Last week, I hosted 25 executive officers of various home builder associations from across Canada at a three-day workshop. It was a chance to share ideas, technical information, work with volunteer boards and government officials and, of course, socialize.
To my surprise, about half of the group had never been to Winnipeg before. Our city has 25 new converts as it dazzled all in attendance.
Our first observations, naturally enough, were based on a brief tour of new and existing houses. Many were surprised that so many of our homes had full basements, something that we often take for granted. Stucco is more prevalent in the Prairies and all were impressed with its fire-resistant and energy-saving qualities.
Our lot sizes are bigger on average than in many parts of Canada and no one expected the number of large trees that we are able to maintain in even the most populated areas. As I said, what we often just assume as a way of life is considered unique and special in other parts of Canada.
Everyone was housed at the Inn at the Forks, with classroom-setting workshops there, too. To say the location dazzled would be an understatement.
Traditionally, our organization has flown in speakers from across the continent to speak about issues that are pertinent to this major Canadian industry. Not in Winnipeg. I said that no matter the topic, I could find experts right here that were as good as anyone anywhere in North America.
A national survey decided the topics and I chose the presenters. Priti Shah on board governance, Sylvia Yaeger on work/life balance, Laurie Finley on social media and the tag-team combination of Jennifer Howard, Justin Swandel and Deepak Joshi talking about government relations surpassed anything that had been presented before.
Many delegates commented that this was the best program ever because it consisted of real people talking about how and why things work in Manitoba, rather than some theoretical lecture.
So, as we venture into this Canada Day long weekend, let us not just celebrate the fact that we live in the greatest country in the world, but let's also recognize that we are indeed privileged to live in the finest province and city within that great country.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
