What’s inside
Civic Centre set for demolition
2,3
run motors through town
4
13, 15 AJHL season kicks off Friday
Dialysis unit opens in Lloyd
The Lloydminster Hemodialysis Unit officially opened its doors on Sept. 16, bringing to fruition a $6.4-million project that took over a decade to complete.
The new dialysis unit, located at the Community Services Building at 3830 43 Ave., is currently operating six stations Monday through Saturday, up from five at the hospital.
An expansion to all nine stations will open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays later this fall as new staff come on board. The unit will also add time slots as patient demand grows.
Hemodialysis filters toxins and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. Treatments last around four hours and are often needed three times a week.
Alberta Kidney Care–North delivered more than 185,000 hemodialysis treatments in our region last year. They also offer peritoneal dialysis, home hemodialysis and conservative care for patients who might not tolerate dialysis.
Alberta Health Services’ Kidney Care-North patient care manager Janice Thompson said the new space allowed them to clear the dialysis waitlist for the Lloydminster area.
“Our new larger unit enables us to care for more patients than ever before in a more comfortable environment that also
provides improved patient privacy and spaces for our care teams,” said Thompson. “We’re very grateful to all the partners and supporters involved in making this expansion in Lloydminster possible.”
Saskatchewan Health Authority Acute Care Northwest executive director Dr. Lyle Grant applauded the work of everyone involved in the project.
“Today’s grand-opening event and the expansion of dialysis services mark meaningful progress in our shared goal to bring dialysis care closer to home for more patients,” said Grant.
“I wish to thank our project partners from Alberta and Saskatchewan for their co-operation and the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation (LRHF) for their continued generosity in seeing the project through to completion.”
The LRHF contributed upwards of $170,000 through donor support to assist with the expansion and add comforts like bedside TVs.
“We’re especially grateful to the generous donors from our community and region whose support made this vision a reality,” said foundation
CEO Stephanie Munro.
“Thanks to them, the new unit is built not only for the needs of today, but for growth in the future, with patient comfort and care at the heart of every detail.”
Dignitaries and patients mark the opening of Lloydminster’s new Hemodialysis Unit on Sept. 16. Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER ..................................
Council votes to demolish Civic Centre
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
The Centennial Civic Centre’s fate has been sealed following a council motion that will see the building demolished in 2026.
The Civic Centre, which has been serving the Lloydminster region since 1967, will close its doors permanently, making way for the Cenovus Energy Hub.
Council heard a presentation at the Sept. 8 regular council meeting and had the opportunity to discuss the old barn’s future.
Administration reported some good news for the Cenovus Energy Hub.
“We did our soft opening this week,” said Joel Turcotte, the city’s director of recreation and cultural services, at the Sept. 8 meeting.
Councillors around the table weighed in on what they wanted to see happen to the Civic Centre. Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson says closing the building is something that has to happen.
“In the scope of what we need to do, we rely on experts to tell us things that we don’t know and the experts have told us it’s time to pull the plug,” she said. “This is something that has to happen.”
Details were provided on specifics for demolition. Decommissioning of the Civic Centre will be included in the capital budget.
“Demolition, we’ve put together a budget for a total of $1.3 million,” said Turcotte.
In terms of what happens after the building is gone, administration ßclarified they don’t have the price for what they would sell the land for yet. That particular piece of information would return to a future council meeting for decision.
There’s also a number of items inside the arena that could be sold.
“Our estimation is that we believe we could get about $90,000 for items in there that we could sell,” said Turcotte.
Administration clarified long-term repairs weren’t explored as part of the Civic Centre’s future.
“(At the) time of the initial report it wasn’t recommended to look at longterm repairs, so the engineers didn’t look past that,” said Tracy Simpson, the city’s executive manager of community development services.
“We didn’t explore any of those options.”
Coun. Justin Vance wants the city to explore all possibilities for the arena’s future.
“I really hope we looked at all options before it came to this moment,” he said.
Vance asked if it would be possible to put it on the market to sell the building and administration said it would be up to council’s direction.
Coun. Jim Taylor weighed in with the notion of keeping the Civic Centre around as a back-up ice facility.
“I’m kind of having some mixed feelings about having the potential option or cost to keep it operational just as a back-up facility,” he said.
Keeping both facilities open would be a challenge for the city staff.
“The biggest challenge, it would be staff and labour, we’re splitting the team between the two facilities and that’s definitely not a long-term solution for them to operate,” said Simpson.
She clarified they plan to put the Archie Miller Arena ice in early to help alleviate some of the pressure.
Some things will still need to be done when the doors of the Civic Centre do close.
“We do have to check on it daily for insurance purposes,” said Simpson. “We’ll still keep basic power and heat in the building so, it doesn’t freeze up. We’ll check for break-ins.”
There’s one last event at the Civic Centre, a wedding happening in October, prior to the proposed Oct. 6 closing date.
Taylor wanted to see the motion not have an effective date instead of the Oct. 6 date, leaving it open to administration on when to close it.
Turcotte provided some details as to how work at the Russ Robertson Arena is going.
“We’re still currently working on that project,” he said. “We are still currently looking at the end of October, early November.”
Coun. David Lopez said the Civic Centre could still be used as an ice surface while the Russ Robertson is undergoing construction.
“I feel like we need to put the Civic Centre up for sale, put a tender out there, see if somebody wants it,” he said.
“To shut it down Oct. 6 and then open up the Archie Miller to put another ice surface in, to not know how the fall is going to be, to not know when the Russ Robertson’s going to be.
“We could use that ice surface until the Russ Robertson’s open.”
He said Oct. 6 is too pre-emptive.
“I think we’re jumping the gun on this one,” said Lopez.
An item that has been discussed is what would happen to the old banners in the Civic Centre. The teams have opted to decide what banners they’d be moving over to the Cenovus Energy Hub.
When it comes to selling the building, Coun. Michael Diachuk says he’s worried about someone buying the building and then selling to someone else, who then could resell it.
“My concern is that, if we sell it and get whatever it is we get and we have this white elephant that’s stuck there and we’re left with the cleanup bill at the end of it all,” he said. “I would rather be in charge of our own destiny around that.”
Coun. Jason Whiting said the earlier date pushes everything else into place quicker.
“The sooner this is offline, in my mind, the better for everything else going on,” he said.
Simpson offered a timeline of events that would happen when the building was finally closed down.
“If we closed in October of this year we would put some of the components of the facility in our city auction, late October,” she said.
The city would then start itemization of what they can repurpose, remove anything that hasn’t been removed and shutter it for the winter. There would need to be some specialized work done to decommission the refrigeration plant. The city would be bringing in a refrigeration technician to remove the plant.
“There’s some very specific code requirements when you decommission an ammonia plant,” said Simpson.
Salvage of the building would be considered if there’s anything inside worth saving. A demolition company would come in and do abatement for asbestos or mold if it was found. An extensive amount of reclamation would also be done on the ground.
Boards will be evaluated if they can be reused. Information from the entire process will be brought to a future council meeting.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers says demolition of the building is in the city’s best interest.
“From demolition and decommissioning, I believe it’s in the city’s best interest,” he said. “I don’t know if the city and the residents and everybody believes that.”
Council discussed potentially sending this item back to administration to rework the motion. Charles Gustafson wanted council to be direct with what their intentions were.
“You have to say what it is,” she said. “For me, I was a little bit in the feelings about what the community is feeling and we’ve all felt it. My council table feeling says we’ve got to move forward.
“I don’t think we can keep tiptoeing around what the inevitable is here.”
Diachuk asked if anyone had expressed any interest in buying the building up to this point.
“We’ve had two inquiries for the land,” said Simpson. “One was originally interested in the building and after sharing some of the details of the reports, they switched to be interested in the land.”
Council directed administration to permanently close the Centennial Civic Centre building and plan for the decommissioning and demolition of
the building in 2026.
Lopez and Vance voted in opposition of the motion.
HOGs hit street for youth
Riders couldn’t have asked for better weather for the Border Town HOGs’ 14th annual toy run.
The run departed from Denham Chrysler on Saturday, Sept. 13, and raised money for Big Brothers Big Sisters, KidSport Lloydminster, the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre and Lloydminster Sexual Assault Services.
In addition to the ride’s four partner charities, funds also supported the public and Catholic school divisions’ lunch programs, the Ronald McDonald House in Edmonton and Saskatoon, the GOAT’s Christmas Wish and the Olive Tree.
Event co-chair Murray Getty, who’s been riding since Day 1, said the event is near and dear to the hearts of club members.
“It all stays local to the community. We really want to be able to help the community and help people that are maybe not as fortunate as we are,” said Getty.
“Riding motorcycles is a luxury, we know that, so it’s good to be able to give something back to the community.”
The group left Denham’s parking lot and did a loop around the Border City before travelling to Irma for beef on a bun, provided by the local 4-H club. They then ripped back to Lloyd for a dinner and dance at the WLS Convention Centre to continue the fundraising.
Saturday’s banquet featured a live auction and entertainment by Playing With Fire.
For video and a full photo gallery from the event, visit us online at meridiansource.ca
Top left: Volunteers from KidSport Lloydminster were manning the grills at the 14th annual Border Town HOGs Toy Run pancake breakfast on Saturday, Sept. 13. Above: The rider group was all smiles at Denham Chrysler ahead of Saturday’s toy run, which travelled south to Irma for beef on a bun before a banquet at the WLS Convention Centre at the Lloyd Ex. Taylor Weaver Meridian Source photos
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Kiwanis evening full of surprises
The Kiwanis Club of Lloydminster’s most recent meeting ended up being a night full of surprises for community members and the organization.
The primary purpose of the evening was to make the final draw for the $5,000 50/50, won by Assma Bouzaid of Marwayne. The surprises, however, didn’t stop there.
Kiwanis Western Canada Division 5 Lt. Governor Terry Ross also brought four awards for the organization from a recent convention.
Club secretary Vera Gallant earned the award for the largest number of new members by a single club member.
The club also earned awards for the largest percentage growth, the highest per capita service hours and most distinguished club.
The organization also welcomed new members Amy Gray and Jennifer Deck during Ross’s visit. Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for the club’s annual Christmas Light
Anyone
Local Business Directory
display at Kiwanis Park, which starts in late November.
interested in getting involved with the club is encouraged to reach out via social media.
From left, Vera Gallant, Amy Gray, Jennifer Deck and Terry Ross. Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
From left, Phil Liska,Asmaa Bovzaid andVera Gallant pose for a photo at the $5,000 cheque presentation on Sept. 9. Courtesy of Kiwanis Club of Lloydminster
Triple-murder case set for 2026 sentencing
A Sweetgrass First Nation man is scheduled for sentencing early next year for murdering a father and his two adult sons in Lloydminster in September 2024.
Nakota Rayne Pooyak, 31, remains in custody. He was charged with three counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of Brent Peters, 66, and his sons Matthew, 32, and Brennan, 34.
The victims were found dead at their northeast Lloydminster home in what RCMP described as a targeted attack.
Police arrested Pooyak in January 2025 and described the investigation as complex and ongoing, involving multiple units and witnesses. Officials have not disclosed the motive and no additional charges have been laid.
The killings drew a strong reaction from the community, with many residents expressing shock and concern about safety. RCMP said the city remains safe, though the murders have left a lasting impact.
According to court documents, Pooyak will appear in Lloydminster court on Feb. 20, 2026. The sentencing will conclude more than a year of legal proceedings.
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
File photo
Archie Miller Arena receives council support
The Archie Miller Arena has a clearer future following the Sept. 8 regular council meeting.
Lloydminster council first heard a presentation on the Archie Miller at the June 16 meeting that showed strong community support for the arena.
The item returned to council for direction, with administration recommending the arena remain as an ice facility and that administration plan to complete repairs to the facility in a planned approach over the next several years.
“Once we get direction on where we want to go, we can deep dive more into what is the best option moving forward,” said Tracy Simpson, executive manager of community development services.
The arena will need a new ice plant to continue operating and the lighting will need to be looked at.
“The lighting is extremely old there and we have some light pieces that are out currently, and we can’t find parts to actually replace it,” said Joel Turcotte, director of recreation and cul-tural services.
Lloydminster will have new ice surfaces opening in the city with the Cenovus Energy Hub but the demand for more ice time still exists.
“I see the use being there for us in terms of us providing the ice surface, cement pad, possibility absolutely, but I’m not sure beyond that,” said Coun. Michael Diachuk. “I would tread with caution around it. But certainly, I would want to make sure that we absolutely get our maximum usage of that facility.”
Coun. David Lopez pointed out it would be hard to build a new arena for the cost of fixing up the Archie Miller.
“I think we’re going to be needing the facility. Honestly right now in this day and age for, $5 million, what do you build? You’re never going to build another arena,” he said. “Does it have to be done this year? No, but I think we can start saving up and start getting some reserves set up and set aside so we can put in a new plant and put in a concrete slab when it needs to be done.”
The asks to fix up the arena may come back during this year’s budget time.
“Depending on where administration’s at, it could be a budget item in 2026 or the 2026 budget (could be) talking about an ice plant,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers.
Ultimately, council approved the Archie Miller Arena plan report as presented. They also di-rected administration to continue to operate the arena as an ice facility and that budget be allocated to support a multi-phase and multi-year capital strategy within the 10-year capital plan.
CHRISTIAN APOSTOLOVSKI STAFF WRITER
Source file photo
LMC raises big bucks at season closer
The Lloydminster Motor Club (LMC) raised more than $1,000 during its season closer on Sept. 7.
LMC president Rachel Block-Magistad said the event, which drew nearly 150 participant vehicles, raised a significant amount of funds for The GOAT’s Christmas Wish, with online auctions ongoing.
She said a lifted 2006 GMC 2500 HD from Dallaire’s Diesel Performance in Bonnyville stood out with its custom wrap by Echelon Wrapz & Auto Detailing. A rare Acura NSX and a small MG, which competed in car limbo, also drew attention.
“We had around 140 cars, give or take,” said Block-Magistad. “It was incredible to see the variety, and so many bikes, too.”
She credited sponsors, vendors, volunteers and her admin team for making the day possible.
“This year was a great success,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the club.”
Planning for 2026 begins next month, and the club’s season opener is scheduled for May or June.
Aside from multiple businesses and unique vehicles, the event featured a live vehicle extrication demonstration by Blackfoot Fire and Rescue.
Spectators watched as crews pried open doors and removed the roof. The steps mirrored how firefighters would free a crash-trapped victim.
“It’s important for the public to see the tools we use and how we use them,” said Block-Magistad. “Chief John McGerrigle and his team put on an amazing demonstration. We’re so thankful they could come.”
County of Vermilion River Fire Chief Kirk Hughes said the display showed more than technical skill.
“The County of Vermilion River Fire Service is an integral part of our communities,” said Hughes. “That engagement with them, outside of emergencies, not only strengthens our bonds but showcases the skills and professionalism of our volunteers. Ultimately, it allows our volunteers to interact with those that they serve, while also garnering interest from the public that may be interested in joining.”
The complete list of winners
- Highest mileage #64 - 03’ Acura CL
- Most original #47 - 55’ Fargo
- Best wrap #47 - 06’ GMC Sierra 87’
- Older classic truck #39 -55’ Chev 1300 Stepside 87’
- Older classic car #27 - 71’ Old Cutlass 88’
- Newer car #19. - 88’ Honda Prelude 88’
- Newer truck #49 - 93’ Dodge Dakota Warrior
- Most custom classic car #38. - 69’ Old Cutlass
- People’s choice #28. - 92’ Ford Bronco
- Admins’ choice #23. - 77’ Ford Cobra II
- Best import #14. - 71’ MG MGB
- Prez choice #2. - 79’ Chev Silverado C10
- Most redneck #110. - 56’ Chev Bélair
- Tallest vehicle & most rubber #101. - 79’ Chev Jimmy
- Best bike #93 - 92’ Harley Hugger 883
- Most likely to get into a police chase #105. - 94’ Toyota Supra
- Participants’ choice # 104. - 79’ Ford Bronco
- Lowest of the low #115 - 91’ Acura NSX
- Kids choice #62. - ‘13 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
For event video and a full photo gallery, visit meridiansource.ca
DAN GRAY STAFF WRITER
Remembrance walk helps healing process
Reducing stigma surrounding mental health and suicide awareness were top of mind at the 16th annual Walk of Remembrance.
The walk, held at Bud Miller All Seasons Park’s picnic area on Saturday, Sept. 13, was in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day. It was also a chance for families, friends, and anyone who’s lost a loved one to suicide, to come together to celebrate their life and share the journey they’re on, according to the walk’s co-chair, Neil Harris.
“It helps individuals feel supported in a bigger group and know they’re not the only one going through this. It’s a time for support,” he said.
“It’s OK to talk about it and it’s OK to say, ‘Hey, I’m struggling and I need help.’ ”
The afternoon included an opening prayer, land proclamation and words from local dignitaries before walkers took to the trails. Guest speaker Charlene Rowein also shared her journey after losing her brother to suicide 32 years ago.
Read the full story online at meridiansource.ca
Shirley Gervais delivers the opening prayer at the 16th annual Walk of Remembrance. Taylor Weaver MERIDIAN SOURCE
TAYLOR WEAVER EDITOR
Thursday, September 18, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
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Gray Matters: Progress vs. reality
If the federal government’s goal was to show Canadians it’s serious about cutting red tape and getting housing and infrastructure off the ground faster, someone forgot to send the memo to reality.
In recent weeks, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration unveiled two shiny new government offices, the Major Projects Office (MPO) and Build Canada Homes.
The announcements, we’re told, are meant to “streamline approvals” and speed up construction.
In practice? Ottawa has created two new layers of bureaucracy and awarded one of the highest-paid public sector jobs to a former Trans Mountain board member, paying more than half a million dollars a year to oversee a “streamlined” office.
Irony is in full attendance. The MPO’s first five projects, those lucky enough to receive the fast-track treatment, include LNG expansions, port upgrades, nuclear energy, wind power and critical mineral developments. Oil pipelines, the lifeblood of Alberta’s economy, are nowhere on the list. Not a single one.
Even Alberta’s famously anti-Ottawa premier, Danielle Smith, seems unbothered.
After meeting Carney, she called the discussions “optimistic,” praising progress despite the absence of pipelines.
Her sudden calm stands in stark contrast to the frustration felt by local Conservatives and industry leaders, raising questions about whether political optics are taking precedence over Alberta’s real energy needs.
I recently spoke with Conservative Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs, who dismissed Ottawa’s promises as mostly talk. She noted efforts to enshrine a twoyear timeline for project approvals were blocked, projects on the national list could still be removed at any time, and Indigenous consultation remains limited.
Stubbs also warned these gaps are slowing approvals.
Meanwhile, the promised “streamlining” appears to be more akin to a corporatesized paycheque, with a focus on energy projects that may not have the desired impact and increased Ottawa oversight rather than less.
Many in Western Canada are left asking, is this about action, or optics? Affordable housing, or bureaucratic pageantry? And if Carney really wants to streamline the process, why are the projects that matter most, such as the oil pipelines, homes and infrastructure that keep the economy humming, still only promises on paper?
Ottawa, it seems, is busy building offices while Canadians wait for results.
If this is progress, someone forgot to tell the people on the ground.
Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Chris’ A-Z: A Border City Hallmark
Herbert Botsford Hall, possibly one of the coolest old-timey names I’ve ever heard. Sorry if that’s your name today, but hey, at least your name’s cool.
When talking about H.B. Hall, I was surprised to see an article refer to him as “the other colonist.” At the time, I knew nothing about him outside of the store he ran.
Hall was born in 1866 in Rothesay, N.B. He grew up on the east coast and eventually married Laura Parks and had three children. He was married by a familiar face in 1890, the old Rev. George Exton Lloyd.
It was the same L loyd who asked Hall to move out west to Lloydminster, stopping short of Hall’s original plan of going to Red Deer.
It was off for the Hall family; they packed a pair of railroad cars, half with household requirements and the other with horses and his purebred Hereford cattle.
Once they got to Saskatoon, they went with a farm wagon and horses, taking two weeks in transit with their household items.
Originally, he was going to settle in the Southminster District, intending to farm on a homestead. He wanted his children to get an education, so he moved to the town. He was educated at an agriculture college in Guelph, Ont., not far from my hometown.
Hall noted that Lloydminster had a lack of supplies and services, deciding it would be a good idea to start a general store.
He found partners in George Scott of Edmonton and Dr. W. Amos, and thus, Hall, Scott and Co. opened in early 1904.
It was only a couple of years later that the business was divided, with Hall running a grocery and dry goods store in 1906. The store was 25 feet by 60
feet, with a second storey eventually added with identical dimensions.
The fire of 1929 claimed the Hall business, and it was eventually rebuilt in brick. Hall’s son Stephen entered the business, and it became H.B. Hall and Son Ltd.
In 1964, the business was sold to the local co-op, ending a long history of Hall family stores in Lloydminster.
I found it funny that Hall’s store was described as “Always representing the best in British tradition.” Hall was a fifth-generation Canadian, but it appeared he understood his largely British clientele.
He was also well-known for his leadership in the city, serving as overseer of the town for two terms as mayor. He was also a member of the Masonic order; I don’t know much about his involvement with the secret society, but with a name like Herbert Botsford I can only imagine he was their leader.
Many leaders in Lloyd had interesting histories. I look at the story of Hall as more than just the other colonist and more than just a mayor. He was dedicated to the community and even gave up land he had acquired with a pair of partners to better the city.
Photo courtesy of Lloydminster Museum and Archives
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.
Passport to YLL
To place an event, email taylor@meridiansource.ca or fax 306-825-5147
Cards, games, food, meetings, live music
Bingo at the Moose Lodge
Bingo is back at the Moose Lodge! Bingo is every Monday and Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m. Must be 18 to play.
The Comic Strippers at the Vic Juba Tarps off, comedy on! The Comic Strippers return to the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 20 for a night of fun. The male stripper parody and award-winning improv comedy show is a 19-plus event for all genders. Tickets are $54 each and are available at the box office on the theatre’s website. All sales are final.
Kaiser Tournament at the Moose Lodge
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge is hosting a kaiser tournament at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21. Registration is from noon to 12:45 p.m. All players must register by Sept. 18. Bring a partner and enjoy an afternoon of kaiser and fun. Cost is $20/player, which includes snacks and coffee and/or tea. Prizes awarded to the top three players. Contact Arne at 306-821-7459 or Bruce at 780-522-6972 for more information.
Breakfast at the Moose Lodge
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge hosts a breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sept. 21. Cost is $13 for adults, $5 for kids six-12 and free for kids
under five. Full breakfast will include eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausages, pancakes, toast, etc.
Ahmadiyya Muslim Run for Lloydminster
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Elders’ Association, an auxiliary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at Canada, is hosting its Run for Lloydminster this Saturday at Bud Miller All Seasons Park. Registration is $28.93 and the 3 km run, jog and walk will support Inclusion Lloydminster. Registration starts at 11:30 a.m., opening remarks at noon and the run starts at 12:30 p.m. Visit runforlloyd.ca for details.
Cribbage at the Moose Lodge
The Lloydminster Moose Lodge will hold a singles cribbage tournament on Sunday, Sept. 21 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entry fee is $20, eight games guaranteed with prizes awarded to the top finishers. Snacks, coffee and drinks included. Must register by Friday, Sept. 19 (tomorrow). For more info or to register contact Bruce at 780522-6972
The Alan Jackson Experience at the Vic Juba The Alan Jackson Experience performed by Aaron Halliday is at the Vic Juba Community Theatre on Sept. 25. Tickets are $56.50 each or $54.50 for seniors and students. Tickets are available at the box office on the theatre’s website.
United Church of Canada Centennial Tea
The United Church Women Invite you to join us for tea to celebrate! Wear your Tea Hat from the Past Century! Saturday, Sept. 27, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Grace United Church, 4708 50 Ave., Lloydminster. Silver Collection.
Hillmond Turkey Supper
Hillmond’s turkey supper is being held on Oct. 5 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Hillmond Hall. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for students aged six-12 and preschoolers are free.
Blackfoot Beef Supper
The Blackfoot beef supper, sponsored by the Blackfoot Community Hall Association, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 19, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Blackfoot Hall. Cost is $20 for adults, $10 for kids six to 12 or $60 for a family (max two adults and four kids from the same family).
Amateur Basic Radio Course
The SaskAlta Amateur Radio Club is putting on a basic radio training course from Oct. 25, 2025, to April 25, 2026, in Vermilion. Training will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and there will be a Christmas/ new year break. The location of the classroom is to be determined. Visit them on Facebook or at www. saskaltarc.ca for full details.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
MERIDIAN SOURCE
Fendelet becomes face of the Bobcats
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
Kade Fendelet’s final year as a Lloydminster Bobcat changed gears even before the junior A hockey team skated into its flashy new rink last week.
For the first time in his hockey career, the fourth-year forward is living with a billet family in the Border City. His own family moved back to Saskatoon in the spring. They had lived in Lloyd since Fendelet was born 20 years ago this October.
Now, just like most of his teammates from across Canada, Fendelet has settled into a billet home. He’s living with Fendelet family friends Bart and Tracy King, renowned baseball builders in Lloydminster.
“It’s definitely a bit of adjusting, with it being my last year here and my first time billeting,” Fendelet said after the Bobcats defeated the Battlefords North Stars 7-1 in pre-season play Sept. 12 in the historic first game at the Cenovus Energy Hub.
“But no, it’s been really good. They’re super supportive and they make me feel at home.”
The Kings, after all, aren’t exactly strangers to billeting. They hosted their nephew, goaltender Freddie Halyk, a few years ago when he played with the Bobcats.
Fendelet remained in Lloydminster this summer after his family relocated to Saskatoon. He said the Kings welcomed him like a family member.
“I was, like, ‘Hey, is it cool if I move in with you guys?’ Yeah, they didn’t hesitate at all, so it’s been awesome there.”
On the ice, it’s shaping up to be a season like no other for Fendelet and his fellow Bobcats.
They christened the Hub in style last Friday night, and he played a
leading role with two goals and an assist in front of almost 1,000 fans.
The crowd included Fendelet’s mother and father, sister Ayden and younger brother Koen, the former U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers’ forward now stepping into junior B hockey with the Saskatoon Quakers.
“They all made the trip,” Fendelet said. “It was awesome to see them in the crowd tonight. It’s always nice to see them and be able to catch up with them.”
Koen graduated from Lloydminster’s Holy Rosary High School in the spring, clearing the way for the Fendelet family to follow through on their longtime intentions to return to Saskatoon, where many of their family members reside.
“I’ve got lots of family there,” Kade said. “They’re super happy up there.”
NATURAL LEADER
Kade, recognized for his academic achievements during his years with the Bobcats, worked with a finance company this summer in Lloyd. Not exactly a typical job for a junior hockey player.
Now, the money man is a safe bet to become the next captain of the Bobcats, if not at least part of the leadership group.
Along with his on-ice presence, Fendelet endeared himself to management this summer as he played a leading role in community involvement.
“He’s a fourth-year guy for us and he’s a local product,” said Bobcats general manager Nigel Dube. “It’s those players (you rely on). When some other players go in different directions, you want others to step up, and he’s one of those that have done it. He was heavily involved all summer in our community, through our kids’ camp, and he’s done great things.
- Fri: 3pm - 7pm Sat: 11am - 7pm Sun: 1pm - 6pm
The new AJHL season marks Kade Fendelet’s fourth and final year as a Lloydminster Bobcat. John MacNeil Meridian Source
‘You don’t want to let anyone take that away’
“I think if you ask anybody, Kade definitely wants to win at the end of the day, including at the end of the year.”
With a new year about to start, Fendelet downplayed any of the talk that he might become captain.
“It would be pretty cool, but I’m trying not to really focus on that,” he said. “I’m just kind of happy to be here. I’m happy with what I am so far.
“Depending on what they do decide, I think they’ll make the right decision regardless.”
Fendelet scored 21 goals and 42 points in 53 games last season. He added two goals in four playoff games, including the final official Bobcat goal in Civic Centre history as the Grande Prairie Storm swept Lloyd in the first round.
Including a 5-3 loss to Battlefords on Sunday (Sept. 14) at Thunderchild First Nation, the Bobcats finished this year’s pre-season with a 2-3 record.
WEEKEND AT HOME
It all begins for real this weekend as Lloydminster hosts the Fort McMurray Oil Barons on Friday and Saturday nights (Sept. 19 and 20) in the first AJHL regular-season action at the 2,500-seat Hub.
“With it being my last year here, I want to have as much success as I can as a team,” Fendelet said. “The goal is you want to play as long as you can. You don’t want to let anyone take that away from you. Sort of take it all in, I guess, and really focus on the friendships and the memories and everything that comes along with it.
“The guys who are returning from last year, it’s a great group of guys, and then just talking to all the new guys, they’re happy to be here. They’ve been awesome, just getting to know them a little bit more the last little bit.”
One of Fendelet’s friends from Lloydminster, Aiden Foster, became an NHL draft choice this spring. The Tampa Bay Lightning selected Foster, a forward with the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, in the fourth round, 127th overall.
On the afternoon of the late June draft, Fendelet and another buddy, Cayden Wildeman, showed up at Foster’s house wearing Tampa hats, soon after the Lightning chose the Lloyd boy.
This past week, while Fendelet and the Bobcats set up shop in the state-ofthe-art Hub, more Lloydminster hockey history was written as Foster reported to Tampa’s camp and his first NHL prospects tournament.
“For him to be rewarded, and to see his name called in the NHL draft, that’s super exciting for him,” Fendelet said. “He’s a kid that deserves it. He does all the right things.”
Foster is 18, two years younger than Fendelet, but they’ve become close friends the past few years while training together in the off-season.
“Summer was good,” Fendelet said. “It was nice to unwind and get away from the game a little bit, just spend some time with friends and family.
“But that being said, it gets to the point where you get bored. You want to get back out on the ice, back in the gym. It’s good to find a balance.”
The Lloydminster Bobcats celebrate the team’s first goal in Hub history on Sept. 12.
John MacNeil Meridian Source
FENDELET FROM PAGE 13
Bobcats embrace Hub hockey hoopla
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
This doesn’t seem like Lloydminster.
That was a common sentiment Friday night (Sept. 12) as fans and teams alike savoured their first taste of junior A hockey pre-season action in the brand-new Cenovus Energy Hub.
The script was complete after the host Lloydminster Bobcats defeated the Battlefords North Stars 7-1, much to the delight of almost 1,000 fans who shared in the latest chapter of Border City hockey history.
“It was awesome, despite it only being the preseason,” said Bobcats’ hometown veteran forward Kade Fendelet. “The amount of support we had out there, all the guys were fired up. So, to play a game like we did, especially our first one here, it’s a super-good feeling.
“We knew this game meant a lot, regardless of it only being the pre-season. Our first game here, we wanted to do everything we could to make sure the fans have a good time. I think we did that tonight.”
Fendelet and Kael Screpnek each scored two goals and an assist for the Bobcats, who connected four times on power plays and rebounded from a 4-1 loss to the Bonnyville Pontiacs six days earlier in the final game at Lloydminster’s storied rink, the Centennial Civic Centre.
Former Quebec major junior forward Loic Goyette got the party started when he netted the only goal of the first period on a fortuitous shot from a difficult angle. Goyette, Alessio Nardelli and Esteban Cinq-Mars each recorded a goal and an assist. Lucas Magowan and Raphael Messier contributed two assists apiece.
Halifax U18 major graduate Sam Madgett
Hundreds of fans show up Sept. 12 for the Bobcats’ first game at the Hub, a 7-1 pre-season victory over Battlefords. John MacNeil Meridian Source
stopped 19 shots as he went the distance in the Lloydminster net. The lone Battlefords goal came from Adam Konowalchuk on a power play six minutes into the final period.
The AJHL’s Bobcats outshot the SJHL’s North Stars 50-20, including a 45-16 margin over the last 40 minutes. Starting goaltender Connor Baumbach gave way to Brayden Nebus after the first period.
The same teams met on Sunday (Sept. 14) at Thunderchild First Nation, near Turtleford, Sask.,
as Battlefords posted a 5-3 victory.
The Bobcats fired 31 shots at Baumbach and Thomas Samborski. Lloyd’s Malakai Zwiers and Kannen Kirkwood faced a combined 17 shots.
Anthony Campbell scored two second-period goals as Battlefords gained a 4-2 lead.
Fresh from the WHL, Morgan Hackman netted a goal and an assist for the Bobcats. Nardelli and Gus El-Tahhan also scored.
Frazer pushes past pre-season injury
Josh Frazer’s summer was proceeding nicely until just one day before he left Lloydminster for his first Western Hockey League training camp with the Spokane Chiefs.
The highly regarded 15-year-old forward suffered a broken thumb when he was hit during an Aug. 24 scrimmage at the U18 AAA Lancers’ tryout camp.
“It just kind of bent back a little bit,” Frazer said. “And then, I went to the ER, and it was broken, unfortunately.”
His heart was also broken.
“Yeah, I was really upset,” Frazer said. “I really wanted to go to Spokane (to participate). It was still a good experience, but I would have loved to skate (while I was there). I just did the fitness testing.
“But I was there with the team, got to know everybody a little bit, and also got to know the coaching staff more.”
The Chiefs selected Frazer this past May in the WHL prospects draft. He was among three U18 AAA Lancers at Spokane’s camp, including fellow 2025 draft choice Brody Sunderland and 2024 selection Connor Knickle.
Exactly three weeks after his injury, Frazer watched his new team — the Lancers — lose 6-1 to the U18 prep team from his previous program, OHA Edmonton.
The Sunday evening showdown on Sept. 14 was the Lancers’ third pre-season game of the weekend, and their first in the new Cenovus Energy Hub.
Frazer and multiple other players were in the stands as he watched the Lancers in all three games, including a 4-1 loss to the Edmonton Junior Oilers Orange on Friday and a 3-2 defeat against
the St. Albert Raiders on Saturday. He even recorded some statistics while following the Lloyd prospects in their initial foray into the Alberta Elite Hockey League pre-season.
“We’re playing pretty well,” Frazer said in his scouting report. “We played physically, and I think everybody noticed that we were working hard. Once everybody comes together and our team gets a little bit of chemistry, then we’re going to be a really great team, and hopefully we’ll finish the season off strong, too.”
EYES SEASON-OPENER
Frazer has resumed practising with the Lancers, but he’s not permitted to engage in battle drills. He’s projecting a comeback in about two weeks, possibly in time for the Lancers’ Oct. 4 seasonopener against the host Leduc Oil Kings. He’ll tape his left thumb, now less swollen than it had been.
“The plan so far is for me to play (that opening weekend),” he said this week.
“Everything is looking like I will be, yes.”
JOHN MacNEIL SPORTS EDITOR
Outside his future WHL home, Spokane Chiefs’ prospect Josh Frazer of Lloydminster holds his jersey during the team’s training camp. Submitted photo
When he does return, Frazer will be that much more appreciative of the moment. Those are the life lessons mixed in with hockey instruction early in the season and the school year.
“Every moment is not a given,” said Frazer, a Grade 10 student at Lloydminster Comprehensive High School. “You can’t expect everything to go the right way.
“Sometimes, unexpected things happen. You’ve just got to deal with it and move on and do your best.”
His buddy Tripp Fischer can relate. Fischer was also on the sidelines Sunday, limping after suffering an ankle injury in Friday’s game versus Oilers Orange. Fortunately for Fischer, and the Lancers, he wasn’t projected to be out of action for long. He expects to be able to play on season-opening weekend, which includes the Lancers’ home-opener Oct. 5 against the Sherwood Park Kings.
“Yes, I should be back and healthy by then,” Fischer reported.
The 15-year-old forward is another key piece in the Lancers’ rebuild and part of the future of the WHL’s Prince Albert Raiders, who drafted him in the third round this year. Capping his first training camp with the Raiders, Fischer went all the way to WHL pre-season action in early September. He dressed for Prince Albert in two games against the rival Saskatoon Blades.
REUNION OF SORTS
Speaking of rivalries, Frazer had hoped to be able to face off Sunday against his buddies and former U15 prep teammates from OHA Edmonton.
“It was a little bit of love-hate,” Frazer said with a smile. “I obviously wanted to play and compete against them, but it was still good to see my buddies and catch up a little bit.”
Among the familiar faces with OHA Edmonton were WHL draft choices Liam McFadden and Brayden Tucker, both of whom played last season with Frazer and fellow Lancers’ campers Kael Scott of Lloydminster and Damian Anderson of Mannville.
While living in Edmonton, Frazer billeted with the family of McFadden, a Lethbridge Hurricanes’ prospect. Scott and Tucker are both Calgary Hitmen prospects also selected in the latest WHL draft.
The exhibition matchup in Lloyd also gave Scott and Anderson an opportunity to mingle with some of their prep buddies and former teammates. Multiple chit-chats at centre ice followed the Hub post-game handshakes.
FRAZER FROM PAGE 16
U18 AAA Lloydminster Lancers’ rookies Brody Sunderland and Josh Frazer attend their first WHL training camp with the Spokane Chiefs in late August. Submitted photo
After going 2-3 in the pre-season, the Bobcats begin their AJHL regular season this Friday (Sept. 19) in another big night at the Hub. The Fort McMurray Oil Barons visit Lloyd for 7 p.m. games Friday and Saturday.
It was spring-like, playoff weather last week as the Hub opened for its major tenant. The Bobcats wanted to play at least one exhibition game in the new rink to get a feel for the building, and for the organization to address technical glitches — such as ticketing and internet service — on the administrative side.
“For us, it’s an opportunity to work out some of the kinks,” Bobcats general manager Nigel Dube said during the debut game. “But at the same time, what an exciting night for the facility to open. A crowd like this in a pre-season (game), ultimately at the Centennial Civic Centre, would be a full house.
“Numbers that we haven’t seen in a pre-season game before. Faces that
we’ve never seen, either. People coming in this week for season tickets that haven’t in a long time, or ever. So, a lot of excitement and a great turnout.”
Of course, a decisive win for the Bobcats only added to the Hub’s unofficial festivities. It was an eye-opening night for fans and participants alike.
“The most common thing (we heard) all week is that it doesn’t feel like Lloydminster in the facility,” Dube said. “You look at just the overall build of it. You look at the Jumbotron in the middle that pretty much got fired up this afternoon for tonight’s game. Just scratching the surface of what it’s capable of doing, and the fan engagement and everything like that. It’s real exciting.”
MOORE STICKS IN WHL; TIPLER NOT COMING TO BOBCATS
Any hopes the Bobcats had of regaining Cooper Moore were dashed last week when the 19-year-old forward signed with the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers. Moore was the Bobcats’ rookie of the year last season. He and El-Tahhan led the team with 50 points each.
“It’s tough,” Dube said of Moore’s departure. “We used to look at it as losing (a player), and now we look at it as developing. He’s now a Western Hockey League player, as well as (an NCAA) Division 1 hockey commit, so it’s exciting for Cooper. We’re proud of him. That’s the pathway that we’ll look to continue to grow moving forward, with a lot of these players. It gives somebody else an opportunity to step up in the lineup.”
The Bobcats added size and experience to their roster with the recruitment of forwards Goyette and Hackman. Goyette spent three-plus seasons in the QMJHL with the Quebec Remparts and Drummondville Voltigeurs. Hackman joined Lloyd last week from the WHL’s Wenatchee Wild. He split last season between Wenatchee and the BCHL’s Nanaimo Clippers.
Hackman and Bobcats defenceman Noah Smith were also teammates in previous seasons with prep teams at Rink Hockey Academy Kelowna.
The likes of Hackman and Goyette complement the imposing Fendelet as the Bobcats try to create a stronger physical presence at forward.
“I think that’s one thing we wanted to address from last year, was size up front,” Dube said. “We’ve added some bigger guys up there that can move guys around. It should be exciting to see them.”
The Bobcats don’t expect to see former Lloydminster U18 AAA and U15 AAA defenceman Kale Tipler of Edgerton, Alta., at least not anytime soon.
When they released the 19-year-old Tipler during the pre-season, the WHL’s Lethbridge Hurricanes announced he would spend this year with the junior A Bobcats. But that’s not the case, Dube advised Friday.
Early this week, the Bobcats’ season-opening roster stood at 25 players (three goaltenders, eight defencemen and 14 forwards).
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