Sporting a clever smile, she ambled into the small and cluttered dojo office perfectly aware of the reason for being called yet somewhat embarrassed of her recent feat.

Lloydminster Art of Taekwondo and Kung Fu club athlete Sofiia Ozymchuk wasn’t supposed to be the star.

After all, the 10-yearold only took up martial arts six months ago.

But, sometimes desire and dedication take precedence over inexperience. Ozymchuk proved that true during the World Karate Championships (WKC) Western Provincial Open at Edmonton’s Sportsdome on March 2 when she bested the competition for a bronze and two gold medals in her foray into tournament action.

“She is an incredibly hard worker,” said Eliza Ma, Art of Taekwondo and Kung Fu club owner and coach.

“She works through the entire class. She asks what can I improve on, what can I do better. I know I didn’t do this right, so let me work harder at it.”

Ozymchuk captured a bronze medal in hand form during the early stages of the Western Provincial Open. She reached

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Lloydminster Art of Taekwondo athletes, back row from left, Tristan German, Patrick Sillito, Calum Burry, Lucas Van Assem; middle row, Naomi Brand, Owen Bondy, Ryleigh Taylor, Reigan Phillips, Zane Burry, coach Eliza Ma; front row, Zoenela Herath, Sofiia Ozymchuk and Rachel Brand, missing is Elena Brand and Noah Graf, captured a combined 24 medals at the World Karate Championships Western Provincial Open earlier this month.

the top of the podium, and subsequently earned a berth at the WKC Canadian finals, for musical weapons shortly afterwards and then finished the competition with a gold medal showing in nonmusical.

The white belt said

nerves were getting the better of her in the days and final moments leading up to the tournament, but that evaporated and excitement moved in once she stepped into the arena.

Winning a bronze medal for hand forms then came as a nice

surprise, she noted, but there were still no ideas of bringing home gold.

“I saw that people got second and third and (I thought) am I the first one,” said Ozymchuk, a Grade 5 student at Father Gorman Community School.

“I’m standing there

and I feel so weird and then they’re saying Sofiia Ozymchuk got first place. I’m almost crying, but I’m still standing there (thinking) I should not cry. It should be good. Then when they gave me the medal, we bowed out and I’m walking back

and I was crying. I’m c r y i ng o u t o f e xc i t e ment because I didn’t really expect that I would get first place in my first tournament. I was happy.”

Ma said the club entered 14 athletes and brought home 24 medal s f ro m th e to u rna ment. She said Ozymchuk, Zoenela Herath, Rachel Brand and Naomi Brand qualified for the WKC Canadian finals thanks to their strong showing at the competition despite only finding out about its earlier-than-usual date in late December.

Training for a tournament normally takes three months, noted Ma, but the kids stepped up to the challenge and worked hard since the Christmas break to get ready. She added this was evidenced by Ozymchuk who regularly spent two-to-three hours four days a week practising at the club.

“She was very proud (of winning gold), but she should be,” said Ma. “Six months learning three different martial arts, for even someone my age that is ridiculously hard, and she’s 10. And it’s her first tournament after six months. So, placing with gold in two of her divisions and (also winning a) bronze, well that’s incredible.”

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Rookies wrap up Intro to Hockey season

The Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association Intro to Hockey program held their wrapup event at the Servus Sports Centre on Saturday morning. The program helped 48 four-year-old budding hockey stars learn the game during the 2018-19 November to March season.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

LYUET Photography

Brayden Halter steps onto the ice before the Intro to Hockey Black and White game.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Team White’s Saylor Neron carries the puck while under the pursuit of Team Black’s Kyler Kimberley.

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Steelers earn provincial berth Lloydminster Junior Steelers forward Rayna Franklin breaks into the S h e r w o o d Pa r k Royals zone. The Steelers earned a 2-1 series win against the Royals this past weekend and will move on to play in the A l b e r t a Fe m a l e H o c ke y L e a g u e provincial championships in Red Deer from March 21 to 24.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

Maybe it’s time to get off my duff and walk around SPORTS EDITOR JAMIE HARKINS

Here is a solution for those wanting to get off their duff while at the office.

You can thank me

later by writing a letter to your respective MLA, premier and MP as well as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the need for making St. Patrick’s Day a national holiday.

Then, don’t feel bad

about calling in sick the next day because you won’t actually be lying.

The fix is rather simple in its undertaking and completion, which is lucky for my purposes consider-

ing that’s about what I aim for with every task.

After all, I’m pretty sure the best advice is there’s no need to over think.

Get up and walk around at work.

We all have comfy chairs to sit on and desks to remain at in the Meridian Source office. There is no actual need to personally speak to or see anyone because they’re an email away.

Are we really that busy where instead of getting up and walking 10 feet to talk to someone, we just send them an email instead? Don’t get me wrong because

I like emails for some purposes, but I do hate holding a conversation with someone through text.

They send you something and you take your time contemplating what your unnatural answer should be.

Then they contemplate and send you back a measured response to this too thought-out answer.

Nothing actually gets done and lots of time and thought is wasted all to avoid the few moments it would take to just get up and say, ‘hey, buddy, I got an idea.’

If the thought isn’t

your cup of tea, the natural response given would be to stop it in its tracks or at least let the giver know your atthe-moment feelings toward it.

Of course, I have initially disagreed with a lot of helpful comments given by others toward my work and general day-to-day lifestyle choices only to understand later that maybe my mom and dad, teachers, co-workers and friends were right after all.

Anyway, I’m sorry about that. However, shouldn’t St. Paddy’s Day be a Canadian holiday?

19032MM0 Share in the heritage & pride of the Métis people!

Bring your family & friends to this FREE province-wide showcase of Métis culture, talent, and history. Come for the jigging & fiddling, stay for the stew & bannock!

To find a celebration in your area visit:

SATURDAY MARCH 23

AlbertaMetis.com

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

The Lloydminster Superior Propane atom Blazers, with back row from left, Karter Dougan, Karlei Canfield, Maeve Smith, Peyton Oborowsky, Haven Schlosser, Ryanne Durovick, Kirsten Ross; front row, Brittney Bassett, London Mann, Addison Moore, Alexandra Firus, Taryn Miskiw, Sammy Holman, Addison Lypkie and Annika Aggarwal, will compete for a provincial championship in Medicine Hat this weekend.

Blazers ready for provincials JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

The Lloydminster Superior Propane atom Blazers are provincial bound.

The Blazers earned the opportunity to compete against Alberta’s best this Thursday to Sunday at Medicine Hat by posting a 3-1 record during a provincial play-downs tournament in the Border City late last month.

The girls entered play-downs as the topranked team in the East Central Alberta Female Hockey League thanks to a 15-1-2 regular season record.

Blazers right wing Kirsten Ross said good passing and strong depth throughout the lineup has led to this year’s success.

De f e nc e man Ry anne Durovick added they work together to get

Longtime sponsor

R’ohan Rig Services owner Graham Holmedal drops the puck during a ceremonial faceoff between R’ohan minor midget Bobcats captain Matthew Swanson and the Luduc Oil Kings Blake Roche. The Bobcats honoured their longtime sponsor before the start of this past weekend’s Alberta Minor Midget Hockey League North Cup tournament with a gameworn R’ohan Rage jersey.

Jamie Harkins Meridian Source

the job done with great chemistry proving their biggest advantage once the puck is dropped.

“We all do team stuff out of the rink too,” said Blazers centre Peyton Oborowsky.

“And when we practise we figure out what we’re good at, so then we can use that in our games.”

Blazers coach Justin Aggarwal noted the girls have put in a lot of effort this season to reach their goal of making the provincial championships.

He said they’ve also taken the lead at several team builders off the ice including volunteer work over the Christmas break when the girls donated their time to raise funds for less fortunate families in Lloydminster.

“It’s rewarding to be a part of helping these

young ladies become better hockey players and, more importantly, great kids,” said Aggarwal.

“It’s been a lot of fun to be a part of and we’re not done yet.

Hopefully, we can represent Lloyd female hockey well at provincials.”

Durovick said they’re practising hard and completing a lot of game-use drills to get ready for this weekend’s competition.

She said the tournament should be their toughest of the year, but they’re prepared to leave everything on the ice in order to come home with a medal.

“It’s very exciting,” said Ross. “I think my mom is more excited than us though. She’s ‘I probably won’t sleep tonight it’s so exciting.’”

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“9 in 10 Canadians read newspapers each week in print, on websites, tablets and phones.” newspaperscanada.ca

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

Raiders earn shot at an ASAA title JAMIE HARKINS WRITER

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

Stingrays bring home gold

Border City Stingrays synchronized swimming club athletes, from left, Jaiva Bajema, Haley Wickham-Cross and Makenna Campbell captured a gold medal in the ages 16-20 team event during the Diane Lemon Invitational Meet at Regina’s Lawson Aquatic Centre on Saturday. Bajema also won a gold in the ages 13-15 solo event and Wickham-Cross took first place in the ages 16-20 solo competition. The Stingrays brought home 12 medals from the Invitational Meet.

Submitted

This season’s toughest test is staring down the Holy Rosary High School (HRHS) Raiders senior girls basketball team.

The Raiders will compete against the province’s top clubs for an Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA) championship at Athabasca’s Edwin Parr Composite School this Thursday to Saturday. The girls enter the 12-team tournament as the eighth seed and will

Submitted

The Holy Rosary High School Raiders senior girls basketball team captured the Northeast zone 3A championship on the weekend and will play for a ASAA title this Thursday to Saturday.

start the competition against the ninth-place Beaverlodge Regional High School Royals.

“We played them once before,” said Raiders post Kira Enstrom. “We lost to them, but we’re hoping now that it’s the end of the season we can play our best game.

If we play our best we can come out with a win.”

Joshua Lyons, head coach of the Raiders, said the province’s No. 1 ranked Taber W.R. Myers High School Rebels awaits the winner of that opening contest. He said most of the teams that will be competing at provincials also participated in a tournament at Wetask-

iwin last month, which they finished with a consolation final loss to Alberta’s fifth-place Morinville Community High School Wolves.

“

There was never a lull throughout the whole game and we finished strong.

“That was a real standard setter,” said Lyons.

“It was a benchmark for us to sort of see where we’re at and carry those challenges and that growth into the zone tournament. We put it all together. I think we played as well as we

have all season.”

The Raiders went 3-0 during the ASAA Northeast zone 3A girls finals at Fort McMurray’s Westwood Community School this past weekend. They kicked off the tournament with an 84-11 win against the Bonnyville Centralized High School Roadrunners on Friday, beat the Lac La Biche J.A. Williams High School Jaws 50-32 later that evening and stopped the St. Paul Regional High School Saints 59-44 in the championship match the following afternoon.

“We played really good throughout the whole tournament,” said Angela Erni, a point guard for the Raiders. “We were engaged in all of our games, we did our best and we played really hard because we knew that if we didn’t win that would have been our last tournament as a team. So, we wanted it even more and I think it really showed in our final game. We played the full 40. There never was a lull throughout the whole game and we finished strong.”

Erni said lots of hustle, strong teamwork and staying on an even keel have helped them build a winning culture this year. She said they’ll now put their best game on the court at the ASAA championships in order to take advantage of the opportunity to bring home a provincial title.

“It’s just really awesome to see our hard work pay off in the end,” said Enstrom.

“This is what we’ve been working for all season.”

PAGE 57 Thursday, MARCH 14, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Real Estate

The role of bank-owned properties in the market MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

There has always been a perception bank owned property presents an opportunity for buyers that other homes don’t.

To some extent, this is true but there are some cautionary notes as well.

But first, to what extent do foreclosures play in our market today?

Well, as mentioned in a column several weeks ago, in the last six months of 2018 nine per cent of the houses sold in Lloydminster were bank owned.

By contrast, of the 20 closed sales in February in the city, five were foreclosures.

Appraisers tell me this level of activity cannot be ignored when using comparable sales when placing a value on other property.

It can’t help but negatively impact the perceived worth of owneroccupied homes.

However, there may be some hope in sight, as of the 56houses listed for sale last month on MLS only four were bank owned.

All bank-owned properties are sold “as is” with no warranties or disclosures so it is very important buyers have no illusions about hidden problems not evident in a cursory viewing and do their diligence.

There are also vast differences between lenders in how they treat families experiencing financial distress.

Some try hard to find a way to work with the borrower as long as there is ongoing respectful two-way communication.

In one court-ordered sale, the former owner was allowed to stay in the home with an undertaking they keep it

heated and maintained until a buyer is found.

A sensible short-term solution to a difficult situation.

I find some of our large chartered banks, and their insurers, CMHC and Genworth, to be the most insensitive.

These files are handled with military precision sometimes showing little common sense or compassion.

One large law firm out of Regina seems to have no heart at all. In fact, I got so annoyed with their policies I successfully filed a complaint with the Law Society of Saskatchewan.

They got their hands slapped for their actions, but it didn’t substantially change how they represented their chartered bank client.

And when I encountered them again in a future transaction, they made sure my clients and I were treated with minimum courtesy.

Our team works with both provincial Court systems, three credit unions, and a range of other lenders.

The best ones understand there is a need for flexibility in marketing a foreclosed property.

They have dedicated property managers who make sure the home is clean, heated, and the exterior maintained.

In a winter like this, we don’t want potential buyers to have to wade through snow banks in -30C weather to view a property.

When a buyer achieves financing and wants to conduct a home inspection, these same lenders ensure the water is turned back on, so there are no surprises later.

In other words, they care about their reputation in the community.

Fundamentally they don’t want to own housing but given the negativity of the situation, still strive to treat buyers and their Realtors with some respect.

Contrast this attitude with my latest experience.

My clients, a young couple purchasing their first home, are just a few days away from taking possession.

19033KK0 19033KK2

The bank’s representatives managing the property refuse to allow them, accompanied by me, to spend a half hour in the home taking some measurements for appliances, blinds and draperies.

Nor will they remove

a winter’s worth of accumulated snow from the driveway to make moving day less stressful.

So, I had it done at my expense.

No one should have to shovel their way into their first home.

Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster and can be reached at (780) 8082700, through www. vernmcclelland.remax. ca or by following on Facebook @LloydminsterMidwest Group.

PAGE 58 Thursday, March 14, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Graduated but can’t find a job?

L

anding that first full-time job in your field can be tough and may take longer than we’d like.

But you don’t need to sit around waiting – there are plenty of ways to boost your resume while gaining valuable life experience.

Here are some ideas: Try a working holiday

Many of us can’t afford to take a gap year to do nothing but travel, but a working holiday is the perfect solution.

An internship or other work opportunity is a great way to travel abroad while earning money. Thanks to International Experience Canada, a Government of Canada program for people ages 18 to 35,

you can explore Australia, France or another of more than 30 partner countries while gaining valuable international work experience.

Pursue a passion Sometimes a career can come from where we least expect it, so devoting some time and energy to a hobby can take you in an unex-

pectedly positive direction. Love photography? Interested in graphic design?

Maybe you can work on these hobbies and build a successful sidehustle or eventually turn it into a full-time job and small business.

And t hese t y pes of passion projects are great for doing at home or abroad, if travel is

calling your name.

Learn a new skill In today’s competitive and rapidly evolving world, it’s important to keep up and continue to acquire new skills.

Fortunately, you don’t always have to go back to school to get a new

degree or certificate to stay ahead of the curve.

There are plenty of free and low-cost programs on everything from coding to languages offered through libraries, community centres and e-learning departments at major universities.

Classifieds

PAGE 59 Thursday, March 14, 2019 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

Announcements

business opportunities

employment opportunities

miscellAneous

FOR LEASE: Golf Course Restaurant available for lease - great opportunity at Pincher Creek Golf Club!

Resume required. Call Tom for details 403-4322083.

Feed & seed

services oFFered

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

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.

TROUBLE WALKING? Hip or knee replacement, or conditions causing restrictions in daily activities? $2,500 tax credit. $40,000 refund cheque/rebates.

Disability Tax Credit. 1844-453-5372.

livestock Top Quality yearling Red Angus bulls Will be semen tested, Keep till May 1st Good thick bulls 1200 to 1300 lbs $ 3500.00 each obo Lloydminster Sask Crossroad Acres Angus 780-205-2334

employment opportunities Auctions

For sAle

coming events EDMONTON STAMP CLUB STAMP SHOW. March 2324, 2019. Saturday 105PM; Sunday 10-4PM. Central Lion's Rec Centre, 113 ST & 111 Ave. Stamps for sale, Exhibits, Door Prizes, Jr Table. Free Admission. www.edmontonstampclub.com.

FIREARMS WANTED FOR April 27, 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

EARN SOMSEH EXTRA CA

legAl notices

AUTO BODY SHOP & IND. LAUNDROMAT Dispersal On-Line Timed Auction, March 15-22. Selling Grabber Frame Rack , Rotary Screw Compressor & Dryer, Tire Machine, Wheel Balancer, CAT Forklift, Cart Tipper, Boiler Systems, Quantity of Coveralls. www.montgomeryauctions.com 1800-371-6963.

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: $1.49/each for a box of 180 ($268.20). Also full range of tree, shrub and berry seedlings for shelterbelts.. Free shipping.

Growth guarantee. 1-844- BLANKET THE PROVINCE 873-3700 or TreeTime.ca. with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach over 100 weekly newspapers. Call METAL ROOFING & SID- NOW for details 1-800ING. 37+ colours available 2 8 2 - 6 9 0 3 e x t 2 0 0 ; at over 55 Distributors. 40 w w w . a w n a . c o m . year warranty. 24-48 hour Express Service available FABRICATION FACILITY at supporting Distributors. Battleford, SK. Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers UnreCall 1-888-263-8254. served Auction, April 8 in Saskatoon. 11.1+/- Title Acres, 43,821+/- Sq Ft Fabrication Facility. Ed Truelove: 306.441.0525; Brokerage: Ritchie Bros.

Real Estate Services Ltd.; rbauction.com/realestate.

BECOME A IER PAPER CARR

Call 306.825.5111

CALL 306.825.5111

MODULAR HOME - High Level, AB. Ritchie Bros.

Auctioneers Unreserved Auction, April 3 near High Level. 2300 +/- sq ft modular home, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Doug Sinclair: 780-933-9156; rbauction.com.

lAnd For sAle

The Supreme Speckle Park Bull & Female Sale Saturday, April 6th, 2:00 pm at Notta Ranch, Neilburg, SK Selling Speckle Park yearling and two year old bulls, with a select group of females. These genetics are being offered

by Notta Ranch, Spots ‘N Sprouts, and Ravenworth Cattle. For more information or a catalogue contact T Bar C Cattle Co. at 306-220-5006. View the catalogue online at www.BuyAgro.com. Watch and bid online at www.DLMS.ca (PL #116061)

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

notices SAY NO to FAKE NEWS! 63% of Canadians can't tell the difference between real and fake news. Support reliable Local Journalism. Join the list www.newspapersmatter.c a.

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Obituaries & Memoriams

Celebrations

Thursday, March 14, 2019

CLASSIFIED ADS

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

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

Visa

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Cheque

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

*Deadline for Thursday’s issue: Tuesday at noon

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Local Business Directory

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Thursday, March 14, 2019

HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN

December 22 – January 19 You’ll find professional success in a new company or governmental organization. You’ll be pleasantly surprised when a new treatment finally brings an end to a lingering health problem.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18 You won’t appreciate being in the spotlight this week, but enthusiastic applause and being the centre of attention are to be expected after a great accomplishment.

PISCES

February 19 – March 20 You’ll begin seriously looking for a new place to live. If you rent, you might consider buying your own home. Your children will bring you moments of great joy.

ARIES

March 21– April 19 You’ll be particularly chatty this week and ready to crack a joke in all situations. Your humour will help diffuse a difficult situation at home or work.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20 Your shopping habit might become compulsive. In the face of restlessness, you’ll seek out new experiences. Be careful not to empty your bank account.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21 It’s in your best interest to take the time to get some rest this weekend. You’ll need all the sleep you can get to be effective this week.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22 You’ll be more creative than ever and be inspired by other cultures to create a masterpiece. Exhausted, you’ll start planning a much-needed vacation.

LEO July 23 – August 22 You’ll gain new clients for your products or services. An abundance of work could lead you to begin interesting new projects.

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22 This week, you’ll start to plan a spontaneous trip or begin thinking about working abroad to gain new experiences. Professional training could prove to be invaluable.

LIBRA

September 23 – October 22 Needing a change, you’ll let yourself be guided by an inner voice telling you to follow your passions. As a result, your horizons will broaden considerably.

SCORPIO

October 23 – November 21 You’ll discover some information that will lead you down a new path in life. A new passion will bring you happiness that could last for years to come.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 – December 21 You’ll negotiate with different groups at work to resolve a conflict. You’ll become more active in your union or within your community.

SUDOKU March 7 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.

Loriann Berland & Wayne Dillon are proud to announce the arrival of their son Wayne Dillon (JR) born on March 7, 2019

Thursday, March 14, 2019

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Make Your Move!

OPEN HOUSES

NEW LISTINGS

4727 - 14 STREET

Thursday, Mar. 14th 5:00 - 6:30 PM

• 5 bed / 3 bath SK side bungalow, central a/c, heated double

1903 - 56th Avenue $564,900 - MLS 61621 Hosted by: Sandy Hardy

attached garage.

369,900

$

SK

$

MLS 63333

AB

$

255,000 MLS 62813

SK

239,900

MLS 63238

AB

209,900 MLS 62659

SK

SK

MLS 63568

264,900

$

MLS 62742

5007 MILLER DRIVE

229,000

$

$

349,900 MLS 62929

AB

298,000 MLS 63039

AB

$

249,000 MLS 63474

SK

219,000 MLS 63486

AB

$

321,900 MLS 62032

• Beautiful 3 bed / 2 bath three level split home with a/c in a quiet AB cul-de-sac.

• Stunning fully fenced yard, garden area and shed. Freshly done concrete drive.

AB

AB

AB

$

244,900

$

2308 - 52B Avenue $289,900 - MLS 63430 Hosted by: Pattie Todd

SK

369,900 MLS 62614

SK

$

#8 4251 - 41 STREET

Saturday, Mar. 16th 3:00 - 4:30 PM

$

AB

$

MLS 63586

• Convenience of condo living with an attached garage, 2nd floor laundry and all appliances.

• South facing, covered front veranda and rear patio.

3806 - 72 Avenue $349,900 - MLS 62929 Hosted by: Pattie Todd

AB

479,900 MLS 63145

AB

SK

Saturday, Mar. 16th 1:00 - 2:30 PM

AB

CONDOS

NEW PRICES

TH

349,900

$

MLS 63585

339,000

MLS 63512

AB

$

279,900 MLS 63476

AB

$

$

249,000 MLS 63279

AB

212,500 MLS 62220

SK

$

$

$

$

359,900 MLS 63435

289,900 MLS 63430

250,000

$

SK

$

SK

$

246,900 MLS 63506

MLS 61739

SK

MLS 63521

SK

199,900 MLS 62649

SK

229,900

$

$

249,000 MLS 63519

$

199,000 MLS 61898

169,924 MLS 62609

$

$

169,900

MLS 62927

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

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