Meridian Source - April 18, 2024

Thursday, April 18, 2024

VOLUME 6 I ISSUE 43

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

186 Squadron shooters on target

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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Hard work, dedica tio n a n d a n a m ple amount of breath control paid off for the five members of 186 Air Cadets - Lloydminster Squadron’s marksmanship team after a successful weekend at the Edmonton Garrison for State III Marksmanship Provincials.

Under the direction of instructor Gordon Stefanuk, the team, comprised of Cpl. Wyatt Moffat, Sgt. Elijah Belanger, Cpl.

Ethan Samarin, FCpl. Hayden Squair, and FCpl. Yshy Maroto, finished 12th of the 16 teams competing, with Moffat also earning himself a silver medal for ‘Alberta Cadet Provincial Marksmanship -Junior Prone.’

“I’m really proud of the team. It’s very good to see they really practised a lot, focused a lot, and used a lot of the things they’ve learned,” said Stefanuk.

“Once you get the mechanics down, trigger pull, holding the rifle,

Supplied Photos Left : Cpl. Wyatt Moffat was all smiles on the bus ride home from Edmonton after earning himself a silver medal for ‘Alberta Cadet Provincial Marksmanship -Junior Prone’ at last weekend’s State III Marksmanship Provincials at CFB Edmonton. Above: Members of the 186 Air Cadets - Lloydminster Squadron’s marksmanship team take part in provincial competition last weekend in Edmonton. how the rifle works, then it’s psychological.

“Out-guessing yourself, relaxing, laying down for 30 minutes and focusing on your shots to be a little more than a minute apart.”

For Moffat, the silver medal came as a shock as he explained he doubted himself going into the competition.

“I was really calm the entire way through the competition,” he said.

“At first I was really

nervous, but as we were shooting, it was really calming.”

Squair, who had a blast as a member of the team, explained everyone did very well and encouraged anyone interested to give

Cadets a try.

“It’s a free program, it’s very positive, and it’s a great community to be in. Anyone can do it, you get to travel, and the fact it’s free is great.”

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Thursday, April 18, 2024

City to begin residential street sweeping

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Seasonal street sweeping is underway within the city as crews begin cleaning the downtown and main arterial routes

before transitioning to residential areas next Monday.

Each spring, the City clears debris and dust from roads, boulevards and major pathways, making them

cleaner and safer for all modes of transportation. This also helps minimize debris entering stormwater collection systems.

Residential street sweeping follows curbside collection zoning, which is available at Lloydminster.ca/curbside.

Sweeping will begin in the orange zone, followed by pink, blue, green, before finishing in yellow. Residents are encouraged to help do their part by not parking on the street when sweepers

are scheduled to be in their area.

Signs are posted in residential neighbourhoods, advising residents at least 36 hours in advance of sweeping operations. If signs remain posted into the weekend, residents are permitted to park their vehicles on the street; however, vehicles must be removed the following Monday to allow street sweeping operations to continue.

To expedite sweeping operations, residents are asked to set out waste and organ-

ics carts after 7 p.m. the day before pick up and remove them by 7 p.m. the same day of the pickup.

Weather permitting, residential street sw e e p i ng o p e rati o ns are typically carried out between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday to Thursday, before moving to other areas for the remainder of the night.

During this time, residents are asked not to park on the street.

Weekly street sweeping operations conclude Friday at 6 a.m. to

allow equipment maintenance before resuming on Monday.

Updates on the progress and location of street sweeping operations can be found on the City of Lloydminster website at Lloydminster.ca/Roads.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution around street sweepers and maintain a safe distance of at least eight metres from all equipment.

Residents with questions about the street sweeping program can call 780-874-3700.

Maidstone RCMP continue search for missing male

M

aidstone RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 28-year-old Serayne Kematch from Onion Lake Cree Nation.

Serayne was last seen on the

morning of Wednesday, April 10 in the area of Highway #3 near Alcurve in the RM of Britannia.

He was last seen walking in the rural area and it was reported to police he was going to walk back

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through the rural area to Onion Lake.

Serayne is described as being 5’9” tall, 170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He has a cross tattoo on his forearm. RCMP did not have any clothing descriptors available.

Maidstone RCMP is currently searching for Serayne in the area where he was last seen.

At of 4:50 p.m. on Tuesday, Maidstone RCMP stated they continue to search for Kematch and advise the public of an increased police presence along Highway 17 between Alcurve and Onion Lake related to this search.

Maidstone RCMP asks motorists to watch for police officers and other civilian pedestrians in the area.

Additionally, Maidstone RCMP asks people who live in this area to check their properties, outbuildings and vehicles for any sign of Serayne, CADETS FROM PAGE 1

With marksmanship being the main reason Maroto joined Cadets, and last weekend being her first taste of competition, she explained

or anything that seems out of place.

If you have seen or have information on Serayne Kematch’s whereabouts, please contact Maidstone RCMP immediately by calling 911 in an emergency or 310-RCMP in nonemergencies.

she’ll be back for more.

“I’ve always been interested in shooting and when I finally got the chance I jumped in,” she said.

For Belanger, a third-

year shooter in his second year on the team, provincials were an experience he won’t soon forget and also recommends Cadets to anyone looking to try something new.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

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Pollard’s gone country for good GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Local country singer Jordyn Pollard is a small-town girl at heart with big-city dreams who has been nominated for three Saskatchewan Country Music Association (SCMA) Awards.

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To introduce my hometown crowd to all of my country music friends and what Saskatchewan country music has to offer, is really exciting.

The 22-year-old, who lives on a farm in Hillmond, Sask., and calls Lloydminster home, bounced over the moon when she learned this year’s SCMA awards are being held at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on June 22.

“I was super excited, one, because I get to save money on gas and hotels,” said Pollard.

“That’s always a bonus and also, to introduce my hometown crowd to all of my country music friends and what Saskatchewan country music has to offer, is really exciting.”

Pollard is up for Female Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Record Producer of the Year with producer Bart McKay on her team.

“Even to be nominated to be up with some of my greatest friends and allies in the music industry is really cool,” she said.

“I think we have some great female talent in Saskatchewan including Katelyn Lehner, Jesse Moskaluke and Shantaia; it’s a great demographic for sure.”

Pollard is thrilled to be up for video of the year for her hit single Upside of Being Down made with Lloydminster production talent.

She also credits the musical theatre lessons she took from teacher Simon Stang when she went to Lloydminster Comprehensive High

Local country music star Jordyn Pollard is up for three awards at the upcoming Saskatchewan Country Music Association Awards, to be held at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on June 22. File Photo School, as well as from Kathryn Edwards at the Vic Juba for helping her to act roles in videos.

Upside of Being Down was filmed at the home of Jason Whiting and directed by Kim Caparal from Narra Studios with Maz Entertainment providing the lighting.

“It’s really cool they were all able to be a part of it,” said Pollard, who gains a lot of her inspiration for writing songs from living in a small rural community.

“The sense of community is really important to me and helping other people and I think I learned that from having a farming family and seeing how we all worked together to help one another out,” she said.

“I really love to bring that into my music career as well.”

“It helps with the idea of humility and staying humble and remembering where you came from—some festivals and little cabarets in local Saskatchewan and Alberta to going into bigger stages like at award shows and the Big Valley Jamboree and things like that.”

Pollard hopes that continuing to write and release songs that are true to her will land her at the Canadian Country Music Awards.

“That’s my next goal,” she said.

Pollard has about eight or nine songs to her credit so far and plans to head into the SCMA’s with the release of a new single and a potentially bigger project.

“I can’t say too much about that, but I hope people can follow along on my social media and keep up with that. We’ll be releasing that information very soon,” she said.

Pollard is also looking forward to book-

ing a school tour in the fall to motivate youth to express their creativity and strive to be all that they can be.

“I know it’s really hard to see the big picture in a small town. It is possible to reach out and make those dreams come true, whether it’s in the arts or becoming an astronaut,” she said.

Growing up Pollard was in awe of seeing Hillmond neighbour Wade Redden, who is her dad’s first cousin, realize his dream of playing in the NHL for

nearly 17 years.

“He’s always been good friends with Mike Fisher (former NHL-er) so I feel that’s my connection to Carrie Underwood (U.S. country star) right there,” said Pollard.

Here in Lloyd, Pollard thinks there are some great musicians in town and some great local venues aside from the Vic Juba like The Sticks,

Cheers Live and Three Trees.

“I love going to play at Three Trees,” Pollard said, noting owner Jim Spenrath “has created a great little community of locals” that like to support and come out that frequent the place.

“That’s probably one of my favourite spots in town for sure, 4th Meridian as well.”

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Turtleford RCMP warns public of dangerous illicit drugs

File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Turtleford RCMP is warning the public of the presence of dangerous illicit drugs cir-

culating in the detachment area.

Two separate sudden deaths occurred on April 11 on Thunderchild First Nation. Pre-

liminary investigation suggests fentanyl may have been involved in these incidents, but this cannot be confirmed until the results of a

toxicology report have been completed by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service. The investigations are still ongoing.

During a separate

traffic stop investigation on Thunderchild First Nation on April 12, drugs located and seized by Turtleford RCMP from a vehicle later tested positive for fentanyl. This investigation continues.

“We need the public’s assistance to help remove these dangerous substances from our communities and fentanyl is just one example,” said Corpl. Dwight Sacrey of the Turtleford RCMP. “Please report information about the presence of drugs or drug trafficking by calling 310-RCMP or you can report information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers

at 1-800-222-8477.”

For those seeking emergency assistance during an overdose, the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection.

Naloxone kits and training and take-home fentanyl and benzodiazepine drug checking strips are available.

Signs of an individual experiencing an overdose can include slow, weak or no breathing, gurgling or choking sounds, lips or fingernails that are blue or they may appear dizzy, confused or exhausted.

Stay with the individual and call 911 or your local emergency number to seek emergency medical assistance.

Innisfail RCMP charge male after traffic stop MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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On April 13, Innis-

fail RCMP observed a motorcycle in Innisfail with no licence plate.

RCMP attempted a traffic stop on the motorcycle, however, it did

not stop and accelerated at a high rate of speed. The motorcycle drove through numerous stop signs without stopping and cut off other motorists. The motorcycle then lost control on gravel near the auction mart and crashed the bike. The driver attempted to flee the area on foot but was apprehended by police.

Investigation revealed the motorcycle was stolen and

the VIN had been tampered with. The suspect was a suspended driver and when arrested and searched, was found to have a small amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Jesse Burgoyne, 35, a resident of Innisfail, has been charged with: - Possession of stolen property over $5,000; - Flight from police; - Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle; - Altered Vehicle

Identification number; - Driving a motor vehicle while suspended; - Possession of fentanyl; - Possession of methamphetamine; - Operating motor vehicle without insurance; - Operation of a motor vehicle without registration.

Burgoyne will appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer on April 16.

Cenovus named Lakeland College’s Feast on the Farm title sponsor

L

akeland College is excited to welcome back Cenovus Energy to present its Feast on the Farm fundraising event.

On Aug. 15, industry leaders, commu-

nity supporters, alumni and students will gather on the west side of the Vermilion campus for an evening of dining and live entertainment, while raising funds to support student-led and

enhanced learning initiatives at the college.

To be a sponsor of this year’s event or to purchase tickets, visit Lakelandcollege.ca/ feast or call Leanne at 780-871-5401.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Black history essayists rewarded GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Delayed gratification is one of the lessons students in the Lloydminster public and Catholic school divisions are relishing from Black History Month studies this year.

The three top essay winners from a judged black history competition in February discovered it was worth waiting until last week to receive certificates of recognition from Mayor Gerald Aalbers.

Adrianna Schnitzler, a Grade 7 student at Bishop Lloyd Middle School was over the moon as the unanimous first-place winner.

“I was shocked because I’m a Grade 7, which is the lowest grade that could enter.

It goes from Grade 7 and Grade 12 at LPSD, so that’s a lot of people who could win and it was me,” she said.

“I was absolutely shocked by that.”

The competition was sponsored by the city and its community partners with Schnitzler researching and writing about the late John Armstrong Howard.

“He was in the Olympics and he seemed like a pretty cool dude.

I looked at all my options, like I Googled people and I had to find out if they were Canadian or not,” said Schnitzler.

Howard was Canada’s first black Olympian at the 1912 Olympics in Sweden and our top 100 and 200-metre runner from 1912-15.

“I eventually just choose him. I cited different sources and just kind of found out things about him,” explained Schnitzler.

His grandson, threetime Canadian Olympian Harry Jerome, won the bronze medal in the 100m race at the 1964 Olympic Summer Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Schnitzler says she’s been writing since the first grade.

“Since I could write, I’ve been writing stories,” she said, noting th e es s a y t h e m e w a s Black Excellence - A

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Adrianna Schnitzler, a Grade 7 student at E.S. Laird Middle School, centre is the firstplace winner of a Black History Month essay competition led by the City of Lloydminster and partners. Presenting her with a certificate is left, Kemoh Mansaray, Lloydminster Local Immigration Partnership coordinator and right, Shauna Godin, program manager of Catholic Social Services.

Heritage to Celebrate.

“What we wanted to do for Black History Month was have people write essays about somebody famous,” said Shauna Godin, program manager at Catholic Social Services.

“Then they had a panel judge the essays objectively, then pick the three top winners.”

“It’s a great opportunity for showing education in diversity and inclusion. I think it’s a great way to have so many participate in those grade levels.”

Kemoh Mansaray, Lloydminster Local Immigration Partnership co-ordinator says there were about 15 submissions and explained why all the judges made Schnitzler their top pick.

“The way she wrote it and I think you’ll see that in the comments from the judges. She personalized the experience and she read about John Howard,” said Mansaray.

“She has an inspiration to become a teacher. I think the judges looked at the style of writing as well.”

Shella Khan a Grade 8 E.S. Laird Middle School student, may have come to her runner-up essay naturally.

“I’d always have this passion for writing essays and just writing stories. This was actually easy for me, but I had to find bigger words since I was competing against older students,” said Khan.

She wrote about Sarah Nurse, who helped Canada win gold last Sunday at the recent IIHF World Women’s Hockey Championship and laces up for Toronto in the PWHL. “The really cool thing

is, I met her before,” said Khan referring to the time in 2022 when Nurse helped present her U13 Blazers girls hockey team with the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup in Lloydminster.

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Chase the Ace is back!

MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Geoff Lee Meridian Source

Shella Khan, a Grade 8 student at E.S. Laird Middle School, won second place in a Black History Month competition sponsored by the City of Lloydminster.

BLACK HISTORY FROM PAGE 5

“It was really cool since she was also the first Canadian black woman to win a gold medal in the Olympics,” said Khan who continues to play girls’ hockey.

The judges said, “A lot of detail was offered about Sarah Nurse and her impact on the game of hockey. What Sarah had to overcome was also detailed. There was little to no connection to this story by Shella herself. That would have been awesome.”

Looking back, Khan says she should have done that.

“I feel like if I had added more about me, it could have been a lot better and it could have won first place about how I play hockey and it’s better and stuff,” she said.

The third-place winner is SummerLee Campbell-Klassen, a Grade 7 student at Bishop Lloyd, who wrote about the late civil rights activist Viola Desmond from Nova Scotia.

Have you heard the exciting news? The Lloyd Ex has brought back Chase the Ace for a seventhround with this week’s jackpot at $26,314.

Ken Carriere got the ball rolling in last week’s inaugural draw as he took home $876 as the first weekly winner.

As always, the weekly draw will take place Wednesday evening at the Ex. Tickets are $10 for one, $25 for three, $50 for eight or $100 for 20.

Each week, 20 per cent of weekly ticket sales are won by the weekly winner, 30 per cent goes into the growing jackpot, and 50 per cent goes to the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association.

Funds from this round of Chase the Ace will support capital projects at the Ex such as a new grandstand and indoor agriculture facility.

With 51 cards remaining in the deck, the jackpot will continue

Karla Markevich (second from right) was the most recent winner of the Lloyd Ex’s Chase the Ace jackpot, taking home just shy of $86K in January. File Photo to grow until someone draws the Ace of Hearts.

Tickets are available online at www.lloydex.com/chase-the-ace, or via e-transfer to chasetheace@ lloydex.com, the password MUST be: CTA2024. E-transfers must include name, phone number and email address or they will be declined. The cut-off for e-transfer

tickets is noon on Wednesdays.

Tickets are also available in person at the Ex from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Contestants do not need to be in attendance to win – a designated proxy will act on behalf of the winner each week if the winner can’t make it to the draw within 15 minutes.

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Agriterra opens for farm season

Geoff Lee Meridian Source

A team of Agriterra Equipment staff, flanked on the left by Brian Taschuk, president and CEO of the company’s 12 branches, and on the right, by Lloydminster branch manager Kim Wildeman, posed for a photo at a grand opening last Thursday.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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The sun came out for the grand opening of Agriterra Equipment’s new farm equipment shop along with up to 250 invited guests, employees and visitors.

The special event was held last Thursday with a ribbon cutting, door prizes and tours of the 15,500 sq. ft. facility in the refitted former Trans Canada Truck Wash off Highway 16 in Blackfoot.

“It’s very exciting.

The weather is co-oper-

ating, the yard is full of equipment, so hopefully, we’ll have lots of people out and see what we’ve done to the building,” said branch manager Kim Wildeman.

The opening was timed just ahead of farming seeding with early sales of their Morris seeding drills and Fendt tractor units.

“We’re basically concentrating on that, getting them out and getting them ready for farmers to get out in the field,” said Wildeman.

“The farmers will be

itching to get in the field pretty soon.”

Agriterra is primarily an AGCO farm equipment dealership and the owner of equipment brands such as Fendt, MasseyFerguson, Hesston and Challenger.

The company also sells CAT Ag products and Bourgault seeding systems throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan and various support equipment that goes with those primary product lines.

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Thursday, April 18, 2024

Expect experience at Agriterra Equipment

Agriterra Equipment officially opened its Lloydminster branch last Thursday in the retrofitted space previously occupied by Trans Canada Truck Wash fronting Highway 16. Geoff Lee Meridian Source FROM PAGE 7

“We’re 10 years old,” said president and CEO, Brian Taschuk at the grand opening.

“Ten years ago, I bought our first store in Stony Plain and then we’ve expanded to 12

stores over that time.”

Taschuk’s vision was to buy up a lot of single AGCO dealerships in Western Canada from owners with retirement or succession plans in place, to create a bigger company in a competi-

tive market.

“It helps by having 12 stores being able to share resources, share people, and share capital to compete in the modern farm community,” he said.

The Lloydmin-

ster store opened in November after relocating their long-standing Dennill’s Agricenter from Dewberry.

“The facility was not big enough to handle the growth we’re going for, so, we relocated here to Lloydminster, found a great location right on the highway in the middle of our territory that’s got the space for us to grow,” explained Taschuk.

“It’s taken us a year to do the renovations and get it up to speed, so it’s a huge project.”

The new store is in the County of Vermilion River, which Taschuk

says is one of the biggest farm equipment counties in Alberta.

“It’s a place we have to be and we’re really excited by it,” he added.

Apart from Agriterra’s well-known line of products and services, Wildeman thinks they have a competitive niche in Lloydminster with their experienced staff.

“We’ve got three guys with over 20 years of experience and topnotch knowledge,” said Wildeman.

“I believe it’s our sales, service and parts; it’s tough to find people in this industry with 20-plus years of experi-

ence and more than one person as well.”

The renovated shop includes a large parts and service centre for equipment.

“We’ve got lots of room in our back shop to accommodate all our customers’ needs, six technicians, and technical support service guys as well. We’re fully equipped to handle whatever comes our way,” said Wildeman.

“Any equipment nowadays is coming with a lot of technology aspects. You’ve got to have some pretty good guys with lots of knowledge.”

Thursday, April 18, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Ease aches and pains with Heather ter in general— if we can improve a person’s strength or stamina or their mobility.”

A doctor’s referral is required for the PCN exercise programs including the back pain classes that will also be offered at no charge after a personal consultation.

Mielke expects to see younger and older people in the back clinic knowing so many peo-

Supplied Photo

Heather Mielke, exercise specialist, Primary Care Network Lloydminster.

GEOFF LEE STAFF WRITER

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Anyone who completes a hip and knee or back pain clinic at the Primary Care Network (PCN) in Lloydminster may be asked to do the Skeleton Dance.

That’s done to “the hip bone’s connected to the backbone” melody and helps prove exercise can work wonders for those aching body parts.

That’s the goal of Primary Care Network exercise specialist, Heather Mielke, who plans to offer a back pain relief class this fall and continue her ongoing exercise classes for people dealing with hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis.

Mielke talked about both programs and her role at last week’s meeting of the Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society.

“I see myself as a bridge between the medical world and the rest of your life. Not everybody is in a position to head straight into a gym,” Mielke told seniors.

“I can provide some direction and support and help you with some of your goals for living here with fitness and your health.”

Mielke is currently

teaching the Danishbased GLA:D program, which stands for Good Life with osteoArthritis in Denmark, based on the correct dosage of exercise for each participant.

“

I can provide some direction and support and help you with some of your goals for living here with fitness and your health.

Each new session starts with information on osteoarthritis care and management.

“Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the bones, not just the cartilage. It is one of the most common reasons for people not being physically active as they get older,” said Mielke.

“Physical activity is helpful and it is safe.

It’s good for you to move and it’s good for your joints.”

The exercise-based osteoarthritis program got an unsolicited endorsement from senior participant Sharon Pryor at Mielke’s presentation.

“I’ve only been going for a short while,” said Pryor.

“When I first started the exercises, I could not get up on the chair without having to support my arms or push off. Now, I now stand up 10 times in a row.”

That revelation earned Pryor a round of applause to keep up the good work.

Mielke’s written feedback surveys reveal 88 per cent of her participants have reported an improvement in their overall healthcare.

In addition, 82 per cent have reported an improvement in their fitness and 65 per cent reported an improved quality of life.

“That’s what we’re all working toward here,” she said.

Mielke says there’s been some funding from the Canadian Institute of Health Research for PCN specialists like her to be trained in May to deliver a GLA:D back program in September.

“It’s for people who are dealing with persistent or recurrent back pain that is impacting their life. So really, we look at it as that garden variety back aches and pains that a lot of people are living with,” she said.

“Exercise is good for everything and we know that if you move more, you tend to feel bet-

ple have back troubles.

“I think there’s a real demand for it and it’s building off of that GLA:D program for people living with hip and knee osteoarthritis, so this is “GLA:D back” that I’m doing the training for.”

“The good thing about that program is it’s really standardized and they collect outcomes from it. It’s an established program

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and they don’t have to invent anything new.”

Mielke says the exercise programs can be self-managed with the right tools and take some pressure off health care costs.

“So hopefully, they’ll need less from the health care system and less in other services that they might have to pay for like physio or chiropractic treatments,” said Mielke.

PAGE 10 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

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Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca Staff Writer Jeannette Benoit Leipert jeannette@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Cory Harvie cory@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Andrea Allen andrea@meridiansource.ca Marketing Consultant Bailey Keebaugh bailey@meridiansource.ca Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Production Manager: Amanda Richard Distribution: distribution@meridiansource.ca CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca NEWSPAPER DELIVERY If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.

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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

2017

Viewpoint Border Banter with Benoit-Leipert: The winds of change I think there’s something about crossing that line into a new decade that really makes a person realize how fast time goes.

Yesterday, I turned 40. The most profound thinking I’ve done in a long time was done in the months leading up to the fresh, new decade.

I have always enjoyed my career. I love writing and telling stories.

But I am a bit of an introvert, so going to events with big crowds isn’t necessarily my cup of tea. Although, there are some really awesome events in the Border City!

I’ve pushed myself outside of my comfort zone over the past 10 months or so and loved every minute of it. Working here at the Meridian Source has been amazing. The team here is second to none!

But the winds of change have me on a new track, one I probably should have pursued a few years ago when the idea first struck me.

It’s sort of scary starting a business, but I am confident I will be successful because of how important I know the work is.

In our society today, there is an epidemic of mental illness, especially in young people.

I think there’s a link between increasing

urbanization and mental distress. People are closer together physically, but often not as connected emotionally.

Back in the day when families grew up in a rural setting, grandma and grandpa lived down the road, and aunts, uncles and cousins were nearby, too, and people gathered often and connected through conversation.

The wise elderly people would pass information on to youth about how things were when they grew up.

They’d talk about their struggles and success on the farm, in marriages and parenting, in business, and so on.

So young people had more of an idea of who came before them,

File Photo which goes a long way when you’re a young person searching for your identity.

The business I’m going forward with, called Legacy Journalism, is essentially a tool for families to preserve those stories and memories so that future generations can have a better understanding of what their predecessors are.

I’m going to use the interviewing skills I’ve learned over the past 20 years and help people tell their life stories, which can be kept by their families and passed down.

People make a point of writing up a will to leave money and assets to loved ones, but what about their cherished memories, experiences and advice? That’s priceless.

Personally, I didn’t get to meet one of my grandfathers and I’ve always wondered who he really was. I’ve heard a few stories, but what I wouldn’t give to be able to really get to know him through a video journal.

To hear about how he grew up, how he met my grandma, what it was like to provide for 17 children! Even to see how he acted while being interviewed, his mannerisms and so on.

That’s what I want to provide for others.

Everyone has a unique story that should be preserved and cherished for generations to come.

Thank you to all of you whom I’ve connected with during my time here at the Source it’s been a slice!

PAGE 11 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Leeway from Lloyd: Will Stanley ever come home?

STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE

The National Hockey League ends today, April 18, with the playoffs starting on April 20.

One thing is almost certain at the get-go.

Long-suffering Toronto Maple Leafs fans like myself will likely be in therapy again when yet another season slips by since they last won the cup in 1967.

I was 18 then and now I am 75. Should they miraculously win I will feel like a teen again, but I am not counting on it as they can’t seem to ever beat divisional rivals like Boston.

The Leafs will play the Bruins in the first round but they haven’t

beat them in any playo ff series sinc e 195 9 so they are doomed again.

Sure, the Leafs have made some good additions, but teams that win the cup like the defending champion Vegas Golden Knights, play great defensively including goaltending.

The Leafs are really good offensively, okay in goal and probably less than okay on defence but who knows? Playoff hockey and the way the game is called by referees seems like a different game than the regular season.

Star players seem to get checked to death and referees get weird over goaltender interference and off-side calls that take up 10 minutes of video

Letter to the editor

R

e. Protestors Take Stand on Border On April 3, my husband and I were startled to see flashing police lights and signs to slow down as we neared Lloydminster.

Creeping along, we were greeted by a hodge podge of symbols and slogans- Canadian flags, American flags, ‘Make America Great Again,’ signs expressing sexual attraction to our prime minister, ‘Axe the Tax,’ ‘Tyranny,’ ‘Freedom,’ ‘Hold the Line,’ etc.

I confess to feeling a line had been crossed, rather than held, regarding my personal freedom to avoid this show and get to my appointment on time.

However, our police officers were doing a careful, good job of keeping sloganeers safe as they exerted their own democratic rights to freedom of speech.

A sign I did not see that day was the sign featured in the Meridian Source this week: ‘Pedeau Has to Go.’

Huh? A friend suggested it was potty humour, the combination of ‘pee’ with ‘Trudeau ‘.

I suspect it was inferring Prime Minister Trudeau is connected to pedophilia.

This malicious rumour, disproven over and over by fact-checking agencies (Snopes, Factcheck, to name two), was first put out years ago by the Buffalo Chronicle, a USA site that publishes untrue rumours for a fee. It pops up periodically along with various other false defamations on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

We’ve come to a low level when adults think name-calling substitutes for debating government policy. Not clever, not funny, but I guess it’s freedom of speech to choose libellous insults over information.

However, Meridian Source, shouldn’t a newspaper hold some regard for the truth?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

File Photo review time.

The Edmonton Oilers have a better chance of making a good run than the Leafs by estimation. Anyway, it would be great to finally see any Canadian team win

since the Canadiens did it in 1993.

It’s a joke that no team from Canada has won for 31 years.

The Vancouver Canucks also have a good shot at the cup and maybe the Win-

nipeg Jets. However, I am going out on a thin limb by picking the Colorado Avalanche to win it all based on how good Nathan McKinnon is as a team leader. He’s one guy who seems unstoppa-

ble with his bursts of speed and shot. Sadly the bottom has fallen out of the parade business in Toronto since 1967. Maybe I will just cheer for carbon tax protesters instead. Go protesters go.

ASK THE EXPERTS A baby bottle today could lead to problems tomorrow When a child cries, it’s natural to want to comfort the child and stop their crying.

Some parents try to soothe their children by giving them a bottle or a pacifier dipped in a sweet liquid. The child may stop crying; however, this practice often leads to future dental problems.

Children can develop a dental problem called baby bottle tooth decay. This is caused by sugar (carbohydrates) in the liquids in bottles clinging to the teeth for long periods, while bacteria in the mouth uses this sugar to attack the teeth.

The first signs of decay may be dull, white spots or lines on the teeth. Even though the baby teeth will be replaced by permanent ones, it is important to look after the baby teeth to ensure healthy gums and teeth, and proper positioning of the

permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth are also very important for nutrition and proper speech development.

To prevent baby bottle tooth decay, never allow the child to fall asleep with a bottle or sippy-cup containing milk, formula, juice, or anything other than water. After feedings, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean damp cloth or gauze pad. Parents should start brushing a child’s teeth as soon as the first D. M. D. tooth appears. Parents are encouraged to wean their children by their first birthday and start offering the child a cup.

If you suspect your child may have baby bottle tooth decay, see your dentist right away. If you have concerns about your child’s teeth or need advice on preventing a baby bottle tooth decay, ask your dentist.

780-875-4222

#11, 5405 - 44 Street, Lloydminster, AB waysidedental.com Dr. Raegan Eliasson, Dr. Nekky Jamal, Dr. Erik Johnson, Dr. Gary Nahirney, Dr. Josh Rae, Dr. Rhys Herman

PAGE 12 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

OP-ED: OH, WHAT A TANGLED WEB WE WEAVE

I

s h a r e d l un c h w ith a friend the other day and, of course, the conversation turned to politics.

This guy is a classic working guy, raising a family along with running a busy earth works business.

His wife is an assistant in the local school, they are involved in their community and they care about the people around them. They pay attention to what’s going on

EDITOR LETTER FROM PAGE 11

Don’t you have some journalistic responsibility in your choice of a half-page feature

in the world.

His question was, “What the heck is happening?” Any student of our Canadian system of government knows that, in theory, we live in a state of “Cooperative Federalism.” What that means is, our Constitution was set up as a federation.

Both the federal government and the provincial governments have their own areas of responsibility to recognize the unique characteristics within each Province.

The original negotiations were very clear the provinces would not be under the thumb of the central government.

Sections 91 and 92 of the Constitution of 1867 give

photo for an article supporting a carbon tax protest? Or some legal responsibility to avoid highlighting

each level of government their own sovereign areas of jurisdiction and they are supposed to stay within their own area of authority.

On matters that involved overlap, it was intended that they would cooperatively negotiate.

Things have gotten a lot more complicated since that arrangement was put together in 1867, and when the Feds took over managing the collection of taxes on behalf of the provinces, (with their agreement) that meant there had to be a range of “cooperative” agreements between the two regarding how those funds are managed and allocated. Thus, the Feds became the banker.

defamatory content?

Or are you also content to be a purveyor of fake news?

- Jean McPherson

The problem is that by distributing those funds back to the provinces and municipal governments, the federal government has over time attached a wide range of requirements (strings) to those funding agreements.

This has begun to include “federal agenda” and “social engineering” provisions. For example, a recent Summer Employment Grant included a provision that the organization receiving those funds must be “pro-choice”; which excluded several church organizations who could not agree. Consequence: No funding for their church camp staff.

Now, add environmental/ green provisions, diversity-

Ed it or ’s Not e : The Meridian Source has a proud history of reporting events that happen in our commu-

equity-inclusion provisions, and a host of other socialmoral oriented provisions being arbitrarily imposed on the acceptance of those funding agreements and one begins to understand why the push-back is happening and people are standing beside highways waving signs.

I don’t have any problem with the intent of social activism. I simply think that Sections 2 and 15 of the Charter already cover a good many of those concerns without complicating the lives of ordinary people with aggressive and arbitrary governmental social engineering.

- Darrell Dunn

nity and surrounding areas. Some of these events can spark controversy. In the case of the photograph used,

it was an actual photo taken at an event that was and is affecting the lives of citizens in our community.

Passport to YLL Thursday, April 18, 2024

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.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

13

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

Cards, games, food, meetings and live music BINGO IS BACK! Bingo is back at the Moose Lodge every Monday and Wednesday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.

Legacy Dinner Theatre Tickets Available Tickets are now on sale for the Legacy Centre’s 12th annual Dinner Theatre, featuring the Lloydminster Little Theatre presenting “Barefoot In The Park,” scheduled for April 25-28.

Tickets are $55/person and can be purchased at the Legacy Centre.

Moose Breakfast The Lloydminster Moose Lodge, located at 5213 57 St., Lloydminster, Alta., will be hosting a breakfast on April 21 from 8:30-11 a.m. Members eat for $10 and non-members for $13, 6-12 for $5 and under six is free.

There will also be craft tables with items for sale. Come out and enjoy a good breakfast put on by the Moose Lodge!

will be hosting country music legends The Bellamy Brothers (yes, it’s really the original brothers) on Tuesday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 and available online or at the Vic Juba box office. Call 780-872-7400 for more info.

Hypertension Class The Sask Health Authority is hosting a free Strategies for Managing High Blood Pressure education class on April 23 from 9-11 a.m. in the Prairie North Plaza’s Strides Room – Suite 109, 4910 50 St. To register, please call 306-820-6262.

Crib Tournament The Dewberry Seniors Centre is hosting a crib tournament on April 27. Registration wraps at 10:15 a.m.

Islay Jamboree There will be a Jamboree on April 21 at 1 p.m. in the Islay Community Hall. Admission $15, participants are free. Everyone welcome. Lunch served. For more info call Dixie at 780-744-2204.

Spring Fling Dance Head down to the Lloydminster Moose Lodge, 5213 57 Street, on April 27 for an all-ages Spring Fling Dance. The dance goes from 8 p.m. to midnight with music by 1st Class Entertainment. Cost is $25 for adults, $10 for youth 15-17, 14 and under are free. Price includes a late lunch. Tickets can be purchased at the Moose Lodge on Monday and Wednesday from 5-9 p.m. or call Susan at 780872-1871 for more details.

The Bellamy Brothers The Vic Juba Community Theatre

Flavour Festival Flavour Fest returns to the Border

City on May 4 and will be hosted at the Centennial Civic Centre from 5 to 10 p.m. This event features live music, drinks, and food, all in one place! Vendors from across western Canada will be bringing their products for you to try, and the best part is, the event runs as a fundraiser for the Lloydminster Bobcats.

Islay Garage Sale The Islay community garage sale, sponsored by the Islay Healthcare Authority, is being held on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Table rentals are $15 per table. For more information, please call Ruth Shaw at 780-581-5096. Lunch will be available. All donations gratefully accepted.

Potters Guild Sale The Lloydminster Potters Guild Spring Sale is Sunday, May 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lloydminster Museum + Archives (4207 - 44 Street). Meet the artisans and shop the largest selection of hand-crafted pottery in the region. Cash, credit card and debit accepted.

500 Card Game Tourney The Lashburn Senior Centre is hosting a 500 card game tournament on Monday, May 6 at the Senior Centre. Everyone welcome!

Doors open at 12:30 p.m. and the tournament starts at 1 p.m. Cost to play is $10, snacks and beverages are availbale for $5. For more information, please call 306-8212457. The Lashburn Senior Centre is located on Main Street beside the post office. Parking is available

behind the building.

Classified @ The Civic Canadian rapper and record producer Classified will be live at the Centennial Civic Centre on May 18. Tickets are $45 and available through Eventbrite.

69th Annual Lea Park Rodeo The 69th Annual Lea Park Rodeo will be held on June 7 at 6:30 p.m. and June 8-9 at 1 p.m. with the dance in the Marwayne Arena to follow at 9 p.m. on Saturday. Win a 2024 Dodge 3/4 ton. Truck tickets are $100. Call 780-205-9010 or 306-821-6352 for more details.

Hotel California at The Vic Juba VaughnCo Entertainment is excited to bring the original Eagles tribute, Hotel California, to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept.

20 for a 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 each and available online or at the theatre’s box office. Call 780-8727400 for more info.

Taylor Swift Tribute The Vic Juba Community Theatre is excited to bring a Taylor Swift Tribute featuring Katy Ellis to the Border City on Wednesday, Nov. 13 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $39 each and are available online or at the theatre’s box office. Call 780872-7400 for more info.

- Have something you’d like listed in our community calendar? Email it to taylor@meridiansource.ca

Partial fire ban in RM of Wilton

T

he Rural Municipality of Wilton has enacted a partial fire ban, effective immediately.

Recreational fires are still permitted, however, all previously issued burn permits are revoked and no new permits will be issued.

File Photo

14

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Hazardous waste roundup on horizon

Volunteers were all smiles during the 2016 and 2022 Household Hazardous Waste Roundup. Supplied Photos TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

Not sure what to do with those jugs full of used motor oil and old spray paint or aerosol cans? Fear not, the City’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Roundup is right just the corner.

“

It’s not good for these items to end up in the landfill because these materials don’t break down very easily.

The parking lot at the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association will be transformed into a recycling centre from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on

Saturday, May 4 to keep hazardous material out of our landfill.

“We collect household quantities of aerosol paints, poisons, oils and oil filters, needles, tires, batteries and e-waste, to name a few,” said household hazardous waste roundup committee member Rita Mechalchuk, noting this year marks the 34th annual event.

“It was started as a little garage station behind the radio station. I believe they just started with oil and filters, and it’s really grown over the years.”

Mechalchuk also explained taking care of the earth is our responsibility, something that’s often forgotten.

“It’s not good for these items to end up in the landfill because these materials don’t break down very easily,” she said.

“They can also harm wildlife, explode, all kinds of things. They also shouldn’t be going into the earth for the earth to take care of.”

For those unable to drop off waste items in person, a free pickup service is also available.

“If you can’t make it out on Saturday, give us a call at 639-8403993 to arrange free pickup,” she said.

“You can call to arrange free pickup up until May 3 at 6 p.m.”

Mechalchuk also noted a BBQ for volunteers with proceeds supporting Big Brother Big Sisters of Lloydminster.

“We have a barbecue on site for volunteers, and for the past number of years we tried to get a non-profit group to take care of the barbecue,” she explained.

“So, everything is totally paid for, and any proceeds the BBQ makes, the non-profit gets to keep.

The Lloydminster and District Co-op will be supplying hot dog and hamburger buns for the BBQ at no charge.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

15

Revamped health advisory system gives voice to rural Albertans – minister GEORGE LEE LOCAL JOURNALISM REPORTER – THE MACLEOD GAZETTE

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

Revamped advisory councils blanketing the province will help ensure the government understands and addresses rural healthcare challenges while improving service, said Alberta health minister Adriana LaGrange on Monday.

Rural Alberta will be heard through 13 new advisory councils – 12 regional and one Indigenous – which give traction to diverse concerns and ideas, said LaGrange.

Remote and rural communities deserve services equitable to those available in Calgary and Edmonton, LaGrange said in an interview for member publications of the Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association.

“Yes, there are geographic challenges.

And if we don’t address those challenges, there will always be disparity,” said LaGrange, the member for Red DeerNorth.

“So, I want to make sure we are, in fact, hearing all the voices, with the aim of providing better healthcare.”

Officially announced Tuesday, the advisory system reflects what healthcare workers and the public repeatedly tell the province. “They want to be involved in healthcare and they want their voices heard.

That’s been a consistent message.”

About 65 in-person engagement sessions have been held across Alberta so far, attracting about 3,000 attendees. LaGrange said she’s attended about half of them. Telephone town halls attracted about 10,000 Albertans and 18,000 made their opinions known online.

The formation of new advisory councils builds upon an announcement in November that the province is restructuring Alberta Health

Services from a single authority into four pillars: primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addiction.

The province describes the move as a refocusing to allow specialization for better healthcare delivery. Opposition and other critics, however, have charged that the changes will create silos that break down communication and disrupt the flow of service.

Regional councils will look at clinical, capital and workforce planning in their regions, said Tuesday’s news release.

They’ll explore potential solutions to local challenges and identify opportunities to better support local decisionmaking.

E x tra ro les fo r th e Indigenous advisory council are the design and delivery of culturally appropriate healthcare programs and services. It will also

explore “opportunities to integrate and embed traditional Indigenous healing practices and teachings,” said the release.

Each region’s advisory council will comprise at least 16 members. The Indigenous council, however, will have at least 22 members. Some appointees to the Indigenous council may be dually appointed to their geographically corresponding regional council.

Budget 2024 tabled on Feb. 29 set an operating budget of $26.2 billion for the health ministry, up 4.4 per cent from the 20232024 forecast.

Tuesday’s press release said the councils will represent a wide range of lived and professional experiences.

The government wants everyday Albertans receiving healthcare services to apply. It’s also seeking applications from health-care

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workers, community leaders, municipal representatives and others.

The province has estimated the cost of healthcare refocusing at $85 million, which is disputed as too low by critics.

LaGrange said the expense of the new councils is worth it.

“The greatest strength of the healthcare system in Alberta is its workers.

And they’re excellent, caring, compassionate individuals who really want to use their skillset to the best of their ability and provide excellent patient care. So we want to make sure that’s able to happen,” she said.

Individuals interested in joining a regional advisory council can apply online at ApplyHealthRAC.alberta. ca. Those interested in joining the Indigenous advisory council can apply at ApplyHeal-

Alberta health minister Adriana LaGrange. File Photo thIAC.alberta.ca.

Those who apply before April 22 will be considered for appointment this spring. Applications received by Aug. 30 will be considered for appointment by the end of year.

Borders of regions will be similar to the ones that already exist.

In the north regions will cover the northwest corner of the province, and the Peace, Lesser Slave Lake and Wood Buffalo areas.

The Greater Edmonton region will be sur-

rounded by a Lakeland area region to the northeast, one to the north and west extending to the B.C. border, one east to the Saskatchewan border, and one below the city encompassing the rest of central Alberta.

And three more regions cover the south – one encompassing Calgary and area, one in the southwest corner of the province, and one in the southeast covering an Alberta section of the historic Palliser Triangle.

16

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Spring lifts the heart, soothes the soul

File Photo

MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND

Our 10-year-old grand daughter recently surprised us by dropping by with a special present held carefully in her hand; this spring’s first crocus.

While out shed-hunting with her father,

she had found five on the side of a south-facing hill by the North Saskatchewan River, choosing to pick only two.

One was reserved for her mom and the other for grandma, leaving the remaining three to visit next year, she said.

Good reasoning!

Personally, I have long considered the

emergence of this gentle purplish white flower, along with the sound of frogs croaking in the neighbouring creek, to be the official start to our summer, you know, that too short of a season without snow.

From now on life seems to pick up speed, both on the farm and at the office.

Calves are steadily

arriving, the trees and grass starting to turn green, the geese can be heard defending their nesting territory from other pairs, and of course, the gophers pop up everywhere.

Drive by any grain farm and you will see seeding equipment pulled up in front of the shop, getting ready for the upcoming rush.

24043dg0

In real estate, the “snowbirds” are back, too.

They too have been thinking about their land all winter and attend our office daily to discuss current value or options for marketing.

Nine times out of 10, the lease on their land is expiring this fall, and they believe it is time to get additional liquidity into their estate.

City folk looking for more privacy and space start inquiring about acreages.

Some are searching for the perfect lake lot, one with a view of the water, but at the price of those two blocks back.

All I can say is, good luck with that!

For first-time home buyers, it is like a starting pistol went off.

They are looking at everything within (and above) their budget it seems.

Everyone wants their

own backyard.

With the weather warming up, businesses hope for a sustained economic surge as they need “to make hay while the sun shines.”

They too start inquiring about buildings with more space, in better condition than the ones they currently occupy, or located more efficiently for their enterprise.

All in all, there is measurably increased activity across the region supported by the hope this year will start strong and continue well into the winter.

All I can say is don’t forget to take some time to smell the crocuses.

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.

PAGE 17 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

Marwayne PBR a buckin’ good time

TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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

It was another buckin’ good time as the Professional Bull Riders Canada Touring Pro Division made its 12th annual stop in the village of Marwayne.

With bragging rights

and cash on the line, Sundre’s Wyatt Gleeson took first place, Eatonia, Sask’s Dakota Buttar finished second, and Calgary’s Nick Tetz took home third.

The fun kicked off at 6:30 p.m. with wild pony races for the kids

before the big boys took the stage at 7 p.m.

As in years past, funds from the event went towards funding longawaited renovations at the Marwayne Arena, which will include a new ice surface, new boards, and a new ice plant .

Work on renovations are set to begin in June.

Organizers aren’t quite done tallying totals yet, but early numbers show signs of another good year.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

18

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Bull riders blow minds of fans

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source Photos

Thursday, April 18, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

19

PAGE 20 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Careers

Vietnam to bring rare earth carbonate to Sask

Inside the Saskatchewan Research Council’s rare earth processing facility. File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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

On Monday, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) signed a five-year agreement in principle with Hung Thinh Group (HTG) from Vietnam to import rare earth carbonate to SRC’s Rare Earth Processing Facility to produce rare earth metals.

Under the agree-

ment, HTG will supply SRC with up to 3,000 tonnes of rare earth carbonate per year for five years beginning in June 2025.

“Working with the international community to secure this supply of critical minerals for SRC’s Rare Earth Processing Facility marks another step forward in establishing a domestic rare earth ele-

ment hub in Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for SRC Jeremy Harrison said.

“This agreement is a direct outcome of Saskatchewan’s international engagement with Vietnam, supported by our trade and investment office in Ho Chi Minh City.

During our 2022 mission to Vietnam, our team and I met directly

with HTG to showcase the opportunities for collaboration with Saskatchewan on rare earth processing.

This agreement means SRC’s facility will have t he resou rces essential for the production of rare earth metals in Saskatchewan for the next five years.”

Securing this supply of rare earth carbonate will allow SRC’s facil-

ity to process, separate and produce approximately 400 tonnes of rare earth metals per year.

These rare earth metals are essential for modern technology including cell phones, electric vehicles, robotics as well as green technologies.

“The production of rare earth metals will develop and stimulate the rare earth industry in North America,” SRC President and CEO Mike Crabtree said.

“This agreement with HTG ensures SRC will be producing rare earth

element products for sale in the international market until the end of this decade.”

This SRC project is North America’s first, fully integrated commercial demonstration Rare Earth Processing Facility. SRC has developed proprietary, stateof-the-art technology and know-how in rare earth mineral processing, solvent extraction and metal smelting.

Since 2020, the Saskatchewan Government has invested $71 million into the facility, which is expected to act as a catalyst to stimulate the resource sector in Saskatchewan and across Canada by providing the midstream supply chain needed to generate industry investment and growth.

SRC is Canada’s second-largest research and technology organization with 1,600 clients in 22 countries around the world.

With nearly 350 e mp l o y e e s a nd $ 232 million in annual revenue, SRC helps clients solve technology problems, make improvements, increase productivity and develop new markets.

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PAGE 21 Thursday, April 18, 2024 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca

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LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know 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

WANTED

Thursday, April 18, 2024

AGRICULTURE

HIGH PRESSURE PUMP SERVICE CAT Pump / Interpump Parts & Accessories Pressure washer Service D.A Lincoln Pump Service & Supply #4, 210 – 48th St. E SASKATOON, SK 306-683-6622 www.dalincoln.com kelly@dalincoln.com

Thursday, April 18, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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Thursday, April 18, 2024

MERIDIAN SOURCE

HOME

AWESOMENESS

EXCELLENCE

INGENUITY

NEW LISTINGS

LUXURIOUS LAKE LIVING TURTLE LAKE

BRIGHTSAND LAKE

MAKWA LAKE

SK $429,000 MLS A2114567

SK $425,000 MLS A2066759

SK $399,000 MLS A2084847

5205 - 29 STREET

Welcome to Steele Heights! This five bed, three bath bungalow includes a basement suite for extended family!

• Home includes primary ensuite, natural gas fireplace, south facing backyard with deck & a double attached garage!

•

379,900

$

AB

4731 - 13 STREET

ACRES OF OPPORTUNITY 55023 RGE. RD. 3281

Five bedroom, two bathroom bi-level in Wallace Field. Great entertaining spaces with a finished basement.

• Includes all appliances. A fenced and landscaped yard, double attached garage and no back neighbours!

•

NE-PT-14-54-20 W3RD

SW 12-51-28 W3RD

MLS A2121062

346,500

$

SK

SK $759,000 MLS A2065793

323074 TWP. RD. 480

SK $450,000 MLS A2086491

SK $377,000 MLS A2070377

5616 - 42 STREET

Bright & spacious fully renovated home with gorgeous custom kitchen, no carpet and separate basement entry.

• Mother in law suite or summer kitchen, fully fenced supersized yard with double detached garage!

•

322010 TWP. RD. 480

50251 RGE. RD. 25

MLS A2121065

312,000

$

SK 325,000 MLS A1242971 $

AB 210,000 MLS A2107926 $

AB

SK 200,000 MLS A2059948 $

MAIDSTONE

NEW PRICES 327467 TWP. RD. 510

ST. WALBURG

MLS A2121344

405 McCONNELL DRIVE

Recognize the potential with this 1344 sq. ft. bungalow with 3 bedrooms and one and a half baths.

• Large lot with double garage / workshop. Sold "As Is- Where Is".

•

50,000

$

SK

SK $577,500 MLS A2065797

SK $237,500 MLS A2111944

INVEST & LIVE IN LLOYDMINSTER

SK $59,900 MLS A2101009

FOUR PLEX

EMBRACE A SMALL TOWN PACE MAIDSTONE

KITSCOTY

PARADISE VALLEY

AB $533,880 MLS A2104981 SK $340,000 MLS A2074376

AB $259,000 MLS A2109560

AB $180,000 MLS A1237024

MAIDSTONE

LASHBURN

PARADISE HILL

SK $144,500 MLS A2022315

SK $99,900 MLS A2049089

HIGHLY VISIBLE SPACE FOR LEASE #116 - PLAZA 44

#124 - PLAZA 44

#4 - PLAZA 51

AB $323,880 MLS A2104973

RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES

ALBERTA

2 Bed, 1 Bath

$800 APR. 15

5651 - 43 St.

2 Bed, 1 Bath

$900

MAY 1

6608 - 42 St. 5202 - 49 St.

2 Bed, 2 Bath

$1200

READY!

2 Bed, 2 Bath

$1400

READY!

2107 - 52 Ave.

5 Bed, 3 Bath

$1950

MAY 1

4 Bed, 3 Bath

$1250

JUN 1

4008 - 41 Ave.

3 Bed, 2 Bath

$1300

MAY 1

4906 - 36 St.

4 Bed, 2 Bath

$1400

READY!

3315 - 51 Ave

SK $164,500 MLS A2066024

MLS A2121478

4801 - 47 Ave.

SASKATCHEWAN

APPLY ONLINE TODAY AB 13.50 sq. ft. MLS A2055846 AB 12.50 sq. ft. MLS A2037478 AB 10.00 sq. ft. MLS A2113439 $

$

$

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

Brad Gilbert Jennifer Gilbert Broker (SK) Broker (AB)

Rick Schesnuk Caleb McLean Realtor® Associate Broker

Each office is independently owned & operated.

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7 Sandy Hardy Realtor®

Judy Bexson Realtor®

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

780-875-3343

facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Brandon King Residential Realtor®

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty