Issuu

Thursday, December 25, 2025

VOLUME 8 I ISSUE 27

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

colleen.young@sasktel.net

306-825-5550

Colleen Young

MLA for Lloydminster Constituency

MERIDIAN SOURCE

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – JANUARY

Thursday, December 25, 2025

A look at all things 2025

Meridian Source celebrates the past 12 months with a year in review

elcome to the Meridian Source’s special year-in-review edition. Each year, the Source looks back on the year that was, highlighting the triumphs and success stories within the community. Of course, we couldn’t reprint everything that happened over the past 12 months, but this edition offers a snapshot of Lloydminster’s history in 2025.

Traditionally, the Source splits its year-in-review into two editions. This year, however, we decided to dedicate the second paper exclusively to sports coverage. Be sure to pick up next week’s edition of the Meridian Source to read about the year in sports. This year was filled with incredible stories, and we at the Source are proud to have been there to

Kiwanis Club honours retired Source staffer

espite retiring at the end of 2024, former Meridian Source staffer Geoff Lee couldn’t keep his name out of print. Lee received the Lloydminster Kiwanis Club’s Distinguished Service Award in early January for extensive club coverage during his time as a journalist in Lloydminster. Kiwanis secretary Vera Gallant worked with Lee over the years telling service club success stories that lead to smiles. “Geoff has been so awesome to the Kiwanis Club. He was all over the community and he’s done a lot, especially for us,” said Gallant on Jan. 7. “Whenever I called him, he was always available. It didn’t matter what he had on the go, he would

manage to squeeze us in.” For Lee, who jokingly told Meridian Source editor Taylor Weaver he had no recollection of working at the paper when asked for comment, the award was special. “It felt pretty good, but I have to give credit to Vera. She was always alerting me of event s t hey wer e having,” said Lee.

share them with you, the reader. Take a walk down memory lane with our team as we reflect on everything that happened in the Border City in 2025. We’re excited to see what 2026 brings and can’t thank our readers and advertisers enough for their continued support. See you in 2026! — Taylor Weaver, Editor

Fire Department receives safety award

loydminster Fire Rescue, previously known as the Lloydminster Fire Department, received an award recognizing 20 years of fire prevention and education in January. The award highlighted the department’s ongoing efforts to promote awareness and reduce fire-related risks in the community. A range of fire-safety programs have been developed by the department, including community presentations, school visits and fire station tours, library fire safety talks and routine inspections of homes and businesses. “Many people think, ‘It will never happen to me,’ but emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time,” said former assistant Fire Chief Kris Hill. “That’s why we work so hard to promote simple but effective practices, like having working smoke alarms on every floor and creating exit plans for your family. These small actions save lives.”

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YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – JANUARY

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Etched in ink: Arrest made in triple muder Remembering Dalonna T

he Lloydminster RCMP held a news conference on Jan. 20 to announce an arrest in the murders of Brent, Matthew and Brennan Peters. The father and two sons were murdered in their Lloydminster home in September 2024. “Today, we are here to announce an individual has been arrested and charged with the murders of Brent, Matthew and Brennan Peters. On Jan. 18, the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit charged Nakota Rayne Pooyak, aged 31, of the North Battleford district, with three counts of seconddegree murder,” said Insp. Dean Riou, OIC North Operations Officer, K Division Serious Crimes Branch.

“Mr. Pooyak appeared this morning in Saskatchewan Provincial Court via video from the Saskatoon Correctional Centre and was remanded into custody.” He also provided details about the police response. “On Sept. 11, 2024, around 5:50 p.m., Lloydminster RCMP responded to a well-being check at a residence near 50 St. and 47 Ave. Inside, officers discovered Brent, Matthew and Brennan Peters deceased with apparent gunshot wounds.” The Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation while working alongside the Lloydminster RCMP.

Library continues work to municipal status

he Lloydminster Public Library was continuing its efforts in becoming a municipal library in late January. The City of Lloydminster approved the transition of the Lloydminster Public Library into a municipal library under the Saskatchewan Public Libraries Act. The move followed the Government of Saskatchewan’s approval of a Minister’s Order, which officially removes the city’s Saskatchewan-side boundary from the Lakeland Library Region. At a regular council meeting on Jan. 20, council approved actions to advance the transition, which included amendments to the Lloydminster Charter. “Ultimately, it’ll probably have limited effect on their day-to-day operations of their libraries, what it’ll change is the priorities of Lakeland Library Region and how they support the libraries still within that region. There would be a financial change to the region while our levy is no longer going into the region. They’re no longer spending resources on Lloydminster. I’m not really sure how that would affect them long- term,” said executive manager of community development services Tracy Simpson.

LPSD opens Pursuit School of Sport

he Lloydminster Public School Division (LPSD) was preparing to open The Pursuit School of Sport. The new school will support elite and aspiring student-athletes. It officially opened in September at 4111-48 Ave. and serves students in grades 6 to 12. “The Pursuit School of Sport represents an incredible opportunity for student-athletes in our region,” said Jason Neville, director of education for the LPSD. “This school is all about balance, supporting students in achieving academic success while providing the flexibility they need to excel in their sport. We proudly offer a school that celebrates student-athletes’ dedication, discipline, and passion.” The school offers flexible academic schedules, including face-to-face instruction, online learning and self-directed studies.

t was an emotional day for the Jones family at Dark Hour Ink. Dalonna Jones celebrated her 40th birthday in the ICU at the University of Alberta Hospital after suffering a medical episode in her home on Christmas Day of 2024. She was approved for organ donation on Jan. 3 after efforts to bring her back from a coma were unsuccessful. It didn’t take long for the Lloydminster community to rally together in an effort to help the grieving family. Desiree Cornet-Wile, co-owner of Dark Hour Ink, was ready to do what she could. “All tattoos done today, the price point is between $100 and $200. All the proceeds are going to Dalonna’s family,” explained CornetWile on Jan. 26, the day of the flash tattoo sale. Dalonna’s sister, Jackie Jones, was on hand getting a tattoo to honour Dalonna. “I’m getting a rose, in honour of my sister. So my niece and I are actually getting the same roses,” said Jackie. She says she’s been taking it day by day but has seen the family come together through these difficult times. The tattoos were designed in honour of the late Dalonna. Lyle Jones, Dalonna’s dad, was also showing off some ink he had recently received for his family. The Jones family, like dozens of others, were there getting tattoos in honour of Dalonna. “Pretty special, a lot of us have never had one before. She liked tattoos, so we just figured we would do a tattoo in honour of her,” said Lyle. He says the outpouring of support from the community has been amazing. “Super, phenomenal, I didn’t realize how much the community would come together for something like this,” Lyle said.

YOU ARE INVITED TO BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF LLOYDMINSTER ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & COMMUNITY RECOGNITION To be held virtually Wednesday January 14, 2026 12:00 to 1:00 PM (MST) THIS IS WHAT MENTORING LOOKS LIKE! Please RSVP to jacqueline.weed@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca by January 12, 2026 Details to join the meeting will be emailed to those that have registered on January 13, 2026 BIGGER TOGETHER - IGNITING POTENTIAL

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Fagnan awarded King’s Cornation Medal

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – FEBRUARY

Thursday, December 25, 2025

he late Glenn Fagnan was remembered as a big-hearted, caring, never-give-up soul during the Feb. 3 Rotary Club of Lloydminster meeting. Fagnan was a Rotarian for more than 30 years, so it was fitting the award be given at the meeting. Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright MLA Garth Rowswell was allotted one King’s Coronation Medal for any of his constituents, and chose Fagnan. “I knew Glenn through Rotary. I knew what kind of a volunteer he was here and how giving he was as an individual,” said Rowswell to a full house. “It was right around his funeral when we were trying to figure out who to give it to. I was there ... when you learn about how much stuff he did for other people that you never heard about, that he wouldn’t brag about it, he would just do it.” Aaron Buckingham, who worked closely with Fagnan on Border City Connects initiatives, said he was a large part of why he is who he is today. “For me, I’m the living, breathing example of Glenn Fagnan,” said Buckingham. “Without Glenn, I wouldn’t be any of the things I have been, any of the things that I am.” Buckingham said Fagnan took him under his wing as a young man in Lloydminster. Their bond grew through various boards, groups and even council over three decades. “You look at the bricks and mortar and the different things Glenn has touched over the years, and there’s hardly one that isn’t touched by Glenn’s hand,” said Buckingham. “No matter what you asked of Glenn, you got it, no matter what it was.”

Lions celebrate 75 years of service

he Lloydminster Lions Club marked 75 years of service in the community this year. Members gathered to celebrate their achievements on Feb. 8 at the Legacy Centre. For longtime members like Vic Juba, this milestone is special. Juba has been a Lion for more than 71 years and has not missed a meeting in more than 50 of them. He paused when asked about why he does it. “Hopefully, to make things better than when you started, when you leave a legacy behind,” Juba said. To Juba, it’s all about giving back after being in the community for so many years. He had to think back about the club’s greatest accomplishments and recalled one accomplishment quickly — the creation of Lions Park in 1953. “It was a big, big project,” he said. “A house was raffled off. The money from that started the park.” Over the years, the club has left a mark on the city. It built Lions Park, Glendale Park and Anniversary Park. Members also funded a cataract surgery unit for the local hospital. When the machine became outdated in Canada, it was sent to Guatemala where it’s still used. “Shovels in the ground, hands in the dirt,” said proud Lion Kathy Smithson. “When you look around the community and see what you’ve done, you can’t beat that feeling.” Club member Shelley Tatro agreed. “We mean business,” she said. “Seventy-five

Vic Juba and Shelley Tatro. years, we’ve been busy.” The club is not slowing down, with plans for a new park underway. The group also continues its diabetes initiative, a cause close to Juba’s heart. “Sight conservation is a Lions International project,” said Juba. “It’s very connected to diabetes. I hope research will get rid of diabetes and vision loss.” The Lions Club is also focused on growth. The international organization aims to reach 1.5 million members worldwide. “We’re always looking for new members,” said Tatro. For one night, though, the club took time to reflect. “Tonight’s our night to brag,” said Smithson. “We don’t boast about ourselves very often.”

New arena begins to take shape

loydminster’s brand new state-of-the-art arena was working toward completion in late February. Construction entered the winter months and much of the work had moved indoors. The end of the last quarter saw some more procurement being done. “Q4 2024 concluded with the Wayfinding signage contractor procured. Cowan Graphics Inc of Edmonton was awarded the interior wayfinding signage contract for the project,” said Joel Turcotte, director of recreation and cultural services for the City of Lloydminster, at the Feb. 10 Governance and Priorities Committee meeting. Roof insulation was completed on the low roofs on the north and east sides of the building in October. On the exterior of the building, insulated metal panel installation was completed. The exterior steel stud and drywall was completed as well.

The hard landscaping contractor completed the first asphalt lift in the southern portion of the parking lot. The rest of the exposed parking lot was winterized and paving was planned for spring. Major mechanical and electrical equipment had been delivered to the site and was being moved to their final locations. Concrete sidewalks had been poured along the west side of 39 Ave. Gas lines were completed and connected to the building by ATCO Gas. As December 2024 and January 2025 rolled around, major milestones were marked. “Some milestones were done. In October, we had the structural steel and metal decking, in November finish trades mobilized to site, in December concourse and suite level framing complete, and January the event arena pad pour,” said Turcotte. Fundraising efforts were ongoing and the team was working to secure sponsorships for the remaining assets.

Kiwanis marks 41 years in Lloyd

he Kiwanis Club of Lloydminster celebrated 41 years in the community with a dinner at Spiro’s. The small club of around a dozen members joined to celebrate their accomplishments, which included a visit from the Lt. Governor Terry Ross and the induction of one new member to the club, Gordon Flath.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – MARCH

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

HRHS announces multi-million dollar project

new multi-million dollar turf-field playing surface was announced in March. The shovel-ready project at Holy Rosary High School is hoped to finish in September, but wasn’t ready until November. The Raiders erupted in cheers as officials unveiled the project during an assembly on March 4 in front of more than 800 excited students, staff and community members. Nigel McCarthy, former director of education for the Lloydminster Catholic School Division, called the new field a “game-changer” for local sports. “With this project, we become the home team,” said McCarthy during a video presentation. “Not just here at Holy Rosary, but for athletes across the entire region.” The field will host football, soccer, track and rugby competitions and will allow Lloydminster to attract provincial and national tournaments. “We spoke to Lakeland College and they shared their vision of hosting national soccer championships,” said McCarthy. “A dream that now feels within reach.” The project received a $1-million grant from the Government of Alberta. Other significant contributions came from Canadian Natural (CN), the City of Lloydminster and several local businesses and organizations. Garth Rowswell, MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright, said government funding for such projects is rare. “This is actually only the second $1-million project I’ve been involved in since being elected,” said Rowswell. “Not everyone gets this. It takes strong community support and an excellent application to make it happen.” However, Rowswell credited local donors and organizers for securing the funding.

MLA Garth Rowswell hoists a cheque for the Holy Rosary High School turf-field project during an announcement in March. Meridian Source photo “The people who put this together deserve all the credit,” he said. “Their hard work made this possible.” Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers highlighted the field’s impact on the entire city and explained why the municipality supported the project. “This project benefits everyone,” said Aalbers. “When the school board brought this to us, they made it clear the field would be open to the community.”

Elenee ecstatic over JUNO nomination

he life of a local singer/songwriter forever changed after a recent and well-deserved JUNO Award nomination. Elenee Young, known professionally as Elenee, was nominated for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year for her recent album, titled elenee in March. This was Young’s first-ever JUNO nomination and she’s still in shock by the news. What made the nomination even more special was the fact the CARAS (Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) threatened to pull the Contemporary Christian/Gospel Artist category from the awards in early September. “Our little niche genre felt threatened by this, it was our one shot at the big stage,” said Young, explaining she reconfigured her entire album release strategy to be able to submit to the JUNOs. “You must submit an album, it can’t be singles, over 50 per cent of that album had to be unreleased material. I had to strategically work back over a year and a half to be able to, at some point, submit for a JUNO.” Young explained that CARAS’ reasoning behind potentially pulling the category was due to a lack of excitement. “A whole bunch of artists, including myself, put stuff together to submit to show CARAS this category is still very much alive and thriving.” Young also explained winning a JUNO would be amazing, but the nomination alone comes with a lot of meaning. “The nomination means I’m on the roster,” she said, noting she also learned it’s possible to get your foot in the door when the odds are stacked against you. “I’m the only exclusive female of the nominees. I’m also the only person, as far as I know, who’s Métis and has an Indigenous background. I’m also the only person who is fully independent.” Throughout her music career, the 31-year-old wife and mother of two has fused Greek and Métis cultural influences into her work to tell her story and the story of others. “There’s always been pride about being Métis,

but at the end of the day, my dad’s side of the family has a ton of generational trauma,” said Young. “My dad passed away in 2020 from alcoholism, and that came from his childhood. “The trauma just got passed on, and for me, making music and putting it out there, no matter where it sits in the spectrum of genres, I feel like it’s my audible and present tangible healing journey.”

Elenee Young

Local Business Directory

MERIDIAN SOURCE

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – MARCH

Thursday, December 25, 2025

RM of Frenchman Butte OCP Notice NOTICE

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Frenchman Butte No. 501 intends to consider the adoption of a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to adopt an new Official Community Plan.

Rotary conference draws large crowd

INTENT

The proposed bylaw establishes municipal land use policies including, but not limited to, the following subjects: Natural and Heritage Resources: Identify and protect natural features, ground water, historical and heritage resources, and ensure development happens in an environmentally sustainable manner. Biophysical Considerations and Hazards: Regulation for development on and near hazardous lands, including environmentally sensitive lands, contaminated lands and flood hazard areas. Ensuring source water protection and public safety. Transportation and Infrastructure: To provide adequate servicing capabilities for future development, ensuring the cost for required infrastructure is known and covered by servicing agreement fees. Intermunicipal and Interjurisdictional Cooperation: Pursuing opportunities with government to enhance services and provide innovative opportunities for the region, and facilitation of interjurisdictional cooperation with neighbouring municipalities, First Nations, and other stakeholders on joint planning issues. Agricultural Land Use and Development: Protection of prime farm land within the RM while allowing for diverse forms of agricultural development. Residential Land Use and Development: Identify existing and future residential development areas, support infill development, and ensure the preservation of agricultural land. Commercial / Industrial Land Use and Development: To minimize land use conflicts between commercial and industrial developments and any existing land uses, as well as any potential environmental impacts as a result of such development. Recreation and Tourism: The development and enhancement of recreation and community services within the R.M., preservation of natural areas and ecosystems, and support for public service delivery agencies. Implementation: Policies regarding the implementation of the Official Community Plan and the application of tools within the Zoning Bylaw for subdivision review, dedication of lands, the use of a Building Bylaw, and the use of Development Levies and Servicing Fees. The Official Community Plan also contains a development considerations and constraints map which graphically displays, in a conceptual manner, the present and intended future location and extent of general land uses in the R.M. These maps will assist in the application of general goals, objectives and policies of the Official Community Plan. The policies in the Official Community Plan will be implemented primarily through administration of the R.M.’s new Zoning Bylaw. YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY PROVISIONS IN THE NEW OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN. PLEASE CHECK THE FULL VERSION OF THE BYLAW, AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW OR PURCHASE AT THE R.M. OFFICE OR FOR REVIEW AND DOWNLOAD FROM R.M. WEBSITE.

AFFECTED LAND

All land within the R.M. of Frenchman Butte as shown on the Land Use Concept contained in this notice is affected by the new Official Community Plan.

REASON

The new Official Community Plan will help direct and manage growth and development in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte for the next fifteen to twenty years.

PUBLIC INSPECTION

Any person may inspect the proposed bylaw at the R.M. Office, located 1/4 mile North off the Junction of Highway 3 and Highway 21 North, just east of Paradise Hill at Box 180 Paradise Hill, SK, S0M 2G0 . The R.M. office is open between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM Monday to Fridays, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available to persons at cost.

loydminster played host to a Rotary district conference where speakers told their stories as polio survivors. The District 5370 conference kicked off March 14 with an opening ceremony featuring local dignitaries and included an Indigenous cultural presentation and an Indigenous-curated banquet. These conferences give Rotarians a chance to see what the work clubs are doing. “Once a year, the district governor holds a district conference where we bring people together from different clubs and we talk about the work we’re doing. We talk about the various aspects of rotary,” said Brian Edwards, District 5370 governor. He says their goal is to inspire people and educate them on programs and initiatives. “We try to educate people on various programs that are going on and we try to inspire people to work,” said Edwards. March 15 saw a full itinerary for the attending Rotary members. The day kicked off with breakfast before a presentation by Anne Marie Robertson, covering topics such as humanitarian efforts and international law. Three polio survivors took the stage following a short break to tell their stories. Jackie Hobal, Susan Brazeau and Ramesh Ferris told the packed crowd their stories and why it was important to continue advocating for an end to the disease.

186 Cadets hit mark at provincials

PUBLIC HEARING

Council will hold a public hearing at 2:00 PM on January 28th, 2026, at the R.M. Office located at SW 11-53-24-W3M (just north of the junction of highway 3 and highway 21N) to hear any person or group that wishes to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the R.M. Office before the hearings. Email: administrator.rm501@sasktel.net Phone: (306) 344-2034 Issued at the R.M. of Frenchman Butte this 6th day of November, 2025. Aaron Neilly, Acting Chief Administrative Officer

he 186 Air Cadets Lloydminster Squadron marksmanship Team 2 made some noise at a recent provincial competition in Edmonton. Cpl. Cody Baker, LAC Clark Hughes, Sgt. Ethan Samarin, Flight Sgt. Elijah Belanger and Flight Cpl. Wyatt Moffatt bused to CFB Edmonton for two days of prone and standing competition. Overall, the team finished 11th of the 18 teams. Moffatt, however, placed third in individual overall standings. Civilian instructor Gordon Stefanuk explained this year’s competition saw vast improvements over last year, especially for Moffatt. “He got a bronze medal for individual overall standings. Quite an accomplishment for him. The team did very well and worked well together,” said Stefanuk, noting a few lessons he hoped the cadets learned. “Focus, the basics of shooting, and it’s great for them to see what the other competitors are doing during competition,” said Stefanuk. “Seeing the other competitors is a big thing.” Samarin, Belanger and Moffatt have been shooting together for roughly two years. Baker and Hughes, however, are both first-year shooters with bright futures on the range.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – APRIL

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Ukrainian dancers put on show in Lloyd H

undreds of Ukrainian dancers graced the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre as the Lloydminster Malanka Dancers held Ukrainian Dancing on the Border. The event, which ran from March 27-30, has a long history in Lloydminster and brings in hundreds of people. “This year is our 18th annual Ukranian Dancing on the Border festival. It’s a dance festival that celebrates Ukrainian culture, our heritage and all these kids with all of the hard work they’re putting into their performances,” said Tara Jarvis, event organizer. “This year, we have almost 450 dancers, and that’s just dancers and families that have come into town. We have 471 routines this year, so we ended up expanding it into four days instead of our traditional three.” Families come from all corners of Saskatchewan and Alberta. Luckily, the snowstorms rolling through both provinces didn’t hinder the event. “This is the first year that I’ve experienced snow during the festival. We’ve been very fortunate, most families braved the weather and the roads,” said Jarvis. Only one club was unable to attend due to the storms. “We have clubs coming in from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan that come and participate,” said Jarvis.

Lloyd council Rock for a Cure an ‘incredible’ success heads to SUMA

loydminster council headed to Saskatoon to take part in the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention in April. Mayor and council will be at the convention from April 13-16 to connect with ministers on key issues. “There’s two opportunities to reach out to the provincial government’s respective ministers; one are a series of what they call bear pits with the respective ministers of policing, health, mental health and addictions, environment, highways, a few of those,” said Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers. He says they try to ensure Lloydminster is represented at each of the various meetings during the convention. “We try as council to ensure there’s a council member at each meeting to ensure we have the opportunity to raise any issues we have,” said Aalbers.

he 2025 edition of Rock for a Cure, a fundraiser for I Love Alberta Boobs, raised big bucks for families battling breast cancer. “It was incredible,” said Brandy Schwenk, president and co-founder of I Love Alberta

Boobs. “We had the best time ever and raised so much money again.” The grand total for the event was $25,000. That money will go right back into the community with the help of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF).

Vaadeland proves ’em wrong with Juno

ake Vaadeland grew up in Big River, Sask., hearing, “No one likes bluegrass and country music,” and getting teased for the way he dressed. Well ... looks like he’ll get the last laugh. Now 21 years old, the Cut Knife resident and frequent performer at the Vic Juba Community Theatre won his first-ever Juno Award on March 30. The sharply-dressed Vaadeland and his band, The Sturgeon River Boys, took home Traditional Roots Album of the Year for Retro Man … More and More (Expanded Edition) at the 54th Annual Juno Awards in Vancouver. “I heard my name called and was excited for a second, then entertainment mode kicked in. People at my table were trying to hug me and later said I ran away too fast,” joked Vaadeland, explaining his priority was stage presence. “I wasn’t going to let there be any dead air on the Junos. I was making sure I had good stage presence, a good speech, and I wanted to say as much as I could in those 30 seconds before the music came on to get me off the stage.” For Vaadeland, the win is special, but it also

reassures him that he made the right choice in pursuing his dream of being an entertainer. “It means a lot, and it’s special,” he said,

explaining he wrote half of Retro Man … More and More (Expanded Edition) while still in high school.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – MAY

Thursday, December 25, 2025

RM of Frenchman Butte ZB Notice NOTICE Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Frenchman Butte No. 501 intends to consider the adoption of a new Zoning Bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007.

INTENT / ZONING DISTRICT OBJECTIVES AG - Agricultural District: To provide for the primary use of land in the form of agricultural development, associated farm dwellings, limited single-parcel country residential development, location-dependent natural resource development and other uses compatible with agricultural development. RD - Residential District: To provide for low density multiple lot residential development surrounded by agricultural lands to accommodate acreage development and other compatible development in specific areas with standards for such development. LD - Lakeshore District: To provide for residential and limited commercial development on lands surrounding Perch Lake and other specific areas with standards for such development. HD - Hamlet District: To provide for high density multiple lot residential development and other compatible development in specific areas with standards for such development. CD - Commercial / Industrial District: To provide for general commercial, industrial and other compatible development in specific areas, with standards for such development. FD - Forest District: To encourage forestry and other natural resource-oriented development and activity on provincial forest lands. The proposed Zoning Bylaw also contains updated and new general provisions that apply to development throughout the R.M. Updated and new provisions include: development permit requirements, application fees and application process; discretionary use permit requirements, application fees, application process and evaluation criteria; regulations for fences; accessory buildings and structures; signs and billboards; manufactured dwellings; vehicle storage; shipping containers; communal farm settlements; shooting ranges; home based business; and farm settlements. regulations for development on or near hazard lands; and regulations for outside storage and waste material storage.

AFFECTED LAND

All land within the R.M. of Frenchman Butte as shown on the Map contained in this notice is affected by the new Zoning Bylaw. YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY PROVISIONS IN THE NEW ZONING BYLAW. PLEASE CHECK THE FULL VERSION OF THE BYLAW, AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW OR PURCHASE AT THE R.M. OFFICE OR FOR REVIEW AND DOWNLOAD FROM THE R.M. WEBSITE.

REASON

The new Zoning Bylaw will help direct and manage growth and development in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte for the next fifteen to twenty years.

PUBLIC INSPECTION Any person may inspect the proposed bylaw at the R.M. Office, located 1/4 mile North off the Junction of Highway 3 and Highway 21 North, just east of Paradise Hill, Box 180 Paradise Hill, SK, S0M 2G0. The RM office is open between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM Monday to Fridays, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available to persons at cost.

PUBLIC HEARING Council will hold a public hearing at 2:00 PM on January 28th, 2026, at the R.M. Office located at SW 11-53-24-W3M (just north of the junction of highway 3 and highway 21N) to hear any person or group that wishes to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the R.M. Office before the hearings. Email: administrator.rm501@sasktel.net Phone: (306) 344-2034 Issued at the RM of Frenchman Butte this 6th day of November, 2025. Aaron Neilly, Acting Chief Administrative Officer

City Furniture opens in North Battleford

fter moving to Lloydminster in 2020 to join the family business as a City Furniture and Appliances owner, Dil Randhawa continues to grow the chain and is feeling more welcome than ever. City Furniture’s new North Battleford location celebrated its official grand opening on Saturday (April 26) with a ribbon-cutting. “It started in Prince George in 1976. Since then, we’ve grown to 25 stores from West Kelowna to North Battleford,” said Randhawa, noting the Lloydminster location celebrated its five-year anniversary on April 5. Saturday’s ribbon-cutting included several special guests and longtime supporters of Randhawa’s Lloydminster location. “We’ve made lots of great connections in the area and were honoured to have Chief Cody Benson of Red Pheasant Cree Nation and Chief Donny Ironchild of Little Pine First Nation in attendance,” said Randhawa. “The girls from Onion Lake Health Centre were also there. The Indigenous community and the surrounding community have supported us tremendously ... we’ve had people drive to Lloydminster from Wilkie to buy a fridge from us. They could have gone to Saskatoon but they chose to deal with us.” The North Battleford store, located at 2702 99 St., opened in September with the help of several local contractors and businesses. “We bought the building last spring and had help from Sparkes Builders, Rosswell Homes and Kondro Electric,” said Randhawa. “Creative Concrete and Repair (CCR) did the polished concrete floor, which looks great. “Those guys are all buddies of mine, but I try to keep as many local people working with us as possible. I love supporting locally as I rely on local support, too.”

Symposium to shed light on homelessness issues

here’s no easy solution, but members of Lloydminster’s Housing Working Group are hoping conversation can create change. The Lloydminster Exhibition’s Nissan Hall will provide shelter for the Housing and Homelessness Symposium on May 7. The event will include frontline workers and organizations, advocates, policymakers and community members to discuss homelessness in Lloydminster. The day will start at 9 a.m. with opening remarks and a prayer before guest speakers and two fireside panels, which will act as question-and-answer sessions. Housing Working Group members Kagen Kneen, former executive director of the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, Becky Schille, executive director of The Olive Tree, and Tyler Lorenz, executive director of Residents in Recovery, encouraged the public to attend and ask questions.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – MAY

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Gala garners $417K for LRHF

Maidstone Kin Club honours newest life member

ichelle Stepp was all smiles as she accepted her Life Member Award from the Maidstone Kin Club. Stepp received her Life Member Award at a May 10 event honouring her service to the club. “She’s put in a lot of time, and it’s a lot of time away from the family. She more than deserves this,” said Chris Zerr, Maidstone Kin Club president. “For Kin Canada, it represents a huge achievement of dedication to the club and all the things she’s done for Kin Canada.” The award for Stepp, who was joined by friends and family at the Border Inn and Suites on May 10, was something she didn’t expect. “It’s kind of just surreal,” she said. “It’s very humbling to receive my life membership. It’s not something a lot of people in Kin (Club) have received.” Stepp is no stranger to receiving awards. A display of her awards was available for all to see, including her Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee award, which she received in 2022. Her time volunteering is a way for her to give back to her community. “It means so much, just being able to go into the community and doing good things,” said Stepp. “A lot of the things I talked about in my speech, going and cleaning parks and going Christmas caroling with the seniors, I spent lots of time playing board games with the seniors. It’s just a way to give back.”

Local TV station signs off in Lloyd

local pillar of the Lloydminster community has been taken off the air after 65 years in the business. A May 13 news release announced CITL-TV and CKSA-TV were going off air. “It was an agonizing decision, to be honest,” said Steve Jones, president of Stingray Radio, via email. “It was not what we wanted to do, but we had exhausted all options. The TV stations had been losing money for years, and the losses kept mounting up with no end in sight. In fact, the future of small-market TV only looks more perilous. We are not in the business of closing things down. Or giving up. This was one of the hardest decisions I’ve been part of my in my career.” Jones explained the process had been underway for weeks and many potential buyers had been spoken with before the decision was made. “We also spent several months prior trying to find a buyer or company to take over the stations,” he said. “We spoke to national and regional broadcasters. We spoke to specialty and Indigenous broadcasters. We really wanted to make this work. But even at essentially free, no TV operator felt it was a viable business to inherit.” CKSA-TV started offering television to the Lloydminster area back in 1960 after CKSA radio expanded. Colour programming was added in 1968 after the station spent a considerable amount of money to upgrade. Eventually, the second station, CITL-TV, a CTV affiliate, was added. The Lloydminster TV station has been providing local news content and keeping people informed since its inception, with many popular faces gracing its set. Today, in a landscape of media uncertainty, it is even more difficult to fathom losing such a pillar in the community.

night of Greek splendour evolved into a $417,893 fundraising event for the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF). The LRHF’s 23rd annual gala, held April 25 at the Lloyd Ex’s WLS Convention Centre, featured fun, food, family and fundraising. “We’re extremely grateful for the overwhelming success of the event and the generosity of our community, volunteers, sponsors and everybody who steps up to make this event what it is,” said former LRHF CEO Stephanie Munro. “The amount raised was overwhelming and it shows how health care is topof-mind for so many people in the community.” As always, funds raised go toward the foundation’s greatest-needs fund, which supported community seniors this year. “The greatest needs fund allows us to act quickly and promptly when certain things arise in our commiunity,” said Munro. “This year, we raised funds for a new ice machine, a blanket warmer and new air mattress beds for the Pioneer House and Pioneer Lodge.” From new-born babies to 100-year-old retirees, Munro explained the LRHF does what it can to support all residents of the community. “We are able to help members of the community thanks to the generous support of our donors who step up year after year to attend our gala,” she said. “The event is a fundraising event, but it’s also an opportunity to say thank you to our donors who do so much for our community. It gives our donors a beautiful night out, an amazing meal, great entertainment and the ability to mingle and enjoy a sense of community.”

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 25, 2025

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – JUNE

Hockey meets philanthropy at LGCC 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

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2017

t was hockey-celebrity heaven at the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre (LGCC) as retired pros flocked from all over the country to support the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation’s (LRHF) One Final Drive for Healthcare celebrity golf tournament. The tournament was started by Cory Cross and Wade Redden and taken over by Scott Hartnell, Clarke MacArthur and Braden Holtby. This year’s tournament, held on June 4, included celebrity players like Mike Smith, Jordin

Tootoo, Kurt Bensmiller and Jon Mirasty, who brought along three of his Shoresy co-stars Alex Penner, Max Bouffard and Harlan Blayne Kytwayhat. Official totals weren’t immediately available, but former LRHF CEO Stephanie Munro said the foundation’s $200K goal should be surpassed. Funds from this year’s tournament supported the foundation’s Greatest Needs Fund, which is used for purchases not on the capital fund’s list within community health care.

Council passes borrowing bylaw

t’s now in the books. Lloydminster has adopted a bylaw to borrow an additional $7,380,926 for the Cenovus Energy Hub. The City of Lloydminster has been working on obtaining the funding from the Government of Alberta but, following this year’s budget, the request was not granted. Funding for the project saw the Government of Saskatchewan and the federal government give $16.5 million each. Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers says the discussions for potential Alberta funding are ongoing. “We’ll continue to persevere to see if we can obtain some funding,” he said. Coun. Justin Vance asked if there was any way to save additional funding. “We’ve fully tendered and contracted the scope of the project at this point,” said Tracy Simpson, executive manager of community development services. Council voted in favour of the second and third reading updating the bylaw to include the new $7,380,926 in borrowing. Vance voted in opposition to both the second and third readings.

United in grace for 100 years I

t was one for the history books as Grace United Church celebrated the United Church of Canada’s centennial anniversary last weekend in Lloydminster. While the United Church of Canada celebrated its 100 years, Grace United Church has been around for a bit longer. The church was called the Wesleyan Church before it became Grace United Church, marking 121 years of existence. The weekend kicked off Saturday (May 31) with a Family Funfest at Weaver Heritage Park. Eventgoers took in a variety of games and experienced Lloydminster’s history through guided tours and historical displays, while enjoying music from the Prairie Dogs. The celebration continued Sunday (June 1) with a church service and a luncheon. Event organizers noted how special the event was. “It’s been amazing,” said Alice Robinson, chair of the Grace United Church Centennial planning committee. “It’s interesting to think (it’s been) 100 years since multiple churches decided to come

together because they had so much in common. They decided to get past their differences. “It goes to show what you can do when you focus on what way you’re the same.”

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – JULY

Fair captures summer spirit

he Lloyd Ex Fair celebrated a successful year, capping off its 120th anniversary in July. While it’s still too early for concrete numbers of the event, they look promising. “We know we sold over 1,000 more wristbands in the pre-sale,” said Jackie Tomayer, general manager at the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association, noting she saw plenty of happy faces taking in the various fair offerings. “I initially would say it was one of our best (fairs) we’ve ever had.” “We had very few issues that we dealt with. We just had a whole pile of happy people on the grounds and during all the offerings.” She said the fair has continued to build on the history of the Lloyd Ex Fair. “What it means to the Lloyd Ex is continuing to build on that tradition, continuing to build on the rural routes,” said Tomayer. “There’s very few organizations that can say they’ve been around for 120 years and done things so successfully for that many years.”

No timeline on Rush Lake solution

enovus Energy says one well was uncontrolled at its Rush Lake site more than two months after a leak began. “We have 15 of the 16 wells stabilized and the site is stabilized,” said Clayton Ulrich, Cenovus Energy’s senior manager for upstream operations in Lloydminster, during a July 10 media session before an open house. “We’re still working on the last well right now that is still within our well control.” Cenovus’s goal for the open house, held in Paynton, Sask, was to update the public on the ongoing release and cleanup efforts. Ulrich said the leak was first noticed in early May and described the release as “muddy, silty water” brought to the surface by steam. Vapour also trapped some hydrogen sulfide (H2S) causing a strong odour in nearby areas. “That’s giving off a lot of the odour a lot of people are smelling today,” he said, noting concentrations of H2S remain low. “It’s in the parts per billion, not parts per million. It’s well below the healthconcern thresholds.” The company believes a casing failure in one of the wells is to blame. The location of the break was unknown at the time.

Texas 4000 group feeling the love in Lloyd

he Texas 4000 Ozarks Route group pedalled through wind and rain for a pitstop in the Border City last summer. The group, comprised of 20 University of Texas at Austin students, is part of a 4,000-mile cycling journey from Austin, Texas, to Anchorage, Alaska, to raise money and awareness for cancer research. The Ozarks Route takes participants across the American Midwest before entering Canada south of Winnipeg. Riders then travel along the Yellowhead Highway through Saskatoon before heading north after Edmonton. The goal is to raise $550K for cancer research. Lloydminster has been a regular stop for riders for years thanks to hosts like Dick Arie and his wife, Donna. The couple makes riders like John Kangos, a 22-year-old participant from Austin, feel right at home along the journey.

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Ten great years of cycling against cancer

his summer marked 10 years and more than 10,000 kilometres of cycling for long time SickKids Foundation rider Jarrod Russell. The 49-year-old Lloydminster resident has a soft spot for the cause and hopes to help kids suffering from cancer. “I’m riding for the kids that are in hospitals,. They look out the window, but they can’t actually go on a bike and enjoy their friends,” said Russell.

Synergy to merge with Conexus and Cornerstone

ynergy Credit Union will officially merge with Saskatchewanbased credit unions Conexus and Cornerstone following a successful member vote. Voting took place between June 3 and 13 and a successful vote required at least 75 per cent approval from each credit union. Conexus saw 87.5 per cent approval, Cornerstone, 86.5 per cent, and Synergy saw 88.7 per cent. The official announcement was made June 18, and the merger takes effect Jan. 1, 2026. The new credit union will serve more than 200,000 members in 50 communities, with 1,400 employees throughout Saskatchewan. “We’re ecstatic about the overall support of our members and the members from Cornerstone and Conexus. We all had strong mandates and strong participation from our members throughout the process. We’re overwhelmed by that support,” said Synergy CEO Trevor Beaton. The merger also signifies the largest financial institution in the province.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Passport to YLL

Thursday, December 25, 2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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. More at meridiansource.ca

Chris’ favourite column of the year: Fried chicken excellence

wrote about April Fools in early April. In that column, I discussed the border markers falling on the KFC bucket as part of an elaborate ruse by the paper. I also wrote how the bucket itself was gifted by Col. Sanders, which was part of the joke. In my youth, I believed the colonel was a man of myth. He was just a figment of our imaginations as this chicken deity who brought unparalleled fried chicken excellence. I’d like to say that changed as I got older, but I never considered that Harland Sanders, who received the moniker of colonel due to his food success in Kentucky, was a real individual. The title of colonel was honorary. Not only did I not know that, but I didn’t realize he often came to Lloydminster. Sanders visited Lloydminster in the ’50s and offered Jim Sellers, owner of Sellers’ Dairy Freeze, some fried chicken. Sellers liked the chicken so much he agreed to sell it becoming only the second Kentucky Fried Chicken franchisee in Western Canada. The story may sound wild but the fact he drove his beat-up Nash station wagon into the store and hauled pots and pans in to cook the chicken made it sound that much more unbelievable. Clearly in this case the chicken spoke for itself. Sanders had visited Lloydminster several times as he expanded his chicken

empire across North America. He was out on the road often, promoting his legendary chicken recipe and garnering support for more stores. He visited places like the Battlefords and Saskatoon. Globally, KFC has more than 30,000 stores with the colonel as the mascot. The KFC in Lloydminster changed hands a number of times over its history. In 1967, Ilston Plant and Jack Allen purchased the then Sellers Dairy Freez. In 1972, Ilston Plant sold his share of the business to Jack Allen, where it was renamed Allen’s Dairy Freez Ltd. KFC then opened in 1996 under new operators Wendy and Barry Gunn. If you go anywhere in Canada now, you’re likely to see the colonel’s face. Here in Lloydminster, it sits on the corner across from the border markers to this day. I’m amazed Sanders was real, and his story is pretty inspiring, how hard he worked and how passionate he was about his chicken recipe. Whenever I head over to KFC to pick up some chicken, I’ll remember this story.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – AUGUST

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Maria’s Days celebrates Frenchman Butte festival wows 55 years and renovations

aria’s Days drew big crowds celebrating not just Maria’s, but a milestone for Spiro’s Restaurant and a new look. Events ran at Spiro’s in Lloydminster from Aug. 7-9 and celebrated Marias. “It’s my name day and my name day happens to be the biggest holiday in Greece,” explained Maria Kokonas, owner of Spiro’s, who runs the business alongside her mom and dad, Spiro and Tina Kokonas. “It’s the day they celebrate all Marias.” Festivities kicked off Aug. 7 with a night market in the Spiro’s parking lot. “I think we had about 45 vendors,” said Kokonas. “It’s big for the vendors. They’re set up by four, open their markets at five and go right till 8:30 p.m.” As far as renovations go, Kokonas explained the functionality of the dining room didn’t change but the kitchen was redone following last year’s fire. New additions to the kitchen include a new floor and a double oven, totalling three pizza ovens.

Lloyd celebrates past with Heritage Day

loydminster’s history was on full display at Weaver Heritage Park on Aug. 4 with Heritage Day activities. The annual event kicked off with a pancake breakfast and wrapped up with a tractor parade. Hosted by the Barr Colony Heritage Society and the Lloydminster Museum and Archives, the day included wagon rides, a petting zoo, games and activities for kids and antique farming equipment.

LABIS: 40 years of brain-injury support

loydminster and Area Brain Injury Society (LABIS) is preparing to celebrate a major milestone. Next year, the non-profit will mark 40 years of helping people in the region live better after a brain injury. “There was just nothing in town that helped them or a place for them to go,” said former director of operations Verna Haight. “So, they created LABIS and it’s been going strong for almost 40 years.” Now operating out of a bright, accessible space with programs to help participants build skills, confidence and friendships, LABIS has grown from that grassroots start to a recognized local service.

he 34th annual Frenchman Butte Museum Festival brought hundreds to the small community to learn about history and take in activities. The festival, held on Sunday (Aug. 10), started with a church service before the museum buildings opened and eventgoers packed the area. “It’s kind of our annual festival. We have it every year and have entertainment and a few demonstrations going on,” said Glen Grant, vice-president of the Frenchman Butte Museum. “We’ll have the blacksmith open, they do rope making, and the fur guy is here. Some of the booths are selling books and our museum trinkets. A couple of artists, they’re new this year.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – AUGUST

Thursday, December 25, 2025

Lori Craven another heart-warming success T

he sun came out as folks from as far as Calgary shaved their heads at the 24th annual Lori Craven Memorial Tournament. Ball players, volunteers and spectators of all ages packed Driven Energy Legion Ball Park on Aug. 16 and 17 for the annual tournament. The two-day event featured 32 teams and a handful waiting in the wings to be added to the schedule. According to organizers, this year’s tournament raised $105,000 through donations and the shaving of heads and beards, which are live auctioned each year on Sunday afternoon. Funds raised go directly to local and area families with health and financial struggles. “Illness affects everyone. No matter who you are, everyone’s going to know someone,” said co-committee member Deanna Wandler. “To me, this tournament means coming together; the community comes together. Seeing the fun everyone has and the contributions people make is amazing. “The kids here today grow up around this tournament and one day they’ll be playing in it. Everybody is so amazing and supportive.”

Boundry gives back with Bronco Big Bend

oundary Ford presented the keys to a 2025 Bronco Big Bend to Merle Hagle, who won the Boundary Auto Wars raffle in support of the Lloydminster Exhibition. The raffle featured the Bronco, a 2025 Polaris Ranger and a 3,200-watt generator. Winners were drawn at The Ex at the end of the inaugural Boundary Auto Wars on Aug. 2. “I’ve always supported stuff and given a lot to charity,” said Hagle on Aug. 11. “The Ex does a lot, and what they do in the community is helpful. It’s amazing what they bring to our community.” Boundary also presented keys for a 2025 Polaris Ranger side-by-side to Kiera Oliver, who was standing in for her boyfriend, James Davies. “The Ex has always been a good partner with us and we’ve done multiple things with them. They are one of the organizations that keep our community connected,” said Boundary’s general sales manager, Sean Blanchette. “As they continue to be involved in the community, we want to make sure we’re involved with really big events to help out.” Boundary’s support in the community goes beyond the Exhibition as they’re the title sponsor for the Sirens and Sapphires event in support of the Lloydminster Rescue Squad in October.

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Wagon family helps rider get back in saddle

his year’s Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association finals concluded with smiles and happy tears as Kennedy Langevin got a second chance at life. Thanks to the help of the chuckwagon community, specifically the Brad McMann Racing team, Langevin will be getting back in the saddle after a serious barrel-racing accident three years ago that left her with a traumatic brain injury. “She was pretty banged up, and they didn’t know if she was going to make it. She had to fight for a long, long time,” said Brad McMann, who gifted Langevin one of his horses named Baby after championship Sunday at Halstead Downs. “We promised Kennedy, if she was willing to get walking again, that Baby was hers. Then it snowballed into Lionel Romanchuk jumping on board and building her a custom saddle, and donations started rolling in to help with it.” McMann first met Langevin during spring training as her brother, Quinn, is one of McMann’s outriders.

Co-op pool gets much-needed upgrade

he outdoor pool in Lloydminster received some much-needed renovations and upgrades. The Co-op Community Outdoor Pool received $101,000 in changes, improving accessibility and comfort for visitors. Renovations to the washrooms and change rooms include plumbing and electrical upgrades, flooring repairs and structure enhancements. “The building is quite extensive for its age, and it needed some epoxy floor repairs, installation of a waterproof membrane and tile in the washroom shower areas,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. The facility was getting older and was in need of upgrades. “There’s an extensive list (of repairs),” said Aalbers. Other key components of the project include new cabinetry and counters in the washrooms, replacement of toilet partitions and change room stalls, new change room benches, full plumbing upgrades, new doors and trims and upgraded bathroom accessories, to name a few. The exterior lighting was upgraded, concrete replaced and exterior cladding work was done. The work was completed prior to the pool opening for the season this year.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – SEPTEMBER

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

From Heartbreak to Healing: coming together to support loss

single birthday balloon blew in the wind in Vermilion Provincial Park, marking a grim anniversary and a beacon of light for the future at the inaugural From Heartbreak to Healing memorial walk and run. “Kayde was our son who was stillborn in 2022 after a uterine rupture,” said Alexa Conlon, founder and co-ordinator of the The Kayde Foundation on Sept. 21. “We were really searching for a way to keep his legacy alive and continue saying his name. We had no support, so we lost him and it just wasn’t OK with me that people had to go through this without support. “So, it’s actually my son’s third birthday today.” The birthday anniversary ushered in an event aimed at raising awareness and helping people who have experienced loss to heal. “Prenatal loss support services, infertility, child loss, miscarriage, all of the losses. There’s space for you here,” said Conlon. Despite being the first year of the memorial and awareness walk and run, support from the public saw more than 200 people preregister. “It’s been very well-received, I’ve had people reach out, saying for the first time people are talking about their losses and saying their baby’s names,” said Conlon. “Even if that’s the only thing we do, that’s good enough for me. Every year, we’ll have our walk and run. It’s for awareness, for education, a safe space to feel all of the emotions and be with a ton of people who get it.” The event saw speakers welcome guests and talk about what the event was all about, followed by a walk and run, then lunch and plenty of activities for kids and adults. “We have different vendors that support grief,” said Conlon. “There’s a wall of remembrance, a chance to say your baby’s name. We’re going to have VIBE (Vermilion Is Being Empowered) here for games for the kids, balloon animals, glitter tattooes, a barbecue and just time for connection.”

Energy Hub opens to user groups

Dialysis unit opens in Lloyd

he Lloydminster Hemodialysis Unit officially opened its doors on Sept. 16, bringing to fruition a $6.4-million project that took over a decade to complete. The new dialysis unit, located at the Community Services Building at 3830 43 Ave., is currently operating six stations Monday through Saturday, up from five at the hospital. An expansion to all nine stations will open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays later this fall as new staff come on board. The unit will also add time slots as patient demand grows. Hemodialysis filters toxins and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. Treatments last around four hours and are often needed three times a week. Alberta Kidney Care–North delivered more than 185,000 hemodialysis treatments in our region last year. They also offer peritoneal dialysis, home hemodialysis and conservative care for patients who might not tolerate dialysis.

Lloydminster health-care facilities receive $9M upgrades

he City of Lloydminster opened the doors to the new Cenovus Energy Hub to select user groups in early September. The Cenovus Energy Hub, which is slated for a grand opening on Oct. 1, is nearing the end of construction and will soon be in full operation. Teams from Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association, Lloydminster Athletics, Lakeland College, the Lloydminster Skating Club and the Lloydminster Bobcats were welcomed into the new arena on Sept. 6. “While the official celebration is yet to come, we are thrilled to open the doors of Cenovus Energy Hub and begin welcoming teams into this longanticipated space,” said Tracy Simpson, the city’s executive manager of community development services. “This soft launch gives user groups early access to familiarize themselves with the building while we prepare to welcome the entire community to see and explore the building during the grand opening in October.”

loydminster health-care facilities are undergoing major renovations, with plans for further upgrades in the coming year, thanks to provincial funding. The Lloydminster Hospital will see a $7.9-million renovation for a new dialysis unit and new surgical equipment, courtesy of the governments of Saskatchewan and Alberta. The Saskatchewan government is investing $9 million in infrastructure projects at the Lloydminster Hospital, Prairie North Plaza and Jubilee Home. At the hospital, completed work includes elevator and oxygen tank upgrades and new chillers to regulate temperatures for medical equipment and patient comfort. Planned projects include exterior upgrades (spring 2026), parking lot and loading dock repairs, a bariatric room renovation and a new healing space. Prairie North Plaza received $345,000 for heating, cooling and ventilation improvements, with further rooftop and freight elevator work coming. Jubilee Home will see $800,000 spent on new boilers. The province is also providing $342,000 in one-time funding to purchase surgical equipment. This will boost surgical volumes, reducing operating room downtime and improving patient safety. The funding announcement was made ahead of the Sept. 18 community health meeting at the Legacy Centre.

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YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – OCTOBER

Thursday, December 25, 2025

An orange sea of remembrance

sea of orange shirts gathered behind Lloydminster City Hall on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Tuesday to recognize the impacts of residential school. The event was hosted by the Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre and was a chance to remember the children who didn’t make it home. “Traditionally, it’s called Orange Shirt Day or Truth and Reconciliation Day,” said Deborah Munroe, Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre executive director. “It’s a day of awareness to let people know what Indigenous communities faced and the tragedy we went through in regards to the residential school system. “Today, we are honouring the children that we have lost to residential schools and the children who have survived and their families.” A community walk took place before refreshments and speeches. “We’re doing an honour walk today and then we have some speeches. We have two people that will share their personal story of their experience with residential schools,” said Munroe. The event started with an opening prayer before the walk took place. Support was available for those that might have felt overwhelmed. “We have elders on hand. If you reach out to us and you’re feeling triggered, we can offer support,” said Munroe. The day was well-attended, with more than 150 people taking in the event.

Cenovus Energy Hub glitters for grand opening

t was a historic moment in time for the Border City as the Cenovus Energy Hub officially hosted its grand opening on Oct. 1. The event capped off 25 months of construction and even more planning and advocacy to secure funding. Funding was obtained through grants from the provincial and federal governments, city funds and fundraising efforts, bringing the $101.3-million facility to life.

Foster sentenced to 24 months in jail

aron Troy Foster was sentenced to 24 months in jail in Lloydminster Provincial Court on Oct. 15. On Oct. 1, the former executive with the Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association (LMHA) pleaded guilty to fraud over $5,000 and theft over $5,000. Between October 2019 and October 2024, Foster obtained $141,140.24 from the LMHA through 45 fraudulent transactions. In committing 82 thefts, he stole an amount equating to $132,000. In total, he obtained $273,140.24 illegally. “I express my deepest remorse for all my actions involving Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association,” said Foster, while addressing the court. “I will live with that regret forever.” Foster’s attorney, Dan Chivers, asked for a 12-month sentence, noting the harm done to his family, how he’s been ostracized by the community, restitution being paid as mitigating factors and no previous criminal record. The judge took all the recommendations into account and noted selling the family home might have been because he “bought the home on the backs of little children.”

“Today marks an important milestone for Lloydminster,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “Not only will Cenovus Energy Hub serve as a place for sport, entertainment and community gatherings, it will also attract more visitors to our city, generate new tourism opportunities and create lasting benefits for local businesses.” The grand opening featured facility tours, public skating and a free barbecue and kicked off with speeches from dignitaries and funding partners.

Onion Lake Cree Nation man receives leadership award CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

.................................. An Onion Lake man was honoured with a leadership award in October. Vernon Lewis, a senior water treatment operator and resident of Onion Lake Cree Nation, is a recipient of the National First Nations Water Leadership Award. The award highlights the critical role of water leadership in supporting the health and well-being of First Nations Communities. “Things are moving fast these days, and the future of water treatment is getting more and more advanced, so it’s important for young people to step up and take the lead,” he said. Lewis is a member of Onion Lake Cree Nation’s infrastructure team and has exceeded criteria for the award, according to Indigenous Services Canada. Lewis is described as a dedicated mentor and knowledge keeper who works with students. “I really enjoy helping train young people in my community and keeping them aware of what’s going on — they’re the future, and we need to support them,” he said.

Lewis was honoured at the Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association’s annual conference in Saskatoon on Sept. 23.

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – NOVEMBER

Thursday, December 25, 2025

Mental health takes centre stage

ringing the community together and looking for signs of mental-health struggles has become a priority for many in Lloydminster. Close to 400 residents of the Border City and surrounding area gathered at the Lloyd Ex on Monday, Nov. 17, to learn about becoming “first identifiers.” The term, coined through an Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies (AAAS) mental-health initiative called Empowering Minds, focuses on building stronger rural communities and reducing the stigma associated with mental health. First identifiers can recognize early signs of mental-health struggles and connect friends, neighbours and community members to the help they need. Designed specifically for agricultural regions,

the program acknowledges the unique stresses faced in rural life and emphasizes the importance of strong social connections, early intervention and community leadership in supporting mental well-being. The evening featured a meal and presentation by speaker Ian Hill, who shared practical tools, personal stories and strategies to empower rural Albertans to look out for one another.

Lloyd dancers head to Ireland to compete

t’s the opportunity of a lifetime for two Lloyd dancers as they gear up to take the world stage this summer in Ireland. Mea Gee, 13 and Charlie Johnston, 17, from Core Dynamics Pilates and Dance, will compete at the Dance World Cup in Dublin, Ireland. “The competition is in July 2026,” said Patti Johnston, Core Dynamics Pilates and Dance owner. It all started with an audition. “They sent out advertising emails to studios and then we got to go audition in Edmonton,” said Charlie. Gee said she it was quite the experience. “We had to learn our audition dances pretty quick and then we ran them a couple of times,” she said. “They were watching and I was scared.” Despite any nerves, the girls’ talents shone. “There were five separate auditions the weekend they went, and they each made five teams,” Patti explained. “They’re in the ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and contemporary teams. “It’s a great opportunity for these two, from little old Lloyd.” They’ve already begun their training in Edmonton. “They’re travelling to Edmonton. It’s almost once a month for three days to meet with a team,” said Patti. “They learn their choreography and do small groups they can be selected for, anywhere from four to six hours.”

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Lloyd honours Indigenous soldiers for first time

loydminster’s Remembrance Day service honoured Indigenous soldiers of Canada for the first time. Cynthia Young and two of her grandchildren, Tenley and Torryn Jordan, laid the inaugural wreath at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School on Nov. 11. “We talked about doing this last year and the organizers made sure we were on the list this year,” said Young. “I made sure we were all in our proper outfits and away we went to represent our culture and our people.”

Card show packs Gold Horse Casino

Harris Electric donates to community groups

arris Electric boosted local organizations with funding as a way to give back to the community that’s helped the business get to where it stands. “We’re in a position with a lot of our customers and partners to help people,” said George Coles, Harris Electric owner. “This is about us doing everything we can to give back to the people that supported us.” Coles recognizes that he and his director of operations, Curtis McKay, would not be in the position they are without the support of the community. “There’s absolutely no way, I or Curtis, would be in this position if we weren’t in receipt of the helping hands of others,” he said. “We can’t be selfish with what we’ve been blessed with.” In the recent donations, Harris Electric gave back to three Lloydminster and area organizations. Girls Beyond Borders received $500, the Paradise Valley and Districts Agricultural Society received $13,000 and Residents in Recovery received $3,000.

Whether it was baseball, hockey, football or Pokémon, the Border City Card Show had it all. The show drew a crowd of more than 450 card collectors and hobby enthusiasts to the Gold Horse Casino on Nov. 1 and raised $500 for Big Brothers Big Sisters Lloydminster through ticket sales. What began as a modest event in 2022 with just 11 tables has now grown into the seventh and largest show yet. “Vendor-wise, we have 35 to 40 vendors, but some have upwards of four tables, so we have a total of 56 tables, which was every table the casino had available,” said organizer Chris Brinklow. “Those 56 include the stage tables for the all-day Magic: The Gathering tournament.” Just 90 minutes after doors opened, the event was already on pace to surpass its previous attendance record. “Hopefully, we can have some record numbers here, which speaks volumes for Lloydminster and the hobby market here,” Brinklow said.

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, December 25, 2025

YEAR IN REVIEW - THROUGH THE LENS

FOCUS ON LLOYD

The Meridian Source had an excellent year in photography. Although it’s tough to whittle down an entire year into two pages, these are Taylor’s favourite photographs from the past 12 months. TOP: A Canada Goose flies over Bud Miller All Seasons Park to kick off spring. CENTRE: Mel Coote belts out House of the Rising Sun while getting her head shaved at the annual Lori Craven Memorial baseball tournament. LEFT: The Lloydminster Bobcats host the Fort McMurray Oil Barons at the Cenovus Energy Hub home opener. ABOVE: Kennedy Langevin was overjoyed at the sight of her new horse, Baby. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos

YEAR IN REVIEW - THROUGH THE LENS

Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

TOP: Las Vegas-based hair and metal tribute band Spandex Nation rocked the Lloyd Ex Fair on July 12 to a packed grandstands ahead of fireworks. MIDDLE LEFT: A bronc rider leaves the chute at the 70th annual Lea Park Rodeo at Jubilee Regional Park in June. MIDDLE RIGHT: It was a sea of bikes at the Lucas Bachman Memorial Raceway as the best riders from Alberta and Saskatchewan duked it out during the track’s annual shootout in August. LEFT: Cowboys prepare for bull-riding heats at the Lea Park Rodeo while showing the next generation of riders the ropes. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos

MERIDIAN SOURCE

YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 – DECEMBER

Thursday, December 25, 2025

Kneen grateful for opportunity at men’s shelter

fter nearly two years as executive director of the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, Kagan Kneen reflected on his tenure during an interview with the Meridian Source. He’s officially hanging up his hat at the shelter on Dec. 5 before settling into his new role as the CEO of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation on Dec. 8. Kneen, who worked corporate jobs prior to joining the non-profit, says he was looking for something more fulfilling. “I’d done corporate for most of my career. Sure, the money was good, but at the end of the day, it wasn’t fulfilling,” he said. “I really wanted to give back to community; I wanted to help out the clients we served.” He said he had the opportunity to work with nonprofits while working in Calgary. “When I owned my own company in Calgary, I worked with another non-profit. It was women that were expecting shelter,” said Kneen, noting he built great relationships with the CEO and executive director. “I did a lot of fundraising with them and just always felt like something was missing.” When the job at the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter

came up, Keen jumped at the opportunity. “When I saw the opportunity for this posting, for the men’s shelter, I called right away,” said Kneen. Almost two years later, he says the role has been challenging but rewarding. “As challenging as the role has been, it has probably been the most rewarding position I’ve ever had,” he said. “I’m very proud of the work we’ve done.” He says his position at the shelter has helped him understand what the unhoused go through. “Getting to know the clients, hearing their stories, dealing with others who struggle, financially, mentally. It’s really put everything into perspective,” he said.

Local businesses benefit from inaugural bursary

loydminster and area businesses are benefitting thanks to a new bursary from the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce. Cheques for the inaugural Young Entrepreneur Bursary Program were presented to Northern Lights Trucking, Kiana Walker Professional Counselling and One Eleven Wellness. They were at the Lloyd Ex to accept the $5K bursary. The event began with a presentation by Jackie Tomayer, Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce president, and included remarks

from Lloydminster Deputy Mayor Jim Taylor.

When looking back at the last year, Kneen says there’s one accomplishment that outshines the rest. “I think the fact that we’re moving towards being housing focused. The goal should be, this is not permanency, a shelter is not permanency,” he said. “It is emergency to provide additional supports, connections, ID recovery, recovery solutions. “To be able to actually be a housing-focused shelter, knowing everybody in the shelter has a goal to find their own place.” He says he’s happy to have had the opportunity to lead the shelter. “I’m just so grateful to have had the opportunity,” said Kneen. “I know the community doesn’t see all of the faces working every single day with our clients. Our caseworker, operations manager, our direct care workers; we are so blessed as an organization we have had very minimal turnover. “There’s a lot of heart behind these four little walls that serve 28 individuals.” In his time at the shelter, plenty has changed. He’s spearheaded major fundraising and cleanup efforts and under his leadership, the model of feeding everyone changed to only those staying at the shelter. He also brought on a caseworker to help get people out of the system.

City approves budget

t’s officially in the books. The City of Lloydminster has approved its 2026 budget after two meetings and much debate. Municipalities grapple with delivering a balanced budget every year. In 2026, the city approved an operating budget of $119.3 million and a capital budget of $29.9 million. The city is facing a mill rate of 4.08 per cent, which would see an impact of $9 a month or $108 annually, on a home valued at $350,000. It’s also proposing a five per cent utility increase with assessment growth of 3.5 per cent. The utility and mill rate increases will be passed later in 2026 through their respective bylaws. The first draft of the budget was presented on Nov. 5. Since then, new additions have been made. An intergovernmental advisor position was added, Border City Connects’ funding increased by $12,000 and various expenses related to city council decreased by $6,400. Changes were also made to proposed projects. The $30,000 city hall renovation that would add a meeting room in the front hall of the building, removing a currently vacant vestibule, is no longer being funded. Another project that lost its funding status was the $35,000 inflatable obstacle course at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre. A $300,000 44 St. ditch and roadway widening project was also added to the capital budget. The intergovernmental position is something administration sees as a big value to their operations. “A lot of the work we do through the mayor’s office and through my own office at this point, we rely on other departments to supplement advocacy work, with not only one province, but two provinces, plus the federal government,” said city manager Dion Pollard. “It’s one of the areas we feel we could enhance the services to the city. It doesn’t always relate to money, could be issues that we have. We’ve seen that through our liquor issue, our sandwich-gate issue. This position would support some of that and take some of the work off those individual departments that currently do that.”

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#GodsHandsHeartAndFeetAlways All Are Welcome! 4708 - 50 Avenue T9V 0W4 780-875-8959 graceunitedchurch.ca

JALBERT: It is with heavy hearts that the family of Myrna Jalbert announce her peaceful passing on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at the age of 77. Myrna is survived by: her loving husband Eli Jalbert; her children, Grant Dopko (Laurie), Scott Dopko (Shannon), Dorothy Schmeltzer (Mark); stepchildren, Sheldon Jalbert (Tannis) and Darwin Jalbert; her grandchildren, Alex and Ryan, Alyssa (Devin), Lexi, Jase, Gabby, Chelsea, Cassidy, Matthew, Taylor and Brooke and Kaylin; great grandchildren, Beau, Emmy-Grace and Oaklee; her siblings, Murray Randall (Sharon), Shirley Olson (Vince), Brian Randall (Annette), Jeannie Marchewka (Robert) and their families; long time friends and travel companions, Ray and Rita Penny (sister-in-law). Myrna was predeceased by: her parents, Hank and Lillian Randall; and parents-in-law, Leon and Suzanne Jalbert. Myrna had a long career as an

X-Ray Technologist, working in Saskatoon and eventually at Lloydminster hospital, finishing her career at RCA diagnostics. She enjoyed curling in her earlier years but followed up as a fan, watching every curling match that TSN carried. Myrna and Eli loved to go camping and enjoyed sitting out by the fire when they weren't in the boat hauling the kids around on tubes and skis. They also enjoyed watching their grandkids many dance recitals, hockey games and Christmas concerts over the years (she loved watching her grandkids activities). Even though the last few years were challenging and her memory was failing her, Myrna always had a smile on her face and made friends with ease. Christmas was her favorite time of year. we will all miss the always full candy dish and remember all the Christmas baking she loved to make for us all. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Though she may no longer be with us in person, Myrna’s spirit, lessons and love will continue to live on in all who knew her. The family would like to thank the third-floor nurses and staff for their care and compassion during her stay at Lloydminster Hospital. A Celebration of Life to honour our mom will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lloydminster Regional Health Foundation. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements.

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On the occasion of our 70th Wedding Anniversary, we cannot say thank you enough to everyone who sent best wishes through cards , e-mails, on-line posts, flowers , food deliveries and especially the wonderful celebration organized by Grace United Church. We have been honored to call Lloydminster our home since before we were married. The out-pouring of congratulations from so many in this wonderful community confirms how blessed we are to have spent our 70 year marriage here. From the bottom of our hearts, Thank you.

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Thursday, December 25, 2025

MERIDIAN SOURCE

CROSSWORD

LAST WEEK’S ANSWER:

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. LAST WEEK’S ANSWER:

HOROSCOPE

ACROSS 1. Stash 5. Alum 9. Dove's noise 12. Metal tube 13. Motored 14. Young fellow 15. Aardvark's lunch 16. Revered person 17. Auxiliary verb 18. Methodology 20. Babies' napkins 22. Former 24. Certain vipers 27. Andress film 30. Frozen block 31. Dostoevsky novel, with “The”

32. Baking vessel 33. Campers' covers 35. Winter virus 36. Avoid 38. Hooter 39. Longing 40. Sample tape 41. Ash or aspen, e.g. 42. Canyon sound 44. Country manor 49. Crony 51. Make text corrections 53. Farm animals 54. Seeing organ 55. Uncommon 56. Ownership paper 57. Get married

58. Changed hair color 59. Gambling numbers DOWN 1. Health farms 2. Wee 3. Selects 4. Cowboy country 5. Frown 6. Baton 7. Brick house 8. Sandwich shop 9. Categorize 10. Rowboat necessity 11. Emotional poem 19. Type style 21. Not good 23. Choir voice 25. Skier's aid

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SAGITTARIUS, CAPRICORN AND AQUARIUS

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If you want a little more peace in your life, limit how often you read the news. Instead, focus on reading inspiring stories or watching entertaining TV shows.

Your heroic gesture will bring you praise and recognition this week. Your volunteer work could earn you an award or, at least, a meaningful token of appreciation.

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26. Shock 27. Raced 28. Possess 29. Glazed 31. Small landmasses 34. Chirped 37. Medic 41. Presently 43. Cow crowd 45. Hubbub: hyph. 46. Cut down 47. ____ off 48. Closes 49. Chapel bench 50. Vote for 52. Great rage

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