Prehistoric playtime at Lloyd Library
The Lloydminster Public Library is preparing for a prehistoric celebration thanks to Drumheller’s Royal Tyrrell Museum.
The museum, known for its dinosaurs, is celebrating its 40-year anniversary this year and will be loaning real dinosaur fossils to the library for a year starting Sept. 15.
“They will choose fossils and bones from our area,” said executive director Cheryl Sikora. “Students can learn about things relevant to our landscape.”
To build excitement, the library set up a 12-by-12-foot indoor sand pit donated by Feldspar in Lloydminster and run excavation adventures for kids.
Twice a day, staff bury items such as geodes in the sand and kids dig to find them, a simplistic version of paleontology. The real fossils, however, will not be included in the dig.
“Kids have a great time inside,” said Sikora. “We encourage you to sign up for a time using the QR code (which can be found on Facebook).”
Sikora said the exhibit fits the library’s mission to spark curiosity and encourage exploration and hopes it will attract school groups.
The library hopes the unique mix of play and science will draw families into the world of dinosaurs.
NOTICE
The Tax Enforcement Act
NATHAN EDWARD LIVINGSTONE AND TRISHA LYNN BOUVIER
TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Turtleford intends to be registered as owner under the above Act of the land described as LOT 10-BLK/PAR 2-PLAN N5406 EXT 0, Title No. 141691541.
The municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the tax lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 200964708 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a certificate of title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.
The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the municipality. For any questions about the tax enforcement process please contact Taxervice at 1-877-734-3113.
Dated this 8th day of August, 2025.
Deanna
Kahl Lundberg, Administrator Town of Turtleford
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Kids dig for geodes in the 12-by-12-foot indoor sand pit inside the Lloydminster Public Library. Courtesy Lloydminster Public Library Facebook
Co-op pool in Lloydminster gets much-needed upgrades
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The outdoor pool in Lloydminster has received some much-needed renovations and upgrades.
The Co-op Community Outdoor Pool received $101,000 in changes, improving accessibility and comfort for visitors.
Renovations to the washrooms and change rooms include plumbing and electrical upgrades, flooring repairs and structure enhancements.
“The building is quite extensive for its age, and it needed some epoxy floor repairs, installation of a waterproof membrane and tile in the washroom shower areas,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers.
The facility was getting older and was in need of upgrades.
“There’s an extensive list (of repairs),” said Aalbers.
Other key components of the project include new cabinetry and counters in the washrooms, replacement of toilet partitions and change room stalls, new change room benches, full plumbing upgrades, new doors and trims and upgraded bathroom accessories, to name a few.
Work on the Co-op Community Outdoor Pool was completed prior to the season starting
many issues with the dated washrooms and changing rooms.
The exterior lighting was upgraded, concrete replaced and exterior cladding work was done.
The work was completed prior to the pool opening for the season this year.
Council reviews employee code of conduct policy
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
City of Lloydminster council is looking at updating its employee code of conduct policy.
Council received the draft of the updated policy at the Aug. 11 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting.
Administration regularly reviews all policies every three years. The council code of ethics was recently reviewed at a meeting in July.
There were some notable changes to the updated employee code of conduct. The dollar value for employee gift or prize acceptance has been raised from $150 to $350. Any gift over the $350 value will be disposed of at the discretion of the city manager, unless directed otherwise by council.
Some language reflected in the procurement policy was also included. Section 8.3 of the code of conduct refers to employees who leave their employment with the city and wish to personally bid on or work for a company bidding on any city contracts shall act in accordance with the city’s procurement and purchasing policy.
“That’s been in place and there’s some reference in the city’s procurement and purchasing policy relating to employees after their employment. So, we thought it was important that was highlighted in the policy
as well,” said Marie Pretty, chief of staff.
The employee code of conduct handbook was also a part of the agenda package available for the public to see. In the handbook the city’s vision and values were reflected in it.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson also complimented the wording of the policy.
“The one line that I really liked, and I don’t know who came up with it, but it said, ‘to embed ethics into daily activity,’ that’s what these things are for,” she said.
Charles Gustafson raised the idea of creating a social media policy in a previous meeting and was happy to see it reflected in this policy.
“I was happy to see page 32 with the smell test with that last line about, ‘Can my comments on social media be interrupted in such a way and I’m representative of the city.’ I wanted to highlight that as I’m happy to see that.”
The smell test refers to a quick assessment of whether an action or situation aligns with ethical principles, often by imagining how it would be perceived publicly. Council approved the policy.
with renovations addressing
Photo courtesy City of Lloydminster
CPCA finals boost local economy
The Lloydminster Exhibition anticipates an economic boost as it gears up for the 36th annual Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association (CPCA) Finals.
Hotels, motels and short-term rentals will fill up with fans. Restaurants, cafés and grocery stores will see higher traffic while local shops, fuel stations and service providers will benefit from extra spending. Veterinarians and feed supplies will also benefit from the festivities.
The event, which started yesterday and runs until Aug. 24, has Jackie Tomayer, general manager of the Lloydminster Exhibition, excited.
Check out the new Lainey Wilson MAZE DESIGN
Thurs - Fri: 3pm - 7pm Sat: 11am - 7pm Sun: 1pm - 6pm
Between Kitscoty & Lloydminster Hwy 16 & South on Rg Rd 24 ½ mile.
“This event probably generates four to five (million). Annually, we bring in about $27 million through various events,” said Tomayer, noting it costs the Ex about $150,000 to bring the CPCA to town.
“So, how do we pay for all that? Bums in seats and sponsorship,” she said, adding it takes a small army of volunteers and workers to put on the event.
“We’re responsible for volunteers, admission takers, 50-50, ushers, track personnel,” said Tomayer. “There’s turnback barrier men, there’s horse ambulance people. We have two horse ambulances on site.”
The Ex, however, also gives back to the community with a Sunday morning pancake breakfast in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster, which is served by the drivers competing in the event.
“In this community, we probably spend more than most communities,” said 11-season veteran CPCA driver Robby Ethier. “We spend a lot in different communities but there’s so much access to all our needs here, from food to equipment and more.”
Ethier listed several Lloydminster businesses where wagon families spend money during the week.
“We get lots of food from Spiro’s. I’d also like to thank my sponsor, PWM Steel, from Lloyd,” he said.
“That helps me quite a bit for racing through the summer. The Co-op, or Lammle’s, different places that we go to. I spent a couple of hundred dollars at the local grocery store, too.”
Despite recent rain, Tomayer hoped the track would be ready for opening heats.
“Frank came and started grading the track on Sunday,” she said on Tuesday. “We graded yesterday again just to dry it.”
Tomayer encourages residents to come together, fill the stands and enjoy the action. She also invited fans to Saturday night’s cabaret featuring the band High Limit.
The event features over 25 registered drivers and nine heats per night. Tickets are $20 at the gate, which open at 5 p.m., and races start at 6:30 p.m. Championship Sunday starts at 2 p.m.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Taylor Weaver MERIDIAN SOURCE
Citizenship trip inspires
Lloydminster’s Lindsey Buckingham recently returned from Ottawa after The Rotary Adventure in Citizenship program, which left a lasting |impression on her.
She shared the experience with the Rotary Club of Lloydminster during the club’s Aug. 11 luncheon.
The trip took the 16-year-old and other youth from across Canada to Ottawa to learn about advocacy and Canadian history. She said they stayed at the University of Ottawa dorms and took part in activities designed to teach leadership skills.
Club director, Wendy Plandowski, introduced Buckingham as an amazing young lady and a stellar choice to represent the community and said the trip is often a transformative, life-changing experience for students.
Buckingham explained the feeling of acceptance was powerful.
“This was the one place where I didn’t feel judged for even one minute,” she said.
She also spoke about the variety of experiences, including a welcoming bingo game, visiting the House of Commons and attending a citizenship ceremony. She enjoyed learning how to use one’s voice to advocate.
“You have a voice and you should use it,” she said, calling advocacy her biggest takeaway.
However, going east of Saskatchewan for the first time offered up a bit of a challenge and culture shock.
She described busy streets and different architecture with many brick houses, unlike in her hometown.
“There’s a lot more scenery, a lot more to do than little small-town Saskatchewan.”
The trip also included lots of little adventures and social moments.
Buckingham recalled dancing at a French
restaurant, touring the city by bus and going to a museum that featured items found in the 1990s.
Her father, Aaron Buckingham, expressed pride in Lindsey and her brother, Zander, who’s also experienced the trip.
“To see the change with Zander, specifically when he went, it changed his career path and whole outlook on things. I expect it will do the same for Lindsey,” he said to Rotary members.
He added his family is “extremely grateful” for the opportunity the club provided.
One of Buckingham’s biggest takeaways was the lasting friendships she made.
“I’m still in contact with the girls I hung around with throughout the trip,” she said, noting she encourages other students to apply for the program.
“It was an amazing experience and I wish I could go back and do it again,” she said.
The Rotary Adventure in Citizenship program, helps young Canadians learn about their country and develop leadership skills. Lindsey’s story shows how one trip can open doors to new perspectives and confidence.
Local Business Directory
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Lindsey Buckingham. Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE
Lloydminster RCMP involved in collision
One vehicle involved in the collision, struck vehicles in The Proper parking lot. On-scene officials said there were no serious injuries.
A collision involving a Lloydminster RCMP vehicle shut down 44 St. in Lloydminster on Aug. 14.
The incident took place at about 10:30 a.m., closing 44 St. at 49 Ave.
Witnesses say a Lloydminster Rescue Squad vehicle, which was in the area, stopped to assist right after the collision. Including, activating it’s lights to help protect the scene. The cause of the collision is still under investigation.
One killed in collision near Kitscoty
and a sedan at 8:18 a.m. on Aug. 14
A collision on Highway 16 near Kitscoty claimed the life of a 22-year-old male from Islay, Alta.
According to Kitscoty RCMP, they responded to the two-vehicle collision involving a transport truck
The incident occurred at the intersections of Highways 16 and 897.
“The eastbound intersection was closed for investigation and reopened around 1:30 p.m.,” said public information officer Cpl. Mathew
Howell. “Though the matter is still under investigation, initial information suggests the semi was crossing Highway 16 going north and the sedan was heading east when they collided.”
The RCMP sends their condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
An RCMP vehicle following a collision on 44 St. on Aug. 14 in Lloydminster.
Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE
City looks to partner on concerts
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The City of Lloydminster is looking to partner with the Vic Juba Community Theatre as a host for concerts inside the new Cenovus Energy Hub.
Council heard the news about the potential agreement at the Aug. 11 governance and priorities committee meeting.
The city hopes to use the theatre team’s expertise to bring three concerts a year at the new arena to life.
“There was conversations in administration to look at options of how to best manage events outside our daily realm,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “They reached out to the Vic Juba (Community Theatre) and after a year of discussing, Vic Juba saw the benefits.”
The theatre proved it could host bigger concerts when Brent Kissel came to the Lloydminster Exhibition last year.
While council hasn’t given any direction to administration regarding the agreement, they did get to hear about some of the details.
The term for the agreement would be three years, running from Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2028. The city would host up to three concerts annually at the new arena with an annual payment of $31,000 to the theatre for their role.
Concerts that exceed the planned three per year would incur an additional $23,000 per concert. There is also a profit-sharing arrangement, with 20 per cent of the net profit from each concert paid to the theatre, provided the event is profitable.
According to council documents, administration is currently working on a concert for December, spring and summer 2026.
When it comes to the future of which facility will host what concert,
to the size of the concert. The Vic
has 550 seats, while the
can have up to 4,500 with floor seats.
The item is expected to return at a future council meeting for decision. The theatre board will also need to approve the agreement for it to move forward.
Vermilion to recognize Co-operatives
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Town of Vermilion will be recognizing Co-operatives in October.
The proclamation was made by the town at the Aug. 12 regular council meeting.
Cornerstone Co-op in Vermilion has been a part of the community for 91 years and has over 33,000 member-owners.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of the Co-operatives.
“It’s not every year we would do this,” said Shannon Harrower, Town of Vermilion CAO. “This is the year of the international recognition of
the co-operatives.”
Councillors around the table supported the proclamation, recognizing local efforts of the Co-op.
“When you think of how Co-op’s put into our communities,” said Coun. Robert Snow. “I can’t think of many non-profits that haven’t been impacted by them.
“This is the least we could do to show our appreciation of them working with our community.”
Coun. Kevin Martin echoed the sentiment, noting they’re always in the community giving back.
“They support all communities that they’re involved with,” he said. “Anything you talk to they’re a part of.”
The proclamation marks Oct. 12-18 as Co-op week.
Aalbers says it comes down
Juba Community Theatre
Cenovus Energy Hub
Facebook photo
Farmer’s Olympics brings Neilburg together
The Farmer’s Olympics, a community tradition, helped bring smiles, food and neighbourly spirit to the area over the weekend.
The Manitou Pioneers Museum in Neilburg, Sask. hosted its annual Farmer Olympics and Tractor Rodeo, drawing local families and visitors from as far as Alberta.
The doors opened on Saturday morning for a pancake breakfast put on by volunteers. Shortly after, six teams of teenagers and young adults participated in the Farmer’s Olympics.
“It draws the community in,” said museum president Dale Herbert. “We like to entertain the community and see smiles on their faces.”
The Olympics and rodeo draw crowds with multiple vendors, food and displays helping keep them entertained throughout the weekend. The International Harvester Collectors club also joined this year, beating out
Humboldt, Sask., as host.
The Olympics consisted of four timed events, stook building, egg collection and toss, post driving and a potato hunt. The crowd and players had a great laugh at many of the struggles each team had throughout the event.
“Oh, just to say they had a good time,” said Herbert. “I hope they saw their neighbours, had some visiting and went home with their tummies full of all the good food.”
Herbert said guests travelled from Olds and Wainwright, adding the heritage tractor group also attracted people from a greater distance than normal. Volunteers stepped up to help throughout the weekend, making hosting the festivity easier.
“We couldn’t do a day like this if we didn’t have a lot of outside help,” she said. “We organize it, manage it, and luckily, we get the profit ... it’s days like this that fund the museum.”
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE photos
Boundry gives back with Bronco Big Bend
Boundary Ford presented the keys to a 2025 Bronco Big Bend to Merle Hagle, who won the Boundary Auto Wars raffle in support of the Lloydminster Exhibition.
The raffle featured the Bronco, a 2025 Polaris Ranger and a 3,200-watt generator. Winners were drawn at The Ex at the end of the inaugural Boundary Auto Wars on Aug. 2.
“I’ve always supported stuff and given a lot to charity,” said Hagle on Aug. 11.
“The Ex does a lot, and what they do in the community is helpful. It’s amazing what they bring to our community.”
Boundary also presented keys for a 2025 Polaris Ranger side-by-side to Kiera Oliver, who was standing in for her boyfriend, James Davies.
“The Ex has always been a good partner with us and we’ve done multiple things with them. They are one of the organizations that keep our community connected,” said Boundary’s general sales manager Sean Blanchette.
“As they continue to be involved in the community, we want to make sure we’re involved with really big events to help out.”
Boundary’s support in the community goes beyond the Exhibition as they’re the title sponsor for the 60 per cent sold-out Sirens and Sapphires event in support of the Lloydminster Rescue Squad in October.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Boundary Ford sales manager Sean Blanchette (left) presents keys to a new Ford Bronco to Merle Hagle on Aug. 11 at the Lloydminster dealership. Dan Gray Meridian Source
Thursday, August 21, 2025
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Motley Troupe prepping Cinderella in Space
Tickets are available and on sale now!
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
The Motley Troupe is gearing up for its 2025 production of Cinderella in Space.
Tickets officially went on sale Saturday morning at the Lori Craven Memorial Tournament, and early-bird prices are available until Sept. 2.
Early-bird tickets are available through cast and crew members, who can be found on the group’s Facebook page. Tickets will be publicly available on their Facebook page at full price after Sept. 2.
“Tickets have been a hot commodity for lots of folks this weekend who have never been to our show,” said the production’s director, Christa Mullaly, while taking a break from ticket sales at the Lori Craven.
Born and raised in Lloydminster, Mullaly’s been involved with the show since former director, Gail Noble, retired.
“Anyone who’s been before knows how fun it is. Get your tickets soon because they always sell out fast.”
As for this year’s play, Cinderella in Space, Mullaly suggested, “Take it wherever you want from that title.”
“One of the things we don’t do is give away a lot of detail about what to expect,” she said.
“We ap preciate that people trust it’s going to be amazing.”
As the director, Mullaly reads countless plays to find something the group can add music to and have fun with.
“We always look at adding 12 to 14 songs. We rewrite them, put them where we want, then do character developments starting from our very first rehearsal.”
The show will be held at the Kitscoty Community Hall on Nov. 27, 28 and 29, and the funds raised support the annual Lori Craven Memorial Tournament.
“We were able to donate $50,000 to the Lori Craven with funds from last year’s show, which is amazing,” said Mullaly.
Tickets for The Motley Troupe’s production of Cinderella in Space went on sale last Saturday at the Lori Craven Memorial Tournament. Facebook photo
Thursday, August 21, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Chris’ A-Z: Weir-ly optimistic
When I think of what makes Lloydminster special, it’s not the industries or the money to be made. It’s the caring, community-driven people this city manages to attract.
You could write dozens of books about all the passionate individuals that once called Lloydminster home.
For Glenn Weir, his passion for his community and loving approach was something that set him apart.
Born in 1926 in Aberdeen, Sask, Weir found a passion for animals in 1937 when he found himself responsible for vaccinating horses. He went to the veterinary college in Guelph Ont., where he met his wife, Kathleen Weir, who went by Kelly, in college.
Eventually, he moved out to Lloydminster 1952 to assist his brother-inlaw, Frank Creech, with his private practice. Weir would often visit with people after his work tending to their animals was done.
Creech had a practice where he would keep a nail in his pocket to not inform a cow owner, he had killed his own cow while attempting to deliver the animal, which resulted in a ruptured uterus.
“How do I tell a very good person who loves his animals that he killed his cow,” recalled Weir of the event.
Weir opened his own practice in 1961 and often credited the success of his clinic to his wife, who kept everything running. His love for Kelly was
apparent, as he often described her as the girl of his dreams. In 1986, Doug Weir took over from his dad.
Weir semi-retired in 1997, stepping away from the clinic, leaving it in his son’s trusted hands. He still took care of animals, often travelling outside the city to do so.
He kept himself busy and was involved in Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society and the Rotary Club.
Weir’s beloved wife passed away in 2005. It was difficult for him, but through his community involvement and time spent with people close to him, it was something he managed to bear.
Weir passed away in 2012 and was remembered for his community involvement and the work he did with animals. He was a devoted family man who loved his children and grandchildren. He also cared deeply about his friends and others.
In 2001, he won the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award for his extensive work in the community.
He was always giving back to the community, including handing out candy, which is how he became known as the candyman. I’ve even heard he could make a rabbit out of a handkerchief.
I wasn’t sure where I’d want to include this, but he was often referred to as an eternal optimist. Not only that, he was a very compassionate individual.
Seeing Weir’s story, I’m inspired by his resolve to always work hard and give back. Today, the name lives on in the veterinary clinic, which still operated by his family.
I think I’ll have a piece of candy, too. I’m a Double Bubble gum fan.
Gray Matters: Picking on the little guy
Last week, I looked at tyranny in plain sight. People are banned from walking in the woods while forestry operations continue.
This is one example of the way systems can crush the small, independent and powerless. It demonstrated the quiet erosion of freedoms in everyday life or the way authority stifles those who dare to walk their own path. The lesson was clear: tyranny is often subtle, targeting those who cannot fight back.
The same principle shows up in Canada’s labour landscape. Strikes are the one real tool workers have to ensure their voices are heard. They are how middleclass Canadians demand fair pay, safe conditions, and respect at work. Remove that tool and unions lose their power. That is exactly what is happening today.
In key sectors like rail, postal services, ports and airlines, the federal government repeatedly steps in to end strikes. Back-to-work laws and Canada Industrial Relations Board orders appear to be the go-to move.
Ottawa says it’s protecting the public. Realistically, it strips unions of bargaining power and makes strikes almost meaningless. Kudo’s go to CUPE for standing up to these measures this week, however, the point was made. Corporations know they can wait out the union because the government will eventually force workers back. Negotiation in good faith becomes optional. Power rests with the state and corporations.
However, who gets targeted tells the real story.
Large politically connected unions like teachers’ federations and federal employees’ unions rarely face back-to-work orders. They have members, money and influence to protect them. Meanwhile, smaller, blue-collar unions, the backbone of the middle class, are systematically neutered. Rail workers, postal employees, airline stewards and port staff face intervention without risk of political backlash. Labour power exists only where it cannot challenge authority or corporate interests.
When strikes are blocked, unions lose strength. Without the threat of work stoppage, bargaining tables become formalities. Workers begin questioning if their voices matter anymore. What happens next is unions turn into glorified office clerks, shuffling benefit forms instead of fighting for fair treatment. The effects go beyond union halls. Middle-class Canadians face rising housing costs, stagnant wages and a cost of living that outpaces income. Government policies on immigration, housing, and regulation add to the pressure.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.
Passport to YLL
To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147
Cards, games, food, meetings, live music
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo at Moose Lodge is closed for the summer. Thank you to all the players, volunteers and members who helped make this a successful year. Bingo will resume on Sept. 3.
CPCA Finals at the Lloyd Ex
The Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association Finals are back in town! The action started last night and runs until championship Sunday. Gates open at 5 p.m. tonight through Saturday and races start at 6:30 p.m. The first horn blows at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $20 at the gate and kids under 12 are free. Tonight’s theme is Family Fun Night and tomorrow is Pink Friday. The cabaret is Saturday with music from High Limit and the Corgi race is Sunday.
Cribbage Doubles Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Aug. 28, starting at 10 a.m. Cost is $10/ person to play and $12/person for lunch. Everyone wel-
MATTERS FROM PAGE 11
The middle class is squeezed while the institutions meant to defend it are weakened. This is not theory. Just look around.
come! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more.
Complimentary Concert at the Vic Juba
The Government of Alberta and City of Lloydminster are bringing a complimentary concert to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Aug. 31 featuring Spencer Jo and Dylan Hansen & The Rough Cuts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the Vic Juba box office or online at vicjubatheatre.ca/tickets
Gord Cormier at the Legacy Centre
Back by popular demand, Newfoundland’s Gord Cormier returns to the Legacy Centre on Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $30/person and can be purchased at the Legacy office. Come out for a night with Gord Cormier and his “Country Legends Tribute Show” along with some Newfoundlandsongs, stories, jigs and reels! Call the Legacy office for more info at 780-875-4584.
Green River Revival - CCR tribute at the Vic Juba
The Vic Juba Community Theatre is ramping up for
Government quietly pick on the little guy, the independent worker, the union with no political clout and the middle-class Canadian trying to make a fair living. Strikes are reduced to symbols
Green River Revival, the ultimate CCR tribute concert, for an 8 p.m. show on Sept. 5. The two-hour event promises to bring you back to the golden age of rock and roll. Tickets are $55 and available at the Vic Juba box office or online at vicjubatheatre.ca/tickets
The Comic Strippers at the Vic Juba Tarps off, comedy on! The Comic Strippers return to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 20 for a night of fun. The male stripper parody and award-winning improv comedy show is a 19+ event for all genders. Tickets are $54 each and are available at the box office on the theatre’s website. All sales are final.
The Alan Jackson Experience at the Vic Juba The Alan Jackson Experience performed by Aaron Halliday is at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 25. Tickets are $56.50 each or $54.50 for seniors and students. Ticket are available at the box office on the theatre’s website.
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and real leverage disappears. Tyranny does not always come with soldiers or tanks. Sometimes it comes quietly, through laws and boards, targeting those who cannot fight back.
GRAY
Word on the beat: Use of force
At times, when police officers are conducting their duties, the use of some level of force may be necessary. This can be for several reasons, but generally, it’s something needed to bring an uncooperative arrested person into custody.
“The use of force and any escalation is based on the behaviour of the offender, also taking into consideration any weapons they may possess or have access to.
Police are not allowed to apply force to anyone at any time, but rather it is something that comes from, or is allowed by, specific authorities and is required to be applied to a person reasonably, or the officer is held accountable. The specifics of any given situation would dictate the use and type of force utilized. A police officer’s tools, such as OC spray (pepper spray) and a conducted energy weapon, can also be part of the use-of-force equation.
The use of force can be a contentious issue due to its nature, and in some instances, may shock the public to witness. This is one area of policing that is heavily scrutinized after the fact, and that can include being dissected in a court of law.
The use of force and any escalation is based on the behaviour of the offender, also taking into consideration any weapons they may possess or have access to. Essentially, the use of force by a police officer can be a response to a given situation as presented to the officer(s). This is why seeing a short video clip of the use of force without knowing all the specific details of the incident skews the viewer’s perception.
It’s never ideal to use force, but fortunately, only about 0.1 per cent of police contacts with police clients result in any use of force, regardless of the amount. A minor amount of force may be needed if someone is pulling away but not overly resisting; however, this could escalate to an officer responding with a firearm. This is all based on the specifics of the incident, especially the behaviour of the offender.
As mentioned, the authority to use force has to come from somewhere. Section 25 of the Criminal Code is where the protection of a person using force is laid out. The section is very much relied upon in policing.
Section 26 of the Criminal Code speaks specifically to excessive force. This very short section states that those authorized by law to use force are criminally responsible for any use of excessive force.
The Identification of Criminals Act also provides specific authority for the use of force for purposes within that Act. This Act compels people to provide photographs, fingerprints and other measurements, as authorized, when someone has been charged or convicted of specific offences.
It truly is a last resort for law enforcement because compliance is best for everyone involved. We have had numerous local officers injured while carrying out their duties because the use of force became necessary.
There is a lot more than just the above governing the use of force, and it’s treated very seriously by both police and the courts.
Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown, is the NCO in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP detachment’s General Investigation Section. Stay tuned for future articles from the Lloydminster RCMP.
Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE
Meridian Source file photo
Thursday, August 21, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Lori Craven another heart-warming success
The sun came out as folks from as far as Calgary shaved their heads at the 24th annual Lori Craven Memorial Tournament.
Ball players, volunteers and spectators of all ages packed Driven Energy Legion Ball Park on Aug. 16 and 17 for the annual tournament. The two-day event features 32 teams and a handful waiting in the wings to be added to the schedule.
According to organizers, this year’s tournament raised $105,000 through donations and the shaving of heads and beards, which are live auctioned each
year on Sunday afternoon.
Funds raised go directly to local and area families with health and financial struggles.
“Illness affects everyone. No matter who you are, everyone’s going to know someone,” said co-committee member Deanna Wandler. “To me, this tournament means coming together; the community comes together. Seeing the fun everyone has and the contributions people make is amazing.
“The kids here today grow up around this tournament and one day they’ll be playing in it. Everybody is so amazing and supportive.”
Above: Hunter of Calgary and Henry of Lloydminster embrace after getting their heads shaved to raise money for the Lori Craven Memorial Ball Tournament. The two friends understand the strain health issues can have on a family and decided to pay for each other’s haircuts. Below: Co-committee member Deanna Wandler takes in the emotions of the day at the 24th annual Lori Craven Memorial Tournament. Taylor WeaverMeridian Source
Taylor Weaver MERIDIAN SOURCE photos
Before the hair came off, Wandler took to the mic to thank everyone for their involvement and generosity over the years. From kids raising money and collecting pop-can tabs, to the recipient of the annual Char Jezowski Spirit Award, a lot of passion for giving back is displayed over the weekend.
The recipient of this year’s Char Jezowski Spirit Award was Wandler’s niece Hudson Hohne.
“Char Jezowski was a committee member and a beautiful person. I wanted to do something to memorialize her, which is how the spirit award came to be,” said Wandler.
Since its inception seven or eight years ago, Factory Sports has donated an item to be awarded to the recipient.
“It’s been cool to watch the tournament evolve,” said Wandler. “I was once in that younger group and I love watching the next generation being here, supporting and knowing what it’s all about.”
It may be a two-day event, but fundraising efforts are year-round through various community partners such as the Motley Troupe dinner theatre.
“With the Motley Troupe donation of $50,000, we were able to help a lot more families this year,” said Wandler, noting the Lori Craven committee cooks the meal for the annual dinner theatre. “Audina Hardstaff from Flowers on the Fly also did a fundraiser called Red Rose for a Cause, which helped a lot.”
The weekend is also special as it attracts crowds with no involvement in the tournament.
“People come out to watch even if they’re not playing,” said Wandler. “This group also supports the community throughout the year through bartending or helping with the Motley Troupe.
“You can tell this tournament is special in the community because we have people coming to us asking how they can help. We don’t turn any idea away. The more the merrier.”
A weekend highlight for many is the annual head shaving. This year’s tournament included head hair, beards and one participant who’s proud to return home with his fresh buzz.
“My friend invited me up here,” said Calgary’s Hunter Kalynchuk, noting the importance of the tournament hit close to home.
“My mom had a spinal cord tumour a number of years ago, had a very small chance to live, and thankfully, she survived. I know a lot of people aren’t so lucky. I want to do as much as I can to support the cause.”
Kalynchuk also explained his friend’s mom is currently battling cancer, and it was important for them to come together and help the cause.
“We paid for each other to get our hair cut and donate to the cause and support it as best as we could.”
Earl Andrews, who slightly resembled Grizzly Adams at the start of the weekend, shaved his beard for the cause and raised good money doing it.
“This is one of my most favourite ball tournaments and charities I’ve ever been a part of. I’m excited to be getting rid of the beard to support this cause,” he said before the shave.
“I haven’t been clean-shaven in eight years, and I’ve been growing it out for five or six months now,” he said.
Andrews and his wife have had a team in the Lori Craven for a decade and were on a waitlist for five years before playing.
Motley Troupe staple and owner of Mel’s Hair Shop, Mel Coote, surprised everyone when she announced she’d also be shaving her head for the cause.
“This is an amazing organization and I’m so happy the Motley Troupe has been involved with it for the last two years,” she said. “We reorganized ourselves and sistered with the Lori Craven tournament. It helps the community, and I love it. I know so many people they’ve helped.”
Full of excitement, Coote grabbed the mic and serenaded the crowd with The Animals’ House of the Rising Sun during her cut.
CRAVEN FROM PAGE 15
Top left: These youngsters sold lemonade during Downtown Streetfest to raise money for the Lori Craven Memorial Tournament. Above: Char Jezowski Spirit Award recipient Hudson Hohne (left) accepts her new chair and plaque with Jezowski’s family on Sunday, Aug. 17 at Driven Energy Legion Ball Park. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
Wicker weaves university football path
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
En route to a golden finish in the U18 Football Canada Cup, Team Alberta’s Jake Wicker soaked up a sampling of his probable future as a college student and varsity athlete.
Wicker and fellow competitors stayed in the St. Francis Xavier University dormitories for a week during the national championship tournament in July at Antigonish, N.S.
“It was a cool experience,” said Wicker, who is going into his Grade 12 year at Holy Rosary High School in Lloydminster. “Just walking around campus and showing up for meetings, and having a schedule and staying in the dorms, it was nice. It’s going to prepare me for college life.”
Wicker continued that preparation in August as he participated in identification camps with the University of Regina Rams and the University of Alberta Golden Bears.
And, of course, he’s now right back in the swing of things with the Holy Rosary Raiders as they ready for the high school season. The Raiders are two-time defending Alberta champions at the Tier 3 level.
“We have a good team going in,” Wicker said. “We lost a lot of good seniors, but we also gained some good rookies coming up, too, so I think we’ll have a pretty good chance (to capture another title).”
Wicker’s fellow seniors at Holy Rosary include teammate Denem Weber, who was also part of Alberta’s gold-medal-winning team at the Canada Cup.
“It was definitely nice to have a guy from my team that I knew, going to nationals with me,” Wicker said. “It made it a little better, flying so far away from home.
“Denem is a good player. He made a lot of plays (as a defensive back). He was at the ball every time a receiver caught it. He was in for the tackle. He did a lot for the team.”
Wicker — six-foot-two and 300 pounds — made his considerable presence felt on the offensive line. He protected Alberta’s quarterback and running back “so they could make all the big plays and win us the game,” Wicker said with a smile, sporting his gold medal.
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
In dramatic fashion, Alberta came from behind in the final to defeat Ontario 37-34 in overtime.
It was a familiar script for Alberta, which also made a comeback in the semifinals to defeat Quebec.
“It was very close and very nerve-racking,” Wicker recounted. “It was close every time. We were always down by two (or) three touchdowns by the second quarter, and we just made our way back. We finished the job and won.
“Our head coach made a really good halftime talk during our gold-medal game. He just talked about, ‘If you want to win the game, you’ve got to be the other team’s nightmare.’ It’s just something he said that resonated with me.”
While he normally plays both offensive line and defensive line for Holy Rosary, Wicker’s role with Team Alberta was strictly on the offensive side, applying the heavyweight strength he’s enhanced from his steady summer workout plan.
“I’ve been going to the gym lots.”
At the Canada Cup, Wicker reacquainted himself with Nova Scotia relatives he had met just a year earlier.
“On my mom’s side, I had some great uncles and aunties living there, and I had some cousins over there, too,” said Wicker, 17.
“It was a pretty cool experience, meeting them for the first time last year. Then, this year, they came to some of my games (in Antigonish). That was nice of them.”
Wicker’s cheering section at the nationals included both of his parents, Tony and Emmylou, along with a family friend.
Born and raised in Lloydminster, Wicker has represented Alberta on multiple occasions. Last year, he was part of the provincial U17 team that competed in Calgary at the Western Canadian championship.
As part of another Team Alberta, Wicker played in interprovincial Indigenous football championships in 2023 and 2024.
“That was a different calibre, but still a very cool experience,” he said of those cultural and athletic celebrations.
“I couldn’t do it this summer, though, because I made the (Canada Cup) U18 team and they didn’t really want me getting hurt or anything before the national tournament.”
SCOUTS EYE PROSPECTS
He described the Canada Cup as a spectacle, attracting scouts from university programs across the nation.
Jake Wicker of Lloydminster has had a summer to remember, winning the U18 Football Canada Cup as part of Team Alberta. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Sandy Beach welcomes young golfers
Young golfers hit the links at Sandy Beach Regional Park last Thursday for the park’s annual Junior Golf Day.
Participants received instruction on everything from golf etiquette, putting, driving and chipping on grass and from the sand.
The annual event typically draws upwards of 30 golfers who receive instruction from Sandy Beach members and residents. The instructors and
CPCA standings going into championship weekend
DRIVER STANDINGS
Brad McMann 925
Danny Ringuette 846
Ryan Baptiste 835
Dallas Dyck 832
Vern Nolin 820
Colby Stanley 804
Robby Ethier 788
Calvin Fiddler 782
Dale Young 756
Kris Flanagan 716
DJ DeSutter 701
OUTRIDER STANDINGS
Wyatt Dyck 4156
Logan Pethick 3839
Quinn Langevin 3677
Jaron Danylchuk 3633
Tiegan Larouche 3083
Trey Delver 1673
Gage Renton 1327
WICKER FROM PAGE 18
“U18 was very good for exposure,” Wicker said. “There were lots of universities there to look at you and for you to get recognized with all the other colleges around Canada.
“I’ve been going to a lot of university camps. The plan is to hopefully get some universities looking at me, and gaining a scholarship. I’m looking at going into kinesiology, which will be nice.”
While his auditions at university camps have been in Western Canada, Wicker also warmed up to Atlantic Canada during his Nova Scotia visit.
“It’s a nice campus and a nice small town,” he said of St. F.X. and Antigonish. “We went to a few beaches (on non-game days). It was very nice. We’d go as a team, have fun out there, swim and make some sand sculptures.
“On campus, we each had our own room and own bathroom, which was nice. And we were all close together, in the same proximity, so we could also hang out together in the evening.”
Back home in Lloyd, Wicker planned to hang his national gold medal in his bedroom, alongside his provincial championship medals from Holy Rosary.
team leaders had a great time volunteering while helping the next generation appreciate and enjoy the game.
The highlight of the day for Team Eight’s Oliver and Josh was hitting wiffle balls with their drivers with Curtis and Paul. For Kolton, it was learning the art of putting with instruction from John, Brant and Justin.
Kolton, Josh and Oliver (left to right) get some putting instruction from Justin on Junior Golf Day at Sandy Beach Regional Park. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
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