OPINION: Let's Go!

As the calendar flips to February anticipation and excitement ripple through our office as the Cross Border Interviews is back!

Reflecting on the past 12 months, it's a tale of unexpected success, diverse community connections, and tireless dedication to showcasing the incredible men and women tirelessly working for the betterment of their communities.

In the realm of municipal politics, the show has become a platform for sharing stories from different communities, backgrounds, and leadership perspectives across Canada. The honour and pleasure of welcoming a myriad of guests underscore the richness and diversity of voices that shape our municipalities.

The show's inception and subsequent success were beyond our expectations. The privilege of highlighting the efforts of those working on the ground, and navigating the complexities of local governance, has been nothing short of an honour. The spotlight on these unsung heroes, working tirelessly to bring about positive change, has become a hallmark of the Cross Border Interviews.

But, as the saying goes, the only constant in life is change. Fear not, for we have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to not only bring you the show every weekday but to introduce a few exciting changes. As we embark on the new season, a commitment has been made to amplify the frequency of episodes, ensuring a more robust and dynamic schedule for the foreseeable future.

One of the pivotal moments in the show's journey occurred last April when we had the pleasure of attending the SUMA convention in Saskatoon. Engaging with a multitude of municipal leaders from across the province provided valuable insights into the diverse challenges and triumphs of different communities. In the summer of 2023, we continued the journey by conversing with Selkirk Mayor Larry Johannson and Mississauga Councillor Joe Horneck, both discussions taking place within the hallowed halls of their respective city halls.

As we step into 2024, expect more of these engaging conversations – and more often. We have already set our sights on several key events this year, demonstrating our commitment to a deeper exploration of municipal dynamics. The Association of Manitoba Municipalities in Brandon, scheduled for early April, will be our first stop. Merely days after, we'll be in Regina, once again covering the SUMA conference. The end of April brings us back to Brandon for a live show at a Leadership Conference.

The adventure doesn't end there. We're gearing up for a two-week reprieve before hopping on a plane to Yukon for the Association of Yukon Communities conference in Dawson City. The invitation to attend is an opportunity we can't pass up, as we look forward to meeting and engaging with remarkable municipal leaders in the Yukon. These conferences will not only feature live shows but will also set the stage for future episodes, allowing us to revisit and showcase the remarkable leaders we encounter along the way.

With these challenges and risks on the horizon, there's a hope that we not only endure but relish the journey. In the unpredictable landscape of municipal politics, we acknowledge that some things will go according to plan, while others may deviate. But the mission for 2024 has been set – to make this year the best on record for the show. We invite you to join us for the ride, to enjoy the engaging shows and conversations we have in store, and to learn alongside us as we navigate the municipal landscape.

So, municipal fans, buckle up! We are about to embark on a municipal odyssey – from the west coast in Victoria to the eastern shores of St. John's and everywhere in between.

Let the journey begin – Let's Go!