b'FROM OUR PRESIDENTWere Baaaack!As the association ramped up after summer and began to plan fall and winter activities, it felt a bit like someone peeking out the door to see if it was safe to go outside. We wondered about planning large events and the potential for future lockdowns, and we considered what our members would support and appreciate. I am happy to report that it is relatively safe outside and that things are gradually returning to the new normal after a couple of difficult years.In-person education has fully returned! We rolled out our 2022/23 Education Program in September and course registrations have been strong. With our new classroom space here on Waverley, we have the ability to run courses in much larger spaces without interfering with the training offered by the Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (CSAM). The course delivery model is a flexible one, and we continue to offer virtual courses as well as a larger number of in-person classes. Virtualtraining is likely here to stay, but I do believe that in-person trainingwith the ability to share experiences with othersis a superior experience. If you havent signed up for any of our courses yet, please take a look at our exceptional programat winnipegconstruction.ca/education.Our advocacy efforts shifted into high gear this fall, with municipal elections taking place on October 26. We spoke extensively to mayoral candidates for the City of Winnipeg, surveying them on intentions and presenting the results of these conversations to our members. We look forward to further discussions with new and returning municipal leaders in Manitoba in the coming weeks. At the provincial level, the focus of the government has been on pandemic recovery and strengthening the health-care system; however, the industry was able to get a commitment from government to introduce prompt payment requirements within the Builders Liens Act in 2023. We are hopeful this legislation will finally become a reality in Manitoba. Finally, members and sponsors have warmly embraced our networking events, including the new WCA Maverick Mix & Mingle at the spectacular Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in September. Builders Night was back in October with strong attendance and an exciting evening program at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg. Finally, we hosted Cocktails and Candy Canes, a come-and-go reception in our offices on Waverley on December 15. We know that some are still apprehensive about attending events; hopefully, this will dissipate over time. We look forward to seeing you over the holidays and in the new year.Stay safe and get your flu shot!Ronald Hambley8 BUILD MANITOBAwinnipegconstruction.ca'