Mayor Harris: 2017

Thursday, 21 December 2017

2017 Seasons Greetings - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 21st, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 21st, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Seasons Greetings

No Place like home for the Holidays! Seasons Greetings, no matter where you may roam, be it near or far, when you think about going home for the holidays or anytime, only one place comes to mind. Preeceville. I wish you a Merry Christmas; holidays that are full of joy; and a New Year that is happy, peaceful and prosperous.

Have a plan this season to get home safety.

The decision to get behind the wheel after drinking may be 1 of the costliest choices you'll ever make. Know the consequences!

Events:

- Ongoing

- Preeceville & District Lions Club Chase the Ace.
"So far Preeceville Lions (Chase The Ace) has paid out $11,263.00 in weekly prize money and a lucky winner won the Jack Pot of $18,137 last week. A total prize pool of $29,400.00 as of Sept. 21st
- The Jackpot this week is $6,636.00. Draws every Thursday night.
Watch their Ad's. Follow the ACE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PreecevilleChaseTheAce/
Each week the Lions post photo's of the draw and sometimes the winners. Check it out!

- The 19^th Annual Musher’s Rendezvous will be held Friday February 2nd thru Sunday February 4th, 2018. This is a world class event which features six and ten dog sled races, which start, and finish be the Preeceville Arena. Come out and enjoy a talent show on Friday packed with local talents, (all wishing to show off their talent contact Karen Maupin at 306-548-2064). On Saturday come and take in the adrenaline of the races, and a fantastic supper. Sunday will feature the finals, the presentation of the trophies and a supper. There will be other scheduled events throughout the weekend.
Last year's event awarded each of the Community Halls in Endeavour, Preeceville, & Sturgis with a cheque for $4500.00 to help with upgrades and maintenance costs. Thank you to our supporters, volunteers and sponsors.
Contributions from this years’ event will go towards the Preeceville & District Health Centre. Watch for posters for more details or follow us on Facebook
The Mushers' weekend could not be a huge of a success without the help of the countless volunteers that give up their time year after year to help out. And we Thank you! If you want to help the organizing committee make this a truly fun event, why don't you come out and volunteer. Please contact any of the committee members if you are interested in volunteering.

www.townofpreeceville.ca/default.aspx?page=15

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Follow the Mayor on the town site at http://www.townofpreeceville.ca/default.aspx?page=65&cid=6 follow me on blogspot at http://mayorharris.blogspot.ca/

follow me on facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/mayorgarthharrisfollow me on twitter @https://twitter.com/MayorGartharris

follow me on google+ @ https://plus.google.com/u/0/102741942183606627948?tab=wX#102741942183606627948/posts

follow me on youtube @https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKyA9eN2gdku8lGSo0WPRWw follow me on instagram @ http://instagram.com/garthrharris

Thursday, 14 December 2017

Marijuana use and driving - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 14th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 14th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Marijuana use and driving

"What you need to know about marijuana use and driving"

Nov. 28, 2017

In Saskatchewan, it’s illegal and will continue to be illegal to drive while impaired – whether by drugs or alcohol – even once marijuana use becomes legal in Canada in July 2018.
To address the legalization of marijuana, law changes have been introduced at both the provincial and federal level. Details on the changes are below.

New federal laws

New federal legislation on drug-impaired driving is expected to take effect before the end of the year.
The Federal Government’s new legislation under Bill C-46 adds three new drug-impaired driving offences and prescribed “per se” unacceptable blood-drug concentration levels for impaired driving under the Criminal Code. These offences cover driving with:

low threshold levels of drug concentration
high threshold levels of drug concentration
combinations of drugs and alcohol

Once Bill C-46 receives final legislative approval – anticipated late December 2017 or early January 2018 – the new changes will be in effect, meaning police will be able to immediately lay charges

Current provincial laws

There are already laws in Saskatchewan that address drug-impaired driving:
There is zero tolerance for both drugs and alcohol for drivers 21 and under and all new drivers1.
Drivers impaired by drugs face the same administrative sanctions as drivers impaired by alcohol.

Consequences for drug-impaired driving under The Traffic Safety Act are the same as for driving alcohol-impaired. They are:

1st offence 2nd offence 3rd offence

New drivers with any level of drugs or alcohol in their system

60-day immediate roadside licence suspension

3-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

Required to complete the Driving Without Impairment (DWI) course

4 demerits under the Safe Driver Recogntion (SDR) program

120-day immediate roadside licence suspension

7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

After serving a 60-day suspension period, can opt for voluntary ignition interlock for 120 days

Required to complete the Alcohol and Drug Education (ADE) course

4 demerits under the SDR program

18-month immediate roadside licence suspension

7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

Mandatory ignition interlock for 1 year, can apply after serving a 1-year suspension period

Addiction assessment

4 demerits under the SDR program

Experienced drivers determined by police to be impaired by drugs or alcohol

3-day immediate roadside licence suspension

3-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

Required to complete the DWI course

4 demerits under the SDR program

21-day immediate roadside licence suspension

7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

Required to complete the ADE course

4 demerits under the SDR program

90-day immediate roadside licence suspension

14-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure

Mandatory ignition interlock for 1 year following the 90-day suspension period

Addiction assessment

4 demerits under the SDR program

Current federal laws

Police can charge drivers under the Criminal Code of Canada for impaired driving – whether they are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs. If you’re charged with impaired driving, your vehicle will be seized at the roadside for 30 days.

Note: Once amendments to The Traffic Safety Act pass in the Saskatchewan Legislature, drivers charged with impaired driving will also receive an immediate licence suspension until the court has disposed of the charge.

If you’re convicted of the charge, further consequences under The Traffic Safety Act include:
Minimum 1 year driving suspension to a maximum of 5 years, depending on number of previous impaired driving related Criminal Code convictions
Safe Driver Recognition program impacts: financial penalty of $1,250, or $2,500 if conviction includes injury or death
Completion of prescribed education program, as applicable, depending on number of previous Criminal Code convictions
Marijuana use and driving don't mix

A driver who has used marijuana won’t react or make decisions as quickly as a sober driver. Attention, judgment, motor skills, balance and co-ordination are all impacted. Mixing drugs or mixing drugs with alcohol can significantly increase impairment levels.

Some people mistakenly believe that driving high on weed is “safer” than driving drunk. Not true. Marijuana impairs driving ability.
Signs of a drug-impaired driver:

Police may can detect drug impairment through driver actions like:
weaving within a lane
delayed reaction times
inability to follow instructions

Odor, and the driver’s physical appearance – including dilated pupils, poor balance and co-ordination – are other signs of a high driver.

Police can legally request a Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST) or a Drug Recognition Evaluation (DRE) at roadside if they have reasonable suspicion to believe a driver is impaired. The revised Criminal Code will allow for oral fluid (saliva) testing.

Links to:
Drinking and drugs combined
News release

Events:

- Ongoing

- Preeceville & District Lions Club Chase the Ace.
"So far Preeceville Lions (Chase The Ace) has paid out $11,263.00 in weekly prize money and a lucky winner won the Jack Pot of $18,137 last week. A total prize pool of $29,400.00 as of Sept. 21st
- The Jackpot this week is $6,115.00. Draws every Thursday night.
Watch their Ad's. Follow the ACE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PreecevilleChaseTheAce/
Each week the Lions post photo's of the draw and sometimes the winners. Check it out!

- The 19^th Annual Musher’s Rendezvous will be held Friday February 2nd thru Sunday February 4th, 2018. This is a world class event which features six and ten dog sled races, which start, and finish be the Preeceville Arena. Come out and enjoy a talent show on Friday packed with local talents, (all wishing to show off their talent contact Karen Maupin at 306-548-2064). On Saturday come and take in the adrenaline of the races, and a fantastic supper. Sunday will feature the finals, the presentation of the trophies and a supper. There will be other scheduled events throughout the weekend.
Last year's event awarded each of the Community Halls in Endeavour, Preeceville, & Sturgis with a cheque for $4500.00 to help with upgrades and maintenance costs. Thank you to our supporters, volunteers and sponsors.
Contributions from this years’ event will go towards the Preeceville & District Health Centre. Watch for posters for more details or follow us on Facebook
The Mushers' weekend could not be a huge of a success without the help of the countless volunteers that give up their time year after year to help out. And we Thank you! If you want to help the organizing committee make this a truly fun event, why don't you come out and volunteer. Please contact any of the committee members if you are interested in volunteering.

www.townofpreeceville.ca/default.aspx?page=15 8

- Check out the town of Preeceville newsletter on all the upcoming community events for Nov/Dec. Online and/or sign up and have your own copy emailed to you.

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Thursday, 7 December 2017

Plan a Safe Ride - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 7th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday December 7th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Plan a Safe Ride

Police watching for impaired drivers far and wide

When you celebrate holidays, #PlanASafeRide

Nov 29, 2017

‘Twas the month before Christmas and all through the land,
Many police were patrolling, with breath testers on hand,
Impaired driving is the traffic spotlight for December,
Drivers take heed, and we hope you remember.

Their kids were home with a sitter, tucked in bed tight,
Mom and Dad had the chance to go out for the night,
The party had been festive, Mom drank wine, Dad had beer,
They’d ignored the host’s plea, “You should sleep it off here.”

“Or just call a cab, or a friend who’s not drinking,
They’ll seize your car for three days. What are you thinking?
There’s licence suspensions, fines, and jail time,
You’re putting everyone at risk and committing a crime!”

“It’s a short trip, I’ll be fine,” Dad had scoffed,
They hopped in the minivan and then they drove off,
They sped down the road, not a care in the world,
Then from behind a siren blared, as red and blue swirled.

Dad pulled off to the side, with a feeling of dread,
For he knew he’d been caught, and what lay ahead,
The breath test was quick, and the result less than great,
The machine does not lie; Dad exceeded .08.

Dad spoke not a word… but could not mask his shame,
Mom sat there, teeth clenched, cursing his name.
The officer exclaimed, as he looked at the blood alcohol fail,
“Happy Christmas to all… except you, sir. Off to jail.”

(With sincere apologies to Clement Clark Moore)

You better watch out. You better not drive… if you’re impaired.

The holiday season is upon us, and SGI and law enforcement are focusing on impaired drivers for December’s Traffic Safety Spotlight.

Planning a Party? Do your part and Plan a Safe Ride Home for your Guests!

Statistics:

Last holiday season (Dec. 1, 2016 to Jan. 3, 2017), three people were killed and 35 people were injured as a result of impaired driving-related collisions in Saskatchewan.
In total, alcohol was a factor in 57 deaths (46% of all traffic fatalities) in Saskatchewan in 2016.
Last year in Saskatchewan, there were 1,100 collisions involving alcohol or drugs, killing 57 people and injuring 464 others.

Consequences for impaired driving:

There is zero tolerance for alcohol and drugs for new drivers. This includes drivers 21 years of age and under and all drivers in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program or Motorcycle GDL program.
For experienced drivers, consequences for impaired driving kick in at .04 to .08 BAC. A first offence results in a three-day licence suspension, a three-day vehicle seizure and the individual has to complete a DWI course.
A new driver caught drinking and driving on a first offence has their licence suspended for 60 days and their vehicle seized for three days. They also have to complete a Driving Without Impairment (DWI) course.
Saskatchewan’s ignition interlock laws are the strongest in Canada, with mandatory ignition interlock for all drivers convicted of impaired driving or refusing to provide a breath sample. Mandatory participation lengths range from one to 10 years, depending on previous impaired driving convictions and blood alcohol levels at the time of the offence.

https://www.sgi.sk.ca/about/newsreleases/2017/impaired-driving-dec.html

We hope you enjoy the fun and festivities, but remember – there’s never an excuse for driving impaired. There are a number of ways to ensure everyone gets home safely over the holidays. From everyone at SGI, take care out there.

Safe ride programs

Operation Red Nose

SGI is proud to sponsor Operation Red Nose (ORN), a safe ride program that gets you, and your vehicle, home safely. You can enjoy some festive cheer with a safe and sober ride right to your doorstep. ORN runs in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, The Battlefords and Yorkton on select dates between November 24 and December 31.
The Operation Red Nose page has all the details.

Ding in the New Year

Ding in the New Year is a road safety program that provides free bus service on New Year’s Eve. Whatever your plans for the New Year, they depend on you making it home safely from your New Year’s Eve celebrations. SGI is pleased to once again partner with bus services in Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Moose Jaw to provide free transportation to party-goers December 31.
The Ding in the New Year page has all the details.

Safe ride ideas

There’s always a better option than driving impaired. The key is to plan your safe ride home in advance, before your judgment is impaired. Here are some other options:

choose a designated driver in advance
call a cab
call a friend or family member to pick you up
use a designated driving service
host a party and let your guests stay the night
book a hotel room for the night
get a group of friends together and book a limo or party bus for the night

SGI has a free Safe Ride app to help you keep track of your options.
Whatever ride you choose, make sure it’s a safe and sober one.

Report Impaired Drivers

If you see a driver you think is impaired, pull over safely to the side of the road and call 911.
The Report impaired drivers program page has all the details.

Plan ahead so we can all make it home safely to our loved ones.
Family gatherings, holiday parties and festive cheer with friends make for some special memories over the holidays.
Make sure the magic and memories of the holiday season never end. Be a good Wingman by stepping up and stopping family and friends from driving impaired. Show your loved ones how much you care by making sure they get home safely – arrange for a sober ride, or offer them a place to stay for the night.

Links to programs

Be a good Wingman
Ding in the New Year
Operation Red Nose
Report impaired drivers program
Safe Ride app

Events:

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Thursday, 30 November 2017

Save A Doe - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 30th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 30th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Save A Doe – Save Some Dough!

Posted: June 6, 2017 on the swf.sk.ca/2017/06/save-a-doe-save-some-dough

With vehicle repair costs constantly on the rise, The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) is reminding motorists that driving a little slower through deer country could potentially save them a good deal of money.
Every year, more than 10,000 deer, moose and elk are hit and killed by vehicles. Millions of dollars in vehicle damage as well as numerous human injuries and fatalities. Last year (2016), there were 10,141 reported collisions with deer and 571 collisions with moose. (Keep in mind that not all collisions with wildlife are reported or recorded, so the actual number is higher.) In 2015, two people were killed and 368 were injured as a result. Over $68,000,000 in claims was paid out by SGI.

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF), with financial support from SGI, is launching a public awareness campaign to highlight these costly and avoidable collisions. The 21^st annual campaign is a resurrected message used a number of years ago titled “Go Slow and Save a Little Doe”. The campaign will consist of both radio and television PSA’s, city and highway billboard images bearing this campaign title, as well as postings to various social media sites.

“Only drivers can prevent a collision with a deer or moose”. SWF Director Darrell Crabbe said. “Animals have no understanding of vehicles, or the danger that they pose when trying to cross the road. At night, headlights from vehicles blind and disorient animals making them even more vulnerable to being hit. June and July are high collision number months because the fawns and calves from the previous year are being abandoned by their mothers. November and December are even higher because of the annual breeding season”.
For more information on “Go Slow and Save a Little Doe” contact
At SWF – Darrell Crabbe, Executive Director – (306) 692-8812 or cell (306) 630-8780
At SGI – Tyler McMurchy, Manager of Media Relations – (306) 751-1837

Events:

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Thursday, 23 November 2017

Thirsty Dogz Liquor - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 23rd, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 23rd, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on:

Thirsty Dogz Liquor

Is now open:

The key points are: More accessibility, more selection and better pricing.

Open longer hours - 9:30 to 6:30 Monday to Wednesday 9:30am to 9:30pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Sundays 12 noon till 5:00pm

More products - new - hard to find - things customers have tried and liked in their travels.

Better pricing - savings every day - example - new listing for Scotch - lower try me pricing.

Store is on 17 Main Street in Preeceville with over 2,000 square feet of retail floor space. Wide aisles and additional parking at the back of the store just look for the signage. The back door can also be used for groups wishing to pick up larger orders. You will see a number of changes over the next few months as we continue to build our vision of servicing the public.

Thirsty Dogz Liquor - if you can find it they will sniff it out!

What are your "Thirsty" for?

Events:

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Thursday, 16 November 2017

Stand up to bullying - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 16th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 16th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Stand up to bullying

"The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed November 12-18, as Bullying Awareness Week in Saskatchewan. This year’s theme is Stand Up! (to bullying).
During Bullying Awareness Week students, school staff and parents are encouraged to learn more about the issues of bullying and work together to prevent it in communities and schools through education and awareness.
“It’s important for all of us in Saskatchewan to stand with those who experience bullying so they know they’re not alone,” Education Minister Bronwyn Eyre said. “Bullying Awareness Week serves as an important reminder that there are resources here in Saskatchewan to support children and youth.”
The Ministry of Education and SaskTel continue to work together through I Am Stronger on bullying and cyberbullying prevention. On the program’s website at http://iamstronger.ca/, students will find information on how they can get help. They can also anonymously report bullying online from a smartphone, tablet or computer. There are resources on bullying prevention for youth, families and educators.
The Ministry of Education and SaskTel also work in partnership to encourage youth to promote positive change in their schools and community. Grants of up to $1,000 are awarded for youth-led initiatives that promote kindness.
Since launching the I Am Stronger grant program in 2014, 56 grants totalling nearly $50,000 have been awarded.

“Raising awareness is an important step in preventing cyberbullying and the I Am Stronger program is able to help empower students and teachers as they move on to the next step of taking action by becoming positive forces in their communities and schools.”
In 2013, the Government of Saskatchewan released Saskatchewan's Action Plan to Address Bullying and Cyberbullying, which acts as a roadmap that guides the government’s work to end bullying"
To find out more, visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/education-and-learning/anti-bullying.

Events:

- And as always if you wish to have an event promoted visit and post it to our Community Events Calendar at www.townofPreeceville.ca

Follow the Mayor on the town site at http://www.townofpreeceville.ca/default.aspx?page=65&cid=6 follow me on blogspot at http://mayorharris.blogspot.ca/

follow me on facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/mayorgarthharrisfollow me on twitter @https://twitter.com/MayorGartharris

follow me on google+ @ https://plus.google.com/u/0/102741942183606627948?tab=wX#102741942183606627948/posts

follow me on youtube @https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKyA9eN2gdku8lGSo0WPRWw follow me on instagram @ http://instagram.com/garthrharris

Thursday, 9 November 2017

Suspended drivers and/or unregistered vehicles - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 9th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 9th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Are you a suspended drivers and/or driving a unregistered vehicles?

Automated licence plate readers can scan one plate per second – are yours expired?

Your driver’s licence is suspended -- or maybe your licence plates are expired -- but you still think you can keep driving as long as you’re careful and don’t do anything to attract police attention?
Think again. For November’s Traffic Safety Spotlight, police will be watching for people driving with suspended licences and people driving vehicles that don’t have current plates. They’ll be helped by automated licence plate readers (ALPRs), which make it easier for law enforcement to quickly and efficiently identify risky drivers/vehicles.
Dozens of police cars throughout Saskatchewan have been equipped with this technology over the past few years, with help from funding from SGI.
You need a valid driver’s licence, registration and insurance to legally drive a motor vehicle on public roads in Saskatchewan.
At any given time, more than 50,000 drivers are suspended in Saskatchewan for periods of time ranging from a few days to indefinitely. Unfortunately, some people choose not to abide by their suspensions. In 2016, there were more than 1,800 convictions for driving while disqualified.
“People don’t get suspended without cause. They may have their driving privileges revoked due to impaired driving or other dangerous driving behaviors, which can put other road users at risk,” said Earl Cameron, Executive Vice-President of the Auto Fund. “To anyone who makes the bad decision to drive without a valid license or insurance, the message is simple: Do not risk it.”
The consequences for driving while disqualified are serious, with potential Criminal Code charges, fines, jail time and a minimum 30-day vehicle seizure (along with the resulting fees). If you cause a collision and don’t have a valid licence or insurance, you can be held responsible for all the resulting costs.
The consequence for operating an unregistered vehicle is a $580 fine and one demerit point in the Driver Improvement Program. Repeat offences result in a seven-day vehicle seizure"

Check out this news release all the 2017 SGI release to date at:

https://www.sgi.sk.ca/about/newsreleases/2017/index.html

Follow the links to more great information.

Events:

- Nov 15th - the Whitehawk Arts Council presents "Union Duke" - Toronto folk quintet with an explosive live show. Bridging soulful rock with bluegrass and country - starts at 7:30 pm at the Preeceville Legion Hall.

Thursday, 2 November 2017

That unexpected letter in the mail? - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 2nd, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday November 2nd, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: That unexpected letter in the mail?

You arrive home and find an unexpected letter in the mail.

Inside, you find a message from a renowned psychic or clairvoyant that reads: “I’ve had a vision of great fortune coming your way.” The letter sounds authentic. It’s even personalized, making it look like it’s been written specifically for you.

The vision is often a promise of riches, such as winning millions of dollars in the lottery. To make sure this vision comes true, the supposed psychic is ready to offer you personalized readings and “mystical” or “divine” objects that will bring you good luck. All you have to do is pay a fee and provide some personal information!

Make no mistake; this self-described psychic is not interested in your good fortune. The only fortune they care about is the money that can be made by deceiving you or your loved ones.

The Competition Bureau of Canada is using Halloween as an opportunity to remind you that the fraudsters behind these schemes can’t see your future.

In fact, the same letters, with the same false promises are sent to thousands of people, many of whom are elderly Canadians. And, though these letters may be addressed to you and offer some special insight into your life or provide information that you believe is personal, don’t be fooled. They hope to hook you in and continue to send you predictions of potential good or even bad things to come.

If you send money, you can predict with a high degree of certainty that you will get little or nothing back… just more letters asking for more of your money in exchange for offerings of good luck.

You may not be able to predict the future, but these tips can help protect you from these scammers:

Be skeptical: Some psychics may make seemingly accurate predictions about future events, however the fraudsters behind psychic mail scams can’t predict your future.

Safeguard your money and personal information: Never provide your personal details or send money to someone you don’t know or trust.

Do not respond to any psychic mailing: Throw it in the trash. These scammers want you to respond so that they can hook you in and send you more solicitations.

Look out for elderly family members and friends: This type of fraud frequently targets the elderly, some of whom may be your loved ones or friends.

Recognize that psychic scams come in many forms: Though psychic scams tend to use traditional mail, they can also take place through email, telephone or face-to-face.

If you have been the victim of a psychic mail scam or other types of mail fraud, report it to the Canada Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501), the Competition Bureau (1‑800‑348‑5358), the RCMP or your local police.

http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/reportincident-signalerincident/index-eng.htm

Report an incident

It's not always easy to spot a scam, and new ones are invented every day.

If you suspect that you may be a target of fraud, or if you have already sent funds, don't be embarrassed - you're not alone. If you want to report a fraud, or if you need more information, contact The Canadian Anti- Fraud Centre:

By PhoneToll Free1-888-495-8501
Hours of operationMonday-Friday9:00 am - 4:45 pm
Eastern Time

http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/fraud-escroquerie/index-eng.htm

Fraud types

Telemarketing scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act where the fraudsters attempt to reach potential victims by phone

Online scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act that potential victims may come across while using the internet

Email and text message scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act made for personal gain or to damage another individual through email

Identity theft

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act used to obtain someone else's personal information for criminal purposes

Business scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act used to manipulate or falsify documents to mimic a real business in order to deceive consumers

Mail scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent act carried out with the use of mail, either through the postal or private mail carrier service

Door-to-door scams

Any false, deceptive, misleading or fraudulent carried out via door-to-door solicitation

There are many known scams, pitches and fraud types, including variations thereof, with new ones invented daily. You can refer to the Little Black Book of Scams for further tips.
Even though parts of the scam may change and new scams are invented almost daily, the best way to protect yourself is to be informed. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is.

- Town of Preeceville Official Community Plan

The Town is initiating a planning review project to adopt a New Official Community Plan and a New Zoning Bylaw to better guide development within our community. The Town’s Zoning Bylaw is outdated and does not reflect the changing needs of the Town and provides almost no direction on growth. In order to update the Zoning Bylaw, the Provincial Government requires the Town to adopt an Official Community Plan. The benefit of having an overall plan with “Action” items will assist Council in planning cost effective infrastructure and balancing residential, commercial, recreational and industrial development. Town Council has engaged Tim Cheesman, M.C.I.P. and his Planning Team to prepare the Plan and Bylaw.
The Planning Team has completed the Town’s Draft Official Community Plan. The Draft OCP and the Results of the Public Consultation Process are available for viewing by clicking the links below:
Town of Preeceville Draft Official Community Plan about 73 pages
Preeceville Public Consultation Responses about 35 pages
You may provide your feedback/comments on the Draft OCP by emailing tcheesman@accesscomm.ca or preeceville@sasktel.net.

Events:

Thursday, 26 October 2017

Violence Prevention Week - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday October 26th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday October 26th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: Violence Prevention Week

"Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan has announced October 23-27, as the fourth annual Violence Prevention Week in Saskatchewan"

“With the tragic levels of violence we continue to see in our province, this is an issue our government takes very seriously,” Morgan said. “Violence of any kind in our communities is unacceptable and we all play a role in stopping it"

“Our government is committed to promoting healthy, respectful relationships to help change the culture of violence in our province and ensure the safety of all Saskatchewan citizens,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Bronwyn Eyre said.

The province is continuously working across sectors to develop tools to aid those encountering violence and those working to support victims. In response to the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights, and with funding from Justice Canada, the Ministry of Justice is increasing witness aid tools to significantly improve a witnesses’ experience while providing testimony. More than 30 new witness protection screens, manufactured in Saskatchewan, will be acquired and the number of court locations equipped for video testimonial abilities will be increased.

The province is also releasing a revised Child Abuse Protocol. This protocol updates and simplifies the previous version, released in 2014, and is supported by multiple ministries and by all provincial police forces.

“We all play an important role protecting children and youth from neglect and abuse,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “This week, I encourage everyone to take 10 minutes and complete our easy and informative online course to learn more about your duty to report. It could make a world of difference in the life of a vulnerable young person.”

More information about the new protocol, along with a link to the online course, is available at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/justice-crime-and-the-law/child-protection/child-abuse-and-neglect.

Child Abuse and Neglect

Child protection services are available from the Ministry of Social Services for children who are believed to be in need of protection. It is the goal of the Ministry of Social Services to keep children in their family home whenever possible and, if a child must be removed for their protection, to reunite families as soon as possible.

For children and families living on-reserve, child protection services are provided by First Nations Child and Family Services Agencies.
What is child abuse and neglect?

Abuse and neglect refers to circumstances that may be harmful to a child’s physical, emotional or psychological health.
Physical abuse - any action, including discipline, causing injury to the child’s body.
Sexual abuse - any action involving a child in sexual exploitation or sexual activity including touching, exposure, using a child in the making of/or viewing pornography.
Emotional maltreatment - expecting a child to be able to do things he or she cannot do, embarrassing or insulting a child, making hurtful comments about a child’s appearance, intelligence, size, ability, etc.
Neglect - failing to provide a child with enough food, proper clothing, shelter, health care, or supervision.
Domestic violence - exposing a child to a pattern of abusive behaviour or threats of abusive behaviour by one caregiver against another (hitting, kicking, restraining, slapping, throwing objects, intimidation, stalking, etc.).

How can I stop child abuse and neglect

As a parent, if you feel unable to safely parent your child, immediately contact your nearest office of the Ministry of Social Services office.

As a member of the community, if you believe a child may be neglected or abused, you have a legal responsibility to immediately report your concerns.
Time is of the essence in ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Immediately report all incidents of suspected, observed or disclosed abuse.
Do not wait until you have all information before reporting the abuse.
You have an ongoing duty to report child abuse, even if you believe a report has already been made.
If you believe the child or other children must be protected from further abuse, please contact the police.
Do not contact the alleged perpetrator. Reporting concerns of child abuse or neglect is everyone's responsibility. We have developed a short and informative online course that will take you through your duty to report and help stop child abuse and neglect in your community.

Reporting abuse, neglect, interpersonal violence

Report all incidents of suspected, observed, or disclosed abuse to your nearest Ministry of Social Services Office, First Nations Child and Family Services Agency or local police/RCMP.

For all after hours incidents or concerns, immediately contact your nearest After Hours Crisis Center:
Prince Albert - 306-764-1011
Saskatoon - 306-933-6200
Regina - 306-569-2724
Local Police/RCMP in other communities
a local First Nations Child and Family Service Agency

A person reporting suspected neglect or abuse is not required to provide their name.

Related Items

Duty to Report

A brochure outlining a legal duty to report immediately if there is suspicion that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has been, or may be, impacted by abuse or neglect. (Also available in French.)

PDF
Saskatchewan Child Abuse Protocol

The purpose of this Protocol is to describe what constitutes child abuse under the law, to describe roles and responsibilities of service providers, and to describe the process by which they must respond. (Also available in French.)

PDF
The Structured Decision Making System for Child Protective Services

Policy and Procedures Manual

PDF
Child Protection Services

A factsheet identifying the physical and behavioural indicators for children experiencing abuse and neglect.

PDF
Child Protection Services Manual

This manual provides the framework within which child protection services are delivered.

PDF

Again please take the online course about 10 minutes of your time.

- Town of Preeceville Official Community Plan

Monday, 23 October 2017

Cyber Security Month

October is Cyber Security Month.

Phishing is a common practice of scammers where an email is created and used to mimic a legitimate email in all but the smallest detail. Phishing targets you specifically and tricks you into downloading malicious software or providing personal information like passwords or account numbers.

You need to be aware that a phishing attack can come from a downloaded message from an app, SMS/text messages, email messages and attachments, or links to websites.

Some common steps that can help you avoid phishing and other scams:

1. Slow down. Phishers and spammers want you to act first and think later. If the message conveys a sense of urgency, or uses high-pressure sales tactics, be skeptical; never let their urgency influence your careful review.

2. Look for errors. A great deal of spam is of poor quality with lots of spelling, grammar and layout flaws. If you see obvious errors, you know it’s a fake. However, the lack of errors does NOT make the offer legitimate. Smart scammers can spell, and they can make a fake email look as good as a legitimate one.

3. Research the facts. Never believe unsolicited messages offering financial solutions, hot stock tips, credit assistance, refinancing, etc. If the email looks like it is from a company you use, do your research. Use a search engine or contact the company directly to learn more. If the offer is for an investment, have someone at your bank, a financial consultant, or trusted advisor review the deal before handing over a dime – or your personal information.

4. Delete any request for financial information or passwords. If you get asked to reply to a message by providing your bank account, bank routing information, credit card numbers or passwords, it’s a phish or some other type of scam.

5. Reject requests for help or offers of help. Legitimate companies and organizations do not contact you to provide help. If you did not specifically request assistance from the sender, consider any offer to ‘help’ restore credit scores, refinance a home, etc., a scam. Similarly, if you receive a request for help from a charity or organization that you do not have a relationship with, delete it. Charity scams tug on heartstrings especially after a disaster strikes. To give, seek out reputable charitable organizations on your own to avoid falling for a phish, and research how much of the money donated will get to people in need.

6. Don’t let a link be in control of where you land. Stay in control by finding the website yourself using a search engine to be sure you land where you intend to land. Hovering over links in email will show the actual URL at the bottom, but a good fake can still steer you wrong. Long-pressing on your mobile phone will pop a dialog with the actual destination URL on most mobile operating systems.

7. Beware of dangerous downloads. If you don’t know the sender personally and don’t expect a file from them, downloading is a mistake. When in doubt, call the sender – you don’t want to email them if their account has been compromised.

8. Scammers manipulate emotions. If you’re financially stressed, lonely, angry, sad, overly happy, frustrated, etc., you’re more likely to fall for phishing and other forms of fraud. Put emotions aside when evaluating phone calls, text messages, mail, email, online offers or notices.

9. Free has a price tag – and it’s usually more than you bargained for. Offers of free trial products (or free anything) are scams – and potentially phishing. Even when you don’t see a direct phishing connection, the catch is they are collecting your information – you need to give your name, address, phone number, email address, and often more, when signing up. This information will be sold, resold, and repurposed (think phishing) many times over.

10. Don’t let your guard down at work. While SLGA has tools that help block phishing scams, they cannot catch everything. While the same anti-phishing advice applies when opening, downloading or linking to sites from email arriving in your work inbox, the stakes are significantly higher. Falling for a phish or other malicious scam does not simply impact yourself; you potentially put the whole company at risk.

Spread the news. Take the time to discuss this topic with your children, parents, or grandparents. Scams, Phishing and digital fraud are the new normal, knowledge and awareness can go a long way to prevent your loved ones from becoming a victim of fraud.

Thursday, 19 October 2017

#HeadsUp teen drivers - Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:35 am

Working Draft for:

Preeceville's Main Street with the Mayor Garth Harris for Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:35 am

With GX94's Craig Wallebeck > see him @ http://www.gx94radio.com/craig-Wallebeck

This week we focus on: #HeadsUp, teen drivers: A ticket you’ll want to get & a chance to win

National Teen Driver Safety Week contest running October 15-21

Putting down the phone, buckling up and driving safe and sober could earn teen drivers a chance to win a $250 VISA gift card during National Teen Driver Safety Week (Oct.15-21). During the week, police will be rewarding teens demonstrating safe driving habits with “positive tickets.”
Teen drivers are invited to enter the social media contest #GetHomeSafeSK by liking, sharing and tagging two friends on SGI’s Teen Driver Safety Week posts on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
The contest is open to all teens 15-19 in Saskatchewan, and entrants could win one of 10 $250 VISA gift card prizes. Winners will be determined by a random draw of all eligible entries.
“This is a fun way to reward and promote good driving habits,” said Earl Cameron, Executive Vice President of the Auto Fund. “We want to make sure teen drivers are following safe practices because they are over-represented when it comes to causing collisions and traffic deaths.”
In Saskatchewan in 2016, there were 8,573 collisions involving drivers between the ages of 16-19, and teen drivers were found to be at fault in 79 per cent of those collisions.
Teen drivers have higher fatality, injury and collision rates than drivers in other age ranges. Although teen drivers represent just under seven per cent of drivers on the road, they are involved in*:

· 13 per cent of collisions,

· 18 per cent of major injury collisions, and

· 15 per cent of fatal collisions in Saskatchewan.

*Numbers include collisions where a teen driver was involved in the collision, whether or not they were at fault.

SGI is committed to educating teen drivers and helping them stay safe on Saskatchewan roads. The Saskatchewan Graduated Drivers Licensing Program helps to ensure new drivers of any age learn and demonstrate safe driving behaviours before getting their Class 5 Driver’s Licence. Teens are eligible for the free program starting at age 15.
National Teen Driver Safety Week is organized by Parachute Canada, a non-profit organization dedicated to injury prevention. For more information about National Teen Driver Safety Week, and to see SGI’s full social media contest rules, visit www.sgi.sk.ca/teendrivers.

- Town of Preeceville Official Community Plan

- Oct 22nd - Kelsey Ecological Presents: Travels in Tanzania and India - Jasmine Knihniski presenting 2:00 pm Club 60

	1st offence	2nd offence	3rd offence
New drivers with any level of drugs or alcohol in their system	60-day immediate roadside licence suspension 3-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure Required to complete the Driving Without Impairment (DWI) course 4 demerits under the Safe Driver Recogntion (SDR) program	120-day immediate roadside licence suspension 7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure After serving a 60-day suspension period, can opt for voluntary ignition interlock for 120 days Required to complete the Alcohol and Drug Education (ADE) course 4 demerits under the SDR program	18-month immediate roadside licence suspension 7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure Mandatory ignition interlock for 1 year, can apply after serving a 1-year suspension period Addiction assessment 4 demerits under the SDR program
Experienced drivers determined by police to be impaired by drugs or alcohol	3-day immediate roadside licence suspension 3-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure Required to complete the DWI course 4 demerits under the SDR program	21-day immediate roadside licence suspension 7-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure Required to complete the ADE course 4 demerits under the SDR program	90-day immediate roadside licence suspension 14-day immediate roadside vehicle seizure Mandatory ignition interlock for 1 year following the 90-day suspension period Addiction assessment 4 demerits under the SDR program