Business in Calgary - March 2024

ACHIEVING

GREEN IMPACT PARTNERS CEO JESSE DOUGLAS ON HIS COMPANY’S RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS PROJECTS

NET ZERO (OR BETTER)

WEARING TOO MANY HATS AT WORK?

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SPRING REAL ESTATE MARKET PREDICTIONS FROM SAM COREA

WHAT ARE YOUR REAL ESTATE EXPECTATIONS FOR THE SPRING REAL ESTATE MARKET?

QExperts are forecasting a promising picture for Calgary in 2024 amidst a backdrop of economic growth, sustained oil and gas prices and continued strength in employment sectors. Additionally, interest rates are predicted to begin drop by Q4 with some anticipating a rate of 4% by the end of the year. In 2024, Calgary experienced an increase in home prices, a trajectory unlike other major Canadian cities. The allure of Calgary shines brightly with a higher median household income, continued employment growth, and a relatively affordable housing market compared to other provinces. This sets the stage for a dynamic and exciting 2024. Here’s an insightful glimpse into what lies ahead for Calgary’s real estate market.

INCREASED MIGRATION INTO THE CITY

Inter-provincial migration to Alberta hit record highs in 2023. Employment opportunities, economic growth, and a higher median household income attracted Canadians to move to Alberta. Also, relative affordability was a major reason for the influx of people. To put it into perspective, the average price of a property in Calgary in 2023 was $539,313, compared to $1,168,700 in the greater Vancouver area and $1,127,426 for the greater Toronto area. Additionally, there is no provincial sales tax and no land transfer tax in Alberta making purchasing a home here even more attractive. Migration is expected to continue to be strong in 2024, with the Calgary Real Estate Board predicting 52,000 people moving into the Calgary area. That works out to approximately 20,000 additional buyers searching for a home in the city.

LOW HOUSING INVENTORY

The supply of newly constructed homes is not at a level that balances out migration rates. This scarcity, reminiscent of the conditions observed last year, will persist throughout 2024, maintaining seller’s market conditions.

INCREASED SALES AND PRICES

Prices are expected to increase, but not at the same pace we experienced in 2023. Demand for entry-level detached homes and properties in lower price brackets will remain robust, propelled by a persistent quest for affordability. This pursuit will continue to steer buyers towards alternatives such as duplexes, townhomes and apartments. Properties above $1 million are not likely to see the same pressure on pricing. Increasing sales and prices will be primarily driven by elevated migration rates and a diminishing inventory of homes.

LUCRATIVE OPPORTUNITY FOR INVESTORS

With international migration into Calgary also on the rise, rental properties will continue to be in demand, translating to higher rental prices. Although not ideal for renters, this climate is favourable for prospective buyers considering investing in rental properties. When compared to Vancouver and Toronto, the Calgary real estate market offers a notable margin of profit between the asking rent and monthly mortgage payment, further enhancing its appeal to discerning investors.

FEATURED PROPERTIES

COUGAR RIDGE | $2,695,000

PRIDDIS GREENS | $1,950,000

6 BEDROOMS / 7 BATHROOMS / 5170 SF

Nestled on a serene cul-de-sac with sweeping views, this opulent home is a true marvel. A foyer with soaring ceilings leads to a formal living room, complemented by a cascading fountain, while the coffered ceiling of the dining room adds to the elegance. The family room offers comfort and splendid vistas, accompanied by a fireplace and built-in cabinets. The kitchen is a chef’s paradise, boasting high-end appliances and a caterer’s/spice kitchen. Ascend the curved staircase to a bonus room with a fireplace and stunning views. The primary bedroom is a lavish retreat with a fireplace, walk-in closet, and a spa-like ensuite. Three additional bedrooms each offer private ensuites. The walk-out basement features a spacious games area, family room, wet bar, exercise room, and a theatre with snack bar. Indooroutdoor living is seamless with expansive decks offering river and city views, a hot tub and fire pit area. Walking trails at your doorstep and proximity to prestigious schools add to the appeal. A triple garage with access to the lower level and an extra single garage cater to your practical needs. Welcome to a home where opulence meets comfort.

6 BEDROOMS / 5 BATHROOMS / 5163 SF

HAWKS

Welcome to luxury within Hawks Landing. As you enter, a double-height panelled foyer offers a tantalizing glimpse into the space. A grand sitting room with a striking fireplace sets the tone for cozy family gatherings. Adjacent, the living room French doors open onto a sprawling deck, offering captivating views of the 14th Tee Box of the Priddis Greens Golf Course. The formal dining area contains a wine cellar and server’s pantry and the chef’s dream kitchen is complete with a Viking 6 burner gas range with double ovens. Upstairs, the primary bedroom is a haven of comfort, featuring a balcony, an ensuite with a steam shower, freestanding tub, and his & her walk-in closets. The second bedroom offers comfort with its own ensuite while bedrooms three and four share a Jack and Jill bathroom. The bonus room has been set up as a theatre for family movie nights. A large recreation area bathed in sunlight can be found in the the walk-out basement, along with a wet bar, two additional bedrooms and a sizeable gym. The four car garage offers ample space. This home invites families to create lasting memories in a sanctuary of unmatched elegance on Priddis Greens.

7059

A classic brick facade welcomes you to the warm atmosphere of this lovingly maintained home. The living room sets the stage for entertaining friends, while an inviting archway leads to a dining room, perfect for special occasions. A spacious kitchen overlooks the breakfast nook and the fireplace of the adjacent family room. Step onto the deck, a sunlit sanctuary perfect for hosting lively barbecues. The main level has a versatile den/office and a convenient mud/laundry room, offering practicality. Upstairs, relaxation awaits in the generously sized primary bedroom while two additional bedrooms and a bathroom provide comfortable spaces. Hardwood floors flow throughout the second floor and continue into the flex room that can be used as a yoga area, art room, or a quiet place to do homework. Venture to the lower walk-out level to discover an entertainer’s haven in the recreation room and adjoining games area and bar. The basement is finalized by a fourth bedroom, complemented by a four-piece bathroom, providing an ideal space for a teenager. Nestled in the scenic Christie Park community, this residence is ideal for connection and cherished memories.

LANDING DRIVE, PRIDDIS

COUGAR PLATEAU POINT SW

CHRISTIE PARK | $995,000

CHRISTIE BRIAR MANOR SW

4 BEDROOMS / 4 BATHROOMS / 2265 SF

PurposeMed

REVOLUTIONIZING HEALTH CARE WITH TECHNOLOGY

by Nerissa McNaughton

PurposeMed is a ground-breaking company that’s redefining what it means to receive and provide medical care. With its roots firmly planted in technology, PurposeMed is making waves in the health care sector, offering a unique approach that improves access to complex care for underserved communities.

PurposeMed empowers those living in rural areas, those without access to family physicians and the LGBTQIA2S+ community to receive compassionate, judgement free, virtual health care within days – instead of months.

The current brands under the PurposeMed banner include:

• Freddie: Canada’s largest and highest-rated sexual health and HIV prevention service.

• Frida: Mental health care with an initial focus on ADHD assessments and care.

• Foria Clinic: Virtual gender-affirming care and hormone therapy for trans, non-binary and gender-diverse Canadians.

The driving principles that guide their patient-first care are building an 11/10 experience for the patient every time, being inclusive for patients and teammates, delivering rapid access to health care and taking ownership of the PurposeMed mission.

“Dr. Husein Moloo, Pete MacLeod and Amaan Banwait founded PurposeMed in late 2019,” says Dr. Caley Shukalek, CMO. “Husein saw how difficult it was for so many people to reliably access health care services while working as a hospitalist physician in Calgary, so he pitched the idea of PurposeMed to Pete, his future brother-in-law who had experience in a tech start up and investment banking, and Amaan, a good friend and experienced entrepreneur in the health care space.”

The initial concept was to create a tech platform that could be used by both providers and patients. Dr. Shukalek was brought in to advise the team in 2020 as the founders refined this concept to create the patient-accessible, specialty services it offers today.

“Tech platforms were a great idea and not nearly as common as they are now, even though that was just 4 years ago,” Dr. Shukalek explains. “However, we quickly realized that while the technology was useful, it was challenging to disseminate,

market and commercialize to health care professionals.” Despite these challenges, the arrival of COVID-19 presented an opportunity for PurposeMed to pivot and serve a critical need.

“With COVID, it was a good platform for that, but our main purpose – and even more so now – is access for rural, remote and underserved patients,” Dr. Shukalek says. “It’s important to note that not every physician is comfortable working with sexual health, the queer population or the other issues we focus on. We offer services that are very much affirming and meet people where they are.”

For example, Freddie offers routine sexually transmitted infection testing as part of its care and acts as a gateway to other health care services.

“We’ve had many patients that access our care say, ‘This is the first time I’ve felt heard and cared for by a health care professional,’” Dr. Shukalek says, demonstrating the profound impact of their work.

PurposeMed’s approach to growth has been both intentional and sustainable. The company is keen on maintaining a balance between expanding its reach and ensuring that it continues to provide high-quality and compassionate care.

“We have been very conscientious of our growth as a company. There is luck but also a lot of hard work and a thoughtful approach,” says Dr. Shukalek. “Everyone contributes to what we build. Our expansion strategy involves both patient-facing services and the internal workings of our company, such as our tech team. We are very conscientious and careful about who we bring in and how we create more impact for patients.”

While PurposeMed has been successful in its growth endeavours, it has not been without challenges. The company operates in a competitive tech space where giants like Google and Shopify have established a strong foothold on talent.

“We are limited by geography and those companies have such a bigger operating base compared to smaller entities like us,” says Dr. Shukalek.

Despite these hurdles, PurposeMed continues to thrive, attributing much of its success to its dedicated staff.

within the ATB network provide invaluable support, helping us navigate the often tumultuous waters of business growth and development. ATB’s commitment to fostering Alberta’s business ecosystem sets them apart. Their dedication to supporting local businesses, combined with their innovative approach to non-dilutive funding, make them a unique and valuable partner for startups and scale-ups.”

Dr. Shukalek points out that the University of Calgary and its Innovate Calgary program were also helpful for PurposeMed’s launch and growth.

“We have had success and will continue to have success in finding people and launching platforms. We are very grateful to everyone that contributes to our company.”

“For businesses like ours, ATB’s presence has been a gamechanger,” Dr. Shukalek explains, “Access to funding through ATB has provided a sense of relief, ensuring we have the capital to delve into when needed for significant growth investments or expansion into new markets.”

“While there are numerous ways to raise funds in a startup or scale-up environment, our journey has been somewhat unique. We’ve managed to accomplish what we have with the support of a few close investors, without having to resort to venture capital fundraising. This approach has allowed us to retain control over our direction, a luxury not all companies can afford. ATB’s provision of non-dilutive funding enables us to grow in the continuous, controlled manner we desire, without the pressure of external influences.”

He adds, “ATB’s support extends beyond financial backing. The recognition we’ve received through awards from ATB has significantly raised our profile. Their belief in what we’re doing, coupled with their promotion of us as an Alberta-based business, has undoubtedly helped elevate our status.”

When asked if ATB differs from other entities in the world of corporate banking, the answer is a resounding yes.

“The interest ATB shows in Alberta-based enterprises is a real benefit to companies like ours. Their advisors and connections

“The early funding received from the university, along with the invaluable advice and mentorship from investors associated with the Innovate Calgary program, have been crucial in kicking things off and sustaining growth,” he notes.

Looking ahead, the company is focused on mindful growth. With a myriad of potential services and offerings on the horizon, the team at PurposeMed continues to innovate, aiming to create a high-quality array of services for people who struggle with health care access.

Reflecting on the company’s journey so far, it’s clear that the sky’s the limit for PurposeMed. With a strong team at all levels, the company is well-positioned to expand its offerings and reach even more individuals. As the company continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to its purpose: creating accessible and high-quality health care services.

PurposeMed’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, partnership and a strong belief in one’s purpose. The company’s growth and success serve as an inspiration for other startups, proving that with the right support and a dedicated team, anything is possible. See where they will innovate next by visiting purposemed.com and following them on Facebook.

ATB is pleased to present a 2024 profile series on the businesses and people who are facing challenges head-on to build a strong Alberta.

TOP: DR. CALEY SHUKALEK, CMO AND FOUNDERS PETE MACLEOD, AMAAN BANWAIT, DR. HUSEIN MOLOO.

BOTTOM: FREDDIE OFFERS ROUTINE SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION TESTING AS PART OF ITS CARE AND ACTS AS A GATEWAY TO OTHER HEALTHCARE SERVICES.

DEBATE & LEADERSHIP July 2 -

Webber Academy is thrilled to collaborate present an exhilarating camp experience is tailored for students aged 11-17, providing development of both leadership and unforgettable adventure

Founded by three students at Harvard, The Crimson Collective specializes in high school further education programs, from leadership conferences to elite sport development camps. Taught by Ivy League students, TCC seeks to cultivate the next generation of global leaders, academics and athletes in equipping them with the tools required to excel beyond expectations.

EVIN CHIN

Evin, was the 2020 valedictorian of Webber Academy, and a Senior at Harvard College studying Economics with a focus on industrial organization. Most recently, Evin served as the president of the Harvard Project for Asian and International Relations, an organization that runs the largest student-led conference in Asia every year; and serves on the boards of the Undergraduate Economics and Law Reviews. He will attend Harvard Law School in 2026 and plans to study antitrust and contract law. In the meantime, he will work at Analysis Group as an Analyst in their Boston office, and continue working with students to be the best versions of themselves.

LEADERSHIP CAMP 5, 2024

collaborate with The Crimson Collective to experience in July 2024. This unique opportunity providing a dynamic platform for the and debate skills. Get ready for an adventure in learning and growth.

ORECK FRAZIER

Oreck is a junior at Harvard College studying Molecular and Cellular Biology. Currently, Oreck is a Co-President of the Harvard Undergraduate Pre-Dental Society, an organization that provides students with the opportunities necessary to be successful as a pre-dental student at Harvard. Outside of academics, Oreck is a member of the Harvard Football team, which has won two Ivy League championships in the past three years. After college, he plans to attend dental school to become an Orthodontist. Through TCC and dentistry, Oreck hopes to create both beautiful minds and beautiful smiles.

MARTY KULESZA

Marty is a Junior at Harvard College double majoring in Psychology and Economics. Marty’s academic interests lie in marketing and consumer behavior, and he intends to further pursue post-graduate studies internationally. Away from the classroom, Marty is a Varsity rower, having raced globally at a multitude of levels; and the founder of a start-up based in Australia that specializes in strategic branding solutions for small businesses. He is taking a gap semester the upcoming Fall to focus on TCC and work at a corporate level in the field of marketing and business strategy.

of photos on the mantle.

It’s an honour building memories with you, Calgary.

SHANE HOMES, THE BETTER WAY TO BUILD.

PUBLISHERS

Pat Ottmann & Tim Ottmann

EDITOR

Melanie Darbyshire

melanie@businessincalgary.com

COPY EDITOR

Nikki Mullett

ART DIRECTOR

Jessi Evetts jessi@businessincalgary.com

ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING info@businessincalgary.com

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS

Shane Wenzel

Cody Battershill

David Parker

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS

Melanie Darbyshire

Rennay Craats

Jamie Zachary

John Hardy

Nerissa McNaughton

PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover photo courtesy of EWAN PHOTO VIDEO

ADVERTISING SALES/CUSTOM PUBLISHERS

Karla O’Brien

587-774-7620

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Brittany

Can the Truth Survive AI?

ABY SHANE WENZEL

recent call to a supplier to pay a bill by credit card reminded me of attending conferences by The Futurist Group and one of their predictions. I am no expert, nor have I been an avid follower of Artificial Intelligence (AI), but my credit card experience convinced me I should start paying attention. I am positive I was served by a robotic voice which I can’t explain on paper, but it was not human. I likely will never pay my account on the phone again and I am now directing some attention to exploring Artificial Intelligence.

In one of my Futurist publications from the late ’90s, much time was spent discussing production of a ‘thinking machine’, along with ‘A Future of Personal Robots’. Most thought a ‘true thinking machine’ was a long way off or ‘never will be’, and while personal robots may be able to do more than humans, they could also cause a plethora of problems. Even the Ladies Home Journal in 1900 weighed in on the ‘Next Hundred Years’ with related possibilities. The Futurist Group no longer offers conferences. But here we are in 2024, experiencing a taste of Artificial Intelligence. My collection of books oft refers to AI as a new generation of ‘robber barons’ being a present danger to the world.

So, what is being noticed? A lawsuit by the George Carlin family is underway after a completely new show has been produced in full voice likeness of the late Carlin. Musicians and Hollywood actors are be-ing copied and are also headed for lawsuits, not to mention the ‘bowels of mankind’ using a form of technology for more nefarious activities.

It appears this technology is on its way to both being a ‘gift’ and a ‘curse’. Some have changed and greatly improved aspects of our lives while others have been accused of threats to our civil rights, economy and democracy. AI has moved from an academic theory to quickly becoming a reality – think, facial recognition, self-driving vehicles, smart homes, interpreting medical tests, online shopping and cybersecurity to name just a few.

Some of the scarier uses reflect many human biases. I wonder if it is a matter of time until human created thinking machines will influence the justice system, or who gets accepted into a job or a specific school or rejected for a bank loan or as a rental applicant. I don’t know about you but frankly I still get a bit ‘spooked’ when the U.S.A. customs now rarely looks at your passport but simply scans your eye! I have often maintained I can read what people are thinking by their eyes, but then I’m not recording it for future use.

From what I have read, over 60 countries have introduced some regulation or restriction policies due to concerns for the future. Europe is the leader in tackling the job of regulating AI with a few states in the U.S.A. beginning to. Canada is still floundering, but then I really don’t want the government being in total control of those regulations. It needs input from regular folks with less control over it’s use. Until more is known about this whole topic and sensible regulations are in place through citizen empowerment, I don’t support election machines.

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.

WDavid Suzuki Foundation Should Be More Constructive On De-Carbonization

BY CODY BATTERSHILL

ith productive discussions continuing in Canada, the U.S., Europe and Asia, it’s no wonder the David Suzuki Foundation (DSF) is sharpening its sights on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a reasonable bridge fuel to a carbon-free future.

First, here’s what non-Suzuki officials are saying about LNG and the vital role it will play in an energy transition:

B.C. Premier David Eby recently stated LNG continues to have a role to play in the energy transition. “Our partners in LNG Canada, for example – and other major projects – are going to continue to be our partners,” he said.

Federal Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, according to Bloomberg, has observed a U.S. decision to pause approvals of new licenses to export LNG will create opportunity for Canada’s sector, “on the basis of Canada offering the lowest carbon intensity natural gas in the world and ensuring we’re linking it to the displacement of heavier hydrocarbons like coal.”

And LNG Canada’s corporate relations vice-president Teresa Waddington recently described shipping distances to Asia from Kitimat as about 50 per cent shorter than the route to Asia from the U.S. Gulf Coast, part of the reason GHG emissions from LNG Canada’s Kitimat operation will be less than those of any facility of a similar size operating in the world, and 35 per cent lower than the world’s bestperforming facilities.

In Asia, the chief executive of the Asian Natural Gas and Energy Association recently wrote the U.S. Secretary of Energy, stating: “Without sufficient access to gas imports,

energy security and the energy transition will be elusive for the people of Southeast Asia, and that in turn places at risk the ambitious decarbonization plans spearheaded by Japan.”

What’s DSF’s reaction to all this constructive talk of reducing the world’s carbon footprint through LNG as a bridge fuel to a clean energy future? If your bingo card says, ‘issuing a report, Burning Bridge, to garner public support for choking off reasonable, proven, scalable baseload (24-7) LNG supplies,’ then you’re unfortunately right.

But here are some facts: Since 2010, coal-to-gas switching has saved around 500 million tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere, the equivalent of putting an extra 200 million electric vehicles running on zero-carbon electricity on the road over the same period.

Coal-to-gas switching in America’s power sector has seen CO2 emissions decline by more than 30 per cent between 2005 and 2019, despite the economy having grown by 28 per cent. And electricity sector emissions in Alberta dropped by nearly half between 2015 and 2020, largely a result of coalto-gas switching.

It seems the folks at DSF need to update their thinking and commit to a genuine and timely transition to a clean energy future – and they should do it now.

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.

JCB 512-83R ROTATING TELEHANDLER

The roto telehandler introduces a whole new realm of opportunities by combining three machines into one with the maneuverability of a telehandler, reach and lifting capability of a crane, and access capacity of a MEWP.

HIGHLIGHTS

The roto telehandler introduces a whole new realm of opportunities by combining three machines into one with the maneuverability of a telehandler, reach and lifting capability of a crane, and access capacity of a MEWP.

■ Maximum capacity of 12,000 lbs and a maximum lift height of 83 ft 3 in

HIGHLIGHTS

■ Powered by a 145 hp JCB EcoMac engine - no DPF filters

■ 4 scissor type outriggers with AUTO functions: deploy, retract and level

■ Maximum capacity of 12,000 lbs and a maximum lift height of 83 ft 3 in

■ Powered by a 145 hp JCB EcoMac engine - no DPF filters

■ Dual seat mounted joysticks in large, ergonomic operator station

■ 4 scissor type outriggers with AUTO functions: deploy, retract and level

■ Dual seat mounted joysticks in large, ergonomic operator station

■ Load Management System (LMS) that displays capacities and limits; can be set for specific applicaiton situations

■ RFID attachments recognition corresponding with in-cab LMS system

■ LiveLink telematics for real-time machine data

■ Load Management System (LMS) that displays capacities and limits; can be set for specific applicaiton situations

■ RFID attachments recognition corresponding with in-cab LMS system

■ LiveLink telematics for real-time machine data

SUPERIOR

Lithium: Alberta’s Exciting New Era

It’s a contemporary fact of global business that lithium is a vitally important, tremendously in-demand and hot commodity! And now lithium is also exciting Canadian business news, as Alberta has become a dynamic player in the global lithium race, with last year’s launch of E3 Lithium Ltd., Canada’s first lithium extraction pilot project.

Analysts and experts are unanimous. Lithium plays a critical role in most aspects of daily life. Lithium is an essential part of the technology that powers mobile phones, computers, power tools and the vital battery storage of energy generated by wind and solar power. Lithium is critical for the growth and future of the electric vehicle industry.

Stats show that the manufacturing of rechargeable batteries for electronics, electric vehicles and grid storage is the largest global use for lithium, representing 80 per cent of total demand.

Lithium is now a key focus of the Canadian government’s $3.8-billion, eight-year critical minerals strategy, which aims to increase domestic extraction and production of the metal, along with other previously under-developed resources such as cobalt, copper, titanium and zinc.

Although the world’s biggest lithium producers are Australia, Chile and China, Alberta has long been acknowledged as having one of the world’s largest lithium deposits, located deep underground in the Leduc geological formation, which is also a major oil-and-gas producing area.

“We are into an exciting, new era,” said the industry respected and enthusiastic E3 president and CEO, Chris Doornbos, “for Alberta’s traditionally oil-and-gas-dominated economy. Without forsaking our past, the lithium industry is opening up a vital new industry, using our existing skillsets. It is an opportunity to be a global lithium leader.”

E3’s innovative success is tremendous. The dynamic E3 Lithium, the publicly traded junior resource company

headquartered in Calgary, is quickly earning its rank as a leader in the space. In addition to holding the mineral rights to an estimated 16 million tons of lithium resource, E3 has developed a unique made-in-Alberta technology that extracts the lithium that occurs naturally within oilfield brines.

Now, the E3 innovation and success gets even better! The company recently announced the discovery of higher lithium concentrations in the Nisku Aquifer (the Nisku) through a new six well sampling program conducted late last year.

“Finding higher concentrations of lithium in the Nisku is a significant discovery,” Doornbos points out. “It opens the door to potentially produce from an additional aquifer to the Leduc in the future. The Nisku is well known in Alberta as a prolific oil producer and is similar to the Leduc in that respect.

“And while E3 has not yet completed a resource estimate in the Nisku, if successful, it would add additional resources to our already significant resource base from the Leduc.”

ABOVE: E3 PRESIDENT AND CEO, CHRIS DOORNBOS

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• Towels, Sheets, Pillow Cases, & Face Cradles

The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary) Community Resource Centre Opens

The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary) is thrilled to announce that its Community Resource Centre in Forest Lawn is open. Designed to support families with learning and literacy programs, food security and a safe space to play, the 50,000 square feet of renovated space includes classrooms, an emergency food pantry and lots of places to engage and connect including a big recreational space with a mobile skatepark. From here it will continue its outreach to the most vulnerable in the area and serve all its other work across the city with the large onsite warehouse. The space is especially important to two of its largest family supports –the annual Backpack and Christmas Toy Programs. Lastly, this is the new home of The Salvation Army Emergency and Disaster Services team for the area.

To celebrate, The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary) had representatives from all three levels of government, its generous donors, leaders from The Salvation Army in Canada and from the Siksika Nation,

and many other special guests join them for a dedication ceremony on January 27. Skateboarders, food and tours were all part of the fun.

The excitement continued over the next week as community members and fellow agencies were welcomed. Visitors joined to connect and explore, and share their dreams and visions of how the new space can serve the diverse local communities of greater Forest Lawn and beyond. The Salvation Army Community Services (Calgary) has been working with local businesses to engage, support and serve, and it looks forward to nurturing more relationships to work together in the neighbourhood and build a stronger community.

The new Community Resource Centre is located at 100, 5115 17th Avenue SE. It is open on weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and welcomes everyone to see what great things are – and will be! – happening there.

Hit the ground strategizing, animating, or coding.

The Big Ball Gala

The Big Ball, an annual charity gala held at Calgary’s esteemed Hotel Arts, symbolizes philanthropy and community solidarity. Over the last six years, Hotel Arts has played a pivotal and proud role as both the hosts and title sponsors of the Big Ball Gala. Originating as the Bill Brooks Gala and persevering for an impressive 19 years, this event has evolved into a remarkable alignment of shared goals. Hotel Arts remains enthusiastic about sustaining its dedication not only to the Women for Men’s Health (WFMH) cause but also to the broader philanthropic work in Calgary. Together, we are united in the mission for a healthier and more compassionate community, standing as beacons of support for initiatives that make a lasting impact on the wellbeing of Calgary.

Attracting the city’s finest, the gala has been providing Calgarians (and beyond!) with an unparalleled opportunity to party with a cause for six years. All proceeds garnered are donated by the Women for Men’s Health organization to various initiatives that seek to improve both psychological and physical health outcomes for men in our community, who continue to be impacted by disparities in mental health services especially.

From being tightly knit with the Cavalry Football Club to forging a friendship with Olympic gold-medalist, Mark Tewksbury, the Big Ball has been steadily growing a base of influential advocates and ambassadors. With every passing year, the event continues to raise both support and awareness for the challenges that men face when traversing our healthcare system. To this end, a majority of the proceeds of the 2024 Big Ball have been contributed to the ongoing development of the Kawakami Prehabilitation Clinic.

This clinic is named after Dr. Jun Kawakami, a urologist and dear friend of the WFMH group, who died in 2021 of pancreatic cancer at the age of 48. The goal of the prehabilitation program is to optimize healing outcomes for patients diagnosed with significant disease by improving all aspects of their physical, mental and emotional health,

prior to surgical intervention. After a long wait, the clinic is scheduled for completion this year!

In appreciation of Mark Tewksbury’s ambassadorship, a portion of the proceeds from this year’s Big Ball were also donated to the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary. Mark represents the Big Ball’s commitment to extending support to men and men-identifying individuals who are included in the LQBTQ+ community, who have exceptionalities, or who simply subscribe to a new definition of masculinity. The Big Ball is fiercely dedicated to supporting, raising awareness and providing an inclusive space for all to celebrate individuals in our community.

This year’s Big Ball was a monumental success. Thanks to the support and big hearts of many individuals, the event sold out of tickets, hosted its inaugural VIP reception and was able to raise over $300,000 for a good cause.

The next Big Ball is scheduled for January 31, 2025, so mark your calendars and prepare for a night like no other!

PHOTO SOURCE: THE BIG BALL

Providing

Loans

Flexible

Robust

MANEUVERING CALGARY’S JOBS CRUNCH

THE JOB SEARCH CHALLENGE

BY JOHN HARDY

Calgary has a lingering jobs crunch. Although the Calgary job market is in constant flux, and the Calgary job search grind is more digitally efficient than ever, the reality is that Calgary job searches – for employees and for employers – are often challenging, overwhelming, frustrating and discouraging.

Labour market number crunchers and Calgary HR professionals agree. Most of 2023 was tough for Calgary job hunters, and although there are hopes and signs for improvement, so far 2024 isn’t much better.

Last year, full-time job losses happened in agriculture, natural resources, construction, the financial sector, business and building services, health care, accommodation and food services, and public administration.

“Over the past two to three years, Canada has witnessed a notable surge in job vacancies across various sectors,” explains Chris Ball, executive director of Career Professionals of Canada (CPC), the uniquely Canadian not-for-profit national association for career practitioners. “It is a trend attributed to several factors. One significant driver has been the country’s robust economic growth, spurred by increased consumer spending, business investments and government stimulus measures.

“Additionally, demographic shifts, such as an aging population and retirements, have created vacancies that need to be filled. Technological advancements have also

“OVER THE PAST TWO TO THREE YEARS, CANADA HAS WITNESSED A NOTABLE SURGE IN JOB VACANCIES ACROSS VARIOUS SECTORS,” EXPLAINS BALL.

played a part, creating new industries and roles that have fueled a growing demand for skilled workers.” CPC trending shows that, collectively, various labour market factors have caused a noticeable uptick in job vacancies.

ABOVE: CHRIS BALL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CAREER PROFESSIONALS OF CANADA (CPC).

Stephan

Dylan Assen, Skyelar Kachur and Jim Aronitz. Photo by Rebecca Hardcastle

The frustrations of Calgary job hunters parallel the trends and details about unemployed hopefuls and job opportunities.

According to recent StatsCanada numbers and trending, there is good news and bad news. Data shows job vacancies declined at the end of 2023, but the drop is a double-edged sword. Jobs being filled is good news, but job creation is failing to keep up with population, and Canada’s job market saw a notable erosion in opportunity as fewer job openings were advertised.

In Alberta, there were 89,380 vacant positions (down by four per cent from the year before), with Calgary accounting for 34 per cent of the total vacancies in Alberta.

“Currently, Calgary’s job market appears stable with growth reported in many sectors,” notes Sarah Imran, director of Career Services at MRU. “Notably, there’s an uptick in the environmental, communication and broadcast sectors (excluding journalism jobs, which are declining). “The tech sector is experiencing some challenges, trying to keep existing employees busy with work. The layoffs created increased competition for new graduates. And there is also growth in the public and health sectors.”

CPC’s Chris Ball adds that in the Canadian job market, particularly in areas like Calgary, jobs in the technology sector and healthcare and skilled trades are available.

“Despite fluctuations in the oil and gas sector, Calgary’s status as a central hub for the energy industry continues to drive demand for engineering, project management, and environmental sciences professionals.

“The growing importance of technology is causing an increased demand for software developers, IT specialists and data analysts, reflecting Calgary’s emergence as a burgeoning tech hub.”

Some things never change. The reasons for being out of work and looking for a job are many – and individual. Pandemicrelated layoffs, a hiring slowdown and a transforming workplace dealing with work-from-remote and downsizing job factors are all job-hunting reality checks and speedbumps.

Although there is some encouraging Calgary momentum about job opportunities, the technology of digital job

“CURRENTLY, CALGARY’S JOB MARKET APPEARS STABLE WITH GROWTH REPORTED IN MANY SECTORS,” NOTES IMRAN.

searching is efficient but also compounding the discouraging frustration. Ironically, for similar but different reasons, Calgary job hunters and Calgary employers are frustrated by quirks of today’s job search process.

For applicants, the search and application process have tremendous reach, but also blurs the chances of being noticed, connecting and getting to second base.

Employers looking for talent and viable potential are often blitzed by a buckshot of misfocused, mistargeted and irrelevant email resumes and cover letters.

The slick efficiency of digital job searching comes with a price. “While digital platforms have undoubtedly revolutionized the job search process, offering efficiency and accessibility,” Ball points out, “they also introduce challenges and frustrations for job seekers. The sheer volume of online job postings can overwhelm individuals, making navigating and identifying suitable opportunities difficult.

“On the employer side, automated applicant tracking systems often filter out candidates based on algorithms

ABOVE: SARAH IMRAN, DIRECTOR OF CAREER SERVICES AT MRU

WHILE CALGARY’S UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS REMAIN THE HIGHEST AMONG MAJOR CANADIAN CENTRES, THE CITY’S WORKFORCE CONTINUES TO SHOW STRENGTH. AND WHILE THE JOB SEARCH CONTINUES TO BE A CHALLENGING AND COMPLICATED MANEUVER, STATSCAN TRACKS AND AN ENCOURAGING AND POSITIVE TREND.

or a lack of specific keywords in résumés, potentially overlooking qualified applicants and exacerbating feelings of frustration.” She adds that the impersonal nature of digital communication can hinder meaningful connections between job seekers and employers, leading to feelings of isolation in the job search process.”

MRU’s Sarah Imran cautions against a “spray and pray” approach, and recommends targeted applications with personalized cover letters. “Applying on LinkedIn in seconds takes no effort and may still get a job, partially because employers are desperate for qualified candidates. Generic applications are easily detected by applicant tracking systems, and reduces visibility. A resume will never make it to a recruiter or hiring manager if there is no effort to customize it.”

She notes from recent Calgary experience that post-COVID job seekers seem less engaged, often reneging on contracts and showing lethargy. Many applicants are neglecting cover letters and lack engagement during interviews, sometimes preferring virtual – Zoom – interactions.

“Overall, it’s a job seeker’s market, except for niche or high-potential roles where candidates make extra efforts to stand out. Calgary Employers are primarily seeking individuals who fit well within their organizations, emphasizing skills like complex thinking, adaptability and willingness to learn.”

Chris Ball emphasizes the key to an effective job search is a multifaceted approach encompassing traditional and modern strategies. “First and foremost, clarity in defining a person’s career goals and identifying preferred industries. It is crucial. Tailoring résumés and cover letters to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each application significantly improves the chances of success.”

Although COVID is an easy blame for many business issues, job hunting became frustrating even before the pandemic. The time companies took to hire stretched out and as they asked candidates to undergo more and more interviews. While labour shortages during the pandemic did spark a temporary reprieve, today, recession jitters happen, companies are returning to old habits – despite slick technology – and putting candidates through a grueling process.

Another unavoidable factor which makes Calgary job hunting rough ride is the impact of an otherwise Calgary positive. Migration! More people, more job searchers and more competition for jobs.

A strong economy, talented workforce and businessfriendly policies continue to attract Calgary job creators and investment from around the world. Analysts explain one important reason why Calgary’s unemployment rate rises. Calgary’s population growth continues to set records and create stiffer competition for jobs.

Part of Calgary’s current job-hunting rituals stem from a tightening labour market, especially in fields like tech that have had hundreds of thousands of layoffs in the past year or so. There is now, on average, one job opening for every two applicants on LinkedIn, a big change from early 2022, when there was one job opening per applicant on average.

While Calgary’s unemployment numbers remain the highest among major Canadian centres, the city’s workforce continues to show strength. And while the job search continues to be a challenging and complicated maneuver, StatsCan tracks and an encouraging and positive trend.

Calgary’s growth in full-time employment over the past year led the nation at 6.5 per cent and was ranked third in overall Canadian employment growth at 3.6 per cent.

ALL HANDS ON DECK

HOW THREE ORGANIZATIONS ARE ADDRESSING ALBERTA’S LABOUR SHORTAGE

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

The labour shortage. It’s on every employer’s lips, especially in the trades. The Government of Alberta forecasts a shortage of 3,000 workers per occupation across 11 sectors by 2030. Counted among those sectors are “construction trades helpers and labourers; home building and renovation managers and contractors and supervisors; other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers.”

This begs the question, what can be done? Some organizations are taking action, including PCL, one of the largest contracting companies in North America.

Chris Gower, deputy CEO, PCL Construction, says, “Labour shortages in the construction sector can cause project delays, an increased risk of safety incidents due to inexperienced employees and pressure on the already thin margins and tight timelines under which we operate. Without a sufficient supply of skilled labour and considering the post-pandemic boom in infrastructure spending, builders struggle to meet the pent-up demand for critical community infrastructure. Many factors contribute to this skill shortage and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Over the last decade, we have

been proactively investing in building a talent pipeline that attracts individuals to our industry.”

To effectively build the pipeline from high school to a career in construction, PCL engages with industry associations, schools and technical colleges/universities to raise awareness among students that the industry offers rewarding careers.

“Our Careers in Construction presentation teaches children about apprenticeships and the value of getting paid to learn. In partnership with our virtual design and construction department, we’ve created engaging sessions that allow young students to virtually tour our job sites,” Gower says.

“PCL also supports many post-secondary institutions. Employees and leadership sit on advisory boards for numerous college programs and professional associations across Canada, including the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta. We partner with educational institutions by sponsoring scholarships and awards, strengthening the skilled-labour pipeline in our communities. Since 2017, PCL has donated over $1 million to post-secondary institutions across Canada and the United States.”

PHOTO SOURCE: WOMEN BUILDING FUTURES

These efforts are paying off. Last year, PCL provides more than 787 interns from 130 colleges and universities in Canada and the United States with real-world experience in the construction industry in their area of study. In 2023, 152 former students joined PCL full-time, filling nearly 50 per cent of the entry-level engineering positions.

Gower speaks to the misconception about trade work that hampers students from embarking on this career path.

“Too often students and their parents harbour misconceptions that construction work is a dead-end, dangerous, boring and outdated career choice. We need to actively tackle these misconceptions by showcasing the advanced technologies used in construction and highlighting the exciting opportunities for growth and advancement in the field.

“The benefits of going into construction include gaining an education without incurring heavy student debt, being well compensated and having the potential for rapid career progression. The construction industry offers a dynamic and innovative work environment where creativity and problem solving are highly valued. Additionally, the sense of achievement in building tangible, impactful projects that shape communities can be a powerful motivator, offering a fulfilling and prosperous career choice.”

PCL will continue to take action and be a leader in advancing the benefits and rewards of trades.

“The construction industry can’t just wait for the skilled labour shortage to resolve itself. Industry and government should work together to build new and creative strategies to address the challenges. We need more action from governments, quickly,” Gower adds.

McKee Homes, a family-run award-winning homebuilder with more than 35 years of creating communities is also invested in bringing youth into trades. For 12 years McKee Homes has administered a program called Building Futures.

Grace McKee, executive vice president, owner at McKee Homes, says, “Grade 10 students participate in a unique educational program while attending school on our job site, where they complete their core classes while gaining hands on experience in home building. During the school year, students work alongside our trade partners to construct one to two

“THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CAN’T JUST WAIT FOR THE SKILLED LABOUR SHORTAGE TO RESOLVE ITSELF. INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT SHOULD WORK TOGETHER TO BUILD NEW AND CREATIVE STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES. WE NEED MORE ACTION FROM GOVERNMENTS, QUICKLY,” GOWER ADDS.

homes, exposing them to such areas as engineering, design, supply chains, marketing, sales and construction. Our hope with Building Futures is to raise awareness about the exciting and rewarding opportunities in our industry and inspire students to explore many of the potential career paths.”

Ryan Doel, sales and marketing manager, adds, “Students get hands-on experience in various aspects of home construction, including surveying, excavation, framing, plumbing, electrical, finish carpentry and drywall. They also gain insight into the world of lending and mortgages, marketing, sales, and design.”

The experience has, for many, launched the students into construction careers thanks to the hands-on experience and exposure to trades professionals at every level.

Another organization tackling the challenge head on is Women Building Futures (WBF) where the

ABOVE: CHRIS GOWER, DEPUTY CEO, PCL CONSTRUCTION

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THOMPSON CONCLUDES, “THE TRADES ARE AN INCREDIBLY POWERFUL PLACE FOR WOMEN AND A POWERFUL WAY TO BUILD A CAREER. IF YOU HAVE YOUR JOURNEYPERSON TICKET, THAT NEVER GETS TAKEN AWAY FROM YOU.”

main goal is to help women gain economic security. By training, connecting and supporting women to embrace trades, WBF is also tapping into a major labour pool that has infinite benefits for the future of trades in Alberta. The organization was formed by City of Edmonton social workers when it was noted how easy it was to place men into high paying careers, but those same opportunities for women were not available.

Jess Thomson, director of external relations and growth, says, “Currently there is about 5 per cent women in skilled trades in Alberta. One of the first barriers for women entering the trades is simply awareness of the opportunity of working in the trades. We aim to raise awareness of these opportunities and help women see themselves in these opportunities and careers.

A critical piece of the puzzle for WBF is supporting employers.

Thomson says, “Our Employer of Choice is a membership program that shows WBF’s employer partners’ commitment to inclusion in the workplace and to support their ongoing journey of providing safe and equitable work environments. We help our Employer of Choice identify areas of strength within their organizations and identify areas where they might need help.

“We have tools available for employers, like Work Proud, which can create a more inclusive, respectful work environment. We support our employer partners through continuous learning by providing connections to specialized resources; diversity, equity and inclusion training and access to a community that shares best practices and finds solutions to common problems. We are

committed towards that long-term vision, and this can be achieved through industry partners who share these values.”

WBF students are supported for life.

“We journey with women at the onset as they seek new opportunities. Our approach aims to prepare and educate women, not only through training but for the career that comes afterward. Our alumni team is forever connected to our grads,” Thomson notes.

“We connect at one month, three months, etc. Alumni is there for the rest of their careers to help students through future career changes, to address workplace issues and help them succeed overall in the trades.”

She concludes, “The trades are an incredibly powerful place for

women and a powerful way to build a career. If you have your journeyperson ticket, that never gets taken away from you.”

The trades shortage is real and growing but thanks to organizations like PCL, McKee Homes and Women Building Futures, the perception of trades is turning around and there is hope on the horizon.

THEY’RE BAAAAACK!

THE CALGARY AUTO & TRUCK SHOW IS BACK, AND BETTER THAN EVER!

BY JOHN HARDY

There are many ways to properly describe the popularity of the Calgary International Auto and Truck Show. Dazzling! Interesting! Sprawling! Browsing! Experiencing and show-and-tell exciting! Getting ideas! And fun.

And after three years of beyond-anybody’s-control speedbumps and absence, the Calgary International Auto and Truck Show is back, better than ever at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park from March 7 to 10, 2024.

“COVID closed our show in March of 2020, and we have been anxious and hopeful, but struggled to host a Calgary Auto Show since then,” admits a relieved and enthusiastic Jim Gillespie, the executive manager of the Calgary Motor Dealers Association (CMDA).

“Global supply chain issues hit the automobile industry hard, and trade shows were a key casualty. More importantly, the economy was placed on hold, by all the forced pandemic closures that governments mandated to safeguard the public health.”

Although getting ready for the excitement of the 2024 Calgary International Auto and Truck Show is all about looking forward, not the rearview mirror, Gillespie admits that it’s been a challenging couple of years. “By last year, we thought it was okay to resume, and we did have some

manufacturers committed to attending and participating but, quite frankly, there wasn’t enough of them to be fair to the people who would attend.

“Last year was just not going to be the caliber of Auto Show that people expected, so unfortunately, we cancelled the 2023 Show.”

It’s 2024, the fog has lifted, life has rebounded and it is good. The Calgary Auto Show is all set and ready, with more than 200 vehicles on display and over 30 different manufacturers taking part. And there is extra good news. By popular Calgary demand, the 2024 Auto Show comeback also includes Heavy Trucks.

The Auto Show, a leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive, will be a Calgary showcase for the latest cars, trucks, SUVs, EVs, luxury cars, classics, concept cars, exotics and more. It is both tradition and fact that the Auto Show is so much more than a browsing and shopping opportunity.

It is an automotive celebration for a wide range of Calgary visitors. Of course, the many shimmering and vibrant displays of cars and trucks will get lots of oohs and aahs, and although Auto Show browsers have individual areas of interest, technology and automotive features, the 2024 Calgary International Auto and Truck Show will also include the latest trends of some eye-catching new colours. Typically, while car and truck colours are often in the popular but basic

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range from the classic white to grays and blacks, some reds, blues and other colours, manufacturers are now embracing new, non-classic automotive shades, from transparent blues to pastels and light green.

Once again, the interactive display of various new technologies will be interesting experiences. “EVs are an exciting 2024 topic. There’s a monumental change happening in the auto industry right now, so it’s extremely important to tell the story,” Gillespie explains.

Consumers, consumer trends, auto industry insiders and governments are unanimous. Demand for EVs has grown markedly over the past decade, thanks to consumer convenience choices, heightened environmental concerns, greater availability of models, increased cost competitiveness with conventional gas vehicles and improved vehicle ranges.

“The evolution of electric vehicle technology is a very hot topic for today’s consumers,” he emphasizes. “And this year’s Auto Show will feature the largest indoor EV Ride & Drive in Western Canada, with more than 17 different EV models

for consumers to test drive, giving Calgarians a chance to experience large displays of electric vehicles and experience the feeling of an EV ride.”

A lot of planning and market research goes into the detailed work of making the 2024 Calgary International Auto and Truck Show enjoyable, interesting and worthwhile.

“Calgarians love cars, SUVs and they love trucks. The Calgary consumer has spoken. It is why the Show is again shining a spotlight on Heavy Trucks. “Whether it’s popular cars, SUVs or trucks,” Gillespie notes, “Calgary has a large footprint for a city. Although our C-Train is terrific, unlike other major areas, in Calgary and its outlying areas transit doesn’t always work for people to get from one end to another.”

The Auto Show organizers and exhibitors also bring amazing interactive displays that not only captivate a wide range of audiences, but always entertain and educate. It’s an important appeal of the Show.

Another popular dimension of the Calgary Auto Show is going outside ‘the automotive box’ with special displays and interactive special experiences.

“This year, we are welcoming back the Prostate Cancer Centre, which will encourage patrons to get a free PSA test during the Show. Also, something different and special, women over 18 will enjoy our Toyota Ladies night on Friday, March 8. As a special appreciation, the Show is offering 50 per cent discount on adult weekday admittance to all Calgary and area first responders and health care professionals.”

ACHIEVING NET ZERO (OR BETTER)

GREEN IMPACT PARTNERS CEO JESSE DOUGLAS ON HIS COMPANY’S RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS PROJECTS

BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE

When it comes to popularized phrases from the last few years, net zero is at the top of the list. Governments, businesses, NGOs, think-tanks and media have all touted net zero as a necessary goal and laudable achievement, a step in the right direction towards a cleaner planet.

Referring to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) that’s produced and the amount that is removed from the atmosphere, net zero is reached when the amount of GHG produced equals the amount taken away. Of course, one doesn’t have to be zero carbon (produce no emissions) to achieve net zero; rather, whatever emissions are produced can be offset by carbon credits, sequestration, or other reductions and removal strategies.

In terms of biofuels, a carbon intensity (CI) score refers to how much CO2 is released to produce ethanol and renewable natural gas (RNG). It is essentially the carbon footprint, and includes everything in the production and delivery of the fuel. The higher the score, the greater the CO2 impact. A CI score of 0 equates to carbon neutrality – net zero – a rare and difficult achievement.

This is what makes Green Impact Partners (GIP) of Calgary so unique. The ethanol and RNG producer, with over $1 billion of projects in late-stage development and construction, generates 16,384 MMBtu/day of carbon negative energy. That’s the equivalent of taking 66,159 cars off the road. Net zero or better – no small feat.

“We’re doing great,” says Jesse Douglas, CEO from his office in downtown Calgary. “We continue to grow. We’re adding people and having great success.”

That success is derived primarily by taking waste and turning it into energy. “Our main focus is taking farm-based waste and producing energy from that,” he explains. “We are doing so while being net zero or better. When we measure our CI score, we are typically zero or negative. We’re actually removing carbon equivalents from the atmosphere and the production of energy and its lifecycle.”

The beauty of GIP’s business is that it takes what would normally be a waste stream – such as farm waste (plant based or manure) – and turns it into energy. At the same time, its process mitigates the release of methane gas into the atmosphere (a natural result as waste decomposes in the normal course).

“There is a ton of methane released from decomposing manure waste, wheats and other organic waste from farms,” Douglas points out, “so we decided this was where we can be most competitive and make the biggest impact. We chose farm-based waste as the source for the biofuels we produce.”

Each year, approximately 11 to 13 per cent of wheat produced in Canada does not meet Grade A standards, meaning it’s not suitable for human consumption. GIP processes this wheat into renewable biofuels. “We don’t have crops that are grown specifically for our facilities [like

LEFT: JESSE DOUGLAS, CEO, GREEN IMPACT PARTNERS

PHOTO SOURCE: EWAN PHOTO VIDEO

biofuels in the U.S.], rather, we take wheat and some other grains that, for a variety of reasons, don’t meet food grade standards,” he says.

Typically, those wastes were either burned or land applied, resulting in a carbon impact the farmer has to deal with.

“Instead, we pay the farmers for that waste – we add about $150 million back into the farming community – for things they wouldn’t otherwise get to sell. And we prevent all the original methane and CO2 equivalent emissions from occurring.”

GIP first produces ethanol (as grain can produce ethanol) and this maximizes the value and energy component of the waste. It then takes the byproduct of the ethanol production, known as stillage, and turns it into RNG through an anerobic digestion process.

“We then take the waste product from that, put it into tanks where we control the temperature, mix them and allow the methanogens to work in a controlled environment,” he continues. “Those methanogens produce both methane and CO2. We strip the CO2 and other gases out of the methane, capture and sequester them. The methane is then put into the natural gas pipeline system for use as fuel.”

An ingenious process that will occur at GIP’s flagship development, Future Energy Park: an innovative biofuels facility located on a 21 hectare (52 acre) site in an industrial area southeast of the intersection of Peigan Trail and Stoney Trail within the city of Calgary. Once completed, Future Energy Park will be North America’s largest carbon negative RNG and ethanol facility.

“Future Energy Park has been in the planning and execution phase for almost 10 years,” Douglas notes. “We’ve spent over $50 million on the upfront design and regulatory process. We’ve got a few city approvals and things are going well and cooperatively with the city. We anticipate being in the ground with full construction this spring.”

Construction costs are an estimated $1.2 billion over 24 months, with 800 construction jobs generated. “It is, to our knowledge, the only large scale net zero energy project in North America,” he adds.

“We are also our own power producers,” Douglas says. “We produce our own heat and power on the site via a cogeneration facility. We have a water treatment facility that uses that power, and we completely recycle all our water, then

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capture all of the CO2 emissions from the biofuels production process. We end up with a biogenic, food grade, CO2.”

Once operational, Douglas anticipates Future Energy Park to be the largest producer of RNG in Canada, by a wide margin, at around four million MMBtu per day. It will also generate $40 million per year in tax revenue to local, provincial and federal governments.

While Future Energy Park is its primary project, GIP has other similar projects, all focused on being net zero or better. Its GreenGas Colorado project is a farm-based facility that processes manure into RNG. “We built it through COVID,” Douglas explains. “We made an almost $100 million investment into it.”

GIP also has several water, recycling and waste facilities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. For example, its Rycroft facility takes produced water mostly from the oil and gas industry, recycles and disposes of it.

“Our Claresholm facility takes solids and other recycling products,” he says. “Could be waxes, wood waste residues,

ONCE OPERATIONAL, DOUGLAS ANTICIPATES FUTURE ENERGY PARK TO BE THE LARGEST PRODUCER OF RNG IN CANADA, BY A WIDE MARGIN, AT AROUND FOUR MILLION MMBTU PER DAY. IT WILL ALSO GENERATE $40 MILLION PER YEAR IN TAX REVENUE TO LOCAL, PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS.

oil and gas based residues. There’s all sorts of stuff pushed through there. Typically we strip the commodities [i.e. oil] out of the water, clean up and blend that oil and put that recycled oil back into the pipelines.”

With a background in oil and gas, Douglas, who is originally from Edmonton, views RNG as a compliment to traditional oil and gas, rather than a competitor to it. “Even if we took all the waste in North America and found a way to produce RNG from them, we don’t think that it ever becomes a true competitor to traditional oil and gas,” he reasons. “But if producers of natural gas blend theirs with ours, they can be cleaner than wind and solar and produce a much more reliable fuel. Using and working with RNG is far cheaper than paying the carbon tax. We think RNG is a budget- and environmentally-friendly compliment to the current energy system.”

Indeed, Douglas notes that when it comes to the cleanest transition or renewable fuels, biofuels are well ahead of traditional renewables: “On almost every measure, when it comes to environmental impact, biofuels are better. This is where our focus came from and why we started to aggregate waste streams from farmers.”

It’s this dedication to doing the right thing, whether popular or not, that guides GIP’s culture and its over 100 employees. “When it comes to equity and equality, we treat equity as making opportunity more equal amongst those that might not have it, but not necessarily measuring it by having a certain number of people in the boardroom. I really do like more equal representation, but it’s with intention of having different thought, not necessarily trying to achieve some quota.”

GIP does the same with its First Nations partners. “We are not offering a specific job or setting a quota, but we do provide opportunity,” Douglas says. “We will provide better access to education and a better reach out so that the opportunity is now equitable. But we don’t think that equity of outcome is the right way to measure anything, and we work very hard to make sure that we’re doing the right thing.”

Douglas leads GIP with the mantra ‘high freedom, high accountability’: “We want to make sure that you’re given room to be creative, to succeed. We don’t manage minutes, we’re not policy driven.”

“We encourage our people to be involved in community sport and things like that,” he adds. “And certainly we’ll match their sponsorships, and we’ll sponsor our employees’ kids’ teams and things like that.”

GIP may be a rarity in terms of being truly net zero, and that is because it is a rarity in what it does. Focused on its goals, with a dedicated leadership team and empowered employees, it is a company on a mission to do good, in more ways than one.

TOP: ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING OF ENTRANCE TO THE FUTURE ENERGY PARK.

BOTTOM: GREEN IMPACT PARTNER’S GREENGAS COLORADO RNG FACILITY, LOCATED IN WELD COUNTY, COLORADO (DAIRY IN THE BACKGROUND).

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The BOMA SOLD OUT Holiday Luncheon took place on December 7th at the Westin Calgary Hotel with 700 members. Attendees were treated to an amazing performance by Hypnotist Wayne Lee.

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Thank you to our Event Sponsor: Cadillac Fairview, Wine Sponsor: QuadReal Property Group, Decor Sponsor: GDI Integrated Facility Services, Reception Sponsors: MNP & SerVantage

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TEDDI POWOROZNIK, GM SUNCOR ENERGY CENTRE/ BROOKFIELD PROPERTIES

LANCE MERRIFIELD,GM EPIC ROOFING & EXTERIORS

TALIA PURDY, GM BGO

GM

CALGARY’S CONVERSION TREND

BY JOHN HARDY

Downtown has a problem. Calgary developers, urban planners and City number-crunchers have a solution. Conversions!

In simplified, nutshell terms, because the reasons and mitigating factors are complex, the commercial spaces which were once drivers of Calgary’s once-booming downtown core are now streetscapes riddled with record-high vacancies, where people no longer work, restaurants and retail struggles, and City tax revenues take huge hits.

Seems almost unbelievable.

Key word: almost.

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Since the ’80s, or longer, it was boom times for downtown buildings. Then the 2014 jolt happened. Falling oil and other commodity prices triggered job reductions, slumps in demand for office space and depressed market values, and losses of the crucial tax revenues which fund Calgary transit, infrastructure, sanitation, and parks and community programs.

According to Eddie Lee, Calgary’s director of Assessment and Tax and City assessor, “When the economy started slumping in 2015, office vacancies spiked. In 2020, COVID did exacerbate the vacancy problem, particularly the sudden trend of remote work forcing companies to downsize office footprints.”

By the end of 2020, Calgary’s downtown vacancy rate was over 30 per cent. More than 14 million square feet of empty office space and office buildings were devalued, shrivelled the property tax base and triggered a revenue crisis at city hall. “In 2023, the distribution of municipal property taxes for non-residential properties was 48 per cent, versus 52 per cent residential,” he explains.

In Calgary, and many major business markets from Vancouver, Ottawa and Halifax to as far as San Francisco and Dallas, converting empty office spaces to residential caught on.

Jennifer Barrett, managing director of Programs, Planning and Policy with the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), the respected national non-profit dedicated to city building, highlights that “CUI’s Case for Conversions Report tracked the numbers for six Canadian municipalities to come up with a set of conditions that favour commercial-to-residential conversions. The report found that, along with building typology and location, policy and economic conditions are the two most influential areas where governments can play a role in increasing the viability of conversion projects through measures like adaptive regulations, more flexible zoning and incentivization programs.

“Some key factors which spurred the conversion trend included aging offices (mostly class B and C) in need of upgrades, work from home and hybrid work further diminished the need for office space, a need for housing, especially well-located housing around existing services, transit, etc.”

BARRETT NOTES THAT CALGARY WAS AHEAD OF THE GAME, PRIMARILY DUE TO AN EXTREMELY HIGH VACANCY RATE IN LATE 2019, A RESULT OF THE DOWNTURN IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR.

She notes that Calgary was ahead of the game, primarily due to an extremely high vacancy rate in late 2019, a result of the downturn in the oil and gas sector.

The impact of increased unused Calgary office space, with fewer people in the downtown core, and the sizeable hit for projected tax revenues, prompted Calgary to get proactive and boost the viability of commercial-to-residential conversions. It is how and why Calgary’s Greater Downtown Plan: Roadmap to Reinvention was approved in April 2021. A strategy to tackle the plummeting commercial real estate market and revitalize the city’s central core.

The ambitious intention was to repurpose 557,420 square metres of unused office space, by offering grants to developers willing to take on the challenge of transforming empty office spaces into residential, restaurant and retail people spaces.

ABOVE: JENNIFER BARRETT, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS, PLANNING AND POLICY WITH THE CANADIAN URBAN INSTITUTE (CUI).

The initial phase of the 10-year plan was for residentialconversion projects, and eligible for grants of $75 per square foot, up to $15 million. The program targeted removing about six million square feet of unused office space from downtown by 2031.

“The opportunity for building owners in converting a low demand office building to residential units are that they can take a vacant office property and repurpose it to housing, which is currently in high demand in Calgary,” says Sheryl McMullen, Calgary’s manager, Marketing and Investment for the Downtown Strategy.

“Essentially, an underperforming asset can be converted into a performing asset in a defined timeline. Alternatively, vacant buildings are being put up for sale and are being offered at much lower price points that have been seen in recent years.”

She adds that primary risks for developers are often the building floorplate itself and the unanticipated construction challenges that are faced in the conversion process, around building facades and systems. “Also, today’s high interest environment, coupled with uncertainty in the capital markets in relation to commercial office property investments, sometimes creates a challenge to secure capital. Our incentive program funding provides some mitigation to those risks.”

“Calgary has 13 current office conversions,” McMullen says, “and there are four more conversions planned. Collectively, they will create a total of 2,300 homes, and remove 2.3 million square feet of downtown office space from the market.”

The City’s $170 million conversion investment is being leveraged into more than $567 million of partner investment

in Calgary’s downtown. She is enthusiastic that the buildings provide an opportunity for experienced developers to secure buildings that are strong candidates for office-to-residential conversions at an attractive price point, with support for the overall project proforma.”

One dynamic example is Calgary’s gung-ho Peoplefirst Developments, which has achieved the $40 million transformation of the old SNC-Lavalin building at 909 5th Avenue into The Cornerstone, with more than 100 apartments and retail on the first floor.

“With the redevelopment and pending arrival of tenants, the building’s assessed value has jumped from $5.5 million last year to an estimated $33 million, based on the project being 80 per cent completed,” according City assessor Eddie Lee. “And its municipal property tax bill will climb to an estimated $180,000 from $41,000 last year, and could go higher once it’s complete.”

Maxim Olshevsky, the personable Peoplefirst managing director points out that, “Conversion projects bring key advantages, such as revitalizing downtown areas and addressing the demand for housing.”

“Conversions can also have inherent challenges, particularly in adapting older structures for new purposes. The ROI in these projects is highly dependent on several critical factors, from the strategic selection of properties and the diligence used. But the growing number of such projects speaks to their potential and indicates a positive trend.”

He cautions that conversion projects are no easy task, requiring intricate coordination and meticulous attention to detail. “With the right approach, projects can be highly effective.”

As well as The Cornerstone, Peoplefirst is converting two additional office towers into residential. Petro Fina at 736 8th Avenue SW, and Place 800 at 800 6th Avenue SW, each in various stages of development.

“We are currently transforming approximately half a million square feet of Calgary space,” he says.

McMullen underscores that conversions are a win-win for developers, the City and for the downtown community. “The office to residential conversion program will result in a

“THE OFFICE TO RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION PROGRAM WILL RESULT IN A MIX OF NEW HOMES IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA, THAT WILL WELCOME THOUSANDS OF NEW RESIDENTS OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL YEARS,” UNDERSCORES MCMULLEN.

mix of new homes in the downtown area, that will welcome thousands of new residents over the next several years. There are all types of units being offered, from studios to three bedrooms, providing housing choice for Calgarians.

“Many of these properties are clustered towards the west end of downtown, which is the most concentrated inventory of largely vacant B and C class buildings. As a result, the area will naturally transform to become a new residential hub where restaurants and businesses will no longer just focus on 9-5 office workers, and they will increase their offerings to provide much desired restaurant options and services to residents long into the evenings and weekends.”

Olshevsky is gung-ho about the pace of Calgary conversions. “They will significantly reshape the area’s character and focus, creating a more vibrant and diverse urban environment. They will boost support for local businesses and introduce new activities, helping to transform our downtown into an active, around-the-clock destination. The transformation will make downtown Calgary a more engaging and welcoming space.”

ABOVE: SHERYL MCMULLEN, CALGARY’S MANAGER, MARKETING & INVESTMENT FOR THE DOWNTOWN STRATEGY.

Empowering tomorrow’s leaders: Accelerating financial literacy across southern Alberta

By Keri Damen, President and CEO JA Southern Alberta

From the inception of Junior Achievement in 1919, financial literacy has been at the heart of our programming. In Alberta, Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta has been at the forefront of business education, delivering essential financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness programming to over a million students since 1960.

In the face of persistently high interest and inflation rates, the imperative to equip students with the skills and knowledge for sound financial decisionmaking has never been more critical. By cultivating robust financial literacy skills, we are nurturing the emergence of a new generation of financially astute and responsible leaders.

In 2022, JA Southern Alberta expanded its reach by introducing financial literacy programs to kindergarten, grade 1, and grade 2 students across southern Alberta for the first time. We also worked to enhance our existing programming to align with the province’s new financial literacy curriculum for K-6.

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This curricular enhancement resulted in our biggest financial literacy impact to date: in 2021-2022 we reached nearly 18,000 students with our financial literacy programming alone, which grew exponentially to 49,000 students in 2022-2023!

What vital skills do students acquire in JA programming?

IT IS NOT JUST ABOUT DOLLARS AND CENTS; IT IS ABOUT LIFE SKILLS.

They learn the art of budgeting, the power of goal-setting and responsible spending, the essentials of banking and more. Our advanced programs for high school students even delve into investing.

Our heartfelt gratitude to all our generous supporters of Financial Literacy Month. With their support alongside over 100 dedicated volunteers, we delivered 250 programs, reaching nearly 6000 students last November alone.

Together, let’s strive to make financial literacy education an integral part of every student’s learning journey, enabling them to build a prosperous future as the leaders of tomorrow.

To learn more, please visit jasab.ca.

THE CALGARY MARKET 2024

AFFORDABILITY IS A FACTOR

BY JOHN HARDY

Calgary’s housing market is mostly positive, but 2024 continues the way 2023 ended: with trendsetting flux. Conventional single family, detached homes are down. Multi-family is up. And rentals are hot, verging on unaffordable.

According to the CMHC 2023 Housing Supply Report, housing starts for all Calgary housing types increased more than 62 per cent, year over year, while single-family detached home starts fell about 11 per cent year over year. Multifamily/apartment starts surged 175 per cent. CMHC also tracked that row starts also increased slightly, and semidetached starts were also down.

Taylor Pardy, CMHC’s senior specialist, Market Insights is knowledgeable and upbeat, explaining that CMHC does not editorialize but strictly looks back on actual facts, figures and projections. “Calgary housing starts for 2023 were up by 11 per cent, from 2022, which was a record year.

“Some of the primary factors impacting Calgary housing starts included continued strong population growth driven by both international and interprovincial migration. Between the latter half of 2022 and the first half of 2023, Alberta saw net inmigration of almost 169,000 people, including over 112,000 international migrants and over 56,000 interprovincial migrants.”

He also notes the relative affordability of Calgary versus other large metropolitan areas such as Vancouver and Toronto. “It has been a key driver of interprovincial migration, with roughly 70 per cent of netinterprovincial migration into Alberta coming from B.C. and Ontario. Other Calgary housing positives are a growing economy and robust job market, with overall employment in Calgary up 2.8 per cent, year-over-year, and the job vacancy rate remaining relatively high at 3.9 per cent.”

Pardy points out other Calgary housing supply-side factors such as low existing home and new home inventories, resulting in upward pressure on home prices, necessitating more new construction to try to meet demand. “Unlike other parts of the province, such as Edmonton, existing and new home inventories have been persistently low even as buyers faced higher mortgage rates.”

Calgary realtors and market analysts agree about the significant impact of multi-family and pricey and scarce rentals on the Calgary housing landscape.

The CMHC Report highlights specifics that:

• Purpose-built rental apartment starts have overtaken condominium apartment starts for the first time.

• Purpose-built rental starts hit quarterly highs, with large projects throughout the northwest quadrant and city outskirts.

• Ground-oriented multi-family homes such as townhomes and duplexes continue to become more popular as an alternative to single-detached homes as prices and mortgage rates increase.

As detailed by the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB), 2024 continues with drastically low Calgary resale inventory, with fewer listings than buyers and both impacted by surged mortgage rates.

The CMHC Report also analyzed that, with higher mortgage rates than previous years, potential homebuyers have more restricted budgets, especially those buyers looking to purchase single-detached homes, since they are likely to be the most expensive home type. Builders of single detached homes are likely to slow planned building as demand continues to be impacted.

PARDY

POINTS OUT OTHER CALGARY HOUSING SUPPLY-SIDE FACTORS

SUCH AS LOW EXISTING HOME AND NEW HOME INVENTORIES, RESULTING IN UPWARD PRESSURE ON HOME PRICES, NECESSITATING MORE NEW CONSTRUCTION TO TRY TO MEET DEMAND.

When it comes to housing – single, detached homes or rentals – affordability is every community’s critical factor. While Calgary continues slightly more affordable than other major Canadian areas, Calgary rental rates have spiked more than any other part in the country.

With hefty hikes, the average rent for a residential rental in Alberta last year was $1,876, making the Calgary rental market just slightly more affordable than provinces like B.C. and Ontario, according to stats from Rentals.ca.

A two-bedroom unit in Calgary, for example, rents for nearly $2,110 on average, whereas a similar apartment costs $1,605 in Edmonton and roughly $1,445 in Fort McMurray.

The affordability factor, for new builds, resales and rentals is a timely topic for Calgary. Last year, there was much discussion, deliberation and City focus about Calgary experiencing a housing crisis. According to City stats, one in five Calgary households are unable to afford where they currently live. Nearly 85,000 area households are spending more than a third of their income on housing. It

ABOVE: TAYLOR PARDY, CMHC’S SENIOR SPECIALIST, MARKET INSIGHTS

is why, late last year, City Council approved Home is Here, Calgary’s Housing Strategy with amendments to address the affordability crisis.

The City warned that Calgary’s competitive advantage as one of the world’s most livable cities, where housing is relatively affordable, is at risk due to low vacancy rates, higher than normal rent increases and increasing home prices.

The City’s focused masterplan for housing was adopted last fall, with specific priorities like:

• Making use of City-owned sites for emergency housing for families

• Having incentives for downtown office conversions to support students

• Investigating business licensing for residential landlords

• Considering infrastructure investments for increased densities

• Adding reporting considerations for planning application processes

Calgary’s housing market may have cooled off a bit from 2023’s hot market and is an encouraging positive for 2024. “We anticipate Calgary’s economy to continue to grow this year, but at a slower pace given the impact of higher interest rates on the overall domestic economy, for which Calgary will not be completely immune,” CMHC’s Taylor Purdy projects.

“We anticipate sustained international and interprovincial migration will continue to be supportive of housing demand in 2024, necessitating potentially similar levels of construction to 2022 or 2023. Our forecasts present a range of scenarios with housing starts coming in at 12,700 at the low end and 18,900 at the high end.”

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The Calgary Chamber of Commerce exists to help businesses reach their potential. 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 founded in 1891, we build on our history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors across the city.

A NEW ERA FOR THE CALGARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Since 1891, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce has been the heart of Calgary’s business community and has served as the place to convene, connect and advocate. As a city, Calgary has lots to celebrate. We are a city full of entrepreneurs and innovators who have reimagined what is possible countless times throughout history.

We know Calgary, and Alberta, is the place to do business, and we want to make sure it stays that way – not only today, but well into the future. We have seen diversification across industries and sectors with many new businesses making this city home. We have an incredible brand and an incredible story – but we must do a better job sharing our narrative across Canada and beyond so we remain as the destination of choice for investment, for work, for tourism and for raising a family.

The last few years have been challenging for everyone, and as a small business, the Calgary Chamber was not immune. But we are fortunate that Calgary is a resilient city, well-positioned to manage the economic challenges ahead. As an independent, non-partisan organization,

the Calgary Chamber relies on more than 1,300 businesses, representing more than 350,000 people who drive our future. We rely on our business community to provide us with feedback on the benefits needed to grow their businesses, to identify policy challenges with government and to suggest events that would help them connect, build their brand and network.

MEMBERSHIP REIMAGINED

In late 2022, the Calgary Chamber launched a new membership model that nearly doubled the number of memberships we offer, with one goal in mind – to make sure that every business and every Calgarian could see themselves as part of the Calgary Chamber.

“Joining the Calgary Chamber community presents an opportunity for businesses – of all sizes, across all sectors and in all quadrants – and is a place where all Calgarians can play an active role in growing and diversifying our economy,” says Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

“Collaborating with – and investing in – your local Chamber is an investment in your community. Together, we amplify our voices, pool our resources and unlock opportunities that are simply unreachable in isolation. The strength of our collective voice is a multiplier, creating a network where ideas grow, partnerships thrive and challenges become opportunities. We recognize we’re better together, and being part of the Chamber community supports a prosperous future for us all.”

The Calgary Chamber is working hard to deliver value to our members, to leverage the great opportunities coming to our city, to engage with and advocate for the business community at all levels of government, and to provide and connect you to the support and resources your business needs. Our motto is ‘we are better together’, and in 2023, the Calgary Chamber hosted nearly 60 events bringing together our business community. We advocated for key policies including affordable childcare, lower business property tax, housing affordability and Clean Electricity Regulations – and our community grew by 30 per cent.

With new member benefits being added regularly, some popular offerings include:

• Access to Canada’s #1 group benefits plan for business – Chambers Plan Group Benefits

• Access to offer and receive perks and discounts from member businesses

• Advertising on the Chamber website and social media posts promoting your organization

• Discounted access to exclusive programs

• Professional headshots

• Policy and advocacy roundtables with government

ANCHORING THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY THROUGH PILLAR PARTNERSHIPS

As we continue to explore opportunities to strengthen the business community and add benefits to our members, new in 2024, the Calgary Chamber has launched four strategic pillar partnerships:

• Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA)

• Mental Health

• Small Business

• Leadership

Pillar Partnership opportunities will position the Calgary Chamber alongside like-minded organizations who are leaders in a particular space. These are

exclusive opportunities that include brand recognition, representation at our events, real estate on the Chamber website, inclusion in the content we produce and the ability to produce or participate in programming throughout the year.

INTRODUCING OUR LEADERSHIP PILLAR PARTNER: BRIGHT WIRE LEADERSHIP

The Calgary Chamber is excited to announce Bright Wire Leadership as our Leadership Pillar Partner. This collaboration will bring a strengthened focus on building the best leaders to bolster Calgary’s business community and ultimately, help businesses reach their true potential.

Known for developing strong leaders and forging highperformance cultures, Bright Wire Leadership offers the following leadership development and professional coaching services:

• One-on-one leadership and executive coaching programs

• Team effectiveness and team coaching programs

• Leadership development training (customizable front line, mid-level and senior leader certificate programs, workshops and webinars)

• Talent management and culture strategy consulting and executive advisory services

• Master-level facilitation services

As a part of this partnership, Calgary Chamber members will gain access to thought leadership articles created by Bright Wire Leadership, receive exclusive pricing on coaching programs and have exclusive access to a new leadership development program, Leadership Forum. Members will also receive free access to Power Hour webinars for leaders at all levels of an organization. These webinars are designed to help leaders advance their skillsets, build high-performing teams and foster personal growth and development.

Some things are just better together. And all businesses are better with us.

While there may be challenges on the horizon for our city and our province, one thing is certain: regardless of what the future has in store, the Calgary Chamber will always be here, ready to serve the Calgary business community, ready to convene and connect and ready to advocate on behalf of Calgarians and businesses. Especially when it matters most. Join us today to provide input on the vibrancy and prosperity of our city’s future. Visit calgarychamber.com/ membership to learn more.

BEWARE OF RISING RANSOMWARE

CYBER EXPERTS URGE BUSINESSES TO BE BETTER PREPARED AMID A SURGE OF ATTACKS

BY JAMIE ZACHARY

Akira, BlackCat, Medusa and Phobos may seem like fitting names for your new cat, yet they instead represent some of the most common and viscous ransomware variants that businesses in Calgary and beyond are currently facing.

Fueled by increasingly sophisticated attack techniques, lower barriers to entry and a proliferation of available targets, the evolving landscape of ransomware has many cyber experts sounding the alarm and urging business owners to take robust measures to stay safe.

“The problem is still here, and it is serious,” says Rajiv Gupta, associate head of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. Ransomware is a type of malware where the attacker gains access to an organization’s critical information or vital systems, encrypting them until a ransom is paid – usually in the form of cryptocurrency.

Anti-virus experts Norton notes some of the most common tactics that cybercrime criminals are currently taking in their ransomware attacks include email phishing, malware attacks and manipulating remote desktop protocols.

“The most effective way bad actors are targeting companies with ransomware is still though email. Hackers are playing a game of cat and mouse with Microsoft and other email providers to bypass spam filters,” says Scott Gallupe, president of 403Tech, a Calgary-based IT support and services company that caters to small and medium-sized businesses.

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GALLUPE SAYS THESE FRAUDULENT EMAILS WILL TYPICALLY CONSIST OF LINKS TO FAKE LOG-IN PAGES OR “VERY ENCOURAGING” TIMESENSITIVE ALERTS ENCOURAGING YOU TO CLICK.

Gallupe says these fraudulent emails will typically consist of links to fake log-in pages or “very encouraging” timesensitive alerts encouraging you to click.

“Last year, we saw a dramatic increase in extortion type ransomware where hackers would threaten to release sensitive information or photos if a ransom wasn’t paid,” he says.

Gupta, meanwhile, is seeing a rise in what he calls a ransomware as a service where cybercriminals build the ransomware attacks vectors and tactics, and then license it to affiliates.

“So, the threshold to entry has dropped,” says Gupta. “Anyone can now get access to the technologies and the service from the dark web and conduct their criminal operations. We’re seeing more of this criminal behaviour across Canada.”

The scope of ransomware is staggering. Gupta estimates the average cost of a ransom payment to a cybercriminal is approximately $250,000. Yet the real recovery costs for a data breach can be upward of $6.35 million when factoring in downtime, recovery of information and infrastructure rebuilding.

“And that’s not even quantifying the reputational damage to an organization that’s been victim to a ransomware attack,” says Gupta, noting a public admission of a privacy breach, for example, can result in distrust from customers, investors and other stakeholders that leads to adverse effects on the business.

While official numbers have not been released for 2023 yet, Gupta expects the number of ransomware incidents in Canada will easily surpass previous years, which, in 2022, was more than 200 “known” incidents.

“And that is highly underreported,” he says, noting many businesses don’t report ransomware attacks because they are embarrassed and/or don’t feel there’s any benefit in reporting after the event.

According to the Calgary Police Service, the number of reported cybercrime incidents locally are up 70 per cent since 2017. Globally, meanwhile, 2023 was a record-breaking year for ransomware. Corvus Insurance, a leading U.S.based cyber underwriter, reports 3,311 attacks as of the third quarter, compared with 2,670 in all of 2022. Some of the industries most at risk included law firms, government agencies, manufacturing, medical practices and oil and gas.

It’s not just larger businesses that are being attacked, either. Herbert Fensury, Calgary-based CEO and founder of Enfocom Cyber, notes he’s seeing many attacks focused on small and medium-sized businesses that often have fewer lines of defence than larger corporations.

“It’s not only large organizations, but small, mid-size, too –even down to the individual level,” he says. “The impact of (ransomware) is pretty much across the board.”

Fensury’s organization recently teamed up with the University of Calgary and U.S. defence contractor Raytheon to open a new Cyber Assessment, Training and Experimentation (CATE) Centre. Part of the centre’s aim is to help businesses of all sizes troubleshoot cyber threats and defences within a fully functional digital environment called a cyber range.

“Think of it as a simulated environment, but with true computing power… that we can use to mimic an actual cyber attack,” says Fensury. “It provides opportunities for companies to try to find gaps, and then learn how to mitigate that risk.”

ABOVE: SCOTT GALLUPE, PRESIDENT OF 403TECH

IT’S NOT JUST LARGER BUSINESSES THAT ARE BEING ATTACKED, EITHER. FENSURY NOTES, HE’S SEEING MANY ATTACKS FOCUSED ON SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES THAT OFTEN HAVE FEWER LINES OF DEFENCE THAN LARGER CORPORATIONS.

If there’s good news, it’s that new data suggests fewer ransomware victims are willing to pay up when faced with a ransomware attack.

A report issued this year from ransomware negotiation firm Coveware found that the proportion of ransomware victims that opted to pay ransoms to get their stolen data back and unlock their systems during a cyberattack in the fourth quarter of 2023 dropped to a record low margin of 29 per cent. This compares with 85 per cent who were paying in the first quarter of 2019.

The report credits the drop in ransomware payments to companies increasingly being able to recover their data from incidents partially or fully without the use of decryption tools, as well as “data driven reluctance to pay for intangible promises from cybercriminals.”

Coveware points out the common practice by cybercrime criminals to renege on their promise to not publish or misuse stolen data, as well as the promise to exempt the company from future attacks or harassment.

ABOVE: HERBERT FENSURY, CEO AND FOUNDER OF ENFOCOM CYBER

“The industry continues to get smarter on what can and cannot be reasonably obtained with a ransom payment. This has led to better guidance to victims and fewer payments for intangible assurances,” says the Coveware report’s authors.

Fensury has similarly seen examples of this “double extortion” in which, after paying the initial ransom, cybercriminals only return portions of the stolen data and keep the rest for additional payments.

“They might give you a (decryption) key but might still keep some of the data for the future so they can do it again,” says Fensury, noting some might go a step further and demand even more money by threatening to publicly report the breach and creating added reputational damage.

“Don’t forget, you’re dealing with criminals here.”

When it comes to mitigating a potential ransomware attack, Gallupe urges companies to establish strong IT employee training programs. 403Tech operates a security awareness training program that Gallupe says is effective at training new staff and encouraging the business as a whole to be more involved in protecting critical business information.

“The biggest threat I see small businesses make is not investing in an education program… It allows staff to be better prepared to spot phishing emails and report them. Having a network firewall is simply not enough,” says Gallupe, who also recommends businesses that additional precautions such as additional spam filtering, a secure network firewall with locked down ports and 2-Factor Authentication (2FA).

Fensury adds that it helps to “think like the bad guys” when looking to mitigate ransomware attacks. That includes proactive cybersecurity such as penetration testing and identifying vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.

He also encourages businesses to have a response plan in the event of an attack.

“Devise a plan and then go through the exercise in advance… just like that fire drill,” says Fensury. “In the event of a fire, firefighters don’t all grab the same hose. Instead, everyone knows what their roles are. It’s the same in the case of a ransomware attack. Everybody should know what to do.”

MAKING MEALS AND MEMORIES IN LUXURY OUTDOOR KITCHENS

Written by Rennay Craats | Published by Courtney Lovgren

When Ernie Lussier and his wife, Lesley, renovated their home in 2011, they knew they wanted an incredible outdoor space. He had worked in the construction industry his entire adult life and had a vision of what he wanted to build: an outside extension of their home with all the comforts of a luxury kitchen. Accessing the products he wanted turned out to be more challenging than he imagined and as he scrambled to put together his space, he saw opportunity.

“The elements I wanted were in the U.S. and they didn’t sell to Canada. They said to talk to this guy or that guy. I told them they were missing the boat,” says Ernie Lussier, president and owner of Canada Outdoor Kitchens, and he was more than happy to take the wheel and skipper that ship.

The result was Canada Outdoor Kitchens established in 2013, which allowed people to get heaters and smokers, grills and flattops, power burners and pizza ovens along with quality cabinets to house them, all from one retailer. Lussier did his research to make sure he partnered with the best manufacturers in the business so he could deliver

Ernie Lussier. Photo by Riverwood Photography.

an outdoor space that was not only functional but also looked amazing. Using his own space as a showroom, Lussier grew his company in Alberta and then expanded to include branches in Kelowna and Vancouver Island. In 10 short years, Canada Outdoor Kitchens has become experts in the field, creating quality outdoor spaces that families can enjoy for much of the year.

“We’re the outdoor living specialists. We’re a full design, supply and install operation,” he says. “We create a lifestyle that brings you closer to friends, family and loved ones so you can make memories.”

Lussier wants clients’ dream spaces to bring happy memories that last a lifetime so even his entry-level appliances and cabinets are among the best in the industry. Every element is made to withstand Canada’s harsh climate so clients don’t have to worry about rust, corrosion or UV damage turning the dream into a nightmare. The company incorporates high-quality products like cabinetry from TuClad Outdoor Kitchens and JW Outdoor Cabinets, countertops from Dekton by Cosentino, Alfa and FORNO ovens and barbeques by Lynx Grills and Concorde Distributing, making it easy for them to stand behind their work.

CONGRATULATIONS

Canada Outdoor Kitchens!

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To better bring customized kitchens to life, Lussier brought in Nghia Du, a talented fabricator with 21 years’ experience, to operate Canada Outdoor Kitchens’ inhouse CNC machine. This significant investment sets the company apart, allowing the team to control the schedule and quality of their custom work so they can meet deadlines while maintaining their high standards. The end result is a work of art that mirrors luxury indoor kitchens, with soft-close drawers, pull-out shelving, running water and power, stylish storage and appliances that can accommodate any chef.

From quality products to knowledgeable design, each kitchen design incorporates the details that make a difference. The designer takes into account how a customer will use the space, designs according to a client’s dominant hand to facilitate seamless flow from one appliance to another and takes the guesswork out of water, gas and electrical connection requirements, all while getting the aesthetic the client desires. Canada Outdoor Kitchens takes care of clients from concept to installation and beyond, handling inspections, training clients on how to use their appliances and providing service to produce a beautiful dream space that ticks every box.

“We love to make other people’s dreams into reality by designing and building truly unique, oneof-a-kind outdoor kitchens that are completely tailored to their lifestyles,” Lussier says.

No matter what clients need, they’ll find it and much more at Canada Outdoor Kitchens.

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A WORK OF CULINARY ART

A kitchen is more than a cook-top or a grill. It’s the point around which entertaining revolves. All of our Lynx Specialty Cooking products are designed with every feature thought through, fully engineered, and crafted to give both you and your guests an elevated dining experience.

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Henry’s son, George, partnered with him before buying the company outright in 2007 and then George’s son Connor Heuver and stepson Kyle McLoughlin worked their way up the company and became majority stakeholders in the business in 2023. Together the three generations have built a formidable operation that has always been about more than just a job. For Henry, it wasn’t enough to just provide a great service and build a legacy: he wanted to elevate landscaping work at the same time. Photo

BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES START AT FOOTHILLS LANDSCAPING

Written by Rennay Craats

Published by Melissa Mitchell

When Foothills Landscaping was established in 1964, Calgary was booming. Henry Heuver saw opportunity in the burgeoning housing market and set out with his tools and a strong work ethic to create a superior landscaping business to accommodate it. His small company grew and he soon transitioned from residential services to providing commercial landscaping to Calgary businesses. Along the way, he passed his green thumb on to the next generations.

“He really advocated for city specs and standards. He was president of the Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association for a while and he donated a significant amount of money to Olds College to help build their horticulture program to turn the industry into an actual trade,” says Connor Heuver, vice president of internal operations at Foothills Landscaping.

The current team at Foothills Landscaping is proud to carry on its founder’s legacy by giving back to various causes and organizations in the community while continuing to provide great service in the field. To maintain the high standards, employees are encouraged to grow their craft through Olds College’s landscape horticulturist apprenticeship program; if they complete the program and stay with the company for a year, Foothills covers their tuition costs. Just as Henry did before them, the current management team appreciates the importance of education, good training and having pride in a job well done so they invest in their incredible staff to ensure the company stands out in the market.

And Foothills Landscaping stands out not only for incredible results but also for the number of years it has been delivering them. Unlike landscaping outfits that are here one day and gone the next, Foothills has shown it is here to stay and has stood behind its work for 60 years. Built on Henry’s solid foundation, today’s Foothills is resilient and strong, structured to ride out the ups and downs in the Alberta market as it grows organically for the future.

The company has seen it all and has proudly helped define the city over the years, from being the landscapers for the Saddledome and Suncor Energy Centre in the 1980s to shaping developments in Quarry Park and boulevard beautification in several communities across the city today. Whether a client is starting from nothing or revamping an existing property, Foothills delivers expert landscape design that complements the natural landscape while leaving a powerful impression behind. The team takes care of the entire project, completing grading, sodding and planting greenery while incorporating beautiful hardscape elements like pathways, retaining walls and water features.

The team knows what greenery grows well in Calgary’s challenging climate and works with clients to produce the look they want using the hardiest plants and materials for the region. With the push toward drought-resistant landscaping and zeroscapes that feature rock beds and other non-living elements, Foothills has evolved with the times and become a leader in the industry.

“We are the landscaper you call if you want your space to look a certain way and want it to be beautiful as opposed to just looking done,” says Connor, and Foothills proudly goes the extra mile.

Installation is just the beginning of the relationship as Foothills offers extensive grounds maintenance contracts to ensure those stunning spaces remain well cared for. The team handles mowing, weeding, pruning and watering their clients’ landscaped areas and they also design gorgeous Christmas, spring and summer planters as well as colourful entrance beds for communities and businesses, so the sites always look their best. This includes indoor sites too, where the talented team imports and installs tropical plants and trees to create beautiful atria spaces.

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Clients know that they can count on Foothills Landscaping to meet their year-round needs too, offering dedicated 24/7 snow removal for clients. The team clears and hauls or relocates snow from parking lots, sidewalks, loading docks and parkades and sands surfaces to keep areas safe. They pride themselves on doing a thorough job and as a result the company boasts zero claims for slips and falls.

Foothills focuses on quality in all it does, and between high-quality products, incredible maintenance and approachable and reachable management leaders, Foothills has become a first-choice partner for many Calgary and area businesses, large home builders, a growing number of community associations and the City, which is increasingly outsourcing landscaping work. There is little Foothills can’t do.

“We’ve had some pretty bizarre requests in the past. We always say yes. We’ve done goat grazing for clients. We are the Zamboni operators for the University District’s outdoor rink,” says Kyle McLoughlin, vice president of construction operations and co-owner of Foothills. “You have to go outside your comfort zone because if you

Henry & Joan

Building Dreams

One Luxury Home at a Time

Written by Rennay Craats

Sometimes one well-timed request is enough to change a person’s future. Michelle and Justin Bobier were renovating and building homes for themselves while Justin, a cabinet installer by trade, wrestled with what he wanted to do with his life. Then a family member asked him to build a home, and this request launched Michelle and Justin onto a whole new path.

“We thought we’d better make this official if we’re going to do it for someone else, so we incorporated on January 20, 2004,” says Michelle Bobier, executive advisor/owner of Crystal Creek Homes.

Justin Bobier. Photo by Riverwood Photography.

The duo hit the ground running, bringing together Justin’s construction experience with Michelle’s legal, accounting and administrative strengths to create a solid foundation on which to build their custom home building business. Their success with the family member’s home got the word out about the new company, and Crystal Creek built several more homes in the area as it continued to grow.

Within three years, they had their first showhome in MonTerra on Cochrane Lakes, an endeavour that earned the builder its first SAM Award for Best Estate Home in Alberta. What started as a team of two grew to 60 hardworking employees that have been an integral part of the company’s success.

And they’ve had plenty of successes. Crystal Creek has been a 41-time finalist and 23-time winner for Best Home at the regional, provincial and national levels and was named small-volume Builder of the Year for the Calgary region and Pinnacle Builder of the Year for Alberta. Even more important to the team are its Avid Gold Awards for highest customer rating, which is an honour that comes with the responsibility of continuing to provide the value clients have come to associate with Crystal Creek Homes.

With such success in Calgary, the business partners always kept expansion in the back of their minds and when Greenboro Homes was forced into creditor protection in 2012, Justin and Michelle saw an opportunity to expand their brand while at the same time resuscitating Greenboro’s abandoned builds. Crystal Creek implemented its plan to take Greenboro’s Edmonton entity out of receivership and in 2013 it launched the new branch.

“If we really wanted to grow the company, we needed to take a step like that. I had reached a place in the Calgary operation where I’d become comfortable and I welcomed a change,” says Trevor Scott, executive vice president running the Edmonton office. “It’s great to have that good reputation behind us so we can build a product that we’re proud of.”

Michelle Bobier. Photo by Riverwood Photography.

The Holden showhome in Watermark.

Building a better future

Crystal Creek Homes quickly became a favourite home builder across the region, and the Edmonton team followed the flagship location’s proven formula: building quality homes in the most coveted areas. In the past five years they have transitioned away from fully custom homes and now, as they build more than 120 homes in Calgary and another 100 in Edmonton each year, they can provide an exceptional product with the volume discounts that come with a personalized production format.

Congrats to Crystal Creek Homes on 20 years of success.

The Waterford, Hospital Home Lottery Grand Prize Showhome.

The Waterford, Hospital Home Lottery Grand Prize Showhome.

“We still build beautiful luxury estate-style homes but more from model plans and prescribed options, and we don’t really go outside the boundaries of that,” says Justin Bobier, owner of Crystal Creek Homes. “We stick to our awardwinning plans that are tried and true and tested but still build a product that anybody would be happy to call home.”

The company’s tag line, ‘a Reflection of You’, is still something they take to heart. Each community offers a variety of available floor plans that complement every lifestyle. The builder has a presence across Calgary, with luxury estate homes in Artesia south of town, Watermark in Bearspaw in the northwest and Belvedere to the east, all of which appeal to different clients looking for their perfect fit. It has also been a long-time estate home builder in the popular Aspen Woods community and is entering the multi-family space in the exciting University District this spring.

Crystal Creek also has a range of home styles and plans in Edmonton in the vibrant community of Elan just outside of Edmonton, Prescott in Spruce

Grove and the amenity-rich enclave community of Maple Crest. Whether clients have growing families, are looking to downsize or are younger professionals buying their first home, Crystal Creek has a luxury experience for every stage.

“Because we are a broad-based builder, we will appeal to different segments of the market no matter where you are,” says Justin. “We are full spectrum. We’re able to build a luxury product that encompasses economies of scale in terms of value. That’s really consistent, no matter the market segment we’re working in.”

Since the beginning, Crystal Creek has prided itself on providing quality homes and a positive experience for its clients and partners, but in a different way than the competition. That’s not surprising seeing as Justin, a former tradesperson now heading a thriving luxury home builder, definitely broke the mold. This entrepreneurial story of a cabinet installer and his no-longer-small company has inspired the industry and pushes Crystal Creek’s long-time trade partners to reach for new levels of excellence and service. As an underdog, Justin has never taken his foot off the throttle and continues to approach his business differently on all fronts.

As home building is capital intensive, Crystal Creek Homes met these demands in an innovative way. The CCH Real Estate Mutual Fund Trust was created which allows people to invest registered money, be it RRSPs or TFSAs, into Crystal Creek projects. The nearly 400 investors love that they are supporting something local and tangible, and they enjoy the profits of the projects alongside the builder.

“We’ve really laid out a capital foundation for the company to go forward into the next 20

Photo by Riverwood Photography.

years and our employees have ownership thinking because they are all participating in the mutual fund trust,” says Justin. “As the fund grows, we will grow as a company.”

Highfield

Crystal Creek is also leaning on technology to facilitate growth. While the act of building houses has changed little over the years, the business of it

Photo by Riverwood Photography.

has, and Crystal Creek has introduced cutting-edge technology that has the entire team buzzing. The organization is leading the industry in technology adoption, moving towards a fully integrated Microsoft product that will streamline the process of building and selling homes to increase efficiencies across the board.

“We’re like the Tesla of home builders. That’s where we’re going in terms of integrating technology, creating a cool product that people want and is considered luxury no matter what market you’re in,” says Justin.

Crystal Creek is about a year away from clients being able to build their homes on their website, right down to fixture selections, and clients can already conveniently access photographs and documents and download an app to handle after-care service and warranty. The system ensures customers are seeing real-time costs by integrating website pricing with its ERP system so there are no surprises or discrepancies. The goal from the start was to be trendsetters in the industry, produce the best product and experience for clients and support the communities they serve at the same time.

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Terminator Run Turns Ten and we’re going all out!

Let’s celebrate a decade of strength, support and community. Together, we’ve come far, and there’s still so much more to achieve. As we embark on our first major milestone, your support becomes even more instrumental in fuelling our mission, and amplifying the impact we can make together.

Registration opens March 1st, so mark your calendars for September 14, 2024, and be prepared to join us in making history.

You are invited to the 10th Annual Terminator Run for Youth Addiction Awareness!

The Somerton, former Aspen showhome.

Last year, the builder and its extended team partnered with Calgary Health Foundation and built the grand prize showhome for the Hospital Home Lottery, and they previously came together to build a new scoring tower for Springbank High School. Outside of construction, Crystal Creek is the title sponsor of the Terminator Foundation’s Terminator Run in support of youth addiction and mental health awareness, and is a proud sponsor of the Crystal Creek Homes Class Act Award and Scholarship given to a graduating Calgary Academy student that performed well at school and is pursuing a passion outside academics. And as their trade partners rally behind their own various causes, Crystal Creek is happy to support them, too.

It comes back to the core values that the entire Crystal Creek Homes team lives by: Commitment to Results Through Teamwork, Continuous Improvement and Have Ownership Thinking. Over the past 20 years, applying these values has facilitated the company’s goal of becoming a builder with a significant footprint in the Alberta market, boasting more than 1,000 happy homeowners and more than $800 million in revenues since inception. With current land positions, strong development partners and a solid reputation in the industry, the company is expected to double its revenue in the next five years. While eyes are set firmly on Crystal Creek’s bright future, Michelle and Justin Bobier, now as business partners, are taking just a minute to look back at all that has been accomplished.

“We’re very proud of this milestone, but we couldn’t have done all of this alone. There wouldn’t be a Crystal Creek without homes, but there wouldn’t be homes without our devoted staff or our incredible professional associates, industry partners, trades and suppliers. And of course, we have immense gratitude for our many valued customers over the last 20 years,” says Michelle.

Congratulations to Crystal Creek Homes on 20 great years.

SVR Lawyers is proud to have worked with you since 2007.

With the promise of a home that’s ‘a reflection of you,’ it’s clear that Alberta homebuyers like what they see at Crystal Creek Homes.

CParker’s Pen

BY DAVID PARKER

horeography is such a nice word – looks good and it rolls off the tongue. I don’t pretend to be a lover of ballet, but its meaning in suggesting the deliberate design of a sequence of movements came to mind trying to maneuver 33rd Avenue in Marda Loop again.

One wag had a Letter to the Editor published commenting on a sign that should be posted at either end: ‘Abandon hope all ye who enter here.’

There are no choreographers at city hall – not even communicators. Work that had to be done meant one way traffic on both 33rd and 34th for weeks resulting in loss of business for retailers and restaurants. We all cheered when the work was finished. But, hold on. Now the gas company are tearing up the same road and we are back to driving one way and no street parking again.

Not too many people in Merchants for lunch these days, and how do you get to Monkeyshines to show your children books? And what’s the betting that as soon as this work is finished the street will be closed again for landscaping or construction projects?

I was sent a quote, purported to be by Ben Franklin, that said: “In wine there is wisdom. In beer there is freedom. In water there is bacteria.” You who sip from a flask of water all day might think of how much E. coli you consume in a year.

And on the subject of beer, I now carry my own beer coasters to mop up the water that drips off a too cold glass. Just don’t understand why coasters advertising either the beer or the name of the establishment pouring aren’t used as cheap promotional materials anymore.

Standing before council with a purpose in explaining a grievance, you are given five minutes for your presentation. Times up, and you are yanked off like a too-long-a-speaker at a lunchtime Rotary club.

Same day Councillor Jasmine Mian had the commonsense to say, “I think we’ve wasted about an hour of time going through this. Let’s move on. We’ve got a city to run.”

The lengthy debate was on whether they should accept an increase in pay!

Interesting news that the Calgary Police Service is planning to partner with Bridgeland Community Association that has offered it a place to work out of, and therefore have a police presence in the area.

Wonderful idea, except I can remember the time when the CPS was very noticeable downtown and other neighbourhood areas. They pulled out to disappear way up north of McKnight and guess what? No police walking the core and problems began to grow. Just seeing a uniform is a deterrent and we need them back.

So, there will be an evaluation of effectiveness over a year-long period and then more discussion to decide if a downtown office is feasible and necessary. If so, it has been determined it would take a substantial investment – even if located in a city-owned building – and three to five years to establish. Nonsense.

Rome wasn’t built in a day but I do believe the Empire State Building was completed in one year and 45 days. With none of today’s giant cranes.

I complain a lot about TV commercials, but have to applaud the current CNIB shoot showing the Labrador pups waiting to begin their training to be guide dogs. I could watch it over and over.

Final Words