Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs

Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA) was founded in 1967. It is an independent forum, moderated by volunteers, meeting Thursdays at noon some 40 weeks a year and at occasional special sessions, to debate local, provincial, national, and international issues of concern to the residents of Lethbridge and Southern Alberta.

SACPA sessions are at the LSCO (Lethbridge Senior Citizen Organization) at 500 11 St. S. Lethbridge, lunch at 11:30 am, speaker 12:00 to 1:00 and made available on our YouTube channel for viewing and you are invited to explore them on our YouTube channel.

The rationale of the Council is that the strength of a political democracy is lodged in the freedom of citizens to assemble and freely discuss ideas and issues. SACPA seeks to promote a sense of community and citizenship amongst the public. It is strictly non-partisan in its political outlook and encourages the expression of divergent viewpoints. SACPA does not take sides on the issues debated at its sessions. The opinions expressed by speakers are their own and are not necessarily shared by the Board of Directors.

Upcoming Sessions

What makes the Lethbridge & SW Alberta United Way Campaign an integral part of our community's well-being?

Speaker: Ryan Tunall
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

United Way funding supports a network of agencies that provide vital programming to thousands of people in Lethbridge & South Western Alberta. Programs support impactful initiatives and services that will provide long term outcomes and respond to the most immediate and pressing needs. The speaker will argue that to tackle our communities’ toughest problems, we must understand the root causes and invite others to join United Way—experts who can bring research, passionate volunteers, and generous donors committed to community change.

Tinnitus: The Sound of Silence?

Speaker: Glenn Hole
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Is there ever such a thing as perfect silence? Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no actual external sound. For people with Tinnitus, it can be difficult to find silence, and tinnitus can fill even the quietest moments with unwanted sound. It’s like that ringing sound in your ears after a loud concert, after mowing the lawn, or using power tools. For most people, tinnitus isn’t problematic. When tinnitus becomes chronic, additional help may be needed.

Why Is There a Cardiac Crisis in Southern Alberta?

Speaker: Crystal Elliott
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Currently, southern Alberta is serviced by two regional hospitals located in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, and 14 other acute care/community healthcare centres in rural areas. Not one of these facilities is equipped to provide cutting-edge cardiac treatment (Calgary is the closest option) that could save many lives each year. Heart disease is the #2 cause of death in Canada. In southern Alberta it is the #1 cause of death. In fact, if you live in southern Alberta, you are 15.

Got a Gripe? Tell the World. How to air your grievances to the public.

Speaker: Ken Moore
Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The speaker will discuss writing for public papers like the Lethbridge Herald, the difference between venting and advocating, restrictions on newspapers vs other outlets, and the anatomy of a good column. He will then explain why he started on Substack, what other outlets are available for free, and the golden rule for griping responsibly. Speaker: Ken Moore Ken Moore is a former News Director at CFAC Lethbridge Television. He worked in both radio and television as a news reporter covering both municipal and provincial politics.

Recent Sessions

The Fine Print of Alberta Separation?

Speaker: Trevor Lewington
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Albertans have been told that leaving Canada would mean greater freedom, lower taxes, more control and a more prosperous future. It is an appealing promise, especially for a province that has often felt ignored, misunderstood or taken for granted. But what happens after the slogans end? What currency would Albertans use? What happens to pensions, federal debt, treaty obligations, borders, trade agreements, national parks, airports, water, electricity and access to international markets?

SACPA Annual General Meeting 2026

Speaker: chaired by Knud Petersen
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026 1:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

SACPA’s AGM is scheduled immediately following the final 2025 – 2026 session featuring Vicki Hegedus and Glenn Klassen who will explore the enduring community value of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra (LSO). Members in good standing are eligible to vote. Date/time: Thursday June 24, 2026, 1:15 pm. Location**:** Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Dining Room, 500-11 Street S, Lethbridge, AB

Why Does Live Symphonic Music Still Matter in a Digital World?

Speaker: Vicki Hegedus and Glenn Klassen, Executive Director of LSO and Music Director of LSO
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026 12:00 PM
Venue: Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In its 65th year, the speakers will explore the enduring community value of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra (LSO). They aim to increase awareness that Lethbridge has a symphony orchestra, highlight its work and celebrate the LSO’s 65-year history and its role in the city’s cultural identity. The positive impact of live music, including community connection, wellbeing, and civic pride will be discussed while demonstrating that the symphony serves a broad and diverse cross-section of the community highlighted by its economic benefits, such as jobs, entertainment, visitor attraction, and downtown activity.