Big Trucks, Big Smiles: A Day of Family Fun in Medicine Hat

Big Trucks, Big Smiles: A Day of Family Fun in Medicine Hat

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 Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

🎙️ Building Momentum: A Plan for Well-Being in Medicine Hat

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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Canada Day in Medicine Hat

What does it take to create one of Medicine Hat’s biggest community celebrations? In this episode, Davy and Yusuf take us behind the scenes of the Canada Day Festival and the growing impact of local events like the skateboard competition. They share how community partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and local sponsors help transform ideas into unforgettable experiences for families, youth, and visitors alike. From cultural showcases and live entertainment to inclusive activities that celebrate diversity, this conversation highlights the power of bringing people together. Discover how Medicine Hat continues to build a stronger, more connected community through events that welcome all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're looking for volunteer opportunities, curious about event planning, or simply love community celebrations, this episode offers an inspiring look at the people and passion behind the festivities. Key Topics -Community engagement and sponsorship -Canada Day Festival activities and cultural diversity -Volunteer opportunities and community involvement Chapters 00:00 Community Spirit and Support 03:05 Canada Day Festival Overview 06:02 Cultural Celebrations and Activities 09:01 Sponsorship and Community Involvement 11:58 Volunteer Opportunities and Engagement 14:55 Canada Day Events and Activities 17:51 Inclusivity and Accessibility 20:59 Reflections on Canada Day and Community Growth 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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Reconnecting With Nature

Bring Back The Porch steps out of the studio and in to nature. We recently had the opportunity to visit the Keys To Hope Healing Grounds with Psychologist Deena West. Join us as we explore the innovative approach of Keys to Hope Counselling at Healing Grounds, combining therapy, animal-assisted activities, and nature to promote mental health and wellness. Discover how outdoor therapy, therapy animals, and unique accommodations create a holistic healing experience Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healing Grounds and Keys to Hope Counselling 01:15 The Evolution of Keys to Hope: From Therapy Room to Nature 03:49 Therapeutic Use of Chickens: Healing Old Wounds 05:09 Nature’s Calming Effect on Anxiety and Nervous System 06:03 Expanding Healing Grounds: From Therapy to Tourism 07:16 Visitor Feedback and Future Plans for Healing Grounds 08:26 Star Gazing and Night Sky Tourism in Alberta 09:09 Experiencing Wellness: Booking and Activities at Healing Grounds 10:49 Exploring the Themed Glamping Domes 11:45 Design and Comfort of the Domes 13:07 Weather Considerations and Off-Grid Power 14:24 Pricing and Themes of the Domes 17:21 The Prairie Landscape and Night Sky Experience 18:03 The Wheat Grass Dome and Other Themes 20:11 The Name 'Healing Grounds' and Its Significance 20:58 Flora, Fauna, and Nature Walks at Healing Grounds 22:11 Horse Therapy: Groundwork and Building Trust 25:52 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Experience Healing Grounds For many Hatters we live in a fast-paced world and many of us struggle with anxiety and stress. Today, we’ll explore how the Healing Grounds combines nature and animal-assisted therapy to promote mental wellness. By stepping outside the therapy room and into the beauty of the natural world, you can find peace and healing.  About the Healing Grounds The Healing Grounds, established in 2022, is a sanctuary created by Deena West, a registered psychologist, alongside her business partner. Their vision was to take therapy outside the traditional rooms and into spaces that foster healing through nature and animal companionship. With a variety of animals, including horses, goats, and even therapy chickens, the Healing Grounds provides a distinctive approach to mental health support. The Benefits of Nature on Mental Health Spending time in nature has been shown to calm the nervous system. Being outdoors, whether it’s going for a mindful walk or simply gazing at the expansive sky, can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety. Deena emphasizes the automatic response we have to nature, where even the presence of horses can help regulate our emotions. This connection not only promotes relaxation but also provides a sense of peace that many people miss in their daily lives. Why Animals Matter in Therapy Animals play a crucial role in the therapeutic process at the Healing Grounds. They offer unconditional support and love, making clients feel accepted without judgment. For instance, Deena shares how clients relate their experiences to the behaviours of animals. A chicken pecking at another might remind someone of a past bullying experience, providing a pathway to healing. This unique interpretation allows clients to process their emotions and experiences in a safe environment. Unique Offerings at the Healing Grounds The Healing Grounds is not just a therapy centre; it’s also a place for wellness retreats and community gatherings. With accommodations available for overnight stays, visitors can immerse themselves in the healing environment for a weekend. Deena mentions that many visitors have provided positive feedback, appreciating the community support and the tranquil atmosphere. This feedback is invaluable as they continue to develop their services and expand their offerings.  Conclusion The Healing Grounds offers an innovative approach to mental health by merging nature with animal-assisted therapy. This unique retreat provides a space where individuals can disconnect from their daily lives and reconnect with themselves in a nurturing environment. If you’re looking for a calming escape or a transformative experience, the Healing Grounds might just be the perfect destination.   Key  Topics Outdoor therapy and its benefits Animal-assisted therapy with horses, chickens, and dogs Unique accommodations and retreat experiences at Healing Grounds Guest  Name Deena West Sound Bites "Animals offer unconditional love and support." "The domes are insulated for year-round use." "Guests choose their themed dome online." Resources Keys to Hope Counselling - https://www.keystohopecounsellingservices.com/ Healing Grounds Retreats - https://www.healinggrounds.ca/ Tourism Alberta Grant Program - https://industry.travelalberta.com/programs-and-services/apply-for-investment 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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Progressive Policing With Chief Murphy

Medicine Hat Police Service is having their annual Open House on Saturday, June 13 from 11AM to 3 PM at MHPS headquarters. Admission is free. The open house includes Building Tours, specialty Unit Displays, Special Guests, a Community BBQ and Chief Gord Earl Leadership Legacy Scholarships Awards. Today on Bring Back The Porch we speak with Police Chief Alan Murphy about the Open House as well as the annual police report for 2025. Key topics 2025 police year-end report Community partnerships and youth programs Crime trends and statistics Progressive policing and technology adoption Future plans and community engagement Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:02 Community Partnerships and Training Initiatives 05:58 Downtown Patrol and Community Engagement 08:52 Firearms Transition and Safety Concerns 12:11 Progressive Policing and Technology Adoption 14:56 Crime Statistics and Community Challenges 17:59 Traffic Safety and Enforcement Efforts 21:07 Fraud and Public Awareness 24:04 Drug Seizures and Organized Crime 26:59 Organizational Wellness and Support Programs 29:06 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Community Relations Discover key insights from the Medicine Hat Police Service's 2025 year-end report, highlighting community partnerships, recruitment efforts, and progressive policing strategies.Today on Bring Back The Porch, we dive into the recent 2025 year-end report from the Medicine Hat Police Service, where the Chief of Police shares vital insights about the current state of policing in the community. From recruitment to partnerships with educational institutions, this report sheds light on the effective strategies that are shaping the future of public safety. Engaging the youth helps in building a foundation of informed citizens who understand the challenges and responsibilities of first responders. This initiative not only creates potential future recruits but also fosters a sense of respect and awareness within the community. The police service is actively recruiting to ensure a steady influx of new ideas and energy, which is essential for adapting to the evolving challenges in law enforcement. The report highlights the expansion of units focused on social issues, such as the downtown patrol unit aimed at addressing social disorder in the community. The addition of more officers to this unit has proven beneficial in engaging with local businesses and the unhoused population. Progressive policing is a key aspect noted in the report, with the Medicine Hat Police Service adopting modern technologies and practices. The recent transition to newer firearms and the exploration of drone usage for policing are examples of this forward-thinking approach. The 2025 year-end report from the Medicine Hat Police Service highlights significant strides in community engagement, recruitment, and progressive policing strategies. These insights not only paint a picture of the current state of policing but also set the stage for future developments in public safety. Resources Medicine Hat Police Service Annual Report 2025 - https://mhps.ca/uploads/files/Police_AR_2025_Final_Digital_New.pdf First Responders Academy at Monsignor McCoy - https://www.mccoyhighschool.ca/programs/first-responder-academy 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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]