May / June 2012 by Roots Canada

A window into the world of Roots

ATLANTIC ROOTS

Issue 106 • May/June 2012

The St. John’s Roots team at Signal Hill

As part of its retail expansion in Eastern Canada, Roots establishes a presence in Newfoundland

Issue 106 • May - June 2012

The Source • 1

I N S I D E ISSUE106 ROOTS SET FOR DEGRASSI Popular Canadian TV program approaches Roots to design set for 12th season

LEATHER FACTORY HOSTS ONTARIO PREMIER Dalton McGuinty visits Roots for a tour and press conference STYLE SENSE In its first appearance, Roots captures spotlight at Aspen Fashion Week GET CUSTOMIZED Leather guru Andy McCurbin promotes personalized Award Jackets WELLNESS WORKSHOPS The Roots Village Project runs free athletic demonstrations promoting active lifestyle NEW STORE OPENING Roots opens its doors in Markham, Ontario

Departments FINE PRINT GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL GREEN TIP GUESS WHO DROPPED IN HEALTH TIP NEW & NOTEWORTHY SPEAK TO MY AGENT STAYING POWER

Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Interns TERESA FAZARI JAMIE FLEMING STEPHANIE LIPTON SHAYLA SCHIPPER The Source is published by Roots Canada Ltd. We welcome letters from readers for publication. Please address all correspondence to The Source, Letters to the Editor, Roots Canada, 1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M6B 4C4 or by email to thesource@roots.com Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Each issue of The Source is also available as a blog on the Roots website at www. thesource.roots.com.

2 • The Source

Diane Bald

MAPLE LEAF FOREVER Roots prepares for Canada Day in two phases

SPECIAL DELIVERY

A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots HITTING THE SPOT I wanted to thank you and commend Roots for doing such a great job in connection with the Roots Delivers service. I should specifically cite the Eaton Centre store in Toronto and the Whyte Ave store in Edmonton. My product came quickly “with love." I had an all-around great customer service experience. Based on my recent experience, I will definitely use Roots Delivers again. Paul Callahan Toronto MOTHER KNOWS BEST I was just handed down my mother’s old Roots yoga bag produced a few years back. I had had my eye on it for so long and my mother finally gave in. While attending the huge clothing trade show ‘Magic’ in Las Vegas, I proudly carted my mother’s hand-me-down Roots bag. Many people commented on it. "Who makes that?" "Where did you get it?" "Can you buy it online?” For the past eight years, I’ve been a buyer for a vintage clothing and apparel boutique. I’ve been to a lot of trade shows and seen a lot of bags, but nothing has come close to this Roots bag. Less is more! No flare, logos, or silk-screens – just great quality, great size and functional design. Is this something Roots would ever re-issue? Or can I put in a special order for one? I

would pay accordingly... and, I think, so would a lot of others. Adrianna Denson Edmonton, AB DELIVERING HAPPINESS I wanted to take the time to say a huge thank you to Roots for providing the most impressive customer service I’ve ever received. Initially, I was taken back when I was told that your company would ship a yoga shirt to me free of charge when I couldn't find my correct size in the store. I was amazed. The delivery was so quick. When my shipment came, I opened it up to find a handwritten note from the employees at the store I visited which thanked me for coming in. Thank you so much for taking the time to put in place a system that provides outstanding customer service. I will continue to shop at Roots knowing with full confidence that I will always get the product I want. Allison Love Cardinal, ON A TRUE GEM I wish to commend a member in your Customer Service Department in connection with an issue involving a Roots jacket. I’ve never dealt with a business rep who was as determined to resolve a situation in favour of the customer while being fair to her company. She showed great initiative and determination in the way she handled the matter.

She is truly a gem and Roots made a great choice in making her part of your customer relations team. She was very responsive and easy to talk to. She was also very quick to reply to my phone calls and email. I’m telling you this because at some companies hard work isn’t always recognized. I think she deserves the recognition. I will continue my loyalty to Roots and supporting an amazing Canadian brand. C. Cruz Toronto HELPING HERBIE On behalf of the Ted Rogers School of Management and the students that organized the Ted Rogers Management Conference, I wanted to thank Roots for its support of our silent auction. Thanks to your contribution, along with many others, we were able to raise $10,000 for the Herbie Fund for the SickKids Foundation. I look forward to working with you and Roots on future events. George Phu Toronto

EXPRESS YOURSELF We invite you to send us your letters and/or your most creative photos or illustrations for publication in The Source. Please send your submissions to photogallery@roots.com

Issue 106 • May - June 2012

CONNECTING TO THE ROCK

Completing its Canadian coast-to-coast axis, Roots opens in Newfoundland (affectionately known as the Rock), as part of its retail expansion in Atlantic Canada. By STEPHANIE LIPTON

The St. John’s team with Buddy the Beaver

ith its latest store opening, Roots is now in every Canadian province. In early May, expanding its retail presence in Atlantic Canada, Roots returned to Newfoundland after nearly a decade to establish its first company store on the island. For the opening of the new location in St. John’s, Roots employees from across eastern provinces banded together to facilitate a smooth launch. Currently, there are 112 Roots stores in Canada, only eight of which are in the Atlantic region. Due to the comparatively small size of the market and large distances between stores, Roots on the East Coast relies on a strong cross-provincial team

atmosphere. To help train the St. John’s staff for their big day, the District Manager of Atlantic Canada enlisted her long-standing managers from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to help train the St. John’s staff for their big day. Roots is fortunate to have managers who stay with the company for many years. As there are not that many stores in the East, and they are spread out, store openings and renovations are often used as an opportunity for additional training and learning. Staff at the East Point Outlet in Saint John, New Brunswick appreciate working for a company with an authentic Canadian feel and family-like atmosphere. The various out-of-province Roots employees chosen to join the Newfoundland team for their opening voiced excitement and great satisfaction at having the opportunity of participating in such a milestone for the company. “I witnessed some special moActivewear on display in new St. John’s store ments, from the

Issue 106 • May - June 2012

The Atlantic Canada Roots team at Signal Hill, NL

first customer walking through the door to watching a new sales associate sell her first bag,” said one of the employees. “I’m so glad I could help and support the team.” The opportunity to open a store in St. John’s arose after Melinda McDonald, Vice-President of Wholesale and Business Development, heard about the scheduled renovation and expansion of the Avalon Mall, a popular shopping destination just outside the historic city centre since the mid-1960s. Avalon executives decided to enlarge the site by building outdoor additions a stone’s throw away from the mall. With the offer to lease one of the new additions, Roots signed its official return to ‘The Rock,’ the nickname for Newfoundland. To manage the new location and new team, Roots hired a St. John’s native with more than 20 years in the retail industry. “I was thrilled to learn that Roots was opening in St John’s,” says Alice, who was seeking a professional change and a new challenge. “What I enjoy about retail is the daily opportunity to impact people’s lives by providing a quality customer experience.” It’s heightened here as people are so happy to have Roots in

Newfoundland. Countless customers have shared stories with us about previous purchases and visits to other Roots stores outside the province.” Approximately 5,000 sq. ft. in size, the St. John’s location sells a wide variety of Roots merchandise and signals its presence with the largest beaver sign ever constructed by Roots. Pauline Landriault, Director of Planning and Development, designed the store to include a classic yet restrictive black and white palette that features beautiful Douglas Fir wood, a key element in the Roots rustic store designs since the beginning. The store includes a leather departContinued on next page

Photograph from Roots Newfoundland campaign The Source • 3

of Roots family. We used to celebrate events together such as Christmas parties, baby showment, classic sweats, Beaver Caers of a team member, and what noe, men and women’s fashions, not. If there was a need in any of the Active Athletic collection the stores, there was always help and also Roots 73 merchandise, available. Also, the Roots brand the company’s diffusion brand. is very strong in Nova Scotia. The diverse retail selection When I moved there in 1999, allows the store to cater to a a Roots sweatshirt was evervariety of customers. present on the streets of Halifax. “In New Brunswick, I often Within that context, working for tend to customers from our Staff at the Spring Garden store in Halifax, NS Roots in Atlantic Canada felt neighboring Newfoundland, unique and special and the Roots and they love their Roots,” says Team members at East Point Outlet, St. John, NB culture component was quite Denise, Manager of the Wheeler strong.” Park Outlet in Moncton, New The current Atlantic Canada Brunswick. Celebrating five district manager echoes her years with Roots this year, predecessor’s sentiments about she traveled to St. John’s to the distinct Roots and Canadian help with the opening. “Newculture found out east. foundlanders would go to great Atlantic Canada is populated lengths to get their Roots. So, with a loyal and significant Roots needless to say, everyone is very customer base. Members of the excited that Roots has opened in Roots team out east point to the St. John’s.” fact that when the recession hit, Although Roots had no retail most people didn’t feel it like in locations in Newfoundland, the working, which is good since Fredericton. In 2007, the East the rest of Canada. In the Atlantic company maintained a connecthey’re going to be busy. Point Outlet store in Saint John region, spending is fairly stable. tion with the province. In 2010, Roots in Atlantic Canada opened. People want quality apparel for Roots collaborated with Tourism has a storied history. In the late Though representing a the cool local climate and Roots Newfoundland and Labrador as 1990s, a number of companyrelatively small percentage of satisfies that need. part of a national ad campaign. affiliated and franchise locations the company, Roots stores out After the successful AvaModels, stylists and photograopened across the Maritimes. In east contribute significantly to lon opening, focus shifted to phers from Roots went to Trinity 1993, Spring Place Garden in the company. A current District the renovations taking place in Bight to do a photo-shoot to be Halifax opened its doors, thrivManager in British Columbia, Halifax at the store at Bayer Lake used to market a new collection. ing to this day. Due its success, who previously worked in Power Centre. Two years later, Roots is happy Roots opened a second location Atlantic Canada for nine years, “We love Atlantic Canada,” to be back with an impressive in the city in 1994 in the Halifax four of which as district manager says Don Green, Roots Coretail location in the province’s Shopping Center. An outlet store for that region, is familiar with Founder. “It’s one of the most capital. soon followed in 1996 in Bayers the Atlantic Roots identity. It beautiful parts of this magnificent All signs are pointing to a Lake Power Centre near Nova includes an added sense of casuccessful future for the store in Scotia’s capital, and in 2010, maraderie and support within the country. We have a fantastic team in the east. I was just in Halifax St. John’s, whose staff couldn’t Dartmouth Crossing Outlet team, which stems from being where we are looking to improve have imagined a more auspiopened. a smaller market far away from our positioning in the market cious opening. Customers were New Brunswick joined the everyone else. and renovating the Bayers Lake knocking on the doors asking Roots company family in 2005, “Being a smaller market far location. The Roots people I met when they could shop before the when Moncton got an Outlet away from everyone else, there there were terrific and the stores store was even open. It was as if Location in Wheeler Park. The was an added sense of camalooked impeccable. The future Newfoundlanders couldn’t wait. following year, a franchise raderie and support within the looks very bright for Roots in The store team proved incredibly location turned company store team out east,” says Monika. welcoming, genuine and hard opened in the province’s capital, “There was a strong feeling Atlantic Canada.”

Continued from previous page

Store team at Halifax Shopping Center, Halifax, NS 4 • The Source

Store team at Wheeler Park, Moncton, NB

Store ream at Dartmouth Crossing, Dartmouth, NS Issue 106 • May - June 2012

TRUE PATRIOT LOVE

Roots celebrates Canada Day with the Maple Leaf Forever collection

t the core of Roots lies an unwavering love for Canada. Every year, inspired by the natural beauty of its landscape and the diversity of its people, the company stays true to its Canadian heritage with the creation of a special collection to celebrate its homeland’s birthday. Captured in two recent photo shoots, the images of the Maple Leaf Forever collection include Canadian Olympic Gold Medalist and World Champion kayaker

Adam van Koeverden, and highlights the historic beauty of Toronto’s Distillery District. The two-pronged approach of this year’s Canada Day campaign allowed the Roots style team to underscore both the fashion and athletic sides of the collection. “The shoot with Adam focused on how athletes and Roots fans alike could incorporate sportier clothes into daily life,” says a stylist at Roots. “The backdrop of the Distillery

District reinforced the vintageinspired feel of the collection because of the area’s rich and storied history.” Every item in the collection comes with an antique brass pin, tying in with the Maple Leaf Forever theme. “Each piece expresses the strong message of Canadian patriotism,” says Creative Director Stephanie Holden. “The trims and vintage graphics featured in this campaign pay tribute to our national history while being

Phase two of Canada Day campaign

Adam modeled for first phase of Canada Day campaign

modern and fashion-forward.” Pictures from The Maple Leaf Forever: A Celebration of Canadian Symbols, written by Donna and Nigel Hutchins, are part of the collection’s display in the flagship store in Toronto. The book is a favourite of Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman and has served as a source for the Roots style team of iconic expressions of Canadian identity. The Maple Leaf Forever collection is currently available in stores and online.

Model Rachelle Goulding

Adam van Koeverden

Model Nick Bateman

WHEN DEGRASSI GOES RETAIL

Roots sets the stage for popular TV show

n a creative partnership with the popular television show, Degrassi: The Next Generation, Roots will be featured in the program’s upcoming season, whose first episode will premier in July. Including Roots in the series is in keeping with the program’s concept, as it strives to present a realistic portrayal of high school life in Canada for TV audiences. After being approached by Mitch Ness, Director of Photography for Degrassi, Roots agreed to design and build a replica of a Roots store for the filming of mall scenes. The Toronto-based set is laden with original Roots merchandise and will be shown throughout the next 40-episode season of the show. “We couldn’t be more excited to join forces with Roots,” says Stephanie Cohen, Director of Communications for Degras-

Issue 106 • May - June 2012

ault, Director of Planning and Development, designed the Roots set and directed the Degrassi staff on how to build its fixtures. Peter Paquette, Director of Visual Planning and Display, went to the set to display Roots merchandise with the help The cast of Degrassi: The Next Generation of the set dressers. si. “It’s a company that shares “I supplied them our dedication to quality and our with material samples and great pride in being unabashphotos of our existing stores,” edly Canadian. The inclusion of says Pauline. “They a Roots retail store in our new built most of the set Degrassi mall set is the perfect from scratch. We partnership of two iconic Canadid, however, prodian brands.” vide some fixtures, Taking only two weeks to mainly the wall build, the set reflects the Canaadjustable system dian nature of both Degrassi and which is unique to the Roots brand. Roots employRoots.” ees worked closely with the DeThe result: grassi team to ensure accuracy viewers could and realism. Pauline Landribe forgiven for

thinking the scenes were shot in a real Roots store. Props to ensure accuracy included two Roots Home Club Chairs in tribe leather, a basic sweats wall and women’s and men’s fashions. In addition to aiding with the set, Roots contributed shopping bags for the actors to use during food court scenes. Currently in its 12th season, Degrassi: The Next Generation, similar to Roots, is a prominent and popular feature in the Canadian cultural landscape. Pauline’s sketch of the Roots store

The Source • 5

THE STORIES WE TELL

Noah Richler celebrates release of his new book with Roots

anadian writer, activist and longtime friend of Roots, Noah Richler, examines how Canada talked itself into, through and ultimately out of the current war in Afghanistan and what we as a nation have to learn from the sorts of related stories we tell ourselves. In early May, Noah helped launch his latest book, What We Talk About When We Talk About War, with a party at the Roots flagship store in Toronto. First conceived as a lecture given at a literary festival in Moncton, New Brunswick, Noah later decided to investigate issues linked to the media’s presentation of Canada’s participation in the war after listening to a moving conversation between the CBC’s Shelagh Rogers and the Canadian Army’s MasterCorporal Paul Franklin in 2006. “I was interested in the myths and the uses of heroic language entangled in military language,” says Noah, 51, who lives in Toronto. “Ultimately, the book is about looking towards the future and asking what is the

best possible avenue for a country to return to its peacekeeping roots.” The book is a provocative exploration into the rhetoric of conflict. Noah discusses how communication shapes culture by tracing the Noah Richler progression of language used for military endeavours and individuals. He argues that as Canada moves away from Afghanistan there’s a shift in the media from the epic language of warriors and heroes back toward a vision of Canada as a nation of peacekeepers. Currently, Noah, son of celebrated Canadian novelist Mordecai Richler, is helping Canadian musicians John Millard and Waleed Abdulhamid with their new musical show. The pair, who played at Noah’s book launch party, work as resident artists at the Young

Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto's Distillery District. As spring fades, Noah is planning his return to his summer home in Digby Neck, Nova Scotia. “I’m getting ready to do more work on a couple of other projects of my own, specifically a book about Digby Neck,” says Noah “I've just spent a few years coming to terms with the more unsettling side of our nature. But the world is filled with beauty too, and what a special job it will be trying to figure out that part of our lives.” Attempting to understand our world can be added to the list of Noah’s accomplishments. His past projects include making documentaries and features for BBC Radio and being the books editor and literary columnist for The National Post. Noah

won the 2007 British Columbia Award for Canadian Non-Fiction for This Is My Country, What’s Yours? A Literary Atlas of Canada, which Roots sold in select stores. He has also contributed to numerous publications, including The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, The Walrus, The Toronto Star, and The Globe and Mail. • What We Talk About When We Talk About War is a Goose Lane publication. Noah’s latest is available in bookstores across the nation and online, $24.95.

Noah’s new book discusses the semantics of war

BUILDING NEW RELATIONSHIPS

Toronto Football Club members join Roots for an evening soirée

ontinuing its history of building relationships with professional and amateur athletes, Roots hosted its first annual party for the Toronto Football Club (TFC). In midApril, the players, accompanied by their loved ones, visited the Roots flagship store in Toronto for a private event. Music filled the air as the TFC community sipped cocktails, mingled, dined on sushi and did some shopping. As a gesture of friendship, Roots crafted 50 custom Athletic Bags for team members. Each player received a customized bag with his jersey number embroidered on it along with the TFC crest on the side. Inside was a selection of Roots apparel. Raymond Perkins, Director of Public Relations and a devoted TFC fan, organized the event. He has attended every home game since the first season six years ago.

6 • The Source

(L to R): Michael Budman, Aron Winter, Raymond Perkins and Danny Koevermans

“TFC is the heart and soul of Toronto,” says Raymond. “When you go to any game, you can see how people are so passionate about this team. We’ve done events like this for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and it’s time to formally support another integral part of Toronto, TFC. Roots strives to support what’s great in this city, and TFC is great.” The players, too, demonstrated their excitement of this

(L to R): Doneil Henry, Keith Makubuya, Quillan Roberts and Oscar Cordon

new relationship. Toronto-raised defenseman Ashtone Morgan shared Raymond’s sentiments about the Roots-TFC bond. “It’s great that there’s a company that’s so dedicated to supporting sports in Canada,” says Ashtone, 21. “As a Canadian athlete, I believe it’s important to wear national brands. For me, Canada and Roots are inseparable. It feels great to be able to show our pride when we’re play-

ing abroad. Thank you, Roots.” A mid-fielder, Efrain Burgos Jr., echoed his teammate about supporting Canadian brands while living here. “I recently moved to Toronto from California and I’ve noticed Roots everywhere,” says Efrain, 23. “I appreciate designer clothes and Roots apparel fits my style well. Now that I’m playing for TFC, I see it as part of my duty to represent Canadian brands.” Before the party’s conclusion, Raymond addressed the guests, sharing his excitement about the new TFC season. In his remarks, Head Coach Aron Winter thanked Roots for its support. Since the inception of TFC in 2006, Roots has supported the team by hosting the players at the store and as a season ticket holder. The April event was the first of many planned Roots initiatives to honour TFC. Issue 106 • May - June 2012

Roots ski gear Collegiatethemed après ski wear

Winter 2012 cabin wear sneak peak

Men’s cabin wear

Ski wear

EDGY IN ASPEN In its first-ever appearance, Roots captures the spotlight at Aspen Fashion Week

n mid-March for the first time ever, in front of top fashion editors, influential fashionistas, and international trendsetters, Roots staged a 34look runway show as part of the annual Aspen Fashion Week. Now in its third year, the four-day event showcases some of the most fashion-forward technical and winter resort outerwear. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the Roots fashion show generated considerable media attention and was received with great enthusiasm. Under the direction of the styling division at Roots, the team divided the program into four aesthetics, each highlighting a classic Roots item: cabin wear, which showcased the cabin sock and sweater; a collegiate-themed après ski

prominently displaying the Award Jacket; a ski and Roots performance on cover of local gear section, magazine anchored by the St. Moritz jacket; and chic shearling, a concept which featured colourful boots, totes and hats. “Working with guidance from Design Director Diane Bald, the team styled a show that had fashion press and attendees re-evaluating their impressions of Roots as a major brand for outdoor activity,” says Syd Beder, Product Development Coordinator

for Roots. “We distinguished ourselves from the other designers with our extensive offering of leather goods, bright coloured shearling, and creatively configured segments.” “Aspen Fashion Week was a great opportunity for Roots to showcase the diversity of our products and our Canadian pride for an American and international audience,” says Alana. “The show featured

Michael Budman addressing the press after the show

Behind the scenes in Aspen: getting the models runway-ready

Leather for after the slopes Issue 106 • May - June 2012

classic Canadian elements, such as organic materials and archetypical figures, but was styled in a way that made it applicable and obtainable for a broader audience of fashion-conscious ski and board enthusiasts.” Whether it’s for the slopes or the street, Roots is channeling the latest trends into its current fashions. “This spring you will see two-toned bags and bright colours, two trends which we have applied to our French Tote and Tropical Punch leather series,” says Alana. “Maxi dresses, varsity jackets and textured prints are huge for this season. The Marla Knit Dress, women’s Sorority Jacket, and Deck Dress are pieces which best reflect what’s in fashion for spring.”

Bold shades The Source • 7

ONTARIO PREMIER VISITS ROOTS Dalton McGuinty applauds local manufacturing techniques

speaking with showed a variety employees. I of leather jackets, know it was a bags, boots, shoes highlight for and accessories to our staff.” McGuinty, familiarDuring his izing him with the tour, Mcmerchandise made Guinty took at the state-of-thetime to speak art facility. The with factory Premier then reemployees ceived an in-depth, one-on-one hands-on introducwhile obertion to the manufacDon Green, (right), exhibits serving the turing techniques Awards Jackets for Dalton Mcdifferent propracticed at Roots, Guinty in factory showroom duction ‘rinks,’ which even inspecific areas cluded him helping dedicated to certain products, to make a pair of and departments. He demonshoes. strated great interest in the intri“It was a cacies of Roots manufacturing. great honour McGuinty, who arrived for for us to receive his visit sporting a Roots Active Premier McGuinty at Roots,” Athletic zip-up, used the factory to host a press conference says Don. “I was where he discussed the recently impressed by the released provincial budget degree of interest for 2012. In his brief speech he showed in before taking questions from learning more about what we do journalists, he paid tribute to Factory employee Maria Silva, (left), shows the continued success of Roots, and his down-toDalton McGuinty, (right), an example of Roots highlighting his admiration for a earth and personmanufactoring during his tour led by Don Green company that supports the local able manner in

anufacturing quality apparel is a cornerstone of the Roots creed. Today, the company is an anomaly in the Canadian fashion industry for still making many of its products domestically. All of the leather goods sold by Roots are made in its Toronto factory. Recognizing the role Roots plays in contributing to Ontario’s economy, the province’s premier, Dalton McGuinty, paid an official visit to the factory in early April. He began his tour with Roots Co-Founder Don Green, who

VIPS GET SPECIAL TREATMENT IN TAIPEI Exclusive shopping event for Roots VIP Program members at flagship store

s one of the most respected and successful foreign lifestyle brands in Taiwan, Roots has embraced its adoring customers and decided to show appreciation for some of its very important fans. In mid-April, the Taiwanese flagship store in Taipei played host to members of the Roots VIP Program for a special afternoon of exclusive shopping, entertainment and interactive activities for Roots

aficionados of all ages. Launched several years ago, the Roots VIP Program in Taiwan now has more than 70,000 members. Customers qualify as members after reaching a purchase plateau and thereafter benefit from a special discount. Students also receive exclusive offers and discounts through the Roots Fans Card Program. Roots VIPs were treated to an exclusive and intimate shop-

ping experience at the recently launched two-storey Taipei store, the largest retail location in Asia. The 125 attendees were greeted by a variety of costumed characters, particularly Buddy the Beaver, the official Roots mascot. There was also live music, dim sum, an interactive singalong for the kids and special key chains offered as gifts. As part of his weeklong tour of Roots operations in Asia, Co-

McGuinty takes a break to shake hands with Roots employees

Founder Don Green attended the event, later saying it was one of the highlights of the trip. “It's always gratifying to see how strongly Roots resonates with people in a faraway land,” says Don. “It says something about the quality and global appeal of our brand.” Currently, there are 51 Roots stores in Taiwan, with 22 more slated to open by the end of this year.

VIP VIPmembers membersenjoyed enjoyedprivate privateshopping shopping

Beavers greet guests at VIP event

King of Hearts 8 • The Source

economy. “Roots is the stuff of legend,” said McGuinty, Ontario’s 24th premier. “It’s an iconic Canadian brand. They employ thousands of people and are recognized worldwide. With a fragile local economy and unstable global economy, Roots represents the stability this province needs now.” Co-Founder Michael Budman, who was overseas at the time, spoke on the phone with McGuinty while he was enroute to the factory thanking him for his visit. He told the Premier that Roots has always taken great pride in being based in Ontario and assured him of the company’s on-going commiment to the province. • Watch “Roots Welcomes Dalton McGuinty“ on YouTube

Co-Founder Don Green poses with a VIP family Issue 106 • May - June 2012

FINE PRINT A selection of coverage of Roots in the media

Here are some recent sightings of Roots in the newspapers, magazines and websites:

• 24 Hours: May. 2. Showcases the small Grace Bag in butterscotch as “Best Classic Carrier” in their style section. • Flare: May. Features fashion director sporting a grey Roots Award Jacket. • Best Health: May. Spotlights the Pocketbook Satchel in sunshine yellow in article about ‘Dressing for London.’ • Men’s Fashion: Spring 2012. Features Men’s Daytona Baseball Jacket in ‘Go, Team, Go’ page spread. • Chatelaine: May. Showcases a variety of Roots merchandise including the Zip-Around I-Pad Case in red, Kensington Bag in sunshine yellow and tan, and the Active Athletics Seymour Hoody in Mediterranean blue. • The Closet: April. 26. Highlights the Pocketbook Satchel in butterscotch as an ideal neutral accessory for outfits with bright pants. • Daily XY: April. 12. Features the Raiders Pack in tribe and Student Pack in Alberta stonewash grey in their Style & Grooming section. • The Kit: April. 8. Highlights the newest Selina Bag. • Toronto Star: April. 4. Fashion writer Derrick Chetty applauds Roots candy colour palette, featuring a pastel Satchel. • Acquire: April. Mentions Roots in their Aspen Fashion Week coverage. • Flare: April. Fashion Trendsetter page spotlights the I-Envelope Sleeve in red. • Chatelaine: April. Showcases two Roots straw hats and the I-Envelope Clutch in yellow. • Canadian Living: April. Features the Kensington Bag in sunshine yellow and tan Norwegian. • Complex: Mar. 29. Spotlights Roots in their “10 Best Things At Aspen Fashion Week” list. • Rouge: Mar. 26. Features a Roots jacket and clutch in ‘Working Spring Separates.’ • iVillage.ca: Mar. 24. Spotlights Roots satchel in tribe leather. • Globe and Mail: Mar. 24. Highlights the Deep Cove Poncho in ‘News and Trends’ section. • The Kit: Mar. 16. Showcases Roots Village Satchel Bag in lollipop pink as one of the ‘Best Bags from Canada.’ • The Marilyn Dennis Show: Mar. 13. Presented Roots flat bag as the best bag for carrying passports or travel documents. • Flare.com: Mar. 2. Highlights the women’s Satchel in sunshine yellow with Norwegian trim for their ‘Top Spring Picks.’ Issue 106 • May - June 2012

A TWIST ON A CLASSIC Customizing the Roots Award Jacket

oots resident leather man, including stitchers, cutAndy McCurbin, is makthe type ters, embroiing it his personal misof leather, derers and sion to re-invigorate the iconic style and fit, seamstresses. Award Jacket. In mid-March, on and exterior Available in St. Patrick’s Day at the Bloor and interior multiple coStreet flagship store in Toronto, colours. lours, the body Andy and leather specialist gave “You of the Award customers the opportunity to can really Jacket is cut customize their jackets by addgain insight from Melton ing a variety of appliqués and into the wool and the other embellishments. customer’s sleeves from Customers young and old personality Italian leather. were treated to refreshments and by the way During the encouraged to try on the celethey design cutting stage, brated jacket. Artfully displayed their jacket,” Sewing a custom patch for an the lining and in the Leather Department, the says Andy. wrist knitting Award Jacket at the leather factory customization event featured “Customizare prepared some of the many options for ing is an opportunity to celebrate as well. enhancing your jacket, most your own swag.” From a customization notably the heritage dual flag apThe entire process takes perspective, the digitization pliqué. With the flags, customers between three to four weeks. and embroidery departments can represent both their country “From digitizing the logos to are where the magic happens. of origin and Canada, something the lining, snaps, stitching and All enhancements, lettering and that holds sentimental value artwork, everything is done inlogos are created on the comfor Andy, who is a Jamaicanhouse at our factory in Toronto,” puter in digitization, then sent to Canadian. says Andy. “It is truly a one the embroidery machine, which Andy, who has been with the hundred percent Canadian-made rapidly spits out the design. company since 1985, sees the product, which is why it’s so An embroidery specialist adds jacket as the quintessential Caspecial.” chenille, by hand, to the embroinadian outerwear piece and the There are eight major steps dered piece and then mounts it ultimate expression of national in the custom order production on a felt background. Because pride. with each jacket taking up to each appliqué is stitched on a “The Roots Award Jacket two weeks to complete. First, hand-controlled sewing mawas the first Canadian-made Andy creates a detailed purchine, it can take up to an hour bomber with our chase order (P.O.) to complete a single piece. country’s name on in-store with all the Once all the requested logos the back,” says Andy. customer’s specifica- are completed, they are stitched “Over time, it has tions, ranging from on the specified areas of the become a statement appliqué placement jacket. Snaps are attached and piece with worldwide to lining colour. The the freshly created piece of recognition.” P.O. is then sent to a wearable art is gingerly packed With the Roots Production Assistant and shipped to its excited, eager customization proat the Roots leather owner. gram, customers take factory, who then Andy believes the Award part in the creative makes a production Jacket is not only a representaprocess by ordering ticket complete with tion of one’s national pride, but their jacket to their all the pertinent style city pride, too. specific requirements, information for the “I want to expand the cusAndy McCurbin tomization event to other major Canadian cities, such as Vancouver and Montreal, and create Award Jackets with these cities’ names on the back,” says Andy. “I see them as ‘Rep Jackets’; it’s a great way to express love and admiration for your hometown or favourite city.” For the ultimate customization experience, visit the Bloor Street store in Toronto where Andy McCurbin holds court most weekdays and shares his Examples of a few customization options unwavering passion for leather. The Source • 9

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products MAPLE LEAF FOREVER

Canada Flag T, Grey Mix, $36

Training Polo, White, $66

Cabin Tote, Tribe, $218 10 • The Source

Canada L/S Oxford Shirt, White, $62

Shaving Kit, Black Box, $118

Training T, Charcoal Mix, $60

Canada Fleece Awards Jacket, Steel Grey Mix/ Vintage Ivory, $118

Canada Utility Pack, Red, $98 Issue 106 • May - June 2012

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

Canada Flag T, Birch White, $36

Training Tank, White, $45

Training Top, White, $55 Issue 106 • May - June 2012

Canada Crop Pant, Black Mix, $78

Training Hoody, Grey Mix, $68

Small Grace Bag, Sugar/BlackPrince, $248

Canada Jacket, Steel Grey Mix/Vintage Ivory, $98

Training Capri, Black, $58

Village Satchel, Sugar/BlackPrince, $218 The Source • 11

ROOTS VILLAGE PROJECT TAKES OVER FLAGSHIP STORE Mentors and youth showcase special demonstrations to the public

Youth participants of the Roots Village Project show customers how to get funky

n late March, the Roots flagship store in Toronto bustled with music, dancing, circuit training and yoga. Mentors from the Roots Village Project, with participation from youth in the community, put on various athletic demonstrations for the public and store staff. The Roots Village Project is an initiative that brings together health and wellness practitioners to help with at-risk youth. To bring their message to the community at large, participants organized an afternoon activity at the Roots store. Comprised of three half-hour demonstrations, the event kicked off with Brooke Tantzi, who led a dance session called the Groove Method, where youth and staff

Amica, (left), and Sheldon do yoga demos

danced to funky music. Next, Brent Bishop and George Chaker led a circuit training session, which included activities such as spinning and boot camp, aimed at improving strength and endurance. Concluding with a relaxing cool-down, Sheldon Shannon and Amica Hilton ran a beautiful yoga practice, impressing customers and passersby outside. Adding to the event was music played by Jeremy Pollock, yoga DJ and mentor. Trne Trks, a youth paticipant, is a fan of the Village Project and a current member of the Oasis Skateboard Factory in downtown Toronto. Trne teaches kids who attend the graphic design and skateboard manufactur-

Trne Trks

ing school how to break dance. “For me, the Roots Village Project is a great opportunity to get more exposure to the business side of the project and learn new skills,” says Trne. “I’m very interested in graphic design, so I’m looking forward to getting more involved in designing the T-shirt for the social media campaign and the online voting contest. And, of course, I love to exercise so I’m excited to be here today.” Delighted by the participants’ enthusiasm, Laurie Campbell, Roots Director of Health and Wellness, the driving force behind the project, applauded the event’s success. “I couldn’t have imagined a better event,” says Laurie. “We

Brooke leading a dance class

hosted it to increase awareness about the project in the community and the new Athletic line, showing its versatility for many active endeavors. We want to include the youth in all aspects of the program. By doing this, we hope to foster more self-esteem and encourage them to interact with the their community.” The staff at Roots received positive feedback from many who attended. Aiming to increase awareness about health and fitness in the community, the event illustrated the commitment of Roots Village Project participants in encouraging an active lifestyle. – Grethe Liverud • For more information visit roots.com/rootsvillageproject.

THE POWER OF BRANDING

Roots communicates with university business students in Toronto

ue to the stature and prominence of Roots, the company is often invited to speak at professional events and conferences around the country. Most recently, Roots took part in Symposium 2012: The Power of Branding, and engaged with members of the student community in Toronto. Symposium is one of the University of Toronto’s largest student-organized undergraduate marketing conferences, attracting business leaders and marketing scholars every year. The March conference, put on by U of T’s Rotman School of Commerce, explored how companies have their own distinctive ways of project-

12 • The Source

ers asked Roots to speak to this, by focusing on The Source and the advantages of having a company magazine. Robert Sarner, Director of Communication and Public Affairs, represented Roots at the event, which also featured Robert Sarner, (standing), used past issues of The companies such Source to illustrate how Roots uses its in-house publication to connect with staff, friends and fans as Harry Rosen, Canada Goose, ing their image and developing M.A.C. Cosmetics, and BMW. their brands for customers and Using a PowerPoint presentaemployees. Conference organiztion, which included sample

pages and images from The Source, Robert addressed the issue of how a brand like Roots stays relevant in 2012. After learning about the company’s branding strategies, students from the university expressed positive feedback about the presentation to the Rotman School’s VP External, Gabriela Shapova. “Students were thrilled to meet Robert and were really interested in his presentation,” says Gabriela. “It seems that the presentation on Roots was their favourite of the day.” The company distributed copies of The Source to the students and as an added bonus, gave them Roots discount cards. Issue 106 • May - June 2012

GETTING AROUND

Canada’s incurably peripatetic couple show their Roots almost everywhere

eb Corbell and Dave tourism campaign and contest, Bouskill, also known as promoting travel to the nation’s The Planet D, are Canacapital. Dave, 42, and Deb, 41, da’s premier adventure couple. attended the party at the Roots Traversing the globe for the past flagship store in Toronto where 11 years, their website hosts one they struck up a relationship of the top Canadian travel blogs. with Tanja Zelko, Manager of Before their latest major expedi- Online Marketing and Customer tion took them to Antarctica, Experience for Roots. Ecuador, and Argentina in the “Dave and Deb are an winter, Roots outfitted the pair. incredibly high energy, happy “We love all things Canadian couple with a love for travel and and nothing says Canada more meeting people,” says Tanja. than Roots,” says Deb. “Since “They have a huge fan base, not wearing our Roots gear around only nationally but in the States the world, we’ve never felt so and around the world as well. stylish in our leisure wear while We feel they do a good job of being proud of the Canadian representing who Canadians are, brand front and centre on the logo. When we wear Roots, everyone asks us if we’re Canadian.” The adventure couple connected with Roots in mid-January at the launch event Grabbing a snack of beaver tails while in Ottawa for an Ottawa

so it seemed like a natural fit for Roots to outfit them.” With their recent Antarctic adventure, Dave and Deb can now boast of having visited all seven continents, and their Roots gear turned heads the world over. “At a conference in Italy, I was wearing my pullover hoody and everyone gave me compliments,” says Deb. “I was so proud. My hat in Antarctica had more comments than anyone else’s and believe me, people were wearing some funky headwear with Mohawks and bears ears, and yet, it was my Cana-

In the world’s southernmost city Ushuaia, Argentina

Deb preparing to kayak in Antarctica

WEARING THEIR HEARTS ON THEIR SLEEVES Roots creates custom shirts for Akosia charitable organization

s part of its long-established commitment to social responsibility, Roots often assists both large and small charities, some involved in local initiatives, others more global in their focus. In one of the more recent examples, Roots has created special T-shirts for Akosia, a charitable organization that fights poverty and promotes creative expression through a variety of international projects. Started in 2008 by Quinn Simpson, a Toronto-born life coach based in London, England, Akosia is a small charity that facilitates creative projects

Quinn with her students in Ghana Issue 106 • May - June 2012

dian Roots toque that got all the feedback.” In late April, Dave and Deb attended the Travel Bloggers Unite conference in Umbria, Italy where they spoke about different ways travel brands can work with bloggers. Currently, the pair is planning their next adventure as part of their constant pursuit of new and unique ways to experience the world. • Check out Deb and Dave showing their Roots at: http:// www.awardweb.info/2012/03/ representing-roots-round-theworld/, visit their homepage at: http://www.theplanetd.com

tary school for homeless days when and vulnershe attended able children the Mabin and women. School in Through the Toronto with collaborative Sophie Green, platform of daughter of filmmaking, Co-Founder participants Don Green. In are encour2009, Quinn aged to express contacted themselves Akosia volunteers Diane Bald, in a dynamic Design Direcand interactor, with a proposal to give a tive environment. Each project Roots T-shirt to each child on an culminates with a mini film festival in the neighbourhoods of Akosia mission to Ghana. Since then, Roots has continued to creproject participants, an experiate custom-made shirts with the ence which Akosia logo on the front and the instills Roots name on the sleeve. confidence “I love that every child has and pride the Roots name on their sleeve,” within each says Quinn. “It's a huge statemember. ment for these participants that Quinn says somebody believes in their has been a project and their abilities.” friend of Over the past three sumthe Roots family since mers, Akosia has established initiatives in Ghana, Israel and her elemen-

Hiking in the Galapagos, Ecuador

Mexico. This summer, its volunteers are going to Mongolia to raise awareness of the issues faced by working children in the nation’s capital of Ulaanbaatar. Members of each Akosia initiative will be outfitted in a Roots T-shirt, a sign of unity in the eyes of underprivileged women and children. The circular image featured prominently on the front of the shirt is a Ghanaian symbol which means “help me and let me help you,” a visual reminder of the organization’s strong commitment to both teamwork and individuality. “The T-shirts are an interesting and exciting way for Roots to align themselves with a charity that’s on the ground,” says Quinn. “It’s a clear reflection that the company believes in making a contribution to the world through grassroots volunteerism.” • To learn more about how you can help Akosia, visit www. akosia.org The Source • 13

NEW STORE FOR SOUTHERN ONTARIO

Roots opens a new location in Markham’s Markville Mall

Display windows of the Markville store showcase selection of leather and the Active Athletic line

n late March, Roots opened one of its most beautifully designed retail spaces to date. Reminiscent of a modern farmhouse, the new store is located in Markham, Ontario, just 40 kilometers northeast of Toronto. With its contemporary wood

and glass exterior, Roots Markville showcases loft style transom windows that, during the day, illuminate the men’s fashion side of the store, while woven baskets are used to soften the

women’s side. Integrating plants into the design, Roots highlights its passion for nature, using large-scale floral arrangements to create a dramatic effect throughout the space. The salvaged and reclaimed wood detailing comple-

ments the black stained wood surfaces of a variety of fixtures in the store. By using strong, natural wood elements and a black and white colour scheme, the products stand out. Covering approximately 2,800 sq. feet, the new store radiates warmth and character through the presence of black and white heritage photography. The special attention paid to the fitting rooms helps provide an enjoyable shopping experience for customers through the use of custom lighting, new fixtures and leather ottomans. Located inside the soon-tobe renovated Markville Mall, Roots has transformed this retail space into an exciting shopping destinations for customers.

SPECIALTY FASHION FINDS

Leading Canadian e-boutique Dealuxe.ca and Roots join forces

s part of its ongoing efforts to expand its online presence, Roots has initiated a partnership with the e-retailer Dealux.ca for a Canadian promotion. Launched in late April, the shopping website offers a specialty line of Roots bags, some of which are only available at Dealuxe.ca. With each bag purchase, the customer receives a free Roots leather phone pouch. Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman and Design Director Diane Bald facilitated the initiative with the Canadian online boutique. Created by Joanne Track in 2011, Dealuxe.ca is an online shopping destination designed to bring contemporary brands to style-savvy women. Accom-

Roots offers bright bags on Dealuxe.ca

panied with magazine editorials, Dealuxe curates collections of the latest in-season fashion trends, making it more than just a shopping website, as it strives to be an all-inclusive fashion destination. “We are so thrilled to welcome Roots to Dealuxe and collaborate with such a quintessential Canadian brand,” says Susie Sheffman, Fashion Director of Dealuxe.ca, Fashion Editor for Fashion magazine and part of

APPRECIATING CUSTOMERS

Staff at the Roots 73 store in Cambridge, Ontario set up a face painting table, giving the April Customer Appreciation Day an extra something special. 14 • The Source

the Roots Creative Team. “The bags are bursting with colour and style and work perfectly with spring’s top trends. Best of all, I love that they are made with the highest quality leather, right here, in Toronto.” Inspiring Canadians to shop locally is a fundamental ideal behind the collaboration with Dealuxe.ca, a leading Canadian e-boutique. In addition to retailing Roots leather bags, the two companies are also running a contest, offering a prize of a custom Roots bag and a $1,000 Dealuxe shopping spree. The leather bags, crafted by Roots in Toronto, are available from the end of April onwards. Future projects may be discussed for coming seasons.

YOGA BREAK AT HEAD OFFICE

Starting in mid-April, staff at the Roots head office are enjoying a lunchtime yoga class led by Grethe Liverud, (standing), every Tuesday, adding to the already available pilates class. Due to the popularity of the free sessions, an additional Thursday class, led by Laurie Campbell, was added to the schedule.

HEALTH TIP #67

Easy ways to help stay healthy

TRIUMPH OVER ALLERGIES: Ward off unwanted allergy

symptoms this spring with these easy-to-follow rules. 1. Wear sunglasses when outside. Covering your eyes not only protects them from the sun, but also keeps pollen and other irritants away, reducing itchiness and visible redness. 2. Take a shower and wash your hair before bed. Reduce irritation by cleaning up before going to bed. This helps remove pollen from your skin and hair. 3. Keep pets out of the bedroom. If they’ve been frolicking outside, consider keeping animals in nonsleeping areas of the house since pollen can cling to their fur. 4. Minimize outdoor activities when pollen counts are at their peak. Pollen is at its highest point in the afternoon. Those who suffer from allergies and even asthma should avoid going outside during this time of the day. 5. Turn on the air conditioner at home. Leaving doors and windows open is an invitation to allergens and other irritants to enter your home. 6. A Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV, rating tells you how well the filter can remove pollen and/or mold from the air as it passes through. 7. Keep air conditioning and furnace filters fresh. Filters should be changed every three months and have a MERV rating of 8 to 9. 8. Don’t hang laundry outside. On a clothesline, fabrics can easily collect pollen and trigger allergy symptoms. Instead, use a drying machine to reduce these allergens. 9. Don’t eat produce and other foods that might aggravate sniffles and sneezing. “Oral allergy syndrome” is a condition that affects about one third of seasonal allergy sufferers, and occurs in people who already have an allergy to pollen. It causes irritation in the mouth, lips and/or throat after eating certain raw or fresh fruits and other foods. Cooking or peeling the food may help, but getting an opinion from an allergist is recommended. 10. Keep doors and windows closed to help prevent pollens and outdoor molds from entering. You can also use air filters systems. 11. When using your car, keep the windows up. Pollens, dust and mold will be some how limited to enter your car if your windows are closed. The key is to avoid pollens, dust and mold at all cost. • Source: getbetterhealth.com Issue 106 • May - June 2012

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL Spotlighting the top performing Roots stores in recent months based on their sales results

efore this issue of The Source went to press, we received the final sales figures for stores in recent months. Taking the top spot for company stores in April was the Aspen store in Aspen, Colorado. In March, the Belleville store in southern Ontario, (pictured), captured first place. As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the Beacon Hill Roots 73 store location in Calgary, Alberta claimed the top spot in April, while the Orfus Road Outlet in Toronto took the honours in March. Congratulations to the Manager of the Aspen store, the Manager of the Belleville store, the Manager of the Beacon Hill Roots 73, the Manager of the Orfus Road outlet and to their respective teams for their exemplary performances. Hats off to all of the other stores that surpassed their sales goals in March and April.

The Belleville store Roots team

GUESS WHO DROPPED IN... Taking attendance of special guests at Roots

elebrities have long made a point of shopping at and developing friendly ties with Roots. Here are the latest sightings of prominent figures in entertainment and sports who recently visited Roots stores, the head office, factory or were seen wearing Roots. • Whistler, BC – Star of the TV show One Tree Hill actor Chad Michael Murray stopped by the mountain town store in early April. He bought a hoody and a few hats for himself inbetween snapping some pictures with the staff. He was overheard telling his friend “I can’t resist buying something everytime I enter a Roots. I love this brand.”

• Bevery Hills, CA – Actor Bruce Willis visited the Roots store in late March while shopping in the trendy LA neighbourhood. • Beverly Hills, CA – The lead actor for the Swedish version of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Michael Nyqvist, dropped by the Roots store for a few men’s fashion pieces in early April. • Beverly Hills, CA – Action movie star Dolph Lundgren returned to Roots in early April, following his first visit in midFebruary, to buy another pair of boots for his girlfriend and some sweats and men’s fashion apparel for himself.

Bruce Willis

Chad Michael Murray

Dolph Lundgren

Michael Nyqvist

DÉJÀ VU

A voyage back in a time to a vintage Roots moment from the early 1980s

ince its earliest days, Roots has been a popular destination for musicians, singers, actors and other members of the entertainment world. Both local performing artists and those in town while on tour or making a film often gravitate to Roots. In the winter of 1986, while in Toronto as part of a North American concert tour, Motown singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder visited the Roots Coach House, situated next to what was then the Roots Department Store on Avenue Road. Roots Co-Founders Michael Budman, (left), and Don Green presented a Roots leather jacket to the Michigan-born superstar who sang a couple of his songs while there. Also seen in the photo is Don’s wife, Denyse Green, who’s holding the hand of their son Anthony. Issue 106 • May - June 2012

The Source • 15

STARTING LINEUP

The people who make it happen at Roots stores Continuing our series of team pictures from the Roots retail family, spotlighting the Birmingham store in Michigan.

Brian and John Mulroney, 22 months old, Toronto

L to R: Linda Florence, Vicky Tal, Zoe Florence, Jody Golden and Ellen Grossman in Israel Kea White, 14, Dublin, California

SPEAK TO MY AGENT

Little - and not so little - customers show their Roots

Lenon McMahon, 17 months, Niagara Falls, ON 16 • The Source

Lilly Yuffa, 3, Toronto

e often receive unsolicited photos from people eager to show us pictures of their children, cousins, grandchildren, or even pets, wearing Roots. Sometimes the senders ask if we could use the photos in a future advertising campaign for Roots. While we can’t promise that, we are happy to publish them in The Source. Over the years, Speak To My Agent has become one of

the most popular items in our magazine. Everyone is welcome to submit their favourite shots to be considered for publication. Please send your pictures to photogallery@roots.com. Be sure to include the name and age of each child or pet in the photo, where it was taken, place of residence and a sentence stating that you agree for the photos to be used in The Source. Issue 106 • May - June 2012

MUSICAL ROOTS

This time, we spotlight Canadian folk-rockers The Great Lake Swimmers

t may be called New Wild Everywhere, but the fifth album from the Toronto-based folkrockers the Great Lake Swimmers is the first record they’ve made at a proper studio. Having spent the last 10 years touring and recording in interesting locations, such as historic churches, an abandoned grain silo, or the Ten Thousand Islands in the St. Lawrence River, the indie band marks a new era with their latest release. “We wanted to try something new, expand our horizons, and flex a bit of the creative muscle we’ve built up through many years of touring,” says Tony Dekker, the band’s singersongwriter. “It came as a bit of a surprise to us how well we functioned in a professional studio. We were able to focus completely on the songs, rather than the logistical obstacles of waiting for the boat to dock, or the rain to stop.” Their previous album, Lost Channels (2009), won the band critical acclaim including a Polaris Music Prize and a Juno nomination in 2010. Five albums into an already-rich and storied career, the Great Lake Swimmers’ live shows have gained them ever-expanding audiences in the United States, Europe, and, of course, their native Canada. This spring and summer, the band is performing in various major cities and festivals across

environment

STAYING GREEN WHILE ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS: Protect the environment while having fun outside by following these ecofriendly tips.

(Back row L to R): Bret Higgins, Tony Dekker, and Erik Arnesen, (front row L to R): Miranda Mulholland, Greg Millson

North America. Currently, the touring line-up includes Dekker on lead vocals, acoustic guitar and harmonica; Erik Arnesen on banjo, electric guitar and harmonium; Greg Millson on drums; Bret Higgins on upright bass; and Miranda Mulholland on violin and backing vocals. Having spent the last decade entrancing listeners with his unforgettable voice and compelling songwriting, Dekker is a celebrated Canadian musician. His band, Great Lake Swimmers, have long been a word-of-mouth favourite in their home country of Canada. With timeless melodies telling undiscovered stories, the new album from Great Lake Swimmers’ New Wild Everywhere maintains an acute respect for the folk tradition, while at

the same time transforming it for new listeners everywhere. Inspired by Marilyn Bell, the first person to swim across Lake Ontario in 1954, the Great Lake Swimmers named their band after her impressive feat. The band's style has been compared to Red House Painters, Nick Drake, Iron & Wine and Neil Young. Dekker has said his influences include Gram Parsons and Hank Williams. — Davin Bujalski • Listen to Roots Radio to hear music from Great Lake Swimmers. For more information about the band, visit their website: greatlakeswimNew album cover mers.com

CHEF’S CORNER Roots-friendly recipes for a healthy diet and to bring pleasure to your palate KELP NOODLE AND VEGETABLE STIR FRY: Kelp, a

type of seaweed, is known to possess many health benefits. It is a rich source of minerals, counting more than 70, including potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium and iodine. It also contains enzymes, vitamins, trace elements, Issue 106 • May - June 2012

GREEN TIP #70 Easy ways to help the

and more than 21 amino acids. With all of these nutrients packed in, kelp noodles make for a healthy alternative to pasta or rice. Ingredients 12 ounces kelp noodles ½ cup onion ½ cup bean sprouts ½ cup carrots ½ cup red bell pepper ½ cup mushrooms 1 tsp garlic, minced 1 tbsp olive oil Tamari or soy sauce, to taste Dash of sugar or sugar alternative, to taste Dash of salt and pepper

Eco-Camping • Something we all learned in kindergarten: don’t litter. Put your garbage in the trash. • If you’re camping with your car, consider a pollution-free solar oven. • Use biodegradable soap and cleaners when cleaning up. • Fight off bugs with natural repellents like lemon eucalyptus. Bug sprays with DEET are bad for your health and the earth. • Use sunscreens that aren’t made with harmful chemicals. These can be damaging to your skin and to the environment. Beat the Heat • Turn on an electric fan: it uses 90 percent less energy than centralized air conditioning. • If it’s too hot for a fan, try opting for a solar-powered air conditioner. • Save energy by turning off all cooling devices when there’s no one in the room. Green Your Barbecue • Choose a cleaner-burning propane or an electric grill instead of one that is powered by charcoal, which contributes to poor air quality. • Buy hormone-free meat for the grill. • Set your picnic table with reusable dishes and utensils, and use cloth napkins if possible. • Clean up with a natural cleaner like Orange Plus (made with orange oil). • Source: http://www.sierraclub. org/tips/summer.aspx

½ cup vegetable broth or water Instructions 1) Sautee the garlic in the olive oil 2) Add the vegetables and sautee until cooked 3) Add the rinsed kelp noodles along with the soy sauce, maple syrup, and broth and mix 4) Sautee until the noodles have softened 5) Add salt and pepper to taste Serves 4 - 6 •Source: http://www.kelpnoodles.com/recipes.html The Source • 17

18 • The Source

Issue 106 • May - June 2012