UPCOMING SPEAKERS

Upcoming Meetings

Upcoming Activities

SPEAKERs AT OUR NEXT MEETING

Blood and Daring: How Canada Fought the American Civil War and Forged a Nation

In this meeting we will honour our club veterans and upcoming Remembrance Day.

John Boyko has written nine books addressing Canadian history and politics including In Pursuit of Tomorrow: The Inventive Life of Sandford Fleming, published in March 2026.

Among his other books are the one he will be bringing to us today, Blood and Daring: How Canada Fought the American Civil War and Forged a Nation. Blood and Daring was shortlisted for a Governor General’s award, was a national best-seller, and was on many best book of the year lists.

John has written editorials for newspapers across the country, writes for the Canadian Encyclopedia, and has appeared on podcasts, radio, and television addressing his books and current political affairs.

John was born in Hamilton and has degrees from Trent, Queen’s, and McMaster Universities. He is a retired educator and administrator, has served on and chaired many boards, and has been elected to municipal council. John lives in Lakefield, Ontario.

LUNCH BUNCH: After the meeting, all members are invited to have lunch at local restaurant. A great way to get to know your fellow members.


ABOUT OUR LAST MEETING

Jeff MacIntyre, President of the Grand Valley Construction Association, will spook about the housing crisis through the lens of a construction industry undergoing rapid transformation.

He notes that the sector is evolving faster than anyone expected — from who enters the workforce to how projects are designed, priced, and delivered.

The traditional image of construction is giving way to one that’s more diverse, inclusive, and reflective of today’s society.

Jeff explored how supply-chain volatility, shifting timelines, and new client expectations are reshaping how projects are priced and managed. The emphasis on risk mitigation, safety, and project management has led to more efficient and sustainable business practices.

At the same time, the integration of renewable energy solutions and sustainable building materials reflects both environmental responsibility and economic opportunity.

As regulations and standards continue to evolve, the industry’s capacity to stay compliant and innovative will determine its long-term success. Jeff argues that adapting to change is not just a necessity but a pathway to resilience and leadership — ensuring construction firms remain trusted, forward-thinking partners in community building.

Finally, he reflected on the Grand Valley Construction Association’s 50-year history of supporting members through training, advocacy, and partnerships. Looking ahead, the next 50 years will depend on collaboration — connecting with educators, governments, and other sectors to fill knowledge gaps, create sustainable growth, and prepare the industry for the future.

As Jeff reminded us, construction remains one of the great industries: it builds careers, strengthens communities, and quite literally shapes the world we live in.

PERSONAL VIGNETTE: Tom Cain will be delivered his personal vignette.

Click on the WATCH LAST MEETING button above to watch the whole meeting.

Speaker starts at 02:49 and Tom Cain at 1:14:50





WELCOME

The PROBUS Club of Cambridge provides the opportunity for retired or semi-retired men having similar interests to meet and mingle, enjoy challenging, interesting guest speakers and join into some group activities.

PROBUS Clubs are not service organizations. We do not engage in fundraising, sectarian or political activities. Rather, we function solely for the benefit and interest of our members.

Watch a short video about PROBUS in Canada.

If you are not a member, you are in the right place to seek information about our Club, and how you can join us.

If you have any questions, please contact  one of our Membership Co-Chairs, David Shaw at 226-220-2498 or Jim Ott at 519-241-9883 or email us at info@probuscambridge.org 

We hope to see you soon!

Mark Maloney
President 2025-26

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