Thank goodness that’s over. Hansard scribes, security guards, clerks, press gallery members and, likely, many others are in for some relief after an intense fall sitting of the 30th legislature ended at about 1:30 a.m. Thursday.

Join reporter Lisa Johnson, managing editor Dave Breakenridge, legislature columnist Keith Gerein and host Janet French as they review a jammed eight-week sitting, stuffed with 16 pieces of government legislation, one private members' bill, and a bunch of motions and government announcements.

The crew also discuss the tension between parties inside and outside the legislative chamber and some strained relationships between the provincial government and local governments, like city councils and school boards.

Good stuff from the gallery Lisa was captivated by the recently published story, "Why some Muslim women take off the hijab," by Haneen Al-Hassoun. It's a "taboo and sensitive topic in the Muslim community — but it's a reality that can't be ignored," Al-Hassoun tweeted about the story.

Dave recommends everyone watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, which turns 30 this year, and have a read about why it’s an enduring Christmas classic.

Janet, who misses interviewing non-politicians, recommends the first part of a Financial Post series by Geoffrey Morgan about the effects on small town Alberta of changes in the energy industry.

Keith recommends a feature on how the federal government has been failing Afghan-Canadians who played a dangerous and vital role during our 10-year war against the Taliban.

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