Born and raised in the Border City, Stacy Cadzow is at the centre of the action as the finance manager at the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association.
Cadzow graduated from Reeves College after high school then moved to Marshall, Sask., for a few years. While in Marshall, she got married to her husband, Bill, and had a few kids before moving back to Lloydminster for the long haul.
Cadzow started at the Lloyd Ex five years ago and quickly got involved in many aspects of day-to-day operations and countless events and fundraisers the Ex puts on.
“At the Ex, I do all of the invoicing and payables. I make sure payroll runs smoothly, the bills are paid, and we’re functioning and continue doing what we do,” she said. “I do the Chase the Ace, something I’ve done for four years now, as well as work alongside our GM, Jackie Tomayer. We both work for the board here.”
Cadzow has been a Lloydminster and District Co-op board member for a year, is the president of the Waterboard Association at Brightsand Lake, and recently joined the board for the Saskatchewan Association of Agricultural Societies and Exhibitions.
“If I wasn’t in the role I’m in now, I don’t know what I’d be doing. I’ve always worked, every day,” she said.
Before the Lloyd Ex, Cadzow worked for local companies doing anything from invoicing and payables to loading trucks and dispatching.
Working at the Ex, however, opened Cadzow’s eyes to the importance of community involvement.
“The oilfield is all I knew before this, but working at the Lloyd Ex, you learn a whole different side of things. I learned what brings the community together, what it takes to put on a fair and how to get the community involved,” she said, noting the Lloyd Ex is celebrating 120 years of the fair this July.
“Keeping this tradition alive is very cool, and it all hit home for me the first time we took my grandson to the fair. He was five at the time and was amazed by the lights and the noise ... I thought, ‘This is pretty cool.’
“Seeing that made all the work we put in to make these events happen worthwhile.”
The best part of Cadzow’s day is working with the team at the Ex. She described them as a close team and said it was refreshing to work with men and women after years in the oilfield.
Stacy and Bill have been married for 34 years and jokingly said the key to a long-term union is “Stay together but do your own thing.”
“Bill is a wonderful husband,” she said. “He does a lot of the work around the house since I spend so much time here and doesn’t complain when I get involved with all the organizations I’m a part of.”
Cadzow said persistence is key for young women looking to pursue a career in finance.
“If you really want to do it, nothing’s going to stop you,” she said, noting her finance role is a dream job. “Keep plugging away and keep your mind set on what you want to do.”
The proud mother of three is also a grandmother of five between the ages of two and 11, which keeps her busy when she’s not at the Ex or working with various boards.
“I like the idea of making a difference. I want my grandchildren to know I make a difference. My oldest grandchild tells everyone I have a million jobs,” she said with a laugh.
Stacy Cadzow, finance manager at the Lloyd Ex, has been working for the agriculture association for five years and loving every minute of it. Meridian Source File Photo
A mother’s healing journey
Don’t give up. Knock down walls and break those doors down. Those were the words of Desiree Cornet-Wile when asked what advice she has for young women trying to break into the world of tattoos and piercing.
Cornet-Wile and her husband, Scott, have been together for 17 years. They’ve been the proud owners of Lloydminster’s Dark Hour Ink for 16 years and have two children, London, 9, and Griffin, 7.
When the couple got together in 2008, Cornet-Wile was a single mother to her four-year-old son, Jayden. He was her world, and her world came crashing down on June 20, 2019, when Jayden lost his life to suicide at age 15.
“In
the last six years, I’ve completely died and had to recreate myself.
“I can honestly say, losing a child drives you crazy; emotionally, mentally, physically, in every aspect of the word,” she said.
“I never, ever want anyone to walk a day in my shoes because I don’t want anyone to have to feel this.
“In the last six years, I’ve completely died and had to recreate myself.”
Four years before losing her son, Cornet-Wile lost her father, Lionel.
“Losing dad in 2015, we got to see how much Lloydminster rallies,” she said. “Sometimes you don’t see that until somebody passes away.
“You also don’t get to see the full potential of what you’ve put into a community until you need it. When we saw Lloydminster rally, we thought, ‘What can we do as a family to rally back?’ ”
W hether it was a $10 meal, a jug of milk or a bag of dog food, CornetWile knows a little can go a long way for someone struggling or forgetting to take care of themselves.
“As a community member and someone who can help, when we got into business, our forte was always wanting to help and turn this industry into a family-oriented one because this industry has a stigma around it,” she said. “Whatever it is, we want to help people.
“I love it because that’s what Jaden did, and I instilled that in him without even realizing it.”
Since his passing, Jaden has been memorialized with the Jaden Cornet Memorial Award at E.S. Laird Middle School. The award is given to a student who embodies what Jaden did for others through giving back.
Over the years, Dark Hour Ink has also done its fair share of giving back.
Most recently, Cornet-Wile’s mission to pay it forward came in the form of a flash tattoo event after resident Dalonna Jones passed away.
“That event was beautiful,” she said. “I grew up with Dalonna, and before the event, none of her family members had tattoos, and now they all do.
“Those types of events are a way our industry can bring people together, which I think is amazing.”
Born in Edmonton, Cornet-Wile’s family lived in Kindersley and Leduc before settling in Lloydminster.
Like many Border City youth, she wanted out. After becoming a mom, however, she wanted nothing more than to raise her family here, as her family did.
“As an adult, when you want to raise a family, don’t forget Lloydminster. It’s a nice place to raise a family because of the togetherness,” she said.
Growing up, Cornet-Wile’s father, Lionel, worked in the oilfield and sales. She was taught to always open doors for others and give up her seat to seniors if the opportunity arose.
“My dad was part of the OTS and sales. That put in him in the community. Growing up, we were taught to represent him and our family when we left the house,” she said. “That’s what I’m trying to instill in our boys.”
Although not always easy, being a role model for the younger generation is important to Cornet-Wile. She believes men and women have their roles in society. At the end of the day, however, we’re all human.
“Men and women were made to do different things in this world, but they can do the same things as each other with different strengths and weaknesses,” she said.
“I love men, and I love what men can do, but the world would cease to exist without females. Period. Sometimes it’s hard to remember what a woman can bring to the table. You’ve got all these strong male figures, but guess what, they come from a mom.
“Moms can be doctors; moms can be surgeons. Women can be plumbers and welders and pipefitters.”
In short, do whatever makes you happy because the only person who can stop you from pursuing your dreams, is you.
Desiree Cornet-Wile and her son London released balloons in Jayden Cornet’s honour. Meridian Source File Photo
Chasing love and achieving your dreams
Good, better, best, never let it rest, until your good is better and your better best. Those are the words that have helped carry Enya Denys as she’s travelled through life. Her father imparted those words on her.
Denys and her three children moved to Edmonton in 1991, leaving behind a career in the Philippines.
“I took my kids with me. That’s very challenging, bringing them up here with a new culture, tradition and everything,” said Denys.
She worked various jobs in Edmonton before finding love in Lloydminster, moving there in 2013. Her husband, Doug Denys, worked at the Cenovus Energy Upgrader for years.
Her dream was to one day be a realtor. She had her worries in the beginning, but with motivation from her husband, she took the leap.
Sometimes you have that feeling,
‘I don’t think I can do it,’ but again, you dream about something, then go for it.
“Then I was challenged to get my licence to be a realtor, so I did. With my husband cheering me on,” said Denys. “He is the one who encouraged me to go for it, which I didn’t believe (I could).”
In 2019, she received her realtor’s licence. There was some worry as the economy took a hit.
“How can I sell houses? There’s nobody who can afford them,” said Denys.
Despite the initial setback, she soon realized she would find success in her craft through connections in the community.
“In my first year, I was realtor of the year,” she said, noting the following year she was top producer.
With more encouragement from her husband, Denys was ready to open her own office.
When she was picking the realty brand, her lawyer gave her advice to pick a new brand to work under.
“I know it will be a challenge to start with a new brand, new business and being an immigrant, which might (present) some challenges along the way,” she said.
She went with MaxWell Realty, realizing along the way people in the community had trust in her.
Denys is deeply involved with the community through various organizations and events.
“I involve myself with all the events, you name it, I’m there,” she said. “Something for the kids, especially, to help the community, not only for the organization.”
Denys wanted to honour Doug’s memory. He recently passed away. “He’s the reason for all my achievements, he supported (me) all the way,” she said.
Denys had some parting words for those looking to chase their dreams in whatever field they may be in.
“Sometimes you have that feeling, ‘I don’t think I can do it,’ but again, you dream about something, then go for it,” she said Denys says it’s important to keep a good attitude.
“Be positive. I know there’s some failures along the way, but those are the things you learn (from) to be better,” she said.
Today, you’ll see Denys working from her 48 St. office or at a local event.
Enya Denys and her late husband, Doug, who recently passed away. Supplied Photo
Dillion’s compassion with a cause
For Evangelina Dillon, community work is more than a calling, it’s personal.
Originally from Onion Lake Cree Nation, Dillon grew up in Lloydminster and has called it home for the past eight years, after spending a decade away for school.
“I left for about 10 years but came back because this is where my roots are,” she said.
Once a cook at the Gold Horse Casino, Dillon is now a full-time grandmother and active member of the Hope Street Team, a local group providing outreach services to the unhoused and people facing food insecurity.
Her motivation to get involved stemmed from heartbreak after her niece, Autumn Gray Raven Dillon, went missing in Lloydminster almost three years ago. She has not been found.
“I met Catherine (Hill) years ago when I was taking addictions counselling, and later, when my niece went missing,” she said. “I joined the Hope Street team and Catherine created a space where I felt I could make a difference. That’s what drew me in.”
Her niece’s disappearance became the driving force behind her commitment.
“It was the only real reason I joined at first, but the more I helped, the more my compassion grew. You think you’re going to help for just one reason, and suddenly, you realize there’s so much more to do.
“It was the only real reason I joined at first, but the more I helped, the more my compassion grew,” she said. “You think you’re going to help for just one reason, and suddenly, you realize there’s so much more to do.”
Dillon’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Hill, founder of Hope Street, explained she couldn’t have a better person than Dillon on the team.
“I love Evangelina. She’s got such heart and soul for this work,” said Hill. “She’s wise, full of wisdom and such a hard worker. Very, very humble … she just does the work. She’s strong, she doesn’t argue, she just makes her point and that’s it.”
Dillon’s path to where she is today wasn’t easy. At 19, she became a certified mechanic, something uncommon for women, especially Indigenous women.
“You got picked on a lot for being a girl in a traditionally male field,” she recalled. “But I did it to prove I could.”
Later, she married, raised five children, and when they were grown, returned to school herself.
Now, as part of the Hope Street team, Dillon finds fulfilment in direct community outreach.
“We go out there, on foot, and meet people where they are,” she said. “You get to know who’s out there, their stories, their struggles. That’s why I chose this group, no one else was doing it that way.”
She recalled her favourite moments.
“It’s when people say ‘Thank you.’ Sometimes they’re crying because they’ve been hungry all day, or their legs are too sore to walk to town for help. That gratitude hits you.”
Dillon believes Lloydminster could benefit from more shelters, safe places where the unhoused can find security and rest.
“A safe place to sleep is something so simple, but so crucial,” she said.
Reflecting on her work and its impact, she says it’s been an honour.
“I didn’t expect any recognition, and being part of this community, doing something meaningful, it’s the greatest reward,” she said, noting she hopes her niece knows she hasn’t stopped looking for her.
Dillon’s story is one of quiet strength, relentless love and unwavering service. It’s a true testament to the power of community and compassion.
Evangelina Dillon. Dan Gray MERIDIAN SOURCE
Passion for education fuels Nicholson
For Crystal Nicholson, vice-principal at E.S. Laird Middle School, Lloydminster has become more than just a home. It’s also a place where her personal and professional life has blossomed in ways she never imagined.
Born in Toronto and raised in Brampton, Ont., Nicholson’s journey to Lloydminster wasn’t a straight path. After completing her teaching degree and taking some time to live in Jasper, she moved to Lloydminster in December 2010. Her husband’s job brought them to town.
“I moved here ... when it was a bitter, bitter cold winter, wondering where I had moved to,” she recalled. “It’s been home since the start of 2011.”
Nicholson’s been busy raising her family in Lloyd, with two children and a stepdaughter.
“If you’d asked me in a million years if I would have Saskatchewan babies, I just don’t know if that was going to be the case,” she laughed.
Her career with Lloydminster Public School Division began with substitute teaching in 2011. That fall, she accepted her first full-time role at E.S. Laird, and she’s never left.
“That has become my home,” she said. “I really have grown up there.”
Nicholson credits much of her growth to the strong sense of community within the school.
“I was surrounded immediately by an amazing community of teachers and people,” she said.
She fondly remembers being taken under the wing of a “mama bear” colleague who helped her navigate both professional and personal life in a new city. Meanwhile, she understands she has been very well cared for, noting her ties with the Hamilton family have became a significant source of support.
Teaching was always her calling.
“Teaching has been my chosen career from day one,” Nicholson said, noting she’s still in touch with her kindergarten teacher. Although she once considered speech pathology, her heart stayed with education.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of Nicholson’s life, with involvement in school initiatives and coaching.
“I have poured my heart and soul into that place (E.S. Laird) for, you know, over a decade,” she said of her volunteer work.
Whether attending students’ sporting events or supporting other community activities, Nicholson believes showing up matters.
“It takes a village,” she said. “Being part of our community and supporting efforts ... is very important to creating the kind of city we all want to live in.”
One of her favourite parts of the day is greeting students in the morning.
“I am a morning person,” Nicholson said. “I am very lucky to have a sunny predisposition about me.”
Her love for Lloydminster shines through, especially the way the city supports families.
“I really found ... the various opportunities that were available to families in the community,” she said, highlighting everything from the library to family support services.
She’s especially thankful for the friendships that have become like family.
“We have chosen to make this home,” she said.
But like many, Nicholson sees room for improvement.
“Transportation would be a good one,” she said, suggesting a simple bus route along the city’s main highways.
She also hopes to see expanded support for vulnerable populations, especially those facing homelessness or addiction.
“Resources and help that’s available to them ... that’s, of course, improvement,” she said.
Nicholson says making a difference is about quiet impact.
“If I can get a true connection and lessons, social lessons more than anything, across to kids ... just quietly lead and build capacity and citizenship and character,” she said.
For those considering a career in teaching, Nicholson advises starting early by volunteering and working with kids.
“Camp counsellors are a good one,” she said, stressing the importance of making it a meaningful choice. “Teaching is not for the faint of heart. Our days are long and hard and some are very tough.”
She believes successful teachers need resiliency, commitment and what she describes as, “The ability to reset and value the kids who are in front of you that day.”
When it comes to setting an example for other women, Nicholson draws strength from her own role models.
“I am the sum of all those relationships that I have built,” she said. “Every day I show up for them, even on the hard days.”
In true Nicholson fashion, she will carry on, happy for the recognition, but not let it change her.
“I am just a plain Jane, (a) normal person that gets up and tries every day, just like anybody else,” she said. “I work at it every day to be the best version of myself that I can be.”
Crystal Nicholson. Supplied Photo
A love for helping and giving back
Whether it’s animals, or giving her time to the community, Taryn Schachtel is always ready to help.
She grew and still resides just outside of Lloydminster on a small farm with her family.
Growing up, she knew in some way she’d be working with animals.
“I decided that pretty young,” said Schachtel. “I love being on the farm, so it’s either farming or in something agriculture, and vet always came to the top.”
She left the area briefly to attend the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, deciding to return to the area post-grad.
“Family brought me back and we’re still close to the lakes and things to do,”
said Schachtel.
Shortly after graduating, she joined the team at the Lloydminster Animal Hospital.
“It’s a great work environment and the people are awesome around here,” said Schachtel.
As the practice began to grow, Schachtel was treating a mix of different animals.
“I started out doing a mix of everything,” she said. “I quite liked horses and cows, and it just evolved. Our practice has grown so much in that area. That’s pretty much all I do now, is horses.”
Eventually, she took on a much bigger role of vetting horses for the local chuckwagon events.
“The organizer was short on a vet. I started for a day, then it was two days, then it was a weekend, then it was the whole season,” said Schachtel.
Schachtel and Kimberley Dunsmore, one of her co-workers at the animal hospital, accepted the Roy Bremner Memorial award. The award is given to those who perform outstanding work in promoting and expanding the CPCA race season.
For Schachtel, it isn’t just her love for animals that drives her. It’s also her love of giving back.
“Whether you’re helping develop something in the community or helping somebody’s program, lots of kids’ events are fun for me, too. (I) just get a good feeling from it.”
Over time, the things she commits her time to have changed, as she is involved in organizations for her two children.
“Now it’s what my kids are doing, so coaching ball, helping with curling programs, 4-H, helped plan some of the NACC chuckwagon last year,” said Schachtel.
Her long list of volunteer efforts and extracurricular activities is accented by a love of curling.
“I started when I was in Grade 6. I just like the sport. It’s fun,” said Schachtel.
Competing at the Saskatchewan phase of the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, Schachtel won the Marj Mitchell Award for sportsmanship.
Schachtel continues her work with animals, in the community and on the ice.
Taryn Schachtel and her children accept her sportsmanship award from the provincial Scotties championship. Supplied Photo
