I want to begin by thanking the Prince Albert host committee for all their hard work to put this conference together, our conference chair for lining up a great agenda for us, and the SBOA Board of Directors for their efforts and dedication to advancing our industry.
It is great to be back in Prince Albert, and I’d like to acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands referred to as Treaty 6 Territory.
The events that have taken place in Humboldt have no doubt had an effect on all of us. Humboldt is a community well known to all of us. It is part of our community, it is our backyard, and for some of our members, it is home. It is a place where this group has gathered many times, and they welcome us with open arms every time. We have friends there, peers, colleagues, and fellow SBOA members.
We should take time during our conference to remember the victims, the injured, the deeply affected, and all their loved ones. We certainly want to keep those that we know and care for in our hearts and in our thoughts this week.
Many of our members are first responders; let us keep the first responders from Nipawin, Star City, Tisdale, and Humboldt in our hearts and thoughts this week and in the days to follow.
Wearing the green and gold ribbons, and donating all funds raised this week to the community, and placing a hockey stick outside of the conference room are small but important things we will do to show support.
It is always important to remember why we are here for the SBOA Conference. It is important to remember the goals and objectives of the Association and find out what work is being done in pursuit of those things.
But this week, let’s also make sure we remember how fortunate we are to be here together. Today, while we are listening, training, learning, and becoming better building officials, let’s remember to take time to enjoy each others company, and take some comfort in the fellowship we get to enjoy as well.
Chris Gates, LBO-3, A.Sc.T., CRBO
President
Saskatchewan Building Officials Association