The Porch welcomes CORE Kids on the Block Puppets to discuss how the program has grown through partnerships with Miywasin Friendship Centre and the City of Medicine Hat.

This summer, the puppets will be bringing stories to life in neighbourhood parks across the city through "Puppets In The Park". Their latest production shares the story of life in Saratoga Park, told through the eyes of a Grandmother (Kokum) passing memories and lessons on to the next generation.

Our conversation explores the time honoured tradition of Indigenous storytelling, the importance of authentic cultural representation, community engagement and the creative process behind developing these unique performances in Medicine Hat.

The shows take place Tuesdays at 10 and 11 AM and Thursdays at 10 AM. Visit their Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/COREKIDSONTHEBLOCK/ to see park locations.

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🌈 What happens when a community comes together to create a space where everyone belongs?

In this episode, Jamey and Sterling from Prairie Pride Guild share the organization's 30-year journey of LGBTQ+ advocacy, support, and inclusion in Medicine Hat.

💬 "It was still legal to be fired for being gay."
💬 "Things are starting to swing back in the other direction."
💬 "Our events are not just for LGBTQ+ people, but also allies."

Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply interested in making your community stronger, this conversation is an important reminder that visibility, acceptance, and connection make a difference.

From overcoming discrimination to building community through Pride events and outreach, this conversation highlights why visibility and acceptance still matter today.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.

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Today on Bring Back The Porch we are on location in one of the historic kilns in Medalta. At Medalta, a unique archaeological field school is not just preserving history, but also bringing it to life. Join us as we explore the exciting discoveries being made at Medalta, the significance of these findings, and how they connect us to our heritage.

Chapters

00:00 Preserving History: The Importance of Medalta
02:49 Celebrating Community: Events and Activities at Medalta
06:01 Engaging the Next Generation: Educational Programs
08:49 Exploring the Museum: Tours and Exhibits
12:06 Connecting with the Past: Stories and Collectibles
15:09 The Heart of Medalta: Personal Connections and Experiences

Explore the rich history and current activities at Medalta, a historic ceramics site in Medicine Hat, including its archaeological projects, community events, educational programs, and preservation efforts.

The Significance of Medalta's History
Medalta is not just a site; it’s a living testament to Canada’s industrial past. Established during a time when clay was king, Medalta has evolved over the years, but its roots remain firmly planted in history. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Friends of Medalta Society, an organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating this remarkable site. The story of Medalta is intertwined with the dreams of its founders, who envisioned a future where this historic site would thrive rather than decay into obscurity.

Rediscovering the Old Horse Barn
One of the most thrilling projects this season is the archaeological search for the old horse barn, a structure that played a vital role in Medalta's early operations. As Brian recounts, the barn was where horses helped transport clay before modern machinery took over. This search not only pays homage to the site's history but also fulfills a long-standing dream of one of Medalta’s founders,

Engaging the Community with District Days
To celebrate its historical significance, Medalta is hosting "District Days," a two-day event featuring local artisans, food trucks, live music, and activities geared toward families. This event aims to rekindle interest in the community’s history while providing a fun and engaging atmosphere for all ages. By combining entertainment with education, Medalta is fostering a connection between the past and present, inviting everyone to be part of its ongoing story.

Educational Opportunities for All Ages
Medalta is not just about preserving history; it’s about experiencing it. The site offers various educational programs for both children and adults. From summer camps that allow kids to explore and create with clay to adult classes that provide hands-on experiences, Medalta caters to a wide audience. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can find something that piques their interest, from the history buff to the aspiring potter.

Conclusion: Why Medalta Matters
In an age where many historic sites are at risk of being forgotten, Medalta stands out as a beacon of preservation and education. The ongoing archaeological efforts not only unearth physical remnants of the past but also revive stories and memories that shape our understanding of history. By engaging the community through events and educational opportunities, Medalta ensures that its rich heritage continues to inspire future generations.

Whether you're interested in archaeology, local history, or simply looking for a fun day out, Medalta offers a unique glimpse into the past. As we celebrate this historic site, we invite you to be part of the journey—come explore, learn, and discover the treasures hidden beneath our feet.

Key topics

History of Medalta and its significance in Canadian ceramics
Archaeological excavations and discoveries at Medalta
Community events and markets celebrating local culture
Educational programs for kids and adults in pottery and history
Preservation of historic industrial sites in Canada

Guest name
Sarah Schatz
Events Coordinator, Medalta

Sound bites

"Canada's very young and we have not done a good job at preserving our historic sites."
"The dream is alive, and lots of things are happening for the 40th anniversary."
"Seventy-five percent of pottery made nationwide came from this neighbourhood."


Resources

Medalta - The Canadian Museum of Ceramic Art - https://medalta.org/
Medalta's Social Media - https://facebook.com/medalta
Hycroft Pottery - https://www.medalta-giftshop.ca/shop/hycroft-china-originals/

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To quote the famous author Joyce Kilmer “I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.”

Today on Bring Back the Porch, Dylan Lafferty, owner of Rivendell Tree Farm, shares insights on selecting, planting, and caring for trees in southeastern Alberta. You will learn the best species for your yard, how to maintain them, and the story behind the farm's name.

00:00 Introduction
04:28 Tree Species and Their Care
12:07 Establishing a Tree Farm
17:35 Tree Planting Guidance for Homeowners
24:13 Exploring Different Tree Varieties
30:01 Transitioning to Tree Farming
35:00 Environmental Benefits of Trees
39:25 Understanding Apple Trees
43:22 Challenges in Tree Selection
44:36 Rewards of Tree Farming
46:40 Purchasing Trees and Customer Experience
50:24 Future Vision for Rivendell Tree Farm

A true hidden gem for Medicine Hat is Rivendell Tree Farm. They grow a vast variety of hardy trees and shrubs for the southern Prairies. Including Oak, Elm, Maple, Walnut, Honey Locust, Birch, Apple, Cherry, Plum, Pine, Spruce and Larch. They also supply potted, basketed and 54″ spaded trees. The farm specializes in substantial trees, as large as 100mm calliper. They also offer project design, planting and arborist services for their valued customers.

The mandate at Rivendell Tree Farm is to cultivate a deeply rooted business that will provide the people of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan with quality trees. Trees to provide shelter, beauty, food for our children, and help to make our communities more pleasant and verdant. They are committed to providing care and service for trees throughout their life cycle. The Lafferty’s have a passion to grow beautiful trees.

Key topics

Tree species and their growth habits
Best practices for planting and watering trees
Environmental benefits of trees in urban areas
Tree pruning and maintenance tips
Story behindRivendellTree Farm's name

Sound bites

"Colorado Blues are exceptionally hardy"
"We travel all over southeastern Alberta"
"Trees provide shelter and psychological comfort"

Resources

Rivendell Tree Farm Website - https://rivendelltreefarm.ca/

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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Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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🏡 What does it take to build more than just a house? In this episode, we sit down with Annette Fahselt-Andreas from Habitat for Humanity Medicine Hat to explore how affordable housing is transforming lives across our community.

Learn how families qualify for homeownership, the role volunteers play in creating lasting change, and how Habitat's innovative programs help build both homes and hope. We also discuss fundraising, community partnerships, and the impact of the ReStore on supporting local housing initiatives.
Whether you're looking to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more about affordable housing in Medicine Hat, this conversation offers valuable insights into the power of community action.

🎙️ Listen now and discover how you can help make homeownership possible for local families.

Key Topics
-Habitat for Humanity's history and local projects
-How families qualify for homeownership
-Role of volunteers and community support
-Funding and fundraising strategies
-Educational programs for building skills

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:00 Habitat for Humanity's History and Local Presence
02:03 How Families Are Selected and Qualify
02:57 The New Build in Medicine Hat
03:55 The Restore: A Community Resource
04:56 Volunteer Opportunities and Family Involvement
05:47 Community Reactions and Education Efforts
06:54 Homeownership Support and Home Repairs
07:53 How to Get Involved and Support Habitat
08:55 Qualifications and Application Process
09:57 Mortgage and Financial Support
11:02 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

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What do you do when something feels "off" with your child—but you can't explain why?

In this episode of Manual Not Included, Curt shares how a scary moment with his son led to an unexpected diagnosis: epilepsy. He talks about recognizing the signs, navigating tests and specialists. What to expect and his experience.

A powerful conversation about trust, advocacy, and finding answers when you need them most.

Key Topics
-Childhood epilepsy and seizures
-ADHD diagnosis and misdiagnosis
-Medical testing and treatment for epilepsy
-Parenting challenges with complex health conditions

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Call to Action
00:58 The Scariest Day as a Parent
03:11 Signs and Symptoms of Seizures
05:34 Diagnosis of Epilepsy
08:30 Navigating ADHD and Epilepsy
11:31 The Epilepsy Test Experience
14:41 Current Status and Future Outlook

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Rev your engines and gather the family! In this episode, we’re diving into Medicine’s upcoming Big Truck Day—a community favourite packed with massive trucks, hands-on activities, pedal tractors, face painting, and a free barbecue. We’ll also explore exciting summer programs at the local library and discover how these community events bring families together, spark curiosity, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a truck enthusiast, a parent looking for family fun, or simply interested in what’s happening around town, this episode has something for everyone.

Key Topics

-Big Truck Day event details and activities

-Library programs and summer activities

-Community engagement and family fun

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Event Overview

00:34 Details of Big Truck Day at Co-op Place

02:13 Types of Trucks and Equipment on Display

03:08 Additional Activities and Community Involvement

04:27 Feedback and Excitement from Last Year’s Event

05:52 Interaction with Truck Drivers and Safety

06:20 Event Schedule and Special Attractions

07:12 Pedal Tractors and Kids’ Activities

08:00 Library Summer Programs and Resources

09:56 Library’s Role in Community and Family Engagement

11:13 Event Details Recap and Final Remarks

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What does it take to build a healthier, more connected community? In this episode, Shona Dickie joins us to discuss Momentum, the City of Medicine Hat's ambitious community well-being plan. We explore how the plan was developed, why community engagement became the foundation of the process, and how residents, organizations, and local government can work together to address challenges such as housing affordability, mental health, social isolation, and poverty reduction.

Shona shares how feedback from more than a thousand residents helped shape the plan's priorities and why flexibility and collaboration are essential to creating lasting positive change. Whether you're interested in community development, public policy, or the future of Medicine Hat, this conversation offers valuable insight into building a stronger, healthier community for everyone.

Guest: Shona Dickie, Manager of Community Supports, City of Medicine Hat

Memorable Quotes

"The plan is broad but adaptable to community needs."
"Housing affordability is a key concern for well-being."
"Community participation is key to the plan's success."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction
03:05 The Importance of Well-Being in Community Planning
06:02 Engaging Diverse Voices for Better Outcomes
08:47 Identifying Barriers to Well-Being
12:06 The Role of Government in Community Well-Being
14:59 Pillars of Well-Being and Community Objectives
18:00 Future Steps and Community Involvement


LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shona-dickie/

City of Medicine Hat - https://www.medicinehat.ca/

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!

Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast

Support the show