January 2015 Business in Calgary

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A Calgary-booster’s

Perspective

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Rob Hawley, incoming Chair of the Calgary Chamber

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PROFILE

Supporting RESOLVE a Natural Step for “Fundraiser Extraordinaire”

By David Parker

W

e live in an affluent city, yet the tragedy is that thousands of people are in need of a roof over their heads.

In a recent newspaper column, Sheryl Barlage, executive director of the RESOLVE Campaign, explained that the RESOLVE collaboration of nine local social service agencies is designed not only to help Calgary’s homeless with shelter, but also to ensure they have the support to cope Jim Gray with the life challenges that led them to become homeless in the first place.

It is that kind of resolve that convinced Jim Gray to join the RESOLVE Campaign cabinet.

Gray, co-founder of Canadian Hunter Exploration and chairman of the energy group of Brookfield Asset Management, has been a fundraiser extraordinaire since he arrived in Calgary in 1956. That’s when he began his seemingly endless volunteer work at the YMCA. It was watching CBS television’s newsmagazine 60 Minutes that sparked his concern for the homeless. An episode in December 2006, featured two cases of teenagers beating helpless homeless men – one in Florida, but the second in Calgary, Alberta.

What a shock.

Especially to a proud Calgarian who regularly bragged about his thoughtful, caring fellow citizens. Chairman of the Canada West Foundation at the time, Gray immediately penned a long column to the Calgary Herald on the subject of homelessness. But he credits his friend, the late Art Smith, and other founders of the Calgary Homeless Foundation like Steve Snyder, Tim Hearn and Tim Richter for sitting him down and getting him involved in trying to solve the problem.

Jim Gray is hard at work convincing people to “put the ball in the basket” to help provide 3,000 individuals, families and seniors with permanent shelter.

Armed with an understanding of the need, he says it was a natural thing to respond to the call to action by RESOLVE. Gray is encouraged that the provincial government is stepping up to the plate by providing significant funding for the campaign, and he is working hard with his fellow cabinet members to persuade the private sector to provide the remaining $120 million needed to reach RESOLVE’s goal.

A household name in oil and gas exploration, Gray is concentrating his fundraising efforts among his fellow energy sector leaders as well as associates in the corporate world within the development, legal and accounting sectors.

He’s hard at work convincing people to “put the ball in the basket” to help provide 3,000 individuals, families and seniors with permanent shelter.

And he’s good at it. A big believer in healthy living, Gray spearheaded the campaign to build the downtown YMCA, where he still enjoys his 5:30 a.m. swim. His long association as a board member and supporter earned him the distinction of honorary life director of the YMCA.

RESOLVECalgary.ca

RESOLVE is a partnership of nine leading social service agencies with one simple goal: building affordable rental housing for 3,000 homeless and vulnerable Calgarians. We’re working directly with government, business and community leaders to put roofs over heads and end homelessness in Calgary.

Learn more at RESOLVECalgary.ca

We’d like to recognize our Cabinet of business and community leaders for helping make RESOLVE a reality.

Honorary Patrons: Dick & Lois Haskayne Steve Snyder Betty Ann Smith

Alan Norris, Chair John Brussa Trevor Daroux Stephanie Felesky Randy Findlay Charlie Fischer Jim Gray

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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time

Contents

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Volume 25 | Number 1

PUBLISHERS

Pat Ottmann & Tim Ottmann

On our cover

EDITOR

Rob Hawley, incoming Chair of the Calgary Chamber

John Hardy

COPY EDITORS

January 2015 $3.50

ART DIRECTOR

Cher Compton cher@businessincalgary.com

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS Jessi Evetts Aaron Jackson

www.businessincalgary.com

Lisa Johnston & Nikki Mullett

ADMINISTRATION

Nancy Bielecki nancy@businessincalgary.com Kim Hogan kim@businessincalgary.com Melissa Arthur info@businessincalgary.com

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Richard Bronstein Frank Atkins David Parker Lonnie Tate

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS Dan Cooper Duane Plantinga Nerissa McNaughton Colleen Wallace Parker Grant Tiffany Burns Cassandra McAuley Andrea Mendizabal

A Calgary-booster’s

Perspective

29

Rob Hawley, incoming Chair of the Calgary Chamber

PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover photo courtesy of Ewan Nicholson Photo Video

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COVER FEATURE 29 • A Calgary-booster’s Perspective The good and the could-be-better

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Supporting the visions of entrepreneurs one story at a time

Contents

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Volume 25 | Number 1

THIS MONTH’S FEATURES 24 • ItNot Your Father’s Oilfield takes new staff with new savvy

By Dan Cooper

35 • ByPrivate Schools feature Duane Plantinga 51 • Employers Beneficial Benefits recognize the value of healthy employees

By Nerissa McNaughton

51

58 • RRSP Savings: 2015 Style or TFSA

By Colleen Wallace

62 • The Calgary’s Real Estate Momentum pros and cons of Calgary as a high-priced neighbourhood

By Parker Grant

66 • Urbanomics | Urban Development Discussion A World-Class City

62 REGULAR COLUMNS 14 • ByA New Year’s Wish Richard Bronstein 16 • ByWelcome to 2015 Frank Atkins 18 • Getting My Vote in 2016 –

The Health-Care Plank in My Ideal Platform

By Lonnie Tate

83 • Leading Business 89 • Current The Calgary Report developments for Calgary Telus Convention Centre, Tourism Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, and Innovate Calgary

94 • Marketing Matters

By David Parker

12 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

The Issues: A fair and balanced approach

By John Hardy

68 • There Insuring Your Future is a way for corporations to build cash value using insurance – but it’s not for everybody

By Nerissa McNaughton

COMPANY PROFILES 71 • Celebrating Absolute Audio 10 years of SUPER SONIC SERVICE 75 • 10klr design group Anniversary th

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A New Year’s Wish • Richard Bronstein

BY RICHARD BRONSTEIN

A New Year’s Wish

O

nce again our beautiful little planet has completed another lap around the sun and we mark the occasion by celebrating the new year. This particular year it feels like my cup runneth over.

In the lead up to this new year we enjoyed the seasonal lights of Christmas in Maui and attended a special performance of A Christmas Carol at the Max Bell Theatre presented by Theatre Calgary.

Most people are familiar with this classic story by Charles Dickens about a miserable wretch of a man, Ebenezer Scrooge, who suddenly learns the meaning of compassion.

It’s a wonderful tale that not only fills our heart with warmth, but, as with some of Dickens’ other stories, gives voice to the underclass, which was a radical tack in upper class English society.

A Christmas Carol has been presented by Theatre Calgary for several decades now and they keep finding ways to make the production fresh and exciting each year. The performance I have been attending for the past few seasons is even more special than that. It’s a gala that packs the house with young Calgary schoolchildren. Many of them have never been to a live theatre performance before. Many of them are underprivileged. And they are a rainbow of colours and creeds that make up the new Calgary.

But no matter where they come from nor their cultural background, when the curtain falls, the audience of schoolchildren clap, cheer and shout with enthusiasm. They might be Muslim kids from Somalia or Hindus from India; no matter, they get the story completely.

After the performance they are treated to a reception of beautiful food, this year prepared by master chef Herbert Obrecht.

This special event is made possible by Calgary philanthropists Eva and Gordon Hoffman. Funds raised through sponsorships and donations goes to support three of their charities. Project Warmth Society supplies bedding and warm clothing for the needy, underprivileged and homeless.

Operation Kickstart Society assists those having difficulty in making it in the workforce. Alberta Champions Society places artistic memorials in key locations in the city to

14 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

recognize Calgarians who have made a special contribution to the community.

You might say that A Christmas Carol is a Christian story.

It is that for sure. But it is the part of Christianity, like the seminal parts of Judaism, Islam and other religions, that contains universal truths. It provides a guide to how to treat humanity. It is a lesson in how to make peace and improve the world.

At a time when there seems to be so much sectarian violence in the world, I think that bringing schoolchildren to a play like A Christmas Carol is worth a dozen lessons in civics in our education curriculum. The children who attend this play seem to understand the inherent message that what we do for ourselves is less important than what we do for others.

So where have some of us adults lost this timeless message? As New York Times columnist David Brooks has written it seems like we increasingly live in a clockwork universe where individuals are slotted like cogs in a machine that is ordered by layers of big bureaucracy.

Who is not a beneficiary of science today? And who cannot be amazed at the space probe Rosetta that travelled billions of miles in space to land an instrument on a fragment of what may be the original Big Bang?

But maybe we need to rebalance a little and be more open to nurturing the soul of humanity. We are indeed atoms, molecules and systems. But we also have the capacity for love and meaningful relationships. I think that is the side that needs more work these days.

The Theatre Calgary gala performance of A Christmas Carol for our schoolchildren is a small but important step in this direction. It is a magic night for those kids. And if you are lucky enough to attend this particular performance, it is obvious that our youth want this kind of message.

It is a reminder that individuals can make a difference.

There are many other examples of this in our city all year long. But not many I can think of that do so much to bridge cultural gaps and misunderstanding.

The event shows once again that the cultural arts are the best venue for this kind of introspection. I can tell you for certain those kids definitely appreciate it. BiC

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Welcome to 2015 • Frank Atkins

BY FRANK ATKINS

I

t is another new year and economists are lining up to tell us how the economy will unfold in 2015.

The major banks provide us with precise numerical forecasts that we are supposed to believe down to the second decimal. Interestingly, the Bank of Canada uses these forecasts and relies on what they call the “consensus forecast.” The Bank of Canada used to generate its own internal forecast, but it wisely stopped doing this. When I was briefly an economist at the Bank of Canada, I was part of the team that produced this internal forecast. We used a large sophisticated econometric model, and I sometimes felt that we relied so much on this model that we did not know what was actually going on in the economy.

As economists, I think that the best we can do is think about some possible directions in which the economy may trend, under certain assumptions about how policy will develop. For instance, I think that we can all agree that if the Bank of Canada and the Federal Reserve do not start to raise interest rates at some point in 2015, we are running the risk of introducing inflation into our economies. In spite of all of the evolving positive economic news – the unemployment rate is coming down; GDP growth is reasonable – central banks still seem to fear some sort of economic catastrophe. It is

Welcome to 2015

almost as if they are afraid to admit that the economy is doing well for fear that they will have no role in saving us from economic doom.

It is almost as if they are afraid to admit that the economy is doing well for fear that they will have no role in saving us from economic doom.

I think that it is reasonably safe to say that if the world price of oil does not turn to an upward trend in 2015, growth in the Alberta economy will slow down. However, it is probably also true that the current excess supply of oil will slowly dissipate in 2015, and oil prices will return to the $80 to $90 range. Markets have a tendency to equilibrate themselves if we just let them evolve on their own. This is already happening. The decrease in oil

16 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

prices has been accompanied by an increase in automobile sales, which will help decrease the excess supply.

This ought to really infuriate the environmentalists.

I think that it is a really safe prediction that Calgary city council will continue to raise taxes for several more years. At the same time Mayor Nenshi will continue to smugly point out to us that council is only providing the services that Calgarians have asked for. Mr. Nenshi knows this because of the skewed polls that they conduct. In spite of this utopian socialist economic policy, I think that Calgary will continue to thrive, because Calgarians are wonderfully entrepreneurial people. They have more important things to do than to fight the type of bad policies that come out of city hall.

So, welcome to 2015, which I think has the potential to be a very good year for the economy. This is in spite of blatant attempts by the mayor and city council to turn us into some kind of a socialist economic nightmare. BiC

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getting my vote in 2016 – the health-Care plank in my ideal platform • Lonnie Tate

Getting My Vote

BY LONNIE TATE

in 2016 – The Health-Care Plank in My Ideal Platform

I

n short, I want to see a health-care plank in the platform that puts patient needs and requirements first.

In my personal experience the actual caregivers for my wife and me achieve that goal nearly 100 per cent of the time. In my experience with volunteering at various levels of seniors communities, the people working with patients are near-saints (although many work in appalling conditions).

So this plank isn’t about health-care professionals; it is about administrative and bureaucratic ineptitude. And there is plenty of that to go around.

Let me refer you to the week of October 12, 2014. The press was full of Rockyview General Hospital turning away emergency patients. Those that were accepted waited up to nine hours for triage. The hospital was full to overflowing. It seems many active care beds were filled with incapacitated seniors. I watched a BNN interview with the premier that indicated the province was running at a surplus. Later I read a report that 460 beds had been found across the province (194 in Calgary).

Now it gets really bad. Most of the 194 beds were already in place. They just had not been funded within someone’s budget. The new health minister “…has given officials freedom to fund beds according to the needs of the patient.”

The Alberta Health Services (AHS) CEO has reworked the budget to come up with about $10,000,000 to fund the beds for the balance of the current year.

Holy crap! What basis were they using to spend the money before they started to put patients first?

Another example. Calgary Laboratory Services provides a vital service in a very efficient manner. I show up at various locations fairly regularly to have my blood coagulation factor tested. Seniors know that as an INR test.

A few months ago, the manager of one of the facilities was in some distress as I sat giving my little vial of blood. That person told me the hours of opening were being restricted and lineups were becoming long. (Indeed there were 50 18 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

people waiting for service.) She was under strict orders to see the patients according to when they arrived. It was like “take a number at the deli” at the supermarket. At that time, there was a very elderly woman in severe pain who was about to start an hour wait to get service. I was told if the staff advanced her ahead of others, they were in danger of losing their jobs. Some system!

I’ll quit after one more. I volunteer as a piano entertainer at seniors residences around the city. The extended care facilities are tough. When entering any of these places, the smell of urine is immediately evident. The good news is that after five minutes or so, you don’t notice it anymore. That is one of many less-than-adequate things you notice. You might think that it doesn’t matter because most residents have little mental capacity left. But play a tune with a rhythm, and even the worst-off patients will tap a finger in time with the music. They are people … not numbers.

And therein lies the rub. The current bureaucracy thinks they are numbers, not people. The cavalier “let them eat cake” attitude is everywhere. They found $10,000,000 under a rock. Or did they pluck it from a new-found money tree?

The answer is in the 2014 AHS annual report. A 184page masterpiece in which nothing is out of place. There are no significant variances from budget; no real differences from last year. Give the administration a day or two, they will do whatever is necessary to ensure that there are no waves. I’m sure the annual report is accurate … you have to read between the lines. They have reached bureaucratic Valhalla. At this level, it takes immense work throughout the organization to make no waves.

So credit to the new health minister to let a little light into the darkened room. Some beds that were already there are now available. There was a brief zephyr of change.

But what is needed is a full-blown chinook; one that sets records. The party platform that demonstrates the capacity to generate a big chinook will get my vote. BiC

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off the top • News

Retired Wrestler Rick Titan Offers Entertaining and Informative Seminars Asked what brings him the most fulfilment in life, Rick Titan says, “Coaching others to knock off their barriers in one-on-one coaching sessions fills me right up inside. I used to get such a rush from entertaining people in large audiences (and still do), but the gut sense when someone has an epiphany in my office with a long-sought realization: that’s incomparable. Then guiding and supporting them afterwards to make the concrete changes in their life. There is nothing like it.”

Titan is no stranger to the stage either as he is a former sports entertainer with World Wrestling Entertainment and had a 10-year career travelling the globe entertaining crowds

Rick Titan is fast becoming the go-to guy for informational and entertaining seminars for companies in Calgary. His main goal is to show employees how to get more traction in their careers using what he calls the “recognition point” to unhook from old and failing systems.

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off the top • News

Master Innovation Turntable

l Vinyndly Frie as large as 50,000. After he settled back in Calgary, he voraciously studied personal development, deep eastern philosophies and extensive practices in Lojong – training the mind, under the tutelage of a Tibetan Buddhist monk. This is offset by the more external aspects of what it takes to be a world champion and have supreme motivation.

“It’s like comparing apples to oranges in a sense. When I am in front of an audience compared to one client, I absorb big energy from the crowd and I love to give it back to them and keep them excited about learning. Their breakthroughs are what keep me coming back for more.”

Rick Titan is fast becoming the go-to guy for informational and entertaining seminars for companies in Calgary. His main goal is to show employees how to get more traction in their careers using what he calls the “recognition point” to unhook from old and failing systems.

At his last seminar in November, the hot topic was “Can your intuition be wrong?” It was quite a heated and interactive debate.

“It is a very touchy subject. I wanted people to take a really close look at the times they felt 100 per cent sure about something and then it did not become a positive experience. Not to mention when you they expected the worst ... and things turned out better than could have been imagined. All I heard as a child was ‘follow your intuition,’ but I see this now as an old, limiting belief that does not serve me. In my training and practice over the years, I have found a better way.

This is a big part of my message and what people say they get from my coaching and training – a new, more successful way of thinking.” BiC

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off the top • News

Local Philanthropists and Businesses Don Kilts for Kids at Fourth-Annual Robbie Burnstein Dinner You’ll take the high road and I’ll take the low road, and I’ll be in Scotland before you on Thursday, February 5, 2015 with the return of the spirited and tastefully irreverent Robbie Burnstein Dinner and FUNdraiser at Beth Tzedec Congregation.

The quirky cultural fusion event — a traditional Burns supper with a uniquely Jewish twist — is a party of epic proportions in support of a great cause.

From the stirring sound of bagpipes to a gourmet, Scottish-inspired kosher dinner, Burnstein has captured the imaginations and generous support of private and corporate sponsors including lead family sponsor Sam Switzer and his clan and lead corporate sponsor ATB Financial.

“Burnstein is an event where local business and community leaders enjoy networking and having a good time in support of a great cause,” says Len Seidman, event originator and chair.

Lads and lassies tartan up for the occasion and anything goes from a plaid bow tie or scarf to full Highland dress.

This year’s highlights include celebrity MC Dave Kelly,

the award-winning former host of Citytv’s Breakfast TV, and celebrity auctioneer Sheldon Smithens of Canadian Pickers fame as well as performances by the Bow Valley Fiddlers, the Calgary Burns Club Singers, and the Calgary Police Service Pipe Band. Police Chief Rick Hanson and Deputy Police Chief Trevor Daroux will act as honorary swordsmen

At the CP Tradeshow, student teams sell the products they’ve fostered from concept to reality

Join us and support these young entrepreneurs

COMPANY PROGRAM TRADESHOW 2015 www.jasacompanyprogram.com

22 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Southcentre Mall | February 7 | 10am - 4pm

DEVEL

RA

off the top • News

“Burnstein is an event where local business and community leaders enjoy networking and

for the piping in of the kosher haggis (itself a delectable oxymoron worth checking out).

While Burnstein began as an excuse for a party, it has morphed into a fundraiser that this year will benefit the Woodridge PREP Centre, a Calgary-based resource dedicated to the inclusion of youth with Down syndrome in the community at large.

.CNI STNEMPOLEVED

KYLWAR

of a great cause.” ~ Len Seidman

moc.kylwar.www

Guests enjoying the 3rd Annual Robbie Burnstein Dinner, on February 13, 2014.

.CNI STNEMPOLEVED

KYLWAR

having a good time in support

Honorary co-chair for the 2015 Burnstein Dinner is Calgary entrepreneur and philanthropist Gerry Wood, president of the Wood Automotive Group and longtime supporter of the PREP Program.

“Inclusivity goes to the heart of our work at Beth Tzedec, taking us beyond our synagogue doors,” says Beth Tzedec’s spiritual leader Rabbi Shaul Osadchey.

“It is a real privilege to empower youth with Down syndrome, enabling them to take part in and contribute to every aspect of Calgary life.”

The fourth-annual Robbie Burnstein Dinner and FUNdraiser takes place Thursday, February 5, 2015 at Beth Tzedec Congregation. BiC

FROM DREAM

TO REALITY.

www.rawlyk.com businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 23

Not Your Father’s oilfield • Oil & Gas

Not Your Father’s Oilfield It takes new staff with new savvy

BY DAN COOPER

The only constant is change.

Seasons change. People change. Relationships change. Fashions and styles change.

Rules and regulations change. Cars, clothes, furniture, oil and gas and all prices change.

So it’s only understandable and inevitable that the oilfield services change. For several reasons and in many ways, it’s not your father’s oilpatch, anymore.

The obvious and most often credited (and sometimes blamed) change is technology.

From the boardroom, the heavy equipment operators, the IT wizards and the modern roughnecks on the rigs to the analysts and traders and all rungs and job descriptions of the oil and gas industry in between, there’s consensus that the industry-altering technology of horizontal drilling has forever redefined every aspect of oilfield services and the countless new ways of doing things, due to other technologies like remote control systems, mobile communications and more.

“The oil and gas industry has shifted toward the brain and away from the brawn,” says respected oil and gas services executive Don Battenfelder, president of Canadian operations of NCS Multistage – the independent technology and services company 24 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Don Battenfelder, president of Canadian Operations of NCS Multistage

Not Your Father’s oilfield • Oil & Gas

“Today, in the oilpatch and throughout every aspect of the industry, it’s so exciting, efficient and technologically advanced than anyone could have anticipated. Technology is changing everything, including jobs.” ~ Mark Salkeld

and world leader in coiled-tubing-deployed fracisolation technology, commonly used to develop unconventional oil and gas resources.

“The industry has definitely gone from ‘just getting it done’ to getting it done more efficiently and cheaper. Horizontal drilling has been the game-changer at the top of the list of a new and exciting world of oil and gas technologies.

Technologies that continue to redefine our industry and tremendously enhance production and make the industry far more cost efficient.”

Mark Salkeld, president and CEO of the Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC), proudly explains that he has been in various functions of the oil and gas industry for more than 30 years, and he has never seen this accelerated and advanced pace of change.

Mark Salkeld, President and CEO of the Petroleum “When I was a field supervisor, there was an Alan Jack, Academic Chair for the Petroleum Engineering Services Association of Canada (PSAC) Technology program in the MacPhail School of Energy old DOS system computer on my desk, and the at SAIT keypad was used mostly as a pencil holder. Being about 30 people whose mandate is strictly research and on the computer was considered wasting time,” development.” he recalls with a grin. “And that was just 15 years ago!

The impact of horizontal drilling continues as a tsunami “Today, in the oilpatch and throughout every aspect of of change, from the economics of drilling, production and the industry, it’s so exciting, efficient and technologically revenues to job postings and oilpatch careers. advanced than anyone could have anticipated. Technology When it comes to production and the hard-core economics is changing everything, including jobs. Our members are of the oil and gas business, analysts sing a similar tune looking for the next new technology to get their competitive that, thanks to technology, rig counts do continue to rise edge,” Salkeld explains with enthusiasm. “It’s a fact of and although prices continue to fluctuate, such as this past oilpatch life. Every day there is a new widget. We can drill October’s slump, drilling activity keeps increasing. The wells and steer the drill bit in the northeastern basin from logic being that, while oil prices may still be the linchpin, downtown Calgary.” technology-enabled factors like pad drilling, hydraulic Horizontal drilling and other oil and gas technologies fracturing and increased stages per well keep boosting were a gradual change. “There wasn’t one specific, defining recoveries and lower costs per unit of oil and gas produced. moment,” Battenfelder agrees. “And the change is still “Of course the new technology is a huge factor and continues happening. It seems there’s valuable new technology being to change the strategy, the processes and also the equipment,” introduced almost weekly. If we don’t adapt and work with says Alan Jack, academic chair for the petroleum engineering the new technology, we may be left behind. technology program in the MacPhail School of Energy at “That’s why, throughout the industry and especially at SAIT. “Why mince words?

The oilpatch used to be dumb steel, NCS, research and development (R&D) is now a vital factor. operated by smart people.

Now we have smart equipment – Pre-unconventional the industry was slashing R&D budgets; like coiled-tubing drilling and many other examples of new post-unconventional the opposite is true. Now R&D is a technology – operated by smart and skilled people. vitally important department. At NCS, for example, we have businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 25

Not Your Father’s oilfield • Oil & Gas

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“The oilfield services sector embraces technology and the new ways of doing things. They are innovative, solutions-oriented and they are always ingeniously proactive.”

As with some other traditionally thriving and successful industries, the impact of technology has triggered a boom in production, in overall business, and a drastic retooling in the way things are done and the qualifications of workers.

Technology has also created an urgent, unexpected and time-sensitive dilemma.

The traditional tough-job stereotypes and reputation of the oilpatch workplace now combine, with required new technology skills, the industry’s scramble to retrain and upgrade qualifications and the cycle of boomer-age workers starting to retire, to cause a perfect storm of an oilpatch labour crunch that some industry experts warn is already an oilfield problem.

Don Battenfelder admits that staffing shortages and recruitment are already major challenges for the industry. While oil and gas continues as the chronic risk management and problem solvingdriven business it has always been, the industry is dealing with the urgent problem of finding a new generation of oilfield workers with new skills, new qualifications and a new attitude.

“It has become a huge HR problem for the whole industry,” warns Carla Campbell-Ott, executive director of the Petroleum Human Resources Council of Canada (a division of Enform). “It wasn’t that long ago that the oilpatch labour force was anyone with a pulse. But the industry has never had to deal with the kinds of recruitment numbers that are being caused by the combination of new technologies and attrition.

“An enormous turnover of oil and gas workers has begun. It’s not a crisis just yet, but it’s serious. In the next 10 years, about 45,000 boomers will be retired. When normal attrition is factored in with the requirements of new technologies, we project that the industry will need to hire 20,00040,000 skilled workers in the next 10 years,” Campbell-Ott warns.

26 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

“And it’s not just a labour crunch of numbers. There is also a skills crunch.”

Post-secondary grads and certificate holders are flooding oilpatch postings with detailed resumés. Upgrade and retraining enrolments at facilities like SAIT are way up and the classrooms and online courses are much in demand.

The industry is not only warning about shortages but the delicate balance between the oilfield requirements of yesterday and tomorrow.

“When today’s boomers started out in the business,” Battenfelder recalls, “there was hardly any technology involved. If there was technology, it was early and primitive. It was brute horsepower and a lot of slugging.

Today, oilfields are about maximum recovery. It’s a much different business and a very demanding and specific career at every level.”

The MacPhail School of Energy’s Alan Jack speaks with forgivable bias, genuine enthusiasm and pride.

“Today’s grads are focused, willing and ready. Their minds are fresh.

They understand the technology. They understand the physics, the chemistry and the math. They not only accept change, they thrive on it.

“But we have it right from the source. The oil and gas industry warns that some 50 per cent of the current

Carla Campbell-Ott, executive director The Petroleum Human Resources Council of Canada

Not Your Father’s oilfield • Oil & Gas

While industry insiders and academics agree that the looming labour shortage is still just a

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oilfield workforce will be at retirement age within the next five years or so.

The industry’s number one concern is a skilled labour force that must be ready to take over.

“That’s a positive, particularly for SAIT, because it positions us to be critically important for the future of Alberta. We are a world-class polytechnic with hands-on, vital and relevant applied education that makes our students job-ready.”

While industry insiders and academics agree that the looming labour shortage is still just a warning, Jack underscores that the crucial message about contemporary skills and qualifications is being heard, loud and clear. Calgary’s SAIT is now graduating horizontal drilling engineers, multistage fracking engineers, SAGD process engineers and other jobready skilled oilfield workers.

One reflection of the surging labour shortage is the impressive direct supply-and-demand feedback that SAIT grads have a 94 per cent employment rate.

“Even now, based on the industry’s demands and our enrolment capacities, there is not much more that we can do,” he says. “We simply can’t graduate nearly enough petroleum engineering technology students to supply the industry’s demand.”

The sometimes Hollywood cliché of the cigar-chomping, hard-hatted, overalled, heavy-booted and oilsplattered roughneck may never be completely extinct. Circumstances, new

and redefined careers, and especially the new ways of doing things in the oilpatch may be altering the picture, to spark an entirely different staffing problem.

Industry insiders who are understandably preoccupied with the current recruitment concerns are cautioning about the consequence of a possible 180 – creating a generation of book-smart workers who may lack patch smarts.

“We have a generation entering the workforce which grew up with technology and went through school being completely comfortable with technology,” Salkeld says. “They are bringing lots of savvy into the workplace and they are ready to handle the steady flow of new oil and gas technologies constantly coming down the pipe.”

Some senior management and HR types are thinking ahead to possible new challenges for the next generation of managers and industry leaders.

“There is a much better connection between head office and field operations,” Salkeld notes. “But there is some disconnect about the people who come into head offices with virtually no basic oilpatch savvy. They come to head office with technology and book smarts but no experience.”

Campbell-Ott cautions that “especially the wave of retiring baby boomers is taking a toll on senior management.

So succession planning has started to happen. Who will be at the helm in five to 10 years? Middle management needs to be groomed for the top.” BiC

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businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 27

A Calgary-booster’s perspective • Cover

A Calgary-booster’s

Perspective The good and the could-be-better

BY JOHN HARDY PHOTOS BY EWAN NICHOLSON PHOTO VIDEO

T

Rob Hawley, incoming Chair of the Calgary Chamber

he business world constantly looks for — and occasional finds — special, perfect-fit people for special, perfect fit situations.

This year, the Calgary Chamber has lucked out and found Rob Hawley as their 2015 perfect fit.

Hawley is a focused and personable Partner of the Audit and Assurance Group at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC). In his day job, he continues to earn a solid reputation, managing the needs of some major oil and gas companies, pipeline companies and oilfield service companies. Many of his clients are large public companies with extensive governance structures, some of whom are registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Some of the Chamber Chair key job skills and qualifications were never actually written out and posted. But Rob Hawley gets it!

He is experienced. He has vision. He is practical and realistic and he doesn’t aim to change the world or re-invent The Chamber.

He’s a proven collaborator and relationship builder. And he has tremendous business savvy, particularly about the quirks and dynamic business uniqueness that is Calgary.

He speaks with enthusiasm and pride about the past five years or so that various surveys and reports have consistently rated Calgary as one of the top places to live, do business and invest. “Calgary is a city with

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 29

A Calgary-booster’s perspective • Cover

[Hawley’s perfect-fit role] combines his professional sixth sense for acknowledging and valuing the past and dealing with the practical realities of Calgary’s present and future.

so much opportunity. A place that people from throughout Canada and around the world choose to start a new life, live, raise families, work and start a business. Our city has a unique entrepreneurial spirit and a can-do attitude, where a small family-owned business can grow into a national or even global, multi-million dollar company.”

Hawley’s perfect-fit role as Chamber Chair is underscored by his multi-dimensional Calgary boosting and drumbeating. It combines his professional sixth sense for acknowledging and valuing the past and dealing with the practical realities of Calgary’s present and future.

Both as a respected and successful senior PwC executive and as a long term Chamber member, dealing with a gamut of issues impacting business in Calgary, Hawley shrugs and grins about trivial things like image and stereotypes. “Is there a certain cowboy and oil image to Calgary? Of course. It’s part of our heritage. Most major cities in the world have stereotypes.

Some are valid, some are folklore and many are dated.”

Despite the engrained stereotype, Hamilton’s steel industry has shriveled to almost insignificant, although it’s still widely referred to as The Steel City. The Swiss no longer have an exclusive about watches or cheese. Hollywood no longer has an exclusive on movies. And regardless the touristy hype, a Canadian can go an entire lifetime without ever seeing a real 30 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

beaver, a hockey game, a totem pole or tasting maple syrup.

“Of course oil wells, white hats, The Stampede and cowboys are part of the Calgary image,” he says. “But I think we are proving to the rest of the country and the world that Calgary really doesn’t conform to any stereotype. Yes, we are influenced by rich western heritage and values. It’s more of an energy image than an oil image, and, let’s face it! Calgary’s energy sector has been a large contributor to Calgary’s growth and robust economy.

“In so many ways,” Hawley emphasizes with stats, facts and business smarts, “we reinforce to the rest of the country and the world that we are much, much more than oil. Calgary’s economy continues to diversify across many industries and we are strong due to several large industries including energy, property development and agriculture.

“And we are also a modern, innovative and forwardthinking city. Calgary’s reputation and image are continually evolving alongside this vibrant diversification.”

Construction is Calgary’s second largest industry, and we are presently in a housing crunch. We need to spend time focusing on construction’s success.

“Calgary is also an emerging hub of technology and innovation,” he says with genuine excitement. “The trend should be nurtured. And we should also never forget that

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A Calgary-booster’s Perspective • Cover

agricultural products are our province’s second-largest export. We help to feed Canada and the world.

“Although Calgary is widely known as Western Canada’s head office hub as well as the heart of the Canadian energy industry, it’s terrific that we are also Canada’s small business capital,” says the Chamber’s 2015 Chair and upbeat chief business cheerleader, referring to the documented fact that more than 95 per cent of Calgary’s 54,500 businesses are actually in the category of ‘small business.’

He points out that despite shifting mood swings in the Canadian and world economy, fluctuating oil prices, social speed bumps that come with sudden population growth, Calgary manages to sustain and project an envied momentum of strength and growth.

32 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

But in addition to his Chamber mandate of boosting Calgary business together with his PwC role of being a plugged-in and influential business leader, working closely with Encana, Suncor, Enbridge and other key, Calgary-based companies, Hawley is no goody-two-shoes when it comes to highlighting and cautioning about some time-sensitive Calgary issues and challenges.

He is meticulously well-informed, objective and balanced about some Calgary factors which are both within and beyond Calgary’s control. He also happens to be a realistic and pragmatic business booster who has little time for negativity and excuses for not dealing with issues and doing whatever it takes to find solutions for problems.

“It is true that Calgary has been a magnet for both

A Calgary-booster’s perspective • Cover

Hawley references a festering concern and threat to Calgary’s robust future, a warning that is more and more often and loudly heard from business leaders and analysts, not only in the energy sector but from mining and forestry to trucking and retail…

businesses and people. But we must make sure that we stay competitive to maintain our position of growth. Calgary is increasingly becoming a high-cost city to do business, with higher business taxes, parking rates, labour costs, office rents and a lack of affordable housing for new workers.”

Hawley references a festering concern and threat to Calgary’s robust future, a warning that is more and more often and loudly heard from business leaders and analysts, not only in the energy sector but from mining and forestry to trucking and retail.

“There is no denying that Alberta, and specifically Calgary, has a labor shortage,” he warns. “The problem can and will acerbate and ultimately may make it difficult for businesses to attract and retain skilled workers. Calgary has a growing housing problem, particularly in affordable and

rental housing and choice. It impacts business in various ways but it makes it hard for our city to attract new skilled people, many of whom start out as renters.

As recently described by Business in Calgary, and the basis for the new, year-long Urbanomics feature in this magazine, housing on various levels in Calgary continues to be a volatile issue, including the drastic shortage of approved, developable land causing excessive house price increases and a trend of overpriced and unaffordable housing.

“More affordable housing attracts talented people to Calgary. Secondary suites will be one small but important part of addressing our affordable housing challenges and increasing their legalization, city-wide, will help to attract labor by providing additional rental stock.” businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 33

A Calgary-booster’s perspective • Cover

“My focus will be to ensure that our policy work continues to be aligned with areas that really make a difference to Calgarians.” ~ Rob Hawley

Hawley also cites at least two other business-specific cautions about Calgary’s long term viability as a dynamic business market. The overall and specific costs of doing business and he cites the fragile business-climate reputation of Calgary shifting to an altered reputation that may be difficult to change back: Calgary as a high-cost jurisdiction to do business.

And as the similar hot topic by Canada’s scrambling energy sector grows and gains urgency about market access and moving oil, Hawley applies the trend to Calgary business being vigilant about Calgary’s diverse market access. He urges that, whether it’s pipeline, rail, truck or air, market access for commodity production is essential for Calgary’s continued growth.

As either serendipity or impeccable fluke timing, Hawley grins about the exciting positive that the much-awaited and exciting opening of the spectacular Calgary Airport Opening will happen ‘on his watch,’ later this year.

“It will be a particularly proud moment for the Chamber.

It originally started the airport authority when the business community of our city realized that an airport would be essential for growth and trade, and they decided to do something about it. And it’s more important today than ever! There’s tremendous growth in Calgary and we are well on our way to developing into a truly great, world class city.

Increased infrastructure, like the new Airport, will put us on par with other great global cities and it will also supports our city’s growth and attracts more people to come here.”

It’s rooted in his invigorating 2015 term as Chamber Chair, his senior PwC role of working with integrated oil and gas operations and the various elements of the hydrocarbon value chain, including conventional upstream exploration and production, oil sands mining and in-situ development projects, upgrading, refining, marketing and retail activities and also his personal passion — a Flames and Stampeders season ticket holder who has lived in Calgary for more than 36 years.

Hawley is an openly proud Calgarian who admits to being a bit of an extrovert, particularly with gushing appreciation for the Rockies, The Bow River, the parks, pathways and the countless places to indulge his private weakness for skiing in the winter, hiking and running and cycling in the summer.

34 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

With two iPads and a Blackberry, he confesses to being ultra-plugged-in (and hooked) although he is positive and boasting about the technology in his life being a freedom enabler, not a barrier or an obstacle. “Even on vacation I always check messages daily. It helps me to relax, knowing that things back in Calgary are on track.”

In addition to Calgary outdoors, relaxing for the friendly and high-energy business high-achiever includes guilty pleasure like savory snacks and anything cheese, as well as travel, wine and dining, often going out to favorite Calgary places like Mercato, The River Café or the Vintage Chophouse. “Nothing brings people together and energizes social atmosphere better than good friends, good food and good wine.”

Hawley is an extremely likeable and articulate schmoozer.

Just one more trait which makes him the Chamber’s perfect fit as 2015 Chair. Professionally and personally he excels at what is also the core focus of the Chamber: networking.

“Today’s role of the Chamber is the same as it was 123 years ago,” he explains. “The Chamber works hard to build a stronger more prosperous Calgary business community and to make Calgary a better place to live and work. We help our member businesses connect with each other, grow their businesses and work together to influence important policy discussions that positively impact the Calgary community.

“Over the past few years, the Chamber has refocused its brand and is now in a solid financial position. We have a strong motivated board who volunteer their time to make a real difference in the Calgary business community. We also have excellent executive leadership through Adam Legge (CEO and President) and his team.

“The Chamber is on a very steady and progressive path and no need for transformative change during my tenure.

You can’t reinvent an organization every year and still accomplish long-term objectives,” he points out with a shrug and a smile. “My focus will be to ensure that our policy work continues to be aligned with areas that really make a difference to Calgarians.

“Because Calgary is a place where if you work hard and are innovative, you can make your dreams a reality.” BiC

Alberta independent schools • Private Schools Feature

Alberta Independent Schools: Serving Students, Parents and Communities

BY DUANE PLANTINGA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF AISCA

P

arents are naturally concerned about how well their children do at school and about the quality of their educational experience. The typical 13 years of schooling is a highly formative experience and convincing parents of the value of a specific school may prove to be challenging in a highly mobile society characterized by fastpaced technological change, increased social challenges and greater demands for each generation to be educated in more complex ways than the last. This article explores independent (private) schools as one option in Alberta’s education landscape.

Independent School Enrolments In a 2013/14 provincial system of 657,811 students, 28,076 (approximately four per cent) attended independent (private) schools. Another 5,062 (approximately one per cent) attended community-based private ECS sites (kindergartens) where about 70 per cent of the students have special needs.

Some international, First Nations and non-resident students are also educated in independent schools. As an aggregated group the population of students is approximately five per cent of the education system as a whole. The Calgary area is home to approximately 40 of more than 100 independent school authorities.

Board Structures The most distinctive feature of independent schools is that they are generally single-site operations under the supervision of a small board. Each independent school board operates with a specific vision and mission that may vary according to the type of education programming offered by the school. Boards may be elected or appointed and teachers are hired directly.

Since different governance models are practiced, and most management is site-based, independent schools do not have large centralized offices and tend not to get bogged down in bureaucracy. Decisions can be made more expeditiously and effectively. The schools acquire additional services as required by contracting and collaborating with other local agencies. There may be various support committees to assist in managing all the services and facilities. If a school is not responsive and parents and students are not satisfied with the education services, it will likely fail as parents leave.

Teacher Qualifications and Volunteer Expectations Teachers in independent schools hold the same professional certificates as their public school counterparts.

Teaching standards are subject to provincial regulation managed by Alberta Education’s Teacher Certification businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 35

Alberta Independent Schools • Private Schools Feature

Branch. Teachers are evaluated externally by competent individuals appointed by the registrar in order to qualify for permanent professional teaching certificates. Their teaching practice is governed by provincial legislation governing teacher professional development under the teacher growth and supervision requirements.

Accountability of Independent Schools All community-based private ECS (kindergarten) operators and all independent schools operate as not-forprofit agencies under the Societies Act of Alberta. They must report accordingly to Alberta Education using the same accountability pillars as do public schools but with additional requirements for monitoring, external reporting and teacher evaluation.

While many misconceptions and the odd negative situation have distorted public perceptions at times about independent schools, the standards of accountability generally parallel those required of public schools. Those requirements are available on the Alberta Education website or at www.aisca.ab.ca.

Independent School Economic Considerations Education is never “free” and always comes with a cost that someone must cover. Alberta’s investment in education as a whole is currently projected to be approximately $15,000 per public student.

Independent schools do not receive 70 per cent public funding of all public education expenditures as media and some stakeholders tend to state. That is only part of the picture and provides a distorted view. The 70 per cent is part of a few core grants provided and it is approximately 40 per cent of the $15,000 public expenditure per public school student. Tuition fees and fundraising must fill the gap. What government provides is one side of the coin; what the schools charges and raises is the other side.

Typically then, in terms of its return on per-student investment, Alberta taxpayers and the province benefit from about 60 cents on the dollar savings to the public purse. The amount saved was approximately $140 million a few years back.

From a fair public policy perspective, the primary function of education in independent schools, as in all schools, is not merely a “private” service to a specific student. Regardless of where education is provided, a child benefits as does society as a whole. Any student being schooled under the required conditions established by government standards should receive at least partial funding and critics need to be fair in acknowledging that a level of adverse discrimination is part of the picture. By Alberta law no tax dollars may be directed to independent schools. All sorts of non-profit groups receive grants and provide services to portions of the public but some view all services as sole responsibilities of governments that must then resource them.

Qualifying special needs students may qualify for 36 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

additional grants. Some specialized schools, termed Designated Special Education Private Schools, may only admit students requiring specialized supports but their nonspecial education funding is like that of the other independent schools. No independent school receives funding for capital expenses so a modern facility with specialized theatres or playing fields is not built at taxpayer expense.

Independent schools charge tuitions in order to pay for the remaining costs of operating the school. Tuition fees will vary considerably depending on capital investments, teacher/student ratios, extracurricular program activities and other program enhancements. Parents need to judge the fees in context as they vary for each school. By comparison, public schools must charge international students between $11,000 to $15,000 in tuition and possibly additional fees for any extras, in order for the province to not subsidize non-residents.

Current Environment For more than 100 years Alberta has been well-served with a pluralistic system of education. Some feel that competing educational systems should be amalgamated to reduce social fragmentation. That is not in keeping with the heritage and values of Albertans who invited conscientious objectors,

Alberta Independent Schools • Private Schools Feature

minority groups and people from multiple backgrounds to settle here without requiring them to extinguish their foundational identities.

Often one criticism of independent schools is that they do not allow everyone to attend. At the same time public schools select students based on geographic location, specific program types, needs of the student, and sometimes gender.

The fact is, not every student can enrol in any school. All sorts of limitations apply. The system as a whole fulfils the mandate to educate all. No single school is able to.

A universal education system that is genuinely inclusive must allow some parental choice. Alberta’s aggregated, pluralistic educational system is in fact very inclusive, and independent schools play a key role in complementing the provincial system.

Arguments opposing independent schools are nothing new. Opponents fail to consider the significant contributions independent schools make to society and ignore the fact that the primary beneficiaries are children. Research like the Cardus Education Survey provides sound evidence of positive outcomes. Contrary to popular misconception, at the end of the day all students in both public and independent schools

are provided a government-approved education through a curriculum that meets Alberta’s expectations.

From the perspective of parents, the primary concern is how well their child is doing at school. They want to know that their child is in good hands, and that the school has the best interest of their child at heart. They need assurance that the situation at school is working, often in the context of a specific teacher and group of students. Parents want a clear idea of what a particular school is about and what it is trying to do. In a child’s 13 years of education, each day counts.

To find out more about schools that are members of the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges (AISCA), visit www.aisca.ab.ca. AISCA represents approximately 90 per cent of Alberta’s publicly accredited independent schools. BiC

To find out more about independent schools in your area, schools that are members of the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges (AISCA) are listed at www.aisca.ab.ca.

AISCA represents approximately 85 per cent of Alberta’s publicly accredited independent schools.

Alberta Education Private Schools Access International College (Calgary) Inc. Accredited Grades 10 – 12 Box 100, B1 - 2451 Dieppe Avenue SW Calgary, AB T3E 7K1 Phone: (403) 217-3830 • Fax: (403) 217-3818 accesscllg@aliyun.com www.accesscollege.ca

Airdrie Koinonia Christian School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1 - 12 77 Gateway Drive NE Airdrie T4B 0J6 Phone: (403) 948-5100 • Fax: (403) 948-5563 connect@akcs.com www.akcs.com

Akiva Academy Accredited ECS, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7- 8 140 Haddon Road SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2Y3 Phone: (403) 258-1312 • Fax: (403) 258-3812 office@akiva.ca www.akiva.ca

Alberta Chung Wah School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 10- 12 #270, 328 Centre Street SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4X8 Phone: (403) 271-8033 • Fax: (403) 288-8887 info@albertachungwahschool.ca

Aurora Learning Calgary Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 7 – 12 623 - 35th Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2L2 Phone: (403) 277-9535

Banbury Crossroads School Member of the Canadian Coalition for Self Directed Learning Accredited / Eligible for Funding J/K,ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 B1 #201, 2451 Dieppe Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7K1 Phone: (403) 270-7787 • Fax: (403) 270-7486 general@banburycrossroads.com www.banburycrossroads.com Offers Home Education Program Offers Home Education Blended Program

Bearspaw Christian School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Jr. K, Sr. K, Grades 1 – 12 15001 - 69 Street NW, Calgary, AB T3R 1C5 Phone: (403) 295-2566 • Fax: (403) 275-8170 info@bearspawschool.com www.bearspawschool.com

Bethel Christian Academy Accredited ECS, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 2220 - 39 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6P7 Phone: (403) 735-3335 • Fax: (403) 219-3059

Calgary Academy Collegiate

Calgary French & International School

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 4 – 12 1677 - 93rd Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 0R3 Phone: (403) 686-6444 • Fax: (403) 686-6588 pistvanffy@calgaryacademy.com www.calgaryacademy.com

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Preschool, Jr. K, ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 12 700 - 77 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 5R1 Phone: (403) 240-1500 • Fax: (403) 249-5899 admissions@cfis.com www.cfis.com

Calgary Chinese Alliance School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 1 – 12 150 Beddington Boulevard NE, Calgary, AB T3K 2E2 Phone: (403) 274-6923 • Fax: (403) 275-7799 chineseschoolcalgarychinesealliance.org

Calgary Islamic Private School Akram Jomaa Campus Principal: Mr. Asad Choudhary Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades K-12 2612 - 37 Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 5L2 Phone: (403) 248-2773 • Fax: (403) 569-6654 info@cislive.ca

Calgary Chinese Private School Accredited / Eligible for Funding K, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7-9, Grades 10 - 12 128 2nd Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0B9 Phone: (403) 264-2233 • Fax: (403) 263-3895

Calgary Chinese School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Principal, Mr. David Chang; Vice Principal, Miss Claire Chang Grades 10 – 12 #110, 138 - 18 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 5P9 Phone: 403-461-9797 • Fax: (403) 228-5330 changclaire@yahoo.com

Calgary Islamic School Omar Bin Al-Khattab Campus Accredited / Eligible for Funding K, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9 225 - 28 Street SE, Calgary, AB, T2A 5K4 Phone: 587-353-8900 • Fax: 587-353-8999 info.omar@cislive.ca

Calgary Jewish Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding Nursery - Grade 9 6700 Kootenay Street SW, Calgary, AB T2V 1P7 Phone: (403) 253-3992 • Fax: (403) 255-0842 schneiderw@cja.ab.ca www.cja.ab.ca

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 37

Directory • Private Schools Feature

Calgary Quest School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 3405 Spruce Drive SW,. c/o Spruce Cliff Elementary Calgary, AB T3C 0A5 Phone: (403) 253-0003 • Fax: (403) 253-0025 info@calgaryquestschool.com

Calgary Waldorf School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Preschool, ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9 515 Cougar Ridge Drive SW, Calgary, AB T3H 5G9 Phone: (403) 287-1868 • Fax: (403) 287-3414 info@calgarywaldorf.org

Chinook Winds Adventist Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 10101 - 2nd Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5T2 Phone: (403) 286-5686 • Fax: (403) 247-1623

Clear Water Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding JK, K, & Grades 1- 12 2521 Dieppe Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7J9 Phone: (403) 217-8448 • Fax: (403) 217-8043 admissions@clearwateracacdemy.com clearwateracademy.com

Columbia College Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 10 – 12 802 Manning Road NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7N8 Phone: (403) 235-9300 • Fax: (403) 272-3805 Columbia@Columbia.ab.ca www.columbia.ab.ca

Cultural Centre Chinese Learning Academy / Accredited ECS – Grade 9, Grades 10 – 12 197 - 1 Street SW, Calgary, AB T2P 4M4 Phone: (403) 262-5071 • Fax: (403) 232-6387 school@culturalcentre.ca

Delta West Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 - 12 414 - 11A Street NE, Calgary, AB T2E 4P3 Phone: (403) 290-0767 • Fax: (403) 290-0768 info@deltawestacademy.ca • www.deltawestacademy.ca

Eastside Christian Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 1320 Abbeydale Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2A 7L8 Phone: (403) 569-1039 • Fax: (403) 569-7557 admin@eastsidechristianacademy.ca Offers Home Education Blended Program

Edison School

Equilibrium Senior High & ESL School Accredited / Eligible for Funding 707 - 14 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2A4 Phone: (403) 283-1111 • Fax: (403) 270-7786 school@equilibrium.ab.ca www.equilibrium.ab.ca

Foothills Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 3 – 6, Grades 7 – 9, Grades 10 – 12 745 - 37 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4T1 Phone: (403) 270-9400 • Fax: (403) 270-9438 info@foothillsacademy.org www.foothillsacademy.org

Greek Community School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 10 - 12 1 Tamarac Crescent SW, Calgary, AB T3C 3B7 Phone: (403) 246-4553 • Fax: (403) 246-8191

Green Learning Academy & Foundation Accredited (A Private Charitable Non-Profit School) Pre-school, JK, K, Grades 1- 12 (ADL program) #150, 7260 - 12 Street SE, Calgary, AB T2H 2S5 Phone: (403) 873-1966 • Fax: (403) 873-1967 glainformation@greenlearning.com www.greenlearning.com Offers Student Directed Teaching Program Offers Home Education Program

Calgary Italian School Accredited Language School Age 5 – Grade 12, Adults 416, 1st Ave NE Calgary AB T2E 0B4 Phone: (403) 264-6349

Janus Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 1 - 6 2223 Spiller Road SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4G9 Phone: (403) 262-3333 • Fax: (403) 693-2345 contact@janusacademy.org www.janusacademy.org

Janus Junior High/ High School Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 7 - 12 8516 Athabasca Street SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1S1 Phone: (403) 262-3333 • Fax: (403) 693-2345 contact@janusacademy.org www.janusacademy.org

Khalsa School Calgary Educational Foundation Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7 - 9 RR6 Site 1 Box 2, Calgary, AB T2M 4L5 Phone: (403) 293-7712 • Fax: (403) 293-2245 cheryl.steadman@khalsaschoolcalgary.ca

Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 Site 11, P.O. Box 2, R.R. 2 Hwy 2A, 1KM North of Okotoks • Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2 Phone: (403) 938-7670 • Fax: (403) 938-7224 office@edisonschool.ca www.edisonschool.ca

38 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Language School of the German Canadian Club Calgary

Renfrew Educational Services - Child Development Centre

Accredited / Eligible for Funding K, Grades 1 – 12, Adult Classes Bowcroft Elementary 3940 73rd Street NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2L9 Executive Director, Ines Schiemann info@germanlanguageschoolcalgary.com

Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS for typical children and children with disabilities Door-to-door busing available 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T3E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org

Lycée Louis Pasteur The International French School Maternelle (3-5 yrs old), Elementary (Gr. 1–5), Collège (Gr. 7–9), Lycée (Gr. 10-12) 4099 Garrison Blvd. SW, Calgary, AB T2T 6G2 Phone: (403) 243-5420 • Fax: (403) 287-2245 bureau@lycee.ca • www.lycee.ca

Maria Montessori Education Centre of Calgary (MMEC) Accredited / Eligible for Funding Toddler, Preschool, ECS, Grades 1- 6 Building B4, #003 2452 Battleford Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7K9

Montessori School of Calgary Accredited / Eligible for Funding A.M.I accredited Preschool (3-6 yrs), Grades 1- 6 2201 Cliff Street SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2G4 Phone: (403) 229-1011 • Fax: (403) 229-4474 www.montessorischoolofcalgary.com

Mountain View Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 Building B4, 2452 Battleford Avenue SW Calgary, AB T3E 7K9 Phone: (403) 217-4346 • Fax: (403) 249-4312 Office@mountainviewacademy.ca www.mountainviewacademy.ca

New Heights School and Learning Services Accredited / Eligible for Funding D.S.E.P.S. | ECS, Preschool (2 ½ - 6 years), Grades 1– 12 4041 Breskens Drive SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7M1 Phone: (403) 240-1312 • Fax: (403) 769-0633 info@newheightscalgary.com www.newheightscalgary.com

Phoenix Home Education Foundation Centre Accredited Grades 10 – 12 (Grades K-12) Bay 320 19 Street SE, Calgary, AB T2E 6J6 Phone: (403) 265-7701 • Fax: (403) 275-7715 info@phoenixfoundation.ca Offers Home Education Program Offers Home Education Blended Program

Renfrew Educational Services - Park Place Centre Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS for typical children and children with disabilities Door-to-door busing available 3688 – 48th Avenue NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org

Renfrew Educational Services - Assessment and Therapy Services For children, adolescents and adults Assessment, Counseling, Treatment and Consultation OT, PT, SLP, Psychology, Assistive Technology / Minimal wait time Extended hours / Offered at any Renfrew location in the city and in-homes

Renfrew Educational Services - Sundance Centre Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS for typical children and children with disabilities and grades 1-5 for children with disabilities Door-to-door busing available 75 Sunpark Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org

Renfrew Educational Services - Bowness Centre Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS for typical children and children with disabilities Door-to-door busing available 8620 48th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org

Renfrew Educational Services - Janice McTighe Centre Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS for typical children and children with disabilitiesand grades 1-6 for children with disabilities | Door-to-door busing available 2050 - 21 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6S5 Phone: (403) 291-5038 • Fax: (403) 291-2499 renfrew@renfreweducation.org www.refreweducation.org

directory • Private Schools Feature

River Valley School

Tanbridge Academy

Yufeng Chinese School

Accredited / Eligible for Funding 3 year old “Tots” – Grade 6 3127 Bowwood Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2E7 Phone: (403) 246-2275 • Fax: (403) 686-7631 admissions@rivervalleyschool.ca www.rivervalleyschool.ca

Accredited / Eligible for Funding • K - Grade 9 Box 4, Site 22, RR8, Calgary, AB T2J 2T9 Phone: (403) 259-3443 info@tanbridge.com • www.tanbridge.com

Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 708 44 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2K 0J4 Phone: (403) 289-7876 • Fax: (403) 210-0261

Rundle Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding For students with learning disabilities Grades 4-12 4330 - 16 Street SW, Calgary, AB T2J 4H9 Phone: (403) 250-2965 • Fax: (403) 250-2914 Email for admissions: spencer@rundle.ab.ca www.rundle.ab.ca

Rundle College Primary School Accredited / Eligible for Funding • Prek-grade 3 2445 - 23 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0W3 Phone: (403) 229-0386 • Fax: (403) 229-2669 Email for admission: spencer@rundle.ab.ca www.rundle.ab.ca

Rundle College Elementary School Accredited / Eligible for Funding • Grades 4 - 6 2634 - 12 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1K6 Phone: (403) 282-8411 • Fax: (403) 282-4460 spencer@rundle.ab.ca • www.rundle.ab.ca

Rundle College Junior Senior High School Accredited / Eligible for Funding • Grades 7 - 12 7375 - 17 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3H 3W5 Phone: (403) 250-7180 • Fax: (403) 250-7184 spencer@rundle.ab.ca • www.rundle.ab.ca

St. John Bosco Private School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 8 712 Fortalice Cres SE, Calgary, AB T2A 2E1 Phone: (403) 248-3664 • Fax: (403) 273-8012

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School Developing well-balanced students for a life of purpose by inspiring excellence in scholarship, leadership and character Offering both International Baccalaureate (IB) and Alberta Learning curriculum Alberta’s only Grades 1 - 12 full IB independent school • Scholarships and bursaries available 200-acre campus minutes from Calgary City-wide busing RR 2, Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2 Phone: 403-938-4431 admissions@sts.ab.ca • www.sts.ab.ca

Glenmore Christian Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9 16520 – 24 Street, SW, Calgary, AB T2Y 4W2 (403) 254-9050 • admin@gcaschool.com

The Chinese Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 10 – 12 6620 - 4 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2K 1C2 Phone: (403) 777-7663 • Fax: (403) 777-7669 thechineseacademy@gmail.com

The Third Academy – North Campus Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 Bay 3, 510 – 77th Ave. SE Calgary, AB T2H 1C3 Phone: (403) 288-5335 • Fax: (403) 288-5804

The Third Academy – South Campus Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 Box 4 Site 22 RR8, Calgary, AB T2J 2T9 Phone: (403) 201-6335 • Fax: 403-201-2036

Trinity Christian School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9 #100, 295 Midpark Way SE, Calgary, AB T2X 2A8 Phone: (403) 254-6682 • Fax: (403) 254-9843

Tyndale Christian School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 28 Hart Estates Blvd. NE, Calgary, AB T1X 0L3 Phone: (403) 590-5881 • Fax: (403) 590-6998 tcs@tyndalecalgary.ca

Webber Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding JK and Kindergarten, Grades 1 – 6, Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 – 12 1515 - 93 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 4A8 Phone: (403) 277-4700 • Fax: (403) 277-2770 nwebber@webberacademy.ca www.webberacademy.ca

Alternative Banff Hockey Academy Grades 7 – 12 • College bound hockey athletes Box 2242 Banff, Alberta T1L 1B9 Phone: 1-888-423-6369 • Fax: (403) 760-0868 registrar@banffhockey.ab.ca www.banffhockey.ab.ca

Calgary Christian School God’s Children Making the World a Better Place Preschool - Grade 12 Elementary Campus (Preschool - Grade 6): 2839 - 49th Street SW Secondary Campus (Grades 7-12): 5029 - 26 Avenue SW Calgary, Alberta Phone: (403) 242-2896 • Fax: (403) 242-0682 admissions@csce.net www.calgarychristianschool.com

Calgary Girls School Grades 4 - 9 6304 Larkspur Way SW, Calgary, AB T3E 5P7 Phone: (403) 220-0745 Judi.hadden@calgarygirlsschool.com www.calgarygirlsschool.com

Heritage Christian Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 12 2003 McKnight Boulevard, NE , Calgary, AB T2E 6L2 Phone: (403) 219-3201 • Fax: (403) 219-3210

Master’s Academy Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 6 4414 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2T 5J4 Tel: (403) 242-7034 • Fax: (403) 242-3515

Master’s College Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 7- 12 4414 Crowchild Trail, SW Calgary, Calgary, AB T2T 5J4 Tel: (403) 242-7034 • Fax: (403) 242-4629

Menno Simons Christian School Accredited / Eligible for Funding ECS, Grades 1- 9 7000 Elkton Drive, SW, Calgary, AB T3H 4Y7 Tel: (403) 531-0745 • Fax: (403) 531-0747

Edge School Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 5-12 33055 Township Road 250, Calgary, AB T3Z 1L4 Tel: (403) 246-6462 • Fax: (403) 217-8463 info@edgeschool.com Website:www.edgeschool.com

West Island College Accredited / Eligible for Funding Grades 7- 9, Grades 10 - 12 7410 Blackfoot Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1M5 Main: (403) 255-5300 • Fax: (403) 252-1434 Admissions: (403) 444-0023 nicolebernard@westislandcollege.ab.ca www.westislandcollege.ab.ca

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 39

BEYOND THE BASICS

by Dr. William Jones, Head of School, Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School

this knowledge is constructed. Traditional methods like the repetitive drills and countless worksheets experienced by my generation work for some percentage of students. But other students find these tedious, and for some, they thwart the natural inquisitiveness and curiosity that support continuous learning.

Motivation is a key factor in the learning equation and students who are bored and disinterested in the methods of teaching can be expected to achieve less than those who are motivated and enthused about the learning activities. So if it is possible to learn multiplication tables through an interactive game or an engaging computer application as opposed to repetitious drills, it is more probable that student motivation and interest will be higher and effort more sustained.

Dr. William Jones, with students.

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ducation, like many other fields, is currently experiencing the influx of an unprecedented volume of new knowledge and information. This is driven by multi-disciplinary research, technology and the desire to prepare today’s students for a rapidly changing world. Within the discourse of educational reform, we have seen the re-emergence of the “back to basics” debate. A recent example is the engagement of parents, teachers, politicians, and policy makers in debating the importance of the memorization of basic facts (such as multiplication tables) versus the discovery approach to problem solving with respect to the mathematics curriculum.

Contrary to the assertions of the proponents on either side of this highly polarized argument, it seems to me that memorization and exploration (or inquiry) can coexist harmoniously in the classroom. The key is finding instructional methods that balance the focus on memorization with opportunities to employ creative and exploratory problem solving techniques. Creativity and innovation are seen as essential skills for the 21st Century learner and these are not readily acquired through rote memorization alone.

If we assume that memorization of certain facts (including things like multiplication tables) is desirable, then we need to examine the methods or the learning activities through which

A final point has to do with how we define the “basics” that today’s students will need to thrive in a future where many of the careers for which we are trying to prepare them do not currently exist. Surely, those are not the same basic skills that were required by an industrial economy. If we target the same basic facts and knowledge that served the previous generation, we will do them an egregious disservice.

One example comes to mind from my own high school experience. I remember having to memorize the Periodic Table in great detail for my senior chemistry class. I spent hours memorizing the 103 (now 118) elements in the table including their atomic weights, classifications (metals, nonmetals, liquids, gases) and so on. I arrived at university to find the Periodic Table on the wall in every lecture hall and lab and it was also provided for every exam. Today, technology provides students with easy access to information like the Periodic Table. It therefore seems more important to help students gain a solid conceptual knowledge of this set of facts and the ability to apply that knowledge in complex problem solving as opposed to rote memorization of those facts.

At Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School, we employ talented teachers whose instructional methods ensure students develop foundational knowledge and conceptual understanding, while at the same time fostering and nurturing their natural curiosity, innovation and critical thinking skills. We immerse them in a challenging academic curriculum, a supportive culture of achievement, and a rich co-curricular program under the guidance and mentoring of inspiring educators who are committed to their well-rounded development as scholars, leaders and people of fine character. Scholarships and bursaries are also available to interested and capable students.

SMALL CLASS SIZES OUTDOOR EDUCATION ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE CITY-WIDE BUSING

What is different about Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School?

EVERYTHING.

Scholarships and financial assistance available.

Inquire today. Visit sts.ab.ca/admissions

Grades 1-12 • Alberta curriculum • International Baccalaureate

Where every child's potential is nurtured River Valley School provides unparalleled education and character development through accredited Montessori and inquiry-based Progressive programs for children 3 years old to grade 6.

With many unique opportunities, River Valley School offers curricular enhancements including specialized Mathematics and Writing educators, Occupational Therapy and Speech Language services and specialists in the Fine Arts.

Students receive personalized instruction and mentorship delivered by a carefully-selected staff of incredibly talented, engaged, and caring teachers. They are also equipped for life with the School Values of Leadership, Respect, Independence, Global Citizenship, Confidence, Trust, Creativity, and Peace.

3127 Bowwood Dr. NW Calgary, AB info@rivervalleyschool.ca

Phone (403) 246.2275

Providing an Inclusive Education With Proven Academic Results Offering Progressive and Montessori streams, our learning opportunities consider the whole child during this significant developmental period.

A leader in providing inclusive educational programs with proven results, River Valley School provides personalized attention and instruction catered to the needs of each child.

Mentorship and leadership skills are taught in order to provide a well-rounded elementary school experience that promotes independence, confidence, citizenship and academic success.

With a multitude of student opportunities, River Valley School not only offers the best programs available, but also significant educational features and curricular enhancements not available at other schools, including small class sizes, partner teachers, IA Teachers for supports and extensions, and Occupational Therapy and Speech Language services. River Valley School is also the first provider of the Arrowsmith Program速 in Alberta.

Early Learning Campus Our second campus, 2 blocks away in Bowness, is home to our little learners from 3-5 years of age. Our full and half day options are offered in both accredited Montessori CASA and inquiry-based Progressive programs.

Montessori Programs

Arrowsmith Program速 River Valley School is the first authorized site for providing the Arrowsmith Program in Alberta.

Progressive Programs

This program is founded on neuroscience research and over 30 years of experience demonstrating that it is possible for students to strengthen the weak cognitive capacities underlying their learning dysfunctions through a program of specific cognitive exercises. Strengthening these weaker capacities of the brain increases the overall functioning of these specific cognitive areas allowing them to be used effectively for learning.

In an inquiry-based setting, students receive an enriched curriculum that promotes active exploration in learning.

Instruction is provided for whole group, small groups and individuals using hands on experiential opportunities for learning.

For more information, please contact us at (403) 246.2275 or by email at info@rivervalleyschool.ca. To view our academic results and annual education report, please visit the governance section on our website at www.RiverValleySchool.ca.

Montessori is a philosophy of student directed education that integrates the use of materials into a program of responsibility, respect and grace that encourages children to learn about the world based on individual needs and interests.

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RUNDLE OFFERS: Inde RUNDLE OFFERS: Independent, coeducational day school Rigo Independent, coeducational day school Rigorous university preparatory program Small Rigorous university preparatory program Small class sizes ranging from 6-15 students Ex Small class sizes rangingon from 6-15 students (depending program) Comp (depending on program)activities Exceptional extracurricular Internationa Exceptional extracurricular Comprehensive athletic andactivities arts programs Extensive vol Comprehensive athletic arts programs International travel clubs andand outdoor education options International travel clubs and outdoor Extensive volunteer, citizenship and education leadershipoptions programs Extensive volunteer, citizenship and leadership programs

Admissions Information Admissions Information Ms. Nicola Spencer Ms. Nicola Spencer 403-291-3866 403-291-3866 spencer@rundle.ab.ca spencer@rundle.ab.ca

Admissions Informati Ms. Nicola Spencer 403-291-3866 spencer@rundle.ab.c

Experience Rundle Experience Rundle www.rundle.ab.ca www.rundle.ab.ca

West Island

College

Leadership International Studies Health Sciences, Business & Engineering Institutes

Discover a school that is so much more than a school

Advanced Placement Fine Arts French Immersion & French & Spanish as a Second language And so much more...

Connecting Passion to Purpose westislandcollege.ab.ca admissions@westislandcollege.ab.ca 403.444.0023

WIC Grades 7 - 12

Consistently ranked one of Alberta’s top schools Beginning with our Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten Programs, Clear Water Academy, A Catholic School of Integral Formation ®, offers children an environment in which they will receive a solid academic preparation, enjoy creative play, form new friendships, and flourish in an atmosphere of Christian faith.

Every day is full of new discoveries for your young child. At Clear Water Academy, we tailor each child’s learning experience to their personal needs, helping them master one challenge after another so that the adventure of learning is always fresh and exciting.

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 Campus tours available Call (403) 240-7916 to arrange yours today!

cl earwateracademy.com

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ALTIUS HIGHER

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elcome to a centre for learning where children are encouraged to reach and grow within an emotionally supportive community. Welcome to a school that pushes students academically but never forgets to nurture creativity, curiosity, social development, and physiphysi cal well-being. We welcome you to join us as we celebrate achievement and imbue a lifelong passion for learning, exploration and self-improvement.

At Edison, we place an emphasis on the attitudes of our students. Developing a positive attitude toto ward learning, teamwork, and setting and achievachiev ing personal goals is crucial. While each member of our faculty believes in our core values of acaaca demics, community and leadership, we are aware that the foundational development of positive atat titude starts in the home. The Edison community works in partnership with the parents and caregivcaregiv ers of our students to provide support and guidguid ance to each family.

Our rigorous academic program is complimented by a global perspective that includes discussion and debate as well as off-campus excursions and community involvement. Elementary and middle

school students learn the Singapore Math Program in addition to provincial requirements. By graduagradua tion, most of our students have completed at least one Advanced Placement course, with many high school graduates entering university with nearly a full semester of university credit.

Edison offers a beacon for those parents who wish, through a parent-school partnership, to foster the growth of caring, responsible, contributing memmem bers of the community who are happy, healthy and achieve their potential.

Please visit our website at www.edisonschool.ca, or contact Beth Chernoff at 403-938-7670 ext. 200 for more information or to arrange an interview.

• Kindergarten to grade 12 • Student to teacher ratio of 12:1 • Uniforms • Busing available to Okotoks and south Calgary

www.edisonschool.ca

Tomorrow’s World One student at a time

With 7,105 languages in the world, three seems like a good start.

“Fluency in multiple languages, supported by a diverse academic and co-curricular program, creates amazing opportunities for our students.” ~Mme. Margaret Dorrance, Head of School At the Calgary French & International School, learning extends far beyond the language arts for each of our 750 students in preschool to Grade 12.

Located on 14 acres in Cougar Ridge, our school’s warm and welcoming community of parents, enthusiastic faculty, and skilled staff work to support each student’s unique potential.

Academically, our elementary division is the highest-rated in Alberta among French immersion schools and the tenth highest of all schools in the province, according to the Fraser Institute rankings.

Our secondary division continues with strong academics, diverse Advanced Placement program choices, and a wealth of co-curricular offerings including more than 80 options, teams and clubs.

Beginning with the early childhood programs, academic and co-curricular courses are taught in a French immersion context, complemented by formal English instruction beginning in Grade 3, Spanish classes beginning in Grade 4, and intensive

Spanish instruction in the secondary division. At every grade level, leadership, international and citizenship initiatives bring learning to life, developing character and a strong sense of responsibility.

With excellent academics, a global perspective and proficiency in Spanish, French and English, Calgary French & International School graduates step into a world of choice.

Please contact us for a prospectus by email at admissions@cfis.com, by phone at 403-240-1500, or visit www.cfis.com to learn more.

700 - 77th Street SW, Calgary, AB T3H 5RI • 403-240-1500 • www.cfis.com

Beneficial Benefits • Health [title] & • Wellness [section]

When the stress of daily life gets overwhelming, employees need to step back and regroup.

Employers are helping with this too.

50 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Beneficial Benefits • Health [title] & • Wellness [section]

Beneficial Benefits Employers recognize the value of healthy employees

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

T

hese days it is a well-known fact that a healthy employee is a productive employee; therefore, many companies strive to ensure the health and happiness of their staff. While this was typically achieved with robust benefit packages and increasing vacation days, times – and the needs of employees – have changed.

Benefits, in particular, do far more than protect employees’ physical health. They provide affordable access to healthcare services, which is a vital part of overall well-being.

“It’s a very competitive market out there right now for any one hiring, and employees are starting to see, more than ever, the value in good benefits,” explains Aaron Best, senior vice president of Quikcard. Headquartered in Alberta, Quikcard offers innovative benefit solutions to thousands of businesses in Canada. “A salary can only go so far, but good benefits will provide the employee with peace of mind from something as simple as a toothache being covered or that their family will be taken care of if something unfortunate were to happen that hindered their earning ability.”

If you run a small business and think benefits are an unnecessary expense, the true cost is the health of your staff and your ability to retain them.

“My best advice for small or emerging companies is to not be scared of offering employee benefits,” cautions Best.

“There are lots of affordable options that will give you and your employees great coverage and peace of mind. Talk to your employees and find out what coverage is important to them. Don’t feel as if you have to settle for ‘package a’ or ‘package b.’ There are plenty of benefits brokers who will tailor a package just for you.”

In the past, homeopathic remedies were not readily covered by benefits, but as more and more people look to alternative treatment methods, benefits have adapted to reflect this change. However, not all services are allowed and those that

are must be tightly regulated for the protection of both the practitioner and the patient.

Best explains, “What is and is not covered is actually set out by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The CRA website is pretty clear on what services and medical equipment can be covered as deductible expenses. It’s important to know that your administrator carefully checks the credentials of the providers. They should be making sure they are properly licensed by the appropriate regulatory body and are in good standing with their respective professional associations.”

Knowing you have access to affordable medical care has a tremendous impact on well-being, but sometimes that just isn’t enough. When the stress of daily life gets overwhelming, employees need to step back and regroup.

Employers are helping with this too. Vacations are great to spend time with the family or plan a little getaway, but too often employees can’t afford a nice vacation or they have to use up their vacation hours to cover children’s midweek off-school days or other obligations.

Enter the rise of the business retreat. Meetings and development sessions are moving out of the boardroom and into locations where employees can rest, relax and recharge while simultaneously developing skills they can apply on the job. While this sounds like you have to jet to Mexico or the Caribbean or partake in yoga on a sunny beach, the fact is, solutions of this nature are much closer to home than you may think.

January 2015 marked the launch of Azuridge Estate Hotel’s five-star Ammolite Blue Sky Wellness Retreat. The estate is located in Alberta’s foothills, and has suites overlooking stunning forests with leaves that change with the seasons.

The fresh country air and aura of peacefulness found on your private balcony come at no extra charge.

Continued on page 54… businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 51

Balloon Sinuplasty

F

or many people in Calgary, constant sinus infections with drainage from the nose or down the back of the throat, difficulty breathing, chronic pressure in the cheeks and forehead, a reduced sense of smell and taste, fatigue and irritability and the need to take multiple “sinus” medications are unfortunately just facts of their daily life.

For some people in Calgary, particularly patients of sinus and rhinoplasty surgeon Dr. Brad Mechor, after a 45-minute office procedure, sinus drainage and breathing can be improved.

“Out of frustration and exasperation, many people misdiagnose their discomfort and drainage as a lingering cold or allergies,” the Calgary-based specialist points out.

“More and more, after a detailed medical history, endoscopic examination and a CT Dr. Brad Mechor scan of the sinuses, we’re finding that it may actually be a chronic but treatable condition called chronic rhinosinusitis – an inflammatory blockage of the sinus lining that prevents normal mucus drainage and causes uncomfortable sinus pressure, thick nasal drainage, nasal congestion along with an altered sense of smell that can potentially contribute to asthma.”

The fascinating ENT doctor adds that Calgary’s climate can also aggravate conditions of chronic or acute sinusitis because the year-round Calgary climate is so dry. As with skin eczema, the arid Calgary air causes extreme dryness, swelling and cracking of the sinus lining.

An new and innovative, minor surgical procedure – balloon sinuplasty (BSP) – has been widely used, mostly in the U.S., for almost 10 years. Dr. Brad Mechor has been performing BSP in his Calgary office for nearly five years and, so far, is the only doctor in Western Canada offering the office-based BSP procedure.

www.drmechor.com

“There are four pairs of air-filled sinus cavities inside the skull,” he explains. “Nobody is sure what exactly the sinuses do – although they likely make mucus to filter the air that goes into the lungs. For people with sinusitis, the cavities are inflamed and narrow and cause various complications.

“BSP enlarges the passageway, alleviates the pressure, allows the sinus to drain and ventilate and return to normal function.”

The personable Dr. Mechor, a trained sinus surgeon who also performs endoscopic skull base and rhinoplasty surgery – “to make the nose fit the face” – interestingly highlights that balloon sinuplasty is similar to the well-known heart disease procedure, angioplasty, inserting a balloon to open clogged arteries.

“We use delicate surgical instruments to insert a small, plastic balloon into the inflamed, narrow sinus cavity.

A syringe injects water into the balloon and as it enlarges, it remodels the sinus opening, opening the passageway, and improves sinus drainage.”

According to medical research since the 10 years that BSP has been used, clinical data shows that BSP is safe and effective, patients demonstrate statistically and clinically significant improvement in their sinusitis symptoms and significant relief of associated pain and discomfort.

He is terrifically empathetic and nods with a warm smile, admitting that the BSP procedure may be a bit uncomfortable but with minimal freezing and some painkillers to help relaxation, patients sit upright in the examination chair and after 45 minutes or less, the sinus passages are open, drain, ventilate … returning the patient to normal function the next day.

For an experienced and skilled specialist like Calgary’s Dr. Brad Mechor, that is the ultimate patient feedback.

Tired of Sinusitis Pain and Pressure?

Entellus balloon sinus dilation is an effective sinusitis treatment alternative to medical therapy and surgery. The convenient, comfortable in-office procedure gently restores normal sinus drainage.

We can help!

Dr. Brad Mechor MD FRCSC Calgary Sinus Centre #103 49 Richard Way SW (403)270-8060 www.drmechor.com

Beneficial Benefits • Health & Wellness

Azuridge Estate Hotel’s five-star Ammolite Blue Sky wellness retreat

Azuridge Estate Hotel’s five-star Ammolite Blue Sky wellness retreat has suites overlooking stunning forests whose leaves change with the seasons. The fresh country air and aura of peacefulness found on your private balcony come at no extra charge. …continued from page 51

ideology was well suited to nature’s masterpiece that surThe inaugural wellness course is comprised of five rounds the unique Azuridge Estate in the foothills of Alberta. weekends where guests experience workshops providing The tranquil surrounding of nature makes this location an health-enriching strategies for daily life. Each weekend ideal place to reconnect to one’s soul.” retreat includes organic cuisine and 24-hour butler service in There is no doubt about it. Corporate wellness has come the luxury hotel setting. The courses include inward-focused a long way from the standard medical/vision/dental benefits topics such as, A Ticket to Change, Inspiring Possibilities, and two weeks of vacation per year. Physical and mental and The Daring Way. health awareness is on the rise, and the “Taking time to retreat and reflect direct impact of employees being fit in is important to literally recharge your body and mind is quickly becoming a top metaphorical battery,” says Azuridge’s priority among Canadian employers, and general manager, Clarence McLeod. “This for a very good reason – it all affects the is vital if one is to achieve the balance that bottom line. nurtures our well-being of mind, body In the end, businesses exist to make and soul. Recharging allows you to be money. This money drives our economy. the best you can be. This self-realization Anything that hinders the company’s enhances creativity, intensifies patience, ability to turn a profit is scrutinized and promotes confidence and allows you to corrected. Increasingly, this scrutiny transition from ordinary to extraordinary brings our waist size, our stress levels in the career arena.” and our personal needs under our McLeod was, at first, skeptical about employer’s microscopes. aspects of this program. After all, some “When someone leaves an organization, of the methods are far removed from it does more than create the need to rehire. conventional wellness techniques. HowIt creates a vacuum and affects everyever, after meeting the retreat’s leaders one around them,” says Danielle Bragge, and exploring the mind/body wellness Danielle Bragge, co-founder and managing partner of The co-founder and managing partner of The connection, McLeod soon realized, “This HeadHunters 54 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

F A M I LY D E N T I S T R Y . O R T H O D O N T I C S

“Dream big.

Start small.

Act now.” ~ Robin Sharma

D

r. Murray Knebel, founder of Sierra Dental in Signal Hill Centre, SW Calgary, loves his job. With a firm belief that medical practitioners should work together for efficient health care, Dr. Murray, as most of his patients call him, has amassed a team that is knowledgeable, innovative and focused on helping patients keep their teeth for life. Rather than having to rely on a tedious and often prolonged external referral process, his patients are able to simply walk down the hall to see one of his many general dentists or specialists who will focus on their specific needs.

Dr. Murray and his team have been serving the community for over 30 years, and Sierra Dental is proud to host corporate patients from Calgary and around the world. “Busy people don’t have time to be sick so we focus on keeping them healthy and inflammation free.” It is known that inflammation and oral bacteria impact the body in a number of ways; from diabetes to cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis to Alzheimer’s disease. People with gum disease are twice as likely to die from a heart attack and three times as likely to have a stroke. “If we can control inflammation, we can drastically impact overall health.” From sleep apnea assessments with comprehensive take home sleep tests, to chronic pain therapy, “we help guests reach the highest level of health they aspire to.”

Sierra’s dentists are on call 363 days a year, and the clinics are open from early morning to late at night. At Sierra Dental our goal is to help busy professionals and their families feel their best. ~

“You can’t be great if you don’t feel great. Make exceptional health your #1 priority.” ~ Robin Sharma

Act now

Schedule an appointment at

403.297.9600 or visit

www.sierracentre.com

Beneficial Benefits • Health & Wellness

HeadHunters. “By the time the employee has been recruited, hired and trained, the employer’s cost can range from anywhere from one-and-a-half to three times the position’s annual pay.”

In 2014, Bragge was named as one of the Top 100 Women in Business in Alberta and was a finalist for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (Prairies region). Heading up a firm that scours three prominent Canadian cities for top talent and being in constant contact with jobseekers and the employers that hire them has given Bragge a unique insight into the workforce’s health and wellness needs.

“The face of the workforce as we know it is changing,” says Bragge. “In particular, the generation Ys are leading the way for change as they become the fastest growing segment of the employee population. Their needs at work are very different to those of their predecessors. Employees today are looking for companies that offer flexible hours, health benefits and training. This is becoming more important than the almighty dollar.”

She continues, “A recent U.S. and Canadian survey (Gallup’s employee study) showed that only 29 per cent of employees are actively engaged in their jobs. By adding additional perks, employee morale increases, which increases the overall well-being of the employee and the corporate culture, ultimately reducing turnover.

“Flexibility in the workforce, balance in life and benefits are the three biggest candidate requirements. Money and training still remain at the top of the list, but are no longer as important. Employers are starting to promote employee health spending accounts and wellness programs as employees want benefit solutions that acknowledge their individualism. The employers that promote gym memberships or worksite fitness and reimbursement towards self-development are considered progressive employers and are attracting the top talent.

“Most of our workforce is plugged in around the clock, which often creates additional stress and increases employer expectations. Add to the commute, student loans, debt, poor leadership and balancing home and work, and you see it is critical that employers consider the health and wellness of their employees if they want to engage their workforce, keep morale high and increase productivity.”

The “health is wealth” notion is gaining traction and corporations are on board to help employees be their healthiest self. By offering a variety of benefits, and by employees graciously accepting them, the Canadian workforce will be stronger and healthier than ever before. BiC

Sunshine Mountain Lodge, located on-mountain at the Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort is the peak location for annual conferences, hosting clients, team-

Photo: Banff Lake Louise Tourism/ Paul Zizka

building activities and employee retreats. Just 1 ½ hours from Calgary, Sunshine can provide your team a one-ofa-kind experience with little effort and travel time in our iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site setting.

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56 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

savings, 2015 style • Finance

Savings

2015 Style RRSP or TFSA |

I

BY COLLEEN WALLACE W

The actual tally and the final 2014 RRSP numbers won’t nvestments, savings, TFSAs and RRSPs are financial facts be crunched until after the March 2, 2015 deadline day.

— and options — of Canadian life. They are also unpreBut despite the usual marketing blitz and traditional lastdictable and personal facts of Canadian life. Most people minute push from investment firms consider money matters private and to local bank branches (for various keep the details confidential. reasons) analysts don’t expect the Legit and wannabe experts pretend to sometimes stereotyped last-minute track, project, forecast and guesstimate RRSP contribution frenzy. about personal moneys. They rarely “There’s a special mentality about give guarantees. The best they can do savings, in Alberta. Most people are is project and trend. Depending on who doing well, working, maybe even getting you talk to, which trends you track and overtime, and putting money away,” says which numbers you crunch, the 2015 the positive and personable Dave Mowat, popularity of Canadian and, specifically president and CEO of ATB Financial.

Albertan savings — particularly the “The figures show that Albertans tend to venerable RRSPs or the newbie TFSAs — save, on average, $9,600 a year.” is either hotter than ever, ticking upward, The uniquely Canadian registered stable or in a multi-factored slump. retirement savings plan (RRSP) has Some say you can always find been a well-known and appealing contradicting reams of charts and savings option for nearly 60 years. It graphs that confusingly suggest “all of Dave Mowat, president and CEO of ATB Financial was introduced in the late ’50s as a the above.”

58 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

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savings, 2015 style • Finance

instead of fluctuating with market changes, which historically tax-sheltered way to encourage Canadian employees and has not been a popular choice. “There are three key factors self-employed people to tuck away savings and investments of our approach: asset mix, manager selection and low assets, and defer the income tax rate to a later time in their fees. We only have one program, with six funds. We found lives when their income tax rate would not be as high. that Canadians, especially Albertans, are over-weighted in Since then, RRSPs have become a solid and usually Canadian stocks. It may be a proud, human nature tendency popular fact of Canadian savings life. Tucked away moneys – if you’re Canadian you buy Canadian stocks – and we are must comply with the predictable volumes of restrictions, very pro-Canada, but we work hard on asset mix to keep it regulations and limits, about maximum contributions, diversified. timing, allowed assets and the eventual conversion to a “Let’s face it, especially with mutual funds inside a carefully registered retirement income fund (RRIF) at age 71 and other managed RRSP, the focus is for savings for retirement not “rules” spelled out in the Canadian Income Tax Act. speculating. People are interested in solidly accumulating RRSP-approved assets include savings accounts, guarantheir money and having an average or above-average return teed investment certificates (GICs), bonds, mortgage loans, versus some hyped ‘amazing miracles.’” mutual funds, income trusts and corporate shares. Of the top The tax-savings flip-side option for three choices for what to put into an Canadians are tax-free savings accounts RRSP, 43 per cent choose mutual funds, (TFSAs) — accounts that provide tax 22 per cent savings accounts and less savings because stashing cash, mutual than 20 per cent choose GICs. funds, GICs and stocks and bonds is not Mowat is particularly enthused and taxed, even when withdrawn. beaming these days because, going Introduced in 2009, TFSAs haven’t against the grain and doing the the right had nearly the traction of exposure thing over doing the popular thing has or hard sell. Some financial advisers paid off, big, for ATB Investor Services. suggest that a segment of average ATB received three prestigious Lipper Canadians may not have even heard of Fund Awards for the Compass Portfolio TFSAs. Last year’s numbers show that Series of mutual funds. It started 11 more than 53 per cent of Canadians years ago and has seen impressive still haven’t opened a TFSA. The yearly results, managing $0 to $12 billion in limit for a TFSA contribution is $5,500. just over a decade, with consistently Beware: unlike RRSP contributions, good performance from day one.

TFSAs are not deductible for income Mowat admits that the mutual fund Richa Hingorani, senior manager, RBC Financial Planning tax purposes. secret is sticking with their strategy Support 60 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

savings, 2015 style • Finance

“Paying down debt, like loans or a mortgage, is priority number one, especially when interest rates are low. Paying off credit card debt is much, much smarter than absolutely anything you’ll get in the market. And it’s forced discipline to lock money into an RRSP and TFSAs, but the trick is not to just dip into savings for a nice vacation, a new car or fancy renos.” ~ Dave Mowat

Many financial planners try to simplify the basic benefits of tax sheltering with RRSPs or tax savings with TSFAs with individual suitability. Discussions of RRSP and/or TFSA pros and cons can be confusing about who will or won’t really benefit.

RRSPs are the biggest advantage for high tax bracket Canadians because such individuals will likely be in a lower tax bracket when they retire and will pay less tax over their lifetime, pending surprise government tax hikes.

Lower tax bracket RRSP holders are mathematically much less likely to retire into even lower tax brackets to really benefit from lifetime tax breaks. In certain situations, some may unexpectedly find themselves in a slightly higher tax bracket, so a TFSA may be the better option.

Each year, the RBC RRSP Poll tracks Canadian attitudes about savings and particularly the somewhat apples-and-oranges choice between the traditional RRSP and the newer TFSA. According to Richa Hingorani, senior manager, RBC Financial Planning Support, the numbers highlight the trend. “The poll asked Canadians if they were given the choice of contributing to only one – an RRSP or a TFSA – which would they choose and why?

• One in three (32 per cent) say they would choose RRSPs, mostly because they see RRSPs as a way to reduce the temptation to withdraw money before they retire.

• Four in 10 (40 per cent) say they would opt for TFSAs, because they weren’t really looking for a tax deduction as much as an easier savings tax-free option to make withdrawals, if they needed.”

Early each year, crunching the RRSP and TFSA numbers is a telltale indicator. Not so much about the Canadian economy, as much as the perception and the mood of the average Canadian about the Canadian economy.

“When it comes to money and savings, we like to look at the world as a rational place. And it may not be,” Mowat suggests. “But I think the tax deductibility of RRSPs and the tax savings of TFSAs do boost people’s attitude toward saving more. Perhaps this is a particularly confusing time, because there are so many choices.

“Paying down debt, like loans or a mortgage, is priority number one, especially when interest rates are low. Paying off credit card debt is much, much smarter than absolutely anything you’ll get in the market. And it’s forced discipline to lock money into an RRSP and TFSAs, but the trick is not to just dip into savings for a nice vacation, a new car or fancy renos.”

According to the major credit agency, TransUnion, the average Canadian consumer’s 2014 total non-mortgage debt will hit an all-time high of $28,853.

The latest 2014 RRSP stats are not available yet, but Mowat’s expertise allows for a better than average hunch. “People seem to save later and later. Maybe it’s the catch-22 that they are working longer because they haven’t saved enough or they haven’t saved enough so they must work longer.”

Based on last year’s stats and trends, fewer Canadians are planning to put money into an RRSP because their money is tight, they can’t afford it and they have other expenses like car payments, high credit card balances and other bills they are trying to manage. In fact, there has been a steady drop, at least about RRSP appeal. A major survey found that barely 31 per cent of Canadians contributed to an RRSP in 2013, down from 39 per cent from the year before.

Last year’s BMO Financial RRSP Report traced the downturn in popularity and some reasons why Canadians did not make a contribution.

• Not having enough money to make a contribution (37 per cent).

• Having other expenses which take precedence (33 per cent).

• Prioritizing other investments (11 per cent).

Whether it’s RRSPs, TFSAs with cash or mutual funds, Dave Mowat is positive and optimistic about the wisdom and the value of savings being an ongoing and important factor in Alberta life.

“The popularity of savings will continue. Savings rates will continue to rise and, even with fluctuating oil prices, the Alberta economy is strong and people are doing well.” BiC

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 61

Calgary’s Real Estate Momentum • Real Estate

Calgary’s Real Estate Momentum The pros and cons of Calgary as a high-priced neighbourhood

BY PARKER GRANT

C

algary is getting a bit of a reputation! For most people – as well as civic pride and good-natured gloating – it’s a good thing. For some – and the possible impact on business – it can be a discouraging negative and an iffy problem.

Although home sales in the major markets in Canada are hotter than hot, and some economists are warning that the real estate market in some areas could get overheated and experience degrees of market shock, Calgary is hotter than most and in the crapshoot of public perception, seems to be risking a reputation for being a discouragingly unaffordable, “high-priced neighbourhood.”

While that’s an exciting good for Calgary vendors and real estate agents, it is not so good for attracting the 30,000-plus people who move here every year. When it comes to affordability and unaffordability in real estate, a “high priced neighbourhood” may be an exciting bragging right but a potent negative when it comes to people looking to move.

Most real estate professionals, like the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) and the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), only crunch numbers and track stats for resale homes. Although they do have market figures for “new starts,” their key focus is the listings and sales of resale homes.

The 2014 numbers and many analysts agree that sales in Canada’s resale market are at levels last seen before the unofficial recession of 2007. The national numbers show that sales increases have been happening for eight or nine

62 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

months in a row, and the hot resale market continues to be driven by Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto.

Various stats and numbers warn that, in several ways, it could pan out to be a particular problem for Calgary.

According to CREA, Calgary’s annual price growth of 9.8 per cent was a much bigger jolt (almost double) than the national average of 5.3 per cent.

“Relative to other major centres, economic growth in Calgary remains one of the strongest in the country,” explains CREB chief economist Ann-Marie Lurie.

“Employment opportunities and higher salaries keep encouraging people to move here, supporting the demand growth in our housing sector.”

November also showed easing growth in single-family unadjusted benchmark prices, totalling $511,300 in November – an 8.7 per cent increase over the previous year. While year-over-year price gains remain strong, price growth has slowed from the double-digit rates posted earlier in the year.

“Tight market conditions earlier in the year caused significant aggregate price gains. It also resulted in a rise in new listings, supporting gains in inventory levels, and a push towards more balanced levels. This has helped ease the upward growth pressure on prices.”

The numbers tell the story. As of last fall, the national average price for homes was approximately $398,600. In Alberta, the average price was $397,700. The Calgary prices show an average of $460,800.

“While Calgary’s price gains have generated a lot of

Calgary’s real estate momentum • Real Estate

Nordlund has “seen it all,” but he enthusiastically points out that new home designs and features are always changing and interesting, rarely predictable and never dull.

“The trends of what the outside and the inside of a Calgary new home look like is more evolutionary, not revolutionary.

Of course much of it is driven by supply and demand but it is usually gradual.”

As he explains, not all of the design trends are cosmetic Forecasting and Staying on Top or esthetic. “Even something as hard-core business like the When it comes to fashion, appliances, cars and even rising cost of land, ultimately impacts new home designs. glasses, looks and styles are very much an issue.

In the past seven years or so, lots are more expensive, they Surprisingly, eye appeal is also a vital factor when it comes are smaller but consumers are asking for bigger and bigger to the very big-ticket and seriously long-term purchase houses.

So we must do whatever it takes to maximize the lot. of a new home. Anticipating and making popular trends “That’s why bungalows are not a common new home happen is part of the art and science of new homebuilders. option in the Calgary market. Less than one per cent of our As architects, designers and developers from Airdrie and sales are bungalows. People are asking Cochrane to Kitsilano, Mississauga and for maximized livable space on the across Canada will vouch, there is no building lot,” he says. “A second-floor such thing as Canadian eye appeal when room over the garage is very popular. it comes to the design, the looks, the Shallower backyards.

Going to zero lot features and other trends about a new lines, five feet versus the regular eight home. feet.

And open-space interior designs.”

As in so many other ways, new home With 30 years of new home eye appeal is interestingly unique in development experience at Jayman, the Calgary market, compared to other Nordlund has some good guesses Alberta and Canadian areas. but no certain answers to the subtle Anticipating, forecasting and staying but common new home questions on top of the various aspects of new home invariably asked by newcomers and exteriors and interiors is an exciting visitors to Calgary: why are there so part of Ed Nordlund’s day job. Nordlund few brick homes in the Calgary area? is executive vice president of product Nordlund concedes that it is hard to development for MasterBUILT. find skilled masonry crews in Calgary, After 30 years in the new homebuilding Ann-Marie Lurie, CREB chief economist and doing a house in brick works out to business, it could easily be said that national attention,” she admits, “several indicators are pointing toward more stable conditions, easing some of the risks associated with an overheating market. There are strong indicators of Calgary moving into more balanced market conditions. Price gains are levelling off and listings are increasing.”

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 63

Calgary’s Real Estate Momentum • Real Estate

a change in floor plans. The two-storey be three to four times as expensive. He main floors of about 10 years ago or the winces about folklore reasons such as no 17- to 19-foot high ceilings in the great brickyards, no brick manufacturing, the room are now considered wasted space. prohibitive costs of shipping bricks to We have nine-foot ceilings on main Calgary and the cultural fluke of the few floors and a bonus second-floor room.” bricklayers who originally settled in the Maximizing space is also a key trend Calgary area and couldn’t make a decent in the interior of new homes. Kitchens living in Calgary’s limited and often are highly prominent, open-design abbreviated bricklaying climate. “The concepts. They are now functional weather probably does have something to places and a hub for family activity. do with it,” Nordlund shrugs, “since vinyl The most important interior features siding is more weather resistant and can in today’s new homes are the kitchen be worked with and installed year-round, and the ensuite. The master ensuite especially during Calgary winters.” has become a personal retreat; a “justHomebuyer choices and selections Ed Nordlund, executive vice president of product development for MasterBuilt for-me spa. Separate vanities – almost for the design and exterior look like his/her bathrooms. (elevation) of a house, the exterior Although Nordlund’s solid experience focuses on new colour and trim and other exterior factors are detailed home designs, development and structural matters, he is and intricately spelled out in the builder’s “architectural well versed on the “in” trends; what some people call “the controls,” usually limiting how many similar looking and beauty stuff.” colour exteriors are allowed in a row and other (what “Today’s must-haves are hardwood throughout the builders and designers call) streetscape features. house, granite countertops and a large breakfast bar, a “In the past five years or so,” Nordlund points out, “we second-floor bonus room, a large gourmet kitchen and a have been seeing more colours. Brighter colours. Darker luxurious ensuite.” BiC siding. And opting for maximized space, buyers are wanting

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64 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

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Exclusive dealer

URBANOMICS | Urban Development Discussion

A World-Class City

The Issues: A fair and balanced approach |

U

rbanomics is a hot topic that is getting hotter, from Calgary to Vancouver, Chicago, Montreal, Dallas, Winnipeg, Boston, Toronto, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Edmonton and most major cities in between.

Urbanomics is a hot topic because it is vital and it is about collaboration, negotiation and give and take. Urbanomics is about finding harmony and the delicate balance between the impartial science of urban planning for what it takes to have a world-class city and the practical economics of strategizing, building and maintaining the economic viability of a world-class city.

Business in Calgary is solidly committed to all aspects of Calgary business, including the sometimes tricky and contentious business of urbanomics – whatever it takes to make sure Calgary is a world-class city. Each month in 2015, Business in Calgary will feature a fair, balanced, informative

66 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

BY JOHN HARDY

and relevant look at the urbanomics of Calgary. We will deal with the issues, we will speak with the players on all sides and the movers and shakers who can make it happen. We will press the hot buttons and cover all sides of urbanomics: what it takes to be (and stay) an efficient, growing and dynamic world-class city.

A MoneySense magazine survey (which rates Canadian cities on criteria like quality of life, standard of living, high incomes, job opportunities and low unemployment) recently ranked Calgary as undisputed No. 1 for best overall city, best large city and best place to raise children. Despite the glowing rank and reputation, Calgary has issues.

Urbanomics may ensure that Calgary is still No. 1 in 2020, 2030 and 2050.

“The past five to 10 years has been a major shift and a considerable problem for Canadian cities,” says Glenn Miller,

vice president of education and research with the respected Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) – an organization focused on shaping the growth of cities and tackling some of the most pressing challenges, including planning for rapid urbanization, adapting to demographic shifts, sustainable economic development, community and private sector engagement in city building.

“There is one glaring priority. We must have a better fit between public policy and the realistic needs of the marketplace. The job of the urban planner is to be impartial, but not to sit on the sidelines,” Miller urges. “Yes, planners are trained to think about good planning but the time for aspirational planning is over. The plans were long on vision but short on practicalities on how to achieve it. The profession is moving as quickly as possible to make the plans realistic.”

Or, to use the pop culture reference: too much talk and not enough action.

Some of Calgary’s key 2015 urbanomic issues are affordability and unaffordability, available, approved land, density and what the CUI and most urban planners urge as choice.

In the urban planning business, as in most other businesses, the familiar but always relevant golden rule is supply and demand and that “the customer is always right.”

Urbanomics will take into account the documented stats from the Queen’s University School of Urban and Regional Planning that about 88 per cent of the 23 million people who live in one of Canada’s 33 major cities opt to live in the suburbs.

In Calgary, 87 per cent live in suburbia. Is it a cause or effect of Calgary’s urban planning focus?

As recently explained to Business in Calgary by Rollin Stanley, Calgary’s top city planner, “Sustainability, proximity to public transit and a livable city are important but it’s also a matter of tax revenues. Our sole revenue is from property taxes. And density is the way to go.”

Stanley and the city’s planning logic defend the lightning-rod planning strategy of building up (highrises) instead of building out (single-family homes.) “A 210-unit, downtown condo uses 55 metres of frontage and generates a significant revenue stream for the city,” Stanley explains.

“By comparison, single-family units with the same frontage generate limited revenue. It’s one of the reasons why we target land development to have higher densities.”

So why do 87 per cent of Calgary homebuyers opt to buy in the suburbs? It may be the urbanomics of land availability and affordability.

Jay Westman, CEO of Jayman MasterBuilt, has an admitted bias as a successful Calgary area developer and homebuilder but he is also outspoken about Calgary’s urbanomics. He insists that Calgary’s restrictive land use policies limit choice and make home buying in Calgary virtually unaffordable.

According to Westman, it all traces back to the availability and the price of Calgary land and the impartially documented fact that, over the last 10 years, the cost of Calgary lots has more than doubled.

The push is on, as CUI’s Glenn Miller suggests, for planners, the city, business, the private sector and community groups to move beyond theory and collaborate to determine what is practical and what is realistic.

“Affordability is a huge issue, in most major cities. And sometimes the issues may create a catch-22. Regardless,” Miller cautions, “the current generation will ultimately determine where we’ll be in 2050. So it’s a good time to quote Albert Einstein: Yesterday’s solutions don’t solve tomorrow’s problems.” BiC businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 67

insuring Your Future • Insurance

Insuring

Your Future

There is a way for corporations to build cash value using insurance – but it’s not for everybody

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

L

ife insurance. It’s something we are familiar with in our personal lives, but many are not aware of all the options life insurance provides for corporations. Bill Harvey, an LSM Insurance consultant, says, “Small business owners of Canadian-controlled corporations who require and are able to qualify for life insurance, may purchase a universal life policy inside their company.”

For personal life insurance, a universal life policy has a cash value that builds up over time. You can use it as a type of savings vehicle and gain access to the cash as required.

For corporations, the process is a little different. Harvey continues, “[Companies] can transfer some of their corporate surplus into a universal life policy to benefit from taxdeferred investment. They can, after a sizable cash value has accumulated, apply for a third-party line of credit. This can be used for a source of cash or income or for emergencies, use the fund for new business opportunities or pay for the cost of running the business. You can also use this to fund a

68 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

buy-sell agreement between partners of the company.”

Sounds complicated? That’s because it is.

Fred Wing has many years of experience advising corporations of all sizes on financial and insurance matters, and when it comes to corporate insurance policies that accumulate a cash value, he points out the pros, the cons and a word of caution.

“Revenue Canada will not allow you to purchase life insurance just as a tax shelter. There must be a need for life insurance. The Life Insurance Act allows life insurance cash value to grow tax sheltered within the policy. This tax deferral is purely a secondary benefit,” Wing cautions.

“There are various ways the corporation/shareholder can withdraw the accumulated moneys that are in the life insurance contract. The key is to do such to minimize the taxation on the growth portion of the withdrawal. During the accumulation period, it grows tax sheltered, and when the shareholder uses leveraging, the proceeds are tax-free

insuring Your Future • Insurance

Speaking of taxes, the insurance premium on a policy of this type is not tax deductible, with one small exception – premiums are deductible if the bank demands term life insurance on a loan.

Having solid backing for a loan that will be paid off with insurance money sounds like a great idea, but before calling an adviser there are a few more things to know. This policy is not recommended for publicly-held companies, struggling businesses or anyone lacking patience. This is not a policy for companies affected by multiple variables. For example, what if you bring on another partner? What if you sell the company? “The shareholder must be very confident about their future,” says Wing. “The shareholder must understand this is not a short-term program. You can’t create a miracle of great cash flow in two to three years. We are talking about 10 years or greater.”

That being said, for large or small companies with solid sales, solid management, strong profits and with a confident, experienced leader at the helm, this policy could ensure cash flow during lean periods, provide the means for expansion, create capital to invest in new technology and more.

However, not everyone is quick to champion this concept.

President and founder of Integrated Wealth Management, Andrew Ruhland, says these policies can be risky.

“Insurance products have some unique features that can be very powerful if the profile fits completely,” Ruhland says, “but there are difficult-to-manage risks to investment performance for the cash accumulations and big future risks from rising interest rates. Rising rates will cause a conservative bond-based investment portfolio within the policy to actually lose money. The result: a shrinking portfolio to borrow against and a rising cost of borrowing that nullifies a major feature of this strategy … even for the rare business owner who does fit the whole profile.”

At this point you may be thinking of another potential red flag. “If this is a viable option for my company, why haven’t I heard of it before?” Both experts weigh-in on that question. and this loan will be repaid from the death benefit. The balance of the death benefit is paid to the corporation, surviving partners or to the estate/family. ” So, how does it work?

“The policy is owned by the corporation,” Wing explains. “The beneficiary is the corporation. A loan is given and the death benefit pays off the loan. Anything left over will go to the corporation and then to the shareholder’s estate through the capital dividend account.”

The loan is key to the accumulation’s tax deferment. “This concept gives the shareholders tax-free income because a loan is not classified as income,” Wing points out. “Using this concept, the money coming into the corporation is essentially tax-free.”

Fred Wing

Andrew Ruhland

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 69

insuring Your Future • Insurance

“It is not widely known,” Wing admits, and that is because shareholders generally rely on three core advisers: a bank, an accountant and a lawyer. “Each does their job without suggesting products outside of their expertise or industry.”

“It is not widely known,” Wing admits, and that is because shareholders generally rely on three core advisers: a bank, an accountant and a lawyer. “Each does their job without suggesting products outside of their expertise or industry.”

So, you can’t expect your lawyer to talk to you about insurance any more than you could expect your insurance agent to discuss your legal corporate structure. Unless your insurance adviser is a regular part of your financial advisement team, this product will likely fall through the cracks.

Ruhland agrees. “The number of clients for whom this strategy actually does make sense is so incredibly small that these products are thoroughly understood by a commensurately small number of specialists who market them.”

The fact that these policies are not widely known leaves the path open for a bit of vulnerability. “If any strategy is marketed primarily based on its tax deduction or taxsheltering features, then you should be very skeptical,” says Ruhland. “Quick [tax-saving] fixes that sound too good to be true frequently come back to haunt those who get into them impulsively.”

Should your company have a life insurance policy with an accumulation value? There are pros and cons to the policy, and it must be approached with a full understanding of the risks and the rewards. You must be willing to wait for many years to reap the benefits in terms of this loan with insurance as a collateral concept, and you must pass away 70 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

for the benefit to pay out. Remember, the bulk – if not all – of the death benefit goes into the loan. However, with the right advice and the right adviser, this policy could be a great boon for the right type of company.

For the corporations that are not the right fit, there are still plenty of options. Ruhland advises, “Individual pension plans carry far less tax risk, are easier to understand and much less costly to unwind in the future. Retaining the majority of retained earnings not required as operating capital in a tax-efficient equity portfolio within the corporation, and using a joint-last-to-die policy purchased personally, could also be a viable strategy, depending on the circumstances.

A significant investment portfolio kept inside an active operating business or a holdco will cost substantially less to actively manage than the investment options inside most policies of this kind, and having an active manager also allows for greater flexibility, such as capital preservation when markets get rough.”

Wing’s final advice? Get good advice. “I encourage a shareholder who is paying all the bills to be the quarterback and surround themselves with people that have expertise in other areas. Shareholders should have advisers from each sector to provide them with financial advice since shareholders have the most risk in a company.”

You may not have thought of your insurance agent as a financial adviser, but now that you know about one of many little-known policies, perhaps it’s time to see if an accumulation policy could work for you. BiC

Celebrating 10 years of

SUPER SONIC SERVICE

“It’s all about the room.”

Absolute Audio/Video owner Ross Sisson grew up in Red Deer, in a home full of music. Organ lessons at the Gaetz Memorial United Church gave him one of his first experiences with a large space that allowed sound to expand.

“Corners are a real problem in a room,” says Sisson. “When the bass loads in a corner, it negatively affects the mid-range and higher frequencies of the sound.”

That’s why when Sisson visits a client’s home or business, one of his first observations is, “What are the details of the listening area?”

According to Sisson, there are modifications that can be made to the room to improve the acoustics.

“The room is much more of a factor to creating a positive musical experience than the components,” he explains. “That’s why Absolute also provides advice on acoustical treatments, soundproofing and electrical upgrades. It’s not always enough just to have good sound when you’re sitting in the sweet spot in front of the speakers – quite a few people do other activities while they enjoy their music.”

Absolute A/V in Bowness is full of intimate rooms. “Unlike the big box stores, there’s no ‘in with the masses, out on their asses’ scene at this establishment,” says Sisson. “People come back to our shop again and again.

Enjoying music has been a lifelong pursuit for Ross Sisson, owner of Absolute Audio/Video.

71

Changing out a component for a demo.

Outstanding component stack from Ayre Acoustics

Monitor Audio Platinum speakers

“Listening and getting to know the customer’s situation is vital,” says Sisson. “Our commitment to service is very personal. After all, our ultimate goal is to ensure that our customers have the positive experience of enjoying the best possible scenario of audio, video and control convenience in their home or working space.”

Ten years ago, Absolute A/V was mainly an audio shop with a slight emphasis on video.

Customers who had purchased systems came back for help with their new homes or renovated space. Glad to oblige, another element to the Absolute business was created. Absolute now engineers and implements whole house A/V control systems and has been involved with projects from Victoria, B.C. to Houston, Texas. The progression has been so successful that Absolute A/V has plans to move to a larger facility in the spring of 2016.

As Sisson and his staff celebrate the store’s 10th anniversary, they emphasize that there’s no such thing as a typical customer. They range from their late teens, to some in their 40s, 50s and all way into their 80s.

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“After all,” Sisson says, “we not only enjoy different kinds of music but we all hear the music differently. Whether it’s rock, western, hip hop, opera and philharmonic, jazz or any music genre. From great jazz like 20-plus Grammy winner Pat Metheny, the classic rock of the Allman Bros or Thin Lizzy, to the B-52’s or Gomez.”

Whether you’re in the market for a small tube amplifier or a whole house automation system, Absolute A/V has the knowledge to help, from the specific features of the latest components, to the programming, installation, placement, balancing and alignment of speakers.

Sisson and his team of experts, James Davies, Rick Begert and Thom Hewlett, are up to date with the technology; as well as the special skill of rapport with the customer.

Spend any time in the cosy Absolute store, and you’ll instantly realize that for every member of the team, it’s about listening and talking with people, understanding their needs and specific situations. It’s the professionalism and skill of giving clients relevant and up-to-date information and good advice.

“Great music should be enjoyed with quality sound. And the customer’s needs and personal tastes determine what is quality sound,” he says. “We just happen to have years of experience and expertise about the technology.”

Configuring and aligning the speakers to transform the signal into quality sound is crucial; so is proper installation.

The Absolute edge is that the staff is up to date, experienced and can engineer the audio/video installation. Starting from the beginning with the architects’ drawings Absolute can

even advise the client on room dimensions to help get the most out of their system.

Sisson points out that while the key Absolute focus is on superb sound, the company is a full-service audio/video shop: “Whether it is the type and configuration of floor, in-wall, on-wall or ceiling speakers, a home theatre system, an AV system for a conference room, a new turntable or a whole house audio/video remote control system; we have the staff with the expertise to install and create the best possible audio and video experience.”

Absolute A/V has earned the reputation for having the largest, most up-to-date and sonically superior selection of audio and video gear in Calgary. Naim, Ayre Acoustics, Burmester, Wavelength and Canadian manufacturers like Simaudio, Bryston and Resonessence Labs are all globally recognized as leaders in computer-based audio.

Sisson points enthusiastically to a massive silver speaker that is shaped like a giant blender. The sound it blends for the ear is the latest in audio technology and it is made in Canada.

“It’s the world’s first omnidirectional electrostatic ribbon speaker,” says Sisson. A pair of PX-1s costs $65,000. No other store in Western Canada has a set on display.

Despite his excitement over the latest technology, Sisson clarifies the most important aspect of Absolute Audio/Video: “We’re not just gear guys, although we know what we can provide — we are music enthusiasts. And we think customers appreciate that our hearts are in the right place when they come for a visit.” •

10th Anniversary

A Passion For Design

By John Hardy

C

Karen Robertson, founder and owner (second from left), and the designers and team members of klr licensed interior design inc.

algary’s innovative klr licensed interior design professionals prioritize consultation, listening to clients, understanding their needs, sharing their vision, delivering design expertise in corporate, health-care, retail, specialty and residential projects and – creating great space.

How it happens is talent, skills, attention to detail, uncompromising project and budget management, up-to-date expertise in key interior design aspects like effective layouts and features, branding and graphic design, function, styles, colours – and a whole lot of teamwork and outright passion.

The uniquely refreshing approach and vibrant attitude of upbeat, gregarious, talented, contemporary interior designer Karen Robertson assembled the design-savvy team of designers, architects and graphic designers and launched klr interior design 10 successful and high-achiever years ago.

Karen Robertson is a gung-ho, personable and highenergy design professional who openly admits, with pride

and determination, that despite the design projects with which klr design group continues to earn its solid reputation, the company and its performance is entirely about people.

Clients trust klr design group with their projects and the klr design staff who make it all happen.

“Our core values are also our guiding principles, across the board,” she explains. “Love. Respect. Inspiration. And experience. It is the foundation of everything we do, our work and our decision-making. We have a superbly experienced design team of nine interior designers, three support staff as well as on-call architects and graphic designers.”

It may be un-corporate and even a bit harmlessly trite but Karen Robertson and the klr design team contagiously love what they do! And it shows, with every completion and the constant happy client feedback.

“We thrive on creating inspiring spaces that our clients can brag about. It’s such great satisfaction to know that our work

KLR Design Group • 10th Anniversary • 1

75

enhances people’s lives. That’s pretty cool,” Robertson says with enthusiasm and a broad smile. “It may sound unusual – because it is – but it comes down to making people happy.

Ultimately all we do, from consultation, inspiration, design to completion, it’s all about the client.”

She references a long list of mostly Calgary-area corporate office clients, retail, health-care clinics, specialty spaces and residential projects on the go. The latter being a newer specialty to her team brought on by client request. Specialty projects include those such as the seven-star Fitness Centre at Eighth Avenue Place, Webber Academy Science Wing in which the students were involved with the design process and, the not-for-profit Centre for Newcomers.

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klr design group and Fox Architects

“The most important and unconditional aspect of what we do is listening and looking after the needs of our client. It’s the most important. We genuinely care about our clients and each other, as well as the results and the impact our designs have on people.

“We never, ever, design for ourselves. It’s always for our client,” Robertson says with infectious positivity. “It feels so good and gratifying to know we are not only enhancing people’s lifestyles in their home, impacting their improved workplace but that we have an opportunity to make a difference in their quality of life, with designs that support their business’ culture and expressiveness and their core values.”

Although the klr design team of professionals is terrifically up to date on the latest styles, trends and options, they work according to a client-driven consensus that every design opportunity and klr design project must reflect the uniqueness of each client.

Congratulations

klr licensed interior design on your 10th anniversary!

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Congratulations to klr design group on your 10th Anniversary!

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Business is all about developing and maintaining relationships

We are proud to have been a part of klr licensed interior design inc.’s first 10 years, and most certainly will be a part of their next 10 and beyond.

We wish you every success in the coming years.

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KLR Design Group • 10th Anniversary • 2

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“A big part of what makes our job fresh and exciting,” she explains, “is that each client — corporate, health care, retail, specialty and residential — is unique. Responding uniquely and customizing each design project also gives us a competitive-edge difference.”

She highlights some key aspects of contemporary design features and client needs.

“Open work environments still serve a valid purpose. It’s

a design solution that supports culture and communication, which is an important functional need for many businesses.

But collaboration space or multiple means of communication space can be successfully achieved in both open and closed workplace environments.”

She points out that the traditional ‘designated’ assigned workspace has dropped in popularity, in favour of flexible multipurpose workspace. A key reason is that it just doesn’t

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KLR Design Group • 10th Anniversary • 3

Engineering lounge

make financial sense for businesses to have unused and vacant real estate. Interior design can create efficiency by doing more with less.

“After all, office space, like clients, is not a one-size-fits-all factor. That’s what makes it exciting,” she adds. “We never know what we are walking into until we meet with our clients, discuss, listen and understand their business, their vision, their brand and their needs.”

Robertson illustrates design difference with employeegenerational differences. “Generation Y or millennials are now a driver in our workplaces and businesses are paying attention. They are the ‘we,’ not ‘me’ generation. They gain gratification from giving and achieving. They are strong, influential and they value community. They are not about ‘how big is my office?’

“Ideally, the design and layout of a workplace tells the story of an organization in a way that resonates with employees, suppliers, and customers and the owners,” the Calgary-based interior design professional explains a primary klr design principle and client focus. “It should reflect the core values of the business, and it is ultimately the formula for successful workplace design.”

She highlights that the klr residential design reflects trending. It is showing a subtle return to a more formal feel, with the popular use of natural materials and sophisticated, state-of-the-art lighting solutions. “But even with residential designs, the open plan creates a more casual and welcoming environment that is popular. It serves both the perception of open, larger spaces and the ability to create a greater sense of community in a home.”

Whether it is a residential, corporate, retail or specialty interior design project, the consistently hot topic and

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predictable client question is about the sometimes fickle and ever-changeable topic of COLOUR. To be as up to date as possible, the klr design team recently attended a seminar by the Color Marketing Group, the respected, not-for-profit, international association of colour design professionals involved in the use of colour as it applies to the profitable marketing of goods and services.

Another value-added and potent benefit for klr interior design clients is the tremendous opportunity of the company having been invited a few years ago to become a member of ONE Global Design, a selected team of 16 exceptional interior design and architectural firms throughout North America, each of whom are individually best of class in their own respective markets and who share outstanding skills and talents and one common approach – delivering superior design solutions and personalized customer service.

ONE Global Design is growing in locations and is an additional and excellent talent pool resource for the klr professionals and for their Calgary-area clients. ONE Global Design has created task teams. Calgary is working with Los Angeles, Washington, Austin and Mexico City on what is called “ONE University.” This is essentially a staff exchange program that will give upcoming stars the opportunity to experience life as a design professional for a week in another culture.

Karen Robertson’s high-energy, creative spirit, drive and passion for design and for people inspires the klr design team members as well as loyal klr interior design clients.

She is a supercharged pro with a dynamic, refreshing, unconditionally positive, straight and honest, no-nonsense approach. “We are a goal-oriented group who always strives to be better. Becoming is better than being. I don’t think enough people get that … yet,” she shrugs, winks and smiles. •

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Employers and Employees Agree:

A Flexible Workforce is the New Reality A new employment trend is sweeping the business landscape of Alberta and the rest of the country, with the temporary workforce growing at three times the pace of the permanent workforce in the last three years. Today, almost 14 per cent of the Canadian workforce consists of temporary employees, and the reasons for this striking trend are clear.

Flexible scheduling.

One of the key reasons that drive individuals to seek out temporary work over permanent work is the desire for a flexible schedule. Temporary workers often have commitments to education, community, family or other employment obligations that make a 9-5 schedule undesirable and project-based work more appealing.

Employers Gain

equity.

While hiring temporary work can come at a cost advantage to employers, without an expectation to provide employee benefit packages, TPD has built their business on the premise of equality and inclusion. “Just as a full time employee would receive benefits upon passing the probationary period, our Fieldstaff receive a 100 per cent employer paid benefits package after three months of work,” says Elena Romero, manager of Staffing Services.

“We eliminate the two-tiered workforce so that our Fieldstaff get equitable pay, meanwhile our clients enjoy the benefits of working with retained Fieldstaff of high quality and skill.”

Flexibility.

The ever-changing business environment and unpredictable economic landscape demand that organizations remain flexible and adaptable to changes in market demands. Hiring a flexible workforce can be the most viable solution as the volume of needs changes. Such was the case of the Calgary flood, where TPD successfully utilized social media, hiring fairs and an existing talent pool of available Fieldstaff to quickly provide 103 labourers to restore commercial building damage.

Cost effectiveness.

In working with staffing agencies, the agency, not the employer, becomes the employer of record, responsible for the worker’s administration costs. Since the cost of hiring temporary workers in the short term is often less expensive than the cost of recruiting and retaining permanent employees, employers can increase capacity and maintain productivity while benefiting from cost savings.

Access to specialized skills.

While traditionally temporary workers had been employed to fill roles of lower skill, today, temporary workers or contractors are often hired to complete critical projects in highly specialized roles such as IT Developers, Heavy Duty Mechanics, and Pipefitters.

By leveraging flexible workforce solutions, employers can effectively grow their business – boosting productivity and increasing their bottom line. The advantages don’t end there; many employees prefer it too.

Employees Prefer diverse experience.

In the case of new graduates, the need to gain work experience and enter the job market quickly is essential. Nia Parsonage, Fieldstaff at TPD agrees “temporary work was the easiest way get my foot in the door of my industry. By taking on positions geared to my skills, I gained valuable experience that I can now compete with”.

In the case of established professionals, the draw of temporary work is also evident. By working on temporary contracts or projects, professionals are able to enjoy new environments, work in a variety of industries, and expand their network - all without the burden of administration costs associated with self managing their own consulting business.

With flexibility in the workforce yielding advantages for employers and employees alike, it’s no surprise that the trend toward temporary staffing is projected to continue.

For more information on the Flexible Workforce, call TPD (1.855.266.7030).

Thank you for recognizing us as Calgary’s #1 Employment Agency 1.855.266.7030 | TPD.com

People | Partners | Performance

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 81

Official Nomination Form

Go Online to www.businessinCalgary.com/leaders Submission Directions: Please complete the application in its entirety. Scan and email to leaders@businessincalgary.com, or send the form via fax to 403.264.3276.

Eligibility: All nominees must own, be a partner, CEO, or president of a private or public company, and be

a primary stakeholder responsible for the recent performance of the company. In addition, the nominee’s company must be Calgary and area based and have been in existence for a minimum of three years.

Judging Panel and Criteria: The independent panel of judges will consist of a selection of successful business leaders from the community. The judges will analyze an extensive list of criteria that will include finances, strategic direction, product or service innovation, company leadership (including personal integrity, values and key employee initiatives), community involvement and philanthropic activities.

Nominee Print or Type Only Please

Nominee’s Name: Title: Company Name: General Company Phone: Business Address: City:

Province:

Postal Code:

Company Website: Nature of Business: Nominee’s Phone:

Nominee’s Email:

Assistant’s Name: Assistant’s Phone:

Assistant’s Email:

Has Nominee previously been nominated for Consideration? Yes / No Year(s): For any questions or follow up related to this information, please designate a contact, or confirm nominee or assistant as primary contact.

Platinum Partner

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HUMAN RESOURCES INSTITUTE OF ALBERTA

Leading Business JANUARY 2015

IN THIS ISSUE...

• The Challenges We Face in 2015 • A Blueprint to Explosive Growth • Member Spotlight • Upcoming Events

CalgaryChamber.com

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 83

2014 Board of

Directors

The Challenges We Face in 2015

Executive

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-

Chair: Rob Hawley, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Immediate Past Chair: Leah Lawrence, President, Clean Energy Capitalists Inc. Chair Elect: Denis Painchaud, Director, International Government Relations, Nexen Inc. Second Vice Chair: David Allen, President, Calgary Land, Brookfield Residential Properties Inc. Vice Chair, Finance: Bill Brunton, Chief Communications Officer, Calgary Board of Education CEO: Adam Legge, President and CEO, Calgary Chamber

Directors David Allen, President, Calgary Land, Brookfield Residential Properties Inc. Carlos Alvarez, Audit Partner, KPMG Lorenzo DeCicco, Vice-President, TELUS Business Solutions Rob Hawley, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Wellington Holbrook, Executive Vice-President, ATB Financial Phil Roberts, Director of BD & Marketing, Vintri Technologies Linda Shea, Senior Vice-President, AltaLink Mike Williams, Executive Vice-President, Corporate Services, Encana James Boettcher, Chief Idea Officer, Fiasco Gelato Brent Cooper, Partner, McLeod Law LLP Management Adam Legge – President and CEO Michael Andriescu – Director of Finance and Administration Kim Koss – Vice President, Business Development Scott Crockatt – Director of Marketing and Communications Rebecca Wood – Director of Member Services Justin Smith – Director of Policy, Research and Government Relations Leading Business magazine is a co-publication of the Calgary Chamber and Business in Calgary Calgary Chamber 600, 237 8th Avenue S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2G 5C3 Phone: (403) 750-0400 Fax: (403) 266-3413 calgarychamber.com

W

e live in a remarkable city, but we can’t count on that to continue automatically in perpetuity. Calgary is in a constant global competition for top talent, leading businesses and investment dollars.

This competition is real; just like in a hockey game, we have opponents who are sizing us up and trying to beat us.

For years Calgary has been a national and even international leader on measure after measure – we have enjoyed historic economic and population growth, and even been rated as one of the best cities in the world in which to live.

However there are concerning clouds on the horizon that we need to be aware of and address as a city and a province.

Depressed and volatile commodity prices and market access issues have impacted our province’s two largest industries: energy and agriculture. The rising cost of doing business in our city, coupled with a labour shortage, has made it harder to start and grow a business. A limited supply of available land is affecting our development industry’s ability to accommodate the number of new Calgarians moving to our city. These are just a few of the challenges we face.

In 2015, the Calgary Chamber will be intensifying our advocacy work on behalf of your business; holding governments accountable, pushing for positive regulatory changes and ensuring our city

84 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

remains the best place in the country to do business.

At the municipal level we will continue to advocate for a reformed business tax and fee structure changes to help alleviate some of the pressure put on Calgary business owners.

Provincewide, promoting the diverse sectors of our economy is top of mind and the Chamber will work to support our diverse businesses including our emerging technology industry as well as our province’s second largest export industry, agriculture.

On the inter-provincial and international stage, one of the largest and most complex issues we face is market access.

The Chamber will continue to meet with, and work with governments, policy-makers and other key partners from across the country and around the continent to help achieve market access for Alberta’s commodity products.

All this gains additional weight in a year when Canadians will be heading to the polls in a federal election. The Chamber will be working to offer Calgary businesses many opportunities to question, inform and debate our country’s political leaders so your voice is heard at the national level.

In 2015 your Chamber is going to be focused every day on addressing key competiveness issues. We hope you will be part of it too.

N

2

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“No one person creates a culture.”

- Jeff Polovick, President & Founder, DRIVING FORCE

Inuvik

Yukon Whitehorse

North West Territories

British Columbia Fort St. John Terrace Prince George Vancouver

Alberta

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Grande Prairie Fort McMurray (2) Fort Sask.

Edmonton West Edmonton South Leduc Calgary SE Saskatoon Calgary NE

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Nearly 500 employees at 22 locations all across Canada work together every day to create one of Canada’s 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures. Come to DRIVING FORCE and find out how our culture of service makes us a stand-out in vehicle rentals, sales and leasing.

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TF: 1•877•756•8349 3660–50 Avenue SE, Calgary TF: 1•877•753•8765

A Blueprint to Explosive Growth For 124 years the Calgary Chamber has been helping business owners grow their business through a variety of networking opportunities. The Chamber can help you increase your company’s profile through connections and referrals. Go to CalgaryChamber.com/Join for more information.

T

he first year of business for any small business owner is always the hardest. A lot of sleepless nights, overtime and the stress of keeping customers coming through the doors.

Last January, Fusion Therapy Services, a small company specializing in office ergonomics opened its doors, and turned to the Calgary Chamber to help them connect with the right people and grow their business.

Education and training are at the core of everything Fusion Therapy Services does – from informative and interactive lunch and learns to workstation setups and corporate massage days. In order to carry out these activities, Fusion Therapy Services needed to break into the Calgary market and get in front of the right people. Networking and business connections were crucial to the success and growth of Fusion Therapy over the last year.

“We felt welcome from the get-go.

We can really feel there is a wealth of information and knowledge we can draw from at the Chamber.” ~ Jo Ackerman, Fusion Therapy Services owner Fusion Therapy joined the Chamber just two months after opening in March, 2014 in order to develop relationships with as many Calgary business people as possible, and really start spreading the word about their business and services.

“We felt welcome from the get-go. We can really feel there is a wealth of information and knowledge we can draw from at the Chamber,” explains Fusion Therapy Services owner, Jo Ackerman. “Although we have only been a member for a short time, the impact on our business has been huge.”

The Fusion Therapy team

Starting out, Fusion Therapy Services faced two main challenges. The first was finding people in the professional service industry to help get their business up and running; such as marketers to build their brand, and accountants for tax advice.

The second challenge was, of course, to find clients.

Through the Chamber, Fusion Therapy was able to build business relationships with other members that have helped grow their company, including StartCanada Business Development Corp, who designed and now maintains their website. Direct introductions from the Chamber Member Services team, morning networking breakfasts and the Small Business Week Expo have connected Fusion Therapy with a number of people who have now placed business with them.

Now, less than a year later, Fusion Therapy is still growing and proudly serves many of Calgary’s top companies from a variety of industries.

Fusion Therapy Services is made up of licensed occupational and physical therapists as well as registered message therapists. With a wide range of skills, Fusion Therapy Services offers a truly comprehensive, varied and full ergonomic program tailored to an organization’s specific requirements. For more information visit FusionErgonomics.com.

86 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Chamber Member Spotlights The Calgary Chamber is proud to represent many Calgary businesses large and small; this month we are highlighting some of our industry leading members.

First Calgary Financial First Calgary Financial is a division of Connect First Credit Union with 16 retail branches in the greater Calgary area and 400 awesome employees serving 80,000 members. Over 75 years of building upon the pioneering spirit of their founders, First Calgary Financial continues to be an innovator in the credit union industry by creating products and services that help members realize their financial goals and dreams, like saving for retirement. A smart retirement plan starts with great advice. First Calgary Financial’s team of experts will provide the support needed to make investment decisions with confidence, and help create a plan to reach retirement goals.

For more information visit FirstCalgary.com.

Thanks The Chamber thanks the following companies and organizations celebrating significant anniversaries, not only for their years of support to the Calgary Chamber through membership, but also for their commitment to the growth and development of Calgary.

Santé Spa

Member name

Santé Spa at Hôtel Le Germain Calgary is the ultimate urban sanctuary, a perfect balance to the adrenalin-fuelled pace of modern life.

Carefully designed to embrace the senses with soothing introspective contemplation, the use of monochromatic tones and modern functional design create a warm and inviting atmosphere providing the ideal environment to explore the restorative powers of spa.

As a recognized leader in the Canadian spa industry, and unlike any other spa in the country, Santé Spa is excited to introduce their new advanced skincare and body treatments that help transform and rejuvenate.

For more information visit SanteSpa.com.

Years as a member

Canada Safeway Limited . . . . . . 50 The Westin Calgary . . . . . . . . . . 45 Credit Union Central Alberta Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 University of Calgary . . . . . . . . . 40 Alberta Processing Company . . . 30 Caltronics Communications . . . . 20 Southland Registrations . . . . . . . 20 Bearspaw Business Solutions. . . . 15 Canadian Fuels Association . . . . 15 JORI International Ltd. . . . . . . . . 15

Scientific Drilling Scientific Drilling International (SDI) is an independent service directional drilling and wellbore navigation service provider. SDI is globally positioned to support a wide range of markets including oil and gas, unconventional resources, geothermal and mining industries. Founded in 1969, SDI has assembled a unique combination of experienced professionals in both land and offshore drilling and a deep portfolio of innovative technologies, specializing in areas such as direct drilling, wellbore surveying, drill motor services, production logging and engineering planning. SDI is committed to providing a consistent supply of innovative technologies to meet the drilling challenges companies face today in the most cost-effective means possible.

For more information visit ScientificDrilling.com.

Petroleum Services Association of Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Alberta Innovates Technology Futures. . . . . . . . . . . 10 Alpine Insurance & Financial . . . 10 Calgary Heating & Cooling Ltd. . . 10 MEG Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 87

Upcoming Events One of the most important aspects of business is making new connections and growing a network. The Calgary Chamber helps you connect to other businesses, new customers and industry icons through networking and top-tier business events.

Looking for networking opportunities? Join the Calgary Chamber for one of its weekly networking breakfasts, or a monthly Business After Hours networking event.

For details and to purchase tickets for any of the Calgary Chamber’s events, please visit CalgaryChamber.com.

Tuesday, January 13, 2015 Calgary’s 2015 Small and Medium Economic Outlook 11:30am-1:30pm While many economic outlook discussions focus on the global picture, this event is designed to help small and medium business owners make good decisions in planning for 2015. You won’t want to miss two of Canada’s leading economists, Todd Hirsch, chief economist for ATB Financial, and Pierre Cléroux, chief economist for BDC, deliver their entrepreneur-centric economic forecast for 2015.

Thursday, January 15, 2015 Canada’s Finance Minister Joe Oliver 11:30am-1:30pm Minister Oliver will be speaking to Calgary’s business community to outline his priorities for the next phase of Canada’s economic action plan, the government’s plan to return to balanced budgets and continue growing the economy. Join Finance Minister Joe Oliver for an update on the financial and economic state of both our nation and the world.

Thursday, January 29, 2015 Business After Hours at Ruth’s Chris Steak House 5:30pm-7:30pm Get your chef hats on and join us for the next Business After Hours at one of the city’s finest steakhouses, Ruth’s Chris.

Don’t miss the chance to learn from the head chef how to cook your own Ruth’s Chris signature steak at home. What could make for a better networking experience than mingling with some of Calgary’s finest, while sipping on wine and sampling some of the best Alberta beef available.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Eurasia Group CEO Robert Johnson and Swearing In Ceremony of Incoming Calgary Chamber Board Chair 11:30am-1:30pm Celebrate with us at the 2015 swearing in ceremony of Rob Hawley, partner at PwC, as the new board chair of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, and hear from one of the world’s foremost global risk experts and CEO of the Eurasia Group, Robert Johnston, as he discusses global energy security and the new risks and opportunities that Calgary producers and consumers need to know.

88 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

HELPING TO DRIVE CALGARY’S ECONOMY: THE CALGARY TELUS CONVENTION CENTRE LOOKS BACK ON A SUCCESSFUL 2014 As a new year begins, the team at The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) is looking back to 2014 as a successful year contributing to business in Calgary. The CTCC has been a major economic contributor to the growth of the city of Calgary for the last 40 years, and the facility will continue to serve businesses in the city for many years to come.

The management team at the Centre continues to work on expansion plans that will ensure the facility continues to satisfy the demands of a vibrant local economy and the needs of event planners and guests from around the world.

expenditures of $34.3 million, and an additional contribution of 19.1 million in GDP for the local economy.

Each year activities at CTCC bring over $34 million in economic benefits to the Calgary economy.

Since the completion of a $69 million expansion project in 2000, the CTCC has helped to drive the local economy. The Centre is well known as a gathering place for a diverse range of events and for management and staff that truly reflect Calgary’s reputation as an enterprising city known for its forward thinking, fair dealing, and hospitable welcomes.

The Centre hosted over 600 events in 2014. These events ranged from small, intimate gatherings to large conventions with several thousand people in attendance. Highlights of 2014 at the CTCC were:

The CTCC benefits the local community directly through hotel and convention bookings. The secondary benefits the Centre brings occur when visitors explore all Calgary has to offer by utilizing transportation, dining, shopping, services, entertainment and attractions. An updated economic impact study completed in 2013, shows non-resident attendees spending on average $329 per show day for accommodation, transportation, entertainment, dining and retail purchases. In 2013, this spending resulted in total direct non-resident

• Vitalize held their 2014 Convention – which is the premier training and skills development conference for the nonprofit/voluntary sector in Alberta.

The Centre’s partnerships with key Calgary development and marketing organizations: Calgary Economic Development; Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel; Calgary Downtown Association; and the Calgary Hotel Association ensure the continuing vibrancy and growth of the downtown core. These marketing and communications partnerships leverage the spending of all partners and create more efficient budget allocations.

• tinePublic Inc. hosted, “A conversation with Hillary Rodham Clinton.”

• Valour Canada held the General Sir Arthur Currie Award Gala, connecting Canadians to their military heritage.

• The 47th Annual Canadian Employee Benefits Conference hosted over 1,400 nationwide delegates to the city.

2014 was another great year for Calgary and the CTCC. And 2015 will continue to support Calgary businesses for the next 40 years and beyond.

calgary-convention.com | expandthecentre.ca

The Resilient Strength of Calgary - 2014 Year-End

I

ncreasingly, Calgary is known for its excellent quality of life; however, economic growth, employment opportunities and higher wages continue to draw people to the area. The Conference Board of Canada estimates Calgary’s GDP will grow at a rate of 3.4 per cent in 2014. This rate of GDP growth is generating a considerable number of jobs in Calgary with an estimated 27,100 jobs being created in 2014. Reinforcing Calgary’s position as a destination for Canada’s best and brightest, average weekly earnings in Alberta increased by 5.1 per cent year over year in August 2014.

Calgary’s economic success is reflected in the recordbreaking population growth currently being experienced. In May, the City of Calgary released its annual civic census.

Calgary expanded by a record-breaking 38,508 people (3.3 per cent annual growth) in the 12 months leading up to March 31, 2014. Even more noteworthy is that this growth was primarily due to people moving to Calgary with 28,017 people migrating here, of which approximately 52 per cent were international migrants. With Calgary now a first-choice destination for new Canadians, our city is fully immersed in the global war on talent, whereas historically we more often were a secondary choice for immigrants. Over the past three years, the increase to Calgary’s population is equivalent to adding Alberta’s third largest city, Red Deer, to Calgary.

As a city and community, we need to be mindful of the implications of a strong economy. Housing and rental prices are also growing at a faster pace in Calgary than anywhere else in the country. However, with nearly 114,000 people living in poverty, these rising prices will challenge the city to provide affordable housing to all demographic cohorts.

During this past year Calgary also witnessed healthy diversification in the economy outside of the energy sector as other industries continue to see Calgary as a place to grow and expand. The transportation and logistics sector is rapidly expanding as companies see the Calgary region as the prime location for western Canadian distribution centres.

In addition to further solidify the significance of Calgary as a distribution hub, Cathay Pacific launched a twice-weekly cargo flight from Hong Kong to Calgary in 2014.

Other notable projects include the groundbreaking of the Calgary Film Centre. The centre will be an important part of the film, television and creative industries sector in southern Alberta, with over 80,000 square feet of purpose-built facilities to support indigenous, national and international screen-based productions.

90 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Calgary’s economic success is reflected in the record-breaking population growth currently being experienced.

In May, the City of Calgary released its annual civic census.

While the wind has been at our backs, the concern at the close of 2014 is the relatively recent precipitous drop in the price of oil. The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) hovered near US$100 through the front half of the year but has declined by approximately 30 per cent since June. There are predictions that the price of WTI will hover between US$75 and US$85 throughout 2015 which might result in a slowdown in the pace of economic and employment growth for Calgary in 2015. However, there is still considerable optimism for 2015 as lower oil prices will be a boon to the global economy and perhaps lead to less wage pressure and potentially lower cost of doing business closer to home providing stimulation to non-energy industries in Calgary.

Welcoming 2015 with a Strategic Focus

BY CASSANDRA MCAULEY

I

n December, 2014, Tourism Calgary presented its 2015-17 Strategic Plan to industry partners. This plan builds on the momentum that began in 2014, and outlines how the organization plans to achieve its goal of generating $2.3 billion in tourism revenue by 2020, and its ambition to make Calgary the most successful urban tourism destination in Canada.

Central to the destination marketing organization’s strategy is a focus on the following five areas:

Disciplined planning and ROI Every decision is evaluated by its return on investment.

For many investments, measurement is clear and revenue generated can be identified. In other areas, results are less easily measured. That will not diminish the discipline used, nor will the team cease making each investment as measurable as possible.

Inspiration and conversion

The destination brand drives

Fundamentally, marketing the destination has two components: inspiring people to want to come to Calgary and converting their interest to an actual trip. In long-haul markets, this means building awareness, then inspiration. In short-haul marke ts, Tourism Calgary invests more heavily in conversion because the interest already exists.

This focus applies just as strongly to sport and major event efforts. To create a winning bid, it is essential to both inspire and engage the key stakeholders.

everything Tourism Calgary does. It is how

Destination vision

successful. By aligning with community peers, Tourism Calgary can build a more compelling offer and bring a broader range of visitors to our city.

As much as a destination marketing organization needs to focus on the opportunities in front of them to drive revenue, it is equally important to have a long-term vision for the destination. Does Calgary have the experiences and product we need? Is Tourism Calgary working with the right stakeholders? Is the industry getting the support it needs? How competitive will our destination be in three, five or 10 years?

Initial work to build a vision has begun, and these are some of the essential questions that Tourism Calgary will work with industry partners to answer.

Alignment Alignment is essential to successful tourism marketing.

By aligning with industry, Tourism Calgary will increase conversion and help make partner marketing efforts more

we inspire and convert visitors, it shapes the destination vision, it determines what is measured and it guides alignment.

Destination brand The destination brand drives everything Tourism Calgary does. It is how we inspire and convert visitors, it shapes the destination vision, it determines what is measured and it guides alignment.

Increasingly, research shows that destinations without a clear brand suffer from a lack of differentiation and struggle to increase visitations. By making the brand a central focus, results are ensured.

These five areas of focus will guide Tourism Calgary’s work to be the most successful urban tourism destination in Canada. This ambition will be operationalized through the corporate strategy that is available on visitcalgary.com. businessincalgary.com | BUSINESS IN CALGARY January 2015 • 91

New Initiative to Accelerate World-Class, Game-Changing Energy Technologies

BY ANDREA MENDIZABAL

I

nnovate Calgary is pleased to introduce Kinetica Ventures (Kinetica), a new initiative focused on accelerating worldclass energy technologies to help industry partners address challenges and increase competitive advantages via access to emerging innovation.

This comes following an announcement made by the Government of Canada to provide $3 million in funding over the next five years to Innovate Calgary to develop an energy technology accelerator program. This funding is part of the Canada Accelerator and Incubator Program (CAIP), which is also providing funding support for TEC Edmonton’s Health Accelerator initiative.

“This funding provides an opportunity to assist energy technology companies to de-risk and commercialize their innovations, helping increase the long-term economic prosperity of Alberta through the adoption of transformative energy technologies,” says Peter Garrett, president, Innovate Calgary.

Powered by Innovate Calgary, Kinetica will bridge the gap between the energy industry and technology innovators. It will be a uniquely industry-driven program, working closely with key partners in the energy sector to identify their most pressing challenges in four areas:

Hydrocarbon Recovery: Efficiencies, resource management, waste disposal, product quality (conventional, oil sands, nat gas, etc.)

Energy Transport: Monitoring, efficiency, safety alternative materials

Carbon: Capture, re-use, disposal

Renewable Energy: Reduces cost, grid interconnection and storage, biofuels 92 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

“As energy prices continue to change, energy companies with enhanced access to innovative technologies will enjoy an increasingly important competitive advantage.” ~ Kevin Frankowski Kinetica will assist local, national and international technology researchers and entrepreneurs by providing access to the necessary capital, expertise and relationships to commercialize their industry-validated technologies more efficiently and cost effectively, and achieve faster adoption by energy sector partners.

“As energy prices continue to change, energy companies with enhanced access to innovative technologies will enjoy an increasingly important competitive advantage. We intend for this to be a ‘made in Canada’ story,” says Kevin Frankowski, program lead for Kinetica.

Kinetica is based in Alberta, an international energy hub, with access to world-class expertise, field trial opportunities and first customers. Many of the world’s largest energy companies are headquartered in Calgary and are contributing to the success of Kinetica and the entrepreneurs and technology development it facilitates.

As a leading technology transfer and commercialization centre, Innovate Calgary works closely with startups, entrepreneurs, researchers and investors from the advanced tech sector to take innovation and ideas to the next stage of growth. Innovate Calgary has been successfully contributing to the growth and acceleration of the advanced technology sector for more than 30 years.

To learn more about Kinetica Ventures, visit www. kineticaventures.com. To learn more about Innovate Calgary and how it supports new and emerging technology, visit www.innovatecalgary.com.

MAKE POWERFUL CONNECTIONS AT THE CENTRE OF ENERGY

IN 2014, MORE THAN 600 DIVERSE GROUPS CONNECTED AT THE CALGARY TELUS CONVENTION CENTRE – FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

calgary-convention.com

marketingmatters • David Parker

Marketingmatters

BY DAVID PARKER

T

oday’s technology allows for instant transportation of creative worldwide and Calgary’s creative communicators are enjoying growth in national and international business.

Kicker Inc. is a prime example. Now in its eighth year, president Paul Bzeta reports that 50 per cent of its video production is for clients in the U.S. After graduating from SAIT Polytechnic, Bzeta began a career as a broadcast journalist working in Edmonton for ITV and then in Calgary at both CTV and CBC networks. Later he joined Corus Entertainment as director of advanced advertising.

Finding new advertising products for clients and his storytelling covering the legislature and Alberta business was a good grounder for the launch of his own company in 2005.

Kicker was born in his home basement as a one-man band but by spending his saved money on Google advertising he was soon able to hire staff and contract workers.

Today Google is a client of Kicker.

It is shooting here for its London, U.K. office.

Bzeta says when he started it was a job to convince clients that they needed video. Now, “Everyone knows they need video, I just have to convince them why they should choose me,” he says.

Locally he enjoys working with a variety of corporations and associations but Kicker is also expanding rapidly in the U.S. resulting in Bzeta opening an office in New York.

••••••••••••••

It was so good to be able to welcome Hy’s Steakhouse and Cocktail Bar back to Calgary, sorely missed since it closed its restaurant on 4th Avenue at the end of 2006. It was back in 1955 when founder Hy Aisenstat opened his first Hy’s in Calgary.

President Neil Aisenstat gave the responsibility of telling Calgarians about the new 10,000-square-foot space in The Core at the corner of 8th Avenue and 3rd Street SW to Calgary’s Anstice Communications.

Sisters Sheenah and Lana Rogers have carved out an interesting group of accounts for their five-year-old agency, several in the hospitality and real estate industries. They include River Café and Model Milk, Heritage Pointe’s new Artesia residential development, and Western Securities’ new tower at Union Square and its planned redevelopment of Stadium Shopping Centre.

Most exciting is Anstice’s relationship with Los Cabos Tourism, organizing familiarization trips to the premier destination of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula for Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver journalists.

•••••••••••••• Dan King, president and executive creative director at ZGM Collaborative Marketing, reports on capping a great year with the winning of a pitch for RBC to assist it with communications into the agricultural market.

“RBC was looking for a strategic partner based in the West to help positioning, planning and advertising for the commercial agricultural market.

We’re thrilled to be working with a great team of people and an amazing brand,” says King.

Other recent wins include Nature Conservancy of Canada’s online and printed annual report, Alberta Health Services’ Big Burn campaign, an enhanced scope of service for Alberta

94 • January 2015 BUSINESS IN CALGARY | businessincalgary.com

Distance Learning Centre, Telus Spark’s mobile site, and ZGM was chosen as a selected vendor for the Alberta Securities Commission.

The new business has increased staff to over 40 in Calgary and another 10 in its Edmonton office.

•••••••••••••• Last month I announced that Alexis MacKenzie had joined Brookfield Residential as senior manager of marketing communications for the Calgary market. Since then she has been joined by Lori Cote as communications and community relations manager for Brookfield Alberta.

Cote has been the voice of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts for the western mountain region for nearly 10 years as regional director of public relations working out of the Fairmont Banff Springs, but worked in Calgary prior to that for both Travel Alberta and Tourism Calgary.

•••••••••••••• Calgary’s marketing and communications industry enjoyed a banner year in 2014 so now it’s time to look back over the work done and pull out the best pieces for submission into Ad Rodeo’s Anvil Awards.

Call for entries is open until the end of January; for info and categories visit adrodeo.com.

And mark your calendars for the Award’s Gala to be held at the Jack Singer Concert Hall on Friday, April 17. BiC

Parker’s Pick: Woodruff Sweitzer’s awardwinning posters for Beaumont Blues and Roots Festival.

HASKAYNE, BISSETT OR CHIU. Which School of Business is right for you?

You are fortunate to have three business schools named after Calgary business leaders – Chiu School of Business, Bissett School of Business, Haskayne School of Business – as well as SAIT and the Calgary campuses of the University of Lethbridge and Athabasca University as options. But which one is right for you?

Check out all of your options at bowvalleycollege.ca/yourfuture, then choose the one that’s right for you.

Chiu School of Business The world needs you, so let’s get going.