Fagnan awarded King’s Coronation Medal
The late Glenn Fagnan was remembered as a big-hearted, caring, never-give-up soul during the Feb. 3 Rotary Club of Lloydminster meeting.
As a Rotarian for over 30 years, it was fitting the award be given at the meeting.
Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright MLA, Garth Rowswell, was allotted one King’s Coronation Medal for any of his constituents.
“I knew Glenn through the Rotary ... I knew what kind of a volunteer he was here, and how giving he was as an individual,” said Rowswell to an almost full house.
“It was right around his funeral when we were trying to figure out who to give it to. I was there ... when you learn about how much stuff he did for other people that you never heard about, that he wouldn’t brag about it, he would just do it.”
The process started last July with Fagnan
meeting all the criteria. Aaron Buckingham was recruited to speak with the family and help work out all of the details. He says Fagnan was a large part of why he is who he is today.
“For me, I’m the living, breathing example of Glenn Fagnan,” said Buckingham. “Without Glenn, I wouldn’t be any of the things I have been, any of the things that I am.”
Buckingham said Fagnan took him under his wing as a young man in Lloydminster. Their bond grew through various boards, groups and even council over three decades. He considers Karen Fagnan (Glenn’s wife) and Brandy (his daughter) family.
“You look at the bricks and mortar and the different things Glenn has touched over the years, and there’s hardly one that isn’t touched by Glenn’s hand,” said Buckingham. “No matter what you asked of Glenn, you got it, no matter what it was.”
Mayor Gerald Aalbers recounted a time when he went to ask Fagnan to be his campaign manager only to find out he was instead running for council. He also spoke of the many times they travelled together as members of the community for various things. He then spoke about his time helping with Border City Connects.
“(You) couldn’t find a better guy to raise money, and how he was able to leverage people, encourage them, and downright just dare them to do things,” recounted Aalbers.
“Not many people get me into ice water, but Glenn did it twice, I believe, or three times, to raise money, to ensure we had fuel and tires at Border City Connects,” said Aalbers, recounting a polar plunge, or two.
The medal was presented to the family members at the end of all the speeches. The family, grateful for the medal, spoke briefly about what it meant.
“We are honored to have Glenn be chosen for this award, it’s a great honor,” said the Fagnan family after the ceremony.
The award is one of only 30,000 given to Canadians from coast to coast. Everyone in attendance believed Fagnan was a well-deserved recipient.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
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Dan Gray - Meridian Source Photo
Young responds to NDP criticism
Lloydminster health care has been a talking point in Regina after a recent fatal incident.
Lloydminster residents face significant healthcare challenges as shortages in critical services lead to delays and disruptions. Patients needing emergency care are being turned away due to a lack of available CT scans. Frustration is mounting as both residents and opposition politicians criticize the Saskatchewan government’s handling of the situation.
Concerns over health care shortages have inten-
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sified following reports of patients suffering due to unavailable CT scans. The Saskatchewan NDP highlighted a tragic case where a man involved in a car accident had to be rerouted to North Battleford. He died before receiving care.
“The people of Saskatchewan, their health and well-being, are being taken for granted by this Sask. Party government,” said Vicki Mowat, NDP shadow minister for health.
Emergency services at the Wilkie and District Health Centre have been closed for over three years. In Kerrobert, EMS staffing shortages have made ambulance services unreliable. Resources from Kindersley, Unity, and even Alberta. are being used to fill gaps. Despite this, wait times continue to rise.
Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young defended her record, stating she has consistently advocated for health care improvements.
“I have and continue to be a strong voice and advocate of health care services for my constituents,” Young said. “Over the past 10 years, I have consistently engaged and communicated with the minister of health, the ministry staff, and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).”
She emphasized the government’s commitment to improving access to primary healthcare. The government plans to ensure every resident has access to a primary healthcare provider by 2028.
“We don’t make that promise lightly,” said Young. “As MLAs, we are committed to listening to constituents and working with communities to improve services.”
Critics, however, argue the government’s promises do little to address immediate concerns.
“The longer the Sask. Party is in power, the further our friends and family will have to drive for basic health care,” Mowat said.
SHA acknowledged staffing challenges but said efforts are ongoing to address shortages.
“SHA is continuing to work to provide 24/7 CT coverage in Lloydminster,” the authority said in a statement. “While this service is largely in place, we anticipate occasional disruptions to service due to staffing challenges and to allow for required maintenance to be performed.”
SHA also highlighted recruitment efforts, including job postings, advertisements, and return-forservice bursaries. The provincial government’s Health Human Resource (HHR) Action Plan aims to stabilize and increase staffing levels.
“As part of the provincial government’s HHR Action Plan, recruitment and retention of healthcare workers remains a priority,” SHA said.
Despite these efforts, opposition members say the government is failing to act fast enough.
Meara Conway NDP rural and remote health shadow minister, criticized the government’s lack of urgency in addressing Lloydminster’s hospital needs.
She stressed the need for immediate action rather than deferring critical decisions.
“We understand the need for strong health services in these communities. They are a lifeline for the people of Lloyd,” Conway said. “Obviously, the status quo is not sustainable.”
The Saskatchewan NDP is calling for urgent action to recruit and retain healthcare workers in west-central Saskatchewan. The party has outlined several steps, including offering competitive salaries, improving working conditions, and prioritizing rural healthcare infrastructure.
Patient advocate Kristine Weisbeck said local representatives, including MLA Colleen Young, have not done enough to address concerns.
“My efforts to express my worries regarding these urgent issues to our local MLA Colleen Young have not been very fruitful,” Weisbeck said. “I have only received a response indicating she requires additional time to address them.”
The NDP continues to push for immediate investments in health care to prevent further tragedies and service gaps.
“Kim Gartner, James Thorsteinson and Young need to stand up to health minister Jeremy Cockrill,” Conway said. “Drive down the same roads your constituents take to North Battleford for care — and do your jobs.”
With ongoing service disruptions, staffing shortages, and a growing population, Lloydminster residents remain concerned about the future of their healthcare system. The government’s long-term promises do little to fix the immediate crisis.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
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Theatre in Bonnyville nears completion
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Funding for the new Strathcona Performing Arts Centre in Bonnyville is up in the air as construction to build the theatre continues.
Bonnyville council received a presentation from the Clayton Bellamy Foundation on a funding request.
Clayton Bellamy and Lise Fielding were presenting on behalf of the theatre as construction to make it a viable theatre continues.
“To request support for a bridge loan for financing to finish the project. Currently we are sitting at three-quarters done the theatre. The seats and the staging, and the lights and sound are all that’s left. And the signage are all that’s left,” said Bellamy.
The theatre already has their first concert booked and tickets are on sale.
“We already have our first concert booked March 21, local boy Mike Plume who is going to be performing. We are in the midst of booking out our 2025/26 seasons,” said Bellamy.
Bellamy says constr uction is nearing completion and it’s looking like a theatre now.
The delegation gave some background on the funding request before council sat to make a decision on the item.
The foundation has been in the process of negotiating with Lakeland Credit Union with respect to the terms of the loan as they are $1.1 million short on the project. The loan term is for 12 months with an interest rate of prime plus zero per cent.
A security of $300,000 has been provided by the Northern Lights School Division. They’ve also applied for the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) for $500,000. The plan also includes $400,000 from sponsorships and $200,000 from the fundraising gala in 2025.
“W e also had several, three sponsors that are in the wings right now, also waiting. Everyone has a toe in the water waiting for confirmation of the completion of the project before they confirm they’re going to give us money,” said Bellamy.
Without any additional funding from CFEP, or the sponsorships they would be just over $800,000 short to repay the loan.
“Again, that’s not counting sponsors or CFEP at the point where we’re at right now, we don’t have either of those answers. We also need to provide funding for the completion of the project. Without it we’re going to be dead in the water,” said Bellamy.
If they are unable to fund the remainder of the project it would leave them without a finished theatre or a having to rebid the project to finish.
Fielding says if it is not paid off after a year the credit union is willing to revisit. She also gave a breakdown of the money the gala’s have been raising.
“We do have a plan for repayment, because this would be, the credit union is prepared to do this if you guys are willing to secure that loan and back us on that interim loan. We are hoping to get that $500,000 from CFEP. Barring that, we are making approximately $200,000 per gala and that you can be assured will go directly towards this repayment. We have $400,000 that we are earmarking for sponsorship opportunities,” said Fielding.
She says there are three sponsorship opportunities available now.
“There are three main sponsorship opportunities. We are also going to be starting a campaign for friends of the theatre that will go in conjunction with the gala table sales. We’re just trying to figure out an effective way to garner both without causing people to back out,” said Fielding. If the CFEP grant were to be unsuccessful the foundation would take longer to repay the loan and would be using future money from the fundraising gala.
“Between all three things we would be able to pay that back within a year. If we don’t get CFEP then that might take a couple more years to get that gala money over to you, that’s a worst-case scenario,” said Fielding. They’d also work with the credit union to review the terms of the loan should the Town of Bonnyville guarantee it.
In the letter addressed to council, there are currently 15 theatre performances booked for 2025 and 2026 with multiple school bookings rounding out the first year.
The ask for the loan is up to $800,000 so council could decide to give less than the full amount.
Bellamy says they hav e met with Tanya Fir, minister of arts, culture and status of women and who has toured the facility and shown her support. Her staff were also helping with the grant application.
He says ther e’s been developments over the last month as groups tour the facility.
“We’ve also been meeting with our francophone partners in the community talking about bilingual signage and sponsorship money there as well
as Travel Alberta,” said Bellamy.
“ We’ve been very busy, and are very committed to bringing this across the finish line.”
According to Fielding, they’ve been working on this project for five years and they’re committed to seeing it through.
For the future, Bellamy and Fielding will be managing the theatre until they can afford to hire other managers. The foundation is anticipating they will make roughly $6,000 per show and $2,000 average rental income at one per month.
Coun. Byron Johnson expressed his worry about the position this loan could put the city in.
“With it being in the school, and if that comes back on us and we’re responsible for the payment of that loan. It’s in a separate building that doesn’t belong to the town, it belongs to the school division. A lot of that construction work, it’s not really stuff that you can recoup from. It’s more like, we have to be careful with this,” he said. “I have no doubt you’re persevering with it, that’s just the part that I’m struggling with.”
Pr eviously the Clayton Bellamy Foundation had made a request for funding to the Municipal District of Bonnyville but were declined as it’s an unsecured loan.
Administration clarified the loan guarantee bylaw would take some time to pass as it would need to be advertised so they are looking at potentially March to get it through if they go that route.
It was also clarified the town’s current borrowing capacity or unused debt limit is $28,241,000.
Mayor Elisa Brosseau said she needs more information to make an informed decision on this item.
“I think for me I need more information on what this looks like, even in the information we’re provided here the question earlier from Councillor (Kayla) Blanchette, what even is our debt servicing limit. What would be those monthly payments, for me I would need to see that full picture,” she said. “It’s hard when it’s just, we don’t have anything on paper from the presenters. I appreciate their financial information they’ve provided. But, what are the terms of the loan exactly? That’s what I would need to see to even entertain making a decision.”
T he Clayton Bellamy Foundation request was moved into in-camera under legal to discuss some of the wording of the loan.
Lakeland bars peaceful protesters
It was going to take more than sub-zero temperatures and refused access to the school to stop a peaceful protest at Lakeland College.
Roughly 40 people gathered at the college over the lunch hour on Feb. 4 to share thoughts and feelings on the firing of long-time championship women’s basketball coach, Chris King.
King was officially canned on Dec. 5, 2024 after being put on administrative leave on Nov. 28, 2024. Since his firing, King’s players, assistant coaches, and members of the community have been vocal about the decision and the lack of communication from within the college.
The college was made aware of the protest weeks ago and took measures to bring in additional security to ensure protesters didn’t step inside the school.
“With everything going on, life doesn’t feel real. We never thought we’d be where we are now and life’s been completely uprooted, for everyone in the community,” said fourth-year women’s basketball forward and nursing student Bethany Montebon.
“It’s been really good to feel and see the support people are willing to give, we appreciate everyone.
“Thank you for taking time out of your day and standing for what’s right.”
assistant coach and long-time Rustler, Tori Dugan, was next to speak. Dugan voiced the importance of applying pressure and making sure the player’s voices are being heard.
“This isn’t just affecting our lives, the girl’s lives, and Chris’ life, it’s affecting a lot of people and we need to keep our foot on the accelerator,” said Dugan. “The leadership team at Lakeland has done absolutely nothing to support us, the girls, the community, and we need to keep it up.”
“There is such thing as Freedom of Speech, so we need to keep going.”
“Thanks for the support,” added Alabama native and first-year transfer Andria Stitt. “We’re going to keep supporting the community as you guys keep supporting us.”
Guard Sarah Dacuycuy, who’s been quite vocal about the situation since things unfolded, struggled to hold back tears as she shared her thoughts.
“We’re fighting for what we believe in and fighting for that truth. Everybody should know by now,” she said. “This doesn’t feel real right now ... as players, we’re supposed to walk in for playoffs in a few weeks and grow what Chris built for a long time.”
Aside from a handful of King’s former play -
ers, members of the community, including recent council hopeful, Russell Moncrieffe had something to say.
“I don’t know all the ins and outs of exactly what happened, but something of this magnitude, there should be 1,000 people here, but you have enough to get started. Do not give up,” said Moncrieffe.
“There’s something seriously wrong with some of the people in charge of some of these public facilities. This is a community problem and it has to be solved by the community. I think you got some attention. Hopefully, you’re gonna get a lot more.”
Another community member to share thoughts on the day was Shaun Newman of the Shaun Newman Podcast.
“The one thing we’re supposed to do in a democratic nation is protest, and instead of them giving us a spot before we got here in -30 C weather, they send out a third-party security guard to tell us ‘You can’t stand in the plowed spot,’” said Newman.
“This is what happens in Canada these days; when things aren’t working, they act like you’re not there and put walls up against us.”
“They won’t even allow you in the college to share your piece, and that’s very fitting.”
Former
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR ..................................
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos
Marshall “Sharing Garden” builds community
Although currently covered in snow, the Sharing Garden in Marshall, Sask. will soon bloom again, offering fresh produce to the community.
Berna Huber, a representative for the Sharing Garden, said the garden was named during its first year by community members.
“We had lots of suggestions but we decided on ‘Sharing Garden’ because it fit the whole concept.”
The project began two years ago after the Town of Marshall provided a plot of land. Volunteers improved the area with truckloads of manure to prepare the soil. Last summer, the garden yielded a large harvest, including potatoes, peas, corn, cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Raspberry bushes, cherry trees, and apple trees were also planted, with plans to add more crops each year. The garden is open to everyone in the community.
“Anyone can come pick,” Huber explained. “We also ask for help to maintain it. It’s a give-and-take system.”
Local schools are involved as well. Students visit the garden to learn about planting and harvesting.
“We even brought in a horse and wagon to take the kids to the garden,” Huber said. “They loved it and stayed focused the entire time.”
Additionally, the garden’s produce supports the local food bank and residents in need.
“We had a man in a wheelchair come by, and we harvested some items for him,” said Huber. “It’s really about sharing and helping.”
The Sharing Garden has become a crucial community builder and has become a part of the annual “Spring into Marshall” celebration held on the first Saturday of June.
Vendors, activities, and raffles raise funds to sustain the garden and other community projects.
Huber, the garden is more than just a source of food.
“It’s healing and good for the soul,” she said. “It brings people together and feeds both the body and the spirit.”
To learn more about the Sharing Garden or participate in upcoming events, visit the “We Are Marshall” Facebook group.
For
Facebook - We are Marshall
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER ..................................
Facebook - We are Marshall
Bonnyville pauses immigration program
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Town of Bonnyville’s council will be pausing its Rural Renewal Stream (RRS) program.
Bonnyville became designated under the RRS under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) in October 2023.
Since that time the economic development officer has written 300 referral letters and responded to 150 emails and telephone inquiries.
Roughly 275 jobs have been filled through the RRS program. Some people have quit, others did not show up and some are still working through the immigration program.
Changes have been made to the program that have a major impact. A cap on the AAIP has been instated of 1,900 per year for the entire province. Potential workers must now submit a worker’s expression of interest through an online portal where it is evaluated and ranked according to provincial needs. This online portal opens and closes quickly as there is an automated monthly quota.
“On top of the Government of Alberta changes we do see this one a little bit higher ranking than the municipality. I know the Government of Canada has also made some significant changes to their immigration through their recent announcements from the minister. Which are obviously affecting the Government of Alberta when it comes to that as well,” said Coun. Neil Langridge.
Langridge says there was a severe shortage of workers in the area.
“I did note as well when we started this we had a severe shortage of workers in the area. A lot of the positions were in the accommodation business and the retail positions,” he said. “Speaking to some of the business owners a lot of those have been filled so the program did work for what we intended it to do.”
Administration brought this item forward to council and requested direction on the next steps with the program.
“Obviously with all the changes I would agree with potentially pausing or closing the program for the time being,” said Langridge.
Administration also informed council there is quite a backlog at the provincial level of roughly six to 12 months.
Langridge would like to see the economic development officer’s time freed up for other work.
“Also note that economic development, this council, (that’s) one of their top priorities along with recreation and wellness and to see our economic development officer we only have one. Then 50 per cent of his workload going to this, which right now is facing severe backlogs. I would like to see that time freed up to address some of our other concerns in economic development,” he said.
Coun. Byron Johnson was in favour of pausing the program.
“I would be more in favour of pausing it just because if it gets as busy as it potentially can around here that we still have that available to us to start up again if there’s a lot of job openings and there’s not a lot of people coming in,” he said.
Mayor Elisa Brosseau said she wanted to see this item come to the Economic Development Committee before coming to council.
“I’m a little disheartened to hear it’s coming straight to council the request to put this on pause without it coming to the economic development committee. I think we were quite clear, and we have a member on our economic development committee who sits on the same committee in Cold Lake and they have a separate committee and they’re the ones who deal with all of the applications and not their economic development officer,” she said.
She says the goal wasn’t to bog down the economic development officer.
“I tried to be quite clear on that. That we didn’t want it to take up the majority of our economic development officer,” said Brosseau.
Brosseau wanted this item to be presented at an economic development meeting to have some conversations regarding the topic.
“I wish it would have come to the economic development meeting first and some open and transparent conversations there,” she said.
Whether the program should be closed or paused, Brosseau agreed with the sentiment around the table.
“It has been so successful in town I don’t want to see it close, so I do agree with you maybe pausing it,” she said.
Discussion rounded out with Coun. Brian McEvoy making a motion to pause the program and send it to the economic development committee for full review before reporting back to council.
This would give council a chance to make a final decision.
Thank you, Lloydminster!
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Special Olympics Alberta Lloydminster Affiliate is thanking Border City residents after a very successful #ChooseToInclude Donut for Inclusion campaign in partnership with Tim Hortons restaurants. Final numbers for donut local sales will be shared when available, but Tim Hortons was proud to announce a record-breaking $1.3 million was raised through the sale of Special Olympics donuts, with 100 per cent of proceeds being donated to Special Olympics Canada.
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Gio’s a no-go on Cold Lake roads
as a mobility aid.”
Gio’s are no longer allowed on the roads in Cold Lake.
They have recently received the classification of golf cart by the provincial government. With this new classification, they will not be allowed on roads, highways or the Millennium Trail.
“After our meeting in October, where concerns about the Gio vehicles were specifically brought up, we approached the province for updates to the legislation surrounding these kinds of vehicles, as well as what they are classified as,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “Although some companies market them as mobility devices, they are much larger, heavier, and faster than what is commonly known
The topic of whether golf carts or other mini vehicles should be allowed on roadways was a topic of discussion at the Jan. 21 Corporate Priorities Meeting. The discussion came up as council heard the provincial government has a pilot project to test the concept of permitting golf carts or mini vehicles on public roadways.
Copeland says they now know where the Gio fits in current legislation.
“With additional outlines from the Alberta Government on what qualifies as a golf cart versus a mobility aid, we have an answer to where the Giotype of vehicle fits into current legislation,” said Copeland.
Current legislation restricts the operation of golf carts on public roadways.
The pilot project, which runs until mid-2029, presents municipalities with an opportunity to regulate the use of these vehicles as an alternative mode of transportation on public areas and municipal roadways.
In order to participate in the golf cart pilot project, the province must have an approved planned route for these vehicles.
Current provincial legislation treats mobility aids as pedestrians and can access any infrastructure a pedestrian is allowed.
“They are too big to enter stores, public buildings, and traverse the aisles like a mobility aid, and too fast to share public pedestrian walkways. At the same time, they are not fast enough to safely travel stretches of Highway 28, and so it seems that these vehicles are not a good fit for the Cold Lake context,” said Copeland.
With the Gio falling under the category of a golf cart, it will be restricted to usage on private property.
“Although we were given the option to participate in the pilot project and look at regulations to allow golf carts or mini vehicles on public streets, council decided not to pursue it at this time,” said Copeland.
“We cannot support Gios, or any other mini vehicle, driving up and down the highway between Cold Lake North and South. They also cannot safely use the Millennium Trail. And so there does not seem to be a strong use case for them in Cold Lake unless specific infrastructure was created to accommodate them.”
The City of Cold Lake says municipal enforcement will be educating Gio owners of the legislation prohibiting their use on public roadways.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy Gioretail.ca
Fire trucks, police cars and big dreams for kids
What could be more fun than cutting class to go see some fire trucks and police cars in Lloydminster?
That is exactly what Grade 2 students from Winston Churchill School did recently on a class field trip. They took time out of class to visit the Lloydminster Fire Department’s (LFD) Station 2 and the RCMP headquarters.
Kris Hill, assistant Fire Chief of the LFD, is also in charge of public education. Hill conducts tours throughout the school year and guides the kids around all the station’s equipment. He explained to the kids everything he could about fire trucks and firefighting and answered their questions.
“The Lloydminster Fire Department’s safety programs, such as fire station tours, are an important part of
our commitment to building trust and educating the youth in our community,” stated Hill. “By engaging with youth directly, we have the opportunity to share important fire prevention and safety knowledge in a handson and memorable way.”
The tours left an impression on the young minds in attendance.
“My favourite part of the field trip was seeing the thermal camera because it was cool. You could see your handprint, and it helps the firefighters see the hot spots,” said Nolan, one student in attendance.
Meanwhile, another student, Bexson, took a lot from one of the demonstrations.
“A firefighter has to get ready in under one minute, and it all weighs 80 lbs. He sounded cool when he was talking with the oxygen tank on,” he said.
Their Grade 2 teacher Shella Stewart said learning about the community workers helps the kids understand how they keep them safe.
“Both police officers and firefighters provide essential services to ensure our community functions smoothly,” said Stewart. “Recognizing their contributions fosters curiosity and allows
the students to connect what we learn in the classroom to real life.”
RCMP Sgt. Brad Mouland says it is important for the RCMP to have these types of interactions with students, be it through their School Resource Officer or any RCMP officer.
“They are able to form relationships with students of all ages and help them learn about the aspects of dayto-day policing,” said Mouland. “The tours and presentations we do for students really give them the ability to see what we do, as well as ask any questions they may have. Our officers enjoy these interactions a lot.”
One child took away from those presentations that kids couldn’t be arrested. However, another student, Navy, took away a message about proper use of the services.
“Don’t call 911 just for fun because both the police and fire have to make sure you’re safe,” said Navy.
Stewart believes that seeing all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the professions, including seeing the fire trucks and cruisers may light a spark.
“Through this field trip we have sparked future police officer and firefighters,” she said.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Dan Gray Meridian Source
Thursday, February 6, 2025
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Leave it to Weaver: Protesters get cold shoulder from college
EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER
I don’t know what goes on behind closed doors at Lakeland College, but as a provincially-funded institution that allegedly prides itself on student’s rights and freedoms, why were roughly 40 people forced to stand out in the cold for over an hour as they protested a decision made by the college?
Like many of our readers and concerned members of the community, I’ve been following the Chris King story since his team forfeited two games in November of 2024.
King was fired on Dec. 5, 2024, after almost two decades with the college. Like a dog to a bone, people want answers. Answers to questions Lakeland College has refused to answer since day one.
As Shaun Newman of the Shaun Newman Podcast said to me a few weeks ago, “There’s only so many news articles and opinions to write before the truth comes out.”
Well, a peaceful protest was held at Lakeland on Feb. 4. Protesters, however, were denied access to the inside of the school.
Additional security was brought in from the Vermilion campus and a guard was standing at each entrance during the roughly hour-long demonstration. The college allegedly instructed security to keep protesters out of the school to prevent disruption of other activities taking place at the time.
So, protesters weren’t allowed in the school, but as a member of the media, I figured I was. The group decided to move to the front of the school for better visibility, which is when I decided to cut through the building to meet them out front with my camera.
I wasn’t escorted out of the building, but you could cut the tension in that hallway with a knife as I was coldly greeted by members of Lakeland senior leadership.
It also didn’t take long for a security guard to come outside and tell the group they had to move ... which they didn’t.
I may not know what happens behind closed doors at Lakeland, but the school’s hallways were caked with judging eyes and blank stares when old Taylor was walking through.
I’m just trying to do my job, which is something I believe senior leadership at Lakeland could be doing a lot more of.
Word on the beat: Changes in crime
Drug users have become more desperate in their desire to escape putting anyone near them at risk.
Over the past 20 years criminals and crime have changed in many ways. Many factors have influenced this but likely none more than drugs and technology.
The use of methamphetamine, and more recently fentanyl, has had a significant impact on policing. Even the legalization of cannabis has changed things.
Although there are laws governing the use and possession of cannabis, in the past, the detection of cannabis often led to arrests for the possession of other drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy.
With newer synthetic drugs being developed at such high potency, small amounts are required by the drug user which then makes them easier to conceal. Cannabis, having such a strong odour to it, was easier to detect roadside leading to arrests and searches which often involved the discovery of other easier to conceal drugs.
Current drugs that are prominent change the users thought process and after a relatively short time, these changes can be permanent. A few years ago, an officer working in a detachment of mine was involved in a shooting related to a vehicle being driven at him.
He was forced to discharge his service pistol at the threat, the driver, but no bullets struck the driver. Upon apprehension of the driver, who had used meth, she kept repeating that she just wanted to get away.
This incident was profound showing the desperation and focused goal orientation of the driver after a number of rounds were discharged at her. These substances have increased the risk to the public and police officers trying to apprehend them.
Technology has allowed the introduction of a plethora of scams and ways to commit, or facilitate the committing of, crimes. Gone are the days of receiving faxes from some prince somewhere trying to get his money out of a reportedly corrupt country needing your help with a rich reward. The fax part has faded but now it is sent via email.
Technology has made many things easier for criminals. Mail order drugs, stolen goods for offer online, identity theft, credit card duplication, investor fraud, etc. were not prominent a mere 10 to 15 years ago.
Young people sharing intimate images and in addition to the sharing of child sexual abuse material is unfortunately more common than most people realize.
Firearms manufacturing has been made very easy by downloading programs and having a 3D printer. Other weapons are also being manufactured in homes but ghost guns hold the biggest threat (no serial number).
This has all made law enforcement increasingly challenging as with each new drug or method of scamming someone, new laws are required and, changes to police tactics to bring those responsible to accountability.
The good news is that there are laws covering new technological offenses and we are getting better at detecting and investigating these. As criminals think up new ways to victimize others, law enforcement will keeping advancing to address this.
- Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown, is the NCO in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP detachtment’s General Investigation Section. Stay tuned for future articles from the Lloydminster RCMP.
Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE
Thursday, February 6, 2025
Chris’ A-Z: It’s electric in Lloydminster
Electricity is something I don’t take for granted.
Coming from small town B.C. you get used to random blackouts because maybe a bird hit a transformer. Which was a real thing that happened to me just weeks after moving.
It wouldn’t be long for the original Lloydminster settlers to get amped up. The powerful currents came to town in 1907 when the Morison brothers opened the first steam-powered plant.
The plant was run by different individuals and small companies until 1955 when transmission lines finally arrived, run from a larger plant in Vermilion.
Farmers, however, didn’t get on board as they were trying to convince Alberta to allow co-operative rural electrification associations. It didn’t take long by 1953 about 20,000 farms had power.
While on the other side of the border, farmers in Saskatchewan thought electricity was too expensive and they didn’t see how it would help their daily tasks.
In 1949, Saskatchewan Power became a crown corporation eventually bringing electricity to about 40,000 farms.
Of course, with electricity comes another advancement, the electric fridge. That must have been quite the sight.
Instead of carefully planning how and when you got your food for dinner,
Gray Matters: From Carbon tax to reward system
you could just throw it in the fridge. It kept everything cold, and it was exactly what people needed, they likely didn’t know they needed it though.
Electricity in the modern age has changed the way we do basically everything. Right now, I’m sitting at a computer, lights on overhead, with heat on in the building and a portable heater next to me.
Then I’ll go home, turn the lights on in my heated apartment and likely watch TV or boot up my computer. Dinner will be made on an electric stove with meat and everything else we need coming out of an electric fridge and freezer.
Even just thinking about it now, I could not imagine a life without electricity and not long ago the world’s population survived without it.
If you have a tinfoil hat kicking around, it might be time to find it for a few hundred words.
Just this week, Mark Carney stated he would remove the carbon tax and replace it with an incentive program that rewards Canadians for making greener decisions.
There were no further details on how it would work, but it sounded just like the theories I’ve read about online over five years. Those policies regard information shared in Davos, Switzerland, yearly, during the World Economic Forum (WEF) gathering.
Carney has had multiple dealings with the WEF, mainly as a climate finance advocate. In short, he’s been a leading voice in integrating climate risks into financial decision-making. This aligns with WEF’s emphasis on addressing climate change and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
The World Economic Forum is an organization that helps governments create partnerships, alliances and policy.
So, why does this matter?
Some individuals believe we are headed for a system that gives or takes privileges based on personal actions. The WEF believes in something called a “Reputation System.”
To summarize, a reputation system promotes digital identity systems that combine an individual’s online activities, credentials, and behaviours. These systems could grant access to financial services, healthcare, travel, and more, based on trustworthiness. However, a quick perusal of the WEF site didn’t turn up mention of social credit scores.
What Carney didn’t say, however, was what will happen if provinces, companies, and individuals don’t adopt the system.
Will it be grant money tied to projects or tax incentives to buy greener? If so, every colour party has done it before.
It will all come down to how those who choose not to participate in the “program” are treated.
When we have that answer, we may see the actual liberal plan come to light. Depending on your take, you can put the hat away for now, everything still seems a long way off.
Those in Lloydminster came here on horses or walked, they didn’t have the modern conveniences that we have now.
I feel as though if we went into a blackout now we’d be entirely and utterly, screwed. Our dependence on electricity has become, potentially too much, not that I’m doing anything to help the situation.
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.
Passport to YLL
To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147
Cards, games, food, meetings, live music
Intro to Square Dancing
Modern square dancing lessons are being offered every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at 5115 - 49 Ave. 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. For more info, contact 780-872-2493 or visit SquareDanceLloydArea.com
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo will be held every Monday and Wednesday, except holidays, at Moose Lodge 5213 57 St., Lloydminster. Doors open at 5 p.m. with games starting at 7 p.m. Must be at least 18 to play.
Diabetes Exercise Classes
The Saskatchewan Health Authority is hosting diabetes education classes every Monday and Wednesday from 2-3 p.m. Classes are held in Suite 109 of the Prairie North Plaza. Please call 306-820-2597 to register. This class is free of charge.
Kaiser Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Kaiser tournament on Thursday, Feb. 6 starting at 10 a.m. Cost is $10 to play and $10 for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Doubles
Crib Tournament
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge, located at 5213 57 St., is hosting a doubles cribbage tournament on Feb. 9. Registration is from 9-9:45 a.m., play begins at 10 a.m., 12 games guaranteed. Cost
is $25/player, which includes lunch. Enter as a team or an individual. Entries close TODAY. Call Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more.
Brayden King at Cheers Live
Brayden King’s Stayin Wild Tour with Kieran Gardner and the Boucher Boys comes to Cheers Live this Saturday for an 8 p.m. all-ages show. Tickets are $22.63 and available through EventBrite.
Lashburn Crib Tournament
The Lashburn Senior Centre is hosting a crib tournament on Feb. 11. In this crib tournament, when you get a “19” hand or crib, you get to peg 19 points. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., play begins at 11 a.m., singles and teams welcome. Cost is $10/person. Snacks and beverages available for $5. For more information, please call 306-8212457. Everyone welcome! The Senior Centre is located on Main Street beside the post office. Parking is available behind the building.
Valentine’s Supper/Dance
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Valentine’s supper and dance on Feb. 14. Doors open and dancin’ at 5 p.m. Supper served at 6 p.m. then dance the night away on Valentine’s Day. Cost is $25/person (advanced tickets only) and there’s two great prizes to be won. All members and guests welcome. Call Legacy office at 780-8754584 for more info.
Moose Lodge Breakfast
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge, located at 5213 57 St., is hosting a breakfast on Sunday, Feb. 16 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Cost is $13 for adults, $5 for youth 6-12, and five and under eat for free. Full breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausages, toast, pancakes, waffles and assorted condiments.
Singles Cribbage Tournament
Spades Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Spades tournament on Feb. 20 starting at 10 a.m. Cost is $10 to play and $10 for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Legacy Pancake Breakfast
The Legacy Centre is hosting a pancake breakfast from 9-11 a.m. on Feb. 23. Cost is $12/person or $6/child 12 years and under. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Kaiser Tournament
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a Kaiser tournament on Feb. 23 from 12-12:45 p.m. Registration closes on Feb. 20. Bring a partner for an afternoon of Kaiser and fun. Cost is $25/ player, which includes chili, snacks, and coffee or tea. Call Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more.
Cribbage Doubles Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Cribbage doubles tournament on Feb. 27. Play begins at 10 a.m.. The cost is $10/person to play and $12/person for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Snowed In Comedy Tour
The Snowed In Comedy Tour returns to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Feb. 27 for a 7:30 p.m. show. This year’s tour features Dan Quinn, Erica Sigurdson, Paul Myrehaug, Pete Zedlacher Tickets are $56.70 for adults, $25.70 for students and $46.20 for seniors.
TeleMiracle Funday at the Legacy Centre
The Legacy Centre is hosting TeleMiracle FunDay on Feb. 28. Registration is at 8:45 a.m. and play begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $20/person for the day! There will be crib and floor curling in the morning, then lunch, then a court whist tournament in the afternoon. Sign up sheet will be posted on Feb. 10. Come have a fun day and help raise money for Telemiracle 49! Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a singles cribbage tournament on Feb. 16 from 1-4 p.m. Entry is $20, eight games guaranteed with prizes for the top finishers. Snacks, coffee and drinks included. Registration closes on Feb. 13. Call Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more.
- Have something you’d like to see in our community calendar? Email the details to taylor@ meridiansource.ca
Little voters have big impact on Lloyd
What happens when little voters at Mother Teresa Early Childhood Education Centre are being woo’d by non-profits? Plenty of fun displays.
The school’s annual Kindness Donut Project is officially underway, and local non-profits are hoping to see a piece of the pie this year.
Nine organizations recently set up booths during the campaign’s community fair hoping to educate students about their missions. Kids explored displays before voting on which non-profit they wanted to receive funds.
Michelle Rusteika, who owns Sobeys with her husband, Kevin, said she was proud to support the event.
“We love local and to be able to work with kids
who are working together,” she said. “Here you have an entire school of kids that are decision-making and collaborating.”
She added the event helps children learn teamwork and problem-solving skills.
“They figure out a way to negotiate their way through it and come out at the end with something they’ve put together as a team,” she said.
The donut fundraiser began when teacher Paige Kindopp approached Rusteika with an idea after reading The Jelly Donut Difference.
“She messaged after Christmas the next year and was like, ‘I have an idea,’” Rusteika said. “We got together and hashed through it, and it has turned into this.”
Meanwhile, Kindopp said the event builds connections.
“This event is all about connecting the community and the students,” she said. “All of the organizations we have here are child friendly. We never know if one of our families might utilize one of these local organizations as well.”
This year, the goal is to sell $12,000 worth of donuts, with half of the proceeds supporting local organizations.
“We have donated over $14,700 over the past three years,” Kindopp said. “We would like to hit that $20,000 mark by this fourth year.”
Brenda Berscht, United Way vice-president, said the event helps people learn more about what her organization does.
“A lot of people are not really sure what we do,” she said. “So, just the information is great, but also to have the awareness of what we actually do in the community.”
“United Way supports people of all ages,” said Berscht. “We go everywhere from kids with our Tools for School all the way up to seniors with our taxi vouchers and everybody in between.”
Additionally, Jacqueline Weed, executive director at Big Brothers Big Sisters Lloydminster, said her organization focuses on building strong relationships.
“We try to form those life-changing relationships, so seeing kids in their own environment is great for us,” she said.
She hopes the students take away one key lesson from her group’s display.
“I think they realize the value of friendship, no matter what your age is,” she said.
The event continues to grow each year, with students gaining a deeper understanding of the impact they can have on their community. Voters will choose the winning organization soon.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER ..................................
Dan Gray Meridian Source
Drug delivering drones lead to arrests
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Three people have been charged following an investigation into drone use to smuggle contraband into a prison.
In November 2023, staff from the Correctional Service of Canada at the Drumheller Institution reported to Drumheller RCMP that they located a package containing methamphetamines, cellphones, nicotine patches and fentanyl.
Drumheller RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS) officers located a drone near the Drumheller Institution that was believed to be used to smuggle contraband in.
On April 17, 2024, officers from the Drumheller GIS, Cold Lake GIS and Cold Lake Detachment executed a search warrant on a residence on Eight St. in Cold Lake.
The search warrant resulted in police locating supporting evidence of drug trafficking into an institution, including drone parts and drones.
T hey also located a loaded handgun. On the same date, Drumheller GIS executed a search warrant on a vehicle believed to be related that was seized by the Edmonton Police Robbery Unit.
Additional evidence supporting drug trafficking into an institution was located, including cellphones and evidence of drone use.
As a result of this investigation Chance Dunne, a 39-year-old resident of Cold lake and Daniel McDonald, a 34-year-old resident of Edmonton were jointly charged with, conspiracy to commit the indictable offence of trafficking a controlled drug and trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Dunne and Charessa Slade, a 26-year-old Bonnyville resident were jointly charged with, possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of a firearm without a holding license and possession of a firearm knowing that the serial number on it had been altered, defaced or removed.
Dunne has also been charged with, possession for the purpose of trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine and possession of a firearm while being prohibited from doing so.
Slade was arrested by Cold Lake GIS on Jan. 21 and released on an undertaking.
She is set to appear in the Drumheller Alberta Court of Justice on March 21.
Dunne is currently in custody on unrelated matters and is to appear in Drumheller Alberta Court of Justice March 28.
McDon ald was arrested by Wetaskiwin RCMP on Jan. 30 and awaits a bail hearing.
Photo courtesy RCMP
Bird conservation program takes shape
but improve rangeland health on native grasslands. Healthy rangelands directly support grassland bird habitat and furthermore, support ranchers living on this landscape,” said Brant Kirychuk, general manager, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation.
The new project is supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). It will develop a new and durable conservation approach to help keep unique grassland birds from disappearing from the Canadian Prairies.
“Every year, we continue to lose thousands of hectares of grasslands, and with it the disappearance of thousands of homes for grassland birds and other wildlife. This exciting project will implement a novel, innovative approach that can address the threats to grassland birds at scale and with the urgency that is required.” said Kiel Drake, Prairie Region director at Birds Canada.
Central to the project is the Bird-friendliness Index. This is a biodiversity indicator originally developed by the National Audubon Society and adapted to the Canadian Prairies by Birds Canada. It clearly measures and communicates the contributions farms and ranches make to bird conservation.
Two conservation groups are joining forces to address the decline of grassland bird populations.
Using the “holistic conservation model”, the new pilot aims to address the needs of birds, biodiversity and the people who make a living on the land.
“This collaboration between the SSGF and Birds Canada will reward Saskatchewan land stewards that are working to not only maintain
Birds Canada and the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (SSGF) have launched the Bird-friendliness Index Incentive Pilot Program.
Birds Canada and SSGF will implement the pilot program with ranches and community pastures by establishing 15-year habitat management intended to improve habitat conditions for grassland birds. Restoration agreements may also be put in place which are designed to restore cropland to native grass.
The project will also expand the Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions program. It will strengthen hemispheric collaboration on grassland bird conservation.
Supplied Photo
Kiel Drake, director, Prairie Region, Birds Canada (left) and Brant Kirychuk, general manager, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (right).
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
New committee looks to retain health professionals in Bonnyville
The Doctor Recruitment Committee in Bonnyville is no more as its been replaced by the Health Professions Attraction and Retention Committee.
During its first meeting, the committee reviewed
the terms of reference which state the purpose of it is to develop and support a sustainable system for health professional attraction and retention that ensures ongoing health care services to the community.
“I’m really happy to see these new terms of reference. This was the doctor recruitment committee we’ve grown we’ve evolved and as we continue to grow the emergency management side of things, we have the hospital attend these meetings,” said Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau during the Jan. 28 council meeting. “There is still the focus on doctor recruitment we still have funding there to help with the doctor recruitment side of things.”
She says there’s an opportunity for health professionals to share what’s going on.
“It’s going to give an opportunity and an avenue for other health professionals in that industry, the hospital the BRFA (Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority), to be at the table and to talk about what’s going on in their worlds,” said Brosseau.
Coun. Brian McEvoy spoke about the process of recruiting physicians into the community.
“One of the key resources for recruiting physicians is to provide them with all of the allied health supports they need,” he said.
McEvoy says discussions regarding retention
have been ongoing for the last year and a half.
“The discussions have gone on for the last year, year and a half, about how do we broaden it so we provide a health environment that doctors want to come to. So that means we got to recruit diagnostic imaging people, we got to recruit nurses, the whole package. As we re-did the terms of reference, that’s how we broadened it. We look at it holistically instead of just as a component,” he said.
The objective of the committee is to provide support for health professionals’ attraction and retention. It also aims to enhance retention of health professionals and facilitate community involvement in the attraction process while also sharing information on the state of health care.
Membership of the committee will include both voting and non-voting members. Voting members shall consist of Town and Municipal District of Bonnyville Council representatives, the Bonnyville Health Foundation member and the health care provider representative (medical director).
Non-voting members shall consist of the Rural Health Professions Action Plan rural community consultant, the hospital administrator, a primary care network member and the emergency medical services lead (BRFA Chief).
Council approved the terms of reference.
Kids learn money at Lloydminster Museum
The Lloydminster Museum and Archives is opening its latest exhibition aimed at educating kids about money.
The Money in 10 Questions: Kids Edition is a play-based exhibition developed by the Bank of Canada Museum in Ottawa. It helps children understand money and how to handle it.
Lloydminster is the first venue to host this exhibition.
“The Lloydminster Museum and Archives is excited to be the first venue to host Money in 10
Questions from the Bank of Canada Museum,” said Natalie Clysdale, Lloydminster Museum and Archives manager. “Many people enter adulthood struggling to understand the complexities of finances, credit, debt, and interest, and this exhibit helps youth understand why money exists and how it makes our world go round.”
Highlights of Money in 10 Questions include learning about compound interest, discovering surprising forms of money and meeting a kid entrepreneur.
The exhibition runs at the Lloydminster Museum and Archives until April 27.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy Lloydminster Museum and Archives
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
LCSD lose over $16K to fraud
prevent future fraud.
The Lloydminster Catholic School Division (LCSD) has reported a loss of $16,399 due to fraud.
The loss occurred between Sept. 1 and Nov. 30 of last year.
The LCSD provided the following statement in regards to the incident.
“The Lloydminster Catholic School Division confirms that it recently fell victim to an external financial fraud incident totaling $16,399. The matter was promptly identified, addressed, and resolved. While unfortunate, this experience has reinforced the evolving challenges organizations face in today’s digital landscape,” read the statement.
The school division says they’re working to
“We take our financial stewardship seriously and have implemented additional safeguards to prevent future incidents,” said Nigel McCarthy, Director of Education for LCSD.
“This situation serves as a reminder of the sophisticated tactics fraudsters now employ. We remain committed to maintaining the highest level of security and diligence in protecting public funds as we look forward to the conclusion of the RCMP investigation into this matter.”
The Lloydminster RCMP have confirmed the incident is under investigation, no further details are available at this time.
The Division remains vigilant, continuously adapting to new threats and strengthening measures to safeguard its resources.
Transportation board confirms second fatality in Sept. 9 incident
visual flight to inspect power lines.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has confirmed an additional fatality in a Sept. 9, 2024 plane crash.
The board is still investigating two plane crashes, one on Sept. 9, 2024 and the other on Aug. 21, 2024.
On Sept. 9 a Cessna U206F, operated by KBM Forestry Consultants Inc., left Kindersley Regional Aerodrome in Saskatchewan. It was on a
The plane went down while turning right, about seven nautical miles southeast of the Lloydminster airport. It hit the ground and was badly damaged.
The pilot and passenger died at the scene. There was no fire after the crash.
The other plane crash happened on Aug. 21, 2024 near Township Road 492 and Range Road 3274.
The pilot, and sole occupant of
the Ayres S2R-G6, registered as C-GRAL, was spraying crops from a pri-vate airstrip roughly 18 nautical miles from the Lloydminster Municipal Airport.
On its third takeoff, the plane lifted off but failed to gain altitude. It skimmed a canola crop, leaving tracks in the field for 750 feet.
The plane then turned slightly left and continued another 595 feet before hitting a 15-foot embankment.
After the impact, the plane flipped and crashed nose-down, coming to rest upside down. The pilot was killed.
Investigators found no mechanical issues with the aircraft. However, the plane was heavily loaded and according to TSB, was believed to have exceeded its maximum weight limit of 6,000 pounds.
The investigation into these two crashes is still ongoing, some details provided are subject to change.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
File Photo
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Transportation of dangerous goods bylaw passed in Bonnyville
The Transportation of Dangerous Goods Route Bylaw has been passed following some revisions by the minister.
Bonnyville Council first approved the bylaw on Sept. 6, 2024, where a copy of the bylaw was sent to the minister of transportation and economic corridors for a final signature.
On Nov. 28, 2024, the town received an email from the minister’s office with required revisions to the bylaw.
Section seven changes included no person transporting dangerous goods in a placardable quantity shall stop within the municipality except at a permitted storage location.
Section eight saw changes stating, “Any person responsible for the spillage, leakage, or discharge of dangerous goods in placardable quantities within the jurisdiction of the Town of Bonnyville shall be deemed in violation of this bylaw.”
It also requires the responsibility party to notify the town of any spillage incident involving dangerous goods and cooperate in the response and cleanup.
In schedule B some items were changed.
- Item 2: Stop vehicle/prohibited parking while carrying dangerous goods in placardable quantities contrary to the bylaw.
- Item 3: Leave dangerous
goods in a placardable quantity unattended.
- Item 6: A spill or release of dangerous goods in a placardable quantity in the Town of Bonnyville.
The changes were all completed and sent back to the minister’s office for approval and have now been returned to council for approval.
The bylaw itself regulates the transportation of dangerous goods in and through the Town of Bonnyville.
Council did have some questions regarding the specifics of the updates.
“Under section seven it says as permitted storage location where would that be?” asked Coun. David Sharun Administration clarified it depended on the goods and what they are carrying giving the example of a gas station.
Specifics were also requested regarding wording updates.
“Just one clarification, under section seven, they suggested updating permitted sections, that doesn’t change what’s currently in the bylaw to comply, refuel repair vehicles, compliance with a valid permit all of those stay the same in the bylaw?” asked Coun. Byron Johnson.
According to administration, it is allowed in the current bylaw as it’s adding to the existing bylaw.
The dangerous goods bylaw received all three readings and has passed.
Sask RCMP see uptick in fatal accidents
Saskatchewan RCMP report eight fatal collisions cost 11 lives between Jan. 1 and 29 this year.
That is a sharp increase from last year. In the same period in 2024, there were two fatal crashes and three deaths.
“These numbers are extremely concerning to see,” said Supt. Grant St. Germaine, officer in charge of Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services. “We must all do our part and ask ourselves, ‘What can be done to make Saskatchewan roads safer?’ We all have a part to play in reversing this tragic trend.”
Police are still investigating the crashes. A Saskatchewan RCMP Collision Reconstructionist examines most fatal crashes, but their work takes time.
So far, investigators believe bad weather played a role in five of the eight fatal crashes.
Every crash affects many people. Families and friends are grieving their loved ones.
“We have had 11 people die on roads in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction the first month of 2024 – think of how many people are impacted by these tragedies,” St. Germaine said. “There are family and friends grieving and our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected.”
First responders also feel the impact.
“These incidents can be traumatic and nothing can prepare you for these types of calls where loss of life occurs,” he said.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
File Photo
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Telemiracle steak night another tasty success
It was another sold-out event as hundreds packed the WLS Convention Centre to enjoy a steak for a great cause.
The Lloydminster Kinsmen and Kinnette Clubs hosted the community’s 19th annual TeleMiracle Steak Night at the Lloyd Ex on Feb. 1. All proceeds from the event support TeleMiracle 49, which is being held at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon on March 1 and 2.
For committee chair, Matt Read, the event was a resounding success with 600 seats sold.
“It was great seeing support from the community for this sold-out event,” said Read. It’s amazing
Community members and community businesses came together, and in my time on the committee, this was the largest number of corporate sponsors and tables we’ve had.
how full that room gets when you pack 600 people plus a band and all the auction items. It was really exciting to see the community come together for this event.”
When asked about final numbers, Read held his cards close to his chest.
“You’ll have to watch us on Telemiracle to find out how much we raised,” he said.
“Having a sold-out crowd and being able to have local artists like Jordyn Pollard and the Dirt Rich Band get behind us is amazing.”
When it came to community partners, Read noted this was the club’s best year yet.
“Community members and community businesses came together, and in my time on the committee, this was the largest number of corporate sponsors and tables we’ve had.”
TeleMiracle is a 20-hour, annual telethon broadcast live in Saskatchewan. The generous residents of the province have helped raise over $165 million since 1977.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Supplied Photos
Synergy Credit Union named top employer
Synergy’s philosophy of people helping people extends beyond its members to its employees.
Synergy Credit Union is celebrating after being named a top employer in Saskatchewan for the eighth straight year.
“We are honoured to receive this award for the eighth year in a row,” said Trevor Beaton, CEO of Synergy Credit Union.
Beaton says the company remains committed to supporting employees’ personal well-being.
“Our employees are the heart of everything we do, and this award reflects their dedication, passion, and drive to make Synergy a workplace where everyone thrives. We remain committed to fostering a culture that supports our team’s professional growth and personal well-being,” said Beaton.
“Our team’s collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence drive our members’ financial success and contribute towards the communities we serve,” said Beaton. “This honour inspires us to continue evolving as an employer of choice in Saskatchewan.”
The company says the award is a testament to the organization’s dedication to living its values every day.
“As Synergy celebrates this achievement, we look forward to another year of innovation, growth, and shared success with you, our valued members,” read a statement from Synergy.
The Saskatchewan Top Employer celebrates organizations that lead their industries in offering outstanding work environments, employee engagement and progress work policies.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Photo courtesy Synergy Credit Union
February 6, 2025
RUSTLERS STOP EAGLES MID FLIGHT
The Lakeland College Rustlers men’s basketball team stopped The King’s University Eagles in mid flight at home on Jan. 31.
The Rustlers (10-5) bested the last-place Eagles (2-15) 102-80 as the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) regular season winds down.
Friday’s win saw starters Matthew Bryant earn 23 points, Chance Samuel, 21, Bahaeddin Salma, 19, Allayasa Bray, 13, and four from Riley Rathwell.
Raphael McBean-Sandy also had an eight-point night.
“It was good to get back in the win column,” said head coach Sheray Thomas of the win.
“It felt like we had a slow start defensively, but the game went back and forth, and we buckled up a little it. Defense allowed us to get out and transition and makes some easy buckets.”
Thomas also noted this year’s team has great range with a good mix of veterans and rookies.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos
“We have a range of players, from guys with experience to our firstyear players,” said Thomas. “We rely on our veteran players to carry the squad, but our rookies are really coming along and finding their way.”
“We’re not the biggest or tallest team, but we can get out in transition when we defend and move offensively. We can be a dangerous team.”
The third-place Rustlers have five regular-season games remaining this season, two of which are against the second-place NAIT Ooks (12-4).
The boys will host the Northwestern Polytechnic Wolverines on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. They
then travel to Edmonton to take on the Ooks on Feb. 14 before hosting NAIT on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. The Rustlers men’s basketball team’s last home game of the year is on Feb. 20 in Edmonton.
“We’re trying to win as many games as possible going forward. We have to take care of business at home against a scary Grande Prairie Northwestern Polytech team,” said Thomas.
“The NAIT weekend will be for second place, so if we’re able to get those two we’d end up second. That will be a key weekend, plus our second home game that weekend is senior night. We’d love to send off our seniors with a win.”
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos
BANDITS RAZZLEDAZZLE RANGERS
The Lloydminster Jr. B Bandits bested the Vegreville Rangers 7-4 at the Centennial Civic Centre on Jan. 31.
The Bandits remain second in North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League (NEAJBHL) standings with a 25-7 record.
The Rangers (13-19) drew first blood on the power play early in the opening frame. Lloyd’s Chad Bates was quick to answer before captain, Joel Webb, made it a 2-1 game with 1:36 left in the first. Tysen Tomlinson tied it up for Vegreville with :39
remaining in the period.
Tomlinson also opened the second frame with an unassisted go-ahead goal before the Bandits took a 5-3 lead going into the third. The second saw one goal from Jayden Plamondon and two from Corvan Stewart.
The Bandits returned for the third with confidence as Ben Rawluk scored at 18:26 and 5:34. Tomlinson, however, made it a 7-4 final by completing a hat trick with :50 remaining in regulation.
The boys in black and red are back at the Civic Centre tonight (Feb. 6) to host the Onion Lake Border Chiefs at 7:30 p.m. before heading to Cold Lake.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos
Saskatchewan tech fund offers more
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Saskatchewan Government is announcing the second intake of its Technology Fund with more than $50 million available to help provincial industries reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
The province says the increase reflects the government’s support of industries reducing emissions and innovating in the field.
This significant increase reflects our government’s dedication to supporting Saskatchewan industries as they lead the way in emissions reduction and innovation.
“On the heels of the success of the first intake, I am proud to announce that the second intake of the Saskatchewan Technology Fund will see double the amount of funding available,” said Travis Keisig, environment minister.
“This significant increase reflects our government’s dedication to supporting Saskatchewan industries as they lead the way in emissions reduction and innovation.”
During the first intake of the fund, more than $25 million was provided to 13 projects which are projected to reduce more than 4.5 million tons of CO2 emissions.
Baytex Energy was one of the successful project proposals from the first intake.
“Baytex greatly appreciates the efforts of the Government of Saskatchewan to engage and col -
laborate on pragmatic and meaningful efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions,” said Laureen Luross, Baytex director of sustainability & business intelligence. “The Saskatchewan Technology Fund grant we have received supports our investment in activities designed to reduce GHG and methane emissions from our operations. We look forward to continuing this productive relationship into the future.”
Those successful applicants who pass the expres-
sions of interest phase will be invited to submit full project proposals. Those projects are then evaluated by third-party technical and financial experts for emissions reductions, technical and financial feasibility and potential environmental and socioeconomic benefits.
The projects selected to receive funding will be announced later this year.
Full details can be found online at Saskatchewan. ca/Tech-Fund.
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