HRHS students win youth video contest
Two Grade 11 students at Holy Rosary High School (HRHS) are proving that workplace safety isn’t just about rules — it’s about winning gold.
Luc Lehmond and Ryelan Hassan took first place in the 2026 WorkSafe Saskatchewan Youth Video Contest for their production titled Safety Olympics . The win marks a continuation of the school’s dominant streak in the competition and secures the pair a spot in the national finals.
The winning video uses a game show format to highlight safety in the trades. Lehmond stars as the host, guiding contestants through challenges to determine who is the safest on the job.
“The video brought a bunch of the trades together,” Lehmond said. “It showed it wasn’t just about winning and
being the best. If you’re safe, you win.” The production was filmed primarily at the school’s Synergy Studios and welding shop. To meet contest regulations, the pair had to keep the final edit under two minutes, ultimately clocking in at 1:55.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
TAYLOR WEAVER
Holy Rosary High School students Ryelan Hassan and Luc Lehmond were in a class of their own for their video work.
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
City of Lloydminster Public Notice Draft Bylaw 04-2026
Intent: The purpose of Bylaw No. 04-2026 is to redistrict part of Lot 4, Block 16, Plan 202 0044 within S.W.¼ Sec.26-Twp.49-Rge.1-W4M from UT – Urban Transition to Low Density Residential (LDR) and Parks & Utility (PU).
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 May 18, 2026, to provide a submission for the agenda. All submissions will become part of the permanent public record.
Public Hearing Information
Date: Monday May 25, 2026, Time: 2:00 p.m.
Location: Council Chambers, City Hall, 4420 50 Avenue.
Available to view via livestream at: lloydminster.ca/livestream
Shannon Rowan, City Clerk cityclerk@lloydminster.ca
Monday May 25, 2026
Council Chambers, City Hall, 4420 50 Avenue Available to view via livestream at lloydminster.ca/livestream 780-875-6184 cityclerk@lloydminster.ca
The duo divided the workload according to their strengths.
Hassan handled the majority of the camera work and scriptwriting, while Lehmond focused on acting and the final edit.
“Ryelan’s better with the camera,” Lehmond said. “She’s also very creative and I’m not as familiar with the camera work.”
Teacher Skye Ferguson, who has integrated the contest into her curriculum for years, said the project serves as a practical warmup for the Skills Canada competitions.
“I’m always proud of them, not only for them getting money, but also for the program — it shows what they can do,” she said.
The victory comes with a financial windfall. Each student received $750, while the HRHS media program was awarded $3,000.
While most of the prize money is headed into savings, Lehmond did treat himself to a new pair of sunglasses.
Hassan noted that the school’s portion of the winnings will help expand their learning by providing access to new equipment.
The video went on to represent Saskatchewan in the national Focus on Safety Youth Video Contest, hosted by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), where it won a national silver medal.
The pair’s winning streak is already growing; Ferguson noted they also secured the safety medal at a Skills Canada competition last week.
Sunrise Run a bigger hit in second year
The sun had long risen by the time runners and walkers took off from Holy Rosary High School for the second instalment of the Synergy Sunrise Run.
The run, hosted by the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF), financially supports mental health initiatives in Lloydminster.
“We’re raising towards Project Sunrise once again, so mental health,” said Kagan Kneen, LRHF CEO, noting pre-registration for the event was sold out with 450 people taking part in the run.
“We’re significantly higher than last year,” he said.
The foundation added a number of new events to this year’s run.
“We also had a bunch of changes this year. We added the 7-kilometre loop as well as a kids’ mini mile and the mini-to-mighty challenge,” said Kneen. “We’ve got littles anywhere
under 10 years old that are going to be participating in the Synergy Vault for different distances based on their age.”
With the success of the event, Kneen explained the event will return again next year, likely remaining in its current home.
“Holy Rosary’s been an amazing community partner. Being able to use the facility and the Synergy Vault has been great,” he said.
YOUTUBE VIDEO
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
The second annual Synergy Sunrise Run kicked off from Holy Rosary on May 9. Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source
When it comes to Project Sunrise and the work LRHF does, Kneen said they provide resources for those who may not know where to find them otherwise.
“We have LloydminsterMental Health.ca and that’s the website that’s managed by the health foundation. It provides resources for people that don’t know where to go or who to talk to,” he said.
The foundation has also teamed up with community partners to offer rapid-response walk-in counselling
“We’ve partnered with Integrated Therapies’ Pathways to Wellness to make sure that anybody that’s going through mental health crisis has those additional urgent supports as well,” he said.
With the Health Foundation’s gala and Sunrise Run now wrapped up, Kneen noted the next major event is still a ways away.
“Next isn’t going to be until Gift to Health, so Dodge for a Cause,” he said, noting there’s no date yet for the event.
ROUND UP FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Christian Apostolovski Meridian Source photos
City tackles social disorder with new teams
The City of Lloydminster is looking to tackle impacts of what it calls social disorder with the creation of two new teams.
Andrew DeGruchy, director of public safety, City of Lloydminster, said there’s been little investment by higher levels of government related to these issues.
“The city has seen increasing impacts year after year, with
little investment in root causes or systemic solutions from higher levels of government” he said at the May 11 Governance and Priorities Committe meeting.
“To reduce impacts the City of Lloydminster faces, we have continually invested in community-based solutions and programs to promote a safe community.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
JUNE 12 • 5:30 - 11 PM
Volunteer at the Josh Ross concert and help make this concert experience memorable for concertgoers from across the region, and catch the show while your at it!
Contact gm@vicjubatheatre.ca for more details!
LEARN TO PLAY PICKLEBALL
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
According to the city, impacts have been felt across multiple departments as they deal with issues created from addiction trends, mental health crises and homelessness in the community.
To bolster these efforts, the city is now forming two specialized groups: a Clean City Team and an Enforcement and Navigation Unit.
“City administration has recently decided to roll out two additional programs (to) support ongoing community concerns,” said DeGruchy.
Of note, the city will be implementing supplemental RCMP shifts.
“Members can sign up for additional patrols to support key areas of the community,” he said.
The enforcement and navigation unit will be comprised of a community peace officer and a community support worker. The second team will be tasked with cleaning up affected areas.
“We’re implementing a clean city team, which consists of trained city staff who strictly address the consequences of social disorder, including encampment cleanups, littering, needle pickups,” he said.
Coun. Justin Vance said the city needed to address these ongoing issues.
“I know we talked with the city manager about multiple options that we could have this summer and we needed to do something,” he said. “Administration and council hears everyone and we’re going to try this out. I’m really excited to see where this goes.”
Coun. Charles Gustafson pointed to efforts by the City of Toronto to roll out a non-emergent number for people to call as something the city might consider exploring. DeGruchy said it’s not something the city has looked at but can take back and go over.
The new phone number was something council was interested in exploring as an option.
“I really like that idea of that extra phone number as an option to explore,” said Coun. Michael Diachuk. “It’ll also help with metrics: how many complaints per day.”
In terms of staffing, DeGruchy said it would mean a new peace officer position with the city.
“For the enforcement and navigation team, it would be a new peace officer to support our team,” he said.
Jordan Newton, director of transportation and parks services, said there will be a number of new positions for the clean city team.
“For the clean city team, it’s proposed there will be four new positions. That would be two summer students then a few seasonal staff,” he said.
According to city documents, costs associated with the enforcement and navigation unit that exceed operational allotments will be covered by the city manager reserve. Clean city team costs are expected to be covered through existing parks operational costs.
The city estimates the total cost, including all resources, is approximately $325K.
Registered nurses delivering safe, trusted care in Saskatchewan
COLLEGE OF REGISTERED NURSES SASKATCHEWAN
Safe, trusted health care does not happen by chance. It depends on skilled nurses and a strong system that sets clear expectations for safe practice.
National Nursing Week, May 11 to 17, is a time to recognize the important role nurses play in the health of people across Saskatchewan.
This year’s theme, The Power of Nurses to Transform Health , reflects what many people already see every day: nurses make a real difference in our communities.
They improve access to care, support better health outcomes and help strengthen the health system.
At the College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan (CRNS), we regulate the nursing profession in the public interest.
File photo
NURSING WEEK FROM PAGE 7
Our role is to help ensure registered nurses and nurse practitioners provide safe, competent and ethical care. We do this by setting entry requirements, approving nursing education programs and establishing standards for practice and a code of conduct.
The CRNS provides guidance and sets expectations for ongoing learning. Nurses keep their knowledge and skills current to meet practice standards through self-directed learning. This is a key part of protecting the public and supporting safe care.
Across Saskatchewan, nurses are a trusted part of the community. They are often the first person people turn to for help and are a steady source of support.
In hospitals, clinics and other care settings, nurses help people get the care they need.
File photo
Nursing is more than direct care. Nurses work in many roles across the health system, including leadership, education, research and policy. They work in hospitals, communities, classrooms, boardrooms and other settings that support how care is delivered. Each role plays a part in safe, high-quality care.
Nurses bring knowledge, compassion, critical thinking and accountability to everything they do. Whether providing care directly or working behind the scenes, they share a common purpose of protecting the public and improving
health outcomes.
Health care continues to evolve and nurses continue to adapt. They bring sound judgment and work closely with other professionals to support patients and communities, with CRNS guiding their practice along the way.
During National Nursing Week, we recognize and thank all nurses, in all roles, for the expertise, dedication and leadership they bring every day. Their contributions are essential to the health of our communities and to a health system people can trust.
Thursday, May 14, 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
Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Distribution: distribution@meridiansource.ca
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca
Source shines at SWNA awards
The Meridian Source is once again in celebration mode after the annual Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association (SWNA) awards.
Hosted via Zoom on May 12, the Source took home hardware in multiple categories.
The annual awards showcase the best weekly newspapers of all sizes across the province.
We are proud to say the Source won double gold in the Best Overall Paper for circulation over 6,500 and Best Editorial Page for circulation over 6,500 categories. We also won bronze for Best Front Page. These awards are a testament to our team effort in producing the best newspaper we can, week after week.
In the Best Sports Story of the Year category, sports editor John MacNeil won gold and silver for his coverage of Western Hockey League prospect Tripp Fischer and Kevin Payne’s induction into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame.
John also took bronze in the Best Saskatchewan Recreational Story category for coverage of Aubree Sunderland’s Canada Summer Games experience.
In the photography categories, I’m pleased to report I took bronze in the Best Photo Essay of the Year category for coverage of the annual Lori Craven Memorial baseball tournament.
My goose photo that won gold in the Alberta contest garnered bronze for Best Wildlife Photo, and a photo from Spandex Nation’s show at the Lloyd Ex Fair won silver for Best Black and White Photo.
We’re still waiting for the results of the Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association’s writing and general excellence awards, but know I’ll be sharing the results here. Have a great week, Lloydminster!
Chris’ A-Z: Flying royalty
For some people, the sky’s the limit. For others, it’s a familiarity they can’t shake, even into their 80s.
That was the reality for today’s subject, Mildred Beamish, who kept flying planes until she couldn’t anymore.
She was born Feb. 11, 1910, to Barr Colonists Robert and May Holtby. The family grew up in the Kempton District.
Her parents were both very much into music and she ended up following a similar path, starting to play the piano at the age of five. By the time she was 10 years old, she was skilled enough to accompany other area musicians.
I found two different stories of how she met her husband, Somers Beamish.
The first story is the one I like more because it feels like a classic love story. Mildred was skiing and she broke a ski. That’s when a young man with a team of horses gave her a lift. The man in question was none other than her eventual husband, Somers.
The other story is that, apparently, they met when she was part of a band. Knowing how musically inclined Mildred is, I could believe that story as well.
Either way, Somers and Mildred met and got married in 1928. She was just
17 years old when the pair tied the knot. They went on to have four kids, Eric, Gwen, Grete and Norma. She taught the kids to appreciate nature and also taught them piano.
It would be in 1947 when things for the couple really changed. At this point, they were firmly on the ground and never took to the skies. In 1947, Somers got his pilot’s license and Mildred became his navigator.
Just a mere decade would go by before Mildred also had her pilot’s licence. She eventually got her commercial pilot’s licence, which she said was one of her greatest feelings of accomplishment.
As soon as she took to the skies, she never looked back. She often flew to Calgary and Winnipeg, terrains she was familiar with.
In 1966, she was crowned queen of the Saskatchewan Flying Club.
Mildred flew a lot, she flew 1,600 miles to the annual convention in Hot Springs, Ark. She logged more than 15,000 flying miles travelling to various clubs in the district.
I’m not sure I even drive that many miles in a year. She did it just to visit the different clubs.
For her longest flight, she travelled to Anchorage, Alaska. Mildred even took multiple trips to Kansas to the birthplace of Amelia Earhart.
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.
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.
Straight to the Groove
The Vic Juba Community Theatre is hosting Straight to the Groove on May 27 for a 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $28.57 and are available online or at the theatre’s box office.
Just Kruzin’ Annual Show & Shine
The Just Kruzin’ Specialty Vehicle Club’s annual show and shine is June 20 at the Cenovus Energy Hub. Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Spring Salad Smorg
Grace United Church is hosting a spring salad smorg on May 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $20, advanced tickets only. Tickets can be purchased at the Grace United Church office.
Spades Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a spades tournament on May 21 at 10 a.m. Cost to
play is $10/person, lunch is $12/person. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for more.
46th Annual Lobsterfest
Join the Rotary Club of Lloydminster for an evening of steak and live lobster! Enjoy live music by Jordyn Pollard and The Dirt Rich Band. Dress is casual — don’t forget to bring your own crackers and picks! Lobsterfest is on May 23 at the WLS Convention Centre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and the entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $100, tables of eight are available. Contact Tara Shirtliffe at 306-821-4081 or email tara@ clsconsultingltd.com. In-person tickets are available at CLS Consulting via cash or debit.
Doubles Cribbage Tourney
The Legacy Centre is hosting a doubles crib tournament on May 28 at 10 a.m. Cost to play is $10/person, lunch is $12/person. Everyone welcome!
Meridian Source Online Class
The Meridian Source team is holding another online class at the Legacy Centre on June 4 from 9 to 11 a.m. Everyone welcome, bring your phone or iPad!
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 each and are available online or at the Vic Juba box office. If you’ve never seen him live, you’re missing out!
Despite her love of the skies and her logged miles, she never considered herself an adventurous person.
One interesting story she’s told involves a strange flight and some racket coming from the engine.
The Beamishs had owned a plane that had crashed. When Mildred flew over the area where that plane had gone down, her engine started making noise. She executed an emergency landing in the field, thinking it was best to land than continue trying to travel. Well, her quick thinking likely saved her life.
When the engine was inspected, she learned if she hadn’t landed, she likely would have crashed.
I don’t know if there was any connection to that particular place for her, but it was quite the chance encounter for her plane to nearly break down in the same place one she previously owned had crashed.
Mildred kept flying for as long as she could, well into her 80s. She died at the age of 93 in 2003.
Being deemed queen of the skies is quite the title. Her dedication to flying and promoting it will always stand out to me. CHRIS’ A-Z FROM PAGE 11
City recognizes 150th anniversary of Treaty 6
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
The City of Lloydminster has proclaimed May 18-24 Treaties Recognition Week.
The proclamation was brought forward at the May 4 regular council meeting.
“A request was received after the 2026 proclamations that were completed in November 2025,” explained city manager Dion Pollard. This year marks a milestone for the signing of Treaty 6.
“As the community approaches the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 6, this recognition holds added significance,” he said.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers acknowledged the significance of the milestone.
“I think it is important to acknowledge that it is 150 years for
Treaty 6,” he said.
A sentiment that Coun. Michael Diachuk echoed.
“Our support of this contributes to our relationship to our First Nations’ community in recognizing we are partners,” he explained.
DEVONIA REA Annual General Meeting
Inclusion breakfast raises over $160,000
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
Bright and early May 7, hundreds of Lloydminster residents heard from local families whose lives have been changed by inclusion.
The 15th annual Changing Lives, Changing Communities Fundraising Event with Inclusion Lloydminster and Inclusion Alberta, took over the WLS Convention Centre and raised $161,481.
“We were expecting about 410 people and we had lots of extras arrive,” said Tami Smith, Lloydminster Inclusion executive director. “It was a completely full house.”
For Inclusion, this is their biggest fundraiser of the year.
“This fundraiser is really important to us because it’s unrestricted funds,” she explained.
She said they apply for government funding through grants every year, but the flexibility of the funds donated through the event are important.
“These funds raised in this event are completely unrestricted, so they can go where the money needs to go,” said Smith.
“If we don’t have enough support in employment, they can funnel towards employment. If they need to go to recreation, they can go there.”
The Inclusion breakfast is a time for people to hear from those who have been directly impacted by the services Inclusion provides.
Tami Smith, executive director of Inclusion Lloydminster, speaks in front of more than 400 people at the Inclusion breakfast May 7. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Man arrested after reports of firearm aimed at vehicles, school bus
Lloydminster RCMP say a man has been arrested following reports of a firearm being pointed at vehicles, including a school bus, on Wednesday morning.
Police say they received several complaints at 8:37 a.m. on May 6 describing a male aiming what appeared to be a firearm at passing vehicles.
Officers responded immediately, with assistance from the general investigation unit and Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services. The area was temporarily shut down as police located and arrested the suspect. Mounties say an imitation firearm was seized.
INCLUSION BREAKFAST FROM PAGE 14
“We have a number of families that share their stories about how Inclusion Lloydminster and Inclusion Alberta have impacted their family life for the better,” she said.
Both Inclusion Lloydminster and Inclusion Alberta support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
“Really, we walk alongside them to be included in all aspects of their life,” said Smith. “Looking at what they are most interested in, what they would like to do, what their goals are. We help them achieve those goals.”
Those looking to support Inclusion outside of the breakfast can do so by donating online through the organization’s website at InclusionLloydminster.com
The man was later released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Lloydminster Provincial Court on July 6.
Charges under consideration include assault with a weapon and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. Police say the investigation is ongoing. In a statement, RCMP thanked members of the public for reporting the incident promptly, allowing officers to respond quickly. They added there is no ongoing risk to the public.
WANTED: Collector paying top prices: old advertising signs, gas pumps, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Ford Dodge, GM. 1968-70 Chargers, 1970-71 Barracuda’s. Running or not. 306-221-5908
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/ wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach 75 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800282-6903; www.awna. com; email classifieds@ awna.com.
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach 75 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903; www.awna.com; email classifieds@ awna.com.
Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.
OSOYOOS LAKESHORE VILLA
VACATION RENTAL
EXECUTIVE VILLA in Osoyoos, BC, with breathtaking lake views and just 3 minutes from town.
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE GETAWAY!
Or wanting warmer weather?
Two luxurious 5-star resort units in Phoenix, Arizona.
Doug 306-716-2671
osoyooslakevilla.com
PROMOTE YOUR MESSAGE THROUGHOUT Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads connect with more than 400,000 readers in the province each week. Choose from three packages beginning at $269, $299 or $599 to share your message in over 70 Weekly Community Newspapers. Contact THIS NEWSPAPER today or email classifieds@awna. com for more information. Call 1-800282-6903 or 780434-8746 or visit www.awna.com.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT is NOW HIRING: AG Equipment Techs, Heavy Equipment TechsJM & App, Assistant Parts Managers and Shop Foreman. View Open Roles & Apply: www.rockymtn. com/careers. Relocation and Signing Bonus Offered.
GARAGE SALE
May 16th-18th 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
North to HWY 45. HWY 3 west on 45 to RR13 1/4 mile west on township 32 Southside.
NE 9-53-1-W4
Jim Swan lots of Bikes & Tools.
BARLEY
*New - AB StANdSwell*
Smooth awn, high yielding, grain and forage great lodging reSiStance 1St NitrogeN uSe efficieNt cereAl iN cANAdA cerveza, cdc auStenSon, cdc durango, cdc maverick, eSma, Sundre wheAt Pintail, forage or grain oAtS ac JuniPer, ac morgan, ac muStang, derby, cdc So1 SuPer oat PeAS very early yellow Pea forage PeaS, AlSo AvAilABle PoliSh canola & SPring triticale SPeciAl PriciNg oN truck loAdS mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609
If
NOTICE
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. (403) 543-0927 www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
PROVINCE-WIDE
CLASSIFIEDS. 44 local community newspapers, across Saskatchewan! Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna. com for details.
- 48 Street, Lloydminster, SK S9V 0Y6
If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www. swna.com or call 306-649-1405 to find out how!
City makes minor changes to 2026 budget
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI
The City of Lloydminster has approved changes to its 2026 budget.
The item was presented by Ryan Hill, financial planning and analysis manager for the city, who explained the municipality is in the final stages of its annual budget revisions.
“We’re in the final revision stage of the 2026 budget that comes to council on an annual basis,” he said at the May 4 regular council meeting.
The city also collects money on behalf of other organizations, such as education taxes. The $15.7M collected in education taxes, $26K collected for the seamless education levy and $21K for designated industrial property are sent to the appropriate groups once collected.
Obituaries & Memoriams
JANUARY 6, 1959
– APRIL 26, 2026
He is also remembered with love by his sisters Kathy (Blair) and Carrie; his mother-in-law Vivian Leys; his brothers-in-law Bob (Alice), Alan (Mavis), and Bert (Donna); and his sister-in-law Laurie (Jules).
additional funding following a long and stormy winter.
“The only city-related item is an increase to the snow removal budget of $540K,” he said.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
“We collect all of this and then we remit it all,” said Hill.
The snow budget was once again in need of
on ever
Glen lived his life fully, with an open heart and a deep love for those around him. From a fearless and spirited boy, he grew into a man whose kindness, humor, and compassion touched everyone he met. Family was everything to him, and he cherished time spent laughing, visiting, and simply being together with those he loved.
He carried a natural ability to connect, to share, and to offer wisdom drawn from his own life experiences. Glen had an adventurous soul, one that led him and his beloved wife to begin a new chapter abroad in his retirement years. He found joy in the simple and meaningful things—cooking, singing, storytelling, and sharing good food. His love of storytelling, a gift shared with his father, will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of listening.
Glen leaves behind a legacy carried forward by those who knew and loved him. He is lovingly remembered by his parents, John and Aldyne Adam; his wife of 29 years, Geraldine (Dene) Adam; and their five children: Christopher Lee Adam (Jaimie), Avery Adam (Jon) , Natasha Dawn McCartney (Dean), Scott Daniel Heil (Jennifer), and Michael Louis Heil (Donna).
He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: (Chris) Zachary, Rylie-Ann, and Elliot; (Avery)
Glen held a special place in the lives of Kathy’s daughters, Erin (Peter) and their children Thomas and Emily, and Lauren (Aaron). He is also remembered by Uncle Wally Wyer (John Tentindo), Aunt Shirley Ferguson, Aunt Marilyn Adam, along with countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and their children.
A heartfelt acknowledgment is extended to the many friends who became family throughout his life abroad.
Glen was predeceased by his maternal grandparents George and Edna Wyer; his paternal grandparents Wilbur (Wib) and Florence Adam; his great-nephew Lawrence Petho; his aunt Audrey Morrison; and his uncles Ken Adam, Herb Morrison, and Bob Ferguson. He was also predeceased by his fathers-in-law Gerald Head and Ken Leys, his nephew Jules, and his great-nephew Oliver.
Glen’s presence, his laughter, his stories, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A celebration of Glen’s life will be held upon Dene’s return to Canada. Details will be shared at a later date.
*John and Aldyne respectfully ask for privacy at this time and are declining outside communication for condolences. They will need time to absorb this profound loss. Any messages may be shared through their daughters, Kathy and Carrie, or their daughter-in-law, Dene. Thank you for your understanding and care.*
Carter; (Natasha) Ariel, Reanne, and Vayda; (Scott) Braiden and
File photo
live
after.
Loved and Deeply Missed by Marty and Lana
Federally funded lunch program feeds students
St. Mary’s Elementary School students grab a morning snack on May 7. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Obituaries & Memoriams
Services, where he worked as a manager until his retirement in 2012.
He had a passion for the outdoors and cherished time spent at the lake. He owned a cabin at Pine Cove, Loon Lake beginning in the mid-1980s, and in 2007, he and his partner Elaine Ebenal built their dream cabin there. He especially enjoyed fishing, curling, golf, and hosting family and friends.
A new federally funded lunch program at the Lloydminster Catholic School Division is helping students at St. Mary’s Elementary School access free daily meals while easing pressure on families facing rising grocery costs.
The program, funded through Canada’s National School Food Program, launched at the school shortly after Easter and provides free lunches to all students each day, alongside an existing breakfast program.
“We want our students to thrive in every way possible and food is one thing that will actually let them do that,” said Coralee Hohne, community education co-ordinator with the division.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 passed away at Lloydminster Hospital, Lloydminster, Saskatchewan on April 24, 2026 at the age of 78 years.
Darwin William Dean, born December 10, 1947, in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, passed away after a life deeply rooted in family, hard work, and community. He was the son of Kenneth George Dean (1908–1980) and Margaret Pearl Dean née Graham (1919–1994), and was raised on the family farm near Huntoon, Saskatchewan.
In the late 1960s, he began his career in the oil industry with Husky Oil in Kindersley. He married Ruth Freeman in October 1968, and together they built a life grounded in dedication and resilience. In 1974, they moved to Lloydminster, where he managed Canadian Hydrogas before establishing All Phaze Oilfield Consultants. He later joined Leyen Oilwell Servicing, which became Ensign Energy
Darwin is survived by: his son, Rob Dean (Jesse); step-children, Tammy (Craig), Justin (Amanda), Robert and Terry; step-grandchildren, Shelby, Maddison, Hannah, , Danica, James and Sabrina; nieces, Tara (Neil) and Tomi-lyn; nephew, Ryan; siblings, Ken (Dana) and Sherry (Ken); and numerous extended family and friends.
Darwin is predeceased by: his first wife, Ruth Dean; partner, Elaine Ebenal; and parents, Kenneth and Margaret Dean. A Private Family Interment for Darwin will take place at the Lloydminster City Cemetery in the summer.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Cove where Darwin spent his retirement years with family and friends.
Please respond at the following link (https://forms.gle/wrDDUCu5k PdBWqcK7) to RSVP.
CITY BUDGET FROM PAGE 17
“That’s because in Q1 of 2026 we had exceptionally high snowfall.”
From the resiliency reserve, $540K is being transferred to the snow removal budget, with $500K allocated for residential snow removal and $40K for snow dump maintenance.
“It’s coming out of the resiliency reserve, which is set aside predominantly for these emergent items, so it doesn’t affect the tax rate in 2026,” said Hill.
He noted the reserve typically gets replenished during times of surplus.
The changes to the 2026 budget were approved by council.
TAYLOR WEAVER
Students can choose from a variety of foods representing three to four food groups, including fruits, vegetables, proteins and dairy products.
Hohne said the program is designed to be stigma-free by making meals available to everyone, rather than singling out students in need.
“When it is offered to everybody, then the kids who really do need it are more likely to take that,” she said.
The initiative comes as food insecurity continues to affect families across Canada. Hohne noted statistics show one in four children do not get enough food in a day.
Glenda Kary, director of education for the division, said consistent access to nutritious food plays a direct role
SUDOKU
in student success.
“Student nutrition is key to learning,” said Kary. “How do we make sure we have good food choices for them at the times of day they’re hungry?”
Kary said stable funding is critical because students and families quickly come to rely on school nutrition programs.
“Once people start to rely on food sources, I do think the onus is on us to continue to try and provide that for them,” she said.
Across the division, nutrition programs are already serving thousands of students. From September to February, the division provided roughly 27,000 lunches, 23,000 snacks and 6,000 breakfasts.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Word on the beat: Traffic violation tips
Staff Sgt. JERRY NUTBROWN
On March 13, the Government of Alberta raised fines for several traffic violations, so I thought this would be a good time to offer some advice.
The ever-popular glazing/tint ticket increased to $105 and careless driving increased to $852. Speeding fines, penalties for using a cellphone while driving and seatbelt offences also increased. Although these are Alberta-specific amounts, the information below applies to all provinces.
Drivers should be aware they can receive violation notices, also known as
DAL-ZAN PLUMBING LTD.
• Laborer, Apprentices , Journeyman
• Full time position 40 hours a week
• Work is residential and some commercial
• Wage will depend on experience
• Driver license is required
• Work is mostly all new construction & renovations
• Work is in the Lloydminster and surrounding area
EMAIL RESUMES TO dal-zanplumbing@outlook.com 780-870-1641
Po. Box 2366 station main Lloydminster SK, S9V 1W5
traffic tickets, in the mail, as they do not have to be served at the time of the violation. I am presenting this information as just that — information — because it seems fines and demerits are not a deterrent for some drivers.
So, where are the tips? The first is the most obvious: obey the rules of the road and you will not have to shell out money to the government. Make sure your vehicle is in proper condition for driving and pay attention to road conditions. Weather can often be a factor, but it is still the driver’s responsibility to adjust their driving accordingly. The driver is also fully responsible for the condition of any vehicle they drive.
If you do get a ticket,
I have some advice for that as well: deal with it. Do not let it sit and do nothing, as no good comes from that. If you are going to pay it, then do so. If you are going to fight it, then do that.
If you decide to fight a ticket, have a reason for it. The judge will ask what you are presenting as your defence and you must have a good reason, as many judges will increase the fine amount if they find a driver guilty. Once you go to trial, the fine amount can be increased, which is not uncommon.
Obtain disclosure well ahead of time. You have a right to see what evidence is going to be presented in court by the officer. Make sure you follow the respective province’s process to obtain disclosure.
RCMP to host hands-on summer youth academy
TAYLOR WEAVER
Local youth interested in a career in law enforcement will have the chance to experience a “day in the life” of a police officer this July.
The Lloydminster RCMP is now accepting applications for its 2026 Youth Academy, a three-day event designed to give teenagers a hands-on look at life at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police training academy.
WORD ON THE BEAT FROM PAGE 20
This can include recorded video from the officer’s vehicle camera and/or body camera.
Demerits are government-controlled and judges cannot reduce or cancel demerits attached to convictions, so it is not advisable to fight a ticket solely to ask for a demerit reduction. Here is the best news: as a driver, you are in total control of whether you put yourself in a situation where you may be issued a ticket. If you do put yourself in a situation where a ticket is issued, please be respectful to the officer. Some of the worst treatment I have ever received has been from drivers who
NOTICE OF DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
The program, which runs from July 22 to 24, targets youth ages 15 to 19 from across the Lloydminster area. Participants will undergo a modified version of police training, ranging from forensic investigations to the physical standards required of cadets.
“It’s an RCMP exposure event,” said Const. Brittany Sims, the Lloydminster RCMP youth liaison and school resource officer.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
committed driving offences.
Most officers wear body cameras and, if you fight the ticket and go to trial, it is not helpful to your argument if your behaviour is less than respectful.
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.
“They’re going to be exposed to what it’s like to be training to become an RCMP officer.”
Sims, an eight-year veteran of the force, is organizing the academy for the first time. She hopes the program provides an opportunity for students to determine if first responding is the right career path for them. The curriculum includes presentations from specialized units, including the forensic identification section and police dog services. Organizers are also working to bring in the Sergeant Major from K Division to speak on the history and traditions of the force.
Physicality will be a major component of the three days. Participants will head to the Synergy Vault to tackle a modified version of the PARE (Physical Abilities Requirement Evaluation), the standard fitness test for Canadian police officers.
“It’s not necessarily the easiest thing to do,” Sims said. “They’ll get a real taste of what it’s like to have to run that test.”
WANTED Royal Canadian Mint Coins, FRanklin Mint, Us Mint, woRld sets etC, ColleCtoR’s Coins, nUMisMatiCs, olyMpiC Coins, old Coins, old $, gold Coins, silveR Coins, baRs, ingots, jewelRy, nUggets, steRling silveR & entiRe Coin ColleCtions!
Call or text Todd Numismatist/Gold & Silver Dealer 780-504-7995
I MAKE FREE HOUSE CALLS ALL OVER ALBERTA+
Beyond the fitness and tactics, Sims says the program is about showing youth the diversity of roles within the national police force, moving beyond the “general duty” uniform seen on the streets.
The academy is limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure high-quality instruction. Applications are due by June 5 and can be picked up at the Holy Rosary High School career centre or requested via email through the detachment.
CASH FOR COINS CASH FOR COINS
WANTED Royal Canadian Mint Coins, FRanklin Mint, Us Mint, woRld sets etC, ColleCtoR’s Coins, nUMisMatiCs, olyMpiC Coins, old Coins, old $, gold Coins, silveR Coins, baRs, ingots, jewelRy, nUggets, steRling silveR & entiRe Coin ColleCtions!
Call or text Todd Numismatist/Gold & Silver Dealer 780-504-7995
I MAKE FREE HOUSE CALLS ALL OVER ALBERTA+
“We like to say there’s something in the RCMP for everybody,” Sims said.
There is no cost to participate, although transportation is the responsibility of participants. Each attendee will receive an academy T-shirt, while lunch and snacks will also be provided. Applications are available at the Lloydminster RCMP detachment and the Holy Rosary High School career centre.
File photo
Former Lloyd Athletics’ D-man leads local WHL draft picks Giants secure second-round steal
JOHN MacNEIL
Home from school to watch coverage of the Western Hockey League prospects draft, Brady Leinenweber had just settled in on the couch when his phone began buzzing like a flashing goal light.
Before he even had a chance to follow the Day 2 proceedings, Leinenweber’s friends were texting to congratulate the gifted
15-year-old defenceman from Kerrobert, Sask., on his selection to the Vancouver Giants. Just three picks into the second round, Vancouver used the 26th overall selection to choose Leinenweber, a standout this season with the U15 prep Northern Alberta Xtreme and the previous year with the 14U Lloydminster Athletics.
At NFW Promotions, we are proud to serve our customers with 15+ years of experience in embroidery, printing, and promotional products.
The Vancouver Giants chose NAX U15 prep defenceman Brady Leinenweber in the second round of the WHL prospects draft, 26th overall. John MacNeil Meridian Source
CROSSWORD
“My phone just started blowing up,” said Leinenweber, replaying the morning draft drama from May 7.
“I thought the draft started at 11 (rather than 10 o’clock Mountain time), so I wasn’t really prepared. I was just sitting on my couch, on the phone on Snapchat, and all my buddies started texting and congratulating me. I went and checked and seen that Vancouver picked me, so it was pretty exciting.
“My agent told me the night before that they were pretty interested, so it was one of my places I was hoping to go, and I’m glad they picked me.”
Leinenweber might be regarded as a second-round steal, considering multiple pre-draft rankings pegged him to go in the first round. His all-star performances in back-to-back elite tournaments — the Crown in December and the John Reid in January — raised Leinenweber’s draft stock appreciably and he became a client of the high-powered Newport Sports agency.
The Giants gained the six-foot-two, 165-pound Saskatchewan native the morning after they selected two British Columbia boys with consecutive picks in the opening round — defenceman Eli Vickers third overall and centre Brayden Jugnauth at No. 4.
At home in Kerrobert, watching with his family, Leinenweber rode the emotional roller-coaster of the first round, during which 23 players were drafted.
“You know, it’s tough,” he said. “Everyone hopes to go in the first round, but after a little bit, you have to move on and use it as fuel. You’ve got 22 teams to prove wrong.”
Leinenweber, the eighth blue-liner selected overall, remains confident he’s among the top defencemen from the 2011-born draft class.
“I mean, they’re all great players, but I think I can be better than most of them, or all of them,” he said. “But I’ve still got lots to prove, so I’m just trying to be happy with where I am and looking forward to being with Vancouver.”
Brady Leinenweber skated with the 14U Lloydminster Athletics last year.
John MacNeil Meridian Source
Giants also draft Macklin’s Reschny
For multiple reasons, the Giants are an attractive destination for Leinenweber, whose oldest sister Julia and her boyfriend live in Vancouver.
“She was praying for it,” he said about his selection to the Giants. “She said if I ever need to hang out, I can always go over to their place.
“So, I’ve always got somebody to fall back on, if I need to. That makes me feel a little bit better about (eventually moving far from home). It’ll be a really cool experience.”
More excitement came later on draft day when Leinenweber’s close buddy and perennial teammate, Landon Reschny of Macklin, Sask., also became Vancouver property. The Giants selected the NAX forward in the seventh round, 149th overall.
“Since I’ve been six years old, I’ve played one season without Landon on my team,” said Leinenweber, the Xtreme’s top-scoring defenceman with 35 points in 29 games this year.
“It’s pretty crazy that we ended up going to the same team and we get to play together for a lot longer to come.”
Before becoming eligible to play in the WHL full-time, both players are signed with the U18 AAA Saskatoon Contacts for the 2026-27 season.
“Landon has been one of my best friends my whole life,” Leinenweber said. “He’s getting bigger. He’s putting on lots of muscle and he’s got a chip on his shoulder. He’s not scared of many people. He’s probably one of the smartest players I’ve ever played with. I don’t know, just something runs in (the Reschny) family, but he’s so smart. He sees plays that no one else can.”
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Bylaw 26-05, being a bylaw to replace the Advertising Bylaw (Bylaw 21-20) to recognize advertising requirements should a local newspaper no longer be in circulation
DATE: May 26, 2026
TIME: 9:05 AM
LOCATION: County of Vermilion River Council Chambers, 4912-50 Ave. Kitscoty, AB
All Public Hearings are held during Regular Meetings of Council and are open to the public with attendance either in-person or via ZOOM Webinar. Written and verbal presentations may be given during the Public Hearing.
PURPOSE:
The County of Vermilion River is proposing to replace the Advertising Bylaw (Bylaw 21-20) to recognize advertising requirements should a local newspaper no longer be in circulation
A copy of Bylaw 26-05, being a bylaw to replace the County of Vermilion River Advertising Bylaw (Bylaw 26-05) can be viewed at the County of Vermilion River Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM) at 4912-50 Ave. Kitscoty by emailing communications@county24.com or on the County of Vermilion River Website here: www.vermilionriver.com/your-county/public-engagement
Should you wish to provide oral or written presentation to Council on this matter, please take note of the following requirements:
Any person claiming to be affected by the proposed Bylaw 26-05, being a bylaw to replace the County of Vermilion River Advertising Bylaw (Bylaw 21-20) may attend the Public Hearing either in-person or virtually via ZOOM Webinar and provide their input during the Public Hearing.
To attend the Public Hearing virtually, you must register prior to the Public Hearing here: www.vermilion-river.com/your-county/meeting-agendas-and-minutes
Written submissions should be submitted by emailing communications@county24.com, or by mail to Box 69 Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 to be received no later than May 20, 2026 at 12:00 PM to be included as part of the Agenda Package for the May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting of Council and must be related to the topic of the Public Hearing.
Presentations may be limited to five (5) minutes in length.
The names of those who wish to speak or have submitted written presentation will be recorded in the minutes of the May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting of Council and will be published on the County of Vermilion River website. ( Personal information is protected by the privacy provisions of the Access to Information Act and the Protection of Privacy Act) For additional information related to the Public Hearing, please contact us at: Phone: (780) 846-2244 | Email: communications@county24.com
Vancouver Giants’ draft choices Landon Reschny (left) and Brady Leinenweber have been teammates for virtually all of their minor hockey careers, including as nine-year-olds with the West Central Wheat Kings. Submitted photo
UPCOMING EXERCISE NEAR LLOYDMINSTER
ASPHALT REFINERY
Cenovus will be conducting a routine emergency response exercise to practice and test its response systems and procedures.
Date:
Time:
Location: May 20, 2026
8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lloydminster Asphalt Refinery (52 Street) and Lake V (50 Ave & 62 Street)
The following may be seen:
• Roadblocks
• Emergency vehicles
• Increased site activity
• Spill response equipment and personnel
There will be signage in the area to provide public awareness.
We appreciate the community’s cooperation as we work to continuously improve our emergency response capabilities.
The Reschny clan includes Landon’s brother Dayton, who plays with the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, and their cousins Cole and Anderson. Cole, a former WHL star with the Victoria Royals, is a first-round NHL draft choice of the Calgary Flames. He played NCAA Division 1 hockey this year at the University of North Dakota. Anderson, a 2010-born defenceman, is a Prince George Cougars’ prospect who spent this season with the U18 AAA Saskatoon Blazers.
Landon Reschny and Leinenweber were the top two scorers, respectively, last season with the 14U Athletics, the Lloydminsterbased academy playing in the Junior Prospects Hockey League. Leinenweber, with a 50-point campaign, was the league’s top-scoring defenceman.
A third member of that Athletics team, Kai Genereaux of Meadow Lake, Sask., also was selected in the WHL draft last week. The Lethbridge Hurricanes chose the Calgary Edge School U15 prep defenceman in the sixth round, 120th overall. For next season, Genereaux is committed to the U18 AAA Moose Jaw Warriors.
Leinenweber and Reschny were among 12 players from the NAX prep program in Devon, Alta., drafted to WHL teams this year. That group includes three forwards selected in the first round — Saskatoon’s Danny Ramazanov (17th, Red Deer Rebels), Regina’s Rylan Edwards (18th, Brandon Wheat Kings) and Langley, B.C., native Liam Bordt (20th, Penticton Vees).
Among the picks from NAX is Wainwright, Alta., goaltender Kash Andersen, who went to Red Deer in Round 6 (121st overall). Andersen played in Lloydminster the previous season with the U15 AAA Lancers.
FOR A FEATURE STORY on Brady Leinenweber’s rise into a major junior and pro prospect, see pages 30 to 33.
FOR A RECAP of local and regional players selected in the WHL prospects draft, see Page 27.
Seattle scores Lancers’ Holte
The Western Hockey League’s Seattle Thunderbirds have added another prospect from the Lloydminster Lancers.
The Thunderbirds selected Easton Holte in the seventh round, 142nd overall, in the WHL prospects draft May 7.
Holte, a forward from Hughenden, Alta., has played two seasons with the U15 AAA Lancers. He led the team with 26 goals and 48 points in 34 games this year.
In joining Seattle, Holte is part of the same organization as U18 AAA Lancers forward Tripp Fischer of Lloydminster. Fischer was a third-round draft choice of the Prince Albert Raiders last year and his rights were dealt to the Thunderbirds at mid-season as part of the blockbuster trade that brought NHL first-rounder Braeden Cootes to P.A.
Holte, a student at the new Pursuit School of Sport in Lloyd, is among three Lancers’ forwards invited to the top-80 Alberta male U16 camp, set for June 30
through July 4 in Red Deer. The others are Beckham Brown and Nolan Wiebe.
Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 prep goaltender Kash Andersen, a former Lancer, is among eight goalies chosen for the camp, which is part of the selection process for Alberta’s entry in the 2027 Canada Winter Games.
Andersen, who is from Wainwright, Alta., went to the Red Deer Rebels in Round 6 (121st overall). He played in Lloyd last year with the U15 AAA Lancers.
His NAX team this season included Brady Leinenweber of Kerrobert, Sask., and Landon Reschny of Macklin, Sask. Both of those former Lloyd Athletics were drafted to the Vancouver Giants last week. Leinenweber was a second-round pick, 26th overall. Reschny’s name was called in Round 7, 149th overall.
Ex-Athletics defenceman
Kai Genereaux of Meadow Lake, Sask., was a sixthround choice (120th overall) of the Lethbridge Hurricanes.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE DRAFT PICKS from the region, with round, overall selection number, name, position, hometown, 2025-26 team, and major junior organization:
Round 2
26. Brady Leinenweber, D, Kerrobert, Sask., Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 prep, Vancouver Giants.
Round 5
109. Kacy Turberfield, F, Meadow Lake, Sask., Northwest Stars U15 AA, Portland Winterhawks.
Round 6
120. Kai Genereaux, D, Meadow Lake, Sask., Calgary Edge School U15 prep, Lethbridge Hurricanes.
121. Kash Andersen, G, Wainwright, Alta., Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 prep, Red Deer Rebels.
Round 7
142. Easton Holte, F, Hughenden, Alta., Lloydminster Lancers U15 AAA, Seattle Thunderbirds.
149. Landon Reschny, F, Macklin, Sask., Northern Alberta Xtreme U15 prep, Vancouver Giants.
Round 9
192. Klay Weber, F, Edam, Sask., Northwest Stars U15 AA, Regina Pats.
207. Alex Kowalyk, F, Battleford, Sask., Northwest Stars U15 AA, Regina Pats.
Giacobbo goes from player to coach
JOHN MacNEIL ..................................
Fresh off a championship season in her final year with the collegiate Lakeland Rustlers, Julianna Giacobbo is ready to step into the next chapter of her hockey and career paths.
Giacobbo is the new head coach of the U18 AA Lloydminster Steelers, provincial champions this past season in the Alberta Female Hockey League.
Giacobbo and U18 AAA Steelers coach Dan Auchenberg each scouted prospects during a mutual spring identification camp early in May at the Hub’s Co-op Community Arena.
“It’s nice to be able to plan and meet some of the girls, and put a face to their names, and they can put a face to my name, because lots of them didn’t know who I was,” said Giacobbo, a nursing student who turns 23 this summer.
Before winning back-toback Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference championships with the Rustlers, she played Canadian university hockey with the Regina Cougars and NCAA Division 3 at Morrisville State College in New York.
Coaching runs deep in Giacobbo’s family. Her father
Geoff is the head coach of the U18 AAA St. Albert Raiders of the Alberta Elite Hockey League.
Not surprisingly, Lakeland head coach Morgan Mann thought of Giacobbo when Lloydminster minor hockey was searching for new coaches for next season.
“Morgan had mentioned it to me, I want to say back in December,” she said. “He called me into his office and was, like, ‘Gio, they need some female coaches on the elite side. Would you want to do it?’
“And I said, ‘Yeah, it’s definitely something that I would consider.’ I want to stay in the game and give back.”
Julianna Giacobbo, the new coach of the U18 AA girls’ Steelers, works spring camp with U18 AAA Steelers’ coach and Lloyd minor hockey GM Dan Auchenberg. John MacNeil Meridian Source
‘He preached hard work, he preached compete’
Although her college playing eligibility has expired, Giacobbo remains a student as she completes her bachelor’s degree through the University of Saskatchewan.
As busy as she’ll be with school, the St. Albert native welcomes the opportunity to play another role in hockey as a coach.
“I’ll be pretty busy,” said Giacobbo, now a Lloyd resident. “And I have my school placements, too, so I’ll be quite busy.
“I like to be busy. I think I operate better when I’m busy.”
For the Steelers’ spring camp, she was back in the same rink where, just two months ago, the Rustlers completed their comeback in the ACAC final to defeat the Red Deer Queens in double overtime and repeat as league champions.
It was a glorious swan song for Lakeland’s departing players.
Giacobbo believes she’s filling a vital position as a female coach of female players.
“I think it’s really important,” she said. “Growing up, I didn’t have too many female coaches. My coaches were great, but I think it would be nice to have someone who has knowledge and has been through the game — but also is a female role model — because those
girls are going through that crucial time in their life, and they need someone to look up to who is a good role model.”
In hockey and life, Giacobbo and her two brothers have had a built-in role model in their father, who coached them at various levels.
‘SWEATING, SMILING’
“He’s a great coach,” she said. “I admire him very much. Growing up, he was coaching me and my brothers, and he was coaching at the AAA level, too. So, I saw his coaching lots. But more with myself, he preached hard work, and he preached compete.
“Sweating and smiling was always his favourite motto.”
Now, another Giacobbo is developing her own coaching strategy, applicable on and off the ice.
“I think hard work is huge,” she said. “Earning what you get is huge.
“Setting the players up for life outside the rink is huge. Like, learning to communicate, learning all those tools that they can get in their toolbox for whatever it is — school, relationships, job interviews — because I think what you learn in hockey, you bring into life.
“That’s huge. It’s not just about the wins on the ice.”
With a smile, Giacobbo added: “But, hopefully, win a couple of games, too.”
The Steelers took steps
toward that winning direction with a spring camp that featured three full teams, including six goaltenders overall.
“It gives me a chance to see the girls, and also Dan (Auchenberg) a chance to see the girls,” said the organization’s new coach. “But it is both AA and AAA level players out there.
“For my team, eight girls graduated, and I think a few of (the others) will crack the AAA roster. So, it’s kind of half and half (departing and returning players).”
As head coach, Giacobbo succeeds Scott Dopko, who guided the U18 AA Steelers to their Alberta championship in dramatic fashion, winning the gold-medal game 1-0 in overtime at Airdrie.
TEAM ALBERTA CANDIDATES:
Two hometown players from the latest edition of the U18 AAA Steelers, blue-liner Alivia Foster and goaltender Kenzie Zidar, have been invited to Hockey Alberta’s female summer camp. The list of 46 finalists (six in net, 16 on defence and 24 at forward) also includes four former Steelers — Harlee Houle in goal, Harlee Bensmiller and Taryn Leighton on defence and Raevyn Neahr up front.
The summer camp is the next step in the creation of Team Alberta’s roster for the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City.
Leinenweber shows junior, pro potential
JOHN MacNEIL
Much like his sporting history as a football quarterback and a baseball pitcher, promising hockey prospect Brady Leinenweber has demonstrated a thinkingman’s role on the ice as a cerebral defenceman.
“I’m all about trying to slow the game down and trying to find reads and passes that no one else can,” Leinenweber said after the Vancouver Giants drafted him early in the second round (26th overall) of the Western Hockey League prospects draft.
“I’ve got a decent frame, still growing, but I think I can move pretty well skatingwise, and then just be a twoway guy. I can play on either end of the ice. Really just trying to be as reliable as possible. I want to be the guy that coach says I can play anywhere, whether that’s penalty kill, power play, regular, anything like that. I want to be up for every job.”
His well-roundedness on and off the ice is what makes the 15-year-old Leinenweber, six-foot-two and 165 pounds, such an appealing prospect at a young age. The Kerrobert, Sask., native showed those traits in spades this past winter with the U15 prep Northern Alberta Xtreme of the Canadian Sport School Hockey League. He was named the top defenceman in the prestigious John Reid Memorial tournament in
January, after earning allstar honours in December when the Xtreme hosted more high-level competition, including U.S. heavyweights Shattuck-St. Mary’s and Bishop Kearney, during the Crown tourney in Devon, Alta.
It’s no wonder that Vancouver’s director of player personnel, Greg Batters, believes it’s not a
Giant leap of faith to project Leinenweber as an NHL prospect within a few years. Just one year removed from his 14U season with the Lloydminster Athletics, the athletic kid from west-central Saskatchewan has made big strides while playing a reliable, steady game that resonates with coaches and scouts at all levels.
WHL prospect Brady Leinenweber eats, sleeps and breathes hockey. John MacNeil Meridian Source
“Brady is a good player,” Batters said. “He’s got good command of all core skills and he’s smart, and he just happens to be a big lad on top of it. He has a right-handed shot, which is what we were looking for as well.”
Listening to Leinenweber break down the game and talk about hockey generally, he sounds mature beyond his years and not necessarily like a Grade 9 student at Kerrobert Composite School.
“He’s a good kid,” Batters agreed. “He comes from a great family. He’s a heckuva player. We’re just very fortunate to get him.”
From his parents Colin and Jolyne to his three academically and professionally inclined older sisters and his hockey-playing younger brother Jasper, Leinenweber is a product of his environment. Even if it wasn’t a typical hockey family.
“We weren’t hockey players very much, but everyone is athletic,” he said. “My dad was a track athlete. My mom was a big basketball player. As I grew, and after I played in that Brick tournament (in 2022), I think I realized that I really wanted to take hockey somewhere. I believed in myself. I really thought I could. Ever since then, I’ve just fallen in love, more and more every day, with the game.”
Leinenweber’s home gives credence to that thirst for hockey, from the net and sticks in the backyard shooting pad, to the mini-stick setup in the basement and hockey posters, cards and memorabilia lining his bedroom. He shares that passion with his fellow Montreal Canadiens fan, brother Jasper, an up-and-coming goaltender who turns 12 this summer.
BIKE RODEO
Thursday, May 21
Leinenweber is also realizing his hockey dreams alongside one of his best buddies, longtime teammate Landon Reschny. The Macklin, Sask., centre also played at NAX and was drafted to Vancouver in the seventh round last week.
Even in the short term, Reschny and Leinenweber will remain teammates for the coming season as they step up to the U18 AAA Saskatoon Contacts.
NAX’s Brady Leinenweber was named the top defenceman at the prestigious John Reid Memorial tournament in January. Submitted photo
‘He’s
an NHL prospect,’ says Giants’ executive
Batters and the Giants consider Leinenweber a legitimate candidate to play in the WHL the following season, 2027-28, even though he would be just 16.
“Brady is the type of player that he might end up playing (major junior) at 16,” Batters said. “The 16-year-old players don’t (necessarily) help you win, but what it is, it’s part of the development for them for their 17, 18 and 19-year-old years.
“To me, he’s an NHL prospect. So, he’s coming to us as a future NHL prospect. That’s the plan, is to get him to that point where he can be considered an NHLdraftable player.
“I don’t want to embarrass anybody, but I had him ranked as one of the top defencemen in the (WHL) draft, for sure. I would say probably in the top five defencemen in the draft.”
Seven blue-liners were selected ahead of Leinenweber, including Eli Vickers, the Delta Hockey Academy U15 prep player that Vancouver chose third overall.
During his impactful draft year, Leinenweber was the top-scoring defenceman with NAX’s U15 prep team. He posted 35 points, including 33 assists, in 29 games. He also was called up to the U18 prep team for three games and scored a goal in the process.
“Yeah, I went up with them in early October to a showcase in Vancouver, funny enough,” he said. “And it was unreal. Their team is just so good. They make the game so easy for you. I got my first goal. A pretty lucky one, but it counts. It was a really cool experience when you do get that opportunity.”
NAX’s U18 prep roster included Will Kelts, the Consort, Alta., defenceman that the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets drafted in the first round (20th overall) last year.
As the Rockets ready to host the Memorial Cup this month, Kelowna’s veterans include Lloydminster defenceman Mazden Leslie, a sixth-year WHLer who played parts of five seasons in Vancouver and captained the
Giants during the 2024-25 campaign.
Another defensive standout from relatively close to Leinenweber’s hometown is Medicine Hat Tigers’ captain Bryce Pickford, the Chauvin, Alta., native named last week as the WHL’s player of the year.
Leinenweber is next in line from a regional defence crop that has featured former and current NHLers like Wade Redden, Lance Ward, Jeff Woywitka and Carson Soucy. Not to mention younger pros from the area, like Ty Smith, Kale Clague and Olen Zellweger.
CALL FROM CHORNEY
Another player with local ties, former Lloyd Athletics 14U forward Blake Chorney, was among the Giants representatives who contacted Leinenweber after the draft to welcome him to Vancouver’s organization. The 2009-born Chorney, a native of Nipawin, Sask., also has NAX history in common with Leinenweber.
Brady Leinenweber led all NAX U15 prep defencemen in scoring this season in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League. Submitted photo
At the NHL level, Leinenweber admires and learns from some of the game’s brightest young talents on defence. Among them are current playoff opponents from Montreal and the Buffalo Sabres.
“I guess the obvious answer from the Habs is Lane Hutson,” Leinenweber said about his NHL role models. “We’re not very similar in our build types, but I try to watch him as much as I can and take what I can from him, and how he moves on the blue-line and he gets around guys.
“I would say Mike Matheson of the Habs is kind of who I try to represent. He’s a big two-way guy and moves well, a bigger body, does everything the Habs need him to, and he’s super reliable.
“And then, maybe a guy outside the Habs is Rasmus Dahlin (of the Sabres). He has a bit more offensive upside, and I think that’s something I’m working towards, being a bigger body and playing both sides of the puck.”
Leinenweber hopes to gain muscle and add 10 to 15 pounds before next season begins. “That’s probably my biggest goal this summer.”
His spring schedule includes a Regina camp in early June for Newport Sports clients, including Maddox Schultz and Liam Pue, the Pats’ forwards selected first and third overall, respectively, in the
2025 WHL prospects draft.
“It’s going to be unreal, just some of the players there,” Leinenweber said. “I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone from my agency. It’ll be a pretty cool experience.”
While he’s sure to soak up lessons from that camp, Leinenweber continues to be an example for his younger brother, imparting wisdom from on and off the ice.
“I was really happy when Jasper chose to be a goalie, because that was my exact thinking, now I’ve got someone to shoot at,” he said. “He’s just a great kid. I think he looks up to me and that means a lot to me, so I’ve got to show him what it takes to be a hockey player
and help him out as much as I can.”
Leinenweber stays connected to Lloydminster, where he was a student at Holy Rosary High School last year while playing with the Athletics.
“I’ll be up in Lloyd quite a bit this summer,” he said. “My girlfriend is from Lloyd, so I try and visit her as much as I can. I’ll be doing some skates. I’ll be up in Lloyd (later in May) for a 3-on-3 tournament I’m doing with lots of my Lloyd buddies.”
Ever the multi-sport athlete, Leinenweber also plans to participate in track and field competitions this spring, representing his hometown Kerrobert Composite School once again.
Hockey prospect Brady Leinenweber was a Saskatchewan provincial champion in his final year of competitive baseball. Pictured with him is his younger brother Jasper. Submitted photo
