Tonight on Bring Back The Porch, Redcliff Mayor Chris Czember shares insights on local infrastructure projects, community identity, and future plans for the town, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and community engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and episode overview
01:22 Redcliff's community identity and small-town feel
03:00 Infrastructure audits and recent upgrades
05:35 Maintaining town identity and avoiding amalgamation
06:58 Prioritizing infrastructure projects and citizen input
08:47 Fifth Street infrastructure program and funding
10:12 Balancing infrastructure repair and budget constraints
12:17 Regional cooperation and economic development
13:21 Yard and property standards in Redcliff
14:42 Upcoming community events and festivals
16:00 Potential changes in policing services
17:58 Support for the local Legion and its anniversary
19:51 Future projects and long-term planning
20:29 School development and infrastructure progress
22:12 Housing development and land sales
23:00 How to follow town council meetings


Mayor Czember reflected on the importance of Redcliff's unique character, emphasizing how surveys reveal that citizens cherish their small-town feel. “What do you like about Redcliff? It’s the own identity, the small town feel,” he noted. This sentiment resonates strongly in the community, especially as discussions around amalgamation have surfaced in the past.

The mayor shared insights into the ongoing infrastructure audit mandated for all municipalities. This audit aims to assess the condition of town-owned buildings and prioritize necessary repairs. The town hall, museum, and recreational facilities were highlighted, with the museum identified as needing significant upgrades.  With a budget that must stretch to cover repairs across approximately 250 city blocks, he acknowledged that maintaining infrastructure is a constant challenge. “Every municipality has an infrastructure deficit, meaning we're not repairing as much as is deteriorating,” he explained. The ongoing Fifth Street infrastructure project, a significant undertaking with a budget of approximately $2.5 million, exemplifies these efforts.

Mayor Czember's reflections underscore the balance between maintaining Redcliff's identity and addressing its infrastructural challenges. As he aptly put it, managing these demands requires careful prioritization and community involvement.

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Join us as Marilyn Kusler from the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association shares insights into gardening, the history of local gardening communities, and tips for sustainable gardening practices in changing climates.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:02 Historical Gardening in Medicine Hat
02:04 Getting Started in Gardening and Education Pathways
03:44 The Role of Gardening Associations Today
06:41 Differences Between Agriculture and Horticulture
07:53 Traditional vs. Modern Gardening Knowledge
10:20 The Ewart Duggan Garden and Heritage Plants
12:28 Climate Change and Its Effect on Gardening Zones
14:43 Adapting to Weather Extremes and Pest Cycles
17:24 Upcoming Fall Activities and Community Engagement
18:17 House Plants and Indoor Gardening Trends
19:36 City Parks, Urban Green Spaces, and Future Planning

We explore the rich history of gardening in Medicine Hat,  through an engaging conversation with Marilyn Kusler, the President of the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association.

For many Hatters, gardening has been a cherished tradition for decades. The area's favourable soil and climate have made it a haven for gardeners. Marilyn shares her personal story, emphasizing how her upbringing on a family farm influenced her love for gardening. Growing up, she assisted her mother in tending to both vegetables and flowers, which sparked a lifelong interest in horticulture.

With over 130 active members, the association bridges the gap between seasoned gardeners and newcomers, facilitating knowledge sharing through meetings and guest speakers. These gatherings offer invaluable insights into various gardening topics, from pest management to ethical interactions with local wildlife.

A common challenge for gardening associations is attracting younger members. Marilyn highlights the need for outreach to younger generations, who often juggle busy schedules filled with family and activities. The association strives to create a welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of age or experience, can learn and share their gardening knowledge.

Marilyn reflects on the evolution of gardening practices over the years. While some traditional methods have faded, many gardeners still seek out old-fashioned tips and tricks. For instance, she shares a recent experiment with using baking soda around tomato plants, inspired by advice from a fellow gardener. Such anecdotes illustrate how gardening knowledge is passed down through generations, blending historical wisdom with modern practices.

Gardening is not just about growing plants; it's also a therapeutic activity that fosters a deep connection to the earth. Marilyn expresses how tending to her garden offers solace and satisfaction, especially as she ages. The act of nurturing plants provides a sense of achievement and peace, making gardening a valuable pursuit for mental well-being.

Our visit with Marilyn offers a glimpse into the vibrant gardening community in Medicine Hat. From its rich history to the challenges of modern gardening, her insights inspire both seasoned gardeners and newcomers to embrace this fulfilling hobby. Whether you're growing vegetables or flowers, gardening is a beautiful way to connect with nature and others. 

For more information about the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association and to join their efforts, check out their website. Happy gardening!


Resources

Medicine Hat Horticultural Association - https://medhathort.ca/
Olds College - Horticulture Program - https://www.oldscollege.ca
Heritage Plants and Seeds - https://www.heritage-plants.com/

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(Editors Note: Todays Episode has some warbley sound but we cleaned it up the best we could. We hope the context of the episode out-ways the imperfect audio).

Today, we're coming to you from the Big Marble Go Centre, where bocce courts are being set up for the upcoming Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. The opening ceremonies are just 10 days away! We had the pleasure of chatting with Gavin Harker, a passionate ambassador for the games, who shares his experiences as an athlete and a bocce player.

Meet Gavin

Gavin is one of six athlete ambassadors that have been promoting the games all around our community. Gavin has been part of the Special Olympics for three years, participating in sports like curling, basketball, bowling, and, of course, bocce. His enthusiasm is contagious as he describes how much joy he finds in being around other athletes. "It's very fun being around like other athletes, being around like other people. I’m very excited for this!"

Learning Bocce

As we step onto the bocce court, Gavin begins to teach us the fundamentals of the game. 

 "First, I'm gonna throw this. Call it the Piccolina. Just a little ball."

The objective? Get the larger ball as close to the Piccolina as possible. Gavin explains, "Then you hope it doesn't go over that line."

The game is simple yet strategic, and as Gavin guides us through the nuances, it becomes clear that bocce is as much about skill as it is about fun. 

The Game in Action

As we play, laughter fills the air. Gavin encourages us with tips on throwing techniques and strategies. 

"You'd basically just throw it like a bowling ball if you have a regular bowl."

The camaraderie among players is palpable, and Gavin’s infectious spirit makes it easy to see why bocce is such a beloved sport in the community. 

The slogan of the Games is “We shine together.” It was very apparent that Gavin was going to help us to not only learn the game but he made sure that we had fun together while playing.

Final Thoughts

Gavin's journey in Bocce is a testament to the joy of sports and community. As we wrap up our game, we can't help but feel inspired by his passion and the spirit of the Special Olympics. If you’re curious about bocce or want to join the fun, consider getting involved in your local sports programs.

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Today on Bring Back The Porch Heather McCaig discusses the inspiring story of Ridin' for Kids Foundation, highlighting its growth, community impact, and how it raises funds to support children with unique medical needs. Discover how a small community effort turned into a nationwide movement that changes lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Heather McCaig and Ridin' for Kids
01:06 The Origins of Ridin' for Kids and Its Growth
02:22 First Beneficiary and Medical Support for Children
03:07 Maintaining Relationships with Beneficiaries
04:25 Growth in Rider Participation and Community Support
05:46 Fundraising Methods and Community Contributions
06:07 Record-Breaking Fundraising Total of $118,613
08:16 Supporting a Young Boy with Mobility Equipment
09:19 Memorable Moments and Personal Impact
10:00 Selecting Beneficiaries and Ride Route Details
11:07 Ride Date and Community Engagement
12:11 Expansion to Edmonton and Supporting Other Families
13:01 Merchandise and Branding of Ridin' for Kids
14:05 Closing Remarks and Future Goals


Ridin' for Kids is a grassroots initiative, started by motorcycle enthusiasts, it has grown exponentially, capturing the spirit of community support. We’ll explore the foundation's journey, its impact on children with unique medical needs, and why it matters for everyone involved.

The Ridin' for Kids Foundation was born out of a heartfelt desire to help children in need. Six years ago, Ivan Reimer, along with a team of passionate individuals, launched this initiative after recognizing the challenges faced by families with children suffering from rare diseases. The first benefactor was a young boy named Keilan, who was fighting VHL disease, a condition that leads to tumor growth in the body. The foundation’s efforts helped raise funds for his treatment, and since then, it has continued to grow, now registered as a charitable organization.

The foundation organizes annual charity motorcycle rides, where participants come together to raise funds. Local businesses, community members, and even children contribute to the cause, showcasing that it truly takes a village to support those in need. In the latest charity ride, the foundation raised an astounding $118,613.40 in just three months, underscoring the generosity of the community, even amidst economic challenges. Fundraising is a collective effort, with various activities contributing to the cause. From pancake breakfasts sponsored by local hotels to live auctions featuring unique items, every dollar raised counts. 

The stories of the children who benefit from the Ridin' for Kids Foundation are nothing short of inspirational. For instance, this year’s benefactor, four-year-old Emerson Wikkerink, will receive motorized legs to aid his mobility and motor skills. These devices are crucial for children with similar conditions, helping prevent muscle atrophy and enhancing their quality of life. Hearing updates from previous beneficiaries, like Keilan, who is now thriving, reinforces the foundation's impact and motivates ongoing support.

Ridin' for Kids stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together for a common cause. The heartwarming stories of children who benefit from the foundation’s work remind us of the importance of compassion and support in our society.

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Today on the podcast, I talked about International Youth Day with Stephanie Kuhn from the Medicine Hat Public Library and Derrick Lillico from Our Collective Journey. We discussed why investing in young people matters. We explored the importance of giving youth opportunities to lead, share their ideas, develop new skills, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

We also discussed the upcoming event on August 5 from 1pm-4pm where youth can spend a fun-filled afternoon at the Big Marble Go Centre. Activities include a foam pit, free swimming, youth market and so so so much more.

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In this episode, we sit down with the organizers of the Grain to Glory Festival to hear how a simple idea grew into one of the city's most exciting community events. From live music and local vendors to the iconic Ogilvie Flour Mill and big plans for its future, this conversation is all about bringing people together.

🎸 Local bands
🍔 Food trucks & vendors
🎪 Family-friendly activities
🏛️ Historic stories
❤️ Community-first spirit

If you love supporting local, discovering inspiring stories, or you're looking for your next summer event, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and discover why Grain to Glory is more than a festival—it's a celebration of Medicine Hat.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Grain to Glory Festival
00:50 Origin and Inspiration Behind the Festival
01:29 Rapid Organization and Community Response
02:16 The Historic Ogilvie Flour Mill Site
03:04 Activities and Attractions for All Ages
04:24 Music Lineup and Local Musicians
06:54 Supporting Local Vendors and Food Trucks
08:34 Festival's Community and Cultural Impact
10:48 Future Development Plans for the Site
17:37 Special Events: Murder Mystery Dinner
19:27 Festival Logistics: Date, Location, and Volunteers
22:54 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Attend

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Host Ina Leahy sits down with Wade Peterson as he shares his incredible journey from a young boxer in Redcliff to an international referee and judge at the Olympics. Discover the behind-the-scenes of boxing officiating, the challenges faced, and the passion that drives excellence in sports.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Wade's background in boxing
01:52 Wade's journey from boxer to referee and judge
03:57 First national and international competitions
06:59 Refereeing and judging at the Olympics
11:56 International travel and experiences in boxing
18:01 The new evaluation system for officials
23:05 Secrecy and security at the Olympics
30:13 Memorable moments and challenges at the Olympics
39:57 The future of boxing officiating and Wade's advice


Wade Peterson is a distinguished boxing referee and judge who has made significant contributions to the sport of boxing. From his humble beginnings in Redcliff to being inducted into the Medicine Hat Sports Wall of Fame, Wade's story is one of passion, dedication, and resilience.

Wade's journey began in the 1980s when he took up boxing to keep fit for hockey. However, as boxing became his true passion, he participated in numerous competitions, earning accolades such as a bronze medal at the national level and participation in the Canadian Winter Games. After hanging up his gloves in 1986, Wade transitioned to officiating, where he quickly found his footing under the mentorship of renowned officials, paving the way for an illustrious career.

As Wade's passion for the sport grew, he began to gain more skills as a boxer leading him to participate in over twenty-six fights and earning a bronze medal at the national level. His experiences in the Canadian Winter Games, where he met Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, further fueled his dedication to boxing. 

After years as a boxer, Wade was introduced to refereeing by his mentor, Bill Page. Wade quickly found success, working his first national championships just a few years later in 1989.

Wade took a ten-year hiatus from officiating to focus on family life after his daughter was born in 1992. However, in 2002, he returned to boxing, motivated by his son’s interest in the sport. Wade’s experience and dedication allowed him to seamlessly reintegrate into the boxing community, further establishing his reputation as a skilled referee and judge.

Throughout his career, Wade has officiated numerous national and international competitions, eventually earning the opportunity to referee at the Olympic level. His journey is a testament to his hard work, determination, and love for boxing, showcasing how passion can lead to incredible achievements.
 
Wade's journey from a young boxer to an esteemed referee at the Olympics highlights the importance of dedication to one’s craft. For those interested in boxing, Wade's insights and experiences serve as a valuable resource, inspiring the next generation of athletes and officials. 


Resources

Boxing Canada - https://boxingcanada.org/
World Boxing - https://www.worldboxing.org/
International Boxing Association - https://www.iba.sport/
Olympic Official Website - https://olympics.com/
Pan American Games - https://www.panamsports.org/
Medicine Hat Sports Wall of Fame - https://www.medicinehat.ca/parks-recreation/sports-wall-of-fame/

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This episode features talented ceramic artists sharing their experiences, techniques, and cultural influences during their residency at Medalta. Discover insights into firing techniques, cultural symbolism, and the journey of developing a unique artistic style.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Residency and Artist Background
01:17 Artist's Journey and Experience at Medalta
02:04 Collaboration and Firing Techniques in Ceramics
02:40 Favourite Firing Methods: Soda Firing
03:05 How a Love for Ceramics Began
04:04 Creating Ceramic Tiles and Cultural Inspiration
05:00 Technical Aspects of Tile Making and Firing
06:08 Clay Types and Material Choices
07:20 Using Molds and Wheel Throwing
08:32 Different Firing Techniques: Raku and Pit Firing
09:30 Achieving Iridescence and Surface Effects
10:07 Animal Motifs and Cultural Significance
11:02 Developing Personal Style and Future Plans
12:48 Connecting with the Artistic Community
13:13 Cultural Inspiration from the Prairies
14:31 Experience at Medalta and Artistic Growth
15:19 Grounding and Meditative Aspects of Working with Clay
16:16 Inspiration from the Historic Medalta Factory
17:23 Creating Unique Animal Sculptures
18:19 The Unpredictability of Soda Firing
19:21 Favorite Pieces and Personal Connection
19:54 Future Aspirations and Continued Engagement with Medalta

Ceramicists will tell you, each piece tells a story, and for many artists, this journey is transformative. Today, we delve into the experiences of Anaies Mehrabian, a ceramics student at the University of Manitoba, and Charlotte Saulnier a student at Concorida University. These women recently participated in the students artists in residence program at Medalta.

Anaies began her journey with ceramics almost by accident. Initially enrolling in a ceramic class for fun, she quickly discovered that her passion for painting was overshadowed by her love for working with clay. The tactile nature of ceramics and the continuous engagement it requires allowed her to immerse herself fully in the medium. 

Charlotte says working with clay can be very grounding and meditative. She notes that ceramics can transform people and places. When people see her art they gravitate towards it and want to touch it. She says this is a great way of sharing. During her time in Medicine Hat she has been inspired by the horse. She notes that horses are able to do incredible labour and yet in her art she purposefully elongates their legs to symbolize their fragility.

The women emphasized the importance of collaboration during their residency. Working with fellow students, they shared knowledge and ensured that everyone was well-rested and supported during the labour-intensive firing processes. This sense of community fostered a nurturing environment where they could learn and grow together.

What makes this program stand out is that it is the only one of its kind in Canada. Students not only gain practical skills but also build a network of connections that can benefit their careers in the long run. Many alumni return as artists in residence, contributing to the program and mentoring the next generation of ceramic artists.

Website - https://medalta.org/

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Join host Brian Konrad as we explore the unique international ceramics residency program at Medalta, featuring insights from coordinators and students about their experiences, techniques, and the creative process in ceramics.(Part One of Two)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Medalta's Ceramic Residency Program
01:02 Application Process and Selection of Students
02:13 Student Engagement and Learning Experiences
03:15 Unique Aspects of Medalta's Program in Canada
04:08 Living and Working in the Residency
05:09 Student Projects and Artistic Development
07:31 Elizabeth Yus's Experience at Medalta
09:35 Clay as a Medium: Creativity and Transformation
12:03 Firing Techniques: Pit Firing and Soda Firing
15:25 Inspiration from Medalta's Heritage and Artifacts
16:35 Future Plans and Continued Engagement with Medalta


When you are studying ceramics, gaining hands-on experience is invaluable. If you’re a student or an aspiring artist in this field, you might be wondering how to elevate your craft. Today, we’ll dive into the unique residency program at Medalta, where students immerse themselves in the art of ceramics while collaborating with peers and industry experts. 

The Medalta residency program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for ceramics students in Canada. It aims to foster creativity and technical skill through immersive experiences in a collaborative environment. This program accepts students through a juried application process twice a year, allowing them to engage in various firing methods and artistic techniques that are essential in ceramics.

Tomo Ingalls, the residency coordinator, plays a crucial role in facilitating this program. She organizes the residency, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed. Tomo emphasizes the importance of experimentation, stating that it is vital for students to discover their unique artistic voices. Her passion for ceramics and the students' energy create an inspiring environment for everyone involved.

The Student Experience
For students, the Medalta residency offers more than just technical training; it’s an opportunity to grow as artists. Elizabeth Yus, a student from Emily Carr University, shared her experience of transitioning from a gap year to a full-time ceramics program. Her journey reflects the program’s goal of nurturing talent and passion in ceramics.

What makes this program stand out is that it is the only one of its kind in Canada. Students not only gain practical skills but also build a network of connections that can benefit their careers in the long run. Many alumni return as artists in residence, contributing to the program and mentoring the next generation of ceramic artists.

In Part 2, we will meet with additional students from the program. They will share their experiences and work, demonstrating what they have created and how Medalta has fostered growth in their art and other aspects of their lives.

Resources

Medalta Museum - https://medalta.org
Emily Carr University of Art + Design - https://www.ecuad.ca

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What happens when a retired lawyer swaps legal briefs for history books? You get incredible stories that bring the past to life.

This week, we're joined by William Ann, a passionate historian and genealogist, who shares how a simple curiosity turned into a mission to preserve the stories of Medicine Hat and beyond.

In this episode, you'll discover:
🔍 How to start researching your own family history
📖 The truth about verifying genealogy records
✈️ Incredible World War II stories connected to Medicine Hat
🌍 A surprising local connection to the Treaty of Versailles
💡 Why preserving family memories matters more than ever

Whether you're fascinated by history, genealogy, or untold local stories, this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical research tips.

🎧 Listen now and discover why every family—and every community—has a story worth preserving.

Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you! 

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