Regina Leader Post · Storify

Frost covers trees on sunny winter day in Regina

Regina Leader Post — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:07:36 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Thu, Mar 28 2013 11:07:36

Every now and then winter can look beautiful for a change. That was the case in Regina Thursday morning when residents woke up to a winter landscape crystallized with frost-covered trees.

A few Reginans took photos of Wascana Centre, which appeared to be completely covered with hoar frost.

The trees in @WascanaCentre are so pretty this morning. I'm fortunate to have an awesome view! #yqr http://t.co/mKvQzyyodv · Sandy Baumgartner

Hello sunshine! Where have you been? #sask #yqr #frost #winter #spring http://t.co/sWGcAEajHr · Juanita Dueck

@weathernetwork The Queen City is bright and beautiful today! And it's still very much winter! #yqr #frost #Sask http://t.co/igW5lHMFB6 · Juanita Dueck

Even the University of Regina's campus was covered in frost, as shown in this picture taken by Twitter user @jenlovegreen.

@UofRegina looked beautiful on the drive in this morning. Digging deep for positives in this weather. #yqr #spring? http://t.co/hvfTaIxM3p · Jennifer Love Green

Twitter user @DanielKasun took this photo on the drive from Regina to Swift Current.

@weathernetwork beautiful prairie drive from #yqr to Swift Current #hoarfrost http://t.co/3cyzXKX8pL · Daniel Kasun

Other Reginans shared pictures of frost-covered trees in their neighbourhoods....

If you have not checked out the trees in #YQR this am you should. #frosty http://t.co/65h3RLyLIy · Lee Schaefer

Good Morning #yqr! It's a beautiful frosty morning!! Amazing photo ops today!! #frost http://t.co/fXjfnNHzzV · Juanita Dueck

#yqr, you and your hoar frost sure is pretty this morning. Still awaiting spring though #SnowGlobeCity http://t.co/KAkC27HhNw · David Barrett

@bgtennisnation This winter just won't let up! Currently 1 F, looking for a high of 28F in beautiful #yqr. http://t.co/BVU3H7bGvb · Cheryl Stang

Brilliant sunshine, frost crystals on the trees and leftovers from last summer. #pictureperfect #frost #yqr http://t.co/8Lq2APulkq · Juanita Dueck

This would be so pretty ... IF it wasn't almost April! #saskprobz #YQR @GlobalRegina @ctvregina @weathernetwork http://t.co/LJHDj6vo4x · Vladimir Cancino

#yqr trees http://t.co/VrQ1HcuIU5 · Brian Webb

Did you take any frosty photos today? If so, we'd love to add them to our reader photo gallery. You can email them to online@leaderpost.com, Tweet them to us @leaderpost with the hashtag #HeyLP, or share them on our Facebook page.

Residents express anger at Regina police on Facebook over shot dog

Regina Leader Post — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 20:51:06 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Mon, Mar 25 2013 13:51:06

Leaderpost

The Regina Police Service's official Facebook page is currently flooded with comments from citizens questioning whether an officer was justified in shooting a pit pull in a Regina backyard.

The controversy erupted after police were carrying out a search for suspects in the 100 block of Retallack Street while investigating an assault on Saturday. While in the backyard of a Regina residence, police and a canine unit got into a confrontation with a pit bull, which resulted in the dog being shot and killed.

For more information on the incident you can read our story here: http://bit.ly/16cTCHL

All I know is I'm so very sorry to the family that they lost a part of their family , yes it was a dog but I know if my dog was killed that way for no reason I would be very upset & react the same way. So again sorry about Ben he didn't deserve this :(
— Lisa Zehner · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:09:29

I know if you showed up in my yard with another dog unknown to mine he would probably get a bit excited too, still no reason to shoot an animal
— Don Ross · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:05:55

I believe it is a crime to break into someone's backyard and shoot their dog. Especially when the owner would have willingly removed it for you. I do not believe you have this right. Shame on you. You need to make this right.
— Cheryl McIntyre · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:02:06

How about why didn't he taze the dog? Pepper spray the dog??? For a police force said to protect the community....what an outrage....a disgrace is what those two officers are....yes it is a dog but it is someone's family memeber, take a hint RPS, treat this matter fairly for the owner and do not take a side.
— Jeremy Niklas · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:07:25

I respect the police and all that they do. They have a demanding and difficult job. That being said, dogs are territorial animals. Almost all dogs will protect their yard/property/owners if they feel that they are being threatened. It is part of dog nature to do so. Breed of dog has nothing to do with it. It is unfortunate that any time an incident happens that just happens to involve this type of dog that the whole breed ban subject comes up. My heart goes out to the people who lost their dog. I have two dogs and would be devastated if this happened. I hope the police were justified in their actions. Otherwise, they acted irresponsibly and should have taken a different course of action.
— Shirley Murphy · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:16:04

If the officers would have accepted responsibility for their screw-up rather than blame it on the innocent dog, they wouldn't be disrespected now! They made a mistake and ended up killing someones pet but the biggest mistake was not taking responsibility for it.
— Shelly White · Mon, Mar 25 2013 08:49:39

Other citizens chose to the defend the police officer's actions...

You still have my support. Not because I'm not a dog lover but because I believe in our officers integrity and I did not witness what happened. There is far too little info to be pointing fingers. The story is nationwide! In time we will get to the bottom of what happened.
— Kelly Bale · Mon, Mar 25 2013 08:54:31

Well I think police service is in the right and when all is said and done, the public will see that
— Robert Jordison · Mon, Mar 25 2013 08:47:58

Keep up the good, police. It's unfortunate people can't appreciate the hard work you do and the garbage you have to put up with in order to keep innocent people safe.
— Christopher McDougall · Mon, Mar 25 2013 08:39:11

Amazing how many mindless people are so quick to condemn the Police! Yes I would be tiicked off (to say the least) if my dog was shot. I'm sure the RPS aren't going into people's yards looking for dogs to shoot and feel bad about how things transpired while doing what they are getting paid to do! Always easy to be the Monday morning QB!
— Bob Westaff · Mon, Mar 25 2013 09:16:30

On Monday morning Regina police posted an announcement on their Facebook page saying that they had disabled public posting on their wall. This means that anyone from the public would no longer have the ability to post messages or photos on the page.

Police said they were frequently seeing wall posts that contained hate speech and threats of violence, some of which emerged out of the debate over the shooting incident.

We have temporarily disabled public posting on our wall at this time. We did this because the nature of the discussion was largely disrespectful and despite requests, continued to contain profanity and hate speech, as well as posts inciting violence. These posts were aimed at police, at the original poster, and at those sharing their opinions respectfully, wether they agreed with RPS actions or n...ot. As stated, we do not monitor this page 24/7 ans as such we were unable to monitor this page and ensure that it's a page safe for our diverse community of visitors. We open this page up to comments, concerns and questions with the understanding that interactions will be respectful. We support your right to express opinions, even dissenting ones. We require that to be done without profanity, hate speech, or posts inciting violence. In the future please ensure your comments, opinions, and concerns are expressed in a manner safe for all users.
As always, if you have a complaint or a report of crime, please phone them in to us at 306-777-6500. In an emergency, dial 911.

Thank you.
— · Mon, Mar 25 2013 08:22:18

VANSTONE: Debate about the Riders' slate

Regina Leader Post — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:46:25 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Thu, Mar 07 2013 07:46:25

Today's column, which is suitable for framing, takes interactivity to new heights. After the Canadian Football League schedule was released on Tuesday, this scribbler went on Twitter and asked his followers to offer their thoughts on the Saskatchewan Roughriders' slate.

As a columnist of the people, I hereby cede this treasured space to the masses, with periodic personal asides that are intended to establish that I am still conscious.

Over to you...

@robvanstone wish we had a few more evening games
— Cathy Sauer · Tue, Mar 05 2013 17:37:18

@robvanstone great to see them play more night games. #underthelights #ridernationcomesaliveunderthelights
— Travis McKillop · Tue, Mar 05 2013 15:06:54

@robvanstone really like the evening times but wish were more Home games in summer/warmer months. No complaints here #CFL #riders
— Valerie Paulson · Tue, Mar 05 2013 13:47:31

@robvanstone the one thing that stands out to me is the lack of consideration for Rider fans. Lack of home night games is a big issue.
— Burnsy · Tue, Mar 05 2013 13:42:01

@robvanstone the lack of night games is frustrating
— Landon Bigalky · Tue, Mar 05 2013 13:37:04

There seems to be a divergence of opinion regarding the frequency of night games. Perhaps the interpretation of "night game'' is a factor here. The Riders have two regular-season home games that begin at 5 p.m., plus contests that kick off at 7 p.m. and 7: 30 p.m. Is a five o'clock contest a night game or a late-afternoon game? Discuss. More post-suppertime games, especially on Saturdays, would be ideal.

@robvanstone think it is a great schedule for the league. Wish we had one or two more Friday night (7:30) games, but oh well. #RIDERS #CFL
— Adam Stuart · Tue, Mar 05 2013 14:07:28

The Roughriders make only three appearances on TSN's Friday Night Football, which includes 22 games. One theory as to why Saskatchewan's presence is disproportionately low: Friday Night Football is a proven ratings winner, regardless of the combatants. The Riders also generate boffo ratings. Hence, it behooves TSN to put Saskatchewan games in non-Friday time slots that would not otherwise be hugely profitable.

@robvanstone riders need to make sure the temp seats are in for the Friday night opener against the stumps. If not that's just ignoring $$$
— Joe Hadesbeck · Tue, Mar 05 2013 16:53:52

The new seats should be installed by Labour Day. If everything is on schedule, Mosaic Stadium could have a capacity of 45,000 for six of the final nine regular-season home games. This is a windfall for the portable-toilet industry, which should be flush with cash as a result. #tackyline

@robvanstone Possibly 5 home dates after October 11th...with the potential of 40,000+ at all of them...couldn't ask for a better schedule.
— Devin Curle · Tue, Mar 05 2013 16:51:47

@robvanstone The first five games set up well, as do the last four (3 at home). The middle nine games will be the test -- 3 against BC.
— Ron Podbielski · Tue, Mar 05 2013 14:03:02

@robvanstone @cflisthebest Over 135000 tix could be sold for those three games. Not too shabby. #riders
— Fake Gainer · Tue, Mar 05 2013 14:11:53

Follow @fakeGAINER. #hilarious!

@robvanstone - it looks lean for July and August for home dates. Maybe they are trying to convince Rider Nation to dome new stadium. #riders
— Dean Shaw · Tue, Mar 05 2013 13:54:09

And why not? Look at all this snow! If nine figures are going to be invested in a new stadium, shouldn't it be fully functional on a year-round basis? #roofready

@CoachOTSuns: The summer home schedule is quite bare but I agree that finishing three of four, hopefully five of last six (Western final, Grey Cup) at home, is a big plus.

Agreed. If the Roughriders host a playoff game and compete in a Regina-based Grey Cup, watch for record profits in 2013. #feedthemedia

@robvanstone hard to complain. Interesting quirk with Esks 5 times (incl. Pre-season) and BC only 3 times.
— ATkachuk · Tue, Mar 05 2013 14:28:37

The June 29 regular-season opener against the host Edmonton Eskimos will be especially interesting, not to mention revealing. Saskatchewan has not won a regular-season road game against a West Division opponent since July 10, 2010. The lid-lifter in Edmonton gives the Green and White an opportunity to establish from the outset that the status quo is not in effect in 2013.

The Eskimos, meanwhile, hope to come out of the gate even faster than they did while announcing the signing of defensive end Odell Willis only four minutes after the free-agency period began. #Tamperville

@robvanstone And don't like the tight scheduling- in Montreal Sep 29 & then in BC on Fri Oct 4
— Marlene · Tue, Mar 05 2013 13:41:09

Move to rebuild Connaught School sparks debate on social media

Regina Leader Post — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:58:00 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Thu, Feb 28 2013 09:58:00

Leaderpost

On Feb. 26 the Regina Public Schools board voted to rebuild Connaught School, which has stood in the Cathedral area since 1912. Although the board decided it would be more cost effective to rebuild the school rather than renovate it, some residents see it as a loss of a key heritage building in the community.

Following the vote on Tuesday evening, some Reginans voiced their concerns over the board's decision to rebuild the school.

Again, government stepping on something great in an awesome community. Cathedral will never look the same. #connaught #yqr
— Tanner Goetz · Tue, Feb 26 2013 20:39:14

Really disappointed to hear about the decision to tear down my historic elementary school. A beautiful place to grow up. #connaught #yqr
— Sonia Stanger · Tue, Feb 26 2013 18:45:55

#YQR - #Connaught - Regina’s oldest school will be rebuilt - does heritage mean anything or is it all about the mighty dollar? #History
— Kelly Pierson · Thu, Feb 28 2013 01:18:10

If it's not shiny and new we don't want it in #yqr. History and heritage thrown under the bus once again by our city politcians #connaught
— WalktheLine · Tue, Feb 26 2013 22:53:03

Groups of residents have already gathered outside Connaught to oppose the rebuild.

Rally in front of Connaught School receiving plenty of support - honking, cheering, potbanging. Go rally-folks! #yqr
— Kyle Hodder · Wed, Feb 27 2013 17:06:30

Other Reginans believe the decision to rebuild the school is the right move.

This building was not constructed with the intent that it last 500 years. Sometimes old buildings are just old buildings.Yes, the community certainly had its say in this regard but the school board is elected to make this kind of tough decision. If the new school to be built is like Douglas Park and Arcola, it will be wonderful for the students.. I'm one person who is really tired of these activists who lobby to preserve everything old and oppose everything new. If they were around when Stonehenge was being built, they would have opposed that as well.
— Myree Rogers · Wed, Feb 27 2013 14:40:30

So Connaught School being rebuilt, at lower cost than renovate. Ppl upset that school board spending tax money wisely? #confused #onlyinyqr
— Steven Wilson · Wed, Feb 27 2013 10:49:21

What is behind the obession with fixing every old building in #yqr instead of building new...progress is not a bad thing folks.
— Rich · Wed, Feb 27 2013 06:19:37

School board members decided to weigh in on the discussion on Twitter, including Subdivision 2 representative Aleana Young, who responded to residents' concerns.

@Canuckgirl if an engineer says a bldg is unsalvageable&a growing concern re: safety, and we have the option to rebuild or no school (1 of2)
— Aleana Young · Wed, Feb 27 2013 18:30:50

@Canuckgirl I felt school was better than none.I know this is an emotional issue, but a lot of rhetoric out there isnt factually accurate.
— Aleana Young · Wed, Feb 27 2013 18:32:22

@Keith_Rey and I understand and feel such empathy. I made a choice as a Trustee vs. as an individual. Best choice for children.
— Aleana Young · Wed, Feb 27 2013 16:44:29

@saskryan my hope is to have w/ architecture to match neighbourhood & incl as much of old school as possible. Stairs, railings, portico, etc
— Aleana Young · Wed, Feb 27 2013 19:30:52

last clarification about rebuild - one pro of option is children can stay @ school in bldg during a rebuild whereas could not during reno
— Aleana Young · Thu, Feb 28 2013 05:11:23

Subdivision 4 represenative Cindy Anderson also shared her thoughts on the boards' decision.

Regina gets buried by snowstorm

Regina Leader Post — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 17:36:15 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Fri, Jan 11 2013 09:36:15

But wait. There's more! #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/bXbiJw8B · Lori-Jo

Regina residents woke up to a post-snowpocalyptic landscape on Friday morning. As much as 20 centimetres of snow were expected to blanket the the city overnight. The snow made getting to work difficult for many residents who had to dig out their vehicles.

We've only shoveled 4times since supper ystrdy. #skstorm #snowmaggedon #yqr #drifts #snowday http://pic.twitter.com/l4kU3Qeu · Juanita Dueck

So . . . my car doors are both buried by snow, this could prove interesting. #yqr snowstorm really did a wee number on the non-plow streets
— Megan · Fri, Jan 11 2013 06:51:12

For some Reginans it was a challenge just to get out the front door.

Ill be tunneling into Atlantis is anyone needs me. #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/cuYAW6ER · Darren Leurer

OMG! Walked out and the snow was at my knees! #yqr is going to be slow moving today! #snow #toomuch
— Lily · Fri, Jan 11 2013 04:23:50

Quite the trek to work this morning - first mission: getting out my back door #skstorm #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/pPvgDpsP · Carla Eckert

We used to have a front walk #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/WcVlZpAa · Brian Webb

Local storm chaser Jared Mysko braved the weather on Thursday night and shot some video of the storm hitting Regina, which you can watch below.

Regina Snowstorm - January 10, 2013 - 7pm (HD Version) · saskatoonscanner

Of course not everyone was happy to see the snow...

This is for southern Saskatchewan and #yqr today. I'm sure many share this sentiment! http://pic.twitter.com/XOcsdge4 · Alex Shalashniy

Twitter user @juatisask headed outside with a measuring tape, where she recorded nearly 10 inches of snow that fell onto her hot tob.

Measured on my hot tub where there is no drifting and snow fell straight down(&it was used 2nights ago).Almost 10" #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/yqeb0jDU · Juanita Dueck

While snow removal in Regina has been a contentious issue in the past, some Reginans seemed to approve of the city's snow-clearing capabilities in the aftermath of the storm.

#YQR roads are generally clear, parking lot not so much #advantage4x4
— Psycho Zombie Killer · Fri, Jan 11 2013 05:57:27

Kudos to @CityofRegina for quickly cleaning all major roads this morning #yqr #impressive
— Zlatan Fazlagic · Fri, Jan 11 2013 07:58:18

Unfortunately others still had trouble with the snow.

Unless #yqr cleans all these streets at some point today, the chances of me going anywhere and slim to zero.
— Matthew Lensen · Fri, Jan 11 2013 08:01:13

Snow, ice causes chaos on Sask. highways

Regina Leader Post — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:32:56 GMT

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Wed, Jan 09 2013 09:32:56

Leaderpost

Ice and blowing snow made for havoc on southern Saskatchewan roads Tuesday evening, resulting in three separate fatal highway crashes. A total of 34 collisions led to massive traffic delays, with police reporting between 200 and 300 vehicles lined up along the Trans-Canada east and west of Regina.

Hwy is a parking lot in this blizzard. Avoid driving if possible in the #yqr area http://twitpic.com/btmobs · Zach Wilson

Wow, some crazy reports of terrible road conditions if you are leaving #yqr. A handful of vehicles in the ditch east out town. #sksnow
— Morgan Wadsworth · Tue, Jan 08 2013 15:22:50

Edward took this pic on #hwy1 between #yqr and White City. It's apparently bumper to bumper and slow going. #skroads http://pic.twitter.com/5kDnP7E2 · Sask Trucking Assoc

Blowing snow also caused complete white-outs in some areas, as seen in photos posted to Twitter.

#yqr got stuck behind a stuck car, ended with like 6 cars waiting behind http://pic.twitter.com/oeFzEwIW · Jessica Rae

I can so see the road! #snow #blizzard #yqr http://pic.twitter.com/UAlfLsU9 · Jaida Beaudin-Herney

Have heard it's total white-out conditions between #yqr and Balgonie tonight. Drive safe, or better yet, don't drive. Stay home.
— Tia Daniels · Tue, Jan 08 2013 16:08:51

Some residents decided not to brave the roads at all, such as Twitter user @prairiegirlsk who posted this photo from her hotel room.

Storm stayed in #yqr I'm okay with it :) http://pic.twitter.com/VsNRPiix · Dianne

For more information on Tuesday night's crashes head here: http://goo.gl/1HRRT

And as always, remember to check with the Highway Hotline before heading out onto the road: http://goo.gl/Dy5WE

Astronaut Chris Hadfield tweets pic of Qu'Appelle Valley from space, ISS spotted over Regina

Regina Leader Post — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:56:43 GMT

If you were watching the skies above Regina on Sunday evening you may have seen the International Space Station (ISS), which is currently carrying Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, pass over the city.

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Wed, Jan 02 2013 09:56:43

Regina resident John Klein was able to capture some video of the ISS moving across the sky.

ISS over Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada · emperorinsaino

@Saskatchewan @Cmdr_Hadfield Here's the ISS from #YQR Regina https://saskboy.wordpress.com/2012/12/30/iss-over-regina/
— Saskboy K. · Wed, Jan 02 2013 08:59:24

Meanwhile on board the ISS, Ontario-native Chris Hadfield was sharing photos of Canadian landscapes from space. One of them included a view of the Qu'Appelle Valley.

The Space Station followed this valley across the Prairie - 30 Dec 12. Recognize where it is? http://pic.twitter.com/BH9XvILY · Chris Hadfield

@Cmdr_Hadfield - the location on Canada's Prairie is the wide Qu'Appelle Valley, near Lumsden and Craven, SK.
— Chris Hadfield · Wed, Jan 02 2013 02:48:20

Check out more photos of Canada from space that Hadfield has shared on Twitter by clicking on the link below.

Photos: Astronaut Chris Hadfield's Twitpics from space

Chris Hadfield has tweeted his photos from the International Space Station including a number of high-altitude

Idle No More activists form flash mob at Regina mall (with video)

Regina Leader Post — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 18:56:13 GMT

Approximately 500 members of the Idle No More campaign formed a flash mob round dance at the Cornwall Centre in Regina on Monday evening.

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Tue, Dec 18 2012 10:56:13

The flash mob took place in the center court of the Cornwall Centre while police and security looked on. The Idle No More group has voiced concerns over the federal government's policies towards First Nations communities, as well as Bill C-45, which they believe will weaken Canadian environmental laws.

#idlenomore flashmob in #yqr ! #skpoli #cdnpoli http://pic.twitter.com/QjG177Th · Paige Kezima

#idlenomore flash mob round dance in Regina! It was beautiful! Cornwall centre. Tons of people:)
— Be Kind · Mon, Dec 17 2012 18:28:57

LOVING the Cree-ativity of the flash mob Round Dance at the Regina Mall!! #idlenomore
— Pamela Banting · Tue, Dec 18 2012 09:35:21

Some members of the flash mob also shot video of the event....

Idlenomore - Round Dance Flash Mob · smokey01smoke

Round Dance FlashMob1 in Regina #IdleNoMore · suevalley

Idle No More!! Flash Mob Roundance · theangelicgirly

Videos of the flash mob were viewed by people across the country, including Amanda Taylor of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation, which is located in the Yukon.

Just saw a video of the flash mob round dance at Cornwall Centre in Regina #nativeawesome #powerful #werestillhere #idlenomore
— Amanda K. Taylor · Mon, Dec 17 2012 18:40:51

Those who attended the protest were also sharing photos on Instagram and Twitter...

#flashmob #billc45 #idlenomore #yqr http://instagr.am/p/TW9Mk5oaCM/ · Harley Kataklysm

Flash-Mob Round Dance in Cornwall Mall, Regina SK. #idlenomore #proud @APTNNews http://pic.twitter.com/O4AqrCDq · Jaanneessssaa

Rally at #cornwall #regina #BillC45 #IdleNoMore http://pic.twitter.com/tG4WHtSE · S ✌

Flash mob round dance at Regina Cornwall centre was awesome. Our people were beaming with pride!! #idlenomore
— Michelle Bellegarde · Mon, Dec 17 2012 17:39:53

Proud of all of u that made it out to the rounddance flash mob in #yqr 2night- in support of #IdleNoMore. Cornwall didn't know what hit 'em!
— Katelyn Dawn Marie · Mon, Dec 17 2012 17:55:55

The Idle No More movement has been spreading across Canada. According to some Twitter users, such as Tanya Kappo of Edmonton, other cities could see similar flash mobs.

Looks like Regina started something with Flash Mobs, Round Dance Style. Coming soon to a city near you. Edmonton, Winnipeg ... #IdleNoMore
— Tanya Kappo · Mon, Dec 17 2012 21:24:10

Love the flashmob Round Dance in #Regina yesterday! Can we do something as cool in Toronto, say at Yonge/Dundas Square? #IdleNoMore
— RedIndianGirl · Tue, Dec 18 2012 08:33:37

Check out more photos of the flash mob at leaderpost.com

Highlights from the RCMP's 9-1-1 live tweets

Regina Leader Post — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 15:09:58 GMT

On Thursday evening the RCMP gave Saskatchewan Twitter users a peek into how its Mounties operate by live tweeting all emergency calls over the course of one shift.

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Tue, Dec 04 2012 07:09:58

Eitb

Tonight starting at 6 pm #SK #RCMP will live tweet every call received in our provincial call centre. Follow along with #CopCalls. ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 10:39:00

The Sask. RCMP live tweeted all emergency calls from 6 p.m. on Thursday to 2 a.m. Friday morning -- the equivalent of a regular shift. Over the course of the evening the RCMP tweeted approximately 128 different calls coming in from across Saskatchewan.

#RCMP #CentralDistrict: Assault #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 20:51:44

#RCMP #CentralDistrict: house fire #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 20:32:13

#RCMP #SouthDistrict: Motor vehicle collision with wildlife with no injuries #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 23:04:12

#RCMP #NorthDistrict: Injured person #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 21:48:16

One of the most frequent calls received involved reports of an intoxicated person at a residence, which drew concern from some Twitter users following the live feed.

#RCMP #CentralDistrict: Intoxicated person at a residence #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 23:05:12

@RCMPSK Noticing a disturbing but expected trend tonight on #CopCalls - alcohol a factor in many calls. When will people learn?
— Jennifer Davis · Thu, Nov 29 2012 20:35:10

RT @jewhittingham: Alcohol has an amazing cost to society, as seen by the #CopCalls feed tonight where the SK RCMP tweet their provincial call center calls.
— Dave Cochrane · Fri, Nov 30 2012 07:07:51

During the night the RCMP received a number of 9-1-1 hangups. which prompted inquiries from some users.

@RCMPSK #CopCalls seems like a lot of 911 Hang ups tonight, is this usual?
— Rippin · Thu, Nov 29 2012 22:47:44

The RCMP said the amount of hangups was average, and reminded citizens not to hang up if they accidentally call 9-1-1.

If you accidentally call 911, do not hang up. If we are unable to reach you, a police officer must be sent out to investigate. #CopCalls ^ng
— RCMP Saskatchewan · Thu, Nov 29 2012 21:13:12

The feedback from Saskatchewan Twitter users appeared to be positive.

Reading what's happening in the province tonight, pretty awesome to see all the work! #CopCalls
— Trevor Proskie · Thu, Nov 29 2012 20:05:57

Last night, Saskatchewan RCMP live tweeted their 911 calls under the hastag #copcalls - sadly riveting
— Amanda Kelly · Fri, Nov 30 2012 12:19:52

@rcmpsk great idea to do #copcalls, good way for the public to see what our police force has to deal with in an average night #yxe
— John Allen · Fri, Nov 30 2012 06:42:05

I am getting tired just reading @RCMPSK tweets....had no idea of the volume of calls. This is a great idea. #CopCalls
— Legacy Lutz · Thu, Nov 29 2012 16:57:01

Regina mayoral candidates take questions from social media

Regina Leader Post — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 21:02:16 GMT

See what questions from social media we asked Regina's mayoral candidates to tackle.

Storified by Regina Leader Post · Fri, Oct 19 2012 14:02:16

@leaderpost how would the candidates use social media and engage citizens? #yqrvotes
— Kevin O'Brien · Wed, Oct 10 2012 19:06:53

Liz Brass: During the campaign, I have enjoyed communicating with citizens who have shared their thoughts, ideas, and hopes with me. As Mayor, I would inform the public of new initiatives and topics and invite feedback and input. I would also encourage citizens to give ideas. I would share photos of successes, news, and repairs in the city. I would invite dialogue about topics to ensure that I am accessible to the public. I would consult with the public to facilitate connectedness and strengthen relationships. I would use social media to engage the younger generation and citizens who work shift work.

Tom Brown: My problem is that I haven't used Twitter or Facebook. I could make sure people know that my office would be open to anybody. Bring a good proposal to me and I would certainly have a real good look at it. Not only would I have a look at it, I would set up a committee that would look at these proposals because I think it's important we do as many different proposals as we can.

Marian Donnelly: The City of Regina is already a leader in social media, evident by its impressive number of Facebook followers. Building on that accomplishment and the strong foundation already in place makes inherent sense. Citizens want to be engaged, they want to provide input into decisions, and they want to know that their voices are heard. Social media is a way to welcome people and their input. In addition to Facebook and Twitter accounts managed by city employees, I would be quite open to maintaining personal accounts as Mayor.

Jim Elliott:
a. It could be used to let the citizens know where the mayor is.
b. It could be used to ask questions about pending issues or the level of priority it should have.
c. It could be used to monitor infrastructure problems, inoperable push buttons at intersections and traffic problems.
d. It could promote public events.
e. There could be active chats with councilors and the mayor.

Michael Fougere: I would continue to utilize my Facebook and Twitter accounts to engage Regina Citizens. While social media is important, I would also use more traditional communication tools - telephone, letter, and email to ensure I was available to all citizens. I want them to feel they can contact me in the way that is most comfortable to them.

Chad Novak: As I have demonstrated throughout my campaign, I believe strongly in interacting with citizens directly through a variety of means, one of which is social media. This is something that the current Mayor and council have not utilized to any real extent, and could be used to put the trust back between citizens and City Hall. Mayor Nenshi is a great example of how social media should be used, and I feel my campaign has highlighted how important it can be to interact with voters during an election campaign.

Tim Siekawitch: City Hall already has all of equipment needed to start a free to use YouTube type of service that residents or anyone can use in a similar way as current online sharing websites. City Administration would also use this to publish records press releases etc., even to publish individual councilman's weekly reports mayor reports and so forth. Plus the existing IT equipment can offer a unique online TV Channel which I call CRTVO. This online TV Channel can be used by Administrators, Council, Mayor etc., to broadcast specific programs unique to the Administrative functions of City Hall.

How would you improve the incentive structure for construction of affordable housing?
— nitrogen15 · Tue, Oct 09 2012 15:20:00

Liz Brass: Work with the administration to expedite the process to access city funding. Create a land bank and collaborate with developers and the province with its new corporate income tax credit incentive. Explore a tax abatement to develop apartments. Establish a Housing Task Force where community, business, and government collaboratively develop attainable, innovative housing options. After the Housing Task Force identifies needs, I will work to establish a City of Regina Housing Development Corporation as an "arms-length" municipal revenue-generator that will work with private investors and citizens to invest in a structured bond issue (also pursue RRSP and RESP eligibility) to build attainable housing.

Tom Brown: I live in north central where there's all kinds of houses that are boarded up or shacks that nobody rents anymore. They're on properties that could easily be looked after. There's even blocks, old cellar blocks, right behind there is half a city block. Why aren't we building houses over there? It would be a very good place to build some decent houses.

Marian Donnelly: My first priority will be to assemble a Housing Task Force to oversee the implementation of the housing strategy that has already been in the works at the City since January 2012. The team will be comprised of both community representatives and city employees. Their guidance will be critical as we explore various options including grants and loans, land allowances, fee and/or tax exemption, staggered financing, etc. In the short-term, we will examine specific bylaws that stand in the way of development. For instance, removing the bylaw on the number of parking stalls per unit would be welcome.

Jim Elliott:
a. Utilize the incentives as a method to pay down payments to allow for the purchase infill housing.
b. Be more flexible about the amount when multi-unit housing are being built.
c. Build the fund that provides incentives so that more action can be taken.

Michael Fougere: My first priority is to hold a Housing Summit. I will engage all levels of government , key City officials, community groups, housing industry leaders and the general public to not only find solutions to the housing crisis we face in Regina but to create an incentive structure for construction of affordable housing. My top concerns that must be addressed immediately are affordable housing, below market housing and land availability.

Chad Novak: I would work with construction companies and real estate developers in order to determine a mutually beneficial arrangement that will encourage the building of more affordable housing units. While we have had some recent construction on projects in Regina, there is far more that needs to be done. We need to learn from other cities that have battled these same issues, and learn from their successes and not repeat their failures. It is key to get affordable housing addressed immediately, and not in 5-10 years time, as the RRI proposal sets out.

Tim Siekawitch: Incentive structures play a crucial role when it comes to the capacity of low-cost housing, be it rental or homeowner abodes. Incentive structures force development by motivating individuals and targeting organizational performance. Practitioners and academics have recently given more and more attention to incentives issues such as the missing link in fiscally sensible development of housing plans. Incentives are linked to motivation, performance and capacity development.

The interplay between incentives and demand for low-cost housing are equally important, needing full analysis but, not needing any input from private parties such as consultants etc. I've asked mayoral candidates "what is the numbered/cost of this? Is it 300.00/month rent costs or 300.00/month mortgage payments?" I've yet to receive an answer. The poor and working poor are the experts to be asked for advice on how and where this housing will be built and how much the monthly rent or mortgage rates should be. The people who need this housing do not need to be motivated, they merely need to be included on this development.

@leaderpost. How are they planning to improve the Transit system? 2- How are they are going to improve the snow removal in our City?
— Latino 1817 · Tue, Oct 09 2012 16:29:40

Liz Brass: As city density increases, transit will improve. Also, to increase ridership, we will enlarge our fleet so we have more buses on the street for more efficient transit. I would work with the administration to create more direct, faster transit routes connecting hubs (e.g., express bus on Victoria Avenue, additional express routes to the university). I will explore running smaller buses in less frequently used areas to be more cost-efficient. I will explore the feasibility of Park and Ride at outer transit stations. I will explore a fare discount program for riders with more frequent use and other incentives to increase ridership.

Tom Brown: Regina had a program called telebus and they had these little buses running around. They would come and pick you up and take you to a terminal. We could do one of two things, have the main buses just run on schedule and not charge anything. Either that, or the city would run it and charge them (residents) the fee to get on the telebus.

I've seen snow removal in Winnipeg as well as Regina, and in Winnipeg the trucks are much bigger. What I would like to see is take these boulevards out of here. Not the ones where the trees are, but when we put boulevards in the middle of the street it doesn't do a heck of a lot of anything. And if you go down Broad Street what they've done there is take those center boulevards out so they can just go down there with a grater and just clean the streets and push it (snow) all over to one side and be able to pick it up faster. Otherwise they have trouble getting it off that cement divider in the middle.

Marian Donnelly: I am anxious to read the Transportation Master Plan and take action on the recommendations for improvements to our transit system. Piloting express buses along major routes - north/south on Albert and Broad, east/west along Victory Avenue is worth exploring. Many citizens are frustrated by scheduling - especially people who work weekends and do shift work. Snow removal is on my list of topics to address immediately. I want to review the current strategy and timelines for getting crews/ploughs immobilized and streets cleared. There are also effective models in other cities to consider. Clearing ice and sidewalks is equally important.