On June 23, LSTAR hosted its Annual General Meeting and Trade Show, bringing together members, leaders, and partners for a day of updates, decisions, and celebration.
Greetings from CREA
We were honoured to welcome CREA Chair Valerie Paquin, who shared exciting updates about the future of REALTOR.ca. Valerie highlighted CREA’s commitment to enhancing the reputation of REALTORS® through a national campaign featuring television and digital commercials, aimed at showcasing the value REALTORS® bring to Canadians every day.
Industry Updates from OREA
We were pleased to welcome OREA President Cathy Polan, Provincial Director for Western Ontario Alison Porter, and Director-at-Large Randy Pawlowski, who shared key updates on the Ontario REALTOR® Wellness Program (ORWP). Since January 2024, the program has supported members with:
- 900,000+ health claims
- 410 travel claims
- 296 life insurance claims
- 7,400+ online mental health consultations
They also introduced MyAcademy’s new Leadership Development Courses, designed to support both members and board leaders. Advocacy wins at Queen’s Park were also highlighted, including:
- Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act
- Homeowner Protection Act
- Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act
LSTAR proudly supports these efforts by engaging with elected officials at all three levels of government each year.
Giving Back with ORCF
Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation Chair Lori Roberts and Executive Director Shannon Ketelaars shared that in 2024, the Foundation donated $1.8 million to over 170 charitable organizations. Locally, LSTAR & ORCF contributed $169,090 to support food insecurity and shelter-related causes in our community.
Motions Passed
Two important motions were passed during the AGM:
- Motion 5: Initiated several bylaw changes to ensure compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA). View updated bylaws
- Motion 6: Authorized the LSTAR Board of Directors to sell our current building and explore purchasing or leasing a smaller, more suitable location. This sets in motion the next steps, including property valuation, listing, and marketing — a process the Board will begin discussing at its next meeting. View full motion
Prize Winners
We wrapped up the day with lunch and some exciting giveaways, thanks to our generous sponsors!
- Grand Prize VISA Gift Card Winners:
Lestari Rupert – Royal LePage Triland – $1,500
Michael Mels – Re/Max Advantage – $500
Blake Trudgeon – Sutton Group Preferred – $500
Jack Lane – Oak & Key – $500 - Summer Door Prize Pack Winner:
Gautam Khanna – Century 21
Sponsored by Mortgages by Design Anna Sinilo
