Thursday, August 19, 2021
VOLUME 4 I ISSUE 8
MERIDIANSOURCE.CA
SEE PAGES 11-22 FOR OUR FALL AGRICULTURE WEEK 2021 PULL OUT FEATURE
Heavy oil pilot creates a buzz
Supplied Photo
Acceleware’s chief scientific officer and co-founder, Michal Okoniewski, is pictured with a clean tech inverter, which powers the company’s RF XL radio frequency heating technology system, targeting low cost, low-carbon heavy oil and bitumen extraction. GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. Radio frequency (RF) energy is being put to the test near Marwayne as a promising low-cost, low-carbon method of extracting heavy oil and bitumen. Acceleware Ltd., a Calgary-based developer of electrification technology, kicked off the drilling and completions program of a commercial-scale RF XL pilot project on Tuesday.
“We’re pretty excited about finally getting in the ground and kicking that off,” said Acceleware CEO Geoff Clark. Akita Drilling Ltd.’s rig 29 moved onto the Marwayne site on Aug. 9. The RF XL producer well was spudded three days later, followed by the heating well on Aug. 13. “After the drilling and completions is done, we will regrade the site and put our facilities there and shortly after
that, turn on the power and see if it works,” said Clark, targeting a mid to late October date. The init ial heat ing phase is planned to take approximately six months, but that may be extended to allow Acceleware to capture additional information on the efficiency and operation of the technology. Clark says the indust r y is f aced wit h t he challenge to make the barrels produced in
Alberta the lowest carbon intensity and maybe even more importantly, lowest water-use barrels in the world. “I think we can do that. This industry in Alberta has shown remarkable resilience to innovate when they have to and to employ new technology, and we think we’ve got it,” he said. “It’s one of the technologies that they should consider.” RF energy heats and mobilizes heavy oil, including horizontal wells, up to 2 kilometres in length. “The way radio frequency works is it seeks out water molecules, and water is in every reservoir to a certain extent. It heats up those water molecules and turns them to steam,” explained Clark. Clark is confident RF heating technology will be half the capital cost compared to steamassisted gravity draining (SAGD) production in oil sands, and he thinks it can have a pretty significant reduction in operating costs.
“There’s a benefit in carbon tax and things like that,” he added. Clark says Acceleware has attracted interest in places like California that has significant resources of heavy oil, but lots of environmental concerns along with interest in Latin America and the Middle East. Because RF XL eliminates the need for fresh water, that means fewer surface facilities are needed. There is also less ground disturbance using RF XL, offering a cleaner and more sustainable solution to meet the world’s growing demand for energy. “Oil companies big and small in Alberta are seeing they need to do something about that; they’re interested in becoming better performers on the environmental side,” said Clark. “We think we have really good timing in terms of getting our technology in the ground right now.” Acceleware’s RF XL electromagnetic heating technology is also designed to generate
net-zero scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions when powered by renewable energy like solar or wind or clean nuclear. At max power, the Marwayne pilot will use 2 Megawatts of electricity from the Alberta grid. Clark says that’s the ideal amount of power per well pair in a commercial heavy oil well, with 4 to 6 MW for oilsands applications in Fort McMurray. “In both cases, we feel it’s not just an environmental benefit that we’re giving the producer; we’re also giving them an economic benefit,” he said. The pilot project is supported by $15.5 million in funding from Sustainable Development Technology Canada, $5 million from Emissions Reductions Alberta and $5 million from Alberta Innovates. Cenovus Energy and two other major oil sands companies chipped in $2 million each along with technical expertise. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
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Supplied Graphic
This is a schematic drawing of the electrically-driven process behind RF XL (radio frequency heating technology) to produce low-cost, low-carbon production of heavy oil and bitumen. OIL PROJECT FROM PAGE 1
“We think our producing partners are likely to be the next piloters of the technology on their own resources somewhere in Alberta,” said Clark. Companies including Halliburton, Akita Drilling, Tristar Resource Management Ltd., Weatherford Canada
Ltd., CES Energy Solutions, Precise Downhole Solutions, Tenaris, Stream-Flo Industries Ltd., Pro Pipe Service, and Variperm Energy Services Inc. are listed as partners in the drilling and completions program of the pilot. If the pilot is successful, Acceleware aims to manufacture electronic
systems including a clean-tech inverter on the surface and downhole components to producers. “We are going to sell that to producers as well as some proprietary downhole components and provide optimization and maintenance services,” said Clark.
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Falk launches campaign with a plan
Supplied Photo
Battlefords-Lloydminster MP, Rosemarie Falk, delivers a yard sign last Sunday when the federal election was called. GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. Rosemarie Falk, Conservative Member of Parliament for Battlefords-Lloydminster, kicked off her federal election campaign this week with a plan in hand. Party leader, Erin O’Toole, unveiled the Conservative Canada Recovery Plan on Monday with policies Falk will run with up to the Sept. 20 vote. “I am campaigning on our Conservative Canada Recovery Plan that includes a strong future for all Canadians by prioritizing jobs, accountability, mental health, building domestic capacity and our longterm economic health,” said Falk in an email. Falk says her number-one focus is to speak to as many constituents as possible and share her party’s plan to get the country back on track. “This election is about who voters trust to secure their economic future,” said Falk.
She notes the Liberal’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should have focused on economic recovery all along, instead of calling an election that is not necessary. “It’s clear that he continues to view the pandemic as a political opportunity,” she said. “Long before the pandemic, the Liberals have been failing our farmers, energy workers and rural Canadians.” Falk says the Con-
servatives are committed to axing Bill C-69, the no more pipelines bill, ending the coastal tanker ban and introducing legislation to prevent protestors from blocking key infrastructure like last year’s rail blockades. On the agricultural front, Falk says her party has been calling on the Liberals to take action to provide support for farmers in Saskatchewan who are facing severe droughts.
“I have written to the minister of agriculture calling for better supports for farmers who are struggling,” said Falk. She says the Liberals have turned a blind eye to the crisis and left provinces to do the heavy lifting. “As the incumbent Member of Parliament, I have always stood up for our local economy, rural communities, families and taxpayers,” said Falk. “And I remain just as committed to that as the Conservative candidate for Battlefords-Lloydminster this election.” Falk won the seat in the 2017 by-election and was re-elected in the 2019 federal election, in a landslide victory with 78.3 per cent of the vote. Elections Canada noted the nomination process for candidates closes on Aug. 30 and will post a complete list of candidates on Sept. 1. Falk says a vote for any other party, including the Maverick Party, that is running candidates in many Conservative-held ridings, “is simply a vote for Justin Trudeau.” “What I’ve been hearing from voters is that they are tired of the corruption, incompetence and scandals of the Trudeau government,” said Falk. “They are worried about the impact of debt on future generations and affordability. Conservatives have a
plan to secure Canada’s future, create jobs, and
get our economy back on track.”
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Lloyd RCMP request assistance to identity male suspect MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Between July 26 and August 10, the Lloydminster RCMP received numerous files involving a male suspect responsible for the theft
of over $1,000 worth of liquor from several local businesses. The male is described to be between the ages of 35-44 years old, brown hair, is approx. 6’ or taller with a slen-
der build. Lloydminster RCMP remain committed to reducing crime and to ensuring a safer community. If you have any information on the identity of this male, you are asked to contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400, or contact your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www. P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
Photo courtesy of the Lloydminster RCMP
Who, how, when and where to vote GEOFF LEE
WRITER
.................................. The federal general election will take place on Sept. 20, but only registered voters can cast a ballot. To register and vote in the Monday fall election, you must be a Canadian citizen, be at least 18 years old on election day and prove your identity and address. Use the online voter
registration service on the Elections Canada website (Elections.ca) to check to see if you are already registered in the National Register of Electors. Once registered, you can vote at advance polls from Sept. 10-13 from 9 a.m to 9 p.m. The address of your polling station will be on the voter information card you will receive in the mail and
posted online after Aug. 24. You can also vote in person at your Elections Canada office anytime before 6 p.m on Sept. 14. These voting locations will be posted online soon. To vote by mail, apply online at any Elections Canada office before 4 p.m. on Sept. 14. Polls will also be open to vote on election day for 12 hours.
LloydMall flooding to delay library opening MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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The opening of the Lloydminster Public Library’s new location is expected to be delayed following an overnight water main break at the LloydMall. Sometime during the evening of Sunday, Aug. 15, into the early
hours the following day, a water main broke, flooding the majority of the stores in the mall. Preliminary reports indicate water damage to the library’s flooring and walls. There is no indication the physical book collection was impacted. On Monday, resto-
ration services were dispatched to begin extracting water and assessing the overall damage to the units inside the property. A timeline for the opening of the Lloydminster Public Library at its LloydMall location is under assessment. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Manufacturing drives Sask recovery
File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Saskatchewan continues to show strong signs of economic recovery led by gains in manufacturing.
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Manufacturing sales are trending upwards for Saskatchewan, continuing to show a strong post-pandemic economic recovery.
Manufacturing sales jumped 61 per cent (seasonally-adjusted) year over year in June with sales valued at more than $1.7 billion. That is the secondhighest increase among provinces. “Manufacturing sales are trending upwards for Saskatchewan, continuing to show a strong post-pandemic economic recovery,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Saskatchewan has one of the most competitive business environments in all of Canada, and we continue to be leaders in the nation in our key sectors of oil and gas, forestry, agriculture, manufacturing
and others.” Monthly sales saw June increase by 7.5 per cent compared to May (seasonally adjusted), the highest increase among provinces.
Nationally, manufacturing sales grew by 20 per cent, year over year. The wholesale trade in June also recorded a seasonally adjusted
increase of 2.5 per cent year over year. The value of Saskatchewan wholesale trade for June 2021 was approximately $2.4 billion.
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Home Hardware Night Market returns
Photo by Jason Whiting, Videre Images MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Home Hardware Building Centre Lloydminster is excited to be hosting its second Artisan Night Market to celebrate the extremely talented people of
Lloydminster and the su rrou nd ing area on Aug. 26. With approximately 60 vendors attending the event, it will be a great opportunity for the residents of Lloydminster to support local businesses and socialize with friends and neighbours under the night market lights in the award-winning Garden Centre. With a speciallycrafted menu from Timber Café and local entertainment by Brianna Gammond and The Church Keys, this is a night that celebrates the very best of our culinary and creative community. “What makes communities unique are the many artisans, makers and growers that they are made of.
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We love to showcase the amazing talent we have in Lloydminster that people might not always get a chance to see, while at the same time creating an entertaining summer evening out.
We love to showcase the amazing talent we have in Lloydminster that people might not always get a chance to see, while at the same time creating an entertaining summer evening out,” said Home Hardware Building Centre co-owner Tasha
Hilderman. She says the first night market launched in 2019 and was a smashing success. Limitations due to COVID19 paused the event for 2020, but 2021 will see the market bigger and better than ever. “We strongly recommend carpooling, walking or biking to the store as parking does tend to fill up quickly,” noted Hilderman. The event is free to attend, and donations will be accepted towards the Vic Juba Community Theatre Multi Space Expansion. The Market will run rain or shine and kicks off at 5 p.m., with appetizers and cocktails available for purchase in Timber Café, as well as from many of the featured vendors.
Order up!
Lloydfest celebrates diverse multiculturalism in Border City
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Maria from Churros Alma serves up a hot and fresh churro on Saturday afternoon at Lloydfest. It may have been an absolute scorcher of a weekend, but that didn’t prevent Lloydfest organizers and attendees from enjoying themselves.
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PAGE 8 Thursday, August 19, 2021 MERIDIAN SOURCE
Viewpoint Leave it to Weaver: For the love of live music
5921-50 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK S9V 2A4 Phone: 306-825-5111 Toll Free: 1-800-327-3899 Fax: 306-825-5147 meridiansource.ca Mail: Box 2454, Lloydminster, SK S9V 1W5 Hours: 8AM to 5PM Monday to Friday THE MERIDIAN SOURCE is published once a week, on Thursday. All material printed in the Meridian Source is copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. The Meridian Source reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertising or editorial material at its discretion. Columns and letters are the expressed view of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Meridian Source.
Editor Taylor Weaver taylor@meridiansource.ca
Photo courtesy of Patricia Brokoff
EDITOR
Staff Writer Geoff Lee geoff@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Manager Deanna Wandler deanna@meridiansource.ca
Marketing Consultant Ashley Miazga ashley@meridiansource.ca
Publisher: Reid Keebaugh Production Manager: Amanda Richard CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING admin@meridiansource.ca NEWSPAPER DELIVERY If you’ve missed a paper, to start or stop delivery, or for carrier applications, please call 306-825-5111 for information. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor. Letters should be 500 words or less. A name and daytime phone number is required for verification. Priority will be given to letters exclusively written for the Meridian Source. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, spelling, grammar, punctuation and libel. Unsigned letters will not be published. Use of pseudonyms will only be allowed in special circumstances, at the discretion of the editor and the publisher, and only if the author’s identity is known to the editor. Publication of a letter does not imply endorsement by the Meridian Source. Send to taylor@meridiansource.ca
Taylor Weaver
Last Thursday night I had the honour and privilege of playing music with Dylan Hansen & The Rough Cuts as Wayside Dental Centre celebrated Dr. Reagan Eliasson’s birthday at the clinic. Seeing as it was a milestone birthday for the good doctor, the staff at Wayside wanted to make sure she felt special on her big day, so they hired a band and had charcuterie brought it! The band is comprised of Dylan Hansen, Marc Lizotte and Brent Ference. I’ve known Marc for years through the Lloydminster Bobcats, but met Dylan and Brent when I started attending open mic night at 4th Meridian Brewing Company a couple of months ago. Roughly a month ago, Patricia Brokoff, a friend of mine who works at Wayside and regularly attends open mic night at the 4th, asked me if it would be possible to get some of the open mic players out to play at their upcoming surprise birthday party. This probably applies in many aspects of life, but I’ve learned a
sion lies in country music. I mean, the guy can do a pretty deadly version of Self Esteem by The Offspring, but he loves singing his country music. So, after the chords were found on the iPad, away we went … Evverrrryyybooddyyy, yeah! And let me tell you, that waiting room full of Wayside staff members lit up when Brent started belting out the lyrics! The group’s set list ranges from Corb Lund and Johnny Cash to Eagles and George Strait, and their harmonies get better every time they play together. The on-stage chemistry these three have is very apparent and the banter in between songs is never lacking and always humorous. Our open mic friend and super talented singer/songwriter, Makenna Gallagher, was also playing that night and opened up the show for us. Always a pleasure playing music with you! Looking for some high-quality entertainment for an upcoming event? I’d hire these three! Dylan can be contacted at 306-8308108 for booking. Thanks to Wayside for having us out to help celebrate Dr. Eliasson’s birthday. Until next time.
Flood to delay opening of new library FROM PAGE 4
2017
valuable lesson working in this industry; it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. So, the ball was set in motion Open mic nights at the 4th have really opened my eyes to the fact there is a TON of very talented musicians in the Border City– A TON! I look forward to my weekly open mic night. Not only is it a heck of a lot of fun, but I’ve also met some very standup people there, and who doesn’t like surrounding themselves with good people, right? I never thought I’d be playing music after hours in the waiting room of a dental clinic … but I must say, the acoustics were brilliant. These three guys are extremely talented on their own, but when you put them together, that’s when the really magic happens. They’re also the kind of musicians that can be handed an instrument and given a tune to play … if they don’t know it, it won’t be long before they’re rocking out to said tune. This happened last Thursday when a request came in from the birthday girl for “Everybody” by the Backstreet Boys. Now, if you’ve heard Dylan sing before, you’ll know his pas-
“While extremely unfortunate, this incident has not deterred the Lloydminster Public Library or the City of Lloydminster in our
shared mission to open this modern and welcoming community space,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. In January, the Lloydminster Public Library
revealed design plans for its future home in the LloydMall. In addition to the traditional offerings of a public library, the new space will feature a
makerspace, meeting rooms and areas dedicated to teens and kids. Craftex Builders was awarded the construction contract for the new location in January.
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Opinion
Leeway from Lloyd: Best use for bitcoin mining STAFF WRITER GEOFF LEE
The Government of Alberta shouldn’t allow bitcoin mining operators to set up shop in the province if they add carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere. A case in point is a fresh plan by Nevadabased Black Rock Petroleum Company to power up to 1 million bitcoin mining machines with power contracts from three natural gas plants in southern Alberta. The company was attracted by Alberta’s competitive rates for energy after being forced to leave China this summer when that country cut off the supply of electrical power to their mining operation. Other companies may follow suit to Alberta given the abundance of cheap natural gas in the
province. However, the downside of these potential large-scale projects is the increase in CO2 emissions, which doesn’t help us meet our climate targets. Bitcoin mining should be tied to using stranded methane gas at upstream oil and gas facilities in the province as a more environmentally friendly solution to an existing industry problem. In Lloydminster, bitcoin miner, Upstream Data Inc. basically pioneered the use of stranded gas as fuel for generators that produce electricity for bitcoin mining machines contained in portable bitcoin data centres. When the fuel source runs short, the data centre can be moved to another well location, for example, and capture more emissions at the source. Hosting bitcoin mining machines also provides oil and gas com-
File Photo panies with a new revenue stream by monetizing captured methane emissions. With so much oil and gas methane in the province, it makes sense for bitcoin miners to co-locate next to oil and gas operations. Given that methane is about 30 times more potent at warming the planet than CO2, the Lloydminster bitcoin
mining business model is cleaner than the Black Rock project. Sure, you can’t put 1 million bitcoin mining machines on a well site, but spread out across the province, that could be achieved, with oil and gas facilities providing security, too. The Lloydminster bitcoin business model can also help oil and
Man, it’s hot out there MIDWEST MINUTE VERN McCLELLAND
My son was out checking on our yearlings on pasture about three miles east of our home last Saturday when he spotted smoke rising in a location about a mile away from where there shouldn’t be any, at least not at plus 34 degrees. Scott drove over and found a grass fire underway in an empty hay field, alerted the neighbour who was renting the land of the problem, then dialled 911, giving them the location. He also called me as I was disking up the perimeter of some freshly silaged fields only a couple of miles away, and told me to
get over there to create a fire break before it got out of control. Our neighbour’s family, armed with shovels, arrived first followed by the lead unit of the local volunteer fire department. Thankfully, there was
only a gentle breeze that afternoon, and within minutes the approximately three-acre burn area was under control. Apparently, a bearing had seized in the round baler and the operator had swung out of the field to go home
to repair it at his shop not realizing a spark had ignited the last bale ejected. And it is just that simple when plant mat er ial is so d r y it crunches underfoot. CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
gas companies meet new regulatory requirements for methane emissions reductions.
Alberta should only welcome new miners if they are part of the solution.
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$2M to kick-start new Edmonton children’s hospital MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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The Alberta government is planning a new stand-alone Stollery
Children’s Hospital in Edmonton with more beds and increased access to quality care for kids.
Budget 2021 provides up to $1 million to launch capital planning for a potential larger, dedicated children’s
hospital and care space for children and families from the Edmonton area, northern and central Alberta, as well as children from across Western Canada. A matching $1 million from the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation will help develop the needs assessment, capital cost estimate and business case.
“This project is part of Budget 2021’s historic investment in health care to build smart health infrastructure based on the needs of Albertans and families,” said Minister of Health Tyler Shandro. “I look forward to seeing how a new stand-alone hospital in Edmonton and northern Alberta would offer
children the best, most modern health care possible, now and into the future.” The current Stollery Children’s Hospital was built in 2001, with the majority of services and beds located within the University of Alberta Hospital and the Walter C. Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre in Edmonton.
MIDWEST MIN. FROM PAGE 9
ground in a hurry. The second two were more conventional. However, what the people at the site didn’t see was the semi-trailer full of water equipped to quickly refill the firefighting units if necessary. It too was half-way to the location when it was determined not to be needed this time. Remember these are volunteers who I am sure had much better things to do on a hot August afternoon.
This selfless commitment to our communities by all first responders is what keeps our families and property safe. Saying thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough. Vern McClelland is an associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster and an active partner in his family’s livestock operation. Comments on this article are welcome either by emailing vernmcclelland@remax.net or calling 306-821-0611.
This fall will likely see several more similar incidents in the midwest with combines, grain trucks, and balers all trying to recover what crop there is in the fields. I was very impressed with our local fire department. They rolled three units in position that day, the first being a one-ton truck with tank and on-board pressure system designed specifically to get to fires on rough
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Finding the fertilizer “sweet spot” CANADIAN LIGHT SOURCE SPECIAL TO THE SOURCE
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Farmers walk a fine line when it comes to adding phosphorus fertilizer to their fields. If they don’t use enough, they risk lower yields. If they add too much, the excess can be lost to runoff and lead to potentially toxic algae blooms in nearby ponds and lakes. On top of that, the phosphate rock mined to make most phosphorus fertilizers is a limited resource. In addition, fertilizing for other elements, such as nitrogen, can change soil chemistry, which in turn changes the way that phosphorus fertilizers work in soils. Researchers recently moved science one step closer to finding the
“sweet spot” for phosphorus fertilizer use. Using the Canadian Light Source at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), the team used light millions of times brighter than the sun to gather highly detailed information about how fertilizing with nitrogen and phosphorus change the chemistry of soils and the availability of phosphorus for crops. The group examined soil from long-term plots at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Swift Current Research and Development Centre near Swift Current, Saskatchewan. They studied soil from plots that were established in 1967, with a fallow-wheatwheat rotation, and which had received a fixed amount of phosphorus since 1967,
with or without nitrogen fertilizer. They also looked at sub-plots where phosphorus fertilization was stopped in 1995 but with no change in nitrogen fertilization (with or without nitrogen fertilizer). Their study, published recently in Geoderma, was part of a PhD thesis project by researcher Shuo Chen from China Agricultural University in Beijing. The team found that long-term fertilization practices—in particular, the use of nitrogen fertilizer—have changed the soil chemistry in these plots, which has in turn changed the chemical forms of phosphorus and the ways phosphorus cycles within the soil. CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
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New Holland and Lakeland College extend partnership to 2031 MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Lakeland College is excited to announce that New Holland Agriculture will remain the college’s exclusive agricultural and utility equipment supplier until 2031. The two organizations recently finalized a 10-year, multimillion-dollar agreement that will see New Holland continue to provide equipment to Lakeland. New Holland equipment is used on Lakeland’s student-managed farm as well as for college-wide grounds maintenance plus applied research and other programming initiatives. New Holland provides tractors, swathers, skid steers, and combines, among other equipment. In recognition of this support, Lakeland’s student-managed farm will remain named the Student-Managed
Farm – Powered by New Holland.
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Since our partnership with New Holland Agriculture began, we’ve grown to become one of the largest providers of agriculture training in Western Canada.
“New Holland remains committed to supporting the student-managed farm at Lakeland College,” says Mark Lo w ery, direc tor of commercial marketing for New Holland Agriculture North America. “We thank the faculty, staff, and students at Lakeland College for recognizing the importance of production agriculture in North America.” New Holland and
Lakeland began their partnership in September 2011. At that time, Lakeland served 295 agricultural sciences students. This past academic year, 533 students took agricultural sciences programs. “Since our partnership with New Holland Agriculture began, we’ve grown to become one of the largest providers of agriculture training in Western Canada. We know that the innovative learning model available through our studentmanaged farm – powered by New Holland is a big factor in our growth,” said Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland. “Our thanks to New Holland for ensuring our students have access to the latest equipment and technology. We’re proud to showcase New Holland’s products to the people who will be at the forefront of Cana-
File Photo da’s agricultural industry for decades to come.” As part of their second year of studies, animal science technology and crop technology students manage commercial-scale crop, livestock and ag research enterprises. Students work together to make decisions that are applied to the Student-Managed Farm – Powered
by New Holland. With access to modern ag facilities and equipment, purebred and commercial beef cattle, dairy cattle and bison, plus more than 3,000 acres of crop and pasture land, the real world comes to Lakeland’s ag students before they graduate. “This partnership allows us to coach our students in real-life scenarios, outlining the
decisionmaking process and allowing them the opportunity to develop industry relationships,” said Geoff Brown, dean of agricultural sciences and environmental sciences at Lakeland. Brown thanked both New Holland Agriculture and Webb’s Machinery, the local New Holland dealer, for their expertise and support. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
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Last week in the field: Sask crop report MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Warm weather has continued to help crops mature throughout the province. Producers have been able to make considerable headway with harvest; seven per cent of crop is now combined and six per cent is ready to straight combine. The five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year is one per cent combined and two per cent ready to straight-combine. Scattered showers throughout the province have caused short delays to harvest but producers are happy to finally receive rain.
Fifty-four per cent of winter wheat, 51 per cent of fall rye, 37 per cent of field peas and 29 per cent of lentils are now in the bin. Harvest is most advanced in the south and west-central regions, where 12 per cent of crop in the southwest, eight per cent of crop in the southeast and seven per cent of crop in the westcentral is combined. Producers in the northern regions have a little more than one per cent of crop combined. Much of the province received small amounts of rain this week, with parts of the northern, west-cen-
tral and southeast regions receiving half an inch to an inch. Most of the northwest region received rain this week, with many areas receiving half of an inch. The areas around Hafford, North Battleford, Spiritwood and Glaslyn received the highest amount of rain in the region with 14 mm. The Barthel area received 12 mm and the Meadow Lake area received 10 mm. More rain would be welcomed to help late seeded crops fill the last of their seed. CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
Lakeland Ag program thrive thanks to corporate partnership FROM PAGE 13
“They are active partners in educating students on the latest advancements in equipment and technology,” he added. In addition to equipment, New Holland is contributing $450,000
to further agriculture technology programs. Of this amount, $150,000 will be used immediately towards Lakeland’s Agriculture Technology Centre, which will officially open this fall. These funds will help develop the new bach-
elor of agriculture technology curriculum, support research projects, and provide technology and materials for the labs. The remaining $30,000 annual contribution will support ag technology initiatives
at Lakeland. In recognition of this support, a lab in the Agriculture Technology Centre will be named Agriculture Technology Lab – Powered by New Holland. New Holland also provides student awards from an endowment
fund created early in the partnership. The renewal of this partnership was finalized as Lakeland closed Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. This $11-million fundraising campaign ensures the problem
solvers, innovators, leaders, and hard workers continue to benefit from the highest quality education, leadership, and research opportunities. The campaign concluded June 30 and a final total will be announced in August.
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Assistance available for struggling producers FROM PAGE 14
The biggest benefit of the rain will be to pasture land, which has struggled to endure the drought. Small showers during the week did little to offset the ongoing drought but there was a slight increase in topsoil moisture conditions. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and 62 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as five per cent adequate, 28 per cent short and 67 per cent very short. Many producers have noted that hay yields are below average this year. Estimated average dryland hay yields for the province are 0.80 tons per acre for alfalfa, 0.70 tons per acre for alfalfa/bromegrass, 0.60 tons per acre for other tame hay, 0.60 tons per acre for wild hay and 1.0 tons per
acre for greenfeed. Estimated average irrigated hay yields are 1.3 tons per acre for alfalfa, 1.80 tons per acre for alfalfa/bromegrass and 2.2 tons per acre for greenfeed. The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, drought stress, heat, wildlife, grasshoppers and flea beetles. There have also been isolated reports of hail. Producers are busy wrapping up haying and baling, getting ready for harvest, desiccating and swathing crops and combining in some areas. On Aug. 10, Agriculture Minister David Marit announced $119 million in provincial support under AgriRecovery, with the federal government requested to provide its full 60 per cent cost-share to increase the total program value to $297 million. The program will pro-
vide a per head payment to help maintain female breeding stock. The province is currently working with the federal government to finalize the details of the program which will be administered by Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation; this information, including how to apply, will be shared as soon as possible. Producers are reminded that in response to the feed shortage this year, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation is doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold values for customers who salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. Customers are asked to contact their local SCIC office before they graze, bale or silage any damaged crops to discuss their options. Additionally, the Gov-
File Photo ernment of Saskatchewan made changes to temporarily increase the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive from the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) for dugouts, wells and pipelines for agricultural use. The federal and provincial governments have also increased the 2021 AgriStability interim benefit pay-
ment percentage from 50 per cent to 75 per cent for Saskatchewan producers. The interim benefit provides the opportunity for producers who are enrolled in AgriStability to access a portion of their benefit early, to help support losses and cover costs. To apply for an interim benefit, producers can contact their local SCIC office, call the
AgriStability Call Centre toll-free at 1-886-2708450, or email agristability@scic.ca. Prod ucers are also reminded the Farm Stress Line is available for support 24-hoursa-day, seven-days-aweek, toll-free at 1-8006 6 7 - 4 4 4 2. Cal l s a r e answered by Mobile Crisis Services Regina, a non-profit, communitybased agency, and there is no call display.
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Lakeland ag research receives $1 million federal investment MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Lakeland College will receive $1 million in federal research infrastructure funding through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) in support of smart agriculture technology. The CFI’s CollegeIndustry Innovation Fund investment will support the development of Lakeland’s new Agriculture Technology Centre, the central repository for all data collected on the Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) at the Vermilion campus. “With the CFI’s support, we’ll continue to move forward with establishing our new Agriculture Technology Centre as the ‘nerve centre’ for the research, collection and analysis of data collected from new ag technologies we use on our SMF” said Michael Crowe, Lakeland’s vice president of academic and applied research. “We are very fortunate to receive this funding and are excited for how it will enable our research team to support producers and agriculture companies to increase productivity, efficiency, quality and sustainability of livestock and crop production.” The CFI funding will go towards the construction of a new Livestock Reproductive Technology Laboratory and on-farm con-
nectivity infrastructure, enabling the SMF to become a fully connected, data-driven, commercial-scale smart farm. Lakeland’s agriculture technology and equipment will grow to include the following inventory thanks to the CFI investment: • specialized sensors and monitoring technology • livestock reproductive equipment • emission detection equipment for livestock • mobile imagery for phenotypic trait capture in cattle • optical spot-spraying technology for crops; and • an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) fitted with two multispectral cameras for crops and livestock research applications. “The CFI’s investment champions Lakeland’s innovation and producer-led research priorities,” said Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland. “We look forward to opening the Agriculture Technology Centre – an advanced space for our research team to produce results of value for commercial agriculture producers. Our students will also benefit, gaining the skills required for their future careers in a transforming sector.” Slated to officially open this fall, the Agriculture Technology Centre project is valued at $2.6 million. It will serve as the home for
Geoff Lee Meridian Source Photo
Lakeland College farm manager, Peter Wilkinson, opens the cattlelac animal squeeze used to restrain and weigh cows at the new Livestock Research Facility at the Vermilion campus.
Lakeland’s new degree in agriculture technology, which launches in September. Smart agriculture integrates technologies such as automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, hyperspectral imaging and blockchain applications into the agricultural product supply chain allowing seamless and timely data collection and interpretation. Prior to adoption, ag technologies require development, rigorous field testing at the commercial scale and verification of return on investment for producers. Lakeland currently has 52 active livestock and crop research projects underway. A total of $12.8 million worth of CFI funding through the Col-
lege-Industry Innovation Fund was awarded to 15 colleges, cégeps and polytechnics across the country, as announced by the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, minister of innovation, science and industry
on July 26. An additional $3,861,072 was awarded under the Infrastructure Operating Fund. “Bringing industry partners together with researchers and students in spaces equipped with technol-
ogy’s latest tools is a recipe for innovation and economic growth. This investment will enable bright ideas to be tested, applied and developed into new businesses in labs that have collaboration and partnerships at their core.
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BeGrainSafe this year
File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is pleased to announce the first annual BeGrainSafe Week will take place August 16-23. CASA’s grain safety program, BeGrainSafe, works to raise awareness on the dangers associated with grain. In support of the inaugural BeGrainSafe week, CASA has developed resources, social
media posts, public service announcements and safety advice articles with tips and information on how to be safe around grain. “The BeGrainSafe program focuses on both training and prevention. With the firstever BeGrainSafe Week, CASA is encouraging all farmers, farm workers, farm families and farming communities to take care around grain,” says Andrea Lear, CASA’s Chief Executive Officer.
“BeGrainSafe Week is a great way to boost the prevention message.” According to Canadian Agricultural Injury Reporting data, there were 36 asphyxiation-related fatalities on farms in Canada between 2006-2015. “We know grain engulfments usually result in the loss of life,” says Lear. “That’s why getting information on how to prevent these entrapments is so important.”
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Increasing yields while protecting the environment FROM PAGE 12
In particular, adding nitrogen fertilizer reduced the soil pH (making the soils more acidic).
“
For producers, the key to optimal cycling of phosphorus is ensuring their soils have sufficient organic matter and a neutral pH.
This binds the added phosphorus fertilizer more tightly, making it less available to crops. “Soil pH and organic matter—which contribute to good soil health in general—had the largest influence on the forms of phosphorus in soil and the processes these phosphorus forms undergo within soil,” said Dr. Barbara Cade-
Menun, a researcher with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and collaborator on this study. “For producers, the key to optimal cycling of phosphorus is ensuring their soils have sufficient organic matter and a neutral pH.” To identify the chemical forms of phosphorus present in soil at a molecular level, the team used the Saskatchewan Structural Sciences Centre (SSSC) at USask and the SXRMB beamline at the CLS. Cade-Menun said the high-tech equipment was essential to the team’s work. “The SSSC let us look at phosphorus that is bound to carbon,” said Cade-Menun. “The CLS allowed us to look at the inorganic side and answer questions like ‘Is the phosphorus bound to calcium, iron or aluminum?’ and ‘How are these forms shifting
Shuo Chen (middle right) and AAFC staff in the field. Supplied Photo with different fertilizers?’” “These advanced tools allow us to know precisely what is going on in the soil,” she added. The group’s results point to the need to dig deeper to fully understand the specific role that pH and organic matter play in how
phosphorus cycles in soil. This includes studying other crop rotations with different fertilizer rates, such as lentil-wheat rotations, as well as other plots with long-term nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer experiments in other provinces, including
Manitoba and Quebec. Everyone benefits when producers get maximum crop yields while using the least amount of fertilizer and keeping soils healthy. “I don’t think anybody would argue with wanting to grow crops that are healthy and to optimize our produc-
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tion because the consumer benefits. But we want to do that in the most cost-efficient and environmentally sustainable way,” said Cade-Menun. “And that means balancing what the crop needs with making sure it has just enough, but not too much, fertilizer.”
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Alberta to champion recovery with U.S. legislators
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Devin Dreeshen. File Photo MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Agriculture and Forestry Minister Devin Dreeshen will join Calgary-Fish Creek MLA Richard Gotfried, Livingstone-Macleod MLA Roger Reid and Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright MLA Garth Rowswell on the ground for
the summit. The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) 2021 annual summit will run from August 15 to 19. Forging a stronger relationship between Alberta and the U.S., our largest trade partner, is critical as the province moves beyond
the pandemic and looks to recovery and growth. This year’s summit will provide an opportunity for Alberta to build on the province’s ties in the region and advance common interests spanning from economic recovery, agriculture, energy and trade to critical infra-
structure, transportation, water policy and border issues. “The U.S. is our closest and largest trade partner, and maintaining strong relationships helps keep markets open for Alberta agricultural and food products,” said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Devin Dreeshen. “This year’s summit is an opportunity for Alberta to build on the province’s ties in the region, advance common interests and coordinate on issues that specifically impact those living in the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region.” MLA Gotfried will also have the opportunity to showcase Alberta as a prime location to live, visit, do business and invest in advance of the 2022 annual summit, which will be hosted in Calgary. “Enhancing partnerships with our friends
and neighbours south of the border is more important now than ever before as we focus on recovery and building back stronger,” said Roger Reid, MLA for Livingstone-Macleod. This year’s summit is a hybrid event with attendees participating both in person and virtually. “This is an important opportunity to promote Alberta’s key interests in the region, and let our partners know about all of the exciting things that make our province a great place to collaborate, invest and do business in,” said Richard Gotfried, MLA for Calgary-Fish Creek and Vice-President of PNWER. PNWER is a regional multilateral forum that brings together legislative, government and private-sector leaders from Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Yukon,
the Northwest Territories, Washington State, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Alaska to advance policies that promote the region’s economies. Alberta is a founding member of PNWER and continues to play an active role in this transboundary organization. Maintaining and building strong relationships with key partners is an important element of Alberta’s Recovery Plan to diversify our economy and build on our strengths. Minister Dreeshen will be accompanied by one staff member, and MLAs Gotfried, Reid and Rowswell, by one public servant. Alberta’s Recove r y P l a n i s a p l an to breathe new life into Alberta’s economy and create new opportunities for every Albertan. It’s a plan to build, to diversify, and to create jobs.
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Safety up, on sun exposure MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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Ah, the sun. Farming would be impossible without it. The sun has an important role to play in all processes related to crop production – from plant germination and emergence through ripening off, organic matter decay and soil regeneration. It’s the source of photosynthesis and the reason why it rains. Important as sunlight is, it is also a source of danger. Working on the farm often means working outside for long periods in the heat of summer days. This creates two kinds of health risks – those associated with intense radiation from the sun’s rays, and those associated with prolonged heat exposure. Before you start your workday, check the forecast and make sure you dress for the anticipated conditions. Fabric
File Photo provides excellent protection between you and the sun. Darker colours block more sun, and a tighter weave of fabric gives more protection. Denim jeans, for example, have an SPF of 1,700. Lightweight clothing that fully covers the body is ideal – the more coverage, the better. Loose clothing allows air movement in hot weather, which can help prevent heat stress. Wear a hat with a wide brim that will protect your face, neck and ears. Bring extra layers along to use in windy or rainy conditions. Much of it is diverted by the ozone layer in
earth’s atmosphere – but not all. Radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sun damage doesn’t occur with one exposure. It starts at a young age and accumulates over time. It can occur on sunny or cloudy days. The sun’s rays aren’t the only hazard of working in hot eweather. Heat stress is another. Hot weather stresses the body’s cooling system. When combined with other stresses, like hard physical labour, loss of fluids, or fatigue, it can lead to heat-related illness, disability or even death.
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Tying the knot PRAIRIE WOOL HELEN ROW TOEWS
“People are weird. When we find someone with weirdness compatible with ours, we team up and call it love.” – Dr. Seuss In Canada, while December is when most couples get engaged, August is always the most popular to be married, with 23 per cent of weddings taking place that month. This statistic must be true since I’ve heard of several weddings just in the last week—and I don’t get out much. Of course, I could be noticing them more because my nephew Tyson is getting married soon. He, and his fiancé, Nicole, are beginning their married life here on the farm where they will live, and we couldn’t be happier for them. Their wedding will not be elaborate, but with an artistic array of gorgeous flowers, handcrafted specialties created by the pretty bride, and a homemade dance floor, I know it will be a beautiful and memorable day. When I got married, 20 years ago, I kept the costs down every which way I could. I made my own cake, and with help, prepared all the fare for a tasty meal. A few folks even con-
tributed a plate of food, most notably my uncle Dick (of peanut butter and onion sandwich fame) who proudly carried in a brimming plate of raw, sliced onions. Who brings raw onions to a wedding feast I ask you? The ramifications of such a gift could have been nasty, but fortunately, no t m any p eo p le eat mounds of the odorous vegetable like my uncles did. Dear uncle Don took all of our special photos and brought his guitar to play with my new husband’s son, Todd on drums, and his wife Melanie on keyboard. Thanks to them, there was a dance and merrymaking long into the night. Some 60 years ago times were very different. I don’t know much about my godparent’s ceremony, although I imagine it was simple and straightforward. But I do recall Lois telling me about their honeymoon when I was about 13. Strange stuff to tell a child, you may be saying, and yes, it was rather strange, but not in the way you might think. After the happy event, the couple set out for Loon Lake, Saskatchewan to spend an idyllic week camping—in the back of a grain truck. Yes indeed, once a few stray oats were swept out the back, the end gate slid in place and a canvas tarp
21083ra4
File Photo stretched tight over the top, it was perfect. Can you imagine? Even as a youngster I had been appalled by this information. But wait, the plot thickens. Lois, the most frugal woman I’ve ever known, saw immediately that they had parked their “camper” in the midst of bushes laden with fruit. Dusky, purple Saskatoons hung in great fat clumps and rubyred raspberries were so ripe, they were dropping to the ground. She couldn’t let such bounty go to waste, and sent her new husband, Dugald, to the nearest store for a portable camp stove, sugar, jars and a huge pot. Then, they spent their days picking and canning fruit. Not everyone’s idea of a romantic getaway, but it worked for them. However we may celebrate a wedding, each one is an expression of love and commitment,
where memories are made that last a lifetime. Some wedding memories, such as the pervasive odour of onions wafting across a crowded dance floor, could just as well be forgotten, but every event is remembered for something different. Mine just happens to be bad breath.
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A strong foundation for education WHISPERS OF THE PAST SANDRA L. BROWN
Established in 1904, the Lloydminster School District No. 1036 was our first school division.
Then, the newly formed provincial border in 1905 caused the formation of two distinct school districts; Lloydminster School District No. 1036 (Saskatchewan) and Lloydminster School District No. 1753 (Alberta).
This ripple effect also resulted in two different school boards, one for each side of the border. With the proposed passing of government legislation, a decision was made in 1917 to create the Lloydminster Joint Schools Board.
This board was comprised of five representatives from the Saskatchewan side as it was the larger school district and three from Alberta. Salaries, payment of utilities, purchase of equipment and furnishings were now their responsibility. They were also accountable for collecting taxes, debenture payments and insurance premiums. Classes were originally held in various buildings. The Meridian School was built in 1925 on 50 Avenue where City Hall is currently located. The board of trustees for the Lloydminster High School board met to discuss looking after the running of the high school. After the amalgamation of the town and village in 1930, the joint board was cancelled resulting in the Lloydminster Public School District. The high school board was still in existence until January 1954. The naming of the public schools which followed paid tribute to our early colonists and their British heritage. The new high school (1949) was later renamed Neville Goss School. This was converted to an elementary school after the Lloydminster Comprehensive High School opened in 1968.
File Photo As enrolment increased, more schools were added during the 1950s including Queen Elizabeth; and Avery School which was named after Chester E. Avery who was a teacher. Martin Browne worked as an elementary school caretaker from 1913-1953; the Martin Browne School was respectively named in his honour. Eventually renamed after a principal, E. S. Laird School was the only junior high until Bishop Lloyd School opened in 1979. That was named in honour of Rev. George Exton Lloyd the chaplain for the Barr Colonists. There were a number of positions available for school bus operators before school resumed in Fall 1963. Advertised wages were 10 cents per mile based on two round trips per day with a minimum of $5 and a maximum of $10 per
day for each set route. Originally built in 1963 on the Saskatchewan side, the Barr Colony School was relocated to its present Alberta location in 1976. It was named after Rev. Isaac Barr who had the vision of settling here. Trading the original school building for land on the southeast area, the new Winston Churchill School (1980) r e t ai ne d i t s name i n honour of the former British prime minister. Built on land originally owned by the Rendell family colonists, Rendell Park School opened in 1987. By September 1992 more than 3,000 students were enrolled in our public schools which laid down a strong foundation for their academic education. New schools and additions to existing buildings were built to keep up with community growth.
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PAGE 26 Thursday, August 19, 2021 MERIDIAN SOURCE
Sports
It all comes down to this! CPCA to pack Halstead Downs for 2021 chuckwagon championships
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EDITOR
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This is it, folks. The Denham Tough Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association (CPCA) Finals are back in the Border City, and with 32 drivers and 18 outriders vying for that top spot, it’s bound to be a great five days of racing. The action kicked off last night at Halstead Downs with gates opening at 5 p.m. nightly through Sunday with races starting at 6:30 p.m. Gates open at 12:30 p.m. on championship Sunday with races starting at 2 p.m. Going into last night’s opening heats, Ryan and Todd Baptiste are tied for the top spot with 853.5 points apiece, with Jamie Laboucane not far behind with 838 points. Logan Gorst sits fourth with 835.5, Danny
Taylor Weaver Meridian Source
Left: CPCA driver Rocky Bremner comes flying out of the infield during North American Chuckwagon Championship action at Halstead Downs on July 20. Right: Which of the 32 CPCA drivers do you think will be driving away in this beautiful 2020 Dodge Ram after Sunday’s championship?
Ringuette sits fifth with 833, BJ Carey is seated sixth with 827, Preston Faithful is in seventh with 763, Ross Knight sits eighth 746, DJ King is in ninth with 739 and Luke Tournier sits tenth with 712.5. The Outrider standings will also create a pretty tight race going into Sunday’s final as Tyler McKenzie sits first overall with 4691.5 points. Quaid Tournier is seated second with 4476, Wyatt Dyck is third with 4439.5, Tiegan Laroche is fourth with 3603, and Logan Pethick is fifth with
3532.5. The Lloyd Ex may have just recently hosted the North American Chuckwagon Championships to close out July, but with the CPCA finals being a long-standing staple in the Border City, the Ex couldn’t wait for the sound of the first horn. “After missing a year, we couldn’t be more thrilled to have this event back, and how the season has played out, it’s going to be a very exciting five days,” said Lloyd Ex assistant general manager, Jackie Tomayer.
“If you missed the chucks in July you have another chance to see them for five days. “We love our chuckwagons here and it’s excited to fill the grandstands twice this year. Even though we weren’t able to have our grandstand shows, we were still able to have 14 days of chuckwagon racing with full grandstands.” The CPCA finals wouldn’t be complete without beer gardens and live entertainment, and this year’s show will have a DJ from Maz Entertainment on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the Dirt Rich Band will be taking the stage on Thursday night. Tickets to the races are $20 per person/per day and children 12 and under get in for free. T h i s y e a r ’ s C h u c kwagon Cabaret, which is taking place on Saturday night at the Ex, will be featuring The Reklaws with special guest Garrett Gregory. Tickets for the cabaret are $55 and all attending must be 19-year-old with photo ID. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m.
PAGE 27 Thursday, August 19, 2021 MERIDIAN SOURCE
Careers
Film credit attracts productions worth nearly $1B MERIDIAN SOURCE STAFF
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A key part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, the Film and Television Tax Credit, is attracting major productions to the province, diversifying the economy and creating thousands of new jobs. Since the program’s launch in January 2020, it has attracted 50 productions to Alberta with total production costs of $955 million, creating 9,000 new direct and indirect jobs in the province. “The boom in our film industry is the perfect example of Alberta’s Recovery Plan in action,” said Premier Jason Kenney. “Thanks to the Film and Television Tax Credit, and our recent improvements to it, we are witnessing a new billion-dollar industry take shape right before our eyes, further diversifying the economy and creating new jobs.” In March 2021, Alberta’s government removed the $10-million per-project cap from the Film and Television Tax Credit to make the province an even more desirable location for larger productions. “Alberta is the new Hollywood,” said Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation Doug Schweitzer.
“With our stunning landscapes, our immense talent and our world-class studios, our province is being showcased on the big screen in a way that it never has before, with thousands of jobs being created in everything from carpentry to catering.” Cameras are rolling on film and television productions across Alberta, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars in investment into the economy as these productions hire local crews, actors and extras, and use local businesses. “Film productions like The Last of Us and Ghostbusters mean thousands of new jobs for rural Albertans both on and off set,” said Associate Minister of Rural Economic Development Nate Horner. “With landscapes from the Rocky Mountains to the Prairies, Alberta is becoming a global hub for film. New multimillion-dollar investments in the film industry are getting Albertans back to work and driving Alberta’s economic recovery. I look forward to seeing even more of Alberta on the big screen.” The Film and Television Tax Credit, combined with Alberta’s competitive tax
File Photo environment, affordable labour costs and breathtaking scenery, has made the province a prime choice for medium and bigbudget television and film projects that have a positive impact on Alberta’s economy. HBO is currently filming its new television series The Last of Us in Alberta. The project is the single largest television series production in Canadian history and is expected to create thousands of jobs. “HBO is synonymous with quality and The Last of Us has long been touted as
one of the most cinematic video game series ever created – a perfect marriage to Alberta’s cinematic landscapes, light and picturesque communities,” said Brock Skretting, head of advocacy, Keep Alberta Rolling. “We are grateful to have this tentpole series in the province developing the industry and creating hundreds of jobs for our hard-working and talented crews, as well as a great economic stimulus in communities of sou t hern Albert a. This project, along with enhancements of the Alberta Film and Tele-
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PAGE 28 Thursday, August 19, 2021 MERIDIAN SOURCE 306-825-5111 admin@meridiansource.ca
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Thursday, August 19, 2021
Obituaries & Memoriams
HEMEON: Jolayne Ethel Hemeon passed away at Lloydminster Hospital, Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, August 10, 2021 at the age of
58 years. Jolayne is survived by: her loving husband, Greg Hemeon; two sons, Jordan (Jessica) and Chris (Mikayla); four grandchildren, Kiegan, Everleigh, Ryker and Macie; parents, Daryl and Maryanne Wilkinson; sister, Marcie; brother, Darren; and numerous other relatives and friends. A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Donations in memory of Jolayne may be made to Lloydminster & District SPCA or Haying in the 30’s.
LARRY BERTRAM WAKEFIELD Born August 21, 1946, Passed away June 30, 2021 in Unity after a lengthy battle with COPD. Attended school in Neilburg, Sk graduating in 1964. He worked on the PFRA dam project at Outlook, Sk. He then worked at Neilburg Co-op, Skinner Motors in Lloydminster and then took over the family farm in 1977. He also worked in the oilfield for 32 years. Larry leaves to mourn his beloved wife Dianne of 53 years.
His son Brad Wakefield (Caren) and their daughter Sydney; daughter, Valerie Tangen-Pike (Brett) and their children, Braden Tangen, Taylor Tangen and Schylour Pike. Sister Linda (Jim) Ross and family; brother-in-law Doug (Lois) Johnston and family. Larry was predeceased by mother Jean Wakefield and father Reg (Lyla) Wakefield. mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dorothy and Jack Johnston. A graveside service was held at Neilburg Memorial Cemetery on July 24. CARDS OF THANKS Special thank you to Reverend Lorna Brick, Raymond Faltermeir, Dr. Williams and staff at Unity Heath Care Centre, to Gerein Funeral Service Unity. Thank you to all that sent food, flowers and cards and to all that helped prepare lunch for after service. Dianne Wakefield & Family
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Thursday, August 19, 2021
Obituaries & Memoriams
ANDERSON: Robert John Anderson passed away at home in Lloydminster, Alberta, July 28, 2021 with loving family by his side. Robert is survived by: his mother, Joan Anderson; sister,
Shelley (Doug) Erick and their family: Alissa (Bryen) Sanderson and their children, Temperance and Robynn; brother, Dwayne (Melody) Anderson and their family: Kris (Amanda) Anderson and their children, Keegan and Kapri: Kody (Stacy) Anderson and their children, Lukas and Mikayla: Kelsy Anderson and his son, Daymon Bjarnason: and Rochelle Anderson and her son, Gatlyn. Robert is predeceased by: his father, Johnny Anderson. The Celebration of Life was officiated by Dale Wells and Graveside Service was conducted from Zion Lutheran Church on August 4, 2021, with
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Pastor Sandra and Richard Salzl officiating. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements. CARD OF THANKS Robert’s family would like to thank Kendal Hannah and Amarra who responded to our call. Their care, compassion and professionalism will always be remembered. Thank you to Brett at McCaw Funeral Service for his assistance and compassion in helping us make funeral arrangements. Thank you to Sandra and Richard Salzl for the meaningful Graveside
Service and Dale Wells for the eulogy and officiating the Celebration of Robert’s life. We are also so grateful for Robert’s closest friends, Robert & Laurie Herle, Bob and Kim Lorinczy, Tom and Sarah Nelson and Dale and Mae Wells for all your support during this time and in the past. It is so wonderful that Robert had such great friends over the years. We’d also like to thank everyone for the cards, phone calls, text messages and visits. Also thank you to all those in attendance, those who made donations and sent flowers. Your thoughtfulness was greatly appreciated.
Thursday, August 19, 2021
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