This conference is a rare opportunity for active investors interested in the energy sector to interact with 45 CEOs and other executives, domestic and international: Exploration & Producers, Energy Services, Royalties, Clean Tech & Innovation, and Critical Materials for a renewable future. Besides hearing 35 minute presentations, you can meet the executives at their exhibit booths throughout the day.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Hello Members,
I hope everyone got to enjoy the summer and based on the traffic to get to downtown I would say that it is a good bet! Although it’s sad to say goodbye to our short summers, fall is an exciting time with kids going back to school and everyone refreshed and ready for new adventures. With the changing seasons the Club is excited about the new menus and selections for everyone to try!
You may have seen an email come through; but in case you missed I wanted to make sure everyone saw that Toni Marie has been chosen as the Club Managers Association of Canada (CMAC) Club Manager of the Year for 2024!! If you know Toni well this is obviously very well deserved and we are excited to help her celebrate the recognition.
The Club has never looked better as the maintenance department, led by Mark McHardy, has done an amazing job of completing upgrades, and maintenance. You will notice the dance floors in the McMurray room and Devonian Ballroom have all been refurbished.
Speaking of celebrating and dance floors I want to invite you to join me for the annual President’s Party that will take place November 2 (see page 28 for more details). We will be having a Halloween themed party with SNB 80’s Tribute band leading the way.
I’m really looking forward to connecting with our members!
David Langlois President Calgary Petroleum Club
Kim Williams
Navigating Calgary’s Real Estate Market in 2024: Insights from Paul Ackerman
Are you thinking about buying or selling your home in Calgary? You may be feeling uncertain about the ever-changing market and the roller coaster of mortgage rates. You’re not alone! As a Realtor in Calgary, I’ve seen firsthand how these shifts have impacted buyers and sellers alike, and I’m here to share some insights that might help you make informed decisions.
We all remember the unprecedented low mortgage rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who locked in those rates have held onto them tightly, while others have faced decade-high rates not seen since the early 2000s. Thankfully, we’re starting to see some relief as rates slowly decline, with promises of another drop this September.
Despite these fluctuations, Calgary’s real estate market has shown remarkable resilience, with property values increasing yearly by over 10% in most areas. Calgary’s unique blend of natural beauty, bustling corporate life, and affordable living continues to attract buyers from larger cities like Vancouver and Toronto. Our lower taxes and cost of living are major draws for those
looking to relocate, contributing to a tight rental market and a complex landscape for both buyers and sellers. This unique appeal should make you feel confident about the market’s potential.
When we compare July 2024 to July 2022, we notice something interesting: the number of sales remained nearly the same, with only a 2% decrease, but there were 21% fewer available listings. The average home price has surged by over 23% in 2024, now exceeding $600,000. What does this mean for buyers and sellers? In short, it’s a seller’s market where properties are selling fast and for significantly more money. Buyers often find themselves in bidding wars, forced to waive conditions to secure a home, while sellers face the challenge
of selling their property for enough to afford their next one.
In fact, we could call this a ‘Downsizer Market.’ Home prices have risen by about 10%, with townhomes seeing the most significant increase of nearly 20%. New home sales have also surged as developers work to catch up on projects delayed by the pandemic. This is a clear indication that demand continues to outstrip supply, a trend that’s likely to persist as Calgary remains an attractive destination for those seeking a balance between quality of life, which refers to the overall well-being and satisfaction a person gets from their environment, and affordability, which refers to the ability to comfortably meet financial obligations.
As we move into the fall, the market is starting its usual slowdown, though it’s not as slow as some might expect. With an anticipated mortgage rate drop on the horizon, you might wonder if it’s better to wait until then to sell and buy or if you should sell now and be ready to capitalize on that rate drop the moment it happens.
These decisions are highly personal, a bit of an equation unique to each individual’s situation. Home values have increased over the last two years, but the higher mortgage rates have made it difficult for some to sell and capture that gain. Others who are downsizing have yet to be as impacted. With prices seeming to stabilize and mortgage rates (fingers crossed) continuing to decrease, we anticipate a slight settling of the market—a bit of a breather, if you will.
But as we’ve seen from years of being on this real estate roller coaster, everything is flexible, and predicting the future is never straightforward. That’s why I always advise my clients to do what’s best for their unique situation. Speak to a Realtor and a mortgage broker to determine the best path for you and your home. This market and industry are never black and white, and there’s a different path for every homeowner, seller, and buyer.
It’s also worth noting that Calgary’s market dynamics are influenced by broader economic factors, including employment rates and ongoing infrastructure developments like
the Green Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) project. These developments make certain neighbourhoods more attractive, potentially increasing property values in those areas. For investors, this means keeping a close eye on emerging opportunities that align with long-term growth prospects.
Calgary’s real estate market is not just about numbers and trends; it’s about people and communities. The decisions you make in this market have a direct impact on your lifestyle, your financial health, and your future. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to accommodate a growing family, or downsizing to simplify your life, each choice requires careful consideration and planning. And that’s where I come in— to help you navigate these
decisions with confidence and clarity.
In this market, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared. If you’re contemplating a move, whether buying or selling, now is the time to have a conversation. Let’s sit down over a coffee at Brew 319 and discuss your goals, your concerns, and the best strategies to achieve the results you want. With the right guidance and a tailored approach, you can make the most of the opportunities available in Calgary.
Your CPC member and friend,
Realtor Paul Ackerman
Paul Ackerman is a seasoned Calgary Realtor. Known for his deep market knowledge and client-focused approach, Paul helps buyers and sellers navigate the Calgary real estate landscape with confidence and ease. You can usually find Paul at Brew 319, enjoying a coffee and always ready for a conversation about real estate.
MEMBER MIXER
NETWORKING CASH BAR COMPLIMENTARY TASTING
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
UPCOMING DATES
SEPTEMBER 12th
OCTOBER 10th
NOVEMBER 14th
VETERANS FOODBANK
DECEMBER 19th
The Calgary Petroleum Club recently had the pleasure of hosting a captivating conversation with W. Brett Wilson, one of Canada’s most renowned entrepreneurs. Known for his unconventional journey from a smalltown upbringing in Saskatchewan to becoming a leading figure in Calgary’s energy sector, Wilson shared his insights on entrepreneurship, collaboration, and the art of mingling. His approach to business, deeply rooted in community and teamwork, offers valuable lessons for seasoned professionals and young entrepreneurs.
Achieving Success through Collaboration and Mingling
From Small Town Saskatchewan to Calgary’s Energy Hub
W. Brett Wilson’s journey is as inspiring as it is unconventional. Growing up in a small town in Saskatchewan, Wilson’s early influences shaped his values of community engagement and meaningful connections, which have remained central to his business philosophy.
Wilson reflected on his upbringing: “I think it’s pretty important to share that my mom was a social worker, my dad was a car salesman. Often, I compare that social worker-car salesman influence to explain why I’m a capitalist with a heart.” This balance between empathy and business acumen has been a defining characteristic of Wilson’s approach to entrepreneurship.
After completing his degree in civil engineering from the
University of Saskatchewan, Wilson, like many of his peers, made the natural migration to Calgary, drawn by the booming energy sector. However, it wasn’t engineering that would define his career; instead, it was investment banking. Wilson’s ability to pivot and adapt to new opportunities led him to co-found FirstEnergy Capital, a brokerage firm that would grow to support over 200 charities and become a powerhouse in the industry.
The Power of Collaboration
One of the most striking themes of Wilson’s discussion was the emphasis on collaboration. In a world where the narrative of the “self-made” entrepreneur often dominates, Wilson’s success story is refreshingly different. He credits much of his success to the teams and partnerships he has cultivated.
“I did nothing as I; it was always we,” Wilson emphasized. From his early ventures with Wilson Mackie to the success of FirstEnergy, Wilson has consistently relied on collaboration to achieve his goals.
For instance, his partnership with Jamie Mackie, and the joint effort with his partners at FirstEnergy, are clear examples of how collaboration has been instrumental in his success. Whether it was with his business partners or the community at large, Wilson’s approach has always been inclusive.
He recalled FirstEnergy’s early days when the company sought to engage more deeply with the community. “We realized that we wanted to make some donations… But we wanted to connect with our client base, not randomly, but with a client base.” This strategic philanthropy helped build stronger relationships with clients and established FirstEnergy as a community leader.
Mingling: The Secret to Building a Network
Wilson’s success is also closely tied to his exceptional networking skills, which he calls ‘mingling.’ This term, far from the transactional networking often associated with business, refers to his approach of building genuine, meaningful connections. It’s about more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about getting to know people on a personal level, understanding their needs and aspirations, and finding ways to support each other.
One key piece of advice Wilson shared was the importance of engaging with people on a personal level. “The secret is simple: ask their name, use their name,” he advised, recounting an experience
walking through an airport with George Stroumboulopoulos, who emphasized the power of these small but significant gestures. Wilson’s dedication to mingling was evident in his early career, particularly at the Calgary Petroleum Club. This club, a hub for business professionals and entrepreneurs, played a significant role in Wilson’s networking strategy. He spent a considerable amount of time there, engaging with peers and clients. “I was at the Petroleum Club on average 8 to 9 times a week… I came here to mingle,” Wilson shared, highlighting how these interactions were pivotal in building his business network.
This philosophy extends beyond business interactions. For Wilson, mingling is about building a community—whether that’s through philanthropy, business partnerships, or casual conversations. He believes young professionals need to cultivate this skill if they want to succeed in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Lessons for the Next Generation Wilson offered some sage advice for young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs as the conversation wrapped up. He stressed the importance of getting out of one’s comfort zone, engaging with others, and building a supportive network. “It’s not about the quantity, folks. It’s about the quality,” Wilson remarked, underscoring the value of meaningful connections over superficial ones.
Wilson’s journey, from his smalltown roots to becoming a celebrated figure in Calgary’s business community, is a testament to the power of collaboration, community engagement, and the art of
mingling. His insights, which provide a roadmap for building a successful and impactful career, are invaluable for members of the Calgary Petroleum Club and the broader business community, enlightening them on the key principles of entrepreneurship and networking.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your horizons, Wilson’s advice is clear:
• Surround yourself with good people.
• Engage with your community.
• Never underestimate the power of a good mingle.
You can catch W. Brett Wilson’s full interview on Calgary Petroleum Club’s Back to Business podcast. Don’t forget to attend CPC’s monthly member mixers for a great opportunity to practice your mingling skills!
W. Brett Wilson is a renowned Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former investment banker. Known for his role on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, Wilson co-founded FirstEnergy Capital, which was a leading investment firm in Calgary’s energy sector. His business philosophy emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and strategic philanthropy, making him a respected figure in both the business and charitable communities.
NEW FALL MENUS!
Summer has come to an end and I’m excited to bring new menus to your experience here at the club, from earthy breakfast, comforting lunches or robust main courses... and don’t forget desserts!
The Fall menus are a delightful way to celebrate the season. Autumn offers a rich palette of root vegetable, hearty greens, crisp apples and pears and a warm invitation to enjoy a delicious meal at the Club and be in good company. This is what I hope to bring to your table with the new menus now available in the Renfrew and Forester’s Lounges.
Join us for any occasion, and don’t miss out on this exciting experience.
Remember to check our entertainment guide for more dining activities and upcoming special events.
Building Bridges and Loyalty: Insights from Laureen Regan on the Power of Community and Rewards
In the ever-evolving business world, where customer loyalty and employee engagement are paramount, the Calgary Petroleum Club (CPC) fosters connections and provides unparalleled value to its members. At the heart of this mission is a commitment to creating meaningful relationships that drive success for individuals and entire organizations.
This commitment was recently highlighted in an engaging conversation with Laureen Regan, the founder of Boom Group, on the CPC’s “Back to Business” podcast.
Laureen Regan, a self-motivated entrepreneur with roots in Ireland, has dedicated her career to building communities and fostering loyalty through innovative strategies. Her journey, which began with her mother’s entrepreneurial spirit, has led her to create Boom Group, a member rewards platform that bridges the gap between businesses, employees, and customers.
The Power of Community and Connection
Born in Ireland, Laureen moved to Canada with her family at a young age. This experience of constantly adapting to new environments shaped her understanding of the
importance of community and connection—values that have become the cornerstone of her business philosophy. “I think that all of that moving laid down the foundation for the ability to be an entrepreneur and do my own business,” Laureen shared during the podcast. “You learn empathy because if you’ve seen other people who maybe don’t walk into a room and aren’t comfortable, you’ve seen that look. So you know how to welcome them in.”
The Calgary Petroleum Club aims to foster this sense of welcoming and belonging among its members. The Club’s community is not just about networking; it’s about building lasting relationships to support and enhance each member’s business journey. Laureen’s insights into creating community resonate deeply with the CPC’s mission, as she highlights
the importance of being part of something bigger—whether it’s within the business world or across international borders.
Bridging International Borders: The Bilateral Trade Corridor
In addition to her work with Boom Group, Laureen plays a significant role in fostering international business relations between Alberta and Ireland. As the Honorary Vice Consul for Trade and Investment, she has created a bilateral trade corridor that opens new business opportunities in both regions. “It’s creating a bilateral trade corridor between Ireland and Alberta and finding ways to tell the story to Alberta businesses about the Irish economy,” Laureen explained. “For example, in May, I brought over the fourth trade mission in partnership with Calgary Petroleum Club.”
This initiative demonstrates CPC’s dedication to providing its members access to global markets
missions, gain insights into new markets, and establish valuable international connections. It’s another example of how the Club goes beyond traditional networking to offer tangible benefits that can significantly impact its members’ businesses.
The Value of Membership: Access to Boom Group
One of the standout benefits of being a CPC member is access to the Boom Group platform, a unique member rewards program that Laureen has expertly developed. Boom Group operates on a three-sided model: member companies, retailers, and individual members. This model ensures that everyone involved gains value through discounts, special offers, or enhanced engagement.
“For our member companies, we’re delivering a fully managed rewards program,” Laureen noted. “We know we have great brands, all the top brands, hundreds you can imagine. We know we have great employers and great member companies. We know
the members want to use it, but how do we ensure that we’re helping and supporting all those things to grow simultaneously? And that’s customer care, and it’s connecting.”
The benefits of Boom Group extend beyond mere savings; they’re about creating a sense of belonging and value. For example, members can save on everything from home and auto insurance to travel and car rentals. These savings are not just about cutting costs—they’re about enhancing members’ overall quality of life, making them feel valued and appreciated by their employers or associations.
A Commitment to Value and Innovation
Laureen’s approach to business is deeply aligned with the values of the Calgary Petroleum Club. Both entities are committed to providing continuous value to their members through innovative programs like Boom Group or opportunities to engage with global markets.
How to Activate Your BOOM Rewards
To get started, enter the url below, scroll down and enter your CPC Membership number and the CPC exclusive activation code: cpcmem24
URL Link: boomgroup.com/cpc-m-boom
“You must keep looking for those new opportunities,” Laureen emphasized. “We launched Boom Travel, for example, last April, to much fanfare and huge success.” This continuous innovation keeps the CPC and Boom Group at the forefront of their respective fields. They share the belief that to truly succeed, you must constantly evolve and find new ways to add value— whether that’s through exclusive member benefits, international trade opportunities, or fostering a strong, supportive community.
A Partnership for Success
The conversation with Laureen Regan on the “Back to Business” podcast highlights the synergies
a perk—it’s a gateway to a world of local and global opportunities.
As the Calgary Petroleum Club continues to support and connect Calgary’s business leaders, partnerships like the one with Boom Group exemplify the Club’s dedication to providing unparalleled value to its members. Whether you’re looking to expand your business horizons, save on everyday expenses, or be part of a thriving community, the CPC and Boom Group have something unique to offer.
You can catch Laureen Regan’s full interview on Calgary Petroleum Club’s Back to
Laureen Regan is the founder and CEO of Boom Group, a member rewards platform that
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4TH, 2024 6:30 PM $137 PER PERSON $125 SVD MEMBER
Take Your Events To The Next Level With Event Storytelling
What is Event Storytelling? Simply put, it’s communicating a message through a shared experience. Whether it’s a brand story or a love story; bringing people together to receive a message at the same time while sharing a moment, an experience, a feeling … is powerful. When something is shared it resonates and creates connection. A carefully curated shared experience can have lasting impact, and that increases the return on investment.
When crafting a shared experience you need to clearly understand the who, what and why. It’s best to begin with what. What is it that you want to share? Is it a product or service or is it something deeper? Are you telling your audience about a tangible thing or are you welcoming them in to experience your brand ethos? An event can do both, but the one that is grounded in something deeper, has more impact. Next, focus on the who. Who is this for? What are they looking for and how do they best receive information? Most importantly, what do they already think and know about your brand? Finally it’s the why. Why this message, to this audience at this moment? What change are you looking to make? What needs to resonate?
Event Storytelling can be applied to all manner of events from product launches to weddings to fundraisers. If people are coming together, it’s an opportunity to communicate a message.
Kimberly Beaune, CMP CSEP, is the Owner and Event Strategist at Creative Twist Inc. An awardwinning event planning and design firm. What stories can she help you tell? Visit creativetwist.ca
No matter how you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, our buffet is the perfect blend of tradition and taste to make your holiday special.
Our menu will feature classic Thanksgiving dishes with a modern twist, and we will have a variety of drinks to accompany your meal.
MEMBER NEWS
Celebrating Excellence: Toni-Marie Ion-Brown Named Club Manager of the Year
The Calgary Petroleum Club proudly announces that General Manager, Toni-Marie Ion-Brown, has been recognized as the Club Manager of the Year by the Club Management Association of Canada (CMAC). This prestigious honour underscores Toni-Marie’s remarkable contributions to the club industry and her dedication to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic environment at the Calgary Petroleum Club.
Toni-Marie’s journey to this accolade reflects her passion, leadership, and visionary ap proach to club management. Growing up in rural Alberta, Toni-Marie discovered her love for connecting with people during an exchange program in Japan, which sparked a lifelong commit ment to building meaning ful relationships.
Since joining the Calgary Petroleum Club in 1990 as a server, Toni-Marie has risen through the ranks to become the club’s first female General Manager in 2017. In her current role, she has transformed the club, driving changes that have made it more inclusive and adaptable to the evolving needs of its members.
Following the club’s recent 75th anniversary, Toni-Marie’s recognition as Club Manager of the Year is a fitting acknowledgment of her three decades of service and leadership. Her achievements reflect both her success and the growth of the club under her guidance. With the Calgary economy on the rise, Toni-Marie’s leadership promises a bright future for the Calgary Petroleum Club.
The entire Calgary Petroleum Club community congratulates Toni-Marie Ion-Brown on this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication and leadership continue to set a high standard for club management across Canada. We are proud to have her at the helm, confident that the Calgary Petroleum Club will remain a cornerstone of the city’s business community for years to come.
Under her leadership, the Calgary Petroleum Club has embraced innovation while preserving its heritage. Toni-Marie’s vision brought about unique features like the club’s podcast studio, which offers a platform for diverse voices. She also introduced versatile spaces like the Brew 319 work bar area, catering to the diverse needs of the club’s members.
Toni-Marie’s hands-on approach to management has strengthened the club’s community, making it a place where business thrives and lifelong connections are made.
For more information on the Club Management Association of Canada’s awards program and the 2024 National Conference, visit the CMAC website at thecmac.ca.
SOCIÉTÉ DE VIN PRESENTS
SHAFER WINE DINNER
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25TH
$330 PP
SVD $297
Join us for an exquisite evening at our upcoming wine dinner, featuring a curated selection of wines from the prestigious Shafer Winery. Our special guest, Jason Denis, the General Manager of Renaissance Wine Merchants, will guide us through a delightful tasting experience. Savor the rich flavors and nuanced aromas of Shafer's finest vintages while enjoying a gourmet meal crafted to complement each pour. This is a unique opportunity to learn from an industry expert and indulge in a memorable culinary journey
RSVP ONLINE OR EMAIL CPCEVENT@CALPETECLUB.COM 6:30 PM
WOMEN IN WEALTH
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29TH, 2024
$45 PER PERSON
MASTER YOUR MONEY 12:00 PM HELPING WOMEN ACHIEVE FINANCIAL GROWTH INCLUDES PLATED LUNCH
Megan started in financial services in 2008 and has provided top-tier advice to highnet-worth families and ultra-affluent clients for over a decade. Drawing upon the full depth and breadth of a trusted team of BMO Private Wealth specialists, she offers unbiased, integrated and multi-disciplinary wealth management solutions to help clients achieve their financial goals, manage the complexities of significant wealth, enjoy a seamless cross-border experience, and increase their net worth over time. A few areas of particular focus and interest are developing retirement income strategies, mitigating risk, tax efficiencies before and in retirement and intergenerational wealth transfer and protection strategies.
BMO Nesbitt Burns is one of North America’s leading full-service investment firms. It has been committed to helping clients meet their investment objectives and goals since 1912. BMO’s world-class research and portfolio-building resources and team of professionals to assist with estate planning, cross border, complex tax issues and banking needs empower Megan to deliver complete and integrated wealth leadership.
PETROLEUM CLUB PRESENTS
IN HONOUR OF CPC PRESIDENT DAVID LANGLOIS
Saturday, November 2nd 6:30 pm $220 per person
WITH ALL FOOD AND DRINK INCLUDED, YOU’RE IN FOR A TREAT (NO TRICKS!).
Live Music: SNB 80's Tribute
Dress Code: Halloween
Parking: Bow Valley Square
CRASH
COCKTAILS COURSE
Attention all cocktail enthusiasts and aspiring mixologists! Join our talented bar manager Matt Doherty, who will guide you through the unforgettable journey into the world of mixology. An exclusive Cocktail Masterclass and Tasting Party, where you'll uncover the secrets behind crafting 6 perfect cocktails while indulging in an interactive experience like no other.
Guests and non-members welcome
THURS. NOVEMBER 7TH 6:00 PM
$80
PRIVATE CASK DINNER
DATE
We ask all Club members to please email a recent headshot of yourself to: memberships@calpeteclub.com so that we can add this to your electronic member file. This will enhance the security of your membership and assist our staff In getting to know you by name.
It’s Personal is one of our core values, and knowing you by name reinforces this value.
You can also upload a photo of yourself, via the members side of the Club website.
If you require assistance logging in, contact the club at 403-260-6367 or by email: contactus@calpeteclub.com
FIND US ON YOUR FAVOURITE PODCAST PLAYERS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18TH, 2024 11:30 PM | $105 PER PERSON Join us for a festive afternoon with Calgary's Holiday Tradition! Enjoy a delightful lunch at the CPC followed by a heartwarming performance of "A Christmas Carol" at Theatre Calgary. It's the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with great food and a classic holiday story. Transportation is not included
THE PLAY RSVP TO CPCEVENT@CALPETECLUB.COM
On Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits, who take him on a journey into his past, present, and future to show him the errors of his ways. Dickens’ classic holiday tale comes alive on the Theatre Calgary stage, with stunning sets and costumes and the return of Doug McKeag as Scrooge. See why A Christmas Carol has become a holiday tradition for so many Calgarians.
Club Hours
Monday-Friday: 7am-close
Saturday: 5pm-close
Club Closures:
Mon, Sep 2: Labour Day
Sat, Sep 7 — Scheduled Club Closure
Mon, Sep 30: Truth and Reconciliation
Mon, Oct 14: Thanksgiving
Sat, Nov 9: Remembrance Day
Mon, Nov 11: Remembrance Day
Dec 22 - Jan 6: Holiday Closure
319 5th Avenue SW Calgary, Alberta T2P 0L5 contactus@calpeteclub.com 403-269-7981
