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Hello Dear Listeners,


This week on Civically Speaking, we unpack a mix of local and global headlines that matter:

🇺🇸 ICE Raids & U.S. Political Tensions – South of the border, sweeping ICE raids in Los Angeles and a war of words between Elon Musk and Donald Trump are heating up the pre-election climate. What does this say about democracy, justice, and global influence?

🔥 Wildfires in Saskatchewan – Over 15,000 residents have been displaced due to this year’s intense wildfire season. We share updates on emergency supports, evacuation sites, and how people across the province are stepping up.
📞 For wildfire information, call the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency’s toll-free line: 1-855-559-5502

🏛️ Saskatoon’s Civic Budget Forecast – A projected 9.9% property tax increase for 2026 is on the table. What’s behind the numbers? How are services like transit, police, and fire shaping this bold proposal? We begin to break it down.


🌕 The Strawberry Moon Rises – June’s full moon, traditionally known as the Strawberry Moon, lights up the sky this week. A moment of beauty, harvest, and reflection amid the chaos.

🐈 A Sphinx Cat Cameo? Yes. You’ll have to tune in.


🗣️ thanks for tuning in,

Civically Speaking,

Lenore and Christina

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

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Dear Listeners,

This week on Civically Speaking, we bring you an important two-part episode exploring the stories, issues, and voices shaping Saskatoon.

Part 1: Wildfires, Community Response & Philanthropy in Action
Lenore Swystun sits down with Rachael Steinke, Chief Executive Officer of the Saskatoon Community Foundation, and Fred Reibin, Shareholder Engagement Lead and Brand Manager, to talk about how this season’s wildfires are impacting communities across Saskatchewan—and how local organizations are responding. Rachael and Fred spotlight the role of the Saskatoon Community Foundation, CUMFI (Central Urban Métis Federation Inc.), and the United Way of Saskatoon and Area in mobilizing urgent support and long-term recovery along with other key organizations including the Canadian Red Cross.

Part 2: What’s Making News in Saskatoon
In the second half, we turn to timely civic issues, including the First Ministers’ Meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held recently in Saskatoon. We also check in on the homelessness situation, share thoughts on e-scooters, and round things out with a local summertime classic: a candid (and slightly comedic) rant about revving engines and late-night noise.

Tune in to stay informed, feel connected, and join the civic conversation.

Civically Speaking,

Lenore Swystun with Christina Cherneskey

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

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Dear Listeners,

Thanks for tuning in.

In this episode of Civically Speaking, I sit down with Phil Tank, Digital Opinion Editor at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix, for a wide-ranging conversation about what’s at stake in Saskatchewan politics right now—both provincially and locally. We explore Saskatchewan’s place in the broader Prairie context, with reflections on Alberta and Manitoba, and discuss the significance of the upcoming First Ministers Meeting happening right here in Saskatoon. Locally, we unpack Mayor Cynthia Block’s State of the City Address and what it signals for the city’s future. A timely conversation about political direction, leadership, and the choices ahead.

Have a listen. Support local media and shows just like this.

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

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Hello Dear Listeners,

Hope everyone had a fantastic long weekend.

On the docket for today's show - we get into some news from over the weekend and then branch into a discussion on an ongoing priority issue for the city - the unhoused/homelessness.

And we then venture into what is going on nationally and internally with some key items.

Have a listen. Support local media and shows like this.

And most importantly - support your community radio station - CFCR.ca 90.5 FM being Saskatoon's.

Civically speaking,

Lenore and Christina

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

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Dear Listeners,

This week on Civically Speaking, we dive into the big federal cabinet announcement and what this could mean for us here in Saskatchewan.

We also ask the question on everyone's mind: will it ever rain again? Including a discussion about rivers and flow and local businesses.

Plus, we muse about the changing intersection near Broadway Bridge as it shuts down for 6 months for repairs.

Tune in for insights, laughs, and some much-needed civic weather therapy.

Civically speaking,

Lenore and Christina

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

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Dear Listeners,

What a whirlwind of a Federal Election. Historic truly. Liberals get in for a fourth term. New Prime Minister who has never served in government. Leader of the Opposition - loses his seat; NDP Leader, likewise, loses his seat. Lone Green Party representative stands.

Saskatchewan gains back its first Liberal MP representing the north half of our province - something our province has not had for a long time.

Have a listen to Christina Cherneskey and I as we unpack what this may mean. Raising more questions then not.

Civically Speaking,

Lenore and Christina

Results Standings as of 4:37 pm today

enr.elections.ca

LIB 169, Cons 144, BQ 22, NDP 7, Green 1 - Total 343

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

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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.