Check out what's happening in Saskatoon Willowgrove and throughout the Province!

WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

Please visit my facebook page to see my Christmas message to you and

your family.

BE INFORMED AS CANNABIS EDIBLES, EXTRACTS AND TOPICALS BECOME AVAILABLE

Cannabis edibles, extracts and topicals may soon be available for purchase, under federal

and provincial cannabis laws. With these products becoming available, there are important

points consumers should keep in mind regarding the retail and consumption of cannabis.

Some other things to keep in mind if you choose to consume cannabis products:

• In Saskatchewan, the minimum age for buying and consuming all forms of cannabis,

including edibles, is 19 years of age.

• All cannabis products, including edibles that may look like candy, baked goods or other food

items, should be stored in a place that cannot be reached by children or pets.

• Possession of any amount of non-medical cannabis by a minor is prohibited.

• Licensed retailers are required to follow specific health and safety guidelines regarding the

products they sell. Unsure if you’re buying from a legal source? The list of licensed retailers

in Saskatchewan (stores and online) can be found on SLGA’s website

at https://www.slga.com/permits-and-licences/cannabis-permits/cannabis-retailing/cannabis-

retailers-in-saskatchewan.

• Edible cannabis may take hours longer to take effect than smoking cannabis. The effects of

edibles are also generally more intense and last longer than the effects of inhaling cannabis.

• Consuming any form of non-medical cannabis in public spaces is prohibited. Individuals can

only carry up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent in public.

• Possessing, consuming or distributing any form of cannabis in a vehicle could result in a

$300 fine. Cannabis can only be transported from one lawful place (store, home) to another

lawful place (home, another’s home). This is consistent with the rules already in place for

alcohol and vehicles.

• There is zero tolerance for all drug-impaired driving in Saskatchewan.

• Penalties for driving under the influence of cannabis may include immediate license

suspension, vehicle seizure for up to 60 days, and license suspension for up to five years

upon conviction of drug-impaired driving. These laws apply to everyone, including medicinal

users of cannabis.

• Penalties in place for provincial cannabis offences range from $200 to $2,250. In more

serious instances, individuals could be charged with a provincial offence and face fines

ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 and imprisonment of up to six months.

Related Items:

• Cannabis in Saskatchewan: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/cannabis-in-

saskatchewan

• Saskatchewan Cannabis Retailers: https://www.slga.com/permits-and-licences/cannabis-

permits/cannabis-retailing/cannabis-retailers-in-saskatchewan

• What to Know About Cannabis Legislation: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-

media/2018/october/17/legalization-of-cannabis

• Cannabis Legalization Backgrounder: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-

media/2018/october/17/legalization-of-cannabis

PLEASE DON'T DRIVE IMPAIRED!

Global News Picture and STory Credit, Thomas Piller

The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) recently announced its plans for this year’s Holiday Checkstop

campaign.

Six additional checkstops are expected in the city between Dec. 9 and New Year’s Eve.

Bonny Stevenson, president of Saskatoon’s Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) chapter, said

they’re working on Project Red Ribbon right now.

“We like to think that having these red ribbons out constantly reminds people of not drinking and

driving, always drive sober. That’s always going to be our message, no matter what,” she said.

“It’s about making that plan before you leave the house. Project Red Ribbon is about all of that. It

reminds us of all the people that have been killed by an impaired driver. So join me today and tie a

red ribbon on so everyone knows that you’re committed to driving sober.”

Read the entire story here.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR CLUTTER=FREE GIFTS?

ONE OF SASKATCHEWAN'S BEST FAMILY ACTIVITIES!

1. Diefenbaker Park/Optimist Hill

Accessible off St. Henry Ave. in Exhibition Area, Diefenbaker Park and Optimist Hill are home to one

of the longest tobogganing runs in the city! The snow park and tobogganing hill will open when the

snow falls. Tobogganing will remain FREE!

2. Pest Hill (AKA G.D. Archibald Park N.)

An inspiring name for this fab tobogganing location in the north of the city! Pest Hill can be accessed

on Spadina Cr. south just off the Circle Drive Bridge. Pitch your car in somewhere along Spadina and

bring your sled of choice for hours of winter fun!

3. Pierre Radisson Park

Located in Westmount, this is the hill of choice for those located in the west-central part of the city! It

is easily accessible form 29th St. W and McMillan Ave. and is ideal for little tobogganers as it is not

too steep!

4. Harold Tatler Park

If you you’re on Jarvis, Dr., park yourself smack dab in the middle of two fantastic tobogganing hills

and make your choice! These hills are a convenient commute for anyone in the south of city, and

manageable sizes for little ones making the trek back to the top.

5. Blackstrap

Fancy a wild ride in the country? Pack your sled, take a drive to Blackstrap, and choose your

tobogganing route near what locals refer to as the ‘ski-ruins!’ In years past, Blackstrap was home to a

small ski resort, the remnants of which can still be seen at this unique tobogganing location. The hill

can be accessed by turning off Highway 11 as indicated at the Blackstrap Provincial Park sign.

6. Dr. Gerhard Herzberg Park

If you’re in the east of the city, you will find this gem located just off Acadia Dr. Park up, grab that

crazy carpet and hold onto your touque!

7. WJL Harvey Park

Hop on Verbeke Road in Silverwood to find this slippery slope! You’ll be certain to get your thrill-on

as you fly down this steep hill on your implement of choice! This hill is centrally located for dwellers

in the north end of Saskatoon.

8. William A. Reid Park

Looking for a wicked winter hill on the west-side? Try William A. Reid accessible off Pendygrasse Rd.

or Fairmont Dr. No GT, toboggan, or crazy carpet is too wild for this slope! Gear up, bring the family,

and relish the wind whipping through your hair!

9. Silverspring Park

Located behind Mother Theresa School on Konihowski Rd, you will find a gem of hill nestled a way

back from the road. This north-east Saskatoon location is ace for little ones as the hill is a

manageable size and there is no traffic nearby!

10. Victoria Park

If you’re taking a drive down Spadina Cr. West, park up wherever you fancy along Victoria Park, and

grab your sled! This park is extensive so you can a choose the slope that best suits your fear factor!

Well folks, this is your cue to suit up and enjoy these 10 best places to toboggan in Saskatoon!

Heaven only knows what a short season we have to enjoy the white stuff;) Happy Sledding!

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THIS EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE!

Breaking Barriers, a journey to mental wellness is an afternoon conference and evening gala

dedicated to understanding the challenges to mental wellness in our families, friends, and peers.

In today’s world, it is a fact that someone we know will go through a mental illness. The next

conversation is now how to best support ourselves and each other when experiencing mental health

problems, as well as supporting those who support others.

How can we increase belonging and show that no one is ever alone when experiencing these issues?

How can we normalize mental health challenges and build trust to end the ever-lingering stigma

surrounding these issues? Just how powerful is the act of vulnerability, and how can we build trust

with those around us?

On January 28, Breaking Barriers 2020 is going to show us just that.

As we continue our Journey to Mental Wellness, the second annual Breaking Barriers focusses on

putting an action to ‘ending the stigma’ of mental health in today’s society, as well as recognizing the

strains on the individuals who are the support system for someone with a mental illness.

In the follow up to an epic Breaking Barriers 2019, we will continue to bridge the gap and facilitate

attendees in coming together to gain a deep understanding of the pain and fears that our peers are

experiencing, and to provide normalization and acceptance of our own struggles. Breaking Barriers is

a fundraising event, with the proceeds from the event being donated to UnderstandUs, a mental

health initiative that challenges people to feel, think, and act differently about mental health.

UnderstandUs promotes awareness, provides, education, and builds relationships in our

communities.

On January 28, 2020 - join Bridges Health along with renowned speakers from across North America,

including Clint and Joanie Malarchuk, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, and Jordan Axani to be a part of this

important conversation.

Set in the unique format of an educational afternoon conference and evening gala, it is a do not miss

event! Click here for additional information.

WARM-UP LOCATIONS IN SASKATOON

"It’s getting cold in #yxe and the Saskatoon Cold Weather Strategy has been activated. Please share

and let’s work together to keep everyone safe from the cold."

https://twitter.com/SaskatoonEMO/status/1204168727756853248

https://globalnews.ca/…/627…/saskatoon-cold-weather-strategy

CHANGES TO FISCAL STABILIZATION TOP HARPAURER'S AGENDA AT FINANCE MINISTERS' MEETING

Improving fiscal stabilization for all Canadian provinces will be the focus of Saskatchewan Finance

Minister Donna Harpauer when Canada’s finance ministers come together in Ottawa on Tuesday for

their annual meeting.

“Canada’s Premiers recently reached a consensus that changes to fiscal stabilization are needed,”

Harpauer said. “Program funding is not sufficient for provinces that experience unexpected fiscal

challenges, and the program needs to be more responsive to economic shocks and

downturns. Saskatchewan is calling on the federal government to make the necessary immediate

improvements to fiscal stabilization.”

Several changes to the fiscal stabilization program are being proposed, including:

• Removing the $60 per capita limit on stabilization payments;

• Lowering the qualifying threshold for non-resource revenues;

• Making these changes retroactive to include the 2015-16 fiscal year.

All provinces have also asked the federal Finance Minister to include health transfers on the meeting

agenda. Saskatchewan supports the recent unanimous call put forward by Canada’s Premiers to set

the annual escalator for the Canada Health Transfer to 5.2 per cent—the level recommended by the

Conference Board of Canada.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Harpauer will also highlight the need for the federal government to re-examine

the mortgage stress test - a task that was included in the updated Mandate Letter to the Federal

Minister of Finance.

“In Saskatchewan, the stress test has done more harm than good, preventing a disproportionate

number of families from being able to afford a home,” Harpauer said.

Harpauer also wants changes to the Investing in Canada Program and will be asking the federal

government to work directly with provinces to set infrastructure priorities and approve projects.

“These changes would allow provinces to better target infrastructure spending to the areas of

highest need and would help accelerate key projects,” Harpauer said.

2019 QUEEN'S COUNSEL DESIGNATION HONOURS FOR 14 SASKATCHEWAN LAWYERS

Fourteen Saskatchewan lawyers are being recognized for their contributions to the legal profession

and public service with the Queen’s Counsel (Q.C.) designation.

“The Queen’s Counsel designation is a tradition that honours those lawyers who have demonstrated

superior legal ability and outstanding public service,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Don

Morgan said. “I’m proud to be able to recognize their hard work and dedication, not only to the legal

profession, but to communities across our province.”

The 2019 Queen’s Counsel appointments are:

• Frances Alice Atkinson is a Senior Crown Prosecutor with Saskatchewan Justice in Meadow

Lake. She was admitted to the bar in 1981.

• Merlis Milton Richard Belsher is a prominent businessman and philanthropist residing in

Saskatoon. He was admitted to the bar in 1964.

• Peter Timothy Bergbusch is with Miller Thompson LLP in Regina. He was admitted to the bar

in 1996.

• Amber Adelene Biemans is with Behiel Will & Biemans in Humboldt. She was admitted to the

bar in 2006.

• Sheila Elizabeth Caston is with McKercher LLP in Saskatoon. She was admitted to the bar in

1997.

• Loreley Chekay is with Saskatchewan Government Insurance in Regina. She was admitted to

the bar in 2003.

• Cory John Furman is with Furman Law & Strategy in Regina. He is also Chair of Creative

Saskatchewan. He was admitted to the bar in 1995.

• Alan Frederick Jacobson is a Senior Crown Counsel with the Constitutional Law Branch of

Saskatchewan Justice and Attorney General. He was admitted to the bar in 1999.

• Amanda Marie Quayle is with McDougall Gauley in Regina. She was admitted to the bar in

1998.

• Susan Elizabeth Ross is the President and Chief Executive Officer with Water Security

Agency. She was admitted to the bar in 1987.

• William Alfred Selnes is with Kapoor Selnes Klimm in Melfort. He was admitted to the bar in

1976.

• Sheldon Melvin Stener is with Federated Co-operatives Limited in Saskatoon. He was

admitted to the bar in 1991.

• Scott David Waters is with Robertson Stromberg LLP in Saskatoon. He was admitted to the

bar in 2001.

• Janet Lee Whitridge is the Executive Legal Officer of the Provincial Court in Regina. She was

admitted to the bar in 1993.

Queen’s Counsel appointments are based on recommendations from a selection committee

consisting of Saskatchewan's Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the Chief Justice of the Court

of Appeal for Saskatchewan or the Chief Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench and the past

presidents of the Saskatchewan branch of the Canadian Bar Association and the Law Society of

Saskatchewan.

Individuals must live in Saskatchewan and must have practiced law for at least 10 years in the

superior courts of any province or territory of Canada, the United Kingdom or Ireland.

SHARING A POST

Please note this post was written by Bodyposipanda:

I want to hold a little space for the people who aren't feeling merry or joyful & might be wondering

how they're going to get through the holiday season.

The people who lost someone this year and are bracing themselves for the first time without them.

The people who are going home to guaranteed body shaming & fatphobia.

The people whose mental health issues won't magically disappear just because it's Christmas.

The people with eating disorders who are worried about holding onto recovery when everything is so

food-centred this time of year.

The people who are struggling to afford every day life and might go into debt trying to keep up with

the celebrations.

The kids who aren't able to fully be themselves around family because it might not be safe.

The people gathering strength to fight against racist comments round the dinner table.

The people who don't drink anymore and will have to keep explaining why because who doesn't drink

over the holidays?

The carers, the retail workers, the hospital staff, everyone working extra time under extra pressure

this holiday season.

Anyone who's just feeling overwhelmed and like they can't keep up with it all.

It's totally okay to feel exactly how you feel. To get through this year however you can. To protect and

preserve yourself whenever and however you need to. And to take this season a day at a time.

SASKATOON POLICE SERVICE WELCOMES NEW RECRUIT CLASS

Graduates of Recruit Training Class #79 have returned to the Saskatoon Police Service after

completing 20 weeks of training at Saskatchewan Police College in Regina. This group of new hires is

comprised of people from all walks of life. We have hired former school teachers, security guards,

paramedics, corrections workers, commerce graduates and people that have worked in the

advertising and the oil Industries.

During the past 20 weeks the recruits have learned about topics including; criminal law, defensive

tactics, firearms, powers of arrest, mental health, restorative justice, and cultural diversity. They

flawlessly marched in drill and participated in the most rigorous and demanding physical fitness

training of their lives. They are all prepared to serve our community and are looking forward to

making a difference in their new careers as Police Officers. They are assigned to their Platoons as of

December 21, 2019.

The Saskatoon Police Service welcomes it's new recruits.

KICK OFF THE WINTER SEASON WITH MEEWASIN AT THE TIM HORTONS TWINKLE LIGHTS CELEBRATION ON DECEMBER 18TH

FROM 5 - 9 PM!

Found at the river's edge in Kiwanis Park, next to the Delta Bessborough Hotel is the Cameco

Meewasin Skating Rink. This unique outdoor skating rink is simply breathtaking and will leave you

with an experience you will never forget. See for yourself what makes Saskatoon such a beautiful city

as you skate alongside the river!

The skating rink is open daily for your use, equipped with a cozy warm-up shelter and even an

outdoor fire pit; it is truly a Christmas lit wonderland in the heart of Saskatoon. Skates and skating

are free, although donations are welcome! Come alone, with someone special or with the whole

family and enjoy this amazing view! Downtown Saskatoon is proud to be a sponsor of the rink for the

2017-2018 season!

Open December to March Noon to 9 pm daily. Call the rink at (306) 229-8827 or visit their website

at Meewasin Valley Authority

Skating parties for 2019/2020 season are as follows:

December 31st 2019 – Meewasin New Year’s Eve Skating Party: 5:00PM-9:00PM

January 25th 2020 – Nutrien Wintershines Skating Party: 12:00PM-4:00PM

February 17th 2020 – Cameco Family Day Skating Party: 12:00PM-4:00PM

PARTNERS CHOSEN TO SUPPORT GANG VIOLENCE REDUCTION STRATEGY

The Ministry of Corrections and Policing is investing $4.5 million over the next four years into two

community-based organizations as part of its Gang-Violence Reduction Strategy.

STR8 Up and Regina Treaty Status Indian Services Inc. (RT/SIS) will deliver the Community

Intervention Model (CIM) in Saskatchewan. Through this model, STR8 UP and RT/SIS will provide

outreach, intervention and prevention services to help people leave gangs, and reintegrate back into

their communities. The CIM is a key pillar of the province’s Gang Violence Reduction Strategy.

“We believe the Community Intervention Model will help reduce gang crime in communities,”

Corrections and Policing Minister Christine Tell said. “It will help clients reduce contact with the

justice system and promote a connection to employment, educational or training opportunities,

which helps them build positive life skills.”

STR8 Up will provide outreach services in the central and northern regions of the province. RT/SIS

will provide outreach services in the southern regions. These two organizations are expected to

provide services to approximately 100 gang-affiliated individuals over four years.

“When people are given appropriate opportunity, they can make true change, for themselves and

their family,” RT/SIS Executive Director Erica Beaudin said. “The result is less crime and increased

safety in our homes and communities which benefits all of us. We thank the Government of

Saskatchewan for supporting our model of transformation which brings people beyond survival

responses of poverty and violence.”

“STR8 UP is committed to helping gang members exit gang life,” STR8 UP founders Father Andre

Poilièvre and Stan Tu'Inukuafe said. “This funding allows STR8 UP and its recovering members to

work intensively with identified participants and will be delivered with the support of vital community

organizations, notably: West Flat Citizens Group Inc. and Prince Albert Outreach Program Inc. in

northern Saskatchewan.”

The provincial Gang Violence Reduction Strategy received $11.9 million last spring, as part of the

federal government’s Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence initiative.

The strategy also includes expanding the Dedicated Substance Abuse Treatment Units into additional

correctional facilities, reallocating provincially funded police units to Crime Reduction Teams in

Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert, and improving intelligence gathering and sharing between

police agencies.

DO YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN SASKATCHEWAN HISTORY?

Do you have an interest in Saskatchewan history and culture? How would you like to work in a

related field all summer? The Government of Saskatchewan Summer Student Program is looking for

historic interpreters at Cannington Manor, Fort Carlton, and Wood Mountain Post Provincial Parks.

Interpreters will interact with park visitors to deliver, promote, and evaluate interpretive and

recreational programs which promote appreciation of the province’s natural, heritage, and cultural

resources.

Interested? Apply at https://govskpsc.taleo.net/careersection/10240/jobdetail.ftl?job=PA-CU2020.

I appreciate any opportunity to make a positive difference in our constituency. Your

phone calls, letters, and emails make a big difference in keeping me informed on the

issues that matter to you.

If you would like me to recognize anyone or have your event mentioned in this

newsletter, please don't hesitate to call or email me.

Be a Santa to a Senior

Help make a difference in the lives of Seniors this Christmas!

Click here for information or here to contribute

BHP Enchanted Forest 21st Holiday Light Tour

When: Now - January

Where: Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo

Click here for details

Christmas Glow

When: Now - December 28

Where: World Trade Centre, Prairieland Park

www.glowgardens.com/saskatoon-christmas/

Touchdown for Kids Lottery

Draw: December 19

Click here for information

The Saskatoon Menorah Lighting Celebration

When: December 26, 6 pm

Where: Mendel Art Gallery, 950 Spadina Crescent East

Breaking Barriers Educational Conference & Gals

When: January 28

Where:

Information, Click here

Swinging With the Stars Annual

When: February 1

Where: TCU Place

Click here for ticket information

Save the Date - Kayden Kot Fundraiser

When: Friday, February 7

Where: Travelodge Hotel

Watch for additional details in the new year

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

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KEEP IN TOUCH

"From a Provincial Point of View" is a weekly message from Ken Cheveldayoff, MLA Saskatoon

Willowgrove. Your opinions are important and your letters, emails, and phone calls on any issues

relating to the provincial government are welcomed.

Copyright © *|2019, KEN CHEVELDAYOFF, MLA SASKATOON WILLOWGROVE|*, All

rights reserved.

Phone: 306-651-7100

Email: ken.cheveldayoff.mla@sasktel.net