Meridian Source - January 15, 2026

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Thursday, January 15, 2026

What’s inside

LABIS’ new director looks to future

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Brain injury society’s new boss sits down with the Source.

Father Gorman goes to the dogs LCSD students celebrate Indigenous culture, new year with sled dogs.

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Beefing up for title run Bobcats go all-in at AJHL trade deadline.

13-17

VOLUME 8 I ISSUE 30

MERIDIANSOURCE.CA

Telemiracle raises roof on ‘penguin house’ TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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A memorable fundraiser will see two self-proclaimed “geeks” reach new heights as they raise money for Telemiracle.

Kinsmen Ean Bull and Louis Stang are reviving Geek on the Peak, a fundraiser first launched by Bull 20 years ago, in recognition of Telemiracle’s 50th anniversary and in support of the Lloydminster Kinsmen Club.

The pair plan to live on a 20-by-40-foot scaffolding platform being erected in front of the Hope statue on the southeast corner of Lloydminster City Hall from Feb. 1 to Feb. 6.

“They wanted to reminisce and reincarnate and said, ‘We’ll, stick you on the roof again,’ ” Bull said with a laugh.

Bull, a longtime Kinsmen member and owner of Dynasoft Communications, said the structure will include an igloo-shaped shelter. Dubbed the “penguin house,” the igloo was built on his farm and will be transported to the site. The scaffolding is being supplied by L&L Oilfield.

“We’ll be up there for six days and won’t be coming down until it’s over. It was just me last time, but I need to be supervised now because I’m old and mouldy,” joked Bull.

Donations will be collected using a bucket attached to a rope, which Bull and Stang will lower to people below. The fundraiser will also feature auctions, including one for the igloo and an outdoor fireplace, during Telemiracle Steak Night, scheduled for Feb. 7 at the Lloyd Ex. When the event was first held two decades ago, Bull said it raised about $20,000. This year, organizers are hoping to meet or exceed that amount.

Sponsorships have already begun to come in, including a $9,000 contribution from McAllister Drilling, along with $1,000 donations from Classic Oilfield Services, L&A CPA and T-1 Transport. Corporate sponsors will have banners displayed on the scaffolding.

Bull said local officials and community figures have been invited to visit the platform, and donors contributing $1,000 or more will have the opportunity to join the organizers on the structure for short periods.

Schools, sports teams and community groups are also expected to stop by during the weeklong event.

The fundraiser will be livestreamed around the clock on YouTube through Geek on the Peak and on Dynasoft’s Facebook

Ean Bull and Louis Stang are preparing to spend a week in a homemade igloo to raise money for Telemiracle 50.

Taylor Weaver Meridian Source page. Power for the livestream will be supplied by a generator provided by GMAC Oilfield Services. Donation and livestream links are available at geekonthepeak.com.

Bull said his involvement with Kinsmen and Telemiracle is deeply personal.

“Kinsmen serves the community’s greatest needs and it stays focused on the community at all times,” he said, pointing to local projects such as the Lloydminster Hospital, Pioneer Lodge, Kinsmen Park and the swimming pool.

“Telemiracle is pretty important in my life. I grew up with disabled foster children, and this is about helping people who can’t afford the costs of medical equipment or travel.”

Stang, who has been a Kinsmen member for nearly 18 years, said he remembers the original Geek on the Peak from his youth.

“When Ean asked about doing this again, I was all over it,” he said. “I’m always up for an adventure, and this is one of those experiences you can’t pay money for.”

The two organizers will sleep, eat and live in the igloo for five nights, with cameras inside capturing the experience.

“We’ve got a couple surprises that might get some long-term mockery,” Stang said. “But hopefully we can raise a lot of money for a good cause.”

colleen.young@sasktel.net

306-825-5550

Colleen Young

MLA for Lloydminster Constituency

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 15, 2026

New LABIS director hits ground running CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

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The Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society’s (LABIS) new director of operations has high hopes for the organization as she settles into her new role.

Maxine Lebo, the new director of operations for LABIS, who started the position in October 2025, says it’s been great learning on the job.

“It’s been good. It’s been a huge learning curve, definitely,” she said. “I’m learning a lot and I’m learning a bunch of new stuff that makes me feel more confident in the role.”

Only a few months into the role, Lebo hopes to help those that utilize the organization’s programming daily.

“We’re working towards getting a transportation sponsor. That’s going to be one of my big initiatives,” said Lebo. “All of our participants are on really fixed incomes and something that we can’t provide to them is free transportation.

“They have to pay every day to get to and from the facility. I think it’s about $8 each ride, so about $16 a day. If they’re coming to program twice a week, three times a week let’s say, that gets quite pricey.”

She hopes to secure a sponsor for someone else to take on that cost, alleviating financial pressure from those coming into the LABIS facility.

This year also marks a major milestone for the non-profit.

“So, it’s our 40th year anniversary,” said Lebo.

LABIS will be gearing up for some exciting events to commemorate the anniversary.

“We have an open house in June at the LABIS facility,” she said. “October is the month we officially became an organization, that’s when we’re going to have a bit of a Halloween-themed birthday dance.

“We usually have our normal fundraisers but we wanted to incorporate a couple more things just to really hit home that it’s our 40th anniversary.”

LABIS’ yearly fundraisers will still go on, in addition to some new ideas.

“We have our silent auctions. We have one in April and one in November,” said Lebo. “We also have our charity golf tournament in June, our bones tournament in August and our softball tournament in September.”

She says many of the fundraisers LABIS hosts have been running for years, noting the fun people have at events such as the bones tournament.

“We want to keep those rolling and then maybe just incorporate some new things as well,” she said.

So far, Lebo’s experience at LABIS has been positive, putting on her first fundraiser, a silent auction.

“We had our first fundraiser in November, and that’s when all of us first rolled on,” she said.

She explained while it was a stressful experience, it also gave her valuable insight into organizing future fundraisers.

“We were all just dipping our toes in,” said Lebo. “For the April one, we know exactly what to do.”

She says her past working experiences have helped prepare her for her current role.

“I’m very much a people person. I really like getting out there and talking to people and getting to know people,” she said. “I really want to get to know the Lloydminster community more.”

PROGRAMMING LABIS offers a variety of programming, helping those who have an acquired brain injury.

“We offer recreational, social and educational programming,” said Lebo.

“It’s all free. We have programming every day of the week, whether it be in our LABIS facility or outside the facility.

“Monday, Wednesdays and Thursdays, we have a program called Pathways to Empowerment. It runs from 10 a.m. until about 3:30 p.m.”

Activities hosted by LABIS are aimed at supporting those with acquired brain injuries in a variety of ways.

“Members of the community with acquired brain injuries come into the office and spend time with us, do activities with us that stimulate their brain function and get them in a social and recreational environment,” she said.

“On Tuesdays, we have our walking track programs. Our program director meets our participants at the Servus Sports Centre and we do some walking around the track.”

Lebo says even just a simple conversation can have a big impact.

“We have good conversation and it’s mostly just that physical stimulation to go along with talking. It gets your motor and your brain skills working,” she said.

LABIS also offers outreach programming on Fridays and Tuesdays.

“If you aren’t somebody that wants to come in house to our LABIS programming, we can come to you,” said Lebo. “We can go out in the

Maxine Lebo, LABIS director of operations.

Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source community with you or we can stay at your home or in your safe space. We’re able to spend time with you and do things with you that would need extra support doing.”

The message she has for those suffering from an acquired brain injury was one of togetherness.

“We’re here to help you not feel alone. You’re not in this alone; we’re all in this together,” Lebo stated.

NEXT STEPS Looking to the future, Lebo wants to bring new ideas to the table.

“I’m really excited for what LABIS has coming. With me being so new, I want to bring in my fresh ideas, new fundraising and initiatives,” she said.

Organized as ever, Lebo works to plan the fundraisers they’ll be putting on.

“I’m hoping that within the next couple months, even within the next year, I have some groundwork laid out for the coming years,” she said. “I can plan on doing more fundraisers.”

GETTING INVOLVED Being a non-profit, LABIS is always in need of donations to support their organization.

“LABIS is always looking for donations. You can come into the office and give us a donation through cheque or anything like that or you can become a sponsor,” said Lebo. “We have sponsorship for all our fundraisers as well as campaign sponsors.

“If you are a business or an individual that wants to give back to LABIS, just give us a call at 306-825-7212.”

They are also seeking additional volunteers to help out.

“Anybody can volunteer and we have a volunteer package that we can provide to you,” she said. “We do need a clean vulnerable criminal record check, that’s the only requirement.

“We only have three staff and we really rely on our volunteers to help us out with fundraising and everything.”

You can find everything LABIS related on LABIS.ca or email them with any questions at LABIS@sasktel.net.

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Thursday, January 15, 2026

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SLED DOGS, BANNOCK, CULTURE Students at Father Gorman Community School got a taste of dog sledding last week during Indigenous culture celebrations to start the new year. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source

Students celebrate Indigenous traditions TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

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Father Gorman Community School rang in the new year by celebrating Indigenous culture with bannock, dog sleds and outdoor learning on Jan. 9.

The day-long event drew on traditions observed in many northern communities, where the start of the year has historically been marked with dog sled races and gatherings that brought people together on the land.

Cynthia Young, Indigenous program co-ordinator with the Lloydminster Catholic School Division, said the goal was to give students hands-on exposure to cultural practices and history.

“We really want to make sure we expose our students to any cultural aspect we can,” Young said.

The school partnered with Métis Local 18 to bring in sled dogs, a first for the event, and offered bannock on a stick, hot chocolate and other activities for students rotating outside throughout the day.

“We were lucky to partner with the local Métis 18 and were able to get the dogs in,” Young said. “The idea was to have a good day outside in the cold, like it used to be.”

Young said students learned about traditional dog sledding and its role as a primary mode of transportation before modern vehicles.

“That’s what we want our students to have — a good base, a good root of what it means to be cultural,” she said.

Young hopes students will take those experiences home with them.

“I hope they tell their parents they ate bannock and jam, had hot chocolate and had a great time

outside on the land with the dogs,” she said. “That’s the big thing ... it’s on the land with the dogs.”

She said hand s-on lear ning helps d eepen students’ understanding of Indigenous culture and reconciliation.

“When our students can participate in hands-on activities, they have that knowledge,” Young said.

“You want to plant the seed, so next year, if they want to do bannock on a stick, they can do it with their families.”

About 20 classes took part in the outdoor activities between 8:30 a.m. and 3:05 p.m., with students cycling through the experience.

“The kids have been loving the dogs and going sled d ing,” Y ou ng said . “ Y ou can hear t hem screaming as they go along the school grounds.”

Principal Zoey Hein said the excitement had been building all week.

“Today is so exciting,” Hein said. “The kids have been excited all week, but now the teachers can see the dogs and the fire going. It just brings it to the next level.”

Hein said the school incorporates Indigenous learning throughout the year, but seeing history in action made the lessons more meaningful.

“We focus on the land acknowledgement every day,” she said. “But being able to see history in motion — things we used to do before automobiles and that are still part of Métis culture — is great.”

In addition to outdoor activities, classrooms hosted Métis-focused lessons, including song and dance, cultural teachings and research projects tied to land acknowledgements. “The kids are just so excited to be outside learning,” Hein said. “It helps spark a passion for being on the land. Having a beautiful day doesn’t hurt, either.”

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Thursday, January 15, 2026

Chamber advocates for Lloyd business community CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

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When it comes to advocating for the best interest of the business community, the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is always hard at work.

“The chamber is the voice of business,” said Teri-Lynn MacKie, Lloydminster chamber executive director. “We are usually businesses’ first stop to municipal, provincial and federal government when they’re having any kind of issue.”

The chamber regularly hosts member roundtables to go over any issues they may be having, providing an opportunity to discuss items they want to see the chamber advocate for.

“We meet with our members at the end of the month,” said MacKie. “If there are issues coming forward provincially or federally, we develop policies and there’s timelines we have to submit.

“If an issue comes forward, it goes to our political action committee. Then we decide if they want to go forward to bring a policy to our municipal, provincial or federal government.”

She says the policies then get voted on by the board to see if it will move forward.

“We develop the policy, the board approves it and then we start advocating to what level of government it affects,” said MacKie. She says a lot of the work the chamber does has to do with difficulties dealing with the Lloydminster border. Even with the difficulty of being a Border City, MacKie says there’s been big wins for the community, easing issues businesses have.

“The ‘sandwich gate,’ that was a huge win for

our community to get both Alberta, Saskatchewan and the federal government together at the same table for them to listen to our issue and them get on board to help us relieve those pain points.”

There’s been plenty of wins for the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce over the years.

“The PST was another big one the chamber advocated for; that Lloydminster be looked at as one full city and that there’s no PST on the Saskatchewan side to make it a level playing field,” MacKie explained.

She says advocating at various levels of government looks similar, but different, giving examples of dealing with the two provincial governments.

“If you have a policy in Alberta, it goes to a policy debate,” she said.

The chamber will present the policy and the membership at large for the Alberta Chambers of Commerce to vote on to go into the Alberta Policy Book. The federal chamber advocacy framework is like Alberta’s. Saskatchewan’s, however, is different.

“Saskatchewan is a little bit different. If there’s a provincial policy, you develop it and then advocate on your behalf,” she said.

With 2026 now here, the chamber will be working to review their policies from previous years.

The chamber has a number of active policies, including items such as Saskatchewan funding for policing in Lloydminster. MacKie says their provincial advocacy largely revolves around health care.

“Provincially, a lot of it has to do with health care right now and making sure we have access to Netcare and equitable funding from both sides of

the province,” she said.

When it comes to municipal work, MacKie says there’s ongoing efforts to advocate for public transit.

“Public transportation has been on our books for a long time,” she said. “The chamber doesn’t believe we need a large-scale public transportation (system). But there should be a made-inLloydminster, small-scale public transportation.

Something to get people around.”

Another local item includes giving more leeway to local businesses when it comes to bidding on contracts through the municipality’s procurement and purchasing policy.

“Wanting the City of Lloydminster (to) have some sort of caveat for there to be a local aspect,” she said. “If you’re looking to apples to apples and if there was a bit of a price break for the local (businesses).”

MacKie says the chamber has a good working relationship with the municipality.

“The mayor sits on our board. We have regular conversations all the time,” she said. “Our board and political action committee meet with the city, mayor and council twice a year.”

If businesses are having any issues, she says it’s important to bring those forward.

“If our member businesses are having issues, make sure you reach out and speak to the chamber and bring those issues forward,” said MacKie, noting the importance of the work they do.

“If you look at food, how much has that changed our community. Where you are able to take a sandwich across the street and sell it. It looks like our city is a full city as opposed to being two halves of a city.”

INVENTORY CLOSURE Wednesday, January 21 We are open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM RE-OPENING

Thursday, January 22, 2026 - 8:00 AM Thank you for your understanding and support!

4104 80 AVENUE, LLOYDMINSTER, AB T9V 0X9

PHONE: (780) 875-1558

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Border Paws recognizes strong year, many adoptions CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

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Border Paws Animal Shelter is hoping to keep the momentum going after a strong 2025 that saw 320 adoptions and lots of community support.

“Our adoption rate has been super high this last little while,” said Chelsea Reeves, Border Paws’ event and community outreach co-ordinator.

Reeves says she’s been working to get the word out on the shelter.

“I’ve been trying to put us out more in the community,” she said.

Although there has been strong support through animal adoptions, the shelter is still full following the holidays.

“Definitely around wintertime, we are a lot more full,” she said. “Right now, we are pretty stuffed. We do the best we can to make sure they’re taken care of.”

Staff have to get creative on where to keep animals.

“If we have puppies, we can put them in one little area together and make space,” she said.

Reeves explains donations have been good from local pet stores.

“They’ve been super helpful and our community has really helped come together to help support our animals,” she said.

Unfortunately, for the shelter, the van they use for transports and vet appointments broke down.

“We’re just trying to raise the funds for that,” said Reeves, noting the van is scheduled for repair later in January.

The shelter has also been grappling with other issues within the building.

“We also have some building maintenance stuff

that’s always coming up,” she said. “Sometimes, our washer breaks or dryer breaks, that’s a big one all the time. We had some issues with our plumbing earlier this year.”

Luckily, support from the community has helped the shelter continue efforts in helping as many animals as possible.

Another fundraising initiative Border Paws is looking forward to is a soup fundraiser.

“We’re selling pre-mixed soup from the Soup Company. Basically, just add the broth,” she said.

“All the proceeds will come directly back to the animal.”

Looking into 2026, Reeves says she wants to see the community’s support continue.

“There’s an influx around Christmastime because people are in that holiday giving spirit,” said Reeves. “I would like to see that holiday spirit and community love to go all the way throughout the year.”

Donation forms can be found on the organization’s website and tax receipts can also be provided.

Reeves says to keep an eye out on their Facebook or Instagram pages for initiatives to donate to.

When it comes to adopting animals, forms can be filled out online or in person.

“We’re posting them on Facebook. They’re on our website under adoptables,” she explained.

Reeves also says getting your animal fixed when you have one is incredibly important.

“If you get one male dog fixed, that prevents countless other litters. This will prevent countless other litters coming into our shelter, which will free up space,” she said.

The shelter’s open from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday to Sunday to drop off donations or see the adoptable animals.

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BIOCLEAN AQUATIC CENTRE

SWIMMING AND SNOWFLAKES Join us on January 24 for winter fun! There will be balloon twisting, a DJ and free hot chocolate for everyone. Get your tickets for session two from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Walkn On Water or Bioclean Aquatic Centre. Tickets are required.

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BRITISH HOME CHILDREN - ALMOST FORGOTTEN JAN 24 • 1:30-3:30 PM • $10 • AGES 16+

Join author and historical researcher Susan Brazeau and learn about the British Home Children sent to Canada between 1869 and 1948. 780-874-3720

Lloydminster.ca/LMAPrograms

S E RVUS S PO R TS C E N T R E

SNOWFLAKE FAMILY FUN KIT REGISTER BY JAN 3O PICKUP FEB 4-7 • $30 PER KIT

3-weeks of daily indoor and outdoor activities, games, scavenger hunts, experiments, crafts and more! Instructions, templates and assorted items are supplied.

Lloydminster.ca/Register

EARLY MORNING PICKLEBALL

LLOYDMINSTER AREA BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY

WED • JAN 21 - MAR 25 • $60 6:15 - 7:30 AM • 16+ LABIS.CA

Do you or someone you know live with an Acquired Brain Injury?

YOU ARE NOT ALONE Contact LABIS today!

306.825.7212

#103-4090 41 St.

labis@sasktel.net

Start your day with this pickleball program for beginner to intermediate players. Enjoy social, organized games with rotating partners and plenty of fun. Bring your pickleball paddle, a water bottle and indoor shoes.

Lloydminster.ca/Register

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Denham drives into 2026 with No Bull indoor sale MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Denham Chrysler is driving into the new year with the return of its annual indoor No Bull sales event, bringing hundreds of vehicles under one roof.

The dealership’s indoor sale runs from Jan. 16 to 31 inside the Alberta Building at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds, where more than 180 new and used vehicles will be available for purchase.

The event allows customers to browse and test options in a climate-controlled setting, avoiding winter weather, while comparing vehicles ranging from new RAM, Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler models to used trucks, SUVs, sedans and minivans.

Denham’s general manager, Barry MacKichan, said the event is designed to offer a more relaxed and transparent buying experience.

“Instead of customers shopping outside in winter conditions, we create a warm, inviting environment where they can explore options and make confident decisions,” said MacKichan. “It’s transparent and relaxed, and that’s why people return year after year.”

Denham says the event will feature special financing offers on most new vehicles, including rates as low as zero per cent for up to 72 months and deferred payments for up to 90 days on select models. Discounts are available only during the sale and on vehicles in stock.

The dealership is also placing a focus on tradeins during the event, offering same-day appraisals on all makes and models. Trade-in values will be assessed using live-market data, with bids sourced from both Canadian and U.S. auto brokers.

MacKichan said financing support is another key part of the annual sale.

“Our goal is to make financing feel simple and approachable, whether you’re buying new or preowned,” he said. “We work with a wide network of lenders to help customers find a payment plan that fits, including first-time buyers and those rebuilding credit.”

Denham Chrysler’s indoor sale has become a recurring winter event in Lloydminster, drawing customers from across the region looking to shop vehicles in a weather-free environment.

Submitted photo from the 2025 No Bull indoor sale.

Synergy, Cornerstone and Conexus become one CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

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The historic merger of Synergy, Cornerstone and Conexus credit unions became official Jan. 1.

The new merged credit union, under the Conexus name, will serve more than 200,000 members in 50 communities, with 1,400 employees throughout

SEEKING NOMINATIONS

Saskatchewan and more than $16 billion in assets.

“It is the exciting start of the next chapter for Saskatchewan’s credit union system,” said Heidi Schofer, Conexus Credit Union’s board chair. “This merger is also a catalyst for economic growth in our province.

“Today, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our membership for their continued trust and for what we have built and will build together.”

Jan. 1 marked the legal amalgamation date of the three companies. The full merger, however, will take additional time.

For users of the credit unions, it will be business as usual. It will be the same branches and the same people. Those using services will still be dealing with their legacy credit unions, while work is done to bring together teams, systems, products, services and operations.

Signs on buildings won’t immediately change, but anyone opening a new account, taking out a loan, mortgage or making an investment, will acknowledge the change to the legal name in their paperwork.

Celina Philpot, CEO of Conexus Credit Union, says she’s committed to a thriving credit union.

“United, we aim to create the premier financial institution of choice in Saskatchewan for individuals, businesses and ag producers, in a uniquely credit union way,” she said.

Conexus is also warning of a potential increase in fraud during the merger, noting that fraud activity typically rises during periods of transition and urging people to remain cautious.

Board of Directors Are you passionate about mental health? Are you looking for a unique leadership opportunity? Do you want to give back to the Lloydminster community? Well, look no further!

The Libbie Young Centre is looking for interested citizens to join our Board of Directors.

If you would like to help guide the Centre’s current operations and future development, please submit your cover letter along with three character references to info@libbie.ca.

To learn more about our vision, visit: www.libbie.ca or call Treena Schmidt, Executive Director at (780) 874-9917 ext. 104.

5125-39 Street, Lloydminster, AB

www.libbie.ca

File photo

RCMP seize 4 kg of cocaine near Maidstone MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF

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Saskatchewan RCMP say they seized about four kilograms of suspected cocaine during a traffic stop on Highway 16 near Maidstone.

The Jan. 8 stop by the roving traffic unit was initially for a vehicle equipment violation. Further investigation led to the arrest of the adult female driver.

RCMP identified the woman as 41-year-old Leanne Harcourt of Edmonton.

She faces two charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act: possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking.

Harcourt is scheduled to appear in Lloydminster Provincial Court on March 9.

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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.

INTENT

Photo courtesy Transportation Safety Board

Plane stalled before 2024 crash, says TSB CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER

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A plane photographing power lines stalled during a turn before crashing near Lloydminster in 2024, according to the Transportation Safety Board (TSB).

On Sept. 8, 2024, the Cessna U206F aircraft, operated by KBM Forestry Consultants, departed Kindersley Regional Aerodrome for the second portion of an inspection flight of an area southeast of the Lloydminster airport.

The flight was part of a multi-day pairing for a contract to photograph power lines. The two crew members were taking photos of the pole and power lines below.

According to the TSB, after the last photo was taken, the pilot started a right turn at a height of approximately 200 to 300 feet above the ground when the aircraft stalled and its bank angle increased.

“While the aircraft was descending at a rate of at least 3000 fpm (feet per minute), it began to roll to the left toward a wings-level attitude. Three seconds after the stall began, the aircraft impacted terrain,” the report states.

The pilot was killed and the observer was seriously injured but died three days later. The aircraft was destroyed and there was no indication of fire either before or after the occurrence.

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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.

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

7

8

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 15, 2026

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

Photo courtesy of Jessica LaForest

Holiday magic shines in sold-out Nutcracker performance TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR

..................................

The United Ballet Company (UBC), in residence at the Vic Juba Community Theatre since 2021, brought The Nutcracker to two sold-out theatres in December 2025.

The production, performed on Dec. 14 at the Vic Juba Theatre, also appeared at the Strathcona Performing Arts Centre, a new venue in Bonnyville.

UBC founder and director Sarah C. R. Makins praised the partnership with the Vic Juba staff.

“They are truly exemplary in all aspects, and the company looks forward every year to working with them on our newest production,” she Makins, who’s also the owner of Fame Dance Studios.

UBC trains dancers at Fame Dance Studios in Lloydminster and Bonnyville, offering programs for ages 7 to adult, including apprentice (7–12), intermediate (9–13), and senior/soloist levels (12+).

Makins said the company is guided by three core principles: promoting diversity in ballet by challenging traditional body-type standards, fostering a culture of kindness and support among dancers, and giving back to the community through complimentary tickets for youth groups, seniors’ homes, schools, and local workers.

This year’s Nutcracker featured guest soloist Hayley Ng from Toronto, who rehearsed remotely via Zoom. Makins said Ng, a professional dancer and physiotherapist, “is a uniquely talented and skilled dancer, with mesmerizing artistic interpretation.

“She fit right into our company and we can’t wait to work with her again,” she said.

Ng previously performed soloist roles with Hamilton City Ballet, including Coppélia and Sleeping Beauty, and cites the Sugar Plum Fairy as her favourite role.

UBC performs three ballets annually, with the original production Toy Story set for Feb. 7–8. Next year’s lineup includes Frozen in October, the perennial Nutcracker at Christmas, and Swan Lake in February.

Makins said the company hopes to continue inspiring audiences of all ages to fall in love with ballet.

Photo courtesy of Jessica LaForest

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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PAGE 10 Thursday, January 15, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Viewpoint Leave it to Weaver:

5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 | Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday The MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday.

All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion.

Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.

Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca

Sports Editor John MacNeil sports@meridiansource.ca

Staff Writer Christian Apostolovski christian@meridiansource.ca

Marketing Consultant Jacie Borrebach jacie@meridiansource.ca 780-870-5583 Marketing Consultant Ruzaan du Plooy ruzaan@meridiansource.ca 780-870-5594 Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Distribution: distribution@meridiansource.ca CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca NEWSPAPER DELIVERY If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification.

Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca

2017

Source news, right to your inbox EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER

Have you signed up for the Meridian Source newsletter?

At the Source, we’ve been working on new and innovative ways to deliver the news to you, the reader. In addition to our weekly print edition and daily online updates at meridiansource.ca, we decided to launch a newsletter.

All the major players do it, and we thought it was a great way to expand our horizons.

The newsletter is a simple email featuring our top local stories, delivered straight to your inbox every couple of days.

Our website has had a sign-up pop-up for a couple of months now, and with more than 700 registered email addresses, it appears to be

something you’ve been wanting.

The first newsletter was sent out Jan. 13 and included a handful of local news, feature and sports stories, made possible through sponsorship from Novlan Bros Ford in Paradise Hill.

Each newsletter will be brought to you by one of our many amazing advertising partners. We can’t thank them enough for their continued support.

Plus, getting more eyes on locally owned and operated businesses — like the Source — never hurts.

As mentioned in last week’s column, it’s a new year. Everyone at the Source is excited to see what 2026 will bring after a successful 2025.

We’ll be trying more new things this year to improve the user experience for the community — including our readers and advertising partners.

Some might argue newspapers are a dying breed, but the number of people who tell me how much they enjoy what our team produces each week would suggest otherwise. I regularly have people quote my columns and show interest in what’s 26013TS0 happening in my life.

That tells me a couple of things — mainly, people are picking up the paper and reading it.

We don’t do this job for the paycheque. We do it because we love it. To quote my first Border City boss and longtime Meridian Booster editor Dana Smith: “We’re not lighting cigars with $100 bills. We’re in the business because we love doing it.”

In addition to the regular newsletter, the paper will soon include full-page features spanning a variety of topics of interest to local readers. Our website continues to publish locally produced content, along with national and international news from The Canadian Press and The Associated Press.

We’re diving in with both feet in 2026, and we’re happy to have you along for the ride.

Be sure to check upcoming editions of the Source for new features, and sign up for our newsletter to stay in the know.

See you all next week!

PAGE 11 Thursday, January 15, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Opinion

Chris’ A-Z: A royal quadrangle When it comes to royalty, Lloydminster is no stranger to having the English royal family visit.

The tallest mayor in Lloydminster, Russ Robertson, was there to greet Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Phillip and Andrew in 1978.

Fast forward a couple of years to the royal visit in 2003. I didn’t even realize there was any royalty there for Lloydminster’s centennial.

After a large effort from Lloydminster residents, Prince Edward, the then Earl of Wessex, made the trip to the Border City. People studied up on how to greet the prince. I learned you refer to royals by their titles, not by their names, which makes sense.

When he arrived in Lloydminster on June 20, 2003, he was greeted by Mayor Ken Baker and his wife, Jean. The goal was to get the prince over to city hall to do royal things. He planted a tree by city hall using the illustrious golden shovel, maybe even the same one Queen Elizabeth II used in 1978.

A plaque was presented commemorating his visit. Prince Edward signed a guest book marking the momentous occasion. He signed a proclamation, proclaiming that moment as an integral part of Lloydminster history. In the visit itinerary, it had Prince Edward signing a time capsule. There weren’t photos of it happening, but I’m sure it did happen.

It was then the city’s goal to get Prince Edward over to the Lloydminster Convention Centre for some lunch. As he walked by, children sang in the

Box 69, 4912-50 Ave. Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 PH: (780) 846-2244

INTERMUNICIPAL SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD: 2026 to 2029 TERM The County of Vermilion River is seeking 3 Members-at-Large and 2 Alternate Members to serve on the Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (the “ISDAB”).

What is the Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board?

The Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board is an independent, quasijudicial board that hears appeals related to subdivision and development decisions from the City of Lloydminster, County of Vermilion River, Town of Vermilion, Village of Kitscoty, Village of Mannville, Village of Paradise Valley and the Village of Marwayne. The ISDAB does not create planning policies or bylaws – the role of the ISDAB is to ensure decisions of the Subdivision or Development Authority are fair, impartial, and follow the County of Vermilion River Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw regulations, as well as applicable provincial legislation.

What does an SDAB member do?

ISDAB members are required to attend appeal hearings when they are filed (meetings are scheduled as needed). During the hearing, the ISDAB members must listen to all sides of the appeal and review any evidence presented. The ISDAB members will make impartial decisions based on the regulations of the County of Vermilion River Municipal Development Plan (MDP) and Land Use Bylaw (LUB), the Alberta Municipal Government Act and any other applicable provincial and municipal legislation. The ISDAB members will deliberate privately and provide written decisions to the Appellant. ISDAB members are required to maintain confidentiality and fairness throughout the entire process.

Training Mandatory training is provided at no cost to ensure ISDAB members understand their responsibilities and applicable legislation.

Term ISDAB members are appointed for a term of 3 years, with the option for reappointment.

Who can apply?

County of Vermilion River residents with an interest in planning or development. No prior experience is required – just a commitment to fairness and good judgement.

How to apply: Submit your application and a short statement about your interests and abilities by January 20, 2026 to: INTERMUNICIPAL SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD ATTN: PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Box 69, 4912-50 Ave. Kitscoty, AB T0B 0L0 planning@county24.com

streets and people waved on.

About 300 people enjoyed the lunch with the prince. There were speeches by dignitaries and a presentation of gifts. Prince Edward even received a cool-looking plate and a nice-looking oil display. I wonder if he kept them.

The trip, by all accounts, was a tremendous success. Prince Edward spoke of the warmth of the welcome from the Border City, the genuine spirit and sincere hospitality he received while here.

The visit was no small feat. Years of organizing and countless individuals were involved to help bring the royal here. There was a scenario that had to be mapped out for his visit, regardless of what the circumstance may have been. There were hundreds of emails back and forth, which led to my favourite tidbit of the royal visit.

There was talk about renaming the park on the east side of city hall in honour of the prince’s visit. The desire was to name it something like, The Earl and Countess of Wessex Park. Fitting name, the prince was just there.

There were plenty of other names and terms thrown around, something like Wessex Square was pitched.

But it was one particular email that really caught my eye, one that examined a variety of options for renaming the park.

The term quadrangle was thrown out as a possible option, among others. I think it would be the most fitting term to call the park; it really rolls off the tongue.

An important side note, the city didn’t want to rename the park, so they didn’t. But if they did or do, they should call it the Memorial Quadrangle of the Earl and Countess of Wessex. It’s short, sweet and really sells the royal visit. Hopefully it catches on.

12

Passport to YLL

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

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.

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. 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 for more info.

Ignite with Jordin Tootoo and Sarah Wells Get ready to be inspired by the incredible stories of Jordin Tootoo and Sarah Wells at Ignite – a night of empowerment and motivation, put on by the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation and Cenovus Energy. Come to the Gold Horse Casino on Jan. 17, at 6:30 p.m. for an evening of inspiration and motivation! Tickets are $54.58 each and available through EventBrite.

Islay Jamboree The Islay jamboree is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 18, at 1 p.m. at the Islay Community Hall.

Ad m i s s i o n i s $ 15 a nd p a rticip a nts a re f ree.

Everyone welcome and lunch will be served. For more information, contact Dixie at 780-744-2204.

Breakfast at the Moose Lodge The Lloydminster3” Moose located at wideLodge, version

BROAD REACH at an AFFORDABLE PRICE

Advertise Province-wide with a combined circulation of over 500,000 for only...

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toll free 1-800-282-6903 x225 email classifieds@awna.com

or visit your community newspaper

5213 57 St., is hosting a breakfast from 8:30 to 11 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 18. Cost is $13 for adults, $5 for ages 6-12 and under five eat free. Enjoy a full breakfast with eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausages, pancakes and toast, etc.

and are $20 for adults and $10 for anyone under 18. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite Toy Story character!

Kelly Bado at the Vic Juba Community Theatre The Lloydminster Concert Series Association brings Kelly Bado to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Monday, Feb. 9, for a 7:30 p.m. show.

Inspired by her African heritage, La chanson française (French ballad), and American gospel, Kelly Bado creates music transcending cultural barriers, bringing audiences together in joy and hope. Tickets are $36 for adults and $10 for students (including post-secondary students) and are available online and at the theatre’s box office.

Cribbage Doubles Tournament The Legacy Centre is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Thursday, Jan. 22, starting at 10 a.m.

The cost to play is $10/person and $12/person for lunch. Everyone welcome! For more information, contact the Legacy office at 780-875-4584.

Jed and the Valentine at the Vic Juba Theatre The Lloydminster Concert Series Association is pleased to bring Jed and the Valentine to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 24. The two will bring their own personal, sun-dappled sound to the world of folk, blending soul-stirring, soaring harmonies with earthy guitar strums and wistful banjo plucking. Tickets are $36 for adults and $10 for students (including post-secondary students) and are available online and at the theatre’s box office.

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. 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.

Legacy Centre Pancake Breakfast The Legacy Centre is hosting a pancake breakfast on Sunday, Jan. 25, from 9 to 11 a.m. The cost is $12 for adults, $6 for kids 12 and under.

Everyone welcome! Contact the Legacy Office at 780-875-4584 for more details.

Chamber Connect 25-Year Anniversary The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 25th anniversary Chamber Connect event at Lakeland College from 5 to 7 p.m. on Feb. 24. Don’t miss the local business Discussion Panel and the opportunity to network. The chamber is still looking for businesses interested in setting up a table to speak with our Lakeland College Business students. Please reach out to secure this free members only opportunity.

Spinning Wheel at the Vic Juba Community Theatre Eleven of Lloydminster’s finest musicians recreate vibrant hits of the 70s from Chicago’s “Saturday in the Park,” Lighthouse’s “Sunny Days,” Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” and including Blood Sweat & Tears “Spinning Wheel” and “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy.” The show is scheduled for Tuesday Jan. 27, and starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online or at the theatre’s box office and are $30.25 for adults and $15.25 for 18 and under.

Chamber Pins and Pints Bowling Tourney The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is hosting Pins and Pints bowling tournament at Lloyd Lanes on March 5. Visit lloydminsterchamber.com for more details and registration info.

Toy Story at the Vic Juba Community Theatre The United Ballet Company brings Toy Story to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 3 p.m. Join the cast for a heartwarming, highenergy retelling of Pixar’s beloved classic. Tickets are available online or at the theatre’s box office

Lloydminster and Region Job Fair The Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Lloydminster and region job fair from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 19 at the Gold Horse Casino. Looking to hire? Having trouble finding qualified employees? This job fair may be for you.

PUBLIC NOTICE 3.75” wide version

Planning and Development Department

BROAD at an Development AFFORDABLE PRICE for a proposed Take notice REACH that the following Permit Application Discretionary Use is being reviewed in accordance with Land Use Bylaw 5-2025.

Advertise Affected Address $ Province-wide 5027 – 44 Street

with a combined circulation Lot: 42, Block: of 1 over 500,000 for only...

Plan: 162-2097

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PAGE 13 Thursday, January 15, 2026 MERIDIAN SOURCE

Sports

‘We want to bring a ’chip back to Lloyd’ Bobcats go all-in at trade deadline, adding size, experience, local flavour JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR

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The Lloydminster Bobcats saved their biggest punch for last as they announced late Friday the acquisition of hometown boy Landen Ward, a rugged 19-year-old forward with WHL and BCHL credentials.

At 3:50 p.m. Friday, on the eve of Saturday’s trade deadline, the junior A Bobcats made it official that Ward is on board for the AJHL team’s drive toward a championship for the Border City.

Three hours later, he was in the Lloyd lineup for its 5-1 victory over the host Bonnyville Pontiacs.

The next night, Ward scored his first AJHL goal, in his native Lloydminster to boot, as the Bobcats lost 3-2 in a shootout against those same Pontiacs.

The addition of the six-foot-three, 215-pound Ward, a son of former NHL defenceman Lance Ward, capped a flurry of Lloyd trades in a threeday span last week. In short order, the Bobcats got taller, heavier and most likely tougher, while also adding more local flavour to a team already sporting solid hometown representation.

“I love every single guy in that (dressing) room, and I want to see all of them succeed,” declared Bobcats assistant captain Gus El-Tahhan, a 20-year-old forward.

“Our main focus, every day coming to the rink, is we want to bring a ’chip back to Lloyd. I think, now that the (trade) deadline is over, that’s going to be our main focus every day, until that happens.”

As they put the pieces together for a title run, the Bobcats beefed up their defence via a pair of midweek trades with two SJHL clubs.

In the second of two deals with Saskatchewan league teams, the Bobcats acquired hulking defenceman Oakley McIlwain, a 20-year-old Lloydminster native who had been playing with the Humboldt Broncos.

In landing the six-foot-four, 218-pound McIlwain last Thursday, the Bobcats shipped 18-year-old forward Morgan Hackman to Humboldt, along with the CJHL playing rights to 19-year-old defencemen Carson Olsen (Kamloops Blazers, WHL) and Jack Birch (Langley Rivermen, BCHL).

In a trade announced last Wednesday afternoon (Jan. 7), Lloydminster sent another 2007-born forward — Connor Ewasuk — and a playerdevelopment fee to the SJHL’s Melfort Mustangs in exchange for 19-year-old Ryder Ellis, a former WHL defenceman from Meadow Lake, Sask.

The Bobcats revealed two more deals Thursday

Landen Ward, a 19-year-old forward with Lloydminster roots, brings WHL experience to the junior A Bobcats.

John MacNeil Meridian Source

night, making it four transactions within two days for the Border City brigade.

Lloydminster signed 18-year-old forward Alex Levasseur, who spent the first half of this season in the QMJHL with the Gatineau Olympiques.

The Bobcats also traded 19-year-old defenceman Quinn Keeler to the AJHL’s Canmore Eagles in return for the CJHL rights to 18-year-old blueliner Jack Bousquet (Vernon Vipers, BCHL) and a player-development fee.

Lloyd added to its riches Friday with the signing of Ward, who racked up 101 penalty minutes — and 11 points — in 25 games this season with the BCHL’s Victoria Grizzlies.

Ward, whose family now lives in Red Deer, spent a couple of years in the WHL with the Lethbridge Hurricanes and Moose Jaw Warriors.

From his minor hockey days in Lloyd, he’s

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already most familiar with multiple key Bobcats.

During his years with the U18 AAA Bobcats (now Lancers), Ward was a teammate of three current junior A Bobcats — newcomer McIlwain and veterans Kade Fendelet and Jaxan Hopko.

Fendelet, 20, is the captain and Hopko, 19, is one of the assistants.

While they’ve been one of the top teams in the AJHL for most of this season, the Bobcats prioritized defensive depth going into the trade period, after losing Esteban Cinq-Mars to the QMJHL’s Val-d’Or Foreurs at Christmastime.

Before last week’s moves, Lloyd was down to six healthy defencemen.

Noah Smith, 18, has been sidelined again as the sophomore blue-liner continues to recuperate from shoulder surgery last year.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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Thursday, January 15, 2026

SPORTS — JUNIOR A HOCKEY

Ellis, McIlwain new towers on defence

BOBCATS FROM PAGE 13

McIlwain played minor hockey in Lloydminster before his 15-game AJHL stint with the Grande Prairie Storm three seasons ago. He has spent the past two and a half years with Humboldt in the SJHL. This season, he scored a goal and 18 points, along with 60 penalty minutes, in 27 games with the Broncos.

The Humboldt-acquired Hackman was in his first season with Lloydminster. He netted four goals and eight points in 29 AJHL games, before suiting up with the Broncos in SJHL action last weekend.

Birch played in Lloyd for two years but has spent this season with Langley in the BCHL, under former Bobcats coach Brad Rihela, the Rivermen’s coach and general manager.

Olsen was part of the Bobcats’ organization for just two months, and he didn’t play with the junior A team. He remained in major junior after Lloyd acquired his CJHL rights in the Oct. 30 trade that sent 20-year-old forward Alessio Nardelli to the SJHL’s Battlefords North Stars.

The six-foot-six, 190-pound Ellis, who like Ward has WHL experience with Lethbridge and Moose Jaw, comes to Lloydminster after playing 26 games in the SJHL this season with Melfort. He scored a goal and three points with the Mustangs, while accumulating 60 penalty minutes.

The Melfort-bound Ewasuk, a Beaumont, Alta., native in his first year of junior hockey, collected two assists in 17 games with the Bobcats. He just turned 19 on Jan. 4.

Levasseur, the newest Lloydminster forward, played just nine games this season as a rookie with Gatineau, picking up one assist for his lone QMJHL point. The Edmundston, N.B., native scored 13 goals and 27 points in 34 games last winter with his Quebec midget 18 AAA team, College EstherBlondin Phenix.

In just his second game as a Bobcat, Levasseur scored his first AJHL goal in Saturday’s game at the Hub. Bousquet has spent this season in the BCHL, first with Langley and most recently with Vernon. The young D-man has WHL experience with the Red Deer Rebels. Last season, he picked up three assists in 29 games with the major junior Rebels and one assist in six junior A contests with Canmore.

In his first year with Lloydminster, Keeler posted two assists in 17 games. He was sidelined with an injury for a month this fall. In going to Canmore, Keeler moves closer to his Calgary home. Last season, he played with the BCHL’s Cranbrook Bucks.

Keeler dressed for Canmore in its two games last weekend.

On the same day that Canmore brought in Keeler, the Eagles also added 18-year-old defenceman

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Lloyd newcomer Ryder Ellis checks in at six-foot-six.

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Evan Markel, who spent the first part of this season with Kamloops in the WHL. Early last week, 18-year-old goaltender Sam Madgett left Lloydminster to join his hometown Halifax Mooseheads for the rest of the QMJHL season, initially in a backup role.

Bobcats’ rookie forward Ty Hynes, who turns 18 later this month, has rejoined the South Alberta Hockey Academy U18 prep team. In his second game back with the Medicine Hat-based club, Hynes scored a power-play goal Sunday as SAHA defeated Edge School 3-1 in Calgary. He was listed as a defenceman for the weekend action.

The latest transactions left Lloyd with 24 players on its active roster (three goalies, eight defencemen and 13 forwards), with one player card still open in advance of the final Feb. 10 signing deadline.

The Bobcats’ latest opponent, Bonnyville, was also active in the leadup to the trade deadline, as were virtually all the North Division teams.

On a busy Friday, the Pontiacs announced they had acquired 18-year-old sniper Lucas Knorr and overage defenceman Brynn MacLean from the Devon Xtreme in exchange for 19-year-olds Cash Ganske (defence) and Grayson Niehaus (forward) and future considerations.

On the previous weekend, Bonnyville traded second-year defenceman Alex Coventry to Battlefords of the SJHL. Coventry had two assists in 23 AJHL games this season.

In return for the six-foot-seven, 214-pound Coventry, the Pontiacs received the CJHL rights to 19-year-old defenceman Sebastian Miles, along with a player-development fee. Miles, a six-footthree, 209-pound native of Port Moody, B.C., played 26 games with Battlefords this season and dressed this month for his first game with the BCHL’s Nanaimo Clippers.

In just his second SJHL game with Battlefords, Coventry celebrated his 20th birthday in style. He collected three assists as the North Stars defeated the visiting Weyburn Red Wings 9-5.

Last week, Bonnyville also acquired the CJHL rights to 20-year-old goaltender Ben Laurette from the Melville Millionaires of the SJHL, in exchange for a player-development fee. The six-foot-four, 201-pound Calgarian had been playing in the BCHL with the Chilliwack Chiefs.

Laurette was victorious in his AJHL debut Saturday as Bonnyville topped Lloydminster in the shootout.

The Pontiacs lost a Calgary-born netminder in early December when the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades called up 17-year-old Ryley Budd. On Boxing Day, the Blades announced Budd would remain with the major junior club on a full-time basis.

On the WHL-AJHL roller-coaster this week, the major junior Red Deer Rebels announced they’ve assigned California forward Owen Shadrick to the junior A Camrose Kodiaks, who visit Lloydminster this Friday.

Camrose also acquired 17-year-old defenceman Dreyton Aleman from the Calgary Canucks. Aleman is committed to the NCAA Division 1 Lindenwood University Lions.

The Kodiaks gained a 19-year-old forward, Brandon De Haas, who came from Grande Prairie in return for 18-year-old defenceman Reily Pickford of Chauvin, Alta.

Pickford’s brother Bryce, the 19-year-old captain of the Medicine Hat Tigers, is this week’s WHL player of the week.

On Tuesday, AJHL-leading Whitecourt announced one more acquisition from the trrade period, as the Wolverines picked up 18-year-old forward Jackson DeGraves from the Drumheller Dragons in exchange for a player-development fee.

Whitecourt earlier traded 20-year-old defenceman Ethan Short to Camrose, where he had played with the Kodiaks for the early part of his AJHL career. The Wolverines made that move after acquiring another 2005-born D-man, Billy Hooson, from the Drayton Valley Thunder in return for 2007-born rearguard Lachlan Staniforth.

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SPORTS — JUNIOR A HOCKEY

Thursday, January 15, 2026

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15

Lloydminster, Bonnyville renew rivalry JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR

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In the final hours before the trade deadline, the Lloydminster Bobcats and Bonnyville Pontiacs dealt each other defeats in a spirited weekend of AJHL action on and off the ice.

In dramatic fashion, the Pontiacs scored with 11.1 seconds left in regulation time and went on to win 3-2 in a shootout Saturday at the Hub in Lloydminster.

The night before in Bonnyville, the Bobcats set the tone and prevailed 5-1 in the first of three straight games between the rivals within a sixday span. The third contest was scheduled for Wednesday (Jan. 14) in Lloyd, after this issue of the Source went to press.

Fresh faces dotted both lineups as the North Division teams engaged in playoff-style hockey, at least during Saturday’s hard-fought game.

Pontiacs sniper Christophe Lussier scored the lone goal of the three-round shootout and rookie hotshot Gavin Harrison, a 16-year-old forward from Cold Lake, netted both of Bonnyville’s regulation tallies. With 13 goals and 30 points after 31 games, Harrison led all AJHL freshmen.

The Bobcats gained a 2-0 lead in the second period on goals from newcomers Alex Levasseur and Landen Ward, with a power-play marker.

Levasseur came from the QMJHL’s Gatineau Olympiques, while Ward is a former WHL forward from Lloydminster who most recently had been playing in the BCHL. The six-foot-three, 215-pound Ward is an imposing presence in front of the net, as evidenced on his first AJHL goal.

In his Bonnyville debut, 20-year-old goaltender Ben Laurette made 30 saves, while fellow overager Ty Matonovich recorded 23 stops in the Lloyd net.

The Lloydminster Bobcats and Bonnyville Pontiacs clashed three times in six days. John MacNeil Meridian Source The Pontiacs acquired Laurette’s rights last week in a trade with the SJHL’s Melville Millionaires.

He had been playing in the BCHL with the Chilliwack Chiefs. Just in time for Friday’s game, Bonnyville also welcomed forward Lucas Knorr and defenceman Brynn MacLean in a trade with the Devon Xtreme.

Lloydminster showcased four new players added last week in forwards Levasseur and Ward and defencemen Ryder Ellis and Oakley McIlwain. All bring size and experience to the Bobcats’ lineup.

It was that kind of a trade period for each of the contending teams in the AJHL, especially in the ever-tight North Division.

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Still six points out of a playoff position, after weekend play, the fifth-place Pontiacs (17-14-2) did their part to stay in the race as they came from behind to defeat No. 4 Lloyd (19-10-4).

“Our margin of error is very small,” said Bonnyville coach Chad Mercier. “We know it. We understand it. Obviously, we’d like to be where those other teams are, ahead in the standings and in a playoff spot, but by the same token, we are where we are. We’ve got to be in a bit of a playofftype mentality early (in games), and if we can do that and sustain it, then it gives us a chance.

“And then, that allows us to have that mentality CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 all the way through.”

16

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 15, 2026

SPORTS — JUNIOR A HOCKEY

Goalie skates closer to comeback

Madgett shut the door in relief in the Lloyd win over Bonnyville on the November night when A new year brings Ben Polhill new hope and one Polhill got hurt. step closer to the net.

Polhill credited Madgett, 18, for being a loyal Sidelined for the past 10 weeks with a knee teammate even when he wasn’t dressing for games, injury, the Lloydminster Bobcats’ 19-year-old with a surplus of goalies in town for an extended goaltender from Cochrane, Alta., resumed skating stretch. with the AJHL team just last week.

“Sam did a really good job of coming in cold (to “It’s been going all right,” Polhill said about his preserve that win over the Pontiacs),” Polhill said. recovery from a Grade 2 MCL sprain.

“He was a great guy, a great teammate to have, Bobcats’ Ben Polhill has been sidelined for two months.

“It’s tough for a goalie to get that injury. It’s a an awesome goalie partner. He worked hard, super longer (layoff) than it would be if it was a player. hard, off the ice and on the ice. So, it’s good to see “It’s been longer than I expected. But I’m back him move up and see what he can do in the Q.” skating, so hopefully I’ll be back (playing) soon.”

While a three-goalie scenario isn’t necessarily Polhill was forced to leave prematurely in the ideal for those wanting minutes between the pipes, third period of a Nov. 7 game at Bonnyville that it can be effective in case of injury and for a team saw the Bobcats defeat the Pontiacs 4-1. like Lloyd as it positions itself for a potentially long “I kind of felt my knee pop out a little bit,” he playoff run. recalled last weekend. “I knew right away that “It’s good to have three goalies,” Polhill said. something wasn’t right, so I got off the ice.

“It makes you want to work harder in practice “I went back home for a bit to rehab it and get and kind of compete. So, it’s good. We’ll have better.” some good compete in practice to kind of earn the N o w w e a r i n g a k n e e b r a c e , P o l h i l l w a s starting role.” encouraged after he tested his leg on the ice last Polhill compiled a 4-2 record during his month week in practice. of action with the Bobcats, posting a 1.85 goals“Yeah, it felt not bad,” he said Saturday after against average and a .934 save percentage. watching the Pontiacs defeat the Bobcats 3-2 His initial days with Lloydminster overlapped the in a shootout, one night after Lloyd won 5-1 at final few weeks of Matthew Kondro’s early-season ALL OFdoing ALBERTA, Bonnyville.Covering “I’ve been taking it slow, 30 to 45 stint with the Bobcats. Kondro, just 17 at the time, Covering ALL OF ALBERTA, minutes. Hopefully, I can pick it up this week, so I rode a hot start in Lloyd and earned a promotion to and I can come to you! and I can come to you! can be feeling all right for a game.” the WHL’s Red Deer Rebels.

Polhill viewed Saturday’s game from the Hub I also purchase coin collections! Last season, Polhill played with the SJHL’s I also purchase coin collections! stands along with the Bobcats’ other scratches, Estevan Bruins and the BCHL’s Prince George including injured defenceman Noah Smith, who Spruce Kings. He returned to Prince George this was back in Lloydminster for a visit. Otherwise at year but was released early in the season and made home in Brooks, Alta., Smith has been recuperating his way back home to Alberta. in hopes he can make another comeback soon.

“Then, I came here,” he said about Lloyd. “It’s “Noah came up on the weekend to see all the been fun since I’ve been here. It’s been good.” boys,” Polhill said. “It’s Lloydminster native Aiden Foster, an 18-yeargood to see him.” old forward who plays in the WHL with the Prince T h e s i x - f o o t - t h r e e , George Cougars, recommended Polhill to his 1 7 0 - p o u n d P o l h i l l buddy, Bobcats captain Kade Fendelet, and the rest w a s t h e B o b c a t s ’ of the organization.

No. 1 goalie when he got “Yeah, I had some buddies on the Prince George hurt. Since then, Lloyd Cougars, and I hung out with him quite a bit while has added two 20-year- I was with the Spruce Kings,” Polhill said of Foster. old netminders in Ty “He’s a good guy.”

Matonovich and Jaiden High expectations are in store for the Bobcats Sharma. this season, especially after they beefed up an Sam Madgett, the man already strong lineup with four additions last week who opened the season in advance of Saturday’s trade deadline. as the Bobcats’ starter, “We got three points this weekend, which is recently left Lloyd to good,” Polhill said. “We’re looking to build on it j o i n h i s h o m e t o w n and have a good week this week.”

Halifax Mooseheads of Polhill is a graduate of Calgary’s Edge School, a Lloydminster the QMJHL, initially as prep program in the Canadian Sport School Hockey their backup while one League. His teammates at Edge included Prince of the regulars recovers George Cougars’ star Terik Parascak, a first-round As of January 22, we are making some from an injury.

NHL draft choice of the Washington Capitals. changes to our distribution JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR

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SPORTS — JUNIOR A HOCKEY

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

17

BOBCATS versus PONTIACS FROM PAGE 15

That staying power Saturday enabled the Pontiacs to hang around longer than they did on home ice Friday.

“Overall, I’d say the game was harder fought, probably because we brought more energy tonight,” Mercier said after Saturday’s game. “We didn’t put up as much of a fight (Friday). You’ve got to give (the Bobcats) credit, coming into our rink and they gave it to us pretty good at 5-1.

“Tonight, I thought the response certainly tightened up the game and the action. And for us to be able to find a way, obviously we’ll take the two points and get out of here.”

The Bobcats vowed to be sharper Wednesday and not let an imminent victory slip away again.

“It’s good to get a point out of it tonight — it would have been nice to win the game — but we’ll get ’em on Wednesday,” Lloyd veteran forward Gus El-Tahhan said as the Bobcats gathered for a post-game workout.

“It’s obviously a playoff tempo. We’re playing (the Pontiacs) three times in a row. This time of the season, every game matters. We’re just going to try to get as many points as we can throughout this three-game segment against them.

“You look at our division, we’re all a couple of points behind each other. It’s crazy how even all the teams are. Anyone can win in our division. I mean, in the whole league.”

Going into Wednesday’s game, Lloyd sat seven points behind the first-place Whitecourt Wolverines (24-9-1), but just two back of the second-place Fort McMurray Oil Barons (19-12-6) and within one point of the Grande Prairie Storm (21-13-1). On home ice Sunday afternoon, Grande Prairie defeated Fort Mac for the third time in four days to make serious gains in the North.

After playing five consecutive games against North opponents, the Bobcats welcome the South Division’s Camrose Kodiaks (18-13-2) to the Hub this Friday. It marks defenceman Lucas Magowan’s first game in Lloyd since the Bobcats traded him to the Kodiaks in November.

The same teams meet Saturday in Camrose, before the Bobcats and Olds Grizzlys (10-23-3) tangle in Red Deer on Monday (Jan. 19) as part of the AJHL’s three-day showcase.

Seemingly, all teams are showing off new talent since movement was brisk during the trade period, which ended Saturday.

In the Bobcats’ case, they’ve loaded up for a playoff run, notably adding stature with the likes of the six-foot-six Ellis, the six-foot-four McIlwain, the physical Ward and the skilled Levasseur.

“Yeah, it’s good we’ve added a lot of big bodies, which is going to help us for a playoff run, to wear teams down,” El-Tahhan concurred. “They’re big bodies that are going to get pucks in deep for us and create O-zone time and wear the defence down.

“Some of them are local, too, so it makes the team chemistry a little bit better. But, yeah, it’s been great so far.”

McIlwain, 20, and Ward, 19, have Lloydminster roots, and they’re most familiar with local Bobcats’ veterans Kade Fendelet and Jaxan Hopko. Ellis, 19, is from nearby Meadow Lake, Sask., so he isn’t necessarily a stranger.

The Bobcats were already among the top teams in the AJHL, so their latest additions have only earned them more respect from opponents like the Pontiacs.

“They were a hard team to play against before and they’ve just become harder to play against, with their size and their experience,” Mercier said about the Bobcats. “They’re a very well-coached hockey team. They work extremely hard. They’re physical and very structured.

“So, you’ve got to be ready when you play them. And with their additions, obviously that does nothing but strengthen them. But ultimately, we’re focused on ourselves and what we need to do in our game. We were obviously a lot happier with our response tonight.”

Knorr, 18, and MacLean, 20, were added to the Pontiacs’ roster from Devon last Friday in the latest sign that Bonnyville management wants to make its own playoff push. Mercier said it’s a vote of confidence from Pontiacs general manager Chad Nelson and vice-president Neil Langridge.

“For them to make the moves that they did, to bring in Knorr and MacLean, two guys that are going to help our team tremendously, to do that when we’re sitting out of a playoff spot, shows their confidence in the group. Now, us as coaches and players, we’ve got to do our job.”

The Bobcats did the job Friday in Bonnyville, as incumbent players took care of all the Lloyd offence.

Rookie forward Tucker Robertson, with 22 points after 27 games, scored the opening goal and set up two others in the Bobcats’ victory. Fendelet’s shorthanded goal early in the second period proved to be the winner.

Dylan Deets, Jadon Iyogun and Ethan Elefante also scored for Lloyd, while Kael Screpnek contributed a pair of assists. It’s always a special game for Deets when the Cold Lake defenceman goes up against familiar local faces skating with Bonnyville. One of those is his former minor hockey teammate Harrison, whose power-play goal accounted for the Pontiacs’ production Friday.

Lloyd’s Matonovich, who was sporting an AJHL-best 2.20 goals-against average, stopped 27 of 28 shots to post his third win in four games. Nathan Salisbury, with 26 saves, tended goal for Bonnyville.

Lloydminster and Bonnyville clash one more time in the regular season when the Bobcats visit the Pontiacs on Friday, March 13, on the final weekend of the 2025-26 schedule.

Lloydminster Bobcats’ forward Tucker Robertson (left) tangles with Bonnyville Pontiacs’ defenceman Evan Schulha during Saturday’s AJHL game at the Hub.

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SPORTS — JUNIOR B HOCKEY

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Bandits turn toward memorable 2026 JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR

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The Lloydminster Bandits were in a celebratory mood at the Hub on Friday night as they began 2026 with a 7-4 win over the Cold Lake Ice. John MacNeil Meridian Source 26012KP0

With two more victories last weekend, Corvan Stewart and the Lloydminster Bandits maintained their one-point edge on the Vermilion Tigers atop the Northeastern Alberta Junior B Hockey League standings.

Back-to-back hat tricks from Stewart enabled the Bandits to defeat the Cold Lake Ice 7-4 at home Friday in the Hub and rip the last-place Vegreville Rangers 13-4 on the road Saturday.

“Corvan is an absolute workhorse,” said Bandits coach Josh Dudding. “We always bug him that his pants are magnetic — the puck just seems to follow him. I think that’s just a characteristic of how hard he works.

“He’s one of those guys that can work in any situation. He’s played power play, PK, he’s been going on any one of the lines — one to four — and he’s played defence for us when needed, too.”

Stewart and Adryan Bugiera, with a goal and four assists, each had fivepoint nights in Saturday’s rout. Cole Kelly contributed two goals and an assist, while Jake Redden and Joel Webb each scored once as part of their three-point games. Bronson Parker, Cayden Wildeman and Jace Schmidt each potted a goal and an assist, and Cash Parkin collected three helpers.

The other Lloyd scorers were Cohen Aultman and Tyson Ziegler.

Carson Tourand, with 21 saves, was a winner in his debut between the Bandits’ pipes.

His teammates fired a combined 52 shots at two Vegreville goaltenders, Andrew Bezaire and Riley Warawa.

Kaylum Roberts, with two goals and an assist, and Ashton Butts, with a goal and two assists, each counted three-point nights for the Rangers.

Ty Partington scored the other goal for Vegreville, which has won just once in 27 games this season.

On the flip side, Lloydminster (22-5) is in a tight race for first place.

The Bandits maintained their one-point edge on Vermilion (20-3-3), despite the Tigers also winning twice last weekend. Vermilion topped the St. Paul Canadians 6-2 on the road Saturday, after beating Vegreville 8-2 at home Friday.

The Wainwright Bisons (18-3-4) sit in third place, four points behind leagueleading Lloyd. The Bisons posted a 3-2 victory over fifth-place St. Paul (10-16) on Friday in Wainwright’s lone game last weekend.

Fourth-place Cold Lake (12-14-1) came to the Border City on Friday night in the first January action for both the Ice and the Bandits.

Back home on Saturday night, Cold Lake went on to blank the Killam Wheat Kings 5-0. Killam (9-15-2) is tied in points with St. Paul for fifth spot in the standings.

Including his hat-trick goal with 1:26 remaining, Stewart opened and closed the Lloyd scoring Friday at the Hub. In between, he netted a short-handed tally en route to his first three-goal game in junior B hockey.

Stewart’s older brother, Shae, blocked 19 shots to record his 11th victory in net this season.

Bugiera tallied twice for the Bandits, while Webb picked up a goal and two assists. Kelly also scored and Wildeman and Jayden Plamondon each set up two goals.

Mark Peddle, with 35 stops, faced 42 shots in Cold Lake’s net. The Ice got goals from Cody Pikowicz, Brett Gascoigne, Noah Fedor and Kamden Brunet, with his first of the year.

‘EFFORT HAS GOT TO BE FIRST AND FOREMOST’ After an extended Christmas break that lasted almost three weeks, the Bandits weren’t sure how they would react to such a break.

“It’s kind of a double-edged sword sometimes,” coach Dudding said after Friday’s game. “It’s nice to get those breaks. The guys get to heal up and spend some time with wives, girlfriends, kids, family and stuff like that, over Christmas, which is great.

“But tonight was good. Our message in (the dressing room) was effort has got to be first and foremost. We know there’s going to be a few breakdowns here and there, just from not being back in game mode yet, shaking some rust off. It was nice to come out with the win.”

The Bandits answered the bell, spurred in part by some line-juggling to kick off the new year.

“We had a little bit of an experiment tonight and put Bugiera on the wing for probably the first time in his career. That was good. That line had a lot of success, with he and Wildeman and (Aidan) Martens. They had a big night.

“Then, I call them the old-boy line, with Webb, Plamondon and Corvan (Stewart), they all had big nights. I believe that was Corvan’s first hat trick ... in a Bandit uniform.”

The coaching staff made sure Stewart was on the ice in the late going Friday, with the first of his two hat tricks within reach.

“When you see guys getting a hat trick in any league, usually it’s pretty rare, so if there’s an extra shift maybe at the end of the game, where a guy has an opportunity, you kind of lean their way,” Dudding said about that milestone.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

SPORTS — HOCKEY BANDITS FROM PAGE 18

“At the end of the day, in the big scheme of things, it might not seem like a big thing. But when you look back on certain things, I’m sure it’ll be a memory for him.”

The Bandits are making big-time memories this season. They’re set to host the Alberta junior B championship at the Hub during the first week of April. As their top standing indicates, they hope to go into those provincials through the front door, as the league champions.

CROWDED AT THE TOP It’s been an intense three-way battle for first between Lloydminster, Vermilion and Wainwright through the first half of the season.

“Yeah, we’ve had Wainwright’s number a few times this season,” Dudding said. “I don’t know if it’s from (recent history). We’ve played them two or three years in the playoffs, so that rivalry is there, for sure.

“And then, honestly, Verm has kind of had that number on us for more of the season, but I think our message — starting now and not starting in playoffs — is that we’ve got to have a playoff mentality every night.

“You’re not going to win this league on skill (alone). You’ve got to get to the dirty areas and play physical, so that’s what we’re hoping to do.”

The Bandits are back home this weekend for two games — 7:30 p.m. Saturday against St. Paul and 2:30 p.m. Sunday versus Killam.

A couple of heavyweights face each other Friday night when Wainwright visits Vermilion.

Thursday, January 15, 2026

MERIDIAN SOURCE

Lloyd loses Heide to British Columbia While they’ve done more than their share of winning this season, the junior B Lloydminster Bandits suffered a big loss on the personnel front last week with the departure of 19-year-old goaltender Haden Heide.

After just half a season with the Bandits, the Lloydminster resident has elected to return to junior A hockey in British Columbia, this time with the Richmond Sockeyes, the top team in the Pacific Junior Hockey League.

Heide made his PJHL debut Saturday night and blocked 30 shots in Richmond’s 6-3 victory over the Coastal Tsunami.

During the holiday break, Heide received an offer to play in B.C., after Richmond lost its starting goalie, Massimo Urbani, to the SJHL. Although the Bandits were surprised to hear the news, coach Josh Dudding wished Heide well.

“That was good for Haden to get that opportunity,” Dudding said. “When the phone call came on Sunday, obviously selfishly you’re a little bummed out, when you lose a good goalie, no matter who it is, but at the same time, that’s kind of a good thing for the program, where you can move guys up the ladder. He’s going to a great team there. They’re (33-5) to start the year.”

Heide played with Castlegar and Chase in the KIJHL last year. He spent the past pre-season with the Waywayseecappo Wolverines of the MJHL, before returning home to join the Bandits.

Dudding expressed confidence in Lloyd’s remaining goalies — veteran Shae Stewart, 21,

19

and rookie Carson Tourand, 17. The coach also welcomed the team’s new third goaltender, Ryan Stepanick, a 20-year-old Vermilion native who played in the Northeastern Alberta junior B league last season with the Killam Wheat Kings.

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SPORTS — HOCKEY

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Fischer embraces WHL trade to Seattle JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR

..................................

One morning last week, Tripp Fischer was just settling into his Grade 10 math class when the subject quickly turned to hockey.

He received a phone call from Prince Albert Raiders general manager Curtis Hunt, advising Fischer he had just been traded to the Seattle Thunderbirds in a 12-piece Western Hockey League deal, an equation seemingly complex enough to befuddle even a math major.

“I asked the teacher if I could answer the call, because it was pretty important,” said Fischer, a Lloydminster Comprehensive High School student.

“I moved out to the hallway. Then, (Hunt) told me I got traded.”

Fischer, a 15-year-old forward with the U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers, was one of the key prospects involved in a WHL deadline trade that included active major junior players and draft selections.

Most notably, Prince Albert acquired an NHL first-round draft choice in 18-year-old forward Braeden Cootes, the Vancouver Canucks’ prospect just back from representing Canada in the world junior hockey championship.

“It’s pretty cool,” Fischer said about being in such elite company. “Not right now to tell people, but when I’m older, just to say, if we’re watching that guy on TV, it’d be, like, ‘Yeah, I got traded for that guy, and I was a piece of his deal.’ It’s a pretty cool thing to say.”

The Raiders traded four players and four draft picks to secure the services of Cootes in Prince Albert’s push toward a WHL championship and a Memorial Cup berth. Those draft selections include first-rounders in 2026 and 2028.

As part of the blockbuster deal, Seattle also acquired two draft picks (a fourth and a sixth in 2026) and a conditional selection in the 2028 draft.

The Thunderbirds’ tangible assets are current WHL forward Ethan Bibeau, 19, and prospects Fischer, Knox Burton and Diego Gutierrez. Burton is a 16-year-old forward with Pilot Mound Hockey Academy’s U18 prep team in Manitoba. Gutierrez, 16, plays defence with the U.S. national U17 team.

Prince Albert selected Fischer in the third round of the 2025 WHL prospects draft, 52nd overall. He attended the major junior team’s training camp last fall, before beginning his U18 AAA rookie year with his hometown Lancers in the Alberta Elite Hockey League.

While his WHL rights have gone from a contending team in Prince Albert to a rebuilding club in Seattle, that might prove to be a fortuitous position for a young player trying to step into the WHL next season.

“Yeah, it’s exciting,” Fischer agreed. “I mean, being in P.A. would have been nice, just because it’s close (to home), but I’m definitely not mad about going to Seattle. It’s a good city, from what I’ve heard, and I don’t mind being away from home. I did it last year and it was pretty far. I’m excited, for sure.”

While billeting in British Columbia last season, Fischer captained Delta Hockey Academy’s U15

Tripp Fischer’s rights went to the Seattle Thunderbirds from the Prince Albert Raiders in a blockbuster deal.

John MacNeil Meridian Source

prep team, the Western division champion in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League.

The five-foot-11, 170-pound Fischer said Hunt, the Raiders’ GM, told him Thunderbirds’ management pushed for his inclusion in the multifaceted deal.

“He said Seattle was pretty eager about getting me in the trade.”

In the short term, Fischer believes the relative discrepancy in competitiveness between Prince Albert and Seattle might work in his favour, at least as far as scouting his progress at the U18 AAA level.

“I don’t know,” he said. “The only difference I really see is maybe (the Thunderbirds) take an extra look, or talk to me a little bit more, just because they’re not so focused on going to the Mem Cup and winning that. So, they might take a little longer at me than say P.A. would, because (the Raiders) are a winning team and focused on winning that Mem Cup later in the year.”

Fischer said his goal for next year essentially remains the same as it was when he was Prince Albert property — he’ll go to Seattle’s camp and try to earn a roster spot for the 2026-27 season.

“I was planning and hoping to go to (the Raiders’) camp next year and get signed by them, but I guess my plan stays the same in Seattle. Just go to camp and show them what I have, kind of thing.”

Soon after the trade was made, he spoke with Seattle’s assistant general manager and was expecting a call from the GM within a few days. The Thunderbirds were playing a three-game swing through southern Alberta when they swung the mega-deal that brought them Fischer et al.

Cootes, the former Seattle captain, made his debut with Prince Albert last weekend.

Fischer, meanwhile, helped the Lancers win two more games at home. He has four goals and 16 points in 20 games, after his season was delayed for about a month because of a high-ankle sprain suffered in pre-season play.

He has carried a hot December into January, even though he’s not fully recovered from his injury.

“Yeah, it still bugs me from time to time,” he said. “I’ve still been doing my physio from when I hurt it, so it’s just been getting better and better and better. It hasn’t gotten worse.”

Fischer made his comeback near the end of October, just in time to represent Alberta in the U16 WHL Cup. “Just a little bit of adversity is probably what they seen,” he said about his time with the Raiders’ organization. “Because I was hurt at the start of the year. Then, I kind of started to pick it up here lately.

“Even at (training) camp, they probably seen a little bit of adversity, just because I was struggling a little bit there, but I picked up as it kept going.”

Fischer is already familiar with a couple of fellow Thunderbirds’ prospects. Two of them were his Alberta teammates for the WHL Cup. Brook Haile, a defenceman with the U18 AAA Calgary Northstars, was Seattle’s first-round draft selection last May. Third-round pick Dylan Sherban is a forward with the South Alberta Hockey Academy U18 prep team.

Fischer welcomed the life experience that would come with moving stateside to play major junior hockey, just as his father Cole did at age 16 with the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs.

“It’s nice to know he kind of went through the same thing,” Tripp said. “If I play as a 16-year-old, he did the same thing in Spokane. It’s nice to have that guy in your corner.”

Cole Fischer went on to play two-plus seasons with Spokane and three years with the Kootenay Ice. Overall, he skated in three Memorial Cup championships, winning the national title in 2002 with Kootenay in his final year of junior.

Spokane’s contemporary ties to Lloydminster include the three Chiefs’ prospects who are Tripp Fischer’s teammates this season with the U18 AAA Lancers — 2024 draft choice Connor Nickle and 2025 picks Brody Sunderland and Josh Frazer.

LANCERS MAKE MORE GAINS Fischer and the Lancers had a weekend to remember as they scored a pair of home-ice victories over two of the AEHL’s top teams.

Lloyd defeated the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers 4-3 in overtime Sunday, rallying from a 3-0 deficit in the second period to even the score. Kelton Doolaege scored three goals, including the winner 1:10 into OT, and Asher Ammann made 38 saves to record his first goaltending victory as a Lancer.

Rhett Romanchuk scored the other Lloyd goal and Frazer collected two assists as the Lancers improved their record to 8-14-4. It was the second time this season that they have beaten Fort Sask (19-6-3), which is tied with the Edmonton Junior Oilers Blue atop the North Division (19-5-3).

On Saturday, Lloyd scored a 3-1 victory over the Calgary Buffaloes (13-10-3). Romanchuk, with two points, Doolaege and Gavin Pratt tallied for the Lancers. Stran Edge blocked 18 shots as Lloyd outshot Calgary 31-19.

This weekend, the Lancers visit the Okotoks Oilers (11-12-3) on Saturday (Jan. 17) and the Airdrie Bisons (6-18-3) on Sunday (Jan. 18).

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

Thursday, January 15, 2026

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HELEN: Helen Barbara Luyben (Kuc) May 31, 1932 – December 31, 2025 Helen Luyben passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at the age of 93, while residing at the Cut Knife Special Care Home.

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Through Bernie’s work as an educator, Helen lived in a variety of communities across the province, including the North, adapting to many places and seasons of life.

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Helen is further survived by her sister, Marcella Hurion (Jerry); her sister-in-law, Lois Pitzel; many nieces and nephews; and numerous dear friends.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, Bernie; her parents, Philip and Sannie Kuc; her sisters, Mary, Pauline, Ann, and Alice; her brother, Michael; their spouses; her son, Kelly; Bernie’s parents, Orval and Muriel Luyben; her sister-in-law, Muriel and husband Ray; and her brother-in-law, Gerry. A private family gathering will be held in the summer to honour Helen’s life.

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MERIDIAN SOURCE

23

CROSSWORD

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154,000 MLS A2149342

BRING YOUR BUSINESS TO THE BORDER CITY 50 AVE. DOWNTOWN FOR LEASE

49 AVE. DOWNTOWN

3009 - 57 Ave.

PLAZA 44 UNIT #128

ALBERTA

1 Beds, 1 Baths

$1000

READY

SASKATCHEWAN 4501 - 39 St.

3 Beds, 2 Baths

$1700

FEB. 1

APPLY ONLINE TODAY UTILITIES INCLUDED SK

265,000 MLS A2249925

$

AB

2,500/month MLS A2269476

$

AB $9.50/sq.ft MLS A2234952

coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

3812 - 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB T9V 3M7

780-875-3343

Each office is independently owned & operated.

www.coldwellbankercitysiderealty.com

Brad Gilbert Broker (AB)

facebook.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty

Jennifer Gilbert Broker (SK)

Sandy Hardy Realtor®

Judy Bexson Brandon King Realtor® Residential Realtor®

instagram.com/coldwellbankercitysiderealty