Is Lethbridge an Arts Community?
Suzanne Lint ,
Thursday, December 17, 2009 12:00 PM
12-1:30pm One of the City’s best kept secrets maybe its thriving arts community. Lethbridge has a long and rich, but often unacknowledged, tradition of arts activity. Individuals were engaged in the arts before Lethbridge was incorporated as a City and our citizens continue to be actively engaged today. Individuals, from hobbyist to professional, participant to audience, have the opportunity to experience all disciplines of the arts. Suzanne Lint will explore the vibrant, but often unknown face of Lethbridge as an Arts Community.
Lethbridge Transit – On the Road to Sustainability
John King ,
Thursday, December 10, 2009 12:00 PM
12-1:30pm Across Canada, including Lethbridge, there is definite convergence of both short and long term visions for more sustainable communities. For instance, in 2006, the City of Lethbridge invested in its public transit system by purchasing 16 new buses, developing levels of service standards through community consultation, and redesigning transit services. At the same time, sustainability became the focus of City Council’s 2007-2010 Strategic Plan, “Towards a Sustainable Future” and Lethbridge Transit’s 2008-2011 Business Plan, “On the Road to Sustainability”.
The issue is NOT dirty oil.
Terry Shillington ,
Thursday, December 3, 2009 12:00 PM
12-1:30pm Fort McMurray is often thought of as “the armpit of Alberta” – complete with vast scarred land, ugly toxic ponds and a monster drug problem. The residents of this frontier city have another perspective, and see the situation quite differently. They would more likely say that theirs is a healthy community, and that the oil sands are a gift. Terry Shillington will help us take a second look at what are the real problems and who are the bigger villains for Fort McMurray, based on his direct experiences there.
Is the U of L Strategic Plan Durable in Times of Funding Cuts ?
Andrew Hakin ,
Thursday, November 26, 2009 12:00 PM
12-1:30pm After an 18 month creation period, in which time a twenty-six member committee obtained input from many internal and external constituents, the 2009-2013 Strategic plan of the University of Lethbridge was rolled out in January of 2009. The plan emphasizes the University’s continued commitment to advancing as a comprehensive institution that maintains and deepens its dedication to “a sense of community, engagement, diversity, and connection.” Five strategic directions have been articulated within the plan to shape the future of the University.
Why do Good People Become Evil?
Mark Sandilands, PhD ,
Thursday, November 19, 2009 12:00 PM
12-1:30pm Throughout human history, the concept of evil has often been used to explain human behaviour. For example, evil was used to explain disease and natural disaster in earlier centuries, the Holocaust of WWII, and of course there’s the recent use of the phrase “Axis of Evil” by George W Bush in 2002. An enduring question is whether evil is a permanent characteristic of some people or temporary behavior because of the situation they are in.
The Ethics of Nuclear Waste in Canada
Ethan Wilding ,
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:00 PM
7-9pm The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) — the crown corporation responsible for the long-term storage of nuclear fuel waste in Canada — seeks to bury our nuclear fuel waste deep in the Canadian Shield, with the provisions that the waste is monitored and remains retrievable for possible future use. To ensure that its solution is ethically acceptable, the NWMO established a set of requirements which, if satisfied, would successfully discharge its ethical obligations to both present and future generations.
Remote Sensing and Satellite imagery: Can we improve environmental decisions?
Eric Kokko ,
Thursday, November 12, 2009 12:00 PM
12- 1:30pm Remote sensing technology allows us to “see” sediment loads and pollution in water, map oil wells and pipelines over broad areas and image crop stress in extensive agricultural operations. How can having this information - that we now have so easily at hand because of advanced technology - allow us to make more informed assessments and evaluations with respect to the environment? Mr. Kokko will share practical examples of satellite and remotely sensed imagery, and what it can tell us about agriculture, forestry, water and other resource uses, as we grapple with economic and environmental decisions.
A Better World: Can Women Leaders Make it Happen?
Catherine Whelan Costen ,
Thursday, November 5, 2009 12:00 PM
12 - 1:30pm A political candidate in past provincial and federal elections and now a researcher, writer, and publisher, Catherine Whelan Costen will explore with us just what ‘a better world’ means and our potential to achieve it. She will challenge us to consider whether we want such a world or prefer to struggle with the status quo and conventional ways of doing things. Introducing her thoughts on the idea and practice of leadership, Catherine will discuss whether or not it matters if our leaders are men or women, male or female.
Making Financial Crime Pay: A 'How To' Guide by a Former Investment Industry Insider
Larry Elford ,
Thursday, October 29, 2009 1:00 PM
12-1:30pm A former industry insider, Larry Elford, will explore the often overwhelming investment industry. He will explore and clarify for us the types of investment abuses that have worked in combination to effectively cut the retirement savings of the average Canadian by more than half. Elford then continues to make recent events more transparent, travelling up the “economic food chain” to demonstrate how investment dealers and investment regulators work against, rather than for, the best interests of the public.
International Repercussions of the Eco-crises: East Africa
Justin Odera ,
Thursday, October 22, 2009 1:00 PM
Held from 12:00 - 1:30pm. The UN FAO (Food and Agricultural Organization) projects that the greatest number of people in history will be starving this year, with over 1 billion going to bed hungry. In Eastern Africa, this reality is exacerbated by persistent drought. In a world threatened by simultaneous economic and ecological crises, thousands of billions of dollars are made available on short notice for banks and financiers. Should the poorest of the poor suffer even more because of financial profligacy of the moneyed elite?
International Repercussions of the Eco-crises: East Africa
Justin Odera ,
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 1:00 PM
SACPA on Campus session: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 4:30-6:00 pm The UN FAO (Food and Agricultural Organization) projects that the greatest number of people in history will be starving this year, with over 1 billion going to bed hungry. In Eastern Africa, this reality is exacerbated by persistent drought. In a world threatened by simultaneous economic and ecological crises, thousands of billions of dollars are made available on short notice for banks and financiers.
Will Passage of Bill-50 Keep Albertans from Being Consulted Before Spending Billions of $ to Build Corporate Owned Power Lines?
Joe Anglin ,
Monday, October 19, 2009 1:00 PM
(Session is from 7-9pm.) On June 1, 2009, the Alberta Government introduced legislation to give the government more control over the construction of power lines they consider may be needed for future growth under rules that will have tax payers cover the full cost of these projects. Bill-50, if passed, gives cabinet control over power lines to be built or upgraded in Alberta. The Alberta Utilities Commission will decide the location of such power lines and, in due course, conduct meetings with the affected landowners.
Canada''s Involvement in Afghanistan: What''s the Plan?
Rick Casson ,
Thursday, October 15, 2009 1:00 PM
Held 12:00 - 1:30pm. Canada’s current role in Afghanistan began in late 2001 following the September 11 terrorist attacks on New York. Over the years Canada’s contribution has evolved in this United Nations mandated, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) led effort of 37 NATO and non-NATO countries. Canada’s special government website, titled “Canada’s Engagement in Afghanistan” indicates primary priorities are to help establish a secure environment, provide humanitarian assistance, and build Afghanistan’s institutions to support democratic processes and foster a sustainable peace.
Community Conflict Resolution: Alternative measures and restorative justice as options to adversarial approaches
Betty Benson ,
Thursday, October 8, 2009 1:00 PM
Held from 12:00 - 1:30pm. In the past few years, alternative dispute resolution approaches have taken their place in the justice system along side more traditional methods, such as litigation through the courts. Mediation and conflict resolution practices bring people together to resolve their disputes rather than facing them off in stressful adversarial processes. The underlying belief is that conflict or anticipated conflict can be managed more effectively through a process that is aimed at the development of understanding among the participants of their respective concerns, needs, beliefs, fears and expectations.
The Future of Sustainable Food Systems in Southern Alberta: Creating Progressive Food Policy
Paul Hughes ,
Thursday, October 1, 2009 1:00 PM
When Michelle Obama planted the first White House vegetable garden in 60 years she wanted to spark a discussion about food and food production in America. While food security and the production of food in urban settings has been a topic of discussion for small groups of people, the First Lady’s garden has sparked interest and discussion about urban food production and has renewed people’s interest in growing their own food and knowing more about food production.
Alberta MLA''s Dilemma: Party Policy vs. Constituents'' Wishes
Guy Boutilier ,
Thursday, September 24, 2009 1:00 PM
In a democracy, elected officials of all stripes are generally expected to primarily represent their constituents. However party policy sometimes makes it difficult to perform that task, particularly when their party form the government Progressive Conservative MLAs in Alberta often find themselves having to make a choice of either speaking for their constituents, or act, which arguably is the norm, as the government’s mouthpiece to the constituents. In July 2009, Guy Boutilier, at the time a P.
Annual General Meeting
Board and Committee Chairs ,
Thursday, June 11, 2009 1:00 PM
SACPA has been a part of the community for over 40 years. It is your forum to discuss issues of concern, be they local, provincial, national or international. Come listen to how the organization was managed in the last year: Chairperson’s Report – James Moore, Chair Treasurer’s Report – Myrna Greene, Treasurer Finance Committee Report – Myrna Greene, Chair Program Committee Report – Trevor Page, Chair Policy and Bylaws Committee – Cheryl Bradley, Chair Personnel Committee – James Moore, Chair Nominations Committee – Cheryl Bradley, Chair
Mind Reading: How your brain waves are used to check your health and spending habits
Patti Sorensen ,
Thursday, May 28, 2009 1:00 PM
How does our mind work? How does the mind of an individual with autism, depression or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), interpret what is happening around them? How do we know? Brain imaging techniques, such as functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and EEG (electroencephalography), are slowly allowing us a window on how the brain processes information. Research using brain imaging techniques has discovered regions of the brain and networks of activity among brain regions that are crucial for skills such as attention, memory, reasoning and language.
Canada's Role in Sustainable Agricultural Development in China
Chi Chang ,
Thursday, May 21, 2009 1:00 PM
Evidence of the earliest domestication of rice has been found in China in about 7500 B.C. China’’s development of farming over the centuries has played a key role in supporting what is now the world’s largest population. Nevertheless, famines occurred periodically throughout China’’s history, including during the rule of the Chinese Communist Party. And Chairman Mao Zedong’s belief that “man can conquer nature” led to the implementation of many irrational agriculture policies and production practices.
What you should know about Alberta''s water market
Danielle Droitsch ,
Thursday, May 14, 2009 1:00 PM
Pressure on Alberta’’s water resources is growing by the day. Limits on water availability have brought about Canada’’s first market for water. This is a controversial topic but is not well understood by many Albertans. The Alberta government is considering changes to this water market as well as fundamental changes to water use and allocation. The speaker will provide an overview of Alberta’’s current water allocation system, key issues on the table and alternatives for the future.
Domestic Violence: How is the Workplace Impacted?
Jan Reimer ,
Thursday, May 7, 2009 1:00 PM
Domestic violence doesn’’t stay home when its victims and perpetrators go to work. It often follows them, resulting in some kind of violence at the workplace, including threatening phone calls and other harassment from their partners, contributing to less productivity. With nearly one-third women in North America reportedly being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives, the speaker believes it’s a certainty that in any mid-to-large sized company domestic violence is negatively affecting their employees.
Through the Looking Glass: One College President''s Perspective on the Future of Post-Secondary Education
Tracy Edwards ,
Thursday, April 30, 2009 1:00 PM
Universities and colleges are economic drivers; the more educated the populace, the greater the opportunity for success and prosperity, both for individuals and their communities. As Alberta moves towards the “next generation economy”, critical thinkers, researchers and “technopreneurs” will be the human capital underpinning our competitive advantage both on the national and international stage. But are our post-secondary institutions able to produce the knowledge for workers of the future? Are they positioned to change and adapt to the shifting demands of employers?
The Lethbridge Economy and Infrastructure Investment
Cheryl Dick ,
Thursday, April 23, 2009 1:00 PM
While the federal government has finally acknowledged that Canada is not immune to the effects of the global economic crisis, and Boomtown Alberta has just unveiled its first deficit budget in 16 years, how are we faring in Lethbridge? What is happening to major infrastructure projects that affect the development of Lethbridge and its hinterland? And what about unemployment? While not as high as in Ontario and B.C., last month’s figures show that unemployment in Alberta is running at a 7-year high.
Coalition? Which Coalition
Senator Tommy Banks ,
Thursday, April 16, 2009 1:00 PM
What is the legitimacy and status of a political coalition assuming power from a government that has lost the confidence of the House of Commons? Senator Tommy Banks says that this is not a new invention and is perfectly in order in our Parliamentary system. It has, in fact, twice been suggested over the past five years by political coalitions, he argues. Senator Banks also questions the role of Parliament in the governance of Canada, with a particular emphasis on matters of public spending and of framework legislation.
Getting What You Vote For
Harold Jansen ,
Thursday, April 9, 2009 1:00 PM
The methods we use to elect our Members of Parliament may seem only of interest to political scientists and others who are obsessed with the institutional workings of our system. But they have real consequences for the way our political system operates. Canada currently uses a single member plurality electoral system (often known as first past the post), and it has profound consequences. The speaker will outline the effects and argue that our electoral system does not serve the needs of Canada’s political institutions, parties, or citizens.
From Galileo to the Universe
Barry Olson ,
Thursday, April 2, 2009 1:00 PM
Since time immemorial, people have gazed up at the night sky in wonderment. Yet the answer to the question: “Is there anyone out there?” continues to evade us. But the 16th century Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer and philosopher, Galileo Galilei, gave us a much better understanding of the heavenly bodies that make up our universe. 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy, marking the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s first use of the simple telescope; thus beginning four centuries of unfolding the mysteries of the universe.
Changing the World Student Speaker Challenge
Students ,
Tuesday, March 31, 2009 1:00 PM
In collaboration with Lethbridge Public Interest Research Group (LPIRG) and the Students’’ Union, and with funding from the University of Lethbridge, SACPA is offering students a forum to express their point of view on issues of significance. Recognizing that each individual has a unique perspective and an authentic voice, students will be given a chance to communicate their thesis to an audience and defend it, thereby gaining and honing skills in developing and exchanging new ideas.
The Tar Sands and the Future of Alberta
Andrew Nikiforuk ,
Thursday, March 26, 2009 1:00 PM
The rapid development of the tar sands has changed the nation and made most of Alberta a suburb of Fort McMurray. The current financial meltdown has highlighted the folly of exploiting this resource with inadequate planning, little financial accountability, dubious technology and poor regulation. But low oil prices have also given Alberta an opportunity to reassess the pace and scale of development. Without a clear savings plan, fair royalties and hard renewable energy targets the tar sands could impoverish the province.
Wild Alberta: Losing Our Way, Finding the Path
Robin and Marian White ,
Thursday, March 19, 2009 1:00 PM
The presentation focuses on our stewardship of wild Alberta and takes a global perspective. We live at a pivotal time in history when civilization faces the real possibility of run-away climate change, food and water shortages, millions of environmental refugees, and war. This, plus a huge extinction of species worldwide, may happen not in the distant future but in our children’s lifetime, maybe our own. How will Alberta respond? Is it to be business as usual or will we, as others are doing, seize the opportunity to turn decisively towards a greener future?
The Eroding State of Health Care in Alberta
Heather Smith, RN ,
Thursday, March 12, 2009 1:00 PM
What is happening to health care in Alberta? A growing number of people and professional medical groups are pointing to deficiencies. A recent study commissioned by the Alberta government, suggests that while bed occupancy in Calgary hospitals is currently 92 percent, it could reach 97 percent in little over a decade unless the province reforms its health system. Alberta is not immune to the current economic recession. How will it affect health care?
What Does "The Public Interest" Mean for Natural Resource Regulation in Alberta?
Jodie Hierlmeier ,
Thursday, March 5, 2009 12:00 PM
“The public interest” is the standard that guides many government authorities in their decision-making. But what does it mean to make a decision that is “in the public interest?” Jodie Hierlmeier, Staff Counsel with the Environmental Law Centre, will discuss the issues and whether the process really does end up respecting the views of the general public. Given the development of the Land-Use Framework in Alberta, this is an opportune time to re-examine how “the public interest” fits into a new planning regime for regulating the province’’s natural resources.
Responding to Climate Change: Adaptation as the Emerging Frontier
Quentin Chiotti ,
Tuesday, March 3, 2009 12:00 PM
With the publication of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Assessment Report Four in 2007, the scientific view regarding the causes and consequences of climate change has never been stronger. There is little debate that climate change is real, is already happening, and that adaptation to some degree of climate change is necessary. This presentation discusses the role of adaptation as the emerging frontier for responding to climate change. It draws on two national assessments, one led by Natural Resources Canada and another by Health Canada, that have assessed the current state of knowledge about climate change impacts, the vulnerability of our social and natural systems, and the capacity of these systems to adapt, across regions and in the context of human health.
Public vs. Private Education: Part II - Do Private Schools Complement the Public System?
Duane Plantinga ,
Thursday, February 26, 2009 12:00 PM
For much of our history, public education has been dominant in Canada. But the earliest schools were private, religious institutions and they are still the choice for a significant number of parents. About 6 per cent of children in Canada attend private schools. Why pay $10,000 - $30,000 per child per year to send them to a private school? Do they get a better education than their peers at public school?
Saving the Grizzly Bear from Extinction
Carl Morrison ,
Wednesday, February 25, 2009 12:00 PM
Human encroachment into our remaining wild spaces is wiping the Grizzly Bear from our landscape. Alberta is on the front line. There are only an estimated 490 Grizzlies left in the province, down from an estimated 6,000 two centuries ago. Conservationists complain that the Alberta government has no clear commitment to help the recovery of our Grizzly Bear population. It has not listed the species as threatened nor allocated a dedicated budget for its recovery.
Public vs. Private Education Part 1 - Public School Education:First Class, First Choice
David King ,
Thursday, February 19, 2009 12:00 PM
Although the earliest schools in Canada were religious, public education has been dominant for much of our history. But, as in other sectors, the private sector has been encroaching in the public domain. What has been happening to the funding of public education and is its quality under threat? Former Alberta Education Minister, David King, argues that public school education is unlike any other social system for three reasons: It is inclusive as a matter of conviction and by design; and it is a deliberate model of a civil democratic community.
The Global Economic Crisis and its Impact on U.S. and Canadian Politics
Trevor Harrison ,
Thursday, February 12, 2009 12:00 PM
Economic downturn, recession or depression – where are we headed and how long will it last? Exports account for two-thirds of Canada’s industrial output and over 85% of our exports go to the USA. But Americans, caught in the credit-crunch that is paralyzing the industrial world, are buying less. Belts are being tightened. Inventories of goods are building. Factories are closing. The ranks of the unemployed are swelling to alarming levels, both in America and here at home.
Profit vs. People - Healthcare and the Drug Industry
Tim Doty ,
Thursday, February 5, 2009 12:00 PM
Does your doctor treat you while “under the influence”? It may be truer than you think - not alcohol or drugs, but the influence of Big Pharma. The Pharmaceutical Industry (aka Big Pharma) is one of the most profitable industries in modern history. Industry spokespeople are quick to say how profits are what inspires innovation, with much of their earnings used to reinvest in research, and the development of new life-saving medicines.
Homelessness in Lethbridge
Diane Randell and Deborah Chenery ,
Thursday, January 29, 2009 12:00 PM
One would not expect homelessness to be a problem in our rich and sparsely populated country. But over the last two decades, it has become a growing concern. Today, there are reportedly over half a million on our city streets or in emergency shelters. In 1998, homelessness was declared a national disaster by the big city mayor’’s caucus. Housing advocates are concerned that a “homeless system” has emerged and that homelessness is becoming a way of life.
Why Political Revival in Alberta?
David Swann, MLA ,
Thursday, January 22, 2009 12:00 PM
The historically low voter turnout at Alberta’’s general election last year is cause for concern about the health of democracy in our province. The ruling Progressive Conservatives increased their already commanding majority at the legislature, reducing the number of seats held by opposition parties to just eleven: 9 by the Liberals and 2 by the NDP. Can so few opposition MLAs ensure that the major concerns of all Albertans are subjected to rigorous debate in our 83-seat legislature before the ruling party decides what becomes the law of the land?
LETHBRIDGE PUBLIC FINANCES: A Culture of Accountability at City Hall
Mayor Bob Tarleck ,
Thursday, January 15, 2009 12:00 PM
Are the municipal taxes we pay on our property and our electricity bills too high? Do our elected representatives at City Hall exercise due diligence over expenditure and investments? Some citizens are critical of the way in which City Hall manages our money and accusations of gouging have even been made. Yet despite the criticism of management, and that Council is a poor communicator, our three-term Mayor, Bob Tarleck, maintains that a culture of accountability prevails at City Hall.
Oil Sands and Environmental Management
Shannon Flint ,
Thursday, January 8, 2009 12:00 PM
Our newspapers are full of stories that the development of the oil sands is forging ahead without regard to the environmental impact on the immediate area or the consequences to the world as a whole. What rules and regulations are in place to protect the environment and are they adequate? Alberta Environment is charged with environmental oversight in our province and Shannon Flint will discuss its ongoing role in oil sands development and production.