The Growth of Quonset Days

How Medalta's Ceramic Residency Inspires Creativity

Join host Brian Konrad as we explore the unique international ceramics residency program at Medalta, featuring insights from coordinators and students about their experiences, techniques, and the creative process in ceramics.(Part One of Two) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Medalta's Ceramic Residency Program 01:02 Application Process and Selection of Students 02:13 Student Engagement and Learning Experiences 03:15 Unique Aspects of Medalta's Program in Canada 04:08 Living and Working in the Residency 05:09 Student Projects and Artistic Development 07:31 Elizabeth Yus's Experience at Medalta 09:35 Clay as a Medium: Creativity and Transformation 12:03 Firing Techniques: Pit Firing and Soda Firing 15:25 Inspiration from Medalta's Heritage and Artifacts 16:35 Future Plans and Continued Engagement with Medalta When you are studying ceramics, gaining hands-on experience is invaluable. If you’re a student or an aspiring artist in this field, you might be wondering how to elevate your craft. Today, we’ll dive into the unique residency program at Medalta, where students immerse themselves in the art of ceramics while collaborating with peers and industry experts.  The Medalta residency program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for ceramics students in Canada. It aims to foster creativity and technical skill through immersive experiences in a collaborative environment. This program accepts students through a juried application process twice a year, allowing them to engage in various firing methods and artistic techniques that are essential in ceramics. Tomo Ingalls, the residency coordinator, plays a crucial role in facilitating this program. She organizes the residency, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed. Tomo emphasizes the importance of experimentation, stating that it is vital for students to discover their unique artistic voices. Her passion for ceramics and the students' energy create an inspiring environment for everyone involved. The Student Experience For students, the Medalta residency offers more than just technical training; it’s an opportunity to grow as artists. Elizabeth Yus, a student from Emily Carr University, shared her experience of transitioning from a gap year to a full-time ceramics program. Her journey reflects the program’s goal of nurturing talent and passion in ceramics. What makes this program stand out is that it is the only one of its kind in Canada. Students not only gain practical skills but also build a network of connections that can benefit their careers in the long run. Many alumni return as artists in residence, contributing to the program and mentoring the next generation of ceramic artists. In Part 2, we will meet with additional students from the program. They will share their experiences and work, demonstrating what they have created and how Medalta has fostered growth in their art and other aspects of their lives. Resources Medalta Museum - https://medalta.org Emily Carr University of Art + Design - https://www.ecuad.ca Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Uncovering Medicine Hat's Hidden Stories

What happens when a retired lawyer swaps legal briefs for history books? You get incredible stories that bring the past to life. This week, we're joined by William Ann, a passionate historian and genealogist, who shares how a simple curiosity turned into a mission to preserve the stories of Medicine Hat and beyond. In this episode, you'll discover: 🔍 How to start researching your own family history 📖 The truth about verifying genealogy records ✈️ Incredible World War II stories connected to Medicine Hat 🌍 A surprising local connection to the Treaty of Versailles 💡 Why preserving family memories matters more than ever Whether you're fascinated by history, genealogy, or untold local stories, this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical research tips. 🎧 Listen now and discover why every family—and every community—has a story worth preserving. 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 C-Suite Perspectives [http://csuiteperspectives.libsyn.com/website] Elevate how you lead with insight from today’s most influential executives. Listen on: Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1565427142]   Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2Y7c9gtdZJqocXdak7MOY5?si=42e6e7df949241b9] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Safety First: Water Rescue Techniques

We are out of the studio on on the river as we explore the critical safety techniques and training methods used by Medicine Hat firefighters. Join us as they train in water rescue operations, focusing on jet boat handling, safety protocols, and real-world scenarios. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Firefighter Jet Boat Training 01:11 Safety Risks and Environment for Water Rescue 02:03 Jet Boat Operation Principles and Skills 03:30 Safety Gear and Preparedness in Water Rescue 04:06 Advantages of Using Jet Boats in Rescue Operations 05:01 Ferrying and Managing Exhausted Victims 06:14 Impact of High Water Levels on Training 07:28 Realistic Training and Muscle Memory 09:38 Handling Bridge Abutments and River Hazards 11:01 Communication and Teamwork in Rescue Missions 12:34 Classroom and Practical Training Balance 13:27 Favorite Maneuvers and Skills Practice 14:11 Rescue Drills and Safety Protocols 15:00 Handling Different Water Speeds and Maneuvering 16:00 Team Coordination and Rescue Techniques 17:12 River Safety Tips for the Public 18:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Firefighting is a job that often requires quick thinking and decisive action, especially in emergency situations involving water rescues. During a recent training session at the Medicine Hat Fire Department, firefighters focused on enhancing their skills with jet boats, an essential tool for effective and safe water rescues. We explore the key insights from the training, the challenges faced by firefighters in aquatic environments, and the skills necessary to ensure both rescuer and victim safety. In water rescue scenarios, firefighters must navigate unpredictable and often perilous conditions. One of the primary risks is the relentless nature of moving water.  Instructor Josh Krynski noted, "the water while it is relentless, it is predictable." This means that firefighters must learn to read the conditions of the river and adapt their strategies accordingly. Key safety measures include wearing the appropriate personal flotation devices (PFDs) and being mindful of the unpredictable changes in water levels and flow rates. Jet boats offer a significant advantage in water rescues compared to traditional methods. Firefighters can operate from a stable, warm platform above the water, which is crucial during cold weather. As the instructor explained, "You’re only effective for a very short time in the water just due to the cold." The ability to conduct rescues from a jet boat allows firefighters to maintain a safe distance while effectively reaching victims in distress. Techniques like ferrying, where a rescuer holds onto the victim in a controlled manner, are practiced to minimize exhaustion and ensure safe transport to shore. Mastering Key Skills for Effective Water Rescue During the training, firefighters practiced critical skills necessary for operating jet boats in challenging conditions. These skills include: 1. **Controlled Maneuvering**: Firefighters learn to navigate tight turns and handle the boat in shallow waters, which is crucial when needing to approach a victim without risking injury. 2. **Ferrying Techniques**: This involves moving a victim to safety in a calm and controlled manner, thereby reducing panic and maintaining a low heart rate for the person being rescued. 3. **Safe Shore Landings**: Firefighters must practice how to safely bring the jet boat to shore to create a secure environment for assessing and treating the rescued individuals. The training conducted at the Medicine Hat Fire Department highlights the vital role jet boats play in water rescues and the rigorous preparation firefighters undergo to ensure their safety and the safety of those they rescue. By mastering key skills and maintaining realistic training practices, these brave individuals are better equipped to handle the challenges posed by water emergencies. Resources Fire Departmenthttps://www.medicinehat.ca/community-support-culture-safety/fire-services/ Water Safety https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ack3122 Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Medicine Hat's Legion: 100 Years of Service

Host Brian Konrad sits down with Wes Krause to explore the history and significance of the Royal Canadian Legion, its role in supporting veterans, and the ongoing traditions that honour service members. Join us for a deep dive into veteran advocacy, community involvement, and the preservation of military history. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:09 The Formation of the Royal Canadian Legion in 1926 02:35 Support Networks for Veterans Post-WWI 04:46 Veterans' Experiences with PTSD and Social Support 06:59 Legion's Advocacy for Veterans' Benefits 08:57 The Poppy Campaign and Remembrance Day 10:48 Growth of the Legion and Its Contributions 12:56 Royal Patronage and the Legion's Royal Designation 15:31 Memorials and Honoring Fallen Soldiers 17:37 Membership Expansion and Auxiliary Members 19:23 Ladies Auxiliary and Community Support 21:58 The Legion Building and Preservation Efforts 23:26 Personal Stories and Military Artifacts 27:28 The Significance of Military Artifacts and Preservation 30:46 Upcoming Celebrations and Events at the Legion 35:00 How to Join the Legion and Membership Details 36:45 Legion Facilities and Community Activities 38:43 Closing Remarks and Future of the Legion On July 17, 1926, the Royal Canadian Legion was officially formed, marking a significant milestone in Canadian history. Bring Back The Porch explores its origins, evolution, and the crucial role it plays in providing support to veterans today. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in understanding how veteran support systems have developed, this podcast offers valuable insights into the legacy of the Legion and its ongoing mission. The Legion originated from a meeting known as the Unity Conference, where representatives from various veterans' organizations came together to address common concerns and goals. This collaboration laid the foundation for the Canadian Legion of the Branch of the British Empire Service League, which quickly expanded to include numerous branches across the country. Initially, families often struggled to support veterans who had faced the horrors of war, as they could not fully comprehend what their loved ones had endured. The Legion created a community where veterans could share their struggles and find solace among peers who had shared similar experiences. This sense of camaraderie helped many veterans to process their trauma and find a path toward healing. One of the Legion's significant contributions has been its advocacy for veterans' rights and needs. The organization played a crucial role in establishing Veterans Affairs Canada, ensuring that veterans received the support and services they deserved. Through its efforts, the Legion has successfully campaigned for various initiatives, including the recognition of November 11th as Remembrance Day, a day dedicated to honoring those who served. Civilians, especially family members of veterans, have stepped up to support the Legion's efforts. Many volunteers dedicate their time to assist with initiatives like the poppy campaign, demonstrating that the legacy of service extends beyond those who have served. This sense of community involvement is essential for the Legion's sustainability and success. As the Royal Canadian Legion looks to the future, it continues to adapt to the changing needs of veterans and their families. With the passage of time, the demographics of veterans have shifted, with newer generations from conflicts such as Afghanistan and the Balkans now seeking support. The Legion is committed to ensuring that all veterans, regardless of when they served, receive the care and recognition they deserve. Today, the Royal Canadian Legion remains a pillar of support for veterans, providing a space for them to connect, share, and heal. Its commitment to advocacy, community involvement, and remembrance ensures that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten. Resources Royal Canadian Legion Official Website - https://www.legion.ca/ Remembrance Day - Government of Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/militaryhistory/remembrance/remembrance-day.html High Flight Poem by John Gillespie McGee - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_Flight Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Legion-Robertson-Memorial-Branch-No17-100064843265061/ Tickets available at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/medicine-hat-celtic-festival-tickets-1991493275998?aff=ebdssbcategorybrowse 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 C-Suite Perspectives [http://csuiteperspectives.libsyn.com/website] Elevate how you lead with insight from today’s most influential executives. Listen on: Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1565427142]   Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2Y7c9gtdZJqocXdak7MOY5?si=42e6e7df949241b9] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

While We Cook with Special Guest Melissa Mullis

Great conversations happen around great food. In this episode, we're cooking together in the kitchen while chatting with Melissa Mullis, Executive Director of the Root Cellar Food & Wellness Hub. As we prepare a delicious meal, we dive into an important conversation about food insecurity in Medicine Hat, the growing need for community support, and the incredible work the Root Cellar is doing to help thousands of local individuals and families. We also talk about the Race for Hunger, community kitchens, food rescue programs, and how everyone can play a part in making a difference. Come for the cooking, stay for the conversation—and leave inspired by the power of a community that cares. 🎧 Watch or listen now, and discover how sharing a meal can spark meaningful conversations and positive change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:04 The rising need for food assistance in Medicine Hat 04:05 The success of the Race for Hunger event 07:02 The role of the Root Cellar in preventing homelessness 07:44 Community collaboration and support in Medicine Hat 08:49 Melissa’s background and connection to the community 09:57 Favorite local restaurants and food spots 10:21 What keeps Melissa motivated at the Root Cellar 11:06 Melissa’s favorite places to eat in Medicine Hat 12:03 Local food favorites and guilty pleasures 12:47 Melissa’s husband and their cooking dynamic 13:40 Hard-hitting questions: books, movies, and celebrity dinners 15:37 Melissa’s guilty pleasure TV shows and movies 16:41 Favorite movies and Disney classics 17:40 Cooking and burrito-making tips 19:13 The importance of community support and donations 20:20 Opportunities for community involvement and donations 22:18 Food sourcing, surplus food, and food rescue programs 23:12 Innovative programs: Loop and food recycling initiatives 23:40 Closing remarks and community call to action 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]