Meridian Source - March 30, 2023

Mount Joy enjoys endless winter Aalbers drills down into budgets

do,” said Bogue, speaking collectively.

Ironically, the scheduled box race was also the very day of the resort’s insurance inspection.

“We have an insurance inspector out here today and it’s going very well. He’s a great guy and he’s giving us some great pointers for the future of our hill,” said Bogue.

Tom Mulinowski, drove all the way from Hudson Bay to watch his three grandkids Mason Adams and Brielle and Jase Crittenden race and celebrate Mason’s birthday.

Mother Nature will allow Mount Joy Snow Resort to run into April for the first time in recent memory.

There was plenty of snow and sunshine on hand for a kids’ cardboard box race on Sunday to keep the fun rolling as long as possible.

“It should be a good time,” said resort president, Chris Bogue before the heats on the bunny hill.

“It looks like tape and cardboard is going to be the sure winner out here today.”

The resort is poised to set a record for the

most skiable days in a season with more to come.

“We’ve already surpassed day 26. On average, we used to do about 17 days a year. We’ll definitely be open next week and who knows thereafter,” said Bogue.

The news skiers and snowboarders are waiting to hear is that the resort will re-open next season following an uncertain financial future due to soaring insurance costs.

“We set out this year asking the community if they wanted to have Mount Joy out here and it turns out we

Looking ahead, he noted the board expects to have a summer budget in place in time for their upcoming AGM to fund further upgrades and repairs —if the snow ever melts.

Board member and ski patroller, Dean Peters was joking about skiing in May this year.

“We’ve got all the runs with lots of snow on them right now. It comes down to Mother Nature and how long she wants it to ski,” said Peters.

He noted conditions were ideal for the cardboard race that used to be a media challenge and has been brought back for the kids.

“We’re quite excited about that now,” said Peters.

We’ve already surpassed day 26. On average, we used to do about 17 days a year. We’ll definitely be open next week and who knows thereafter.

“Everybody used some duct tape and the cardboard and a little bit of paint and big ideas,” said Mulinoski.

Mason who turns 12 said he used “boxes, toilet paper rolls and sharpies” to build his snow jalopy.

Asked if it would hold up for more than one run he said, “Probably not; when I hit the hay, it’s probably just going to explode.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers is drilling into the new 2023 federal budget this week after sifting through Saskatchewan’s latest budget in search of investments in our city.

“We’ll wait and see what’s in it for all Canadians, and in particular, municipalities,” said Aalbers just hours before the federal budget was tabled on Tuesday.

“I know they’ve given the provinces more money for health care already.”

Aalbers is all ears to learn the amount of the Canada CommunityBuilding Fund, formerly called the Gas Tax Fund, which provinces and territories allocate to municipalities to support local infrastructure priorities.

“We’re curious to see where that comes out at,” said Aalbers.

“They haven’t come out and said they are going to double it again this year. It just allows us to do more roadwork and things like that.”

Lloydminster will

get a piece of the provincial pie from the record $297.9 million in Municipal Revenue Sharing (MRS) the Saskatchewan government announced last Wednesday.

MRS sharing is part of $503 million in direct support of Saskatchewan municipalities.

Aalbers says MRS is based on the provincial sales tax charged by the province.

“So it’s reflective of an improved economy,” said Aalbers.

Specifically, it’s based on three-quarters of one point of PST revenue from two years prior.

“The economy started to recover two years ago and we’re seeing that benefit in the PST that’s being shared with municipalities across Saskatchewan,” explained Aalbers.

The mayor says the administration is crunching the numbers to see what the city’s share of MRS will be.

“We have an expectation it’s not going to be huge from our perspective,” he said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

GEOFF LEE WRITER

GEOFF LEE WRITER

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Palmer Kohlruss rockets down the hill at Mount Joy Snow Resort on Sunday to win her heat in cardboard box races. She also got the prize for best design.

Sled derby kids schuss snow resort

FROM PAGE 1

Brielle was ready to roll in her pink racer she made using paint and cardboard.

Race director and board member, Tyler Wilson assembled the racers and yelled out something about “the need for speed” to kick off the event.

“We’re going to do five racers at a time.”

Sheldon Gallagher, another board member on hand said, “You couldn’t ask for a better day. There’s lots of sunshine and it’s good to see all the community out.”

“Today, I am just here as a spectator and a board mem -

ber. I’m too old and brittle to be racing cardboard boxes,” he said.

Gallagher is the principal at Rendell Park Elementary School and he invited a former student of his, Jake Tremmel to bring his drone.

“That will be fun having Jake taking pictures of the event,” he said.

Jase Crittenden, left, Brielle Crittenden and Mason Adams ham it up in the snowpit area prior to cardboard box races at Mount Joy Snow Resort on Sunday. Geoff Lee Meridian Source

City considers new municipal development plan

Lloydminster City Council is considering adopting a new municipal development plan (MDP) known as Connection to our Future.

The current MDP was adopted in 2013, and since then, Lloydminster has undergone changes in population, development, municipal boundary, and overall objectives, which requires the City to review its goals to ensure the current needs and aspirations of the community are

BUDGET FROM PAGE 1

“We will be expecting what we call adjustments that are always done after the budget’s done.”

Aalbers is referring to the city’s budget that was created in December 2022 and might not take into account a new or emerging project since that time. He says MRS dollars will be put to use accordingly.

“You will see it being put to use in the city. I just can’t put my finger on what it would be exactly today,” he said.

The city will also benefit from additional municipal investment from the province for things like the Community Rink Affordability Grant and funding for provincial libraries.

“The arena funding

upheld.

An MDP is a vision or blueprint for the next 20 years, guiding multiple plans and documents, subdivisions and developments. The MDP covers topics such as:

- spaces for recreation, artistic activities, and community gatherings;

- residential, commercial and industrial developments;

- future land use and co-ordination of land uses;

- economic development of the municipality;

as an example, it helps with the power bill and gas bills at the arenas. It’s the same with the library. That money will be useful if there were any wage increases,” said Aalbers.

“It’s just general inflation of everything that’s going on. Everything that involves carbon has a price to it.”

Aalbers is pleased to see the province is spending $6.9 billion on health care this fiscal year.

“Certainly, we appreciate the work that’s being done in the health file. We’re hoping when the dust settles—we’re following that up with SHA— what will it mean for our city,” said Aalbers

“We’re appreciating what the government is

- provisions of transportation systems, municipal services and facilities;

- governance considerations; and

- density.

The draft of Connection to our Future is available online at ConnectLloyd.ca. This draft was presented during the Governance and Priorities Committee meeting on Monday, March 20. This presentation was for information purposes only, and no decision to adopt the plan was made.

Lloydminster’s MDP

putting money to, but is it going to trickle down to here?

Aalbers says it’s important that it’s spread across as many communities as possible because they all have needs including our own.

There is no money in the budget for a proposed hospice on the border, but Aalbers is hopeful it will be a budgeted item a year from now.

“As we’ve found, capital money is not easy to come by. We want to ensure our needs are well understood and we’ve got a good package in front of them (Ministry of Health), as they say, to justify the spend we need,” said Aalbers.

The mayor does give

is utilized by many, including:

- community members and the development community;

- City Council and Administration;

- the Subdivision and Development Authority;

- the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board; and

- neighbouring municipalities.

Information Session

The City of Lloydminster will host two come-and-go information sessions in council chambers at city hall (4420 50 Ave.) to allow

the thumbs up to a provincial commitment to investing $442.9 million in capital improvements to highways in the budget.

“We always welcome the investment in roads because we all

residents to discuss the draft municipal development plan.

Information sessions are being held on April 5 from 12-3 p.m. and on April 11 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Both sessions will be held in council chambers.

City Administration and Council members will be on-hand to discuss and receive feedback.

“We welcome the feedback from the community on this draft document,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

“This is part of a col -

need roads to access various things including getting merchandise to the city and trips to Saskatoon or Regina,” said Aalbers.

The Saskatchewan government will use a projected $1 billion sur-

laborative process with internal and external stakeholders and community involvement. The received feedback has been a crucial element in creating this document, which will set the direction for the future of Lloydminster.”

Anyone with comments or concerns about the proposed municipal development plan is asked to email the city’s planning department at planning@lloydminster.ca or call 780-874-3700 before 5 p.m. on Friday, April 15.

plus in its 2023 budget to pay down debt.

The surplus is expected to dwindle to about $101 million in the 2026-27 fiscal year. There are no new taxes or tax increases in the budget.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

Funding boost stretches SHINE reach

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Thanks to a $132,000 donation from the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF), Grade 8 students in the Border City will be better mentallyequipped to tackle anything that comes their way through the SHINE program.

Strong Healthy Individuals Navigating Emotions or SHINE, works with elementary schools in both the Lloydminster public and Lloydminster Catholic School Divisions to provide students with programs geared towards helping them gain positive coping strategies and resiliencies.

SHINE partners with community organizations to provide mental health programs and activities in the community throughout the school year and summer, as well as providing information and activities online for children, parents, and families to access through their website, social media and schools’ web page.

Up until last week, SHINE was only offered to students up to Grade 7, but with this donation, the program can afford to bring another coach and cater to another grade.

“It provides an opportunity for our middleyear students to receive proactive programming just like our elementary students,” said LPSD superintendent of education Brent Thomas.

“This is an extension of our current SHINE program and I love the fact we’re targeting our Grade 8 kids and giving them some skills and tools to navigate the things they’re dealing with on a daily basis.”

Glenda Kary, deputy director of education of the LCSD, is proud of the program’s growth since its inception and is looking forward to building on mental wellness for all students within our community.

“We have over 72 programs that are all research-based and linked to Saskatchewan curriculum. They also

deliver programming in the community during the summer,” she said.

“It’s programming focussing on the positive promotion of mental wellness.”

The LRHF was able to make this donation using funds raised through its 12-hour Dodge the Stigma dodgeball fundraiser, as well as Buzz The Bobcats, a fundraiser in partnership with the local Junior hockey teams.

“Programs like these have a ripple effect and skills learned will be taken with the students in ongoing years. As we know, mental health is top of mind for so many, and if we can help to equip students with the skills needed to help navigate their emotions during such a crucial part of their overall development, it is a substantial enhancement to the well-being of our local youth,” said LRHF CEO Stephanie Munro.

Lloydminster Bobcats’

forward Jayven Leslie, who spearheaded the Buzz The Bobcats fundraiser, was also thrilled with how the money was used.

“I had the pleasure to work with so many amazing people and hear multiple stories of

how they were able to overcome their struggles. It was the vulnerability shown by so many people that truly helped make a difference and show that anyone can struggle and that it’s okay to ask for help,” he said in a statement.

3” wide version

Taylor Weaver Photo

Info Fair an instant hit with area seniors

3” wide version

Seniors flocked to the 2023 Seniors Information Fair at the Legacy Centre on Monday to bone up on a variety of services available to them.

SELLING FEED OATS?

GIVE WILLIE A CALL 780 841 1366

Fast movement, prompt payment

willie@originpartners.ca

3.75” wide version

SELLING FEED OATS?

Lloyd RCMP’s Const. Melanie Flynn was on hand to pass out information on scams targeting seniors during the event, held at the Legacy Centre from 1-4 p.m.

For more information on services available to seniors in Lloydminster, contact the Legacy Centre at 780875-4584.

GIVE WILLIE A CALL 780 841 1366

Fast movement, prompt payment

willie@originpartners.ca

First Golden Birdie takes flight

“Those that definitely show sportsmanship, true integrity of the game and get along while they’re playing and make sure it’s done right, they were definitely considered,” he explained.

“The third one is skill level within badminton, so how good of a badminton player are you and how much did you improve as we did our sessions.”

The last one he said was having an obvious love for the game.

in women’s doubles.

“If you can’t play anymore you coach, that’s what I always say,” she said.

A couple of young badminton players from the Lloydminster Public School Division Sports Academy are probably still gobsmacked after receiving the Golden Birdie Award.

even a thing” during a media scrum.

He was also asked why he thinks he is getting this award and replied, “Because I love badminton and I’m a good player—and good sportsmanship.”

He’s not bragging as those checkboxes were among the selection criteria to win the

Golden Birdie, as Dyer explained to all of the eligible players before naming the winners.

“One is how those people treat their peers. So when we’re playing sports, how they treat their peers, specifically to badminton,” said Dyer.

Number two, he said, is sportsmanship.

“This is a really big deal in Lloydminster to win the Golden Birdie Award,” added Dyer. Modesty helps, too, as Danielle mainly had kind words for Gow instead of herself.

“She’s an amazing coach,” said the Grade 8 student who plans to learn more from Gow next year too.

Gow was an elite players who once made the collegiate nationals and won a silver medal

It came as a complete surprise to Tayton Graham and Danielle Binetruy to each receive a medal and $100 as the first male and female recipients of the award.

Their names were called out by academy teacher rep Austin Dyer during a full-player gathering at the Hoop Factory last Wednesday with their instructor Diane Gow on hand.

Gow presented Tayton with his award and cash prize while Danielle was unable to attend and got hers along with a hug from Gow on Thursday at E.S. Laird where both students attend school.

“These are two outstanding students,” said Gow, who coaches several volleyball and badminton teams.

“It was definitely a surprise. They had no idea we were coming.”

Tayton says he didn’t know the award “was

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

LPSD Sports Academy badminton coach, Diane Gow, is flanked by Tayton Graham on the left and Danielle Binetruy on the right as the first male and female recipients of the Golden Birdie Award for outstanding players.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

This is a really big deal in Lloydminster to win the Golden Birdie Award.

Badminton award recognizes skill, sportmanship

Gow says badminton teaches kids sportsmanship, playing with a teammate,m along with it being “a great allaround sport,” as she put it.

She says the academy has two three-week sessions in December and February.

“I start with basics and I build them from there. I encourage them to try to make their

school teams and hopefully they’ll be at the Comp because that’s where I coach too,” said Gow.

“For tryouts for high school I’ve had 40 Grade 10s come out, which is phenomenal.”

As for the Goldie Birdie, Gow credits Sheldon Gallagher, principal of Rendell Park Elementary School for coming up with the idea.

“He’s the one who said ‘hey why don’t we do this award.’ I said ‘I love it, let’s get a medal and let’s get them a cheque and make this a big deal,’” she said.

Tayton waffled between whether he valued the medal he called a trophy or the $100 the most, then revealed his plans for the money.

“The trophy is pretty cool, but $100 is also pretty cool. I’ll prob -

ably save up for a truck when I’m 16,” he explained.

Danielle, meanwhile said, “I don’t even know” with no spending plans yet in mind.

Teacher Natalie

Wiebe, who helps out at the academy, congratulated Danielle and spoke about what the Golden Birdie means to everyone.

“It’s an awesome thing to see and I think

it just speaks to our community and how much Diane pours into these kids and I know the kids just love instruction from her, so it’s awesome to see,” said Wiebe.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

LPSD Sports Academy badminton coach Diane Gow congratulates Tayton Graham for being selected as the first male recipient of the Golden Birdie Award medal and $100 cash prize at the Hoop Factory. Female winner Danielle Binetruy received her award and prize at E.S. Laird Middle School where they both attend school.

The Meridian Source is excited to announce the return of our 20 Questions feature! Each month, the Source will spotlight one member of the community as a fun way to bring us all closer together!

This month features Kevin Rusteika, who owns and operates Sobeys with his wife, Michelle. Thanks for helping us kick things off, Kevin!

If you didn’t do what you do for a living, what would you be?

A professional athlete.

It’s Sunday morning, what are you having for breakfast?

Bacon and eggs.

If you could see one concert, what would it be?

Willie Nelson.

Who was your childhood celebrity crush?

Kristy McNichol.

If you could have one super power, what would it be?

Stop World Hunger.

What’s your dream car?

‘67 Mustang.

What’s your fast-food guilty pleasure?

McDonald’s Quarter pounder.

Last book you couldn’t put down?

Guinness book of records.

What was your favourite TV show?

Three’s Company.

Which person, alive or dead, would you like to have dinner with?

Eddie Murphy.

What’s the one thing you haven’t done that you’d love to do?

Skydive.

What’s the best thing about Lloydminster? Community spirit.

If we’re buying you’re having....

Prime rib.

What’s your favourite vacation destination?

Dominican Republic.

What’s your weirdest habit?

I chew my tongue.

What’s currently playing in your car or on your iPhone right now?

Rod Stewart.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Tailgaters.

What are your words to live by?

Give to the hand that feeds the mouth.

Who’s your hero? My Girls.

What was your most embarrassing moment? Cannot mention publicly.

Winston hopes to lead peloton

the one schools had last year when they competed against each other at College Park School.

“Last year, we also had a green vs. gold competition in Winston Churchill (Winston vs. College) and now instead of being against each other, we’re all together competing against other schools,” he said.

Even the LPSD division office will log a few kilometres for fun.

The bikes are connected to Bluetooth and the Zwift cycling app that keeps a tally of the distances travelled by each rider in the challenge.

two weeks including the school’s mascot Winston Willy who inspired kids like Emily in Grade 4 to give it a turn.

explained Blythe.

Emily’s classmate Mohid offered his testimonial after stepping off one of the bikes in the hallway.

“It was good, just sometimes the gears get a little loose and you work too hard, but after that, you feel really good,” he said.

An object in motion stays in motion.

Students involved in the 2023 Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) cycling challenge might inadvertently learn about Newton’s first law of motion. The main lesson

behind the challenge, however, is not educational, but to generate school spirit in the community.

“We are competing against other schools in the division to see who can get the most kilometres in a nine-day span over the next two weeks,” said teacher

Craig Blythe at Winston Churchill School during the divisionwide challenge kickoff on Monday.

“We’re still working on what the prize will be, but definitely bragging rights for the winning school.”

Blythe says this a different challenge from

A champion school will be declared on April 6 after nine days of cycling.

“I know Rendell Park is gunning for us, so we are going to try our best to beat them,” said Blythe.

At Winston, every single student will be on the bike over the next

“This morning was my second time,” she said.

Emily can’t wait to ride her own bike that her parents just spray painted so she can show it off when it’s safe to take it outdoors.

“They don’t allow me in the winter,” she said.

Blythe says the kids rotate through every five or 10 minutes and try to use the flattest route on Zwift to keep everyone moving as quickly as they can.

“There are no real rules other than keeping the kids moving through the whole day,”

Mohid said they’ve been on the bike a few times before but stipulates, “this is the first time this year we have done a challenge.”

The challenge is well timed for him personally as he lamented, “My bike is broken, the gears broke off, but I ride a scooter.”

Blythe said his school’s parent council helped to raise funds to buy bikes suited to kids.

“We are very thankful to Jim (Taylor) at Grindin’ Gears for all the work he has done in selling us the bikes, tuning up the bikes and giving us some support with the bikes,” said Blythe.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Winston Willy has challenged all schools to a stationary bike competition based on the most kilometres ridden from March 27 to April 6. The mascot at Winston Churchill School set an example by taking a spin on a bike on Monday.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

There are no real rules other than keeping the kids moving through the whole day.

St. Joe’s students dive deep Inside Education

able, as well as exploring how much energy a solar panel makes,” she said.

“Energy stewardship is also a big focus, so we talk about why we switch from incandescent to LED lightbulbs, as well as how could we be energy stewards in our homes and not waste as much.”

Olivia Bell, a 12-yearold student at St. Joe’s, had a blast working through the various

stations and explained she learned quite a bit through the experience.

“My favourite station was the Connect Four station because I thought it was unique, I also got to learn a ton of new things about natural resources and non-renewable energy sources,” she said.

“It’s important to learn about all of this so when we’re older we don’t waste them.”

As a non-profit, Graveline explained the energy expo came at no cost to the school.

“When we offer these programs, everything we offer is no-cost,” she said. “When we do classroom programs or teacher development, it’s always nocost, and we find that’s a very valuable resource because not many things are free nowadays.”

What’s a renewable energy resource?

What’s a non-renewable energy source?

These questions, and many more, were asked and answered last week at St. Joseph Elementary School as Albertabased non-profit Inside Education: Environmental and Natural Resource Education stopped by to host one of its energy expos.

“We do environmental and natural resource management for students and teachers all across Alberta, and a little bit into Saskatchewan and B.C.,” said Inside Education’s Natalie Graveline.

“Our programming focuses on the natural resources found across Alberta, so everything

to do with forestry, energy, wildlife, agriculture, water, and this is a program specifically focused on natural resources and how we used them for energy and electricity.”

couple of reasons, one being getting students thinking about energy and natural resources, which is a huge topic here in Alberta, so it gets students thinking early on what it means to be a natural-resource province, and what it means to have choices as to where our energy and electricity comes from,” she said. “

We want to create life-long learners, but everything is also curriculum-linked.”

Graveline also pointed out the energy expo fits in very well with Albertan’s day-today lives, the home lives of kids as well as those working in the oil and gas and energy fields.

“We’re here for a

Inside Education set up seven different stations in the gym at St. Joe’s for students to work through, and the response was better than expected.

“There’s a couple of stations exploring renewables, sorting resources into renewable and non-renew -

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Grade 5 and 6 students at St. Joseph Elementary School got right into the excitement as Alberta non-profit Inside Education: Environmental and Natural Resource Education, stopped at the school on March 23 to host one of its energy expos.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Energy stewardship is also a big focus, so we talk about why we switch from incandescent to LED lightbulbs.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Your opinion matters!

5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4

Phone: 306-825-5111

Toll Free: 1-800-327-3899

Fax: 306-825-5147

meridiansource.ca

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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

City launches outdoor sporting complex study

applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca

The City of Lloydminster invites the greater Lloydminster community to participate in the outdoor sporting complex study, which will set the vision and development for the Driven Energy

Legion Ball Park and VLA Soccer Fields.

The study will comprehensively review the project site’s existing sporting fields, surrounding spaces, infrastructure and programming opportunities.

It will provide rec -

ommendations on expansion, redevelopment, maintenance and enhanced services over the next 10 to 15 years to create a unified site for everyone to enjoy.

Current Amenities

The Driven Energy Legion Ball Park cur -

Church Directory

rently features six diamonds, associated infrastructure/facilities, outbuildings, group storage structures, maintenance grounds, walking trails, picnic areas and a playground. Similarly, the VLA Soccer Field site includes three full-size soccer pitches and user group storage structures. While the two facilities operate independently, they have minor connections via pedestrian access.

How to get involved

The project seeks input from residents and community partners. Lloydminster residents are encouraged to participate in the study by one of the following three options: Online at YourVoiceLloyd.ca/OutdoorSport. The online survey is available until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 13.

Via printed copies of the survey, available at City Hall (4420 50 Avenue) and the Operations Centre (6623 52 Street). All paper copies must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 13, please note facilities may close before 11:59 p.m.

An online Q&A board at YourVoiceLloyd.ca/ OutdoorSport. A member of the project team will answer questions and project concerns.

The City of Lloydminster’s primary goal is to create an outdoor sporting complex that works in unison for multiple sports and leisure activities. The feedback collected through the survey will be summarized and help inform the recommendations of the City of Lloydminster’s outdoor sporting complex study.

For more information about the study, visit YourVoiceLloyd.ca/ OutdoorSport.

File Photo

Leeway from Lloyd: Leafs and fans stuck in 1967

This history should be taught in schools.

I regrettably inform readers I have already cancelled plans to attend this year’s Stanley Cup parade on Yonge Street in Toronto.

These cancellations started after the Leafs last won the cup in 1967 when Canada celebrated its centennial year and I was just 18 years old.

Neil Armstrong didn’t walk on the moon until 1969, to show how much time has gone by!

I am calling the nearly last 50 years, the age of futility for the Leafs and fans like myself. It’s right up there with the Ming Dynasty for longevity.

Okay, the Leafs might advance past the Lightning in the first round this year, but their hopes will likely die should they meet Boston along the way.

Boston seems to have their number and they have the best odds to hoist the cup after favourites like the Avalanche, and Hurricanes.

The Bruins have also been the best team all season long and although playoff hockey is different, in Boston’s case it will probably be even better. They seem to have it all.

Should the Leafs get bounced by the Lightning, expect a wholesale sweep in their front office that probably won’t change a

damn thing on the ice as all the changes since 1967 have proven. Year after year, it’s the same sad outcome.

If the Leafs miraculously beat Boston and somehow end up in the final, they will have to drink a lot of milk

that’s embroidered on their jersey logos to energize them.

To win the cup, a team has to have great goaltending and the Leafs don’t have that, nor do they play great defensively, so I am ruling them out.

They do have some great players though, so hopefully, they can gel as the one for all and all-for-one Musketeers.

Fans can’t keep waiting until next year as next year ever happens.

My therapist suggests I start wearing

a Bruins sweater, so I don’t dwell on the past. I told him ya, I could do that but, it wouldn’t shake the phantom tears of joy I still feel from the 1967 cup and parade.

He’s increasing my medication!

File Photo

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.

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.

Rural Crime Watch AGM

The RM of Wilton is hosting a Rural Crime Watch annual general meeting on March 31 at the Marshall Three

Passport to YLL

Links Hall. Supper is at 6 p.m. and tickets are $20 each.

Lloyd Girl Guides Strawberry Tea/ Bake Sale

The Lloydminster Girl Guides are hosting their 80th Strawberry Tea and Bake Sale on April 1 from 2-4 p.m. at the St. John’s Anglican Church Hall (across from the post office) There will be a memorabilia display, door prizes and much more. Tickets are $5/ person. All proceeds from the Tea support program work and events for local Girl Guide members.

Huge Indoor Garage Sale

The community’s annual indoor garage sale returns to the Lloyd Ex this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Bexson Construction Prairie Rooms, see you there!

Cribbage Tourney

A cribbage tournament is being held at the Lloydminster

Moose Lodge on Sunday, April 2. Registration is from 9-9:45 a.m. with games to start at 10 a.m. Enter as a team or as an individual. Twelve games guaranteed. Prize money awarded to the topthree teams!

Diabetes Education Class

The Saskatchewan Health Authority is hosting a diabetes education class: “An Introduction to Diabetes,” on April 3 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Prairie North Plaza’s Klinger Conference Room, across the hall from Suite 115, 4910 50 St. To register, please call 306-820-4887.

Lone Rock Family Easter Dance

The Lone Rock Family Dance is being held on April 6 from 7:3010:30 p.m. at the Hall. Cost is $5/person –Bring the kids, chat with friends! Enjoy dancing to the music supplied by DJ Chris and a visit from the Easter Bunny!!

Easter Riding Clinic

The Lloyd Ex Light Horse Committee is pleased to present clinician, Jess Holloway for an Easter Riding Clinic from April 7-10 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Holloway was raised on a farm in Cabri, Sask and started her first colt when she was 14 years old. Since then she has been lucky enough to spend time learning from many great trainers, of both English and western disciplines. For more info on the clinic, contact the Lloyd Ex at 306-825-5571.

Easter Pysanky

Come out to the Lloydminster Museum and Archives from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 8 for Easter Pysanky. Learn the traditional methods of decorating Easter eggs using Ukrainian Pysanky techniques and tools. Book your spot now at www.lloydminster.ca/ easterpysanky. Only $5 per egg, and drop-ins are welcome based on availability.

Legacy Bus Trip to Rock of Ages!

Tickets are currently on sale for the Legacy Centre’s bus trip to the Mayfield Inn dinner theatre on April 12 for the production of “Rock of Ages!” Leave the Legacy at 7:15 a.m., arrive at the Mayfield Inn for brunch and the show, and return to Lloyd around 5:30 p.m. What a great “day away!” Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.

Comedy/Dinner Night

Shine Christian Academy is hosting a fun-filled evening with comedian Leland Klassen – Just for Laughs and Winnipeg Comedy Festival guest on April 14 at City Church, 5115 49 St., Lloydminster. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50/person and attendees must be at least 12 to attend.

Managing High Blood Pressure Class

The SHA is hosting a “Strategies for Manag -

ing High Blood Pressure class on Aril 18 from 9-11 a.m. at the Prairie North Plaza –Suite 109. To register, please call 306-8206262. The class is free of charge.

The Rocket Man & The Piano Man

The Rocket Man (A Tribute to Elton John) and The Piano Man (A Tribute to Billy Joel) will be on stage at the Vic Juba Theatre on May 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60/person and available online or at the theatre’s box office, 780-872-7400.

Spring Fling Sale

The Lloydminster Potters Guild will be hosting their annual Spring Fling Sale on Sunday May 7 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Lloydminster Museum and Archives. Meet the Artisans and shop hand-crafted pottery. - Do you have an upcoming event you’d like to see in our community calendar? Email taylor@meridiansource.ca for more.

Three Hills RCMP charge male with historic sexual assaults

On June 10, 2021, Three Hills RCMP initiated an investigation after receiving a report regarding an alleged historic sexual assault.

On March 28, Derek Taplin was apprehended by Winnipeg Police Service on a Canada Wide Warrant and will be escorted back to the Province of Alberta.

Taplin, 43, a resident of Winnipeg, has been charged with the following:

- Sexual Exploitation of a

Young Person x4

- Sexual Interference x4

- Sexual Assault x4

- Invitation to Sexual Touching x4

Through investigation, police have identified 4 alleged victims from multiple incidents at the Prairie College in Three Hills, spanning a two-year period from 2002 to 2004.

The investigation is still ongoing and police believe there may be more victims and are urging any other vic-

tims or anyone with information to come forward.

To aid in this investigation, RCMP are releasing a photo of Taplin.

Sexual assault is a serious crime, and the Three Hills RCMP investigates every complaint thoroughly, with the utmost professionalism and care. A complaint for sexual offences can be made at any time, no matter how far back the incident happened. If you are a survivor of sexual assault or harass -

ment, or if you have information about a crime of sexual nature that may assist an ongoing investigation, please contact the Three Hills RCMP at 403-443-5539. If you would like to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by submitting a form online at P3Tips.com.

A court date for Taplin is unknown at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Supplied Photo

Add Riders to 3Rs at Jack Kemp

As an offensive right guard with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Evan Johnson knows how to read plays on the field, and to kids in the classroom, too.

He showed up at Jack Kemp Community School on Friday wearing his number 64 green jersey and read a bunch of books to Grades 1-4 kids, then signed autographs for eager young fans.

“I had a great time today,” said Johnson after reading two books to Shawn Weir’s Grade 1 class.

It was Saskatchewan Roughrider Reading Day at Jack Kemp. The school was nominated for the program by the local east side A&W to promote the campaign in Lloydminster.

Johnson was also in town for a meet and greet at the fast food outlet from 5 to 7 p.m. to sign more autographs.

Johnson says A&W

restaurants partnered with the Saskatchewan Roughriders Foundation for players to read to students in select Saskatchewan schools and communities that week.

“So they had gameday specials where they were selling Mama burgers and the proceeds from those sales helped to fund this fantastic program called the Rider Reader Program,” said Johnson.

As a kid growing up in Regina, Johnson learned the importance of reading and getting an education. He played collegiate football for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies.

As a senior, he was named a Canada West all-star and U Sports second-team all-Canadian and was an avid bookworm in class and at home.

“It’s carried out through my life. I still enjoy reading to this day and reading to the kids is just an added bonus,” said Johnson,

who is in his third year with the Riders and his sixth in the CFL.

He says giving back to communities is what Riders do with opportunities like reading day.

“It’s just so important, especially being a young kid from here being able to see Roughriders in the community and interact with them, and having someone you know you’ve met and you’ve seen at the games, to have someone to cheer for,” said Johnson.

Having Johnson read, and especially getting his autograph, was a huge thrill for young Madilynn, who was wearing a Riders jersey in Weir’s class.

“It was really exciting,” she said, adding, “he read a book about a bear and a pigeon.”

When Johnson was finished reading to Grade 1, he told the class,”I play football in Regina and across the country,” while a kid shouted out, “Do you

still live there?”

“Thank you Grade 1’s,” continued Johnson. “You guys look fantastic. This was so good and you asked such good questions and we’ll see you guys around.”

Vice principal, Tenille Woods, says part of the Roughriders’ education agenda is to share the importance of reading, not just as a child, but as

you grow into an adult.

“It’s so important to every aspect of life,” said Woods.

She says the whole school was excited to have Johnson visit, although only the Grades 1-4 got to have him read to them.

Woods noted some of the older elementary kids who didn’t get to hear Johnson read were

asking ‘can we go, can we get a signature,’ noting they have some great Riders fans at the school.

Woods came to school wearing one of her parents’ favourites Riders jerseys to get into the mood.

“I don’t watch much football, but my parents are big Riders fans and they lent me their jersey No. 83,” she said.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

Geoff Lee Meridian Source Saskatchewan Roughrider offensive lineman Evan Johnson signs his autograph for superfan Madilynn, a Grade 1 student at Jack Kemp Community School during Saskatchewan Roughriders Reading Day at the school on Friday. Johnson read books to Grade 1 to 4 kids then signed autographs at the eastside A&W Restaurant that nominated Jack Kemp for a Rider to read.

Bantam bowlers roll to nationals in Regina

Four Lloydminster bantam bowlers will be giving it their all on the national stage in Regina as they prep to compete at Youth Bowl Canada five-pin Nationals in May.

After a very strong showing at Provincials in Saskatoon on March 5, Jaylyn Elford, Nashalia Sinclair, Hayden Carroll and Baron Robson will be representing the Border City as well as Lloyd Lanes from May 6-9.

“Their performance was amazing. Jaylyn had four strikes in a row in her first-ever provincial competition, which was a really exciting moment,” said the girls’ coach Amy Campbell.

“Both girls performed amazingly. They were hitting centre and cleaning up, which is what we had talked about going into the competition.”

Boys’ coach, Jeremy Wetsch, echoed Campbell stating he couldn’t be more proud of his athletes.

“The boys performed phenomenally in Saskatoon,” he said.

“They showed great

sportsmanship with the other teams, kept each other up, and I couldn’t be happier with the way the boys bowled.”

For Campbell and Jeremy Wetsch, the next two months are all about ensuring their athletes are physically and mentally prepared for the upcoming competition, especially considering nationals consist of athletes bowling 15 games over three days.

“The keys are to remain calm, take in the experience and don’t get overwhelmed with everything that’s going on,” explained Wetsch.

“I know the first time I went, it was very overwhelming. You have competitors from all over Canada there, and you also have hundreds of people watching you while you bowl.”

“For the girls, ultimately, hit centre,” added Campbell. “That’s your number-one every time you throw the ball. If you don’t hit centre on that first ball, you want to spare it. If you don’t spare it, you need to pick up those pins because if you don’t, that’s where the competition will take you out

with extra points.”

This will be the first national competition for all four bowlers, and it’s something they’re all greatly looking forward to.

“I was shocked when I found out I was going to nationals because there were some good teams at provincials,” said 10-year-old Jaylyn, adding her plan is not to let nerves take over in May.

Nine-year-old Nashalia said she’s a bit nervous but really looking forward to the new experience.

“At provincials, I did pretty well, and my best game was a 179 when I bowled two strikes in a row.”

Nine-year-old Hayden also had a great experience at provincials and bowled a personal best of 180 in his very first game.

Ten-year-old Baron also set a personal best at provincials and bowled a 224.

“I’m looking forward to playing for Saskatchewan, and Canada, I’m also excited to see all the really good bowlers who are representing Canada,” he said.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Lloydminster bowlers (from left to right) Jaylyn Elford, Nashalia Sinclair, Hayden Carroll and Baron Robson will be competing at the national level in Regina from May 6-9 with the help of their coaches Amy Campbell and Jeremy Wetsch.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Raiders sweep silver at provincial curling

After 11 years of giving it their best, the Holy Rosary Raiders boys and girls curling teams have some hardware to celebrate after a strong showing at Alberta Schools Athletic Association (ASAA) Provincials in St. Paul.

ASAA championships were held in St. Paul from March 1-4. The Raiders girls’ team consisted of skip Kamdyn Bauldic, third Aila Quiring, second Chelsey Cheychuk, lead

Kya Patterson and the boys of skip Matthew Reiniger, third Jonathan Rolheiser, second Owen McFarlane and lead Joel Gebhardt.

“This is the first time in 11 years Holy Rosary has brought home some hardware from curling provincials,” said Laurie Makichuk, who coaches with long-time Lloydminster Catholic School Division educator Dale Howland.

“The boys’ and girls’ journeys were both the same, they won when they had to and moved on, they played really

strong and made it to the gold-medal rounds, and unfortunately came up short.”

Makichuk explained provincials had roughly 100 teams in districts, which broke down to 56 teams in zones.

“Our teams became the top two in Alberta, which is quite an accomplishment,” said Makichuk.

With zero graduating students on the roster, Makichuk and Howland are looking forward to having strong returning athletes.

“A lot of hard work,

with Monday and Wednesday practices, all paid off,” said Makichuk.

“They’re a great group of kids who all put in lots of time volunteering and we couldn’t be prouder of them. The dedication they put into this was unbelievable. Each one of those athletes brought something different ... this is also a tough sport, and you

actually have to go to the curling club to practise ... you can’t just work out in a gym.”

Supplied Photos

Left: HRHS curling coaches Laurie Makichuk and Dale Howland couldn’t be prouder of girls’ skip Kamdyn Bauldic, third Aila Quiring, second Chelsey Cheychuk, lead Kya Patterson after the team won the school its first curling medal in over a decade.

Right: The HRHS boys’ skip Matthew Reiniger, third Jonathan Rolheiser, second Owen McFarlane and lead Joel Gebhardt were all smiles after winning a silver medal in St. Paul.

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

Family Resource Centre opens

Adults and kids celebrated the official opening of the Lloydminster Early Years Family Resource Centre (FRC) in the Prairie North Plaza.

The grand opening on Friday included remarks from local dignitaries, drop-in playtime in the indoor playground, and refreshments.

The FRC is now fully operational as a bi-provincially funded Family Resource Centre offering seamless service to Lloydminster families in the early years.

The centre focuses on programs and services for parents and caregivers of children from birth to five years.

The FRC is supported by pre-existing funding from Alberta Chil -

dren’s Services and a new investment from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education.

The education ministry’s investment comes from Canada-Saskatchewan Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.

The Saskatchewan investment flows through the Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD), which serves as the account -

able Partner, to Midwest Family Connections, the service delivery partner and ultimately to the FRC.

“We value our advisory committee of community stakeholders who help to establish and support the programming and partnership priorities,” said LPSD superintendent Trisha Rawlake.

“Together we can better serve the children and families of Lloydminster.”

The financial investments received from Saskatchewan to date include a grant of $215,000 to support the initial planning and development work.

This included updates to the centre such as new flooring, paint, furniture and play structures; hiring and training of additional staff.

The grant includes $30,000 for an outdoor play space to be built in collaboration with the City of Lloydminster

expected to open this fall.

A further investment of $75,000 is on its way to support program design to ensure offerings through the Centre are based on the latest research and knowledge about what matters most for families and children in the early years.

Alberta’s pre-exist -

ing investment is part of the Alberta Family Resource Network model established in 2020.

The network supports a family’s resilience, strength and health by providing prevention and early intervention support for parents and caregivers and their children from birth to 18.

GEOFF LEE WRITER

Supplied Photo Trisha Rawlake, Lloydminster Public School Division superintendent of education, Sherri Husch Foote, executive director of Midwest Family Connections and Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young spoke at the grand opening of the Lloydminster Early Years Family Resource Centre on Friday.

Fraud arrest leads back to crimes in Vermilion

In early March, the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic/Crime Reduction Unit began an investigation into several Facebook and Kijiji scams in the Fort Saskatchewan area.

If anyone has any information regarding these crimes, please contact the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP.

As a result of the investigation, police located and arrested 22-year-old Taylor Spencer Berezowski at a residence in Edmonton. Berezowski, a former resident of Fort Saskatchewan, was wanted on outstanding arrest warrants for fraud related crimes out of Fort Saskatchewan, Edmonton, and Vermillion.

After a Judicial release hearing, Berezowski was released from custody to appear in court on March 30, in Fort Saskatchewan, on March 31, in Edmonton and on April

Fort Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate several of these scams, which involve the victim sending electronic payment for items such as snowmobile parts and not receiving the product. RCMP remind residents to avoid sending money to individuals until actually seeing the product.

The Fort Saskatchewan RCMP are looking for the public’s assistance in identifying any further victims to Berezowski’s crimes. A photo of Berezowski is being provided to assist with identifying victims.

If anyone has any information regarding these crimes, please contact the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP at 780-997-7900. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www. P3Tips. com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

17, in Vermillion.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

Supplied Photo

Cenovus funds Indigenous programs

Lakeland College is celebrating a $650,000 donation from Cenovus Energy to support Indigenous student success programs at its Vermilion and Lloydminster campuses.

The investment, announced in Lloydminster on Monday, will assist Indigenous students throughout their college journey,

from their transition to Lakeland to graduating and joining the workforce.

“We see this as an investment not only in our industry and in the province and its future workforce, but most of all an investment in the students,” said Doreen Cole, Cenovus senior vice-president, downstream manufacturing.

“Cenovus is committed to Indigenous rec -

onciliation and selfsufficiency, especially when it comes to preparing Indigenous youth for the future.”

Lakeland president Alice Wainwright-Stewart says the donation from Cenovus will help strengthen programming and student success resources to help Indigenous students as they work to achieve their goals.

“We strive to ensure

Lakeland College is celebrating a gift of $650,000 from Cenovus Energy to support Indigenous students announced on Monday. (From left) Patty Hill, director of the Cenovus Lloydminster Asphalt Refinery, Jon Albert, a power engineering student and member of Lakeland’s Indigenous Council, Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College, Doreen Cole, Cenovus Senior Vice-President, Downstream Manufacturing, Adam Waterman, chair of the Lakeland College Board of Governors, Brooklyn Gray, business administration student and member of Lakeland’s Indigenous Council.

that Lakeland is always a supportive, inclusive environment for all of our students. Cenovus shares this commitment to inclusivity with us and have come forward with this amazing gift,” said Wainwright-Stewart.

On-campus Indigenous supports funded by this donation will include learner success

resourcing, employment skills, alumni mentorship and engagement, Elder-in-residence programs and cultural programming.

The donation will also support essential financial aid and student emergency funding.

Cenovus has supported the student awards program since

2013 and was a major contributor to the college’s Energy Centre, which includes the Cenovus Energy Lab on the Lloydminster campus. For the second year in a row, Cenovus is the title sponsor for Feast on the Farm, a Lakeland fundraiser that supports student-led learning initiatives.

Sask Parks reservations launch April 3

Attentional all campers! The wait is almost over. Sask Parks wants to remind the public 2023 campsite reservations will open April 3 for seasonal campsites and April 4-12 for nightly reservations.

“With only a few days left before reservations

3” wide version

open, it’s the perfect time for campers to setup their accounts online and check out all there

Easy Calving Angus Hybrid Bulls for Heifers

Charlton Cattle Co. has more than 40 years’ experience raising only easy calving bulls for first calf heifers

• 58 red and black easy calving yearling bulls on test (65-85 pound BWs)

• Less than 1% assist rate in over 32,000 home-raised and commercial heifers

• Six month breeding soundness guarantee

An easy calving, stress-free spring is just a phone call away! Contact Daryl at 780-806-1229

CharltonCattleCo@gmail.com

www.CharltonCattleCo.ca

is to offer in our parks this season,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said.

“Campers can complete their trip planning with ease by exploring exciting events and programming by location, and favourite their preferred sites.”

Reservations begin at 7 a.m. CST each day. To reserve your campsite, visit https://parks.saskatchewan.ca.

Supplied Photo

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

“Old age is always 15 years older than I am.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes

ner at a well-known restaurant. It’s not something we often do.

It was lovely.

I’m a bit of a recluse. Apart from going to work each day, I seldom leave my house and rarely participate in social events.

Perhaps it comes with age, as I wasn’t always like this, but I’m content to hide from Old Man Winter before a roaring fire in my prairie hermitage.

*Hermitage: the dwelling of a hermit, especially when small and remote. (Oxford Dictionary)

Perhaps this tendency to lurk in the shadows, far away from the city’s bright lights, is for the best, as, lately, I’ve noticed an alarming trend whenever I go out. Let me tell you about it.

Several weeks ago, my family met for din -

Actually, we never do it, but that’s not important right now.

The story I wish to tell was of another family who sat nearby, enjoying one another and a fine meal.

I watched them with interest. The parents of three young children looked on indulgently as gray-haired grandparents played with the kids.

The older folks looked like a typical elderly couple who likely lived in a retirement village and met with their peers to play bridge once a week in the common room.

They didn’t move too fast, huffed with effort when bending over, and frequently asked people around them to repeat themselves. Nothing whatsoever wrong with this picture.

Lovely, that was, until I looked a little closer, frowned, took off my glasses to polish them, and squinted at the couple again.

“What’s that?” I said in a distracted voice as my sister-in-law, Linda, asked a question close to my ear. (I hadn’t heard her.)

Slowly and with an audible groan, I turned to answer, then painfully, since I have a bum knee and a bad back, I edged back onto my seat to realize with horror that I knew that senior couple sitting across from me. I went to bloody school with them! Argh.

The same was true the last time I stood in a store lineup. It was like a flippin’ high school reunion.

Once upon a time, my cronies and I might have chatted as we stood in line to enter

the cinema, a concert or waited to have our ID checked before sashaying into a cool new nightclub.

Now we lean heavily on grocery carts, exchanging information on the condition of our bunions, arthritis, and blood pressure as we shuffle up to the pharmacy counter to be doled out our monthly allotment of pills. What the heck!

Here’s another tale to consider. It was a

warm autumn day the last time I drove the school bus for a field trip. I felt good.

It was a vital, energetic, spring-in-my-step kinda good. In other words—not old. Enter a pack of kids and a museum.

Don’t get me wrong, having the knowledge to answer kids’ questions about how things used to be back in the olden days feels nice. Sort of.

It’s just, when you look around a museum,

by definition a place bursting with artifacts of a bygone era, and you recognize every antique item as having been a functional component of your childhood home, it’s kind of upsetting. With slumping shoulders, I scuffled out at the end of our visit, feeling I’d aged 20 years.

However, as my title states, old age will always be defined as 15 years older than me. So I’m still good to go.

PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS

Sask mineral exploration tax credit to triple

On Monday, Energy and Resources Minister Jim Reiter introduced the Government of Saskatchewan’s proposed amendment to

This proposed change will improve the province’s competitiveness with other jurisdictions.

The Mineral Resources Act, 1985.

The proposed change will bring the Saskatchewan Mineral Exploration Tax Credit (SMETC) from 10 per cent to 30 per cent, making exploration incentives in the prov -

ince among the most competitive in Canada.

“A key part of our government’s Growth Plan is to increase mining exploration and the value of mining exports. Incenting the industry with this tax credit is one tool to help us do that,” said Reiter.

“This proposed change will improve the province’s competitiveness with other jurisdictions, bringing Saskatchewan’s mineral exploration tax credit to the highest in Canada.”

This enhancement to the SMETC will encourage increased exploration in Saskatchewan and provide new investment and employment opportunities for Saskatchewan residents, including northern and Indigenous residents and companies.

Ultimately, increased exploration can lead to new discoveries and major mine developments that will enhance economic activity in the province.

“The industry has long been requesting an increase like this, and we’re showing them that Saskatchewan is open for business,” said Reiter.

“Saskatchewan is home to 23 of the 31 critical minerals found on Canada’s Critical Mineral List and there is a significant opportunity to increase and diversify the province’s role as a global supplier of these commodities.”

Bill No. 128, The Mineral Resources Assessment Act, 2023 passed first reading today and is expected to pass into legislation in Spring 2023.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

Small steps leading to rural progress

on the ground floor and the second located in the basement was constructed of concrete and steel.

At the first meeting of the RM of Wilton in 1910, four important bylaws were passed. These bylaws addressed herd law, a wolf bounty, providing free gopher poison and raising debentures of $20,000 for building and road improvements. The tax rate was set at 5 cents per acre.

By the fall of 1911, the Department of Agriculture was informed of needing an additional 500 farm hands to help with harvest within the RM. Located in Marshall, their first office was built in 1913.

A much larger building with space for a general office and Council Chamber was later built in 1953.

Heated by an oil furnace and lit by power, this office was also airconditioned.

The two vaults, one

A proposal was brought forward in December 1913 about the current shortcomings of rural education.

The speaker asked Council to move a resolution that schools should be operated as boarding schools due to the distance some students had to travel.

Parental permission would be required. Each municipality would have at least one school and all assessable land would be taxed for school purposes.

Under this consolidated school system, the starting age would be raised from six to eight years with mandatory attendance.

The RM of Wilton approved taking one seventh shares in the Lloydminster and Lashburn hospitals.

Both hospitals agreed to charge the munici -

pality a ward rate fee of $2 per day. Drs. Hill and Cooke were appointed medical officers. A motion was brought forward “that the assessed value of the land shall not exceed $10 per acre and that the municipal tax for the year shall be at a rate of 4 mills on the dollar.”

In April 1915, Council agreed to share the costs for a cemetery in Marshall. Council would provide a site

City of Lloydminster Public Referral

Draft Bylaw 09-2023

Intent: Bylaw No. 09-2023, Electronic Communications Bylaw

To enable the City of Lloydminster to send electronic assessment and taxation notices and documents.

Background: The City of Lloydminster previously had a process of sending assessment and taxation notices by electronic means. However, distributing a paper copy was still required under the previous version of The Lloydminster Charter. As part of the updates to The Lloydminster Charter, Administration added Section 551.1, allowing assessment and taxation communications to be sent electronically. This was added to the Municipal Government Act (MGA) in 2020 when it was last updated. To address the recent changes to legislation, Administration has prepared a draft Electronic Communications Bylaw to support electronic distribution.

How do I get more information?

The draft bylaw can be reviewed online at www.lloydminster.ca/bylaw09-2023. For more information, please contact Legislative Services at 780-871-8328.

The bylaw will be presented for second reading during the regular Council meeting on Monday, April 3, 2023.

Unable to attend the meeting in person, watch live at www.lloydminster.ca/livestream. lloydminster.ca

and pay 50 per cent of the cost. The cemetery would be maintained by Marshall. Problems arose during and after the First World War years of 1914-1918.

The Saskatchewan government shipped a rail car of apples rather than the requested vegetables to Lashburn and a second load to Marshall for distribution in 1939. The wheat acreage reduction program

came into effect in 1940 and the total reduction in wheat acreage was 44 per cent. More than 500 farmers completed the applications to receive their bonus.

In 1952 an amusement tax of five cents per person was charged for going to the C and H Drive-In.

To help with snow removal, ratepayers organized snowplow clubs.

Each would receive $10 per mile for market

roads and $5 for plowing side roads. This changed in 1955 as the equipment was now rented by the ratepayer for $1 to the municipality. This was done to ensure all the club members were covered by insurance and workman’s compensation. As decisions were made, some by a straw vote to discover the ratepayers’ opinion, progress steadily moved forward for the RM of Wilton.

WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN

File Photo

Only in the country ...

There appear to be different rules applied by buyers and sellers when farmland is being sold than any other type of property we handle as real estate brokers.

Let me give you a few examples from my personal experience.

I’m sitting in our conference room with the selling couple, discussing offer documents generated by a tender.

There are seven bids in front of us, but the seller instructs me to put the highest one aside.

“I will never sell to that son of a *****. It was a wet spring one year, and I got my trac -

tor and drills stuck. He was seeding right across the road with his big four-wheel drive rig, and he wouldn’t unhook to pull me out. I guess he figured his time was worth more than mine!”

I listed a quarter of land for sale for a widow who, after renting it to a neighbour for 10 years, wanted the equity out of it so she could help her two children with the costs of their university education.

The former brotherin-law comes into the office and immediately starts yelling at me, saying this was family land, and his late brother would have wanted him to have it. Furthermore, he wasn’t going to offer market value and in

no uncertain terms, I was to tell my client he deserved to get it for a significant discount.

I pulled a copy of the title out of the file, looked him in the eye, and said “I don’t see your name on this, so I guess you will just have

to compete for the property with everybody else!”

He bid less than half of the highest offer, and understandably, she decided to sell to someone else.

About once per week, I will get a phone call from an absentee owner, whose ancestors farmed the land he or she inherited.

The tenant has now stated they would like to buy it, but the owner doesn’t know what the property is worth, and can I help?

Many times, the tenant has made a verbal offer significantly below market value. Of course, they want a deal. Who doesn’t?

They tell the seller how well they have taken care of the land out of respect for the family.

The seller feels guilty about selling in the first place, having grown up with the stories of how their parents and grandparents struggled to pay for it.

To many urban owners, the number being

offered is so large as to be intimidating. Furthermore, it will make them instant millionaires.

My advice? Each party should get an independent written valuation from an appraiser or broker specializing in agricultural property, share their report with the other party, then sit down and discuss a fair sale price.

If a “family and friends” discount is applied, so be it. At least, everyone goes into the deal with eyes wide open.

But of course, people being who they are, usually don’t want to spend pennies to earn dollars.

In one recent case, the out-of-province owner jumped at the tenant’s offer without getting any professional advice, and in my estimation left at least $300,000 on the table, maybe more, given the competition for quality grain land in that district.

I wonder what her children would say if they knew mom had

made a six-figure gift to someone they don’t even know? For really that is the bottom line, the tenant’s net worth increased at the expense of someone who was blissfully ignorant of the land’s real value.

In another case, the tenant didn’t step up with a fair offer until the seller told him I was contracted to take it to the open market on his behalf if he didn’t come close to market value.

He quickly changed his tune, as we both knew he would likely not see that location come available again in his lifetime.

Adults making informed decisions, I have no problem with. People striving to take advantage of another gets my blood boiling.

Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster and an active partner in his family’s livestock operation. Comments on this article are welcome either by emailing vernmcclelland@remax.net or calling 306-821-0611.

MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

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Lloyd RCMP arrest man for drug trafficking

On March 23 at 12:32 p.m., Lloydminster RCMP responded to a report of a male attempting to fraudulently access a bank

account at a local business. Lloydminster RCMP attended the business and subsequently arrested the male.

A search of the male resulted in the sei -

zure of approximately 55 grams of suspected methamphetamine with a potential street value of $3,250 and approximately 5 grams of suspected cocaine with a potential street

value of $500.

Matthew Edward Alan Nicholson ,21, a resident of Lloydminster, was arrested and charged with the following:

- Possession of a

forged document

- Fail to comply with probation order

- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking

Nicholson was held for a Judicial Interim

Search warrant leads to numerous charges

On Jan. 19, as part of an ongoing property crime investigation, RCMP executed a search warrant at a rural property in the La Corey area. As a result of the search warrant, officers located and recovered several stolen vehicles, as well as other stolen property, which was valued at approximately $133,000. Also seized was approximately 292 grams of methamphetamine and 12 illegally owned long barrelled firearms, including a shotgun that had been

reported as stolen in New Brunswick.

On March 17, LCRU, EADCRU, Lloydminster PDS and Bonnyville Detachment members executed a warrant at the same La Corey property. A male suspect was arrested and taken into police custody.

Dean Peter Gamache, 33, a resident of La Corey, was arrested and charged with the following:

- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 x6;

- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 x2;

- Tampering with a

vehicle identification number;

- Fraudulent concealment of a vehicle identification number;

- Mischief over $5,000;

- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking;

- Possession of a controlled substance;

- Careless use of a firearm;

- Unsafe storage of a firearm;

- Unlawful possession of a firearm.

At the time of his arrest, Gamache was also wanted on multiple outstanding warrants.

Gamache was held

for a Judicial Interim Release Hearing where he was remanded into

custody by a Justice of the Peace. Gamache is scheduled to appear

Release Hearing where he was released from custody by a Justice of the Peace.

Nicholson is scheduled to appear in Lloydminster Alberta Provincial Court on April 11.

in Bonnyville Provincial Court via CCTV on March 28.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

Supporting youth pursuing careers in trades

Canada Alberta will help our youth discover engaging, highdemand careers that deliver an excellent quality of life and will keep our economic momentum going strong,” said Minister of Skilled Trades and Professions Kaycee Madu.

The apprenticeship learning model is a valuable form of work-integrated learning and a proven way to increase graduate readiness for the workplace.

their career passion and become productive, motivated and innovative participants in the workplace is critically important to Alberta’s economic success.”

Their success is good for our province. Their success makes Alberta prosperous.

“On behalf of Skills Canada Alberta, I extend a profound thank you to Minister Madu and the Government of Alberta for continuing to support Alberta’s young people in their pursuit of excellence in the trades and technologies. Their success is good for our province. Their success makes Alberta prosperous,” said Ray Massey, board president, Skills Canada Alberta

Alberta is partnering with two long-standing organizations to support opportunities for youth in the skilled trades and technology

industries.

Budget 2023 invests a total of $30.4 million over three years in CAREERS: The Next Generation and Skills Canada Alberta, as they empower youth

to build rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

“Investing in the proven and complementary programs of CAREERS: The Next Generation and Skills

“We are excited for Alberta’s youth in this year’s budget announcement,” said Andy Neigel, president and CEO, CAREERS: The Next Generation.

“Enabling our next generation to discover

Through targeted support for apprenticeship education, Alberta is helping students develop job-ready skills while strengthening the talent pipeline for business and industry.

“This continuation of funding allows us to provide a platform for students who are about to begin their education and career journey with the experience and skill development that only our competitions can provide them.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

Stay healthy on your spring travels

Pharmacist shares tips to keep travel bugs at bay

are catching on their holiday.

It’s no surprise that amid these long winter months, Lloydminster residents have a case of the travel bug with two in five Canadians planning to travel in the next six months.

Travellers want to spend their time away from chilly ‘spring’ weather in sunny locales and tropical resorts, with relaxation at the top of their itinerary.

Although travellers are craving relaxation, before they leave, the thought of lost luggage and flight delays are stressing them out – all aspects we can’t control.

As a pharmacist, I’m here to discuss the one thing we can control when it comes to travel, and that’s avoiding common travel illnesses.

I’m often surprised in my conversations with patients that many don’t realize what the health hazards are when it comes to travel – even to a relaxing Caribbean resort –with many unaware of the easy ways they can protect themselves to make sure good times are the only thing they

Here are my best tips for travellers to keep in mind when vacationing: Know your risks : Consuming contaminated water or food is one of the top ways Canadians contract illnesses like travellers’ diarrhea – the most common travel-related illness.

- To keep healthy on vacation, be mindful of the seafood and shellfish you are consuming. Especially if uncooked/ raw, these foods can be a common source of bacteria which can cause travellers’ diarrhea as well as Hepatitis A.

Plan ahead: Research your destinationwhether you’re at a beach in Cuba or a wellness retreat in the Dominican Republic, it’s not only important to know about the sights you’ll see – but also about potential health risks.

Your pharmacist can advise you on what common pharmacy items to include in your packing list..

Get expert advice : Whether you’re travelling to a tropical location or an overseas adventure, your local pharmacist can provide you with a personalized travel health consultation to help you navigate potential health risks prevalent in your destination of choice.

Based on your travel

health consultation, your local pharmacist is also able to administer vaccines and dispense medications to prevent certain health issues while travelling.

To book a personalized travel health consultation at your local Shoppers Drug Mart, visit shoppersdrugmart.ca/travelhealth or the PC Health App to ensure you and your family have a safe and healthy vacation.

When should I have a travel health consultation: Ideally, you should talk to your pharmacist 6-8 weeks in advance of your planned departure date to allow time for some vaccines and medications to take effect. If you are travelling less than six weeks from when you book your appointment, your pharmacist can still provide information and recommendations and ensure you are prepared by:

- Determining which (if any) immunizations are recommended based on your travel destination; and when possible, administering the required vaccines for a fee.

- Providing you with a current list of all medications to take with you on your travels;

- Ensuring you have enough supply of your current prescription medications while you are away;

- Identifying any needed prescription or

over-the-counter products; and

- Advising on the safest way to travel with your medication.

What vaccinations will my pharmacist recommend: A pharmacist can provide a personalized risk assessment specific to you and your travel itinerary

to make sure you stay healthy while on vacation. Tourists may be at risk for the following serious infectious diseases, all of which are preventable by vaccines.

Cholera, European tick-borne encephalitis, Hepatitis A and B, Influenza, Japanese encephalitis, Menin -

gitis, Rabies, Typhoid, and Yellow fever.

While there are many aspects of travel stress that we cannot control, your health is one thing you can.

Asad

Gavahi Kashani is a pharmacist and owner of your local Shoppers Drug Mart in the LloydMall.

DR. ASAD KASHANI SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE

Fighting rural crime in Alberta

The Alberta government is investing $27.3 million in new funding for the Alberta Sheriffs.

transport and traffic enforcement on provincial highways.

3” wide version

WINTER HARDY ALGONQUIN ALFALFA SEED

For Sale Certified 2022 Algonquin Alfalfa Seed

99.9% purity, inoculated, in 55 lb bags wholesale price $4.00 a pound. Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance.

An additional $4.3 million will create new rural crime initiatives for the Alberta Sheriffs, including two plainclothes teams that will assist RCMP detachments throughout the province with surveillance on criminal targets.

Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications. Farmer Direct.

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 1200 lb.

Of that, $10.2 million will go toward adding new positions in several areas, including courthouse security, prisoner

Call Ram River Forage Seeds 403-634-1643

“It is important that Albertans are able to feel safe in their communities,” said Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis.

3.75” wide version

“This strategic

investment will not only ensure the Alberta Sheriffs can continue the vital work they do every day to keep our

WINTER HARDY ALGONQUIN ALFALFA SEED

For Sale Certified 2022 Algonquin Alfalfa Seed

99.9% purity, inoculated, in 55 lb bags wholesale price $4.00 a pound. Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance.

Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications. Farmer Direct. FREE SHIPPING on orders over 1200 lb.

Call Ram River Forage Seeds 403-634-1643

communities safe, it builds on strong cooperation with their law enforcement partners to create new and innovative ways of working together to protect Albertans.”

The new plainclothes teams will enhance the sheriffs’ existing surveillance capacity by extending support to rural RCMP detachments for local investigations.

The sheriffs’ existing surveillance unit is part of Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams and focused mainly on serious and organized crime investigations.

The Alberta Sheriffs are also receiving funding to add 20 investigators to the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit, which uses civil enforcement to target problem properties where illegal activities are taking place.

Several new posi -

tions will be based in regional hubs, which will give the SCAN unit a greater ability to investigate complaints coming from rural communities and provide police in smaller centres with more options for dealing with criminal activity.

“Alberta Crime Stoppers is pleased to see the Alberta Sheriffs working on these rural crime initiatives and strategies that will make our communities safer,” said Mark Holik, president, Alberta Crime Stoppers.

The government is also bolstering efforts to combat rural crime and support rural policing by expanding the RAPID Response initiative.

Budget 2023 provides funding for the Sheriff Highway Patrol to train and equip its members to assist the RCMP with emergencies and high-priority

calls as well.

This initiative builds on the success of a prior move that authorized members of the Sheriff Highway Patrol to investigate impaired driving and other criminal offences.

The Sheriff Highway Patrol has removed more than 2,500 impaired drivers from Alberta’s roads since being given those added powers in July 2021.

“These additional resources for the Alberta Sheriffs will improve our combined ability to suppress criminal activity in rural Alberta,” said Deputy Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, commanding officer, Alberta RCMP.

“Albertans deserve to feel safe in their communities, and these resources will help us continue to protect the safety and well-being of Albertans.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

It is important that Albertans are able to feel safe in their communities.

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Funding boosts Alberta’s AI advantage

Alberta’s technology and innovation sector is growing and further diversifying the province’s economy. Through strategic investments, Alberta’s government is enhancing Alberta’s reputation as a leader in this industry.

Supporting Amii (Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute) through Alberta Innovates with a $30-million investment will build Alberta’s AI talent pipeline and accelerate research.

“Alberta is a world leader in artificial intelligence research and commercialization,” said Minister of Technology and Innovation

Nate Glubish.

“Our continued funding for Amii will attract investment and create jobs in our fast-growing tech sector.”

AI continues to transform businesses and our daily lives. AI can provide smart solutions that can be applied to key sectors of Alberta’s economy, attract investment in diverse industries and create goodpaying jobs.

From agriculture to logistics, health care and life sciences to supply chain management, data analysis to education and more, AI can open the doors to the art of the possible.

This investment solidifies the province’s place as a leader in AI and in developing new and

emerging technologies that solve the world’s latest challenges.

“This funding builds on our long-standing support and partnership with AI researchers at the University of

Alberta and Amii,” said Laura Kilcrease, CEO, Alberta Innovates.

“Together we are creating powerful tools to allow Alberta businesses to compete across sectors and take advantage

of a $16-trillion market opportunity.”

In 2021, Alberta’s government released the Alberta Technology and Innovation Strategy to cement Alberta as a dominant player

and internationally recognized technology and investment hub. Funding to Amii through Alberta Innovates is an important part of achieving the plan’s strategic goals.

23041GE0

23042GE0

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Sask Distance Learning Corp. now hiring

in the communities of Estevan, La Ronge, Moose Jaw, Neilburg, Nipawin, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Swift Current and Yorkton.

The number of staff available to students through Sask DLC will ensure students have access to high-quality education.

ported at the local level.”

Each regional campus will have a principal, teachers, and several support positions. Students attending the new online school will continue to have access to their local school division for driver’s licence training, graduation ceremonies and extracurricular activities as well as access to inperson supports such as educational assistants, speech-language pathologists and/or counsellors.

The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce that the new provincial online school, the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Corporation (Sask DLC), has commenced its recruitment drive and is seeking to fill up to 90 teaching positions.

The Sask DLC will employ around 150 educators with approximately 60 teachers to be transferred from the Sun West School Division and the remainder to be hired directly.

Staffing opportunities will be available for work at the main office in Kenaston as well as at the other nine regional campuses

There are also several non-teaching roles vacant, such as for human resources and corporate services support.

“The number of staff available to students through Sask DLC will ensure students have access to high-quality education,” said Education Minister Dustin Duncan. “The opportunity to have staff connected to students across the province will ensure students are sup-

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) confirming that teachers employed by the Sask DLC will be STF members, providing all teachers access to a pension, supports and benefits.

Student registration for the 2023-24 school year is expected to open in April.

Job postings for the Sask DLC can be found at www.saskdlc.ca.

Funding options changing for small businesses

With supply chain issues, inflation and labour shortages, it can be tough running a small business these days. Fortunately, a government program is stepping up to help.

The improved Canada Small Business Financing Program has recently been updated to offer businesses new financing options, including lines of credit and higher loan amounts.

If your company earns less than $10 million in revenue a year, you could qualify for a line of credit of up to $150,000.

This money can be used to cover day-to-

day operating expenses. This means you can use it for practical things like payroll, rent, website software, inventory and much more.

If you’re looking for a term loan, know that the program’s maximum amount for a borrower is $1 million. Of this, $500,000 can be used for equipment and leasehold improvements, which includes a maximum of $150,000 for intangible assets like good will, and working capital costs such as inventory.

To see if you’re eligible for these new financing options and expanded categories, speak to your lender or find more information at canada.ca/csbfp.

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

File Photo

Thursday,

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

Classifieds

LAND FOR SALE WANTED SERVICES

LOCAL COLLECTOR

Looking for:

CANADIAN PAPER MONEY BILLS AND SILVER COINS

Contact: BARRY (306) 272-0504

BUY SELL TRADE GOLD, SILVER & PLATINUM! Bullion, Coins, Bars, Jewelry, Nuggets, Sterling +. Also purchasing complete coin collections, old money, Royal Canadian Mint, Gold, Silver +++ Todd 250-864-3521.

MOTORCYCLES

GET YOUR MESSAGE

SEEN ACROSS Alberta.

The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-2826903, 780-434-8746 X225. www.awna.com.

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671

saskfarms@shaw.ca

www.sellyourfarm land.com

HEALTH

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800347-2540. www. accesslegalmjf.com.

FEED AND SEED FINANCIAL SERVICES

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 51 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306649.1405 or visit www. swna.com for details.

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-649-1405 to find out how!

COMING EVENTS

61st DRAGGINS CAR SHOW - April 7 and 8 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon. Check out the “Battle of the Automotive Technicians”!. Draggins Rod & Custom Car Club. Visit our website; Draggins.com.

GARDENING

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX “ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252

AGPRO SEEDS LTD. BUYING HEATED, DAMAGED OFFGRADE CANOLA & FEED GRAINS. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! Call/text: 306873-0481, AgPro Seeds bids: agproseeds. com, Email: sales@ agproseeds.com

FOR SALE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

REQUIRED

IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp this winter with possibility of year round. Winter location: Arborfield, SK. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food and handling ticket.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

CLASS 1 DRIVER: Hannah Transport Ltd., Acme, Alberta has an opening to haul anhydrous ammonia in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Spring and fall employment, hourly pay with overtime, safety bonus, paid cell phone. Training provided. Email: hannahtransportltd@ gmail.com. Phone: Brian 403-312-8396.

www.

brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

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. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT IS HIRING: Parts Technicians, Agriculture & Heavy Equipment TechsJourneyman, Apprentices, CVIP/ Truck Techs and RAP Students, Shop and Field positions available. View Open Roles www.rockymtn. com/careers. Possible Relocation and Signing Bonus Offered.

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

CARR: Brenda Ann Carr passed away at Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on March 15, 2023 at the age of 58 years.

Brenda is survived by: her loving husband, John Carr; sons, Owen (Shelby) and Chase (Dana); and granddaughter Cecelia; mother, Rita Baert; brother, Moe Baert; sisters-in-law, Wyn Baert and Jeanette Lavoie; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Brenda was predeceased by: her father, Archie Baert; brothers, Gerry Baert, Frank Baert and Ron Baert; and sister-in-law Sheila Thiessen.

The Prayer Vigil for Brenda was held from St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church, Lloydminster, Alberta on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at 5:00 PM.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Brenda was conducted from St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church, Lloydminster, Alberta on Monday, March 27, 2023 at

10:00 AM. If you are unable to attend, you may view the live streaming of the service posted on McCaw Funeral Service website under Brenda's obituary. Donations in memory of Brenda may be made to Canadian Cancer Society.

CARD OF THANKS

Thank you to the church community for helping with music, officiating, readings and the hot lunch. Thank you to family and friends who travelled from near and far.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS

March 23 Answers

HOME AWESOMENESS INGENUITY EXCELLENCE

• Super handy 2nd floor laundry and all appliances included.

$224,000

SK MLS A2033567

2903 - 55TH AVENUE

• Solid at 4 bed, 2.5 bath family home in the great neighbourhood of Steele Heights. Close to schools, parks & walking paths!

• Wood burning fireplaces, large kitchen, lovely yard, attached garage with direct access to the house.

$209,900

AB MLS A2034192

#310B - 6608 - 42ND STREET

Updated 3rd floor condo - no carpet, appliances included. Building has convenience of an elevator.

Improvements include flooring, paint, backsplash, cabinetry throughout, trim, switches & plug covers.

$127,500

AB MLS A2033600

493084 RGE. RD. 25

• Private acreage only minutes to Lloydminster in the county of Vermilion River. Includes 4 bed bungalow with solarium, 5.66 acres, large shop, beautiful landscaping & gardens.

- A PLACE TO INVEST OR RESIDE!

$799,000

AB MLS A2034106

3503 - 63RD AVENUE CLOSE

• Cul-de-sac location in family friendly Parkview - steps to schools, park or Bud Miller. • Bright white kitchen, island & pantry, summer kitchen in basement. 5 piece ensuite with a soaker tub & walk-in closet.

$364,500

AB MLS A1258967

HIGHLY VISABLE, ESTABLISHED COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

SK $650,000 MLS A2031171 AB $262,000 MLS A2031774 SK $275,000 MLS A1252437 AB $799,000 MLS A2011386 AB $284,500 MLS A1240634 AB $168,500 MLS A2033529 SK $949,900 MLS A2016570 AB $580,000 MLS A2024177 SK $250,000 MLS A2025825 SK $162,000 MLS A2013359 SK $454,900 MLS A2021785 AB $249,900 MLS A2012154 SK $144,500 MLS A2022315 SK $419,900 MLS A1242971 AB $450,000 MLS A2017652 SK $154,900 MLS A2012734 AB $208,000 MLS A2024116 AB $369,900 MLS A2018503 AB $199,900 MLS A1237024 SK $94,900 MLS A1217115 SK $242,400 MLS A2012748 RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES NEW LISTINGS FEATURE LISTINGS

Brad Gilbert Broker (AB)

Rick Schesnuk Realtor®

Brandon King Property Manager

Caleb McLean Associate Broker

Jennifer Gilbert Broker (SK) ALBERTA READY! READY! READY! READY! APR. 15 READY!

1 Bed, 1 Bath 1 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 1 Bath 2 Bed, 2 Bath 3 Bed, 1 Bath 3 Bed, 2 Bath

$600 $700 $850 $1100 $1200 $1350 APPLY ONLINE TODAY

#8 - 4251 41ST STREET

• Convenience of condo living, an attached garage, south facing rear patio and yard, covered front veranda.