Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday

Wednesday, October 15

7:30 am – 9:00 pm Registration Open

8:00 am – 8:30 am Council Breakfast

8:30 am – 11:30 am CREW Network Council Meeting
CREW Network Delegates & Chapter Leaders

11:30 am – 1:15 pm Networking Lunch

Noon – 5:00 pm Houston Insider's Tour - SOLD OUT
Spend the afternoon getting a special “insider's” view of Houston’s transformation of Downtown and Uptown. The tour begins with a bus ride tour of the CBD skyline showing you both old and new developments. During this 45-minute tour, you will discover how Houston overcame many challenges to become one of America’s top cities. We will then stop for a relaxing lunch overlooking a panoramic view of Houston at the 43rd Restaurant & Lounge located on the 43rd floor of the Wedge International Tower. Here the Greater Houston Partnership will talk about several distinctive market areas that encompass Houston’s vast 600 square miles and how Houston has become one of America’s best values for corporate America, while providing an upscale quality of lifestyle.

Hold on to your horses gals, because we are then moving on to tour Uptown. Brimming with the energy, intensity and cosmopolitan appeal of the city, but softened by the security, graciousness and beauty of the suburbs, Uptown is one of the world’s great urban centers. We will begin our Uptown tour with Hotel Granduca. Be transported to old-world Italy, as we tour Houston’s new luxury boutique hotel across from Uptown Park. Created by Giorgio Borlenghi, this hidden gem offers impeccable service in a private, intimate setting. Hotel Granduca has 126 suites with luxury accommodations ranging in size from an individual suite to a three-bedroom suite and features the amenities of a 5-star hotel. We will then travel to the Cosmopolitan where we will have a panoramic view of the Uptown area via one of the nine penthouse suites of the 84 luxury unit residential tower. Here you will learn all about the many retail redevelopments that are going on, as well as new office developments that are being proposed. Back on the bus, we will enjoy a short drive to the William's Tower 64-foot wall of water. The 64-foot curved, black obsidian wall is an extraordinary sight and even more amazing when illuminated at night. Designed and created in 1985 by the internationally acclaimed architectural team of Philip Johnson and John Burgee, the Water Wall pumps 78,500 gallons of recycled water every three hours and 20 minutes. Not a bad place to sit back and enjoy a nice cup of Starbuck’s before we head back to the Hilton.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how Houston has become one of the best values for corporate America
• Discover Uptown and tour Houston’s new luxury boutique hotel, Hotel Granduca with its old-world Italy charm
• Learn about the many retail developments going on as well as new office developments that are being proposed
  

Maximum: 60 | FEE: $200 per person [includes Welcome Reception & Marketplace] - SOLD OUT

1:30 pm – 4:30 pm President-Elect Training

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm UCREW (students only)
Sponsored by Duke Realty Corporation
CREW Network invites university students to jump start your career with help from some of the most successful women in commercial real estate!
CREW Network is hosting a special session, reception and networking opportunity at the Marketplace where college students can participate in roundtable discussions with leading women in law, brokerage, finance, development and more to learn first-hand what it takes to achieve a rewarding career in commercial real estate. Students will hear dynamic, qualified women talk about their careers and answer questions. They will receive Career Tip Sheets crafted by these women professionals on what it takes to enter into and be successful in various commercial real estate careers.
Moderator: Karin Schulz, Osenbaugh & Associates

3:00 pm – 9:00 pm Cyber Station Open
Co-Sponsored by The Opus Group of Companies and Jones Walker LLP

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm First-Time Attendee Reception
Sponsored by Nutter, McClennen & Fish, LLP

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm CREW Network Deal Rooms
Sponsored by Studley

Reserve your “office away from home” to host a short business meeting with a fellow convention attendee. Each deal room will include a meeting table and chairs, and will offer access to the CREW Network Deal Database, which will be housed in the lobby area. CREW Network members can use this database to view and list current properties for sale or lease, as well as a section for property needs.

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm VIP Sponsor Reception (invitation only)
Sponsored by Wachovia Real Estate Services

6:30 pm – 9:00 pm Network Marketplace & Welcome Reception

This year’s Network Marketplace will feature 80 exhibitors representing top companies in the industry and expects to draw nearly 1,000 attendees. This is an electrifying business networking event you can’t afford to miss!

9:00 pm – 10:00 pm Chapter Leadership Circle Reception (invitation only)

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Thursday, October 16

6:00 am – 7:00 am NetWalk
Sponsored by Thomson Rueters

7:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration Open

7:00 am – 5:00 pm Cyber Station Open
Co-Sponsored by The Opus Group of Companies and Jones Walker LLP

7:00 am – 5:00 pm CREW Network Deal Rooms
Sponsored by Studley

7:00 am – 5:00 pm Relaxation Station Open
Sponsored by Standard Parking

7:00 am – 8:00 am Morning Beverage Station

8:00 am – 10:15 am Opening Session - A New Day. A New Deal. A New Conversation.
Sponsored by Fulbright and Jaworski L.L.P.

Four extraordinary women. One incredible conversation.
How are women affecting business practices at all levels? What do women demand from their political leaders and how will this affect the 2008 presidential race? Listen as these extraordinary panelists talk about the changing role and influence of women and the resulting effects on every facet of life.

Genevieve Bos, co-owner and founding publisher of PINK magazine,

the publication designed for the more than 21 million women in professional or managerial positions across the United States, will moderate this high-level executive panel of women who are pioneering leadership roles and expanding opportunities for women in all areas of business.

Meet the panelists:

Gail Blanke: Founder, President and CEO of Lifedesigns, LLC,

a company whose vision is to empower men and women worldwide to live truly exceptional lives. Best-selling author and renowned executive coach, Ms. Blanke has appeared on Oprah and advised CEO’s, presidential candidates, college presidents and more. Additionally, she was one of the youngest female senior vice presidents of Avon Products, Inc.

Pam Gardner: President of Business Operations for the Houston Astros.

Ms. Gardner currently serves as the longest-tenured female chief executive in Major League Baseball. Under her leadership as team president, the club has consistently ranked among the top-drawing clubs in the MLB.

Erin Vilardi: National Program Director of the White House Project

Erin Vilardi is the National Program Director at The White House Project. She directs the Vote, Run, Lead program, training women to run for political office, and the Real Security initiative focusing on women and security. She is a member of the Younger Women’s Task Force NY Metro Chapter and has been recognized as an emerging progressive leader.

10:15 am – 10:30 am Networking Break

10:30 am – Noon Concurrent Sessions I

Capital Markets Overview

What should we expect in 2009? Learn about the impact the market has had on real estate value and cap rates. Capitalization of real estate transactions has greatly changed this year. Come to this session to learn more about the current state of the debt market and how deals are getting structured in the market place. Find out who the lenders are with available capital and what their expectations are for the future of commercial real estate.

Speaker: Mark D. Gibson, Executive Managing Director, Holliday Fenoglio Fowler, LP

• Learning Objectives:
• Understand the current status of the Capital Markets and the impact it has had on value in 2008.
• Gain a better understanding of the Debt Market and where liquidity will come from in 2009.
• Gain an understanding of the commercial real estate market and its value as a valid asset class.

The Greening of Corporate America: The Business of Sustainability - SOLD OUT

Limited seating: Advance registration required - THIS SESSION HAS REACHED MAX CAPACITY
As corporations both large and small improve the state of green business, the value of environmental thinking is now integrated into their daily operations and aligned with core business strategy and bottom-line goals. In this interactive program session, explore the reasons and issues that are driving corporations to take a public stance on carbon issues, climate change and corporate sustainability responsibility.

Moderator: Shawn Rush, Associate AIA, LEED AP, CB Richard Ellis
Speakers: Sally Wilson, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Vice President, Global Director of Sustainability, CB Richard Ellis
Vivian Loftness, Professor, School of Architecture, Carnegie Mellon University
Lori Mason Curran, MAI, Real Estate Market Research Manager, Vulcan Real Estate
Rives Taylor, Sustainable Design Taskforce Leader, Gensler

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the issues driving Corporate America to implement sustainable practices into their business strategy
• Identify ways in which sustainable principles enhance the bottom line
• Learn from case study stories of actual energy and human performance improvements through sustainable design.

Effective Management of Corporate Real Estate Portfolios

In today’s dynamic markets, successful management of commercial real estate assets requires a long-term approach coupled with the ability to quickly adapt to rapidly changing needs. Real estate presents unique challenges and opportunities for corporate clients, whether the real estate is developed by or acquired by the company, leased from third parties, or being sold. Effective management of real estate assets is critical to providing companies the certainty required for long-term planning as well as the necessary flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances and growth opportunities. This panel of experienced facilities managers, from Fortune 500 companies, outside brokers and inside and outside legal counsel, will lead an interactive discussion of the ten best practices for successful corporate real estate management.
Moderator: Kathy Carr, Global Real Estate Manager, Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
Speakers: Ken Johnston, MCR, Director, Global Client Solutions, Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.
Jennifer D. Sherrill, Esq., Counsel, Fulbright & Jaworski, L.L.P.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore strategies for maintaining flexibility in acquiring, managing and disposing of real estate assets in changing markets.
• Learn to anticipate and resolve challenges - both internal and external - throughout the life cycle of a real estate asset
• Gain an understanding of special considerations for real estate professionals working with corporate clients.

Multi-family: The Answer to Homeownership in the U.S.

In the post sub-prime housing market, multi-family offers an attractive alternative to single family ownership. Home ownership, at any cost, is not the answer. Apartments today are not the simple “sticks and bricks” boxes from yesteryear, nor are they only rented by students and singles.

Hear from three of the top national developers and owners who just happen to be based in Houston.

Moderator: Collete English Dixon, Vice President, Transactions, Prudential Real Estate Investors/Prudential Financial
Speakers: Keith Oden, President and Chief Operating Officer, Camden Property Trust
Alan Patton, President, The Morgan Group
John Nash, President, The Hanover Companies

Learning Objectives:

• Learn the latest in construction trends and innovations
• Gain a better understanding of the economics of the current market- broken out by major markets where active.
• Learn about the demographic trends- who is the typical renter in 2008?
  

12:15 pm – 2:15 pm Networking Lunch & Program - Dr. Mark G. Dotzour
Chief Economist and Director of Research, Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University
Sponsored by American City Business Journals
The Economic Outlook for Real Estate and Investments in 2009
Dr. Dotzour will discuss how global forces and the national economy are likely to influence real estate decision makers in 2009. Are political changes likely to influence real estate values and business decisions in 2009 and beyond? Is real estate still a preferred asset class for global investors? What does the credit market turmoil mean going forward for property values?
Speaker: Dr. Mark G. Dotzour

2:30 pm – 5:30 pm Professional Development Sessions*
*You will want to keep these sessions end time of 5:30 pm in mind when planning your Thursday evening activities.

The Art of Business Conversation in an Increasingly Diverse Business World
Brush up on effective conversations in today's diverse workforce and keep pace with the new business etiquette. Learn how to converse regardless of age, gender, race, or ethnic background. This interactive workshop will challenge you to think about your conversations in a new way and improve your effectiveness.

Speakers: Deborah Quok, Principal Partner, QAV Consulting L.L. C.
Jane Snoddy Smith, JD, Partner, Fulbright & Jaworski, L.L. P.
Ann-Margaret Vann, Partner, QAV Consulting L.L. C.

Breakthrough Influencing Strategies - Convince, Collaborate, Create
This highly interactive program will cover specific tools and techniques that will enable the participants to more effectively influence others, both internally within their own organization and externally, and offer practice sessions designed to focus on the following skills: U perspective, anchoring, creating legitimacy/authority, affecting how value is received, message delivery, active listening, listening under, purposeful questioning, personal influencing style and virtual influencing.

Speaker: Lee E. Miller, Managing Director, NegotiationPlus.com

2:30 pm – 5:00 pm Learning Excursions:*
*You will want to keep the learning excursion's end time of 5:00 pm in mind when planning your Thursday evening activities.

Discovering Discovery Green Park: A Crossroads of Current Development Issues
Join us for an in-depth, behind the scenes tour of Discovery Green, Houston’s newest park in the heart of the Central Business District. This not your average public park! Previously just four blocks of asphalt parking lots and private green space isolating the Convention Center from the rest of downtown, Discovery Green is a showcase of best practices in development of urban public space, with every facility and amenity carefully selected, designed and managed to serve residents, office workers and convention visitors based on public input and expert advice while meeting the challenges of physical and fiscal sustainability, noise mitigation, traffic management, and personal safety. This excursion will include a cook’s tour of the Grove Restaurant in the park, Houston’s first LEEDS certified restaurant, concluding with a sunset view of Houston’s spectacular skyline from the roof garden of the Grove.

Speakers: Patricia Osenbaugh, MAI, Osenbaugh & Associates
Guy Hagstette, AIA, Park Director, Discovery Green Park
Chris Tripoli, A’la Carte Foodservice Consulting, Project Advisor, Grove Restaurant

Learning Objectives:

• Understand complex appraisal concepts involved in the acquisition of non-commercial and other unique properties
• Examine the challenges of creating and programming urban public spaces that the public will actually use and love
• Explore solutions for developing and operating “green” restaurants

Maximum: 50 | Fee: $15

Virtually Free Land = The World’s Largest Medical Center
The Texas Medical Center is an entity of non-profit and governmental organizations brought together by the powerful incentive of virtually free land, with some competing and others complimenting each other, but all benefiting from internal cost economies generated by their proximity and campus size. Employment at the TMC represents approximately 76,000 people. In 60 years, the campus has grown from 134 acres to over 1000 acres with 46 member institutions which serve people from all walks of life. Over $1 billion in medical research was conducted by member institutions in 2007. Come see how it evolved to be the world-class development is it today and why it all works.

Speaker: Dr. Harry D. Holmes, PhD., Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Governmental Relations

Learning Objectives:

• Explore a very successful industrial-to-office adaptive reuse – a former Nabisco Factory into 650,000 SF of medical-related office space (John P. McGovern Campus). Learn about the physical building transformation by those involved.
• Examine how the Texas Medical Center organization manages a large campus that functions like a separate city the size of lower Manhattan or the Loop in Chicago. Discuss growth issues included in the 50 year master plan, such as infrastructure and transportation.
• Learn how economies of scale help a huge organization run efficiently by centralizing services
• Tour some of the latest medical research projects in the TMC including Biomedical, Cardiovascular, Nanotechnology, and possibly even a real surgery

Maximum: 50 | Fee: $40

Houston Branch, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Building Tour
Join us for a tour of the Federal Reserve Bank, a branch of the Dallas Fed, an imposing and interesting structure.

This tour will begin with a brief overview of the facility with detailed information about the cutting-edge design of the 280,000 square foot building, including the bank vault, interior gun range and desire to blend in with the community. Participants will also be able to see how technology is being used in the facility (i.e. the vault and how money is moved by robots).

The building is a unique structure because it has both private and public access; a conference area for various events and a museum people can visit. The building is extremely secure, however it is still employee-friendly. During the tour, participants will hear about how the building was overbuilt for expansion and how this extra space was marketed.

Learning Objectives:

• Gain an overview of the facility and how the building is utilized i.e. conference areas for events, explore the technology and security of the building
• Get a glimpse of the state of the art design and construction of the building
• Learn about the design and construction of a 280,000 square-foot Federal Reserve Building, including bank vault, interior gun range, desire to blend in with the community, down to the details of custom china and artwork.

Maximum: 40 | Fee: $40

The Houston Galleria: A Constant Redevelopment Project**
Come to this dynamic presentation and tour showcasing Simon Property Group’s past and current vision for the Houston Galleria, one of the top ten malls in the U.S. Discover how this Houston landmark qualifies as one of the first truly successful lifestyle centers in Texas including over 2 million square feet of high-end retail in addition to multiple office towers, two hotels, a fitness center, entertainment elements and structured parking all under one roof.

Hear about the many changes Simon implemented during their phased redevelopment in terms of configuration, tenant mix, and quality of finishes. Discover how each of these improvements affected their marketing and sales per square foot. Learn how one of the largest mall developers in the country evaluates retailers and determines their optimal positioning, and the challenges involved in redeveloping the Lord & Taylor wing into a restaurant venue.

Speakers: Dana Diamond: Simon Property Group, Director of Leasing, the Houston Galleria
David Anderson: Simon Property Group, General Manager, the Houston Galleria

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how Simon Property Group determined their game plan/vision to redevelop the Houston Galleria during their multiphase redevelopment
• Discover how major mall developers evaluate and determine the optimal positioning for retailers within a major asset
• Learn how the redevelopment plan has impacted the value of the asset and the sales per square foot of retailers leasing space within the center.

Maximum: 50 | Fee: $40
** Due to this Excursion’s location, it is likely you will return to the hotel after 5:00 pm. You will want to keep this in mind when planning your Thursday evening activities. There are several Traditional Dine Arounds near The Galleria. If you choose to stay, cab fare to the restaurant and back to the hotel would be your responsibility.

THE WOODLANDS® –Building America’s Hometown®**
The Woodlands was established in 1974 on 17,000 acres as one of America’s first master-planned communities. Originally a lumber mill, “The Livable Forest” has grown to 28,500 acres, has won numerous awards, and is one of the most highly acclaimed communities in the world.

The Woodlands overcame the perception that it was too far from Houston to benefit from the commerce generated by the fourth largest city in the U.S. With tight development controls and a vision for quality of life, The Woodlands had to compete with Houston (a city with no zoning and therefore a developer’s dream) to establish itself as a destination. It now has 7 million sf of office space, a unique Research Park, seven golf courses, an outdoor concert pavilion that boasts the highest ticket sales in the world for outdoor venues and one of the highest sales psf malls in the Houston area. It is even home to a colony of bald eagles!

With its long-term vision and holistic approach to development, hear how The Woodlands 1) maximized property values by phasing in development, 2) created value through public/private partnerships, 3) transformed an undesirable drainage ditch into a pedestrian-oriented Waterway that is now home to restaurants, commercial buildings and residential projects and 4) hired the best people in the world to create a unique community that exemplified the live, work, play environment.

Speakers: Dan Leverett, Vice President, Commercial, The Woodlands Development Company
Robert Heineman, Vice President, Planning, The Woodlands Development Company

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how The Woodlands used public and private partnerships to enhance their commercial district.
• Learn how to balance the important blend of retail/office/hotel/restaurant/cultural uses within an urban district and how to tie them together with a pedestrian orientation.
• Hear how The Woodlands negotiated to avoid annexation by the City of Houston and created an independent government

Maximum: 25 | Fee: $40
** Due to this Excursion’s location, it is likely you will return to the hotel after 5:00 pm. You will want to keep this in mind when planning your Thursday evening activities. There are two Traditional Dine Arounds near The Woodlands: Cru Wine Bar or Uni Sushi. If you choose to stay, cab fare to the restaurant and back to the hotel would be your responsibility.

Thursday Evening Optional Activities
Pre-registration required by September 12, 2008

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm – CREW Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Celebration
CREW Foundation Celebrates its 10th Anniversary with a Chic Soirée Hosted by Hines

Register now for this premier culinary event to take place under the brilliant Texas skies in the beautiful 60th Floor Sky Lobby of JPMorgan Chase Tower! New and old friends will mingle and enjoy this wonderful venue overlooking the skyline of downtown Houston. Come prepared to experience fine wines, gourmet chef culinary delights, and gracious hospitality in a stunning and sophisticated setting.

All guests attending the evening celebration will take home a personal copy of the commemorative book, HINES: A Legacy of Quality in the Built Environment, which tells the story of legendary entrepreneur Gerald D. Hines and the highly respected real estate company he founded over fifty years ago, compliments of Hines.

Proceeds will benefit the CREW Foundation and its career outreach initiatives. We hope you’ll join us as we support women today and open doors for women tomorrow! CREW Foundation – YOUR Foundation – is helping to positively change the lives of women and girls everywhere!

Because space is limited, we encourage you to make your reservations now to attend this exciting and truly memorable culinary event celebrating CREW Foundation’s 10th Anniversary! For more information, please contact CREW Network at 785/832-1808 or crewnetworkevents@crewnetwork.org.

Ticket: $250

5:30 pm – 9:30 pm “Wine and Dine” – Brennan’s
Since 1968, Houston has luxuriated in the warm ambiance of Brennan’s, famous for serving the best of Creole cooking with a Southwest twist. The ingredients are the freshest available, the preparation is exquisite, the presentation a delight. This fun and memorable experience will include six courses of food uniquely paired with different wines. On arrival, you will be escorted to the Wine Room, an elegant second floor chamber housing Brennen’s international wine collection. A highly creative kitchen staff will help prepare and present memorable dishes while a dedicated team of captains and waiters lavish you with award-winning service.

Pre-registration required by September 12, 2008
Maximum: 80 │Fee: $260

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm “Iron Chef” – Sur La Table
Network with your fellow CREW Network members over a couple glasses of wine and the fun of creating your dinner with the secret ingredients provided. Sur La Table is fully outfitted with professional-quality tools and equipment, and their kitchen provides an inviting, low-key setting where you can relax and have fun together while learning new cooking skills.

Pre-registration required by September 12, 2008
Maximum: 30 │ Fee: $165

Dine Arounds at local restaurants
Take in the local dining flavor of Houston while you network with CREW members across North America through an organized dine around. Click the link above to view and sign up for your choice of restaurant.

Space will be limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Friday, October 17

6:30 am – 7:30 am Netwalk
Sponsored by Thomson Rueters

7:30 am – 3:00 pm Registration Open

7:30 am – 3:00 pm Cyber Station Open
Co-Sponsored by The Opus Group of Companies and Jones Walker LLP

7:30 am – 3:00 pm CREW Network Deal Rooms
Sponsored by Studley

7:30 am – 3:00 pm Relaxation Station Open
Sponsored by Standard Parking

7:30 am – 8:30 am Morning Beverage Station

8:30 am – 10:15 am General Session – Tom Peters
Best-Selling Business Management Author
Sponsored by CB Richard Ellis
In his electrifying presentation, “Leading in Totally Screwed up Times,” Peters will focus on what he calls The Leadership 50; 50 strategies and tactics of vigorous leadership in times of uncertainty. You will walk away from this presentation truly understanding how, what Peters describes as “living out loud,” is the key to success.

10:15 am – 10:30 am Networking Break

10:30 am – Noon Concurrent Sessions II

Compensation Takes Center Stage

In time of turmoil and transition, compensation takes center stage as real estate companies are challenged to attract, retain and motivate top talent for increased corporate performance. Just as the market cycle has shifted, trends have changed in base salaries, bonus expectations and long-term incentives. Different strategies are required for both those seeking a position change as well as management looking to fill more demanding roles within their organizations. Demographic pressures on hiring are also increasing. Generational differences are causing major compensation rifts. Chris Lee, CEO of CEL & Associates, Inc. will provide insight on how to best manage compensation and career changes. Following his presentation, attendees will be able to ask a CREW Career Advancement Panel for additional advice.

Moderator: Eileen H. Circo, Senior Vice President, Development, Lowe Enterprises Real Estate Group- East, Inc.
Speaker: Christopher Lee, President & CEO, CEL & Associates, Inc.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how the real estate cycle is creating new compensation market trends.
• Learn best practices for compensation plan design
• Discover new ideas for recruitment and retention

Sunshine on the Horizon - Foreign Investment in Real Estate

This stimulating session will engage some of the global real estate industry’s foremost leaders — both foreign investors in U.S. and Canadian properties and domestic buyers of assets abroad — in informative, candid and interactive discussions. The panel session will have a practical focus, looking at strategies executives can immediately implement to better capitalize on global investment opportunities. There will be opportunity to pose questions to the panelist in an effort to build business relationships and opportunities with these top executives in global investment real estate.

Moderator: Victoria Joly, Partner, Brookfield Financial Real Estate Group Limited
Speakers: John Flavin, Fund Management Director, Grosvenor Americas
Barbara A. Knoflach, Chair of SEB Asset Management AG and Managing Director of DEB Immobilien- Investment GmbH
Karen E. Shewer, Co-Founding Partner, Real Estate Capital Partners
Janice Stanton, Senior Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield Inc.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand International Capital Flows to Real Estate;
• Identify and evaluate international real estate investment opportunities;
• Profile countries to emerge as attractive investment targets;
• Maximize value using novel and creative forms of ownership;
• Understand tax, legal and other implications of global investments;
• Capitalize on productive local partnerships;
• Understand trends in global economics and government real estate policy;
• Strategic decision-making for domestic vendors to attract foreign investment;

Real Estate Women in the Energy Industry

The energy industry is vital to our national and global economy and it offers career opportunities for women in the real estate industry. The energy industry is a big consumer of real estate assets, including office, retail, corporate, industrial and research uses.

This session will feature three women who handle vast global real estate assets for companies in the energy industry. They will share their insights on careers and growth in the energy industry for those with real estate background or interest.

Moderator: Marilyn C. Maloney, Attorney, Liskow & Lewis
Speakers: Jeri A. Ballard, C.P.M., Regional Manager, Americas, Shell Oil Company
Tracy Elkins, Manager, Real Estate Acquisitions & Disposals, Halliburton Co.
Patricia B. (Patty) Loden, General Manager, North America Facilities Management, Chevron Business and Real Estate Services

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how the energy industry offers career opportunities for women with a real estate background and interest
• Learn the latest real estate needs of the energy industry
• Learn the growth trends of the energy industry that will affect real estate development and projects

Construction Cost Drivers – Cause and Effect
In a continually changing marketplace how do project teams assemble construction budgets they can have confidence in? This session will examine the budgeting process and provide insight into how costs are impacted based upon location, project type, and even by outlying factors such as natural disasters and foreign market demands. The panelists will also discuss pricing fluctuation impacts not only on the overall budget, but also further down the line to leasing rates and resale values.

Moderator: Jacquelyn Henke, LEED, AP, Assistant Vice President, Director of Sustainability, Colliers Meredith & Grew
Speakers: Joy L. Clark, Senior Cost Engineer, Turner Construction Company
Noriko Miyakoda Hall, Vice President, Tishman Construction Corporation
Richard Marks, President, Daedalus Projects, Inc.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore supply and demand impacts, market dynamics,and other cost drivers.
• "Budgeting Ins and Outs"-summary review of pricing variations across the country and by product type.
• Review of current trends and key market indicators that impact project costs including: LEED/sustainable design, international markets, and global crises.
  
  

12:15 pm – 2:15 pm Keynote Lunch Presentation – Arianna Huffington
Author of On Becoming Fearless and Editor of The Huffington Post
Sponsored by Jones Lang LaSalle
Named in 2006 to TIME Magazine’s list of the world’s 100 most influential people, nationally syndicated columnist, author of eleven books and public radio co-host Arianna Huffington is a truly accomplished woman.

In May 2005, she launched The Huffington Post, a news and blog site that has quickly become one of the most widely-read, linked to, and frequently-cited media brands on the Internet. She has made guest appearances on numerous television shows, including Oprah, Nightline, Larry King Live, Hardball, Good Morning America, the Today show,and The O’Reilly Factor.

Huffington’s most personal book to date, On Becoming Fearless…in Love, Work and Life, offers a road map for achieving fearlessness in every aspect of life, a straight-to the point manifesto on how to be bold, how to say what needs to be said and do what needs to be done in order to find the freedom to love, lead and succeed.

2:30 pm – 4:00 pm Professional Development Sessions

Play Your Best Hand: Authentic C-Suite Women’s Leadership
Risk taking and authenticity are two forces that impact women’s success at the C-Suite level, according to new research. Learn about new women’s leadership research interspersed with real-world parables that can be applied to your professional and personal life. The two presenters will facilitate an engaging group exercise featuring a deck of playing cards designed to help women find and deploy their own authenticity and risk taking; participants will leave the room empowered to effect real change in their careers.
Speakers: Deidre Drake, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Harris Bank N.A.
Nancy Picard, PhD, Senior Consultant, RHR International

Learning Objectives:

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the importance that authenticity plays in every leader’s career. Realize the subtle yet vitally important nuances that accompany truly authentic leadership
• Hear from a seasoned PhD management psychologist and senior women in financial services about developing your own authenticity and applying it to business and personal challenges.
• Apply what you have learned in an interactive setting where female leaders will engage each other on issues and opportunities related to authentic leadership.
  

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm CREW CareerZone - Tools to Engage Your Chapter in Career Outreach
Join CREW Foundation leaders in an interactive and informative session about CREW CareerZone’s resources available for outreach efforts to girls and young women in your community. Learn about the new user-friendly toolkits and supports CREW Foundation has created for participating in: (1) CREW Careers: Building Opportunities®, introducing high school aged girls to commercial real estate; (2) UCREW Student Sessions to connect with college and university students preparing for careers in CRE; (3) eMentoring online training and matching process; and (4) CREW Network scholarship initiatives. Community Outreach committee chairs encouraged to attend! Visit www.crewcareerzone.org for more information.

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm eMentoring Pilot Project
CREW Network’s goal is to further the progress of women underrepresented in commercial real estate through a dynamic, technology-supported mentoring network. eMentoring provides highly motivated protégés with positive, one-on-one, email-based relationships with mentors from the commercial real estate industry. CREW members interested in participating in CREW Network’s eMentoring pilot project are invited to an interactive dialogue to explore and critique the on-line training, learn about the matching process and have a general discussion about the dos and don’ts of eMentoring .

Speakers: Amy Clement & Christine Loeffler of Clement & Loeffler Consulting

2:30 pm – 5:00 pm Learning Excursions - All are SOLD OUT

The Three R’s of Houston: Rail, Rodeo, Reliant - SOLD OUT
Join us for this fun-filled opportunity to explore Houston’s Reliant Stadium. This retractable-roof, 70,000-seat sports and entertainment complex received national acclaim during Super Bowl XXXVIIIand we will explore, first-hand, its uniquely “Texan” qualities with insiders from the HoustonTexans football operations as well as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Houstonians’relationship with their football team and rodeo functions is an essential part of what defines the city. For additional perspective, we will journey from the host hotel to Reliant Park via Houston’s light rail system with Houston’s real estate guru, Mr. Ed Wulfe. Ed will share his perspective and involvement with the implementation of Houston’s first phase of the rail system and simultaneous redevelopment of Main Street. A symbiotic relationship has blossomed from this vital city link connecting Houston’s CBD, the Texas Medical Center and Reliant Stadium.

Speakers: Mr. Ed Wulfe, President & Principal, Wulfe & Co.
Skip Wagner, President & CEO, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how Houston’s “starter rail line” was a key component in the redevelopment of Houston’s Main Street Corridor into a signature boulevard to connect the Central Business District, Medical Center and the Reliant Park complex.
• Understand the unique creative design and engineering features that are integral to the flexibility of Reliant Stadium – making it function equally well as a football stadium, rodeo arena and entertainment venue.

Maximum: 30 | Fee: $40 - SOLD OUT

Port Of Houston - Record Breaking Results - SOLD OUT
Tour Houston’s extensive $1.8 billion Bayport Container and Cruise Terminal complex that was built to meet both local and national marketplace demands with its central location in the Galveston Bay. The port is ranked 2nd in the U.S. in overall tonnage and 10th largest port in the world with the industrial/distribution new construction in the immediate port area being a massive 4.8 million square feet. See first-hand how a project that was publicly funded has had direct contribution to increase new construction and real estate development, employment, and income through tourism and economic development. The Port of Houston has implemented asuccessful Clean & Green Program and the new Bayport Cruise Terminal will offer a one-of-a-kind cruise experience.

Speaker: William L. Rudolf, CB Richard Ellis

Learning Objectives:

• Hear how the Port of Houston was a national demand with a $117.6 billion statewide economic impact
• Discuss the development in the immediate area equal to $4.8 msf with 5.5 msf under construction with 2.5 msf proposed new development
• Environmental issues and how the Clean & Green Program was implemented

Maximum: 30 | Fee: $40 - SOLD OUT

Skid Row to Live/Work/Play - SOLD OUT
View some of Downtown Houston’s newest developments, including Discovery Green, Discovery Tower, Six Houston Center, MainPlace, One Park Place and the Houston Pavilions. Get a first-hand look at the continued evolution of the east side of Downtown Houston from surface parking lots and urban blight, (literally skid row) into Houston’s center for sports and entertainment. Along the way, our speakers will discuss the many public initiatives that spurred private investment downtown and the integration of Houston’s light rail system and downtown development. We will also learn firsthand of green technologies and LEED program as well as a developer’s determination of the “mix” in mixed-use development.

Speakers: Laura Van Ness, Director, Business Development Program, Central Houston, Inc.
David Harvey Jr., Harvey Construction Company
Geoffrey Jones, Co-General Partner, Houston Pavilions LP
Stewart Robinson, Hines
Aaron Theilhorn, Director, Trammell Crow Company

Learning Objectives:

• Learn how public projects spur private development
• Gain understanding of the integration of public transportation and downtown development
• Learn about green technologies: LEED Certification

Maximum: 15 | Fee: $40 - SOLD OUT

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Friday Night Celebration
CREW Network Odyssey 2008: Blasting into the New Frontier
Co- Sponsored by: Perkins Coie LLP, Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP, Reznick Group and The Lionstone Group
Step aboard the CREW Network Starship for a journey into the new frontier. We’ll fly you to the moon where you’ll enjoy a celestial evening of cocktails, networking, high-stakes bidding and celebration as we close another successful CREW Network Convention. This evening is your final opportunity to make another business connection or seal the deal before you leave Houston, a truly amazing international city.

Silent and Live Auctions benefiting the work of CREW Foundation will take place throughout the evening. Whether you’re in the market for a romantic trip to Italy, a one-of-a-kind art piece or the perfect bottle of wine, you’ll find it here. Your support of CREW Foundation opens doors for women everywhere.

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Saturday, October 18

Optional Activities
Pre-registration is required by September 12, 2008

9:00 am – 3:00 pm Space Center Houston
As the official visitors’ center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, guests to Space Center Houston will experience the thrill and adventure of the manned space flight program first-hand. Space Center Houston lets visitors share in the accomplishments of NASA while exploring the past, present and future of space flight. Visit Mission Status Center, Starship Gallery, the Space Shuttle Mock Up and more!

Maximum: 28 │Fee: $120.00 (lunch included)

9:00 am – 3:00 pm Galveston Island Historical Tour - SOLD OUT
Take a comfortable journey through historic Galveston Island where the glories of the 19th century are interwoven with 21st century pleasures. Galveston, Texas, was the second richest city in the United States and the leading cotton port in the world until the devastating hurricane of 1900. The city made a remarkable recovery and is now a fascinating combination of old, restored, and new. Attendees will tour three of the landmark historical homes in Galveston, highlighting the glamour and wealth of the area. Enjoy lunch and shopping on the Strand and end the day with lemonade on the porch at the home of CREW Network’s very own CEO, Gail Ayers.

Maximum: 28 │ Fee: $140.00 (lunch included) - SOLD OUT

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