Cadets mark 83 years of leadership and legacy
Boots were shined to a mirror finish and uniforms were pinned with freshly earned patches as 52 members of the 186 Royal Canadian Air Cadets took to the floor at E.S. Laird Middle School for their Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR).
The May 26 event capped off a year of steady growth and milestone achievements for the local squadron, while paying homage to an 83-year-old legacy deeply rooted in the community.
Parading at E.S. Laird Middle School holds a profound historical significance for the unit. The school’s namesake, E.S. Laird himself, was the very first commanding officer of the squadron more than eight decades ago.
Warrant Officer Second Class Elijah Belanger (right) salutes his father, Reviewing Officer Robert Belanger, during the 186 Royal Canadian Air Cadets’ 83rd ACR.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
“He actually put it within the charter of the school to say that cadets will always have a parade night, free of charge for them, as long as the school is standing,” said Capt. Jaime Petty, the unit’s commanding officer.
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TAYLOR WEAVER
While the squadron owns a separate, smaller cadet hall, Petty noted their roster has outgrown the space.
“We definitely could not parade with the numbers that we’ve been able to grow here,” Petty said, adding that keeping numbers steady across the entire training year has been a major
“It’s an amazing legacy to have to carry on.”
For Robert Belanger, the evening marked a series of firsts and lasts. It was his first time serving as the Reviewing Officer, an honour that allowed him to inspect the parade and evaluate the youth.
The inspection was particularly special for Belanger as a father.
His son, Warrant Officer Second Class Elijah Belanger, is aging out of the program at 18 to attend university.
“He’s gone from this shy little kid ... his confidence is through the roof with everything,” the senior Belanger said.
The parade proceedings were led by Warrant Officer First Class Leopold Ross, who joined the program in 2019 at age 12. As the Chief Warrant Officer for the evening, leading the final parade of his cadet career was an unforgettable milestone.
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“Everybody looked really good. It was a lot of nicely shined up boots and uniforms,” Belanger said. “It means everything … it instills confidence and pride. It’s a proud moment to see them dress the way they are.”
“It was amazing,” Ross said. “This past training year, we’ve had so many accomplishments and pushed past our comfort zones.”
The sentiment of growth was echoed across the ranks. For the younger Belanger, the years spent in uniform taught him lessons that extend far beyond military drill.
“My biggest lesson since starting cadets was, it’s all about leadership, friendship and camaraderie, the whole way,” said Elijah Belanger. “You meet a lot of good people, you learn a lot, especially how to lead, and follow.”
While drill remains a favourite for many — including Flight Sgt. Daniel Fernandez, who noted the excitement of the synchronized movements — the squadron also celebrated major competitive success this year.
Band Major Flight Sgt. Bryson Jewitt and Sgt. Wyatt Moffat both highlighted the unit’s competitive marksmanship team. In his very first year on the team, Jewitt travelled with the squadron to the provincial championships in Saskatoon, where they secured a second-place finish. Find our full story and photo gallery, HERE.
CADET ACR FROM PAGE 2
Warrant Officer First Class Leopold Ross. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
TOP: Band Major Flight Sgt. Bryson Jewitt and members of the 186 SQN pipeband stand at ease. ABOVE: Robert Belanger inspects cadets at E.S. Laird Middle School on May 26.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
Rotary aids health efforts in Domincan
A donation from the Rotary Club of Lloydminster is helping to distribute menstruation kits in the Dominican Republic.
Mark Woods, Rotary Club of Grande Prairie past president and current chair of international projects and allocations, presented to the Rotary Club of Lloydminster on June 1, outlining their efforts in the Dominican Republic.
“Our goal: keep the girls in school, end taboos around menstruation
and stop the teen pregnancy epidemic,” he said of the Days for Girls project.
Woods spoke about the work they do to get the kits to young women in the Dominican Republic.
“A single reusable menstrual hygiene kit can keep a girl in school for that extra week per month for an average of three years,” he said.
In areas they’ve managed to distribute the kits, they’ve already seen success.
“We’ve seen a reduction in school absence from 25 per cent down to about
three per cent,” he said.
The kits give women everything they need for their periods, including a reusable pad.
Education is a major component to their efforts.
He said when they started, menstruation wasn’t even discussed.
“When we started in the Dominican Republic in 2016, menstruation was not a word that was spoken. It was taboo,” he said.
The Rotary Club of Lloydminster donated $4,000, which was matched by the district with an additional $3,200 being added from the world fund, totalling $11,200 donated.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
Integra Engineering flips pancakes for MS Canada fundraiser
Integra Engineering Ltd. hosted its annual pancake breakfast on May 27 to raise money for MS Canada, a cause that hits close to home for many of the company’s employees.
“It started out as an opportunity for our team to participate in the (MS) Walk, and we use this event to raise money for the walk,” said Erin Bandola, general manager of Integra. “It turns out, we also have a lot of our employees who have people that have been affected by MS in their family.”
Local Business Directory
2026 SUMMER GUIDE REGISTRATION IS OPEN COST AND AGE CATEGORIES VARY
Explore all of what Lloydminster has to offer with the Summer Guide! Lloydminster.ca/Guides
DOWNTOWN STREETFEST
JUNE 6 • 10 AM - 3 PM • FREE Streetfest, presented by Bioclean Disaster Services, is a FREE community celebration packed with activities for all ages. Enjoy live entertainment, interactive games, food vendors, family attractions, and more as downtown comes alive with energy and excitement.
Don’t miss the FREE pancake breakfast at the Olive Tree Community Centre from 9 - 11 a.m.
Lloydminster.ca/Streetfest
1 WEEK TO JOSH ROSS
JUNE 12 • 7 PM
Big stage. Big name. Big-country energy. Josh Ross takes over Cenovus Energy Hub with a night of chart-topping hits, unforgettable singalongs, and high-energy live music. Joining him is rising country artist Zach McPhee. With support from title sponsor PCL Construction, this is the kind of concert experience you’d normally travel hours to see, right here in Lloydminster. Get your tickets now! cenovusenergyhub.ca/JoshRoss
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Lloyd looks at future of southwest area
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
The Southwest Area Structure Plan (SWASP) received its first reading, establishing a vision for the southwest portion of Lloydminster.
Presented at the May 25 regular council meeting, the item moved forward with a public hearing officially scheduled for June 22.
“An area structure plan must be approved by council before any future planning or development applications can proceed within the planned area,” said Natasha Pidkowa, manager of planning with the City of Lloydminster, at the meeting.
The study area includes about
17 quarter sections of land in the southwest portion of Lloydminster. The rough boundaries of the SWASP include Highway 16 (north), 75 Ave. (east), and 12 St. (south). The plan identifies the general location of residential and commercial areas, a potential Bud Miller All Seasons Park expansion area and the general layout of open space connections.
“It is important to note the area structure plan provides a broad planning framework and more detailed planning will occur at the neighbourhood structure planning stage,” said Pidkowa. “The southwest area structure plan establishes a clear vision for future growth in the southwest of Lloydminster.”
The SWASP also outlines a number of different areas of study, including transportation, land ownership and adjacent land uses, all of which can be found on the city’s website.
The public hearing is set for June 22 at city hall at 2 p.m. during the regular council meeting.
Lloydminster lowers tax rate
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
As financial pressures continue for many, a small semblance of relief is on its way for Lloydminster residents as the city lowers its mill rate.
At the May 25 regular council meeting, City of Lloydminster council gave the final two readings to the mill rate bylaw. The bylaw lowers the mill rate by 1.22 per cent after a notable increase in property tax assessments.
“New taxable assessment is $65M, which is a 1.3 per cent increase. This is due to new construction, the completion of new construction and any reinspections that are done,” said Ryan Hill, financial planning and analysis manager for the city, at the May 4 regular council meeting.
“Inflation showed an increased taxable assessment of $392M or a 7.8 per cent increase.
“The majority of our growth is due to inflation, though we did see some real growth as well.”
As of May 14, the total taxable assessment of the 2026 tax year of $5.509B, up $454M from 2025, or an 8.99 per cent increase.
For council, the drop in taxation was a big win.
The city will begin sending tax notices June 5, with penalties on current year taxes beginning after July 25.
City of Lloydminster Public Notice
Bylaw No.10-2026
Intent: The purpose of Bylaw No. 10-2026 is to redistrict part of Lot 3, Block 20, Plan 252 1117 within S.W.¼ Sec.35-Twp.49-Rge.01-W4M from Transitional (T) to Medium Density Residential (MDR).
How do I get more information?
For more information on the draft bylaw, please contact Legislative Services at 780-871-8328.
How can I be a part of the Public Hearing?
Anyone wishing to make a presentation at the Public Hearing, either verbally or in writing, concerning this bylaw may do so during the City Council with or without notice at the meeting specified below. Please notify Legislative Services by 2 p.m. Monday June 15, 2026, to provide a submission for the agenda. All submissions will become part of the permanent public record.
New art on its way to Bud Miller
New pieces of art will soon be captivating masses at Bud Miller All Seasons Park.
The Lloydminster Public Art Advisory Committee is moving forward with new art pieces to be installed near the Bioclean Aquatic Centre.
“The successful applicant was Paul Reimer with one metal tree sculpture and two metal and stone benches,” said Natalie Clysdale, manager of the Lloydminster Museum and Archives.
The installation’s location has been approved by the parks department. The cost of the project is $72,000, to be funded from the public art reserve account, which according to city documents, has a balance of $122,670.
Coun. Jim Taylor, who sits on the public art committee, explained it wasn’t an easy decision.
“Trying to pick an artist was not easy and also trying to pick what art is also not easy, because everybody’s interpretation is going to be different,” he said.
Installation of the pieces would occur during the aquatic centre’s shutdown in fall of this year.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
New art is on the way at Bud Miller All Seasons Park. Graphics courtesy of City of Lloydminster
Border Paws raises money for animals
A shelter puppy receiving a pup cup.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
The scorching May sun might have heated up the pavement, but it also set the perfect stage for Lloydminster residents to come together for a good cause — and a great burger.
Border Paws Animal Shelter hosted the fundraiser on May 28, offering burgers and a pop for just $5.
“Swift-Net approached us and asked if we wanted to do a barbecue,” said Chelsea Reeves, funding and event co-ordinator with the shelter, noting the burgers were donated by TGP Lloydminster Cash and Carry.
“Then, Willcraft Technologies Ltd. jumped in and sponsored The Scoop Lloydminster to supply ice cream.”
Reeves said that through barbecue partners, all of the proceeds raised went to support shelter animals.
“Any funds that we can make, 100 per cent go toward the animals. That’s amazing,” she said.
Bounce Units, Food Fair, Street Performers, Art Market, Farmer’s Market, Carnival Rides, Wagon Rides and more!
ADVENTURE ZONE
the rush! Carnival rides are bringing the thrills to Streetfest!
MORE ABOUT THE EVENT AT
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Time flies when you’re having fun
Time sure does fly when you’re having fun!
It’s hard to believe I’ve been walking through the doors of Lloydminster’s locally owned and operated newspaper for 10 years. That’s right, last week marked a decade of employment with Lloydminster Source Ltd., working for Reid Keebaugh and Clark Wright.
Over that decade, I’m proud to say I, as well as our product, have evolved. Of course, you, the reader, know about our recent shift to a fully digital platform, and I can’t thank you enough for all the support and positive feedback.
It’s been a wild ride, and I’ve seen a lot of personal growth. Chels and I continue to celebrate our sobriety, my passion for photography has been reinvigorated through the paper and a busy freelance schedule, and golf season is here!
Cheers to 10 years and whatever is on the horizon. I’m looking forward to a busy summer in a community I’m proud to call home.
COMMUNITY MEMBER OF THE MONTH
CONGRATULATIONS
JACLYN DOBRANSKI
our community member of the month for June!
Jaclyn received a $25 Gi Certificate from Canadian Tire!
To nominate your community member email jacie@meridiansource.ca
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Chris’ A-Z: A little windy
I was recently talking to my wife, as I sometimes do, and we were discussing large weather events. Tornadoes, to be specific.
Being in Lloydminster, we’re in a rather interesting landscape of weather events. Sometimes, storms pass over us and sometimes, they touch down. Even our winters are odd. Sometimes snow just completely misses us, not that I’ll complain.
In particular, Hope and I were talking about the 1980s and how tornadoes swept through the area causing damage. The Prairies are no stranger to strong thunderstorms and tornadoes, but in 1982, one swept through the area causing damage to a local farm.
The following year saw a storm that sticks out in my mind. Storm chasing is something that is immensely popular today. I’m sure it was back then, too,
but I wasn’t around to experience it.
People get in their vehicles, grab their cameras and recording devices and head towards a storm. Hail, thunderstorms, tornadoes – there’s plenty for people to chase.
In 1983, a large tornado was clearly visible to the west of Lloyd. People climbed on their roofs to get a better view and even drove toward it. Luckily for all those risk takers, the tornado didn’t swerve towards them.
It was strong enough to cause $2 million in property damage, destroy farm buildings, killed animals and left one individual injured.
A violent summer thunderstorm in 2000 spawned several tornadoes, with one even passing over Lloyd but never touching down. It was a very lucky moment for the Border City. Things could have gone quite different had
it touched down. Another one did touch down to the north, causing extensive damage to a farm, with the residents sheltering in the basement nearly escaping serious injury.
Coming from the middle of nowhere B.C., a thunderstorm usually didn’t mean tornadoes, it meant wildfires.
Having come to the Prairies, the same storm now has a different connotation.
I’m thankful to have not experienced any bad weather-related incidents, but it’s sure neat to read about.
Passport to YLL
Bingo at Moose Lodge
Bingo is back at Moose Lodge every Monday and Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.
Chair Yoga
The Alcurve Community Hall is hosting chair yoga every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $15 for drop in or $50 per month. Call or text Deb at 780-808-0015 for more details.
Southridge Playschool Registration is Open
The Southridge Playschool and Kindergym Society has opened registration for the fall 2026-27 term for kids ages 3-5. One day a week is covered by a government affordability grant, and two days a week is $325 for the whole term. Contact Mrs. Shandy at southridgeplayschool@ gmail.com or message them on Facebook.
Seniors’ Week Celebrations at the Legacy
The Legacy Centre hosted seniors’ week activities from June 1 to 5. Their final event is a Legacy supper/dance (advance tickets only) on Friday, June 5. Call Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more info.
Jake Vaadeland at the Vic Juba
Jake Vaadeland and the Sturgeon River Boys hit the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on June 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 and are available online or at the theatre’s box office.
Annual Par 3 Legacy Golf Tourney
The Legacy Centre’s annual Par 3 golf tourney is on June 9 at Rolling Green Fairways. Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 to register. All ages welcome.
Hypertension Education Class
The Saskatchewan Health Authority is hosting a hypertension education class on managing high blood pressure on June 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
The class is free and will be held in Suite 109, 4910 50 St. at the Prairie North Plaza. Call 306-820-6262 to register.
General Meeting at the Legacy
The Lloydminster Senior Citizens Society’s general meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. on June 15 at the Legacy Centre. All members encouraged to attend.
Spades Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a spades tournament on June 18 starting at 10 a.m. Cost to play is $10 and $12 for lunch/person. Everyone welcome.
Just Kruzin’ Annual Show & Shine
The Just Kruzin’ Specialty Vehicle Club’s annual show and shine is June 20 at the Cenovus Energy Hub. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Doubles Crib Tourney
The Legacy Centre is hosting a doubles cribbage tournament on June 25 at 10 a.m. Cost to play is $10 and $12 for lunch/person. Everyone welcome.
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Friday passed away at Lloydminster Hospital, Lloydminster, SK on April 26, 2026 at the age of 72 years.
Robert is survived by: his loving wife, Denny Friday; son, Adam Friday; brothers, Alfred (Lois) Friday, Harold (Jean) Friday, Phillip (Pat) Friday and Victor Friday; mother-in-law, Masardy Wiltermuth; sisters-in-law, Jeanette Leer,
Robert's obituary. Donations in memory of Robert may be made to donor's charity of choice.
CARD OF THANKS:
Adam and I have been truly overwhelmed by the love, kindness and support we have received since the loss of Bob.
During one of the most difficult times in our lives, the compassion shown by our family, friends and community has brought us comfort and strength that words cannot fully express.
We are deeply grateful for every phone call, visit, card, flower, meal, hug, message, donation, tree planted, and act of kindness, as well as to everyone who attended the funeral and stood beside us in our grief. Knowing how loved Bob was has meant more to us
Lloydminster Youth Council celebrates decade of inspiring future leaders
TAYLOR WEAVER
Under a sky that brought a mix of community warmth and outdoor unpredictability, the Lloydminster Youth Council celebrated its landmark 10-year anniversary on Saturday with a public barbecue and reflection at Bud Miller All Seasons Park.
Launched in 2016, the youthled organization gathered current members, mentors and local leaders at the park’s amphitheatre on May 30 to mark a decade of providing teenagers with a powerful platform to spark civic change.
Lorelee Marin, a founding member of the youth council’s steering committee and current chair of the mentorship and advisory committee, recalled the initiative began as a simple but powerful idea 12 years ago before officially launching.
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“We started to think about, what if we created a space where young people could lead? Where their voices could be heard, their ideas could take root and their potential could truly flourish,” Marin told the crowd.
“What started as a vision has grown into a movement. We’re not building future leaders. They’re leading today in our community, given that opportunity.”
The anniversary event featured games, art and a free community barbecue. For the youth council members, the celebration served as a testament to the group’s perseverance, particularly in navigating recent global hurdles.
From left, Lloydminster Youth Council chair emeritus Ife Antonio and chair Addison Smith were all smiles at the council’s 10-year anniversary celebration on May 30.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
RR 13 rehabilitation project planned
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
Range Road 13 will see some rehabilitation thanks to a partnership between the County of Vermilion River and the City of Lloydminster.
Lloydminster council approved the commitment of $235K from the road infrastructure capital reserve and the authorization for the County of Vermilion River to proceed with the rehabilitation projects on RR 13 north and south.
“These roadway segments continue to experience deterioration and ongoing maintenance requirements,” said Jordan Newton, director of transportation and parks services, City of Lloydminster.
The county was also eyeing work on Range Road 11, something the city was not recommending proceeding with.
“At this time, administration is not recommending to proceed with Range Road 11 north. It is not at the same level of deterioration as the Range Road 13 segments,” said Newton.
Don Stang, Lloydminster’s executive manager of operations, clarified that they will be completing work on the entirety of Range Road 13.
“They’re going to do the whole road. We’re going to pay for what’s inside the city boundary,” he said.
Costs are currently estimated, but administration is confident the work can be done within its budget.
City of Lloydminster Public Notice
B ylaw No.11-2026
Int ent: The purpose of Bylaw No.11-2026 is to r e d ist r ict al l of Lot 1, Block D, Pla n 022
4 3 8 7 with in S . W. ¼ Se c.35- Twp .49-R ge.01W 4 M and par t o f S. W ¼ Sec.35- Twp.49R g e .01-W 4 M
How do I get more information?
F o r m ore in form a tion on the draft bylaw, please contact Legislativ e S er vi ce s at
7 8 0 -87 1 -832 8
How can I be a part of the Public Hearing?
A nyone w is h ing to make a presentation at the Public Hear ing, eit her v e r b a lly o r i n wri ti n g , co n ce rni ng this byl aw may do so during the City Council with or wi thout not ice a t t h e meeting spec ified belo w Please n o tify Legislative Service s by 2 p.m. Monday J u ne 15 , 2026, to p rov ide a subm is sion for the a genda. A ll sub missi ons will b ec ome p ar t of the per manent p ub lic reco rd.
Growth and tradition take centre stage at Lloydminster 4-H Expo
TAYLOR WEAVER
The annual Lloydminster 4-H Expo brings together more than 250 youth to showcase agricultural projects, celebrating a year of hard work and family tradition.
While the three-day event, hosted at the Lloydminster Exhibition, features a packed schedule of competitions ranging from light horses and archery to the final sales of market lambs and fed calves, the true heart of the expo lies in the hands-on experiences of its young participants.
For cousins Kenzie Kuzyk and Teagan Dow, both 14 and members of the Lone Rock 4-H Club, the expo represents a long-standing family commitment. Now in their ninth year with the organization, both grew up on farms surrounded by family members who participated before them.
“Lots of work goes into them. You gotta be cautious with them, too, so you don’t get hurt,” Dow said of the effort required to prepare livestock for the show ring.
Despite the labor, Kuzyk noted her favourite part of the experience is “getting to pick the animal and making a bond with them.”
Kuzyk brought her animal, Winston, to the Lloyd Ex, while Dow cared for a steer named Maverick.
For Dow, the massive regional show offers something a traditional
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
achievement day cannot.
“It’s like a different experience than our achievement day,” Dow said, highlighting the scale and excitement of the weekend.
The event also serves as a critical learning ground for younger members navigating the steep learning curves of handling heavy livestock.
Ten-year-old Jayla Rowswell and nine-year-old Everleigh MacDonald, both members of the Cut Knife 4-H Club, spent their weekend showcasing beef projects.
Rowswell, who has been in 4-H for five years, transitioned through multiple projects — including light horse, arts and crafts and archery — before taking on a beef project this year with her steer, Earl.
From left, cousins Kenzie Kuzyk and Teagan Dow pose on their animals, Winston and Maverick, during Sunday afternoon 4-H Expo prep at the Lloydminster Exhibition.
expo unforgettable.
She admitted that the hardest part of the year was halter-breaking her steer, though the bond she formed made it rewarding.
“My favourite part would most likely be this week,” Rowswell shared. “I would go down, put Earl in the chute and I would sit on him.”
MacDonald, now in her second year of the beef project, followed her brother and parents into the 4-H program. She emphasized that working with large animals, such as her steer, Connor, quickly teaches youth crucial safety lessons, such as making sure “that you’re walking in front of the steers and not behind.”
Beyond the life lessons in livestock safety and financial responsibility, the participants agree that the social connections are what make the
“It’s a fun way to make new friends, and also, you get to learn new stuff about different parts of the animals,”
MacDonald said, encouraging other youth to join the program.
Jayla Rowswell and Everleigh MacDonald were in their element on May 31 at the annual 4-H Expo at the Lloyd Ex. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
4-H EXPO FROM PAGE 18
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
City of Lloydminster Public Hearing Bylaw No. 09-2026
Intent: The purpose of Bylaw No. 09-2026 is to adopt the Southwest Area Structure Plan.
How do I get more information?
For more information on the draft bylaw, please contact Legislative Services at 780-871-8328.
How can I be a part of the Public Hearing?
Anyone wishing to make a presentation at the Public Hearing, either verbally or in writing, concerning this bylaw may do so during the City Council with or without notice at the meeting specified below. Please notify Legislative Services by 2 p.m. Monday June 15, 2026, to provide a submission for the agenda. All submissions will become part of the permanent public record.
Monday, June 22, 2026 2 p.m.
Council Chambers, City Hall, 4420 50 Avenue
Available to view via livestream at lloydminster.ca/livestream 780-871-8328 cityclerk@lloydminster.ca
The annual 4-H Expo packed the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association from May 30 to June 1. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
“I think it’s really just a milestone,” said Ife Antonio, a Grade 11 student at Holy Rosary High School who served as last year’s chair and holds the newly created mentorship role of chair emeritus.
Antonio, who was inspired to join the council after seeing members host a winter skating event when she was in middle school, praised the dedication of her peers who routinely operate in spaces typically dominated by adults.
That sentiment was echoed by Addison Smith, the council’s current chair and a fellow Grade 11 student at Holy Rosary High School. Smith noted her involvement with the council helped her break out of her shell, transforming her from a “really quiet kid” into a confident leader.
“Some people don’t realize how important the voice of a youth can be,” Smith said, referencing historical examples of youth advocacy reaching government levels.
“We have some of our ideas, but some kids don’t feel like they can get them out because we just don’t feel supported enough. It’s crazy to think how much of a change we can make.”
The council’s tangible impact on local governance was a focal point for Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers, who extended greetings on behalf of the city. Aalbers highlighted the youth council’s influence extends directly into the city chambers, noting current city councillor Justin Vance is a graduate of the youth council program.
“I can tell you they’re not afraid to
challenge council,” Aalbers joked during his speech.
“They are often there saying, ‘Have you guys thought of this? Will you meet us somewhere and do things together?’ which I appreciate. To have young people lead and develop ... these young people are our future.”
Maddi Romulus and Dessa Eskelson were set up at the mental health table on May 30 at Bud Miller All Seasons Park.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
The Stampeders bring timeless hits to Lloyd stage
TAYLOR WEAVER
More than 50 years after they first burst onto the Canadian music scene, rock legends The Stampeders are proving that some things never run out of ink.
The Juno Award-winning trio is set to bring its cross-country tour to the Border City for a performance at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on June 18.
For a band that has defined classic Canadian rock since the 1970s, the current tour carries a deep emotional weight following the passing of original bass player and co-founder Ronnie King.
Kim Berly, Stampeders’ founding member, drummer and vocalist, said the upcoming show will be a heartfelt celebration of the band’s enduring legacy and a tribute to their fallen brother.
“Every tour we’ve done since Ronnie’s
passing, we’ve paid tribute to him,” Berly said in a recent interview. “We have a video of the old days that really highlights Ronnie and I tell some stories about him because he was a thrill. A fun and fabulous human being ... both frustrating and hilarious at the same time.”
The loss left a massive void in the band’s iconic three-piece lineup, but Berly noted their new bass player, Dave Chobot, has seamlessly stepped into the role to play alongside him and fellow founding member Rich Dodson.
“Dave’s really jelled with the band ... he’s definitely a Stampeder,” Berly said.
While the lineup has shifted, Berly promised fans can expect the same high-octane banter, classic storytelling and timeless music that made them household names.
Tickets for the June 18 performance are available online and through the Vic Juba Community Theatre box office.
Click here for the full interview with Kim Berly.
From left, The Stampeders drummer and lead vocalist Kim Berly and the late Ronnie King at a May 2023 show at the Vic Juba Community Theatre. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Lions Club donates $10,000 to local groups
For the Lloydminster Lions Club, the mission is simple: raise money and give it right back to the community. That mission was on full display during the club’s recent giving night, where members distributed $10,000 among several local organizations, sports clubs and initiatives.
Shelley Tatro wears many hats for the club, serving as vice-president, treasurer, program director, co-fundraiser and co-ordinator for the Citizen and Junior Citizen of the Year awards. She said such nights make the volunteer effort worth it.
“It feels wonderful,” Tatro said. “That’s what we do. We go out, we make money, we help where we can. That’s what it’s all about.”
The $10,000 total was split across numerous beneficiaries, including the St. Mary’s school playground project, Lloydminster Region Health Foundation, Kiwanis Music Festival, SPARK Foundation, Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association, The Olive Tree and Torrent Tae Kwon Do.
While some groups are annual staples, others are selected through a letterrequest process based on financial need.
The cause hits close to home for the club, as Lions members Brent and Kathy personally travelled to Edmonton to deliver the funds.
“It’s nice that we can support something that’s so important to one of our members,” Tatro said.
Click here for the full story and photo gallery.
SUDOKU
A major highlight of the evening was a $2,500 donation to the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation Canada (DRIFCan). The funds support Edmonton Protocol regional research into islet stem cell transplants aimed at curing Type 1 diabetes.
TAYLOR WEAVER
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Word on the beat: Feeney warrants
Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN
You may have heard in news releases that police obtained a Feeney warrant, which authorizes them to enter a dwelling to arrest a person. Commonly called a Feeney warrant, it is actually a Form 7.1 warrant under the Criminal Code. This specific warrant is not used for any other purpose. It stems from the 1997 Supreme Court of Canada ruling R. v. Feeney, involving a 1991 incident. The case began with a homicide investigation where police entered an equipment trailer used
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as a home and arrested Michael Feeney.
Officers initially received no answer, entered the trailer, and woke Feeney. In better lighting, they noticed blood on his shirt and arrested him. Officers also gathered evidence that initially convicted Feeney of second-degree murder. However, his appeal succeeded because the court ruled his Charter rights were violated by an unreasonable search and seizure. Consequently, all evidence seized after police entered the trailer was ruled inadmissible. While the case prompted extensive legal debate, it established that police must obtain a warrant to enter a dwelling to make an arrest. Exceptions exist under exigent circumstances, including ensuring safety, fresh pursuit, or preventing the destruction of evidence. Following this ruling, officers must provide a rationale showing they reasonably believe a suspect is inside a
dwelling. This process has since been updated to allow for telewarrants, enabling officers to obtain verbal authorization while remaining on-scene.
This case is another example of how law enforcement must operate strictly within the authorities granted to them. Virtually every police action requires specific legal authority, which always comes with limitations.
Staff Sgt. Jerry Nutbown is the NCO in charge of the Lloydminster RCMP detachment’s General Investigation Section. Stay tuned for future online columns from the Lloydminster RCMP.
PROVINCIAL PATH
Barons’ Kvill strikes three gold at district meet
Hockey player Lincoln Kvill scored a hat trick of another sort at the Northwest district high school track and field meet at home in Lloydminster.
Kvill, a Grade 10 student at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School, won all three of his junior boys’ events to punch his ticket in resounding fashion to the Saskatchewan provincials this Friday and Saturday at Saskatoon.
Last week on the Lloyd
Comp track and field grounds, Kvill was golden in not only his traditionally strong field events — long jump and triple jump — but also in javelin.
He did his homework before the meet but still surprised himself with his javelin victory.
“Yeah, I probably practised that one more than all of them,” said Kvill, whose winning javelin throw was 47.61 metres. “My first three (throws) were not great, but then I pulled one out in the last three.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
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Lincoln Kvill of Lloyd Comp jumps his way to more gold. John MacNeil Meridian Source
JOHN MacNEIL
COUNTY CORNER COUNTY CORNER COUNTY CORNER
June 2026
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Kvill bounces back from hockey injury
TRIPLE GOLD FROM PAGE 25
With the perfect combination of strength, timing and speed, Kvill launched the javelin fortuitously with his right hand.
Notably, he broke his left arm with two months remaining in his hockey season with the U16 AA Lloydminster Blazers, one of the top teams in the Alberta Elite Hockey League this past winter.
“We were playing Fort McMurray and one of their big defencemen stepped up and caught my arm,” said Kvill, a 15-yearold blueliner who’s now all but fully recovered from that season-ending injury.
“It’s just got a little bit of stiffness to it, but it’s fine now.”
A nimble Kvill fielded a golden performance in Lloyd as 480 athletes gathered for the two-day district meet. He won his age division’s long jump with a 5.57-metre leap and the triple jump with a 11.54-metre distance.
“In triple jump, me and this one guy (Edam’s Bryar Carr) were kind of hand in hand for most of it,” Kvill said. “Then, I just jumped way further after and took a lead there.”
Part of a strong contingent from H. Hardcastle School in Edam, Carr placed second to Kvill in three events — triple jump (11.35m), long jump (5.09m) and javelin (41.52m) — and was runner-up to Lloyd Comp’s Bennett Amos in a tight 400-metre race (Amos, 58.53 seconds; Carr, 58.73 seconds).
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At last year’s Saskatchewan provincials in Moose Jaw, Carr earned the silver medal in the intermediate boys’ javelin, and Kvill secured the bronze.
Now, they’re teammates again as part of the 25-member Northwest contingent bound for provincials at Gordie Howe Sports Park in Saskatoon.
Lincoln Kvill qualified for the Saskatchewan provincials in junior boys’ long jump, triple jump and javelin. John MacNeil Meridian Source
Brothers reach respective provincials
Kvill and his contemporaries go into the provincial meet with confidence on their side, after gaining valuable experience competing in last year’s SHSAA championships.
“I’m just hoping to get as high of a placement as I can there,” he said.
It helps that the 2026 provincial meet is relatively close to home, compared to last year’s host city.
Weather-wise, this week has been generally wet, but the forecast for Saskatoon is 28 C and sunny on Friday, and 24 C and rainy on Saturday. (Two of Kvill’s three events are scheduled for Friday).
Last week in Lloydminster, temperatures were pushing 30 C, with slight winds providing a bit of a reprieve.
“I feel like the heat wears you down a bit, before everything, especially if you stay out there,” said Kvill, now almost six feet and 160 pounds.
He countered the heat by spending as much time as possible in the shade near the bleachers, drinking ample water and making sure he didn’t eat heavy foods. “It was, like, two snacks throughout the day.”
GRAYDON GOING TO CALGARY
Kvill’s athletic family includes older brother Graydon, a Grade 11 student at Holy Rosary High School and a defenceman with the U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers. Just like last year, both Kvill boys are headed to their respective provincial track and field championships.
After a couple of podium finishes at last week’s zone meet in Bonnyville, Graydon has qualified for this weekend’s School Sport Alberta provincials in Calgary. On the ice, he’s coming off a solid rookie season manning the U18 AAA Lancers’ blueline. Lincoln also hopes to continue to climb the hockey ladder. He made gains this year with the U16 AA Blazers.
“I definitely got a lot better and gained a lot more confidence,” he said.
The captain of that Blazers hockey team, Lloyd Comp football quarterback Joseph Kelly, continues to excel in track and field as well. Kelly posted a recordsetting performance in the junior boys’ quadrathlon. He won the multi-faceted competition, with gold-medal finishes in his 100-metre and 800-metre races and the long jump, and a silver-medal showing in the shot put behind Grady Andersen of Carpenter High School in Meadow Lake.
“He was very happy with his results,” Kvill said about his buddy Kelly, also a standout last year while competing in the intermediate boys’ quadrathlon.
Kvill also tipped his hat to Lloyd Comp senior Kyle Graf, a quadruple-medallist who accumulated 34 points. “His speed (is noticeable) and he’s a strong guy, too.”
Fabulous Fink shatters three records
JOHN MacNEIL
The stars were out in Lloydminster last week as multiple records fell during the Northwest High Schools Athletic Association district track and field championships.
Included in the long list of personal achievements were 17 record-setting performances from eight athletes, including the U.S. college bound Kate Fink of the host Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Barons.
Fink, an elite runner from Paradise Hill,
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Sask., shattered records in each of her three races in the senior girls’ division, paving her golden path toward this week’s Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association provincial championships at Saskatoon.
She broke her own record in winning the 100 metres in 11.80 seconds, eclipsing her 12.18 mark from 2025.
This year, Fink also set new standards in the senior girls’ 200 metres and 400 metres.
In the 200m, her 24.71 showing topped a 34-year-old record (26.80) that belonged to Stacey Sachko.
In the 400m, Fink erased an even older district standard. She posted a time of 59.06 seconds to push past the 59.97 record that Lori Cey established in 1987, or 39 years ago.
Fink wasn’t able to participate in last year’s Saskatchewan high school provincials because of other high-level track commitments, but she’s on board this year for the Friday and Saturday meet at Gordie Howe Sports Park.
Lloyd Comp seniors Kate Fink (front) and Sofia Simpson (left) finish first and second in the 100-metre race. John MacNeil Meridian Source
District athletes fashion new standards
FINK AND COMPANY FROM PAGE 28
It’s a busy month for Fink, who participated in a Florida meet this past weekend. She’s juggling her final exam schedule at Lloyd Comp to enable her to compete in Canada’s national track and field championships, which are set for June 17-21 in Ottawa.
Fink has chosen to continue her track career at the NCAA Division 1 level with Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas.
An up-and-coming Lloyd Comp athlete, Joseph Kelly, has broken more ground in quadrathlon, the four-discipline competition still relatively new to high school athletics.
Kelly, a standout last year at the intermediate level, set four quad standards this year in junior boys’ events. He scored most points overall (2,372), along with record-breaking gold-medal finishes in the 100 metres (11.62), 800 metres (2:14.64) and long jump (5.48).
Kelly placed second in the quad shot put behind record-setter Grady Andersen of Carpenter High School in Meadow Lake. Andersen’s distance was 10.85 metres.
Kelly’s younger brother, Noah, represented College Park School in style. He set a bantam boys’ district record in the 100-metre preliminaries, with a time of 11.75 seconds.
Intermediate girls’ quad athlete Jael Allen of Maidstone made a big splash, setting records for most points (1,574) and victories in the 100m (14.00), 800m (3:03.12) and long jump (3.82).
Lloyd Comp’s Izzy Sebree, competing in the senior girls’ quadrathlon, established a new 100-metre standard (12.83).
In the maiden year for the Lloyd-based Pursuit School of Sport, a Pursuit student has written her name in the Northwest district record book — twice. Elle Campbell set the bantam girls’ standard as she won the 1,500 metres in 5:15.99 and the 3,000 metres in 11:32.48.
Also earning his place among the all-time Northwest record-holders is Aiden Kappel of H. Hardcastle School in Edam.
Kappel mined gold in the intermediate boys’ 100-metre hurdles in 14.21 seconds.
the 100m, 200m and
won the high jump and the long jump, along with her second-place finish in the 100 metres. John
First-place finisher Kate Fink (right) and runner-up Sofia Simpson, both of Lloyd Comp, greet each other after their 100-metre senior girls’ race in the Northwest district high school meet at the Lloyd track. Fink set records in winning
400m events. Simpson
MacNeil Meridian Source
Bobcats gain Wieler, Romanchuk
For the second time in as many weeks, the Lloydminster Bobcats have added hometown talent previously tied to the Kindersley Klippers organization.
The AJHL’s Bobcats announced Monday that they’ve acquired veteran forward Rylan Wieler, who led the SJHL’s Klippers in scoring this past season. He scored 11 goals and 48 points
in 55 games during his second and final year with Kindersley.
Wieler, who turns 20 in August, is returning to his Lloydminster roots. During his final U18 AAA season, the playmaker led the 2023-24 Lancers in scoring with 16 goals and 51 points in 37 games.
“We are excited to have Rylan join our core group of returning veteran players,” Bobcats general manager Nigel Dube said in a news release.
In a social media post Tuesday, his former team thanked Wieler “for his time in Kindersley and for his efforts in our community.” Just last week, the Bobcats revealed that they’ve signed 18-year-old hometown defenceman Rhett Romanchuk, who had earlier committed to Kindersley.
Romanchuk graduated as captain after a three-year U18 AAA career with the Lancers. In his final season, Romanchuk scored 10 goals and 37 points in 37 games.
“He brings offensive upside to his game in an area we are looking to build on this (coming) season. Being from the Border City, we know him well and know he will represent our program the right way on and off the ice, while bringing a high level of compete and willingness to win.”
A day later, the Klippers also announced that they had traded Wieler to Lloydminster in exchange for future considerations.
Romanchuk and the Klippers had announced in February that he signed with Kindersley to play in the SJHL next season. Before that signing, he had been skating with the Bobcats and played with them in two AJHL games as an affiliated player.
Romanchuk, who is from Dewberry and Lloyd, graduates this month from Lloydminster Comprehensive High School.
Hometown boys Rylan Wieler and Rhett Romanchuk have been added to the Lloyd Bobcats via the Kindersley Klippers Submitted photos
JOHN MacNEIL
Dube remains the face of the franchise
Wieler’s connections to the Bobcats run deep. In his final U18 AAA year, he played with Romanchuk and defenceman Brady Gamble. In his previous season with those Lancers, Wieler’s teammates included forward Landen Ward and defenceman Jaxan Hopko, the Bobcats’ new captain.
Wieler, Ward and Hopko are all 2006-born players entering their final year of junior hockey. They all played together at multiple levels with Lloyd minor hockey teams.
Wieler’s father, Ryan, is a former assistant coach of the junior A Lloydminster Blazers (now Bobcats).
The Bobcats stage their spring camp this weekend. It involves about 40 players, including returnees and signed and unsigned prospects.
Lloyd hosted an 80-man prospects camp in April.
Since then, the Bobcats have had a busy spring, naming former assistant coach Matt Brassard as the team’s head coach, hiring local product Chase Haygarth as an assistant coach, retaining Paul-Antoine Deslauriers as an assistant coach, and rewarding general manager Dube with a contract extension through the 2028-29 season.
Dube has been in that role since 2018.
“Nigel has been instrumental in every aspect of our organization’s growth,” Bobcats president Brent Mohrbutter said in a news release.
“From rebuilding the roster and culture, to navigating the uncertainty of a global pandemic, adapting to major changes across the hockey landscape, and helping lead our transition into a brand-new arena, Nigel’s commitment to this organization has never wavered. His passion for the Bobcats and for Lloydminster is evident every single day.
“Nigel has never shied away from the expectations that come with leading this organization, which can be challenging at times, and he fully understands the shortfalls of the last couple of playoffs.”
Bobcats’
acquisition Rylan
In each of the past two seasons, the Grande Prairie Storm swept the Bobcats in the opening round of the playoffs.
Lloyd has posted 30-plus regularseason victories, though, in each of three consecutive years.
“This organization means a great deal to me,” Dube said. “When I first arrived in Lloydminster, the vision was to build something sustainable that our players, fans, alumni and community could be proud of. We’ve faced a lot together over the years, but the growth of this program has been incredible to see.
“From rebuilding the culture, to moving into the Cenovus Energy Hub, to continuing to push to be among the top teams in the league each season, there’s still a lot we want to accomplish.
“I’m grateful for the trust and support from our board, staff, players, sponsors, community and one of the most passionate fan bases in junior hockey.”
Lloydminster
newest
Wieler led the SJHL’s Kindersley Klippers in scoring during the past year. Submitted photo
AJHL expands playoffs, adds all-star game
Two more teams will participate in the Alberta Junior Hockey League playoffs next season.
After its annual general meeting in Olds,
the AJHL announced Monday that 10 of the 12 member teams will compete in the 2026-27 playoffs.
The new playoff format is “designed to create more meaningful games, reward regular-season success and enhance the playoff experience for players and fans,” AJHL executive-director Charla Flett said in a news release.
The league has switched to a first-to-10thplace overall playoff seeding. Four of those teams will compete in best-of-five play-in series (seventh versus 10th and eighth against ninth), while the top six teams earn first-round byes.
After the play-in action, the remaining eight teams are reseeded first through eighth. The North Division and South Division regular-season champions receive the top two seeds in Round 2, based on their point totals.
All playoff matchups from the second round onward are the traditional best-ofseven series, with teams reseeded based on regular-season points.
The new playoff format involves four rounds, one more than in recent years. Under the previous setup, teams played within their division for the first two rounds of the playoffs, before the two division champions met in the AJHL final.
Next season’s playoffs in the Alberta Junior Hockey League will involve 10 teams, two more than in recent years. John MacNeil Meridian Source
JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
Junior A all-star game set for January
AJHL NEWS FROM PAGE 32
This year’s league champions, the Canmore Eagles, won the South Division pennant with 68 points, the same number as the North Division’s fourth-place team, the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.
The league’s top three regular-season clubs were all from the North — the Whitecourt Wolverines, Grande Prairie Storm and Lloydminster Bobcats, respectively.
The regular-season divisional structure remains the same, with six teams each in the North and South divisions.
Each team will play a 54-game schedule — six games against each divisional opponent and four contests versus each club in the other division. The league plans to announce the exhibition and regular-season schedules this month.
Along with the expanded playoffs, another new strategy aimed at increasing player exposure is the addition of an AJHL all-star game in January 2027.
“The AJHL all-star game will recognize the league’s top-performing players and provide recognition for outstanding achievements throughout the season,” Flett said.
“The all-star game will be a celebration of the league and create an exciting fan-focused atmosphere.”
More details, including the host community, are to be announced this fall.
Last week’s AGM included the annual meeting of the board of governors, along with the general managers and coaches meeting and the league scheduling meeting.
Drumheller Dragons chairman Blair Christianson received the 2025-26 Ken Bracko Award as the AJHL executive of the year.
“Blair has a true passion for hockey and his community and believes in providing players with the best opportunities possible,” Flett said. “He has been an impactful leader on the AJHL board of governors and management committee, assisting the league in navigating the changes and challenges of junior hockey, while leading a successful franchise in Drumheller.”
the 12
Along with Flett, the AJHL operations team includes chairman Greg Wood, commissioner Ryan Bartoshyk, vicepresidents Fran Gow (hockey operations) and Colin Watt (officiating), and video review manager Dean Laschowski. Shane Tomayer of Lloydminster and Reid Costley of Canmore return to the AJHL management committee, which has added Corey Wandler of the Bonnyville Pontiacs and Moe Jamal of the Olds Grizzlys. Outgoing committee members are Drumheller’s Christianson and Grande Prairie’s Ray Mildenberger.
The AJHL board has scheduled its semiannual meeting for November 2026 in Devon, home of the Xtreme, and the 2027 annual general meeting for next May in Whitecourt, home of the Wolverines.
NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
Each of
teams in the AJHL will play 54 regular-season games. John MacNeil Meridian Source
About 480 athletes participated in the Northwest High Schools Athletic Association district meet at Lloydminster, and 25 of them advanced to this week’s Saskatchewan provincials John MacNeil Meridian Source
Northwest district track & field meet
Overall point leaders by division
Top point-getters by division in the Northwest High Schools Athletic Association district track and field meet at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School:
BANTAM (male and female)
1 — Brielle Dubyk, College Park, 34.
2 — Scout Rasmussen, E.S. Laird, 30; Elle Campbell, PSS, 30.
4 — Rosie Lehmond, Holy, 29.
5 — Noah Kelly, College Park, 24.
6 — Bryn Weber, Edam, 22.50
7 — Shawn Benson Anderson, Lashburn, 21.
8 — Kolbi Mitchell, Hillmond, 20; Aimsley Rivard, Turtleford, 20; Kale Grasby, Holy, 20; Hudson Gately, Edam, 20; Baylee Noeth, PARA, 20; Makayla Graham, Maidstone, 20.
INTERMEDIATE (male and female)
1 — Teal MacDonald, Edam, 40.
2 — Hunter Weber, Edam, 38.
3 — Macy Donald, Maidstone, 32.
4 — Carter Mckee, Turtleford, 31.
5 — Mason Adams, Lloyd Comp, and Kasey ObeyDallyn, Carpenter, 23.
7 — Hayden Parke, Turtleford, 21; Aiden Kappel, Edam, 21; Mason Parobec, Lloyd Comp, 21; Dane Newport, Neilburg, 21.
JUNIOR (male and female)
1 — Gavin Down, Turtleford, 34.
2 — Bryar Carr, Edam, 32; Avery Perkins, Neilburg, 32.
4 — Walker Roy, Maidstone, 31.
5 — Ellie Kraft, Maidstone, 30; Alyssa Doud, Maidstone, 30; Martha McGonigle, ROSS, 30; Lincoln Kvill, Lloyd Comp, 30
6 — Savannah Elliot, Turtleford, 27.
7 — Teagan Dillon, EAGL, 26.
SENIOR (male and female)
1 — Dalyn Steinhauer, Lloyd Comp, 36.
2 — Kyle Graf, Lloyd Comp, 34.
3 — Madeline Matweow, Glaslyn, 32.
4 — Kate Fink, Lloyd Comp, 30; Tylan Bloom, Turtleford, 30.
6 — Jace Newport, Neilburg, 29.
7 — Sofia Simpson, Lloyd, 28.
8 — Darby Conacher, Turtleford, 22; Khalila Broadfoot, Turtleford, 22; Mavis Cummins, Neilburg, 22.
Keeping track
For top-five event-by-event results from the Northwest High Schools Athletic Association track and field championships in Lloydminster, click here. John MacNeil Meridian Source photos
