Civically Speaking Podcast with Host, Lenore Swystun and Co-Host, Christina Cherneskey

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Thanks for tuning in, Listeners,

Happy Spring, Election Time, Easter Time, All kinds of celebration time, and also Grieving...

Part 1: "Why 114 Seminary Crescent Matters"
 This episode delves into the University of Saskatchewan's decision to demolish the historic Lutheran Theological Seminary at 114 Seminary Crescent. We explore the building's architectural and cultural significance, the community's efforts to preserve it, and the broader implications for heritage conservation in Saskatoon.​

Part 2: "Faith, Democracy, and More"
In this segment, we reflect on the recent passing of Pope Francis at age 88, discussing his legacy of humility and social justice. We also examine Canada's record-breaking advance voter turnout ahead of the April 28 federal election, highlighting the nation's democratic engagement. Additionally, we address Saskatoon's escalating drug crisis, with over 900 overdose incidents reported this year, and; we recognize and pay tribute to Lawrence Joseph, a respected First Nations leader and justice advocate who passed away at 79.

Thanks for tuning into Civically Speaking and Community Radio the world over - especially our little CFCR community radio station - small and mighty.  90.5 FM 

Civically Speaking,

Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks always for tuning into Civically Speaking.

In this new episode, recorded last Friday, we sit down virtually with Saskatoon’s newly elected mayor, Cynthia Block, for an engaging and thoughtful conversation.

Together, we explore Cynthia’s path from journalist to mayor, what she’s learning in her new role, and what’s next for Saskatoon.

Highlights include:

• Sharing reflections from Election and time on Council
• Revitalizing Downtown Saskatoon
• Discussing Homeless and Housing 

Thanks Mayor Block for joining the show.  Please tune in and share this episode. 

Listen on CFCR 90.5 FM or wherever you get your podcasts.

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Thanks for tuning in, Dear Listeners,

Today we have Dr. Tom Wolf, Agrologist, co-founder of Agrimetrix Research & Training, a leader in agriculture spray tech innovation and a former Saskatoon mayoral candidate join Gordon Androsoff, Agrologist, Executive Director of CHEP Good Food Inc, national advocate for food security and sovereignty. 

We focus on agriculture issues in this episode. First, focusing on global trade tensions and Canadian impacts; then we move over to a discussion about climate change and global food systems; and then love on to the upcoming national election and then dive into issues closer to home.

Thanks much to Tom and Gord for joining the show.  

Be sure to support community radio and shows just like this.

Civically Speaking,

Lenore Swystun with Chistina Cherneskey (whom sends her regrets) 

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners, 

Flying solo this week.

In Part One, I give an update as we head into Week 2 of our federal election coverage with an overview of what’s shaping up nationally and take a closer look at the candidates running in Saskatchewan—who’s in, who’s out, and what to watch for as campaigns heat up.

In Part Two, I turn the spotlight to Saskatoon with a roundup of local stories making headlines: from our beloved zoo animals, the state of our city streets, to updates on the bus rapid transit rollout and what’s next for the downtown entertainment district.

Tune in for your weekly dose of civic chatter—local, regional, and national—all wrapped into on. 

Civically speaking,

Lenore Swystun together with Christina Cherneskey...regrets this week

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks for tuning in. 

Christina Cherneskey and I begin with the latest re the Federal Election in Part 1 and then bring in some stories from Saskatchewan and Saskatoon in Part 2.

Have a listen. Support local media. Exercise your civic muscles. 

Civically speaking,

Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks so much for continuing to listen to this show. Shows rooted in community radio stations like CFCR matter where local voices share wisdom and express views that make us think, think again, and dig deeper for meaning and value in one's community.

Monica Kreuger and Sara Wheelwright return as guest panelists to the show. No strangers to our city of Saskatoon - they continue to be leaders championing many causes including that of small businesses and community based efforts. 

We weigh in on the changing geo-political front and offer some thoughts about what this can mean for our country, our province, our local leadership, our small businesses and more. Tune in.

Thanks Monica and Sara for joining the show. We'll be back to talk more on governance and leadership and and and...

Civically Speaking,

Lenore Swystun

regrets from Christina Cherneskey

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks for tuning in.

2 parts. First part - Tariffs go into effect in North America. 

Second part, we talk waste, savings, parking, and more re City of Saskatoon.  

Have a listen.  Share with others. Support community radio and local podcasts wherever you are. And when in Saskatoon, support CFCR and shows like this.

Civically Speaking, 
Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey 

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Hello Dear Listeners,

Please have a listen to this week's episode. We dive into some key milestone moments - Russia's invasion of Ukraine - 3 years later; Federal Liberal Leadership Race; Premier and team travels to Washington to discuss trade and tariffs and related items; Saskatoon Council and zoning of secondary suites.

Tune in to local media. Support community radio stations - CFCR in Saskatoon. 

And thanks always for supporting this show.

Civically Speaking,

Lenore with Christina

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Catherine McDonald, newly elected Ward 1 Councillor in Saskatoon, joins us with a compelling narrative of her transition from trades professional to influential municipal leader. Catherine's journey is anything but ordinary, marked by a passion for lifelong learning that spans culinary arts, wine, spirits, and horticulture, alongside running a family cheese shop that ignited her community involvement and political aspirations. Her story is one of transformation, fueled by a drive to create a better city for her family and neighbors, and she generously shares the lessons learned along the way during our conversation.

Our chat delves into the emotional highs and lows of running a political campaign, where authenticity and community connections became Catherine's guiding principles. She courageously stepped into the political arena, motivated by a desire to make Saskatoon safer and more accessible. From meeting influential figures to assembling a dedicated campaign team, Catherine reflects on the rollercoaster of election night and her narrow yet thrilling victory over well-established opponents, offering a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of embarking on a political career.

Catherine doesn't shy away from discussing the pressing challenges she faces, from addressing homelessness to the complexities of city governance. She shares her perspective on the intricacies of working with fellow council members and the dynamic orientation process for new councillors. Her commitment to tackling urban development challenges, fostering community engagement, and enhancing accessibility and affordability underscores her vision for Saskatoon's future. Join us as we uncover Catherine's insights and dedication to making a lasting impact in her community.

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues. 

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks so much for tuning in. So much appreciate your listening ears.

This week's episode, we touch base on the latest re our neighbours to the south.

And then, we circle back to home. 

Musing end in the renaming of a favourite coffee beverage. 

Canadiano, anyone? 

Have a listen. And, be sure to support local radio shows just this. 

Civically speaking, 

Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey 

Civically Speaking- Saskatoon Saskatchewan's #1 show about civic issues.