How Important is Tourism to our Lethbridge and Southern …

How Important is Tourism to our Lethbridge and Southern Alberta Region?

Erin Crane, CEO for Tourism Lethbridge
Thursday, March 28, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Tourism is vital for the success of many economies around the world. It boosts revenues, creates thousands of jobs, helps to develop infrastructure and plants a sense of cultural exchange between visitors and residents. With four UNESCO World Heritage sites and the largest facilities for Sports and Business Events south of Calgary, opportunities are available to invest, grow and capture additional economic impact. How do we accomplish this and do it in a sustainable way?

Are Alberta’s proposed policies for trans youth and parents …

Are Alberta’s proposed policies for trans youth and parents "rights" based strictly on ideology?

Katie DeLucia-Burk, registered social worker
Thursday, March 21, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The Alberta Government recently announced their intention to ban gender-affirming care for trans youth under the age of 18, despite contemporary research and internationally recognized best practices, as set out by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), agreeing that this could end up hurting many of those vulnerable youth. Additionally proposed measures for transgender minors also includes a ban on puberty blockers and parental consent for pronoun changes. Teachers and health professionals were largely not consulted, but more importantly, trans youth have had their voices completely ignored.

The MPE Link Pathway: Are more active living options …

The MPE Link Pathway: Are more active living options important in today's society?

Henry Doeve and Alvin Fritz
Thursday, March 14, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The ability to ride your bike off highway and jog or walk safely along a 15 km paved pathway between Lethbridge and Coaldale is something the LINK Regional Pathway Society is working towards. And they have the support of the City and Lethbridge County, St. Mary Irrigation District (SMRID) and the Town of Coaldale. The society has been working on a vision to connect the Henderson Lake area with the Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale using the SMRID canal easement running through irrigated farm land.

Who, What, Where and Why the ALERT ICE Teams investigates …

Who, What, Where and Why the ALERT ICE Teams investigates predators in our community and around the world?

Cst. Heather Bangle
Thursday, March 7, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

ALERT’s (Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams) ICE (Internet Child Exploitation) teams investigate a range of criminal offences involving child pornography, any computer-related child sexual abuse, child luring over the internet, voyeurism involving underage victims, and child sex trade/tourism. ICE teams also investigate sextortion involving minors. Intakes and case referrals have nearly tripled over a 6 year period. Since last year, ICE experienced over an 8% increase, in a continued upward trend since the pandemic and continued increase in youth digital dependency.

What is Restorative Justice?

What is Restorative Justice?

Debbie Melting Tallow, Sherry Tailfeathers and Leon Day Chief
Thursday, February 29, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Through Kainai Peacemaking we continue to strive for quality of life and provide an orderly and acceptable way of conducting our lives within the Kainai community by providing opportunities for individuals to resolve conflicts with the law. Speakers: Debbie Melting Tallow, Sherry Tailfeathers and Leon Day Chief Debbie Melting Tallow is administrative support/Intake worker for the Kainai Peacemaking Program. She was employed as the administrative assistant when the program started 15 years ago and as time went on and referrals increased, she attended Cardston court for such referrals, assisted as a facilitator for peacemaker/elder counseling, wrote completion reports, and updated the Crown, Defence lawyers and Native Counseling regarding the referrals.

After Notley, What is next for Alberta's NDP?

After Notley, What is next for Alberta's NDP?

Dr. Trevor Harrison
Thursday, February 22, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In January 2024, Rachel Notley announced that she’s stepping down as leader of the Alberta NDP. Notley, the daughter of former NDP leader Grant Notley, was elected to the Alberta Legislature in 2008, representing Edmonton – Strathcona. She won the provincial party leadership in October 2014 and subsequently served as premier of Alberta from 2015 - 2019 after the NDP won the 2015 provincial election. No matter who follows Notley, her resignation will leave a gaping hole in Alberta politics.

Kenneyism? - Jason Kenney's Pursuit of Power

Kenneyism? - Jason Kenney's Pursuit of Power

Jeremy Appel
Thursday, February 15, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Combining firm ideological commitments with shrewd political tactics, Jason Kenney was a key figure in bringing right-wing populism to the mainstream of Canadian politics, but in doing so he unleashed forces he couldn’t control, which eventually produced his downfall. The speaker will argue that from Jason Kenney’s days as an anti-abortion activist at the University of San Francisco, and through his years as a Canadian Taxpayers Federation lobbyist, Reform MP, top cabinet minister in the Harper government, and Alberta premier, Kenney has been single-mindedly driven to bring his harsh moralistic worldview into the mainstream.

ScienceUpFirst: What is Misinformation in the Digital Age?

ScienceUpFirst: What is Misinformation in the Digital Age?

Amanda Bigford, English Content Creator
Thursday, February 8, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Sometimes it’s difficult to tell if what we’re seeing online is true. With so much information coming from countless different sources the internet can be an overwhelming landscape. There are a lot of tactics misinformers can use to catch us off guard and no one is excluded from getting caught up in it from time to time. ScienceUpFirst is an initiative from the Canadian Association of Science Centres. Our mission is to share good science, giving people the tools that they need to spot misinformation for themselves.

Is anything actually working in public education?

Is anything actually working in public education?

Kristina Larkin
Thursday, February 1, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

There’s no question our communities face major struggles within the K-12 education system in Alberta - unfunded students, overwhelmed staff, crowded classrooms, and insufficient inclusive learning supports. So is anything actually working in education? Here’s the answer key: “Yes”. Creating a vision for a successful learning for every student is a critical part of developing our communities. Kristina Larkin advocates for change and also celebrations, and will explore school and education system successes, promising practices, and the excellent learning that takes place in Alberta schools - and ways to encourage more.

How Can We Get More Water?

How Can We Get More Water?

Kevin van Tighem
Thursday, January 25, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Dams don’t make water. They store it. Water actually comes from the headwaters landscape and we are squandering our future because of a collective failure to see that the most important water management decisions are actually land use decisions. There is more water to be found, but only if we demand changes to how our Eastern Slopes are managed. And time is running out. Speaker: Kevin Van Tighem Kevin has worked in landscape ecology and conservation for four decades, mostly in western Canada’s national parks.

In what way are Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) …

In what way are Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) experiences different in the context of rural living?

Dr. Julia Brassolotto, Associate Professor at the University of Lethbridge Faculty of Health Sciences
Thursday, January 18, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In a 2015 ruling, the Supreme Court of Canada unanimously voted that the prohibition on assisted death in the Criminal Code was unconstitutional. This led to Parliament passing Bill C-14 in 2016, amending the Criminal Code to allow legal exemptions for MAiD. Since its passage, MAiD usage has increased every year, with a total of 10,064 MAID provisions in 2021 alone, accounting for 3.3% of all deaths in Canada. Public polling suggests that the majority of Canadians support MAiD, but their opinions about the service are nuanced and complex.

Upon Further Reflection: Lethbridge Then and Now

Upon Further Reflection: Lethbridge Then and Now

Belinda Crowson
Thursday, January 11, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The Lethbridge Historical Society (originally the Whoop-Up Chapter of the Historical Society of Alberta) has been publishing occasional papers/books since the 1960s. The Society’s current publication – Upon Further Reflection: Lethbridge Then and Now – is the Society’s 62nd publication. The book is an update of the LHS’ 1980 publication: Reflections: Lethbridge Then and Now, written by Warren Hall and Barb Goodman. The captions in the new book were researched and written by Belinda Crowson, and the new photographs taken by Mike Jensen and Belinda Crowson.

Indigenous Recovery: building allies in the community

Indigenous Recovery: building allies in the community

Jacen Aubrey, Director, Urban Indigenous Recovery Coach Program
Thursday, January 4, 2024 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The Indigenous Recovery Program is dedicated to proactively addressing the opioid crisis by implementing a comprehensive and collaborative approach rooted in cultural sensitivity, compassion, and harm reduction. Our mission is to reduce opioid-related deaths, raise awareness about opioid misuse, enhance access to culturally relevant, compassionate, and non-judgmental services, and forge a holistic path forward for First Nations living in urban areas. Goals are to: Foster open dialogue on opioid-related issues to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.

Abortion as Health Care: what does Pro-Choice Mean?

Abortion as Health Care: what does Pro-Choice Mean?

Jenn Prosser, Pro Choice YQL
Thursday, December 14, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Pro-Choice YQL’s goal is to empower individuals in Southern Alberta with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed choices about their reproductive health and sexual wellness. We are dedicated to advocating for access to safe and legal abortion services, contraception, and comprehensive sexual education. Our vision is a future where reproductive justice is a reality for all. We firmly believe that every person in Southern Alberta deserves the reproductive care they require, free from judgment, discrimination, and stigma.

Moms Stop the Harm and Failed Drug Policies

Moms Stop the Harm and Failed Drug Policies

Amber Jensen
Thursday, December 7, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

While Opioid addictions and overdoses is a crisis across the country and provincially, the statistics are staggering for Southern Alberta. The speaker will provide context and put a face to these statistics. The presentation will address Policies developed to stem the tide of addiction and drug poisonings. Policies purported to assist individuals to treatment and support will be reviewed. The advocacy of “Moms Stop the Harm” and the policies and solutions the group would like to see implemented will be discussed.

Archaeology as the Canary in the Coalmine: Is the Treatment …

Archaeology as the Canary in the Coalmine: Is the Treatment of Cultural Heritage a Barometer of Social Issues?

Kevin McGeough, Professor of Archaeology
Thursday, November 30, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Despite its seemingly objective stance towards history, rooted in the analysis of material remains of past societies, archaeological interpretation is often contested and invoked to make arguments about the present. Archaeology acts, in some ways, as a metaphorical fault line in contemporary societies, upon which power and identity is negotiated through reference to past peoples and things. Because of this, how people treat cultural heritage can be used as a barometer for different kinds of political sentiments, from the rights of women and minorities to public mistrust of vaccines.

Working Together to Prevent Domestic Violence and Abuse

Working Together to Prevent Domestic Violence and Abuse

Linette Soldan and Bonnie Millward , ED and Manager of Client Programs at Rowan House
Thursday, November 23, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Gender based violence takes place in ways that are unique & disproportionately high in rural communities, but the needs of families often go unmet. Families experiencing domestic violence & abuse often face complex challenges in rural communities. According to the Learning Network, rates of police reported intimate partner violence experienced by rural women in Canada are 75% higher than those for urban women. Rates of police-reported violent crime are 56% higher for rural women than the national rate.

Balancing “Competing” Interests: How Albertans Think About …

Balancing “Competing” Interests: How Albertans Think About Energy Transition

Dr. Melanee Thomas, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Calgary
Thursday, November 16, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Energy transition — moving away from fossil fuels toward more renewable sources of energy — is well underway, even in Alberta. For example, Alberta will move completely away from coal-fired electricity by the end of 2023. Despite this, energy transition is sometimes presented as, and for some genuinely perceived as an “existential” threat to economic prosperity, particularly for provinces like Alberta. This presentation outlines public opinion about energy transition; knowing this helps explain and understand how and why energy transition is politicized by elite and partisan political actors.

Are Changes needed to Lethbridge’s existing Land Use Bylaw?

Are Changes needed to Lethbridge’s existing Land Use Bylaw?

Ross Kilgour
Thursday, November 9, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Lethbridge’s existing Land Use Bylaw has served our community since 1986. During this time, several amendments have been undertaken to this Bylaw to address market demands and resident aspirations. However, since its creation almost 40 years ago it has not undergone a comprehensive renewal. The Land Use Bylaw sets out the rules for what kind of building or activity can take place on private property and outlines the process for issuing Development Permits that give approval for new buildings and activities.

Canada Pension Plan Under Threat: How Can We Save Our …

Canada Pension Plan Under Threat: How Can We Save Our Retirement Security?

Brad Lafortune, Public Interest Alberta
Thursday, November 2, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Take Back Alberta supporters in the United Conservative Party arguably want to take Albertans out of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and substitute an “Alberta Pension Plan” (APP). Given its possible long-term effect on the lives of Albertans, this should have been one of the more important issues in the recent election campaign. Instead, the Premier refused to discuss it at all, and now the provincial government is spending more than 7.

Unethical oil and gas: Alberta’s shameful secret?

Unethical oil and gas: Alberta’s shameful secret?

Markham Hislop
Thursday, October 26, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizen Organization

Arguably, Alberta’s hydrocarbons are not ethical, at least no more so than what is produced in most other oil and gas producing jurisdictions. The speaker will contend that both UCP and NDP governments have subscribed to some version of “ethical oil,” which holds that Alberta’s are some of the most environmentally responsible hydrocarbons in the world, bolstered by democratic institutions and a “world class” regulatory regime. In fact, “ethical oil” is a facade to hide the truth: that oil companies, the provincial government, and Alberta’s various energy regulators have long conspired to put profits above the public interest, with the province now potentially on the hook for hundreds of billions of dollars to clean up abandoned wells and leaking tailings ponds.

Developing a collaborative climate resiliency and adaptation …

Developing a collaborative climate resiliency and adaptation plan.

Tristan Walker, Municipal Energy Project Lead for the Town & Municipal District of Pincher Creek
Thursday, October 19, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In October 2022, the Town and MD of Pincher Creek collaborated with the Piikani Nation land department to begin developing a Climate Resiliency and Adaptation plan. This process was enabled due to funding provided by the Municipal Climate Change Action Center. The plan development focused on a stakeholder-driven methodology to identify key climate risks in the region and develop plans to adapt to those risks within a changing environment. The project was led by a team consisting of members from the Town, MD, regional emergency management organization, and Piikani Nation.

It Takes a Community: Why community needs to take action on …

It Takes a Community: Why community needs to take action on child abuse

Kristine Cassie
Thursday, October 12, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Each year the Government of Alberta acknowledges October as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Recently the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre renovated space in downtown Lethbridge to accommodate the needs of the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre – a program that provides coordinated, multidisciplinary approach in a safe, comfortable environment to address the needs of abused children, youth and their families. The talk will explore the prevalence of child sexual abuse, long standing implications of abuse when left unaddressed, and why it is important, as a community, to take action.

Food, Funds or Free Time!

Food, Funds or Free Time!

Danielle McIntyre , Executive Director - Interfaith Food Bank
Thursday, October 5, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Interfaith Food Bank is on the front lines of addressing food security issues in our community, and is an organization that has had to grow and adapt to the ever-evolving food security crisis in order to meet community needs. Food banks in Alberta experienced a 73% increase from 2019 – 2022 and in just the last year, local need has increased again by 30%. This presentation will discuss the rise in food insecurity and how community members can lend support by offering food, funds or free time to food security initiatives.

What is the difference between donating Blood and Plasma?

What is the difference between donating Blood and Plasma?

Brenna Scott, Business Development Manager at Lethbridge’s Canadian Blood Services Plasma Centre
Thursday, September 28, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

While many have heard of donating blood, donating plasma is still a relatively next concept. Some people still believe that donating blood and plasma are one and the same, and while both have you sitting in a chair hooked up to a machine, they are different processes with different purposes. When people think of blood donation, they are typically thinking of whole blood donation. Whole blood donations include all four blood components–red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma and are used to treat blood loss, typically due to injury or surgery.

Should Bison be restored to Eastern slope public Wildlands?

Should Bison be restored to Eastern slope public Wildlands?

Mike Judd
Thursday, September 21, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

For more than 130,000 years, bison roamed the ecosystems of western Canada and US and while doing so, influenced the lives of Indigenous Peoples and every other species they shared space and time with, before they were hunted to near extinction in the late 1800s. The speaker will talk about his journey to the Bob Creek Wildlands in Alberta’s foothills and finding evidence of past bison existence there, which led a group of hikers to start investigating the possibility of returning bison to this part of the Eastern slopes.

Whacky Alberta History

Whacky Alberta History

Frits Pannekoek, Director of Historic Sites for Alberta
Thursday, September 14, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO)

Alberta has a lot of history, but no one has pulled it together. Some say we struggled against an unfriendly land, others say we struggled against eccentric governments, and others against an always evil East. Some say we are just misplaced Americans? But are these just old comfortable sawhorses. What are the alternatives? The speaker will offer one. Speaker: Frits Pannekoek Frits Pannekoek has been Director of Historic Sites for Alberta, for 25 years and involved in over a dozen of Alberta’s heritage centers.

Parkrun – A Global Fitness and Well Being Phenomenon

Parkrun – A Global Fitness and Well Being Phenomenon

Jim Carter, Event Director for the Henderson Lake Parkrun
Thursday, September 7, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO)

Back in 2004, in a London, England Park, a global fitness and well-being activity, named Parkrun, was born. Parkrun is a network of free and computer timed 5-kilometer runs and walks held every Saturday morning at 9am local time at over 2200 locations in 26 countries around the world. There are over 5 million Parkrunners registered worldwide. Parkruns are community-based events that encourage physical fitness, health and wellness, and socialization for people of all ages and abilities.

Climate, Energy, Sustainability. Where are we? Where do we …

Climate, Energy, Sustainability. Where are we? Where do we go?

James Byrne
Thursday, June 29, 2023 3:24 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Most of the global population recognizes we are in an accelerating transition to sustainable societies and environments. But what will that look like? Will life be more challenging; more comfortable; perhaps a combination? Dr. Byrne will discuss the society of the future. What do we have to do with energy and sustainability to achieve reasonably stable regional and global environments. Speaker: James Byrne Moderator: Mark Goettel James Byrne is Professor Emeritus, University of Lethbridge.

General Meeting for SACPA (Southern Alberta Council on …

General Meeting for SACPA (Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs)

Thursday, June 15, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Dining Room

SACPA’s AGM is scheduled immediately following the final 2022 – 2023 session featuring Dr. Duane Bratt. Cake & refreshments to be enjoyed! Members in good standing eligible to vote. Please RSVP providing full name to info@sacpa.ca by June 8th, 2023. Date/time: Thursday June 15, 2023, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Location**:** Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Dining Room, 500-11 Street S, Lethbridge, AB Refreshments: Cake & refreshments to be enjoyed!

Will Danielle Smith Heed the Election Message Urban Voters …

Will Danielle Smith Heed the Election Message Urban Voters in Alberta Sent Her?

Dr. Duane Bratt.
Thursday, June 15, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Atrium Dining Room 500 - 11 Street South, Lethbridge, AB

The 2023 Alberta provincial election is history and the UCP won a majority government. However, their majority was reduced from 63-24 to 49-38, which included several cabinet ministers losing their seat. As expected, the UCP almost swept the rural vote where they have 37 out of 41 seats. The NDP dominated Edmonton and made strong inroads in Calgary to the point where a few thousand total votes in six ridings could have changed who formed government.

The Bail Conundrum.

The Bail Conundrum.

Ingrid Hess and James Rouleau
Thursday, June 8, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Dining Room

Our talk is meant to help people understand the Canadian Bail System better and to explain the newest changes to the system that the government is proposing. We also hope to provoke a discussion as to whether, when we tinker with these systems, we are really achieving the intended goals. Will the public really be safer? Are the proposed changes going to make a real difference in terms of public safety?

What are the likely impacts of Lethbridge & District …

What are the likely impacts of Lethbridge & District Exhibition’s new $75 million Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre on our local economy?

Mike Warkentin, CEO of Lethbridge & District Exhibition
Thursday, June 1, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Lethbridge & District Exhibition is a pillar in the Lethbridge community. As a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1897, it operates and maintains seventy-two acres of land on the east bank of Henderson Lake and exists to ensure that the people of Lethbridge and district have a community gathering place now and in the future at which to participate in events, conduct business, learn, and be entertained. The new 268,000 square foot Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre, one of the largest development projects in the history of Lethbridge, will serve as an economic driver of growth for Alberta’s agriculture, tourism and agri-food sectors.

In addressing Lethbridge’s Homelessness and Addiction …

In addressing Lethbridge’s Homelessness and Addiction crises, what role does the SAGE Clan Patrol play? with Mark Brave Rock

Dan Berdusco and Mark Brave Rock
Thursday, May 25, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Centre Organization

Secure, Assist, Guard and Engage (SAGE) Clan is a grassroots organization that specializes in engaging those who need it the most in our community. Founded by community member Mark Brave Rock, the SAGE Clan is based upon the successful community patrol based in Winnipeg, the BEAR Clan. SAGE Clan patrols nightly on Mondays at 7 pm, and Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 pm to provide snacks, lunches, water and most importantly, someone to talk to.

Vaccines, Evolution, Trust and Progress

Vaccines, Evolution, Trust and Progress

Dr. Bryson Brown
Thursday, May 18, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Histories of vaccination often begin in the late 18th century, with Dr. Edward Jenner and a milkmaid. But there was an earlier practice (variolation) in which samples of smallpox from (what were believed to be) less deadly outbreaks were used to protect patients against more severe versions of the disease. It involved either scratching material from smallpox ‘pustules’ onto the skin or inhaling it. The speaker will talk about the history of vaccination, the history of resistance to vaccination and the emergence of biological/ biochemical knowledge that has built powerful new tools for building vaccines.

SACPA Special Session A panel discussion on Addiction Issues …

SACPA Special Session A panel discussion on Addiction Issues and Best Practice

Bonnie Lee, Chelsey DeGroot, Dennis Bremner, Dr. Esther Tailfeathers, and Robin James.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 12:00 AM
Lethbridge Public Library - Theatre Gallery

SACPA Special Session\ A panel discussion on Addiction Issues and Best Practice Monday May 15, 2023 - Lethbridge Public Library - Theatre Gallery - 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Organizer and Moderator: Bev Muendel-Atherstone 6:00 pm: Introduction of panelists and Questions for panelists 7:00 pm audience Q and A 7:45 pm Thank you - 8:00pm Library closes Panel participants: Bonnie Lee, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in Health Sciences (Addictions Counselling Program) as well as a Social Worker and Couple and Family Therapist who works with addiction.

“The Dirty Old Indian” MY CANADIAN HERO

“The Dirty Old Indian” MY CANADIAN HERO

Tom Sindlinger
Thursday, May 11, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

A tribute to a World War I Warrior. The presentation will provide an example of racism that was wrong then and continues to be wrong today …… high and unequivocal praise for Mike Mountain Horse, an inspiring and courageous Warrior who was buried for four days and wounded three times in World War I. After his service, he was elected a minor chief of his tribal Nation and elected a president of a Lethbridge railway union.

The City of Lethbridge Mayor Hyggen’s Spring 2023 Update

The City of Lethbridge Mayor Hyggen’s Spring 2023 Update

Blaine Hyggen, Mayor of Lethbridge
Thursday, May 4, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In January 2023, I presented the State of The City at the Chamber of Commerce breakfast. At the upcoming SACPA meeting I would like to provide you updates on many of the key topics we identified. There have been great strides forward in some areas, work to be done in others. Topics highlighted will range from homelessness to green bins. We will touch on issues like community safety, the electoral system, third bridge, physician recruitment, taxes, addictions, the intergovernmental health table and much more.

Where will Progressive Conservative Albertans find Refuge?

Where will Progressive Conservative Albertans find Refuge?

Drs. Yale Belanger and Richard Mueller
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Following the 2019 provincial election win by the United Conservative Party (UCP), leader Jason Kenney, became Premier of Alberta. Since then, the province has arguably been in some kind of crisis mode ranging from financial woes to COVID 19 controversy (“Best Summer Ever”) to fights with doctors, nurses and Ottawa to name a few. Adding fuel to the fire, Alberta went through a leadership change in October 2022, when Danielle Smith won the race to replace Kenney as Premier.

Medical Assistance In Dying (MAID) - Track 2: A Daughter’s …

Medical Assistance In Dying (MAID) - Track 2: A Daughter’s Perspective

Tania Stilson
Thursday, April 20, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

In February 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in Carter v. Canada that parts of the Criminal Code would need to change to satisfy the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The parts that prohibited medical assistance in dying would no longer be valid. The Supreme Court gave the government until June 6, 2016, to create a new law. In June 2016, the Parliament of Canada passed federal legislation, known as Bill C-14, that allows eligible Canadian adults to request medical assistance in dying.

The Blackfoot Perspective of the 153-year-old Battle of the …

The Blackfoot Perspective of the 153-year-old Battle of the Belly River

Camina Weasel Moccasin and Kris Hodgson-Bright
Thursday, April 13, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, in partnership with Lethbridge College, Reconciliation Lethbridge, Lethbridge Historical Society and the City of Lethbridge Indigenous Relations Office, are embarking on a project that will focus on and highlight Niitsitapi knowledge and perspectives of the event. We believe this project will continue efforts toward reconciliation and relationship building by informing residents of the impact the battle had on the development of the Lethbridge. In order to focus on the Niitsitapi voices that have been ignored in the past, the Galt has engaged with Elders and Knowledge Keepers from the Blackfoot communities about this specific event.

Who is Minding Alberta’s Fish and Wildlife?

Who is Minding Alberta’s Fish and Wildlife?

Sofie Forsstrom, Joanna Skrajny, Gary Clark and Lorne Fitch
Thursday, April 6, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Concerns have been raised about the fragmentation of the management of Alberta’s fish and wildlife resources to separate departments and non-government agencies. Questions will be raised on how effective fish and wildlife management and conservation will happen, in such a fractured way. Risks to an important resource, a provincial treasure, will be explored. What is happening, how might these changes influence a public resource like fish and wildlife, and why should you care?

Can Social Prescribing help improve our health and …

Can Social Prescribing help improve our health and well-being challenges?

Heather Bursaw and Rob Miyashiro
Thursday, March 30, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Social prescribing is a means for health-care providers to connect patients to a range of non-clinical services in the community, in order to improve their health and well-being. As opposed to simply treating symptoms, social prescribing may help to address the underlying causes of patients’ health and well-being challenges. Ideally, social prescribing is a more holistic approach to health care, which promotes community-based integrated care, and helps to de-medicalize health service provision.

Challenges of First Nation Policing

Challenges of First Nation Policing

Grant Buckskin and Rayan Najjar, Police Chief and Inspector
Thursday, March 16, 2023 6:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

An on-reserve police service presents with many challenges, including funding, staffing, and retention. The First Nation members themselves face particular challenges as well as non-challenges. Non-First Nation officers have their own unique challenges, as well as the “culture shock” that accompanies policing a First Nation area. Our presenters will touch on all of these issues based on their own policing experience. Speakers: Police Chief Grant Buckskin and Inspector Rayan Najjar

Are Albertans ready to move on from Governance by the NDP …

Are Albertans ready to move on from Governance by the NDP and UCP?

Barry Morishita
Thursday, March 9, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

A NDP majority was elected in 2015, and then in 2019 enough people voted for the UCP to give them a majority. Elections in different jurisdictions have shown that after each opposite direction election, many voters are left hanging with no home. Recent polls have shown that the UCP is having a hard time keeping voters, but not all are ready to vote NDP, so where do they go? The speaker will contend that at some point, Albertans may become tired of the instability of this back-and-forth undoing what the previous government did, only to have that repeat in the following election.

What changes have been made since the Blood Tribe took over …

What changes have been made since the Blood Tribe took over the Lethbridge Shelter?

Taatsiikiipoyii, Charles (Charlie) Weaselhead Jr.
Thursday, March 2, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

The City of Lethbridge and Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH) signed a Shelter lease agreement starting Jan 1, 2023 at the location of the former Lethbridge Shelter and Stabilization Centre on 2 Avenue North. The speaker will give some background info on how this agreement came to be, followed by an account of the current Shelter situation and the overall continuum of care plan and vision by BTDH on the issue of opioid addiction and recovery.

Are we COPing out on Climate?

Are we COPing out on Climate?

Dr. Kent Peacock
Thursday, February 23, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Some people may be under the impression that with the Paris Accord of 2015, and subsequent agreements made at a series of “Conference of the Parties” (COP) meetings, the problem of climate change is well on its way to being solved. Unfortunately, nothing could be farther from the truth. I will summarize some recent scientific findings that everyone needs to know about and discuss their implications for climate policy. Speaker: **Kent Peacock

The Fiscal Outlook for 2023, and a Recap of Years Past

The Fiscal Outlook for 2023, and a Recap of Years Past

Honourable Joseph Schow, ECA
Thursday, February 16, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Mr. Schow will give some insight into the provincial budget for 2023, and recap important provincial investments over the last 3 years. Speaker: HONOURABLE JOSEPH SCHOW, ECA Minister Without Portfolio, Government House Leader, United Conservative Caucus, MLA for Cardston-Siksika Moderator: Bev Muendel- Atherstone Joseph Schow was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Cardston-Siksika, on April 16, 2019. He was appointed Government House Leader on October 24, 2022.

Building Strong Communities and a Strong Economy for …

Building Strong Communities and a Strong Economy for Alberta

Hon. Shannon Phillips
Thursday, February 9, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

With an Alberta election on the way this spring, Rachel Notley and Alberta’s NDP are promising to be a stable, caring, and competent government, focused on addressing the issues that matter to Lethbridge like lowering the cost of living and rebuilding public health care. With Danielle Smith’s government in a state of chaos, MLA Shannon Phillips will provide an alternative vision for a stronger Lethbridge and what she would prefer to see for her constituents and fellow Albertans.

What I learned about City of Lethbridge Finances

What I learned about City of Lethbridge Finances

Chris Spearman, Former Mayor of Lethbridge
Thursday, February 2, 2023 12:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

An account of what was learned about city finances and financial oversight during 8 years of service on Lethbridge City Council will be presented. Speaker: Chris Spearman, Former Mayor of Lethbridge Moderator: Mark Goettel Chris Spearman was a Lethbridge resident from 1981 to 2022. He had more than 40 years ofbusiness experience, including 33 years as Manager of Accounting and Administration at the Black Velvet Distilling Company in Lethbridge. Chris served for 18 years on the Holy Spirit School Board and 8 years as the mayor of Lethbridge.

Stirling’s Journey to Net Zero – It makes cents.

Stirling’s Journey to Net Zero – It makes cents.

Trevor Lewington
Thursday, January 26, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Find out why the Village Stirling embarked on a journey to net zero with the deployment of community-owned solar microgeneration beginning in 2018. More importantly, learn about this southern Alberta community’s plans to continue its leadership in energy sustainability and financial responsibility. The Village of Stirling is one of just three communities in Canada designated as a National Historic Site and is the largest village in Alberta by population with 1,269 residents as of the 2019 municipal census.

Will the Church Survive the Pandemic?

Will the Church Survive the Pandemic?

Taylor Croissant, Reverend
Thursday, January 19, 2023 7:00 PM
Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization

Christian churches faced several significant challenges in the Covid-19 pandemic to attend to the spiritual needs of our community, and their post-crisis recovery continues to be very rocky. This discussion will explore the various obstacles faith communities have faced since 2020, how they navigated those obstacles, and new pressures they are now facing. Speaker: **Reverend Taylor Croissant **Moderator: Terry Shillington The Reverend Taylor Croissant is an ordained minister in The United Church of Canada, currently serving at Southminster United Church in downtown Lethbridge.