INSIDE SIOR CANADA EAST CHAPTER’S CHAMPIONSHIP BROKERAGE EVENT

A total of 100 realtors and investors joined SIOR Canada East Chapter in Montreal for a full day of networking and professional development focused on enhancing their skills and closing deals in the competitive real estate market. Mark Duclos, SIOR, gave opening remarks, followed by featured speaker Jeff Beals, a prominent coach and author, who shared insights on current trends and strategies for fighting for your client and closing your deal. Attendees networked in a partner space featuring 14 sponsors, allowing for meaningful connections. During the event, four Continuing Education Units (CEUs) were awarded to attendees, underscoring their commitment to ongoing professional development. Participants reported positive feedback, highlighting the exceptional visibility and networking opportunities.

INNOVATIONS ARE ON THE HORIZON FOR THE SIOR GREAT LAKES REGIONAL CHAPTER

The SIOR Great Lakes Regional Chapter conference welcomed 128 attendees, including 20 sponsors, at The Junto Hotel in Columbus, Ohio. The event began with a Welcome Reception at the rooftop bar, Brass Eye. After registration and lunch, attendees traveled to New Albany for a presentation on the Intel development, featuring panelists Kristi Clouse of JobsOhio, Matt McCollister of One Columbus, Matthew McQuade of McQuade Economic Growth Advisors, and Andy Weeks of VanTrust Real Estate, LLC, with SIOR Ohio Chapter President Matt Osowski, SIOR, serving as moderator. The program included a bus tour of the Intel site, followed by networking opportunities over dinner. On the final morning, attendees enjoyed breakfast and a panel discussion with market updates from chapter leaders, fostering valuable connections and insights into regional commercial real estate developments.

Picture 1 (L to R): Todd Vannatta, SIOR; Matt Osowski, SIOR; Ryan Moen, SIOR; Nancy Morse, SIOR; Nick Unger, SIOR; and Jerry Fiume, SIOR
Picture 3 (L to R): David Liebman, SIOR; Matt Osowski, SIOR; and David Lockwood, SIOR

SIOR INLAND EMPIRE & ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER HOSTS ANNUAL SPONSOR APPRECIATION NIGHT

The SIOR Inland Empire & Orange County Chapter gathered 65 members and sponsors for an enjoyable evening at Hangar 24 in Irvine, Calif., marking its annual sponsor appreciation event. The event was filled with energy, featuring great food and drinks alongside spirited games of ping pong and cornhole, igniting a competitive spirit among attendees. Organizers expressed gratitude to sponsors for supporting such events and are already looking forward to the next gathering, promising to sharpen their ping-pong skills in the meantime.

Picture (L to R): John Haynes, Stebe Graham, & Wes Badore from Catalina Integrative Solutions; Scott Travis from American First Exchange; Andrew Warren from Stream Realty Partners; Brad Kollar from Uprite Construction; and Nick Kreuter from Stream Realty.

SIOR INDIANA CHAPTER MEMBERS TAKE A VIP TOUR OF FORT WAYNE’S ECONOMIC EXPANSION

The SIOR Indiana Chapter hosted a VIP bus tour in Fort Wayne, Ind., with 42 attendees exploring new and existing developments while engaging with local officials about the city’s growth. The tour included discussions with Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker, and Nancy Townsend from Surack Enterprises, who highlighted the redevelopment of The Pearl Performing Arts Center. John Urbahns, CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc., noted that Fort Wayne is now the 20th fastest-growing city in the U.S., with over $2 billion in new projects in 2023. The event highlighted Fort Wayne’s vibrant economic landscape and collaborative growth efforts.

Picture 2 (L to R): Nancy Townsend; and Carolyn Spake Leeper, SIOR

SIOR KENTUCKY CHAPTER HITS A HOLE-IN-ONE FOR RECRUITMENT AND NETWORKING

The SIOR Kentucky Chapter held a successful indoor golf and recruitment event at Tee It Up, attracting nearly 50 attendees, including 10 potential recruits. The casual gathering created an inviting atmosphere to introduce potential members to the benefits of SIOR networking. Attendees participated in a simulated golf scramble, with prizes awarded for achievements such as hole-in-one shots and the longest drive. This marked the chapter’s second event, highlighting their commitment to fostering networking opportunities for members.

Picture 2 (L to R): Mark Meredith; Jeff Dreher, SIOR; Rick Ashton; and Seth Edens, SIOR

SIOR WESTERN MISSOURI/KANSAS CHAPTER CELEBRATES 35TH ANNUAL DEVELOPMENT DAY

The SIOR Western Missouri/Kansas Chapter held its 35th annual Development Day, welcoming guests for a luncheon at Brio Italian Grille on Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Mo. Guest speaker Ed de Avila of HP Village Partners provided an update on the new ownership of Country Club Plaza, while SIOR's Global president Mike Ohmes, SIOR, shared recent national activities for the association. During the luncheon, the chapter awarded two $5,000 scholarships to UMKC Lewis White Real Estate Center students Jordan Douglas and Ricardo Lopez. The event concluded at Union Station’s Grand Hall, with two sponsors, 68 exhibitors, and over 1,600 attendees showcasing projects and celebrating success, marking it as the chapter’s largest gathering to date. Enthusiasm is already building for next year’s Development Day in 2025..

Picture 1 (L to R): SIOR Global President Mike Ohmes, SIOR; LeShelle Moorman
Picture 2 (L to R): Todd Mendon, SIOR; Chuck Connely; Ricardo Lopez; and Jordan Douglas

STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FROM THE SIOR PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER’S OFFICE & INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY SUMMIT

The SIOR Philadelphia Chapter's fourth annual Office & Industrial Property Summit successfully attracted 290 attendees and 36 sponsors. Key takeaways from the event included a positive shift in the office market, with fewer companies downsizing and an inflection point on the horizon. In the industrial sector, Philadelphia leads in construction but faces a 30% availability rate among new inventory. Retailers are expected to continue competing with Amazon, with more big-box stores anticipated in 2025. The summit highlighted the changing dynamics of the office and industrial sectors and the need for strategic insights in the industry.

Picture 2: SIOR Global Immediate Past President, David Lockwood, SIOR

NETWORKING & PHILANTHROPY SHINE AT THE SIOR CAROLINAS CHAPTER EVENT

The Carolinas Chapter held a successful event in Asheville, N.C.*, attracting 165 attendees for educational sessions, outdoor activities, and philanthropic initiatives. Dr. Chris Cooper from Western Carolina University provided insights on upcoming elections, while AI expert Severin Sorensen discussed the technology's impact on commercial real estate. Participants enjoyed recreational activities such as fly fishing, a golf tournament at The Omni Grove Park Inn, and mountain biking in Bent Creek State Park. The event also included a Charity Challenge, with four teams raising over $2,500 and collecting essential items for Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), which supports individuals in need, especially veterans. Overall, the event effectively combined education, networking, and community service, strengthening connections among attendees.

Picture 1 (L to R): Campbell Lewis, SIOR; David Lockwood, SIOR; and Austin Walker, SIOR

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SIOR CONNECTICUT/W. MASSACHUSETTS CHAPTER’S SCENIC DINNER

The Chapter held its third quarter business meeting at the historic Essex Yacht Club, set against a picturesque backdrop of sunset and sailboats along the Connecticut River. The gathering attracted 40 attendees, including members, sponsors, and students from the University of Connecticut Real Estate Society. The event featured special guest SIOR Global president Mike Ohmes, SIOR, who provided updates on SIOR programs and initiatives. Attendees also enjoyed a presentation on services and upcoming projects from annual sponsors PES Structural Engineers, delivered by David Brownell, Dave Aucoin, and Michael Planer. During the meeting, the chapter recognized Philip Gagnon, SIOR, as the outgoing President and welcomed newly installed president Bryan Atherton, SIOR, and vice president John Cafasso, SIOR.

Picture 1 (L to R): John Cafasso, SIOR; Phillip Gagnon, SIOR; Mike Ohmes, SIOR; and Bryan Atherton, SIOR
Picture 2 (L to R): Jay Wamester, SIOR; Larry Levere; Tom Pajolek, SIOR; Bruce Wettenstein, SIOR; Kristin Geenty, SIOR; Mike Ohmes, SIOR; Tom Hill, SIOR; John Jensen, SIOR; Maura Cochran, SIOR Retired; John Cafasso, SIOR; Phil Gagnon, SIOR; Diane Petra, SIOR Retired; Bryan Atherton, SIOR; Bob Carr; Carl Russell, SIOR, Stephen Press, SIOR

COMMUNITY & RESILIENCE UNITE AT SIOR FLORIDA CHAPTER'S FALL CONFERENCE

The SIOR Florida Chapter held its Fall Conference at the Alfond Inn in Winter Park, Fla., attracting 72 attendees, including 42 members. Industry experts discussed the complexities of capital markets and insurance in Florida, with a panel addressing rising costs and regulatory hurdles in commercial insurance. Seasoned brokers highlighted the resilience of Florida's capital markets, noting ongoing interest in key markets like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. The event concluded with an interactive session for members to exchange market-specific data and insights. Despite the challenges posed by hurricane Helene, the event showcased SIOR Florida's commitment to community and continuity. The chapter expressed its support for those unable to attend due to the hurricane, emphasizing solidarity among members and sponsors.

*Hurricane Helene and Milton caused significant damage in several communities this past October. In times like these, the strength of our organization shines brightest when we come together to support one another. If you are ever looking for ways to help with such disasters, we encourage you to reach out to local SIOR Chapter leadership, SIOR Global headquarters, or the SIOR Foundation, in addition to local, national, and global charities supporting such efforts.

Picture 1 (L to R): Christopher Thomson, SIOR; Melissa Rose; and Mike Davis, SIOR
Picture 2 (L to R): Mark Scott, SIOR; J.R. Steinbauer, SIOR; David Lockwood, SIOR; Ted Konigsberg, SIOR; Christopher Thomson, SIOR; Nick DeVito, SIOR; and Brian Lightle, SIOR
Picture 3 (L to R): Berlinte Hiresh, SIOR; Erika Thompson, SIOR; Drake Chamberlin; and Jeff Chamberlin, SIOR