We have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving and mostly it's for the community we have been able to build this first year. In January we were able to receive a community vibrancy grant from the City of Medicine Hat. We used it to create an evening of entertainment and education at the Monarch Theatre. On September 15th we invited some local historians to speak with Brian about the history of Medicine Hat. They shared some fantastic stories about our city and our audience was very interested in what they had to say. Sit back and relax as we present some of the facinating stories of notable figures, historical artifacts and intriguing tales that connect our community and our citizens.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guests
00:30 The story of Mayor Brown and his controversial history
01:00 The discovery and significance of the Benwell Tablet
01:29 Research into Major Benwell's military service and controversies
01:51 The story of Nancy the grizzly bear and local family tales
02:21 Connections between Jesse James and Medicine Hat
02:50 The story of Lord Beresford and the ranching history
03:20 Family stories of early settlers and explorers
03:50 The history of local brickyards and industry
03:58 Closing remarks and upcoming publications


The Tale of Mervyn Brown
Sally shares an unexpected story about Mayor Mervyn Brown, who served from 1918 to 1921. Initially depicted as an exceptional leader, further research revealed a darker side. After his death, it was discovered that Brown had been involved in serious allegations while living in England, including assaults on chambermaids, which were hushed up by influential friends.
"This is a case of a man who did not seem as he appeared," Sally reflects, highlighting the complexities of historical figures.

The Benwell Tablet
Next, William introduces us to Major Ernest George Benwell, who commissioned a memorial tablet honouring the men of the Third Canadian Mounted Rifles during World War I. Despite its noble beginnings, controversy surrounded the tablet’s display due to accusations against Benwell, leading to its eventual placement at City Hall instead of the originally intended church.
"When lawyers get involved, you know you're in trouble," William quips, emphasizing the tangled web of community dynamics.

The Early Days of Medicine Hat
Malcolm introduces us to the beginnings of Medicine Hat through his family stories of his Great Grandfather James Hargrave who took the train from Portage la Prairie to Maple Creek. From there, he rode out to Medicine Hat Coulee where surveyors were looking to build a bridge. As Malcolm says "I heard bits and pieces of it, and actually when I went to university and studied history of Western Canada, it started to click that, hmm, my family's actually in this."

These stories are apart of the history of Medicine Hat and made the city we call home today. We invite you to watch and listen to the whole live show recorded in front of an audience of enthusiastic history buffs. We want to thank the City of Medicine Hat, The Medicine Hat Historical Society, and the Monarch Theatre for their contributions to helping us create this special live event.

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In Part two of our conversation Brian and David discuss his remarkable journey through faith, community service, and leadership. David talks about his experiences with politics, church, and community development in Calgary and his legacy here in Southeastern Alberta.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:58 David's Early Community Work in Calgary
03:54 Founding of Trinity Place Foundation and Saint Margaret's
06:55 Leadership in the Legislature and Maintaining Neutrality
11:07 The Role of Faith in Public Service
14:11 Historical Stories of Calgary and Saint Margaret's
17:12 Reflections on Community Development and Personal Life
20:03 Challenges in Community and Government Relations
23:10 The Significance of Saint Margaret's Cemetery and Memorials
25:55 Closing Remarks and Personal Reflections

Bring Back The Porch invites you into an intimate conversation with David J. Carter, who reflects on a life filled with diverse experiences, from politics to pastoral care and memorial work. David’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He has worn many hats: an Anglican minister, a speaker of the House, a railroad worker, and even an author of eighteen books. His life’s work has intertwined with history, service, and community.

On Leadership
Reflecting on his time as speaker, David shares the complexities of maintaining neutrality while representing a diverse constituency. "I have sympathy for every person who becomes a speaker. We're here to represent all of the people in your constituency, not just the ones who voted for you," he emphasizes, reminding us of the importance of inclusivity in leadership.

Building Community
A significant highlight of David’s story is his involvement in community development. He recounts the efforts to build a senior citizen's high rise in downtown Calgary, emphasizing collaboration among different faith groups and community members. "Every Friday, we put on soup and sandwiches for all the workers putting up this eighteen-story high rise with a hundred and fifty units. Wonderful times," he reflects, showing the power of community engagement.

Embracing Identity
In a touching exchange with a bishop, David shares a humorous yet poignant moment regarding his identity. "Bishop, they can call me whatever they want, but my Christian name is David," he asserts, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in one's role.

As we listen to David’s conversation with Brian, we are reminded of the profound impact of faith, leadership, and service. His story is a testament to the challenges and rewards of navigating leadership within a community, underscored by a deep commitment to inclusivity and service.

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A special Bring Back the Porch as Reverend David Carter shares his remarkable life journey, from working on CPR railroads to serving as a minister, politician, and author. Discover how his diverse experiences and passions have shaped his contributions to history, faith, and community service.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of David Carter's Life
02:00 Restoring Cemeteries and Preserving History in Alberta
04:01 Early Life, Family, and Move to Medicine Hat
06:02 Educational Journey and Love for Canadian History
07:51 Path to Ministry and Early Career Experiences
11:49 Work with CPR and Railroads in Western Canada
18:03 Transition to Politics and Role as Speaker of the Legislature
21:58 Literary Influences and Friendship with W. O. Mitchell
27:56 Contributions to Historical Archives and Community Service
33:56 Reflections on Faith, Mentors, and Personal Growth
39:46 Legacy, Honors, and Continuing Impact

Bring Back The Porch invites you into an intimate conversation with David J. Carter, who reflects on a life filled with diverse experiences, from politics to pastoral care and memorial work. David’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He has worn many hats: an Anglican minister, a speaker of the House, a railroad worker, and even an author of eighteen books. His life’s work has intertwined with history, service, and community.

In part one, Brian and David sit down for a very special conversation. One of the most touching stories shared is about David's commitment to preserving history through the restoration of cemeteries. After retiring in 1993, he and his friend Bob Brown dedicated themselves to restoring neglected grave markers across southern Alberta. Their efforts not only revived these historic sites but also fostered relationships with local Hutterite communities, showcasing the importance of collaboration in preserving heritage.

Reflection on Ministry
David shares profound insights into his calling to ministry, influenced by his father’s wisdom:
"If you help one person, your ministry is justified." This simple yet powerful perspective shaped his approach to service and leadership.

The Call of the Rails
David discusses his love for railroads which began in childhood, a passion that led him to work with the CPR. David recounts his youthful experiences spraying tracks and managing operations, revealing how these formative years nurtured his fascination with history and service.

As we explore David's journey, it’s clear that his life is a tapestry of stories, each thread representing a commitment to community and history. His reflections remind us that every life is worth examining for the lessons and legacies it holds.

There is much more to discuss with Brian and David. Keep and eye out for part two coming soon.

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In this episode, we sit down with Alana Petty to celebrate 10 years of the Gas City Entertainment Expo in Medicine Hat. What began as an idea shared by three friends has grown into a community-focused celebration of fandom, pop culture, and family fun.

We explore the expo’s incredible growth from just 12 vendors to more than 40, and discover what makes the event special for fans of anime, comics, movies, gaming, Star Wars, cosplay, and more. Alana also shares what attendees can expect, including cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, sword-fighting demonstrations, face painting, photo opportunities, vendors, voice actors, and industry panels.

Beyond the activities, we talk about the importance of community and creating an event where people of all ages can discover new interests and connect with fellow fans. With plans to continue growing and adding even more activities, the Gas City Entertainment Expo is looking ahead to an exciting future.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes conversation about how the expo began, how it has evolved over the past decade, and why there really is something for everybody.

key topics

Growth of the Gas City Entertainment Expo over ten years

Diverse activities including cosplay contests, tournaments, and panels

The role of community and family in the event's success

Introduction of professional voice actors and industry panels

Event logistics and future plans for expansion

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gas City Entertainment Expo

02:05 Origins of the Expo and Its Growth

04:09 Activities and Attractions for All Ages

07:03 Special Guests: Voice Actors and Industry Panels

09:02 Event Details: Dates, Location, and Pricing

10:54 Community Impact and Future Plans

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Tim Hittel shares his journey into collecting and organizing the upcoming 22nd annual Antiques and Collectibles Show and Sale, highlighting the significance of vintage memorabilia, local history, and the evolving market for collectibles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the show and guest
02:03 History of organizing the antique and gun show
03:57 Personal collection: hockey caps and memorabilia
06:56 Collecting hockey cards and local sports memorabilia
10:03 History of local hockey teams and notable players
14:59 The significance of local hockey programs and memorabilia
20:06 Market trends and the value of collectibles
22:49 The impact of COVID on collectibles and hobbies
25:50 International and local buyers at the show
28:59 The future of collectibles and market predictions
29:58 Closing remarks and event details

The Antiques Collectibles Gun and Hobby Show is back, and it’s hard to believe it’s already the 22nd annual event! Tim Hittel, the driving force behind the show, shares some fascinating insights into how it all began and what attendees can expect this year. Tim's journey started over two decades ago after he attended an antique show in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan. Inspired by the vendors there, he decided to host a similar event in Medicine Hat. What began as a modest gathering has now blossomed into a massive show featuring over 330 tables of antiques and collectibles, including a mix of guns and hobbies.

Initially held in a single building, the show has now expanded to occupy a larger venue to accommodate the increasing number of vendors and attendees. "I’m now in the bigger building. The pavilion was 22,000 square feet. This is 33,000 square feet. I need the room."
This year’s show will take place on Saturday, October 3rd, and Sunday, October 4th, with hours from 10 AM to 6 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 4 PM on Sunday. It’s an excellent time of year for such events, especially with local farmers potentially wrapping up their harvests.

Tim also shared some of his personal collection, which includes remarkable items like hockey caps and Tiger memorabilia. He reminisced about his childhood visits to his grandmother's general store, where he would collect coke machine caps, igniting his passion for collecting.
"I emptied out the coke machines and took all the caps. I got some of the ones right here. These are all hockey caps from 1965." His dedication to collecting is a testament to the joy and history that comes with antiques. Tim continues to seek out rare items to complete his collections, emphasizing that for him, it’s about passion rather than investment.

As we gear up for this year’s show, it’s a moment to celebrate not just the antiques and collectibles but also the community that has grown around them. Each item tells a story, and every collector shares a journey. If you're in the area, don’t miss this opportunity to connect with local history and fellow enthusiasts there's always something new to discover!

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Once again, the Porch is on location, this time we are at The Art Room on 2nd to meet this month's featured artist Theresa Eisenbarth. Theresa shares her journey from a career in finance to becoming a celebrated artist. She discusses her artistic influences, techniques, and the importance of art in community life, highlighting her latest exhibition 'Where the Light Stays' and her connection to Medicine Hat.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Theresa Eisenbarth and her art journey
01:56 Growing up in Medicine Hat and early artistic influences
03:55 Transition from a career in finance to becoming a full-time artist
06:04 Educational background in visual communications and fine arts
08:00 Understanding impressionism and her painting style
10:03 The significance of light in prairie landscapes
11:48 Her process for creating large-scale paintings
14:09 The role of community and local symbols in her work
16:05 Details about her current exhibition 'Where the Light Stays'
17:55 Favourite subjects and iconic prairie scenes
19:56 Her connection with fellow artists and local art community
21:56 The importance of art galleries and exhibitions in Medicine Hat
23:54 Her techniques for capturing light and atmosphere
26:13 Memories and stories behind specific paintings
28:04 Closing thoughts and upcoming exhibitions

Join us as we discover how one local artist reflects her culture through creativity.
See the vibrant world of art in Medicine Hat with Theresa Eisenbarth, a co-founder of the local gallery. Theresa shares her journey from childhood doodles to becoming a significant figure in the local art scene.

Theresa emphasizes the cultural significance of art galleries, stating, "Even if you don't purchase something, it gives you a sense of the community in a different way on how people express things."She believes that art is essential for community expression and supporting local artists, noting the various programs the Esplanade offers while pointing out that the art scene is still evolving in Medicine Hat.

After years of working in various jobs, Theresa decided to pursue her passion for art seriously, leading her to study visual communications in college. This transition reflects her desire to return to her roots and embrace her creative side.

Capturing the Prairie Light
When asked about her inspiration, Theresa explains that her surroundings play a crucial role in her work. She draws inspiration from walks in the prairies and the unique light of Medicine Hat. She describes the local light as harsher than in other places, stating that it casts long shadows that influence her paintings.

Her latest exhibition, titled *Where the Light Stays*, showcases her interpretation of this distinct illumination. As she puts it, "The way that it casts shadows on buildings... it's not a super soft light." Theresa's artistic style has evolved, moving from acrylics to oils, which she finds allows for a looser, more expressive approach. She notes the differences in working with these mediums, mentioning that while acrylics dry quickly, oils offer a bit more flexibility in the creative process. As she continues to experiment and refine her style, Theresa remains committed to capturing the essence of our community through her art.

Throughout our conversation, it becomes clear that Theresa values the connections within the art community. She collaborates and shares insights with fellow artists, ensuring that the rich history and culture of Medicine Hat are preserved and celebrated through their work.

The importance of local exhibitions can't be understated. As Theresa explains, "Without a gallery, the paintings sit in your basement. Nobody sees them." This sentiment speaks to the heart of why local art is so vital, it fosters community engagement and appreciation for the creativity that flourishes in our neighbourhoods.

In reflecting on Theresa's journey and the value of art in our lives, we are reminded that creativity is not just about individual expression but also about how it connects us to each other and our surroundings.

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Today, we explore the vital role of HALO Air Ambulance in Southern Alberta, its history, operations, and how community support sustains this life-saving service. Guest Paul Carolan, CEO of HALO, shares insights into the challenges, innovations, and future plans of the organization.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:04 First Flight and Early Operations in 2007
03:37 Funding Challenges and Government Support in 2022
04:47 Community Fundraising and Partnerships
06:45 Upcoming Fundraising Event: Turf to Tarmac
07:52 Public Perception and Media Relations
08:49 Maintaining Awareness and Community Engagement
09:45 The Critical Role of Rapid Response and Range
10:57 Anniversary Celebrations and Future Milestones
11:53 Impact of COVID-19 on Operations and Innovation
14:28 Introduction of HALO One Helicopter
16:02 Fleet Expansion and Technological Improvements
17:28 Minutes Matter: Speed and Efficiency of Response
20:14 Night Operations and Future Possibilities
21:49 Training, Safety, and Pilot Expertise
23:48 Topography, Weather, and Flight Safety
24:54 Support Team and Community Donations
26:40 Funding, Maintenance, and Future Needs
28:38 Estate Planning and Long-term Support
29:38 Closing Remarks and Appreciation

We dive deep into the story of Halo Air Ambulance, a critical service in Southern Alberta that has transformed emergency response since its inception.

An Origin Story
Brian opens the conversation with Paul Carolan, the CEO of HALO, reflecting on the organization's beginnings in 2001. It all started with a tragic highway accident that spurred a community to consider what could have been different if a helicopter had been nearby. From these discussions, HALO was born, making its first flight in July 2007.

Measuring Impact
When asked about the lives saved, Paul notes,
"We've been better at that more recently... but certainly there's... north of 600 lives saved in the first 12 years." HALO has seen an increase in calls for service, with 2018 marking their busiest year yet, demonstrating the growing need for this vital service.

Community Resilience
Paul emphasizes the resilience of HALO, stating that despite receiving less than 65% of their budget from the government, community support remains essential. He recalls that the board themselves had attended eighty-some events, fundraisers, barbecue, hot dog sales, lemonade stands... anything that they could do to bring in that next dollar. This commitment showcases the deep ties Halo has with its community, relying on local businesses and individuals to keep their mission alive.

Looking Ahead
As HALO approaches its 20th anniversary, Paul shares their upcoming signature event, "Turf to Tarmac," a black-tie gala that not only raises funds but also highlights patient stories from the year. He reflects on the importance of public perception, noting,
"It's critical to keep HALO front of mind... Halo in some ways is its own worst enemy."

This underscores the challenge of maintaining visibility and support for a service that many hope they never have to use. We are reminded of the vital role that community plays in supporting organizations like HALO and the importance of not taking such services for granted.

For more information or to purchase calendars or merchandise visit: https://www.haloairambulance.com/

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In this episode, Michelle Sauve and Taniel Zanidean discuss initiatives in Medicine Hat aimed at strengthening community bonds, promoting kindness, and enhancing mental health through events like neighbourhood associations, board game nights, and film festivals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to community initiatives in Medicine Hat
01:58 Neighbourhood associations and their importance
03:53 Events promoting social connection and community bonding
07:02 The role of vibe coordinators and creating welcoming spaces
09:04 Humans of Medicine Hat project and community storytelling
11:04 Listening events and the importance of being heard
12:53 Youth engagement and addressing youth isolation
15:13 The significance of small acts of kindness
16:58 Upcoming workshops and community events
18:59 How to get involved and support community projects

Today on the Porch, we dive into the heart of community connection with Brian, Michelle, and Taneil as they discuss upcoming events that aim to foster neighbourly relationships in Medicine Hat. The concept of neighbourhood associations is gaining momentum, and the hosts emphasize the vital role of knowing your neighbours.

Michelle shares insights about the Medicine Hat Neighbourhood Associations and their efforts to create a sense of community. "We want to promote block parties and events, especially with Good Neighbour Day coming up on October 3rd. This is a chance for residents to connect and learn how to start their own neighbourhood associations."

The upcoming event "Hey Neighbour" at the Empty Nest Café promises to be an inviting space for anyone interested in building community ties. Attendees can explore a trailer filled with supplies for block parties and games to encourage interaction.

The conversation shifts to the importance of neighbourly connections. Taneil highlights that knowing even a few neighbours can significantly impact our well-being. "Research shows that having a connection with just six neighbours increases our sense of belonging and enhances our overall happiness."

The hosts reflect on how isolation has become more prevalent in recent years, especially after COVID-19. Michelle adds, "We don’t rely on our neighbours like we used to, but it’s essential for our community resilience, especially in times of crisis."

Michelle and Taneil discuss their regular events, including Sips and Socials and board game nights, as platforms for fostering connections. Michelle describes her enthusiasm: "I joke that I’m the vibe coordinator at these events, ensuring everyone feels welcomed. We aim to create a friendly environment where people can relax and connect."

What Matters To Hatters invites everyone in Medicine Hat to join the conversation about community connection. Join them at the upcoming events to sip, socialize, and truly engage with your community.

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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