Business in Calgary - November 2022

Film for the Ring Golden Rainbow.

TRICO HOMES™

EXEMPLIFIES A COMPANY WITH A CLEAR PURPOSE

Abusiness can thrive with excellent people and products, but a truly great business sets itself apart with a clear sense of purpose and consistent values.

For Wayne Chiu, the founder and CEO of the Trico Group of Companies, that purpose is to provide shelter – in more ways than one. Chiu believes building a community takes more than creating award-winning developments. It takes investing in, and supporting, society. At Trico, the connection between “doing well” and “doing good” has helped shape Trico’s culture and purpose.

Chiu and his wife Eleanor immigrated from Hong Kong to Canada in 1982. His trajectory took him from working for others as an engineer to running a renovation company, before

launching Trico in 1992. Since then, Chiu and his family have used their business success to contribute to educational institutions and health organizations across Calgary.

Celebrating 30 years as one of Calgary’s largest developers, Trico stands for the values that guide everyday operations. Those values are trust, respect, integrity, community, and opportunity. With this as the foundation, the Trico team has built over 11,500 single and multi-family homes and earned their reputation for craftsmanship and excellence in customer care. They are also known for their innovation and commitment to community. Trico is the first and only homebuilder in Western Canada to become a certified B Corp – a designation which identifies companies that meet

high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

“I have always looked at how a business is able to impact the community and society as a whole. That is part of my drive, to be engaged and see how we tie business and social good together and make sure we are there to help our communities,” Chiu says.

Social entrepreneurship – the intersection between running a successful business and having a positive impact on society – is the foundation of Chiu’s approach. He believes that being a business leader involves empathy and compassion, as well as financial acumen. This is why he is happy he and Eleanor established the Trico Charitable Foundation, and with their involvement in the creation of the Trico Foundation Social Entrepreneurship Centre at the Haskayne School of Business.

“At ATB Financial, we talk a lot about the role of business in society. Wayne and the Trico Group exemplify what we believe that role is about. They lead with compassion and purpose, contributing in a meaningful way to our Alberta economy,” says ATB Financial’s president and CEO Curtis Stange.

“While Wayne and his team at Trico have achieved financial success, his relentless commitment to people over profit is what sets him apart,” adds Myron Feser, senior vice president, ATB Business. “The core values he built his company on are still

the values that successfully guide their organization today. He will continue to do great things for his community.”

“Working with ATB on social entrepreneurship and as a client means being able to share a corporate culture of ‘doing well by doing good.’ We share similar corporate values: they are local, they care about their clients and care about business in Alberta. While ATB offers what a Big Five charter bank does, its focus on Alberta creates a bigger impact,” smiles Chiu before concluding, “We, as leaders, need to listen to people’s concerns and be compassionate about their problems. That is the key to good leadership – the human side.”

His dedication and community commitment have earned Chiu the 2022 Distinguished Business Award for Ethical Leadership from the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at tricohomes.com.

ATB is pleased to present a 2022 profile series on the businesses and people who are facing challenges head-on to build a strong Alberta.

ABOVE: THE LAUNCH OF THE TRICO FOUNDATION SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTRE AT THE HASKAYNE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY.

By Shane Wenzel

LIFTBOSS MATERIALS HANDLING LIFTBOSS MATERIALS HANDLING

The last few years have brought some curve balls to most Alberta businesses. For Liftboss Materials Handling, an Alberta born and raised material handling and JCB equipment dealer, it also brought a long overdue move from their original Edmonton location of 16 years into a completely renovated dealership in the heart of Edmonton’s northwest industrial area. Having outgrown the previous building and yard, they were looking for a space that would allow future growth. They were able to find a large five-acre yard with a building that will allow expansion, as well enough land to incorporate a full acre on-site “proving grounds”. This demo space will allow customers to operate a number of different machines as they would in the field, ensuring they end up with the correct unit for their application.

The owner group worked very closely with JCB corporate through the whole process and were

very proud to find shortly after moving in, that the facility was selected as a Canadian dealer standard for new JCB facilities, meaning that all new JCB dealerships built will be based on the concept of what Liftboss has helped create. As a result, a JCB Canadian Dealer advisory council meeting was held at the facility the last week of July, and the staff were proud to show off their new home to a number of other JCB dealers from across the country.

With that project complete and behind them, expansion of a third facility in Grande Prairie and a similar renovation of the existing Calgary facility are next on the list, both expected to be completed into 2023. If you are in need of new or used equipment, parts, rentals or service on all makes and models reach out to the Liftboss team and they will be happy to help you.

By

By Erlynn

Could There be Trouble Ahead for ESG?

BY SHANE WENZEL

Alberta has a long history of challenges to its economy over the years, including shocks in the form of resource price instability, market access constraints and federal energy policies. However, the good news this year is that our province has been singled out as the leader in economic recovery in Canada. Though this could be shortlived with the ever-threatening drive to ‘ESG utopia’ which will undoubtedly move us backwards.

Modern society is admittedly impossible without mass scale production of manmade materials. The materials ranked highest on the scale of necessity are concrete, steel, plastics and ammonia. The necessity of cement and steel speak for itself. But, without ammonia, which deserves the top position as the most important material to feed the world, we could not ensure the survival of billions of people. Farmers are protesting. The key problem is none of these components are easily replaceable.

Plastic alone is produced at nearly 400 million tons annually with thousands of uses, but in particular is indispensable in health care and in our hospitals. Regardless of health care always being one of the top (if not the top) concerns of the mass population, the elimination of plastics still appears to be one of the key targets of our governments.

Single-use plastics such as straws, eating utensils, food containers and plastic bags is one of their first targets. Advocates have gone so far to suggest you could take your own non-plastic cutlery to the food courts along with your non-plastic food containers should you have the need to eat while shopping. And, not to be overlooked is Calgary City Council musing the idea of setting the price of retail products such as paper bags and reusable bags

to their list of council duties. That should delight private business owners!

This could be merely my personal opinion but based on the strange illogical actions of many western democratic leaders, it appears they have little concept of the damage their policies are doing to their own people based on a natural or manufactured crises. I won’t suggest utter incompetence at the moment.

While companies scramble to meet all the ESG requirements which is assured to put many of them out of business, some start-up asset management companies citing ‘short-sighted political agendas’ that have caused companies to underinvest in commodities have launched. They are promoting fossil fuel investment to push back against the rules mandating ESG investment. Some major Wall Street banks such as Morgan Stanley and Bank of America concerned about the legal risks of participation have also threatened to leave Mark Carney’s UN climate alliance. Energy companies have been underinvesting due to the mandates leading to shortages and more inflation. The anti-ESG bandwagon is growing!

People are starting to lose trust in public institutions and governments. There is a growing sense that their families will not be better off in the future. They feel betrayed and that the world of their parents no longer exists.

Filling up a tank of gas is agonizing; inflation is at a 40-year high and it is tough to not feel like you are growing older in a country you no longer recognize!

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.

Alicia Bowden teaches elementary physical education at Webber Academy. Ms. Bowden began her personal education journey in her hometown of Saskatoon, where she earned her Bachelor of Education at the University of Saskatchewan. Upon graduating, she relocated to Calgary to pursue her professional career and began teaching kindergarten at an outdoor nature-based school. Ms. Bowden is passionately driven to provide children with unique and meaningful learning experiences. This involves incorporating movement as part of her teachings, which ultimately promotes children’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth.

Ms. Bowden grew up actively engaged in many sports, and she was especially dedicated to dancing, which she did competitively for 12 years. She received numerous gold and silver medals in both solo and group categories. In 2013, Ms. Bowden had the privilege of volunteering in Muizenberg, South Africa, at a local elementary school. During this time, she assisted with daily classroom duties, homework, and organizing after-school group sports, including surfing. While there, she developed an enthusiasm for teaching and a love of learning through movement. She is a compassionate advocate for extracurricular activities and she strongly believes that they encourage greater academic success and overall positive social development.

In her spare time, Ms. Bowden can be found outdoors doing activities such as biking, skiing, and hiking. She also enjoys going to Wakaw Lake, Saskatchewan, to spend quality time with her family. Ms. Bowden looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience as she begins her new journey at Webber Academy.

Clint Perrett joins Webber Academy as a physical education teacher. He has a passion to see students shine in their sporting endeavours and believes all children should be able to access the knowledge, commitment, and collaboration of working together that is evident in a physical education setting.

Mr. Perrett was born in Melbourne, Australia, and has been involved in sport his whole life in many roles: as a participant, coach, teacher, and interested observer. He has represented his country in championship cross-country and road-running teams, combining his athletic and travel interests as he competed across the world.

Mr. Perrett completed his Bachelor’s Degree of Sports Science (human movement) and went on to complement this with a diploma in education, focusing on physical education and health. He has continued to balance sport and his professional life, having taught for the past 15 years at independent schools in Melbourne, Switzerland, and now Canada. Through these experiences, he has held leadership positions such as the activities and athletic manager, helping build the co-curricular opportunities available to students as well as running regular internal and interschool sports carnivals.

Mr. Perrett has extensive experience and accreditations coaching a variety of sports for various clubs and schools and he looks forward to being involved in the development and success of Webber Academy athletics teams, and physical education classes.

World Wants Our LNG; Poll Shows Canadians Eager To Supply It!

BY CODY BATTERSHILL

In times of adversity, we can’t direct the wind, the old saying goes. But we can adjust our sails.

Today the winds are blowing toward a growing energy crisis sweeping Europe; oil and natural gas demand continues to rise, and Canadian product faces domestic protest that hinders us in global markets.

According to Research Co. polling carried out recently for Canada Action, Canadians want to supply world markets with our energy products.

It’s time to adjust our sails. A strong majority of Canadians (more than seven in 10 respondents) believe Canada’s liquified natural gas (LNG) can help improve global energy security and sustainability efforts, according to the poll conducted September 16 and 17.

Seventy-three per cent of respondents said our country should advocate for Canada’s energy sector as a leader in environmentally sustainable production. And almost eight in 10 respondents (79 per cent) said they prefer to use Canadian energy in their day-to-day lives.

The polling results confirm exactly what we’ve found in our media interviews, community events, social media engagements and public interactions over the last number of months. Canadians are increasingly proud of our worldleading energy industry.

But that’s not all. The poll, which questioned 1,000 adults online across Canada with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20, also found:

When thinking about LNG, more than half of Canadians (56 per cent of those polled) said it’s wrong for Canada to forfeit energy opportunities to other countries with higher emissions. This represents a rise in public support of five per cent since this question was asked in a March poll.

Given global demand is forecasted to grow 50 per cent by 2050, four in five Canadians (80 per cent) support trade in all Canadian energy technologies including solar, wind, hydro, hydrogen, geothermal, biofuels, and oil and gas.

Three in four (75 per cent) agree exporting responsible and reliable Canadian energy, expertise and technology to reduce global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is one way Canada can play an important role in addressing climate action – an increase of a percent since the question was asked in March.

More than three in five Canadians (63 per cent) agree that investing in Canada’s oil and gas sector makes sense if you value climate leadership, social progress and transparency.

And, after having been informed that from 2000 to 2019, the emission intensity of Canada’s oil sands operations dropped about 33 per cent due to technological and efficiency improvements, almost three in four Canadians (73 per cent) agreed we should advocate for Canada’s energy leadership in environmentally sustainable production.

The winds have changed. Canadians want to adjust with them. And when a growing majority wants to see our energy products in the global marketplace, the political will can’t be far behind.

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.

by Jennifer Friesen

After serving as President of Western Electrical Management Ltd. for nearly 20 years, Ken Rickbeil and his wife Frances wanted to get more intentional about their philanthropic giving.

“We were acquiring enough wealth that we’re saying, we need to do something with it – but what do we want to do?” recalled Ken.

Ken and Frances established the Rickbeil Family Fund at the Calgary Foundation in 2016 and have appointed their children as successor advisors. As Donor Advised Fundholders, they contribute a sum of money that is invested and managed by the Foundation to grow the capital of the Fund and increase the annual charitable disbursement.

Ken and Frances meet with their sons, Aaron and Todd and their families, each year to thoughtfully consider which organizations they will support.

“The unique part of the Fund is that you have the capital of your Fund, and you get to give away some of the interest every year – over and over again,” says Ken. “I think it’s good for our kids and grandkids to see. They see they’re making people happy, and it teaches good character.”

This past year, the Fund granted nearly $220,000 to a variety of community organizations, bringing them to a total of $630,000 granted since 2016.

The family has directed most of their grants towards organizations aiding animals, children and elderly populations. They were notably impacted by Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids program, which Todd and his fiancée are passionate about supporting. Following their first grant, they received a letter detailing how the lunches ensured no child went hungry.

“That program in particular made quite an impact on us,” says Frances. “They were very explicit on how the funds were used and how many kids they fed. When you get responses like that and see how your money is impacting lives, it’s amazing. You’re not just putting a check in the mail and never hearing about it again. You see how it makes a difference.”

By establishing this Fund, the Rickbeils are also creating a legacy for future generations of their family and helping to manage the transfer of wealth. Approximately 90 per cent of families lose generational wealth within three generations, but legacy planning through charitable giving is a vehicle to preserve that wealth for the benefit of the community and pass down family values.

The family Fund has grown throughout the past six years, thanks to strong investment performance and regular contributions to the Fund. In 2016 the family had $40,000 to distribute, and this past year that amount had grown to more than $260,000.

Calgary Foundation provides the Rickbeils with granting inspiration. Ken says it’s been “a real eye opener” to see the variety of charitable programming happening in the city.

As the family gathers to discuss charitable needs, Ken and Frances say that everyone brings their own ideas to the table, and they’re “blessed” to be able to share this with future generations – a sentiment shared by their sons.

“Philanthropy was introduced to me by my mother and father,” says Aaron. “It is an avenue to display which causes we believe in and leaves a lasting legacy for our family. Philanthropic succession planning is important to our family because we feel that values are not instilled with words or speeches – actions are the best way to demonstrate the values of our family, namely empathy, caring and sharing.”

Through a Donor Advised Fund at Calgary Foundation, the Rickbeil’s are supporting the needs of community and shaping the family’s philanthropic legacy.

Ken Rickbeil

Canadian Legacy Project Support Veterans In Their Times of Need

From October 24 to November 12, Canadian Legacy Project is presenting the annual Veterans Funding Drive to support our veterans in their time of need. Canadian Legacy Project builds and supports programs that are not funded or underfunded by Veterans Affairs to assist veterans with transitioning back to civilian life. These national programs focus on housing, food, mental health, education and employment.

One of the charity’s newer programs is called Business Boot Camp. This free program guides veteran entrepreneurs through starting their own business. Once participants graduate, they are armed with a business plan and support network for their new business to be successful. There are many programs designed to help veterans secure employment after their service but very few that offer support to start their own business. Since the program started, there have been 260. New in 2022, Canadian Legacy Project has helped the Homes For Heroes Foundation launch the Veteran Tenant and Moral Fund. The fund is designed to help the Homes For Heroes veteran tenants with some key living and support expenses, such as medical supplies and fees, pharmaceutical supplies, bus passes, physical activity programs, emergency transportation, replacement identification costs, etc.

Also new in 2022 is Mobile Canteen, a program designed to help our veterans across Canada that are living in poverty. Homelessness and food security are issues that veterans should not have to worry about, but across Canada there are some who are experiencing both. Canadian Legacy Project has partnered with select food trucks across Canada to present Mobile Canteen which offers a free hot meal to veterans in need. The program brings a sense of community at a time when these veterans otherwise could feel isolated and alone. Look for the Mobile Canteen decal at your favourite food truck in Canada.

Canadian Legacy Project is a registered charity and is volunteer directed, so support goes to those in need. Because of COVID-19, the need for Canadian Legacy Projects’ programs is at an all-time high, but donations are at an all-time low. This is a challenging time across the country, and the charity is asking Canadians to lend a hand to our veterans financially, by volunteering, or simply by thanking these incredibly brave men and women for their service to Canada.

“The willingness of our Canadian veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude. Canadian Legacy Projects supporters are a special type of people that change lives, lift people up and make the world a better place,” noted Tom Howard, vice president of Canadian Legacy Project. Further details on all Canadian Legacy Projects service offerings can be found on their website at canadianlegacy.org.

UCPG’s development, University District (U/D), also earned awards for the Best Existing Community Community Feature.

CALGARY (September 21, 2022) – As the developer forU/D, UCPG was recently recognized for prestigious awards at the fifth annual BILD Alberta Awards ceremony, including the Developer Pinnacle Best Existing Community and Best Community Feature, featuring the inclusive playground in Northwest Commons Park. The Building Industry & Land Development Association Alberta (BILD Alberta) Awards recognizes the top organizations across the province in community development, home design, safety community service, and renovation.

The Developer Pinnacle Award recognizes leadershipin design, commitment to safety, customer community service, and the Best Existing Communityaward recognizes the holistic excellence of the walkability of the community, the integrated green spaces and parks, the growing Retail Main than 25 retailers now open for business, and the variety of thoughtfully designed living spaces.

University of Calgary Properties Group (UCPG) Named Top Developer at BILD Alberta Awards

The Best Community Feature Award celebrates Northwest Commons Park, which includes a Playcore Demonstration Site playground. This space incorporates evidence-based principles of inclusive playground design, inviting those with mobility aids, sensory disorders, and diverse abilities to play.

As the developer for U/D, UCPG was recently recognized for three prestigious awards at the fifth annual BILD Alberta Awards ceremony, including the Developer Pinnacle Award, Best Existing Community and Best Community Feature, featuring the inclusive playground in Northwest Commons Park. The Building Industry & Land Development Association Alberta (BILD Alberta) Awards recognizes the top organizations across the province in community development, home design, safety leadership, community service and renovation.

The Developer Pinnacle Award recognizes leadership in design, commitment to safety, customer satisfaction and community service, and the Best Existing Community award recognizes the holistic excellence of U/D, including the walkability of the community, the integrated green spaces and parks, the growing Retail Main Street with more than 25 retailers now open for business, and the variety of thoughtfully designed living spaces.

The award-winning Northwest Commons Park playground is a Playcore National Demonstration designed with Playcore’s 7 Principles for inclusive design, making it one of the most inclusive city.

The Best Community Feature Award celebrates Northwest Commons Park, which includes a Playcore National Demonstration Site playground. This space incorporates evidence-based principles of inclusive playground design, inviting those with mobility aids, sensory disorders and diverse abilities to play.

The award-winning Northwest Commons Park playground is a Playcore National Demonstration Site designed with Playcore’s 7 Principles for inclusive design, making it one of the most inclusive parks in the city.

“University District is a mindfully designed, progressive, world-class community,” said UCPG president and CEO, James Robertson. “Since construction began in 2015, we have successfully established this neighbourhood as a thriving, feetfirst community. We are exceptionally proud of our team and the dedicated partners and community members that make University District an award-winning destination.”

These latest awards are just a few of the accolades UCPG and U/D have earned this year. U/D was recognized by the prestigious Canadian Home Builders’ Association National Awards for Housing Excellence as Canada’s Best Growing Community and earned the title of Best Future Neighbourhood by Avenue Magazine this past June.

The growth of University District continues to progressively expand. University District recently welcomed Rohit Communities and their latest residential offering, Dean’s Landing to the community. Dean’s Landing offers 66 stacked townhomes with attached garages and 135 condos with underground parking. The development will be situated across nine buildings, including two four-storey condo buildings, with options including studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences. Interested Calgarians are encouraged to visit the University District Discovery Centre at 4410 University Ave. N.W. to learn more about Rohit’s immersive digital home tour experience and the exciting upcoming events and new additions to the community.

Makkar has been promoted to Partner following his accomplishments as Vice President, Corporate Develop ment. As Partner, Abhi will continue to build upon the success of the MAXIMA team and further expand the Compa ny’s services and geographic reach as the lead of Business and Corporate Development. Abhi has a broad range of experience in Accounting, Finance, Risk & Compliance, and M&A.

THE REBOUND IS GOOD

THE CONSTRUCTION WORK AND RENO MOMENTUM

BY JOHN HARDY

For Calgary trades, contractors and renovation specialists, the post-pandemic rebound is happening and it is good.

Despite the many speedbumps, from lowens, supply chain issues, and particularly the past two-plus years of work disruptions, the Calgary construction and reno sectors are in recovery mode and maybe even booming.

“We have seen a steady influx of work across multiple project types, and there is every indication that there is a backlog of opportunity for the future,” says the enthusiastic Bill Black, president of the Calgary Construction Association. “The positives are generally related to the fact that the resilience of the industry enabled an adaptation to the impact of the pandemic that allowed work on sites to continue. The

industry was able to maintain momentum and was in a good position to begin responding to the increase in work.

“Even issues related to supply chain and escalation have been adapted to and, while not all owners seem to fully appreciate the nature of global supply chain dynamics, the industry is adapting as far as possible to these realities.”

The far more consumer-driven Calgary renovation sector took a major pandemic hit but is also weathering the speedbumps. And the reno recovery has begun. “The reno industry, like many others during the pandemic, faced a lot of uncertainty, especially in early 2020 when everyone took pause to evaluate how it would impact their lives and finances,” says Danny Ritchie, the respected co-owner and president of Calgary’s Ultimate Renovations.

ABOVE: A STUNNING AND SPACIOUS CALGARY RENO PROJECT BY ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS.

“Eventually, we came to see many Albertans choosing to invest in renovations, as they experienced a trend to stayput for both the short- and long-term. With the increased demand came a host of challenges for renovations, ranging from supply chain issues to skilled labour shortages and everything in between. We’ve been fortunate to weather that storm, sails intact, and even collect a few more accolades along the way,” he adds with a warm smile.

Despite weathering the pandemic storm and the positive momentum for Calgary construction, Bill Black explains that a labour shortage is a lingering problem. He points out that most industries are struggling with one kind of labour shortage or another, and the demand for workers exacerbates the problem. “We need government support related to immigration, temporary workers, support to hire new workers and other such programs that will assist in addressing labour challenges.”

According to the recent Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey, 82,800 Calgarians were employed in the construction industry, up from 76,300 last year. That works out to a construction sector growth rate of 8.5 per cent, year over year. StatsCan numbers also show that the construction industry is the fourth-largest industry in Calgary, when compared to employment numbers, behind retail, professional services and health care. More than 9.2 per cent of all jobs in the Calgary CMA region are directly in the construction industry.

When it comes to consumer trends about renovations, it seems the past two-plus years have shifted some consumer trends and perspectives. The popular stereotype used to emphasize that “buying a home is the biggest decision” people make. The cliché has been tweaked significantly, especially in the Calgary area, with the big decision being –to buy or to renovate.

Due to factors like mortgage rates, house affordability and inflation, many Calgarians are opting to stay put and renovate their home with personalized lifestyle touches and features.

“As we wrap up business in 2022, and continue to navigate what comes next, we’re seeing reno demand wane very slightly,” Ritchie says. “But this has been a record-breaking

year, after all. Many Calgarians who were serious about renovating have initiated or completed projects, and some are now focused on the return of private travel. There are many who are still evaluating their existing space, their priorities and their next move. There’s every indication that the reno industry will stay busy well into 2023 and beyond.”

The upswing of people choosing to stay and renovate their existing home also reveals some changing consumer trends about lifestyle wish lists and expectations. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are the most popular and in-demand renovations in Calgary area. A kitchen remodel with new

DANNY RITCHIE, CO-OWNER AND PRESIDENT OF CALGARY’S ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS.

“THERE ARE MANY WHO ARE STILL EVALUATING THEIR EXISTING SPACE, THEIR PRIORITIES AND THEIR NEXT MOVE. THERE’S EVERY INDICATION THAT THE RENO INDUSTRY WILL STAY BUSY WELL INTO 2023 AND BEYOND,” SAYS RITCHIE.

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are still some products that have extended lead times. All things considered, we’re seeing a return to where we were in 2019.”

“The renovation sector has undoubtedly been affected by supply chain issues,” Ritchie points out. “While we’re fortunate with a great network of industry peers doing their best to meet the demand, we have had to adapt our own timelines and processes as well. Our clients have certainly been patient and understanding while waiting for appliances, furniture and other materials.”

When it comes to some new trends, Dupont notes a shift in the past few years towards vinyl flooring and more and more people converting their decking to composites.

“But there’s no doubt about it,” he says. “With the higher interest rates and the housing market instability, I believe many people are staying in their current house and upgrading as needed.”

The post-pandemic momentum is also positive for Calgary’s recovering construction sector. “The BMO project is proceeding with a lot more work needed to complete it,” Bill Black says. “Arts Commons is going to provide some great high-profile work and the potential of the Red Deer hospital will likely engage some Calgary interest. Not to mention that we still hold out hope for a Calgary Event Centre project.”

MANY OWNERS JUST DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START

THE CAREFUL PLANNING FOR SUCCESSION

BY JOHN HARDY

For some personal and some business-strategic reasons, succession planning can be a touchy topic for business leaders and owners. While the topic itself is complex, so is the reluctance, procrastination and avoidance.

One aspect is unarguably important and urgent. While overwhelming business wisdom emphasizes that succession planning is vital for a business’ success, the facts and figures also underscore that succession planning is important for Canada’s competitiveness and economic prosperity.

Unfortunately, the numbers are telltale. While many business leaders agree about the importance of eventually transitioning the business and the need for a sound succession plan, only a minority are doing something about it.

According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB): “The approaching retirement of the Baby Boomer generation means that the business landscape is poised for a dramatic shift. Some 72 per cent of business owners intend to exit their business within the next decade, with over $1.5 trillion worth of business assets to be transferred to a new generation of business owners.”

CFIB’s Getting the Transition Right survey for small business succession planning urges that “ensuring a smooth

transition of ownership requires an effective succession plan. Yet less than half (49%) of business owners have a succession plan, and only about one in 10 (8%) have a formal written plan.”

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With all the years of strategizing, business successes and speedbumps and savvy business experience, some business owners are reluctant about succession planning, not only because it’s often an emotional ending but because it is something they’re not used to doing. “Business owners know how to run their businesses. They have been doing it every day for years, even decades,” says the respected Jim Rea, partner with MNP’s Private Enterprise group in Calgary and MNP’s regional succession services leader.

“They do get better at it every year, but business owners typically don’t transfer or sell their business more than once. So, anything they do only once is highly susceptible to something going wrong. And they don’t want to have the final, most valuable, transaction of the business to fail.”

With much experience, and a uniquely empathetic touch, he points out that “anything that doesn’t have a firm deadline usually ends up taking a back seat to the day-to-day issues that consume a business owner’s time and energy. Some business owners assume that their daughter or son will take over the business, although we find these assumptions are often made without forthright conversations with the family. They procrastinate having the conversation fearing they will hear something that they don’t want to hear. And, frankly, many owners just don’t know where to start.”

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While he outlines the detailed planning, decision-making and steps for an efficient transition, Rea says, “A succession should be carefully planned, well in advance, so the new leaders (whether inside the family, or the management team) can be groomed for the roles the owner will be vacating. The grooming may involve leadership training and building rapport and trust with major customers, suppliers, financiers and the employee group.”

CFIB research show that, whether business owners decide to exit or transfer ownership of their business, having a succession plan is critical for a smooth transition. Findings show that succession planning is the process by which a business owner chooses the best exit strategy to successfully transition into the next stage of their life. The CFIB details that succession plans can be informal or formal in nature but a formal succession plan sets out the process and schedule for a business owners’ exit. An informal plan is more ad hoc.

Although classic business logic has consistently warned against it, succession planning invariably overlaps business and personal. Part of the overlap is the business owner’s initial big decision to sell the business to family, to employees or an outside buyer.

According to CFIB stats, more than 48 per cent of business owners plan to sell the business to buyer(s) unrelated to their family. About 25 per cent intend to sell the business to employees, and 25 per cent plan to sell to family.

MNP Calgary’s Jim Rea has much succession planning experience and adds that that succession may not always be more viable than selling. “True, it may allow for a more gradual transition for the exiting owner, with more flexibility if they decide they want to work less than they had promised after the handover. But, for some, selling to a third-party gives them freedom to detach themselves from the business and pursue other goals.

“Depending on the type of business, a family succession may help maintain customer and supplier relationships, especially if the successors have been

ALTHOUGH CLASSIC BUSINESS LOGIC HAS CONSISTENTLY WARNED AGAINST IT, SUCCESSION PLANNING INVARIABLY OVERLAPS BUSINESS AND PERSONAL. PART OF THE OVERLAP IS THE BUSINESS OWNER’S INITIAL BIG DECISION TO SELL THE BUSINESS TO FAMILY, TO EMPLOYEES OR AN OUTSIDE BUYER.

working in the business a long time and have been given the authority to make decisions. This is one of the most important parts of the succession plan: preparing the business to prosper without the founder having to control things or even be in the office.”

He agrees that the family aspects of succession can get tricky. “Family issues are often the biggest roadblock in succession planning. More often than not, we find that resentments over past events come to the surface during succession planning. Siblings, feeling they are being treated unfairly or their wishes are not being considered, are common sources of conflict.”

Selling the business has its own list of pros and cons. “Recently, many business owners have been approached by unsolicited buyers,” Rea adds. “For the business owner, having in place a company that is sale ready, including appropriate structuring to ensure optimal after-tax cash, and having optimized value, together with personal planning, means being able to address those offers with confidence and exiting on the owner’s own terms and timelines.”

He underscores that getting professional help is vital. “Advisors who have taken families through this process many times have a lot to offer. Rarely are business owners not surprised by some revelations brought to light during a comprehensive succession process.”

The business bottom line is that, ultimately, succession planning is important planning for the future. CFIB stats and trends point out that seven in 10 business owners agree that the two-plus years of pandemic disruptions have changed their thinking about continuity, succession planning and how they plan to retire or exit their business.

The surveys document the new, post-pandemic business reality that 42 per cent of business owners will retire later because of the COVID fallout and 57 per cent estimate the value of their business has dropped and many business owners are delaying their succession and retirement plans. A majority feel that the value of their business has gone down because of COVID broadsides.

Jim Rea senses that the past couple of years of business broadsides have likely triggered business owner interest about the future and the option of succession planning. “Many businesses have suffered profoundly over the past two years, not only from having to close or cut-back operations, but from employees pursuing other opportunities. Some businesses have prospered by being agile in changing how they deliver their goods and services, but I don’t know any business that doesn’t need more employees right now.

“We are hearing from a lot more business owners who have done some soulsearching and think it’s time to get serious about succession,” he says. “Many are implementing employee stock ownership plans to retain employees that are key to the growth of the firm and its future leadership.”

Lou MacEachern

Platinum Partner Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Fifty percent of businesses may never re-open after a disaster. That’s why knowing the easiest way to contact SERVPRO® is so important. Because the sooner you get in touch with us, the quicker we can start to minimize the damage, as well as the cost. Just go to servpro.com or call 1-800-SERVPRO to activate the cleanup team that’s faster to any-sized disaster. We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers and even entire communities after the ravaging effects of water and fire. So whether you’re responsible for 1,000 square feet or 100,000 – it’s your decision to call on the very best. Your trusted, local SERVPRO® professional.

SERVICES IN CANADA PROVIDED BY INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED FRANCHISES OF SERVPRO INTERNATIONAL, LLC.

2022 Leaders Awards CELEBRATING CALGARY’S EXCEPTIONAL BUSINESS LEADERS

BY MELANIE DARBYSHIRE

There are several marks of an exceptional leader: someone who inspires passion and motivation to follow others; someone with a vision and the ability to realize it; someone who ensures their team has support and tools to achieve their goals. Whether in business, politics, sport, social or charitable life, a good leader is one who – with the help of a team – gets things done to the satisfaction of all involved.

Calgary’s business community has many great leaders. In a broad and ever-growing range of industries, some old and some brand new, in small, medium and large businesses, these leaders have proved their worth (and then some) over the last twoand-a-half years. They have led their teams through significant challenges including a global pandemic, supply chain constraints and soaring inflation.

Nonetheless, their businesses are thriving. Whether in the hospitality, energy, home building, electrical, retail food and beverage or financial industries, this year’s Leaders provide significantly to our economy in the form of products, services, employment, taxes and culture.

In our 14th year, the Business in Calgary Leaders Awards recognizes these owners, CEOs and presidents of Calgary companies, who contribute in an outstanding way to our vibrant and growing city.

“The Leaders being recognized this year represent a diverse cross section of industries, enterprise size and history,” says Trina Holland, associate vice president, Diversified Industries and Energy Services at ATB Business. Holland, along with Trevor Winkler, regional managing partner at MNP and Catherine Grygar, partner at Stikeman Elliott, served as this year’s judges. “Some of our leaders were just establishing their business when the pandemic hit,

THE JUDGES

whereas others navigated well-established businesses through the turbulence of the last couple of years. Some have been innovating as small business owners in new, emerging industries, whereas others have been stewards of larger enterprises in Alberta’s core industries.”

“The breadth of industries represented in the nominees continues to expand and certainly speaks to the entrepreneurial nature of our city,” agrees Winkler.

“There is no single item that stands out – it’s impressive to see that all their accomplishments are achieved differently – adapted for their business and for their team members. What these leaders have achieved in business can be attributed to their motivation, encouragement and trust of their teams.”

Grygar adds: “These Leaders demonstrate how risk taking can bring great results.”

The primary criteria used by Gryger to evaluate nominees included innovation, community engagement and diversity.

CATHERINE GRYGAR

TREVOR WINKLER TRINA HOLLAND

“Regardless of makeup and background, all of the Leaders have shown the importance of core values, strategic vision and a commitment to their broader communities as three key ingredients of successful leadership, particularly during periods of unpredictability and rapid change,” Holland notes.

“When evaluating the nominees, I am always looking for that something ‘different’,” Winkler notes. “What hurdles have been overcome, what failures have caused them to change course, and what else are they doing for both the betterment of their team and business, but also the contributions to the community in which we work and reside.”

A gala to celebrate this year’s Leaders will be held on Thursday, November 17 at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.

Platinum Partner Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Lou MacEachern

Carey Arnett

ARNETT & BURGESS PIPELINERS

Athird generation pipeliner, Carey Arnett has served as president of Arnett & Burgess (A&B) since 2017. The 65-year-old company is a seasoned service sector survivor in Western Canada, known for honesty, capable pipelining and integrity. It provides quality pipeline construction, custom fabrication, facility installation, pipeline integrity, maintenance and related construction services to the energy industry. Under Arnett’s leadership, A&B has achieved consistency of business, even during the most challenging times.

“The people in my industry inspire me everyday. They connect each and every one of us by building the infrastructure that enables the systems that all other industries depend upon. They perform real tasks in the real world in all conditions. They think practically and solve complex problems that most of us couldn’t even imagine solutioning. More importantly, they do it with energy, passion, responsibly and safely. It’s refreshing to see society question how intertwined our systems are and the desire to innovate.”

Photo by

Lou MacEachern

R. Scott Hutcheson ASPEN PROPERTIES

As co-founder of Aspen Properties in 1998, R. Scott Hutcheson was the company’s first employee. Today, Aspen employs more than 100 people and currently owns and operates 3.8 million square feet of office space in Calgary and Edmonton in 14 buildings, including the Calgary Tower. Under Hutcheson’s leadership, Aspen has become known as a contrarian investor. Over the course of two-and-a-half decades, the company has bought and sold $3 billion in real estate (67 acquisitions and 63 dispositions) and currently manages and owns $1 billion in assets.

“My family has been in the real estate business for generations. My father’s energy and value system has inspired and shaped my executive style enormously. We share the view that business moves at the speed of trust.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

Maxim Olshevsky ASTRA GROUP CORP.

Maxim Olshevsky is an independent leader who invests in people and buildings he sees potential in – typically projects no one else wants. He immigrated to Canada in 2000 from Ukraine with nothing and worked his way up from labourer to CEO. Today, his group of companies include Astra Construction Management, Astra Real Estate, Astra Business Centre and Peoplefirst Developments. Peoplefirst has invested $39 million to convert an empty, 10-floor office tower in Calgary’s downtown into housing Calgarians can afford.

“The key to success is twofold: One is to have the ability to see the direction you’re going without losing track of the details that are necessary to get you there; two is the ability to act fast and set aside the noise that is there to throw you off track.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

Decisive Advice. Workable Solutions.

Congratulations to this year’s Business in Calgary Leaders. Stikeman Elliott is proud to sponsor these awards and recognize those who stand out for their exceptional work and dedication. We understand the meaning of community and how important it is to support and celebrate local entrepreneurial businesses. Stikeman

Sky McLean

BIG MOOSE REALTY, BASECAMP RESORTS

At just 29 years old, Sky McLean purchased her first Canmore condo to rent out on Airbnb. Four years later, in 2017, she launched Basecamp Resorts Canmore – a bespoke hospitality brand which combines the comforts of an Airbnb with the amenities and conveniences of a hotel. Basecamp now owns and operates properties in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, Golden and Revelstoke. McLean designs and curates each property to provide a homeaway-from-home experience for guests, all with a modern mountain aesthetic and vibe.

“The main defining moment in this journey was when I raised money from my first investor. Having someone believe in my dream was a surreal experience.”

Photo by V

Lou MacEachern

Purpose as the Driver of SureCall’s Business

At SureCall we have spent the last 10 years focused on purpose as the main driver for our business.

SureCall provides custom outsourced solutions for every application to assist companies to expand and scale while keeping costs manageable. At a time when it’s difficult to get and keep good people, SureCall’s Rent Your Team option has made it simple for companies to develop a new arm of their business while keeping the quality exceptional. As your partner we become an extension of your company, and by having us as your partner you will be making a difference to the community through our GoodCall™ and Hero Girls ™programs.

SureCall’s vision of “Empowering our Partners, and Transforming the World”, has led to several initiatives including educating women, supporting the voice of Canadian children, and tackling human trafficking. We are a certified B Corporation and have been awarded Waterstone Capital Canada’s Most Admired Culture 2020 & 2021. One of many awards that define our values and the way we do business. When you partner with SureCall you are also impacting some of the most critical humanitarian issues in our community and around the world.

We are proud sponsors of Business in Calgary’s Leaders Award and will continue to support our city as the best place to work, live, and play!

1.877.310.0088

www.surecallcc.com info@surecallcc.com

First graduating class of Hero Girls, Dang, Nepal

SureCall Operations Center, Calgary, Alberta

Cody Slater BLACKLINE SAFETY CORP

When Cody Slater joined Blackline Safety as CEO in 2014, the company had sales of around $3 million. The former CEO of Calgary-based BW Technologies, a world leader in portable gas detection, recognized the opportunity to marry Blackline’s lone worker monitoring technology with his gas detection enterprise to create a powerful, leading edge safety product. By the end of fiscal 2021, Blackline had top line revenue of $54.3 million. The company’s safety products are in more than 60 countries, protecting more than 100,000 workers.

“My grandfather, Zeyde Sheppe, is my biggest inspiration. A Russian immigrant, he built a life in Canada and gave me my first job (stacking beaver pelts in his fur business). He believed your place in the world is not defined by what others do but what you do and how you make an impact.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

LEADERSHIP

A community does not function without strong leadership from the business community. I would like to congratulate and commend this year’s recipients of the Business in Calgary Leaders awards. Through your intellect, effort and vision you are keeping our city strong and vibrant.

Photo by EWAN PHOTO VIDEO

Ken Keelor CALGARY CO-OP

Ken Keelor began his career in the retail food industry more than 25 years ago and joined Calgary Co-op in 2014. He inspires team members to continuously demonstrate their commitment to three core values – service, caring and excellence. Under Keelor’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Co-op refreshed its strategic five-year plan to focus on health and safety, launched online shopping and delivery, and launched its own private brand lines. Today, Co-op has more than 440,000 members and nearly 100 locations.

“The work our Team Members and Members do in the community inspires me everyday. Calgary Co-op is a “movement” which supports the community in so many ways – buying and hiring locally, keeping investment here at home, and putting food on the table for our neighbours in need.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

Wayne Henuset EL

TEQUILENO

Wayne Henuset formed Paradise Spirits Inc. in 2017 to purchase El Tequileno, a 63-year-old tequila distillery located in the town of Tequila, Mexico. With historical sales of 27,000 nine-litre cases annually, Henuset and his team renovated the distillery to increase production capacity three-fold. Construction of a 25-room boutique hotel, Casa Salles Hotel Boutique, nestled in the gardens next door to the distillery, began in 2019. Through strategic partnerships with key distributors, sales projections for 2022 are 150,000 nine-litre cases globally.

“My most defining moment was when my father and mentor passed away unexpectedly. At the tender age of 21, my career path of following in his footsteps changed overnight. The trauma impacted me both personally and professionally, leading me to become an entrepreneur pursuing a wide range of business opportunities and never again relying on one path.”

Photo by

Lou MacEachern

Evelyne Nyairo ELLIE

BIANCA

While doing environmental engineering field work in Chad, Ellie Bianca founder Evelyne Nyairo had a business-inspiring experience: she was asked to pay the husband of a woman who had done all the work picking mangoes for her. Struck by the unfairness, Nyairo was determined to help improve the lives of women in Africa and Canada. She launched Ellie Bianca – named after her daughter – an all-natural, environmentally sustainable and socially conscious skincare line. With 35 products, the company combines modern-day science and the power of plants that have been used for centuries.

“My Dad has been my biggest inspiration. Ever since I was a little girl, he would give me lots of confidence and really challenged me to push past the barriers. His words of trying to be ‘part of the solution’ despite any challenges have always remained with me, and guided me through any business or personal challenge.“

Photo by

Lou MacEachern

Thank you to the Ellie Bianca team and our clients who share in our passion and also our dream.

“You are not only investing in the health of your skin but also helping better the lives of others around the globe.” ~ Evelyne Nyairo, Founder, Ellie Bianca

Ellie Bianca is

KIND TO YOUR SKIN. KIND TO THE EARTH. KIND TO WOMEN.

Ellie Bianca is non-GMO, cruelty-free and sustainably sourced skincare you will feel good about.

We are a proudly Canadian, all-natural, environmentally sustainable, socially conscious skin care line that recognizes beauty in all forms and supports the empowerment of women through business and education. Ellie Bianca is here to spread the message that beauty is so much more than an aesthetic.

814 16 Ave NW #100, Calgary, AB T2M 0J9 www.elliebianca.com

Evelyne Nyairo, founder of Ellie Bianca and her daughter Ellie.

Jeff Litster FIDELITY MANUFACTURING

GROUP

As president, general manager and co-founder of Fidelity Manufacturing Group, Jeff Litster has more than two decades of experience as a mould maker and machinist. Originally founded in 2007 as a plastic injection mould-making business by Litster and three friends, it quickly expanded into oil and gas, aerospace and a medical division. Today, Fidelity has the largest, most advanced Electric Discharge Machine (EDM) departments in Western Canada, along with numerous certifications, licenses and core competencies.

“Being a business owner in Calgary has provided personal challenge, inspiration and reward beyond anything I could have dreamt, but it is the fact that I was able to make this journey with so many great friends, colleagues and partners that makes the experience truly special.”

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Lou MacEachern

Jodi Anhorn GLJ LTD

Jodi Anhorn joined GLJ Ltd., a 50-year-old global energy consultant, in 1993. Since taking over the role of president and CEO, Anhorn has created a strategy to diversify services for clients focusing on emerging energies, including the economics and mechanics behind carbon capture. Today GLJ works with hundreds of clients in the energy industry, expanding its focus beyond conventional oil and gas amid the global energy transition, as well as government agencies, Indigenous groups, clean tech companies, startups and the financial and legal sectors.

“The world can be a difficult place, so you need to surround yourself with good people. For me, this has been my family and coworkers. They all continue to set inspirational examples of how to be your best and give your best to others.”

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Lou MacEachern

“It is a great honour to receive a Business in Calgary Leaders Award; something only made possible thanks to the support of the exceptional team at GLJ.

Their vast expertise, hard work, and dedication have been the driving force that’s allowed GLJ to continually evolve and remain a leader in global energy consulting for over 50 years.

It is a great privilege to lead and work with the team at GLJ. Their integrity and commitment to excellence are what have maintained the confidence of countless clients and what truly sets us apart.

On behalf of GLJ, I sincerely thank you for recognizing our efforts!”

Debby Carreau INSPIRED HR

Debby Carreau founded Inspired HR in 2007 with a vision to make work better for employees, organizations and society. Under her leadership, the company has navigated significant challenges including inflationary labour costs, COVID-19 related complexities and new competition. Notwithstanding these challenges, revenues have increased by at least 20 per cent each year. Today, Inspired HR supports more than 300,000 employees and almost 300 organizations across North America and Europe.

“My greatest inspiration is the generation following us. The goal is to be a role model for future leaders and create better workplaces for everyone. Careers can be enjoyable, fulfilling and financially rewarding. Every morning when I wake up, I ask myself how we can make work better for society.”

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Lou MacEachern

Andrew Chau NEO FINANCIAL

Neo Financial was started in the Calgary Public Library in 2019 with just an idea: disrupt the Canadian financial industry. Co-founder Andrew Chau, who previously co-founded SkipTheDishes, built trust amongst customers through strategic partnerships and excellent service. In just three years, the company has launched a credit card, a savings account, an investment tool, a mortgage product and the Hudson’s Bay Mastercard to more than 10 million HBC customers. It has almost 700 employees and just reached one million customers.

“From my early days at SkipTheDishes to now growing Neo Financial, I have always been inspired by the opportunity to create meaningful value in the everyday lives of millions of Canadians. We have built Neo on the premise that Canadians have been underserved in our finances for far too long, and Neo’s ability to create generational change in how we spend, save and grow our money continues to inspire me as an entrepreneur.“

Photo by V

Lou MacEachern

Corinne Lyall ROYAL LEPAGE BENCHMARK

As both a broker and owner of Royal LePage Benchmark since 2007, Corinne Lyall also coaches and trains Benchmark’s sales team. Under her leadership, the 44-year-old brokerage has survived several market downturns by re-evaluating the model. Lyall completed her first acquisition in 2008 and has since purchased four more brokerages and three additional locations. Today, Benchmark is a company of more than 195 realtors and is

“My favourite quote related to running a business is: ‘Quality is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives’. Our name ‘Benchmark’, was chosen intentionally to be the standard by which success is measured. We have a hashtag we use, ‘BeTheBenchmark’ that reminds us of our expectation of quality and professionalism.”

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Lou MacEachern

Dave Smith STRATUS ELECTRICAL & INSTRUMENTATION LTD

Dave Smith co-founded Stratus Electrical and Instrumentation in 2014 to build a company he always wanted to work for: where talented tradespeople were recognized and appreciated; a company deeply involved in the community and in sports; and where the management team did the right thing, even in hard times. With more than 25 years of electrical construction industry experience, Smith has grown Stratus’ business to include agriculture, food and beverage, light industrial, mining, modular and skid fabrication, oil and gas, and power generation.

“As Stratus is a service company, our goal has always been to do everything we can to attract and retain the very best in the industry through employee ownership, innovative incentives, charity work, essentially continually working to build the strongest culture possible to make this the company I’ve always wanted to work for.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

STRATUS SOLUTIONS

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT END UP BECOMING THE BIG THINGS

We know your budget keeps you up at night, so the systems we use streamline processes and give you real-time project updates, and flexibility.

Schedules are always condensed, so we put a dedicated PM and field staff on every project to eliminate wasted time retraining site specs (not to mention quality issues).

We listen carefully to you, document everything and share it with our people, so when you have questions - our team has the answers.

Almin Kassamali STYLELABS INC

StyleLabs is not just a web design company, nor is it just a marketing company. It is the best of both. Founded by Almin Kassamali in 2010, his goal was to leave people better off than they were when he found them. He created a website management platform that was easy to use for any user at any skill level and then powered it with a trainable artificial intelligence – SamurAI. Since inception, more than 500 small- and medium-sized businesses have launched their web presence using StyleLabs’ technology.

“My defining moment to success was the birth of my eldest daughter. An instant shift from fearlessness to complete vulnerability and responsibility. This brought me a single, monomaniacal clarity. Everything I wanted for her, I would have to become myself. Unspoken inspiration for her (and later my other two kids) through example that was governed by tenacity, fairness, honesty, hard work and legacy. Leaving the world a better place than I found it. This shift impacted our focus and company culture leading to a meticulous 12-year track record including growth in all economic environments for StyleLabs.”

Photo by V

Lou MacEachern

Paul Colborne SURGE ENERGY INC

As president and CEO of Surge Energy, Paul Colborne’s primary goal is to be the top performing, total rate of return public oil company in Canada. With 24 years’ experience in the oil and gas industry, Colborne’s track record of success attracts top talent to Surge. He leads by example in a cohesive, collegial team environment where his vote as CEO is worth the same as other management team members. Under his leadership, Surge has gone in a different direction than the mainstream and is now a top performer.

“I’ve been very fortunate to work for the last nine years with a great management team and Board of Directors at Surge Energy Inc. (TSX: SGY). At Surge, we have a collegial/ team management approach and business environment. Together, we’ve strategically positioned Surge to be a top performer in our Canadian intermediate public oil company peer group in 2022 and beyond!”

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Lou MacEachern

Shane Wenzel

THE SHANE HOMES GROUP OF COMPANIES

Shane Wenzel joined Shane Homes – a quality home builder founded by his father Cal Wenzel and Barry Basille in 1979 – in 1991 as marketing assistant. He quickly progressed in the company and in 2003, assumed the role of president. With the customer at the forefront of every decision, Wenzel has positioned Shane Homes as an organization for change in the industry. Despite the supply chain issues and labour shortages over the past two years, the company has increased the value of homes built and sold.

“There are many defining moments, but the one that stands out is when your father, who started the business, hands over the reigns to the company and tells you to do good things with it. My father, Cal is one of two inspirations I have; my mother is the other. They both believed in me and encouraged my growth personally and professionally.”

Photo by V

Lou MacEachern

The best customer experience starts with our employees.

If you take a look at what unites the team at Shane Homes, you’ll see that each and every one of us is here for a reason. We deeply appreciate every member of this team and thank them for their dedication and hard work.

Jennifer Jackson UNIVERSAL GEOMATICS SOLUTIONS CORP

Jennifer Jackson embodies the 21st Century definition of leadership: a committed optimist consistently demonstrating that being an industry change champion, business leader, wife and mother is not only possible, but something worthy of commitment, energy and grit. Since assuming the role of CEO four years ago, Jackson has transformed Universal Geomatics Solutions’ business, starting with shifting the culture to be more human centric and family oriented. She also matured the company’s operations by introducing a resources management and ERP system, standardized policies and an Indigenous inclusion program.

“My defining moment would be when I realized that my company could be a vehicle for progressive change in the energy service sector and my inspiration is love and seeing how diverse underrepresented people have so much potential within the survey/geomatics industry.”

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Lou MacEachern

Chloe Dusser WEE WILD ONES

Chloe Dusser started Wee Wild Ones after moving to Alberta in her early 20s. While she had no assets, little access to capital and no business partners, she did have a vision: to create the optimal environment for both childcare professionals and the children in their care. Originally a children’s yoga studio, the business quickly expanded to an after-school program and a full-service preschool and childcare centre. Dusser operates two facilities today (with a third to open shortly) that employ 100 full-time employees who work with 500 children daily.

“A friend in university once told me I was ‘brave.’ I often go back to that word when making tough decisions. More often than not the brave decision is the right decision. In my case, the journey to success is not comfortable overachievements, but a conquest of countless tough and scary moments.”

Photo by

Lou MacEachern

Ashley Wolfe WOLFE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

Ashley Wolfe is the fourth-generation leader of Wolfe Automotive Group, a 100-year-old family business that was started by her great-grandfather F.J. Wolfe in 1921. Originally established as Edmonton Motors, the dealership became known as the “Crossroads of the World,” servicing those in the Edmonton area and northern Alberta. Reflecting on the success and community contributions of the past century, the Wolfe Automotive Group recently decided to rebrand all six of its dealerships to lead with the Wolfe name.

“My greatest inspiration was my grandmother. She was a true pioneer woman. She grew up in Alaska and defied all odds growing up in a world where women were not valued the same as their male counterparts. She was on the men’s downhill ski team, played on the high school basketball team when no women did, she was a college graduate and perpetual learner. And when her husband died young, she raised five children and taught school and never financially depended on anybody other than herself. She taught me to work hard play hard. My favorite quote from her was “use it or lose it” which I live by to this day.”

Photo by V Strategies

Lou MacEachern

Ashley Wolfe Congratulations on

Leaders Award Business In Calgary

Calgary’s Audrey Mascarenhas is a dynamic, innovative and influential business leader, a visionary, and a trailblazing pioneer of climate change, reducing industry emissions and achieving a green-and-clean environment.

She is also the richly deserving 2022 recipient of the distinguished Business in Calgary Leaders Legacy Award.

The ardent and straight-talking president and CEO of Questor Technology (QST on the TSX Venture Exchange) – the Calgary-based and industry-leading environmental oilfield service company that manufactures and services high efficiency waste gas incinerator systems, and provides power generation systems and burner-related oilfield services –proudly admits that the company’s focus and commitment was ahead of its time.

Questor’s transformational emissions technology was developed more than 20 years ago, long before it was a popular, profitable or regulated thing to do. “Look how far we have come,” she adds with enthusiasm. “In today’s business, climate change and the environment are a corporate call to action.”

Audrey Mascarenhas is a plugged-in and forward-thinking leader, passionate about business and specifically the critical business of improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions and sharing society’s concerns about industry’s attention to the environment and sustainability.

LEADERSHIP AWARD

“Particularly the energy industry must be conscious and responsive when it comes to public perceptions and concerns,” Mascarenhas emphasized. “I’m a big believer that if you’re going to make change, you should try to show the value proposition. Communities are very plugged-in and involved with issues. They have access to information. They have a lot to say and many ways of saying it. Social media, as just one example, has changed the world.

“I think some companies are, unfortunately, missing many opportunities to be responsive, tell their story, explain their situation and be proactive.”

Her credentials are genuinely a legacy of business leadership. Audrey Mascarenhas has worked in energy for more than 35 years with Gulf Canada Resources Ltd. and Questor Technology, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto, a Master’s Degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Calgary, is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineers, has served as a distinguished lecturer with the Society of Petroleum Engineers, is a member of the Schulich Industry Engineering Advisory Council, the former chair of the Canadian federal government clean technology strategy table and, this month, she will be inducted into the University of Toronto Engineering Hall of Distinction.

BUILDING COMMUNITY IS SOMETHING WE LOVE TO DO.

As a support partner for the Business in Calgary Leaders Awards, University of Calgary Properties Group would like to congratulate Audrey Mascarenhas as the recipient of the 2022 Legacy Leadership Award. Audrey has demonstrated remarkable leadership championing innovative initiatives to improve sustainability, environmental developments, and community building. We are proud to be recognizing her outstanding visionary contributions to our city.

GREAT LEADERSHIP LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY.

AUDREY MASCARENHAS, P.Eng.,FCAE. President and CEO, Questor Technology Inc.

LEADERS ALUMNI “THEN AND NOW”

Fourteen years after celebrating the first Leaders Awards, our Leaders Alumni continue to play a vital role in making Calgary’s business community an outstanding place to work and have fun. Their business ethics and contributions to the community are as strong today as they were in the year they won the award.

Successful Leaders always look for opportunity to challenge the process and go beyond normal thinking; they look for ways to improve their organization through innovation and forward thinking. In the process, they find opportunities to serve their industry, moving it forward to create a stronger community for all Calgarians.

Business in Calgary magazine is proud of our Alumni Leaders – encompassing 260 members in this exclusive club to date. They are the Leaders in our community and their philanthropic efforts are part of their makeup – giving back to the community is part of who they are. They are growing and in the process are continuously improving contributions to support the many charities and not-forprofit organizations located in every corner of our city. They are – and remain – our Leaders.

Platinum

Lou MacEachern

FRANK LONARDELLI

ARLINGTON STREET INVESTMENTS

BY RENNAY CRAATS

Calgary was a very different place when Arlington Street Investments (ASI) founder and CEO Frank Lonardelli was featured as a Business in Calgary Leader in 2016. Since then, the province was hit with the one-two punch of a historical energy sector downturn and a global pandemic that paralyzed the world economy. The result was an unfathomable drop to negative oil prices.

“I remember looking at my team in April 2020 and saying two things. First, and most executives would say this is fairly vulnerable, but in retrospect it was exactly what needed to be said, was that our entire portfolio in Calgary as of right now may have little to no equity. The second was, now we’re going to have to figure out what to do about it,” says Frank Lonardelli.

The consensus was to bear down, pivot and forge a way through. A four-day executive team retreat led to a corporate reset, reconnection and then to envision an ambitious plan forward.

“We decided to do something pretty radical,” he says. “We decided to double our portfolio in 12 months –and this is in the middle of governmental programs and months where we were in survival mode and operating in this absolute state of the unknown.”

He didn’t meet that stated goal. Instead, Arlington tripled its portfolio in 14 months by taking what had made the company successful in Calgary and duplicating it elsewhere while most others remained frozen by the pandemic. Kelowna, which is second to only Calgary for migration in Canada, was a perfect choice. There, ASI bought 18 parcels of real estate that would create four specific development sites. At the same time, the lights turned back on in Calgary, creating two booming markets.

Over the past few years, Arlington Street completed its retrofit of The National at 17th and 5th, its high-pro file 17th Avenue mixed-use development called The Fifth, and is starting construction on The Enzo, a new 120-unit mixed-use development that will incorporate 10,000 square feet of retail. The Fishman’s develop ment on 17th and 5A Street, with 200 units and 12,000 square feet of retail, is also in the queue for late 2023.

ASI is also launching its Kelowna enterprise with three developments next year: Central, a 120-unit project with 10,000 square feet of retail; Cornerstone, a 190-unit condominium project; and Arlington’s first industrial condo project which will be approximately 100,000 square feet.

“Since 2020, the company growth rate has been triple digits. That brings with it its own challenges without question, but our feet are firmly on the ground and we’re positively optimistic over the next five to seven years in both markets,” he says.

In times of turmoil and crisis, true leadership is exposed, and ASI has been able to create opportunities in the most challenging business environment in history. Frank Lonardelli lives a lesson he learned many years ago which is that leaders show up at the bottom of the market and not the top because that’s when leadership is needed most.

Photo by EWAN PHOTO VIDEO

Fr om its i n cepti on , Ro ckw oo d ha s b ee n a full y in te grat ed desi gn an d bu i ld c ompany w ith exa cti ng s tanda rd s an d

in desi gn an d c on stru ct ion q ual ity. I am d e ep l y p r ou d o f R oc kw oo d’s e v olut i on , wi th t he s uc ces sful c ompl eti on an d ongo i ng de ve lo pmen t of Rockw ood-e xc lu si v e c ommun it i es , where e ver y hom e i s e xec u ted wit h our hi gh est l eve l o f

in te gr it y, an d t ru e c omm i tm e nt t o our cli en ts !

- Allison Grafton, Founder & President of Rockwood Custom Homes

EXPERTISE TO PROPEL YOU FORWARD.

Congratulations to this year’s Business in Calgary Leaders

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Seniors Staying Healthy THROUGH THE WINTER

BY LISA KOPOCHINSKI

With fall now upon us, we all know winter is just around the corner. And, while there are many wonderful things about the winter months –skiing, snowmobiling, building snowmen, celebrating the holidays and the New Year – the shorter and colder days can also mean more time spent inside.

Winter blues and seasonal depression are real issues for many people, including the elderly and those who may not

be moving as much as they should be. The phrase “move it or lose it!” rings true now more than ever.

Fayez Abdulrahman, an athletic therapist at the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA) in Calgary, says although we will be spending more time indoors, this is no excuse to not get up and move.

“I’d recommend finding an exercise that mirrors your summer or sports routine for optimal performance even in

Setting a New Gold Standard

What is the gold standard? We often think in terms of currency, however in this circumstance, I am referring to the gold standard in support of our most precious asset, our family.

I believe in family. I thrive through friend and family connections. I believe our families are our most precious commodities and deserve to live the life they’d love, being afforded the opportunities to remain in their homes, with the care and attention they deserve. This is a gift most people wish for and the greatest gift we can give.

The wants and needs of contemporary seniors have actually been changing over a long period of time. Seniors have typically become more active, in every sense of the word. Involvement in social events, their community, their grandchildren’s activities, even if through social media. Many seniors travel, often as snowbirds, to a favorite location. All of these things have changed the mindset of seniors, their adult children and their grandchildren. The expectation or acceptance that a seniors’ facility is in one’s future isn’t that present. People expect and truly desire to continue to live the life and lifestyle they are accustomed to, in their own homes.

Impact on our lives comes in many shapes and sizes as we age. Physical and mental decline are the go- to concerns but other concerns are equally pervasive. Socialization, or lack thereof, isolation and the impact of emotional trauma are equally draining. Physical

and mental decline impacts our emotional state. We feel less confident but won’t necessarily talk about it. We are fearful but keep that to ourselves. We are lonely but don’t want to make someone else feel guilty, so we don’t share that either. Unfortunately, all these things lead to additional decline. It is a vicious circle. Focus on Caring has always recognized and supported all these aspects of senior life. We recognize them immediately and work to support relieving them and the anxiety that can come with them.

Through our understanding and approach to senior care, we have creative ways to alleviate the impact of the emotional aspects of senior life. Learning what makes each individual happy and can bring them joy and comfort, is part of our care plan. Even in endstage cases of dementia, we have the ability to reach our clients and support them. We are very cognizant that what we think we see on the outside is not what is going on inside. The emotional heart still beats very strongly. We have clients that cry after an unpleasant encounter, even when it appears that they are not aware. I wish we all could treat these special individuals with the gentleness, love and care they deserve.

My definition of the gold standard is the best, most reliable, or most prestigious thing of its type. In my world, I have come to realize that even if I cannot serve everyone, I can set the gold standard that determines the level at which our seniors deserve to be served.

“They were daring in ways I could not possibly try to explain with mere words. Our family will always be grateful to them.”

My Dad taught me to ride my bike, kept my drawings on his desk, worried when I was home late. He deserves the best I can give.

the ‘off-season.’ Many exercises can be brought indoors. Or, brave the outdoors with your regular walking or running workout for an extra endurance challenge.”

Many studies show the importance of diversifying your activities and reducing the risk of chronic injuries.

“This gives you an opportunity to try new activities and create a winter routine as well,” Abdulrahman adds. “We often experience weight gain as a result of a sudden lack of exercise and movement. Diversify your exercises and include an element of cardio, strength training and flexibility exercises for the best approach, such as running, lifting weights and yoga.”

James Wood agrees. As director of media relations and issues management for the Calgary Zone of Alberta Health Services, he says many tips for staying active in cold weather are offered on the MyAlberta.Health.ca website. Some of these include:

• Going for walks at the mall with a friend. Using a phone app or pedometer to count your steps can help motivate you to walk more.

• Using an online exercise video or smart phone app is a fun way to stay in shape at home.

• Joining a gym or health club. You can use machines like treadmills, stair-climbers or exercise bikes. Try a fitness class or new indoor activity like dancing or water aerobics.

• Get involved in sports leagues in your community or at work. Indoor sports such as basketball, floor or ice hockey, volleyball, indoor soccer or swimming are often offered.

Watch Your Diet

In addition to staying active, it is also important to watch your diet so as not to gain extra weight during the winter.

“We are entering into soup and pumpkin spice latte season!” says Chelsea Verbeek, a registered dietitian at Eatuitive Nutrition, a Calgary company that offers fitness advisor and dietitian services through individualized meal and workout plans.

“Eating homemade soups is a great way to optimize your nutrition because you can add a substantial amount and ABOVE: FAYEZ ABDULRAHMAN, AN ATHLETIC THERAPIST AT

Time to Fix a Broken Health Care System

It’s no surprise to many that Canada’s healthcare system needs a huge revamp, especially after the past two years dealing with the pandemic. We’ve all seen the news reports that show how exhausted health workers are, staff shortages and the backlogs for a variety of surgeries.

According to the Fraser Institute, an independent non-partisan research and educational organization with offices across the country, including Calgary, politicians and policy experts have long warned Canadians about the problem occurring such as physician shortage and the long wait for surgeries. It also pointed out that this has been a systemic problem long before the pandemic.

The Institute suggests that Ottawa needs to allow provinces to experiment with proven solutions based on international experience including policies that are viable within the confines of the Canada Health Act.

Wood says, “We know access to timely and safe surgeries is important to patients and their families and loved ones. That’s why AHS is committed to reducing surgical wait times for Albertans through the Alberta Surgical Initiative (ASI), a plan that strives to ensure all Albertans will receive their scheduled surgeries within clinically appropriate wait times. At this time, the total AHS surgical waitlist for adults in the province is about 73,473, compared with about 68,000 in February before the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Abdulrahman says as specialists in orthopedics, athletic therapists are some of the only medical professionals who can work with individuals from the point of injury until they are able to return to a normal routine, whether that is in a sport or not.

“We support the health care system with focused rehabilitation and reconditioning programs and hope to help restore or even improve function and performance to avoid the need for further professional medical care.”

He also says that proper orthopaedic care can also help patients gain strength if they are waiting for surgery. This also improves the recovery process post-surgery and reduces the amount of pain the patient is in.

“The athletic therapist will also ensure what to do and not to do in the case [in the case where a person] is waiting to see a doctor for a medical diagnosis.”

variety of veggies to them. Be mindful of the bases that you are using for soup by avoiding cream-based soups. Opt for milkor broth-based instead. That goes for those delicious and sometimes-needed warm drinks in the winter months as well. Ask for milk, choose almond or soy and half the sugar when ordering pumpkin spice lattes or hot cocoas. The calories in drinks can really add up!”

Seasonal Affective Disorder

The cold winter months can also bring on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the same season each year and affects people of all ages.

According to Alberta Health Services, experts aren’t sure what causes SAD, but it may be a lack of sunlight that can upset one’s biological clock, which controls your sleep-wake pattern and other circadian rhythms. Lack of light may also cause problems with serotonin, a brain chemical that affects mood.

Symptoms can include feeling sad, grumpy, moody or anxious; losing interest in one’s usual activities; eating and craving carbohydrates, such as bread and pasta;

gaining weight; trouble concentrating; and sleeping more but still feeling tired.

To diagnose SAD, your doctor may order blood tests so other conditions can be ruled out and also ask you to do a mental health assessment. While it can be treated a number of ways such as through counselling, light therapy and antidepressants, vitamins and good nutritional choices can also provide relief.

“Supplement with 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily year-round but especially in the winter months,” advises Verbeek.

“Our bodies naturally create vitamin D from strong UV rays from the sun in the summer, but not during our winters. Studies have shown that Alberta is situated too far away for UV rays to be strong enough for us to produce vitamin D which helps regulate hormone production, mood and is crucial for maintaining and developing strong bones.”

REDEFINING THE LABOUR MARKET

…SPEEDBUMPS AND ALL

BY JOHN HARDY

In business, during the past two-plus years of Calgary lockdowns and disruptions, there have been many changes made. Business priorities have changed. The labour market has changed. Calgary’s commercial (office) real estate market is regrouping. The workplace has changed. Work routines and schedules have changed. And subtle but significant employee expectations, attitudes and perspectives have changed.

For some industries, especially where shiftwork and overtime are basic routines, the workplace has mostly returned to pre-pandemic and new normals. For several reasons, service industries like restaurants, retail and others still deal with staff shortages.

In many conventional Calgary businesses, where people traditionally work at desks in offices, there is a seismic and sometimes contentious workplace transformation. The two-plus years of lockdowns, and scrambling, may be permanently redefining where and how Calgarians work.

Although technology and particularly the past two years have accelerated the pace of work-from-home routines, they have also sparked a trend for flexible work times. Employers are dealing with opinions about staffing shortages, the viability of flex times, hybrid work schedules (some in-office and some remote) and considering other business pros and cons of working remote versus the social interaction of an office.

ABOVE: HOLGER KORMANN, PRESIDENT OF ADP CANADA.

“LET’S FACE IT,” KORMANN SAYS WITH EMPHASIS, “ONCE UNCOMMON, THE FLEXIBLE WORK MODEL IS NOW OUR EVERYDAY,” SAYS HOLGER.

“While we’ve seen transformational change with our workforces and in our workplaces over the last two-plus years,” says Holger Kormann, president of ADP Canada, the global provider of cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solutions, “the fundamentals have stayed the same. From the Great Resignation, proximity bias, quiet quitting and now the Great Recognition, business conversations about the workplace are top of mind.”

He cites the 2022 ADP Workplace Insights Survey, which monitored the evolving priorities of working Canadians and particularly their prioritization of flexibility in the workplace. The survey identified flexibility as one of the key determinants for Canadians who plan to leave their current employer within the next six months.

“Businesses need to actively listen to what employees are saying, regardless of where they’re physically located. Let’s face it,” he says with emphasis, “once uncommon, the flexible work model is now our everyday. The most successful companies, those with the most engaged employees, will be the ones who have sensibly woven employee expectations around flexible work into their recruitment and retention strategy.”

Janet Salopek, president and founder of Calgary’s Salopek & Associates, points out that factors like employee needs and expectations and the work culture are vitally important in today’s business. “A definite key is flexibility that allows for work-life balance. But it goes way beyond the desire to simply work from home. It’s a new culture which organizations are realizing they need to embrace.

“For any business, it’s crucially important for employers to consult with employees to find out what is needed and expected for them to achieve a work-life balance. Encouraging employees to have balance in their life and attend to family and interests outside of work, is good for an employee’s physical and mental well being.”

She explains that more and more Calgary employers are changing with the new work routine times. “Especially when it comes to flexibility in working hours, with set core hours when everyone needs to be connected and available, or a hybrid model of set days when everyone comes in during core hours, two or three days a week.”

“A DEFINITE KEY IS FLEXIBILITY THAT ALLOWS FOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE. BUT IT GOES WAY BEYOND THE DESIRE TO SIMPLY WORK FROM HOME.

SALOPEK.

From extensive Calgary business experience, Salopek explains that working by remote and flexible hours are now at the top of today’s job searcher needs-and-wants lists and negotiations. “Also, personal days off to attend to family and individual mental health, benefit spending accounts important for an employee’s mental and physical health (like yoga and gym memberships) and also benefits that include pets, which are family members for some employees.”

“Often, benefits expectations also include compensation for commuting to work, reimbursements for gas and parking and compensation to properly set up a home office,” she adds.

ADP’s Holger Kormann underscores the relevance of the new ways of doing things in the workplace. “Canadian workers have expressed a need for flexibility and their expectations

ABOVE: JANET SALOPEK, PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF CALGARY’S SALOPEK & ASSOCIATES.

IT’S A NEW CULTURE WHICH ORGANIZATIONS ARE REALIZING THEY NEED TO EMBRACE,” SAYS

around the hybrid workplace model,” he says. “Our survey found that, while employees and leaders agree that hybrid work options are desirable, 63 per cent of working Canadians believe that in-office employees have inherent career advantages, including better relationships and improved opportunities for career advancement.

“Regardless of any workplace model, there will always be pros and cons. From the employer’s perspective, significant obstacles include addressing the widely varying needs of individual employees and keeping everyone engaged. One of the remarkable benefits of the hybrid model is that it provides employers multiple channels to connect with their teams – online and in-person.

“Employers who proactively managing employee touchpoints, quickly identify both the key retention factors and the pain points for employees,” he says. “Sound qualitative and anecdotal data provides employers with the insights to outpace their competitors and attract and retain top talent.”

And one of the key new normal for many businesses, particularly in Calgary, is attracting talent and, what some employers warn, is a labour crunch. Some industries and businesses report ongoing labour shortages. A glut of Help Wanted and We Are Hiring signs reflect the recovering business reality that many are anxious to hire and actively looking for staff.

Statistics Canada tracks that the job vacancy rate in Canada was at an all-time high in the first quarter of 2022 and, according to recent Alberta figures, the main areas of labour shortages are construction, transportation and warehousing and hospitality.

While some Calgary employers report a lingering labour crunch, various jobs are in demand and several have even experienced strong growth in the past couple of years. The numbers show that this year has actually seen job increases, from labour work jobs such as truck drivers and general labourers to other jobs like receptionists, administrative assistants and project managers.

Despite reports about some high job vacancy rates, there is a major demand for skilled workers such as:

• Key account managers, representing strategic partnerships for their business, providing sales and customer service efforts to help retain profitable clients.

• IT developers and Cloud architects, as businesses continue to turn to technical solutions move toward remote work.

• Marketing managers to help businesses implement marketing strategies both online and offline, especially with the projection that there will be over 19,000 marketing, public relations and advertising manager jobs created by 2028.

• Registered nurses are in demand across Canada. Due to a labour shortage during the pandemic, nurses have been receiving a growing number of bonuses and perks.

• Customer service reps (CSRs) to help problem-solve with customers in person, by, email, via virtual chat or via a phone call.

• Welders, with Canada expecting to add 23,000 welding positions to the economy by 2028.

• Engineers, working with physical or virtual infrastructure.

The jury’s still out, and there are conflicting opinions about the rates of women either entering or re-entering the workforce, particularly after taking time off during the pandemic. According to a recent RBC Special Report, “Canada’s working women surged out of the pandemic. After taking an unprecedented blow at the onset of the crisis, prime-aged women saw their labour force participation rate not only recover but soar to a record 84 per cent.”

The Labour Market Information Council, the not-for-profit organization providing consistent and accessible labour market information for Canadians, shows that two years after the start of the pandemic, jobs recovery for women in Canada has been rapid and is now slightly ahead of men’s recovery.

STATISTICS CANADA TRACKS THAT THE JOB VACANCY RATE IN CANADA WAS AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2022 AND, ACCORDING TO RECENT ALBERTA FIGURES, THE MAIN AREAS OF LABOUR SHORTAGES ARE CONSTRUCTION, TRANSPORTATION AND WAREHOUSING AND HOSPITALITY.

POST-PANDEMIC REAL ESTATE MARKET

BY ERLYNN GOCOCO

Back in March, Calgary’s real estate market was hot. It was without a doubt a sellers’ market and interest rates were at an all-time historical low. CREB® chief economist Ann-Marie Lurie says, “We started to see tighter conditions as COVID-19 hit, but then the market really shifted. There was too much supply in the market pre-pandemic and the demand was not as strong. When COVID-19 hit, rates came down and we really saw a shift in the market at that stage. The demand started to improve.”

Fast forward seven months later, and things are looking a little different. After seeing a market that experienced gains across all property types hitting all-time record highs, Calgary’s post-pandemic real estate market is shifting, once again. It is moving towards a more balanced market and reports suggest that Alberta will come out on top during the current market correction. And thanks to its large oil and gas economic footprint, industry experts predict that Alberta should see less of a decline compared to other provinces.

Dennis Plintz, broker/owner of Plintz Real Estate says, “In July, year-over-year sales prices went down five per cent in Canada, but in Calgary, we were still up 12 per cent. Reports suggest there may be a 20 to 25 per cent decrease in real estate prices for Canada and that sales volume may drop by 22 per cent. The cities that were leading the growth in price and in volume will feel the slowdown the most. Alberta should hold its own with resale prices without great declines as we are still undersupplied and the cost to build is higher than resale prices.”

He adds, “There has been a shift in the market in the third quarter of 2022. It has shifted from a very strong sellers’ market to a more balanced market. But it is still in favour of sellers with less than two and half months of supply and selection for buyers. A balanced market has approximately five to six months of supply, so we still have a long way to go.”

And although there has been a drop in competing bids at all price levels, Plintz says he has not seen prices coming down dramatically. “In fact, specific sectors and sales volumes have continued to increase considerably in the second half of the year. Condo sales and row houses are up 50 to 65 per cent from 2021 sales levels. This means condo and townhouse owners are doing better and their investments are in good shape. And it’s about time.”

Another major factor that has affected the real estate market is the Bank of Canada’s aggressive stance to address inflation through interest rate hikes. Four consecutive rate increases have pushed mortgage rates to the highest levels in over a decade.

ABOVE: ANN-MARIE LURIE, CREB® CHIEF ECONOMIST

LURIE ADDS, “AS RATES CONTINUE TO RISE, IT WILL IMPACT WHAT PEOPLE CAN AFFORD AND WHAT THEIR MONTHLY PAYMENTS WILL LOOK LIKE. WHAT IT ALSO TENDS TO DO IS IMPACT DEMAND.”

And while interest rates have increased over the last several months, Mortgage Tree broker owner Kent Chapman says, “They are low comparatively over the last 30 years. All-time historical lows have been in the market since March 2020 for both fixed and variable interest rates. Recently we have seen both variable and fixed rates rise above pre-COVID-19 levels and are expected to continue into the new year. The main reason for the increase in rates is the World Central Banks wanting to lower inflationary pressures in their respective economies.”

Lurie adds, “As rates continue to rise, it will impact what people can afford and what their monthly payments will look like. What it also tends to do is impact demand.” Lurie shares that CREB®’s Q2 2022 Quarterly Update Report revealed that lending rate increases have started to impact home sales and are expected to weigh on sales over the second half of the year, offsetting some of the strong gains reported over the first half of the year.

Chapman echoes Lurie’s comments and says that current rates are rising above the fixed-side to pre-COVID-19 levels. “These rates are affected by Canadian bond rates, primarily the five-year bond rate. We have been given various indicators from the government, Bank of Canada and economists that we should expect rates to rise. Clients who have locked in their rates will enjoy the lower payments during the term and those who are in variable rates will see an increase in their payments to maintain their current amortization.”

Plintz adds, “In July, year-over-year sales prices went down five per cent in Canada, but in Calgary, we were still up 12 per cent. Reports suggest there may be a 20 to 25 per cent decrease in real estate prices for Canada and that sales volume may drop by 22 per cent. The cities that were leading the growth in price and in volume will feel the slowdown the most. Alberta should hold its own with resale prices without great declines as we are still undersupplied and the cost to build is higher than resale prices.”

“All in all, we are forecasting a very positive horizon for real estate in Alberta,” says Plintz.

PLINTZ ADDS, “ALBERTA SHOULD HOLD ITS OWN WITH RESALE PRICES WITHOUT GREAT DECLINES AS WE ARE STILL UNDERSUPPLIED AND THE COST TO BUILD IS HIGHER THAN RESALE PRICES.”

ABOVE: DENNIS PLINTZ, BROKER/OWNER OF PLINTZ REAL ESTATE

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

Maintaining Calgary’s Competitive Landscape

Businesses across Canada are facing several chal lenges as they recover from the pandemic, and Calgary is no exception. Organizations are experi encing everything from cost increases, talent and labour shortages to supply chain issues. However, what differen tiates Calgary is its unmatched optimism, entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. To maximize Calgary’s potential and leverage growing businesses across the province, governments must work to reduce barriers and ensure a competitive environment for businesses to thrive.

THE COST OF DOING BUSINESS

In Calgary, the cost of doing business is increasing. A survey by Statistics Canada in collaboration with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce found that affordability and rising costs remain the primary concerns

for businesses. In fact, 54.8 per cent of businesses are concerned with the rising costs of inputs, while 34.9 per cent of businesses expect the price of goods and services to increase in the next quarter – both of which place upward pressure on costs to businesses and consumers. Affordability is impacting all sectors, with 66 per cent of Calgary-based businesses reporting a rise in inflation as a major obstacle. What does this mean for businesses? When external factors like costs and inflation rise, further pressure is put on the organizations’ bottom lines, ultimate ly affecting the business’ success, with fewer businesses able to save, invest in new technology or pay down debt.

Despite this, Calgary businesses remain positive. The same survey found 65.1 per cent of Calgary’s business community remains optimistic about their economic future, reiterating the business community’s resilience.

THE STRUGGLE FOR TALENT

The pandemic changed not only how businesses oper ate but how they attract and retain top talent. Businesses across the city continue to grapple with talent and labour shortages, with 35.2 per cent of businesses con cerned about recruiting skilled employees and 26.9 per cent concerned with retaining their existing workforce. Talent and labour are often cited as limiting factors for business’ ability to operate, with several reducing their hours or adapting their business offerings in response to labour constraints.

This challenge is most keenly felt by the arts, enter tainment and recreation sector – jumping from 9.0 per cent of businesses concerned about the labour short age in Q2 to 51.2 per cent in Q3; and the accommo dation and food services sector, which rose from 66.9 per cent in Q2 to 78 per cent in Q3. The challenge we see now is that many of the sectors hardest hit by the pandemic are feeling the pinch of the labour shortage most acutely.

NEXT STEPS

The Calgary Chamber encourages all orders of government to introduce the following measures to address rising costs:

•Avoid introducing additional fees and taxes, including corporate and property tax.

•Reduce trade barriers across provincial borders.

•Reduce or eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers across international borders.

•Introduce procurement supports to help businesses implement new supply chain strategies.

•Prioritize and expedite federal supply chain investments to improve the flow of goods, introduce supply chain efficiencies and cut red tape.

Similarly, to address labour challenges:

•Invest in Calgary’s vibrancy including arts, culture and entertainment, diverse housing options, amenities and services, and transportation infrastructure.

•Develop and implement an immigration strategy that supports long-term economic growth across sectors.

•Invest in all aspects of the talent pipeline including support for post-secondary and work-integrated learning programs.

•Eliminate barriers to recognizing foreign credentials and facilitate labour mobility across international borders.

•Ensure policies promote inclusive economic growth to encourage equitable education and workforce par-

ticipation among those historically marginalized and underrepresented.

•Support for higher wages to attract childcare workers and encourage successful implementation of a provincial affordable childcare program.

Calgary businesses are optimistic about their future but need all levels of government to take action to reduce the costs and barriers associated with doing business, address the talent gap and focus on the long-term strength and resilience of the economy. And

BY RENNAY CRAATS

Photo by Riverwood Photography

Dan Leiding, president and Mark Grunert, chief operating officer.

Fin the waste disposal industry, learning the ins and outs of the business over the course of 30 years. He developed a reputation as a skilled driver who took productivity and efficiency to a whole other level, earning him the nickname Cowboy Dan. The name stuck, and so did his dedication to his craft. After almost 30 years working in the business, Cowboy Dan decided it was time to become his own boss.

That brought him to T&T Disposal Services, which was founded in 1996 in the MD of Foothills with one truck and a handful of steady residential and light construction customers. When Leiding bought the company in 2016, it had eight trucks supported by 10 employees, and through his vast experience and dogged determination, he grew the company one client at a time. A large municipal contract to collect recycling allowed him to add a few larger trucks, and then a permanent contract for multiple grocery store locations helped kick off the commercial branch of T&T.

“We were able to grow faster, putting more trucks on the road, all through word of mouth,” says Dan Leiding, president of T&T Disposal Services.

Mark Grunert had heard about Cowboy Dan long before they went into business together. Grunert was a flight instructor while he attended night classes to earn a business degree and one of his students was an executive

invited him to work at his company. After 9/11 grounded his flying dreams, Grunert took him up on his offer and learned the waste business over the course of several years before returning to work as a corporate pilot. He was always looking for new business opportunities, and he found a great one in late 2020.

“Garbage was always calling,” says Mark Grunert, chief operating officer of T&T Disposal Services. “I came back to a local hauler and through that time I met Dan and after a couple years, the timing worked out and I had the opportunity to become Dan’s partner.”

Leiding was expanding his company organically as well as through acquisition, and Grunert was eager to be part of T&T’s story. T&T bought a company called Contain-aWay in late 2020 and then Diamond Valley Disposal the year after, and these acquisitions along with the energy infused by their partnership allowed the business to thrive and grow significantly both in the Foothills area, across Calgary and beyond.

Today, T&T has 36 trucks and a staff of around 35 people servicing a large number of commercial, industrial and residential clients from Fort Macleod to Airdrie to Strathmore to Banff, with a special focus on the local Foothills and Calgary clients that have helped build the company over the past five years.

Warren Dreger – Team Member for over 14 years!

Photo by Riverwood Photography.

ECCO is excited to announce the new addition to our operations! Construction of ECCO’s premier Low Carbon Fuel (LCF) production plant is complete and we are eager to begin serving our clients at our additional location, near Balzac, in Q4 upon completion of our commissioning phase.

ECCO and Geocycle have collaborated on developing a sustainable low carbon alternative to help reduce GHG emissions at Lafarge’s Exshaw Facility in Alberta - an innovative industrial solution helping close the resource loop and fostering a greener future.

ECCO Chips are made from 100% recycled wood. Wood chips are coloured using non-toxic, all natural vegetable and mineral dyes, producing a high quality landscape mulch. New products you can really dig into are coming soon! Watch our website for retailers carrying our garden and potting soil.

T&T is known for its exemplary service in all lines of waste and recycling collection whether that involves a permanent bin for five years, leaving a front load or roll-off bin for a construction site or home renovation or scheduling curbside pick-up by hand or in a toter. From small businesses and small jobs to large construction sites, T&T has a bin that fits the job: front load bins range from two to eight yards and roll-off bins from 10 to 40 yards. The company also has expertise in septic tank pumping as well as Port-a-Potty and handwash station rentals to ensure the gamut of a client’s waste needs are met at one place. If they can’t accommodate a client request, which is very rare, they will find someone who can to make sure they are taking good care of their clients.

After all, service is the key to T&T’s success, and it was the mission from the beginning to attract and retain clients by providing the best possible service both in the office and in the field. It’s not enough to just sign a contract and add a client to the schedule; both the owners and the drivers, who are the faces of the company on the streets, develop strong relationships with clients. Many clients choose to pay their bills directly to their drivers so they can chat a bit or pop into the office to sit with the accounting team to catch up. T&T has made clients part of the family, and they would never let down family.

“At T&T, we’re in the service business, we just use garbage trucks to provide the service,” says Grunert.

That service focus means that everyone at T&T is accountable and accessible, from the drivers on the streets going above and beyond for clients to the owners who always answer their phones. If an issue should arise, the team makes it right and learns from the experience to ensure that something similar never happens again. The result is a list of long-time clients who see T&T as partners in their business rather than mere vendors. The team takes that distinction seriously and makes sure that they put out their best every day to be worthy of it.

That means hiring quality individuals to represent T&T Disposal, and the company has some of the best in the business. The office staff ensures the business and schedules run smoothly and will move mountains to

MNP.ca

Mike Ruttan, Business Advisor | 403.648.4171 | mike.ruttan@mnp.ca

every day, proudly representing T&T as they skillfully navigate busy traffic and tight spots to pick up hundreds of bins a day.

“We can’t do this without the people – our customers and our staff. The garbage business isn’t that glamourous but I think of it like from garbage to greatness,” says Grunert.

And since it started in 1996, and especially over the last few years with Cowboy Dan Leiding and Mark Grunert at the helm, T&T Disposal Services has definitely reached greatness levels in the residential, industrial, commercial waste and recycling world.

“We would like to personally thank all our staff, operators, maintenance, customers and many vendors that have helped us make this successful milestone and we look forward to many more years of service with and for you.”

AZURIDGE ESTATE HOTEL THE JEWEL OF THE FOOTHILLS

Inspired by the blue skies of the Alberta foothills, Azuridge Estate Hotel offers guests a private luxurious experience in a stunning location. The estate, nestled in the foothills surrounding the hamlet of Priddis, was once the residence of a prominent Calgary entrepreneur. In 2012 it was transformed into an incredible boutique estate hotel that offers white-glove service and pampering for visitors to the area, as well as Calgarians seeking a weekend escape.

“We have beautiful rooms with absolutely stunning views of the valley and mountains,” says Jason Glynn, general manager and CFO of the Azuridge Estate Hotel. “The owners are geologists and the inspiration around the gem-inspired property, from the names of the rooms to the crystal therapy that makes the spa so unique.”

The 13 rooms in the estate range from double queen rooms to family suites that feature a tent or single bed for the kids to the deluxe and premium suites with a posh sitting area, executive workspace and patio. No matter which space fits their needs, guests are sure to have an amazing time, a breathtaking view and a great night’s sleep.

The Rhodochrosite Signature Suite is the pride of the estate, with its sophisticated décor, plush king bed, spectacular views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive dressing room, inviting sitting room and opulent bathroom with twin vanities that is ideally suited for a bridal party.

by Rennay Craats with photos by Riverwood Photography

Jason Glynn

To welcome them to the estate, guests are greeted with a Dangerous Diamond signature drink upon checking in and then enjoy butler service to ensure they have all they need for an amazing stay. The staff are dedicated to delivering the best experience possible and cater to the preferences of guests to ensure a unique, tailored stay.

“Azuridge is a beautiful place on its own, but what makes it so special is our amazing staff. They truly make the experience one-of-a-kind and are why people keep coming back to the property,” says Glynn. “And without our vendors we would not be able to deliver the luxury unique experiences for our guests.”

It is important to management that the hotel supports local suppliers, and these partnerships with the community and the businesses operating in them add to the success of this unique hotel.

That success is drawn from the exclusivity and quality of the service and experience at Azuridge. The rooms in the estate are spread throughout the property for extra privacy, and the spacious suites give the feel of a luxurious B&B, not a hotel room. For a truly private event, guests can reserve the entire property – a popular option for brides and grooms.

“Exclusivity and privacy are something we can offer. For a corporate event, wedding or social event like a celebration of life, they will often book the entire estate, and once guests have arrived we will close the gates. They will be the only ones onsite. It’s a very popular thing,” says Glynn.

Azuridge has become a common backdrop in wedding photos, with couples being drawn to the elegant spaces, the 13.5 acres of manicured grounds and the event professionals dedicated to delivering a dream day. No matter if it’s an intimate party or dinner for 180, Azuridge has the perfect locations for an unforgettable event.

The estate also hosts corporate functions, from board meetings and strategic planning sessions to workshops and retreats. Gone are the sterile corporate settings. Instead, teams are encouraged to relax and become inspired by the idyllic surroundings that boost creativity and productivity.

Azuridge has the capacity to accommodate meetings with up to 12 in the boardroom, gatherings with 40 to 60 participants in the two meetings rooms, and events with up to 180 in its Tourmaline event space. Organizers work with the Azuridge team to set up the rooms in whatever way makes sense for the guests so they can get the most out of the event. On top of meetings and sessions, more companies are reaching out to the estate for help with team-building after the disruptions of COVID-19, and Azuridge is happy to come through with unique experiences every time.

“When they come here, we want our corporate guests to think outside the box and be inspired to do something a bit different,” he says.

The estate offers nature walks, snowshoeing to get out and explore the grounds and even organizes scavenger hunts that pull corporate clientele out of their normal meeting mindset. The wall of windows invites the outside in, and guests are eager to spend their breaks in the comfortable outdoor spaces. For both corporate and leisure guests, Azuridge goes above and beyond to create an amazing and unique experience.

“Everyone is different, and we strive to give guests an individual experience that meets whatever it is that they are looking for,” Glynn says. “Azuridge is all about being inspired, connected, creative and transformed.”

The open-concept Opal Restaurant has an incredible fine dining menu curated by Chef Yoshi Chubachi and a extensive list of wines to pair with dinner. Guests can opt for a five-course meal based on a group’s preferences and have a customized delicious meal prepared. Many people from Calgary regularly make the short trip to Azuridge Estate Hotel just to enjoy a meal in a picturesque location. And with Azuridge’s chauffeur service, diners can even have a few drinks and know they will get home safely.

CONGRATULATIONS

Only minutes from Calgary’s southwestern edge in the spectacular Alberta Foothills, members of Priddis Greens enjoy unrestricted access to two (2) 18-hole championship courses: Raven & Hawk.

We set out in 1983 to offer an exceptional golf experience that intentionally aligns course excellence and concierge-style member service - all amidst a natural woodland setting that is second-to-none. Today, we continue our quest to create exceptional experiences, foster inclusivity, and embrace continuous improvement.

For those seeking more casual fare, the Azurite Gazebo offers al fresco dining. From May to October, the Burger & Beers events are a must for both hotel guests and locals looking for locally crafted beers and delicious burgers served with a side of stunning views.

Guests can also enjoy a relaxing treatment at Flourish, the LIV Well Spa at Azuridge. The unique spa offers wellness services that improve health and restore balance. In keeping with its geology roots, Flourish offers crystal therapy to align chakras and leave guests feeling rejuvenated and rebalanced.

Azuridge is an intimate boutique hotel that offers spectacular views, unparalleled service and amazing accommodations and dining. It has become a destination for weddings parties and corporate groups alike. Inspired by precious gems, Azuridge Estate Hotel is definitely the jewel of the foothills.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF CALGARY OPERA

One might think that a city known for cowboy culture wouldn’t have an opera company with the fifth-largest revenue in Canada, but they would be wrong. What started as a small group of creatives with an earnest calling to inspire the people and community through opera, has now evolved into a prominent institution that averages 2.2 million in production costs per year. From school tours, holiday offerings, outdoor summer concerts, opera brunches and most notably, the Main Stage

series, the company has earned a reputation for dazzling audiences and providing high production value entertainment.

Over the past 50 years, Calgary Opera has produced a range of inspiring and innovative operas from classic blockbusters to commissioned new works, all the while engaging the next generation of performers and opera lovers. The company has become a vital part of Calgary’s identity and culture by working with local singers in

by Rennay Craats with photos by Trudie Lee of HarderLee Photography

Filumena (2017).

the Calgary Opera Chorus, fostering young artists through the McPhee Artist Development Program and engaging 427 Calgarians in the Community Ambassador program.

“The performing arts are essential for communities to share stories that will connect, strengthen and heal them – and ultimately lead them to thrive,” says Heather Kitchen, CEO and general director of Calgary Opera.

Whether the stories told on the Main Stage are more traditional operas like La Traviata or more contemporary offerings like the Canadian opera Filumena, the themes running through them are relevant to today’s audiences and the emotions they evoke are equally powerful. The company prides itself on developing Canadian talent and leading works that are world or Canadian premieres. This season, with the added punch of the incredible halfcentury milestone, has a bit of everything in store.

“Calgary Opera is celebrating its 50th anniversary with an extraordinarily exciting season, which balances beloved audience favourites with forwardlooking and adventurous new works,” says Jonathan Brandani, artistic director at Calgary Opera.

The season opens with Carmen, one of the most often performed operas around the world and features rising star mezzo-soprano Rihab Chaieb reprising her role as the strong and seductive femme fatale after a successful run at the Canadian Opera Company in Toronto.

The second production is the Canadian premiere of The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, a co-production of Calgary Opera, Austin Opera, Atlanta Opera, Utah Opera and Lyric Opera of Kansas City that features Brett Polegato in the title role. The opera explores the tragic and complex life of the tech icon who revolutionized communication at the expense of meaningful connections with those around him. At the intersection of art and technology, this opera has the dramatic roots of a Greek tragedy with the modern-day appeal of Silicon Valley.

The season is capped by Calgary’s premiere production of Macbeth, Verdi’s spectacular take on Shakespeare’s famous Scottish play that will feature Vittoria Yeo and Giuseppe Altomare in the lead roles. While many Calgarians are familiar with the story, they haven’t seen anything quite like this. “In this opera, supernatural forces and human passions fight each other against the backdrop of incredibly vigorous music filled with cinematic overtones. In our production, the cutting-edge technology of holograms will guarantee a unique and immersive theatrical experience and will propel Calgary Opera to the forefront of operatic experimentation worldwide,” says Brandani.

The Calgary Opera team has put together an incredible line up on the Main Stage but that is just a fraction of what they are doing to advocate for and grow the art form in the city. The company focuses on introducing opera to children and youth with an annual school tour and its popular “Let’s Create an Opera” program that works with elementary and middle school children. The school tour alternates between in-person and digital presentations. Last year the digital production of The Brothers Grimm reached 110,000 students. “Let’s Create an Opera” provides children an opportunity to work with a librettist and a composer to create their own opera and learn new skills that extend beyond opera and the classroom.

These programs lead to young adults who have the skills to understand and appreciate opera and grow to love the art form. For young Canadian performers who pursue an intensive opera career and finish their academic training, the McPhee Artist Development Program offers a bridge from school to professional work by providing them with opportunities to build their experience and polish their craft as they launch their opera careers. To support the artists, Calgary Opera casts the McPhee Artists in smaller roles to expand their knowledge of common business practices, while garnering resume-building experiences.

To further ensure that young audiences have access to opera, Calgary Opera offers the Allegro program for patrons 35 years of age and under. The program offers a community for like-minded people to access discounted tickets for the Fridays of the Main Stage productions.

“Our fastest growing demographic is that 18 to 35 range, people who are very interested in entertainment and seeing spectacle for their dollar, and we deliver on that,” says Noree Claerhout, director of marketing and communications at Calgary Opera. “Calgary Opera has one of the

Calgary Opera

Talise Trevigne in La Traviata (2022).

Die Tote Stadt (2016).

pride for us.”

The company is also proud of its resilience and creativity in the face of the pandemic’s effect on the arts in Calgary and around the world. With stages dark for nearly two years, Calgary Opera had to pivot and find a way to keep the arts alive. The company produced the Opera Labs web series, which allowed performers to come together, albeit from behind plexiglass barriers, to work on new stories and develop new operas while keeping performers and crew employed. Typically, new operas take many years and significant resources to develop. Opera Labs, which recently won Best Web Series at the Alberta Film & Television Awards, offered a glimpse into the process and development of creating new works. The company is thankful for the continued corporate, private and government supports that allow them to remain dedicated to growing Canadian opera.

And Calgary Opera has certainly grown since 1972.

“The organization has evolved into a company that in 2021-22 employed 20 full-time administrative staff, hired over 340 artists, musicians, crew and stagecraft personnel and hosted 17 public performances and 18 digital presentations,” says Kitchen. “While we are proud of the company’s growth, Calgary Opera remains committed to the instilled community values that are at the forefront of everything we do.”

Calgary Opera invites all Calgarians to experience opera for themselves. With affordable tickets that start at $39, audiences can follow along with

choreography, sets and unbelievable voices on the stage. If a full three-hour performance is too much of a commitment, try the company’s Opera Brunch, combining delicious food with entertainment provided by the stars and songs of the season.

Calgary Opera proudly attracts internationally renowned talent like Renée Fleming, Ben Heppner, Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman. By continuing to produce world-class opera, the company aims to support Calgary’s thriving art scene and adventurous spirit.

“We’re trying new things. That’s the spirit of Calgary – the maverick, the wild west, the Stampede mentality is that we’re pioneering things,” says Claerhout.

This innovative leadership pays off in the sold-out performances and the continuing support and investment from the community. Calgarians are discovering the soul, emotional connection and cultural enrichment on the Calgary Opera stage.

“For 50 years, Calgary Opera has been proud to be an integral part of the vibrant Calgary arts community. Great cities have great arts communities. We look forward to continuing to serve Calgary and the surrounding areas for the next 50 years,” says Heather Kitchen.

With incredible programming, passionate leadership and inspired performers, the next generation of opera lovers are in good hands at Calgary Opera. Visit calgaryopera.com for more info.

General Director and CEO Heather Kitchen & Artistic Director Jonathan Brandani.

Lou MacEachern

Back

Front

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FAMILY BUSINESS FAMILY VALUES BIG GROWTH

ASK GLOBAL Corp. celebrates rapid growth and an expanding footprint

By

ASK GLOBAL Corp. is an Edmonton-based family owned and operated business providing complete distribution services of food and medical supplies. ASK does it all: picking, packing, storing and delivering products across Western Canada. In addition to hot shot delivery and delivery of produce, dairy, pharmaceuticals and fresh and frozen foods, ASK offers inventory management, warehouse storage and other solutions to a growing client base.

“My father started ASK GLOBAL in 2014,” says Dennis Krishna, Chief Operating Officer and business tycoon. “After working for a major linen company for 30 years, he was ready to branch out into entrepreneurship. He said, ‘I’m just going to start,’ and he did!”

ASK launched with the dream of one entrepreneur, one truck and the main services of distribution, logistics and warehousing. It didn’t take long for

Nerissa McNaughton with photos by Rebecca Lippiatt

row (L to R:): Dhruvika Patel, Mazim Shaikh, Corallie Nelson, Paul Beaulieu, Ashilta Singh Krishna, Dennis Krishna, John Meyer, Pooja Sharma and Ronil Kumar.

row

to R): Ahaana Tashani Krishna, Shashi Devi, Arohi Thanvi Krishna and David Rakesh.

the brand to grow. Today, ASK is pleased to offer a wide variety of solutions with a fleet of 23 five-ton trucks, 17 trailers, 9 tractors and a team of 25.

“Our first warehouse was 3,500 square feet,” Krishna continues “Now we are at 16,500 square feet in Edmonton and 8,000 square feet in Calgary. During COVID we got even busier thanks to an increase in grocery store deliveries; and, since some businesses closed during the pandemic, we were able to pivot and use our resources to offer reaper services as well.”

Krishna is proud to report more than 1,000 per cent growth over the last year. He credits, in part, the customer service, which is a priority for the brand.

“Our service level is top notch. There are always delays and surprise issues in transportation, but our experience, solutions and communication are always there – and that is what the customer needs. That experience includes more than 45 years combined, just between me and my dad.”

He continues, “Until recently we didn’t advertise. ASK grew organically by word of mouth.”

It is precisely that growth that has ASK rising to an industry challenge: staffing.

Krishna admits, “We have growing pains due to growing so quickly. It can be hard to find team members and drivers. However, we continue to meet and overcome challenges while never losing sight of our family business’ culture or the family values we have instilled along the way.”

With warehouses in both Edmonton and Calgary, Krishna shares what he feels makes both cities special.

“Edmonton is a blue-collar city and I love the fact that Edmonton has that diversity and uniqueness with all the different cultures coming together as one. Edmonton has a lot of ethnicity and ethnic food groups. We deal with everything from south African foods to Philippines foods to East Indian, Chinese and more. It is so nice to see so many people want to bring their food culture from abroad to Edmonton and share it with others. Calgary has a lot of the same diversity and drive as Edmonton, but it is unique in that it is a major hub. A lot of goods go directly to Calgary and are disbursed from there.”

In both cities, ASK looks forward to continuing to grow a community presence by sponsoring minor sports teams and engaging with local charities.

Looking forward, “Krishna says, “ASK is headed to the global market in the near future. We recently opened a branch in Vancouver with plans to include a 3PL cross dock. We are transporting more pharmaceuticals and are moving into the pet food market. Once we are fully established in Vancouver, we plan to expand into the United States.”

On behalf of ASK, Krishna thanks the clients, especially those that have been with the company since day one. He further thanks the team, suppliers, vendors and supporters that facilitate ASK’s continued growth.

He concludes, “ASK GLOBAL will always be a family business with our family culture ingrained in all we do. Our level of customer service, our values and our ambition will take us though our short-term growth plan over the next five years, and then far into the future.” (780)

David

Parker’s Pen

BY DAVID PARKER

City council’s deep concern on saving the planet is highly commendable but implementing an increase in the cost of a grocery bag will hardly make a huge difference.

Now, the TV images of plastic floating on seashores and amidst homes on rivers in parts of Southeast Asia are shocking. And I began to think, “how could that happen?”

Then I walked into my own bathroom and took note of the number of plastic bottles we were using. And that was hugely magnified waiting for my Starbucks latte in Safeway where my eye wandered along shelf after shelf of shampoo, body wash, men’s body wash, and – believe it or not – conditioners, etc. It went on and on. Add only just yogurt tubs, margarine and milk jugs and the enormity of the amount of plastic we use is very evident. Without a thought of where it goes.

Short of taking your own buckets and pails, I don’t see how it can be avoided.

I hope it encourages a lot of parents to buy some of the 20 books written by author Michael Bond and read them to their children. And don’t stop there – all kids should read and enjoy Pinocchio, Treasure Island and Wind in the Willows for sure. Unless parents are really worried about their little darlings being subjected to a little violence, trickery and, for goodness’ sake, animals that are dressed in clothes and talk. How shocking.

On the subject of reading, when will magazines be allowed back into doctor’s and clinic waiting rooms? I worry about people sneezing on me but really have never been concerned about catching anything from an old copy of National Geographic or Canadian Living.

I’m all for buying local but have taken a decision due a deserving local charity printing on its return envelope: Your gift stays in your city.

The award for publishing and mailing out a waste of paper has to go to the Yellow Pages that was a surprise delivery this past month.

They must have been expensive (yet carried few advertisements), but why the need when I can look up contact information of any business on my phone?

As important though is the inaccuracy of the data provided. I know a little about our architectural community and scanning the listing it didn’t record some of our leading firms such as Zeidler, Riddell Kurczaba and S2. One was mentioned twice and at least a couple were shown that have been out of business for some time.

Waste of paper.

One of the many memorable pictures of the Queen that were shown after her passing was the tea and marmalade sandwich she had with Paddington Bear.

That suggests that it is wrong to support so many others in need around this world. So, this month’s donation went to Calgary-based Operation Eyesight with its vision of eliminating avoidable blindness.

I applaud the federal NDP members in asking for an investigation into the cost of groceries.

I can understand why black currants from Peru or even California strawberries might be more expensive due to freight costs but have a hard time understanding why a small can of sardines went up a dollar.

We used to complain about being nickeled and dimed to death – now grocery chains are using dollar missiles.

Final Words

I never have enough – but always have enough.