Business in Calgary - August 2022 by Business in Calgary

AUGUST 2022 | $3.50 BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Dr. Elizabeth Cannon

Nancy Knowlton

Wayne & Eleanor Chiu

Charlie Fischer

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2022 Alberta Business Hall of Fame Southern Alberta Celebrating Southern Alberta’s Great Business Leaders

I NVESTING IN LEARNING

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CALGARY CHAMBER SECTION

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Creating a Dynamic Destination Since welcoming its first residents in 2018, University District (U/D) has grown exponentially as Calgary’s best-selling urban community. U/D was recently named the 2022 winner for Canada’s Best Growing Community recognized by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association. As the developer for University District, University of Calgary Properties Group (UCPG) exists to fuel the academic mission of University of Calgary. As a nimble and dynamic entrepreneurial partner, UCPG is committed to creating sustainable physical communities, supporting the people who contribute to shaping those communities, and mindfully designing environments to live, work or play. UCPG’s innovative thinking leads to ground-breaking and thoughtfully designed spaces and is continuously evolving to create vibrant places where people can thrive.

ucpg.ca

University District – The Growth of a Thriving Northwest Community As the trusted developer for University of Calgary (UCalgary) land projects, University of Calgary Properties Group (UCPG) is setting the stage for what it means to masterfully create a community through mindful design, vibrant events and engaging spaces that bring people together. University District has grown significantly within a short period of time, elevating it into an award-winning community on the rise. University District is the proud national winner of the 2022 Best Growing Community award, recognized by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association.

Denim & Smith, Freshii, Osmow’s, YYC Cycle, Five Guys, Pet Planet, Cobs Bread, BarBurrito, Sesame, U/D Dental, Scotiabank and more. The neighbourhood will also soon be home to a new Alt Hotel. CELEBRATING AN AWARD-WINNING COMMUNITY THROUGH EVENTS

University District has established summer pop-up events that bring the community together including the U/D Night Market and the weekly Farm Stand. The U/D Night Market, in partnership with Marketspot,

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

One of the most anticipated additions to University District is Central Commons Park, a 3-acre, four-seasons park positioned in the heart of the community. Central Commons Park will feature a winter skating rink with a cooling system, a splash pad, a staging area for concerts, a picnic area with tables and BBQ pits, fire features, patio space, public washrooms, showers for bike commuters working in U/D, a public plaza and plenty of underground parking.

CALGARY’S GROWING RETAIL HUB

University District has quickly become a desirable, amenity-rich residential and retail community thriving on connection and modern convenience. University Avenue – the Retail Main Street, is easily accessible by foot, bike or car, offering a broad variety of unique restaurants, grocers and entertainment options, just steps away from modern and upscale residential offerings, open green spaces, parks, and regional pathways. In 2022 alone, U/D has welcomed many new retailers including Staples and Alberta’s first Staples Studio, Village Ice Cream, The Banquet Bar, Borough Bar + Grill by Murrieta’s Hospitality, The Canadian Brewhouse, Plantlife, The Alley Bubble Tea and The Hearing Loss Clinic. Some of the most highly anticipated retailers expected to open this fall include: • Fuwa Fuwa Japanese Pancakes, North America’s Largest Souffle Pancake and Dessert Café • Bottoms Ups Scrubs, a local healthcare uniform clothing retailer • Almond Nail Bar, manicures, pedicures, and more • Foxy Box, laser hair removal and full body waxing Notable retailers that are already well established in U/D include Save-On-Foods, Alberta’s first exclusively 18+ Cineplex VIP Cinemas, OEB Breakfast Co., Market Wines, Monogram Coffee, Curious Hair Skin Body,

U/D Night Market in partnership with Marketspot.

is hosted on the last Wednesday of each month until September from 5-9 p.m. It features a curated selection of local artisans, live music and entertainment. The weekly Farm Stand with YYC Growers + Distributors offers delicious local produce every Friday from 3-6 p.m. until October 7 at the U/D Discovery Centre.

“Hosting engaging community events throughout the year celebrates the vitality of this unique community as it continues to grow. We look forward to showcasing more additions to the community while adding to the vibrancy of Calgary’s northwest.” – Maureen Henderson, VP of Community Experience, UCPG

“University District is an important connector between the University, nearby medical facilities and established neighbourhoods,” adds Henderson. “People are seeing the advantages of establishing in this corridor as U/D continues to grow into a hub of entertainment and urban living.” ESTABLISHING ITSELF IN NORTHWEST CALGARY

The first residents moved into University District in 2018, just 18 months after sales launched and three years since the development construction began in 2015. Today, University District is home to approximately 2,000 residents, more than 25 retailers, 40 acres of park and green spaces, neighbouring community pillars such as the University of Calgary, a top 5 research university, and the Alberta Children’s Hospital, further complementing northwest Calgary as a vibrant and thriving community. Visit myuniversitydistrict.ca for more information.

STORY TITLE // SECTION

Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time. Volume 32 | Number 8

CONTENTS

REGULAR COLUMNS

As Global Demand Grows, So Should Canada’s Energy Supply By Cody Battershill

COVER FEATURE

By Shane Wenzel

2022 Alberta Business Hall of Fame – Southern Alberta Celebrating Southern Alberta’s Great Business Leaders By Melanie Darbyshire

ON OUR COVER: ABOVE: DR. ELIZABETH CANNON, WAYNE & ELEANOR CHIU, NANCY KNOWLTON & CHARLIE FISCHER.

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Celebrates 25 Years

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Investing in Learning Transformational training and education By John Hardy

Put your best foot forward Quality over quantity counts in office wardrobe building By Natalie Noble

Is the Hot Market Cooling? Tight market conditions continue By John Hardy

Senior Retirement Residences Offer a Variety of Care Options Ensuring senior couples can age together under the same roof By Erlynn Gococo

C-West Custom Fixtures

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Celebrates 30 Years

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Canada Day is our Independence Day!

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Calgary Chamber of Commerce Ball Position and Your Instinct By Scott Orban

Parker’s Pen By David Parker

AS GLOBAL DEMAND GROWS, SO SHOULD CANADA’S ENERGY SUPPLY // CODY BATTERSHILL

Volume 32 | Number 8

As Global Demand Grows, So Should Canada’s Energy Supply BY CODY BATTERSHILL

here’s not much doubt that better information about energy issues results in better energy choices made by the public.

That’s because good public choices depend on a reasonable set of values together with solid information on available options. For example, what are the principles or standards of behaviour that you believe in? And how do the energy choices we make get us closer to achieving those values? So here’s a crucial fact: global demand for oil and gas is growing, projected to reach 104 million barrels per day by 2035, up four million bpd compared to current levels. Global LNG demand is projected to grow 90 per cent above 2021 consumption levels. Should Canada, one of the most stable and environmentally responsible energy suppliers globally, supply oil and gas to countries that require it? Or should the supply be sourced from countries with less transparent governance and weaker protections for human rights and the environment? After all, Canada is home to about 40 per cent of the world’s oil production that’s subject to carbon pricing. And through the use of renewable electricity, Canadian LNG projects are expected to be among the least carbon-intensive facilities in the world. Oil sands emissions intensity has decreased 44 per cent since 1995, with the potential for another 20 to 30 per cent reduction with the application of planned innovations, all while the Oil Sands Pathway to Net Zero, unprecedented in the global sector, will see oil sands emissions intensities reduced to net zero by 2050.

Canada’s oil and gas sector has generated more than $500 billion in revenues for our governments since 2000, and our oil and gas exports were valued at $1.94 trillion between 1988 and 2019, creating immense wealth and prosperity for the provinces. And some 800,000 to 900,000 Canadians depend on the sector for their livelihood. Choosing Canadian oil and gas over its less-transparent competitors is the right values-based move, given its strong and evolving environmental record. And remember that oil and gas is so much more than just transportation fuel. It provides fertilizer for our farms, medical products for our hospitals and thousands of other goods we all rely on daily. In other words, petroleum products underpin our modern lifestyle; they touch virtually everything we do. And amid current global energy shortages, it’s clear the world needs more stable and responsible sources of supply – not less. What if we were to listen to some activist organizations that work to block Canadian oil and gas development and export infrastructure? Markets requiring petroleum products would find them elsewhere, and Canada would lose. But we don’t have to choose between supporting responsibly-produced Canadian oil and gas and expanding our renewable sources. We should choose to do both.

Cody Battershill is a Calgary realtor and founder / spokesperson for CanadaAction. ca, a volunteer-initiated group that supports Canadian energy development and the environmental, social and economic benefits that come with it.

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

She’s been one of Calgary’s top selling Real Estate Agents for years. She has valuable experience working within Calgary’s Inner City Real Estate market and she understands every client is as unique as their home. Tanya takes the time to listen; to understand your wants and needs. She doesn’t expect your trust, Tanya earns it by consistently remaining honest, accesible and tenacious. That’s what sets Tanya apart. The Tanya Eklund Group was founded on Tanya’s principles. The professionals within her group don’t work for Tanya – they work for you, the client. They provide unparalleled expertise, skill and service to Calgary’s inner city And their clients know it.

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Shane Wenzel Cody Battershill David Parker Scott Orban

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Melanie Darbyshire Rennay Craats Natalie Noble John Hardy Erlynn Gococo

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CANADA DAY IS OUR INDEPENDENCE DAY! // SHANE WENZEL

Canada Day is our Independence Day! BY SHANE WENZEL

just returned from a month-long health and wellness retreat at my cabin in Montana. I love it there, mostly because it’s stressless and I feel welcome. Despite some worry about how a sudden growth of more than 45,000 newcomers over the past two years (primarily from California) might change their culture, the culture there is humble. People have moved to Montana where they can buy or build a house on a plot of land, not live in a condo, and get away from high taxes, homelessness flooding their streets and unfettered crime to a 20- or 30-minute drive. The locals are hoping newcomers leave their ‘politics’ back in California. So, I missed Canada Day, but I have some thoughts on it, primarily spurred by a thought-provoking and re-educational article by Canadian historian Gerry Bowler, headlined: What I want for Canada Day. Everyone must read it! He starts with, “I used to think it was a pretty good thing to be a Canadian.” Paragraphs later, he finishes with, “I want our kids to experience a single day of pride, free from the message that they live in a racist genocidal hellhole of which they ought to be ashamed.” “And fireworks. I want fireworks.” His article is full of stories of heroes, innovators and fallout from the destructive last few years. But he pulls you back to what could ‘Make Canada Great Again.’ Like I said, read it. It can be found online by searching Gerry Bowler and the article title – What I want for Canada Day. On my retreat, I thought a lot about nationalism and how it got discredited by internationalists. They ignore the bonds that tie us to our history, our ancestors, our families, our communities, our memories and values that our history has

shaped into our collective identities. Isn’t that why we love to travel and experience the different cultures along with their history (which compared to Canada is long but helped us shape our own history)? When I travel, I marvel at how some of the oldest countries take such pride in telling their stories, sharing their traditions, and how icons like the Eiffel Tower, the pyramids, the Colosseum in Rome, the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace all evolved and are preserved – the list goes on. Should we deny our future generations the opportunity to experience and understand how the world and our own economies have evolved? Where we came from, where we got new ideas and how humans have been able to develop different nations and celebrate their different cultures? If we do, shame on us! Until recent years, nationalism was not thought to be evil like some now suggest. Names we are most familiar with like Winston Churchill, Franklin Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson and our own founders became our statements of nationalism, independence and freedom. What did they see that we are in jeopardy of losing because people are hesitant, afraid or just not up to asking: “Why are we submitting to a few and the destruction of our nationalism?” To use some not so popular words we have recently heard, I can only ask: “Why are we tolerating this?” and “Who are these people who think they only are in charge of us and our childrens’ future?” Thanks, Gerry Bowler, for bringing this to my attention!

Shane Wenzel is president of the Shane Homes Group of Companies. Follow him @shanewenzel on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.His column is written for the Alberta Enterprise Group, @AEG on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

INVESTING IN LEARNING // TRAINING & EDUCATION

Investing in Learning T R A N S F O R M AT I O N A L T R A I N I N G A N D E D U C AT I O N

BY JOHN HARDY

n many contemporary industries and workplaces, training and education upgrading is no longer an extra, as much as a vital necessity.

Academic institutions like SAIT and Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business, as well as employers agree. Industrial training helps develop skills in the application of theory to practical knowledge and helps develop skills and techniques which are directly relevant to desired workplace goals. It also increases responsibility and good work habits. Industrial training and education exposes students to real work in an industrial environment and, at the same time, enables them to gain knowledge through hands-on experience and job execution. Employers and academics are unanimous. Industrial training helps develop work integrity, project management, time management, communication and other useful skills.

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In the past five years or so, there have been many changes in industry, as well as training. Pandemic lockdowns and disruptions of the past two years have had a tremendous impact on training and education, primarily with the transition to online learning, emerging technologies and new ways of doing things. The supply and demand for programs is being re-defined as are the requirement of workplaces and the expectations of students. “There has been a move to highly tailored, customized programming that fits the needs of organizations and individual,” says Tanya Verhulp, director, Executive Education at the Haskayne School of Business. “There is less desire for off-the-shelf programming. If an organization is going to invest in learning, they want to see a behaviour shift as a result. Business training now – as opposed to five years ago – is all about return on investment.

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INVESTING IN LEARNING // TRAINING & EDUCATION

“WE WANT OUR STUDENTS TO LEARN THE TECHNOLOGY BEING USED IN INDUSTRY AND HAVE A LEVEL OF COMFORT AND OPENNESS TO LEARNING NEW TECHNOLOGY AS THEY CONTINUE THEIR CAREERS,” SEGATO POINTS OUT. “Micro-credentials such as stacked certificates, certifications and degrees – are becoming increasingly important for hiring and promotion. How people get these credentials have changed with a heavier reliance on technology, personalization and social learning. Overall, individuals are having to become lifelong learners.” The organization’s expectations have changed, and so has curriculum and student focus. According to Janet Segato, dean of the SAIT School of Business, “The pace of change in industry continues to accelerate and education has changed to ensure graduates are ready to successfully launch their careers and lives. Digital knowledge and digital IQ are required foundational knowledge for most careers as more companies are transforming how they use technology in all areas of their business. “Employers are also seeking graduates that have human skills, the ability to think critically, understand problems and apply creative solutions, communicate well in different modalities and to be adaptable.” For generations, “industrial training” became a misleading, misunderstood cliché and for some, it is still misnomer and a stereotype. “When people think about training, they may think about things such as mandatory health and safety training or a one-day workshop that their organization mandated them to attend,” Verhulp says. “Those still exist, but truly building leadership and business acumen skills takes time and a growth mindset through an engaging process that is purposefully designed, such as a leadership development program. “The transformation that an organization can undergo as a result of several employees completing a program together

– such as common language, breaking down of silos, shared understanding of key concepts or working through mentored projects, can be unprecedented.” While emerging technology was a fact of industrial training life several years before the COVID disruptions struck, managing the work-from-home (WFH) and remote learning surge war speed accelerated the role of technology in training and education. “Like all industries, technology is transforming education, not only in what is taught, but how it is taught. We want our students to learn the technology being used in industry and have a level of comfort and openness to learning new technology as they continue their careers,” Segato points out. “Throughout the pandemic, all industry along with educational institutions have escalated the use of virtual tools and collaborative tools for operational efficiency and communications. SAIT graduates need to know how to participate or host a virtual meeting, how to collaborate on projects using virtual tools and how to start a professional relationship with a colleague virtually who may be in the same city or may be around the world. Many programs are exploring virtual reality and artificial intelligence to enhance the learning experience and ensure graduates are ready for their future.” In addition to the surge of technology that was an abrupt part of the sudden switch to online learning, changing trends and requirements of contemporary workplaces are continually impacting industrial training and education. Verhulp explains that one of the key drivers for change has been a huge migration in people moving into new positions, careers,

ABOVE: JANET SEGATO, DEAN OF THE SAIT SCHOOL OF BUSINESS.

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INVESTING IN LEARNING // TRAINING & EDUCATION

“WE FIND THAT PARTICIPANTS OFTEN SHARE THAT THEY ARE IMPRESSED BY THE VALUE AND RETURN ON INVESTMENT THEY RECEIVE FROM A WELL-DESIGNED PROGRAM,” VERHULP SAYS. industries which require further skills. Many companies are realizing they need to continue investing in their employees’ learning and development to keep them engaged. “A highly impactful leadership development program and a sense of the employer investing in their people can aid in engagement and retention,” she says. “It’s now an expectation from employees that there will be opportunities for continuous professional development throughout their careers. The skills required to be successful in the future workplace are changing and employers are seeing gaps.” Another driver for the changing need in business training is that organizations are needing to adapt their core business and processes and they need employees to lead that change. “Aging demographics are driving the need for business training. Many senior leaders are preparing for retirement in coming years and training will help fill this gap – by helping junior leaders to grow,” she emphasizes. According to training and education experts, one of the biggest challenges for today’s student participants is time commitment, with many participants being unable to get the time from work or just having too much on their plates to commit. “We find that participants often share that they are impressed by the value and return on investment they receive from a well-designed program,” Verhulp says. “The opportunities to apply learning, through practical tools and resources or Action Learning Projects provide significant return on investment for learners and their organizations.” Major companies, like Suncor, rely on opportunities for training and education of employees. “A number of factors have contributed to the increase in training over the past

several years,” says Leithan Slade, spokesperson at Suncor. “Large scale implementations involving technology and process upgrades, as well as business simplification required new training for awareness and upskilling. “Migration from paper to system tracking resulting in higher reported training numbers, an increased focus on operator driven reliability in fixed plants operations, front line leadership training and specialized training for analytics roles. The addition of new on-demand online content has provided employees the opportunity to explore new areas of interest and to develop existing ones,” he says. Changing times call for changing training and education programs. Currently, at Calgary’s SAIT, the most popular programs include health care, aviation, information technology and business. Specifically in business, supply chain management is growing as is the demand for business analytics across all areas of business education. At Haskayne, popular programs include Strategic Leadership Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurial Thinking, Digital Transformation and preparing for business of the future, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “There is a focus on upskilling and re-skilling as so much transition and change are taking place across all industries,” Tanya Verhulp emphasizes. “The ‘great resignation’ has caused so many companies to re-think their hiring and talent acquisition practices. Many technical experts are being promoted into leadership positions and there is a need for support in their transition to their new role.”

ABOVE: TANYA VERHULP, DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE EDUCATION AT THE HASKAYNE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS.

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PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD // DRESS FOR SUCCESS

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD QUALITY OVER QUANTITY COUNTS IN OFFICE WARDROBE BUILDING

BY NATALIE NOBLE

s Calgarians suit up and head back to the office, has casual Friday gone too far? Two years of Zoom meetings in shirts, ties and sweats or shorts have become the comfortable norm. But the fashion industry is responding to ensure people look, and feel, their best back at the workplace.

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PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD // DRESS FOR SUCCESS

“In this fusion environment, we’re seeing people go a bit more casual, but with a dressy silhouette in more comfortable fabrics. Who doesn’t want to be more comfortable right now?” says espy Experience’s Megan Szanik. “There’s a blended movement happening where people have pieces they can wear at the office or on a Zoom meeting from home. We’re seeing fabrics that are more useful and casual come into these business silhouettes so people can be more comfortable. They still want that professional silhouette of a blazer, but they want something easier to wear.” Supreme Fashion Connection’s Darren Biedermann is noticing a trend towards comfort, practicality and sustainability as well. “Today’s wardrobes are being selected with more conscious

endeavour than experienced previously,” he says. “We’re seeing visions of long-term practical wear ability rather than simply fast fashion to fit in.” For those feeling uncertain about transitioning from athleisure to office appropriate wear, Biedermann and Szanik break down their top tips. While the rules of dress may be shifting, both insist fit is key. In fact, Supreme and espy both employ professionally trained stylists and offer tailoring services. “We don’t always know what flatters our body shape, and this where finding expert help is a differentiator,” says Szanik. “Do dress for your shape. Don’t wear ill-fitting clothing. When you wear something that fits you well, you’ll be so surprised by how different you look and feel with all ABOVE: ESPY EXPERIENCE’S MEGAN SZANIK SAYS DRESSING FOR COMFORT AT THE OFFICE WORKS WHEN IDEAL FIT AND TAILORING ARE FACTORED IN. PHOTO SOURCE: WILLIAM HOSIER

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// DRESS FOR SUCCESS

the confidence in the world. It’s as simple as something that fits you well.” Biedermann suggests people shop with fit and feel top of mind. “When it’s the right piece, we know, and we will not need to be sold or seek validation. Like all things in life, we best follow our intuitions. Invest the time and shop around with consciousness.” Once that basic fit and personal comfort are addressed, it’s important to remember that the way people dress is an expression of themselves but also an indicator of how they will approach a work project. “When people wear things that don’t fit, they don’t look put together. Then people wonder, how is this person going to manage my project?” says Szanik. “I know it’s not fair, but it is the way the world works. We’re judged every time someone sees us. So, let’s put our best foot forward.”

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Biedermann agrees. “The clothing we select reflects who we are. It’s our social skin, letting others know about us before we share any words. Our wardrobes have a profound effect on the way we experience life and connect with others. Dress to express not impress,” he says. So, as fall approaches, what can people keep in mind? First there’s a movement towards practicality and sustainability. This is where meeting with an expert can eliminate that proverbial problem of a closet full of clothes, nothing to wear. “As professional stylists, we can really build a wardrobe that you can actually use,” says Szanik. In Calgary, people can expect to pay around $100 per hour for a stylist or visit a boutique where it’s part of the service. The initial visit tends to take two-and-a-half hours. “It can be some of the best money you’ve ever spent,” says Szanik. “Because now, when you’re at the outlets in Phoenix and know what to strategically look out for, you’re building a wardrobe. You’re empowered and educated when you go shopping.” Building on that practicality means investing in a few staples that count and spending less on trends or accessories that pull everything together. For men this fall, it’s going to be all about a hybrid sweater/blazer. Szanik calls it a “swazer.”

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// DRESS FOR SUCCESS

“You’re looking for a blazer made of a knit fabric,” she says. “From far away, people think, look how great that guy looks in that blazer. Little do they know when they go up and feel it, it’s going to be so soft and feel like they’re wearing a cardigan. That ‘swazer’ hybrid is so important, maintaining the comfort we’ve had over the last two years.”

ABOVE: SUPREME FASHION CONNECTION’S DARREN BIEDERMANN SEES A TREND TOWARDS COMFORT, PRACTICALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN OFFICE DRESSING AS CALGARIANS HEAD BACK TO THE OFFICE.

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

// DRESS FOR SUCCESS

“WE CONTINUALLY PRACTICE THE GOLDEN RULE WITH AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE,” SAYS BIEDERMANN. “WE OPEN OUR DOORS TO INDIVIDUALLY, COLLECTIVELY AND IMPARTIALLY SERVE THE HIGHEST PRIORITY OF THE PRESENT MOMENT IN THE HEARTBEAT OF OUR TOWN.” For the ladies, blazers are going to be oversized, which means a tailored approach is a must. “We need a strong shoulder, but also a nipped-in waist that doesn’t leave them looking like a box,” says Szanik. “Most of us are not supermodels so we need to use the tips and tricks to modify a style for us. It’s about how we use our bodies and accessories to make something work and give us confidence.” Everyone can expect looser fits that come away from the body as opposed to skinny jeans and fitted blazers. “We’re seeing pants loosen up for ladies and men,” says Szanik. “Wide legs for ladies means thinking about our stature where a shorter lady might need some cropping to get that look. We think about dimensions, including a shorter waist with these looser pants. On the men’s side, let’s get away from skinny to a more tapered or straight legged jean.” Finally, as Calgarians head back downtown, get ready for some bling. “Every collection for this year has so much shine in it. We’re going to see more detail, for example a button-up blouse for women with more bling on the cuff, she can style that under a blazer or a sweater, and then take it into an evening event,” says Szanik. “Even in men, we’re going to see a more understated version. In the blazer, up close, we’re going to see velourex in it or leather details to give some extra.” As two owners who steered their businesses through the challenges of the last couple of years, Szanik and Biedermann credit their community in getting them through. “We continually practice the golden rule with an attitude of gratitude,” says Biedermann. “We open our doors to individually, collectively and impartially serve the highest priority of the present moment in the heartbeat of our town.” Szanik seconds the motion. “Calgary is an amazing massive city of over a million people with a small-town vibe,” she says. “It’s still reasonable cost-wise to run an independent retail business here. I don’t care if our governments are blue, red or orange, they believe in small business here. We have a great business environment because we are supported here.”

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

2022 ALBERTA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME – SOUTHERN ALBERTA // COVER

2022 Alberta Business Hall of Fame - Southern Alberta CELEBRATING SOUTHERN ALBERTA’S GREAT BUSINESS LEADERS BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE

n its 18th year, the Alberta Business Hall of Fame is set to celebrate the lifetime achievements of five of the province’s esteemed business leaders. Successful in different fields in different ways, they have all demonstrated superior business acumen, entrepreneurialism and a generosity of spirit that makes them deserving of induction into the Business Hall of Fame. “Each year, inductees are honoured with our gratitude and admiration for their contributions to the economic development and prosperity of Alberta,” says Melissa From, president and CEO of Junior Achievement Southern Alberta (JASA), which presents the Induction Ceremony and Celebration. “As leading examples of achievement in business and in life, these individuals have demonstrated the qualities necessary to ensure the success and competitiveness of our province, our country and in a global marketplace.” The Induction Ceremony and Celebration, which takes place on October 6 at the Hyatt Regency in Calgary, is the signature fundraising initiative in support of JASA. This year’s inductees include three women, three engineers and two accountants. They are Dr. Elizabeth M. Cannon, an internationally celebrated geomatics engineer and president emerita of the University of Calgary; Wayne and Eleanor Chiu, founders of Trico Homes and the Trico Charitable Foundation; Nancy Knowlton, founder of SMART Technologies and Nureva Inc.; and Charlie Fischer, past president and CEO of Nexen. JASA is a non-profit organization which delivers a wide selection of educational programs focusing on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. Through partnerships with educators and volunteers from local businesses, JASA offers important interactive, hands-on learning experiences to students in all communities across southern Alberta. “During the 2021-2022 school year, JASA taught financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship skills to over

40,000 students,” From explains. “All programs align with Alberta’s new curriculum and are provided free of charge to schools thanks to the generosity of donors and sponsors. JASA is a member of JA Canada and JA Worldwide and has been a leader in youth business education programs for over 60 years.” The work that JASA does has been particularly important coming out of two years of pandemic. “Self-efficacy is the idea that people who believe they will succeed are far more likely than others to actually succeed,” From notes. “This is a crucial characteristic to develop in today’s youth. The good news is research shows that self-efficacy can be taught in two primary ways – mastering skills through hands-on learning and experiences (JA programming) and through observing the success of others who have high levels of self-efficacy (JA volunteers in the classroom). As Alberta continues to lead the country in economic recovery, traditional sectors will flourish while incredible growth will continue in the start-up and tech sectors. Alberta’s attractiveness as a place to live and work, particularly to its younger residents, will rise. “There is so much opportunity in Alberta right now, and an ecosystem that is really enabling young people to create their own opportunity,” From marvels. “I hope that all of these great things will result in more of our young people realizing that they can do really cool stuff here in their home province.” ABOVE: MELISSA FROM, PRESIDENT & CEO OF JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA PHOTO SOURCE: BOOKSTRUCKER

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

2022 ALBERTA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME – SOUTHERN ALBERTA // COVER

Dr. Elizabeth Cannon There are few people who can build a career from student to president of the same university, but Dr. Elizabeth Cannon is one of them. Her 36-year journey – which began as a geomatics engineering student at the University of Calgary in 1982 – culminated in an eight-year tenure as president and vice chancellor of her alma matter from 2010 to 2018. It’s an unusual path, one she considers herself extremely fortunate to have travelled. “My journey wasn’t particularly pre-planned,” she admits, “but like in many organizations, you start with small leadership responsibilities. And if you do a good job, people ask you do to other things. And before you know it, you’re being encouraged to take on major academic leadership roles.” And while she loved being an undergraduate, graduate and PhD student (1982 - 1991), a geomatics engineering professor (1991 - 2006), and the dean of the Schulich School of Engineering (2006 - 2010), president was a whole different ball game. “It’s really about building capacity, building the university’s reputation,” she explains. “The job is to empower others. It’s helping students reach their potential. Helping faculty reach their potential. Helping connect the university to the community and serve it better. So you’re having an impact but using very different levers in different ways.” A native of Charlottetown, P.E.I., Dr. Cannon grew up in a home where education, particularly in math and science, was encouraged. Her mother was a science graduate from McGill University at a time when very few women were and taught high school math and science. Her father was a research scientist with Agriculture Canada. “I always liked math, physics and science overall,” she recalls, “so engineering seemed like a good fit. It’s using those as building blocks to create things, solve problems and have an impact.” And a major impact she had, specifically in the field of global positioning system (GPS). Starting as a summer student at a Calgary tech company in 1983, Dr. Cannon’s career was at the forefront of the novel technology’s growth. “It intrigued me,” she reflects on her younger self. “I jumped into doing research and teaching, and it was at the time when GPS was emerging as a technology, its capabilities becoming more impactful and useful in everything from

agriculture to the U.S. Navy. All of these applications made the technology ubiquitous today.” She and her colleagues from the university (including Gerard Lachapelle, Cannon’s husband) commercialized their algorithms and software to more than 200 agencies worldwide. Since leaving the role of university president, Dr. Cannon has taken positions on a number of corporate and nonprofit boards and has been a keen investor in several tech startups – particularly those lead by women – in the Calgary ecosystem. Indeed, women in STEM has been a dominant theme of her life. “I encourage more women to think about engineering,” she says. “Not that they should all be engineers but think about what’s possible. Whether it was classroom mentoring, being dean or president, I wanted to create the conditions for women to succeed. And now I continue that passion through supporting and investing in female-founded companies.” To the younger generation, her advice is to immerse oneself in entrepreneurial thinking: “It doesn’t mean you have to start a company. But be entrepreneurial. Take risks, be proactive, be accountable. Whether you’re a student or working at a company, have an entrepreneurial mindset. Have the energy and the passion to build things, solve problems and be creative. That mindset is going to help carry you in life, career and community, regardless of what you do.”

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

2022 ALBERTA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME – SOUTHERN ALBERTA // COVER

Wayne & Eleanor Chiu There are very few corners of Calgary that Wayne and Eleanor Chiu have not had a remarkable impact on. Their company, Trico Homes, has built more than 11,000 houses over the past 30 years, and their philanthropic efforts have impacted nearly every post-secondary institution in the city. From the Chiu School of Business at Bow Valley College to the Trico Changemakers Studio at Mount Royal University to the Trico Foundation Social Entrepreneurship Centre at the University of Calgary – the influence they have had on their home city is vast and deep. The hardworking couple, whose offices are located next to each other at Trico’s headquarters, are simply happy to be able to give back and provide an example for other immigrants to model. “As immigrants and entrepreneurs, it’s important to us that we let other people of similar backgrounds know that if they work hard, they can accomplish the same things we have, or better,” says Eleanor. “We’re happy to show everyone who are immigrants that they can do it too.” Wayne first moved to Winnipeg from Hong Kong in 1976, to take mechanical engineering at the University of Manitoba. After returning home and marrying Eleanor in 1982 (they met at church), the couple moved to Calgary that same year. Wayne got his first job in Cremona, while Eleanor completed her finance and accounting degree at the University of Calgary. “I had to commute two hours every day while Eleanor walked to university,” recalls Wayne. “It was interesting on really cold winter days. It was a challenging first year or so, like all new couples go through, but we persevered.” Eleanor went on to become a chartered accountant and it was the security of her job that allowed Wayne to take the risk on his own renovation business. “I thought that given my engineering background, and my skills and expertise in construction, that I would start this company,” he says. “We never, ever, in our wildest dreams, thought it would grow into what it is today.” “Being an accountant, I’ve always been a little bit more conservative when it comes to risk,” Eleanor adds. “Things are always changing, and you really have to be on top of what’s going on in the world and be able to react quickly.”

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

For Wayne, the highlights are always trying to figure out how to provide better customer service to the client and enhancing the corporate culture and brand. “We really believe in building strong communities,” Wayne explains. “In 2008, we established the Trico Charitable Foundation and developed a social enterprise model for it. Now it has evolved to focus more on social entrepreneurship.” Their giving has been heavily focused on continuing education and training for immigrants – Eleanor is one of the founding board members of Windmill Microlending, which provides micro loans to immigrants and refugees seeking local licensing and training. “Early on, a lot of our donations went to helping people get back on their feet,” Eleanor explains. “We both really believe in education. To me, it’s not just learning practical skills. It’s also learning how to solve problems, how to think, how to contribute and how to be a good person.” A power couple if there ever was one, they are happy to share the spotlight together: “It’s exciting to be recognized together. It’s very special for us being husband and wife.”

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2022 ALBERTA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME – SOUTHERN ALBERTA // COVER

Nancy Knowlton The co-founder of SMART Technologies Inc., Nancy Knowlton is a pioneer of Calgary’s now-bourgeoning tech sector. Since launching her first company with husband David Martin in 1987, she has been at the forefront of the industry in Canada: her SMART Board interactive whiteboard has transformed the way millions of people learn in meeting rooms and classrooms around the world. “One of the biggest accomplishments was introducing a new product concept and seeing it become indispensable in so many classrooms around the world and hearing from so many people about what a difference the SMART Board made to them when they were in school,” Knowlton reflects. “It is also gratifying to see the next generation of tech company execs who got their start and learned their business lessons at SMART.” Growing up in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, Knowlton was an optimistic child with a sense she could do anything. Her entrepreneurial spirit was evident from an early age when she and her brother (aged 8 and 10) worked to make and sell maple syrup. “It was a lot of hard work that we did before and after school,” she recalls. “The lesson learned was that nothing happened until we sold something.” After growing SMART Technologies into a global company with revenues of US $800 million by 2012, Knowlton (who is a chartered accountant by trade) and Martin walked away for a much-needed break. “We only realized after we left how stressed and exhausted we were,” she says. “It was good for us personally to walk away but hard to disengage from the mission that drove us for so long.” Two years of downtime – playing golf, travelling and attending conferences – later, the couple were ready for the next challenge. In 2014 they founded Nureva Inc., a company that provides audio conferencing solutions to support hybrid working and learning. Today, some of the world’s largest companies and most prestigious universities are using Nureva’s products. In 2020, Knowlton and Martin also founded Nialli, which is focused on collaboration software solutions and tools. One of the company’s applications – Visual Planner – brings the Last Planner methodology for construction to life in the digital realm. “We worked closely with a construction

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

company to make sure that we kept all of the benefits of the paper-based system while adding in all the benefits of being digital,” she explains. “Right here at home, PCL has used our software to manage the day-to-day activities at the Calgary Cancer Centre.” Despite a full schedule, Knowlton nonetheless makes time to give back to the community. In 2002-2003 she served on Alberta’s Education Commission, which made recommendations to the provincial government that would help guide the system strategies and priorities, most of which were accepted and implemented. In 2003 she founded the SMARTer Kids Foundation, which contributes to teachers and students around the world. “A hand up is all that so many young people need to find their way in the world,” she reasons. “Their enthusiasm and optimism are boundless and infectious. Building up young people is the best way I know how to secure the future for all.” She’s also bullish on Calgary: “There are so many great ideas being brought to life right here. It feels like we have a strong critical mass of people with the requisite skills, perspective and experience to accomplish a lot on a global stage.”

2022 ALBERTA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME – SOUTHERN ALBERTA // COVER

Charlie Fischer Charlie Fischer was an enabling leader, a man who always made time for those who needed it. He enjoyed interesting, technical work, eagerly rising to the next big challenge. A passionate supporter of several causes, he was a devoted family man who saved every spare moment for his wife and two daughters. To the many who knew him, he was a great man. Born in Saskatoon, Fischer grew up in Calgary, a typical 1950s upbringing. He graduated from Viscount Bennett High School and went on to study chemical engineering at the University of Calgary. An interest in finance also lead to an MBA in 1982. Like many of his generation, Alberta’s oilpatch was a logical place of employment. “Charlie worked because he needed to support himself, he wanted a decent quality of life,” says his wife Joanne Cuthbertson. “He liked doing interesting work. He liked doing work he believed would improve the business.” He worked at a number of different companies – Dome Petroleum, Hudson’s Bay Oil and Gas, Bow Valley Industries, TransCanada Pipelines, Encor, Canadian Occidental Petroleum – in increasingly senior roles. In 1994, he joined Nexen as senior vice president, Exploration and Production, North America. On June 1, 2001, he was appointed president and chief executive officer, a position he held until his retirement at the end of 2008. “Charlie was really proud of what they accomplished at Nexen – how they became a major Canadian company responsible for a large contribution to the Canadian economy,” Cuthbertson recalls. “They showed up well, when compared with other international companies. It was really rewarding for Charlie. And he loved that people really loved working at Nexen. They always told him so.” “Charlie was also a model of corporate citizenship in Canada and elsewhere,” says Brian Felesky, founder and chair of InterGen. “Nexen’s work in Yemen on health services and education was a significant benefit for the Yemenis people and also for Nexen’s goodwill.” “He was a master of humble leadership,” Felesky continues. “Charlie empowered everyone. His ‘magic touch’ was being so genuinely interested in all people in and about the organization – from the board members,

the executive group, to the staff in the copy room and in the coffee room.” Fischer also gave his time to many industry and non-profit boards, including as co-chair of Climate Change Central for 10 years until 2011. “On the environment side he knew he could bring an expert view and be influential because he was speaking on behalf a large Canadian company,” Cuthbertson says. “It was very challenging, especially coming from the oilpatch, but it was important to Charlie to be involved.” He was also a patient advocate and co-founded IMAGINE: Citizens Collaborating for Health, an organization focused on improving patient experience and patient outcomes. “Both of us went through our parents’ aging and failing health,” Cuthbertson explains. “And then Charlie experienced his own shocking threat to his health first in 2014 with cancer, and then in 2019 with the return of cancer. Being close up and in the system, you learn a lot, and you see there are things that really should be better.” The Alberta Children’s Hospital was another cause very dear to Fischer. He served on the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation Board and co-chaired a successful campaign that raised over $50 million to support building the new hospital. “It was a lifelong commitment for Charlie,” Cuthbertson says. “It was very, very important to him. He was very close to it and stayed close right until the end of his life.”

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

IS THE HOT MARKET COOLING? // REAL ESTATE

IS THE HOT MARKET COOLING? TIGHT MARKET CONDITIONS CONTINUE

BY JOHN HARDY

he rollercoaster of Calgary’s hot real estate market may not be plunging, but definitely shows signs of cooling down.

The cool-down is not as sudden or sharp as in some other markets like Vancouver and Toronto, but although the rest of 2022 and potentially 2023 Calgary real estate looks

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

stable and encouraging, there is a gradual Calgary cooldown happening. As tracked by the recent Desjardins Economics Canadian Residential Real Estate Outlook, the two speed-bumped years of the pandemic fuelled demand and Canada had world-leading price gains, but that has also begun to cool,

reflecting spiked mortgage rates and increasing borrowing costs. Calgary’s real estate market is somewhat unique. “A few factors are at play since the slow down we saw in early 2020,” says Michael Mak, senior analyst, Economics, with CMHC. “Economic recovery in Calgary and Alberta has been sharp since the pandemic started, and the pace of job gains was quick in 2021. Unemployment rates in Calgary have now reached prepandemic levels, with employment fully recovered, if not higher in most industries. “With a stronger and more resilient economy, Alberta also saw a reversal in interprovincial migration, from a net negative (outflow) of people to other provinces for several quarters in 2021, back to a positive (inflow) of interprovincial migration which serves to drive both ownership and rental markets. At the same time,” he says, “international migration resumed from easing restrictions and demand for housing in Alberta and Calgary continued to rise.”

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According to respected Calgary realtor and CREB chair Lorna Hamm, “Housing market activity is always driven by a number of influencing factors. It really depends on the individual needs of each buyer and seller, but certainly the last couple years have really redefined the concept of home, and when you combine that with a low interest rate climate, consumer demand has gone up. But cooling off?

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

IS THE HOT MARKET COOLING? // REAL ESTATE

“There’s no doubt that sales activity has eased somewhat from those exceptionally strong levels seen earlier in the year, but we are still seeing conditions that favour the seller.” High prices. Listings-to-sales ratios. Mortgage rates. Various Calgary factors impact the hot market and nudge it, gradually, toward a balanced market. “In addition to COVID-related savings and the desire for more space, the low lending rate is one of the major factors that have supported the surge in demand growth,” say CREB economist Ann-Marie Lurie. “At the same time Calgary has also been benefiting from job growth and a rebound in migration into the province. While gains in migration and job growth will help offset the impact of higher

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

IS THE HOT MARKET COOLING? // REAL ESTATE

that were far stronger than expected in the early part of the year (YTD benchmark was up over 15 per cent),” Lurie adds. Despite common assumptions, rising mortgage rates significantly impact Calgary’s real estate market but are not the magic formula for a cool-down.

“WHILE MORTGAGE RATES ARE NOT THE PURE FACTOR IN DRIVING THIS MARKET,” MAK NOTES, “THE EXPECTATION OF RATE INCREASES HAVE INCENTIVIZED CONSUMERS TO PUSH FORWARD THEIR HOMEBUYING PLANS IN ORDER TO MEET RATE LOCKS. THIS RESULTS IN A HIGHER NUMBER OF POTENTIAL HOMEBUYERS COMPETING FOR THE SAME NUMBER OF LOWER LISTINGS.” rates, the rates gains have been higher and steeper than original expectation so I do expect that the higher rates will have a cooling impact on housing demand. “While cooling is expected, I do not expect a complete collapse in sales, as there is still the offsetting factor of a better economy in Alberta thanks to a stronger energy sector and a growing tech sector. The demand levels have been so strong that supply has not been able to catch up causing price gains

“While mortgage rates are not the pure factor in driving this market,” Mak notes, “the expectation of rate increases have incentivized consumers to push forward their homebuying plans in order to meet rate locks. This results in a higher number of potential homebuyers competing for the same number of lower listings. Higher rates in the near future – the rest of 2022 and likely 2023 – should serve to cool-down the resales market compared to early late 2021 and early 2022.” In Calgary, supply and demand still trump rising mortgage rates. “While higher lending rates are weighing on sales activity, the market is still struggling with supply levels and rising prices which could also be contributing to slower sales, especially in the detached market,” Lurie says. “Nonetheless, if this shift continues, we could begin to see more balanced conditions in the market over the next several months, slowing the pace of price growth in the market.” Lorna Hamm points out that Calgary is still seeing tight market conditions, although real estate is very much local and it’s always important to consider the unique characteristics of each community and neighbourhood when evaluating the balance between supply and demand.” CMHC Calgary forecast projects strong housing demand into 2023. “Rising mortgage rates will be the main factor in slowing down sales and price growth. We expect 2023 sales to be below what we saw in 2021 and 2022, but at a rate higher than sales activity in 2015 – 2019,” Mak adds. “We also forecast average prices to continue growing, but at a slower pace than what we saw in the second half of 2021 and early 2022.”

ABOVE: MICHAEL MAK, SENIOR ANALYST, ECONOMICS WITH CMHC.

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

SENIOR RETIREMENT RESIDENCES OFFER A VARIETY OF CARE OPTIONS // SENIOR LIVING

SENIOR RETIREMENT RESIDENCES OFFER A VARIETY OF CARE OPTIONS ENSURING SENIOR COUPLES CAN AGE TOGETHER UNDER THE SAME ROOF BY ERLYNN GOCOCO

ince the 1950s, Canada’s demographic population has experienced a significant shift. According to a Government of Canada report, in addition to declining fertility and mortality rates, Canadians are seeing substantial gains in life expectancy and the aging of baby boomers – those born between 1946 and 1965. In fact, Statistics Canada revealed that life expectancy at age 65 has been increasing. In 1985, a 65-year-old could expect to live another 17 years. By 2006, this number increased to 20 years: 18 years longer for men and 21 years for women. As well, the proportion of seniors continues to climb while that of children and youth continues to decline. This means, the proportion of seniors (17.5 per cent) now exceeds the proportion of children younger than 15 years old (16 per cent) and could climb to 22.7 per cent in 2031.

ABOVE: AMICA ASPEN WOODS

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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SENIOR RETIREMENT RESIDENCES OFFER A VARIETY OF CARE OPTIONS // SENIOR LIVING

Despite the country’s aging population, most Canadians want to live a long and healthy life. In 2019, there were 6.6 million Canadian seniors (65+ years old). By 2040, that percentage is projected to increase to one-fourth of the overall population. While the percentage of seniors continues to grow, so does the need for adequate living options. When it comes to living options for seniors, it is important to note that many who require assisted living arrangements are in a couple situation. Fortunately, some of Calgary’s top senior living facilities offer options for senior couples. Amica Aspen Woods community relations assitant Lindsay Kulyk says, “When you have found your person, you commit to life together. At Amica, we support your love for each other and your desire to live life side by side. It is not what we have but who we have. We want you to enjoy this chapter together. You can have your individual care needs fulfilled with your loved one by your side. Together, today, tomorrow, forever. ” Kulyk is proud that many inspiring couples choose to call Amica Aspen Woods home. While there are certainly positive aspects of living together as a senior couple in an assisted living environment, there are some inevitable challenging moments. “On a happy note, many senior couples share the celebrations of over 60 years of happy marriage with our other residents. The unfortunate side of this is that some of our residents will experience losing a spouse while living in one of our communities. Fortunately, these residents say they are grateful for living at Amica because it provides them with a support system of great friends so that they don’t feel alone. Being surrounded by a supportive community is vital whether you are living alone or living as a couple,” explains Kulyk. Living at Amica Aspen Woods means that individual needs are met. For couples, the most important part is that they continue to enjoy their lives together. No matter the circumstances, Amica is confident it can accommodate senior couples’ needs while they continue to live together. If there is a situation where one spouse needs care and one does not, the care is brought to the couple’s suite. This means, independence can continue and care can be provided in a cohesive way.

Amica Aspen Woods provides a full spectrum of care, including early onset memory care. Its sister residence Amica Britannia provides advanced memory care. At Amica Britannia, the secure memory care neighbourhood can accommodate couples or individuals who are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Whether one spouse or both need memory care, they can continue to live together in Amica. “We believe in living life the way that you wish. At Amica, you’re encouraged to make those choices. Your day, your way,” says Kulyk. Another local retirement facility offers an “age in place” community, which means independent living, assisted living and memory care for both individual and couples. McKenzie Towne Retirement is a wonderful community offering many options both in and out of the building. The surrounding community provides numerous paths, walkways, a large pond, shops and recreational activities that inspire wellness.

ABOVE: MCKENZIE TOWNE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE (REVERA)

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SENIOR RETIREMENT RESIDENCES OFFER A VARIETY OF CARE OPTIONS // SENIOR LIVING

The community of McKenzie Towne is essentially its own little town with an attractive ‘main street’ right outside the door filled with coffee shops, stores, pharmacies, restaurants, pubs and medical offices.

McKenzie Towne Retirement is an all-inclusive retirement living community where residents enjoy three delicious meals a day, snacks, entertainment, activities, bus trips, home care, social gatherings/clubs, weekly housekeeping and cable TV.

McKenzie Towne Retirement executive director Michael Eves says, “Another benefit of living in our retirement community is that Alberta Health Services (AHS) is located within the building as well. This means any care that is currently in place or will be needed in the future will quickly be scheduled and available for developing needs.”

For couples, the facility offers spacious one- and twobedroom suites both with large kitchenettes that include a fridge and microwave.

He adds, “We also have three visiting doctors that come on site three times a week. In our building, we employ RNs, LPNs and health care aides so that when a resident’s health declines, we can make a care plan and provide all necessary services at no additional costs to them.”

Many senior couples enjoy a vast array of activities, entertainment, exercise opportunities and outings that appeal to different interests and hobbies. Eves explains that McKenzie Towne Retirement has approximately 20 per cent of residents who are couples and the facility is committed to keeping them together in a suite for as long as possible. “When one spouse has a significant health decline, whether physical or cognitive, there are options to place him/ her to the appropriate care floor within the same building. Thanks to a dedicated nursing team and AHS case managers located in the building, we can liaise with AHS Transitions to ensure that the resident receives the appropriate care in the appropriate care floor.”

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If one spouse needs a more enhanced care plan and must transfer to either Assisted Living or Memory Care, Eves says that McKenzie Towne Retirement offers both private suites and AHS-funded suites to alleviate the financial strain. It is recommended that families searching for a senior living facility for couples do their due diligence. Make sure to ask the right questions, tour the facility and meet the staff. Having a plan in place will ensure that senior couples will be taken care of and expectations can be met.

DIRECTORY // SENIOR LIVING

HOME CARE FOCUS ON CARING Focus on Caring specializes in Senior Home Care services for the Calgary elderly, enabling them to continue living in the comfort of their own home. 2467 23rd Street NW • 403-264-3839 www.focusoncaring.com

NORTHWEST ATRIA RETIREMENT, ARBOUR LAKE Atria Retirement Canada is committed serving seniors and their families, including those with disabilities, by striving to provide our services in a manner that is accessible to everyone. 900 Arbour Lake Rd NW • (587) 316-7637 www.atriaretirement.ca Amenities: Activity room, billiards lounge, chapel, computer room, fitness and exercise equipment and more.

BOW VIEW MANOR Bow View Manor is a long-term care facility dedicated to helping seniors live a fulfilling life. We provide a personalized care plan that, when combined with our comprehensive array of services, provides residents and families the kind of lifestyle they deserve. 4628 Montgomery Blvd NW • (403) 288-4446 www.bowviewmanor.ca Amenities: Outdoor space, entertainment, socialization and celebrations.

BOW-CREST LONG TERM CARE At Bow-Crest Long Term Care Home in Calgary, Alberta, we work around the clock to ensure our residents are happy and comfortable. 5927 Bowness Rd NW • (403) 288-2373 www.reveraliving.com Amenities: Lounge, beautiful garden sitting area, house keeping and laundry services.

CAMBRIDGE MANOR Opening fall 2020 253 Smith St NW • (403) 536-8675 www.cambridgemanor.ca

CATHEDRAL MANOR ESTATES Calgary Heritage Housing is focused on the seniors self-contained, independent living demographic. We aim to Enhancing our tenants’quality of life, preserve their independence, reducing unnecessary movement, building strong communities and advocating on our tenants’behalf. 11 Varsity Estates View NW • (403) 286-7402 www.calgaryheritagehousing.ca Amenities: Large social room, open courtyard, garden area, exercise class, library and more.

CHARTWELL COLONEL BELCHER RETIREMENT RESIDENCE Chartwell Colonel Belcher Retirement Residence, where residents and staff alike are always there to warmly welcome guests. You’ll find a strong sense of friendship and community are woven through the fabric of daily life at our dynamic residence. 1945 Veteran’s Way NW • (587)-287-3937 www.chartwell.com Amenities: Elevator, housekeeping, laundry, mail and newspaper delivery.

COVENANT CARE HOLY CROSS MANOR Holy Cross Manor meets the various and changing needs of residents and is located in the northwest community of Evanston, Calgary. The community features a home-like design and ensures a safe environment while promoting independence. 70 EvansPark Manor NW • (587) 230-7070 www.covenantcare.ca Amenities: Courtyards, garden areas, large dining rooms, multi-purpose space and more.

EVANSTON GRAND VILLAGE Evanston Grand Village is ideal for seniors who want an independent and active lifestyle without the worries of maintaining a home or depending on family for help. 40 Evanston Way NW • (403) 274-6416 www.evanstongrand.ca Amenities: Library, computer lab, on-site beauty salon/ barbershop, A relaxing and comfortable spa room and more.

EVANSTON SUMMIT Evanston Summit is a faith-based community, focused on creating an environment aligned with your values and your budget. We understand the importance of belonging, which is why we are dedicated to offering a safe and active community that nurtures relationships, active lifestyles and personal well-being. 150 EvansPark Manor NW • (587) 538-7511 www.evanstonsummit.ca Amenities: On-site hair salon/barber shop, exercise room, recreational social programs and more.

EXTENDICARE HILLCREST We create an atmosphere of community and family. Our caring and professional staff wants everyone to feel genuinely at home and in a place where they enjoy living. 1512 8 Ave NW • (403) 289-0236 www.extendicarehillcrest.com Amenities: Spiritual services, denturist, beautician, foot care, tuck shop and more.

REVERA SCENIC ACRES RETIREMENT RESIDENCE Revera Scenic Acres offers a wide range of services for those looking for a comfortable, safe and welcoming retirement residence. Enjoy the on-site salon, library and so much more. Plus, new amenities coming soon! 150 Scotia Landing NW • (403) 208-0338 www.reveraliving.com Amenities: Recreation programs, salon & barber, shop, fitness centre, Fireside lounge and more.

REVERA THE EDGEMONT RETIREMENT RESIDENCE This senior living residence offers the freedom of independent living with added care and security for those who need assistance. 80 Edenwold Dr NW • (403) 241-8990 www.reveraliving.com Amenities: Recreation programs, library, theatre, Fireside lounge and more.

ROCKY RIDGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Signature Retirement Living is committed to protecting the health and safety of our residents and employees in our Retirement Communities, Retirement Residences, Seniors Apartments, and Support Office. 10715 Rocky Ridge Blvd NW • (403) 930-4848 www.rockyridgeretirement.com Amenities: Courtyards, lounge, card games, billiards, shuffleboard, salon and more.

SAGE HILL RETIREMENT RESIDENCE Sage Hill Retirement Residence, is a luxurious, exclusive retirement community that has been designed with your highest expectations in mind and will continue our long-standing tradition of excellence in retirement living. 6 Sage Hill Gardens NW • (403)455-2273 www.allseniorscare.com Amenities: Pet friendly, indoor pool, live entertainment, crafts and more.

ST. MARGUERITE MANOR St. Marguerite Manor meets the various and changing needs of 102 residents.The center features a home-like design and ensures a safe environment while promoting independence. 110 EvansPark Manor NW • (587) 955-9788 www.covenantcare.ca Amenities: Court yards, garden areas, hair salon, large dining, spa rooms and more.

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DIRECTORY // SENIOR LIVING

THE LODGE AT VALLEY RIDGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE The Lodge at Valley Ridge is a place where you can continue to be you and continue to grow as an individual by being socially connected, and challenged in mind, body, and spirit. 11479 Valley Ridge Dr NW • (403) 286-4414 www.verveseniorliving.com Amenities: Pet Friendly, library, deck for bird watching, pub, billiards room and more.

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT HUNTINGTON HILLS Moving to a senior living community before you need assisted living, enhanced, or memory care has many advantages. This is especially true if you’re an active senior looking to continuously better yourself in mind and body. 6700 Hunterview Dr NW • (403) 275-5667 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT ROCKY RIDGE Moving to a senior living community before you need assisted living, enhanced, or memory care has many advantages. This is especially true if you’re an active senior looking to continuously better yourself in mind and body. 450 Rocky Vista Gardens NW • (403) 239-6400 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT VARSITY Moving to a senior living community before you need assisted living, enhanced, or memory care has many advantages. This is especially true if you’re an active senior looking to continuously better yourself in mind and body. 40 Varsity Estates Cir NW • (587) 393-9999 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

NORTHEAST AGECARE SKYPOINTE AgeCare has been dedicated to creating vibrant communities that celebrate and support aging with dignity, independence and community interaction. We offer our residents a safe and secure home-like atmosphere where they and their families can be assured peace of mind. 179 Skyview Cir NE • (587) 619-1900 www.agecare.ca Amenities: Housecleaning, 24-hour on-site care staff, laundry and linen services and daily activities for the mind, body and soul.

BETHANY HARVEST HILLS

MONTEREY SENIORS VILLAGE

Special homelike buildings with residential style living areas in the community of Harvest Hills, specialized for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 19 Harvest Gold Manor NE • (403) 226-8200 www.bethanyseniors.com Amenities: Wandering gardens, common/private dining room with kitchen, sun room, wheelchair access secure areas for residents with dementia.

Monterey Seniors Village provides Supportive Living options for seniors. Conveniently located in Northeast Calgary, Monterey Seniors Village provides a cozy and relaxed atmosphere for residents, while offering all of the amenities to truly make individuals feel at home. 4288 Catalina Blvd NE • (403) 207-2929 www.retirementconcepts.com Amenities: Activities and crafts room, aquacise, bingobrain fitness program, Bridge, Card Games and so much more.

CAREWEST - GEORGE BOYACK

ROSE MANOR

Carewest George Boyack opened its doors to the Calgary community in 1969 and has since grown to offer programs and services for 221 long-term care residents. 1203 Centre Ave NE • (403) 267-2750 www.carewest.ca Amenities: Cafeteria, gift shop, hair salon, outdoor gardens and chapel.

Rose Manor offers 30 one-bedroom units including one barrier free unit. Rents are based on the income criteria set by the Alberta Government. 120 18 Ave NE • (403) 277-0958 www.bethanyseniors.com Amenities: Shopping nearby, surface Parking, one bedroom suites, rent geared to income and wheelchair access.

CHARTWELL HARBOURS RETIRMENT RESIDENCE

THE PRINCE OF PEACE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

At Chartwell Harbours, we offer a lifestyle that strikes a balance between serenity and activity, and provides you with the independence, choice and freedom to spend your time exactly how you want to. 20 Country Village Cove NE • (587) 287-3941 www.chartwell.com Amenities: Barber-hairdresser, communal laundry, housekeeping, mail delivery, scooter parking and shuttle service.

The “person centered”, private care services offered for memory care and assisted living is what makes Prince of Peace Retirement Residence a choice Senior Living lifestyle for residents and their families. 285030 Luther Rose Blvd NE • (403) 285-5080 www.verveseniorliving.com Amenities: Tuck shop, hair salon, woodworking shop, chapel zumba class and more.

GENERATIONS, MULTI GENERATIONAL HOUSING AND COMMUNITY CENTRE

WHITEHORN VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Our Generations campus includes supportive living and long-term care for 120 seniors, an early childhood development center and facilities for non-resident seniors to participate in day programs. 120 Skyview Ranch Dr • (403) 730-6440 www. generationscalgary.com Amenities: Exercise space, arts and crafts, movie theatre, table tennis, bingo and so much more.

GILCHRIST MANOR COMMUNITY Silvera for Seniors is proud to offer several Independent Living with Basic Supports locations throughout Calgary. Our seniors communities are in all four quadrants of the city. 3003 56 St NE • (403) 276-5541 www.silvera.ca

INTERCARE BRENTWOOD CARE CENTRE Intercare is the provider of quality continuing care focused on serving people. We are committed to growth in response to the changing needs of those we serve in our Communities of Care. 2727 16 Ave NW • (403) 289-2576 www.intercarealberta.com

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

No matter your level of care, we encourage our community members to do what they love. There is always something exciting and fun going on at Whitehorn Village. 5200 44 Ave NE • (403) 271-2277 www.originway.ca Amenities: Craft kitchen, fitness, games room, cuisine, bistro and library.

SOUTHEAST AGECARE SETON AgeCare has been dedicated to creating vibrant communities that celebrate and support aging with dignity, independence and community interaction. We offer our residents a safe and secure home-like atmosphere where they and their families can be assured peace of mind. 4963 Front St SE • (587) 349-8444 www.agecare.ca Amenities: Housecleaning, laundry services, daily activities for the mind, body and soul.

AGECARE WALDEN HEIGHTS AgeCare has been dedicated to creating vibrant communities that celebrate and support aging with dignity, independence and community interaction. We offer our residents a safe and secure home-like atmosphere where they and their families can be assured peace of mind. 250 Walden Dr SE • (403) 873-4700 www.agecare.ca Amenities: Housecleaning, laundry services, daily activities for the mind, body and soul.

DIRECTORY // SENIOR LIVING

AUBURN HEIGHTS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

MCKENZIE TOWNE LONG TERM CARE

UNITED ACTIVE LIVING

Our person-centered philosophy creates unique and individualized care plans, ensuring that each resident receives the care and attention needed to promote a sense of warmth and independence. With our unique focus and dedicated “Quality of Life Program”, Auburn Heights will meet all of your expectations. 21 Auburn Bay St SE • (403) 234-9695 www.allseniorscare.com Amenities: Pet friendly, Large Indoor pool, aquasize class and so much more.

McKenzie Towne Continuing Care Centre is located in Calgary, Alberta. Our personalized care approach puts your needs first to help you feel right at home. Our experienced staff enhance your physical wellbeing with a personalized care approach and our engaging recreation programs foster a community environment. 80 Promenade Way SE • (403) 508-9808 www. reveraliving.com Amenities: Living room and library, fitness room/theatre, multi -purpose craft room, grand piano and more.

BETHANY RIVERVIEW

REVERA MCKENZIE TOWNE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

Bethany Riverview is a purpose-built care centre designed for people with complex dementia. The care centre is located on a 12acre campus of care for seniors called Riverview Village in southeast Calgary. The campus is also home to about 400 seniors living in three affordable independent living rental apartments. #200, 2915 26 Ave SE • (587) 392-3999 www.bethanyseniors.com Amenities: Rotary atrium, wandering gardens and outdoor courtyards, spa and more.

McKenzie Towne retirement community is tucked into a mature residential neighbourhood offering a full range of retirement living options. Whether you want to lead an active, independent life, or need a little assistance, the friendly community at our retirement home will support you every step of the way. 20 Promenade Park SE • (403) 257-9331 www. reveraliving.com Amenities: Living room and library, fitness room/theatre, multi -purpose craft room, grand piano and more.

The two buildings at Fish Creek are masterfully designed as an integrative community to promote independence and well-being. Our United Cares program and team of professionals provide holistic, personalized care designed so you can continue your independent lifestyle. 51 Providence Boulevard SE • (403) 873-3953 www.unitedactiveliving.com Amenities: Hair and beauty salon, foot care, massage therapy, physiotherapy and so much more.

THE JOURNEY CLUB

Freedom, security and peace of mind. Our number one priority is to help you live the highest quality of life in retirement. That means you don’t have to worry as your needs change with age, with our Age in Place program, we’re with you every step of the way. 176 Mahogany Centre SE • (403) 313-5382 www.westmanvillage.com Amenities: Dry cleaning, pet care, special events, tuck shop and more.

Cambridge Manor • Brand New Seniors’ Wellness Community

• Prime Location in NW Calgary’s University District • Immediate Occupancy Available • Calgary-based Charitable Foundation • Award Winning Care and Services

CALL NOW FOR THE BEST SELECTION OF PRIVATE CARE SUITES 253 Smith St. NW 403-536-8675 cambridge@theBSF.ca cambridgemanor.ca Market Mall

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Live life to the fullest with peace of mind Enjoy a rich and full life with the comfort and security of a true aging-in-place experience, from private independent and assisted living to private long term care. “It gave me great comfort that our decision to move my mother into assisted living at Cambridge Manor was the best choice for her well-being and our peace of mind.”

Alberta Children’s Hospital

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

DIRECTORY // SENIOR LIVING

CLIFTON MANOR

Clifton Manor, formerly known as the Forest Grove Care Centre, is located in SE Calgary and is home to up to 250 senior and aging adult residents. Acquired by The Foundation in 2010, in recent years Clifton Manor has undergone significant quality improvements and upgrades to site infrastructure in support of enhanced resident care and safety. 4726 8th Ave SE • (403) 272-9831 www.thebsf.ca Amenities: Activity room, billiards lounge, chapel, computer room, fitness and exercise equipment and more.

SOUTHWEST AGECARE GLENMORE

AgeCare has been dedicated to creating vibrant communities that celebrate and support aging with dignity, independence and community interaction. We offer our residents a safe and secure home-like atmosphere where they and their families can be assured peace of mind. 1729 90 Ave SW • (403) 253-8806 www.agecare.ca Amenities: Housecleaning, laundry services, daily activities for the mind, body and soul.

AMICA ASPEN WOODS

Amica Aspen Woods has a dedicated team ready to support every resident’s unique needs. Amica offers peace of mind: you’re always free to decide how to spend your day, yet you’ll have assistance and support when you need it. 10 Aspenshire Dr SW • (403) 240-4404 www.amica.ca Amenities: Exercise classes, knitting club, hair salon, brain fitness and more.

AMICA BRITANNIA

CHARTWELL EAU CLAIR RESIDENCE

Chartwell Eau Claire, offers independent supportive living, enhanced assisted living and memory care. Recently we underwent some beautiful renovations that further added to our comfortable, family home feel, and we still retain the hustle and bustle of an engaging community that our residents so enjoy. 301 7th St SW • (587) 287-3943 www. chartwell.com Amenities: Barber-hairdresser, communal laundry, pet friendly, secured unit, security system, towel service.

The Manor Village Life Centers is an organization of skilled people who serve the mature resident by providing opportunities to live with meaning and purpose. We care about our residents and their family members. In many cases, our staff-associates feel like part of a resident’s extended family. 2400 Sorrel Mews SW • (403) 240-3636 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

MILLRISE SENIORS VILLAGE

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT SIGNATURE PARK

Millrise Place, a Campus of Care with three levels near Fish Creek Provincial Park in Southwest Calgary. Independent living, assisted living and residential care. Millrise has the home-like atmosphere you are looking for with newly renovated common areas. You will want to call Millrise your home. 14911 5 St SW • (403) 410-9155 www.retirementconcepts.com Amenities: Gardens, courtyards, hair salon, laundry service, occupational therapy, pets welcome and more.

PROMINENCE WAY RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

To establish Signature Retirement Living as Canada’s leading purveyor of retirement lifestyles where our residents receive unmatched choice and an enviable level of service in a positive, vibrant and caring environment. 905 Prominence Way SW • (403) 727-9400 www.prominencewayretirement.com Amenities: Heated salt water pool, movie theatre/chapel, fitness centre, yoga, and so much more.

REVERA CHATEAU RENOIR RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

Amica Britannia is a boutique residence for seniors in Calgary. Steps from scenic parks, walking paths and exclusive shops at Britannia Plaza, here you really are close to everything. Amica Britannia offers personalized support for seniors who need assistance with daily living activities or dementia care. 750 49 Ave SW • (403) 476-8992 www.amica.ca Amenities: Exercise classes, knitting club, hair salon, brain fitness and more.

Luxury retirement living at its finest, the Revera Chateau Renoir in Calgary has everything you could imagine. This five-star retirement home features luxury accommodations and services including pool, hot tub and elegant suites. 9229 16 St SW • (403) 255-2105 www.reveraliving.com Amenities: Pool table and shuffleboard, card room, library, theatre, fitness room, pool and hot tub.

CEDARS VILLA EXTENDICARE

THE MANOR VILLAGE STAYWELL

Cedars Villa Extendicare, has an atmosphere of community and family. Our core values courtesy, attitude, responsibility and excellence shape how we care. Providing each resident with quality care, our professional staff makes everyone to feel at home and in a place where they enjoy living. 3330 8 Ave SW • (403) 249-8915 www.extendicarecedarsvilla.com Amenities: Scenic environment, pet therapy, music and memory, Intergenerational Program, art classes and so much more.

The Manor Village Life Centers is an organization of skilled people who serve the mature resident by providing opportunities to live with meaning and purpose. We care about our residents and their family members. In many cases, our staff-associates feel like part of a resident’s extended family. 174 Ypres Green SW • (403) 242-4688 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT FISH CREEK PARK

The Manor Village Life Centers is an organization of skilled people who serve the mature resident by providing opportunities to live with meaning and purpose. We care about our residents and their family members. In many cases, our staff-associates feel like part of a resident’s extended family. 22 Shawnee Hill SW • (587) 392-2400 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

THE MANOR VILLAGE AT GARRISON WOODS

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

The Manor Village Life Centers is an organization of skilled people who serve the mature resident by providing opportunities to live with meaning and purpose. We care about our residents and their family members. In many cases, our staff-associates feel like part of a resident’s extended family. 1858 Sirocco Dr SW • (403) 249-7113 www.themanorvillage.com Amenities: Pet friendly, exercise classes, socialization, beauty salon, games room and more.

TRINITY LODGE RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

At Trinity Lodge Retirement Residence, be prepared to enjoy a quality of life you’ve never dreamed of with service staff on hand, elegant surroundings, including beautifully landscaped gardens and serene fountain areas. 1111 Glenmore Trail SW • (403) 253-7576 www.verveseniorliving.com Amenities: Inviting lounges, wellness centre, 24-hour bistro, cozy library, computer access and more.

UNITED ACTIVE LIVING

Living at Garrison Green, you have the choice of beautifully designed suites with floor plans of all shapes and sizes to support your lifestyle. Our buildings are designed to focus on independence and lifelong learning, encouraging good nutrition, physical activity and building strong social connections. 3028 Don Ethell Blvd SW • (403) 629-0261 www.unitedactiveliving.com Amenities: Bistro lounge, library with computer, fitness and activities room (includes spa with therapeutic tub) and more.

WENTWORTH MANOR

Wentworth Manor is a long-term care facility dedicated to helping seniors live a fulfilling life. We provide a personalized care plan that, when combined with our comprehensive array of services, provides residents and families the kind of lifestyle they deserve. 5717 14 Ave SW • (403) 242-5005 www.wentworthmanor.ca

THE EDWARD

At The Edward, you’ll savour an expertly curated collection of amenities and services customized to your preferences with the help of our dedicated team, including our Concierge, Wellness Navigator, Program Curator and Executive Chef. #375 1721 29 Ave SW • (403)265-3023 www.edwardliving.com Amenities: Fitness programs, social gatherings art or enrichment programs and more.

The Calgary Chamber exists to help businesses thrive. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification, and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization, we build on our 131year history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors and across the city.

Calgary is starting something exciting – and it’s turning heads everywhere

algary has always been a city that’s been good at starting something. As we come out of seven lean years brought on by a collapse in oil prices followed by the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many signs that we are starting something. Again.

ing group report, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce hosted a breakfast to talk about Calgary, with Jobs Minister Doug Schweitzer, Mayor Jyoti Gondek and Brett Colvin, co-founder of legal services startup, Goodlawyer.

Whether it’s the fact other cities around the world are paying attention to office conversion plans underway, or that community leaders have spearheaded the largest ever reinvestment in Calgary’s arts infrastructure, exciting things are happening. And that’s before adding up all the investment flowing into Calgary-based start-ups supporting our economic diversification or the prospect of new real estate developments proposed for downtown.

Alex Sarian, president and CEO of Arts Commons, best summed up the conversation. A newcomer to Calgary, he says he has been selling Calgary to Calgarians since his pre-COVID arrival. But now, Sarian has another observation, and it’s telling: we are no longer comparing ourselves to other cities, but forging our own path, which is being noticed.

This past spring, the provincial government released its Calgary Office Revitalization and Expansion work-

We are not trying to be the next Austin, Denver, Detroit or Pittsburgh. We are becoming a new and improved version of Calgary, incorporating some of the elements

BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

that have grounded the resurgence of those cities, but we own our unique brand. This is pivotal because it’s turning heads outside the city. A BBC article stated: “There is, perhaps, no city in the world that has taken on the challenge of converting outdated office stock into residential units as aggressively as Calgary.” That might be because we have faced the vexing problem of empty office space longer than other cities, trying to figure out what will sustainably reinject much-needed vibrancy into the core. But we have survived, with a vacancy rate twice that of Detroit’s when it filed for bankruptcy in 2013. And now, thanks to true Calgarian perseverance, we are hitting our inflection point. According to Avison Young, Calgary posted the second-strongest recovery in terms of downtown foot traffic, post-pandemic, among six Canadian cities. It used to be Calgarians primarily spoke energy: oil and natural gas prices, number of wells being drilled,

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

production. But over the last several years Calgarians have become equally well versed in the office vacancy lingo: how many square feet, price per square foot, what that represents in terms of total inventory, the proportion between Class A space and the rest. Also part of the vocabulary is the impact on the city’s tax base as downtown valuations have declined – not to mention what it means for the businesses that support the downtown office traffic, small and large. For a time, the focus was on how to fill those buildings, with the energy sector as the driving force behind a revival in occupancy. But as price takers in a rapidly evolving industry, that window is much smaller. With advancements in innovation and the adoption of technology, companies are producing more barrels with fewer employees. In response, Calgary has started something. In fact, last year the University of Calgary created more start-ups than the University of Toronto or Waterloo. The Creative Destruction Labs-Rockies at the Haskayne School of Business has generated $1.7 billion in value

since its establishment in 2017. When CDL founder Ajay Agrawal was recently in Calgary, he noted this city is home to some of the most entrepreneurial minds in Canada. Even better, others outside Calgary are seeing it too. How CDL-Rockies came to life is emblematic of how things happen in Calgary. It started with one idea, brought forward by one individual who convened a group of community and business leaders at the Calgary Petroleum Club to kick off a path to meaningful economic diversification, with UCalgary as an important node. It’s working. In 2021, Calgary attracted more tech talent than any other city in Canada and was ahead of U.S. cities including San Francisco, Seattle and New York. There are unicorns in our midst, the latest addition being Neo Financial. And we are actively building a talent base, whether through retraining initiatives led by AltaML, additional computer science spots being created at post-secondary institutions, or Calgary Economic Development’s Edge Up program. Thanks to the Pathways Alliance and the Energy Transition Centre backed by both public and private sector support,

we are sending an important signal about the role Canada’s energy sector will play in the world’s energy future. But it’s still a long way to the end zone. Much like a stock portfolio, the downtown of tomorrow needs to be diversified and sustainable. That means services to support not just office dwellers, but also students and families who want to live in dense, urban settings and not rely on a car. From student housing to cafes and restaurants, classrooms and innovation hubs, recreation facilities and vibrant entertainment venues, Calgary’s downtown can’t be one-dimensional. It must be connected and accessible, which means robust transit and addressing the ongoing problem of parking rates that rank among the highest in North America, even post-COVID. The conversation in Calgary has changed. There is pride in our progress on economic diversification and a sense of optimism that has been absent since 2015. Step by step, change is afoot. And it’s because Calgarians have believed and invested enough in the future of their city to start something.

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GROWING COMPANY Helps Shrink Emissions

by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photograhy Inc. ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation || Celebrating 30 Years 47

hings were very different when Alec McDougall started out as an engineer working in the solid waste industry in 1974. At the time, many municipalities handled garbage by burning it at dumpsites and were just transitioning to converting these sites to landfills. McDougall was on the forefront of waste management and ultimately recycling both in Canada and across the globe over the next two decades. After gaining expertise and experience during years in the business, he and five other like-minded colleagues at Stanley Associates Engineering decided to venture out on their own. In 1992, they established ECCO Landfill at the outskirts of the city, an area that is now in the heart of the industrial sector just east of Quarry Park. At the same time, McDougall was the head of the Transportation Project Office (TPO), a public/ private partnership between the City of Calgary and five construction and engineering companies. He oversaw major infrastructure projects like C-Train stations, tracks and roads across the city between 1999 and 2006 before he decided to focus 100 per cent on growing ECCO. Since then, McDougall, who is the only active partner left in the business, has expanded ECCO far beyond its private landfill genesis.

“We’ve always been recyclers in some form – from day one we used to collect all the pop cans and give the money to the communities. Then we got into wood and it evolved fast,” says Alec McDougall, president of ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation. That evolution thrust ECCO into a leadership position in the area of sustainability in waste management. The company explored new methods, opportunities and technologies for diverting materials from landfills to be repurposed as innovative commercial and industrial products. What was once ECCO Waste Systems developed into ECCO Recycling & Energy, a company producing products and services that aim to protect the environment and reduce emissions. ECCO’s Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) is among the largest in North America at about 80,000 square feet. Being the only company in Calgary focused on construction and demolition waste, ECCO currently processes, recycles and repurposes about 250,000 tons of scrap building materials including paper, cardboard, boxboard, plastics, wood, metals and shingles per year. They have developed processes grinding asphalt shingles to specified requirements for

ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation || Celebrating 30 Years || Page 2

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use in asphalt and grinding wood materials into landscape mulch and animal bedding. Bedding for feed lots and landscaping mulch have become a big part of the business as about half of all construction demolition waste is some form of wood that would otherwise end up in the landfill. Instead, ECCO grinds wood scraps into two-inch chips which are then coloured with all-natural vegetable and mineral dyes to create charcoal, chocolate brown or red brick chips at their facility in Aldersyde. It is then bagged for sale for commercial landscaping and personal use. ECCO produces up to 18,000 bags of landscape mulch every day and has diverted more than 100,000 metric tons from the landfill since the program’s inception. “We’re a co-bagger and we have our own brand as well. We provide our ECCO Chips to stores like Walmart, Home Depot and Co-op,” McDougall says. “My grandson’s picture when he was about two or three years old is on the bag and he’s turning 17, so we’ve been doing coloured mulch since then.” ECCO is also launching an initiative at the Aldersyde location in conjunction with a bulk soil, peat moss and compost vendor to bag soil for

use in landscaping and gardening. The team is currently working out the details and this product will hit the market next year. On top of the more than 110 employees in the Calgary area, the company employs 20 staffers in Lethbridge where ECCO has a contract to provide the manpower and mobile machinery for the City’s single stream (blue bin) material recovery program. This service extends to neighbouring communities like Medicine Hat and Coaldale as well. The Calgary plant’s single stream division is equally successful: that plant alone ships 250 tons of clean cardboard a week to paper mills on the west coast. ECCO recently completed a brand new 45,000-square-foot facility in Balzac that includes a new Low Carbon Fuel (LCF) production plant taking construction and demolition materials including unrecyclable cardboard and plastics, wood and shingles and converts them into LCF. The new location also includes equipment to sort single stream blue bin-type materials to ensure the unrecyclable plastics and other materials don’t end up in the landfill. Along with the new facility, ECCO has also invested in updating the original location, adding new walking floors, chain trailers and the

ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation || Celebrating 30 Years || Page 4

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latest equipment to better reach its sorting and recycling goals in the highly mechanized facility. “In the Quarry Park location, we’re now taking out the old equipment and putting in the same equipment that’s in the new Balzac facility. Even though it’s only 10 years old, there’s better equipment out on the market, more efficient, more effective, so we are updating everything,” he says. The company has modernized and automated areas of the process and expanded its scope as society has demanded more environmental responsibility from businesses across sectors. ECCO has responded by focusing on ways to upcycle and reuse waste to deliver low carbon fuel to other companies to reduce their carbon footprint and keep waste out of landfills. The company’s most significant effort is one that was 15 years in the making – a partnership with LaFarge to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the Exshaw cement facility. “We signed an MOU with LaFarge, who was making major changes to their facility in Exshaw,” McDougall says. “LaFarge’s top people wanted to be co-processing alternate fuels in all of their kilns worldwide, and Exshaw is a key one as it is a big producer of cement.” ECCO modified its facilities to accommodate LaFarge’s needs, but the project was delayed first by a merger between LaFarge and Holcim and then by the construction of a new kiln. But it was worth the wait. After an investment of more than $30 million, LaFarge is now set to transition from coal and natural gas to low carbon fuel in early 2023, which is significant given that LaFarge previously burned 800 tons of coal daily to fire the old kilns. With ECCO’s new Balzac facility and upgraded Quarry Park plant, the company is prepared to provide Exshaw with up to 100,000 tons of fuel a year to start, and LaFarge expects to see an estimated CO2 reduction of 35,000 metric tons per year because of it.

“This is an important year; a banner year for us,” he says. The company is also moving away from maintaining the landfill; it will cap the landfill after 2024 to focus on low carbon fuel production. About 85 per cent of materials that go to the landfill will be processed for fuel at Exshaw and ECCO plans to mine the materials in the 30-yearold landfill to produce more low carbon fuel. The team expects to take about 300,000 tons per year out of the landfill to produce LCF for LaFarge.

ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation || Celebrating 30 Years || Page 6

CONGRATS TO OUR DEERE FRIENDS! Bravo and thank you, Alec and team. From all of us at Brandt.

Congratulations ECCO Recycling on your 30th anniversary! Wishing you much success in the coming years. We look forward to continuing our relationship as both our companies grow. All the best from Murray and the BOSS Lubricants team.

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“There’ll be no shortage of fuel. We expect to mine out the existing landfill over the next 10 or 15 years, and then we’ll have 160 acres of land to sell and that’s what will pay for the landfill mining,” he says. ECCO has been driven toward sustainability through recycling and repurposing since the beginning, but Alec McDougall has gone a step further in his efforts to protect the environment by housing several bee colonies on his properties. He has six colonies in Calgary and Lethbridge, each supporting 15 hives of 50,000 bees for a total of around 4.5 million bees. He has a beekeeper and an assistant who tend to the hives and McDougall proudly gives the honey produced by his bees to clients, charities and staff as a unique gift. “Honey is our calling card. We give it all away. Give someone a business card or a jar of honey – guess who they remember,” McDougall says. Being remembered isn’t a problem for ECCO. With its environmental stewardship and service to clients and the community for the past 30 years, Alec McDougall and the ECCO Recycling & Energy Corporation team are unforgettable.

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Mainline Backflow Products “Our Plumbers Story” Looking back on 25 years of expanding products, services and entering new markets By Nerissa McNaughton with photos from Rebecca Lippiatt

ainline Backflow Products Inc. is celebrating 25 years in business. Although well known for their proprietary and innovative backwater valves, and leading the way for helping to make important changes to valve regulation across North America, the agile company has expanded over the years in both scope and products. Gabe and Jordan Coscarella are happy to share the story of where Mainline has been, and where it is going. One day Gabe, a plumber by trade, sat at his dinner table and drew a sketch of a backwater valve concept. Gabe and his friend, Vitto Chiodo, then went to work in the garage making the first prototype. “The model was crude, made of Tupperware and plexiglass,” says Gabe. “It was installed and tested in my own house. To this day that model sits in our trophy case – fully sanitized of course! This is how the Mainline Fullport Backwater valve was born.” Gabe Coscarella and Jordan Coscarella

The “normally-open” valve revolutionized and changed the National Plumbing Code, opening the doors for mainline protection in Canada. The mainline valve continues to be the flagship of the company, protecting over a million homes across North America and is a part of nearly every install in Canada.

With this early success and the birth of the company, the founders were ready for the next steps… but, those next steps were not quite ready for them.

Jordan says with pride, “The Mainline valve is trusted by insurance companies, plumbers and engineers as a key part in many cities’ flood prevention programs across North America.”

Gabe explains, “Thinking we hit a gold mine, we launched the product at a tradeshow in Vegas. We quickly learned that the valve wouldn’t work for their slab-on-grade markets.”

Mainline Backflow || 25 years 55

Undeterred, Gabe went back to the drawing board and designed the “Adapt-a-Valve” for deep burials and slab-ongrade markets. “This valve was truly a game changer in this market, and is now the leader in the slab-on-grade markets in the USA and is widely used in Canada for outside burials and commercial and industrial applications,” says Gabe. “We have since further expanded the valve line and added several other valves for the industry.” “What most don’t know,” says Jordan, “Is that we are far from only being ‘valve people.’ We also bring innovation to the building envelope area.”

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Seeing how leakage is an area of concern for the builders, and how difficult it is to get building penetrations right using caulking, sealing tapes and peel & stick, Mainline went to work innovating better solutions. Jordan says, “We are heavily invested in improving products in the area of HVAC, plumbing and electrical penetrations. We developed Greenskin and Pro-Flash seals, which eliminate leakage.” They didn’t stop there.

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“Tapes, liquid membrane and peel & stick are common practices for sealing windows and doors. However, while effective, these products are pricey and require a high skill set to apply. Weather conditions can make installations difficult.” Builders needed a better user-friendly solution. Mainline’s answer is Flex-Sill, a cost-effective system that is simply rolled out and placed over the sill. “Our patent pending Flex-Sill comes on a grooved roll (which is customizable to include back-dams) that quickly and easily caps the entire sill,” says Gabe. “We can really see this product revolutionizing the industry because it is fast and simple to use. Anyone can install it and do so in all weather conditions. It is simple and inexpensive.”

Flex Sill Mainline Backflow || 25 years || 2

Gabe and Jordan feel that Mainline’s success is, “driven by hearing our customers’ needs and delivering on them. Setting a new standard has been our motto since inception and this motto is portrayed in every product we bring to market. Our daily approach is changing the way things are done for the better. When we see a better way of doing things in our industry, we pursue and perfect it. Modestly, we think of our innovations as ‘good common sense.’” Jordan adds, “Our made-in-Canada products stand for themselves. Innovation, reliability and quality have led to a trust bond between us and our customers. What we love about the business community are the relationships, trust and support we have from our partner plumbers, contractors and wholesalers.” The “new standard” approach of business has empowered steady growth. Mainline employs several full-time employees along with subcontractors and a network of independent sales agents across North America. Gabe and Jordan are happy to share their products and knowledge at the many trade shows they frequent annually. They cite meeting people, walking the show, talking to industry professionals and learning about emerging products as trade show highlights – and a place where many of their new ideas are born. Mainline’s innovations have earned the company recognition over the years including the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating’s Ivan R. Leger award for the most innovative plumbing product in Canada. This was followed with a Manning Innovation award.

“The Manning Innovation award was extra special as it was a Canada-wide competition in all sectors (medicine, industrial, commercial, etc.),” says Gabe. “I was so honoured to meet and share the stage with doctors, students and other entrepreneurs from across Canada.” Mainline has also been recognized and awarded by the International Builders Show (2020) and the Pacific Coast Builders Conference (2022) for their innovative building penetration seals and window/door sill flashings. Both conclude, “We want to thank our customers for their support. We couldn’t be the company we are today without you. We look forward to showing you our always-expanding product line, including our new building penetration products, as we continue to evolve from valves. Please expect the same great customer service and innovative products as we enter new markets.” This “small” company is a giant when it comes to leading the valve industry in North America and looks to have same success in building penetration seals. They look forward to continuing to set new standards now, and for years to come.

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MANUFACTURING RETAIL STORES by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photography

or Anita MacKenzie, business is all about the journey, not the destination. And while the destination has been impressive, it has been an incredible journey over the past 25 years as she and her team created a thriving retail and corporate millwork fixturing company from the ground up. Her success story started in 1985 when she moved west from Nova Scotia to take advantage of the opportunities available in booming Alberta. She found work at a company that manufactured retail stores and in the 12 years that she worked there, she learned all aspects of the business, from operations to sales. During that time, MacKenzie also pursued accounting and business courses through SAIT, which would later be the catalyst for starting her own business. “It’s where I got hooked on the creative part of it and getting to work with so many entrepreneurs and retailers to see their visions come to life,” says Anita MacKenzie, president of C-West Custom Fixtures.

C-West Custom Fixtures • 25 Years

Anita MacKenzie

After the death of the founder, the company folded but the demand for its services didn’t. Many clients reached out to MacKenzie to encourage her to carry on offering retail fixtures on her own. She decided to do just that, and with an employment roster of one, she created C-West Custom Fixtures, originally a sales and marketing company, in a small 500-square-foot space. Today, that company supports more than 30 employees in its LEED-compliant Calgary headquarters and has evolved with the industry, applying new technology to better serve its growing client base. The original logo was created with PowerPoint 25 years ago and has seen six iterations before becoming the sleek and sophisticated design reflecting today’s C-West. This logo mirrors the style and capabilities of the everevolving company. The continual organic growth of C-West led to it outgrowing its space multiple times. In a very short period, the small marketing and sales firm became an 8,000-square-foot manufacturing company, and in 10 years it nearly doubled to 15,000 square feet to accommodate the workload. The company was bursting at the seams within another decade and MacKenzie doubled the capacity again four years ago, giving the team 33,000 square feet of office and shop space that was tailor-made for C-West’s needs. “We went from 3,000 square feet of shipping space plus a satellite shop, to 8,000 square feet of shipping and receiving area with seven active loading bays,” says Spencer MacKenzie, Anita’s son and procurement manager for C-West. “Our capacity and efficiencies have increased tenfold. We also added a five-ton truck to our fleet allowing us to transport goods and materials across the city.” This allows the team to better meet deadlines and get client spaces up and running quicker. C-West is at a great size now, but that doesn’t mean that it is content with being static; the team is continually expanding and seeking new areas for growth. “We are always looking to expand our in-house capabilities with new equipment and processes. With the changing environment, there are so many opportunities to integrate new technology into our manufacturing,” says Curtis Noseworthy, operations manager at C-West. The growth and success of C-West comes as no surprise to the long-time team and repeat clients. Since the beginning, MacKenzie has set out to create a company that offers superior workmanship from highly qualified cabinetmakers and finishers, which both earned client trust and made it easy to unconditionally stand behind the products.

C-West works with discerning clients representing some of the most recognizable brands across North America, from shoe retailers to skin care clinics and everything in between. The team proudly provides custom woodwork and cabinetry that incorporates metal, glass, plastics, solid surface, upholstery, lighting and innovative technology to manufacture displays that attract as much attention as the merchandise they

C-West Custom Fixtures • 25 Years • 2

showcase. The team consults with clients, either in person or virtually, to discuss the vision and inspiration for the space along with branding requirements. Then the designers take it from there – they create floor plans and 3D renderings of concepts that the onsite engineers and trades professionals will then manufacture. “You hear a lot of talk in retail about how it’s all about the experience. We’ve been all about the experience since day one,” says Michael Battler, C-West’s head designer. “Our difference maker is how we pull all this together. We pull together the skills, the technology, the materials and the best practices of what retail is about today.” The sample showroom offers clients a plethora of options to allow clients to realize their dream space, whether it’s a chain store recreating existing branded spaces or an independent retailer looking for ideas and guidance from the design team. C-West’s team presents products in a range of price points to ensure that clients stay within their budget while checking every box for their new space. The team also has the ability to create prototypes of new product lines to test the design and functionality of fixtures before they go into production should the client request it. C-West then manufactures the pieces, employing a skilled group of Red Seal journeymen and journeywomen who handcraft all fixtures and millwork projects in the stateof-the-art Calgary shop. Once a project is completed, each piece is inspected carefully and the project is assembled in the shop to ensure everything works and fits perfectly before shipping it to the location for installation. After installation, the team follows up to make sure that everything is working well and that clients are thrilled with their new space. While many of C-West’s clients are larger retailers, MacKenzie hated to turn down smaller retailers because she just couldn’t meet their budgets or timelines. To turn that no into a yes, she launched The Fixture Store. The showroom presents clients with a mini-shopping mall featuring a variety of options for cabinetry and fixtures from C-West’s product line of quality pre-designed, pre-engineered pieces, all manufactured in Canada. This gives smaller retailers a bit of a custom feel by incorporating various accessories and element options without the full-custom costs and long timelines. “With all the configurations, the sky’s the limit. We have ready-to-go fixtures that are versatile, and we have them in inventory. We can open a store in four weeks, where in the shop we would be about 16 weeks,” MacKenzie says.

She and her team strive to fulfil clients’ needs and are there throughout the process to ensure clients are satisfied. It’s C-West’s attention to detail and service levels that have led to a number of longterm repeat customers over the past 25 years. “What sets us apart is the service level we offer. And it’s not just that first-day service. It’s how we come to the table down the road when something goes wrong. We’ve got a great team that works to make things right,” says Battler. It’s that team that MacKenzie credits with the success and growth of C-West Custom Fixtures. Her people-first philosophy has attracted dedicated staff, creating a team balanced between experienced veterans who have been with the company for many years and the fresh perspective introduced by younger employees to ensure every client’s style and needs are represented. The company is invested in its employees and the industry as a whole. The team supports apprenticeship programs by serving on boards as well as bringing in apprentices to learn from the C-West professionals. This allows the skills and craftsmanship to be transferred to the next

Congratulations C-West Custom Fixtures Inc on your 25th anniversary!

C-West Custom Fixtures • 25 Years • 3

generation of cabinet makers. The emPower Women in Trades program pays a month of wages for women to try out different trades in a shop, and C-West has participated in and hired great female employees through this program. MacKenzie also appreciates the value of education and training and has supported staff through schooling to help them advance their expertise, experience and position within the company. “People matter to me. It takes a team, and there have been some amazing people that have helped me along the way here,” she says. And in turn, MacKenzie has helped others. When COVID-19 brought retail to a halt, she wanted to keep her staff busy while giving back. She connected with Narrow Road Home, a High River residential healing program for women battling addiction, mental health issues, domestic violence and life crises. Michael Battler designed the space, inside and out, and MacKenzie sent rotating crews to turn the Victorian residence into a Tea House. They volunteered their time, covered costs and enlisted suppliers to make The Noble Teahouse a reality. They helped to create a profitable business that would enable women to learn skills and gain job experience following their recovery. The profits from this business allow the Teahouse to employ more women post-recovery as well as donate back to Narrow Road home.

“All of our employees got to go make a difference and be part of it – hours of sanding, repairs, painting, building shutters and upholstered bench seating,” she says. “We also did their business plan and set up the corporation. Our approach to non-profit was why don’t we create a business that is for-profit? And the Noble Teahouse is now profitable. It’s incredible.” MacKenzie and her team not only built the Teahouse but also shoulder the responsibility of accounting and financials for the business to ensure compliance. As a female entrepreneur, empowering women to succeed is important to her and MacKenzie is proud to facilitate The Noble Teahouse’s mission. Anita MacKenzie has used her company to strengthen the industry, help with client growth, support the community and create a family of dedicated staff at C-West Custom Fixtures. And the next generation is poised to carry on her 25year legacy as the company continues to grow into the future.

C-West Custom Fixtures Inc. 120, 10770 – 25th Street NE | Calgary, AB P| 403-243-1036 F| 403-243-7219 cwestfixtures.com

C-West Custom Fixtures • 25 Years • 4

St. Mary’s University Welcomes its New President

by Rennay Craats

ince it was established in 1986, St. Mary’s has evolved from a college to a university college and finally a university in 2014, becoming Calgary’s only liberal arts and sciences Catholic university. St. Mary’s University offers students a unique experience, combining challenging academic study with a commitment to ethics, social justice and respect for diverse opinions and beliefs to produce well-rounded graduates. To deliver on this mandate, the school needs someone remarkable sitting at the president and vice-chancellor’s desk to lead St. Mary’s into its next phase of growth, and they found just that in Dr. Sinda Vanderpool.

St. Mary’s University • 1 63

St. Mary’s University • 2

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Dr. Vanderpool brings academic leadership and experience as well as a passion for the Catholic intellectual tradition to the position. After completing her undergraduate degree in French literature at Davidson College, a small liberal arts school in North Carolina, Dr. Vanderpool knew she wasn’t finished with academia. She went on to earn her PhD from the prestigious Princeton University in 2005 where she studied 16th Century French poetry as experienced through the lens of female identity. These studies also ignited a fascination with Catholicism, prompting her to become Roman Catholic. Her studies and love for learning led her to Baylor University, a large faith-based university in Texas where she worked for 18 years, starting as a professor and then joining the administration and finally filling the role of associate vice-provost for enrollment management. Dr. Vanderpool’s hard work helped increase enrollment while also focusing on removing barriers to entry for students in underrepresented demographics. She is committed to doing the same in her new post at St. Mary’s University.

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“I have become very interested in being student-centred in the work that I do with a particular emphasis on students who might be coming from some backgrounds that are less represented in higher education – we’re talking firstgeneration college students who don’t necessarily have the same social capital that other students might have or underrepresented minorities,” Dr. Vanderpool says. “I’ve really leaned in and been working on creating the most welcoming environment for all students in my recent years and that was something that I saw St. Mary’s has been doing and is really wanting to do more.” St. Mary’s University • 3

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That was only one of the elements that attracted Dr. Vanderpool to the job opening and ultimately saw her heading north to join the St. Mary’s University team. As she did at Baylor, Dr. Vanderpool is looking forward to not only attracting students but to attracting the right students and ensuring they are successful once they are there through supports as well as financial aid. StMU’s mission to develop the whole person, mind, body and spirit, was appealing to Dr. Vanderpool and really drew her to the position. “When I learned about the position at St. Mary’s, with its Catholic intellectual tradition combined with the liberal arts and a real desire to act on our knowledge and faith to make an impact on the world, those were the things that spoke to me,” she says. That approach is unique in higher learning and Dr. Vanderpool plans to use that approach to expand the school and its offerings as she hits the ground running this summer. She is eager to grow the school in both size and breadth, with a vision to expand the number of degree programs on offer and grow the student population to double its current enrollment of 1,025 full- and part-time students. There would also be an increase of faculty and staff to support that growth as well as additional facilities to house more classrooms and offices on the south-Calgary campus.

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“I see great things on the road ahead at St. Mary’s,” she says. Dr. Vanderpool was an excellent choice to lead the school down this road, and she is honoured to build on the accomplishments and initiatives introduced by the three previous presidents. She is also the first woman to hold this position, bringing a different perspective and approach to the job. “I’ve been mentored by other women who have been the first in their positions. I think there are assets that women bring to leadership – deep listening, thinking in terms of building relationships fundamentally as a way of getting things done – so I’m very honoured to have that role and I know that there will be many women who follow me in the future,” she says. Besides the exciting challenges at StMU, Dr. Vanderpool and her husband, Terry, and 13-year-old daughter Kalin are thrilled to become part of the Calgary community and to take advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities in the mountains. And the faculty and students at St. Mary’s University are excited to have such an accomplished visionary at the helm of their school.

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Mackiewealthgroup.com Tricia Leadbeater – Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor Tricia.Leadbeater@RichardsonWealth.com

St. Mary’s University • 5

BALL POSITION AND YOUR INSTINCT // SCOTT ORBAN

McKenzie Meadows Golf Tip:

Ball Position and your Instinct BY SCOTT ORBAN, PGA EXECUTIVE PROFESSIONAL, MCKENZIE MEADOWS GOLF CLUB

nstruction about ball position should only be used as a guide. There are so many exceptions to the rule and with game experience golfers who trust their instinct will have the most success. Guide: For shots off the ground, the clubhead position is in the middle of your stance (shoulder width) and the ball position is just in front of this, just forward to the target side. Off a tee, the position is toward the target foot. There is no set or perfect position that suits all golfers (because swings differ), and conditions or lies change. It is a good idea to practice your ball position using alignment tools to guide you during a controlled setting on the range. You can learn a lot about your ball flight and what works for you during these sessions. However, to really understand ball position, you need to understand what you are trying to accomplish. When striking the ball off the ground, you are trying to place the ball in a position which will allow the club to strike the ball just prior to reaching the bottom of the swing arc. (Fig 1.) When you are striking the ball off the tee with a driver, you’re trying to strike the ball when your swing arc has started upward. (Fig. 2.) During a game, a proficient swinger will consider the lie, the length of grass, the slope of the ground and the shape or type the shot they are trying to produce. This golfer will not consciously think of this, as it would be exhausting. They rely on experience, feel and trust. I call this instinct. To find the right ball position on the course, you need to trust your instinct to help you consider all the factors at play.

Figure 1 – The divot (bottom of the swing arc) for an iron shot will occur just in front of the ball.

Figure 2 – Note the club is starting to travel upward on the arc to meet the ball on the tee.

To do this, take a simple little practice swing or two. You will be testing the feel of the slope, the swing type you need and seeing where the bottom of your swing arc is so you know where your ball position will be for each individual shot. Understand your personal swing arc and the bottom of your swing determines your ball position. Do not force “the guide” to make all of your ball placement decisions on the course. Too often golfers are trying to be perfect by implementing the instruction or rules of ball position without considering their instinct.

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AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

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BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // AUGUST 2022

PARKER’S PEN // DAVID PARKER

Parker’s Pen BY DAVID PARKER

t a reception in the Dialog office, I was taken aback by three powerful and very colourful works of art on display and pleased to find they were by a student of the National accessArts Centre. NaAC president and CEO, JS Ryu was on hand to brag about the pieces that were recently displayed at the Canadian Embassy on Tokyo, and I asked how his new building was progressing. It’s been over a year since the announcement was made that the organization was thrilled to be moving into the former Boy Scout’s Hall looking across to the Bow River from Brownsea Road N.W. His blunt response was, “No progress, we have been stymied by City Hall.” Actually, the problem stems from the by-the-book rigidity of the heritage people who feel they have to preserve the concrete steps of the original design (circa 1960s) leading up to the entrance. NaAC is obviously an organization for those with some form of disability who might have a tough time mounting the long flight of stairs. An answer has been given for a separate, second entrance, but surely the students deserve the dignity of being able to use their own front door. And remembering the building’s architect, the late Jack Long, I’m quite sure he would have no problem tearing the steps down and constructing a new pathway to the centre that has a waiting list of students eager to participate in its great programs.

Traffic calming – translation ‘driver frustration’. Seems to me that streets were designed for vehicular traffic, sidewalks were made for pedestrians, and parks for playing in and family get-togethers. Now, it’s not just about slowing traffic but creating active spaces for residents to better utilize streets. Where necessary, speed limits are posted and all I expect will be drivers becoming more and more frustrated having to drive through (their own) communities with yet more barriers. And that in itself could be dangerous. And on the subject of driving, I still pull up alongside far too many people with their heads down, texting while waiting at traffic lights.

I don’t normally do book reviews but wanted to alert anyone who hails from the southern parts of Saskatchewan or Manitoba about Bean Fate. Based on true crime, it tells the tale of the 1922 murder in the border town of Bienfait, and life in and around Estevan at the time of the illicit liquor trade.

Rules are meant to adhered to – broken or scrapped when necessary.

Also factual are some of the characters including the Bronfman brothers Harry, Sam and Allan, Al Capone, Dutch Schultz and former Mayor of Chicago, ‘Big Bill’ Thompson.

It’s such a good feeling to be back to what some said would never be normal again. Hopefully we would have experienced a great Stampede by the time this is read, but just to see people enjoying sunshine between showers on patios is encouraging.

The author of this fast-moving fiction is James Arnett who grew up in Winnipeg and became president of Molson and chair of Beaver Lumber and the Montreal Canadiens.

At the top of those destinations appears to be the one on the south side of The District at Beltline on 12th Avenue S.E. called Central Taps.

A city committee has given a passing grade to a new traffic calming policy.

AUGUST 2022 // BUSINESS IN CALGARY // BUSINESSINCALGARY.COM

Enjoy.

Final Words “Give every day the chance to be the most beautiful in your life.” – Mark Twain

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Business in Calgary - August 2022

Articles inside

Ball Position and Your Instinct

Parker’s Pen

St. Mary’s University

Canada Day is our Independence Day!

Mainline Backflow Products

C-West Custom Fixtures

Investing in Learning

Calgary Chamber of Commerce

Is the Hot Market Cooling?

As Global Demand Grows So Should Canada’s Energy Supply

2022 Alberta Business Hall of Fame – Southern Alberta