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Heritage Day entertains all CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI ..................................
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
Heritage Day was a resounding success in Lloydminster as hundreds of people packed Weaver Heritage Park for the day’s festivities. The day kicked off with a free pancake breakfast. “I think we had probably 400 to 500 people this morning,” Beth Bernard, City of Lloydminster recreation programmer said. There was plenty of fun to be had for all ages. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
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HERITAGE DAY FROM PAGE 1
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos
COUNTY CORNER
August 2026
vermilion-river.com
PHOTO CONTEST Join the County for the 7th annual photo contest! This year our calendar theme is “In Our Community”. To enter the contest, email photos along with the photo permission form on our website to photocontest@county24.com. Winning photos will be featured in the 2027 “In Our Community” calendar. Contest ends August 24, 2026.
2026 COMBINED TAX ASSESSMENT & NOTICE Notices were sent on June 15 - please monitor your mail. Tax payment deadline is October 1, 2026. If you are interested in joining the PreAuthorized Payment Plan for Taxes, please visit our website for more information.
EXPLORE THE COUNTY: GUIDE & BUSINESS DIRECTORY This guide showcases local businesses, communities, attractions, events and experiences from across the County. Pick up your copy of the guide at the County of Vermilion River adminisitration office, locations around the County, or on our website.
ALUS WETLAND ADVENTURE DAYS Wetland Adventure Days are back! August 19 find us at Lindsay Evans Park from 2 - 6 PM to paddle or kayak, for wetland activities, bug dipping and free food! August 20, from 2 - 6 PM we will be at Hazeldine Campground to to capture and remove invasive crayfish, bug dipping, wetland activities and free food. There STAY CONNECTED Sign up for our plenty of fun to be had over the two days!
newsletter, follow us FAMILY & COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES on social media or visit (FCSS) FCSS funding application deadline is September our website. 30, 2026. Please contact the Community Development Coordinator if your non-profit is interested in applying.
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“We’ve got a rock-climbing wall, axe throwing, crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, we’ve got a couple of foods trucks out there,” she said. “We’ve got some main stage entertainment, bubble magic show, hula hoop circus show and the petting zoo is right by Rendell Barn.” New this year includes a mechanical bull and the opening of the old Minster Log Church. “In 2023, there was a small fire in the church that caused quite a bit of damage,” Bernard said. “Then, the city worked together with the Friends of Weaver Heritage Park to restore the church. “They’ve been working on doing the staging and everything, getting it ready for today.” She noted the turnout to this year’s Heritage Day was good as the weather held out, staying mostly sunny with some mild August temperatures. “We’ve had a really good turnout. Last year it was rainy so we had a lighter crowd. Looks like people are really enjoying it this year.”
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D AY 2 0 2 6
Thank You Heritage Day drew a big crowd to Weaver Heritage Park on Aug. 3, offering entertainment and plenty of fun for the whole family. Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos
RELAY DISTRIBUTING BEXSON CONSTRUCTION SYNERGY CREDIT UNION GOLD HORSE CASINO REDHEAD EQUIPMENT HOME INN AND SUITES TIM HORTON QUIZNOS SOBEYS CENTRAL TOWING AND RECOVERY LTD.
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Sask 4-H event experiences lower registration CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI ..................................
Sa s k a tc h e w a n 4- H h e ld its fin al event of the year in Lloydminster over the Heritage Day long weekend. The event served as a major showcase for members across the province. “This is basically our grand finale for the year for our members,” said Ashley L’Henaff, livestock program co-ordinator for 4-H Saskatchewan. “We are the provincial 4-H judging first time this year. competition. Members from around “All these members have worked on t h e p r o v i n c e h a d t o q u a l i f y t o their projects all year long,” L’Henaff compete here. We have 34 competing said. in that. We’re also the provincial beef The judging competition aims to show and the provincial sheep show.” prepare older members for national The provincial beef and sheep shows competition. were held in Lloydminster for the “Our judging competition is catered towards older members because the goal of the competition is to qualify to compete at Agribition,” L’Henaff said, adding eight participants will move on to the Canadian Western Agribition in Regina in November. yourvoicelloyd.ca/2027budget
ENGAGE TODAY. SHAPE TOMORROW.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
The municipal budget affects every part of life in Lloydminster; the roads you drive, the parks you enjoy, the protective services that keep you safe and so much more. Through the 2027 Municipal Budget survey, you can share your voice on what matters most to you! Feedback from this survey will inform funding allocations for years to come. Complete the survey before August 19.
Paper surveys are available at all City facilities and the Lloydminster Public Library.
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos
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C I T Y-W I D E
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos 4-H FROM PAGE 4
Turnout was lower this year as several factors affected registration. “We had a little bit of a hit to our numbers this year,” L’Henaff said. “It’s a tricky weekend, everybody’s busy, we’re all farmers and we are behind haying. “We’re hopeful for next year.” Next year, the event will move to Saskatoon. “We do bounce around the province,” she said. “Last year we were in Yorkton, the year before that we were in Melfort. Next year we’re in Saskatoon.”
Local Business Directory
2026 FALL GUIDE
REGISTRATION IS OPEN COST AND AGE CATEGORIES VARY Explore all of what Lloydminster has to offer with the Fall Guide featuring events and programs taking place from September through December. Lloydminster.ca/Guides
SUMMER FUN CAMPS AGE GROUPS 2016-2021
COSTS VARY Limited spots available! Themed activities, crafts, games and more! Lloydminster.ca/Register S E RVUS S PO R TS C E N T R E
FALL COMMUNITY REGISTRATION AND INFORMATION NIGHT
SEP 2 • 4-8 PM • COSTS VARY Vendor registration is open for groups, clubs, organizations, support resources, etc. Lloydminster.ca/CommunityReg BU D M I L L E R PA R K
COMMUNITY OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT
AUG 13 • 8 PM • FREE Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a FREE showing of Hoppers at the Bud Miller All Seasons Park amphitheatre! Big Brothers Big Sisters will be on site offering pop and snacks for a suggested donation. This event is weather dependent.
FALL FEST
PRESENTED BY Y’S MARKETING
WE ARE LABIS Supporting individuals with acquired brain injuries through programs, support, and resources.
Interaction - Support - Friendship #103-4090 41 St.
labis@sasktel.net
SEP 12 • 12-5 PM • FREE Celebrate the season at Fall Fest with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, food vendors, and fun for all ages. Lloydminster.ca/FallFest
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SIRT investigating in-custody death at Turtleford
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a s k a t c h e w a n ’ s i n d e p e n d e n t to the scene. p o l i c e o v e r s i g h t b o d y i s Despite resuscitation efforts, the man investigating after a 37-year-old was declared dead at the detachment. man died while in RCMP custody at the Police say the man’s family has been Turtleford detachment on July 29. notified of his death. His name has not According to police, officers executed been released. a w a r r a n t a t a r e s i d e n c e o n t h e In accordance with The Police Act, Thunderchild First Nation on July 29 1990, the Saskatchewan RCMP notified as part of an ongoing investigation. the Saskatchewan Serious Incident The man was arrested without incident Response Team (SIRT). The civilianand transported to holding cells at led oversight agency confirmed the the Turtleford detachment at about i n c i d e n t f a l l s u n d e r i t s m a n d a t e 1:30 p.m. and has assumed control of the At about 3 p.m., the man experienced investigation into the circumstances medical distress while inside his cell. surrounding the death. RCMP officers administered immediate RCMP stated they cannot release medical assistance and emergency f u r t h e r d e t a i l s w h i l e t h e S I R T m e d i c a l p e r s o n n e l w e r e c a l l e d investigation is underway. 26081TG0 26081TG2 26081TG3 26081TG4
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Civic Centre demolition imminent, memories remain
to look worn out. After serving the community for “There will be, not just for myself, nearly 60 years, the Centennial Civic but a lot of community members, lots Centre will soon be demolished. of memories that go down with them. The City of Lloydminster approved Those memories will always be in the awarding the demolition contract to back of our minds and kept in other Silverado Demolition Operations Inc. ways.” for $544,000. Because the winning Whiting added that moving on is a bid came in lower than competing natural next step for the city. tenders, some city councillors raised “It’s nice to see this chapter close and concerns about the scope of the work. the new one open,” he said. J a m e s R o g e r s , t h e c i t y ’ s s e n i o r Nearby residents will be notified manager of capital infrastructure, said p r i o r t o t h e s t a r t o f h e a v y staff have worked with the contractor construction. before and feel confident in the arrangement. “We’ve worked with Silverado in the past. We’ve had these conversations with them and I had multiple (discussions) with Silverado administration,” Rogers said. Demolition work is scheduled to begin late this summer. For Deputy Mayor Jason Whiting, the loss of the physical facility is tempered by decades of community history. “I remember my first time in the Civic Centre. I remember the first game that I attended with my aunts way back in the day,” Whiting said. “(I) have a lot of memories in that facility. At the same time, I’ve also watched that facility go from a very fun place to be, to a place that has its challenges and has its costs and starts CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI ..................................
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Lloydminster animal control bylaw addresses safety concerns CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI ..................................
The City of Lloydminster is looking to increase public safety through updates to its animal control bylaw. The bylaw was originally approved by city council in 2021, but updates are required to address current community trends and concerns. Stock photo Highlights of the proposed updates include guidelines for the care and Under the updated bylaw, written c o n t r o l o f d o m e s t i c a n i m a l s , t h e notice would be provided to residents establishment of a pound operation, living near a restricted dog’s primary disease control authorities, general a d d r e s s — a p r o c e s s D e G r u c h y provisions, livestock or exotic animal explained would depend on the severity r e s t r i c t i o n s a n d r e s t r i c t e d d o g of the attack. provisions. “Right now, when we do respond or “Along with the introduction for investigate dog bites/attacks, we use t h e d e s i g n a t e d o f f i c e r t o c r e a t e what’s called a Dunbar Scale, which public notices when a dog is deemed looks at the severity of the bite,” he r e s t r i c t e d , ” A n d r e w D e G r u c h y , said. “It looks at essentially the wounds director of public safety for the City and the animal behaviour.” of Lloydminster said. “This would be The Dunbar Dog Bite Scale assesses following two unprovoked attacks or bite severity on a scale from level what we deem necessary to deem the one to level six. Level one represents dog restricted based off observation.” obnoxious or aggressive behaviour with no tooth-on-skin contact, while level six involves extreme danger and severe mutilation. DeGruchy said residents will be notified based on where an incident ranks on that scale. “We want to utilize that Dunbar scale with the proximity.” Council gave first reading to the updated animal control bylaw.
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Administration outlines corporate plan in Lloydminster was realistic and asked what execution Lloydminster city council recently would look like if the city faced budget reviewed administration’s 2026–29 cuts. corporate plan. Pollard clarified the strategy behind Council’s strategic plan establishes the plan’s scope. a long-term vision and identifies key “The message that went out with priorities to guide decision making this is: Don’t expect a whole bunch throughout its term. The administrative of financial and staff resources to corporate plan translates that vision complete. It’s intended to maintain,” into co-ordinated departmental actions. Pollard said. “The intention was to “A corporate planning framework make sure you can attain what you can provides a clear line of sight between attain.” council’s strategic direction and Council accepted the 2026–29 administration’s work,” explained city adm in istrative corporat e plan as manager Dion Pollard. “The corporate information. plan outlines how administration will deliver on those priorities.” The plan will serve as a living document accessible to the public. “The intention would be all these are complete by the end of 2029; lots of them are ongoing,” Pollard said. “At the end of the day, the departments will work with that and some of this will also come down to budget. Some of these require budget — if, for whatever reason, the budget doesn’t proceed, then they may not move forward. “That’s been part of the challenge with prior councils. I want to make sure we have the resources so our council and the public can see what we’re up against in terms of lifespan and available resources.” Coun. David Lopez questioned whether completing the goals within budget CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI ..................................
PAGE 10 Thursday, August 6, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE
5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 | Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday The MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday. All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion. Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.
Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca
Sports Editor John MacNeil sports@meridiansource.ca
Staff Writer Christian Apostolovski christian@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Consultant Jacie Borrebach jacie@meridiansource.ca 780-870-5583 Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Distribution: distribution@meridiansource.ca CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca
2017
Viewpoint
Leave it to Weaver
Light up Bud Miller for a great cause Extra, extra, read all o f t h e g l o w r i d e f o r a about it! Jarrod Russell second year. is back to light up Bud S i n c e s t a r t i n g h i s Miller All Seasons Park. j o u r n e y 1 2 y e a r s a g o , That’s right: Russell Russell has pedalled and the Great Cycle m o r e t h a n 1 2 , 0 0 0 C h a l l e n g e w i l l o n c e kilometres and raised again host a glow bike o v e r $ 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 . A night at Bud Miller on s u r v i v o r o f c h i l d h o o d Aug. 19, and everyone’s c a n c e r h i m s e l f , h e invited. knows first-hand how T h e G r e a t C y c l e important initiatives Challenge is an annual like this are. fundraiser supporting T h e A u g . 1 9 e v e n t a t c h i l d r e n f i g h t i n g the park shelter invites cancer. Now in his 12th p a r t i c i p a n t s t o b i k e , y e a r f u n d r a i s i n g f o r walk or run. Check-in the charity, Russell is starts at 9 p.m. and the excited for the return r i d e k i c k s o f f a t 9 : 4 5 p.m. Come out and show Russell you back his mission with a fun night on the trails. COMMUNITY MEMBER Having known Russell OF THE MONTH for a number of years, his commitment to the CONGRATULATIONS cause never ceases to JEN MCCONNELL our community member of the month for July! amaze me. Jen received a $25 Gift Certificate The Meridian Source from Canadian Tire! will be there to capture To nominate your community member email jacie@meridiansource.ca the excitement, and Brought to you by we hope to see you all there!
Opinion
PAGE 11 Thursday, August 6, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE
Chris’ A-Z: I remain a married man
Last year around this time I wrote, “I return a married man.” July 31, 2025, marked the day Hope and I tied the knot. The day thankfully went off without a hitch, and we had plenty of great memories to reflect on. This year, July 31 has come and gone, and my wife and I celebrated with dinner and some laughs, thinking about our wedding and the year since. It’s a bit of a surreal experience to realize how fast time goes by, but our wedding anniversary File photo was exactly that. They always say, “Time flies when the future holds. People say the first you’re having fun,” and it’s absolutely year of marriage is the hardest, but t r u e . F o r e f f e c t i v e l y o u r w h o l e I disagree. If you know the person relationship, Hope and I have lived yo u’re marrying and have a good together, making the transition to f o u n d a t i o n i n y o u r r e l a t i o n s h i p , m a r r i e d l i f e m u c h e a s i e r . W e ’ v e it’ll seem like any other year. We always enjoyed each other’s company had plenty of time before getting and bonded over whatever we were married to work through any issues doing. and discuss how to live together and W e ’ v e e x p e r i e n c e d a t o n o f n e w handle most situations. t h i n g s t o g e t h e r , s p e n t t i m e w i t h I look forward to the many years family and taken in a lot of first a h e a d . I a l s o l o o k f o r w a r d t o events. With marriage came the need continuing to share my story and to plan for the future, something updating everyone on how things are w e ’ v e b e e n l o o k i n g a t i n d e p t h . going. Lloydminster in a lot of ways has To cap off this column, if there’s become part of our fabric as we have a n y t h i n g I c a n s a y t o t h o s e i n a friends and various commitments relationship considering marriage: here. it’s easy to find someone you love, T h a t b e i n g s a i d , w e c o n t i n u e t o but it’s much harder to find a best grow together and accept whatever friend and a life partner.
12 Thursday, August 6, 2026 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
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Von Bieker at the Vic Juba Theatre Bingo at Moose Lodge Bingo is back at Moose Lodge every The Government of Alberta, City of Monday and Wednesday evening. Doors Lloydminster and Vic Juba Community open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Theatre present Von Bieker on Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are free, reserved seating Must be 18 to play. only. Reserve tickets, here. Southridge Playschool L’il Don on the Prairie Registration is Open T h e S o u t h r i d g e P l a y s c h o o l a n d Comedian Don Burnstick presents L’il K i n d e r g y m S o c i e t y h a s o p e n e d Don on the Prairie on Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at registration for the fall 2026-27 term the Vic Juba Community Theatre. for kids ages 3-5. One day a week is The Hip Experience at the Vic Juba covered by a government affordability grant, and two days a week is $325 for The Hip Experience: Canada’s Premier the whole term. Contact Mrs. Shandy at Tribute to The Tragically Hip, returns to the southridgeplayschool@gmail.com or Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 23 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $40. message them on Facebook. Menopause the Musical Chair Yoga The Alcurve Community Hall is hosting T h e V i c J u b a C o m m u n i t y T h e a t r e chair yoga every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. p r e s e n t s t h e D r . H . A . M c D o n a l d Cost is $15 for drop-in or $50 per month. S e a s o n p r o d u c t i o n o f M e n o p a u s e Call or text Deb at 780-808-0015 for more t h e M u s i c a l o n O c t . 1 a t 7 : 3 0 p . m . Tickets are $70. details. PWR/UP - AC/DC at the Vic Juba Europa Super Circus at the Lloyd Ex The Europa Super Circus is performing PWR/UP, Canada’s premier AC/AD tribute at the Lloydminster Exhibition from act, is coming to the Vic Juba Community Aug. 6 to Aug. 9, featuring high-flying Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 3, for a 7:30 p.m. aerialists, tight-wire acts and motorcycle show. Tickets are available here. stunts. Elton John Tribute at the Vic Juba Electric Elton, the music and legacy of Henry Sir Comedy at the Elton John, is at the Vic Juba Community 4th Meridian Brewing Company Henry Sir is bringing his sharp, witty Theatre on Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $69. comedy to Lloydminster for a night of Elvis and Dolly at the Vic laughs and banter you won’t forget. Sir will be at the 4th Meridian Brewing E l v i s a n d D o l l y : B l u e S u e d e a n d Company, 2632 50 Ave. on Aug. 13 from 7 R h i n e s t o n e s h i t s t h e s t a g e a t t h e to 9 p.m. Tickets are $33.28 and available Vic Juba Theatre on Oct. 8. Tickets are $60.25. here.
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Retired coworkers win $250,000 Sask Lotteries jackpot MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF ..................................
A weekly lottery tradition between three retired colleagues has paid off to the tune of $250,004. Terry Nelson of Battleford, alongside Saskatoon residents Leslie Deptuch and Linda Benko, matched all seven digits on their E X T R A t i c k e t d u r i n g Leslie Deptuch, Terry Nelson and Linda Benko were all smiles after winning a Submitted the July 2 Sask Lotteries $250,004 Sask Lotteries jackpot. check her phone, while grandchildren. DAILY GRAND draw. T h e t r i o o r i g i n a l l y B e n k o r e a c t e d w i t h Leslie Deptuch: Plans started buying lottery lighthearted skepticism. to take her time before t i c k e t s w h i l e w o r k i n g “I asked if it was real,” deciding how to use her together, a joint routine Benko said. “I said I’d share. they chose to maintain believe it when I see it.” The group purchased W i t h t h e w i n the winning ticket at into retirement. “We retired and just c o n f i r m e d , a l l t h r e e the 29 Street Market, kept the tradition going, w i n n e r s h a v e d i s t i n c t located at 221 29 St. in n o w w e b u y o n c e a p l a n s f o r t h e i r Battleford. respective shares of the week,” Nelson said. Nelson discovered the prize: w i n n i n g t i c k e t w h i l e Terry Nelson: Plans to c h e c k i n g t h e g r o u p ’ s put part of her winnings e n t r i e s a n d q u i c k l y toward home repairs sent a message to their and save the remainder GRACE UNITED CHURCH Sunday, August 9, 2026 as a nest egg. shared group chat. Rev. George Mafuleka and Ben Nutbrown Deptuch admitted she Linda Benko: Intends Nursery and Sunday i n i t i a l l y m i s s e d t h e to finish building her Pride Sunday Rachel Young presiding text message alert until f e n c e a n d s h a r e s o m e #GodsHandsHeartAndFeetAlways All Are Welcome! Benko prompted her to o f t h e f u n d s w i t h h e r 4708 - 50 Avenue T9V 0W4 780-875-8959 graceunitedchurch.ca
PAGE 14 Thursday, August 6, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE
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NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS IN THE ESTATE OF
MILDRED LOUISE ADAMS,
who died on JULY 12, 2026 If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: September 7, 2026 With: PAMELA ADAMS at: 5709 - 21 STREET, LLOYDMINSTER, AB T9V 3N3 If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
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FIREARMS W A N T E D FOR OUR 2026 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800-6942609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www. switzersauction. com for Auction Dates & Details.
WARD’s AUCTIONS. Sturgeon County Online Auction of Vehicles, Tools, Equipment, etc. on August 8th. Preview August 7th. Current items include Bayliner Boat, BMW 440i, Lincoln MKX, Honda CRV, Quad, 3-Point attachments. MiniSkid, trailers, lathe, milling machine, hand tools, antique Ford tractor, etc. WardsAuctions. com. Brad Ward 780-940-8378.
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Saskatchewan hot spell accelerates crops, strains topsoil moisture MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF ..................................
Recent hot, dry conditions across Saskatchewan have driven rapid crop development, providing a welcome boost to delayed fields while putting additional strain on drier regions, according to the File photo latest provincial crop report. reported modest rainfall cent good and 29 per cent F o r t h e w e e k o f J u l y b e t w e e n 1 0 a n d 2 0 excellent. 2 1 t o J u l y 2 7 , c r o p millimetres. With fungicide and c o n d i t i o n s a c r o s s t h e The dry stretch caused i n - c r o p s p r a y i n g p r o v i n c e r e m a i n e d cropland topsoil moisture w r a p p i n g u p , m a n y m o s t l y g o o d , t h o u g h levels to decline, with f a r m e r s a c r o s s t h e o v e r a l l p r o g r e s s 67 per cent now rated province are beginning to continues to be variable. a s a d e q u a t e , 2 7 p e r transition toward harvest H i g h t e m p e r a t u r e s cent short, five per cent preparation, including during flowering periods surplus, and one per cent equipment servicing and created stress for some very short. bin maintenance. oilseed crops, which have Pasture topsoil moisture now mostly transitioned dropped to 58 per cent DAL-ZAN PLUMBING LTD. out of the flowering phase adequate and 36 per cent • Laborer, Apprentices , Journeyman • Full time position 40 hours a week and into podding. short. • Work is residential and some commercial Scattered Producers also • Wage will depend on experience thunderstorms provided contended with humid • Driver license is required limited relief, with the conditions that slowed • Work is mostly all new construction & renovations Coleville area recording haying operations. First• Work is in the Lloydminster the highest precipitation c u t h a y i n g p r o g r e s s and surrounding area a t 2 5 m i l l i m e t r e s , stands at 50 per cent EMAIL RESUMES TO followed by Calder at 24 baled or silaged, 28 per dal-zanplumbing@outlook.com 780-870-1641 millimetres and Rabbit cent cut and in swath, Po. Box 2366 station main Lake at 22 millimetres. and 22 per cent standing, Lloydminster SK, S9V 1W5 M o s t o t h e r a r e a s with quality rated 62 per
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Documentarian preserves veteran stories across Canada and beyond TAYLOR WEAVER ..................................
For Toronto-based documentarian Zach Dunn, recording history isn’t just an interest — it’s an urgent, personal mission against the ticking clock. Through his oral history project, Global Veteran Stories, the 26-yearold creator has set out to capture and preserve the firsthand experiences of Second World War, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans before their stories are lost forever. Among the more than 160 veterans Dunn has interviewed across 20 Allied countries is Bonnyville’s own Willie McGregor, a 103-year-old Second World War medic who served on the Bonnyville’s Willie McGregor was one of Zach Dunn’s latest interviews for his Global Veteran Stories’ project. Submitted front lines in Western Europe. While Dunn spent a week in Alberta conversation made a lasting impression interviewing veterans in Calgary and on Dunn. Edmonton, a tight schedule meant he “He was incredible — such a very couldn’t make the trip up to Bonnyville quiet and humble man,” Dunn said in person. Thanks to the assistance of of McGregor. “His role was pretty the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183 impactful. He was a medic with the in Bonnyville — and Sergeant at Arms Canadian Army attached to a Scottish Bob McRae — a virtual meeting was set regiment and he saw a lot of action.” up over Zoom. Arriving in France shortly after “ I e n d e d u p r e a c h i n g o u t t o t h e D-Day, McGregor treated wounded Bonnyville Legion and that’s how Allied soldiers across Normandy, I got in contact with Willie,” Dunn rode on tanks through Belgium and shared. “The incredible people at the continued through the Netherlands Bonnyville Legion set something up and into Germany. over Zoom. Willie was sitting in a “Picture going through four countries church in Bonnyville and we were able a s a 2 2 - y e a r - o l d f r o m N o r t h e r n to sit down and chat.” Alberta,” Dunn reflected. “It’s pretty Despite the physical distance, the incredible.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
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ZACH DUNN FROM PAGE 16
Dunn’s journey into military history began at home in early 2021 while cleaning out his parents’ basement. He stumbled across old photos and medals belonging to his late grandfather, John Williams, a Second World War British Airborne paratrooper who passed away in 2003. “He never talked about his story — it was one of the lost stories in our family,” Dunn explained. “I thought, there’s got to be other veterans his age A young Willie McGregor. Submitted who might be open to sharing.” What began as a personal effort while also providing copies to the t o m e e t j u s t o n e v e t e r a n q u i c k l y veterans and their families. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 snowballed. Dunn started cold-calling local Legions, launched a YouTube CROSSWORD channel and website, and eventually expanded his reach to interview PLAY ONLINE! veterans from West Africa, Trinidad, the UK, France, India, Australia and the United States. LAST WEEK’S ANSWER: When interviewing centenarians about war memories, Dunn prefers an open, conversational approach rather than rigid questionnaires. “The best way I find to get natural stories is asking open-ended questions,” Dunn said. “Questions like, ‘What were you feeling in that moment?’ or ‘What did you see, smell and experience?’ Those types of questions really pull out the answers where you can almost experience what they were feeling.” To ensure these history lessons reach GET NOTICED future generations, Dunn donates all Sponsor our crossword section today. recorded footage to high schools and Contact us today at 306-825-5111 museums across Canada and the U.S., ACROSS 1. Boring tools 5. Viper 8. Hawaiian gala 12. Cleansing substance 13. Shed tool 14. Lodging places 15. Not bad: hyph. 16. Antithesis 18. Like some winter roads 20. Speak 21. Borer 24. Restore to health 26. Geologic age 27. From a distance 29. Clock face 33. Corrode 34. Fool 36. Have debts
37. City air problem 39. Misplace 40. Decade count 41. Gawk 43. Minimum amount 45. Ski resort feature 48. Agent 49. Least heavy 52. Decreases 56. Farm measure 57. Big monkey 58. Castle-shaped chess piece 59. Equal 60. Green 61. Influence
DOWN 1. Pack animal 2. Court 3. Spanish article 4. Decay 5. Tar's call 6. Drench 7. Liveliness 8. Itemized 9. Group 10. Gambler's wager 11. Operator 17. Possessive plural 19. Scottish family group 21. Bad marks 22. Ramble 23. Toward 24. Slender boat 25. Coffee containers 28. Satisfy
30. Tiny bit 31. Overwhelms 32. Advanced 35. Canine cry 38. Burrowing rodent 42. Understand 44. Watchers 45. Hit 46. Classroom pests 47. Beast 48. Mulligan ____ 50. Serving of corn 51. Facial spot 53. Boat's front 54. Scarf 55. Blue yonder
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Zach Dunn interviews Willie McGregor via Zoom for this Global Veteran Stories’ project. Submitted
With over 150 Second World War “For me, it’s purely educational,” v e t e r a n s p a s s i n g a w a y e a c h d a y Dunn emphasized. “This history is not globally, Dunn views his work as a that far removed from us. If you’re literal race against time. in high school today, these veterans “ W h e n a v e t e r a n i s i n t h e i r l a t e could be your great-grandparents. I 90s, that’s considered ‘young’ in my want young people to be curious, ask project,” Dunn noted, adding that his questions about their family history oldest interviewee was 110-year-old and be grateful for the freedoms we Burgett Sisler of Fort Erie, Ont. “There’s certainly an urgency there, have today.” and I’m doing the best I can.” SUDOKU Dunn encourages anyone who knows a veteran interested in sharing their story to reach out through his website at globalveteranstories.com. “Veterans are often so humble — they PLAY ONLINE SUDOKU AND don’t want all the credit,” Dunn said. PLAY ONLINE! CLIMB THE LEADERBOARD! “We don’t have much time left with HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, them and I would love to schedule an every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. in-person or Zoom interview with as Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few many as possible.” numbers to get you started. ZACH DUNN FROM PAGE 17
LAST WEEK’S ANSWER:
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RCMP unveils first police cruiser redesign in more than 30 years MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF ..................................
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is giving its front-line fleet a new look for the first time in more than three decades. The national police force unveiled a redesigned appearance for its cruisers on July 20, transitioning to a classic black-and-white colour scheme featuring white doors on a black base. File photo The updated vehicles feature highvisibility, reflective graphics intended appearing on Canadian roads later to make officers easily recognizable this summer. The fleet update will day or night across urban, rural and occur gradually as older vehicles reach replacement criteria to ensure a remote communities. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme cost-effective rollout without service said the new look prioritizes public disruptions. safety and visibility while connecting P r o v i n c e s , t e r r i t o r i e s a n d t h e m o d e r n f l e e t t o t h e f o r c e ’ s municipalities served by the RCMP historic identity. The black-and-white will have the option to include local aesthetic draws inspiration from identifiers on the vehicles. Both earlier patrol vehicles used in previous c u r r e n t a n d r e d e s i g n e d c r u i s e r s will operate side-by-side during the decades. The redesigned cruisers will begin transition period.
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Word on the beat: ongoing investigations
evidence will be returned from these Often in media releases about police specialized services, media releases will incidents, you may see that someone state that the investigation is ongoing. has been charged, yet the investigation I f w e d o r e t r i e v e e v i d e n c e f r o m is noted to be ongoing. This may strike seized items, further follow-up tasks some people as odd — shouldn’t the are required to link that new evidence investigation be complete if someone specifically to a suspect or scene. This may involve drafting an Information to was charged? Not always. S o m e i n c i d e n t s a r e f a i r l y Obtain (ITO) to secure search warrants straightforward and don’t involve a or court orders, all of which takes time. lot of moving parts. Others are more P o l i c e m a y a l s o n e e d t o t a k e complicated and require many tasks to statements from witnesses who left be completed long after the initial police the scene before officers arrived, or response at the scene. For instance, conduct secondary interviews as new attending a dispute where one person details emerge. Locating individuals punched another wouldn’t likely take who live out of the area or are transient much follow-up investigation, aside can also add to the timeline. from gathering medical records in the Additionally, investigators often need time to strategize complex investigative event of an injury. For police to arrest someone and techniques, some of which cannot be lay a charge, we need reasonable discussed publicly. When using nonand probable grounds to believe an typical methods, we consult with offence was committed, which requires legal experts to ensure our approach evidence. Most often, there is enough complies with the law and relevant initial evidence to support a charge. case law, giving us the best chance of However, for a court to convict a lawfully obtaining evidence. person, a higher standard of proof is O t h e r d e l a y s s i m p l y s t e m f r o m required: proof beyond a reasonable availability — such as waiting on specific d o u b t . T h i s i s w h e r e f o l l o w - u p security personnel who hold the sole access needed to extract video footage. investigation becomes essential. Generally, the longest delays occur Until officers have gathered and when we need to send exhibits away processed evidence, the investigation for processing. Items may be sent to will remain active and ongoing. a specialized unit to extract digital Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown is the NCO evidence from a phone or computer, or in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP sent to a laboratory to analyze physical detachment’s General Investigation evidence such as DNA. Because it Section. Stay tuned for future online is unknown when — or if — useful columns from the Lloydminster RCMP. Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN .................................................
John MacNeil SPORTS EDITOR sports@meridiansource.ca
Sports
The Lloydminster Prairie Pirates are the Baseball Alberta 15U AA Tier 3 champions. In the front row (from left) are Dayton Pedersen, Alex Kuntz, Bauer Becker, Sam Purser and Tye Schneider. In the back row (from left) are head coach Gage Haygarth, assistant coach Konnor Hennigar, Cameron Rommel, Khessler Foster, Logan Schmidt, Rhett Kuntz, Cash Anwender, Mason Flasch, Maddox Turcotte and assistant coaches Brenden Pollard and Ellis King. John MacNeil Meridian Source
BEST IN ALBERTA Prairie Pirates go 4-0 as they win 15U AA Tier 3 provincials at home
It was almost dark as the A f t e r p l a y i n g l i k e Pirates celebrated their gangbusters all weekend, golden finish at Hospital t h e h o s t L l o y d m i n s t e r West Field in Lloydminster. P r a i r i e P i r a t e s f a c e d a Both finalists and a strong tougher test Sunday night contingent of fans battled i n t h e B a s e b a l l A l b e r t a wind, rain and cold — in 15U AA Tier 3 provincial stark contrast to the warm final but still pushed past w e a t h e r t h a t p r e v a i l e d the Camrose Cougars Royal Friday and Saturday. 14-13. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
PAGE 21 Thursday, August 6, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE
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PIRATES PARADE ON GOLDEN RUN
Fellow home-run hitters Dayton Pedersen (left) and Mason Flasch celebrate Pedersen’s homer Sunday in the Lloydminster Prairie Pirates’ 11-1 semifinal win over Lacombe Dodgers Blue at Baseball Alberta’s 15U AA Tier 3 provincials. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Lloydminster Prairie Pirates’ Bauer Becker speeds around the bases in Sunday’s 11-1 semifinal win over Lacombe Dodgers Blue at the 15U AA Tier 3 provincials. John MacNeil Meridian Source
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Maddox Turcotte stroked two hits, including a two-run double, as the Pirates defeated Lacombe 11-1. John MacNeil Meridian Source
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The Lloydminster Xtreme, including buddies (from left) Brady Gamble, Rogan Macnab and Alex Hill, repeated as provincial champions. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Xtreme sweep Wranglers out of the Hub JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
Regardless of an extended playoff format, the Lloydminster Xtreme were up to the task as they repeated as provincial champions on the August long weekend. The Xtreme did so in front of their hometown fans Sunday afternoon at the Hub’s Co-op Community Arena, defeating the Calgary Wranglers 12-5 to sweep the best-of-three Alberta junior B Tier 2 championship series. Lloydminster won the opener 6-3 on Saturday. A third game, if necessary, would have been played on the holiday Monday. The Alberta championship series was adopted this year in place of a single-game final, which in previous years capped a four-team provincial tournament. That was the case last year when the Xtreme won provincials in Calgary. Lloydminster coach Graham Murray, a strong proponent of the expanded playoff structure, believes it best determines a true provincial winner. The Xtreme certainly felt that was the case Sunday as they celebrated back-toback provincial titles. XTREME 12 WRANGLERS 5: In what proved to be the deciding game, Lloyd led 5-2 after the first period and 11-5 following the second. Rogan Macnab, the Xtreme’s top scorer,
netted a goal and four assists. Jace Gunderson added two of each, while Teige Brown potted a goal and three assists. Blake Sheppard, with three points, and 16-year-old call-up Ryder Plamondon each scored two goals for Lloydminster. Dagan Thiessen supplied a goal and two helpers. Tobin Dougan and captain Owen Hill each picked up a goal and an assist. Marcus Morgan also tallied as the Xtreme received points from 13 players, including goaltender Jackson Bennett. Lloyd connected three times on power plays, while Calgary collected two extrastrength goals. Sam Matheos fired two goals and an assist for the Wranglers. Casey Pennoyer also netted a pair of tallies. Daniel Brown added a goal and an assist. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning and Development Department Take notice that the following Development Permit Application for a proposed Discretionary Use is being reviewed in accordance with Land Use Bylaw 5-2025.
Affected Address
Use
App #
38 Alberta Crescent Lot: 13, Block: 64, Plan: 4105 NY
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26-6172
Anyone wishing to provide written comment or make general inquiry on the proposed use may do so within the next fourteen (14) days by contacting Roxanne Shortt at the City Operations Centre (6623 – 52 Street) at 780-874-3700 Ext 2608 or by email at permits@lloydminster.ca. Full name and address are required for submission of valid comment(s).
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Xtreme research helps them rope Wranglers
Xtreme coach Graham Murray said about The Lloydminster Xtreme did their the Wranglers. homework and pre-scouted the Calgary “I kind of knew what they were going to Wranglers almost to perfection last do offensively and on the power plays. We weekend en route to winning the Alberta planned for it, and we shut it down. We let junior B Tier 2 lacrosse championship for in three goals and five goals, so if we can the second straight summer. do that defensively, our offence is going to After working out any kinks in a 6-3 score enough to win games.” victory Saturday, the host Xtreme finished I t w a s a c l e a n p e r f o r m a n c e f o r the job Sunday with a solid 12-5 win Lloydminster in front of an appreciative that gave them a two-game sweep of the hometown crowd at the year-old Co-op Alberta final. Community Arena. “We’ve played them at provincials before and I’ve watched them play,” veteran CONTINUED ON PAGE 25 JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
The graduating members of the Lloydminster Xtreme capped their junior B lacrosse careers Sunday with a second straight provincial Tier 2 championship. From left are Reese Way, Logan Laing, Lochlain Jenner, Jackson Bennett, Owen Hill and Ian Muir. Submitted
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XTREME 6 WRANGLERS 3: Macnab and Gunderson, the Xtreme’s top two scorers this season, each scored two goals and two assists in the seriesopening victory. Both of Gunderson’s goals — and one of Macnab’s — were power-play markers. Sheppard added a& ALL goalGOLD and & an assist. Lloydminster’s FOR JEWELRY otherSILVER, tally came Gamble, who also is a , bullion,Brady 999 bars, COINSfrom nuggets, sterling old gold,hockey team. member of the juniorsilver, A Bobcats broken gold etc. Dagan Thiessen contributed two assists. Calgary’s goal-scorers were Pennoyer, Jackson Bardwell WANTED COIN COLLECTIONS , collectors coins, coin & old and Isaac Wong, with a sets power-play tally. The money! teams were tied 2-2 after the first period. The Xtreme went up1-825-365-8557 4-3 in the second and they scored the Call NOW! Covering Calgary, of Edmonton Rural Alberta. I drive to you! only two goals the&third period.
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The Lloydminster Xtreme swept the Calgary Wranglers in the provincial final last weekend at the Co-op Community Arena. Submitted
as the Xtreme graduate multiple key pieces “In the first game, Calgary’s goaltender from the back end. was making the saves he needed to make, “It’s a good chunk of our defence,” Murray and then on Sunday we kind of figured him said. “We’re losing our captain Owen (Hill), out,” Murray said. “We chased him (from who’s one of the best transition players in the game). They put the other guy in, we the league. We’re losing great defenders in scored two on him, and then they brought Logan Laing and Lochlain Jenner. Jackson (Bennett) was a rental for us, but we’re the starter back in.” Jackson Bennett provided the Xtreme losing a great goaltender. He did wonders with stingy goaltending since he was for us and I hope his mentorship helps with Kagen (Carson) being able to take over the acquired at the trade deadline in June. “As soon as we got Jackson, I knew that reins next year.” we had everything around him that we Ian Muir and Reese Way are also valued needed,” Murray said. “He was the final veterans graduating from the Lloydminster piece of the puzzle, and once we acquired defence. him, I knew we’d be at the top of the league “Ian has been a five-year player who has and pushing for that championship again.” been an absolute force on the back end Bennett’s junior eligibility ends this year every year,” Murray said.
XTREME EFFORT PREVAILS FROM PAGE 24
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780-504-7995 Lloydminster Xtreme captains (from left) Brady Gamble, Jace Gunderson, Owen Hill and Rogan Macnab accept the provincial championship trophy and banner. Submitted
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Scoring a combined 62 runs in four weekend victories, the provincial-champion Lloydminster Prairie Pirates had plenty of opportunities to salute each other during the Baseball Alberta 15U AA Tier 3 provincials in Lloyd. John MacNeil Meridian Source
complete innings. It was the second homer Trailing 14-9 entering the seventh inning, of the night for Flasch, who went 4-for-4 Camrose rallied with four runs to make it and drove in four runs in the final. a one-run ball game. Lloyd pitcher Alex Notably, the Pirates went into the six-team Kuntz struck out the final batter to snuff the tournament as the last seed. They finished Cougars’ dramatic comeback efforts. with a 4-0 record — including three mercy It was a game of momentum shifts, as wins — and sporting gold medals. Lloyd came back from an early 5-1 deficit to “ I d i d n ’ t r e a l l y l i k e w h e r e w e w e r e score the next nine runs. The Pirates took a ranked,” said Lloydminster head coach 10-6 edge into the sixth inning, before the Gage Haygarth. “I thought we were better Cougars clawed back to cut the gap to 10-9. than our ranking. T h e n , a s t h e y d i d s o e f f e c t i v e l y a l l “But the boys played well all weekend. weekend, the Pirates played more long You don’t score 60-something runs without ball — including back-to-back home runs contributions from everyone. We didn’t from tournament MVP Dayton Pedersen have a weak point in our lineup. All the boys and Mason Flasch — to promptly regain played well as a group.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 a commanding lead (14-9) through six PIRATES PERFECT ON WAY TO GOLD FROM PAGE 21
Lloydminster’s Alex Kuntz leads off at second base, in front of Cameron Rommel of the Lloydminster Prairie Pirates eyes a pitch Lacombe shortstop Mason Willington. John MacNeil Meridian Source during the 15U AA Tier 3 provincials. John MacNeil Meridian Source
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‘We bent but we didn’t break’ in final
PIRATES WIN ON HOME FIELD FROM PAGE 26
The Pirates’ coach also tipped his cap to the top-ranked Cougars, who had lost to Lloyd 17-7 in round-robin play Saturday before mounting a stronger challenge the next night. “It was a battle,” Haygarth said. “All hats off to Camrose. They had a tremendous season. I knew they weren’t going to go away easily. “It was a good game. The boys had to battle. We had that big inning in the third and we rolled it from there. But (the Cougars) didn’t go away. They didn’t quit. We bent but we didn’t break. Alex (Kuntz) finished the job off for us, so it was good.” Pirates’ starter Logan Schmidt and reliever Maddox Turcotte also appeared on the mound during the final, setting the stage for Kuntz’s stint in the seventh inning. Along with the home-run heroics from The Lloydminster Prairie Pirates hoist the championship trophy Flasch and Pedersen, Khessler Foster went Sunday night after defeating the Camrose Cougars Royal 14-13 in 3-for-4 and drove in two runs in the gold- the provincial 15U AA Tier 3 final. John MacNeil Meridian Source medal game. Kuntz and Turcotte each added a couple of hits. Mac Macdonald batted 4–for-5 for Camrose. He and teammate Taylor Dewald — the Cougars’ starting pitcher — also homered. Tanner Mitchell and Austin Wolbeck contributed two hits apiece. In the semifinals earlier Sunday, Lloydminster dumped the Lacombe Dodgers Blue 11-1 and Camrose blanked the Sherwood Park Athletics Green 13-0. In their opening game Saturday, the Pirates clipped the Lethbridge Junior Bulls 20-4 in five innings. Haygarth reported that 10 of the Pirates’ 12 players graduate from the 15U age level this year. Still eligible to return to the team next season are Foster and Sam Purser. The Pirates’ entire coaching staff is made up of former Lloyd minor baseball players now in their early 20s. Haygarth is 21, while his assistants are Brenden Pollard (20), For his efforts pitching, hitting and elsewhere, the Pirates’ Dayton Konnor Hennigar (22) and Ellis King (23). Pedersen was chosen as tournament MVP. John MacNeil Meridian Source
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13U AA Pirates pick up silver in provincials at home park JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
Playing on their home diamond, the top-ranked 13U AA Lloydminster Prairie Pirates came narrowly close to winning the Baseball Alberta provincial Tier 1 championship Sunday night at Legion Ball Park. The previously unbeaten Pirates lost 12-11 to the fourth-seeded Sylvan Lake Mariners in the championship game. The Pirates had come back from a 10-1 deficit to take an 11-10 lead into the final inning, but the Mariners rallied with two runs in the top half of the seventh. On a cool, windy and rainy night in the Border City, the finalists battled just 24 hours after Lloydminster hammered Sylvan Lake 21-7 in five innings in their divisional round-robin matchup. CONTINUED ON PAGE 29
SPORTS
The host Lloydminster Prairie Pirates posted a 4-1 record as they secured the silver medal Sunday night at the Baseball Alberta 13U AA Tier 1 provincial championship at Legion Ball Park. The fourth-seeded Sylvan Lake Mariners edged the top-ranked Pirates 12-11 in the championship game on a wet, windy and cool night in Lloyd. The finalists also faced others in warm conditions Saturday night as the Pirates took that round-robin game 21-7 in five innings. John MacNeil Meridian Source photos
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The Lloydminster Prairie Pirates and Sylvan Lake Mariners showed their healthy respect for each other during the Baseball Alberta 13U AA Tier 1 provincial championship at the Legion Ball Park. John MacNeil Meridian Source photos
MORE REACH. MORE IMPACT. 13U AA TIER 1 PROVINCIALS FROM PAGE 28
That setback in preliminary play proved to be the only loss for Sylvan Lake, as both the Mariners and Pirates finished with 4-1 records overall. In the semifinals Sunday afternoon, Sylvan Lake nipped the Webber Wildcats 9-8, while Lloydminster topped the Okotoks Outlaws 7-3, shortly after Okotoks downed the Strathmore Reds 11-6 in a morning tiebreaker. It was a rewarding year for the veteranladen Pirates, whose other weekend wins were 14-8 over Camrose Cougars Royal and 15-7 over SWEMBA White Sox Black.
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Payne siblings plate provincial gold JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
It was a doubly golden July weekend on the ball field for a brotherand-sister tandem from Lloydminster. Haley Payne, 20, and her 16-year-old brother, Brody, each won provincial titles with their respective softball and baseball teams at championship tournaments in central Alberta. Haley was part of an Edmonton-based team, the Stars, who were the goldmedallists at the provincial intermediate A women’s softball championship in Blackfalds. They edged the Calgary Xtreme 1-0 in the final. Brody and his Wainwright Nationals were the provincial 18U AA Tier 6 baseball champions at Innisfail. They posted a 9-4 victory over the host Innisfail Hawks in the championship game. Brody and Kitscoty’s Brayden Schiller, who were also teammates last summer with the 18U AA Lloydminster Prairie Pirates, were the older players this summer on an otherwise first-year group of Wainwright players at On the last weekend of July, Lloydminster siblings Brody and Haley Payne won provincial championships in central Alberta. Brody and the Wainwright Nationals took the 18U level. the 18U AA Tier 6 baseball title at Innisfail, while Haley and the Edmonton-based Stars CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 captured the intermediate A women’s softball championship in Blackfalds.
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Including players from Lloydminster, Kitscoty, Vermilion and elsewhere, the Wainwright Nationals won their Baseball Alberta 18U AA provincial championship tournament at Innisfail. In the front row (from left) are Caleb Traverse, Jett Keller, Jax Arundell, Nolan Kuntz, Mason Larson, Jude Boudreau and Brayden Schiller. In the back row (from left) are assistant coaches Chris Kuntz and Art Melin, along with Kody Hunter, Brody Payne, Lindon Gannon, Zack Bell, Jaxon Tipler and head coach Craig Traverse. Submitted
Haley’s teammates last week with the The Nationals’ lineup included three provincial-champion Stars included other Kitscoty kids — Zack Bell, Nolan another Lloydminster woman, Rose K u n t z a n d C a l e b T r a v e r s e — a n d Rusteika. The pair grew up playing Vermilion’s Lindon Gannon. Traverse’s softball together in the Border City. father, Craig, was the head coach of the Earlier in July, Haley and the SaskatoonWainwright-based club. Kuntz’s father, based 222’s competed in the Canada Chris, was one of the assistant coaches. Cup international women’s softball Craig Traverse was a catcher for about 15 tournament at Surrey, B.C. years with the senior Lloydminster Twins, During the school year, she plays softball playing alongside the likes of Kevin Payne, and studies at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C. father of Brody and Haley.
PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS FROM PAGE 30
Two Lloydminster players, Haley Payne (third from right, back row) and Rose Rusteika (second from left, front row), were members of the Edmonton-based Stars, the gold-medallists at the Alberta intermediate A women’s softball championship in Blackfalds . Submitted
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Thursday, August 6, 2026
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