Alberta's economy is expected to grow by 3.5 per cent this year, nearly triple the national average of 1.2 per cent, according to a recent report from BMO Capital Markets Economics and BMO Commercial Banking's Blue Book.

The continued positive outlook is largely due to the province's energy sector and related industries.

"Oil and gas companies still dominate the scene, but we see significant opportunity for firms that support the industry spinoffs," said Mike Darling, BMO's regional vice-president of commercial banking for southern Alberta. "This particularly applies to the engineering sector, where our clients are experiencing considerable growth."

The one-year anniversary of the Calgary flood is upon us and the City is encouraging local communities to celebrate the spirit of Calgary on Neighbour Day June 21.

A release from the City asks Calgarians to join with their neighbours in their given community whether it be for a block party, a barbecue or a neighbourhood cleanup. 

In a release from the Alberta Government, condo owners will soon have more protection with the introduction of Bill 13: The Condominium Property Amendment Act.

"Buying a condo is an affordable option for Albertans entering the housing market and is often their first real estate experience," said Doug Griffiths, minister of Service Alberta. "After careful review and discussion with stakeholders and Albertans, our government will update the Condominium Property Act to make it easier for owners and builders to understand their responsibilities on the sale of condos."

MLS System offers option to post and search rental listings

A new feature to the MLS® System allowing REALTORS® the option to post rental listings is earning positive
reviews.

Justin Warthe, a REALTOR® with CIR Realty has posted two rental listings on the MLS® System and has experienced success with the new service.

"I've found the success to be quite good, it has been a good way to get in front of people and offer an extension of services," he said. "I like the idea, because someone who is renting their house now will be selling their house later, so it is a good way to build relationships."

Power Corporation of Montreal donates $1 million to music centre project

Calgary's National Music Centre has received a $1-million boost from the Power Corporation of Canada.

The money will be used to support construction of a new centre expected to open in 2016. The gift will be recognized through the Power Corporation innovation Stage, a space that will focus on telling stories of musicians,
inventors and industry builders who have helped make Canada what it is today.