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“It was such a great experience and getting to make connections with various types of council members, mayors, MLA’s, just trying to put Lloydminster on the map and telling everybody what we’re doing and all the exciting things happening in our city,” he said.
A highlight for Vance, was the trade show.
“The trade show was cool, a lot of different booths set up there to see what different people are doing in different cities, as far as road paving,” he said.
“(I) learned a lot about different methods of cement injections or different kinds of netting to make the road stronger.”
Throughout the event, Vance worked to make the most of his time.
“It’s only a four or five-day event, so you’ve got to pile it up pretty quickly and make all the connections you can,” he said. “I really enjoyed it.”
Various events, including the bear pit, allowed council to ask direct questions to the provincial government.
“The bear pit session was quite fun. Right at the last day we had the whole cabinet and premier up on the stage and you get to ask direct questions right to the provincial government about issues your communities’ facing,” said Vance.
“It’s nice you can hold the government to account and answer those questions.”
There were some key topics council focused on when it came to advocating to the government.
Saskatchewan municipalities discussed various issues with the provincial government at the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention in Saskatoon.
The convention, which ran from April 13 to 16, featured dialogue with SUMA, excursions around Saskatoon, education sessions and a reception. Sector meetings were also held with a Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) address and addresses by the premier and the leader of the official opposition.
“It was a little bit about policing funding, especially from the Saskatchewan government. We’d like to see provincial funding from the Saskatchewan government for police, so we tried to advocate for that,” said Vance.
Homelessness remains an issue the city is looking to address.
“On all levels, homelessness and addictions,” said Vance. “There was a keynote speaker on Tuesday that spoke about the addiction and homelessness we’re facing and how we can look to help those people address this issue. That’s near and dear to our community.
“We want to look at all options to help mitigate that.”
Council resumes at their next meeting on April 28.
After landing his spot on city council, Coun. Justin Vance never looked back and is working to improve Lloydminster, one issue at a time.
For Vance, he says the move to council has been smooth.
“It’s such a great team to work with and the transition from working as a full-time blue-collar truck driver to now a city councillor. It’s been so smooth and the team has been awesome. Any information that I need has been there for me,” he said.
While he may have had some worries in the beginning about the synergy, it didn’t take long for council to hit their stride.
“I was worried about meeting new people and how we were going to work together. All the pieces put together so nicely, and it just seemed like the stars aligned,” explained Vance. “Everyone’s clicking right and we’re all working in the best interest of the city, and all want it to succeed.”
Not only has Vance had time to settle into his council schedule, but now he’s taking on greater responsibility as deputy mayor.
“The calendar filled up really, really quickly in March,” he said, noting April was not nearly as jam packed.
It’s given him the opportunity to attend new events and meet new people.
“I got to attend the ACAC men’s futsal championship,” said Vance.
Another highlight was his attendance of a recent basketball event.
“I also got to attend the Lloydminster Canadian Filipino basketball associations spring sportsfest. I got to go say a few words on behalf of the city as deputy mayor,” said Vance.
Vance says it may be a while until he decides to run for mayor, as he enjoys the diversity his current position gives him.
“I love council, and I love working with my hands still. It’s the best of both worlds. I’m able to go out in the field and do some consulting or driving a truck and then put on the shirt on a Monday morning and sit in on the council meeting. I just love that variance.”
One of the things that worried Vance when he took up his council seat was what the reception from the community would be like.
“I’ve heard for the most part pretty good things. That was another thing I was worried about,” said Vance, talking specifically about the response from the public he would get on the work council’s doing.
“We’ll get the odd pothole complaint and the odd sign complaint.”
He says whenever council hears about issues from the community, they pass it along to the proper officials to see it get fixed.
“I had a report of a snowbank really high blocking the way of a pedestrian crosswalk and it was quite a safety hazard. I got a report of that, and I shipped it off to council concerns. Within that afternoon it was dealt with, and the snowbank was shaved off,” said Vance.
When Vance first ran for council, he had three things in mind as items he wanted to tackle– the homeless situation in Lloyd, the overpass and the hospital.
“Those things aren’t forgotten, and they have stayed within my values and what I believe in,” he said.
“At SUMA (Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association), I did stop at the CN booth and put the old ring in his ear about an overpass in the city.”
The work is only just beginning for Vance and the rest of council. He has some clear goals in mind for moving the city forward.
“As long as we make these decisions and we stick to them and we act in the best interests of the city with all decisions and make sure we’re continuously moving the city forward and showing ourselves as an economic powerhouse and continuing to grow the city, that’s all our goals,” said Vance.
“We want the best for the city and continue to attract business, residents all kinds of economic diversity.”
Dunn watched the Alberta portion online after returning home.
The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates forum ahead of the April 28 federal election.
Several candidates, however, did not attend Wednesday night’s forum at the Lloydminster Exhibition.
Candidates from the Liberal Party, NDP and Canadian Future Party attended.
Conservative incumbents, Shannon Stubbs and Rosemarie Falk, did not.
“The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is a non-partisan organization. All candidates running in the Battlefords–Lloydminster–Meadow Lake and Lakeland ridings were invited,” said chamber executive director Teri-Lynn MacKie, explaining the chamber regularly hosts forums at all levels of government.
“While some candidates chose not to attend, we encourage you to connect with them directly,” added MacKie.
Resident and Meridian Source political columnist Darrell Dunn attended the Saskatchewan portion of the forum.
“I had heard the Conservative candidates might not show up. I was curious to see if they had the gall,” he said, noting the fact incumbents not showing disappointed him.
“The Saskatchewan candidates attending included the Liberals, NDP and the Canadian Future Party,” said Dunn. “But not our MP Rosemarie (Falk).”
He said the newer Canadian Future Party showed inexperience but appreciated their effort.
“They gave it their best shot … at least they were out there swinging,” he said.
“Only three of six running in the riding showed up,” he said.
“None of those three were Shannon Stubbs, our MP.”
He believes MPs should hear directly from their communities and questions political strategy in safe ridings.
“If the riding(s) is a historically ‘safe’ riding, then only spend money where it … provides a return,” he said.
He also shared views on the role of MPs in party politics, noting voters still deserve face-to-face contact with elected officials.
“In theory, an MP is supposed to represent the interests of their constituency,” said Dunn. “Why then can’t the incumbents be bothered to sit in front of voters and talk to us?” he asked.
He believes party leadership often controls communication.
“MPs and candidates are not even allowed to speak outside of the script,” he said, noting this can lead to concerns about access and accountability.
“These two people have both a professional and ethical duty to show up,” he said. “I have heard from a number of candidates … but not them.”
Dunn also said he might cast a protest vote this election.
The chamber said it remains committed to open forums and civic engagement. MacKie encouraged residents to reach out directly to candidates.
She said such forums help voters make informed choices. Additionally, the chamber will continue to provide these opportunities in future elections.
The full forums are available to watch on the Chamber of Commerce’s YouTube page.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The results are in, the new RCMP pups have received their new names.
As part of an annual Name the Puppy contest, Canadian children between the ages of 4 and 14 can send in their name suggestions.
The first 13 puppies born at the Police Dog Services Training Centre (PDSTC) in 2025 were named.
“Choosing names for our future Police Service Dogs is a very important role. We are thrilled to have kids from across the country help us with this and it is always a highlight to see the submissions start pouring in,” said Insp. Shawn Boutin, officer in charger of RCMP Police Dog Services.
The theme for this year was the names had to start with the letter A. There were more than 10,000 online entries.
A winner from each province was chosen and the 13 names for this year are: Ace, Argo, Arctic, Anouk, Action, Agent, Atim, Ash, August, Anchor, Alfie, Adler, Addy.
“From all of us at PDSTC, we’d like to congratulate all winners and thank all participants for taking part in this year’s contest. We appreciate your involvement to help us name future police service dogs of the RCMP, and most of all hope
you had fun,” said Boutin.
Each winner will receive a laminated photo of the pup they named, a plush dog named Justice and an RCMP water bottle.
Names not selected for the contest will be considered for other puppies born during the year. RCMP have revealed next year’s contest will see names that start with the letter B.
ple can see and use.
The Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF) donated $30,000 to Border City Connects. The funds helped purchase a new 2025 Toyota Sienna for the CareAvan Medical Trip Division. This van will replace a 2015 model that has logged more than 350,000 kilometres.
“The support from the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation was critical to helping us replace this high-mileage unit,” said Mike Sidoryk, interim executive director of Border City Connects.
“We can continue offering safe, reliable transportation to those needing to reach vital medical appointments.”
The CareAvan program began in 2010 with support from the foundation and offers non-emergency medical rides to people in Lloydminster and nearby rural areas.
It relies solely on volunteers, made 424 trips and covered more than 265,000 kilometres in 2023. Riders travelled to Saskatoon, Edmonton, Camrose, Wainwright, Marwayne and more.
“We were able to start up the CareAvan many years ago through the generous support of donors,” said Stephanie Munro, CEO, LRHF. “It was very imperative that we were able to be a part of this new venture for them as well.”
Munro said the group plays a vital role in making sure everyone can get to medical appointments.
“Being able to enhance health care is definitely a crucial point in what Border City Connects does,” said Munro. “They were really at capacity ... doing a multitude of trips every single day.”
Board member Brad Lake agreed, noting it’s important for the foundation to fund services peo -
“We see this is a direct result,” said Lake. “This can be used for all age groups.”
Lake said the service helps people who can’t drive or who struggle in bigger cities.
“There’s nothing worse than a loved one not being able to get to their appointments in the larger centres,” said Lake. “It is so tough to reschedule.”
The CareAvan helps seniors, people with disabilities, those undergoing treatments, and lowincome families. Two of its five vans are wheelchair accessible.
The recent Play It Forward fundraiser also helped pay for the new van. Fifty people played hockey for 12 hours to raise funds for Border City Connects programs.
“We are very proud of the funding we’ve been able to provide,” said Munro. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact our contribution continues to have.”
Looking to jump into spring activities in your own backyard? The city of Lloydminster has a few upcoming events you may want to jump on.
The city-wide Easter egg hunt is still on!
There’s still time to get in on the fun as the City of Lloydminster’s Easter egg hunt runs until Sunday, April 27. Explore various locations to find hidden Easter eggs in public facilities, local businesses, and neighbourhood parks.
Keep all your eggs in one basket and use the Egg Tracker print-off sheet to note the location of each egg you find. Once you’ve collected 12 eggs, you can enter the Easter basket prize draw and have a chance to win prizes from Walkn On Water and the Lloydminster and District Co-op.
Visit simplybio.io/cityoflloydminster/ to download the egg track and check last week’s edition of the Meridian Source for clues.
Pickleball clinics are filling up fast!
Looking to try your hand at the ever-growing sport of pickleball? The city is hosting two clinics in May, with spots filling up fast.
“We have two sessions for beginners, so players who have never touched a paddle before and want to learn more about what pickleball is. They’ll learn the fundamentals” said Sandra Brown, recreational coordinator, City of Lloydminster.
“We also have two sessions for players with experience, and they’ll be more focused sessions, learning about different strategies and techniques.”
Working out of the Servus Sports Centre, Brown has seen a massive increase in pickleball players in recent years.
“On drop-in days we average about 40 players. It’s growing, and what’s nice is, you don’t need a lot of equipment,” said Brown. “It’s also a great sport for those with mobility issues, they can still get out and have fun.”
The City of Lloydminster invites everyone to join the fun for opening day at Weaver Heritage Park on May 17. The day will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes old-fashioned games, crafts and tours of the Rendell House.
Looking to clear out your garage or pick up some new treasures this spring?
The city invites everyone to the Servus Sports Centre on May 24 for the annual spring cleanup garage sale. Vendors will be open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and you never know what you’ll find.
“We have over 40 tables registered so far, and I can take a lot more,” said Brown. “We’re usually in the Mike’s Oilfield Services Field House but if we run out of space we’ll also set up in the hallway.”
Anyone interested in being a vendor has until May 20 to register. Table rental fees are $36 for two eight-foot tables. Each vendor can rent up to six tables.
“There’s something for everyone at this garage sale ... one year we even had a vendor selling a kitchen sink,” said Brown. “It’s also a great opportunity to clean up your garage, storage room, etc., and make a bit of cash, too.”
As the sunshine and warmth slowly return for spring, outdoor activities are top-of-mind for many.
Whether it’s starting a new project or improving your yard after a long winter, here are some tips to give your garden the refresh it deserves.
Tidy up the yard - The first step is to remove dead leaves, trim overgrown bushes and prune any plants needing a little extra TLC. This simple cleanup will immediately make your garden look more inviting.
Add flowers - Consider adding seasonal flowers such as dahlias, snapdragons and cosmos that bloom at different times throughout the season for continuous colour. For a lower-commitment gardening option, try adding potted plants and arrangements strategically around the yard to brighten up the space.
Mulch and edge garden beds - Edging creates a clean and visually appealing boundary between the lawn and garden. Adding mulch polishes off the look while retaining moisture and suppressing weeds.
Add outdoor décor - Touches of décor around
the yard will elevate the overall look. From solarpowered lights to decorative planters, metal wall art, patio signs and furniture, small touches can make a big difference in the ambiance of your garden. If you’re looking to keep up with the latest trends in home and garden décor for a high-end look at a fraction of the price, try searching online on marketplaces like Temu.
Add a fresh coat of paint - Don’t underestimate the power of paint. A fresh coat of paint on fences, garden furniture and planters can instantly rejuvenate your outdoor space. Choose colours that complement your garden and create a cohesive look.
The Water Security Agency (WSA) announced the Agricultural Water Management Fund was open for applications as of April 21.
The fund supports agricultural producers and local governments to develop water management projects.
Since 2022, the fund has provided over $2 million to help 93 provincial projects obtain drainage approvals that support environmental stewardship and agricultural growth in Saskatchewan.
“The Agricultural W ater Management Fund supports responsible and sustainable water management in Saskatchewan,” said Daryl Harrison, minister responsible for the water security agency.
“Saskatchewan producers are great stewards of the land, and we know supporting our agricultural sector with programs like this leads to a growing and vibrant province.”
Applicants can receive up to $95,000 per project based on a cost-sharing approach. It can be used for qualified persons support, technical and engineering costs, and mitigation and rehabilitation works for agricultural water management projects.
This program is part of WSA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural community in developing and maintaining responsible agricultural water management projects in Saskatchewan.
Eligible recipients include:
- Individuals or corporations registered in Saskatchewan who own, lease, or rent property for agricultural production purposes;
- First Nations in Saskatchewan;
- Saskatchewan rural municipalities;
- Conservation & Development Area Authorities;
- Watershed Association Boards; and
- Irrigation Districts.
For more information about the Agricultural Water Management Fund, or to apply, please visit: wsask.ca.
The rodeo is set to bring some extreme entertainment to the Lakeland region.
The Lakeland Xtreme Broncs and Bulls will hit the Cold Lake Energy Centre May 9 and 10.
A delegation seeking sponsorships was presented to Bonnyville council at the April 8 meeting.
Katrina Reid and Shawn Metchewais presented on behalf of the event. Metchewais says this event has been in the works for a while.
“This has been in the works for 16 to 18 months,” he said.
While they may be a for-profit entity, they were working with non-profits on the event. However, they were unable to come to terms in time as deadlines for the event were looming.
Reid, however, pointed out they’ve continued to work with non-profits.
“We’re also bringing a bunch of non-profits, they come in and get paid to work the event,” she said. “So, non-profit organizations are going to make money off our event.
“We’re hoping to secure about five or six non-profit groups from both towns to help spread the wealth.”
The event spans over two days, with Friday featuring bull riding.
“The Friday we’re having a sanctioned (event) by Bull Riders Canada, which is just a step below the PBR,” said Metchewais. “Due to an event in Brooks, Alta. on Friday, we weren’t able to secure them (PBR).”
As they work to secure more money for the prize, Saturday will feature a different style of riding.
“On Saturday, we’re having a saddle bronc riding-only event,” he said, noting there’ll be a big draw for the event.
“We’ve contacted all of the big names in Canada and it’s the biggest event going on in North America on that weekend, so we’re hoping some of the Americans will come up and stiffen the competition and really jam this event up,” he said.
The entire event will be broadcast live.
“We’re looking at a pretty good event that’s going to be broadcast on the Cowboy Channel on the Saturday night,” said Metchewais.
Their goal is to put on a big event for the region.
“I’m not looking to make any money from this, I just simply think we have the potential to have a very big event,” he said.
Bucking stock for the event will largely be coming from outside the area.
“Like any good event you have to bring, the quality comes from outside,” said Metchewais.
Coun. Byron Johnson commended the organizers for making the event happen.
“I think it’s a neat event, I hear a lot about it, you see it on TV quite a bit … good on you for bringing that in,” he said.
The event is set to happen regardless of council buy-in.
“The event’s happening, we’re already 80 per cent done,” said Reid. Council voted in favour of a $1,000 sponsorship at the April 22 meeting.
The City of Lloydminster has continued its work in restructuring its stormwater utility and moving properties into monthly billing.
The item was brought forward for information to council at the April 7 regular council meeting.
The transfer of outstanding 2024 stormwater utility charges to the 2025 tax roll is the next step in the restructuring.
“The fee that is attached to non-service properties because there’s still a fee for stormwater because there’s water running off of that property,” said Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “This is to help in ensuring that everyone pays their share of that fee.”
The amount set to be transferred is $19,121.74, down from the $22,636.29 on the council agenda.
“We have received some payments from the time the report was finalized,” said Karen Dela Rosa, director of environmental services.
“I hope when it comes back to council for direction it will even be smaller than that yet. Good work to your team for getting that collected and to the finance team,” said Aalbers.
Aalbers says he’s heard from businesses about how a monthly utility bill has made their budgeting over the year easier.
“Businesses found it was a little easier in the bite-sized pieces of the monthly (billing),” said Aalbers.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson asked if there’s a different method in collecting the fees once it gets added to the tax roll.
“There is legislation that allows the city to go and collect any outstanding taxes. If it remains uncollected,” said Adele Wakaruk, executive manager of corporate services. “We can go through a process where there could be a lien put on the home and the property. There’s very rigid legislation where we can enforce and collect payment.”
Council accepted the 2024 outstanding stormwater utility fees transfer to 2025 tax roll report as information and it will come back to a future council meeting.
Looking for a night of toe-tappin’ fun for a great cause?
The Arizona-based American Highwaymen tribute will be at the Kitscoty Hall on May 9 with all proceeds supporting the Lloydminster Lions Club.
Presented by Live With Kurt Price in partnership with Parton Productions, the music of Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson will come alive for one night only.
This tribute band out of Arizona is made up of awesome musicians. It’s really good country music, and mix in the fact it’s a seven-piece band and a dance, it’s going to be a really fun night.
“This is classic country outlaw music. If you grew up loving Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson this show is for you … that’s the kind of country music I miss,” said MC and media partner Kurt Price.
“This tribute band out of Arizona is made up of awesome musicians. It’s really good country music, and mix in the fact it’s a seven-piece band and a dance, it’s going to be a really fun night. These guys sell out every event they book.
“There’s also a young country artist named Brady Weldon from Carrot River, Sask., who’s taking the stage.”
The evening will feature a bar run by local Lions members, a 50/50 draw and, of course, some great live music.
“It’s going to be a fun night with a lot of music,” said Price, noting the Highwaymen don’t just play old country tunes.
“These guys love to play country music, but they also love to break into some rock and roll, too, so you’ll hear some ZZ Top and stuff like that, too.”
Tickets for the American Highwaymen tribute show are $60 each and available through Kurt Price at 780-871-1505 or at Exhaust Masters.
Thursday, April 24, 2025
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the pride in ownership/tenancy
EDITOR
TAYLOR WEAVER
After taking the above image of my condo complex’s garbage bin, I couldn’t help but ask, ‘What’s happened to pride in ownership/tenancy?’
Overflowing garbage bins are a common sight in my neck of the woods, and with the City of Lloydminster’s Pitch-In Week taking place from April 28 to May 4, I felt compelled to share some thoughts.
See that disgusting pile of garbage bags and random crap on the right of the image? Well, the bin on the left is empty ... are people too lazy to lift the lid of the empty bin?
Closer inspection of the bins also led me to believe someone living with dirt floors swept up all the cigarette butts and miscellaneous junk to improve indoor curb appeal.
Do you know what improves curb appeal? Not filling a communal dumpster to the point the GFL trucks can’t lift them.
It’s also worth noting Chels and I have seen vehicles from outside our condo unit dropping off loads of garbage on several occasions. I know it’s what people do, but come on, spread it out a bit, would ya?
Pitch-In Week in Lloydminster is always a refreshing restart to the season. Kids learn more about the importance of recycling and pitch in by cleaning around their school’s playground. They also take this newly-learning knowledge home to mom and dad. I guess some folks just aren’t getting the message! Thoughts?
13
Thursday, April 24, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Like many in Lloydminster, I’ve caught the Esso Cup fever.
I was formally diagnosed with the fever following close contact with thrilling hockey on Sunday afternoon. The Centennial Civic Centre was erupting with excitement, seats were filled and the familiar sound of skates and sticks filled the air.
The doc told me the fever was not only a positive to my overall health, but it got me thinking, contrary to what fevers normally do.
Hockey is a cornerstone of Canadian culture, almost more-so here in Lloydminster. It wouldn’t be long after the colonists arrived in Lloydminster for them to feel the pull of hockey.
A club was organized only two years after arrival, with G.M. Phillips as the club manager. Residents were encouraged to participate, and an advertisement was taken out in the Lloydminster Times advertising the first game.
“As this is the initiation of Canada’s national game into our town, it is hoped that everybody will render as much assistance as possible to help the boys along,” read an excerpt from the newspaper.
That statement says it all. We’re now 120 years removed from the club first being put together and hockey is something the people of Lloyd hold near and dear.
It’s nice to get out to the rink and see neighbours, friends, colleagues and local smiling faces volunteering their time to help make this tournament possible.
Lloydminster’s been largely successful on the ice seeing plenty of teams reach finals and there’s a long list of winners the city boasts as well. In the mid 1950s, the Lloydminster Jets won the Saskatchewan intermediate A title.
I hope to be around to see the U18 AAA Lloydminster PWM Steelers hoist the cup sending the Civic Centre off with one last bang.
In a future column, I’ll cover more of the history of hockey in the town and talk more about some of the history of the sport in the border city.
Until then, go Steelers! Esso Cup fever is highly contagious, so I’ve heard.
Public transit was back on my mind this week when, recently, a new warehouse and automobile repair facility were proposed in a remote corner of our city.
The proposed area has little surrounding it, let alone many places where potential workers may live.
When a large warehouse of the same type opened up in Ottawa, roughly 150 individuals were hired to operate the store. Let’s say, for argument’s sake, an employee would work part-time and make $1,600 a month.
A single person making that, considering cost of living, probably doesn’t own a vehicle. I know plenty of individuals in Lloyd who are single-vehicle or no-vehicle families and walk or carpool to work with others.
Would a bus not make sense to transport the required workforce, customers, etc., to the relatively remote location?
There are few options for people living near Lloyd Mall who want to participate in possible savings or employment at this location without a vehicle.
According to Google Maps, it’s approximately six kilometres, one way,
from there to the proposed location. It would cost roughly $15 for a cab, again, one way. If you must take a cab, any savings you may have found vanish. Don’t even start on if you had to work there.
Yes, I realize that $30 a day to go to work happens in the community, but should it?
Even a basic transit loop, nothing extraordinary, would accomplish so much in this community. A $100-a-month public transit pass would allow more money to be dumped into the local economy.
Most places where these facilities pop up already have a public transportation system. In areas where they don’t, it acknowledges the city’s potential to grow. Growth means fairness for all is the ability to get around.
Yes, there is a cost to build and run it, but if companies are willing to build so far from the city centre. Why not make it as easy as possible for them to succeed?
The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.
To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147
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.
Cribbage Tournament
The Hillmond Hall is hosting a cribbage tournament on April 27 starting at 11 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. Cost to play is $10/player and a fullcourse meal is $15/person.
Grace United Church Fundraiser
Grace United Church, located at 4708 – 50 Ave., is hosting a fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on April 24 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 25. Donations of miscellaneous household and kitchen items, sports equipment, books, toys/games and small furniture pieces are welcome and greatly appreciated. Drop off is April 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact Lynda for pickup at 306821-2575.
Used Book and Puzzle Sale
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge, located at 5213 57 St., is hosting a used
book and puzzle sale on April 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds to support the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre. Donations can be dropped off at the Moose Lodge on Monday or Wednesday from 5-9 p.m. Call or 780-8757919 or 780-872-1871 for more details.
Jon Dore at the Vic Juba
Comedian Jon Dore will take the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on May 11 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Named one of “10 comics to watch” by Variety Magazine, this Ottawa-born comedian, host, and actor is renowned for his offbeat humour and unique bait-and-switch style. Tickets are $35 and are available at vicjubatheatre.ca or at the theatre box office.
A Patsy Cline and Hank Lives Tribute
A Patsy Cline Tribute and Hank Lives, starring Lisa Brokop and Paul Jefferson, is coming to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on May 12. Tickets are $40 and are available at vicjubatheatre.ca or at the theatre box office.
Paradise Hill Summer Bash featuring Jade Eagleson
The Paradise Hill Summer Bash returns to the Paradise Hill Arena on Aug. 9 from 5-11 p.m. Supper is from 5-7 p.m. at the Paradise Hill Community Centre before the doors to the arena open at 7 p.m. Drew Gregory takes the stage at 8:15 p.m. and headliner Jade Eagleson goes on at 9:10 p.m. Tickets are $75.88 or $27.96 for supper only. Tickets are available through Eventbrite.ca
- Have something you’d like listed in our online and print community calendars? Email the details to taylor@meridiansource.ca.
The City of Lloydminster has made its advocacy priority list for 2025 public.
Some of the items listed are not directly under the control of council. They spend time at provincial events and meetings advocating for the betterment of these issues.
The list sets out advocacy focuses for the year, including federal and provincial funding, access to health and social services, mental health and addictions, RCMP recruitment, housing and homelessness, education seamless levy and seamless border issues.
Coun. Justin Vance asked if the list of priorities is something the city shares with user groups and committees.
“By bringing this public that’s the intention, is it shows the public what council’s priority areas are to advocate,” said Dion Pollard, city manager. “Some of these are our programs, some of these are provincial programs such as education and health. They’re not necessarily directly funded or
operated by the city but putting them on this list shows those organizations that we are advocating on their behalf and hopefully with them is the goal.”
These broader provincial and federal issues are something that often comes to council first.
“We inevitably are that first point of contact for members of our community. That’s come up in health care, that’s come up in a number of areas where because we know our citizens and they know us it’s easier for them to contact us rather than the MLA’s in Regina and Edmonton,” said Coun. Michael Diachuk.
Despite the issues not being something they directly control, Diachuk says it’s important they hear from the community.
“I think it’s important for our community members to know that we hear them and acknowledge that these are issues that they have and we share them as well,” he said.
The presented list only covers some of the items that council advocates for.
“There’s other advocacy items constantly brought forward to my desk from various organizations letting us know that they’ve applied for a government grant, they may have asked for a letter of support from the city,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers.
Council passed the motion to accept the 2025 priority list as presented.
versary on June 10, 2025. Grace United Church in Lloydminster will be celebrating this special event over two days – a family fun fest/church picnic on Saturday, May 31, at Weaver Heritage Park.
As mentioned in our last submission, there are three broad United Church of Canada (UCC) defining characteristics– deep spirituality, bold discipleship and daring justice.
Some highlights showing how the church lives these concepts will follow in the next three articles.
Deep spirituality is defined as:
The joy of those who know they are loved and held by God and who long to run into God’s embrace. It’s the cornerstone of our identity, not just as a church but also as individuals.
In 1936, the first female minister was ordained – having already worked as a lay minister since the 1920s until she was fully recognized. Lloydminster’s Grace United Church (GUC) had our first deaconess from 1960-61, followed by our first ordained female minister, Rev. Mary Thomas, who was assistant minister from 1970-74. A second deaconess, Wilma Sharpe came in 1974 and stayed on until 1986, supporting various ordained ministers along the way. There have been several female ordained ministers at GUC since then, most recently our own Rev. Cathy Kinsman.
The Grace United Church women’s group continues to be very active in many areas, supporting UCC initiatives nationally as well as locally.
The United Church of Canada (UCC) will celebrate its centennial anni -
Welcome to one and all. This will be followed by a centennial church service on Sunday, June 1.
Below is information from the United Church News speaking about women in the church.
“While scripture acknowledges individual women, the broader church history often reduces them to the women of the church – a collective, often unnamed presence. However, it obscures the crucial work of the Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) – an organization which was instrumental in supporting missions globally, demonstrating the significant, often overlooked contributions of women in the church.
At the United Church’s inception, women from Methodist and Presbyterian traditions entered as deaconesses – set apart for ministry but denied full recognition as ministers. This slowly began to change with the first fully ordained female minister in 1936.The WMS served faithfully until 1962, when they united with the Women’s Association to create United Church Women (UCW), which continues to support a range of projects –most recently supporting initiatives to address the ongoing impacts of the residential school system.”
- Alice Robinson is the Chair of the GUC Centennial Planning Committee
Thursday, April 24, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Like any reputable hockey coach, Dan Auchenberg already had a sound scouting report on Lloydminster before moving to the border city to become coach of the U18 AAA PWM Steelers.
As a veteran coach at various levels, from junior A to U18 girls’ and boys’ teams, he had been down this road before.
“I’ve always respected Lloyd,” said Auchenberg, whose Steelers are the host of this week’s Esso Cup national U18 female championship. “I’ve found it’s always a tough place to play. They’re always committed to a hard-working team, whether it’s on the female side or on the male side.
“You’ve got to come into Lloyd expecting a physical game all the time. It was the same thing when I first started with the girls here. That’s kind of the mentality. They’re not shy about working hard. And it’s working in their favour.”
Auchenberg and his Steelers made a favourable start in the six-team national championship tournament, working overtime to defeat the Eastern Stars of Prince Edward Island 2-1 in front of a supportive hometown crowd April 20 at the Centennial Civic Centre.
Just days before the Esso Cup, Auchenberg’s efforts with the Steelers this season were recognized as he was named the U18 AAA coach of the year in the Alberta Female Hockey League.
“I truly think this award is a big team award more than anything, because they’ve bought in to what we’ve asked from the start of the year,” he said. “It’s not just an individual award. Winning something, it has to do with your support all the way around you all the time. That makes you a better person or a better coach or a better player, whatever it is.”
The provincial award is the latest honour for a coach with a long history in Alberta hockey rinks. That reputation made Auchenberg an attractive candidate for the Lloydminster post in 2023 when he made the move from his longtime home in Sherwood Park.
Now two years into his Steelers’ job, Auchenberg and his wife Daisy consider Lloyd as their hometown.
“I don’t think we’re intending to move anywhere quickly, at all,” he said. “We’re very comfortable here. We like Lloyd. Daisy likes Lloyd. The community here has embraced Daisy very well.”
Auchenberg credits his wife with a primary assist on the play that brought him to Lloydminster after a long run with the St. Albert female program.
The Steelers were shopping for a high-profile coach.
“Jeremy Wakefield reached out to me and asked if I’d ever consider coaching Lloyd,” Auchenberg recalled. “I said, ‘I could coach anywhere. I love coaching.’ He basically said, ‘What does it take to get you here?’
“I said, ‘Physically, I’ve got to be able to live there.’ He said, ‘Would you be willing to move?’ I said I’ll talk to my wife. She said, ‘If you want to coach there and they make it right for you, I’m in.’
“They made it happen for me within two days, and I committed to come up here and try to change the program and the culture. And the girls have really bought into it. It’s been unreal.”
The Steelers have become the real deal in the Alberta league and worthy of hosting a national championship.
Auchenberg and his team have earned the respect of their peers, including their greatest competitors.
“Dan and I used to be big rivals and always had kind of an intense rivalry with each other,” said a smiling Joel Lenius, coach of the U18 AAA Pacific region champion Edmonton Junior Oilers.
“That was back when we were the Pandas and (Auchenberg was coaching) St. Albert Slash. Over the last two years, I’ve really gotten to know Dan a bit better and we actually have a family connection, which is great. I probably talk to him once every two weeks. We call each other and share thoughts and ideas.
“Dan is just a really good person. Just a good, kind man who treats the kids well and treats people well. I think the reason why he’s had so much success as a coach is just the way he treats people and the relationships he builds.”
Auchenberg has built such connections across the spectrum in both female and male hockey. His decades of coaching include a run with the Sherwood Park Crusaders of the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
Nowadays, along with coaching the Steelers, he’s the general manager of the Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association.
The endurance test that’s otherwise known as the Esso Cup is a daunting challenge for even the young and fit athletes participating in the six-team national U18 AAA girls’ hockey championship this week in Lloydminster.
In the five days preceding Friday’s semifinals, it’s a game a day for each team. For those clubs fortunate enough to reach Saturday’s medal games, it amounts to seven consecutive days of hockey.
Hockey teams are used to life on the road, but a national championship takes it to another level in stature, obviously, but also logistically. Hotels, food on the run and unfamiliar surroundings are all part of what makes the challenge that much greater.
The road to the Esso Cup is a long journey even for the host team, which all season has billeted most of its players in the Lloydminster area. That has enabled the girls to spend less time on highways and more hours in the classroom, or around the rink for training, practices and games.
When she went up against the Edmonton Junior Oilers on Monday night, Lloydminster PWM Steelers goaltender Harlee Houle faced many familiar faces from her earlier minor hockey days. Houle is from Spruce Grove, so she knows several Oilers well. Her scouting report proved advantageous as she made 36 saves to earn the Steelers’ player-of-the-game honours in Lloyd’s 2-1 loss to Edmonton, the Pacific region champion and the early front-runner at the Esso Cup.
All eyes were on the Steelers this season as the Esso Cup hosts were guaranteed to be playing into the spring. They posted a 17-10-1 regular-season record and finished fourth in the eight-team Alberta league. In the quarter-finals in early March, the Calgary Fire Red defeated Lloyd in back-to-back games, 3-2 in overtime and 2-1.
“Unfortunately, we lost in the first round of the playoffs, but we played really well in both games,” Auchenberg said. “It was just (a case of) you can’t score, you can’t score.
“It definitely puts some fire in me,” Houle said about going head-to-head against the Oilers. “It makes me want to do better.
“All season, we’ve been trying to catch up to them, and I think we’re finally here.”
In a physical battle, the Steelers ran into penalty trouble in the second period and a stout Edmonton defence that limited Lloyd’s scoring opportunities.
Both of the Oilers’ goals came on power plays, including the winner just 20 seconds into the third period. Houle otherwise shut the door, relishing her first taste of Esso Cup action.
With the hometown Steelers playing night games during round-robin play at the Centennial Civic Centre, Houle and company have spent most of their daytime hours in a restful mode. On Monday, she watched a morning game, went for an afternoon walk at Bud Miller Park, then regrouped at home before heading back to the rink to play.
Last year, Houle played as an underager with Leduc’s U18 AA team. She described the move to Lloyd as a life experience, especially the billeting component.
“I love it,” said Houle, 16. “I think it’s a great experience. It’s definitely tested my maturity. I love the family I’ve been placed with. I wouldn’t change it.”
Keira Grant scored the winning goal as Edmonton posted its second victory in as many nights to become the only unbeaten team after two days of action. The Oilers and Steelers each had a strong contingent of fans. On and off the ice, the atmosphere mirrored a playoff-round game.
“And I think the girls are determined to show people that they are better than what was shown in the playoffs.”
The Steelers gain encouragement from their performances against the mighty Oilers this season, during which Lloydminster was the only team to defeat Edmonton.
“We’re a good tournament team,” Auchenberg said. “Throughout the year, we played very well in big occasions when it was meant to be.
“Except for one game, we’ve played Edmonton very well. We lost to them 2-1, we beat them 2-1 and
we lost in a shootout to them. When you’re playing against the best team in the country — supposedly — and matching up with them, you know you’ve got that capability of doing those things.”
At the Esso Cup, both the Steelers and Oilers were 1-0 when they faced each other Monday night (April 21). The result, not surprisingly, was another onegoal game as Edmonton prevailed 2-1 to become the only undefeated team after two days of action. It was a physical game befitting two clubs that not only battle all year long, but now on a national stage in front of vocal, loyal fans from both sides.
The future of female hockey is apparent on and off the ice this week at the Esso Cup national 18U AAA championship in Lloydminster.
More so than in the past, women are well-represented behind the benches of the elite teams from across Canada, from head coaches to assistant coaches and support staff.
The Central region champion Saskatoon Stars have styled that trend in greatest fashion. All three of the Stars’ coaches are women wellschooled in the game as former university hockey players. Alana Serhan is the head coach and her assistants are Autumn Garnham and Tess Houston.
“It’s absolutely by design,” Serhan said of Saskatoon’s all-women coaching complement. “We’re definitely the only (entirely) female staff here, which for us is awesome.
“We’ve all had incredible U Sports careers — myself at U of M (Manitoba), Tess Houston at the University of Alberta and Autumn Garnham spent some time at the University of Toronto. We have lots of experience at the next level and there’s no doubt in my mind that that bodes us well in this tournament, and it did as well all season long.”
Stars rookie forward Mickenzie Petford, 15, looked like a college player when she ripped a top-shelf goal in the first period of Saskatoon’s 5-4 win over the North York (Ont.) Storm in the opening game at the national tournament.
“Our coaching staff is really important,” Petford said of the Stars’ pioneering leadership group. “They’re definitely a big reason that we’re here today. They push us lots and our systems are all them.
“They were all successful hockey players and they’re showing us what they love and coaching us how they know. It works well and it’s a really positive environment to be in.”
Lloydminster PWM Steelers coach Dan Auchenberg’s two assistants are women, Sydney Chrusch and Stephanie Fischer.
“Crucial,” Auchenberg said of having female voices on the coaching staff. “They know how the girls tick. I always ask (my assistants) how the players feel because they know what’s going on.
“You need female staff. You just do. It creates a better connection with the team.”
As girls and women gain hockey options that didn’t necessarily exist in the past, the opportunities extend beyond the ice surface.
Two years ago, Chrusch had been pursuing a U13 AA head-coaching position when Auchenberg invited her to become an assistant at the U18 AAA level.
“I was shocked,” said Chrusch, now 21. “I didn’t think I’d make the jump
to such an older group so quick. I was only three years older than some of those girls. But it was the best decision I ever made. I’ve learned so much over the past two years with Dan. I couldn’t have had a better mentor — someone who knows the game. I can do the skills stuff, but the actual tactical stuff, he has taught me everything I know now. I’m just so grateful for this opportunity.”
Chrusch is moving on next season to become a U13 head coach in Bonnyville.
“Looking back, if I had done that head-coach job when I had (initially) applied for it, I was not ready for it,” she said.
“But now, with the mentorship side of this, I definitely feel ready.”
Chrusch, who is from Crossfield, Alta., moved to Lloydminster to play for the college team. “But after some injuries, I decided I wanted to move into coaching side, instead of playing. I stayed here and the North area kind of stuck to me and I can’t leave,” she said.
Fischer, 24, is also leaving the Steelers after this season. She’s taking an assistant-coaching job with the Lakeland College, Auchenberg reported.
Lloydminster captain Ryann Rekimovich said the female coaches with the Steelers help ease the players’ adaptation to 18U AAA hockey.
“They’re great role models and we, for sure, look up to them,” she said. “We have someone to go to (with questions), no matter what it is.”
The Steelers themselves have become role models in the community. The teenagers work with minor hockey teams in Lloyd.
“I got assigned the U9 purple team, so I really enjoyed going out with them once a week,” said Rekimovich, who could see herself coaching regularly in later years.
“For sure, I hope to give back in the future.”
Jenna Pellerin, an assistant coach with the Atlantic champion Eastern Stars of Prince Edward Island, believes women coaching women is the way of the future.
“We only have one male on our bench and we have three female assistants,” Pellerin said. “It’s great to see. It’s great to see Saskatoon have all girls (coaching).
“Every year, you see more and more girls get behind the bench. It’s nice for the girls. If they can look up to us, it’s good.”
Isabelle Lajoie is one of three women who are assistant coaches on the Edmonton Junior Oilers’ staff, along with head coach Joel Lenius and assistant Jeff Willan. Edmonton’s hat trick of female coaches includes Megan Goebel and Sage Sansregret. Lajoie grew up close to the coaching scene. The daughter of former Western Hockey League coach and
University of Alberta graduate Isabelle Lajoie is an assistant coach with the U18 AAA Edmonton Junior Oilers. John MacNeil Meridian Source
University of Alberta legend Serje Lajoie played at the U of A in recent years. She has just graduated and now is transitioning into a teaching career.
Not to mention coaching, which she seemed almost destined to pursue, following in her father’s footsteps. “I think so,” said Lajoie, 24. “I grew
up around the rink, seeing him kind of take on that lifestyle. I think, just with my background being in education and being a teacher, it just goes together so well.
“I get to do what I love most, which is hockey, and take a different side of it, but teach and kind of see these young girls grow. I think that’s been super exciting for me.”
Embarking on a teaching career in the Edmonton area, Lajoie hopes to continue coaching with the Junior Oilers. She’s worked with the 18U AAA program for two years.
“It’s been a very rewarding experience,” said Lajoie, proud to be among the team’s three female assistant coaches. “I think it’s awesome. It’s always the saying of, ‘See them, be them.’ So, for a lot of those girls now, being able to see female coaches behind the bench and where the game has grown to, it just opens the door for them to see all the opportunities that are there once playing might be done.”
Before her five-year university career, Lajoie played 18U AAA under Auchenberg when the Lloydminster coach was behind the St. Albert girls’ bench.
Her 21-year-old brother, Marc, played at the U of A this season. Now, he’s transferring to NebraskaOmaha to finish his collegiate hockey career.
The NE 21-53-4-W4 is offered for sale by tender, subject to the restrictions in the existing certificate of title.
The sale excludes the acreage of 14 acres subdivided out of the quarter section. The rental of the small portion of the crop land on the acreage title may be negotiated with the owner of the acreage.
This property is situated north of Dewberry along the main access road. The land is located on the west side of the road between Dewberry and the Highway 45 intersection. The property has between 120 to 130 cultivated acres.
The sale is subject to the current tenant farming the land for the 2025 crop year. The Farm Lease Agreement will be assigned to the purchaser for the 2025 crop year.
There are two oil wells on the land which have been designated orphan wells. The sellers do not receive surface lease income for the wells.
Further information can be provided by contacting Monique Hart at 780-581-4151.
Tenders must be made in writing accompanied by bank draft or certified cheque for 10% of the amount of the tender price, as a deposit, payable to KENYON LAW OFFICE, IN TRUST and identified TENDER - FILE No. 16803.
The highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. In the event of acceptance, the successful tenderer will be notified on or before May 22, 2025, and the unsuccessful tender deposits will be returned.
Tenders must be unconditional and the balance payable no later than thirty days after acceptance by the owners. If the successful tenderer does not complete the purchase after the acceptance of his tender, the deposit shall be forfeited.
Tenders will be received until 12 o’clock noon on April 28, 2025 at: Kenyon Law Office
5042 - 49th Avenue
Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1B7
Mannville’s Cobin Garnett was at a school badminton practice, of all things, when he heard all the racket about his selection to the Alberta Cup hockey prospects tournament.
“I looked at my phone and a bunch of people were congratulating me,” said Garnett, the 14-year-old captain of the U15 AAA Lloydminster Lancers.
He then checked the Hockey Alberta website to confirm that he indeed had been chosen to participate in the scouting showcase tournament, which runs April 23-27 in Red Deer.
Garnett, a Grade 9 student at Mannville School, has honed his sound defensive skills during the past two seasons with the U15 AAA Lancers in the Alberta Elite Hockey League.
“I’m a little more of a defensive defenceman,” he said. “Not much of offence. Make that first pass. I like to stay back and play D.”
The NHL player he most tries to emulate is Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman.
“Yeah, he’s really big,” Garnett said of the Tampa captain. “I think he moves the puck really well, moves the puck on the blueline and gets to open areas.”
A young Garnett became a Hedman fan after watching the Lightning win back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.
From making progress hockey-wise and as a leader, Garnett has learned his lessons well, drawing on the inspiration of people like Hedman.
As the Lloydminster captain, Garnett guided the Lancers through the tough times that sometimes go with playing competition from bigger cities in a provincial league.
“We didn’t have the greatest year — it started off pretty rough — but I feel like we developed as the season went on,” he said. “We just didn’t get a lot of wins, though.
“(Facing adversity) made me feel like a better leader. It gave me more confidence as a leader.”
His leadership role begins at home. Garnett is the oldest of three siblings. His sisters Findlay, 12, and Rowan, who turns 10 in May, participate in hockey and figure skating, respectively. Findlay was a provincial bronze-medallist this past season with the 13U AA team out of Lloydminster.
Cobin drew a cluster of young minor hockey players who watched him being interviewed at the Servus Sports Centre during Easter weekend.
“Cobin Garnett is one of those natural captains,” said Scott Pratt, who coached Garnett two seasons ago with the U15 AAA Lancers and for parts of this season during call-ups to the U17 AAA Lancers. “You walk in the room and he’s the first person there to shake your hand and introduce himself. He just carries himself very, very well.
“Cobin is just a phenomenal defender and great first-pass D-man, but he has a heck of a shot, too.”
On and off the ice, Pratt sees similarities in Garnett and fellow defenceman Peter Osman, the other member of the U15 AAA Lancers chosen to the Alberta Cup.
“They’re both very rugged, physical players, but have a skill set, too,” Pratt said. “You don’t always get that (combination of) size and the aggressiveness and offensive ability, too.
“Off the ice, as soft-mannered and kind of gentle kids as you can imagine, but as soon as you get them on the ice, they’re both very strong competitors.”
After a solid showing at the regional tryouts in late March, Garnett welcomed more intense competition this week at the six-team Alberta Cup in Red Deer.
“I think I did really well,” he said of the initial camp. “It was really fun. Met a few people.
“I’ll just play my game (this week) and keep it simple. Don’t do anything too fancy. Just play a simple game.”
His even-keel strategy seems to be effective. The Saskatoon Blades sent him a questionnaire in preparation for the Western Hockey League draft, set for May 7 and 8, but Garnett isn’t dwelling on whether a team drafts him then or not.
In the longer term, he’s also thinking about playing university hockey at the NCAA level in the U.S., or within U Sports in Canada. As of this year, majorjunior players now are eligible to play in the NCAA, so that possibility of doing both opens more doors down the road.
Garnett is going to Minnesota in late May as part of an Edmonton entry in a 22-team tournament, the Kings of Spring Finale.
“It’ll be a highly scouted tournament, I bet,” he said. “Just another chance to get myself out there.”
Two of his biggest fans will accompany him to Minnesota, his father Robert and his Gido, his Ukrainian grandfather on his mother’s side.
“My Gido has given me jerseys over the years,” he said. “He’s a really big fan. He comes to all my games and is a big supporter.”
Garnett, about five-foot-11 and 190 pounds, plans to devote much of his summer to hockey training, while also finding time to umpire minor baseball and relax at the lake.
“I’m not playing baseball this year,” said Garnett, a Level 2 umpire who reached the A provincials as a player with his Mannville team the past two summers. “I’m going to train for hockey a lot in the summer. I’ll make money (umpiring) for the most part. I’ll go to the lake, enjoy the summer, and work out and skate.”
While his goals for the coming season are to shoot for the highest level, Garnett believes he can best develop at the U17 AAA level.
“It just would be a good year of conditioning before U18,” he said. “Because it’s a big jump from U15 to U18. It’s much faster hockey.”
Already well-conditioned and physically gifted for his age, Garnett doesn’t turn 15 until October.
Peter Osman is stepping away from the piano this week, but the promising Lloydminster hockey player is ready to make some noise just the same.
Osman, at home on the keyboard as he is on the ice, is part of a strong Lloyd-area contingent chosen to participate in the Alberta Cup scouting showcase tournament April 23-27 in Red Deer.
As part of the provincial selection process, Osman attended a regional tryout camp in Red Deer in late March. Just a couple of days later, the well-rounded defenceman from the Lloydminster U15 AAA Lancers received word that he had made the Alberta Cup cut.
“I was overcome with joy,” said Osman, 15. “I was doing school and my mom showed me that I made it. I looked at the website and I was extremely excited that I got selected.”
The home-schooled Osman brings versatility to the table, as evidenced by his piano prowess and his elite hockey credentials.
This week, he’s part of Alberta Blue, one of six select teams vying for the Alberta Cup championship.
“I think I’ll show that I’m a two-way defenceman with strong offensive and defensive skills,” said Osman, about six-foot-one and 175 pounds.
“I hope it will just help me develop my skills. That’s really all I want. And I would face very hard competition, which would be awesome.”
Osman isn’t preoccupied with next month’s Western Hockey League draft. He said he’s had a bit of interest from WHL teams, but not as much as some local prospects who attend hockey academies. He hopes a solid Alberta Cup can raise his draft stock with major-junior suitors.
“My hope is that after next weekend, I would get a lot more (interest).”
Osman likes a longtime NHL defenceman, Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings, as a pro player whose playing style he tries to model.
“I feel like we’re so similar size-wise and he’s such a good player,” Osman said. “He’s offensive, defensive and he plays everywhere. I’ve always loved the player.”
Osman respects Doughty so much so that he
decided to cheer for the Kings primarily — even ahead of his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs — in this year’s Stanley Cup playoffs.
This past season in the Alberta Elite Hockey League, Osman was Lloydminster’s top-scoring defenceman with the U15 AAA Lancers, scoring 13 goals and 25 points in 34 games. Right behind him was Mannville’s Cobin Garnett, the only other member of the 2024-25 Lancers selected to participate in the Alberta Cup. Osman and Garnett also benefitted from occasionally practising and playing with the U17 AAA Lancers on a call-up basis.
Scott Pratt, who coached that U17 team, believes the pair of WHL draft-eligible D-men bring intangibles on and off the ice.
“Peter (Osman) has maybe got a bit more shooting finesse around the net. But they’re very similar — very rugged, heavy style hockey players.”
Those similarities between Osman and Garnett extend to their leadership qualities and personal traits.
“Both of those style of players — or character kids — are ones that the junior teams just drool over,” Pratt said.
“Peter is more of a quiet kid, but as soon as he straps up the helmet, everything changes and he turns into a beast.”
While junior hockey beckons a few years down the road, Osman is already showing his versatility.
“Hockey was always my thing, but I’ve also played competitive baseball and competitive swimming,” he said. “That’s what I did when I was younger. And I still play the piano.”
The Level A pianist has played for the past decade and competed in music festivals. His hands are similarly effective for setting up or scoring goals.
“It is time-consuming, but I’ve always been focusing on hockey,” Osman said. “Hockey is my go-to sport.”
As part of his hockey routine, he prays during games and fuels up with honey in the intermissions.
“Honey is good for you because it has natural sugar, which is healthier than most other sugars,” Osman said with a perspective belying his teenage years.
From his family’s acreage just outside Lloydminster, Osman’s flexible home-school schedule enables him to devote even more time to his hockey training.
“If I get all my (school) work done in the morning, I can do some hockey training, like working out or speed training,” said Osman, the second youngest of four siblings. “I have a great training area.”
Osman’s Blue teammates at the Alberta Cup include familiar faces like forwards Josh Frazer and Kael Scott of Lloydminster and defenceman Will Kelts of Consort. Their opponents include Alberta Black teammates Garnett and forwards Damian Anderson of Minburn and Tripp Fischer of Lloydminster. Brody Sunderland, a forward from Kitscoty, is part of Alberta Gold after playing this past season with the St. Albert Raiders Sabres, bronzemedallists at the provincials.
All combined, it’s a bountiful crop of 2010-born players from Lloydminster and the region.
“Yeah, I think it’s a great thing,” Osman agreed. “All around the Lloyd area, there’s a ton of good hockey players.”
Lloydminster and nearby communities are well-represented among the 120 players selected to compete in the Alberta Cup male hockey tournament this week in Red Deer.
Eight boys from the region step onto the provincial stage April 23-27 for the scouting showcase, which doubles as the final evaluation of prospects for the Western Hockey League draft May 7 and 8.
The 2010-born class of draft prospects is considered one of the best in years for Lloydminster-area talent.
“Lloyd is very deep for that 2010 age group,” said longtime minor hockey coach Scott Pratt, a Kitscoty resident who most recently coached the U17 AAA Lloydminster Lancers. “They’ve got a really good group of high-end kids.
“Last year, we only had two from Lloyd make it to Alberta Cup (Trey Bohlken and Gavin Pratt, Scott’s son).”
Swift Current Broncos’ draft choice Gavin Harrison of Cold Lake added to the regional flavour at the 2024 Alberta Cup.
This year’s prospects, including U15 AAA Lancers defencemen Cobin Garnett of Mannville and Peter Osman of Lloydminster, all played with AAA or prep teams at the U15 level this past season.
Six of the local Alberta Cup participants spent the winter away from home as they attended hockey academies in Delta, B.C., and the Edmonton area.
Tripp Fischer, a forward from Lloydminster, was an integral part of the Canadian Sport School Hockey League champion Delta Hockey Academy.
Kitscoty forward Brody Sunderland skated with the St. Albert Raiders Sabres and helped them earn bronze in Alberta’s provincial championship.
Three other forwards — Damian Anderson of Minburn and Josh Frazer and Kael Scott of Lloydminster — played with the Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA) Edmonton program.
Will Kelts, a defenceman from Consort, was a member of the North Alberta Xtreme (NAX) Hockey Academy in Devon.
Scott Pratt, who coached many of the local prospects at various levels throughout the years, offered scouting reports on each of the Alberta Cup players from the area. While he spoke about Garnett and Osman elsewhere in this edition of the Meridian Source, here are his comments on the others:
TRIPP FISCHER - “Tripp is a natural scorer,” Pratt said. “A big body, he’s definitely gifted around the net. He can put pucks in. He’s kind of that
nice — it’s an old reference — but the Eric Lindros style of player with the set of hands.”
Fischer was an offensive catalyst with the Delta team that captured the U15 prep Division 1 Western championship. After scoring 29 goals and 56 points in 35 games during the 2024-25 season, he added six goals and nine points in five games at the Westerns.
BRODY SUNDERLAND - Sunderland also has a knack for offence. He netted 18 goals and 37 points in 34 regular-season games. At the U15 AAA provincials, he pocketed three goals and seven points in five games as his St. Albert team took home bronze.
“Brody really came on the last half of the year,” Pratt said. “He had a really strong offensive year. He’s a phenomenal skater, a natural skater. He’s really stretched out. I think he’s six foot now.
“He has a lot of offensive talent. Once he’s able to put some pounds on to match his height, he’s going to have a chance to go wherever. He’s a real competitive kid. That whole (local prospects age) group is.”
DAMIAN ANDERSON - “Damian was always the little brother around the rink when we were coaching that group,” said Pratt, referencing the days when he coached Anderson’s older brother Carter. “You could always tell (Damian) had a pretty impressive skill set, as well.
“He’s got some offensive side. He’s been banged up a little bit with a shoulder injury the last couple of years. If he can get that sorted out, he’s going to be a nice player, too.”
Anderson recorded 22 points, including 17 goals, in 22 games this season.
JOSH FRAZER - Frazer, listed at five-foot-eight and 140 pounds, is reminiscent of a Brad Marchand.
“I love the way Josh plays,” Pratt said. “He’s an absolute Tasmanian devil out there. For his size, he plays about six inches above what his
height is. He plays physical, he gets in the dirty areas, and he’s got an ultracompetitive streak when he’s on the ice. A great set of hands, as well.
“His work ethic on the ice is a coach’s dream. As a U17 coach, I would love to have that energy out on the ice every shift.”
Frazer scored 17 goals and 38 points in 35 games this year.
KAEL SCOTT - Scott draws comparisons to Fischer for their coveted combination of offensive skill and a propensity to mix it up physically.
“Kael is similar to Tripp,” Pratt said. “I think he’s six-one and 185 pounds already. Yeah, he’s really good around the net and loves the physical play, as well.
“The nice part about all those kids is they’re just good kids, good teammates. That’s what I love to see right now, is Lloyd has such a good group of top-end 2010 players. They could really step in and do a lot with the U17, U18 program and move on to junior very quickly, that whole group.”
Scott was OHA Edmonton’s second-leading scorer, with 22 goals and 51 points in 36 games.
WILL KELTS - That local wave of promising prospects extends south to Consort, the hometown of Kelts. From his hockey home of Devon, his NAX team went all the way to the CSSHL Western final this spring before losing 4-3 to Fischer’s Delta club.
It’s no wonder Pratt, when he was coaching U15 AAA last year, had tried to recruit Kelts to play in Lloydminster.
“They decided to go to NAX, but we ended up playing that NAX team three times last year in tournaments,” Pratt said. “But, yeah, I’ve definitely kept track of Will. He’s a big body with a lot of offensive talent. I think he’s six-two or six-three already. Very smooth, great shot and smart and mobile for a big D-man.”
Kelts produced more than a point per game, with 13 goals and 39 points in 35 games with the Devon-based academy team.
“It definitely puts fuel in me,” Houle said. “I don’t take it as pressure. I just use it to play harder and work harder and push myself.”
The Oilers have become accustomed to a healthy rivalry with the Steelers.
“They’re definitely a tough team to play, so we look forward every time we get to play them, because they push us to get better, which we all really like,” said Grant, the winning goal-scorer. “We realized that this is an important game and we can’t give them any room. We just have to bury it.”
This tournament is the last chapter in the illustrious history of the Civic Centre, which has a slogan that proudly boasts, “Our Community Gathers Here.”
That has clearly been the case this week as supporters and volunteers have rallied to give the Esso Cup a social side to complement a major sporting competition.
‘DREAM COME TRUE’
The participants, especially the host Steelers, are feeling the love.
“It’s a dream come true,” said Alivia Foster, one of just a few girls from Lloydminster playing in the Esso Cup.
“You grow up watching all these girls play hockey and then you get to be a part of the team. And not only just a team, but being a part of nationals, too, it’s great. To see the whole community come out to watch us is really special. It’s really cool to see that everyone in the community wants to come watch us.”
Crowds in the 700 range greeted the Steelers for each of their first three games, including Sunday’s opening-night 2-1 overtime victory over the Atlantic champion Eastern Stars of Prince Edward Island. Bonnyville’s Kalie Cole, who scored both Lloyd goals, described the Civic Centre setting as “electric.”
Although the Steelers got behind early and suffered a 3-1 loss to the North York (Ont.) Storm on Tuesday night, they certainly didn’t show any
quit in the third period. The well-rounded Foster, a rookie on defence, was named Lloyd’s player of the game. She’s looked good the entire tournament, wearing No. 6 as proudly as Hillmond’s Wade Redden did so during an all-star career in the NHL.
The rangy Foster skates well and isn’t afraid to go on the rush. She has a big fan in her 18-year-old brother, Aiden Foster, a sophomore forward with the WHL’s Prince George Cougars. Although his season has ended, Aiden has been ranked as a prospect for this year’s NHL draft.
“(The Cougars) lost out in the first round, but he’s really happy to be here and watching,” said Alivia, 15. “He’s been watching all the games and cheering. He thinks it’s a great experience.”
After three full days of action, the Steelers were at the bottom of the standings with one overtime win and two regulation losses. That made Lloyd’s
final two round-robin games essentially must-win games.
As the Steelers participated in their post-game stretch late Tuesday, coach Dan Auchenberg said his girls recovered well after a tough start. He called a timeout when they fell behind 3-0 five minutes into the second period, made a goalie change and the Steelers showed better the rest of the way.
“We can’t wait till it’s 3-0 to play desperate hockey,” he said. “The last two teams that we played (North York and Edmonton) were in the Esso Cup last year. One was a silver-medallist and the other a bronze-medallist, so they know how to compete. They’ve been there.
“Overall, we’ve been working hard and staying with them, but to persevere through those kinds of games, you’ve got to be a 60-minute team, not just 20 or not 40.”
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