Pet Pad celebrates 35 years
The Pet Pad is celebrating a major milestone this month as the locallyowned shop marks 35 years of business in Lloydminster.
Customers lined up by 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 5 for the 35th-anniversary sale, eager for savings and to congratulate owners Nancy and Dwayne Hippe.
Since first opening its doors, the pet supply store has grown into a community fixture, offering everything from food and accessories to small animals and aquarium supplies, grooming and more. The Hippes say the anniversary is a chance to thank the city for decades of loyalty and support.
“Coming in every day fills our cup and gives us a purpose,” said Nancy. “If we can help in any way and learn from our clients, it’s a win-win.”
Looking back on 35 years in the Border City, Hippe said it still hasn’t fully set in.
“It still feels like yesterday,” she said. “I love what I do here and never knew it would come to this.
“There were doubts in the beginning from certain people, but it grew and I love it. When the dogs and cats walk in the door with their owners, that’s what puts the biggest smile on my face. I just love the animals.”
The family-owned business takes pride in its knowledgeable staff and customer care — something Hippe has prioritized since Day 1.
“I love everything we do here, and it
was so nice seeing people lined up when we opened,” she said. “We couldn’t do it without our community; they’ve been very supportive.
“The people that come here are animal people and they have big hearts.”
The anniversary’s biggest draw was 35 per cent off pet food, a level of savings Hippe noted is virtually unheard of.
“We had people buying 12 bags of
food. I won’t see them for a year, but they got to save money, and that makes my heart feel good,” she said.
For Nancy and Dwayne, the future looks bright as they work toward handing the keys over to their grandkids and enjoying retirement.
“I’m 70 and I’m supposed to be retired by now, but I’ll never be out-out,” said Hippe. “I love it too much.”
Merry Christmas
Nancy and Dwayne Hippe and the staff at The Pet Pad felt the love on Dec. 5 as the community helped them celebrate 35 years of business in the Border City.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Here Comes Santa Claus kicks off holiday season
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
The holiday spirit filled the Border City on Dec. 6, as families braved sub-zero temperatures to take part in the 18th annual Here Comes Santa Claus Lloydminster celebration.
With Santa, the Grinch and a long list of free activities, the event once again packed the downtown core with children and Christmas cheer.
One of the event’s organizers, Kurt Price, said the day’s success comes down to the strong community support behind it.
“Lloydminster does a great job. This whole day is free, and it’s free because of our sponsors,” said Price. “Each year, we have sponsors that find us and express interest in supporting the day.”
Price highlighted Kel-5 Enterprises as one of the many dedicated sponsors.
“The family that owns Kel-5 Enterprises, their kids have volunteered with the event for years and now mom and dad sponsor it,” he said. “They’re sponsoring the bouncy castles at the Anglican Church and have sponsored the event in some way for three years.”
Long time supporters continue to anchor the festivities, including May Cinema 6 and Crude Master.
“Other groups that call us every year and always want to be a part of it are May Cinema 6 and Crude Master,” said Price. “The May has always been a huge supporter of this and we really appreciate them.”
The day kicked off with a pancake breakfast at Royal Canadian Legion Branch #39 and rolled
into a lineup of family-friendly activities across downtown — balloon animals, a wiener roast with Lloydminster Fire and Rescue at Synergy Credit Union, gingerbread house making and more.
“The credit unions are a big part of this every year, but one member of the community that always plays a huge part in this is Sobeys,” Price added. “They bake all the gingerbread for the gingerbread houses at Sobeys and provide everything for the pancake breakfast.”
Servus Credit Union also played a major role.
“Servus Credit Union not only let us use the Atrium Centre, but they also sponsor the balloon maker, Sprinkles and Magnificent Mark,” said Price. “They’re also volunteering here today making sure everything runs smoothly and people know where everything is located.”
He described the atmosphere of the event as delightfully energetic.
“What I love is, it’s chaos, but it’s good chaos.”
The Downtown Area Redevelopment Committee helped elevate the festivities even further by organizing this year’s horse-drawn carriage rides.
With a long list of contributors—many returning year after year — Price said planning efforts always look toward growth.
“There’s so many sponsors each and every year. Every year we hope to make it bigger and better and we’re always looking for ideas of how to make it better.”
Here Comes Santa Claus Lloydminster filled the downtown core and surrounding businesses with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Christmas. Santa and the Grinch were a hit at the Atrium Centre, where residents of all ages, including Mayor Gerald Aalbers, enjoyed a variety of free activities throughout the day.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
Lloydminster gets big picture on transportation
local than flowthrough.”
The recommendation of the master plan is that the couplet concept be removed from the city’s long-term asset planning.
Lloydminster council has adopted an updated transportation master plan.
The plan, presented at the Nov. 24 council meeting, outlines the city’s needs as it grows and details the current state of its infrastructure.
The city’s transportation assets, local roads, collector roads, arterial roads, urban highways, rural roads and service roads, were all examined through this document.
“In total, you can see we have 513.45 total lane kilometres of existing roadway assets within our city,” said James Rogers, senior manager, capital infrastructure.
Scenarios outlined in the plan are divided into year segments, three-year, five-year, 10-year and 20-year horizons. The first scenario looks at shortterm development through new collect and arterial connections.
The third scenario talks about expanding the network to support mid-term growth and the five-year scenario looks at addressing emerging congestion points. The 20-year horizon then addresses the implementation of major arterial upgrades and regional connections.
“Major arterial upgrades and regional connections, this is where we really start to forecast what our roadway networks look like at the 20-year horizon, as well as the ultimate horizon,” said Rogers.
Recommendations through this document are intended to be phased and adaptive with flexibility to adjust based on development timing, funding available and community needs.
A north-south couplet was also examined, which would help with the flow of traffic to the north and south end of Lloydminster.
According to city documents, “The city has explored the potential for a North-South Couplet design along 50 Ave. (Highway 17), resulting in a preliminary design report in August 2011. In 2016, the city procured a detailed design for a North-South Couplet system that would convert 50 Ave. into a one-way southbound corridor and 49 Ave. into a one-way northbound corridor between 44 St. and 56B St. Transitional segments would connect the North-South Couplet to the broader two-way network at 35 St. (south) and 62 St. (north).”
Administration gave some insight into the view of how downtown traffic flows.
“The downtown isn’t a truck route anymore, so that was contemplated when the couplet was first brought forward,” said Don Stang, executive manager of operations. “Our desire, I think, is for the downtown to be more
A bypass was also explored as an option through the master plan.
“Our traffic modelling right now would indicate we are not seeing a significant number of highway through trips. Let’s say a person is coming from the south travelling through Lloydminster to the north, say Paradise Hill, we are not seeing that,” said Rogers. “Lloydminster would be a destination or an originating point.”
Highway 16, on the other hand, sees additional through traffic.
“Highway 16, it’s a completely different case. We’re seeing upwards of 10 per cent or higher of vehicles along highway 16 that are through trips,” he said. “That helped us inform what bypasses we need to be looking at.”
While a Highway 17 bypass is not being recommended, the master plan talks about maintaining co-ordination with provincial and local governments regarding a Highway 16 bypass.
“Coming out of the master plan, we would still encourage there is merit in encouraging how a Highway 16 bypass could benefit the city of Lloydminster,” said Rogers.
A grade-separated rail crossing was explored as a way to get around the crossings on the north end of the city.
“The critical thing we were looking at as part of the transportation master plan was trying to determine where would be the most appropriate for a grade separated rail crossing,” said Rogers. “We looked at 40 Ave., 49 Ave., 50 Ave., 62 Ave. as well as 75 Ave., with 62 Ave. being deemed the most favourable spot if we were to put a grade-separated rail crossing.”
The cost of the crossing would be steep and the master plan only makes a recommendation that could be significantly lower than the actual cost.
“We can see within the plan that they’ve estimated around $47 million to put (in) a rail grade separation,” he said.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers asked if the master plan gets shared with Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation and Alberta Transportation. Rogers says they can look at sharing it with the provinces.
Moving forward, next steps would see the recommendations and costs incorporated into the 10-year capital plan and the offsite levy bylaw.
Rogers also noted the capital plan presented to council as part of budget deliberations included recommendations from the transportation master plan.
Council adopted the 2025 transportation master plan in principle following council motion.
Downtown Lloydminster facing north. File photo
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Council defeats permitting contract award
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
In a rare situation for the City of Lloydminster council, a procurement motion was defeated, leaving administration to figure out the next steps.
The safety codes services; building and plumbing contract award, was presented to council Nov. 24. The item was previously debated extensively at the Nov. 3 council meeting, with councillors raising concerns over administration’s recommendation to award the contract to Lethbridge-based Parks Enterprises Ltd.
Public concerns were also heard by council prior to both meetings.
Coun. David Lopez wanted to see the public consulted on the proposed company change.
“We missed a step and we missed a major step. I just don’t know how we go and approve this, missing that major step,” he said. “I fear we’re not going to have the same level of service as what we have right now.”
Lopez says he’s not happy with the prospect of tax dollars going to a company without a local office.
“Administration clarified they followed their procurement process and policy when developing and sending out this request for proposal (RFP).
Coun. Jim Taylor asked how the scoring matrix was created.
“That was an administration team that put the RFP together,” said Terry Burton, the city’s director of planning and engineering.
Taylor explained the process creates a roadblock when making the decision to support administration’s recommendation.
“What I’m seeing, I’m happy now. Admin is following procedure, coming up with the way they’re scoring it and then, based on that scoring, asking council to finalize a decision that is already been made on the criteria that admin has put in front of us,” he said. “It creates kind of a roadblock where I didn’t get to agree upon the way the proposal was made, but you’re asking me to make a decision based off the way the proposal was scored.”
City manager Dion Pollard says a challenge in Lloydminster’s procurement process is that council isn’t involved in, or aware of, the scoring criteria.
“I would say our teams, as Don (Stang) mentioned, they put the best foot
HOUSE
forward in terms of what we normally do, how we grade them,” he said. “We did even take a few members of our planning team out of the process, so it was viewed properly in terms of how it was evaluated and included some other members of administration to evaluate that.”
Coun. Michael Diachuk pointed to the new tender winner being available more as the new tender asks them to be available four days a week instead of 3.5, while still offering the same level of service.
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson noted the importance of having a local presence.
“Maybe we’re getting a sense of how important having local criteria is in this procurement process,” she said.
Administration gave some insight into what they deem as important in awarding this contract.
“What we believe is important is the number of days the inspector will be in the city and available for inspections,” said Don Stang, executive manager of operations.
Burton clarified the current contract required inspectors to be available for 3.5 days and the communication the city received from Parks is they’d be available four days a week.
“Where their office is located, where the electronic plans go to those things were less important, which is why it wasn’t included there,” said Stang.
Coun. Justin Vance echoed the sentiment from other councillors that he wasn’t happy with the recommendation.
“I’m still not satisfied with the award of Parks, as well,” he said. “One email to me is concern from a developer, but when I’m getting eight, nine, 10 emails from developers, that’s an alarm.”
Council defeated the motion to approve the award of the safety codes services; building and plumping permit plan review and inspections services to Parks Enterprises.
According to Burton, the current agreement ends on Dec. 31.
The City of Lloydminster said in an email to the Meridian Source it is currently confirming next steps following council’s decision. Administration is reviewing the appropriate process moving forward and an update will be provided once more information is available.
Shining a light on homeschool academy
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
It was a shining moment for Rotarians as they were educated on a local homeschooling group.
Deanna Franklin, founder and president of the Shine Christian Academy School, presented to the Rotary Club of Lloydminster on Dec. 1 about what her organization does.
“We’re made up of families that homeschooled or had kids in the public system and saw a need to do something kind of different,” she explained. The school started just outside of Lloydminster as the world was coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We originally started in Streamstown at the old hall,” said Franklin. “We saw a need coming out of COVID. I think we all have seen over the years, some flaws in the public education system.”
Arie Christian Academy out of Calgary is the governing board for the school.
Franklin knew she wanted to start something for homeschooling kids in the area and a Facebook ad helped her start the journey.
“I knew I wanted to start like a co-op or a homeschooling pod or something. I just didn’t know what it looked like,” she said. “I actually saw an ad on Facebook one night and it said they were looking for students for their private Christian school in Calgary. So, I emailed the guy and I said, ‘How do you do this?’
“He reached out to me and said, ‘We started as a homeschool co-op and were looking to become an accredited school.’ We just teamed up with them. They came down from Calgary and told us what they did and how it worked. We partnered with them right from the beginning.”
The Lloydminster campus is a new addition for the growing organization.
“We have 30 students between our two campuses,” she said. “We started our Lloydminster campus last year, 2024.
“The Church of Christ over by the Archie Miller is where we’re located here in Lloyd. We rent the basement.”
The homeschool co-operative offers a unique format for their education.
“As a home school co-op, our students are doing a homeschool program called ACE, Accelerated Christian Education,” said Franklin. “It’s an individualized program tailored to each student’s needs.”
Programs are tailored to meet the needs of each student.
“We have lots of different activities the kids attend and we try to keep them busy all the time,” she said. “Kids, I would say, weren’t necessarily made to fit in a desk for six hours a day. A lot of the students that come to us, actually, their parents are like, ‘They have ADD or ADHD.’ Instead, we meet them where they’re at.”
Franklin says she’s enjoyed her time working with kids but realized academics isn’t the only thing that’s important in schooling.
“We feel that having life skills and a relationship with Christ is the most important,” she said. “We do a home ec program where we’ve done canning and candle making. “We are very much life-skill oriented. We want to raise up people that can make a difference and critically think.”
The school currently runs with seven staff in total.
“We have what we call supervisors and monitors, we don’t have certified teachers in what we do because we are not an accredited school,” said Franklin.
Despite not being an accredited school, students going through the program have a few options for the diploma they’ll receive when they graduate Grade 12.
“If you go right to our Grade 12 level with the ACE curriculum, you can get an out-of-province diploma,” Franklin explained. “If you want your students to have an Alberta diploma, we would have to do some online courses and earn credits that way.”
Being a bi-provincial city, the option to get a Saskatchewan diploma is something the academy is looking at.
“We haven’t had to deal with any students that age yet,” she said. “Our Lloydminster school is very young. Our oldest student I believe is 14.”
Franklin says funding is a little more complex for them as they only get $901 per student per year. Outside of a small tuition they charge per family, they do a lot of fundraising.
“We are a non-profit with the charity status, so we can do donation receipts,” she said. “Lots of fundraising and donations are definitely required.”
The school runs events throughout the year to help with fundraising efforts, including a steak night fundraiser, a Mother’s Day high tea and a comedy night fundraiser.
Local Business Directory
Deanna Franklin presents to the Rotary Club of Lloydminster on Dec. 1. Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
Lloydminster RCMP seize firearms, lay hate-related charge after search warrant
toward identifiable groups.
Lloydminster RCMP say a local man is facing multiple charges after officers seized several firearms during a search of a city residence earlier this month.
On Dec. 2, members of the Lloydminster RCMP Crime Reduction Unit executed a search warrant at a home as part of an investigation into a man allegedly making credible threats of violence
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Police say officers recovered multiple firearms, along with additional evidence connected to the ongoing investigation.
As a result, 38-year-old John Charles Reid of Lloydminster has been charged with unauthorized possession of firearms, unsafe storage of firearms and wilful promotion of hatred.
Reid appeared before a justice of the peace and was released on conditions. He is scheduled to
Bylaw 25-25 – BEING A BYLAW TO REMOVE THE RESTRICTION OF ACCESSORY AND MAIN BUILDING SITING AND SETBACKS IN THE AGRICULTURE (A), COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL – AGRICULTURE (CR-A) AND COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL – SINGLE-LOT (CR-S) DISTRICTS ONLY.
DATE: December 16, 2025
TIME: 9:05 AM
LOCATION: Village of Kitscoty Council Chambers, 5011-50 Street and via ZOOM Webinar
All Public Hearings are held during Regular Meetings of Council and are open to the public with attendance either inperson or via ZOOM Webinar. Written and verbal presentations may be given during the Public Hearing.
PURPOSE:
The County of Vermilion River is proposing an amendment to the Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02) to remove the restriction of the placement of Accessory Buildings in front of the Main Building from the Agriculture (A), Country Residential – Agriculture (CR-A), and Country Residential – Single-lot (CR-S) Districts only, while maintaining the restriction within clustered residential areas (i.e., Hamlets and multi-lot subdivisions). Applicants applying for a Variance to the placement of Accessory Buildings will be required to complete a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) self-assessment as part of the Development Permit application process.
A copy of Bylaw 25-25, being a bylaw to amend the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02)
can be viewed at the County of Vermilion River Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM) at 505040 Hwy 897, by emailing planning@county24.com, or on the County of Vermilion River Website here: https://www.vermilion-river.com/your-county/public-engagement
Should you wish to provide oral or written presentation to Council on this matter, please take note of the following requirements:
Any person claiming to be affected by the proposed Bylaw 25-25, being a bylaw to amend the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02) may attend the Public Hearing either in-person or virtually via ZOOM Webinar and provide their input during the Public Hearing.
To attend the Public Hearing virtually, you must register prior to the Public Hearing here: https://www.vermilion-river.com/your-county/meeting-agendas-and-minutes
Written submissions should be submitted by emailing planning@county24.com, or by mail to Box 69 Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 no later than December 10, 2025 at 12:00 PM to be included as part of the Agenda Package for the December 16, 2025 Regular Meeting of Council, and must be related to the topic of the Public Hearing.
Presentations may be limited to five (5) minutes in length.
The names of those who wish to speak, or have submitted written presentation will be recorded in the minutes of the December 16, 2025, Regular Meeting of Council and will be published on the County of Vermilion River website. (Personal information is protected by the privacy provisions of the Access to Information Act and the Protection of Privacy Act)
For additional information related to the Public Hearing , please contact the Planning and Community Services
Department: Phone: (780) 846-2244 | Email: planning@county24.com
and
return to Lloydminster Provincial Court on Jan. 12.
“The investigation reflects our continued commitment to ensuring the safety of our community and responding decisively to threats of violence or hate,” said Sgt. Christopher Byford, acting operations NCO for the Lloydminster RCMP.
“We take any form of hate-motivated communication or violence-related behaviour seriously.”
RCMP say the investigation remains ongoing.
Vermilion RCMP make arrest following sexual assault
MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
Vermilion RCMP has made an arrest following reports of a sexual assault at Lakeland College.
RCMP received a report of a sexual assault at the college on Nov. 30.
An investigation into the complaint led to the arrest of Cameron Kelly, a 20-year-old resident of Unity, Sask.
Kelly was charged with sexual exploitation and sexual assault. Kelly was brought before a justice of the peace and released on conditions.
“Gender-based violence is a serious and ongoing issue in Canada and it disproportionately affects women and girls” said Const. Jocelyn Hey of the Vermilion RCMP. “Places like Vermilion are not immune. It’s important that, as a community, we work toward educating ourselves and supporting survivors of this type of violence.”
He is set to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion on Jan. 5, 2026.
MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
Photo courtesy of Lloydminster RCMP
Bin Blitz Border City sees strong turnout, while making charitable impact
Bin Blitz Border City returned to the Lloyd Ex from Nov. 27–30, offering bargain hunters another chance to dig for discounted treasures while supporting local charities.
Jason and Karla Whiting hosted their pop-up liquidation event for the second time, featuring pallets of Amazon returns and overstocked items sorted into bins and sold at decreasing daily prices.
“We’re excited to see what the total is at the end, and Karla and I will be topping it up to make it a nice even number for the holiday season.
“We did this back in September. The community came out and supported and enjoyed it. There were lots of bargains found,” said Jason. “We’re here again just before Christmas to offer some Christmas shopping and unique treasures. They’re perfect for stocking stuffers, for others, or even for themselves.”
The four-day event drew strong crowds once again, especially on opening day, when shoppers snapped up every item priced at $25.
“The traffic’s been good. It’s been steady and I think people have learned from last time. There are some great deals to be had, especially on that first $25 day,” said Jason. “Anything and everything is $25 regardless of if it’s $200 or $500.”
Interest remained solid as prices dropped.
“The $15 day was steady, and we had a lot of people come out for the $5 day. That seems to be the number everyone can find a good deal on,” he said. “Today, the $2 day, it was steady.”
Karla noted that familiarity with the concept boosted turnout.
“There’s definitely been more interest this time around, especially for those who saw it after the fact,” she said. “The FOMO definitely set in and they made sure they were here for the first day. Many people have said they heard about it and wanted to check it out.”
Some items were so popular that people lined up first thing in the morning.
“We had people lined up to get one of our few 3D printers,” said Jason. “After the printers, the interest was for a few tablets we had.”
Karla added that video cameras, Shark vacuums and espresso machines were among the quickest items to disappear.
The Whitings source their inventory from Amazon pallets that often include a mix of new, returned and overstocked items — though this round leaned heavily toward new goods.
“It’s mostly new this time around, but it’s usually a mix,” said Jason. “The pallets are a surprise to us, just like they are to anybody that walks in here. When we unload, it’s exciting to see what’s here. We get excited for all the deals that people could find.”
He said larger centres that run similar events weekly inspired the idea for Bin Blitz, but they chose to keep Lloydminster’s version as occasional popups.
“We’re excited to do it in this pop-up style, where it creates the interest,” he said. “We don’t want to take away from the business community — we want to complement it and add to it.”
Beyond the bargains, the Whitings say one of the most important parts of Bin Blitz is its charitable component.
“When we were all wrapped up in September, we had some items left over we thought were suitable for different organizations such as the Pioneer Lodge, Interval Home, the Salvation Army, et cetera,” said Jason. “This year, we have some stuff we plan to donate.”
They also set aside food items for the Salvation Army Food Bank and encouraged customers to contribute during checkout.
“We’re also accepting donations. As everybody checks out, there’s an opportunity to donate to the Salvation Army,” Jason said. “We’re excited to see what the total is at the end, and Karla and I will be topping it up to make it a nice even number for the holiday season.”
For Karla, giving back is at the heart of why they do what they do.
“It’s a very important piece for us. Our community is amazing for us and to us,” she said. “The ability to give back is a big portion of why we do what we do, with Bin Blitz and the other things we do outside of this.”
The Whitings raised a total of $1,000 for local charities through the four-day event.
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Although tuckered out from a four-day Bin Blitz Border City event, Jason and Karla Whiting were all smiles after a successful and charitable sale.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Vermilion council approves budget 2026
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Town of Vermilion council has approved the 2026 budget, with a proposed tax increase of 2.99 per cent.
A presentation by administration highlighted 2025 as “the beginning of change.” The team provided council with a detailed look on financials from this year and next.
Of note in 2025 for the town administration team, they welcomed a new CAO in April, a new director of corporate services in August and a new finance manager in September.
Administration first presented its proposed budget in early November before it was passed on Nov. 18. The goal is to maintain service levels and plan for the future with reserve transfers.
“The 2026 proposed budget results in a 2.99 per cent tax increase,” said Marilyn Lavoie, director of corporate services.
A lowlight from the budget includes the current debt position of the town.
According to the town, its debt as of Jan. 1 of this year was $9.6 million.
The The debt amounts equate to 42 per cent of the debt limit utilized and 58 per cent still available for use.
Administration also looked at some of the existing debt they could pay back.
“Administration reviewed all existing debentures for a strategy to hopefully pay off some of the loans so we could to reduce the town’s debt,” said Lavoie.
In the budget, the town highlighted a number of items, mostly local improvements they could pay back.
“That will cost about 98K, give or take. It changes every day,” she said, noting items were chosen as they have smaller amounts with only one loan carrying a penalty to prepay for $711.78.
“In the long run, it would save the town $7,639.73 in interest payments if they are paid off early.”
Levies for these improvements will still be collected and added to reserves.
“Being that most of these are local improvements, the landowners will still continue to be charged the levy for those, even though the loans are paid off,” said Lavoie. “Instead of collecting the levy from those residents and applying it towards the funding for the loan payments, it will go back into the transportation reserve.”
Council agreed it would be fiscally responsible to pay off the loans.
The budget will see $906,977 transferred into reserves.
Overall, the 2026 budget has a total operating revenue of $7.8 million, with operating expenditures of $14.4 million, plus requisitions of $1.9 million resulting in a municipal taxation levy requirement of $8.5 million.
With the proposed 2.99 per cent increase, a residential property will see an average increase of $16 per year for every $100K of assessed value.
The 2026 capital budget has total capital revenues of $4.3 million, supporting total costs of $4,3 million.Council approved the 2026 budget, accepted the operating plans for 2027-2029 and the five-year capital plan in principle.
The town is working to prepare a comprehensive budget document to post on the town’s website for public review.
Any necessary budget adjustments will be brought forward to council for decision in spring 2026, along with the mill rate bylaw.
Border Rivals meet at Brewhouse
The Border Rivals 4 Arm Wrestling Supermatch Invitational packed the Canadian Brewhouse on Nov. 29, featuring 25 high-level bouts and top pullers from across Alberta and Saskatchewan. The event was hosted by Lloydminster’s Travis Robertson, who continues to promote the sport’s growth. Robertson won his match against Ilya Bulayev of the Bridge City Pullers. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
Thursday, December 11, 2025
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Leave it to Weaver: A bloody cold Friday night
EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER
If you encountered intoxicated teenagers outside your condo after 11 p.m. in –25 C weather, what would you do? I was asking myself that very question after getting home from the Meridian Source’s Christmas party last Friday night, and I’d like to share what happened.
Just like last year, Chels and I attended the local Special Olympics’ Christmas dance before my office staff party on Dec. 5. She volunteers with the organization on Mondays at the Lloyd Lanes bowling alley and loves putting on her dancin’ shoes with the athletes each year.
The Source staff party was a blast — full of fun, good food and friends. Despite the excitement, Chels and I were ready to call it a night shortly before 11 p.m. It had been a long week for both of us, and we were eager to get home and decompress with some Netflix.
We arrived at our condo building just off 18 St. on the city’s south end. I was outside plugging in our vehicles when I noticed two teenage boys leaving the building next door.
One was crying and saying he might need to go to the hospital because of a broken hand. His friend was on the phone calling a cab. It was clear they were a little inebriated and trying to call it a night after a party gone wrong.
In my sober state of mind, I asked if the boys were
OK. They both said they were, and the one on the phone said he was calling a cab to get his friend home.
Seconds after declining my offer to drive them home, the other boy quickly asked through tears, “Actually, sir, would you mind driving me home?” When he looked up, I could see blood on his face, so I invited him into our foyer for warmth and some water.
A third teen emerged from our neighbour’s building, and Chels and I drove all three boys to their respective homes.
While driving, we learned the boys were all 13 years old, and the one with the bloody face had been a victim of drunken bullying. Apparently, our neighbour’s 15-year-old son had about 10 friends over. Things got out of hand, punches were thrown, no adults were present, and the boy said he was attacked by three older boys while no one stood up for him. It broke my heart to hear this — especially knowing the boys were planning to walk home or wait for a cab in nearly –30 C weather. They were drunk and only we aring hoodies. One of them, who lived near the outdoor pool, didn’t even know his home address because his family had recently moved.
I may not be a parent, but I’ve been drunk without a ride home in the winter — it’s not fun, and it can be dangerous.
I’m glad Chels and I were able to get these three boys home safely. They seemed like good kids, and all said they probably wouldn’t go back to that address to party.
I hope they choose better friends and stay safe while doing it.
Letter to the editor
Iread with interest the articles regarding Mental Health at Lloyd Ex with Ian Hill, as well as your editorial “Facing Domestic Violence, head on” to see what could be learned about mental health and family violence.
It seems both organizations I am involved with are working on these two issues with workshops, guest speakers, webinars and resolutions.
So, I want to share what I learned that I thought was brief enough to pass along on both issues. Basically, the resolution was declaring Intimate Partner Violence an epidemic.
1. The stigma of mental illness can be reduced
...
when we think of it as everyone experiences pain or loss in their lifetime: betrayal, murder, grief, suicide, fear, public humiliation, loss, generational persecution, loss of job, spouse, child, abandonment, persecution, rejection, loneliness, racism.
So, the point is, pain is a normal experience of life. How we react or the attitude we have is where mental health comes in. There is an online FREE resource program called “Whole Hearted” that can be used individually or in a group. It consists of four sessions of one hour in length.
2. The second information I want to pass along is a 2024 book by Pamela Cross, a lawyer who participated in many domestic violence cases as well as involved in the Women’s Shelters movement. The book is called: “ And Sometimes They Kill You – Confronting the Epidemic of Intimate Partner Violence.”
It is a highly recommended, powerful must read for our times. I am only halfway through reading this book, so I haven’t gotten to the solutions or recommendations in later chapters.
I believe we can make a difference if we are aware of the issues and are prepared to educate ourselves and others. Listening is also a good place to start.
- Marcella Pedersen, Cut Knife, Sask.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Chris’ A-Z: Holidays on the horizon
Christmas, a holiday where a large man in red brings presents to worthy children. I’ve always wanted to play Santa, I’ve been growing my beard in preparation for my big role, but I fear the only thing that I’ve done to prepare is grow more rotund, or as I normally put it, my winter insulation. Luckily, for the Barr Colonists back in 1903, they didn’t have to worry about finding someone jolly enough to play the big man. The good Rev. George Exton Lloyd suited up ready to spread holiday cheer to children and adults. Although he dressed as Father Christmas, who was distinct from the Santa we know today, he represented the personification of Christmas. The first Christmas for the colonists was a big party. There are a few accounts of what happened, a procession of Northwest Mounted Police officers carried in a huge plum cake. An art gallery of Currier and Ives illustrations were assembled for the first Christmas bash. Partygoers sang, performed dramatic skits and topped it off with some energetic round dancing, which didn’t conclude until 4 a.m.
Christmas pageants have been presented by local churches here in Lloyd since 1903
Festive traditions continue in the Border City today, with long-time staples like the Here Comes Santa Claus Day, the Parade of Lights and the Kiwanis Park light display.
I’m sure I’m missing some traditions but those are the ones I could remember off the top of my head. Christmas is a time to celebrate and come together with friends and family. Every year, I end up travelling somewhere for Christmas to see family, and while the days may be packed, I always find myself on the other side wishing it lasted longer.
Today, just a month from 2026, you likely know Christmas as the largely
Billboard advertising that gets you noticed. Reach thousands every day with
commercial holiday. Shopping centres are packed to the brim with those last-minute shoppers looking to get that gift for that special someone. I’m relatively indifferent to how people want to partake in Christmas, or even what they want to call it. To each their own.
This year, I did my shopping online, which is something I’d never done before. And if you ask my wife, I still haven’t. She ordered everything and I sent over the money, another job well done by yours truly.
As we gear up for our year-in-review papers, that means I will be on column break for two weeks while we reflect on 2025. Next week, I’ll chat a little bit about the new year and the excitement that brings, but with this column, I wanted to wish everyone a happy Christmas filled with festive merriment, family and relaxation in advance.
Also, before I sign off, I wanted to make a correction to my column last week, which talked about Walter Andrew “Slim” Thorpe. Hopefully, if you read the column, you enjoyed it, but at the beginning, I incorrectly listed his birth year as 1984. If you switch around a couple of numbers, you get his actual year of birth, 1894.
File photo
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 and live music
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo is back at the Moose Lodge! Bingo is every Monday and Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.
Anne Elliott Christmas Concert
The Dewberry Hall is once again hosting the Anne Elliott Christmas Concert on Dec. 11. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show will start at 7 p.m. Desserts and refreshments available during intermission. Contact Tyson at 780-385-4931 for more information.
Islay Cribbage Doubles Tournament
The Islay Community Association is hosting a doubles crib tournament on Dec. 13 in the Islay Hall. Doors open at 9 a.m. and registration cutoff is at 10 a.m. Cost is $25/person, which includes noon lunch. Please pre-register by calling Linda at 780-581-0570.
The Nutcracker at the Vic
Juba Theatre
The Nutcracker, a ballet production with United Ballet Company, will take the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Dec. 14 for a 4 p.m. show. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for 18 and under. Tickets are available at the theatre’s box office or online at vicjubatheatre.ca/tickets
Moose Lodge Doubles Cribbage Tourney
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a doubles cribbage tournament on Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. Registration is from 9-9:45 a.m., 12 games guaranteed. The cost is $25/person, which includes lunch. Enter as a team or an individual (they’ll pair you up). Entries close on Friday, Dec. 12. Contact Bruce at 780-522-6972 to register.
Islay Jamboree
The Islay Community Hall is hosting a jamboree on Dec. 21, starting at 1 p.m. Admission is $15, participants are free. Lunch will be served. Contact Dixie at 780-744-2204 for more information.
New Year’s in New York
The Dewberry Community Hall is hosting a New Year’s in New York family dance on Dec. 31 from 7 to 10 p.m. Early countdown allows families to “ring in the new year together.” Food and beverage available for purchase. Entry is by donation at door. Contact Kelly at 778-548-0044 or Alissa at 306-229-5040 for more details.
Moose Lodge New Year’s Eve Dance
Welcome in 2026 at New Year’s Eve Dance on Dec. 31 hosted by the Moose Lodge 5213 57 St., Lloydminster, Alta. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the event runs until 2 a.m. Adults are $25, youth 15 - 17 are $10 and 14 and under FREE. Price includes snacks, late lunch and party favours. There will be a cash bar. Music by First Class Entertainment. Tickets now available. Call the Moose Lodge at 780-875-7919 or Susan 780-872-1871 for more information.
Edgerton and District Historical Society Robbie Burns Nite
The Edgerton & District Historical Society is sponsoring the 36th annual Robbie Burns Nite at the Edgerton Agricultural Hall on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. Happy Hour and silent auction begin at 5:30 p.m., and supper is at 6:30 p.m. with a ceilidh to follow. Tickets are available at the Edgerton Village Office at 780-755-3933 or at the door. Adults are $30 and children 12 and under are $5. Contact Jessica at 780-542-1482 or for more info.
Christmas Gift Solution - Valentine’s Dinner and Dance
The Dewberry Community Hall has the perfect gift for that hard to buy for person on your list: a wonderful chicken parmesan and pasta dinner with caesar salad on Feb. 14, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., supper served promptly at 6 p.m. Enjoy music, get in on the free waltz and ballroom dance lessons, spot dance prizes. Tickets are $50/couple, $25/single. Contact Les at 807-252-0275, Julie at 807-251-0454, or drop into Dewberry Data.
Paradise Hill 4-H Club holiday report
The Paradise Hill 4-H Multi-Club had a busy and productive start to the year across all project groups.
The light horse members practised multiple obstacle training and helped fundraise by preparing meals at the Longhorn Arena.
In swine, members learned how to properly weigh and care for their pigs and later made pork pies.
The beef group began record books, reviewed expectations, and discussed feeding, grooming and preparing animals for upcoming weigh-ins.
Crafting members pressed flowers to make keychains, then created Christmas tags to sell at the Paradise Hill Craft Show.
The multi club project supported various fundraisers, helped remove twine for a local farmer, and volunteered at the community seniors’ supper.
The outdoors group met at the library and gazebo, learned about survival kits and practised making fire using flint, steel, cotton balls and lint. They are also selling raffle tickets on a survival kit.
Quilting members learned how to use sewing machines, made practice fabric items and began sewing squares for a group quilt.
Canine has been teaching their partners how to go to their place and would walk away to see if they would stay. If they didn’t, we repeated it until they understood. At the second meeting, we worked on teaching our dogs how to sit, shake a paw, lie down and recall. Their leader also held the dogs while we ran a few feet away, acting excited to see if our canines would come back to us.
Overall, each group has been learning new skills, helping the community, and working hard on their 4-H projects. Stay tuned for more updates in the future. Thank you for supporting our club! -
Lloydminster surprises first-place Fort Saskatchewan Lancers make steady strides
Back home after five games on the road, the U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers celebrated in style Sunday at the Hub, scoring a 6-5 victory over the first-place Fort Saskatchewan Rangers.
The Lancers did it the hard way, but it seems there isn’t a comfortable route to winning in the Alberta Elite Hockey League.
After relinquishing a three-goal lead in the third period, the Lancers restored their momentum when Tripp Fischer’s power-play goal with five-plus minutes left broke a 5-5 tie.
Just six seconds into that power play, Kael Scott won a corner battle in the Fort Saskatchewan zone and slipped the puck back to Fischer, whose quick shot from the right faceoff circle beat goaltender Kasey Fuson low on the far, blocker side.
“Kael just popped it out, and their D-man reached, so I just kind of pulled it around and shot it, and it ended up going in,” said Fischer, with his second goal and fifth point in the past four games.
During that two-week stretch, the Lancers have secured five of a possible eight points, including two wins and a tie. Their only loss in that mix was a 5-3 setback Saturday against the host Leduc Oil Kings (7-11-3).
At home for a rare morning start, Lloydminster (4-11-3) went into Sunday’s game 20 points behind Fort Sask (14-6-1) at opposite ends of the North Division standings.
But the Lancers, who played an afternoon game Saturday, tried to take advantage of the Rangers possibly being tired from playing past 10 o’clock that night in a 4-1 loss to the Edmonton Junior Oilers Blue.
Scheduled for 11:15 a.m., Sunday’s game actually began about half an hour later.
In the offensive outburst that followed, Lloyd outscored Fort Sask 4-2 in a wild second period to go up 5-2, before an even wilder third stanza saw the Rangers push back in waves. The game was on the line until Lancers goaltender Stran Edge, with a 39-save performance overall, stopped Nathan Castonguay with 10 seconds left and shortly after the big Rangers’ defenceman had stepped out of the penalty box.
Beginning with a power-play goal from their leading scorer, Emile Plourde, the Rangers had scored three goals within 4:18 before the nineminute mark of the third period. The Lancers
didn’t respond with a timeout, but they regrouped just the same, and Fischer potted the winner.
Unlike a few other home games early in the season, Lloyd bent but didn’t break Sunday, showing its maturing process is trending in the right direction.
“Yeah, you can almost feel it in the dressing room,” said Fischer, 15. “Even when we go down, there’s times where we start getting going and back up again. We’re pretty resilient. That all comes with confidence. If you’re not confident in your team or yourself, you’re not going to push through when you’re down or when you give up a couple (of goals).”
Scott and Gavin Pratt each collected a goal and two assists in the Lancers’ win. On the power play, Scott scored the lone first-period marker.
Fischer, Logan Flewell and defenceman Rhett Romanchuk each added a goal and an assist. Flewell’s short-handed, breakaway tally came just 16 seconds into the second period.
Connor Nickle, just back from playing his first AJHL game with the Lloydminster Bobcats the night before, scored the Lancers’ other goal. His marker with just under five minutes left in the second period chased Fort Sask starting goalie Kayd Mercier, who gave up five goals on 19 shots. Mercier’s replacement, Fuson, stopped all but one of the 14 shots he faced as Lloydminster posted 33 shots overall.
Along with power-play markers from Plourde and Ethan Collins, Fort Sask got goals from Crue Mohr, Jeremy Moellenbeck and Hunter Colombe.
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
The U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers celebrate one of their four second-period goals in Sunday’s 6-5 victory over the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers, the leaders in the Alberta Elite Hockey League. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Edge in goal helps spur Lancers’ turnaround
It was one of those games where any scoring chance seemed like a quality one, as both teams scored on fortuitous bounces and rebounds, along with a few pretty goals.
“Fort Sask’s goals were all pretty greasy in the third period,” Fischer said. “They just threw pucks and went hard (to the net). It works, so why not do it.”
A similar strategy worked well for the Lancers, especially in the wide-open second period.
“Yeah, definitely, we talked about it before the game, mainly focusing on getting pucks deep, being hard to play against, not trying to be too skillful, try to be a hard team to play against, try to be gritty,” said Romanchuk, the 17-year-old captain in his third year with the U18 AAA Lancers.
“That comes with throwing pucks to the net and driving to the net.”
As definitive as both the second and third periods were on Sunday, the Lancers’ reaction to their opening 20 minutes was equally critical. They were leading 1-0 at the time, but Romanchuk loudly reminded his teammates in the intermission that they needed to pull up their socks.
“I thought we were really soft in our D zone,” he said about the Lancers’ first-period performance. “It was kind of a universal opinion from everybody. I just think that if the message isn’t getting through, sometimes you do have to show a little tough love. But I think it helped out a lot. We had a really, really good second.
“Obviously, I don’t like doing that, because all of these guys are my friends and my brothers, but sometimes you need it.”
Lloydminster also needed a big outing from Edge, the Marwayne goaltender who made game-saving stops even when the tide shifted in the third period and the Rangers continued to press. With fellow goalie Asher Ammann battling sickness for the past month, Edge has been the main man between the pipes during recent weeks, and he has answered the bell well.
“I think Stran was a big part of that (defence) today,” Romanchuk concurred. “He was really helping us out back there, making all those first saves. We just kind of got unlucky with the rebounds and bad bounces and stuff like that. But we just didn’t let up. We knew what the goal was, and we just kept going.”
Fischer has seen similar stuff from Edge, 16, in past seasons. They were previously academy teammates with the Lloydminster Athletics program.
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF WILTON NO. 472
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to Section 13 of The Municipalities Act, the R.M. of Wilton No. 472, subject to the consent of the Minister of Highways, intends to close and transfer the road allowance described as the following:
INTENT
Proposed Bylaw No. 16-2025 will provide a notice of intent to permanently close and transfer all that portion of the original road allowance shown as “Portion of Road to be Closed” on Plan ID 34111498300-V-SKCH-001 (McElhanney Ltd., dated September 5, 2025), located within SE ¼ Section 07-48-27-W3M, containing approximately 0.21 hectares (0.52 acres). This land will be consolidated with adjacent Surface Parcels 130529763 (Ext. 1) and 130710473 (Ext. 2).
REASON
This road allowance remains undeveloped and will not be developed in the future. A subdivision application has been applied for to provide for the parcel ties of the road allowance lands with adjacent parcels. The road allowance to be closed and transferred as shown on Map 1.
PUBLIC INSPECTION
Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Municipal Office, 26646 Grid Road 688, (located in the NE-6-48-26-W3M, 9 km south of Highway 16 on Range Road 3265) between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM on Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Copies of the proposed bylaws are available on the RM website www.rmwilton.ca and at the RM Office at a cost of $5.00.
PUBLIC HEARING
Council will hold a public hearing on December 16th at 10:30 AM at the Municipal Office. Written submissions must be received two days prior to scheduled hearing by 4:00 PM. Via email, received at the office or via mail.
Issued at the RM of Wilton 1st day of December, 2025. Jill Parton, Chief Administrative Officer
Rookie goaltender Stran Edge of Marwayne has been in the Lloydminster net for all four of the U18 AAA Lancers’ wins in the Alberta Elite Hockey League this season. John MacNeil Meridian Source
“Stran has been kicking,” Fischer said. “He’s been good for us. He’s a gamer. He’s always been like that. I’ve played with him for a few years, and once he’s into it, he’s into it.”
Edge, with a 4-5-1 record, has been in net for all of the Lancers’ wins this season, which he began as the team’s backup goalie.
Ammann, 17, just returned to the Lloydminster bench on the weekend after dealing with health issues that surfaced in early November during his call-up to the Bobcats, said Lancers coach Chris King.
Along with missing Nickle for Saturday’s game, the Lancers were without another one of their key forwards, Ty Domshy, for both weekend games. He’s recovering from a concussion suffered during action the previous weekend in Grande Prairie.
Domshy, who rode the exercise bike while watching the second period of Sunday’s game, hopes to be ready to go this weekend.
In their final pre-Christmas home game, the Lancers host the Sherwood Park Kings (9-9-2) at 1:30 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 13). Lloyd visits the Edmonton Junior Oilers Orange (8-5-3) at 2 p.m. Sunday (Dec. 14).
In last Saturday’s loss at Leduc, the Lancers’ scorers were Flewell, Scott and Aiden Harman. Edge made 40 saves, six more than the Oil Kings’ Owen Prasek. Kade Harstad scored a hat trick for Leduc. He now has 12 goals and 18 points after 20 games. Trayvis Shirt and Ordell Saddleback, with an empty-netter, also tallied for the Oil Kings.
Riding a hot streak, Lancers rookie Scott has been piling up points of late. With four goals and nine points in the past five games, Scott now leads the team with 20 points (8-12) after 18 games. Fellow freshman forward Brody Sunderland and veteran D-man Romanchuk are next with 19 points each.
“He’s been going good,” Fischer said about Scott. “He’s been getting in dirty areas and putting up numbers, so that’s good for him.”
Fischer himself is in the thick of things again after missing the early part of the season because of a high-ankle sprain and his commitments as part of Team Alberta for the U16 WHL Cup.
“It feels good to be back and to be with everyone consistently,” he said. “It’s nice to have a role now.”
Fischer scored his first goal of the season during the Lancers’ profitable late November trip to Grande Prairie, where they defeated the 5-10-3 Grande Peace Storm 4-3 in overtime and settled for a 6-6 tie the next day.
“GP was good for everyone,” Fischer reported. “We won that first game and ended up tying the second one, which was OK. We should have won that. But it was a good confidence boost for everyone. You could tell that today (against Fort Sask). I felt like we played better and with more confidence and poise.”
Kelton Doolaege scored with 47 seconds left in overtime to give Lloydminster its victory over Grande Peace. Scott, Domshy and Fischer had the Lancers’ other goals, while Romanchuk supplied two assists. Storm goaltender Bracken Larocque made 45 saves, and Edge blocked 27 of the 30 shots he faced.
A day later, Larocque and Edge recorded 35 and 27 saves, respectively, as the teams battled to the overtime tie.
Scott, with a three-point game, scored the equalizer with 10 minutes left in the third period. Lloyd’s other goals came from Harman, Doolaege, Domshy, Romanchuk and Locklin Mitchell. Harman, Romanchuk and Josh Frazer each produced two points. Grande Peace captain Chase Wiens, with two goals and two assists, led all scorers as he figured in four of the Storm’s six goals.
HOCKEY AT THE HUB FROM PAGE 13
Lancers’ Nickle values ‘magical’ moment with Bobcats for his first AJHL contest
MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
It was a case of changing on the fly for Connor Nickle as the 16-year-old forward made his Alberta Junior Hockey League debut Saturday night.
The junior A Lloydminster Bobcats called up Nickle from the U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers in time for the short-staffed Bobcats’ 5-4 loss to the host Olds Grizzlys.
Cold Lake’s Nickle hit the road with the Lancers on Saturday, but he didn’t play in their 5-3 loss to the Leduc Oil Kings in Alberta Elite Hockey League play later that day. Instead, about 15 minutes after arriving in Leduc, he hopped on the Bobcats’ bus bound for Olds, the day after Lloyd’s 2-1 overtime loss to the Drayton Valley Thunder in AJHL action Friday night.
“I found out as soon as I got to the rink Saturday,” Nickle said about his junior A promotion. “My coach (Lancers coach Chris King) told me that I would be playing with the Bobcats. I was super happy about it.”
His first AJHL regular-season game lived up to the anticipation for the second-year U18 AAA Lancer.
“It was super exciting,” said Nickle, a Bobcats’ affiliated player. “Blood was rushing through my veins. It was magical.”
Even playing limited minutes, Nickle embraced his role with a Bobcats team that includes fellow Cold Lake native Dylan Deets and one of Nickle’s former U18 AAA teammates, Brady Gamble of Lloydminster.
“Yeah, I just knew I had to go out there and do the best I can, no matter what,” said Nickle, almost six-foot-two and 185 pounds. “That’s all I thought.
“I was (on a line with 17-year-old rookie) Ty Hynes for most of the time. A couple of guys were out of the lineup.”
After attending the Bobcats’ training camp and playing in AJHL preseason action, Nickle signed as an AP and practised with them a few times this year.
He’s also a prospect of the major junior Spokane Chiefs, the Western Hockey League team that drafted him in 2024.
Nickle said the Chiefs have told him to believe in himself and his abilities, regardless of the level he’s playing at the time.
“Just to stay confident and always be composed, no matter where I play, and just play every game as hard as I can.”
QUICK TURNAROUND
Nickle had played every Lancer game this season, at least until he was called up to the Bobcats on Saturday. He arrived back in Lloyd at 2 a.m. Sunday, slept for a few hours, and got out of bed at 7:30 to ready for the Lancers’ scheduled 11:15 a.m. home game, a 6-5 victory over the first-place Fort Saskatchewan Rangers.
Nickle went on to score his fifth goal — and 14th point — in his 17th game this season, giving him one more point than his full-season total in 38 games last year as a 15-year-old rookie with the U18 AAA Lancers.
“I think it’s been going well, and I feel I’ve been a huge part of this team,” Nickle said after Sunday’s game at the Hub. “We’ve been meshing really well together, compared to last year. I really like it.”
Nickle’s speed and skill have been evident on a progressing Lancers team that might be short on wins but flush with promising young talent. Back home last summer, Nickle focused on cardio work and plyometrics, and complemented his hockey training with competitive lacrosse, playing with the U17 Lakeland Heat.
One of his Cold Lake contemporaries, Gavin Harrison, is one of the AJHL’s top rookies, as part of a high-scoring line with the Bonnyville Pontiacs. Harrison was called up to the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos last month and dressed for one game.
It was an eventful weekend for 16-year-old forward Connor Nickle, who shuttled between the U18 AAA Lancers and the junior A Bobcats, who called him up for his first Alberta Junior Hockey League game. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Nickle also knows hometown Pontiacs like Rylan Emigh and Ryder Naim, a defenceman who played with the Lancers last season.
Emigh, a forward, returned home to Bonnyville this year after playing U18 prep in the CSSHL with Prairie Hockey Academy of Caronport, Sask.
BUNKING WITH THE BOHLKENS
This year, ex-Lancers forward Trey Bohlken, 16, elected to play at Prairie Hockey Academy rather than return to the Lloyd U18 AAA team that named him its unsung hero last season.
As he did during the previous hockey season, Nickle is staying with Bohlken’s family in the Border City, where he’s a Grade 11 student at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School.
“He likes the CSSHL pretty well,” Nickle said of his billet buddy Bohlken. “It seems like he’s having a good season.
“They made the Circle K (tournament in Calgary), so I’m not sure about their schedule for that, but hopefully I’ll get to see him quite a bit over Christmas. He’s been home once or twice, so I’ve seen him then, too.”
Last weekend, Nickle wasn’t the only U18 AAA player skating with the junior A Bobcats. Madden Woo, a 16-year-old defenceman from Leduc’s AEHL team, dressed for Lloydminster for his first two games in the AJHL.
JOHN
Romanchuk sets Lancers’ tone
LLOYDMINSTER HOCKEY MOVES FROM PAGE 15
Lancers captain Rhett Romanchuk, also a Bobcats’ prospect, congratulated Nickle for earning a promotion to the AJHL.
“I’m really happy for him,” said Romanchuk, a third-year Lancer who hopes to walk down the Hub hallway and join his hometown Bobcats on a full-time basis next season.
For now, the six-foot-four, 190-pound Romanchuk has been practising with the AJHL team at least once a week, after an extended pre-season stay with the Bobcats.
“Pretty good,” he said about his weekly skates with juniors. “I’m still going out there every Tuesday with them. It’s always a good time. They’re always tough on me, which is good. It gives me some experience for next year, hopefully. It’s been a lot of good feedback from everybody.”
With the Lancers, the 17-year-old Romanchuk has been a leader on and off the ice. He’s their topscoring defenceman, with six goals and 19 points after 18 games.
“It’s been really good,” said the Lloyd Comp senior. “I’ve felt really confident this year. I feel like I’ve been a lot smarter with the puck, making plays in the O-zone, and just not being scared to make any plays, but not taking too high of a risk.”
As the captain, Romanchuk has also been guiding a mostly youthful group through the ups and downs of provincial U18 AAA hockey.
Earlier this season, Romanchuk was called up to the Vermilion Tigers to play one game with the Northeastern Alberta Junior B Hockey League front-runners.
Two other Lancers were involved in a junior B game Sunday night, after playing their U18 AAA contest earlier in the day. Defenceman Denton Setzer, 17, and forward Alec Robinson, 16, suited up with their hometown Wainwright Bisons for their 6-2 loss to the visiting Lloydminster Bandits.
REDDEN JOINS JUNIOR B BANDITS
Sunday’s junior B game also marked the Bandits’ debut of 17-year-old hometown forward
Lloydminster captain Rhett Romanchuk, a 17-year-old defenceman, has scored six goals and 19 points after 18 games this season with the U18 AAA Lancers.
Jake Redden, a former Lancer who began this season with the U18 AAA St. Albert Raiders.
The Bandits (18-4) are keeping pace with Vermilion (18-3) in the fight for first place in the junior B league. Those teams play against each other this Friday night at the Hub.
The Bandits will host the Hockey Alberta provincial junior B championship in April 2026.
Bobcats lose twice, net veteran goalie
The Lloydminster Bobcats have added yet another goaltender to their Alberta Junior Hockey League roster.
Jaiden Sharma, 20, joined the Bobcats from the BCHL’s Surrey Eagles and played in both road losses last weekend against the two teams at the bottom of the AJHL’s South Division.
In his debut Friday, Sharma went the distance and stopped 28 shots as Lloyd lost 2-1 in overtime to the Drayton Valley Thunder.
Ex-Bobcat Daniel Zhou, with his seventh goal this season, scored the winner with 33 seconds left in the extra period. He has 17 points in as many games this year.
On Saturday, the Bobcats fell 5-4 against the league’s last-place Olds Grizzlys. Sharma started that game, but he gave way to Ty Matonovich early in the second period after giving up four goals on 16 shots. Matonovich then stopped 15 of 16 shots, although he was tagged with the loss.
Ayaan Vira, with his first AJHL goal, netted the winner late in the second when he broke a 4-4 tie.
The Bobcats’ Quinn Smith had scored the previous two goals in short-handed and powerplay situations, respectively, and he posted three points overall. Luke Dooley added a goal and an assist, Gus El-Tahhan scored, and Kael Screpnek assisted on two goals.
The Bobcats fired 34 shots at Grizzlys goalie Connor Johnson. Olds, which welcomed new defencemen Owen Hutzul and Aaron Sawatzky, got goals from five players.
In Friday’s game at Drayton Valley, Lloydminster captain Kade Fendelet scored in the final minute of the third period to force overtime. Will Jamieson had put the Thunder on the scoreboard just 1:35 into the game.
Archer Cooke blocked 31 of the 32 shots that he faced in Drayton Valley’s net.
The OT loss snapped a three-game winning streak for Lloyd (15-8-2), which is second in the North Division, five points behind the Whitecourt Wolverines (18-7-1) and one ahead of the third-place Fort McMurray Oil Barons (13-8-5). Lloyd’s game scheduled for this Wednesday at Grande Prairie was postponed, but the Bobcats and Storm are still slated to face each other Friday and Saturday in the northern Alberta city.
John MacNeil Meridian Source
Steelers split pair
On a busy weekend in the Alberta Female Hockey League, the U18 AAA Lloydminster Steelers dropped a 5-1 decision to the visiting Edmonton Junior Oilers White on Sunday at the Hub.
Before that afternoon game, the Steelers arrived home near 2 a.m. Sunday, after winning 5-4 in a shootout over the Sherwood Park Reign in a Saturday night game played at Tofield.
Steelers captain Skylar Heinrichs scored a hat trick in the victory, and she and teammate Jamie Hensch were the only two scorers in the shootout.
Peyton Oborowsky added a goal and an assist, Sawyer Mackay picked up two assists, and Kenzie Zidar made 31 saves in Lloyd’s net. The Steelers posted 47 shots against the Reign’s Olivia Legassick.
At home Sunday, Lloyd’s lone goal came from defenceman Alivia Foster, on a second-period power play. Ex-Steelers forward Raevyn Neahr led Edmonton with two goals and an assist.
Sloane Schaab registered 28 saves for Lloydminster (5-7-1). The Oilers improved their record to 11-2.
NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Any person claiming to be affected by a decision of the Development Authority may appeal to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board by submitting written notice and the fees as per the Fees and Charges Bylaw (Bylaw 6-2025) within 21 days from the date of issuance to The Office of the City Clerk, Attention: Secretary – Subdivision and Development Appeal Board at City Hall at 4420 – 50 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 0W2.
Left: The Steelers’ Alivia Foster (6) and Skylar Heinrichs (16) battle Edmonton’s Parker Small on Sunday at the Hub. Right: Steelers’ assistant coach Tori DeJong. John MacNeil Meridian Source photos
Raiders ‘walk away proudly’ from girls’ volleyball provincials
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
The Holy Rosary Raiders might not have earned a medal at the Alberta senior high school girls’ 3A provincials in Grande Prairie, but they still returned home to Lloydminster with their heads held high.
In a tough 12-team field, the Raiders battled all weekend and placed eighth against the best 3A schools in the province.
After a slow start Thursday (Nov. 27), Holy Rosary rebounded Friday and played some of its best volleyball of the season to qualify for the quarter-finals. But the seventh-ranked Raiders dropped that playoff match against a juggernaut in top-seeded Crescent Heights, the South zone champion.
“The team fought extremely tough, but lost in two sets,” said Holy Rosary coach Trent Kusch. “Led by our three Grade 12 captains — Sophie McBain, Addi Alexander and Aubree Sunderland — the players showed heart and resiliency all weekend.”
The Raiders’ culture that the leadership group built all season was particularly evident during the team’s push through three matches Friday, the midway point in the three-day tournament at St. Joseph Catholic High School.
“Because of this, even with not getting the result we ultimately wanted, we were able to walk away from the tournament proudly, knowing we left everything we had on the court,” Kusch said.
Along with Alexander, McBain and Sunderland, fellow Grade 12 players Jayden Flasch and Jayne Wytrykus also walked off the high school volleyball court for the final time.
“We had five Grade 12 students play in their final games on the weekend,” Kusch said. “They all stepped up in different moments to contribute to the team during the weekend. This showed up in many ways, getting important blocks, being able to come in and make passes, or executing serves when the team needed a big run to finish off a set.
“For the seven players that remain, this was their first time being able to experience provincial volleyball, so the experience will go a long way towards making another run at a provincial title next year.”
The weekend before the provincial tournament, the Raiders hosted and won the Northeast zone championship.
In the provincial final, Central Alberta Christian defeated Crescent Heights.
The Holy Rosary Raiders won the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Barons
basketballtournamentlastSaturdaynight.Inthebackrow(fromleft)arecoachBeckyGrassl,
Scarlett Bandola, Naomi Anokwute, Ava Tosh, Kate Beattie and Reese Grassl. In the front
are Kali Bender, Emma Fallscheer, Allie Roger, Ceslie John and Hannah Rada.
Holy Rosary girls go unbeaten in winning LCHS tournament
MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
The Holy Rosary Raiders warmed up for their home Holiday Hoops tournament with a golden performance in the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School junior A Barons girls’ basketball tourney just last weekend.
The junior A1 Raiders capped their unbeaten showing with a 40-point victory (73-33) over the North Battleford Vikings in Saturday evening’s final.
“My team played hard and continued to improve throughout the weekend,” said Holy Rosary coach Becky Grassl. “Our team has six returners this year and they all stepped up and took control on the court.
“We have five (players) new to the team and they all improved and contributed every game, too. That is even more exciting than winning the tournament — every single member of the team contributed to our success the whole
weekend. We’re 11 (girls) strong.
“It sure is fun to see the girls work hard and improve this early in the season, already.”
In the two-day tournament, the Raiders defeated the host Barons in the semifinals after posting round-robin victories over Carpenter of Meadow Lake and John Paul II of North Battleford.
This weekend, Holy Rosary hosts its annual holiday tournament, before hitting the road in January for events in Ardrossan, Wetaskiwin and Sherwood Park.
BRONZE FOR BARONS
In the six-team LCHS girls’ tournament, the host Barons were the bronze-medallists. They had finished second in their pool, before dropping their playoff matchup against Holy Rosary.
“It started out really close, and then Holy Rosary pulled away,” said Barons coach Christine Thiessen. “They have a really strong team.”
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As for her own club, Thiessen saw promising signs from that group of Grade 9 players, and across the board in both the girls’ and boys’ junior tournaments held simultaneously at the two LCHS gymnasiums.
“For sure, there was lots of really good competition here,” Thiessen said. “There were some strong teams that came in.
“One of the pools, we had to do a tiebreaker, it was so close.”
The LCHS girls defeated Carpenter (Meadow Lake) in their bronze-medal game, while the Barons boys’ team knocked off John Paul II (North Battleford) in their third-place contest.
Along with the clubs from Lloydminster, North Battleford and Meadow Lake, Unity played in both the girls’ and boys’ tournaments, while Martensville was part of the boys’ field.
Many of the same junior teams return to the court this Friday and Saturday for the Holy Rosary tournament in Lloydminster.
junior A girls’
AnastasiiaLiashenko,
row (from left)
John MacNeil Meridian Source
JOHN
Holy Rosary boys mesh well for golden finish
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
With clutch shooting and stingy defence down the stretch, the Holy Rosary Raiders overtook the North Battleford Vikings when it counted most to win Saturday’s gold-medal game in the LCHS Barons junior A basketball tournament.
Ryder Parkinson sank a pair of three-point shots and Raphael Carreon meshed back-to-back free throws as the Raiders broke open a tight game and won 51-42.
“We had some plays lined up for me to shoot it,” replayed Parkinson, a 14-year-old guard. “The nerves were gone, but I ended up making it to win the tournament. But also, with help from my teammates. It wasn’t just me.
“This is one of the top basketball games I’ve been in — in my career — and we won it, so that’s nice.”
SUCCESS ON FOOTBALL
FIELD, TOO
Just a few weeks earlier, Parkinson was part of the Junior Raiders football team that won its provincial championship.
With the basketball club, he’s one of nine Grade 9 students with the Raiders, whose 12-man roster includes three players in Grade 8.
“I’ve played club with most of them pretty much my whole life, and school basketball,” Parkinson said. “We’re hoping that we can do good.
“I’ve been playing for four or five years. I like the intensity that comes with it, and the friendships that you make along the way.”
En route to their golden finish in the six-team tournament, the Raiders won and lost round-robin games before posting a 20-point victory over the host Lloydminster Comprehensive Barons in their semifinal.
LCHS went on to earn the bronze medal, defeating John Paul II of North Battleford in the third-place game.
In preliminary play, the Barons had won their pool, while the Raiders were second in the other division.
“The boys really came together,” said Holy Rosary coach Mitch Cherry. “The main thing we’re focusing on this year is just defensive toughness and working together on offence as well.
“The boys played really good, which turned out to be a victory.”
The Holy Rosary Raiders won the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School
basketball tournament Saturday evening. In the back row
are Joshua Balenga, Drake
Mangwiro, Jaden Achanga, Lordy Quiamboa, Jonathan Ghirmai and coach Matt Cherry. In the front row (from left) are Erik Mercredi, Raphael Carreon, Ryu Quinzon, Asher Leckie, Icexander Carag and Ryder Parkinson. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Earlier on Saturday, the Raiders lost to John Paul II and finished round-robin play with a 1-1 record.
It’s already shaping up to be an entertaining season of junior high school basketball.
This weekend, Holy Rosary’s junior boys and junior girls host their respective tournaments on Friday and Saturday.
“Over the course of history, we’re always quite even with North Battleford Comp and Lloydminster Comp,” Cherry said after Saturday’s final. “On any given day, anyone can beat anybody. “This is our first tournament of the year. To have a lot of close games, and our boys come out on top, it was great to see.”
Barons junior A boys’
(from left)
Stoddart, Tinaye
PAGE 20
Thursday, December 11, 2025
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ALL PROGRAMS RESUME IN JANUARY
DECEMBER 24 CANDLE LIGHT SERVICE AND DRAMA 6PM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS
Sunday, Dec. 14 at 10:00am Advent 3 -
In loving memory of our wonderful parents and grandparents who have passed away ED VOKINS
(DECEMBER 14, 1991) & PHYLLIS VOKINS
(FEBRUARY 25, 2017)
Time slips by and life goes on…
But from our hearts you’re never gone. We think about you everyday, We talk about you too… We have so many wonderful memories But we wish we still had you. Our loved ones may be out of sight, But they’re never out of mind. For they are cherished in the hearts Of the one’s they left behind.
Lovingly remembered and forever missed by their children Dick, Donna-Marie, Marg, Doug and Brian and families
NOVEMBER 28, 2025
The family of Jim Kuzyk are sad to announce his passing at the age of 64 years. A great dad, wonderful brother and dear friend to many, Jim was a man of true character & an irrepressible sense of humour.
Jim retired in 2024 after a lengthy career with AGT/Telus in Vegreville, Edmonton & Lloydminster where he resided for the past 24 years.
He had a passion for amateur ham radio which he first discovered from his uncle Bill and was an avid & valued member of the Sask-Alta Radio Club, participating in
IN LOVING MEMORY OF TRACY MARIE TAYLOR
(May 10, 1980 - Dec. 17, 2002)
We think of you in silence
We often speak your name
But all we have are memories
And your picture in a frame.
Your resting place we visit
And put flowers there with care
But no one knows the heartache
As we turn and leave you there.
Forever loved & missed everyday. Dad & Mom
Sheldon, Tanya, Jadyn & Kabrie
Jared, Tari, Ella, Georgie & Blake
many events and projects.
Jim also enjoyed antique cars, an interest he picked up from his dad, and participated in local parades and shows whenever he could. Jim is survived by his daughter Taylyr Yakimovich; sisters Barbara (Curt) Bruggencate, Debra Schneider, Cathryn Kuzyk (Cliff Swanlund), Estelle Kuzyk (Ken) and Gloria (Kevin) Klapstein; brother John Kuzyk; along with nieces, nephews & cousins. Jim was predeceased by his parents Nicholas and Jeanne (nee Austin); sister Arlene Kuzyk and nephew Aaron Kuzyk. Cremation has taken place and a private Memorial Service will be held at Autumn Rose Funeral Home. Celebra tion to follow at a later date. Memorial donations are encouraged by the family and may be made in Jim's name to the "Alberta Cancer Foundation."
To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
1949-2005
Twenty years have passed since you breathed your last
To go to a Heavenly place and see your Saviour face to face
Your life was lived as you were led and left a mark on those you met
A kind, caring loving man who would always be a friend.
Our love for you has never wained and one day soon we will be together again.
Loved and missed always
Gina, Erik, Sara, & Families
age of 98 years.
Frank was born, July 6, 1927 on the family farm in the White Eagle District. He was the oldest of 3 brothers and 2 sisters. He attended White Eagle School walking 3 1/2 miles one way. He had to learn how to speak English as all his family spoke Polish. After finishing his school years, he continued to help and live on the family farm.
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Larry Makelki on Friday, November 14, 2025.
Larry was born in Weyburn, SK on October 19, 1946 to Mark and Ruth Makelki and was raised in Goodwater, SK with his five siblings. Throughout his 79 years, Larry always proved himself to be a kind and steady presence.
As a young man, Larry was a hard worker and enjoyed sports. He played hockey and baseball and was a force on both the rink and baseball diamond. When his sister
On November 11, 1963, he married Denise Brassard. Together they continued to farm. On January 19, 1977, after battling years of MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Denise passed away.
In 1991, he started a friendship with Frances Hoffman. With that came extended family of Corrie and Marlene. With those daughters came son-in-laws, grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. In the 33 years, the family enjoyed many wonderful gatherings together.
Over the years, Frank enjoyed bowling, fishing, gardening and woodworking. He enjoyed watching curling and baseball (Blue Jays).
He enjoyed his 98 years to the fullest.
He is survived by: his loving companion, Frances Hoffman; loving family, Corrie and Brad Van Metre, Dakota, Denver (Beaudre) and Bailey (Sam); Marlene and Ed Wipf, Jaylon and Janelle (Wesley) Tews; and Chris (Ashlee) and Indigo Reilkoff; sisters-in-law,
Rose Bielecki, Kathy Beauvillier and Louise Premak; brothers-in-law; Tony (Madeleine) Brassard and Denis (Linda) Brassard; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by: his loving wife, Denise; parents, Joe and Pauline Bielecki; siblings; Annie (Albert ) Salzl, Peter, John (Josie), Joe, Robert and Mary; in-laws, Emile and Gilberte Brassard, Roland (Rose) Brassard, Beatrice (Claude) Bertrand, Paul (Mary) Brassard, Charlotte (Ken) Thompson and Barbara Ann Collins; and nephews, Ted and Gordie Bielecki.
The Funeral for Frank was conducted from Paradise Hill Our Lady of Sorrows RC Church, Paradise Hill, SK by Father Frederik Akah. A recording of the service is posted on McCaw Funeral Service website under Frank's obituary, if you were unable to attend.
The interment was held at the St. John's Cemetery, Paradise Hill, SK Donations in memory of Frank
an be made to Riverside Health Complex - Palliative Care Unit (PO Box 10, Turtleford, SK S0M 2Y0) or a charity of your choice. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements.
CARD OF THANKS
We would like to thank the staff at the Turtleford Hospital for their comforting care given to Frank and kindness to us. Thank you to Joel and staff at McCaw’s for their support and compassion during our difficult time. Also thank you to Father Frederick for the visits to the hospital and the final service as well as to the choir for their beautiful hymns. To the Red Cross Community ladies, thank you for the wonderful lunch you prepared. To the ones that gave flowers, food, masses, donations, cards, phone calls and many hugs; we thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts, from Frances and family.
Home at the age of 98 on Friday, October 17, 2025.
private events. She was active in Twin City Operatic Society. Eileen graduated from Stratford Teachers College and taught in Linwood and McGregor Public Schools. While teaching, she graduated from what was then Waterloo Lutheran University with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology. She continued to take University courses, to further her education. At McGregor she became the librarian where she developed her computer and Audio-Visual skills.
in heavy machinery. Eventually, he began working in the oilfield and it wasn’t long before that he began working for Cardwell Supply in Weyburn.
In October 1969, he married Helen McAlpine. They moved to Swift Current and then to Edmonton once Larry began working for Axelson Canada. Before long, they moved again. This time to Lloydminster where Larry and Ron Christie started BMW PC Pump and BMW Monarch. These were just a few of the many business ventures Larry was involved in during his life. BMW quickly grew its reputation as the best and largest supply store chain in the country.
Larry and Helen raised three children; Carrie, Shana and Ryan. In October 1981, they bought a small acreage outside Lloydminster. Larry has always loved his horses, including team roping, sleigh rides and of course, The Lea Park Rodeo. He was always willing to lend a hand to neighbors, especially during
found something new to occupy himself, the Edmonton Oilers. The hockey team was on the brink of being sold and moved to a new market but Larry and a group of investors intervened to keep the team in the city. Not just an investor but a fan, Larry enjoyed many games from the Skybox in Rexall Place and had a whole room devoted to Oilers memorabilia that included a favorite framed Gretzky jersey.
In December 2008, Larry married Katie Clarke in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. This is also where they spent many winters soaking in the warm weather, watching whales, fishing, golfing and enjoying the company of many visiting friends and family members. In that same year they built a new cabin at Loon Lake and started the build on their house south of Blackfoot.
Larry is survived by: his partner, Katie; daughters, Trinity Dorsey (Troy), Carrie and Shana; son, Ryan; grandchildren, Kayla (Matt), Dayle, Allix, Ryker, Dylan and Devin; great-grandchildren, Rayna
his sidekick, Snickers; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless wonderful friends.
Larry was predeceased by: his parents, Mark and Ruth Makelki; brother, Keith Makelki (May 2021); brother-in-law, Neal Boyce (March 2021); and many cousins and friends.
Larry will be remembered for making others feel seen, valued and welcomed. He had a quiet strength, gentle heart and a big laugh. His memory stays with us forever, especially in a drink raised to friends and family, a great goal or home run or with reins in hand and boots in stirrups. We are grateful for every moment and know his kind heart lives on in countless lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life will be conducted from Alberta Building , Lloydminster, SK on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 1:00 PM.
Predeceased by her loving husband, Mel Elliot, Eileen, previously Gray, Buhr and Parry, leaves behind her son Doug, of Ottawa, and daughter Patricia, of Calgary; three grandchildren, John, of Salt Spring Island, David and Sarah (Eric), both of Calgary, and three great grandchildren, Lucas, Zoë and Emily, all of Calgary.
Born Doris Eileen Patricia Parry on April 23, 1927, at Lilydale, near Maidstone, Saskatchewan, to Claude Royston Parry and Doris Kathleen Fanner.
Eileen has done a lot over the years. Early on she was a salesclerk at the Eaton’s store in Regina, a Wear Ever Brush Saleslady, a canvasser for Canadian Facts and founded Eileen’s Home Service. She was a manager for apartment buildings in Kitchener and Toronto. She also sold Real Estate in the Kitchener Waterloo area.
Eileen enjoyed classical singing in choirs as well as solo, at churches and for public and
If you are unable to attend in person, you may view the live streaming of the service posted on McCaw Funeral Service website under Larry's obituary. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd.,
Eileen pursued Genealogy, exploring her family roots in England and Wales, visiting relations there, helping others with their Genealogy, as well as volunteering at the Kitchener Stake Family History Centre. Mother’s friends were very important to her. She was always ready to help them. We thank her friends present and past for the important role they played in her life.
There will be no visitation. A celebration of her life will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A livestream will also be provided for those who cannot attend in person.
Eileen’s cremated remains will be interred in a private ceremony beside her parents at the Lashburn Cemetery in Saskatchewan at a later date. No flowers or gifts please. Charitable donations may be made to Arthritis Society, Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, Alzheimer Society of Kitchener or the charity of your choice. These donations may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com. The family is very thankful for the staff at Columbia Forest Long Term Care Home for their care of Eileen.
SUDOKU
HOROSCOPE MOVIE SHOWTIMES
or
you’ll finally be able to finance your project.
This week, you’ll start sending out invitations for holiday parties. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the many positive responses you receive.
Your artistic potential will blossom. Be sure to jot down your ideas so you don’t forget them.This way, you can bring them to life one day instead of letting them fall by the wayside.
You’ll receive numerous invitations to go out, which you’ll gladly accept. Although this may sometimes feel overwhelming, remember to take breaks and recharge when you feel the need.
If you want to celebrate the holidays in a special way, planning ahead is important. Time is running out, but the results will exceed your expectations.
It’s time to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new adventures. The new year will bring opportunities for you to explore fresh perspectives.
A particular person or situation will deeply move you this week. The changes you make at work will yield positive outcomes.
Your colleagues will enjoy working with you because you’re not afraid to tackle challenges or step up and take initiative in organizing upcoming events.
VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
