International Women's Day was celebrated at the Okotoks United Church when approximately 35 women gathered to enjoy discussion, supper and some Foothills area entertainment on March 6.
Keynote speaker Okotoks Coun. Tanya Thorn gave a powerful talk on the continuing inequities between men and women, such as with pay and getting respect in the workforce. She also touched on the difficulties women face in the political arena — from the municipal to federal levels — as compared to their male counterparts.
Carlene Donnelly, executive director of CUPS Calgary, gave an inspiring talk of the non-profit organization helping women —as well as men — get back on their feet.
The evening kicked off with the humour of western poet Doris Daley from Black Diamond. Her four poems were highlighted by a touching tribute to her great-grandmother who struggled with loneliness and hard work while helping to start the family homestead in southern Alberta.
Okotoks area singer Tanya Ryan kicked off her performance with a tribute to one of the first ladies of country music, the great Patsy Cline, with her rendition of Crazy.
The noticeably pregnant Ryan also performed the lullaby she penned for her baby to come.
The evening was also an information night about the programs at the Rowan House Emergency Shelter.
Ryan is presenting a songwriters' roundtable on March 28 at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre in Okotoks, with the proceeds going to Rowan House.
