FACES Magazine December 2014 - Craig Anderson by FacesMagazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS holiday

Cover Story

8-13 | Craig Anderson

26 |

Best Gifts Under $100

27 |

Reindeer Facts

28 |

Why Do New Year’s Resolutions Never Last?

29 |

The Gift of Giving

30 |

What Caused the Return of Ugly Christmas Sweaters Popular Drinks for the Christmas Season

31 | features

14-16 | Cary Elwes

32-33 | Best New Year’s Eve

Celebrations in the World

34-35 | Christmas Around the World

37 |

The Why Page

38-39 | 17-19 | Jordan McIntosh

Entertainment

42-45 | 47 | Fashion & Beauty

4 | December 2014

FACES Time Capsule: Ottawa in 2008

Pacman Turns 35

48-49 | 20-25 | FACES Fashion

Best/Worst Christmas Movies

History of Best Selling Toys Around Ottawa

55-59 |

Haunted Carnival

60 |

Remembrance Day Ceremony

62 |

Wine & Food Festival

MAGAZINE DIRECTORY Editor In Chief Justin MacKinnon Publisher Hank’s Paw Publishing (A division of 2384399 Ontario Ltd.) Creative/Art Director Vicky Sun Photographers Greg Kolz Gord Weber Cover Photo: Getty Images Contributors Duong Hoang Andrew Steele Alex Feeney Kaylie Dupont Kara Foster Jordan Murphy Mike Norton Erin Maxwell Kayla Keenan David Rowan Steve Palleck Dominique Desmarais Heidi St. Pierre Marc Rogers Communications Director Kelly Tranmer Operations Director Joshua Chartrand Accounting / Finance Linda Zhang Advertising / Sales info@facesmag.ca Contact 613-591-6093 info@facesmag.ca @facesottawa www.facesmag.ca

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COVER STORY

8 | December 2014

CRAIG ANDERSON

COVER STORY

CRAIG ANDERSON At the time of writing this article, Craig Anderson is second in the NHL for save % with 0.935%. He’s just behind leagueleading, 2013-2014 Stanley Cup Champion Jonathan Quick (0.938%), which isn’t a bad spot to be in at all. But statistics don’t really matter to a seasoned veteran like Anderson. Losses, bad beats and negativity don’t seem to matter to Anderson either. He understands that there will be ups and

10 | December 2014

downs, good times and bad times, but that the only thing that really matters is the next shot. He’s calm, poised and focused at all times, which is exactly what you want from someone between the pipes. FACES had the opportunity to speak with Craig Anderson in the dressing room after practice. We learned about his career, the importance of fan support and the need to stay focused.

“For me, I use ‘next shot’ to stay focused. I focus on one shot at a time, so my mind stays focused on the now.” What was in like playing hockey in Illinois? Do you have a specific memory that stands out? I probably have to say going to my first game at the Chicago stadium. The old stadium just had such a great noise and atmosphere for an NHL game. We didn’t get to see too many games in-person, so seeing my first one was definitely special.

be outside sources. Whether it’s getting tickets for family and friends, or making sure everyone has passes, there’s just a lot of stuff that goes on where you aren’t 100% focused on the game. When you’re a young guy, it’s almost better not playing in your hometown so you can just focus on the game and being in the league.

As a kid, which players were your favourites growing up? Grant Fuhr and Patrick Roy. They were just two guys who found ways to win and were always exciting to watch.

What was it like playing in Chicago, Florida, Colorado and Ottawa? Are there different atmospheres to each city? There’s a different atmosphere to every building in the NHL – everything is a little bit different.

You played for the Guelph Storm in the OHL. How did playing in Canada compare to playing in the US? I think just the overall hockey atmosphere of the city of Guelph was intriguing and energetic. Getting away from home, moving in with a billet family and just being with the guys turned everything into the focus of a hockey lifestyle. It was a big change and one of the greatest things to do as a high school kid. In 2002 you had first NHL game with the Chicago Blackhawks. Did you feel any added pressure playing in your home turf? When you’re a young guy trying to break in the league and get your feet wet sometimes the biggest detriment to your game can

Chicago, when I was there, wasn’t very good. There were only 10,000 people at the games, which meant the stadium was half full. Those were some difficult games to mentally prepare for and battle through. When you won in Florida, then the fans came out and they came out loud. Those were exciting times when we were pushing for the playoffs. Colorado was about the same atmosphere, especially when we were pushing for playoffs. For so long, Colorado had such a great

COVER STORY

team with Forsberg, Sakic and Roy that were selling out stadiums forever. Then they had a couple of tough years and when I got there things were still kind of up and down, but the atmosphere for playoff hockey was a whole different level. Coming to Ottawa, my first game here had an atmosphere that was like a volcano that just erupted. Playoffs here in Ottawa are a whole level on top of that. Being in a Canadian market the ladder just keeps going up and up. I’ve been very fortunate to experience so many different and great atmospheres. How is suiting up for your country different from playing for a club team? It’s different. It’s one of those things where you almost feel like an All-Star team because guys are picked from everywhere. You get the chance to visit different countries and see different cities, which is a great experience but there are rivalries. Sometimes you’re playing against guys during the NHL season and then you are up against them for international games. It’s a different experience but it’s an honour to wear the sweater. Do you have any pre-game rituals? Usually it’s just routine – the same routine over and over again. The same food, stretches and warm up. For me, I’m left-handed so I put my left skate and pad on first. What do you like to do in your spare time? Right now I spend all my spare time with my kids. In the summer I like going to the racetrack and being part of the motor sport scene. My brother races, and it’s just fun being around the race fuel, turning wrenches, cars and automotive stuff.

and I haven’t been yet but my wife has, is the trampoline park. What advice do you have for younger players trying to crack the NHL? Mental focus is the number one aspect. Staying positive is key because you will have good days and bad days, but you should always be having fun. If you have fun then you will always do your best. What do you do to stay mentally focused? Any tips or tricks? Throughout the day or game your mind will wander thinking about family, friends or anything, but if you have a key word to focus on it helps. For me, I use ‘next shot’ to stay focused. I focus on one shot at a time so my mind stays focused on the now. During a shootout does your focus change? How do you prepare for each player differently? I like to just read and react. I know some guys have their patented move that they like to go back to, but I find if you over-study a guy and think he’s going to do something and he doesn’t then you look pretty silly. For me, I just try to read and react. But it is a bit different during a shootout because there’s no back pressure. The shooter doesn’t have any skaters attacking them so they can slow down and change how they attack so you have to change and react too. How important is fan support when you’re playing? It’s huge. Win or lose you need the fan support. The fans push you to become better. When you have a bad day the fans let you hear about it sometimes, but that’s the pressure that comes with being where we are at, which makes you just want to come out and be better next time. Follow Craig Anderson on Twitter @CraigAnderson41

Do you have a favourite spot to go to in Ottawa? We visit Napoli’s for dinner quite a bit. The latest one now,

“Mental focus is the number one aspect. Staying positive is key because you will have good days and bad days, but you should always be having fun. If you have fun then you will always do your best.”

13 | December 2014

FEATURES

If social media sites like Facebook and Twitter were around in 1987 then The Princess Bride may have been a colossal commercial success. The classic fairytale, action/adventure, comedy, drama, love story film that features sword fights, a giant, monsters and so much more opened with modest success in the late 1980s. It was only when the film hit VHS that it became a cult classic that spread across North America and the rest of the world. Word of mouth catapulted the film from being a modest commercial success to a cross-generational must-have in all film libraries. The Princess Bride is like Star Wars in the fairytale movie world. It may not have enjoyed the same commercial success as the George Lucas franchise, but it does have many of the same enduring qualities that have entertained viewers from all ages and generations. Unlike so many films, The Princess Bride has staying power; it’s a movie you can watch today and still feel the relevance of its characters, story and comedy. It’s a movie that can be (and has been) enjoyed by children, adults and grandparents. In short, it’s a timeless classic. The role of the hero in The Princess Bride is played by Cary Elwes. You might remember him from other movies like Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Liar Liar, Twister, and Saw, to name a few. He’s penned an aptly titled book called As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride, which offers readers a unique behind-the-scenes account of the film. Here you will learn about the process Cary Elwes went through to be selected as the hero, the relationships he had with the filmmakers and cast, and also about André the Giant’s drinking capabilities and famed generosity. FACES had the chance to speak with Cary Elwes about his book, experiences from filming The Princess Bride, work with the non-profit Mercy Corps and other past and forthcoming projects.

CARY ELWES

Your family roots include aristocrats, ambassadors and clergymen. What led you on journey to becoming an actor? I got interested in acting as a kid just by watching movies and TV. Who are some of the actors you admired growing up? For British actors I would say Laurence Olivier and Ralph Richardson were my two favourites. You started off working as a production assistant in the 1970s. Is it true that went you met Marlon Brando he gave you a nickname and did it stick? Yes! Marlon gave me the nickname ‘Rocky’, but only he called me that. Prior to the Princess Bride you starred in a number of films, but this is the one that really hit it big. At the time, did you know The Princess Bride would be such a lasting success? We were hoping it would be successful; obviously that’s what everyone hopes for on any project they work on. But we had no idea it would become as successful as it has become now. I think I can speak on behalf of the filmmakers and the whole cast when I say how blessed we all feel about that. You recently penned a booked called As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride. What led you to write this book? Well, fans always ask us (myself and my co-stars), ‘was it as much fun making this film as it looked?’ And I always tell them it was more fun than it looked because it really was. So I wanted to share with the fans just how joyous that journey was for me. In the book you cover a lot of different and unique stories that some fans might not be aware of – from filming the famed sword fight with an injury to André the Giant’s food and drink capabilities – is there a specific memory that stands out for you as a favourite? It’s too difficult to pick a favourite. It’s absolutely a collection of so many great memories. The Princess bride has gained cult status among its fans with Bill Clinton counting among the loyal fans. What was it like meeting President Clinton in person? Obviously I was thrilled to meet the President and delighted to learn that he and Chelsea had seen the movie a number of times. You just never know who the fans are of this film. I think that it just goes to show the longevity of this work, and the power it has. Long and short of it – I was blown away. What is the average The Princess Fan like? It’s a cross-section. What’s amazing is that it’s cross-generational. I meet whole families who have watched it together – grandparents, parents, children and grandchildren enjoying the film. I think that’s rare today; to see a family film that holds up. Do you consider The Princess Bride a family movie? Or is it a fantasy, romance, comedy, drama or is it a bit of everything? Well that’s the problem the marketing department at FOX had when they released the film. Finding the right angle to pitch was hard to do. I mean, was it a kid’s movie, a comedy, an action film, a fairytale, and so on. They settled on marketing it as a kid’s movie and that didn’t service very well, unfortunately, because audiences stayed away. It wasn’t until the film was released on VHS that it started to gain a real audience. What was it like working with so many greats on The Princess Bride? From famed filmmaker Rob Reiner to legendary comedian Billy Crystal, Robin Wright to André the Giant and everyone in-between. They were marvelous to work with and they all welcomed me despite being the novice in the group. I can barely remember a day without laughter on that shoot, which is another reason I wanted to share my book with the fans. Who would you say was one of the funniest moments on the set? One of the funnier days, and there were many, was when Billy Crystal

FEATURES

came in early October to shoot his Miracle Max scene with Carol Kane. He showed up in full makeup and in full character. I thought I would have a pretty easy shooting day because I just had to lie down on a slab in his hovel being ‘mostly dead’. Director Rob Reiner told me not to move and to hold my breath because the camera would see my chest moving, and so on. Rob then walked over to Billy and told him to just go for it. Billy didn’t need much coaxing to ‘go for it’ anyway, but he launched into a 3 hour medieval Yiddish stand-up that ruined every take because the crew and everyone was laughing. Rob was the first one to be banished from the set because he has a very robust laugh. The sound department setup a monitor for him in the hallway. I was the second one out because you could see my chest moving up and down because I couldn’t stop laughing. Mandy Patankin, (portrayed Inigo Montoya) bruised a rib from laughing! Why do you think the film and its inspired characters have had such a lasting success? I don’t know. Bill Goldman, whose books I re-read recently, talks about that concept in his work. He says that nobody knows anything in Hollywood about what makes a hit movie because if they did then they would be making them all the time. I think we just lucked out and caught lightning in a bottle with The Princess Bride. How would The Princess Bride look if it were shot today? It would probably have a lot more CGI, which would probably make it a different film all together. You’ve also been in some other great films like Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Twister and Liar Liar. How do you prepare for each role differently? I prepare for each role pretty much the same. I just read the script over and over again until ad nauseam, annotate it and go online to do research to figure out what character I’m going to play. If it’s based on a real person then I have to do a lot more research. But all of this is part of the fun for me because it’s like a continued education. How did you get involved with Saw and did you prepare for that role any differently? No, not really. I went to meet with some neurosurgeons at UCLA who were very helpful in preparing me for that role. I also had to prepare mentally to be chained to a wall for a better part of 18 days. I was chained to a wall for 13 hours a day during filming, so the mental component plays an important role in preparation. The film only had a million dollar budget so we were averaging about 12 pages of dialogue a day. It was a fun, exciting and exhilarating time. You have been to and filmed in Canada before. What do you like best about Canada? The people, culture and just the country as a whole – I just love it! I’ve had the opportunity and gift, as part of my career, to travel Canada. I’ve been to Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary and Ottawa. I can’t wait to go back to Canada because there is so much of it I would still like to see. You lend your time to charitable initiatives. One that comes to mind is Mercy Corps (www.mercycorps.org). How did you get involved with that group? Mercy Corps are an incredible non-profit that not only help to provide the necessary resources to a community that has been ravaged my man-made and natural disasters, but they stay there after all the other NGOs have left to help get the community back on its feet. They accomplish this in a number of creative and interesting ways; one of them is providing micro loans. It’s just incredible and the group is tireless in their efforts. Rather than just a shortterm fix they are looking for a long-term solution. I’ve had the opportunity to witness their work in Darfur, which was a life-changing experience. What does the future hold for Cary Elwes? I have a couple of movies coming out. One movie will be out fairly soon called Reach Me, which also stars Sylvester Stallone. Then I have two movies next year: 1) Sugar Mountain with Jason Momoa; & 2) The Greens Are Gone with Catherine Keener.

16 | December 2014

Follow Cary Elwes on Twitter @Cary_Elwes

Winning his first talent show in the fourth grade, consistently placing top 3 in competitions all across Ontario, coming first place in the American Idol Experience competition two years in a row, landing a record deal with IROC music AND being signed by Big Star Recordings Inc.- all before his 19th Birthday. With so many amazing accomplishments already under his belt, Ottawa’s very own Jordan McIntosh is making a name for himself in the country music world. We caught up with the Ottawa-born country music star Jordan McIntosh to discuss his many accomplishments, inspirations, passion for country music, dedication to the Ottawa community and his ability to create a new brand of “pop-country” music, which is becoming more and more popular each and every day.

Jordan McIntosh 17 | December 2014

FEATURES

Jordan McIntosh “I feel so lucky that I get to start my career at only 18 and have some of the best in the business pushing me along.”

You participated in your first performance in the 4th grade talent show. What did you perform to win that contest? How did it inspire you? This feels like such a long time ago. I performed a song called “Rock That’s Higher Than I” and I have no idea how it sounds or what the words are, I just remember the title. This was the first time I ever sang in front of people, other than my family, so there must have been a reason I chose this song. I wish I could go back and have someone film the performance; it’d be a nice memento to have. You have admitted that many of the songs you write are about things that you’ve actually experienced. Has this always been the case? What is your favourite experience that you have written a song about? I’ve always thought that the more the artist can connect with the song they are singing, the more the audience will too. I’ve always written about what’s close to my heart. Actually, when my debut record comes out next spring, I could tell you who and what every single song is about. I think it’s important for the artists to be able to relate to their own music on a personal level. Just recently I got a tattoo that says “when words fail, music speaks” and I wrote a song based around the meaning of it. It’s pretty cool having a song about your tattoo. When was the first time that you heard one of your own songs on the radio? What was it like for you to experience hearing it for the first time? The first time I think was back in August of 2012, it was my very first single “Walk Away” and I was with one of my best friends driving around the Staples parking lot. We knew the song was going to play

18 | December 2014

but we didn’t have an exact time. Finally the song came on and it was pretty surreal. As an artist, one of your main goals is having your songs played on the radio so to have accomplished that goal on my first single was awesome. We both just freaked out and sang along at the top of our lungs. Your cover of Lil Wayne’s song “How to Love” has reached over 250,000 views on YouTube. Were you surprised with the amount of views on the video? How did it feel seeing the numbers get higher and higher for the video? I was very surprised, I had no idea it would get the reaction that it did. I always covered the song at my shows and it would go over really well with the audiences so when I decided to film it and put it on YouTube I had no expectations at all. It was definitely my first “viral video” and watching the numbers keep climbing was pretty insane. Even to this day every time I go check the view count, it’s higher than it was the day before. You have stated that your sister was the reason you started singing. Do you remember what song it was that you heard her sing? How has that moment influenced who you have become? I don’t know if there was one song that caught my attention. I think it was just the fact that she was singing in general. I was that annoying little brother that followed her around everywhere and did everything she did. I looked up to her, and still do, so I always had to do whatever she was doing. The day she started to sing was just like any other day, it was something she was doing that I had to do. Then I realized I was pretty good at it and it made me happy so I definitely have her to thank for a lot of this.

Who is your all time favourite country artist and why? This is a tough one because there are so many to choose from. I think if I had to choose, even though she just released a pop record, I would go with Taylor Swift. Her music and lyrics have always been real. She always writes about what’s close to her heart and I love that. If I could pick one person on the entire planet to write a song with, it would be her without a doubt. Do you enjoy listening to other music genres besides country music? If so, what other types of music genres do you enjoy? Of course. I’m a big fan of most genres of music; I love flipping through the radio to hear the latest big hit that everyone is obsessing over. I’m a music fan in general, even when it comes to the music I make in my career, as long as the songs are great… I’m happy. Recently I’ve been listening to the new Jessie J record and it’s killer. She’s got one of the best voices I have heard in a while and song after song she continues to blow me away. What is your all-time favourite part of having a career as a country music star artist? What is your least favourite part? My all-time favourite part is that I love how this feels like a family. The country music world has literally become my second family. Everybody just wants to see everyone succeed and do well. I’ve had some amazing artists take me under their wing and show me the ropes. Artists like Brett Kissel, who is now like a brother to me, and George Canyon, who is almost like a second father. It’s crazy to have these people by your side but at the same time, it’s the coolest thing. I’m not sure if I have a least favourite part, I mean sure there are a few people who could maybe be a bit nicer and get off their high horse but it doesn’t bother too much because at the end of the day, when people stop putting up with them, they’re the ones who will wish they were nicer. Becoming a famous country music artist is obviously not the easiest thing to accomplish. What would you say has been the largest obstacle you’ve faced in your career thus far? How did you overcome it? The largest obstacle has probably been proving to people that I’m in this for the long haul. The fact that I’m so young used to make a lot of people in the industry worried that, like a lot of teenagers, I would change my mind in a week and move on with a different career path. So trying to prove to everybody that I’m not going anywhere has been difficult. To be honest, I’m still trying to overcome that but the harder I work, the more people understand and realize that I am not going anywhere anytime soon. What is one thing that most people do not know about you? Probably that I don’t always love being the center of attention. Don’t get me wrong, most of the time it’s my favourite place to be but sometimes all I want to do is be at home watching a movie by myself. I think most people look at me and think that the spotlight is the only place that makes me happy. Which is true most days but sometimes you just need a few moments alone and sometimes those are my favourite days of the week. Being signed by Big Star Recordings Inc at such a young age is quite an accomplishment. Do you remember the moment you were signed? What was the feeling like for you? Yeah it was an awesome moment. To have the label and all the people behind it believe in me at such a young age is incredible. I feel so lucky that I get to start my career at only 18 and have some of the best in the business pushing me along. They’re all just as excited about this as I am and we all want this to be as successful as it can be. Having a great team of people behind you is the first step. You have so many singles out right now that are gaining so much positive feedback. Out of all of the songs you have made so far, which would you say is your favourite? Why? My favourite is probably, “Grew Up In A Country Song” because I wrote it about the town that I am from. I wanted a song that talked about where I grew up and how it helped shape me into who I am today. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s been my best selling single and has been heard by over a million people. The coolest part of it was getting to shoot the video for the song in Carleton Place because now I got to show people exactly what I was singing about. Follow Jordan McIntosh on Twitter @JordanMcIntosh

“My all-time favourite part is that I love how this feels like a family. The country music world has literally become my second family. Everybody just wants to see everyone succeed and do well.”

FASHION & BEAUTY

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HOLIDAY

New & Bestselling Books

Best Gifts Under $19

Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham

$16.49

Yes Please by Amy Poehler

$35.85

$100

$20.69

Michael Jordan: The Life by Rolan Lazenby

$19

Mr Hockey: My Story by Gordie Howe

$39.99

$25

Fun & Games

Beyoncé Platinum Edition Box Set

RAVPower Xtreme Portable 3-Port External Battery Charger for Smart phones

$90

$45

Health & Beauty

$35

Cards Against Humanity: Canadian Edition

Bath and body works Holiday Traditions Bucket 26 | December 2014

Sephora Favorites Superstars

Marc Jacobs Fragrance – Daisy Rollerball Trio

REINDEER Reindeer are strong Even a baby calf has the ability to outrun a human!

Reindeer are the only type of deer where both the female and the male have antlers on their heads. Femaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keep their antlers until they give birth, whereas males lose their antlers each and every winter.

FACTS

Reindeer and Caribou are actually two different names for the same species of animal. They can weigh up to 375lbs and can reach a height of 1 metre!

Reindeer travel more than 3,000 miles in a year, longer than any terrestrial mammal!

Male reindeer have much louder calls than the females do. They have a small pouch under their throats that they fill with air before calling out.

27 | December 2014

’s r a e Y w e N Why Do ? t s a L r e v e N Resolutions 1. Goals are too vague Many people just make general goals for their New Year’s resolution. Instead of saying, “I will eat less fast food each month”, people need to say, “I will only eat fast food once a month”. Remember, the more specific the goal is, the better the chances of success are!

2. Don’t overdo it with too many goals

When it comes to making New Year’s resolutions, people tend to shoot for the stars and give themselves too many goals. Keep it simple, stick with one or two goals that you KNOW you can accomplish!

3. Depletion of self-efOnly you can get in your own head. When it comes to reaching your goals, don’t feel sorry for yourself. You need to stay positive and focused the entire time. Eyes on the prize!

4. Keep your True Friends Close

Your friends are the ones who you know will help you reach your goals. Being mixed in to the wrong group of friends can be a huge barrier to people trying to achieve their goals. Make sure your friends support you 100% of the time!

HOLIDAY

Canadian Blood Services With nearly 20 different locations in the Ottawa area, almost everyone can take a little time out of their holiday season to go donate blood. Approximately every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood. Your donation just might give the gift of life to one of them.

Ottawa Food Bank

The Snowsuit Fund

For a full list of locations where you can drop off non-perishable food items go to: www. ottawafoodbank.ca

Donate cash, or your time to help keep children warm this winter. Last year, The Snowsuit Fund distributed 16,000 new snowsuits to children in need in the community. Visit www.snowsuitfund.com to learn more about how you can get involved in this great initiative.

The Gift of Giving Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to get caught up in the excitement of gifts and holiday vacations, but it is important to keep in mind that not everyone is so fortunate. Here are just a few examples of non-profit organizations in our community that can always use a helping hand.

Ottawa Humane Society

Saint Vincent de Paul

Shepherds of Good Hope

If you are 18 and over, you can apply to become a volunteer at your local shelter. Foster an animal, help with grooming, walking, or fundraising events. For more information, email volunteer@ottawahumane.ca or call 613-7253166 ext. 231. There is also a detailed wish list of items that you can donate at: www. ottawahumane.ca

Saint Vincent de Paul was a French priest who lived in the seventeenth century in France. Saint Vincent de Paul dedicated his adult life to serving the poor. Today the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul continues to minister to the poor in 144 countries on five continents by providing food, clothing, visits and aide to those in need.

The largest non-profit organization in the Ottawa area serving the homeless and impoverished. Donations of food, blankets, clothing, and toiletries are always needed. Lend a hand at the soup kitchen Monday-Friday. To become a volunteer, you can fill out an application at: www.shepherdsofgoodhope.com or call 613789-8210.

29 | December 2014

HOLIDAY

WHAT CAUSED THE RETURN OF

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATERS

The growing popularity of Ugly Sweater Parties. More and more people are attending parties where all guests dress up in their ugliest Christmas sweaters, whether they are parties with friends or parties with coworkers- these ugly Christmas sweater parties provide laughs for everyone!

30 | December 2014

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the perfect combination of ironic humour and nostalgia. Because these sweaters were very commonly worn many years ago, more and more people are starting to wear them nowadays as a way to both bring back old memories as well as providing some laughs and cheers during the Christmas holidays!

Wearing these sweaters is the perfect way for adults to imitate young people. These sweaters are an easy way for adults to show to the younger population that their sense of fashion is the reason for why these ugly sweaters are still commonly worn in the 21st century.

The Simplicity. Ugly Christmas sweater parties allow people to not overstress about what to wear, as pretty much any Christmas sweater will do. The uglier the Christmas sweater, the better it is!

POPULAR DRINKS FOR THE

Christmas Season Rum n’Eggnog This traditional Christmas season drink never gets old. This smooth, creamy drink goes great with spiced rum. Finish it off by sprinkling a dash of nutmeg on the top!

1oz spiced rum 4oz Egg Nog 1 tbs of nutmeg

White Hot Chocolate

1 cup white chocolate chips 1 cup heavy cream 4 cups half-and-half 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This delicious drink adds a nice twist to the traditional hot chocolate drink. It’s the perfect way to keep warm during the Christmas season while still being festive.

Garnish Vanilla whipped topping Mint leaf

Candy Cane Swirl This funky drink gets its kick from vodka, peppermint schnapps and white cream de cacao! It makes for a very tasty and visually appealing cocktail, perfect fit for the holidays!

1 oz. Raspberry Vodka 3 oz. Cranberry Juice 1/2 oz. Grenadine 1/2 oz. Peppermint Schnapps

The Grinch This drink is solely popular during the Christmas holidays due to its look, not its flavour. Make sure that the melon liqueur you use is the right colour! These drinks also have a cherry garnish in them, which symbolizes the Grinch’s shrunken heart, hence the name of the drinkThe Grinch!

Hot Buttered Rye

A warm whiskey cocktail that keeps you nice and cozy during the Christmas holidays. Most commonly topped off with a maple-cream mixture and a tablespoon of fresh nutmeg. It’s the perfect balance of a cocktail and a dessert!

2oz Midori melon liqueur 1/2oz Lemon juice 1 Teaspoon simple syrup Maraschino cherry

1 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1/4 cup rye whiskey 6 tablespoons hot water 2 tablespoons ginger liqueur

expedia.de

HOLIDAY

BERLIN

EDINB

Berlin, Germany - In Germany, and many other European countries, December 31st is commonly called Silvester. The holiday draws 1 million people into the streets of the nation’s capital. Music stages and food and drink tents fill the “Party Mile” between Brandenburg Gate and Victory Column. There is no official end time to the street party, but many choose to move along to one of the city’s wild dance clubs after the fireworks display at midnight.

Edinburgh, Scotland - No other city does Scottish call it, quite like Edinburgh. The cludes a torchlight procession, concerts, and On New Year’s Day, the annual Loony Dook jump into the freezing waters of the Firth

BEST NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS IN blogspot.ca

RIO

PAR

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil - Brazil is beautiful any time of year, but Rio is famous for its New Year’s Eve celebration and fireworks display. In the heart of the South American summer, an estimated 2 million locals and tourists hit the beach at Copacabana. In true Brazilian style, vibrant music fills the warm air all night leading up to the sound of fireworks and champagne bottles popping at midnight. It is tradition for locals to wear white to bring good luck for the New Year.

Paris, France - The City of Lights is the ulone Bonne Année. The Champs-Elysées is views of the Eiffel Tower, which displays its

wayfaring.me

KOH PHANGON Koh Phangon, Thailand - Sunrise Beach is far from the refined celebrations that Paris has to offer. Travellers from around the world flock to Koh Phangon for its surreal Full Moon Parties that rage on until sunrise, and often well into the next afternoon. The parties happen every month, but the New Year’s Eve celebration is in a league of its own.

LOND London, England - On London’s South Bank, sight against the backdrop of The London for the countdown to midnight with Big Ben.

uchinatravel.com

tripwolf.com

BURGH New Year’s Eve, or Hogmanay as the celebration lasts four whole days, and ina massive street party on Princes Street. charity event takes place. Brave participants of Forth.

HONG KONG Hong Kong, China - Hong Kong boasts one of the world’s best pyrotechnic shows, and a Times Square-style countdown, complete with a replica ball drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Hong Kong is also special because they celebrate the New Year twice – once on December 31st, and again for the Chinese New Year, which is based on the lunar calendar, so dates vary each year. This year we will be welcoming 2015: the year of the goat/sheep. nbcnews.com

THE WORLD

NEW YORK New York City, U.S.A. - Starting in the late afternoon on December 31st, 1 million New Yorkers and travellers from all around the globe pile into Times Square to watch the iconic ball drop. Nearly 1 billion more tune in to watch it televised. Star-studded performances lead up to the countdown, and when the clock finally hits midnight, an explosion of confetti erupts from the rooftops of nearby buildings. In the city that never sleeps, the party goes on all night.

thebookoftravel.com

RIS

wfol.com

NIAGARA FALLS

timate romantic location to wish your loved the center of the party and offers magical own unique light show at midnight.

Niagara Falls, Canada - Canada’s biggest New Year’s Eve party takes place above the breathtaking falls. More than 2,000 pounds of fireworks are set off in two shows at Victoria Park. The Winter Festival of Lights is in full force this time of year, decorating Niagara with over 120 light displays along the 5 kilometer illumination route, created with more than 3 million lights. mvenigma.com.au

dailymail.co.uk

DON the New Year firework display is an amazing Eye and the Thames. 250,000 people gather

SYDNEY Sydney, Australia - Sydney is the very first major city in the world to ring in the New Year, and they do it with a bang. The most populated city in Australia hosts one of the world’s largest parties. Over 1 million people attend the elaborate waterfront show every year. Celebrations last all day and night, with incredible air and water shows, the famous Harbour of Light Parade, and not one, but two fireworks displays throughout the evening.

HOLIDAY

UNITED KINGDOM

CANADA Some Canadians open gifts on Christmas Eve. Canada is also home to Santa Claus!

Children leave out mince pies and brandy for Santa Claus.

SPAIN Many attend a midnight mass called La Misa Del Gallo, which is named after the rooster who crowed the night Jesus was born.

GERMANY

MEXICO

In some parts of Germany, Christkind delivers presents. There’s also an evil trickster named Krampus who visits children who misbehave.

From December 16th to Christmas Eve children perform the Posada – travelling from house to house like Joseph and Mary seeking space at an inn.

BRAZIL Socks replace stockings and aren’t filled, but instead replaced with a present.

y an t m ha are n t i e w ies en se or er to st ff p hi di ma d d. re is an orl sa h s w n t t on e io u ti h it k o di d t ad c ra n tr he s, t rou as . C d a m es oo d st ri s f un o ri t h n a f C ou stm c ri h

34 | December 2014

N U O R A D S RL A M WO T E IS R TH H C

FINLAND Some Finns visit the graves of ancestors and light candles to honour their memory.

JAPAN

INDIA ETHIOPIA

Christmas Eve resembles Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day to some Japanese. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrated as more of a romantic holiday where gifts are exchanged.

The Christmas tree is sometimes a banana or mango tree.

Many Ethiopians celebrate Christmas on January 7th because they follow the Julian calendar.

AUSTRALIA

SOUTH AFRICA

When Santa arrives in Australia he gives his reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos.

Christmas takes place during the summer months so there is no snow.

35 | December 2014

HOLIDAY

WHY

WHY SAINT NICHOLAS? 1,700 years ago in Turkey, a man named Nicholas was raised Christian and, upon the death of his parents, sold all of his possessions and gave the money to the poor. As a bishop, Nicholas rescued children, distributed food and gave gifts. His famed generosity led to sailors and other travellers carrying the story of Saint Nicholas back to their countries.

WHY DECEMBER 25TH? December 6th became Saint Nicholas’ day. During the Middle Ages, children would receive gifts in his honour on that day. When veneration of saints began to fall out of popularity his saint day was switched from December 6th to December 24th/25th.

WHY ‘SANTA CLAUS’? The Dutch story of Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) tells of the bishop going door to door to deliver treats to children. As European immigrants settled in North America the name Saint Nicholas sounded like and became Santa Claus.

WHY RED? In the 1930s, Coca Cola began marketing the generosity and warmth of Santa Claus. The signature colour of Coca Cola was, and is, red. So Santa wore red. The rest of Santa’s modern look can be attributed to Coke too.

37 | December 2014

HOLIDAY

Die Hard (1988) Miracles, thankfulness and the importance of family are all explored in this shoot-em’ up action classic.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Not all Christmas cartoons (or stop motion) are cute and stereotypically family friend. Just ask Tim Burton.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966) The most lovable Christmas jerk of them all! Christmas cheer feels that much better when you know its evil equivalent is out there.

Home Alone (1990) Imagine getting some time away from 10 siblings, a mansion to yourself and the chance to severely injure criminals. Now imagine you’re 10 and have all this…

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) This claymation classic is a Christmas standard. It offers everything that makes Christmas great – a peppermint prospector, an elf dentist and an abominable snowman.

BEST CHRISTMAS MOVIES It’s old, but it’s good. If you can get past the fact that it’s a story with people talking and no CGI then you’ll enjoy this holiday classic.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

38 | December 2014

Why not spend the holiday season with the Griswolds? It’s cheesy 80s slapstick comedy, but it also shows how rage-filled suburban life can be.

National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989)

It’s a sweet and innocent children’s classic. It’s not glitzy, but the music is catchy and the message is still relevant nearly 50 years later.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Will Ferrell. That is all.

Elf (2003)

Halloween meets Christmas in this holiday classic. I always felt Christmas was lacking the horror element in a positive light.

Gremlins (1984)

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964) Back in the 60s, everyone took on the Martians and Santa was no exception. It’s as a good as it sounds.

Jingle All the Way (2006)

Santa with Muscles (1996)

There’s campy and cheesy and then there is this nonsense. It’s just plain terrible and features Sinbad.

Hulk Hogan was in his prime in the ring, but not on the silver screen. It lasted only two weeks in theatres.

Jack Frost (1998) When loved ones pass just grab a harmonica and bring them back as snowmen! Only to witness them melt in spring. This is the actual plot.

Surviving Christmas (2004) Oh, what’s that? You’ve got millions of dollars so you pay people to spend Christmas with you? No, that’s just perfect.

WORST CHRISTMAS MOVIES Did you know that Santa’s lesser-known brother is Vince Vaughn? Kudos for having creepier elves than most horror movies.

Fred Claus (2007)

“One of the worst holiday films. Ever” – Roger Roeper

Deck the Halls (2006)

You know what every classic cartoon duo needs? A gritty reboot where one is accused of theft and the other is blackmailed.

Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July (1979)

Gremlins was too cute, right? So let’s just steal the idea of critters at Christmas but make it a horror film with Satanic rituals and a race-purification plot? Recipe for disaster.

Elves (1989)

JTT can’t make it home for Christmas until his dad offers him a vintage Porsche. Suddenly, he can make it! Christmas spirit at its finest.

I’ll be Home for Christmas (1998)

39 | December 2014

Nutritionist

My Favourite Sugars! It’s always difficult to stay away from those tasty treats at the dessert table during the holidays, but be mindful! Artificial sugars and sweets have many negative effects on your body. I have some tips and tricks to help you satiate your sweet tooth without adding inches to your waistline!

@Arbournutrition

Dates Agave Nectar As a nutritionist, I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all, miracle cure for health. Health is individual, and so is the approach that I take with each client. Whether your goal is to lose weight, combat dry skin and hair, manage a chronic health condition, enhance athletic performance, or simply improve your diet and lifestyle, I will coach you to success.

Dates are naturally very sweet and great to use in many recipes which call for regular sugar. Dates are a good source of carbohydrates, Vitamin B6, potassium, copper and magnesium! I use Medjool dates because these have the best flavor, are usually dried in the sun on a date palm tree and therefore have no chemicals added. Dates can be used in baking by boiling them down and mashing them into recipes. Dates are also great in smoothies, stuffed with nuts and as a mid day energy boost!

Agave nectar (also known as Syrup) is low on the glycemic index but still offers sweetness without spiking your sugar levels. Agave contains fructose which is a sugar that naturally occurs in fruits and vegetables. This sweetener can be used by some diabetics, and has a much lower calorie count then conventional sugar, almost 300 calories less! Agave nectar is also high in calcium and iron, and provides a stable absorption of sugar which provides consistent blood sugar levels.

Maple Syrup

When baking, substitute artificial sweeteners with these alternatives:

We are so lucky to have access to maple syrup basically in our backyards! Maple syrup doesn’t only taste delicious but it also contains up to 54 different antioxidants. Maple syrup is also great this time of year because it is high in magnesium and zinc which help boost our immune systems and keep our heart healthy. You’d be surprised to know that it also has the same polyphenolic compounds found in flax seed, tomatoes, berries and red wine. When baking you can also use less maple syrup since it is generally sweeter than sugar, agave syrup, honey and other sweeteners. Keep in mind that if you are baking with this delicious syrup, you’ll have to adjust the temperature by lowering it -25°.

Cinnamon

Ashley Arbour

Healthy Holiday Tips:

Although this spice is not commonly known as a sweetener, I wanted to include it because it is so tasty around the holiday season and adds so much flavor. There are two varieties of common cinnamon: 1) Chinese; and 2) Ceylon. Ceylon is a little bit sweeter, but quite often more difficult to find. Cinnamon helps control blood sugar levels and has been known to improve digestion. When baking, especially during the holidays, adding cinnamon to cookies, cakes, puddings and hot drinks will add extra flavor without the extra calories.

HOLIDAY

Poached Pears with Dark Chocolate

2-3 cinnamon sticks 2 tbsp. of cloves 1-2 thumbs of ginger 4 cups of water 5 pears 8-10 pieces of 70% + dark chocolate

Directions:

Bring water with all ingredients to a boil. Add pears and poach for 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In double boiler, melt chocolate. Top each pear with 2 tsp of chocolate and serve. (Pears can be poached ahead of time, 1-2 days)

My Favourite Holiday Desserts Directions:

Mix all dry ingredients. In medium bowl, mix wet ingredients. Blend dry ingredients into wet until they are well mixed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop dough out evenly. Flatten with fork to achieve crisscross pattern. Bake at 350° for 7-15 minutes or until golden brown on the edges.

Peanut Butter Cookies 1 cup of almond flour ¼ tsp baking soda ½ tsp sea salt ½ cup natural peanut butter (or almond or seed butter) 1/24 cup of agave nectar 2 tbsp of coconut oil 1 tsp of vanilla extract

ENTERTAINMENT

FACES TIME CAPSULE OTTAWA SENATORS 2007-2008 SEASON Followed their run to the Stanley Cup Finals with a 13-1-0 start to the 2007-2008 season (NHL record for best start after 14 games). Daniel Alfredsson sets club record with 7 points (3G, 4A) in game vs. Tampa. Team went on a slump in Jan/Feb costing John Paddock his job as coach.

Bryan Murray put himself back behind the bench for remainder of season. Season Record was 43-31-8 (finished 7th in Eastern Conference). Swept in 1st Round of Playoffs by the Pittsburgh Penguins. In off-season, Craig Hartsburg was hired to be Head Coach going into 2008-2009 season.

Notable 2008 Draft Picks

Team Leaders

Erik Karlsson (1st Round – 15th Overall)

Goals: Dany Heatley (41) Assists: Jason Spezza (58) Points: Jason Spezza (92) PIM: Chris Neil (199) Plus/Minus: Dany Heatley (+33) Wins: Martin Gerber (30)

Patrick Weircoch (2nd Round – 42nd Overall) Zack Smith (3rd Round – 79th Overall) Mark Borowiecki (5th Round – 139th Overall)

2008 YEAR IN REVIEW SPORTS

TOP SELLERS

MOVIES TOP GROSSING FILMS

Stanley Cup Champions Detroit Red Wings

Automobiles Ford F-Series, Chevy Silverado, Toyota Camry

The Dark Knight

Iron Man

ACADEMY AWARDS

World Series Champions Philadelphia Phillies

Best Picture

Indiana Jones Hancock and the Kingdom of Crystal Skull

Best Actor

Best Actress

Holiday gift Elmo Live

NBA Champions Boston Celtics

Super Bowl Champions New York Giants

42 | December 2014

No Country For Old Men Daniel Day Lewis

Marion Cotillard

Best Supporting Actor

Best Supporting Actress

Best Director

Javier Bardem

Tilda Swinton Clayton”

Joel and Ethan Coen

“There Will Be Blood” “La Vie En Rose”

ebookee.org

Book Twilight by Stephanie Meyer New Moon by Stephanie Meyer Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer

“No Country For Old Men” “Michael

“No Country For Old Men”

Ottawa in 2008 POLITICS

WEATHER Hottest Day in Ottawa: JUNE 8TH

theodot.com

Larry O’Brien Mayor of Ottawa

°C

GAS PRICE Gas Price (Regular):

109 cents/litre

Coldest Day in Ottawa: JANUARY 3RD

- 25

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carp.ca

Dalton McGuinty Premier of Ontario

Stephen Harper Prime Minister of Canada

MUSIC

°C

(Increase of 39.7 cents/litre in 5 yrs)

POPULAR TV SHOWS

TOP SONGS (BILLBOARD CHARTS) GRAMMY AWARDS “Low”

Flo Rida feat. T-Pain

Record of the Year: “Rehab” Amy Winehouse American Idol

“No One”

Alicia Keys

“Apologize” Timbaland feat. One Republic

“I Kissed A Girl”

Record of the Year: “Rehab” Amy Winehouse

Best Rap Performance: “Stronger” Kanye West

CSI superiorpics.com

Sexiest Woman Alive: Megan Fox

Best Country Song:

Katy Perry

“Before He Cheats” Carrie Underwood

“Disturbia”

Best Rock Album: “Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace” Foo Fighters

Rihanna

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Sexiest Man Alive: Johnny Depp

The Mentalist

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Dancing with the Stars

Time Magazine Person of the Year: Barack Obama

43 | December 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

FACES TIME CAPSULE CELEBRITY MARRIAGES