Thursday, March 26, 2020
VOLUME 2 I ISSUE 39
MERIDIANSOURCE.CA
#ALONETOGETHER IN THE BORDER CITY Videre Images By Jason Whiting
Amber Fisher and her daughters, Lauren and Logan, were among many Lloydminster residents to smile for the camera as Jason Whiting, of Videre Images, captured some memorable moments this past weekend as residents make the most while remaining indoors. We’d love to see what you’ve all been up to, so please use #alonetogether on Instagram and Twitter and join the conversation.
City implements all measures included in Sask Health Act TAYLOR WEAVER
EDITOR
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On Monday, the City of Lloydminster amended measures introduced in its State of Local Emergency to include all orders issued under the Saskatchewan Health Act.
These measures extend to all residents and businesses within city boundaries, in both provinces, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The following restrictions are effective immediately and will remain
in effect until further notice: a) Classes in all primary and secondary educational institutions, both public and private are suspended. b) Public gatherings of over 25 people in one room are prohib-
ited except in the following circumstances where 2-metre distancing between people can be maintained: i. Settings where people are distributed into multiple rooms or buildings, and workplaces, and;
ii. Retail locations. c) Visitors to long-term care homes, hospitals, personal care homes, and group homes shall be restricted to family visiting for compassionate reasons. d) The closure of all bars, lounges, night
clubs and similar facilities except in the following circumstances: i. Take out of alcohol or food products with 2-metre distancing between customers; and ii. Delivery of alcohol or food products. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
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THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS
Staying in the know through tough times Jordan Newton, Manager, EMO MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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With the daily news cycle changing by the minute in regards to the coronavirus outbreak, the City of Lloydminster continues to take serious precautions to flatten the curve. With Prime Minister Justin Trudeau telling Canadians to “stay at home” in an announce-
ment on Monday, readers may be wondering if the City of Lloydminster will be cracking down on social distancing protocols in public places such as malls and shopping centres. Jordan Newton, manager, EMO, was quoted at Monday’s media update saying “The City of Lloydminster will continue to work on educational resources for our community and giving advice to businesses that are still open. If it comes to it, the City will be working in conjunction with the Lloydminster RCMP detachment to monitor any enforce-
ment actions needed.” The City also made the announcement on Monday to update the COVID-19 response under the State of Local Emergency, which includes all orders issued under the Saskatchewan Health Act. “The City of Lloydminster has amended (its) measures introduced in this State of Local Emergency. These amendments were made (on) March 23 and include all orders issued under the Saskatchewan Health Act, and those are the changes you saw and can see them on lloydminster.ca,” said Newton.
In regards to local cases of COVID-19, Newton stated: “The health authority is tracking the numbers of presumptive and confirmed cases of COVID-19, and we direct any healthrelated questions to the appropriate authorities.” When asked about local cases of the virus, the Saskatchewan Health Authority stated “There is a very defined process for disclosure to try to clamp down on rumours spreading. There are also very specific protocols and practices surrounding COVID-19 cases aimed at protecting the public.”
COVID-19 by the numbers Saskatchewan (as of March 24)
Alberta (as of March 25)
Region Total Cases Confirmed Cases Zone North 3 3 Calgary Central 8 8 Edmonton Saskatoon 34 34 North South 5 5 Central Regina 22 22 South Total in Sask 72 72 Unknown
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e) All persons that have been identified by a Medical Health Officer as a close contact of a person or persons with novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) shall go into mandatory self-isolation for 14 days from the date of last having been exposed to COVID-19; f) All persons that have traveled internationally shall go into mandatory self-isolation for 14 days from date of arrival back into Canada, except for the following persons if such persons are supervised by Infection Prevention and Control Officers or Occupational Health and Safety in the workplace: i. health care workers; ii. workers who provide emergency health care services; iii. workers who are essential to maintain essential services; iv. workers who maintain supply chain; or CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
Total Cases 214 86 20 28 8 2
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THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS
Astec unveils option for virus GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. That’s the approach Astec Safety is taking during the COVID-19 outbreak by offering an online Challenge Examination for workers needing to renew their Industrial Safety Certificates. The Challenge Examination is a learning option to reduce inhouse class sizes and step up sanitizing procedures for all Astec branded courses. “Astec Safety has been at the forefront of Ground Disturbance and Damage Prevention, both in the classroom and online,” said Jeff Mulligan, Astec’s chief operating officer in an email. “We have introduced new technology in our classrooms, and are recognized as a leader in the development of
eLearning safety courses in Western Canada.”
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We have introduced new technology in our classrooms, and are recognized as a leader in the development of eLearning safety.
Mulligan says Astec is able to leverage its proprietary online technology to respond to the pressures of COVID-19 to further assist their customers. As of March 18, students holding valid and current safety tickets issued by Astec such as Confined Space Rescue and Fall Protection can renew certification for one year through an online Challenge Exam. Other available online courses are Confined Space Entry and Monitor, Live Fire or Basic
Fire Fighting, Gas Detection & Nitrogen Awareness Forklift Safe Operations and Skid Steer Safe Operations The cost for the Challenge Examination is $55 +GST for each certificate completed. For those without access to an online computer or device, Astec will set up a student computer lab in each of their Lloydminster, Bonnyville and Provost locations for convenience. Astec is also developing and testing an Instructor Lead Virtual Classroom option to permit students to participate in their brand of safety courses from their own offices. Students will use Astec’s Interactive Dashboard technology and a suitably equipped device with access to the Internet with the rollout expected soon.
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LRHF pitchin’ in where it’s needed TAYLOR WEAVER
EDITOR
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Amid the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Lloydminster community has been safely stepping up and making sure area residents are taken care of. “The local health care staff are prepared and ready for any cases that do arrive in our facilities,” said Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF) CEO, Malcolm Radke, outside of Jubilee Home on Monday afternoon. “The continuing care facilities are on total lockdown right now, which is hard on staff and residents from an isolation perspective, but in terms of protocols, process and keeping everybody safe, everybody has been on top of that. “The frontline nurses
A food delivery was made to Jubilee Home on Monday. and staff are incredibly brave right now, and I’ve heard people are self-isolating from family right now, which is a whole new dynamic right there.” Radke was one of a handful of volunteers to make food deliveries to area continuing care facilities in recent days. The donations couldn’t have come at a better time, as the Saskatchewan Health Authority announced Tuesday it would no longer be accepting deliveries directly to its
facilities due to current visitor restrictions. “We’re just trying to be as prepared as possible if we don’t somehow flatten the curve,” said Radke. “I would say personally that I’m humbled just watching how our frontline health care staff have responded to this. As a community and a charitable foundation, I’ve also been very impressed with the response of those frontline workers, and I know everyone is thinking of them.”
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v. rail, airline and transport crews. g) All persons that become symptomatic while on mandatory self-isolation shall call Healthline 811 and follow Healthline directives; and h) All persons who are ho u s e ho l d me mbers of a person with COVID-19 shall immediately go into mandatory self-isolation, call Healthline 811 and follow Healthline directives. i) The closure of restaurants, food courts, cafeterias, cafes, bistros, and similar facilities, except the following, is permitted: i. Take out food with 2-metre distancing between customers; ii. Dr ive -t hr u f ood services; iii. Delivery of food products; or iv. Soup kitchens, Not-for-profit community kitchens and religious kitchens with 2-metre distancing between persons;
j) The closure of all recreational and entertainment facilities including fitness centers, casinos, bingo halls, arenas, curling rinks, swimming pools, galleries, theatres, museums and similar facilities. k) The closure of all personal service facilities including the place of business of: i. a tattooist, ii. hairdresser or barber, iii. acupuncturist, iv. acupressurist, v. cosmetologist, vi. electrologist, vii. esthetician, viii. manicurist, ix. pedicurist, x. sun tanning parlour, xi. facilities in which body piercing, bone grafting or scarification services are provided, xii. facilities in which massage or massage therapy services are provided except where the services are urgently medically necessary, xiii. any other personal service facilities
similar to those in subclauses (i) to (xii); l) Dental, Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Podiatry clinics shall only provide urgent services or procedures. m) All facilities that provide child care services as defined in The Child Care Act, 2014, are limited to a maximum of 8 children per room. n) All child care facilities that are co-located with or with-in a longterm care or personal care home that meets the above restriction shall be segregated with a private entrance and separate space so that there are no shared common areas with the long term care home or personal care home, as the case may be, and no interaction between childcare children and residents of the home. The child care facility may continue to operate subject to any restrictions placed on all child care facilities. 20034BS0 20034BS1
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Husky delays Lloyd turnaround GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. Husky Energy is postponing its planned turnaround scheduled to start in April at the Lloydminster Upgrader to protect employees and contractors from COVID-19. Husky is evaluating plans on how they will proceed with the work at a later date in consultation with their contractor partners. “We have reviewed all information and are confident that a delay does not impact facility safety or operational integrity – and believe the deferral is in the
best interests of the community given the COVID-19 situation,” said Husky spokesperson Kim Guttormson in an email Monday afternoon. Husky says the decision is in keeping with the company’s priority for the health and safety of their workforce, their families and the communities they operate in. “We made this decision with the sole focus of the health and safety of our workforce, including contractors, their families and everyone living in our community,” said
Guttormson. The turnaround planned to bring more than 3,000 contractors at the peak work period to Lloydminster during a complete shutdown of the Upgrader. Husky acknowledges the postponement has an economic impact on many people, both those who were coming to work and those in the community who rely on their arrival. The company says they have been closely following the advice and direction of health au t hor it ies and consulting independent medical expertise with
the spread of COVID19. “At this time, the best course of action is to defer the work,” said Guttormson. She also says Husky has plans in place at all their sites, which incorporate medical advice, to ensure a healthy workforce and continued safe operations. “This includes our Lloydminster sites, and we are also working with employees to assess any potential exposure and address any concerns they may have, including providing access to medical expertise,” she said.
Mount Joy closes with snow GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. Mount Joy Snow Resort is in post-season clean-up mode after being forced to close early, leaving good spring skiing conditions going to waste. All Alberta ski hills were ordered to close at the end of the day on March 17 to slow the spread of COVID-19. “Our kitchen people were out cleaning fridges and deep freezes and things and we shut the heat off in the rental building this morning,” said Ray Tatro, president of Mount Joy the following day. “We’ll do a cleanup on the hill once the snow melts and get our cannons and generators all put to bed.” Tatro says the resort was hoping to get in one or two more weekends of skiing before the notice to close for the season under the Safety Codes Act. “The way they do that
is they send us an order pulling our lift licence,” explained Tatro. He says they caught wind of the pending closure order from the Canada West Ski Areas Association with Mount Joy having its best spring skiing season in years. “Our snow is as good as it’s ever been out there,” he said, noting it’s been a very successful and financiallysound season. “The snow conditions, especially at the end, were good here and the weather, especially at the end, cooperated.” Tatro says this season didn’t see the extreme conditions prevalent in other years “where it was plus 10 and melting or -35 and too cold” to open. “We had more middle road temperatures. Once we got past that first weekend, we were able to solidly open,” he said.
The highlight of the season was a successful first-ever Friday night of skiing under moonlight and tower lighting on March 6. Tatro says they planned to operate under the lights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., but they had such a large turnout and kept it going to 10:15 p.m. There were four lights on the lift line and another eight on the north side with good visibility. Tatro says there was enough moonlight too where they didn’t have lighting on both sides of the lift line. “We had super good comments from people. It’s the kind of thing that I’m sure will be an annual event and maybe more than once a season. There’s a lot of work that went into it,” he said. The Lloydminster and District Co-op helped to sponsor the event with Double Edge Rentals,
Game up Safety and Headon Rentals stepping up to donate the lighting. “It was exciting for everybody,” said Tatro. The Lions Club also sponsored this year’s Family Day on March 8 with a $1,000 donation to cover the cost of lift tickets for youth accompanied by adults. Looking ahead, Tatro says they plan to replace their debit machine with a new lower-cost payment program for next season. He is also confident they will have their water line expansion done as well during the offseason with more projects on the to-do list. “We’ve got a dream for a building expansion to at least get it started on some preliminary stuff and pricing,” he said. He says the plan is to get the chalet and rental shop under one roof and expand the chalet.
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Sask Health Authority expanding capacity
MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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The Saskatchewan
Health Authority (SHA) is expanding capacity to meet the demand
for future phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is one part of the
SHA’s overall strategy to contain, delay and mitigate COVID-19. “Based on what we know from other jurisdictions, it is critical we act immediately to expand acute care capacity to mitigate the impact of COVID-19,” said SHA CEO Scott Livingstone. “Demand will exceed capacity. All jurisdictions are facing this challenge. We are not alone. We are acting immediately to ensure Saskatchewan residents get the care they need from the right provider, at the right time, with the right supports in place.” Modelling from other jurisdictions suggests that this virus may affect 30 per cent of the population and result in thousands ne e d ing h os p it al iza t i o n. Th i s m o d e l l i ng is being updated to ensure it is more specific to the situation in Saskatchewan.
“Under any scenario, it is critical that we continue to act to escalate our tactics to meet the potential demand,” Livingstone said. “That is why we are stepping up actions on an ongoing basis to do our part in ensuring the safety of Saskatchewan people.” The SHA has already initiated measures to ensure this demand is met. A slowdown of nonessential services to increase bed availability, preserve supplies and support a labour pool for reallocation is already underway. SHA leadership is activating plans to create additional capacity through: • Creation of dedicated spaces to cohort COVID-19 patients within facilities. • Creation of COVID19 designated hospitals in Saskatoon and Regina and other areas of the province, where
required. • Creation of additional community based acute care capacity where required (e.g. field hospitals in school gyms, community centres, rinks, etc.). “This plan will ensure we are prepared,” Livingstone said. “But it won’t be enough; it has been proven over and over with this virus that no health system in the world can address this challenge alone without the sustained help of the general public.” Actions that people and communities must take to address this challenge include: • Practicing good hygiene, washing hands regularly and practicing social distancing (two meters apart wherever possible); • Abide by provincial and local travel, selfisolation, event and gathering restrictions; CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
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Viewpoint Leeway from Lloyd Good time to re-invent the world
5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 Toll Free: 1-800-327-3899 Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday The MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday. All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion. Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.
Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca
Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca
Sports Editor Jamie Harkins sports@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Consultant Catherine Kruining catherine@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca
Publisher Reid Keebaugh Production Manager Amanda Richard Classified advertising admin@meridiansource.ca Newspaper delivery If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.
2017
STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE
It may be time to rethink how the world is run, if not now, then in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. This pandemic has certainly exposed the negative side of globalization with the quick spread of COVID-19 and the world-wide impact on the economy.
I have always thought fewer people should be hooked into one electrical power grid, for example, to limit the geographical fallout from a power outage. Similarly, it might be a good idea to source more of our food supply locally to reduce the current situation of relying on deliveries from far away. It might also be a good idea in the future for communities or
local government to warehouse medical supplies like respirators for the benefit of hospitals and medical professionals who can find themselves overwhelmed by the demand at critical times like these. With SARS and now the novel coronavirus, the experts can probably agree there will be another pandemic in the future that we need to better prepare for. When the dust set-
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tles, a lot more lessons will be learned about the best way to slow the spread of a virus without crippling the economy. The solutions may be more testing or even closing airports universally when it looks like a pandemic is developing, instead of waiting for a disease to arrive. It could also mean better isolating the most vulnerable people along with their caregivers. A lot more resources need to be allocated to helping people deal with mental or emotional health issues in these high-stress situations as well. Whatever the case, the current response isn’t working just to p re ve nt h o sp i tal s everywhere from being swamped while keeping the wheels of the economy spinning. While the virus started in China, they may have had the right idea when they set up multiple pop-up hospital beds as the virus spread. Currently, political pressure needs to be applied to convince Russia and Saudia Arabia from helping to ruin the global economy with an oil price war neither country can win or afford. Let’s hope smarter people than you or I can right the ship again and stop that sinking feeling.
CORRECTION NOTICE In the Thursday, March 19 edition of the Meridian Source, it was stated in an article titled “Schools close for summer” on Page 5, that Lloydminster Catholic School Division schools will be closed for the remainder of the school year in relation to COVID-19 precautions. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Thursday, March 26, 2020
FROM PAGE 10
This is not the case. Classes have been suspended indefinitely to assess the situation, and as per the advice of the government and health ministries, will re-open when it is safe to do so. A Response Planning Team has also been established by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education to work diligently
with school divisions through the details of schools being suspended and what that will mean for our students’ marks and achievement. The Lloydminster Catholic Division gave no formal interview or statement regarding schools closing until June. We apologize for the confusion this may have caused.
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A new Telus virtual health app is helping Albertans to access health-care information and support in response to COVID-19 – from anywhere in the province. Babylon by Telus Health is a service already available in British Columbia via a free downloadable app. Albertans can use the service to check symptoms, book appointments, see a doctor, and get prescriptions and referrals for diagnostic imaging and specialists – all covered by Alberta Health Care. The app gets a thumbs up from Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro. “Alberta is pleased to FROM PAGE 8
• Use medical supplies effectively and efficiently so that they are there when needed; • Avoid visiting our hospitals and longterm care facilities unless there are compassionate reasons for doing so. A provincial Emergency Operations Centre has been established, as well as Integrated Health Inci-
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Apply for emergency isolation support now MyAlberta is now receiving emergency isolation support applications from working Albertans who are selfisolating or who are the sole caregivers for someone in self-isolation. The Government of Alberta announced $50 million in financial support for self-isolating Albertans with no other source of income. These
temporary funds are part of the government’s COVID-19 response to keep Albertans safe during this unprecedented global health crisis. Eligibility Working Alberta adults who experienced a total or significant loss of income as a result of self-isolation or care for a dependent who is self-isolating can apply for emergency isola-
Telus introduces pocket Dr. MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
MERIDIAN SOURCE
partner with Telus to deliver physician services in a new way. This app is now available and ready for use in Alberta thanks to an alternative relationship plan, and it comes at a time when our health system is actively asking people to self-isolate as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Shandro. “Using this app is an alternative to visiting physicians face-toface when you’re not sure if your symptoms are related to the novel coronavirus or at any other time. “Telus’ passionate and skilled healthcare team is committed to driving improved health outcomes for Albertans by bringing our Babylon by Telus Health virtual care ser-
vice to communities and families across the entire province.” Darren Entwistle, president and CEO of Telus, says he hopes his company can mitigate the enormous pressure on Alberta’s health-care system through their Babylon app. “In partnership with the Government of Alberta, our virtual health-care service bridges time and distance for Albertans in need of expeditiously accessing a physician at no cost from the comfort of home, while simultaneously keeping our amazing healthcare professionals protected,” said Entwistle. The service is being delivered to Albertans through an alternative relationship plan (ARP)
between the Alberta government and Telus. There are currently 61 ARPs in Alberta involving 2,500 doctors. All physicians providing advice via telephone, email and videoconferencing, including virtual care, can bill for services using the health service code 03.01AD. This includes care related to COVID-19 as well as care not related to the virus. The code will remain active as long as the chief medical officer of health determines it should remain active. For more information, physicians can read the updated bulletin on providing telephone advice (Med 221), or email healthpcsp.admin@gov.ab.ca.
dent Command Centres (IHICCs) for each of the SHA service areas (Saskatoon, Regina, Rural and North). It is these local IHICC’s that will be accountable for finalizing and deploying the continuity of services and surge capacity plans on a local level. Changes to services and service locations are already occurring and will be ongoing as we
adapt to the increased capacity it will take for the health system to effectively manage the weeks and months ahead. Communities will be updated as changes occur in their areas. “We strongly urge every resident in Saskatchewan to abide by the restrictions, guidelines and orders enacted by the Government of Saskatchewan,
and help our province slow the rate of transmission of this virus,” said SHA Chief Medical Officer Dr. Susan Shaw. “The success of preventive measures will have a direct impact on health system demand for hospital care. The actions of the public will help save lives and ensure our health system is there for when you need it, regardless of the circumstance.”
tion support payments if: - They have been diagnosed with COVID-19. - They are caring for a dependent who is selfisolating. - They have otherwise
been directed by health authorities to self-isolate. - They are not receiving compensation from any other source. Visit alberta.ca. for the application.
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Sports
Indigenous Games coach works to better athletes’ training JAMIE HARKINS
WRITER
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A belief that Indigenous athletes should receive the same training and guidance as main-stream competitors has led a local volleyball enthusiast to study under a national coaching program. Cory Gratton, an
electrical installation and construction teacher at Avery Outreach School, recently applied and has been accepted into an Aboriginal coaches’ mentorship discipline through the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). The opportunity allows 20034DG1
Jamie Harkins Meridian Source
Cory Gratton has been accepted into a mentorship program for Aboriginal volleyball coaches.
Gratton to be exposed to this country’s highperformance training regimen while also giving him a chance to help guide an under18 Saskatchewan men’s team at the 2021 Canada Games. “I want to be able to bridge the gap between what we do for Team Saskatchewan through the North American Indigenous Games and what they’re doing with regular stream through Team Saskatchewan and Canada Games training,” said Gratton. “Even though we have lots of the same athletes who play for
both regular Team Sask stream and Indigenous Games, I wanted to make sure through the evaluation process right to team strategy at the Games that we were in sync.”
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It’s important to be lockstep with what’s happening with the regular stream provincial team programs.
Gratton stepped into high-performance coaching when he
helped lead Saskatchewan under-16 and under-19 boys and girls teams to compete at the 2017 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) in Toronto. He is currently preparing to guide the Team Saskatchewan under-19 girls at the Indigenous Games in Halifax this summer. Entering the teaching profession through the Saskatchewan Urban Native Education Program as a Métis student, noted Gratton, allowed him to give back to his community. He added moving into high-performance
coaching then provided an opportunity to help train Aboriginal athletes in a favoured sport making for the perfect fit. “It’s important to be lockstep with what’s happening with the regular stream provincial team programs,” he said. “Our training for Indigenous Games teams should be similar to that of the Canada Games because that’s certainly in the best interests of our athletes and coaches. This is one way to do that looking long-term into the 2023 Games and beyond.”
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Rustlers curling coach rewarded by his peers JAMIE HARKINS
all these years is finally made possible through the support of his wife Laurie. “These players all come and go, but she’s the solid one,” said Makichuk. “I can go for eight days, 12 days or 14
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The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) has honoured Lakeland College Rustler Dusty Makichuk as the 2019-20 Curling Coach of the Year.
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days across the country and everything is always looked after at home. I could never do this, have all this time off, have all this experience and be rewarded for it, without having her backing me.”
I could be a grandpa to most of them. The fun part of this is they keep me young. They make me want to do it.
Makichuk, who has steered the Rustlers curling program since the 2014-15 season, received the award at the ACAC Curling Conference Championship Banquet in Red Deer on Feb. 28. This marks the first time Makichuk has been named ACAC Curling Coach of the Year. “The nice part about it is it’s from my peers,” said Makichuk, who recently guided the R u s t l e rs m e n ’ s t e a m during their secondstraight national championship competition. “I’ve coached at a lot of different levels and a lot of these people I’ve known for 20 to 25 years. I see them at dif-
Lakeland Rustler Dusty Makichuk is the ACAC Curling Coach of the Year. Supplied Photo ferent events, at different venues, and we’re very competitive, but we’re also very good friends. We encourage each other as we travel around. So, it means a lot that they’ve recognized me.” A love for the game and a devotion to seeing his daughters Ashlee Foster, Lindsay Makichuk and Karli Makichuk succeed as they moved through the curling ranks eventually led the proud
father to the Lakeland College Rustlers curling program. When the head coaching position opened up six years ago, Makichuk applied and got it, also putting him in charge of the many student-athletes who play for the Rustlers men’s, women’s and mixed teams each season. “They keep me active and I learn a lot from them,” he said. “I could be a grandpa to most of them. The fun part
of this is they keep me young. They make me want to do it.” Makichuk noted the program’s success is a result of the hard work put in by his assistant coaches Chris McQuid and Branden Cookson, the help they receive from Rustlers athletic director Alan Rogan and the devotion to growing as players and people exhibited by their curlers. He said enjoying an opportunity to be a curling coach for
Contemplating a love for the written word SPORTS EDITOR JAMIE HARKINS
Quite a few people, all of whom more knowledgeable in sports history than I am, have written stories both broad and focused on its lore. Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper wrote an excellent book on the early days of amateur and professional hockey in Toronto. I’m not a big fan of hockey in the Big Smoke, but the tome is a great read. Bob Duff has written countless books on the initial years of the game. In fact, I’ve
likely plagiarized Duff in a former life. The early stories of hockey, baseball and
boxing, or my big three growing up, were and still are favourite reads. My heroes were Jacques
Plante, Babe Ruth and Muhammad Ali. CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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A love for the written word FROM PAGE 15
When I was nine or 10 or 11, I used my allowance to buy a garage-sale typewriter that was missing a letter or two. However, it had a working ribbon and, as every kid growing up before the 2000s knew, you needed a typewriter to write a book. My first, and only, novel was realized through the keys of this typewriter. It was the history of hockey and comprised, if I remember correctly, over 10 pages of the written word. I’m not sure if I just copied sentences and paragraphs out of hockey history books taken from the school library, possibly including one or two by Duff. But, I don’t think so. I was proud of this work. Heck, apart from maybe a university essay or two, it still stands as the longest story I’ve ever completed. Why are people drawn to certain favourites and how do they remain parts of a life? I’m sure environment is a factor, but it can’t be the only one. Hockey, baseball and boxing were the top sports in the 1980s. Professional wrestling wasn’t far
behind, but there was always someone leaning over your shoulder to tell you it was a fake. My dad liked hockey, my grandfather loved baseball and Rocky movies coupled with primetime Mike Tyson fights made me a fan. That fits nicely, but I still don’t really know what drew me to writing. The only explanation I have, how stupid it may be, is that Superman/ Clark Kent was a journalist. I liked Superman before hockey, baseball and boxing though the latter three drew more interest as I aged. One of the first stories I wrote in Grade 1 or 2 got rave reviews from my teacher and even resulted in a letter from the principal to my parents. I’m pretty sure that’s what hooked me, but it can’t account for my continued fascination with the written word. Sorry, and there’s no complaint, but it’s hard to fathom that I’m doing the same thing almost four decades following the letter and three past the hockey history novel. However, like my five and 10-yearold self, I still get a kick from Superman movies, writing and old hockey, baseball and boxing stories.
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Careers
Sask launches Business Response Team MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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The Government of Saskatchewan has launched a Business Response Team to support businesses in the province dealing with the economic challenges resulting from COVID-19. “COVID-19 has caused significant economic hardships for businesses as we all work together to reduce the spread of this virus,� said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison. “We know businesses have questions and this response team will
help them navigate this uncertain situation.� The Business Response Team, led by the Ministry of Trade and Export Development, will work with businesses to identify program supports available to them both provincially and federally. An email address and toll-free telephone number have been created to provide businesses a single point of contact to help answer questions. A single window information webpage has also been developed for businesses to access information and
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
WATER & WASTEWATER CERTIFIED OPERATOR
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receive timely updates on provincial support initiatives. The webpage includes information on both provincial and federal support measures, including the province’s recently announced financial support program. For more information, businesses can contact the Business Response Team by calling 1-844-800-8688, emailing supportforbusiness@gov.sk.ca or by visiting www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19businesses. The government has contacted by many businesses, individuals and groups who have offered ideas and solutions.
As such, the SaskBuilds Single Procurement Service will serve as a central point of contact and co-ordination. If you are a Saskatchewan business, innovator, or supplier and you think you have a solution that can help us fight COVID-19, you may direct your submission to procurement@ gov.sk.ca. A website has also been launched to provide information on support for workers who have had their employment impacted by the current economic situation. Workers can visit www.saskatchewan. ca/covid19-workers for more information.
File Photo “During this challenging time, it is critical that the government continue to take action to support both
the health and safety of our citizens as well as the economy, businesses and workers of our province,� Harrison said.
PAGE 20 Thursday, March 26, 2020 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca
Coming EvEnts
HousEs For rEnt
Classifieds EmploymEnt opportunitiEs
EmploymEnt opportunitiEs
House For Rent 5 bedroom home, on quiet cul-de-sac. Alberta side. Extremely beautiful home. 4 bay garage. Call Ross 250-808-3605 or email pilgram4@gmail.com
auCtions
FEEd & sEEd
AUCTIONS are our business! Contact Copeland Auctions Ltd. located in Lloydminster, AB for all your auction needs. Call Russ 780-870-1181 or visit our website: www.copelandauctions.co m
EARLY VARIETIES. Want to be finished combining in August? Go early HRS Wheat, Busby & Sundre Barley, AAC Peace River Field Peas (earliest yellow pea). Early One Polish Canola (one month earlier); mastinseeds.com. 403556-2609.
FEEd & sEEd
lEgal notiCEs
EDMONTON STAMP CLUB Stamp Show Cancelled for Mar 28-29 (Sat-Sun). Please see website for other details. www.edmontonstampclub.com.
For salE
EmploymEnt opportunitiEs
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS.ˇˇˇBarns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine S h e d s a n d auCtions more,ˇsales@integritybuilt. c o m ˇ 1 - 8 6 6 - 9 7 4 - WARD'S & BUD HAYNES 7678ˇwww.integritybuilt.c Spring Firearms Auction Saturday Apr. 18th at 10 om. A.M. 11802-145 Street METAL ROOFING & SID- NW, Edmonton, AB. HunING. 37+ colours available dreds of Lots, Online Bidding, Antique & Modern at over 55 Distributors. 40 Firearms, www.WardsAucyear warranty. 24-48 hour tions.com. To Consign Call Express Service available Brad Ward 780-940-8378, at supporting Distributors. Linda Baggaley 403-597Call 1-888-263-8254. 1095.
JOURNALISTS, GRAPHIC ARTISTS, Marketing and more. Alberta's weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online. FREE. Visit http://awna.com/resumes_add.
misCEllanEous
FEEd & sEEd
livEstoCk The Supreme Speckle Park Bull & Female Sale, Friday, April 17, 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)
CERTIFIED SEED. Wheat Go Early, Pintail, AAC Penhold. Oats - AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, SO1 Super Oat. Barley - Busby, Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea. Forage Peas. Polish Canola. Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com. 403-5562609.
auCtions ONLINE ONLY ACREAGE Auction. Bids Start Closing April 5th 11 a.m. 1 km east of Gibbons for the Kerr's. View prodaniukauctions.com.
FEEd & sEEd
tEndErs HAY & GRAZING TENDERS. Ducks Unlimited Canada is now accepting tenders for grazing on its projects. Visit ducks.ca/albertahaygraze for locations of properties available for 2020 in Alberta.
RETIRED GENTLEMAN FOR tasks/light ranch work this spring. Trial contract about: 18 hrs/wk for 6 weeks or condensed. Northern Alberta. Room available. 780-512-5120.
FEEd & sEEd
HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.
manuFaCturEd HomEs
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Land For Sale
Agriculture
Services Offered
Legal Notices
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. GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp . Member BBB. Call 1-877987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.
Wanted WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO Equipment. 40 years or older. Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording and Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond Organs, any condition. Call Toll-Free 1800-947-0393.
Agriculture
Land For Sale RM of Eldon SW 24-4924W3, 1/4 section 1980 Tandem IH Grain Truck 466 Turbo - Auto Good condition 1989 CIH -7140 FWD Tractor. Shedded, Good condition 2015 GMC all terrain 135000K, 1/2 Ton. Very good condition please call 306-893-4013
business opportunities BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 97 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 200; www.awna.com.
Legal Notices
Health / Fitness HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30, 000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1844-453-5372.
MERIDIAN SOURCE
21
Obituaries & Memoriams
22
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Local Business Directory
Celebrations
Thursday, March 26, 2020
MERIDIAN SOURCE
23
HOROSCOPES CAPRICORN
December 22 – January 19 You’ll make the decision to move. It may be time to sell the house if it seems too big now, especially if your kids have already moved out.
AQUARIUS
January 20 – February 18 You won’t keep your opinions to yourself and you’ll say out loud what others are thinking. Someone may confide in you regarding a sensitive situation.
PISCES
February 19 – March 20 You’ll be presented with an interesting solution to your financial problems. The path will be cleared so you can finally redecorate your home or concentrate on another project that means a lot to you.
ARIES
March 21– April 19 An action-packed week lies ahead. You may need to shake things up with certain people. Even if you’re a pacifist at heart, your inner warrior must come out sometimes.
TAURUS
CANCER
June 22 – July 22 Expect a busy week ahead. It may be wise to space out your appointments to avoid having to postpone or cancel anything.
LEO July 23 – August 22 On a whim, you’ll make a decision that changes your life entirely. This may involve going back to school to start a new career.
VIRGO
August 23 – September 22 The heart has reasons that the mind can’t comprehend. Even if you try to remain reasonable in the face of a strange situation, only your heart can decide what your next step will be.
LIBRA
September 23 – October 22 At work, with friends and in your family, you’ll have to proceed with caution and tact in order to achieve balance. Compromise and change will be necessary.
CROSSWORD
SCORPIO
April 20 – May 20
October 23 – November 21
You’ll have a spiritual awakening or epiphany this week. You’ll see things from a different perspective and with newfound compassion.
GEMINI
May 21 – June 21 One of your friends will be a source of inspiration this week. This will help you become the person you’ve always wanted to be. Your path to happiness will be illuminated.
A misunderstanding during a conflict at work will inspire you to make a career change. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons and to consult those closest to you before making a decision.
SAGITTARIUS
March 19 Answers
November 22 – December 21 You’ll be idolized this week and this situation will ultimately change your life. You’ll be in the spotlight for one reason or another. At the very least, you’ll be recognized for something you accomplished.
SUDOKU March 19 Answers
Kimberly and Silas Drury of Lloydminster are proud to announce the arrival of their son
Luca Frederick Drury
born February 24, 2020 in Lloydminster
ACROSS 1. Big quiz 5. Baggage 9. Kid 12. Solemn vow 13. Wheel shaft 14. Corn portion 15. For keeps 16. Bookish 18. Railroad station 20. Fountain treat 21. Dinghy, e.g. 23. Vent 27. Whit 30. Pacino and namesakes 31. Birchbark or dugout 32. Expire, as time
34. Show up 35. Deal out 36. Stocky antelope 37. Commandment number 38. Spends 39. Song of worship 41. Performance by one 44. Mr. Karloff 48. Broadcast 52. Mexican entree 53. Mine output 54. Colony insects 55. Ship’s hands 56. Although 57. Subtraction term 58. That woman’s DOWN
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 17. 19. 22. 24. 25. 26.
Having foot digits Roofline detail Stride Ache Sal, for example Has being Female voice Oboe insert Afternoon brew Rowing blade Strive Navigational device Melba ____ Beer’s kin Module Small bay Minor
27. 28. 29. 31. 33. 34. 36. 40. 42. 43. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51.
Boyfriend Woes Legend Small particle of bread Search party “____ Wednesday” Phantoms Degree ____ Office Type of dance Steak order Frosting user Piglets’ mothers Playpen item Sooner than, in poems Say yes Snaky curve
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.
24
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Real Estate
Rentals
Property Management NEW LISTING
WE L VE OUR CLIENTS... FROM A DISTANCE!
5710 - 47TH STREET • Solidly built bungalow in a central neighbourhood. • Private, well treed yard, single detached garage, close to outdoor pool and park.
The health and safety of our staff, clients and the public is our number one concern. Our office is closed to the public effective immediately. For REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS, we offer paperless options including Video Tours, DocuSign, Authentisign. We request TENANTS pay rent through E-TRANSFER if possible. We do have a 24 hour answering service. If you have questions, please call our office at 780-875-3343.
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349,500
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282,000
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Rick Schesnuk Realtor®
Judy Bexson Realtor®
NEW PRICE
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$
SK
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Brad Gilbert Broker/Owner
Jennifer Gilbert Associate Broker
Each office is independently owned & operated.
3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 Pattie Todd Associate Broker
Sandy Hardy Realtor®
www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com
780-875-3343
facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty
Caleb McLean Realtor®
instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty