PROBUS Club of Cambridge upcoming events

Probus Bridge Club (September 28, 2026)

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

A group of Club members who enjoy socializing and playing bridge.

Two tables (eight bridge players) meet every second Tuesday throughout the year. We take July and August off.

Each member takes two or three turns hosting during the year.

We have a good number of spares so taking a Tuesday off is no problem.

Most importantly, all skill levels are present in this bridge club from beginner to skilled and we are friendly.

Contact Monty Stenson 519-590-0434 with any questions

Monthly Meeting with Jeff MacIntyre (September 30, 2026)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Jeff MacIntyre, President of the Grand Valley Construction Association, will speak 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 will explore 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 will reflect 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 reminds us, construction remains one of the great industries: it builds careers, strengthens communities, and quite literally shapes the world we live in.

PERSONAL VIGNETTE: Also in this meeting, a member will be delivering his personal vignette.

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

Halton Country Radial Railway Museum (October 17, 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT

$25 pp for museum tour, and scenic railcar ride

The Halton County Radial Railway (HCRR) is a full-size operating electric railway and museum, featuring historic electric railcars operating on two kilometers of scenic track. The HCRR is owned and operated by the Ontario Electric Railway Historical Association (OERHA), a non-profit, educational organization. The HCRR is proud to be Ontario’s first and largest electric railway museum.

For a great video of the museum, Click Here!

The OERHA is made up of active members who volunteer to maintain, restore and operate the museum for its many visitors throughout the year.

Registration Notes

Maximum of 3 guests per registered member
Maximum number of reservations available is 50
Wait list will be available once capacity is reached
Cut off date for cancellations is October 10th
No refunds after October 10th

Note - Accessibility wise, the facility does require some outdoor walking, and climbing into and out of some museum rail cars scattered about the facility.

If you have questions or would like to arrange for a ride, Contact Bob Crawford, racjr1050@gmail.com, 519-621-1902.

Would you prefer to register by phone, or need to cancel or add/remove guests? Please contact Martin Pemberton at martinpemberton007@gmail.com

Monthly Meeting with John Boyko (October 28, 2026)

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:30:00 GMT

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.

Annual Billiards Tournament (November 20, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Beginners welcome! This event is for all skill levels, we have them all! Win or lose, a fun event!

This is a fun event to bring a friend with you as your guest, a great way to introduce them to our club!

Come at 11:30 (doors open) and go directly to the billiards tables. Lunch is optional and can be ordered while playing billiards.

No need to register for this event, just come. There is no cost from PROBUS, but you will pay at Chicago Billiards $12 per person for billiards and the cost of any food or beverages purchased.

Any questions please contact Bob Crawford, racjr1050@gmail.com, 519-621-1902.

Monthly Meeting with Kevin Swayze (November 25, 2026)

Wed, 25 Nov 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Cambridge History Through a Journalist’s Lens

Kevin Swayze brings over 40 years of experience as a journalist, storyteller, and communicator — and a deep personal connection to Cambridge’s history.

Having spent 17 years as a reporter and editor at the Cambridge Reporter, Kevin covered the people, places, and pivotal moments that shaped our community. When the presses stopped for good, it was Kevin who quite literally turned out the lights for the last time — closing a remarkable chapter in local journalism.

In this engaging presentation, Kevin revisits Cambridge’s past through fascinating stories and striking images that capture the city’s evolution — from its industrial roots and neighbourhood character to the people and events that defined its identity. Drawing from his decades behind the camera and keyboard, he brings history to life with humour, insight, and a journalist’s eye for detail.

Kevin has also shared his communication skills as a Conestoga College professor and presentation coach. He is currently also editor of Neighbours of West Galt magazine.

Join us for a lively look at Cambridge’s history, told by someone who lived it, wrote it, and helped preserve it for future generations.

PERSONAL VIGNETTE: Also in this meeting, a member will be delivering his personal vignette.

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

PROBUS Christmas Gala: Lunch, Live Music & Holiday Cheer (December 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 16:00:00 GMT

With our own Tom Dean as the Gala Moderator

Meet The Musicians at Our Christmas Gala

Nancy Walker – Pianist Award-winning pianist and composer Nancy Walker has earned national recognition, including the Montréal Jazz Festival’s Grand Prix de Jazz, Keyboardist of the Year honours, and two JUNO nominations. She has performed and recorded with many leading artists, and her 2025 album Deeper Down, featuring eight original compositions, received a 2026 JUNO nomination.	John Neudorf – Vocals Vocalist John Neudorf brings more than three decades of musical experience, blending jazz and blues with warm phrasing, inventive scat singing and an engaging stage presence. His latest album, Here’s To Life, features both original songs and distinctive interpretations, with several tracks receiving regular airplay on JazzFM.
Clark Johnston - Bass Bassist Clark Johnston has performed with many of Canada’s leading jazz artists, including Diana Panton, Mike Murley, Reg Schwager, Don Thompson, Peter Appleyard and the Shuffle Demons. An accomplished composer and recording artist, Clark holds a master’s degree in Music Composition and currently teaches at McMaster University and Hillfield Strathallan College.	Joel Haynes – Drums Burlington-born drummer Joel Haynes has performed at major jazz festivals throughout North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Australia and the Caribbean. A National Jazz Award nominee, he has appeared on more than 30 recordings and has worked with acclaimed artists including Seamus Blake, Russell Malone, David Braid and Denzel Sinclaire.

Price: $65 per person

Menu

Festive buffet meal with salads, main courses, desserts, coffee, tea
Cash bar available (cash only, no debit/credit cards)

Registration & Policies

Up to 3 guests per member
Capacity: 165 seats
Registration deadline: November 26
Cancellation deadline: November 26
No refunds after November 26

Transportation

Need a ride to and from the Portuguese Club? We’re happy to arrange it. Contact Pat Ramcharitar at (519) 584-4764 or ramcharitap@gmail.com

Registration Help

Would you prefer to register by phone, or need to add/remove a guest? Contact Martin Pemberton at martinpemberton007@gmail.com