2009 Annual Award Recipients

The Economic Developer of the Year Award was presented to Richard Pootmans of Calgary Economic Development acknowledging his significant contribution to the local economy and to the profession of economic development.  Richard’s professionalism and industry knowledge enable him to bring industry to the table in order to organize successful projects. Richard organized two missions to the Middle East, led by Calgary’s Mayor, joined by representatives from 10 real estate developers.  These missions showcased more than $15 billion of investment opportunities with more than $1 billion currently under negotiation. Richard also led teams that landed a 10 acre, 150,000 sq. ft. multi-temp public distribution facility and a 375,000 sq.ft. appliance manufacturing business distribution center.

The EDA Marketing Alberta Awards were presented to Calgary Economic Development for its "Calgary Lure" and "Calgary e-brochure"; Grande Cache for its "Death Fest 2008” program mailbox drop and distribution promotional tool; and partners of Alberta Southwest, SouthGrow, Palliser Economic Partnership and Calgary Regional Partnership for their "Reel Adventures Alberta Movie Maps" partnership promotional tool. This partnership also included Travel Alberta, Alberta Film Commission and Community Futures Chinook.

Finally, the President’s Award recognizes an individual in the Association that has made a significant contribution to the organization, and is selected by the President of EDA.  This year’s award was presented to Leona Hanson for her outstanding contributions to the organization.  Leona was a long standing board member who decided to move into a staff position where she knew she could make a bigger impact on the organization.  “Leona’s knowledge and ability to work with the Board and membership have been extremely valuable to EDA,” states EDA President Darlene Sinclair, “She has certainly played a significant role in taking EDA to a new level of professionalism.  Working with Leona has been a great experience. I consider her not only a great partner, but a very close friend as well.”