Thomas kicks off Whoop-Up Days with annual breakfast
By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman - Lethbridge Herald on August 20, 2024.
LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com Member of Parliament Rachael Thomas kicked-off the Whoop-Up Days celebration with a free pancake breakfast Monday morning at PiP International where hundreds enjoyed a free meal.“I started the pancake breakfast in 2015 after I was elected and it’s become an annual tradition and something I look forward to doing for the community every year,” said Thomas.
She said they served pancakes and sausages for people to enjoy while listening to some music to bring the community together.
“I have the pleasure to serve the first pancake breakfast for Whoop-Up Days so it’s exciting to see the people in the community get excited about Whoop-Up days and things to come,” said Thomas.
The breakfast started at 7 a.m. and by 9 when she spoke to media, Thomas said they had already served around 750 people.
“By the end of the day we planned to serve about 1,300. We stop serving at 10 a.m.” said Thomas.
When talking about why she continues to offer a pancake breakfast during Whoop-Up Days, Thomas said it means a lot to her to be able to share a moment with residents in her riding.
“I think as a Member of Parliament I put great value on the voices of those I represent and giving opportunity for them to come and interact with me is really important,” said Thomas.
She added that bringing community together is really important for her as well and a pancake breakfast is an easy way to do that.
“As people come through the line they’ll often say thank you and sometimes they will bring forward a concern,” said Thomas.
She said during the event someone came forward with a concern around affordability and just being able to pay rent and buy food.
“Another individual talked to me about their daughter who has a disability and there’s just some challenges that go along with it, so it really is just an opportunity to hear from those that live in my riding and to best understand what their concerns are,” said Thomas.
When it comes to Whoop-Up Days, Thomas said she is excited to take part in the parade and to witness the energy and excitement that it brings to the community.
“The festivities in the week ahead I think are going to be a whole lot of fun, there is going to be a lot of energy, a lot of excitement off course, the weather looks fantastic, so it’s always great to see the community out for such thing,” said Thomas. 3
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