Cinderella in Space ready for blast-off
Three Trees celebrates 10 years
Close to 400 Lloydminster and area residents took part in an Empowering Minds mental-health initiative presentation by speaker Ian Hill at the Lloyd Ex on Monday night. The evening focused on helping people identify early signs of mental health struggles in the community.
Bringing the community together and looking for signs of mental-health struggles has become a priority for many in Lloydminster.
Close to 400 residents of the Border City and surrounding area gathered at the Lloyd Ex on Monday, Nov. 17, to learn about becoming “first identifiers.”
The term, coined through an Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies (AAAS) mental-health initiative called Empowering Minds, focuses on building stronger rural communities and reducing the stigma associated with mental health. First identifiers can recognize early
signs of mental-health struggles and connect friends, neighbours and community members to the help they need.
Designed specifically for agricultural regions, the program acknowledges the unique stresses faced in rural life and emphasizes the importance of strong social connections, early intervention and community leadership in supporting mental well-being.
The evening featured a meal and presentation by speaker Ian Hill, who shared practical tools, personal stories and strategies to empower rural Albertans to look out for one another.
“What would happen if the nail tech, the personal trainer, the banker, the guy who sells seed to the farmer, the guy in the cubicle next to you, your neighbour — what if these people knew what to look for, what to listen for, what to say, and what to do?” said Hill prior to his presentation.
“It would completely transform the dynamic. That’s the simplicity of it. How do we activate regular people?”
Whether it’s cancer or other physical ailments, early detection is key, they tell us. But what about early detection in mental health. Let’s shift the stigma, let’s work hard to activate regular people for early detection. That’s the simplicity of it.
- Ian Hill
When it comes to assets in rural Alberta communities such as Lloydminster, Hill believes there remains a strong sense of self-reliance and a deep-rooted commitment to being a good neighbour.
“Can we equip you with the tools for self-care? Can we equip you with the tools to help your neighbour? I think we can,” he said. “The simplicity of it is this: the people closest to the problem are usually best suited to solve that problem.”
According to Hill, a shift in attitudes toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental-health struggles is essential.
“Mothers Against Drunk Driving — many of your readers will remember a time when drunk family members got into cars and drove, and everyone at the party laughed. Today, if that same thing were to occur, they would tackle those individuals,” he explained.
“There was an attitudinal shift toward that subject. In the same sense, could we create an attitudinal shift toward this subject? I think we can.”
Hill also noted that experts aren’t always needed to get the ball rolling. “Look at CPR, which can be performed by regular people who are equipped
with the tools needed. They’re not first responders — they’re first identifiers,” he said. “Whether it’s cancer or other physical ailments, early detection is key, they tell us. But what about early detection in mental health? Let’s shift the stigma; let’s work hard to activate regular people for early detection.
“We’re trying to activate people who care about the subject matter. Maybe they care because, tragically, they had a situation in their family, or because they read about it, or are personally going through some challenges.”
Hill said the AAAS chose to partner with agricultural societies for Empowering Minds events because of the trust they’ve built in the communities they serve.
“Ag societies are about community, and in the Province of Alberta specifically, they’ve done some award-winning work,” he said, noting the initiative wouldn’t be possible without financial backing. “MCS Net stepped up immediately to fund these projects.”
Hill also applauded the work of the two local organizations that made the event possible — the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association and the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation.
“Tonight’s attendance is 100 per cent a reflection of the two organizations at the tip of the spear of this. It’s people’s belief in these organizations because of the credible people at the helm,” he said, adding that the mental-health journey doesn’t end at the close of the event.
“After tonight, every week for the next four weeks, all in attendance will get an email. We’re asking them to learn information and deploy it eight months from now, 10 months from now, a year from now.”
Each attendee received a certificate for their participation, which also served as a way of recognizing and owning the role they play in reducing stigma.
For more information on Empowering Minds, visit albertaagsocieties.ca/ empoweringminds/. IN CASH PRIZES
$250,000
OCTOBER 1 – NOVEMBER 27
YOUR LAST CHANCE TO WIN $25K: NOVEMBER 27
With opening night less than two weeks away, The Motley Troupe is putting finishing touches on its latest community dinner theatre production, Cinderella in Space.
The sci-fi twist on the classic fairytale will help raise funds for the Lori Craven Memorial baseball tournament.
Longtime performer and organizer Mel Coote said preparations are running smoothly.
“We are very excited. Preparation is going great and it’s like a well-oiled machine with the girls from the Lori Craven running the meal; they’re totally on top of that,” said Coote. “As far as the play, it’s going great.”
While the production was originally scheduled for three performances, the troupe cancelled its Thursday show due to lower-than-expected ticket sales.
“We’re not performing on the Thursday night as there weren’t enough tickets sold,” said Coote. “We made the executive decision to concentrate on Friday and Saturday night and we’re hoping for two sold-out shows. There are still tickets available for Friday and Saturday’s performances.”
Coote didn’t reveal many plot details but teased a playful take on a familiar story.
“This year, we’re doing Cinderella in Space. She’s got odd friends and she’s in a space station,” she said. “People are just going to have to attend the show to find out what it’s all about.”
Several new cast and crew members are joining the troupe this year.
“We just recruited a young fella to run our sound and songs,” said Coote. “We also have a couple of new cast members and one returning who hasn’t been involved for a couple of years. Other than that, it’s the same old suspects.”
Patrons will also be treated to live music before the show and during intermission at the Kitscoty Community Hall. Ryan Lessner will perform Friday night, followed by The Church Keys on Saturday. Members of One Cent Melon are set to close out both evenings with an acoustic set.
Coote said the dinner theatre has become a
The Motley Troupe has been busy preparing for opening night of this year’s production of Cinderella in Space. The Kitscoty Community Hall is quickly transforming into a dinner theatre. Photos
tight-knit annual gathering.
“We’ve been doing this since 2001 and it’s really a dinner theatre family,” she said. “I don’t see some of these people all year, but when we get together on the first Wednesday of September to start, it’s always an amazing reunion.”
The Lori Craven team will once again serve a full traditional Christmas meal.
“They’re doing the most amazing traditional Christmas spread, which they did last year and we had such rave reviews,” said Coote. “There will be ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and salads, the whole delicious meal.”
Coote said supporting the Lori Craven Memorial tournament remains an important part of the event’s purpose.
“It means a lot. I’ve lived in Lloyd for 42 years running my business and I love this city,” she said. “When you can sister up with an organization that does such great work for our community, it’s amazing. I know people that have been recipients and it means even more that the money they raise is kept local.”
The Motley Troupe is also accepting silent auction items for both performance nights.
Tickets are available through The Motley Troupe’s Facebook page, from cast and crew members, or by emailing themotleytroupe@gmail.com.
It’s been a decade of highs and lows for Three Trees in Lloydminster and owner Jim Spenrath took a trip down memory lane with the Rotary Club of Lloydminster.
The Nov. 17 lunch meeting was a chance for Spenrath to look back at where he and the business have been.
First opening in 2015, what was then Rock Creek Tap and Grill, was a new player in Lloydminster’s restaurant scene.
“We’ve been in business 10 years. We celebrated our 10th anniversary last month and that’s been very exciting for us,” he said.
Spenrath was well-versed in running businesses. The chartered professional accountant by trade had managed his own practice for 17 years before stepping into a VP of finance position with Foremost Universal, eventually becoming Grid Industries chief operating officer.
He stayed as a franchisee with Rock Creek for four years before taking the leap under his own name, Three Trees, in January 2019.
“I was probably better at business than I was being a franchisee,” he said, noting under a franchise they want you to follow their rules and practices. “I spent half my adult life helping businesses and then I couldn’t do much for my own.”
Over the years, Spenrath has seen ups and downs in Lloydminster, notably working through the COVID-19 pandemic. It was during this time they built a patio for the business and reviewed their practices.
“I looked at our revenues and I went, ‘We can’t be open Sunday and Monday, those are our two slowest days,’ ” he sa id. “When we re-emerged
after closing, we said, let’s go five days a week.
“To my great joy, our Sunday/Monday people just started coming Tuesday and Wednesday.”
He points to the five-day schedule as a benefit for his staff, helping him with retention.
“What it does for us is it gives us the time to regroup and stabilizes our staff,” Spenrath said, noting they’ve had the same chef for 10 years. “She’s happy to be there, the management staff, everybody’s happy, gives them some family time.”
Another aspect of the restaurant that changed during the pandemic was the wide-open concept.
“When we put the dividers up, we made them on a more permanent basis to put dividers between those, give people a little more privacy,” he said.
A small barrier is also still in place at the bar.
He says the restaurant has hosted weddings on the patio, being able to accommodate smaller weddings.
“We can’t accommodate a 200-person wedding, but we can certainly do some smaller ones,” said Spenrath.
He also spoke to the importance of the work they do in fundraising.
“A lot of groups depend on what we do,” Spenrath explained. “We do a thing in February called Soup It Forward.
“What we do in February is, every bowl of soup consumed in our restaurant during that month, we donate a can of soup to the food bank. It’s always a truckload; I think last year it was 6,400 cans of soup.”
He realized while donating the cans how much of a need there is at these non-profits.
“So, a little shoutout to the community for all these groups, the interval homes of the world, the food bank and The Olive Tree, they feed a lot of people and they need all the help they can get,” said Spenrath.
An item on their menu which directly supports the community is the community burger.
“Something I’m proud of, we have a thing called the community burger,” he said, noting the current recipient of burger funding is the Lori Craven Memorial baseball tournament. “Every time someone orders one of those, we track it. On our menu, we have a little blurb about who the beneficiary is going to be of the proceeds for our community burger.”
The pandemic also presented a challenge for events as they could no longer host their full-scale engagements.
“We also saw an issue with a lot of groups in terms of being able to retain traction going forward with their events,” said Spenrath. “One of the ones we had a whole bunch of fun with was the Kinsmen Telemiracle statement. It couldn’t hold their big event that they’d had for years and years.”
He explained during the pandemic they weren’t able to host the event where they normally do and instead did the event from Three Trees.
Three Trees also played host to a Mrs. Roper’s Romp dinner ahead of a fundraiser supporting Bea Fisher.
“It was just a sea of orange hair, and I understand they made something in the neighbourhood of $30,000 this year,” he recalled.
Spenrath says they hope to continue supporting local initiatives.
“We do like to help the hungry, whether it’s bike for breakfast or whatever, we like to be involved with things that actually help kids,” he said.
They also help the Vic Juba Community Theatre, offering volunteers a discount at the restaurant.
“Vic Juba Theatre, for example, is a good thing in our community. We help them a lot, we do things for them regularly,” said Spenrath.
Local events are something Spenrath commented on as the Christmas Craft Fair just rolled through town.
“The craft show is our biggest weekend of the year, always has been,” he said. “This weekend was the craft show, and by all accounts, it was a good one. In our business, once again, it was our biggest weekend of the year.
“On Saturday (Nov. 15), that was our biggest day since April 2016.”
He also spoke briefly about the importance of seeing big events in Lloydminster, explaining when centres like the Cenovus Energy Hub are busy, they’re busier at the restaurant.
While Three Trees has worked through issues such as supply chain problems, they’re currently working through more uncertainty with tariffs.
“So, now, a lot of it’s just the world uncertainty,” he said. “The tariffs haven’t drastically impacted us, but it’s not over.”
Reflecting back, Spenrath was appreciative of his time at the restaurant.
“It’s been a challenging 10 years, but it’s been the most fun 10 years of my life,” he said.
More than 300 business and community leaders packed the Lloyd Ex’s WLS Convention Centre as the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce honoured the city’s top entrepreneurs, organizations and innovators at the 2025 Business Excellence Awards.
The annual gala, held on Oct. 30, is one of the chamber’s signature events and recognizes the businesses and individuals whose work helps drive the region’s economic strength and community spirit.
“It’s me and my team’s favourite night of the year because we get to celebrate our local businesses,” said Teri-Lynn MacKie, executive director of the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce. “We work quite hard to get the evening to look like it’s a big celebration, but it’s the community that comes forward to nominate the businesses.”
This year saw more than 57 businesses nominated across multiple categories, all put forward by members of the public.
REGISTRATION OPEN NOV 25
COST AND AGE
CATEGORIES VARY
Explore all of what Lloydminster has to offer with the Winter Guide, featuring events and programs taking place from January through March.
Lloydminster.ca/Guides
MUSEUM + ARCHIVES
NOV 22 • 10:30 AM-12 PM
$15 • AGES 1.5-3.5
Bond with your little one through play, music and sensory fun. 780-874-3720
Lloydminster.ca/LMAPrograms
TIME TRAVELLER
TUESDAYS
DEC 5 • 10-11:30 AM • $10
AGES 5-12
Discover Canada’s history through games, activities, and facainating facts. 780-874-3720
Lloydminster.ca/LMAPrograms
DEC 4 • 6 PM • FREE ALL AGES
Tickets are sold out! Have tickets and can no longer go? Don’t let them go to waste, transfer them to a friend through Showpass or reach out to cenovusenergyhub@lloydminster.ca with your name and the number of tickets to cancel.
Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Frenchman Butte No. 501 intends to consider the adoption of a new Zoning Bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007.
AG - Agricultural District: To provide for the primary use of land in the form of agricultural development, associated farm dwellings, limited single-parcel country residential development, location-dependent natural resource development and other uses compatible with agricultural development.
RD - Residential District: To provide for low density multiple lot residential development surrounded by agricultural lands to accommodate acreage development and other compatible development in specific areas with standards for such development.
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
A new exhibit at the Lloydminster Museum and Archives is giving visitors a glimpse into Prairie life in the early 1900s.
LD - Lakeshore District: To provide for residential and limited commercial development on lands surrounding Perch Lake and other specific areas with standards for such development.
Edwardian Era in the West opened Nov. 8 and runs until Feb. 28, 2026. Developed by the Lacombe Museum with support from the federal Museums Assistance Program’s Access to Heritage Fund, the travelling exhibit examines the cultural and technological changes that shaped the years 1902 to 1914.
HD - Hamlet District: To provide for high density multiple lot residential development and other compatible development in specific areas with standards for such development.
CD - Commercial / Industrial District: To provide for general commercial, industrial and other compatible development in specific areas, with standards for such development.
FD - Forest District: To encourage forestry and other natural resource-oriented development and activity on provincial forest lands.
The display introduces visitors to the Edwardian period through the stories of Lacombe and its early residents — experiences that mirror those of many Prairie communities during a time of rapid growth and settlement.
To tie the exhibit to Lloydminster’s own past, the museum has added artifacts and archival photographs from its collection. The items highlight the lives of early inhabitants and the settlers who helped build the region.
The proposed Zoning Bylaw also contains updated and new general provisions that apply to development throughout the R.M. Updated and new provisions include: development permit requirements, application fees and application process; discretionary use permit requirements, application fees, application process and evaluation criteria; regulations for fences; accessory buildings and structures; signs and billboards; manufactured dwellings; vehicle storage; shipping containers; communal farm settlements; shooting ranges; home based business; and farm settlements. regulations for development on or near hazard lands; and regulations for outside storage and waste material storage.
“Hosting this exhibit from the Lacombe Museum provided an opportunity to connect the Edwardian Era in the West to our community’s own history,” said Natalie Clysdale, manager of the Lloydminster Museum and Archives.
“Including artifacts from our collection allows us to expand on the narrative, share new research, and offer visitors a deeper understanding of the era and its impact on local life.”
Through artifacts, photos, and interactive displays, visitors can see how people lived, dressed, and entertained themselves more than a century ago. A feature wall of local photography captures daily life in early Lloydminster, while hands-on elements invite guests to experience the routines and atmosphere of the era.
All land within the R.M. of Frenchman Butte as shown on the Map contained in this notice is affected by the new Zoning Bylaw.
More information about Edwardian Era in the West is available at Lloydminster.ca/LMA.
YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY PROVISIONS IN THE NEW ZONING BYLAW. PLEASE CHECK THE FULL VERSION OF THE BYLAW, AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW OR PURCHASE AT THE R.M. OFFICE OR FOR REVIEW AND DOWNLOAD FROM THE R.M. WEBSITE.
“We were so excited to see the winners,” MacKie added. “But anybody that was a part of it, they were nominated by the public. How fantastic is that?”
The new Zoning Bylaw will help direct and manage growth and development in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte for the next fifteen to twenty years.
PUBLIC HEARING
Any person may inspect the proposed bylaw at the R.M. Office, located 1/4 mile North off the Junction of Highway 3 and Highway 21 North, just east of Paradise Hill, Box 180 Paradise Hill, SK, S0M 2G0. The RM office is open between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM Monday to Fridays, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available to persons at cost.
From MacKie’s perspective, the outlook for business in Lloydminster is bright.
“It looks amazing,” she said. “We have amazing entrepreneurs and amazing people that are willing to put their heart and their finances on the line to keep us growing as a community.”
She pointed to the Small Business Award category as an example of the depth of talent in the region, noting the impressive mix of nominees.
Council will hold a public hearing at 2:00 PM on November 26th, 2025, at the R.M. Office located at SW 11-53-24-W3M (just north of the junction of highway 3 and highway 21N) to hear any person or group that wishes to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the R.M. Office before the hearings.
Email: administrator.rm501@sasktel.net Phone: (306) 344-2034
Issued at the RM of Frenchman Butte this 6th day of November, 2025. Aaron Neilly, Acting Chief Administrative Officer
“When you look at the nominees for the Small Business Award alone — DNA Optometry, Flowers on the Fly by Audina, Hands on Wellness, Mr. Bill’s Restaurant, Pet Planet, Pure Vibe Studio, The Tent Guys — they could have all won,” she said. “They are all fantastic businesses in our community that have made us who we are.”
With strong nominations, packed attendance, and clear enthusiasm from both organizers and attendees, the 2025 Business Excellence Awards underscored what many in the room already knew: local business in Lloydminster isn’t just thriving, it’s helping define the spirit of the community.
Entrepreneur of the Year – GMACK
Oilfield Services
Workplace Excellence Award –Servus Credit Union Integrity Award – Transition Health and Wellness
Startup Business of the Year –
Summit Sport Performance and Vision Training
Customer Service Award – Guardian Plumbing and Heating Non-profit of the Year – Lloydminster
Rescue Squad
Small Business of the Year – Pet
Planet Community Champion Award –
Classic Oilfield
Downtown Business of the Year –Furniture Gallery
Think Lloyd First Ambassador Award – Michelle Benning (Fort Pitt Development)
Businesswoman of the Year – Nina Ellis (Performance Business Consulting)
Business of the Year – Lloydminster and District Co-op
Dr. Richard Starke was the recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. See next week’s Meridian Source for the full story.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
It’s the opportunity of a lifetime for two Lloyd dancers as they gear up to take the world stage this summer in Ireland.
Mea Gee, 13 and Charlie Johnston, 17, from Core Dynamics Pilates and Dance, will compete at the Dance World Cup in Dublin, Ireland.
“The competition is July 2026,” said Patti Johnston, Core Dynamics Pilates and Dance owner.
It all started with an audition.
“They sent out advertising emails to studios and then we got to go audition in Edmonton,” said Charlie.
Gee said she it was quite the experience.
“We had to learn our audition dances pretty quick and then we ran them a couple of times,” she said. “They were watching and I was scared.”
Despite any nerves, the girls’ talents shone on.
“There were five separate auditions the weekend they went, and they each made five teams,” Patti explained. “They’re in the ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and contemporary teams.
“It’s a great opportunity for these two, from little old Lloyd.”
They’ve already begun their training in Edmonton.
“They’re travelling to Edmonton. It’s almost once a month for three days to meet with a team,” said Patti. “They learn their choreography and do small groups they can be selected for, anywhere from four to six hours.”
On top of preparing for the dance competition, Gee and Charlie are getting some excellent experience.
“They’re getting to learn from some amazing choreographers that they wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to train with,” said Patti.
In addition to the five teams the pair qualified for, there’s other dances they’ll be taking part in.
“There’s a showstopper one, which is all the regions doing one together, which is going to be really cool,” said Charlie. “We learn it now, but we have one rehearsal altogether in Toronto.”
When asked if the dancers had a favourite style, it was difficult to narrow it down.
R.M. of Eldon No. 471 Province of Saskatchewan
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land described in the following list are fully paid before the 22nd day of January, 2026, a tax lien will be registered against the land.
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.
“I like tap and hip-hop the best,” said Gee.
“I really like contemporary and jazz and hip-hop — and ballet,” Charlie said.
Prior to the event, the studio will begin fundraising efforts for Gee and Charlie.
“Each dancer is allowed to raise up to $7,500, it goes toward their classes, their costuming, their travel costs,” said Patti.
Not only will they be dancing in Ireland, but they’ll also have a chance to learn from leading industry experts.
“There’s a convention there as well, so they’re not just competing, they’re taking classes from industry professionals,” she said.
Those looking to support the Lloyd dancers can contact the studio at 780-874-9988 or online at coredynamics.ca.
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before January 15, 2026, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel
Dated this 20th day of November 2025
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
The Lloydminster Festival of Trees’ Cookies and Carols event filled the Gold Horse Casino for an early look at this year’s movie-themed tree lineup.
The pre-holiday favourite, which has been a Border City staple for more than 25 years, invited the community to enjoy cookies, carols, crafts and a visit with Santa on Nov. 15 — all by donation. The affordable admission drew a strong crowd, with organizers at one point calling it a full house.
“Today’s an opportunity for the community to come and see the trees in the lobby here at the Gold Horse Casino,” said organizer Gwen Mottram. “It’s an opportunity to see it at an affordable price because it’s admission by donation.”
This year’s theme, holiday movies, features eight elaborately decorated trees, each sponsored and styled with its own cinematic flair. Displays include The Grinch (Katie Mesmer), It’s a Wonderful Life (Barb Barone), Elf (Servus Wealth Strategies Ltd.), Frosty the Snowman (Lloydminster Toyota), The Polar Express (L&A Accountants), The Nutcracker (De Novo Law), White Christmas (Dawn Interiors) and Die Hard (Geordies Woodworking Ltd.).
“There was a lot of debate whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie or not, and Geordies wanted to have some fun with their tree. They just went with it,” Mottram said with a laugh.
Children attending the two-hour event were treated to a holiday craft at each table, while musical performances by the Lloydminstrels Legacy Choir and the Holy Rosary High School jazz band kept the festive atmosphere in full swing.
Mottram said the turnout was strong as usual.
“We had a full house at one point and normally it is a full house. Sometimes we even have overflow, so we set up more chairs this year.”
Donations collected at the door support ongoing projects at Weaver Heritage Park, including the completion of phase two of the log church, along with
planned renovations to the Rendall Barn and Weaver House.
Mottram added the event offers residents a chance to admire the hours of work put in by decorators ahead of Thursday’s Festival of Trees gala and auction.
“At the gala, we’ll have the People’s Choice award, but the first tree that gets auctioned off is the Bidder’s Choice,” she said. “I’m really interested to see which tree goes first and which one is the people’s choice. It’s not always the same one.”
The Cowboy Act Suite and Other Works program features a stunning lineup of three signature works from Ballet Kelowna’s contemporary ballet repertoire. This high-energy program will be a signature event for our series and features Cameron sinkʷəFraser-Monroe’s compelling taqəš (tawKESH), Guillaume Côté’s mesmerizing Bolero, and Fraser-Monroe’s satirical The Cowboy Act Suite.
November 22, 2025 (Saturday) - 7:30 pm
Thursday, November 20, 2025
5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4
Phone: 306-825-5111 | Fax: 306-825-5147
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EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ian Hill at the Lloyd Ex on Monday night to talk about the presentation he was preparing to give to close to 400 Border City and area residents.
Hill was in town as part of an Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies mental-health initiative called Empowering Minds.
The provincewide tour focuses on rural communities in Alberta and helping everyday people become what’s known as First Identifiers.
The idea is simple: tackle mental-health challenges with courage, care and local leadership. Hill’s presentation helped attendees identify signs of mental-health struggles in an effort to bring the community closer.
I won’t get too much into the details here because the first two pages of today’s paper cover much of the same material. I will say, however, that the conversation Hill and I shared moved me in a profound way. That, dear reader, is what I’d like to share this week.
As soon as I identified myself as a member of the
media, Hill smiled and we found a place to sit. My first question was fairly broad and centred on the purpose of the evening’s presentation. He got right into it without missing a beat.
Throughout our 25-minute conversation, Hill opened up about his own mental-health struggles and described the journey as a daily battle. “If I don’t look after myself every day, I hurt people,” he said, before continuing to explain the power we, as community members, have to help those close to us.
That statement struck a chord.
For most of my adult life, the gym has been my escape — a place to clear my head and leave the stresses of the day behind.
The mental-health benefits of regular exercise became very apparent to me during COVID; for me, a workout a day kept the struggles away.
Over the past year or so, I haven’t been as dedicated to my once-regular routine, and I’ve been feeling it. I was more stressed and anxious, for what felt like no particular reason.
I felt I wasn’t as much fun to be around at work or at home. I wasn’t my usually happy self.
Since returning from holidays in late October, I’ve been back at it. My regular workouts are back in my routine and I’m making an effort to eat cleaner. This combination, I feel, has helped me get closer to my old self.
Hill’s passion and calm demeanour inspired me to share these thoughts in the hope it encourages others to take a breath and think, “How can I make someone’s day a bit better and help someone if they’re struggling?” We’re all in this crazy thing called life together, and history has proven life’s better when we look after those close to us. Smile at a stranger on the street. Reach out to loved ones and make sure they’re OK. You don’t know what they’re going through until you ask.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
I always love a good backstory when I dive into my columns. This one begins about a year ago when I first arrived in the Border City. I just got my library card and was looking for some local history books when I stumbled across Lloydminster and District Co-op 100 years.
For just $10 I unlocked all the history the Co-op has to offer, and since then, I’ve been waiting for the right time to write about our local co-operative.
It all started back in 1914. Some notable items were of interest to the locals; a plowshare could be sharpened for 45 cents and coal oil was sold for $10.60 including the barrel. The historic first day for the Co-op would be on June 12, 1914. On a warm day, the Greenwood School yard filled with saddle horses, buggies and carts bringing farmers from the Greenwood and North Gully districts. There were 24 people there for the Co-op’s organization meeting.
Stanley Rackham was elected chairman. Rackham was described as the lynchpin to the whole Co-op movement in Lloydminster. It didn’t take much to convince people they needed a Co-op. With a capital of $5,000 and 200 shares, the motion to create a Co-op Association under the Saskatchewan Co-operative Association Act was passed unanimously, and 30 shares were sold that day.
Fast forward a few years to 1919, the first annual general meeting was held at the Alberta Hall. Sales for 1918 were $377,796. That is a substantial chunk of change for the time. Clearly, the business was off on the right foot and people saw the value.
In 1921, the Northern Hardware Company was bought out, Co-op had their very first new store. In 1928, the newly expanded Co-op store
opened for business once again. This time, sporting a full-sized basement, stock elevators and a mezzanine floor for offices and rest rooms. Sales reached $449,000, continuing the upward trend.
Unfortunately, 1929 was the year of the great fire in Lloydminster and the Co-op building was not spared. With the exception of the lumber yard and buildings just north of the tracks, all of the Lloydminster Co-op’s buildings were destroyed.
Membership grew in 1930, however, the great fire affected sales. Co-op sharpened their focus to lumber, coal, hide, implements, binder twine, groceries, outfitting, hardware and saddlery in 1931.
Marwayne Co-operative was formed in 1945 and in 1947, the Co-operative Women’s Guild was formed. The idea was to promote Co-operative programs, send young people to Co-op school and sponsor students to the Co-op College in Saskatoon.
I’ll chat more about the rest of the history of the Co-op later, but talking about the women’s guild is a good lead into the thing that was on my mind when I first thought of Co-op, their involvement in the community.
Since I’ve been here, it’s hard not to see their name everywhere. Events always seem to be supported by the Co-op, whether it’s water, food or donations, they always seem willing to help.
They have plenty of programs as well. Just last week I was at Spread A Little Love, which aims to put a smile on seniors faces during the holiday season. I never knew about Co-ops until I moved out west and immediately saw the gas bars everywhere. Today, Co-op operates food stores, gas bars and convenience stores, home centres and more. Coming from humble beginnings in Lloyd, people certainly saw the vision in what they had to offer.
I’m happy to see businesses supporting local. Sometimes when a company gets too big, they lose sight of how it all began, and I’m happy to see that doesn’t appear to be the case. But I guess that’s the Co-op difference.
Business professionals, owners and representatives are invited
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The Meridian Source Calendar of Events is a free service provided for non-profit organizations located within our coverage area. All events are in chronological order, as space permits and at the editor’s discretion.
To place an event,
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo is back at the Moose Lodge! Bingo is every Monday and Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.
Alcurve Christmas Craft Fair
Head 26 kms north of Lloydminster on Highway 17 to check out the Christmas Craft Fair at the Alcurve Community Hall on Saturday, Nov. 22. The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature something for everyone from a variety of talented local vendors. Get your Christmas shopping started early.
CWL Christmas Market
St. Anthony’s Catholic Women’s League Lloydminster invites you to their Christmas Market on Saturday, Nov 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Parish Hall at 2704 - 56 Ave Lloydminster, Alta. There is so much to enjoy - Christmas Bake Sale, Mini Homebased Trade Fair, Christmas Decorations Re-Sale, Religious Books and Cards , Raffles, etc, and above all a Delicious Noon Lunch. Bring your Friends, Neighbors and Family Members. Come for the Fellowship and Pick up a few great Gifts for Christmas.
Moose Lodge Singles Cribbage Tournament
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a singles cribbage tournament on Nov. 23 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entry fee is $20, eight games guaranteed, with prizes awarded to the top players. Snacks, coffee and drinks included. Must register by Nov. 21. Contact Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more details.
Cribbage Doubles Tournament
The Legacy Centre is hosting a cribbage doubles tournament on Nov. 27, starting at 10 a.m. Cost is $10/person to play and $12 for lunch. Everyone welcome! Call the Legacy Centre at 780-875-4584 for more details.
Hunter Brothers at the Vic Juba
Tickets are selling fast for the Hunter Brothers’ Nov. 29 show at the Vic Juba Community Theatre. The boys are back in town as part of their Homegrown Nights Canadian tour. Tickets are $65 and available online or at the theatre box office. The two-hour show kicks off at 7:30 p.m.
Pre-Christmas Cribbage Tournament
The Hillmond Hall is hosting a pre-Christmas crib tournament on Nov. 30, starting at 11 a.m. Alberta time. A Christmas meal will be served at noon. Everyone welcome.
The Legacy Centre is hosting a one-day shopping trip to Edmonton on Dec. 1. Cost is $60/person for a day at Kingsway Mall or West Edmonton Mall, take your pick! Call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 for details.
The Legacy Centre is hosting a Christmas Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 5. Admission is $3/person, which includes coffee. Come and check out what our vendors have for you. VENDORS , call the Legacy office at 780-875-4584 to rent your tables ($10/table).
Cowboy Christmas with George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett
CCMA winners and beloved Canadian country superstars George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett unite for their coast to coast Cowboy Christmas tour, which takes the stage at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Dec. 6. Tickets are $65 and available online or at the box office. The two-hour show starts at 7:30 p.m.
M.C. Quantock “Canada’s Bulls” is hosting a Super Sisters Bred Heifer and special opportunity cow sale at Northern Livestock Sales in Lloydminster and online at dlms.ca on Dec. 6 at 1 p.m. The sales is a precursor to the main sale on Jan. 31, 2026 at the Lloyd Ex. Call Mac anytime 1-800-561-2855 or 1-780-875-8167 or Jim Pulyk at NLS 1-780-787-0646 for more details.
The Lloydminster Potters Guild Annual Winter Sale is Sunday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lloydminster Museum and Archives.
- If you have something you’d like listed in our community calendar, please email the details to taylor@meridiansource.ca
Lloydminster’s 37th annual Christmas Craft Show and Chamber Expo once again proved to be one of the region’s most anticipated holiday traditions, drawing an estimated 17,000 people through the doors.
The event was held at the Lloyd Ex’s WLS Convention Centre from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16, and according to Chamber of Commerce executive director Teri-Lynn MacKie, the strong turnout is consistent with the event’s growing popularity.
“We’ve seen an increase in the last couple of years, so it’s pretty much on par with last year,” she said. “It’s always been a really well-attended event.”
This year’s expo featured close to 400 vendors ranging from local businesses to longtime crafters. Many vendors continue to return year after year, which MacKie attributes to the community’s enthusiasm and purchasing power.
The value is there for them to come back. Our community shows up and people are there to start their Christmas shopping,” she said.
Attendees were treated to everything from handmade goods to specialty
foods, including local offerings and vendors from the surrounding area.
A fast-pass option, which the chamber has offered for several years, continued to prove its worth.
“We put over 250 people through in less than 15 minutes,” MacKie noted.
Even after 37 years, MacKie said the event remains a cornerstone of the holiday season in Lloydminster.
“It’s the kickoff for Christmas. It showcases our local businesses and crafters and it’s a great place to get out and support our community.”
The show also brings a significant economic boost to the city. MacKie noted between 50 and 60 vendors travel from outside Lloydminster, filling hotels and restaurants, while attendees from surrounding communities often spend beyond the expo.
“I was talking with a few ladies from North Battleford. They came for the show but also went to Superstore because they don’t have one in Battleford,” she said. “The draw has a big impact on our whole city.”
MacKie also thanked the craft fair for working so closely with the chamber on the Herculean event, as well as the community for showing up.
SE 21-51-2 W4 and SW 21-51-2 W4 County of Vermilion River, Alberta
- Land located approximately 3 miles southwest of Streamstown, AB - Total of approximately 320 seeded acres
Conditions:
1. All o ers to be in writing in the form provided and accompanied by a certi ed cheque in the amount of 10% of o er amount payable to PSM Lawyers in Trust Cheques will be returned without interest if o er is not accepted.
2. Bidding will be conducted by ongoing tender. Once all qualifying bids are received, all bidders will be informed of the highest bid on each quarter they have bid on. Bidders will then be provided the opportunity to declare their bid nal or to increase their bid by an amount of not less than 2% above the highest bid. Once all bidders have declared their nal bid the bidders shall be informed of the Vendor’s decision.
3. Balance of the purchase price of the successful o er, plus GST (if applicable), to be paid to PSM Lawyers in Trust by the Possession Date or the deposit will be forfeited.
4.Highest or any o er not necessarily accepted.
5.Purchaser will be responsible for payment of any applicable GST.
6.Property taxes to be adjusted as of the possession date.
7. Property sold “as is”. Bidders are assumed to rely solely on their own inspection of the land and the title.
8. Closing Bid Date: December 5, 2025. Bidders to be advised of successful bid within 5 business days of Closing Bid Date.
9.Possession Date: December 19, 2025.
The O er to Purchase form to be used by bidders can be found at https://psmlaw.ca/tenders/.
All O ers must be received no later than 12:00pm on December 5, 2025.
All Tenders must be placed in a sealed envelope marked “Do Not Open: Plandowski – Land Tender ” and dropped o at our reception desk or sent by overnight courier to the following address:
PSM Lawyers, 5009 – 47 Street, Lloydminster, AB T9V 0E8, Attn:
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Christmas trees are up and now it’s time to spread some love.
A small gift can go a long way, and the Lloydminster and District Co-op is looking to bring smiles to the faces of local seniors.
“A lot of these asks are, a calendar and a box of chocolates, that’s what they’re looking for to brighten their days,” said Peter Brown, Lloydminster and District Co-op CEO. “This program means so much to our seniors, our legacy members in the community.”
The Spread a Little Love This Christmas campaign officially kicked off Nov. 12. The initiative is entering its 11th year, with plenty of names available to choose from.
“There’s a lot of opportunity to pick out an item and feel good about making that purchase for that special someone in the community that could use it,” he said.
Residents can grab and ornament and fulfil a wish at the Lloydminster Co-op marketplace and any gas bar.
“There’s going to be a little over 800 recipients this year,” said Brown. “It expanded quite a bit for a few years, but it’s been right around that little over 800 for the last two to three years now.”
This year, the Co-op is working with The Olive Tree to give back.
Jana Thompson, The Olive Tree’s COO, says they worked with the Co-op to give back to some of their seniors.
“Our groups are specific to the Lloydminster low-income seniors housing facilities. Within those facilities, our teams go in, we collect all the information and the documentation and compile it all,” she said, noting they work with the Co-op to build the list. “A lot of those seniors attend our programming.”
Thompson says a small gesture can mean a lot.
“This is such a special time of the year because we get so caught up in the busyness of the year and we forget that a small gesture can mean a lot,” she said. “It’s a great reminder to just stop, slow down, shop for somebody else.”
The gifts have to be returned to the Co-op marketplace on 50 Ave. or the admin office on 41 St.
Once the gifts are returned, they’ll be sorted and delivered by the Co-op.
“We’ll organize it, we’ll go through them and we’ll make sure these members get these Christmas gifts by the middle of December,” said Brown. “For some of the other homes, the Co-op organizes the delivery times of those.”
The deadline to return gifts to a Co-op location is Dec. 5.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Anton Amundrud was on the cusp of becoming a teenager when an even younger kid on the football field recognized him as an influential figure in their hometown of Lloydminster.
“We first were teammates for one year in peewee, when I would have been nine turning 10, and Anton would have been 12,” Xander Pierce, now 21, recalled this week.
There was something special about the athletic Amundrud, an astute Pierce noticed at the time. As they grew older, and later played high school and university football together, Pierce often spoke about his role model.
Now, he and many others are extending their best wishes to Amundrud, the star University of Saskatchewan Huskies’ quarterback whose cancer diagnosis was revealed last week on the Saskatoon campus.
“I feel like I say it all the time, but Anton is one of those guys I’ve always looked up to and idolized, and wanted to be just like,” Pierce said about his former teammate with the collegiate Huskies and the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School (LCHS) Barons.
“The situation he’s in right now is obviously very tough. I’m rooting for him and trying to get in contact with him a little bit. I hope he’s doing well.”
Amundrud, 23, has been diagnosed with a form of cancer called lymphoma. His sickness forced him out of the U of S lineup partway through this U Sports season, which continued last Saturday as the host Huskies defeated the Queen’s Gaels 22-11 in the Mitchell Bowl and advanced to the Vanier Cup national final against the Montreal Carabins this Saturday in Regina.
As news broke last week that Amundrud is tackling cancer, it became clear in the early going that he can count on boundless support from back home in Lloydminster.
Former teammates and coaches from the Border City are among the many people rallying behind Amundrud.
“We are sending our best to Anton and his family,” said Kieran Link, who coaches the LCHS Barons.
“Anton oozes charisma and is incredibly tough. He’s ready to face this challenge head-on.”
Although it’s been five years since he graduated from the Barons, Amundrud is still remembered as one of the best football players ever to come out of Lloydminster.
University of Saskatchewan Huskies’ Anton Amundrud was a Canada West all-conference quarterback this year. Liam Richards, Electric Umbrella photo
“He was our quarterback the last time we won the provincial championship,” Link said. “He’s a natural leader, tough, competitive and fun to be around. He was a Canada West (conference) all-star this year, even while missing several games.
“Anton is a consummate teammate, and the entire country is behind him in this fight.”
His current team, the Huskies, will fight for a U Sports national championship, albeit with heavy hearts and without one of the nation’s most dynamic university quarterbacks.
The Huskies have played the latter part of the fall without Amundrud, a fourth-year pivot who had stepped away from the team five games into the season.
Just last week, his Huskies teammates learned of Amundrud’s cancer diagnosis and that he would begin treatment immediately.
The news not only hit his own team hard, but also the greater football community across Canada.
In the Bridge City, the Saskatoon Hilltops had just celebrated winning the Canadian Junior Football League championship on Nov. 9 on their home turf. The Canadian Bowl champions include two Lloyd boys in Pierce and Ryden Gratton,
the hero in the national junior final.
Gratton, another graduate of the Lloydminster Comprehensive football program, kicked the winning field goal with just 28 seconds left as the Hilltops defeated the previously unbeaten Okanagan Sun of Kelowna, B.C., 21-18.
Gratton and Hilltops receiver Pierce are a few years younger than Amundrud, but all three of them were teammates for one high school season with the Barons.
Pierce also played alongside Amundrud for two years with the Huskies, before joining the Hilltops in 2024.
Gratton and Pierce, current U of S students, have looked up to Amundrud as a football role model from their high school and their home community.
“It’s a terrible thing,” Gratton, 21, said about Amundrud’s health setback. “I can’t believe that’s happening to him. It’s so sad.
“I mean, everyone knows he’s a great football player, but he’s an even better person.
“I knew he was super sick, because obviously he didn’t dress the last few games. (Before then), he was starting quarterback there and had a really good year.”
Amundrud’s conference-best numbers this season included 14 touchdown passes, no interceptions, and an average of 321 passing yards per game. He led the Huskies (now 10-1) to a 4-1 start.
Amundrud, six-foot-three and 210 pounds, attended the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ CFL training camp this year. Those Roughriders just won the Grey Cup on Sunday, defeating the Montreal Alouettes 25-17.
At the collegiate level, hometown Huskie Jake Farrell has stepped into the starting quarterback position in the absence of Amundrud, who has been the U of S starter since 2023.
In a statement, Huskies head coach Scott Flory said it was an emotional week for the U of S football team as word about Amundrud circulated.
“He is a remarkable young man, on and off the field, and we know that he will fight this disease with everything he’s got,” Flory said before the Mitchell Bowl. “We know we have an important game to play Saturday, but our players are processing the news as we focus on Anton’s well-being.
“We also know Anton wants nothing more than to be fighting with us on the field. We understand that and we will be ready, focused, energized and prepared to play Huskie football.
“Anton has the full love and support of our entire football family.”
A GoFundMe account was established in support of Amundrud and his family. As of this Wednesday morning, more than $62,000 had been raised through donations.
“We are incredibly grateful for every person who has prayed, shared, donated, or held Anton in their thoughts,” reads part of a message from Amundrud’s family. “Your kindness and support have given us strength on the days that feel impossible.”
Amundrud has not only inspired and connected with players in minor, high school and university football. He has also left a lasting impression on his mentors.
One of his former teachers and coaches, Cole Bloxam, stepped up with a $1,500 donation soon after the fund was launched late last week.
“I just want to do anything I can to help, in any way, shape or form,” said Bloxam, who taught Amundrud for two years and coached him for three seasons.
The LCHS educator and Junior Barons coach remembers Amundrud as a thoughtful youth and conscientious student who loves football.
“Just a very kind, good-hearted person who just always wanted to do his best, and loved the game of football,” Bloxam said.
“Just a great person overall. (The Lloyd support) just shows how much of a connection he made with others.”
He noted the list of financial supporters includes many current and former players and coaches and community members.
“It shows the impact he made, and just how much people care.”
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
As he tried to keep warm on the sidelines, Saskatoon Hilltops kicker Ryden Gratton turned away from any possible distractions and focused on his looming job at hand, whenever that pivotal time might come.
The Lloydminster native answered the bell in the final minute of the Canadian Bowl, kicking a 37-yard field goal to break the tie and lift the host Hilltops to a 21-18 victory over the previously undefeated Okanagan Sun in the Canadian Junior Football League final.
In frigid fall football weather, the Hilltops won their 24th national championship on Nov. 9. On their home turf in Saskatoon, to boot.
“It was a pretty cold day out and I didn’t have a field goal leading up to that one,” said Gratton, a fourth-year Hilltop whose game-winning heroics came with just 28.6 seconds left on the clock.
“I mean, I was just trying my best to keep warm and go out there and kick the ball. But, yeah, it was a special feeling, especially doing that in front of a home crowd.
“It didn’t even feel real.”
Underneath those layers of extra clothing, Gratton felt a warm sense of pride. He shared the national championship with longtime friend and teammate Xander Pierce, also a graduate of the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School Barons.
The Lloyd boys, both 21, have been on a similar football path for the past decade, from bantam to high school and now junior.
“We’ve had a lot of years of football together,” Gratton said. “Honestly, to win this with Xander this year makes it that much greater. We had never won a (major) championship together, so to have this happen is truly special.”
Bundled up in warm clothes, Pierce
LCHS grad Ryden Gratton kicked the winning field goal for the Saskatoon Hilltops in the Canadian junior final. Submitted photo
was watching from the sidelines for the national championship game, nursing multiple injuries, but the slick receiver was an integral part of the storied Hilltops’ march toward another Canadian crown.
“It was amazing,” Pierce said about winning alongside his buddy Gratton. “Me and Ryden have been teammates and really close friends for a long time — we’ve known each other for seven years — so that’s really special.
“To get to share that moment with him is unbelievable, especially in the way that it happened. To see him kind of walk away as the hero, it’s surreal. I’m just so happy for him more than anything.”
Gratton emerged from relative calm at the most critical time and delivered the kick that sent Saskatoon into a frenzy, even on a snowy and cool Sunday in mid-November.
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
With their families in town for the weekend, the Lloydminster Bobcats were skating toward victory in front of their biggest fans Sunday afternoon at the Hub, at least until a Grande Prairie Storm abruptly intervened.
Trailing 3-0 after two periods, the Storm scored three goals within five minutes before the midway mark of the third to force overtime and eventually win 4-3 in a shootout.
“We stopped working,” said Bobcats coach Eric Labrosse. “We stopped winning battles, we weren’t moving our feet, we got complacent, and we got what we deserved.”
Including a 5-2 loss to the Bonnyville Pontiacs on Friday night, Lloydminster lost twice at home on the weekend, after winning its previous four Alberta Junior Hockey League games.
“Friday night was a different type of disappointment, where we trailed the whole game and when we had a few chances, we couldn’t bang the puck in,” Labrosse said. “And then, discipline got away from us at the end of that game.
“Both times when we had to score opportunistic goals, whether it was Friday or Sunday, it never happened.”
Grande Prairie’s new goaltender, Hudson Perry, stopped the three Bobcats he faced in the shootout, including the game-clinching save on Raphael Messier.
As his celebratory reaction indicated, the 18-year-old Perry netted his first Grande Prairie win and his maiden victory in five AJHL games this season. The former WHL goalie came from the junior A Drayton Valley Thunder in an AJHL trade last week and made his Storm debut Saturday night in a 5-4 loss at Bonnyville.
The weekend also marked Ty Matonovich’s first two games with Lloydminster. The 20-year-old goaltender from Calgary was acquired last week in a trade with the Saskatchewan league’s Weyburn Red Wings.
In the shootout Sunday, the only goal Matonovich allowed was the opening shot from Cole Penner, a 17-year-old forward who scored 88 points in 40 games last winter with his hometown junior B team in La Crete, Alta.
Penner skated in slowly and fired a quick shot to beat Matonovich on the blocker side.
“He’s a simple player and he gets it done most times,” teammate Max Leduc said of Penner. “Forehand to backhand and forehand again, just under the blocker. I like it. He knew what he was doing.”
On the Storm’s second shootout attempt, Leduc narrowly missed as he tried to slip the puck in on Matonovich’s glove side.
The 19-year-old forward did score with a deceptive shot in regulation, though, to kickstart Grande Prairie’s comeback.
“I think I’m just holding onto the puck an extra second and making sure I’m shooting to score, putting pucks on the net,” said Leduc, who has eight goals and a team-leading 23 points after 20 games this season.
Last year, Leduc was a big part of the Grande Prairie team that swept Lloydminster in the opening round of the playoffs and went on to join the AJHL champion Calgary Canucks as the league’s representatives in the Centennial Cup national championship.
This season has presented early challenges for the Storm (9-10-1), who had lost four of their previous five games before beating the Bobcats (12-7-1).
“A bit of a tough couple of weeks,” agreed Leduc,
holding an ice bag post-game. “It’s been kind of a rough year.
“Today, we were pushing through the third, trying to find our identity, just playing hard hockey and keeping things simple.
“Before then, (the Bobcats) were spending a lot of time in our zone, so we just needed to change that, simplify the neutral zone and get pucks in, and start shooting and test this goalie a little bit. We didn’t have a lot of shots the first two periods, but we changed that in the third and ended up getting the win.”
Grande Prairie’s other goals came from Chase Christensen, with a backhander on a partial breakaway, and defenceman Matthew Lesyk, with a shot through heavy traffic.
“It’s hard to assess his performance right now, after a game like that,” Labrosse said about Matonovich. “But, for his first weekend overall, I think he did fairly well. It definitely would have been fun for him to have more support (from teammates) on Friday and today.”
The Storm scored their three regulation goals during a four-shot span, which was precisely the same feat the Bobcats accomplished in building their second-period lead.
Tucker Robertson, Jack Ferguson and Matthew Hikida, respectively, tallied for Lloydminster. Robertson’s sixth goal of the year was his 10th point in the past eight games. Ferguson — on a sharp pass from Messier — scored for the second time in as many games. Hikida, on the power play, potted his 19th point in 20 games. He’s just one point behind team scoring leader Jadon Iyogun, whose two assists Sunday gave him 20 points (10-10) after 17 games.
With an assist on the opening goal, Bobcats’ rookie defenceman Xavier Normand recorded his fourth point of the season.
Lloydminster outshot Grande Prairie 32-26. Each team mustered three shots in overtime, during which Gus El-Tahhan almost won it for the Bobcats.
In front of 1,875 fans Friday at the Hub, Bonnyville never trailed as it avenged a home loss to Lloyd a week earlier. Ryley Budd made 39 saves for the Pontiacs (10-9), while the Bobcats’ Matonovich stopped 17 of 21 shots.
AJHL scoring leader Maxwell Pendy netted an empty-net goal and two assists to power Bonnyville,
which also received goals from Christophe Lussier, on the power play, Aidan Wilson, Brent Hoshowski and relative newcomer Antoine Demers.
Kade Fendelet, with a two-point night, and Ferguson scored power-play goals for Lloyd.
During a mostly strong November, the Bobcats distanced themselves from inconsistency that had dogged them earlier in the season, but some similar slip-ups cost them a pair of victories on the past weekend.
“Well, the first two periods today, we played like we’re supposed to play and how we played for a few weeks,” coach Labrosse said after Sunday’s game. “Then, in the third period, we came back to how we were maybe a month ago, same as it was Friday. So, some old habits popped up this weekend.
“I didn’t like the (past) week of practice for a lot of players and it kind of showed in the games this weekend, where some guys thought after four (straight) wins that it was probably going to start becoming easy. But I think they realized this weekend that it’s not the case. We’re not good enough to think that it’s going to be easy for us in the AJHL.”
One of the Bobcats’ most consistent players, second-year defenceman Dylan Deets, also noticed a less-focused week in practice preceding the two weekend home games against North Division opponents who sit below Lloydminster in the standings.
“Yeah, I mean, obviously the boys were a little worked down after all the games that we’ve been playing,” said Deets, a 17-year-old Cold Lake native. “But we started off hot in the week, then we took a dip in mid-week, and we’ve been battling back since. I think just the excitement of all the families coming (to Lloyd) probably got to our heads a little bit, and (we were) probably trying to make an extra move, which bit us there in the end.”
The Bobcats’ struggles in the third period were mostly self-inflicted, Deets said.
“We’ve just got to look to work through those moments and come out on top. We blew a 3-0 lead and that can’t happen.”
The Bobcats have ample time to regroup this week as they’re on a nine-day break between games. They don’t play again until they visit the Fort McMurray Oil Barons (10-6-3) for games next Tuesday and Wednesday (Nov. 25 and 26).
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
A season-opening suspension has been served, but the Lakeland Rustlers men’s volleyball team returned to the court last weekend with much more of a new look than the college club had initially planned.
After an Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference hazing investigation resulted in a four-game suspension to the men’s team, and an even longer ban for the Lakeland women’s club, the male Rustlers shuffled their roster deck.
They finally opened the regular season last weekend, winning over the SAIT Trojans on Saturday after losing to the Lethbridge Kodiaks on Friday, but they did so with a mostly young lineup.
“After some of the stuff that we had to go through this semester, to start, some of the guys decided that it may be best for their career, and for our program, to maybe take a redshirt year and come back that much stronger moving forward,” said Taylor Dyer, the men’s coach at Lakeland College.
“There’s lots of positives to that. There’s some negatives, too, (because) we’re not fielding our strongest lineup that we could be.
“(But) it’s just going to build us for the future. These young guys get a full year of game competition, so then they’ll (be able to) take over for that older group once they’re done next year.”
Most notably, the group of five redshirting Rustlers includes ACAC all-star Brock Tomyn, who was on the bench in street clothes and holding a clipboard during last weekend’s games.
It’s like having another assistant coach — or more — on the sidelines.
“Yeah, for sure,” Dyer concurred Saturday night as he listed the redshirt contingent. “A bunch of those guys were veteran leaders in our room, whether that’s Brock (Tomyn) or Kiefer (Sinclair), Declan (Mercer), Ian (Cousin), or Gabriel (Brinchmann Bjorkas). Those five, that’s a big chunk of our leadership group. So, yeah, it is like having more coaches on the bench with us and helping those young guys out not only in our competition, but in our training as well.
“We’ve been trying to put ourselves into a good spot, with our training.”
Not permitted to play ACAC games since the pre-season, the Rustlers have had more than their share of training and practice time during the past six weeks. So, the season-opening anticipation was that much more palpable last Friday.
It was like waiting for the school bell to ring, or counting down the days until exams finish and summer vacation begins.
“It’s nice to finally get on the court with this group and, hopefully, have a really strong season,” Dyer said Saturday after his Rustlers defeated SAIT 3-1 (25-22, 25-22, 16-25 and 25-21).
“We have a large team (numbers-wise). We’re really deep. So, the training environment has been
Finally back on the court, the Lakeland Rustlers men’s team won and lost its matches last weekend in Lloydminster.
really, really good. But, again, it doesn’t quite prepare you for ACAC league competition. It’s so strong and, obviously, it feels so different (from simply practising).”
In their Friday match, the Rustlers lost 3-0 (25-16, 25-23 and 25-19) to Lethbridge.
“Yeah, some growing pains, as far as we’re not quite where we want to be,” Dyer said in evaluating the weekend. “Game experience is going to help with that tremendously, so we’ve just got to be patient and hopefully we can strive to continue to get better.
“This is going to be a little bit of a different year, with a little bit of a different lineup — a little less veteran. So, it’s going to take us a little bit to get to a point where we’re going to maybe feel more comfortable.”
As for losing all that veteran experience for this year, at least, the Rustlers’ coaching staff supports the decision of those players who are redshirting, Dyer said.
“In the end, we left that decision up to them. This is their volleyball journey and their career, and their academic career as well. The way it worked out for them, they thought that might be the best option, the best route. I’ll support them in whatever decision they decided to make.”
Excluding the five players who are redshirting, and another ineligible for academic reasons, the Rustlers are still carrying 16 players on their active roster.
“For me, it’s another opportunity for this year to be a big step forward for our program, and for those young guys who will be taking over,” Dyer said. “I’m excited to be able to see what we can get
Lloydminster forward Fendelet joined a couple of other injured teammates on the sidelines Sunday. Labrosse said Fendelet, defenceman Quinn Keeler and goaltender Ben Polhill are being assessed for “week-to-week” injuries.
“It might be a little while until some of the boys are back.”
Keeler hasn’t played since Oct. 28. Polhill, out of the lineup for the past three games, left prematurely in the third period of the Bobcats’ 4-1 victory on Nov. 7 at Bonnyville. Involved in a heated and physical finish last Friday, Fendelet got hurt in that Nov. 14 rematch with the Pontiacs in Lloyd.
“Hopefully, he should be OK eight days from now against Fort Mac,” Labrosse said about captain Fendelet.
Grande Prairie made its Lloyd-Bonnyville trip without 20-year-old Leland Gill, the Storm’s most active goaltender this season. He was recuperating from a groin injury suffered last week in practice, Leduc said.
out of these young guys. They’re going to play a bunch. The trademark for them is growth this year, for sure. But again, we’ve been deep for a couple of years, so this group doesn’t lack the talent. We’re still really excited about what we can do.
“We beat a really talented SAIT team tonight. They were trying to get back into it, and our guys persevered. Being young and youthful, for them to be able to pull that off and win that fourth set when it was close, again that’s game experience that they haven’t had an opportunity to have quite yet. They’re getting that now, which will help them down the road.”
For now, the Rustlers own a 1-5 record at the bottom of the North Division standings. Their coach believes his players have done what they could in preparing for the delayed season, and in co-operating with the ACAC investigation.
“The guys have been super resilient,” Dyer said. “They’re up front and honest. They did the right thing in the end.
“We ended up getting sanctioned for it. That’s life. It’s a life lesson for a lot of them. Obviously, nobody wants to not get to play for four matches, but they took it and we’ll learn from it. It’s quite a bit in the rearview (mirror) now, for this group. Now that we’re playing, we can get back to it.”
Lakeland is back in action this weekend for road matches on Friday evening against the Briercrest Clippers and Saturday night versus the Medicine Hat Rattlers.
The Rustlers’ women’s volleyball team soon completes its eight-game suspension. Both Lakeland teams visit Ambrose University in Calgary on Nov. 28.
BETWEEN THE LINES: Family members and billets were introduced, along with the Bobcats, before Sunday’s game. Twenty of Lloydminster’s 24 players had family visiting the Hub during the weekend. …. Bobcats assistant coach Matt Brassard wasn’t available for the weekend games. He was attending his brother’s wedding in Toronto. …. Ex-Bobcats forward Alessio Nardelli , now of the SJHL’s Battlefords North Stars, was back in Lloyd for a Sunday visit. The night before, he scored his first goal and fourth point in six games with Battlefords. …. Defenceman Lucas Magowan , traded to Camrose from Lloyd on Nov. 5, has a goal and an assist after four games with the AJHL’s Kodiaks. …. The Bobcats skated with some of their youngest fans after Sunday’s game. …. Lloyd is on the road for eight of its next nine games. The only home game during that stretch is Nov. 29 against the first-place Whitecourt Wolverines (15-4). …. The Bobcats and Storm face each other three times in four days from Dec. 10 to Dec. 13 at Grande Prairie.
“As a kicker, you don’t get a lot of praise when things are just going normal,” Pierce said about Gratton’s role. “Every once in a while, you get put in a spot where you can make a huge impact on a game and a season. Ryden got put in that spot and was lights out. It was amazing.”
Pierce wasn’t able to dress for the playoffs, because of lingering groin and hamstring injuries from the regular season.
“Usually, it’s the type of stuff that you can play through, but I just wasn’t as healthy as I should have been to help contribute,” he said.
“It was super unfortunate, but it definitely doesn’t take away from how amazing a moment it is for me, as well as Ryden and just everybody. It feels just as good, regardless of not having an impact on that game.”
As one of the older players, Pierce continued to make an impact off the field, mentoring younger teammates who gained valuable experience in the process.
“I was super proud of all the receivers who stepped into those roles and were able to get the ball moving early on and keep us in a good position to win football games,” he said.
With snow on the sidelines framing the Hilltops’ latest national championship picture, Saskatoon managed to plow through the Sun, the powerhouse from Kelowna, B.C.
“That’s just football in Saskatchewan to a T,” Pierce said with a chuckle. “It’s the biggest game of the year and it’s minus-8 or whatever and you’re freezing your butt off, but you’ve just got to make it work. It’s pretty bad.”
Gratton made it all good as the Hilltops completed their comeback victory and handed Okanagan its only loss all season. He showed poise on the big stage.
“Definitely, the most nervous I’ve ever been, for sure,” said Gratton, five-foot-11 and 190 pounds. “But, honestly, I didn’t think too much. People were trying to talk to me on the sidelines, and I was just trying to lock in as much as possible.
“I was kicking the ball on the sidelines, though, just to keep warm, because you never know when you’re going to get that opportunity. And then, I got out there, and didn’t think at all. Just put my head down and kicked the ball and it went through the uprights.”
Gratton was also part of the Hilltops when they won a national title early in his junior career, but he described this year’s championship as a different experience, playing such an impactful role.
“This one definitely feels a lot better, for sure,” he said. “It’s such a special program and I’m just honoured to be a part of it. So much tradition and culture.”
Gratton and Pierce each have another year of junior eligibility remaining. Both are education students at the University of Saskatchewan, where Pierce played with the Huskies before moving to the Hilltops in 2024.
Gratton and Pierce are 2022 graduates of LCHS, home of the Barons.
“I’m extremely proud of Gratton and Pierce,” said Kieran Link, the Barons’ head coach.
“For both of them to win a national championship speaks to the quality of development that can come out of Lloydminster. Football in Saskatchewan is very grassroots, and these are athletes who have been playing since elementary school. To put in the time, effort and energy it takes to win a national championship is a tremendous accomplishment.”
That dedication has paid off in a big way for the former Barons.
“Gratton has been grinding with the Hilltops for four years, and when his number was called, he came through in the clutch,” Link said.
“I remember Ryden kicking several field goals against St. Paul in his Grade 12 year to help us win that game. He was dedicated, always at practice, always working. He’s always been steady and consistent.”
In similar fashion, Pierce brings a sense of professionalism to the game.
“I remember Xander coming up to the coaches in Grade 9 to shake our hands,” Link said. “He was respectful, driven, and wanted to be great. He was already polished as a high school player, and playing with the Sask Selects gave him more experience than most players his age.”
Lloyd Comp was also represented on this year’s Okanagan roster, as 2025 Barons’ graduate Mason Byford spent his rookie junior season with the Sun.
“Mason grew tremendously as a player in Kelowna, and in his first year he reached the national championship game,” Link said.
“That experience will be a major part of his development moving forward, and he now understands the standard of the program.”
The County of Vermilion River has received an application to add Data Processing Facilities as a Discretionary Use to the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02), to facilitate the development of a Data Processing Facility to assist in the mitigation of excess natural gas on an oil and gas lease site. To apply for a Development Permit for the Data Processing Facility, the Use must first be added to the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02).
A copy of Bylaw 25-22, being a bylaw to amend the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02) to add Data Processing Facilities as a Discretionary Use can be viewed at the County of Vermilion River Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM) at 505040 Hwy 897 by emailing planning@county24.com or on the County of Vermilion River Website here: https://www.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 25-22, being a bylaw to amend the County of Vermilion River Land Use Bylaw (Bylaw 19-02) may attend the Public Hearing either in-person or virtually via ZOOM Webinar and provide their input during the Public Hearing.
To attend the Public Hearing virtually, you must register prior to the Public Hearing here: https://www.vermilion-river.com/your-county/meeting-agendas-and-minutes
Written submissions should be submitted by emailing planning@county24.com, or by mail to Box 69 Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 no later than November 26, 2025 at 12:00 PM to be included as part of the Agenda Package for the December 2, 2025 Regular Meeting of Council and must be related to the topic of the Public Hearing.
Presentations may be limited to five (5) minutes in length.
The names of those who wish to speak, or have submitted written presentation will be recorded in the minutes of the December 2 2025, Regular Meeting of Council and will be published on the County of Vermilion River website. (Personal information is protected by the privacy provisions of the Access to Information Act and the Protection of Privacy Act)
For additional information related to the Public Hearing , please contact the Planning and Community Services Department:
Phone: (780) 846-2244 | Email: planning@county24.com
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
THE ESTATE OF MELANIE HAZEL SPIES, late of Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, Deceased. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 22nd day of December, 2025.
CLEMENTS & SMITH
Attention: Ross A. Clements Box 440 Lloydminster, SK S9V OY4
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
THE ESTATE OF JUNE CATHERINE MARIE DODA, also known as June Marie Doda; Catherine Marie Doda; June Katherine Doda; June Katherine Marie Doda and June Katherine Mary Fredericks who died on 2025-09-29
If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: 2025-12-27 with:
Alvin William Sholter B3 5012 46 St. Lloydminster, AB T9V 0C5 and provide details of your claim.
If you do not file by the date set out above, the estate property may be lawfully distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
IN THE ESTATE OF RODNEY DUANE GRAHAM, late of Lloydminster, Alberta, Deceased, who died on October 28, 2025
If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: December 15, 2025 with:
REVERING LAW OFFICE
Barristers & Solicitors 5018 - 50 Avenue Lloydminster, Alberta T9V 0W7 Attention: Donnon F. Revering
If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
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Leona is survived by her two daughters Laura (Charles) Cruickshank and Maxine (Paul) Schwartz, two grandchildren Chantelle Pichette and Kyle Cruickshank, two great-grandsons Cayne and Stone Pichette, stepdaughter Kathy (Larry) Paul & Family and stepson Darryl (Fran) Leighton & family, sister Inez (Des) Holtby & family, brother Glen (Lois) & family, brother Bill (Diana) Worman & family, sisters in laws Paulette Huxley and Doreen Hope, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.
Leona was predeceased by her husbands George Huxley and George Leighton, and parents Cliff and Sylvia Worman.
Honouring Leona’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. If desired, donations in memory of Leona may be made to a charity of donor’s choice.
The family would like to thank all the staff at Points West Living, Dr. Mark Ackerman, and dear friend Ena Bonnar for their wonderful care of our mom.
her younger years, she enjoyed baseball, basketball and choir. Leona, alongside husband George Huxley, farmed together for many years outside of Maidstone. Leona was very active, enjoyed bowling, curling and gardening. She loved to travel and spend time with family at Turtle Lake. Leona volunteered with many community organizations in Maidstone and Lloydminster throughout her lifetime. She served as a town councillor and was proud to be the first female mayor of Maidstone. Leona was a loving wife, mother, grandma and great-grandmother. She was always generous and willing to help others.
Frizzell (nee Akre) passed away at Lloydminster Hospital, Lloydminster, SK on November 9, 2025 at the age of 83 years.
Shirley was born in Saskatoon on January 5, 1942. She was the eldest of two sisters and one brother. Her parents were Larry and Winnifred Akre. Her younger years were spent roller skating, taking her cat for bike rides in her bike carrier, taking figure skating lessons and playing tennis. She attended Wilson School, City Park Collegiate and Saskatoon Tech. She took a business course at Saskatoon Tech and worked in a bank for many years. Shirley was very close to her grandparents and spent lots of happy days with them. She loved to watch Gramma make Lefsa on her coal and wood stove. In her teen years her family took in university students as boarders. Harvey was one of them. He ate meals with the family, and his humour and easy-going personality brought some much-needed
If we could have a lifetime wish a dream that would come true We’d pray to God with all our hearts for yesterday and you.
A thousand words can’t bring you back We know because we’ve tried And neither will a million tears We know because we’ve cried.
You left behind our broken hearts and happy memories too We never wanted memories... We only wanted you.
We Love and Miss you Dylan, Dad, Lisa and Families
relaxation and fun to the family.
Little did they know that love between Harvey and Shirley would blossom into a courtship and marriage. In 1960 they were married at Third Ave Church, where they pledged their love to each other, in front of 60 guests, enjoying a turkey meal after. They were blessed with three wonderful children.
Harvey passed away on November 10, 2024. They were married 63 years.
Shirley is survived by: her children, Sandra, Terry (Melanie) and Bob (Brenda); grandchildren, Ryan (Rochelle), Darcy, Tyler, Alexandra, Jade, Justin and Riley; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Dakota and Jayke; as well as numerous family members.
As per Shirley's request, no service was held. Memorial donations may be made to Lloydminster Region Health Foundation.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to McCaw Funeral Service, Homecare Services, Lloydminster Hospital staff and we are especially grateful for the care provided by 3rd floor care nurses. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements.
The Frizzell family would like to thank all those who showed their support.
In loving memory of a dear son, brother, uncle
NOVEMBER 24, 1986 – NOVEMBER 20, 2015
Wherever a beautiful soul has been
There is a trail of beautiful memories
It is so hard to believe it’s 10 years since you left us all. Patrick, you have left a trail of laughter, joy, tears, incredible memories and unconditional love. Thank you for being a special part of our lives. We love you forever and always.
Love Mark & Linda Harty
Aleata Harty - Halle
Laura and Daniel Mercier and family & Lana Harty
of 56 years, Wanda (Campbell) Young; son, Rob Young (Michelle Olson); daughter, Jodi Young (Lyle Berry); grandchildren, Jacy (Nathan), Jade (Todd), Daniel, Levi and Lexi (Colten); great-grandchildren, Farah, Avery and Adalynn; step-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Ryan, Emily and Tyler; and special friends and loved ones.
Roy was predeceased by: his parents, Bob "Robert" and Emelia Young; parents-in-law, Tom and Moira Campbell; and brother-in-law, Roy Murray.
The Funeral Service for Roy was conducted from Marwayne
on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM. If you are unable to attend in person, you may view the recording of the service posted on McCaw Funeral Service website under Roy's obituary.
Donations in memory of Roy may be made to donor's charity of
McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements.
CARD OF THANKS
Thank You does not seem enough to convey the heartfelt gratitude we feel towards so many family, friends and neighbors who have helped, supported and stayed by us all these months. Many of whom went above and beyond.
Special Thanks to Ron and Teresa Miskie, Ilona and Shawn Franklin, Brett Johnson and Marwa yne First Responders. You will never know how very much your immediate presence meant to me that day and what Ilona and Shawn did for us that night.
Our family put their lives on hold on Jan 24, 2024, took over the calving season for us and Michelle took me to Edmonton and stayed with us until we were sent to Provost. They made huge sacrifices without hesitation.
Special Thanks also to Pete and
Wennecamp and family and friends who brought food and helped in any way they could and to all relatives, friends and neighbors who called, sent texts, visited the farm, hospitals and kept in touch.
After the hospitals, Thank You to Islay and Vermilion Home Care Staff for your support in so many different ways. Your kindness and willingness to help supply us with whatever we needed during the 14 months we spent in our home. Many of you became like family to us.
A Special Thank You to the doctor and all the nurses on 300 Wing of Vermilion Hospital for their dedication and caring support over the final 3 months. A heartfelt Thank You to all those who visited and spent many hours with us during the last 90 days. Special Thanks to Pastor Kevin Nelson for the many visits and to him and his wife, Barb, and Tim and Sheila Gibbs for their special gift of music and song in the hospital.
I cannot begin to express the depth of our appreciation for the caring guidance of Brett McCaw and the staff at McCaw Funeral Service as we prepared for that day that no family is prepared to face. Thank You for your gentleness, understanding and
flawless. Heartfelt Thank You to Pastor Kevin Nelson for the final service, for reading of the Eulogy and accompanying the first two songs on the piano. To Pastor Kevin, Barb, Jon Gibbs, Tim and Sheila Gibbs for their beautiful rendition of those songs. To Sonia Franklin for consenting to be our pianist and leading the last song. Deepest love and gratitude to Rob, Lyle, Jason, Tyler, Adam and Brady for being the pallbearers. A loving act for a man they all loved and admired. Thank you to Donna Burke for the beautiful wreath and to all who sent flowers, attended the service and to those who weren't able to attend but reached out in calls and texts. Thank You to Colleen's Catering for the beautiful luncheon and to Colleen for your very special care - my thoughts are with You.
I hope I have reached out to everyone who sent floral tributes, made donations, planted a tree and placed a Gideon Bible and for personal thank you cards, expressing our gratitude for your thoughtfulness. The support we have received has been truly overwhelming and "Thank You" does not begin to cover it adequately! We have been so Blessed.
Wanda and Family of the late Roy
Application deadline: February
2026
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