Meridian Source - March 2, 2023

Lloyd Ukrainians rally for freedom

A small group of Ukrainians and supporters waved their country’s flags in front of City Hall in the bitter cold to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

It was an emotional and meaningful day on Friday for Lilia Savchuk who escaped the war in her homeland five years ago to start a new life in Canada with her husband.

“It’s one year of war in Ukraine and nine years of small wars. It was started nine years ago,” said Savchuk, as if speaking to her countrymen and all Canadians.

“I want to say thank you to every fighter, every warrior in Ukraine. Thank you so much for your support and standing for Ukraine and fighting for Ukraine.”

Russia invaded and annexed the Crimea Peninsula in 2014 to trigger Ukraine’s long fight for freedom.

Savchuk comes from the western part of

Ukraine, not occupied by Russia, but says her dad, Bohdan, who is on a two-month family visit in Lloydminster, has a dangerous mission in the war effort.

Ukraine, I cannot begin to express the sorrow that I feel for the people of Ukraine and the turmoil they have experienced during this time,” said Aalbers.

He says it is important that we take a moment to reflect on the magnitude of this conflict and its impact on innocent civilians in Lloydminster’s sister city of Nikopol which has been heavily shelled by Russian artillery.

“He volunteers to deliver medical and military gear to hot spots to our fighters. He’s done it for nine years,” she said.

Savchuk admits it’s a high-risk activity with many YouTube videos conveying the danger.

“It’s crazy,” said Savchuk.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers provided a heartfelt statement on the plight of the Ukrainians over the past year in that wartorn country.

“As we mark the one-year anniversary of the ongoing war in

“Many families have been torn apart, and their homes, schools and places of worship have suffered extensive damage,” said Aalbers who adds the city stands in solidarity with the people of Nikopol.

“To our local Ukrainian community, I extend sympathy and support. We understand that many of you have friends and family members who have been directly affected by the war in Ukraine.”

Savchuk has her dad with her for now, but she misses him and her mom dearly when they are separated by time and distance and no end in sight to the mili -

tary conflict.

“Every day, I call to my mom and to my dad and speak with them because you don’t know what will happen the next day,” she said.

Jim Mcardle, whose grandparents came to Canada from Ukraine decades ago, joined the group of flag wavers motivated by the spirit of Ukrainians to fight back.

“I came out a year ago when I saw Lilia out here by herself

holding the flag and I wanted to do something too and I happen to have a Ukrainian flag,” said Mcardle.

Mcardle noted who would have thought a year later that we are still having a battle,” when asked what the day meant to him.

“Russia thought it was going to be over in three days and the Ukrainians have proven them wrong,” he said.

“A year later we’re still out here we’re still

doing the battle and the Ukrainian community in Lloydminster has been doing a lot in support in fundraising.”

Savchuk says there is a small Ukrainian community in Lloydminster that has sent $25,000 to Ukraine already from the sale of pins.

“We sell the pins; they bring money to send to some volunteers to deliver medical and military gear,” said Savchuk.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

GEOFF LEE WRITER

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Feb. 24, the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine, was marked outside Lloydminster City Hall. Braving the cold in support of Ukraine were (from left) ex-Ukrainian Lilia Savchuk, who currently lives in Lloydminster, her dad Bohdan Kulyk, who is visiting and delivers weapons and medical supplies in Ukraine, refugee Mariana Viitavych, and organizer and supporter Jim Mcardle, whose grandparents came to Canada from Ukraine.

Every day, I call to my mom and to my dad and speak with them because you don’t know what will happen the next day.

Kitscoty RCMP arrest and charge suspect for break and enter

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

On Jan. 26, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Kitscoty RCMP responded to a break and enter to a residence, located south of Lloydminster near the Saskatchewan border.

As a result of the investigation, two suspects were identified.

On Feb. 1, repeat offender Michael Whitman, 43, a resident of Lloydminster, was arrested and charged with:

- Break and enter

- Unlawfully in a dwelling house

After a judicial interim hearing, Whitman was released with

court set for Feb. 28 at Lloydminster Provincial Court.

Megan Hill, 24, a resident of Lloydminster, has been charged with one count of break and enter. RCMP have issued a warrant for her arrest.

There is a second female suspect who has not been identified. She is described as:

- Light complexion

- Wearing pink and black high-top runners, a longer black jacket, black leggings and a black shirt.

Kitscoty RCMP is asking for public assistance in identifying the unknown female suspect as well as locating Hill.

If you have any information regarding this break-and-enter, please contact Kitscoty RCMP at 780-846-2870.

Federal tax hikes one month away

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on the federal government to scrap its plan to increase the carbon tax, alcohol taxes and member of Parliament pay on April 1.

“The feds will make life more expensive with the April tax hikes,” said Franco Terrazzano, Federal Director of the CTF.

“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shouldn’t be raising taxes when

Support pins can be purchased at Real Canadian Superstore, Sobeys and other locations.

“Please know that we stand with you and that the Lloydminster community will do every -

Canadians can’t afford gas or groceries.”

The federal carbon tax will increase to 14 cents per litre of gasoline and 12 cents per cubic metre of natural gas on April 1.

First passed in the 2017 federal budget, the alcohol escalator tax automatically increases excise taxes on beer, wine and spirits every year by the rate of inflation. Alcohol taxes will increase by 6.3 per cent

thing possible to support you during this difficult time,” added Aalbers.

Savchuk says she and many newcomers like Marianna Viitovych who arrived here in May struggle to learn Eng -

on April 1. MPs also take pay raises each year on April 1. The CTF estimates this year’s pay raise will range from an extra $5,100 for a backbench MP to an extra $10,200 for the prime minister, based on contract data published by the government of Canada. This will be the fourth MP pay raise since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

lish, but they know they need to.

“It’s our new home in Canada. We need to speak English as well,” she said, noting she now speaks well enough to land her first job at Staples.

UKRAINE FROM PAGE 1

Supplied Photo

Coldest Night of Year supports community need

be addressed.

“We are open as often as possible and we’re filling those shifts as much as we can.”

For the society’s board chair Michael Davison, the annual fundraiser holds a special place in his heart.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Organizers and volunteers were all smiles as the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser, in support of the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, brought in greatly-needed funds to help keep the doors open at the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter.

With homelessness in Lloydminster on the rise, the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser couldn’t have come at a better time.

That was the message from the walk’s organizer, Valerie Lazicki, as Border City residents gathered at Bud Miller All Seasons Park on Saturday night to face the cold and raise funds for the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, which operates the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter.

“We’re seeing greater numbers this year than we’ve seen in the past, summer and winter,” said Lazicki.

“I’ve been with the organization for five years and I’m not sure what’s happening, but homelessness is increasing in Lloydminster; it’s astonishing to me. I don’t know whether people are losing their stability or whether they’re coming from other communities because the shelters in other communities are overwhelmed.”

This year’s walk featured seven teams with

35 walkers and raised just under $16K.

Lazicki explained the goal of the annual walk, which first took place in 2016, is not only to gain financial support, but it’s also “a stark recognition of what life is like for people who aren’t housed or aren’t accessing meals regularly.”

“The great thing about this event is everyone comes back year after year, so it’s like welcoming old friends,” she said.

“It’s really a fun event, and if you’ve never been, give it a shot next year. It’s not a sombre event … we’re laughing, joking, having a great time, and reconnecting with people year after year.”

A recent project for the society is its new warming centre, located in the old Guardian Heating and Plumbing building north of the tracks on Highway 17.

Lazicki explained the purpose of the warming centre is to provide shelter and food for those who can’t go to the men’s shelter.

“We have a lot of homeless women this

the MOST out of your advertising dollars Squeeze

year, more than we’ve ever seen, and they’re coming to Lloyd for support, and we’re it,” she said.

“If we didn’t have the warming centre, we’d have them in our lobby, but we welcome them because they need somewhere warm as well. Our warming station just gives them a little more space to stretch out and it’s for men, women, couples, anyone in need.”

The warming centre is open to the public but isn’t currently running as a 24-hour facility as Lazicki explained staffing issues need to

“For me, this event is really special because something like shelter work, or the kind of work that’s important to a community, it can sometimes be hard to talk about, or people don’t want to talk about it, so events like this are important so people can see the support … and that recharges my batteries a bit,” he said.

“Every dollar counts, but I’m just charged up to see people walking in the same toques. Every person walking is important and every volunteer is important.”

Board member Phyllis Tomkins, who has been with the society since its inception in 1998, explained the continued community support is greatly appreciated.

“I think it’s one of our best fundraisers and the point of people being out in the cold really hits home during this event,” said Tomkins.

standing of homelessness and what it means to be cold.” Advertise Province-wide with a combined circulation over 750,000 for only... $995 plus GST/HST Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 email classifieds@awna.com or visit your community newspaper

TAYLOR

WEAVER EDITOR

Collectors to end lengthy hibernation

The Border City Collectors are set to present their full 2023 show and sale on a Saturday after cocooning for the past three years during the pandemic.

ple are starved after that big shutdown,” said Whiting.

“The interest is obviously still there. We used to do two-day shows, but I think the one-day shows go over pretty well.”

The general admission is just $5 or $15 for a family and kids 12 and under are free with proceeds going to the Barr Colony Museum Foundation and other local charities.

Visitors can win door prizes and browse or purchase everything from antiques and farm toys to dolls, and coins from exhibitors.

The revival show will take place March 11 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the renovated WLS Convention Centre to the delight of organizing committee member Don Whiting.

“I understand the entries are coming in good just like in the old days. We all think peo -

Whiting says exhibitors usually get a good bang for their buck, but it all depends on what they bring and what’s the current hot stuff to collect.

“Farm toys are still popular it seems. Of course, the antique world—I don’t know, something to do with that COVID shutdown—the antique

world is hot, too,” mused Whiting.

As a collector himself, Whiting takes a shine to old things, especially vintage advertising and oil and gas pumps, and he took a shot at explaining what the

attraction of collectibles is for him and others who attend the show.

“My theory is, it takes us back to a simpler time, and no matter where you are in life, it takes you back to an earlier time. Generally,

earlier is simpler too,” said Whiting. There may not be any COVID collectibles on site, but it’s still a hot topic with the last 2020 show held a few days before everything shut down for good.

“The last one we just squeaked it in at the last minute. We still had pretty good attendance, but it certainly wasn’t what it should have been. People were starting to get scared,” recalled Whiting.

GEOFF LEE WRITER ..................................

My theory is, it takes us back to a simpler time, and no matter where you are in life, it takes you back to an earlier time. Generally, earlier is simpler too.

Meridian Source File Photo

Wildlife Festival opens eyes to exotic animals

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Whether it be snakes, sloths, porcupines or potbelly pigs, there was something for everyone at the Lloydminster Wildlife Festival.

Held at the Lloydminster Exhibition from Feb. 24-26, the wildlife festival was brought to the Border City Calgary-based organizer by Jason Clevett.

Clevett is the owner of YYC Nature and Education Centre and has a long-standing partnership with Calgary’s Cobb’s Adventure Park and its exotic animal rescue.

With wall-to-wall displays for visitors of all ages to enjoy, Clevett said one of the main reasons he and his staff love putting on these shows is the educational aspect of them.

“I’ve been educating people on animals for 15 years and Cobb’s has been at it for 10 years,” said Clevett.

“We really believe in what we do and connecting people with animals. People aren’t going to care about what they can’t experience, and the reality is, how many people can afford to fly their entire family to Costa Rica, Africa or Thailand and get first-hand and potentially life-changing experience with these animals.”

Growing up in Calgary, Clevett recalls a TV show called Monty’s Travelling Reptile Show and credits his early exposure to wild and exotic animals as a driving force for doing what he loves now.

“Seeing that first sparked an interest in animals, and especially reptiles,” he said. “If we can spark that in people, that’s amazing.”

Clevett has also seen others’ love of animals transform right in front of his eyes.

“One of our staff, Donna, wouldn’t have held a snake a year ago

and now she’s out here holding ball pythons … for every one of those stories I know, there’s a dozen I don’t … but these types of experiences impact people. If they’re afraid of animals, they have the opportunity to face it

for the first time.”

For Clevett, education and creating a love of animals is what keeps him smiling, but so is sharing the “responsible pet ownership” message.

“It’s so easy to fall in love with the animals,

but it’s also so important to remember some of these animals are not pets. As great as the porcupines are, they would do a lot of damage … you’d also need a heated room that recreates the amazon jungle to keep a sloth.”

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos Jason Clevett, organizer of the Lloydminster Wildlife Festival and owner of YYC Nature and Education Centre in Calgary, speaks during one of many presentations at the Lloydminster Exhibition over the weekend.

Seniors check off to-do list

The Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society plans to have a booth at an upcoming seniors’ information fair at the Legacy Centre.

An event poster was circulated at the group’s Feb. 21 meeting with a commitment to attend.

“It’s great when everyone supports the senior’s information fair to see all the avail -

ability of services that are in the community and all the things they can do,” said the organization’s president, Graham Brown.

“We’re going to have a table there to make sure people learn about us and what we do.”

The fair will take place on March 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. with the blanks to be filled in soon by the Lloydminster Learning Council Association and event partner Family and Community Support Services.

Meanwhile, a motion was passed at the seniors’ meeting to donate $500 to undecided causes in memory of long-time members Len Pryor and Betty Christensen, who were both directors at the time of their deaths in February. Pryor was an honorary member in his final role.

The decision allowed members to comment on the contributions of Pryor and Christensen

lobbying for seniors over the years.

“Len Pryor was one of the originals that was involved in everything we did right from day one and was a strong supporter and helped us lobby governments. He was a great resource for advice,” said Brown.

“He stood in when I was away in the winters and chaired all the meetings.”

Brown says Christensen was one of the originals for the seniors’ organization, too.

“She helped us through many weeks and months and years of trying to get more beds in our community.”

Dr. Raff Sayeed, who founded the senior’s group with Rod Sellers, was joined shortly afterwards by Christensen and two other members.

“So there were five of us originally. Len joined in the second batch of people who started coming along

with (the late) Bill Till,” said Sayeed.

He said Pryor contributed to the group’s stability, making the club a society, and serving as its president and vice president for many years.

Sayeed commended the role of Christensen, too.

“Betty Christensen was there at every meeting giving us moral support and giving advice at every meeting,” he recalled.

In other news, the Seniors Care Society will send a letter of support to the city for a group of seniors who are lobbying for the resumption of an instructed aerobics fitness program at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre.

The society will also hold its annual general meeting in June with the date and format to be determined.

There will be an election to fill three vacant directors’ seats on the board, including the one held by Christensen.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Paul Richer, chair of the Lloydminster and District Health Advisory Council, left, holds a summary of the top three health goals in Saskatchewan at the Feb. 21 meeting of Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society to incorporate into messaging. President Graham Brown, right, looks on.

Upcoming card show a collector’s dream

With vendors coming from all corners of Alberta and Saskatchewan, you never know what you might find at the Border City Card Show.

On March 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the LloydMall will be taken over by passionate card collectors and hobbyists of all ages. Whether you’re collecting hockey, Magic, baseball, Pokémon, football or Yu-GiOh cards, there will be something for everyone.

The card show will also feature a wide variety of door prizes and an autograph session with NHL alum and Edmonton Oilers’ broadcast analyst Rob Brown from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We had a smaller version of this in October that we hosted in the back room of Border City Games and we had a moderate turnout for that, but I just felt that a bigger venue would be beneficial,” said organizer Chris Brinklow.

“I thought a good draw might be to bring an NHL player in, so I sent out a couple of emails and Rob Brown got back to me. He’s excited to make the trip to Lloyd.”

As a long-time Pittsburgh Penguins fan, Brinklow is extra excited for the event’s special guest.

“Rob Brown was drafted by the Penguins in the late ‘80s and played alongside Mario Lemieux, who I’m sure everyone has heard of,” he said.

“Rob’s got quite a few accolades and still owns the WHL record for most points in a season with 212. He was part of the World Juniors that won gold in 1988, and he was part of the ’89 All-Star game and got 115 that season. As a long-time Penguins fan, I’m really looking forward to having him out.”

Brinklow also explained the card show will double up as a fun -

draiser, with proceeds from the event supporting The Olive Tree.

“I didn’t want to do this show for me and I wanted to give back to the community somehow. As I was piecing this thing together, my wife and I were talking and we decided any proceeds from the event will be donated to The Olive Tree,” he said.

“There’s no admission fee, but if people want to get autographs by Rob, we have a hockey card we designed and printed, with his permission, and we’re selling the cards for $5 at the show, and proceeds from card sales are going to The Olive Tree as well.”

Brinklow then explained proceeds from door prize ticket sales will also be donated to The Olive Tree.

“Richardson’s Jewellery is throwing in a pair of Oiler tickets for the door prizes, the Lloydminster and District Co-op has submitted a gift basket, as has the casino,” he said.

“Our friends over at Lids in the LloydMall provided a couple of hats, the May Theatre provided some movie passes, and we also got gift certificates to the Canadian Brewhouse, Family Pizza and Eats and Treats by Hotsuls. There’s a lot of great door prizes.”

Well-known trading card grader PSA Canada will also be on-site accepting submissions for grading.

“People can bring their card in, PSA will take it, and depending on how fast you want it back, will affect the price to have it graded,” said Brinklow.

“PSA usually doesn’t do first-time, small city shows, they usually do Toronto and Edmonton, the bigger venues. To have them here is a real honour because it’s something they normally wouldn’t do. It’s quite special and encouraging for Lloydminster.”

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Rotary ponders a strategic plan

opportunity for the club to be engaged in a strategic plan,” said Mike Sidoryk, who chaired the meeting.

“Let’s put this on paper and see where we all want to go.”

Any Lloyd Rotary club strategy will likely hinge on its two major ongoing fundraisers— Lobsterfest and Dream Vacations, with tickets selling well for both.

out a list of presidents’ projects and the dollar amounts over the past 20 years or so.

Kevin Komrey stood up to say at one time the club had 100 members and sold 400 tickets for the feast.

all day on social media selling tickets and organizing events.

“Anytime we want to involve the public, it’s a big undertaking,” she explained.

“One thing we do less of than we used to is laugh, in terms of socializing,” said Acton, who noted the Christmas party for members was fun stuff.

It was time for members of the Rotary Club of Lloydminster to revisit the many activities the charity does throughout the year and ponder the future.

With no scheduled guest speaker at this week’s Monday meet -

ing, the floor was open to talk about everything Rotary does locally and internationally as well as bounce ideas around.

The opportunity was well timed, knowing Rotarian Wendy Plandowski is creating a club policy while suggesting a strategic plan, too.

“I think it’s a great

Treasurer Pat Skinner informed members Lobsterfest will go ahead on May 6 and typically raises about $40,000 for local and international projects.

Proceeds from the sale of Dream Vacation tickets to be drawn at Lobsterfest directs about $20,000 a year to a project chosen by the current president and includes six $2,000 projects selected by each director.

Skinner also read

“Our club is about half of that now and we’re still doing all that, so I think Rotarians should have a pat on the back. We’re working twice as hard as we used to,” he said.

Michelle Benning says the club needs to be cautious about trying to add too many events.

“I feel like our members do a lot and maybe that’s something we could address in an email survey and send it out,” she said.

“Events are very time intensive and we want to be cognizant that we are meeting our Rotary members’ expectations of what they want to take and receive.”

Benning says as a business person, she doesn’t want to spend

Paul Harris pitched his support for a member survey to determine what individual members have to contribute in terms of time and causes.

New member Chad Kozak says his expectation to network with other businesses as a Rotarian isn’t being met and he thinks that could deter recruiting younger members.

“I haven’t done a single piece of business from here whatsoever. That is part of the reason I am here,” he said.

Kozak suggested a “speed dating” style lunch to have three or four different conversations with someone you haven’t met before.

That got a thumbs up from Robin Acton, who is looking to re-inject some fun into the mix.

Rotarians gave Rita Rondeau-Cain the nod to pitch quarterly meetings for club discussions to the board and monthly fun “speed dating” meetings, noting the Border City club used to do this.

Meanwhile, both Rotary clubs are teaming up to send two area youths to Ottawa for Rotary’s Adventures in Citizenship program.

“I have sent out invitations to all of the schools in the region to let students know we require submissions by March 10,” said Rondeau-Cain.

Plans are also underway for Rotarians and young people from Lloydminster Community Youth Centre to build flower boxes in Rondeau-Cain’s garage.

Meridian Source File Photo

This year’s draw of Dream Vacation tickets by the Rotary Club of Lloydminster will take place during their Lobsterfest fundraiser on May 6. Anita Schmidt, seen above, headed up the sale of Canadian Dream Vacations tickets a year ago. Rotarians will also be raising funds by bartending at this weekend’s RCMP Regimental Ball.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

It’s almost time to move your ice fishing shelters

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

As ice fishing season comes to a close, the Ministry of Environment reminds anglers the deadlines to remove ice fishing shelters are March 15 south of Highway 16, and March 31 to the north.

Plan to remove your ice shelter before it becomes unsafe. Spring weather can be unpredictable, leading to unsafe ice conditions, sometimes earlier than expected.

Owners must remove all structures and litter from the ice. Shelters may not be left on the shore and must be transported away.

Abandoned shelters pose an unnecessary risk to everyone who enjoys our lakes in the summer. Pieces of shelter can cause injuries and litter our shores. Be extremely cautious while travelling on ice.

Slush, thermal cracks and pressure ridges are all indicators of unsafe ice conditions.

Ice thickness and strength can vary considerably from area to area, so always check that conditions are safe.

For more information about fishing in Saskatchewan, check the Anglers Guide, available online at saskatchewan.ca/fishing.

If you suspect wild -

life, fisheries, forestry or environmental violations, please call Saskatchewan’s toll-free Turn In Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561, or call #5555 from a SaskTel cellular device.

Violations can also be reported online at saskatchewan.ca/tipp.

You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for cash rewards from the SaskTip Reward Program.

File Photo

Thursday, March 2, 2023 MERIDIAN

Leeway from Lloyd: Gender identity off the rails!

and so on.

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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

I am beginning to think we are living in the Bizzaro world where up is down, black is white and male is female. All of us have been witness to the craziness that oozed from the pandemic, and more recently, we have been subjected to the “new normal” of gender identity.

It seems some humans who are born either male or female, grow up and decide to gender identify as everything from aliens and animals to the opposite sex, babies

The unhealthy part of gender expression is allowing people and organizations to enable the lunatic fringe without being aware of the consequences or just not giving a damn.

A case in point involves a transOakville, Ontario teacher who wears Z-cup prosthetic breasts, a blonde wig, tights and glasses at school with a thumbs up from the school board.

Parents, meanwhile, are rightfully screaming to fire this disrupter who was recently photographed walking in all his male attire. I can’t stop laughing.

Now he claims the

photo taken by a New York Post photographer isn’t him and his breasts are actually real from a rare condition known as gigantomastia!!

He is also suddenly claiming he is not transgender but was born intersex.

It’s time for common sense to kick in and give this clown the royal boot for upsetting kids and families with his over-the-top behaviour. The school board continues to defend this. They need a swift boot too into a loonie bin.

There’s a trans killer in Scotland who doesn’t want to be transferred to a male prison and started to identify as a baby and demanded

guards hold “her” hand, change her diapers and feed her baby food. This self-declared baby should only be eligible to possess toy bank cards, a fake passport, and live in a doll house.

Let’s pray this adult toddler is adopted by the loving Putin family in Russia who will help her grow up on the front lines!

Spoiler alert, but I now identify as an elected clone of former U.S. president Donald Trump with a large desk wired to many red buttons that need pushing to put an end to this insanity once and for all. Please don’t blame me for the apocalypse. You voted for me!

Through the reader’s lens ...

Word on the street ...

Guess what, everyone, we’re bringing streeters back!

The idea is simple, and quite a bit of fun. We go out into the community and ask the same

question to five random people. Streeters will be a regular thing in the Source , so if you’re approached with a question by our editor, Taylor, play along!

Taylor spent some time at

This week’s question ...

the Lloydminster Wildlife Festival over the weekend and thought what a better place to do a streeter! Let’s keep the conversation going!

What is your favourite animal here at the Wildlife Festival?

- Sugar Gliders

- All the lizards!

- Ornate Uromastyx (lizard)

- The Crested African Porcupines named Pins and Needles

- All of the snakes!

Ainsley Andrew Oskar Mya Levi

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

Square Dancing

Introduction

NEW LOCATION!

Intro to square dancing will be held on Wednesday nights from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at City Church, 511549 Street. Walk to the beat of music by following simple instructions from the caller. Come alone or bring a friend. Wear whatever is comfortable. First evening is FREE!

Bingo at the Moose

The Moose Lodge, located at 5213-57

Street, Lloydminster, hosts bingo nights every Monday and Wednesday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. The Moose also hosts crib tournaments every second Sunday of the month. Start time is 10 a.m. The cost to play is $10 and lunch is $12.

Kaiser Tournament

The Legacy Centre is hosting a kaiser tournament on March 2. Play begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10/person. Lunch is available for $12/person. Everyone

welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-8754584 for more details.

World Day of Prayer Service

St. John’s Anglican Church, located at 4709 49 Ave, is hosting a World Day of Prayer service on March 3 at 11:30 a.m. Everyone welcome.

Supper/Dance

The Legacy Centre is hosting its monthly supper/dance on March 3. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m., sup -

A Moment with the Mayor: Oil

and wastewater don’t mix

The adage “oil and water don’t mix” really applies to the new mechanical wastewater treatment facility.

Oil, especially the topgrade heavy oil we produce around our community that feeds the heavy oil refinery and the upgrader, is particularly damaging to the system.

Oil has always been a problem for the City of Lloydminster wastewater treatment team.

Every now and then oil makes its way into the wastewater stream and wreaks havoc.

How does this happen? Before becoming mayor, I worked with heavy oil in various fields within the industry, so I have witnessed ways that oil could become a problem.

Heavy oil is not the easiest substance to produce, and once it starts to warm up, it changes

entirely in its abilities.

A heated bay or shop changes the oil’s properties from almost solid to a more movable liquid.

A hose that falls off a designated holder may be all it takes for the oil to seep from the hose and into the floor drain. Motor oil could equally cause issues with the system.

This is why floor drains are supposed to be maintained and not allow for oils to enter the drainage system.

Our new mechanical wastewater facility will use proven membrane bioreactors to purify our wastewater before releasing it into the environment.

The membranes have a lifespan of 12-15 years before replacement if properly maintained and have not been contaminated by oil.

If they come into contact with oil, they

require immediate cleaning and may require replacement if not successful, which is expensive.

We have taken several steps during the design and construction of the new facility to deal with oil should it make its way to the plant.

The facility has specialized equipment and procedures which would immediately be implemented if oil is detected.

We’ll be sharing more information with the industry, businesses and property owners in the near future about how important it is to keep oil out of the wastewater system. We’ll also share the associated costs if oil makes its way into our processes.

per is served at 6 p.m., then dance the night away to the tunes Red Deer’s The Plaiders. A big thank-you to Vera Gallant for sponsoring our band this month! Reserved tickets only! Cost is $25/person for supper and the dance. Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info or to reserve your tickets.

QuitCore Tobacco Cessation Group

Offered free by the Lloydminster Primary Care Network starting March 6 at 2 p.m. The program runs once

weekly for 6 weeks and is led by trained facilitators. Get the support you need to quit for good. Call 780874-0490 or email heatherm@lloydpcn.ca for more information or to register.

Job Fair

The Lloydminster and Region Job Fair is taking place at the Gold Horse Casino on March 8 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. All employers wishing to host a table can register by calling 780-875-9013 or email tinisha@lloydminsterchamber.com

Reapers Info Night

Come to Cheers in Lloydminster to learn about rugby in our community on March 10 at 7 p.m. We are hoping to get enough interest to revamp the Reapers teams.

Jamboree

Passport to YLL Church Directory

There will be a Jamboree on March 19 at 1 p.m. in the Islay Community Hall. Admission $10, participants free. Everyone welcome. Lunch served. For more info call Dixie at 780744-2204. Funds raised support maintenance of our hall.

- Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers, City of Lloydminster

You never know what you’ll find in an older home during renovations. Hidden beneath the dusty insulation in a crawl space, I found a 1951 textbook titled; Speedwriting Shorthand Century Edition Book 1

It’s only a matter of practice

I can only speculate as to why it was hidden in this particular spot. Perhaps I’m more curious as to what else I’ll find!

The owner of this textbook did not complete all of her assignments. Shorthand is a method of using signs and symbols to represent words. Its origins date back to the early Roman Empire

and this form of dictation wasn’t exactly easy to master. The country’s noted shorthand teacher, Emma Dearborn wasn’t happy with her students’ progress.

A new system based on writing words as they sound and using only long vowels, abbreviations and flourishes was developed circa 1924. This resulted in speedwriting short -

hand. These basic principles stood the test of time throughout the first century; it was far easier for students to learn and use. This form of dictation was readily used by businesses in the United States and Canada.

In 1941, international author, Alexander L. Sheff was selected by the directors of speedwriting to take over the education administration. He worked with top business educators to revise and improve speedwriting principles resulting in this century edition textbook. Its advanced methods increased the recording speed by 20 percent and enhanced the transcription accuracy.

Franchises were set up with strict rules of one business school per city authorized to teach speedwriting shorthand. Each business school in either the United States or Canada was carefully stud -

ied and analyzed before being selected. The editors wanted each pupil to understand they were using the most up-tothe-minute edition of this course.

The missing registration form was on the last page of each textbook. It was to be completed and returned to the school registrar. The national office located in New York would enter each name in their master register. This registry also granted the right of going to any nearby franchised school for additional dictation practice no matter which city the student received their training. Employment services at no charge was available for graduates. Students were repeatedly encouraged to complete the registration form to take advantage of these privileges.

To ensure the exact same requirements were being met for

each student across the country, writing assignments were included at the end of each textbook. Each one regularly tested the student’s knowledge and progress. Credit would not be given if the student used any other paper for these assignments except what was provided in the textbook.

Penmanship was essential to learning this format of shorthand, “Whatever distance the hand travels beyond what is absolutely necessary represents only waste effort on the part of the writer.”

Certain words occur more frequently in the English language. Reportedly, 50 percent of English words used daily are made up of only 69 words. This textbook calls them brief forms. There is literally no dotting the i or crossing the t in speedwriting shorthand!

23031dg2

WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN

Bobcats best MOB, playoff-ready

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

It was another big win for the Lloydminster Bobcats as they bested the Fort McMurray Oil Barons (MOB) 4-3 on Tuesday night at the Centennial Civic Centre.

‘Cats forward Kade Fendelet was first to light the lamp with a goal at the 11:39 mark in the first.

Hayden Prosofsky would get another goal for the ‘Cats at 5:47 in the second, which was quickly answered with a MOB goal at 8:37.

The third and final frame consisted of 20 minutes of actionpacked hockey and saw Bobcats goals from Connor Burke and Kade Fendelet, his second of the night. The MOB also got two more on the board, but ultimately,

it was the ‘Cats skating into this weekend’s final two home games on a high note.

“For us, we had a good first period, we weren’t great in the second, but we had a good response in the third,” said ‘Cats head coach and general manager Nigel Dube.

“Connor Burke getting an early shorthanded goal on the first shift kinda set the tone. It was a big night by Fonz (Kade Fendelet) up front and our young guys really led the charge.”

A Lloyd boy himself, Fendelet has been making waves during his inaugural season of Junior hockey with 14pts and 62 PIM in 48 games, and with two goals on Tuesday, he was feeling pretty good.

“It’s pretty exciting and especially good to get the win out there tonight,” he said.

The ‘Cats had a phenomenal February, winning seven of their last nine games, and with

only two games remaining in the regular season, Dube feels good going into playoffs.

“It’s huge we’ve been on home ice so much in February,” he said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source The Lloydminster Bobcats celebrate a goal against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons on Tuesday night at the Civic Centre.

FROM PAGE 15

“It wasn’t an ideal schedule for the first two-thirds of the season, but the last third was in our favour; we knew we had to push through those first two to get to the third.

“I thought our group’s been responsive, and by the crowds here too, there’s energy here every night with over 1,000 a couple times ... the excitement for our guys to play in front of them, and for them, I think is a driving force for those wins.”

If there’s been a key to the Bobcats’ secondhalf success, Dube said it boils down to the team knowing they have to work harder.

“I think we learned we have to play a lot harder and a lot heavier in the first half,” he said. “We probably didn’t give ourselves an opportunity and we’ve been giving ourselves an opportunity to get in there. It’s been huge.”

In Fendelet’s opinion, the key to the team’s recent success all starts in the locker room.

“Everything’s just

clicking in the room,” he said.

“Everyone’s bought in, we know what we’re playing for, and we want to keep this season going as long as we can.

“We’re playing to go as deep as we can in playoffs and make a run out there.”

It would be really awesome seeing everyone cheering us on this weekend.

The ‘Cats wrap the regular season with back-to-back homers against the Grande Prairie Storm this weekend at the Civic. The first game is Saturday with a 7 p.m. puck drop and the second is Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Going into the final two games before playoffs, Fendelet said he and the boys feel good.

“Big weekend coming up for us, final games of the regular season, so hopefully (we’ll) finish that off right and head in on the right foot,” he said, adding the fact it’s

been unreal to see so many fans in the stands.

“It’s awesome when we have good crowds, so it would be really awesome seeing everyone cheering us on this weekend.”

With the regular season so close to being over and everyone battling for playoff positioning, the ‘Cats aren’t 100 per cent sure who they’ll face in the first round of the playoffs, but it may end up being their rivals from Bonnyville.

“It doesn’t matter where we are in the standings, who we’re going to play or who’s coming up on these games left, it’s just a matter of winning hockey games,” said Dube. “When you’re winning hockey games you’re feeling good about yourself, so that’s been the message.

“We just have to worry about winning and the process to get there. I know that’s a cliché in hockey, but I thought our process on Tuesday gave us the opportunity to have the third period we did; we need to have more of that.”

Taylor Weaver Photo

Rustlers club v-ball golden after six-year drought

What a phenomenal weekend it was for the 16U men’s Rustlers club volleyball team!

After a six-year drought, the Rustlers men’s team captured gold at a Sask Cup Tier 1.

From Feb. 25-26, the team played seven matches to get to the gold final

and only dropped three sets all weekend. In the final, the team went down a set but fought back with perseverance, resilience and mental toughness to defeat the RVC Regina Volleyball Club 19-25, 25-20 and 15-9.

The team could not have made history without the fantastic parent support and coaches.

Supplied Photo

Sask govt. hosts Indigenous business gathering

The second annual Indigenous Business Gathering was held on

Feb. 28 at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. The event brought together

over 500 people from Indigenous and nonIndigenous businesses,

municipalities, Crown Corporations and government ministries

looking to develop supply chain, procurement and partnership opportunities.

“Saskatchewan is fortunate to have a number of very successful Indigenous companies and organizations that are strong contributors to our province’s economic growth,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison. “The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to economic reconciliation, and this high-profile event was a great opportunity to bring together Indigenous and nonIndigenous businesses, Crown Corporations and municipalities in the interest of advancing Indigenous participation in our economy.”

The event featured 80 tradeshow booths and representatives from all of Sask’s largest Indig -

enous economic development groups and businesses, as well as local and multi-national companies including Enbridge, who provided a keynote during the lunch, and BHP, who joined the Indigenous Manufacturing and Contracting Network and Saskatchewan First Nations Natural Resource Centre of Excellence for a discussion in the afternoon.

The event ties into the province’s plan of growing Indigenous participation in the economy through Sask’s natural resource industries and labour market development.

Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Trade and Export Development hosted the first Indigenous Business Gathering in April 2022, which sold-out with more than 300 attendees.

MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridansource.ca

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COMING EVENTS

COIN SHOW and SALE – Canada’s largest. 11 & 12 March 2023, 10 am – 4:30 pm. Lions Centre 11113 – 113 Street, Edmonton. Free market evaluations. Dealers from across Canada, auctions, displays, coin striking. Family friendly. www.edmontoncoinclub.com.

JO MICHALUK (Foesier) who resides in Penhold, is turning 80 years old. Everyone is invited to her birthday party on March 11th at Crammond Hall – 12:30 to 6:00 p.m. RSVP is not required. Bring your favorite dish, dress as you wish, and BYOB. Catherine@catherinebrownlee.com.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

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Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-4051228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

FREIGHTLAND CARRIERS INC. is looking for owner/operators to deliver tri-flat deck freight in Alberta, Saskatchewan or BC. Monday to Friday work. Steady yearround work with substantial increases in rates. Contact Freightland by email at dispatch@freightland. ca or telephone toll free 1-800-917-9021.

CAMPGROUND HOST/ ONSITE Caretaker

Vauxhall Lions Park - Vauxhall, Alberta. 2023 Camping Season May 1 - Oct. 15. 30 site campground on Highway 36 - 1/2 mile north of Vauxhall. Duties: taking bookings, registrations, collecting fees, facility cleaning, grounds maintenance. E-mail bschnarr@ xplornet.ca or send resume to Vauxhall Lions, P.O. Box 729, Vauxhall, Alberta T0K 2K0.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: needed this winter for dozers, excavators, rock trucks: near Carrot River, Sk. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

HIP/KNEE

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LAND FOR SALE

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