In 1991, the Canadian Government decided to close its Trade Office in Denver. A group of resident businessmen, prompted, encouraged and supported by the departing Canadian Consul and Trade Commissioner, Gib McEwen, decided to form an organization to promote, foster and enhance business relations between Colorado and Canada. In his Trade Office position, Gib had made numerous contacts with Canadian business people, residents, trading partners and interests. To determine what benefits might be found by creating a point of contact for Canadians, a notice was placed in the local newspapers for an introductory meeting. That meeting was held at the Denver Athletic Club in October 1991 and was attended by well over 50 people – thus began our history.

The early years focused on business-related activities such as seminars to discuss cross-border investment opportunities, tax implications, economic and trade issues. Several social events were also held; notably to celebrate Canada Day, Canadian Thanksgiving and the Grey Cup football playoff. Initially, the group was called Colorado Canada Business Association. The founding Board was made up of Ian Barclay, Pat Cooper, Ernie Hambrook, Don Gendall, Peter McEwen and Jim Reis.

In 1992, Ian Barclay presented a seminar on February 26 to discuss Income Tax Aspects of Individuals Moving Between Canada and the United States. At the same time, Bruce Lemons from Holme Roberts and Owen spoke about U.S. and Canada Cross-Border Estate Tax Planning. The Canada Day Picnic was held at Butterfield Crossing Park in Castle Rock on July 1st.

In 1993, the Canada Day Picnic was held in Washington Park on July 1st. Foot races, tennis, horseshoes, croquet, and volleyball helped a large gathering of families build appetites for chicken, beef, hot dogs, salads, cake, watermelon, and drinks (even beer!). Pat Coulson was the main organizer. John Evans of IntelCom Group talked about Building Information Superhighways on October 27.

In 1994, the Board organized a Business Form/Dialog that was presented on January 26 by R.Dalton Sim of Invesco Funds Group. On January 28, CCBA promoted a presentation of the Alberta Ballet by the Colorado Springs Dance Theatre at the Pikes Peak Center. Pat Coulson organized the Canada Day picnic for July 1st at Washington Park again with the usual offerings of food and drink. Ian Barclay was the sponsor for the Grey Cup Party on November 27 - held at Fiore’s Sports Bar on Holly at County Line Road – when the BC Lions beat the Baltimore CFL team. A briefing on the Colorado Political Scene by Senator Tom Morton, Representative Chuck Berry, George Dibble and Pat Boyle of Colorado Association of Commerce and Industry was held on November 29. A tour of the Capital building was held following the briefing.

Another significant event with the CCBA took place in December when the first edition of The 49th Parallel was issued to members. This was a quarterly newsletter “to inform the members and other interested parties of upcoming events, to report on membership news and past events, and to acquaint everyone with what is going on up north.” Gerry Kesner and Dee Arscott were the initial editors, gathering and typesetting data and producing the document. Dee designed the masthead, general layout and named the paper. The masthead was the germination of what ultimately became the official logo for the Association (maple leaf and aspen leaf).

The Board in 1994 was made up of:

Rob Scott, President

Russ Davidson,  Membership

Patrick Coulson, Programs

Ian Barclay, Secretary

Ernie Hambrook, Treasurer

Rolf Abt, Public Relations

Peter McEwen, Programs

Pat Cooper, Member at Large

Don Gendall, Member at Large

Gerry Kesner, Member at Large

Margaret Makar, Member at Large

Jim Reis, Member at Large

In 1995, during the March meeting the Board decided to change the name of the group to Canada Colorado Association (CCA).

Lloyd Brownlee and Patrick Coulson put together a gathering of wannabe cowboys for dinner and rodeo at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in January. General Dave O’Blenis from NORAD joined the festivities with his wife Loreen. Lloyd also organized a group of 70 members to see the Denver Grizzlies meet the Milwaukee Admirals for a rousing game of hockey at McNichols Arena on February 8. A locker room tour, autographs and mementos were included in the $13.00 price!  

A very special arrangement was made to tour the NORAD facilities in Cheyenne Mountain on March 25. Rob Scott held a reception afterwards at his Ethan Allen Home Interiors store in Colorado Springs. Member Ken Turnbull hosted over 110 people for the Canada Day picnic on July 1st at Struthious Farm in Highlands Ranch – where he bred ostrich.

July 5 was a special day for all hockey fans in Colorado when the Avalanche were introduced as the new NHL team – relocated from Quebec City. With arrangements through Rolf Abt, CCA members were invited to hear former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney speak to the Colorado Harvard Business School on October 17. On October 30, CCA hosted a luncheon to celebrate the inauguration of direct flight service with Air Canada to Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto. The Grey Cup Party was held on November 19 at Fiore’s Restaurant.

In 1995 the Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay, President

Rolf Abt, Membership

Patrick Coulson, Public Relations

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Margaret Makar, Secretary

Gerry Kesner, Treasurer

Rob Scott, Member at Large

Russ Davidson, Member at Large

Denny O’Brien, Member at Large

Brock West, Member at Large

In 1996, events started with Canada Night at the Stock Show and Rodeo on January 14. CCA sponsored specially priced tickets to see the Colorado Avalanche meet the Edmonton Oilers on March 17 at McNichols Arena. Unfortunately, the Canada Day celebration had to be cancelled this year because of insufficient response. (Data I have for the rest of the year is non-existent so perhaps Brock and/or Ian can help fill in more of this year’s events).

In 1996 the Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay, President

Rolf Abt, Membership

Patrick Coulson, Public Relations

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Margaret Makar, Secretary

Gerry Kesner, Treasurer

Rob Scott, Member at Large

Russ Davidson, Member at Large

Denny O’Brien, Member at Large

Brock West, Member at Large

In 1997, the Board again remained essentially unchanged. Canada Night at the Stock Show and Rodeo was held on January 19. There were some problems with getting The 49th Parallel issued so news was sparse through the year. The Grey Cup Party was held at the (then) Marriott Hotel at Hampden and I-25 on November 16. Don and Lynn Harper hosted a charity food drive at their home on Boxing Day. (Data I have for the rest of the year is non-existent so perhaps Brock and/or Ian can help fill in more of this year’s events).

In 1997 the Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay, President

Rolf Abt, Membership

Patrick Coulson, Public Relations

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Margaret Makar, Secretary

Gerry Kesner, Treasurer

Rob Scott, Member at Large

Russ Davidson, Member at Large

Denny O’Brien, Member at Large

Brock West, Member at Large

In 1998, Lori was the driving force to have the Canada Colorado lapel pins prepared – using the maple leaf and aspen leaf pattern from the CCA logo.

Canada Night at the Stock Show and Rodeo was held on January 18. On April 16, Robert Déry, Consul General of Canada in Minneapolis held a reception at the Western Social Sciences Association Conference.

Pizza and beer were on the menu for Canada Day on July 1st at the Crocodile Cafe! Thanks to the organizing by Rolf Abt, pot luck dinner for Canadian Thanksgiving was held on October 11 at the Great West Life cafeteria.  Lloyd Brownlee organized the Grey Cup Party on November 22 at Fiore’s Restaurant. Al and Fran Troppmann planned to host a party at their home on Boxing Day but too few people had indicated they would come so it was cancelled.

In 1998 the Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt, Membership

Lorie Avery, Special Events

Ian Barclay, Secretary and Treasurer

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Don Harper, Cultural Liaisons

Fran Troppmann, Women’s Committee

Brock West, President

Garth Wilson, Member at Large

In 1999, the Canada Day Stock Show dinner and Rodeo was held on January 17. Ian Barclay, with Wayne Robinson, Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner from Minneapolis, organized a presentation at the World Trade Center on March 22 during which KPMG representative Stuart MacKay and local businessman, Jeff Jensen, discussed Canada: The Competitive Alternative.

A Steak and Lobster barbecue was held at Clement Park (W.Bowles near Wadsworth) on May 22. Through the determined efforts of Brock West, renewed contact was made with NORAD’s Deputy Commander from Canada, Lt. General George Macdonald. Those efforts were rewarded in an invitation for the Board members to join NORAD personnel at their Garden Party at the historic Penrose House in Colorado Springs on Canada Day. NORAD also hosted a second tour of Cheyenne Mountain on September 17. A barbecue was hosted afterwards by the 971 Air Marshall Slemon Wing Air Force Association of Canada at Peterson Air Base.

Denver Mayor Wellington Webb invited CCA members to a July 7 dinner celebration of the inaugural Air-BC flight between Winnipeg and Denver. On August 3, Robert Déry held a reception at the Top of the Rockies to formally announce his departure as Consul General in Minneapolis. He was reassigned to Ottawa and was replaced by Susan Thompson, former Mayor of Winnipeg. Rolf Abt did his usual super job of organizing Canadian Thanksgiving dinner at Great West Life on October 10. The Grey Cup Party was held again at Fiore’s on November 28. CCA contributed to and supported the Institute of International Education (IIE) for the International Holiday Party on December 9. Don and Lynn Harper hosted another open house on Boxing Day, December 26.

The Board in 1999 was made up of:

Rolf Abt,  Membership

Glenn Ardley, Alumni Liason

Lorie Avery, Special Events

Ian Barclay, Secretary and Treasurer

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Don Harper, Cultural Liaisons – including Editor of The 49th Parallel

Fran Troppmann, Women’s Committee

Brock West, President

Garth Wilson, Member at Large.

In 2000, the Stock Show and Rodeo dinner was held on January 16 and we were honored that Lieutenant-General and Mrs. Macdonald from NORAD joined our group, which including 5 Canadian cowboys and 50 guests. The Macdonald’s reciprocated with an open house at their home in Colorado Springs on January 23.

Ian Barclay organized a panel discussion on February 10 to have Joe Green discuss immigration and naturalization issues. Some of the CCA members attended an Inuit Art Show on March 13 at the Native American Trading Company Gallery which was owned by Canadian Jim Ellerton. The opening was attended by Colorado’s First Lady, Frances Owen, Lt. General Macdonald, First lady of Denver, Wilma Webb and Canadian Consul General Susan Thompson from Minneapolis.

CCA co-sponsored a luncheon meeting at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on March 27 to hear Hon. Gordon Griffin, US Ambassador to Canada and Hon. Jeffrey Davidow, US Ambassador to Mexico discuss North America in the New Millennium: the View from Our Neighbors. A reception was co-sponsored on May 10 at the Adam’s Mark Hotel to recognize World Trade Day.

The annual Steak and Lobster dinner, hosted by Al and Fran Troppmann, was held on May 21st. Lloyd Brownlee did his usual masterful job on the cook wagon and $300 was raised for SIDS charity. Canada Day was celebrated on July 1st at the Gun Club Green Clubhouse, hosted by Garth and Betty Wilson.

NORAD held a dinner on August 28 at Peterson Air Base in Colorado Springs, hosted by Lt. General Macdonald for Canadian business leaders at which CCA was represented by Garth Wilson. The Association again supported the International Holiday party on October 6. Rolf Abt was again the leading force behind the Canadian Thanksgiving Dinner at Great West Life on October 8.

Throughout its history, CCA made extensive lobbying efforts in the process of getting the Canadian Government to re-establish a Consular presence in Denver. As part of that effort, we spoke, met and corresponded with Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner, Valerie Smith and Business Development Officer, Dana Boyle from Minneapolis, and local business connections. An initial step was to organize a private viewing of the Canadian Native Art Exhibition HuupuKwanum-Tupaat, Treasures of the Nuu-chah-nulth Chiefs. The viewing on October 30 was made possible through the generosity of PCL Construction Enterprises, CCA, Mile High Realty Executives and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. A luncheon was also held on October 31 to introduce and hear Frank Clayton, Secretary of the Treasury Board & Controller General of Canada and Valerie Smith, Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner.

Lloyd Brownlee was the leading force for the Grey Cup Party that was held at Jackson’s DTC on November 26. BC battled Montreal to a close win for the enjoyment of 53 members. Some great prizes and awards were handed out.

The Board in 2000 was made up of:

Rolf Abt, President

Glenn Ardley, Alumni Liason

Lorie Avery, Canadian Liason

Ian Barclay, Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee, Programs

Don Harper, Cultural Liaisons

Tammy Peters, Newsletter Editor

Fran Troppmann Women’s Committee

Brock West, Past President

Garth Wilson, Treasurer and Membership

In 2001, CCA member John Murphy designed and constructed a website for the Association: www.canadacolorado.com. Board member Alex Burney took over maintenance and operation of the website.

55 members went to the Stock Show dinner on January 14 including Lt. Gen Macdonald who rode the stagecoach at the start of the Rodeo. Several members also took part in the International Business and Rodeo Day sponsored by the World Trade Center on January 16. On April 19, Garth, Ian and Al Troppmann were interviewed by Catherine Cano, Producer for the CBC French Television Network to report on the social and business roles of CCA in Denver.

The Victoria Day Steak and Lobster dinner was held on May 19 at the home of Al and Fran Troppmann where 61 people attended and more than $550 was raised for SIDS. Lloyd Brownlee did his usual masterful job on the barbecue trailer. Jim Brooke, CCA member and New York Times correspondent for Canada, gave a talk on June 21 at the Denver Athletic Club relating his experiences and Canadian anecdotes.

The 10th annual Canada Day Picnic was held on July 1st at the Willow Creek Park-Willow Way pool and clubhouse, through arrangements by Ian Barclay. Great food, much fun and family enjoyment were experienced by the 61 people on a perfect afternoon. Valerie Smith and John Lambert from the Canadian Consular office in Minneapolis attended the picnic too. Before the CCA picnic, a reception was held at NORAD in Colorado Springs where the transition to replace Lt. Gen. Macdonald with Lt. Gen. Ken Pennie was made.

September 11 brought discord to the lives of most people in the world – primarily Americans but also Canadians and others. CCA expressed its support in many ways including making several hundred t-shirts with the flags of the two nations and United We Stand printed on the front. Proceeds from the sale were distributed to deserving charities and several shirts were sent to soldiers who were recovering from their wounds. Canadian Consul General from Minneapolis, Susan Thompson, accepted our invitation to give an address to CCA members on September 27 on Canadians’ Response to Terrorism. Ian and Lloyd arranged the details for the discussion at the Denver Athletic Club.

Canadian Thanksgiving was celebrated by 54 people at Heather Ridge Country Club on October 7. Glenn Ardley coordinated efforts for a scotch tasting evening on November 3rd sponsored by his Queen’s University Alumni Association. A few of the Board attended a reception on November 5 for discussions with representatives from the Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership.

The Grey Cup Party was held at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza on November 25. Boston’s owners, Ron and Tracy Brodeur were terrific hosts and great food and drink was enjoyed by all. Boston’s purchased a special satellite feed of the game which was arranged for and set up by Alex. The record 140 attendees watched Calgary defeat Winnipeg 27 to 19. Many great prizes were donated and distributed to the lucky folks. CCA again co-sponsored the International Holiday Party at the new Denver Library on December 6th. 

The 2001 Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt, Past President

Glenn Ardley, University Coordinator

Ian Barclay, Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee, Events Planning

Alex Burney, Government Relations

Don Harper, Cultural Liaison

Tammy Peters, Newsletter Editor

Carolyn Slinowski, Member at Large

Fran Troppmann, Events Coordinator

Brock West, Website Management;

Garth Wilson, President and Treasurer

In 2002, member Bruce McQuat of IKON Office Solutions generously donated resources for copying the Newsletter.

A sell-out with 80 people participated in the January 20 dinner at the Stock Show and 67 stayed on for the Rodeo. Lt. Gen. Pennie and his wife, Lise, represented Canada in the stagecoach ride at the Rodeo. On March 23, under the able guidance of CCA member Fred Fleming (Special Assistant to Pat Bolen), 31 members toured the Bronco Team Headquarters, and then enjoyed lunch at Earl’s (Canadian) Restaurant.

In the continuing effort to have Consular representation re-established in Denver, several meetings were held: April 10 with representatives of Governor Owens; April 24 with representatives from Mayor Webb and World Trade Center; May 7 with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce representatives; and June 11 with Consul General Susan Thompson and Public Affairs Manager Gerry Foley from Minneapolis. On August 1st, Susan Thompson was replaced as Consul General in Minneapolis by Christopher Thomson. Meetings were also held with the British Consul in Denver, John Maguire; British American Business Council President, Carolyn Andrews; Mexican Consul in Denver, Leticia Calzaba; and Deputy Consul General from Minneapolis, Roman Borowyk, all with the objective of re-establishing a Canadian Consul in Denver.

Al and Fran Troppmann again hosted the Victoria Day Steak and Lobster dinner for 86 members and guests on May 18 - assisted by Lloyd Brownlee and Dale Fraser as cooks. $1,775 was raised for the SIDS Charity. Our own Canada Day picnic was held on June 30, once again at Willow Way Park with over 80 participants in the fun and games. Members Bret and Karen Schihl donated a Canadian Flag to the Association. A few Board members were pleased to attend the NORAD-hosted celebration of July 1st at Penrose House in Colorado Springs.

The firm CAE (Canadian Aviation Electronics, Ltd) opened its flight simulator aviation training facility (built by PCL) in Denver. A grand opening ceremony on September 17 was attended by many CCA members as well as the President and CEO of CAE, Derek Burney, PCL President Al Troppmann and Denver Mayor Webb. Rides in the Airbus A320 and Bombardier simulators were enjoyed. General Manager Michael Fedele and his wife Daniele joined and became strong supporters of CCA.

Lloyd Brownlee, Brock West and Don Harper attended the change of command at the US Northern Command at Peterson Air Base in Colorado Springs on October 1st, hosted by General Ralph Eberhart. A breakfast presentation by Denver Mayor Webb and meeting with representatives from several international airlines was held on October 4 to discuss service expansion at DIA.

Canadian Thanksgiving was celebrated at Heather Ridge Golf Club on October 13 with 76 members and guests. World renowned Canadian artist, Robert Bateman hosted an exhibit of his work from November 9 to January 3, 2003 at The Wildlife Experience Museum. He was very gracious in talking about his paintings and autographing books. Montreal defeated Edmonton 18 to 16 to win the Grey Cup – cheered on by 130 members and guests at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza on November 24. The International Holiday Party, co-sponsored by CCA, was held on December 11, again at the Denver Public Library.

The Board in 2002 was made up of:

Rolf Abt, Past President

Glenn Ardley, University Coordinator

Ian Barclay, Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee, Events Planning

Alex Burney, Government Relations

Catherine Cano, Media Relations

Don Harper, Cultural Liaison

Tammy Peters, Newsletter Editor

Carolyn Slinowski, Member at Large

Fran Troppmann, Events Coordinator

Brock West, Website Management;

Garth Wilson, President and Treasurer

In 2003, the CCA year started with a special event on January 11, 2003 when several members of the Canada Colorado Board were invited to the home of Lieutenant-General Ken Pennie for an “Afterglow” open house. Ken and Lise were their usual superb hosts and we made good use of the opportunity to renew old friendships and meet new people, including those associated with NORAD.

Our usual January event, Canada Day at the Stock Show and Rodeo, was another great success on the 19th of the month. We were honored to have Consul General Christopher Thomson and his wife Katrina as our guests from Minneapolis. Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner Aladin Legault accompanied the Thompson’s and was quickly transformed into a Colorado cowboy – complete with black hat. We were doubly honored to have Brigadier General Jim Hunter join our group and were pleased that both Chris and Jim rode in the Denver Post stagecoach to the introduction ceremony and national anthems. We had our best turnout ever for this event with 80 people at the buffet and 95 at the rodeo. Some were heard to say it was the best rodeo they have seen.

On the morning of January 20, 40 people attended a breakfast presentation at the Pinnacle Club when Chris Thomson discussed trade relations between Canada and Colorado. The guest list at the event included executives from many prominent firms in the Denver area with a Canada connection, plus Governor Owens’ Office of International Trade and Mayor Webb’s Office of Economic Development. In addition, NORAD was well represented by Major Peter Dozois and his wife Angela.

On February 25, several Association members attended a presentation by a group from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in connection with the softwood lumber issue. Members of the Governor’s and Mayor’s offices as well as Consul General Chris Thomson attended the meeting.

On May 17, fifty-four guests attended the annual steak & lobster dinner in support of the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) charity.

Through some extra efforts by CCA Board members Lloyd Brownlee, Catherine Cano, Garth Wilson and Brock West, arrangements were made for a delegation from Ottawa to visit several businesses, attend meetings with key people and see the attractions in Denver relative to the possibility of re-establishing a Consular office here. Laurel Alpert of Governor Owens’ office, Julie Rubin of Mayor Webb’s office, Jim Reis from the World Trade Center, and Chad DeLong from the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce also made terrific contributions to the arrangements. The plans culminated in the CCA co-hosting a team of 6 representatives from Ottawa, two of whom were here to look at potential locations for offices and residences, plus Consul General Chris Thomson and Deputy CG and Senior Trade Commissioner Roman Borowyk from the Canadian Consulate office in Minneapolis.

On June 25, through the efforts of the World Trade Center, CCA co-hosted Colorado International Soccer Night at Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium.

Ian Barclay, Fran Troppmann, Catherine Cano, Lloyd Brownlee and Betty Wilson worked together to make the arrangements for the 11th annual Canada Day picnic. Once again, fun times were had at the Willow Way Pool in Centennial on June 29 where 50 adults and 5 kids enjoyed the facilities and the ribs, chicken and fixin’s by Brother’s Barbecue.

Garth and Betty Wilson, Brock and Helen West, Al and Fran Troppmann, Don Harper, Lloyd and Geri Brownlee, and Glenn and Claire Ardley attended the celebration of Canada Day on July 1 at a reception at Penrose House in Colorado Springs at the invitation of Lt. General Ken Pennie of NORAD.

The biggest event of the year was the announcement in September that Canada has re-established a Consular office in Denver. Doug Paterson is the Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner.

On October 12, Canadian Thanksgiving turkey dinner and trimmings were served at The Pinery Country Club to 68 people.

A reception for the new Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner, Doug Paterson, sponsored by RBC Mortgage, PCL Construction Services and CCA, was held at Il Fornaio restaurant in LoDo on November 7. Sixty-four representatives from businesses, government agencies or interest groups with a Canadian-Colorado connection attended the event.

Another rousing afternoon was held at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza during the Canadian Football playoff – Grey Cup game on November 16.

Canada Colorado Association co-sponsored the International Holiday Party on December 9 at the Denver Public Library. This was a gathering of people from USA, Canada, Britain, Germany, France, Japan, Russia and Sweden to celebrate the season and our international cultures and traditions.

The 2003 CCA Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt-Past President

Glenn Ardley-Canadian University Alumni

Ian Barclay-Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee-Special Events

Alex Burney-Government Relations

Catherine Cano-Media Relations

Don Harper-Newsletter/Website

Fran Troppmann-Events Coordinator

Brock West-Past President

Garth Wilson-President/Treasurer

In 2004, as of January, the Denver University Library has a special section filled with French-Canadian books.  Julie Caron, who is doing a bachelor degree at the University of Laval in Québec, is in Denver to open this new section. She has brought books donated by the Association of Quebec Studies.  Julie is working in collaboration with the Denver International School.  She also has the support of CCA, the French Alliance of Denver and of the Office of Quebec Youth program. 

On January 18, 2004 Canada Day at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo attracted 75 people to the dinner and 80 people to the rodeo. The Canada Colorado Association again co-sponsored the annual International Business and Rodeo Day on January 20th. Other sponsors are the World Trade Center, the Consular Corps of Colorado, Alliance Française, Asian Chamber of Commerce, British American Business Council, Chamber of the Americas, French American Business Association, German American Chamber of Commerce, Japan America Society, Netherlands-American Society, Russian-American Chamber of Commerce and Swedish American Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, February 13 was a very special day this year with a visit from the Canadian Ambassador to the USA, Michael Kergin, his wife Margarita and the Consul General from Minneapolis, Christopher Thomson. A breakfast meeting was held with his Excellency, the Consul General, Denver’s Consul and Senior Trade Commissioner, Doug Paterson, CCA and executives from PCL Construction, CAE, Suncor Energy, EnCana Oil & Gas, IBI Group, Brookfield Properties and Jayman Construction.

The annual steak and lobster dinner, in support of the SIDS Foundation was held on June 19 and Canada Day was recognized at the same time.  On July 1 several Board members attended the Canada Day garden party at the Penrose House in Colorado Springs.

On September 29, 2004, representatives of Global Tax Network of Toronto and Denver presented part 1 of a discussion on Taxation for Canadians living in the USA at the World Trade Center. A larger audience attended part 2 of the series on November 17 when Ian Barclay discussed financial and estate tax planning for Canadians living in the USA.

Canadian Thanksgiving dinner was served at the Denver Athletic Club this year.  Fifty nine adults and ten children enjoyed the setting, salad, turkey, trimmings and pies.  We were honored to have two of the new staff from the Canadian Consular office join us, Natalie Couture and Marc Boucher.

On November 12 several members of the Canada Colorado Association joined a large group from the Rocky Mountain Indian Chamber of Commerce for their Gala and Award Ceremonies. CCA was a co-sponsor of the event which included native foods, a silent auction and presentations by native artists, musicians, craftspeople and dancers. The main purpose of the gathering was to award scholarships to students in pursuit of their careers.

 Marc Boucher, Canadian Consul-General Relations was master of ceremonies at the First Annual Indigenous Film Festival on November 19 at the Tivoli Center.  Canada Colorado Association co-sponsored this event that included two Canadian films, Kanuk Family Reunion and Finding Our Talk.

The CCA again co sponsored the International Holiday party, held this year at St. Cajetan’s on the Auraria Campus.  This is a social gathering of representatives from all of the international communities in the Denver area; American, British, Canadian, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Peruvian, Romanian and Swedish.

A rousing Grey Cup party was attended by 98 football fans at Boston’s Gourmet Pizza on November 21.

The 2004 CCA Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt-Past President

Glenn Ardley-University Alumni

Ian Barclay-Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee-Special Events

Alex Burney-Government Relations

Kim Cameron

Catherine Cano-Media Relations

Tamara Cooper

Wesley Cooper

Don Harper-Newsletter/Website

Bob Thomas

Fran Troppmann-Events Coordinator

Brock West-Past President

Garth Wilson-President/Treasurer

In 2005, on January 16, sixty people enjoyed the usual tasty roast beef dinner at the National Western Club for our annual treat for the cowboys from Canada.  Two days later, Garth and Betty Wilson attended the International Day at the rodeo event put on by the World Trade Center where more than 110 people had an opportunity to network and enjoy more food and festivities.

On May 22 the CCA held our 12th Annual steak and lobster dinner – this time at the Coventry Homeowners Association Clubhouse in Littleton. The highlight for many, particularly the hockey fans, was to have special guests Joe Sakic, David Aebischer and Derek Armstrong join the event with their spouse/significant others.

The 13th annual Canada Day picnic was held on July 2nd at the Gun Club Green Clubhouse in Denver. 55 people, including 6 children, attended the afternoon of swimming, visiting, drinking and eating. We were honored by Michael Fine, the Canadian Consul General in Denver joining us with his wife and family. Wayne Podolsky of the Consular office also came with friends Mark & Isabel Giralt from the Canadian Consular office in Mexico.

Thanks to Ian Barclay, Thanksgiving Dinner was held at the Denver Athletic Club where 49 people attended. Through some concerted effort by Lloyd Brownlee, the world famous RCMP Musical Ride performed at the National Western Arena November 10, 11 and 12 and the event was its usual fantastic show. Grey Cup party was held at Boston Pizza and was a rousing success.

The 2005 CCA Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt-Past President

Ian Barclay-Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee-Special Events

Alex Burney-Government Relations

Kim Cameron-membership

Wally Clark

Tamara Cooper

Wesley Cooper

Don Harper-Newsletter/Website

Bob Thomas

Fran Troppmann-Events Coordinator

Brock West-Past President

Garth Wilson-President/Treasurer

In 2006, the first event of the year was for Canada Day at the Stock Show and rodeo – co-hosted with Suncor with nearly 150 people. A skating party was organized by Wes and Tamara Cooper and held at the Denver Country Club on March 11. Wes and Alex Burney spent considerable time and effort to upgrade the CCA website and were able to get it done by year-end.

The annual Steak and Lobster dinner was held on June 17 at the Al and Fran Troppmann garden. A tour of the NORAD facility in Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs was conducted on July 11. As always, it was a terrific experience. A dinner for Thanksgiving was not held this year. The Grey Cup Party was held on November 19 at Boston Pizza.

The 2006 CCA Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt-Past President

Ian Barclay-Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee-President

Alex Burney-Government Relations

Catherine Cano-Media Relations

Wally Clark-Treasurer

Tamara Cooper

Wesley Cooper

Suzy Martinek—Community Relations

Robert Thomas-Member At Large

Fran Troppmann-Events Coordinator

Brock West-Past President

Garth Wilson-Past President

In 2007, January 14, 2007 was Canada Day at the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo and it was a huge success. The evening began with a reception at the Northwest Club and the traditional Roast Beef dinner followed by the World Famous Rodeo.  Over 100 guests attended with the support of the Consulate General of Canada-Denver office, represented by Monica Heron, Senior Trade Commissioner, Kim O’Neil, Trade Commissioner, Agriculture as well as several staff members.

Ian Barclay conducted a seminar on March 19 to discuss “Taxation of Canadians Living in the USA”. Attorney Ann Allott presented a seminar on April 19 on Immigration issues. The Steak and Lobster Dinner was held on May 19 at Coventry Community Center. Thanksgiving Dinner was held at Pinehurst Country Club, courtesy of Brock West, on October 14. The Grey Cup Football Party was held on November 25 at Boston Pizza.

The 2007 CCA Board was made up of:

Rolf Abt-Past President

Ian Barclay-Founding Member

Lloyd Brownlee-President

Alex Burney-Government Relations

Catherine Cano-Media Relations

Wally Clark-Treasurer

Tamara Cooper

Wesley Cooper

Suzy Martinek—Community Relations

Robert Thomas-Member At Large

Fran Troppmann-Events Coordinator

Brock West-Past President

Garth Wilson-Past President

In 2008, a significant effort was made through the year to update the Mission Statement for CCA and that was accomplished through contributions from all Board members. A good crowd of 26 members attended the beef dinner and rodeo for the Canada Day at the Stock Show and Rodeo in January. The Steak and Lobster dinner was held once again at the Troppmann residence.

The first annual “Almost on Canada Day” Golf Tournament partnership between CCA and the Canadian Consul was started at Fossil Trace in Golden on July 2. CCA sponsored a hole-in-one prize of a car but nobody managed to win. CCA also designed and purchased a Canada Colorado Cup trophy to be awarded the Tournament winners for each year the event is played.

Thanksgiving Dinner was held at Pinehurst on October 19. The Grey Cup party was held on November 23 at the Family Sports Center in Centennial. No Grey Cup party was held this year.

The 2008 CCA Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay - Treasurer

Lloyd Brownlee – President (until May)

Wesley Cooper 

Jeff Little

Bob Thomas – President (from December)                                                  

Fran Troppmann                                                        

Brock West

Garth Wilson

In 2009, January 17 was the usual Stock Show and Rodeo dinner. The Beef and Lobster dinner was held for over 100 persons at Coventry Community Clubhouse on May 16. Thanksgiving Dinner was held on October 18 at Pinehurst Country Club. 74 people enjoyed the Grey Cup party on November 29 at the Family Sports Center. Bob Thomas held a special Board meeting on December 17 to get to know the new Consul, Dale Eisler and his wife Louise.

The 2009 CCA Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay – Treasurer

Lloyd Brownlee

Wesley Cooper

Jeff Little

Bob Thomas - President

Fran Troppmann

Garth Wilson (part time)

Brock West

In 2010, CCA joined with the Canadian Consul Office for the annual Canada Day Stock Show and Rodeo event on January 17. On May 22, 71 adults and 11 kids enjoyed the Beef and Lobster dinner at Coventry Community Center. The usual sold-out - Almost on Canada Day - golf tournament was held with the Consul at Fossil Trace on June 27. Pinehurst Country Club put on the usual fantastic dinner for Thanksgiving on October 10. Grey Cup celebrations were held at the Avalanche Grill in the Family Sports Center on November 28.

The 2010 CCA Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay

Pierre Boisse

Wesley Cooper

Bob Thomas - President

Fran Troppmann

Garth Wilson - Treasurer

Brock West

In 2011, Pierre Boissé join the board and assumed and revitalized CCA website and activities announcement. Only 14 CCA members attended the Stock Show and Rodeo dinner on January 16 with the Canadian Consul group.  On March 12, former Montreal Canadian hockey player, Ralph Backstroke hosted 12 CCA members at a Colorado Eagles game in Loveland.  June 29 was the Almost on Canada Day Golf Tournament - another sold out affair.  No Beef and Lobster dinner was held this year but a new event, Canada Colorado Family Picnic, was held on August 6 at the Gun Club Green Clubhouse, courtesy of Garth and Betty Wilson.  The beef and side dishes were catered by Famous Phloyd.  

Pinehurst Country Clun put on its usual terrific turkey dinner with trimmings for 75 people on October 9 for Canadian Thanksgiving.  

The Grey Cup was watched at Campus Lounge by 74 fans on November 27.

The 2011 CCA Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay

Pierre Boisse 

Wes Cooper                                                               

Fran Troppmann

Peter Martinek           

Bob Thomas - President                                                                    

Brock West                                                                                        

Garth Wilson – Treasurer

In 2012, the Stock Show and Rodeo attracted 21 CCA members in January. Another Beef and Lobster dinner was held on June 9 for 102 people. Thanksgiving at Pinehurst drew 75 people again for the usual fine spread on October 14. Another 75 people came to the Off Broadway Grill to watch the Grey Cup game on November 25.

Marcy Grossman assumed the position of Consul General. Her husband is Michael Kofsky. They brought their family to the Grey Cup game.

The 2012 CCA Board was made up of:

Ian Barclay

Pierre Boisse - President

Gerri Brownlee - Treasurer

Wes Cooper

Al Troppmann                                               

Fran Troppmann

Peter Martinek           

Bob Thomas                                                              

Brock West                                                                                        

Garth Wilson