Nov / Dec 2012

A window into the world of Roots

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

‘TIS THE SEASON

Decking the halls with Roots

LET IT SNOW

Brianne Freedman

Special store displays help spread holiday cheer

At the Bloor St. flagship store in Toronto: Emilia Turano, Cody Sellers and Laura Connell

I N S I D E ISSUE109 THE WEST COAST HEADS EAST Roots and BC Tourism Board celebrate winter ad campaign IN PRAISE OF BROTHER AND SISTERLY LOVE Youth delegates participate in a Social Innovators summit in Ottawa

‘SHOP TIL YOU DROP’ Dragonette performs exclusive concert at Roots flagship store FOR THE LOVE OF ROOTS Customer owns more than 150 Roots bags and purses THE HOBBIT Roots and Warner Brothers team up to promote new movie A SUCCESSFUL PROTEST Roots helps end the controversial Ontario mega-quarry LENDING A HAND Retail employee volunteers with children in Africa

Departments DEJA VU GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL GREEN TIP GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN HEALTH TIP MOMENTS THAT MATTER NEW & NOTEWORTHY SPEAK TO MY AGENT STARTING LINE UP

Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Interns HAYLEY BONGARD ELYSIA CHEUNG MARIELLE CONSTANDSE 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 pdf on the Roots website at www. roots.com

2 • The Source

Ilich Mejia

BLOOR ST. ENTERTAINS Toronto’s mink mile helps raise funds for CANFAR charity

SPECIAL DELIVERY A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots HARD AT WORK

The other day, as I sat at my desk working hard (or hardly working), I thought to myself ‘I want a Beaver Canoe sweatshirt’ and, what do you know, less than 24 hours after ordering the sweatshirt, it was in my hands.

Thank you so much for the incredible service.

The website was easy as cake to navigate and I found what I was looking for instantly. It was so easy that I was compelled to buy a second sweatshirt and backpack. After I placed my order, I was so happy and couldn’t wait the two to seven days it said it would take until my package arrived.

But much to my surprise, I didn’t have to wait that long.

I’m very impressed with your service and I will definitely be shopping at Roots online again in the near future.

Holly Talaska Orillia, Ontario MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Thank you for your donation of infant and children’s items to New Circles. We have more than 25 families per day who come to our organization for clothing, shoes, bedding and towels, which we give away for free.

All of our clients live below the poverty line in the Toronto area.

It is particularly exciting for our clients to get new items because most of our clothing is

Lu Mitchell New Circles, Toronto

I’d like to thank Roots for supporting our 2012 Special Events Program. Gift-in-kind donations from individuals and local businesses make a big difference to the more than 150 events for the PMHF. The Princess Margaret Hospital is one of the top five cancer research hospitals in the world. Many of the top researchers and clinicians work together at The Princess Margaret to help achieve our ultimate goal – to conquer cancer in our lifetime.

CURTAIN CALL

Florence Bernard The PMHF, Toronto

gently used. Close to 75% of our clients have been in Canada for less than five years so having something to take with them that is so Canadian and geared to our climate is wonderful. Since 35% of the people we help are children and winter is near, we were very happy to receive the warm items Roots sent along.

Thank you so much for thinking of New Circles. You have made a difference.

Thank you for your invaluable contribution to our 5th anniversary edition of La Peña: Alameda Theatre Company’s Annual FUNdraiser. We could not have done it without you. Thanks to the incredible generosity of companies such as Roots, we were able to raise nearly $7,000 to sustain our operations and support our upcoming productions and programming. That includes the Canadian premiere of The Intruder by Mexicanborn playwright and puppeteer Amaranta Leyva and the Nueva Voz theatre-training program for Canadian Latin American youth.

Marilo Nuñez, Sigrid Velis Alameda Theatre Company Toronto THE ULTIMATE GOAL

On behalf of The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation,

TEAM WORK

The best reward a store manager can get is being told by her customers that they have received excellent service. Since this happens everyday, I am extremely proud of my Roots team.

As a result, I would like to congratulate all of my staff for their exemplary work. I love them all and hope the holiday period and new year bring them plenty of joy and success.

Josée Taillon Store Manager, Boisbriand, QC

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 109 • November/December 2012

DRESSED UP FOR THE SEASON The all-important end-of-year period is the catalyst and inspiration for Roots stores to look their best for the holidays. By ELYSIA CHEUNG

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he holiday season is always a special time of year for Roots. As the winter settles in, the festive spirit spreads and gift-giving fervour takes hold, there’s an added celebratory aura among customers and staff at Roots. It’s thanks, in part, to the beautiful visual displays created for the season at the company’s stores.

The Visual Planning and Display team work hard throughout the year to design holiday scenes in each store. Their goal is always to create an atmosphere in stores that engages customers and elevates their shopping experience. They manage to accomplish all this while showcasing the brand, which the team has achieved with their latest holiday displays.

The directive that was sent to stores describes this year’s theme as conveying messages of purity, honesty and simplicity with embodiments of rustic, natural lifestyles and modern comforts. This is a departure from previous years’ themes that focused more on a vintage premise. In keeping with the well established Roots sensibility, the decoration expresses integrity, quality and Canadiana and uses natural products.

These ideas are especially evident in the decor of the company’s flagship – and largest – store in Toronto. Filled with trees, flowers and pinecones, the Bloor St. store evokes images of nature, while the wooden

Gift wrapping plays a large role in the holiday visual display Issue 109 • November/December 2012

A scene from the second floor of the Bloor St. store in Toronto

cabin and fireplace showcased in the front window represent the ruggedness of winter. Many mannequins in the display wear “cabin-sock” apparel, a design also featured on this season’s packaging. The festive scenes at the Bloor St. emporium have drawn a lot of laudatory attention from customers, as well as staff.

“Our visual display is the best holiday set up I’ve ever seen,” says store employee Emilia Turano, who joined the company in 2003. “It’s very Roots-like, warm and homey.

The cabin, chairs, and shearling pillows make the store feel like a big home. Customers always comment on the warm feel, and how it’s not over the top.”

The planning for the holiday season’s decor takes more time than regular displays, and begins almost a year in advance. The Visual Design team travels to New York City in December to scope out ideas and gather inspiration for next year’s concept.

During the following spring, a theme is decided on, in line with

what designers have created for the upcoming winter clothing collection. The team then begins to seek out props they might need to be built and present their ideas to Roots Co-Founders Michael Budman and Don Green.

In September, the team meets once again to plan specific store displays and finalize any last-minute details. During the installation period in late October, Visual Planning staff travel across Canada to oversee all the planning and construction of the holiday landscapes.

All stores are fully decorated by mid-November.

The set up of the holiday visuals also requires the involvement of Pauline Landriault, Director of Store Development at Roots. After the props for the displays are designed, Pauline ensures their construction is done properly and in compliance with building standards. She and Howard Pollock, Director of Purchasing and Facilities, arrange construction and electrical crews to install the props, and determine that everything is

done according to the design.

“There’s more effort that goes into holiday decoration because it’s the most important season for the company,” says Pauline. “Roots is well known for its seasonal product. It goes hand in hand with the holidays, giving and family. Roots reflects and adds to the feelings people experience around the holidays.”

Although most of the stores have the same basic display, special attention goes to the decoration of the flagship stores in Canada – on Bloor St and in the Eaton Centre in Toronto; Robson St. in Vancouver; Centreville in Montreal; Rideau Centre in Ottawa; and Spring Garden in Halifax. Because they are significantly larger than other stores, it allows the Visual Team to create a more elaborate design for each one on a much bigger scale. These stores typically take longer to decorate, and the large number of props require roughly four to six days to install, with the team working ten hours per day.

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Continued from previous page

The installation of the props at the Bloor St. store in particular requires an entire week involving all the Visual Team members. A video of this process can be viewed online on the Roots YouTube channel.

Because of the space available at Bloor St., the team is able to create larger displays, which make up a collective scene, but are also individual works of art, with many more props than a normal store would have. Such a larger venue allows for the fullest sense of the brand to be showcased at Bloor St. The team sees this opportunity to redesign stores as the most exciting time of the year. It allows them to bring a completely new atmosphere to stores, and reinvent the shopping experience for customers.

Because the team is challenged each year to create a different display that is equally modern and traditional as the last, they always have a feeling of satisfaction when the installations are complete.

“I’m proud of what we were able to achieve,” says James Wilford, Senior District Visual Coordinator at Roots.

“We were able to take an idea involving holiday scenes indoors with family and give it a cozy, warm, feeling. We always try to make cohesive sections in the store so that as customers move from one concept to another they can feel the transition and understand the goal or the theme. I think we really achieved that well this year.”

Along with the decor, the

A rustic winter scene

Canadian elements are an important part of the holiday decorations

Visual Design Team also integrates the holiday themes into the packaging of products. The cabin sock pattern, which is detailed with traditional festive red and white, figures prominently in this year’s theme, and is featured on Roots shopping bags and General Store tins. Michael strongly advocated for the design, which Roots chose because of the familiarity people have with it, evoking feelings of comfort and home.

Although designing stores’ holiday appearances is an exciting task for members of the Visual Team, they face many challenges in putting them together. They must design new visual concepts for the season that express Roots style while staying true to its traditional Canadian themes. Each flagship store requires an original look every year, and communicating exact goals and designs between all those involved is key to making sure the decorations are set up correctly.

Once all their work is done, the Visual Planning Team gets to watch the customers and staff experience their creation. The displays evoke a reaction and an emotional connection with customers, one that is unique to a

This logo was hand made by the Visual Team, using 45,000 pushpins 4 • The Source

Roots shopping experience.

“Our holiday decor enhances our Roots lifestyle in so many different ways, from comfort wear around the fire, to functional technical wear for ski and chalet wear,” says Daniel Sinniah, Director of Retail Operations. “With the backdrop of our holiday cabin, lodge decor and ski lifts, our products make more sense and also set a scene for the customer. When you walk into our Bloor St. location, you truly see this come to life. It invokes a feeling of warmth, comfort and joy.”

Customers are impressed by the Bloor St. display because of all its detail and extravagance.

For staff, the new displays bring about a change of scenery, reenergizing them for the holiday season.

“It’s like being in a new store, not just because of the visuals but because the staff are buzzing with energy and warmth,” says Daniel. “The decor really stimulates the teams and their energy matches the decor. You can’t help but feel strongly about your store when it looks this incredible. The Visual Team created an environment

Part of Bloor St. store window display

that resonates strongly with the staff. It makes work-life more satisfying when what you want is what you see.”

The sales team faces many challenges at this time of year, most notably trying to match the energy level of customers. The visual display helps to keep up their enthusiasm, while trying to maintain a smooth, well functioning store.

“The staff are really proud of the store because we get so many compliments on the decoration,” says Bloor St. manager Cody Sellers. “With pride, comes motivation.”

Above all, the holiday displays at the stores reflect sentiments of family, warmth, joy and Canadian heritage, things that most people appreciate and relate to at this time of year.

The cabin sock pattern features prominently in this year’s displays Issue 109 • November/December 2012

BC A-OK IN T-DOT Special evening showcases the Left Coast at Toronto flagship store

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n a brisk mid-November evening, the Roots flagship store in Toronto exuded warmth as it kicked off the holiday season with the best of what British Columbia has to offer.

The event was held to promote the Roots holiday campaign, featuring the winter collection that was photographed on BC’s beautiful Mayne Island.

In collaboration with Tourism British Columbia, Roots hosted an evening filled with delicious food, live entertainment and some surprises. It included a photo booth in which guests had their pictures taken against a scenic BC backdrop. Friends of Roots, journalists, bloggers, fans of the brand and representatives from Tourism BC gathered in the store’s upstairs lounge area.

A few days earlier, Roots organized a contest on Twitter and Facebook in which 10 people won tickets to attend the event with a guest. (Roots and Tourism BC also launched a separate contest with a top prize of a $10,000-trip for two to BC).

“It’s a wonderful promotion with Roots,” says Cindy Burr, Media Relations Specialist at Tourism British Columbia, who attended the event. “We’re very happy with the outcome. It’s great having Roots as a partner, and to get such excellent exposure for BC in all the stores with the beautiful images shot on Mayne Island.”

The food and drinks proved true to the BC theme. Guests enjoyed white wine from BC along with food items such as fresh oysters, shrimp, crab cake, sushi, smoked salmon, and various cheeses, all flown in fresh from the West Coast earlier in the day.

As part of the entertainment, Ali Milner, a young Indie musician from BC, performed some of her soulful tunes. Legendary Canadian actor Dan Aykroyd also dropped in.

Topping things off, the 150 guests received a free Roots leather bag with a beautiful cutting board made of bamboo, and a 25% Roots discount card.

- Grethe Liverud

(L to R) Don Green, Dan Aykroyd, Cindy Burr of BC Tourism and Michael Budman

BC-born indie singer Ali Milner

MAKING IT COUNT North Bay store gets customers to put a number to the jelly beans

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nfortunately, cancer has touched, in some way, almost everyone on the planet. In an effort to reach out and help those afflicted with the disease in their community, the Roots store in North Bay, Ontario recently held a contest to raise funds.

The top prize went to whoever came closest to guessing how many jellybeans were in a jar.

Each person who participated made a donation to a breast cancer charity, and became eligible to win a prize pack put together by the Roots team at the store.

The initiative took place over a three-week period in the early fall, and all the money raised went to Run for the Cure. The customer with the most accurate guess received the prize pack that included hand cream, mascara, lip gloss, body wash and a cloth which were provided by the Body Shop, as well as a Roots gift card.

The contest was started by

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

store manager Heidi Gallagher, who is a regular participant in charity runs. After realizing that people within the store and the community had been affected by cancer in one way or another, Heidi decided to hold the fundraiser to show her support for those with the disease. She

Stacey Gallagher, (left), and wife Heidi running for a cure.

asked other retailers in the mall to contribute to the prize pack, and bought the Roots gift card herself.

In total, the store raised $210 for Run for the Cure, an annual event during which participants solicit donations for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, with which Heidi is quite familiar.

“All of us know someone or another who has been touched by this awful disease,” says Heidi. “This year was my second time doing the Run for the Cure and the stories the participants tell are heart wrenching. To see how brave and strong these women and men are is totally inspiring. My husband and I did the run for whomever needed support.”

This was not the first time the North Bay store has held a charity drive. In the past, employees have come to together to raise money for various charitable organizations, donating

Roots merchandise for benefit galas and supported each other when contributing to charitable organizations outside of work.

This fundraising effort was the first the team had done that involved customers, and Heidi hopes to do more in the future.

Through this opportunity, Heidi has met people who want to help with any philanthropic events she has in the future. Her ideas include a toy drive, a bake sale and donations for free gift wrapping at the store.

As a Roots employee, Heidi thought it was fitting to do a pledge drive, given the company’s predisposition to good causes.

“Roots donates to many, many charities and I was just happy to come up with something that was fun,” says Heidi.

“I thought it was very Roots-like to help raise money for such a great cause. I think sometimes it’s just nice to give back to the community.”

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LOOK UP TO YOUR ELDERS Supported by Roots, The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization helps kids reach their full potential

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pportunity is something a lot of us take for granted.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) organization is dedicated to ensuring that less fortunate youth receive the same chances in life to succeed that others more privileged often take for granted. In its almost 100-year history, BBBS has helped thousands of kids reach their full potential. As part of its continued support for the charity, Roots took part in the recent BBBS Social Innovators summit in Ottawa. Pursuing opportunity was the theme of the week, during which 25 youth delegates from across the country discussed topical issues, toured Parliament Hill, and learned the importance of leadership.

These 25 delegates proved youth can and are making a difference in the community, and

Roots supported their achievements by gifting each with a hoodie. Store managers Cory McGown and Christine Kemp were in attendance at the final evening reception, accompanying Roots VP James Connell who addressed the audience about the company’s involvement and sponsorship of BBBS. “Every story told was incredibly eye-opening and heartwarm-

ing,” says Cory, Manager of the Williams St. store in Ottawa and a strong believer in continued Roots community outreach.

“Each delegate brought a story that established groundbreaking evidence that, because of their experience in the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, they have become renewed citizens and rejuvenated on life’s path.”

Hearing the personal expe-

BBBS youth delegates in Ottawa show their Roots

riences of the delegates made Cory even more proud to be a Roots employee, appreciative that the company strongly instills in its staff a passion for giving back. The event also featured an inspiring speech from Defence Minister Peter McKay, who spoke about his personal involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a mentor and how it helped shape his efforts with the charity over the years.

“It was great to hear how the mentors are changing things for the kids they are involved with,” says Christine, Manager of the Rideau Centre store in Ottawa.

“The staff and our customers are happy to support Big Brothers Big Sisters since it’s about helping kids and a lot of people know of someone whose involved with the organization in one way or another.”

MAKING THE RIGHT MOVES Woodbridge store team member reaches new heights as a gymnast

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igh school student and Roots retail employee Gianmarco Mastrantoni thrives on the thrill of competition. The 16-year-old athlete has traveled to many Canadian provinces to compete in gymnastic tournaments. An employee at the store in Woodbridge, just north of Toronto, Gianmarco has been doing gymnastics since he was a child. Starting at the age of six for recreational purposes, he now competes at the national level, training 20 hours a week all year round. Most recently, he took part in the Canadian National Championships in Saskatchewan and won a Gold Medal as a member of the Ontario team.

Gianmarco specializes in men’s artistic gymnastics and competes on multiple apparatuses including the pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars and high bar. His favourite is the rings which demand he use his upper body strength and core muscles to maneuver himself into different positions while remaining in control.

“The best part of being on Team Ontario is that I get to travel with my teammates and

66 •• The The Source Source

meet many Olympic athletes,” says Gianmarco. “It’s a great experience and a fantastic feeling being part of the team.”

Each year, Gianmarco travels around Ontario to compete in three provincial qualifying rounds, to advance to the provincial championships. The top seven athletes in this competition continue on to the Canadian National Championship. He came second overall in the 2011 National Youth Championships and won the Gold Medal for the parallel bars that same year.

On the Canada-wide level, Gianmarco competes on the National Youth Team, ages 14-16, and has participated in the National Open for athletes aged 16 and up. He also had the honour of competing in the 2012 Kyle Shewfelt Invitational Competition in Calgary. Organized by former Olympian Kyle Shewfelt, it focuses on gymnastics and raises money for the (Roots-supported) Right to Play charity, which improves the lives of disadvantaged children in more than 20 countries.

Gianmarco joined Roots last summer and is a big fan of the company’s athletic line.

Gianmarco Mastrantoni has won a Gold Medal in parallel bars

“I wear Roots clothing often and I’m particular with how clothes fit me,” he says. “I started working at Roots because I wanted to be more independent as an individual and I’m a true believer in Canadian heritage.”

His store manager Colleen Weber enjoys working with Gianmarco, as he embraces the Roots culture. She believes his determination to do well, positive energy, hard work and focus contribute to his success.

“He brings energy and fun

to the workplace,” says Colleen.

“He has a disciplined mind-set and balances work and living a healthy lifestyle. Our team supports him and are always willing to help him out by taking shifts to cover him when necessary and giving him feedback and confidence.”

Gianmarco’s gymnastic career is more than just an afterschool activity. He hopes to get a scholarship in gymnastics and train in the United States after he completes high school.

Issue 109Issue • November/December 2012 106 • May - June 2012

LOVE THY ROOTS Customer Vivian Lee has amassed an impressive collection since 2008

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oots has long attracted a devoted and loyal customer base. Some people remain particularly drawn to the brand.

Over the years, The Source has profiled various customers who are proud to share with readers their extensive Roots collections.

We were recently introduced to yet another customer who has a boundless love of Roots.

Vivian Lee’s first Roots purchase was a Lauren Bag in 2008.

Since then, the Vancouver resident can’t seem to get enough of the company’s style output.

In the process, she has amassed more than 150 bags and purses, 13 pairs of shoes and dozens of clothing items.

This year, Vivian has been prolific in her purchases, especially during the Customer Appreciation Event last spring.

In April, she bought the Small Grace Bag in Alberta leather and was so taken with it that she bought the entire collection of jean-coloured Alberta leather bags.

She visits the Roots store on Robson St. in Vancouver several times a week when she’s on break from her job as an assistant to a financial advisor.

She also makes frequent trips to other stores in the lower BC

Vivian Lee with some of her Roots purses and bags

mainland. She attributes her love of the brand to its Canadian ties, and the ways in which it makes shopping easy and enjoyable.

“I continue to shop at Roots because the leather goods are made in Canada,” says Vivian, 33. “Also, the staff are super friendly, helpful and welcoming which makes me feel comfortable to return to the store again.

It also helps that Roots Delivers [which ships out-of-stock items to customers’ homes] is awesome. Ordering from the website is super convenient but I especially love going into a store to browse the leather goods section and the clothes.”

Vivian’s affinity for Roots shows no signs of abating.

“I use or wear at least one Roots product on a daily basis,” she says. “It can vary from my Village Pouch to my roll-over boots to a piece of apparel.”

It’s not just her sense of style that keeps Vivian coming back to Roots. As a supporter of the Right To Play charity, she appreciates that Roots has long been involved with the organization that helps underprivileged children in developing countries.

Having visited many Roots stores, Vivian says they all seem to share a strong sense of hospitality. She has nothing but kind words for the retail staff, many of whom she’s come to know by name.

“Elaine, who works at the

Robson St. store, is the best,” says Vivian. “Lynn, the ambassador, and Susanna are awesome as well. Brenda, the new manager there, is super nice. At Granville, Mira, Laurie, Nicole and Jin are great. Carly, from the Kitsilano store, is super friendly.

So are her staff Maya and Shioban.”

At the Robson St. store, the feelings are mutual.

“It’s exciting when Vivian comes in,” says Elaine Cheng, Assistant Manager at Robson St. “She has a passion for our bags and she always appreciates our service. She’s a really loyal customer and we’ve built a relationship with her that’s beyond customer and sales associates.

New staff know her right away and she’s friendly to everyone.”

Vivian hopes to one day travel to Roots stores in other provinces and visit the leather factory in Toronto where all the products are made in order to fully appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into her favourite leather goods. When Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman heard about Vivian, he invited her for a personalized tour of the factory next time she comes to Toronto and offered her a new Roots bag and discount card.

THE GIFT OF GIVING After an unspeakable loss, store manager shows incredible compassion to help others

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ithout discounting the appeal of receiving gifts during the holiday season, there’s something special in the act of giving and being thankful for everything we have.

For the second straight year, retail employee Paola Rios is trying to raise the holiday spirit by collecting toys for charity, especially from staff.

Paola, 36, joined Roots last year and is manager of the store in Markham, just northeast of Toronto. On Christmas Day, she plans to deliver the collected toys to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, an initiative she now hopes to continue every year.

Paola and her husband Andres, a Merchandise Manager

Issue 106 109 •• May November/December 2012 Issue - June 2012

at Costco, have a close connection to SickKids Hospital due to tragic circumstances. In February 2011, Paola’s infant daughter Sofi passed away from a genetic condition known as Gaucher Disease. Sofi had been a patient at SickKids for two months as she battled the disease. The rare condition, which affects the central nervous system, often

The late Sofi Rios

leads to death within the first year after birth. Following her diagnosis, Sofi’s condition deteriorated leaving the couple with a horrible decision no parent should ever have to make.

After doctors informed them that their child would be unable to live a normal life and would forever require feeding tubes and ventilators to control her breathing, Paola and Andres allowed doctors to take their daughter off life support to end her pain and suffering. At just nine months old, Sofi passed away with her parents by her side.

While still grieving the loss of their daughter, Paola and her husband began volunteering at the SickKids Hospital in the ICU, speaking with parents of critically ill children. It was

almost therapeutic for them to help other parents.

“During this last year and a half that Sofi has been gone, volunteering has been our way to cope with the grief,” says Paola. “We love and enjoy every moment we spend with parents in need of support.”

Although they won’t get their daughter back, Paola’s involvement with SickKids is dear to her. The Christmas toy drive is something that she and Andres hope to continue to do for the rest of their lives. They won’t be alone. When Paola explained to her fellow Roots associates about the initiative, they were tremendously supportive and excited to be a part of such an inspirational idea this holiday season.

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CABIN SOCK COLLECTION A guide to cozy Roots products

Cabin Sock Pullover, Grey Oat Mix, $88

Cabin Drape Shawl, Natural Mix, $98

Cabin String Mitt, Salt & Pepper, $36

Cabin Full Zip Hoody, Steel Grey Pepper, $76

Cabin Hooded Scarf, Salt and Pepper, $84

Cabin Pom Pom Toque, Salt and Pepper, $30

8 • The Source

Cabin Sock Legging, Salt & Pepper, $48

Warm up with sheepskin and shearling Issue 109 • November/December 2012

CABIN SOCK COLLECTION A guide to cozy Roots products

Cabin Cable Sweater, Beige, $92

Bundle up with layers this season Issue 109 • November/December 2012

Cabin Cardigan, Grey Oat Mix, $98

Cabin Crew Sweater, Grey Oat Mix, $88

Cabin Hoody, Steel Grey Pepper, $92

Men’s Cabin Flip Mitt, Salt and Pepper, $48

Cabin Scarf, Salt and Pepper, $64

Cabin Toque, Salt and Pepper, $36 The Source • 9

HEALTH TIP #70 Easy ways to help stay healthy

INDULGE, THE SMART WAY: For many people, the holidays mean busy schedules, overspending, and over-indulging in festive treats. Who can resist having a cookie or that slice of yummy Christmas cake? You can still enjoy holiday treats and festive drinks, moderately. There are a few simple ways to indulge in your favourite foods while keeping those pounds off.

First, eat a snack before going to a Christmas party. Nothing is worse than heading to such an event on an empty stomach; this is when hunger rules your food choices, making them bad choices. Instead, snack on a yogurt or a few healthy crackers to avoid arriving famished.

When attending a party, be the designated driver. Treat yourself to one alcoholic drink but stick to sparkling water or soda for the rest of the night. Your body will thank you later.

Let your eyes feast first.

Take a look at what else is being offered at the event or party. Don’t dash straight to the first sight of food. Look out for healthy alternatives. There’s no reason to start the New Year off with regrets. Enjoy the food and socializing responsibly. · Source: http://www.canadianliving.com/health/nutrition/25_ easy_to_follow_tips_for_healthy_ holiday_eating.php

TORONTO EATON CENTRE STORE ON A ROLL Roots captures three in a row in recent competitions

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s part of a longstanding initiative aimed at motivating employees, the Retail Operations Department at Roots often holds various incentive sales competitions among the company’s 125 stores in North America. In November, the team at Toronto’s Eaton Centre store (known as Roots Central) proved unbeatable, winning all three competitions. For their exemplary efforts, they received leather bags, shoes, and savings cards for each member of the staff.

10 • The Source

GETTING DOWN AND DIRTY Windsor store staff come together to clean up the Ruscom shores

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horelines, waterways and oceans are filled with litter that have a serious impact on ecosystems and people. This growing environmental problem around the world has prompted communities to take action to eliminate waste in their waterways. Earlier this fall, for the fourth year in a row, staff at the Roots store at Devonshire Mall in Windsor, Ontario participated in an annual cleanup of the Ruscom shores, a marshland area by Lake St. Clair in Windsor.

As part of the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup the Roots team partnered with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA). Established in 1973, ERCA manages natural resources within the region to achieve a sustainable, balanced environment with healthy watersheds.

Cleaning up Lake St. Clair near Windsor

Every year since 2009, the store staff have encouraged family and friends to join them in cleaning up the Ruscom shores.

Volunteers pick up garbage along the shoreline, keeping track of items collected so they can send the results to GCSC organizers. ERCA provides participants with garbage bags, ropes and gloves.

After a long, hard day of cleaning up the shoreline, Store Manger Chris Campeau, hosted a BBQ in her back yard for all volunteers.

“The cleanup brought us all together,” says Chris. “We do it to keep tradition and we try to get more kids out every year so they’ll understand what garbage does to the environment.”

AN EVENING WITH DRAGONETTE Customers enjoy a free concert with prominent Canadian band

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t the begining of October, Roots co-hosted the ‘Shop Til You Drop’ event with LouLou magazine at its Toronto flagship store. Every year, LouLou teams up with its favourite retail brands to offer an evening of shopping and fashion for their readers with great discounts, gift bags, instore activities, treats, contests and free entertainment. LouLou readers had the opportunity to shop at multiple stores on Toronto’s Bloor Street including the Roots flagship store.

The highlight of the evening was a live performance by Dragonette, the Canadian Juno Award-winning electronic music band.

About 550 guests enjoyed shopping with 20% discount on all Roots merchandise. LouLou representatives were on hand to speak about fashion and the latest trends. Guests also savoured free chocolate samples from Purdy’s Chocolates.

Entry to the event was limited. People who had signed up for it online at LouLou’s website received a Roots leather bracelet for exclusive access to the performance of Dragonette at the end of the evening.

From L to R: Dragonette bassist Dan Kurtz, drummer Joel Stouffer, Roots leather expert Andy McCurbin and lead singer Martina Sorbara

Roots also organized a Twitter contest where three people won a $250-gift card and a shopping experience with Martina Sorbara from Dragonette in the Roots store.

This is the first year LouLou and Roots co-hosted ‘Shop Til You Drop’. Julia Cyboran, Editor-in-Chief of LouLou, was excited to team up with Roots.

“I am super thrilled to have Roots as a partner,” says Julia.

“Dragonette is a wonderful

Canadian band, LouLou is the ultimate Canadian fashion and shopping guide and Roots represents the Canadian lifestyle through their brand. This is the perfect mix.”

The event attracted great media interest. Etalk interviewed Dragonette and Andrew McCurbin from Roots about fall styles. The evening was also featured twice on CityTV and generated coverage in the print media as well.

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

MOMENTS THAT MATTER Big developments in the lives of Roots staff

Laurie Campbell, Director of Health and Wellness, (currently on maternity leave), and Luke Pelosi, welcomed a new baby girl, Sophia Adriana Pelosi, on October 26, 2012.

Hearty congratulations to Laurie and Luke for this great moment

MAKING ROOTS PROUD Sales associate Meghan Hebert wins in international snowboard competition

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any retail employees at Roots have talents that extend beyond the sales floor. Their accomplishments are often celebrated within their respective fields. Such is the case for Meghan Hebert, a sales associate at the Whistler, British Columbia store, who has made a name for herself in competitive snowboarding. Last summer, she competed in the South American Cup, a series of snowboard cross races. She finished first in the over-all competition, and placed second in two other races during the series.

Meghan first began snowboarding at age 14. She previously had an interest in skiing, but the popularity of snowboarding among her friends led her to try it and she quickly mastered the sport. A few years later, she moved to Whistler to become a snowboarding instructor and eventually obtained a level three teaching certificate, the second highest level in Canada.

This inspired Meghan to enter a boarder cross race, and her performance there led to an invitation to join the British Columbia Snowboarding Team.

Meghan Hebert

“It was something that came out of nowhere,” says Meghan.

“My first feeling was this must be a dream.”

As a member of the provincial team, Meghan travels around the world. Over the past three years, she’s competed in more than 180 races.

“There are two competitions that really stand out for me,” says Meghan. “The first snowboard competition I ever entered that got me on the BC snowboard team, and the South

American one this past summer.

Both are when I felt the strongest and the proudest.”

The sport has had a major impact on Meghan’s life, both personally and professionally.

“Snowboarding has really shaped who I am today,” says Meghan. “It taught me discipline, how to respect what's around me and how fragile life can be. I can honestly say snowboarding is my life and I'm proud of that and I just hope my passion for snowboarding is contagious to others so they can find what's special in their lives.”

Meghan credits her co-workers at the Roots store in Whistler for allowing her to achieve her dreams. Store Manager Lindsay Berringer allows her time to balance both her snowboarding career and her job. The store staff are always the first to tell anyone about how proud they are of her accomplishments.

Meghan hopes to take her snowboarding to the next level.

Eventually, she would like to represent Canada on the international stage at the Olympics, and establish herself outside of boarder cross.

BLOOR STREET SHINES Jenny Surrite, Director of Retail, (currently on maternity leave), and husband Alexander MacKinnon, welcomed a new baby girl, Eleanor Madeline MacKinnon, on November 5, 2012.

Hearty congratulations to Jenny and Alexander for this great moment in their lives.

THE READERS ARE WAITING!

They love good news...and we love publishing it. Please send us details of recent births, marriages, graduations and any other positive developments in the lives of Roots people and we’ll be glad to feature it in The Source. Send all the info to thesource@roots.com Issue 109 • November/December 2012

Guests gather for an evening dedicated to CANFAR

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s dusk fell and twilight set in, guests from all over Toronto converged at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) for a night dedicated to charity.

The evening began with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails before guests headed to the nearby Bloor-Yorkville corridor for a fine dining experience. For the 15th year in a row, Roots participated in Bloor Street Entertains, an annual end-of-November fundraiser, in support of the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR).

CANFAR is Canada’s only independent charitable foundation dedicated to eliminating AIDS globally through research, for which Bloor Street Entertains is an important fundraiser.

Since its launch 25 years ago, it has raised more than four million dollars and was the winner of the Top Toronto Benefit

Guests dine upstairs at the Bloor St. store in support of CANFAR

award the last three years.

Along with Roots, many of its neighbouring stores such as Tiffany’s and Hugo Boss participated in this charity event. Each store closed to the public and transformed its sales floor into an elegant dining room to host an exclusive dinner. Toronto’s top chefs and florists volunteered to cater and decorate each venue.

Preparing the food for the

32 guests at Roots was Trevor Kitchen chef Trevor Wilkenson who also prepared last year’s event at the store. Fiori Floral created the dining room design providing the beautiful flower centerpieces.

Singer Aion Clarke performed for guests, including Canadian contemporary artist Charlie Pachter, and Michael and Diane Budman.

The Source • 11

FINE PRINT A selection of coverage of Roots in the media Here are some recent sightings of Roots in the newspapers, magazines and websites:

· Pure Green: Winter issue. Men’s Unionville Stripe Scarf highlighted in Accent With Plaid article. · Fashion: Winter. Features the Aprẻs Ski Sweater. · Chatelaine: Dec. String Cabin Mitts featured in Holiday Gift Guide. · Today’s Parent: Dec. The All Dog Blanket, available at select stores, appears in holiday gift guide. · Clin d’Oeil: Dec. Cabin Sock Water Bottle recommended for this year’s holidays. · Flare: Dec. Spotlight on customized Banff Bag. · Fashion: Nov. Holiday Gift Guide featured Air Canada Anniversary Banff Bag, Pauline Wrap, Roots by Preloved Mitts and Beaver Canoe Long Johns. · Chatelaine: Nov. Spotlight on the Cabin Collection in fall fashion section. · Flare: Nov. Kiltie Shoes and women’s Sorority Jacket featured in Ivy League fashion spread. · Flare: Nov. Showcases the Cabin Sock legging in their weekly fashion feature. · Best Health: Nov. Spotlight on Edie Bag in a Holiday Gift Guide spread. · Made for Men: Nov. Banff Bag in brown appears in a fashion editorial. · The Kit: Nov. Black Sheath Leather Dress included in Little Black Leather Dress spread. · Toronto Star: Nov 15. Roots By Preloved Toggle Scarf and Travel

By Land Candle highlighted in holiday travel guide. · Soul of my Shoes: Nov 14.

Fashion Blogger discusses her recent purchase of Leather Cooper Sweatshirt. · National Post: Nov. 3. Spotlight on Roots collaboration with Preloved and Line Knitwear. · Toronto Star: Nov. 2. A Gifts For Her spread highlights the Preloved and Roots Toggle Scarf for women who covet being cozy. · Best Health: Oct. Women’s Shorty Shearling Boots cited in issue. · Men’s Fashion Book: Oct. Quilted Motorcycle Jacket and Beaver Canoe Gloves featured. · Best Health: Oct. Shelby Tweed Duffle Coat and Shorty Shearling Boots shown in two-page spread. · Glow: Oct. Leather pencil skirt highlighted in ‘Key Piece’ article. · LouLou: Oct. Spotlight on Roots apparel in English and French editions along with Active Shearling French Tote, Selina Bag, Maple Intarsia Crew, and the Edie Bag. 12 • The Source

A HAPPY ENDING With help from Roots, campaign against Ontario mega-quarry prevails

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here’s something reassuring when a grassroots, peaceful protest campaign for a good cause garners massive support and ultimately achieves its goal when sanity prevails.

Such was the case this fall when a broad-based coalition of urban dwellers and rural residents triumphed in their lengthy fight against the building of a controversial mega-quarry in Ontario.

In late November, leaders of the Stop The Mega-Quarry campaign, which Roots had actively supported over the past year, rejoiced at the announcement that the company behind the planned development had abruptly canceled it.

The massive project was to occupy 2,300 acres of rich farmland in Melanchton Township, Roots limited edition T-shirt

Several of the 200 chefs who took part in Soupstock

northwest of Toronto. Highland Companies had intended to create a hole deeper than Niagara Falls to extract gravel, stone and other materials used by the construction industry. In announcing the project’s cancellation, Highland said it did not make sense to pursue the quarry in the face of so much opposition.

A month before the surprise announcement, the protest campaign staged a huge event in Toronto as part of its efforts to raise awareness and generate funds for the struggle against the proposed quarry. Held at Woodbine Park in late October, Soupstock featured 200 Canadian chefs, each serving a different kind of soup with ingredients donated by local food growers and farmers. Roots participated in the event, which was hosted by the Canadian Chefs’ Congress and The David Suzuki Foundation and attracted more

than 30,000 people. To help raise funds for the campaign, Roots created and helped sell limited edition Soupstock T-shirts that were made in Canada from organic cotton. Roots waved any profit from the shirts to support the anti-quarry opponents.

A year earlier, Roots also figured prominently at Foodstock, a similar culinary protest event held on a farm situated in the area of the proposed quarry.

More than 20,000 people attended Foodstock, for which Roots made and donated custom T-shirts that sold out and raised important funds for the campaign.

Following the cancellation of the quarry project, Roots congratulated protest organizers, all of whom were volunteers, for their hard work in conducting such an effective campaign in defense of precious farmland, food and water resources.

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL Spotlighting the top performing Roots stores based on their sales results hortly before this issue of The Source went to press, we S received the final sales figures for stores in recent months. Taking the top spot for company stores in October and November was the Cambridge Shopping Centre store in Cambridge, Ontario (pictured).

As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the CrossIron Mills store in Rocky View, Alberta claimed the top spot in October.

In November, it was the Beacon Hill store in Calgary, Alberta.

Congratulations to Claire St. Aubin, Manager of the Cambridge Shopping Centre store; Dan Dickie, Manager of the CrossIron Mills store; Stephanie Reid, Manager of the Beacon Hill store; and to their respective teams.

Hats off to all of the other stores that surpassed their sales goals in October and November.

Cambridge Shopping Centre team, L to R: Ryley Akin, Alyssa Cardoso, Sara Box, Claire St.Aubin, Laura Upton. Absent: Matt Davidson, Wes Will, Kristen Mackowski Issue 109 • November/December 2012

GREEN TIP #73 Easy ways to help the environment

GIVE THE GIFT OF GREEN: Let’s celebrate this holiday season in a green way. Such a joyous time of year can also be the source of stress such as the pressure to have the best decorations, the most presents, and throw the biggest parties. We tend to forget the impact all of these factors have on the environment. There are simple ways in which we can enjoy this holiday season in an eco-friendly fashion.

Of course, no one wants to forget sending out Christmas cards to relatives and friends.

However, sending personalized greeting cards through email is efficient and paper-free. No email?

No problem. Recycle old cards, or make your own with recycled paper.

Avoid wrapping paper by using alternatives such as newspaper, comic book paper to add a bit of colour, or brown craft paper you can decorate yourself.

When it’s time to take down that Christmas tree, recycle it instead of throwing it away.

Chop the tree trunk and use it for firewood. Consider using the dried pines for decorative reasons around the house. Don’t forget to pack all decorations and re-use them next year.

• Source: http://www.earthshare. org/2008/09/festive-tips.html

GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN...

Taking attendance of special guests at Roots

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elebrities have long made a point of shopping at Roots and developing friendly ties with the brand. Here are the latest sightings of prominent figures in the entertainment industry and sports world who recently visited the company’s stores, the head office, factory or were seen wearing Roots.

(Stores listed alphabetically) · Aspen, CO – Sex and The City’s Chris Noth picked up some Aspen Gloves. · Beverly Hills, CA – Gavin Rossdale bought the women’s Dakota Sweater in Brick Red for wife Gwen Stefani. · Beverly Hills, CA – HGTV reality star Mike Holmes dropped by and bought several men’s items. · Birmingham, MI – Former Major League Baseball pitcher and current San Francisco Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow purchased some sweatpants and winter accessories. · Birmingham, MI – Baseball player Prince Semien Fielder of the Detroit Tigers stopped by in October. · Bloor St., Toronto – Canadian comedian and actor Dan Aykroyd stopped by the flagship store to attend the British Columbia Tourism event. · Bloor St., Toronto – Actor Michael Kenneth Williams browsed men’s merchandise on

DÉJÀ VU A voyage back in time to a vintage Roots moment 25 years ago

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ver the years, the Roots Varsity Jacket has been seen on many celebrities. One of the most prominent examples was in 1987 when British musician/actor David Bowie wore the jacket as part of a high profile campaign for the American Library Association. The poster, (left), was one of a series of posters featuring celebrities that promoted libraries, literary, reading and lifelong reading. In the main image, photographed by Chalkie Davies, David is captured in motion holding a copy of The Idiot, the celebrated 19th century novel by Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

a Friday in November. · Eaton Centre, Toronto – R&B singer Deborah Cox picked up some children’s clothes. · Robson St., Vancouver – Erin McLeod, goalie of the Women’s Canadian Soccer Team, visited the store and showed her Olympic Bronze Medal. · Spring Garden, Halifax – Actor Jason Priestley visited the store several times in early November.

Gavin Rossdale

Jason Priestley

Dan Aykroyd

DISCOVER THE HOBBIT Roots takes part in launch of hot new film

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nglish author J.R.R. Tolkien gained wide acclaim and a huge fan base after writing The Hobbit in 1937. The novel’s success led to the sixbook series, Lord of the Rings, which was later made into an epic trilogy of fantasy action films between 2001 and 2003.

Now, after years of great anticipation, The Hobbit is appearing on the big screen. Fans of the Lord of the Rings finally get to see how the search for the ring began. Prior to the film’s release in mid-December, its distributor, Warner Brothers, and Roots

teamed up for its Canadian launch in Toronto.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is about a hobbit that goes on a quest to rescue the lost Dwarf Kingdom. It follows a group of 13 dwarves led by the warrior, Thorin Oakenshield, as they try to recover stolen gold and uncover a ring that is tied to the fate of their world, Middleearth.

To promote the film, the Roots flagship store on Toronto’s Bloor Street hosted a press event in early December. Actor Richard Armitage, who plays Oakenshield, took part in one-on-one and group interviews with journalists. Adding to the scene, the store was filled with regular and holographic posters for The Hobbit. Roots set up a stand outside the store, as Warner Brothers had someone dressed up as Gandalf pose for pictures and hand out apple cider to customers and passDecked out for promotion of movie launch ersby.

The Source • 13

IT’S ALL ABOUT HELPING Employee travels to Africa to volunteer with disadvantaged children

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iving in a first world country, it’s easy to take life’s necessities for granted. In North America, most people readily have access to food, water and shelter, which isn’t the case in many countries.

In Africa, things can be particularly adverse, which is why Roots retail employee Caitlyn Soares, from Whitby, 27 km northeast of Toronto, wanted to go there to help struggling communities.

Traveling to Tanzania for the first time in 2007, Caitlyn went with a group of high school peers from Whitby. She volunteered for two weeks and assisted with the construction of a school for children in a town called Moshi.

Caitlyn, 23, joined Roots in 2010 at the Peterborough, Ontario store, 125 km northeast of Toronto. Last winter, she transferred to the Roots store

Caitlyn Soares volunteering in South Africa

in Ajax, Ontario where she is a keyholder.

During her most recent trip to South Africa in June, Caitlyn volunteered through the International Student Volunteers organization, which offers volunteer opportunities in many countries.

Over her five-week visit, she built bike paths and playgrounds at a school for abused children in Cape Town. Caitlyn also spent

time playing with the children and teaching them how to speak English, as their first language is Afrikaans.

During her visit, Caitlyn met a five-year old girl named Chriszelda. As their bond grew stronger, she became familiar with the girl’s difficult family life. Knowing Chriszelda probably didn’t hear kind words often, Caitlyn learned how to say “I love you” in Afrikaans from one of the workers.

“I would often tell her as I felt that she didn’t hear it enough,” says Caitlyn. “On my last day there, I told her one more time and to my surprise she said it back. I don’t think I’ve ever been so overcome with emotion.”

In those few short weeks, she formed a close connection with a child that changed her outlook on life.

“I learned to never take any-

thing for granted,” says Caitlyn.

“People in Canada want everything. If they don’t get it, they become miserable. The kids I worked with had very little and yet they were the happiest children I’ve ever seen in my life.”

Sometimes it only takes kind words, patience and a helping hand to put a smile on the faces of children who have next to nothing. Inspired by her experience in South Africa, Caitlyn plans to return there to volunteer for three months after she graduates from Centennial College next year. Hoping to become a paramedic, she’s committed to helping people in need.

Currently, Caitlyn is a member of the paramedic club at school and will be involved in a food drive for the Toronto Daily Bread Food Bank this winter.

“My life goal is just to help people, plain and simple,” Caitlyn adds.

BAKED TO PERFECTION Sudbury store creates tasty treats to help local community

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oots employees have shown they like nothing better than getting involved with their respective communities and helping out with charity. Case in point: The staff at the Roots store in Sudbury, in northern Ontario, recently took it upon themselves to assist those in need. Selling fresh cupcakes at a booth outside the store, the employees spiced up the bi-annual Customer Appreciation Event and raised money for the local Salvation Army Food Bank.

Employee Kelsey Hurd, 18, was instrumental in making this happen after missing out on the Roots Big Brothers Big Sisters initiative in September. Assistant Manager Nicholas Dutrisac also played a main role, including setting up a sign and a fundraising jar at the cash register to raise awareness and funds.

Donating to The Salvation Army was the obvious choice as Nicholas had previously volunteered there and knew the good work it does. The organization provides needy families and children with food, shelter and 14 • The Source

The Roots Sudbury team bakes cupcakes for charity

rehabilitation for those with addictions.

“The food bank helps people from all walks of life that are seeking assistance,” says Nicholas, who joined the Roots team in October. “There are embarrassed first timers, regulars, people with disabilities and individuals with drug issues.

The Salvation Army does a lot and it’s very rewarding to help a variety of people from your community.”

After learning about Nicholas’s involvement with the Salvation Army, Kelsey wanted to raise money for this cause.

She approached her manager

and other Roots colleagues with her idea to host a cupcake stand for charity. The team responded enthusiastically, welcoming the opportunity to give back to the community.

During the four-day Customer Appreciation Event in early November, Kelsey baked most of the cupcakes every night to sell the next day. For each cupcake, customers made a minimum donation of one dollar.

The team was surprised by how generous people where donating toward the fund.

“It was interesting to see the response,” says Kelsey.

“Some people didn’t even want

a cupcake. They just wanted to support the cause.”

This fundraiser proved a team effort as everyone in the store participated. Staff came to assist with the cupcake booth on their days off, mothers of store employees helped bake and decorate cupcakes and each member donated to the organization.

“Not every retail store will allow you to take such an initiative, and give back to the community with the charity of your choice,” says Nicholas. “Knowing that Roots prides itself on community involvement is what makes it such a great place to work. As a team it was important for us to do this as it motivated and energized us during the busy Customer Appreciation sale.”

The cupcake stand proved a hit among customers, as well as other employees in the mall who also bought cupcakes. The Roots employees baked around 400 cupcakes and raised $360 to be spent on items that the food bank needs most.

The staff at the Sudbury store hope to make this an annual charity event.

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

FIGHTING HIS WAY TO VICTORY Quebec employee shows his passion in pursuing his goal

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ollowing his victory in a recent Quebec karate competition, Marko Tokić, 19, hopes to fight his way to the next Junior World Championship. A sales associate at the Roots store in Montreal’s Mount Royal neighbourhood since last spring, Marko divides his time between school, work, karate and a social life. As a result of his drive and dedication, Marko is now number one in his age division in Canada for kata, a form of karate that uses choreographed movements for selfdefense.

When he was four, Marko’s mother enrolled him in karate to help him stay active and release energy. A year later, his coach entered him in karate tournaments, where he began his competitive career.

Traveling around Canada and participating in provincial competitions, Marko has been one of the top three karate athletes in Canada in five of the past six years. First ranked number one in kata in 2007, Marko was once again number one in Canada in this year’s

Karate champ Marko Tokić

18-20-year-old division.

After taking part in various tournaments, Marko advanced to the Pan-American Championships, which involves top athletes from North, South and Central America. Marko has attended five of these competitions

since 2007, winning a third place medal in kata in 2010. This past August, Marko visited Cancun, Mexico to compete in the tournament once again.

“Unfortunately, I lost in the first round,” says Marko. “However, it’s not about winning. It’s about determination, perseverance and passion. I’m driven to continue to work hard and qualify for it again.”

In addition to these competitions, Marko has also taken part in the Junior World Championships, which allows one athlete in each age division from the Pan-American Championships to represent his/her country. Marko competed against athletes from all over the world in 2011 and placed 11th.

“Being in the world’s top 12 felt like a first place win to me,” says Marko. “This year, the Junior World Championships will be held in Spain, and I’m extremely motivated to show how much I’ve improved since last time.”

For Marko, working at Roots is a perfect fit in terms of a part-time job. He loves that

the company is so involved in sports, and how it symbolizes Canadian pride. Both Roots and Marko represent Canada, which is something he believes makes him an excellent candidate for his position with the company.

Marko is grateful to store manager Jodyn Hardie for being so understanding and supportive when it comes to his karate and busy schedule.

“If it wasn’t for the staff at Roots, I’d never be able to go to school, train and compete,” says Marko. “Jodyn and my colleagues are extremely understanding and accommodating of my lifestyle. I’m so happy to have a job where I get to work with such amazing people.”

Jodyn believes Marko’s hard work and professionalism are what makes him so successful.

“You see Marko’s passion for karate when he talks about it,” says Jodyn, who’s been at Roots since 2010. “He gives it his all, and is very good at it. He does the same at work and I believe that’s why he also makes such a good sales associate. We are so proud of him.”

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS IN ASIA Taiwan welcomes more Roots stores as retail presence in country continues to grow

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he popularity of Roots in Taiwan continues to soar.

Reflecting its status as one of the most successful foreign lifestyle brands in the country, Roots expanded its retail presence there in the fall with three new stores. The most recent one opened in late October in Hsinchu, with the previous two inaugurated in Taipei and Taichung.

As seen in the photos, the same winning Canadian imagery and sense of design aesthetics that characterize Roots stores in Canada and the United States are also applied to the retail locations in Asia.

Since first launching in Taiwan in 1996, Roots has become a household name in the Asian country of 23 million people.

The latest openings brings the number of stores in Taiwan to 69, with more planned for the coming months.

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

The inside of Hsinchu store

New store in Taipei Outside the new store in Taichung

A glimpse of the Taichung store The Source • 15

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

Second Denim Stretch Cord Jean, Black, $88

Apres Ski Wrap, Natural, $128

Aberdeen Flannel Shirt, Rideau Red Mix, $68

Beaver Canoe Longjohn, Med Grey Mix, $74

RBA Crew Sweatshirt, Lodge Red Pepper, $58

Double Knit Henley, Grey Mix, $48

Aspen Sheepskin Boot, Red, $498

Ladies Moonstruck, Black, $249

16 16 •• The The Source Source

Mademoiselle Bag, Prince, Black, $228 Issue 109 •Issue November/December 106 • May - June2012 2012

NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products

Men’s Beaver Canoe Pant, Scout Khaki, $88

Unisex Cowichan Sweater, Grey Mix, $250

Lodge Flannel, Moonbeam, $68

Canadiana Sweater, Beige, $92

Dougie T, Heritage Grey Mix, $34

Trail Fair Isle Sweater, Blue Iris Mix, $108

Men’s Tuffer Boot Raging Bull, Brown, $178

Men’s Beaver Canoe Gloves, Black, $118

Small School Bag - Tribe, Africa, $288

Issue 109 2012 106 • November/December May - June 2012

The TheSource Source• 17 • 17

STAYING POWER Saluting those who go the distance

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hroughout November and December, several Roots employees are celebrating benchmark anniversaries with the company. Congratulations to the following people for their huge contribution and enduring loyalty to Roots: James Connell, VP, Ecommerce and Marketing, 15 years Hanh Dinh, Stitcher, Factory, 15 years Shannon Doggett, Label and Trim Coordinator, 10 years.

Sung Min Lee, Manager, Reporting and Planning, 10 years Yohance Leslie, Online Product Analyst, 10 years Patricia MacInnis, Manager, Business to Business, 10 years Aleksandra Rotko, Manager Payroll and Benefits, 10 years James Wilford, Senior District Visual Coordinator, 10 years Aaron Drever, Senior Network Administrator, 5 years Anthony Palermo, Merchandise Flow Analyst, 5 years Maria Dorinda Da Silva, Sewing Machine Operator, 5 years

STARTING LINEUP Introducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores As part of our continuing series of team pictures of all the stores in the Roots retail family, this issue of The Source is shining the spotlight on the Birmingham store in Michigan. From left to right: Cherise Smith, Dan Tibbals, Tiffany Delay, Suzanne Dubiel. Absent: Hezy White, Lisa Thibodeau, Reem Sater, Toni Barthlow.

ON THE MOVE Recent appointments and promotions at Roots Boris Blazevic, District Manager Josie Cancilla, Director of Human Resources and Benefits Aaron Drever, Senior Network Administrator Florentina Firanescu, Structured Query Language Developer, Information Technology Renee Frenette, Technician, Wholesale Sisi Jiang, Associate Designer Susan Kalbfleisch, Senior Manager, Retail Operations Michael Kokkaliaris, Senior Technical Support Analyst Nicole Monti, District Manager Matthew Ryan, Digital Marketing Coordinator Angela Zid Rooney, Senior Merchandise Manager

Amelia Murdock, 8 months, Mississauga, Ontario Simon Wills and son Thomas Wills, 4 months, Maple, Ontario

SPEAK TO MY AGENT Little – and not so little – customers show their Roots

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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 18 • The Source

Payton Allen, 4, and Aiden Allen, 9, Grand Blanc, Michigan

Dylan Yan, 2, 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 because it showcases everyday people wearing Roots.

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 109 • November/December 2012

MUSICAL ROOTS This time, we spotlight Canadian indie band Walk Off The Earth Walk Off The Earth has attracted fans from all over the world

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ailing from Burlington, west of Toronto, Walk Off The Earth (WOTE) is a Canadian indie band known for their use of uncommon instruments such as the ukulele and the theremin. They’re also known for their cover of Gotye and Kimbra’s “Somebody That I Used To Know” after it attracted 150 million views on YouTube since its release early this year.

In the video, the five band members simultaneously sing and play a single guitar all together. They filmed for an entire day, trying to get the shot just right. Finally, on the 26th take they did. Due to the video’s huge success, Gotye sent the band a letter congratulating them on their musical and vocal performance that greatly increased his song’s popularity.

The clip also attracted attention from celebrities like

Russell Crowe who raved about it on social media. WOTE also performed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, re-enacting their performance that originally made them famous on YouTube.

“Ellen was fun,” says Sarah Blackwood, the only female in the band. “It was awesome getting a free trip to L.A. in the middle of our winter. Being on The Ellen DeGeneres Show gave us exposure to people who are oblivious to the YouTube world.”

Formed in 2006, it took the group six years to gain wide recognition. Since their record deal with Columbia Records last winter, the buzz around WOTE keeps growing.

Prior to Sarah joining the then four-man group in 2011, she was trying to get her solo career off the ground. She hired Gianna Luminati, a band member, to help produce her

second album. During that time, the group was working on a track called “Joan and Bobby” and in need of a female vocalist for the song, they offered Sarah the part and she later joined the band.

This past October, the group released a four-song record called R.E.V.O. The extended play CD (a disk with fewer songs than a regular album but more than a single) can be heard on Roots Radio.

“The CD’s title R.E.V.O stands for whatever you want it to,” says Sarah. “It’s a movement, a way of life, a time when people can realize every victory outright.”

It’s unclear whether Sarah deliberately chose the final four words in her quote as the first letter in each of the four words spell R.E.V.O or if the CD title has another meaning.

In addition to their new EP, the group released two albums prior to their newfound fame. In late 2007, WOTE issued their first CD, Smooth Like Stone on

a Beach, followed by My Rock in 2010.

The winning chemistry between the members of the band is unmistakable. Ryan Marshall, Sarah and Gianni’s individual vocal styling mesh flawlessly with Mike Taylor’s harmonies and keys while being held together by Joel Cassady’s powerful percussion work. The band’s originality and uncanny spirit, along with their strong work ethic, have captivated many fans and hurled Walk Off The Earth right into the music business with big hopes for the future. The group is currently on tour in North America in support of their new album R.E.V.O, which is available on iTunes and in stores.

Watch the video that made them famous on YouTube by typing into the search bar “Somebody That I Used To Know - Walk Off The Earth (Goyte - Cover).” or listen to Roots Radio to hear the band’s latest songs.

- Davin Bulajski

Band is known for having all its five members play one guitar together

CHEF’S CORNER Roots-friendly recipes for a healthy diet and to bring pleasure to your palate ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PEAR SOUP:Here is a soup that will work well with any meal and please your tastebuds. Rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, butternut squash is a popular winter dish, especially for the holiday season. Butternut squash is low in fat and has an ample dose of fiber, making it a heart-friendly choice. Best paired with a sweet meat like pork or chicken, or served as a main dish for a vegitarian meal.

Issue 109 • November/December 2012

Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 1 hour Serves: 8 people Ingredients: 1 butternut squash 3 shallots, sliced 2 pears 8 cups water 1/2 stick of butter 1tsp garlic 1tsp brown sugar 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/8 tsp thyme 1/2 bottle of white wine Preparation: 1. Roast butternut squash in a

preheated 350 degrees F oven for 1 hour 2. Sauté shallots and garlic in a saucepan until they become translucent. Deglaze with white wine 3.Add butternut squash and seasonings, sauté for 2 minutes.

Add pear and water, simmer for 30 minutes 4. Pureé soup in blender. Ladle soup into bowls 5.Garnish with pine nuts · Source: Taste magazine, served at Stoney’s Bread Company, Oakville, Ontario The Source • 19

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