Fall 2013 by Roots Canada

A window into the world of Roots

Issue 114 • Fall 2013

Music legend David Bowie holding Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s The Idiot in a 1987 American literacy campaign, from the just published Roots: 40 Years of Style

A treasure trove of photographs that capture

Photo: Davies and Starr

GREAT MOMENTS IN THE STORY OF ROOTS New book showcases four decades of Roots life

The Source • 1

I S S U E 114 CAPTURED IN PRINT .......... 3 New book showcases 40 years of Roots style

District Managers during annual conference at Roots guest lodge at Bonita in Algonquin Park, Ontario

ON THE SHORELINE ........... 5 Windsor store manager works to clean up local lake STYLE PAR EXCELLENCE .. 6 Roots creates limited edition Bomber Jacket with Smythe ADDING STRENGTH ............ 6 Full steam ahead with new COO Wendy Bennison SUPPORTING TIFF .............. 7 Roots gets involved with 38th annual Toronto film festival TRAVEL GEAR ..................... 8 Roots backpacks win first place in poll of Canadian travellers ROOTS OF LEARNING ........ 9 Brampton teacher uses brand’s success in business class WINTER FASHION ............... 10 Head office hosts fashion show of upcoming styles JOINING FORCES ................ 12 Roots partners with Target on new Beaver Canoe collection HEALTH TIP .......................... 12 Simple suggestions for a healthier lifestyle FRESH PAINT ....................... 13 Leather boots featured in painting by artist in Iran GOING THE DISTANCE ....... 14 Employees participate in colourful 5-km run KNOCK, KNOCK .................. 15 Spotlighting celebrities who recently visited Roots stores MUSICAL ROOTS ................ 17 Highlighting Canadian musician Trevor Guthrie CHEF’S CORNER ................. 17 A recipe for tasty and healthy avocado potato salad

Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Interns OKSANA KRAVETS SAMANTHA PREDDIE PHOEBE YUNG 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 at http://issuu.com/rootscanada

2 • The Source

SPECIAL DELIVERY

A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots A LASTING LEGACY

Congratulations on a successful 40 years as one of the most recognized and respected Canadian brands. You have created a wonderful legacy. Your association with Algonquin Park and the town of Huntsville (Ontario), the gateway to the Park, is well-known and a benefit to the town. We are proud to have the Roots co-founders as summer neighbours and wish you continued success. John M. Crockett Huntsville Hospital Foundation Huntsville, Ontario OLD AND NEW

I recently brought my black Roots bag to your West Vancouver store to have the zipper fixed, and I was delighted to learn it could be done even though I’ve had the bag for many years. While there, I fell in love with the brown version of the bag and the Roll Over Boots [in Africa Tribe leather], and I purchased both. I love my latest Roots bag and have not used any other since buying it. Debbie Jackson Sechelt, British Columbia TWO OF A KIND

While on a recent visit to two of your stores in Edmonton, I had such an enjoyable experience that I bought a handbag at each location. The staff at both Mayfield Common Shopping Centre and West Edmonton Mall were fun to deal with

and didn’t pressure me in any way. They were very pleasant, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about your stock. Having been employed in retail for many years, I know that working in this field can be hard. So I want to commend these employees for their great customer service. Prior to my visit, I hadn’t shopped at Roots in several years, but in the future, I won’t wait so long to return to these stores. Sue Harlan Tofield, Alberta

A GREAT ASSET

Given my positive shopping experience at your store at the Scarborough Town Centre near Toronto, I wanted to let you know what an excellent job the staff at this store is doing. When I was there, they were so pleasant and very helpful with suggestions, sizing, etc. They are a great asset to Roots. Susan Duncan Scarborough, Ontario A HAPPY ENDING

A few months ago, my friend and I made a special trip to your Vaughan Mills store just outside Toronto. We found great deals on T-shirts, but the ones we picked out somehow got misplaced before we purchased them, and we didn’t realize this until we were back in Toronto. I called the store, and sales associate Nadia Rohit promptly responded and tried sorting out the issue. When I asked to

speak to the manager, Jaime Oliveira immediately took my call. He was very apologetic and offered great advice on how we could find T-shirts and other items at a location closer to us. I want to thank both employees for helping us resolve this issue. Their courteous manner and helpful suggestions led to our buying more items. Olive Powery Toronto

A SUNNY OUTLOOK

The Bay Street Scramble Committee would like to thank Roots for donating a leather bag in support of the first annual Bay Street Scramble. With your help as a silent auction/raffle sponsor, our tournament raised $22,000, which will go toward prostate cancer research at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre. Your gift helped raise critical funds for Sunnybrook to continue providing innovative, compassionate cancer treatment to patients from across Ontario. Thank you for your commitment to improving the lives of men with prostate cancer. Bay Street Scramble Committee Sunnybrook Foundation 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 114 • Fall 2013

BETWEEN THE COVERS Rich in eye-catching images and insightful words, new book captures 40 years in the life of Roots. By OKSANA KRAVETS

Issue 114 • Fall 2013

Rylan Perry

Daniel Ehrenworth

Book cover with Don and Michael at the University of Toronto, 1979

Olympic medalist Adam van Koeverden kayaks in Algonquin Park, 2012

Actor Jason Priestley photographed in Los Angeles for 1996 Roots ad

Image from 2012 ad shot in Toronto

Greg Gorman

Continued on next page

Image from “Roots Outfitters” ad in Algonquin Park, Ontario, 2011

Rylan Perry

n honour of the 40th anniversary of Roots, a prestigious Canadian book publisher is releasing a major retrospective of the brand. Set to hit bookstores in early November, Roots: 40 Years of Style is a treasure trove of photos and essays that chronicle the company’s history and commemorate its many achievements. Published by the House of Anansi Press, known especially for its literary works, the coffee-table book is a visual treat. It showcases a wide range of images from photoshoots, vintage ads and photos illustrating the brand’s popularity with prominent figures from the world of sports, entertainment and politics. Many of the pictures come from private collections that until now have never been shown publicly. Much of the visual material was uncovered thanks to the diligent work of Roots Archivist Eva Lee and elegantly laid out over the book’s 232 pages by designer Maricar Dionisio. Long-time friends of Roots help tell the company’s story through written tributes. In the foreword, fashion maven Suzanne Boyd, editor of Zoomer magazine, describes the development of Roots style and the impact it had on her after moving to Canada more than 30 years ago, while actor/comedian Dan Aykroyd closes the book with a look at the brand’s Canadian heritage. In between, actor/comedian Martin Short and singer/songwriter Robbie Robertson both contribute congratulatory notes, while Co-Founders Michael Budman and Don Green write about the inspiration and influences behind Roots in an essay previewed in the previous issue of The Source. Photographer and Algonquin Park resident Don Standfield, a longtime friend of Roots, explores the strong connection between the wilderness paradise

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Continued from previous page

Michael and Don with model at Roots store in Amsterdam, 1975

and Michael and Don. “How could a dream like Algonquin Park and its lifestyle not influence the clothing and philosophy of Roots?” Don Standfield writes. “I think all of us, in a small or large way, can feel the romanticism that comes from such a wonderful landscape and lifestyle. The unique character of Algonquin resonates in different ways with everyone buying Roots clothing. We want to be identified as part of the Roots ‘tribe’ and the clothing allows us to connect with this traditional Canadian Shield community. The wilderness is a love story. It never goes out of fashion.” The hardcover book will be available in bookstores and Roots stores for $39.95. With its striking visuals and behindthe-scenes insight, it’s a good bet to become a popular gift this holiday season. The book’s release marks the second time that Roots will enjoy a place on Canadian bookshelves. In 1998, Geoff Pevere’s Team Spirit: A Field Guide to Roots Culture focused on the first 25 years of the brand.

Illich Mejia

Matthew Budman in a 1998 Roots ad

FROM THE BOOK

“

I have been lucky enough to have been involved in the world of Roots for over 40 years. What a spectacular journey I’ve seen them take. What a spectacular association we’ve had. An association tied to brilliant friendship, brilliant loyalty, and let’s face it, the ultimate, brilliant style. Style is knowing who you are, what to say, and not giving a damn. Roots = Style. Lucky me to have been part of it. – Martin Short, actor/comedian

”

Greg Gorman

”

Roots is a Canadian phenomenon built by two guys from Detroit. Many of us from Canada have gone to the U.S. to fulfill our ambitions and dreams. Michael Budman and Don Green turned the tables and built a line of leather goods, clothing, shoes, furniture, and more, that has gone global with a Canadian signature. I am proud to have been a Roots customer since 1973, and a participant in the Roots brand over the years. Congratulations to Roots for 40 years of excellence. – Robbie Robertson, singer/ songwriter

4 • The Source

Models at Bonita Lake in Algonquin Park for Flare magazine photo shoot, 2002

Chris Chapman

“

(Above left) Biathlete Rachel Steer in Team USA outfit at 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah (Above middle) Johann Koss, Co-founder of Right to Play, 2009

Actress Natasha Henstridge in a 1996 Roots ad Issue 114 • Fall 2013

PACT members are all smiles at event hosted by Roots in Toronto

Peter Vooys receives a signed paddle from Robert Sarner of Roots

PACT Office Manager Jill Zeppa

ENDING ON A HIGH NOTE

Roots pays tribute to paddlers in celebrating cross-country canoe trip

s a country spanning more than 5,000 km coast to coast, Canada has long been associated with vast landscapes and abundant nature. It was this extraordinary physical reality that inspired six young men and women to explore the nation’s wilderness during a recent cross-country canoe trip. They called the expedition PACT, which stands for Paddle Across Canada Tour. Having played a supporting role throughout the four-month journey, Roots was proud to celebrate PACT’s success. In early September, PACT members were invited to the William St. store in Ottawa for

a celebration and final re-supply before they headed to Quebec for the last leg of their trip. The store provided them and other guests with locally sourced food and drinks. A few weeks later, the flagship store on Toronto’s Bloor St. hosted an event to celebrate the group’s journey. Roots head office staff and representatives from three partner outdoor-education charities (PINE Project, Couchiching Community Initiative, and Camp Outlook) paid tribute to PACT’s achievement. Roots presented the team with a signed paddle on behalf of the North Bay location and a monetary donation raised by

company stores across Canada. Roots has followed this epic journey since the group set off from Alberta in the spring, including devoting the cover story to PACT in a previous issue of The Source. Looking back on their travels, the paddlers have been sorting through numerous photos, videos and fan letters. “It’s incredible to look at a map of Canada and realize how far we’ve traveled,” says Peter Vooys, one of the participants. “Best of all, everyone who started the trip finished it as good friends.” Today, the group is continuing its work of advocating the

importance of outdoor education. “We’ve started booking speaking engagements with schools and community groups,” says Peter. “We point out opportunities for communities to engage with the natural world in their own backyards.” Although their journey is done, the team is still eager for adventure. “It’s contagious,” says Peter. “We began casting for ideas for the next adventure as soon as we started PACT. There are thousands of rivers and lakes yet to paddle, hundreds of trails to hike, millions of people to meet, and one great country to do it all in.”

ON THE WATERFRONT

Store manager spearheads local effort as part of the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup

n late September, Chris Crowe-Campeau, Manager of the Roots store in Windsor, Ontario, gathered friends and neighbours to visit a local lake. They spent more than two hours by the water’s edge, but this was no ordinary trip to the beach. The group donned waders, grabbed garbage bags and scoured the sand for trash. With Chris as their host, the 16 participants were taking part in the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, a nation-wide initiative to reduce aquatic pollution. While combing through the Ruscom Shores Conservation Issue 114 • Fall 2013

Area, the team filled well over a dozen bags with everything from plastic bottles to tires. “There needs to be more awareness of how much garbage is sitting, floating and decomposing on our shorelines,” says Chris. “I hope my team will tell others about the cleanup and encourage people to recycle and avoid polluting.” This was Chris’s fourth time leading the annual event on behalf of her store. Over the years, many Roots retail and head office employees have taken part in other local shoreline cleanups across the country.

Chris Crowe-Campeau’s team collected 15 bags of garbage in Windsor, Ontario The Source • 5

FULL STEAM AHEAD

New COO Wendy Bennison brimming with optimism as she helps develop exciting growth plans for the company

Martina Sorbara of Dragonette in Smythe Bomber by Roots

IN STYLE WITH SMYTHE

Two great brands produce acclaimed new jacket

oots and clothing designer Smythe have much in common: both companies are devoted to Canada, both have caught the attention of royalty, and both produce apparel that is at once modern and imbued with nostalgia. This fall, the two brands forged even more common ground by collaborating on an exclusive leather jacket to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Roots. Released in September, the Smythe Bomber by Roots features luxurious Bruschetta leather and striking golden hardware. Work on the jacket began in late 2012, when Smythe’s leading ladies, Christie Smythe and Andrea Lenczner, partnered with the Roots design team, led by Design Director Diane Bald and Leather Specialist Karl Kowalewski. They borrowed the jacket’s style from Smythe’s fall 2008 collection and used Roots leather to give it new life. Each limited-edition piece was handcrafted at the Toronto-based Roots factory. The Bombers are available online and in select stores. They have drawn extensive media coverage and appeared at the Toronto International Film Festival, garnering attention from celebrity visitors to the IT Lounge and the Artists for Peace and Justice fundraiser. 6 • The Source

Wendy has traveled across Canada to visit Roots stores and meet retail teams

s Roots embarks on its fifth decade, it’s now better equipped to maximize future growth potential. Following the recent appointment of Wendy Bennison as Chief Operating Officer by Co-Founders Michael Budman and Don Green, the company’s senior leadership team is significantly strengthened. With an exemplary record in the retail sector, Wendy is working closely with Don and Michael on a vigorous growth plan

for the next five years. Since joining Roots in late August, she’s immersed herself in all aspects of Roots, from manufacturing to merchandising to retail and online sales and marketing. She’s met with all departments and personally visited dozens of stores from the Rockies in the west to the Laurentians in the east, and many points in between and beyond. It’s part of Wendy’s desire to meet as many employees as possible in her first six months. She attaches

particular importance to meeting store teams given their role on the front lines interacting with customers every day. “I’ve always been a big fan of Roots but to discover it up close is to appreciate it even more,” says Wendy, whose astute, seasoned perspective is already making a positive impact on the company. “I’m thrilled to have joined of one of Canada’s most respected brands and to have the opportunity to work with Don and Michael, two of the country’s greatest, most creative retail entrepreneurs. What they’ve achieved over the past 40 years is nothing short of spectacular and it’s exciting to build on that as we plan future growth for Roots.” Previously, as a senior leader of Mark’s, Canada’s largest specialty apparel and footwear store network, Wendy’s portfolio included store operations, customer service, asset protection, real estate development and store design. Among her achievements, she established and oversaw the execution of Mark’s recent phase of strategic growth.

FIRMLY ROOTED

Alberta band serenades shoppers during Fringe Festival in Edmonton

hen Edmonton hosted its annual International Fringe Theatre Festival in late August, Roots gave a homegrown band a chance in the spotlight. For two days, the group, known as Firm, performed outside the midtown store, treating customers and festival-goers to its breezy sounds of reggae and ska. Firm was founded by instrumentalist/vocalist Dale Osbaldeston and bassist/guitarist Josh Dagg, both 17. The bandmates, often in collabora-

“Many people stopped to listen,” says Josh, “and quite a few danced down the street as we played.” Roots sales associate Tanisha Kotowich, 17, accompanied Firm on the cajon, a boxshaped wooden drum that originated in Latin America. The performance offered her an (Left to right) Tanisha, opportunity to connect Josh and Dale fill the with her community. street with music “With music, tion with other local musicians, you’re able to touch people on a have recorded covers and origiwhole new level, one that cannot nal songs that span genres from be put into words,” says Tanisha. reggae to trance. “It gives me great satisfaction to At its Festival performance, know that I could have helped Firm drew crowds to the Roots change someone’s mood for that store on Whyte Avenue and put a day, even if it was only for a spring in the steps of passers-by. brief moment.” Issue 114 • Fall 2013

BEHIND THE SILVER SCREEN

Roots takes centre stage at TIFF’s star-studded charity events

n early September, Canada’s largest city rolled out its red carpets and welcomed movie stars to the 38th annual Toronto International Film Festival. For celebrity attendees, films were only half the fun – the Festival also offered behind-the-scenes lounges and parties. At these exclusive events, Roots had a few starring roles of its own. During TIFF’s first week, Roots displayed its wares at a trendy gift lounge hosted by the public relations agency NKPR. For eight years, famous Festival-goers have flocked to the IT Lounge Portrait Studio to sample products from select brands and pose for photos. This year’s event, produced in partnership with photogra-

pher Caitlin Cronenberg and W magazine, turned NKPR’s downtown-Toronto headquarters into a celebrity hotspot. Roots gave leather goods and sweat-wear to stars like Harry Potter’s Brendan Gleeson, One Tree Hill’s James Lafferty and Inglourious Basterds’s Eli Roth. The company’s recent 40th anniversary milestone made it a perfect fit for the Lounge’s Modern Vintage theme. For each celebrity portrait taken at the Lounge, NKPR made a donation on behalf of sponsoring brands to Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ). The six-day event raised $10,000 for the charity, which provides education and health programs to Haiti’s poorest communities. Guests gather at the APJ Festival Lunch

Soap star Tonya Lee Williams visits the lounge

Corner Gas alums Tara Spencer-Nairn, (left), and Gabrielle Miller try on sweats Pop-rock band Neverest poses at the portrait studio

(Left to right) Alex Budman, Michael Budman, Michael Bolton, Diane Bald and Paul Haggis

Actress/singer Maria Bello (in red) takes the plunge Taking in the scene

Issue 114 • Fall 2013

At the same time, Roots supported another TIFF-related event for APJ that brought Alisters right to the Toronto home of Co-Founder Michael Budman. On the Festival’s first weekend, Michael and his wife, Roots Design Director Diane Bald, hosted the 5th annual Artists for Peace and Justice Festival Lunch, which raised $600,000 for APJ through ticket sales and a charity auction. The star-studded luncheon featured speeches from actors Adrien Brody, Moran Atias and Olivia Wilde, as well as musical performances by Michael Bolton, Rufus Wainwright and Daniel Lanois. During the auction, actress/singer Maria Bello jumped – designer clothes and all – into the pool after an attendee bid $20,000 to

see her do so. “We believe that every human being deserves a chance,” filmmaker and APJ Founder Paul Haggis told the media. “By providing free high school and college education, we’re giving these kids the tools they need to live and thrive, and everyone can help.” After the event, Roots invited fans around the world to support APJ, offering exclusive leather bags to anyone who donated $1,000 or more. The lounge and luncheon were the latest projects in a long tradition of partnership between Roots and TIFF. Since Roots became one of the Festival’s first sponsors in the 1970s, the company has designed official TIFF merchandise and hosted numerous Festival-related special events. The Source • 7

ROBSON STREET STAFF IN THE SPOTLIGHT

As part of their winning team spirit, Vancouver store employees step in front of the lens

tore employees love to show their Roots style at work. This summer, a few staff members in Vancouver had the opportunity to show that same style in front of the camera for Breakfast Television, a Canadian morning news program. Elsa Choi, Scott Lui and Hirlette Bamba from the Robson store modeled Roots merchandise during the Life and Style segment devoted to the brand’s 40th anniversary. Manager of Visual Presentation Patrick Davis and Visual Display and Planning Co-ordinator Kelsey Parker from the Roots head office outfitted the looks for the occasion, making the trio runway-ready, complete with shoes and bags. The show also brought the team together as those still at the

store gathered around the TV view with fashion expert Susie during the morning meeting to Wall and a studio walk-through watch their co-workers take the with the stage manager. stage with their new Roots gear. After the Breakfast Televi“The team was a little sion cameras stopped rolling, nervous, but had lots of fun,” Robson staff found another says Store reason to Staff show their pride in Roots Manager Lesay cheese. anne Green. Leanne “It was a arranged positive a photo experience shoot to for them.” help the While 40-member on air for store team only about celebrate 10 minutes, the 40th preparation anniversary for the show of Roots. took several Against hours includthe backing hair and drop of make-up, a downtown pre-interVancou-

ver’s Robson Square and Christ Church Cathedral, store employees donned Roots outfits and posed for photographer and former employee James Wang. The project proved to be a fun bonding experience for the group. “The event helped build team relationships,” says Associate Manager Elaine Cheng. “It allowed employees to get to know new members and those they don’t usually work with. Everyone felt like they were part of a big family.” The photos will be displayed around the store and placed into scrapbook layouts for framing in the back room. This was the store’s second team photo shoot. Last year, Leanne organized a similar event to promote the Canada Day collection.

GOT YOUR BACK

Canadian travelers vote for Roots as favourite in backpacks in recent survey

ombining style and practicality, Roots products have all the makings of travel staples. According to the world’s largest travel website, Canadians agree – when they go globe-trotting, they love taking the company’s backpacks along for the journey. Each year, TripAdvisor.com presents Travelers’ Choice Awards that spotlight users’ favourite travel essentials. In 2013, based on a survey of more than 3,000 Canadians, Roots captured the top spot for backpacks, of which the company produces a broad range. Many are manufactured using Italian and Tribe

8 • The Source

leather at the Toronto factory, some are made from materials like canvas and Student Pack polyester, in Africa Tribe and others still are licensed, made in partnership with Canadian companies like Holiday Group and sold at department stores and specialty retailers. The company has been creating leather backpacks since the late 1970s. According to Leather Specialist Karl Kowalewski,

the bags remain popular because they last for decades and Canvas Traveller the leather in Calfskin Tan gains a more interesting appearance with age. “They’re functional, they’re comfortable, they’re durable and they’re basically timeless,” says Karl. “They’re still as relevant today as they were in the 70s.” When it comes to non-leather backpacks, Senior Designer of Accessories Lynne Morris

believes that the key to success is in the details. “We’ve been making nonleather backpacks for at least 10 years, mostly targeting students,” she explains. “We added a Canadian flag to the detailing and this became a key reason to buy for those traveling outside Canada.” For Karl, the TripAdvisor award shows that Roots holds a special place in Canadian hearts. “When people travel, most try to take a minimum of things,” he says. “It’s great to know that Roots is the go-to brand for backpacks for many travelers, young and old.” Issue 114 • Fall 2013

The Sidewalk Crusaders treat shoppers to popular tunes

SOUNDS GOOD

Busking band brings music to Roots

tudents often use the summer months as an opportunity to make some money to help cover their studies. This year, one group of Toronto-based students avoided the dreaded seasonal job by doing what they love – playing music – all the while earning much-needed income to sustain themselves.

Called The Sidewalk Crusaders, the seven-piece band regularly takes to the streets to perform. They include a wide range of instruments such as alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, trombone, tuba, guitar and drums. The band is made up of Peter Cavanagh, Loui Koutsouflakis, Max Forster, Nick

Marshall, Bryan Yaremko, Robert Pisani and Stuart Mein, most of whom have studied music throughout their academic careers and personal lives. Throughout the summer, staff and customers at the Roots flagship store on Toronto’s Bloor Street often heard the Crusaders play, as the downtown location is a frequent performance stop for the band. Store management was so impressed by the Crusaders that they arranged for them to receive Roots T-shirts, and helped to widen their Facebook presence by posting photos of the band. “By taking over the sidewalk with the music we play, we are able to create a fun and positive musical experience for those watching,” says Peter. “When we are able to play so close to people, they always smile because they feel they’ve become part of the entire experience.” In addition to raising awareness of The Sidewalk Crusaders, all of the band members hope to pursue music in their own future.

LEARNING A LESSON

Teacher uses Roots story to give students insight into business leadership

he success of Roots is a contacted Roots as she sought great source of inspiration to replace her now obsolete for many aspiring entreVHS version of the film. In preneurs. High school teacher keeping with the times, Roots Margaret Sadowski uses the provided her with an onlinestory of the brand’s creation version. and growth as a motiMargaret Sadowski vational case study in teaches the strategies her business classes at the success Louise Arbour Second- behind of Roots ary School in Brampton, Ontario. For 12 years, Margaret has used the 1997 documentary, The Roots Boys: The Life and Times of Michael Budman and Don Green, in classes such as Business Leadership and International Business. She believes that showing the development of Roots helps students better appreciate the importance of entrepreneurship, “It’s one of my favourite marketing and different manbusiness videos and examples agement styles. of successful branding,” says In September, with the start Margaret. “I can’t think of of a new school year, Margaret another Canadian company that Issue 114 • Fall 2013

has promoted itself as well as Roots and is as relevant decades later.” The students always respond positively to the documentary, and enjoy seeing how the brand has evolved. Margaret also shows a video about the brand outfitting athletes at the Olympics to explain the benefits of global exposure. In addition, she spotlights other prominent North American brands including Tim Hortons, IBM, Facebook and Coca-Cola. Margaret has been a big fan of Roots for years, having even purchased a pair of Negative Heel Shoes when they first came out in 1973. Now her students learn how that shoe ultimately led to the development of an iconic Canadian brand known around the world.

BY THE BOOK

Students add new use for Roots leather

rom the factory in Toronto to the classroom, it turns out Roots leather can serve many purposes, ranging from shoes and bags to art projects. High-school teacher Vanessa Herman-Landau applied that same quality leather Roots uses everyday towards a special project for her students. After taking a course on bookbinding at a craft show, Vanessa thought creating books would make a great addition to the course curriculum of her grade 11 and 12 art classes. She mentioned the idea to a colleague who suggested Roots might have some scrap leather available for the project. Vanessa’s students of Thornhill Secondary School (located in the York Region of Toronto) sewed the small pieces of leather together in different designs. “I think the students are excited to demystify the process of making a functional book,” says Vanessa. “They love working with the leather and are so creative with it. They come up with variations that are beautiful, functional and unique. I am constantly amazed by their work.”

ON THE MOVE NEW APPOINTMENTS AND PROMOTIONS

Leo Ciccone, Leather Product Development Assistant, Factory Caroline Iwanowski, Executive Assistant to COO, Head Office Urvashi Mehta, Director of Sourcing, Head Office Tyler Rumi, Photographer, E-Commerce and Marketing, Head Office Wendy Tan, Menswear Technician, New Product Development, Head Office Sheila Wong, Accounts Receivable Coordinator, Finance, Head Office Alison Zhuang, Quality Control Specialist, New Product Development, Head Office The Source • 9

TAKING OFF ON THE RUNWAY Head office fashion show offers sneak peek at holiday collection. Photos by TYLER RUMI

Winter menswear on display

Savouring holiday cheer

Staff models bundled up for the catwalk

n late October, the head office in Toronto hosted a fashion show to preview holiday products. Decked out in the latest Roots styles, store and head office staff unleashed their inner supermodels, striding down the catwalk before local retail employees, including many store managers. Afterwards, attendees had the opportunity to admire the products up-close and speak with the designers who had created them.

Alden Plaid Scarf, Stein Crew, Blizzard Parka, Dark Rinse Liam Straight Fit Jean, Colin Fleece Gloves, Tuffer Boots 10 • The Source

Don and Michael kick off the show (with Syd Beder in background)

Cozy Infinity Scarf, Tora Flannel Shirt, Avalanche Parka, Dark Rinse Soho Slim Jean, Tuffer Boots

Cold-weather styles get a warm reception

Cozy Hooded Scarf, Marsette Tunic, Lodge Funnel Neck Pullover, Essential Legging, Cabin Socks, Hi Top Boots, Mini Alex Pack

Cozy Infinity Scarf, Chrissy Cardigan, Classic Sweatpant, Alice Stretch Gloves, Cabin Socks, Shorty Boots, Small Raiders Pack

Lodge Toque, Lodge Scarf, Whistler Flannel Shirt, Curling Sweater, Chatterton Sweatpant, Tuffer Boots, Raiders Bag Issue 114 • Fall 2013

Enjoying refreshments before the show

Admiring the Cabled Cabin Sock Zip-up

Chunky Cabin Toque, RBA Crew Sweatshirt, Cabled Cabin Sock Zip-up, Cabin Sock Legging, Cabin Socks, Hi Top Boots, Shirley Bag

Chunky Headband, Fontaine Shirt, Cabin Sock Cardigan, Fair Isle Legging, French Bootie, Jackie Bag Issue 114 • Fall 2013

Arctic Fair Isle Scarf, Tom Thomson Flannel Shirt, Cabin Shawl Cardigan, Pocket Original Sweatpant, Tuffer Boots

Tartan Scarf, Wellesley Snap Shirt, Chalet Shawl Cardigan, Alexander Utility Pant, Matthews Boots

Staying cozy on the runway with a Men’s Quilted Cabin Trapper hat, Chunky Cabin Infinity Scarf, Norfolk Tunic, Fair Isle Legging, Cabin String Mitts, Hi Top Boots and a Large Hobo bag The Source • 11

HEALTH TIP

PRESERVE PRODUCE

s your fridge full of shriveled spinach, limp lettuce and mushy mangos? As produce ages, it not only loses its appetizing taste and texture, but it can also become home to pathogens that cause food-borne illnesses. Protect your health – and your wallet – by taking these steps to lock in the freshness of your fruit and vegetables. · Handle with care. As damage can allow harmful bacteria to enter fruit and vegetables, choose produce free of bruises, cuts and mold, and handle it gently. Promptly refrigerate peeled or cut produce. · Keep it crispy. Produce is usually best stored in your fridge’s crisper. Keep fruit in its original packaging and place vegetables in reusable plastic bags or containers. · Freeze for the future. You can freeze most produce for up to a year. Before freezing, boil vegetables for one to two minutes and immediately submerge in ice water. · Divide and conquer spoilage. To slow down the ripening process, keep fruit away from vegetables. Store apples separately as they make other produce ripen faster. · Wait to refrigerate. Don’t head straight for the fridge – many fruit, including peaches, avocados, bananas and melons, should be allowed to ripen on the counter before they are refrigerated. · Save fridge space. Got leftover Halloween pumpkins that escaped the jack-o’-lantern fate? They don’t have to take up room in your fridge. Instead, store them in a cool, dark, dry cupboard or cellar along with potatoes, root vegetables, apples, garlic, onions and squash. · Clean correctly. With the exception of leafy greens, avoid washing produce before refrigerating it. When you’re ready to eat, scrub fruit and vegetables under running water, wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds before and after handling, and sanitize all surfaces and utensils that come in contact with produce. · Think ahead. Refer to a reputable list of recommended food storage times when planning your grocery purchases. · Source: www.eatrightontario.ca 12 • The Source

The home collection brings fall hues indoors

Apparel featuring the Beaver Canoe logo

RIGHT ON TARGET

Retail giant joins forces with Roots to present expanded Beaver Canoe collection

he renaissance of Beaver Canoe continues, recently attaining new heights. Thanks to a highly successful partnership with Target, the subbrand of Roots is now reaching a much broader market with an expanded product line. In the just launched Beaver Canoe collection at Target, home décor items are featured along with apparel, a first for the heritage sub-brand since it was founded as a part of Roots in 1982. Roots Design Director Diane Bald is the mastermind behind the home collection, which ranges from furniture, such as side tables and lamps, to miniature wooden canoes and candles. Inspired by Algonquin Park in Ontario, the home collection offers a rustic take on modern designs. Made up of more than 65 pieces that encompass textures of yarn and wood with colours like burnt orange and charcoal

grey, the products incorporate style with function and purpose into all its items. “With this collection,” says Diane, “you can enjoy the coziness of the cottage in the comfort of your own home all year long.” The apparel side consists of functional, fashionable clothing for both children and adults, making it well suited for the Cottage-inspired furnishings

entire family. Some hoodies and T-shirts feature the original iconic diamond-shaped logo. The collection with Target expands Beaver Canoe’s apparel range to include outerwear and accessories for both men and women. Target’s initial collaboration with Roots earlier this year, The Roots Outfitters Collection, was the department store’s first Canada-exclusive partnership. Consisting of only apparel, it was launched last March when Target opened their first stores in Canada. With more than 100 Target stores now open throughout the country, and plans to open many more, Beaver Canoe will be even more accessible to consumers than ever before. The Beaver Canoe for Target collection will be available in all Target Canada stores throughout 2014. A holiday collection will also be released this November.

DÉJÀ VU

A voyage back in a time to a vintage moment from the pages of The Source

or most retailers, the all-important holiday season requires months of planning. In October 2006, The Source provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the annual preparations at Roots. The cover story described the intricate coordination between the head office, the Distribution Centre and retail stores that makes the season a success. That winter, in addition to designing holiday packaging and store decorations, Roots introduced a seasonal product line featuring red-and-black buffalo plaid. To help retail employees meet the challenges of this busy period, the company prepared a special handbook. Many stores extended their hours and hired extra staff to serve the deluge of Christmas shoppers. At Roots, the lead-up to this festive period begins far in advance, developing holiday products almost a year before they hit store shelves in early November. Issue 114 • Fall 2013

SUITABLE FOR FRAMING

Leather boots help inspire Iranian artist

oots products are no strangers to the spotlight, often appearing in the media, in movies, and at special events. And now, thanks to an international student’s chance encounter with the brand, a popular product has been immortalized in a life-size portrait painted half-aworld away. Afsaneh Sedaghatkish, who recently completed her Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences at the Université de Montréal, first discovered Roots Life-size portrait while walking features past the city’s Russian Centreville store. Vamp During a visit boots there two years ago, a pair of Russian Vamp Boots caught her eye and she purchased them. “I was impressed with the quality of the boots,” says Afsaneh, 29. “The leather itself is smooth and supple.”

When Afsaneh visited her homeland of Iran last winter, she took her trusty Russian Vamps with her. Of all the compliments her boots garnered, the biggest came from her older brother Arash Sedaghatkish, a Tehran-based visual artist. He decided to paint a watercolour portrait of Afsaneh wearing her boots, which took him about a month to complete. Most of Arash’s art explores contemporary Iranian youth culture. When selecting models for his large-scale watercolours, he notes how his subjects dress so as to better portray their style in his work, which has appeared in galleries in Iran, the U.S. and England.

Kingston store joins in the fun

TAKING TO THE STREET Buddy the Beaver stands tall at city festival

very year, Kingston, Ontario transforms its main artery, Princess Street, into a place filled with music, art, performances and other activities – all the elements of a lively, pedestrian-friendly summer festival. Launched in 2010, it’s called the Princess Street Promenade. The local Roots store participated by moving its merchandise onto the sidewalk

among throngs of bouncy castles, climbing walls, artists, dancers and more. To add to the fun, employees offered face painting and one staff member dressed up as Buddy the Beaver to pose for pictures with children. “It was fun to be downtown for the festival,” Assistant Manager Katelyn Toms says. “Pretty much everyone partakes, and the street was packed.”

Buddying up with store staff

WHISTLE WHILE YOU WORK

Two Edmonton employees turn the sales floor into a stage

icture this: You’re waiting outside the fitting room while your spouse tries on some Roots apparel when a nearby sales associate suddenly starts to sing and dance. That’s exactly the scene that unfolded when an elderly couple visited the West Edmonton store several months ago. The employee, Kelsey Visscher, still remembers the husband’s reaction. “He instantly lit up and joined in for a few seconds,” she recounts. “He was convinced that Roots must be the best place to work because we could sing

Issue 114 • Fall 2013

and dance all day.” For Kelsey and her coworker Tanisha Kotowich, this was just another day on the job. The two regularly perform in-store as they work. Inspiration can come from anywhere: Kelsey and Tanisha sing along to Roots Radio, make up jingles about products and burst

into impromptu performances when one has a song stuck in her head. The two young women are no strangers to the spotlight. Kelsey, 21, is a musical theatre Tanisha, performer (left), and who sings in Kelsey in the Edmonton action Opera Chorus, teaches voice and acts in local stage productions. Tanisha, 17,

plays guitar, trumpet and drums and takes part in Ukrainian folk dancing. Both employees recently participated in Edmonton’s International Fringe Theatre Festival. The duo’s performances help keep the team upbeat while giving store visitors a memorable shopping experience. “Each customer responds a little differently,” says Kelsey. “Some pretend they didn’t see anything, some giggle and some get super-excited and join in. But I think it’s safe to say that everyone who catches us smiles!” The Source • 13

FINE PRINT

SHADES OF ADVENTURE

Store associates make tracks in colourful 5k for charity

COVERAGE OF ROOTS IN THE MEDIA ere are some recent sightings of H Roots in newspapers, magazines and on TV and websites:

· Chatelaine: Oct. issue. Spotlight on Night Zip in Saffiano, Wool Baseball Cap, and Club Bag in Vegetable Tan. · Fashion: Oct. Tathlina City Coat in Lemieux Gold included in collection of plaid coats. · Flare: Oct. Localist column highlights 40th anniversary of Roots. · Glow: Oct. Spotlight on Side Saddle bag in Chocolate Prince. · InStyle: Sept. 23. Lists Smythe Bomber by Roots in We’re Obsessed feature. · Globe and Mail: Sept. 14. Covers Artists for Peace and Justice fundraiser at home of Michael Budman. · StyleList Canada: Sept. 12. Showcases 40th anniversary leather collection. · Hollywood Reporter: Sept. 9. I-envelope Sleeve in Africa Tribe cited in TIFFrelated article on Canadian shopping. · Metro: Sept. 8. List of top TIFF swag includes Original Sweatpants. · Chatelaine.com: Sept. 7. Showcases Papa Alex bag in Africa Tribe and Shirley bag in Box. · Now: Sept. 5. Names Bloor St. location in Toronto Store of the Week. · The Morning Show: Sept. 4. Stylist Afiya Francisco includes Londoner Bag in Tan Kalahari and various footwear in segment on fashion for mothers. · Chatelaine: Sept. Highlights Beaver Canoe for Target collection. · Best Health: Sept. Includes Palmer Zip Mock in Ocean Blue Mix and Small Venetian bag in Black Box. · Fashion: Sept. Includes coverage of 40th anniversary and Smythe Bomber by Roots. · Flare: Sept. Fashion spread features black leather duffle bag. · Foam: Sept. Smythe Bomber by Roots appears in Editors’ Picks. · Glow: Sept. Features Quilted Side Saddle Bag in Black Box. · LouLou: Sept. Travel article includes Londoner bag. · Today’s Parent: Sept. Back-to-school spreads feature Boy’s Varsity Jacket, Girl’s Ruffle Top and Girl’s Cabin Sock Dress. · Where Toronto: Sept. Hot Shops column features Roots and spotlights Smythe Bomber by Roots. · Zoomer: Sept. Spread includes Smythe Bomber by Roots and women’s Motorcycle boots. · Montreal Gazette: Aug. 31. Features Smythe Bomber by Roots. · Glam.com: Aug. 28. Spotlights Smythe Bomber by Roots. · Now: Aug. 22. Mini Alex Pack in Africa Tribe included in list of stylish backpacks. · The Grid: Aug. 22. Features interview with Co-Founders Michael and Don. · Footwear News: Aug. 19. Article on 40th anniversary discusses history and future of Roots.

14 • The Source

hen two Roots employees teamed up to take part in a charity run, they went the distance – and then some. In mid-August, Shelby Hiscock, a sales associate at the Ajax, Ontario outlet just east of Toronto, and her co-worker Sarah Dewar, now a student at Mohawk College, took part in the Montreal leg of The Color Run. Inspired by the race’s motto – Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be You – and eager to try a new experience, the two traveled more than 500 km from Ajax to reach the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, a famed auto-racing track that served as the venue for the run. As they advanced around the track, they passed through Color Zones where volunteers showered them with dyed cornstarch. With a different colour of powder used at each kilometer, runners reached the finish line sporting a rainbow of hues on their once-

white shirts. Dubbed by organizers as the “Happiest 5k on the Planet,” The Color Run hosts races on all five continents. This year, it has attracted more than a million participants of all ages and experience levels. The diversity and enthusiasm of fellow Color Runners impressed Shelby and Sarah. “There were small children and people in wheelchairs participating,” says Shelby, 18.

“It was truly breathtaking to see others go beyond their strength and celebrate their own personal health.” Proceeds from the race benefited the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation, which supports underprivileged children and promotes healthy, active living among youth. For Shelby and Sarah, the opportunity to help young people was the highlight of the experience. They are proud to add this race to a long list of charitable initiatives involving Roots staff. “Roots employees across Canada like to go above and beyond to help make the world a better place,” says Shelby, who also participates in the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life and volunteers at Street Health, an agency that assists homeless and underhoused Torontonians. “Working at Roots has made us both believe Shelby, (left), and Sarah show that it’s very rewarding their colours to help others and to post-race stay healthy.”

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL

Spotlighting the top performing Roots stores based on their sales results hortly before this issue of The S Source went to press, we received the final sales figures for

Roots stores in recent months. Taking the top spot for sales in September was the Roots Central store in Toronto, while the August spot went to the Georgian Mall store in Barrie, Ontario. As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the Vaughan Mills store in Vaughan, Ontario claimed the top spot in September, with the Hillcrest Mall store in Richmond Hill, Ontario winning the August spot (pictured). Congratulations to Codi Sellers, Manager of the Roots Central store; Debbie Perkunder, Manager of the Georgian Mall store; Jaime Oliveira, Manager of the Vaughan Mills store; Amanda Lawless, Manager of the Hillcrest store; and to their respective teams for their winning performances. Hats off to all of the other stores Hillcrest team (L to R): Danielle Rangel, Corinne Cantor, Amanda that surpassed their sales goals in Lawless (Manager), Leah Klugman (Missing: David Sandler, ElizaSeptember and August. beth Mamone, Sonia Mancini, Julia Zakharova) Issue 114 • Fall 2013

GREEN TIP

BE AN ECO-FRIENDLY PET OWNER

or many of us, pets are comforting companions, loyal guides, eager workout buddies and cherished family members. But while our pets might mean the world to us, we rarely think about what they mean for the world: our pet-care choices can put a strain on the environment. Fortunately, eco-responsible options abound. With these easy steps, both you and your furry (or feathered or scaly) friends can enjoy a greener world: · Protect the environment – and your pet – from harsh chemicals by choosing natural cleaners and deodorizers. · Indulge your pet with homemade treats served on reusable dishes. · Don’t throw away that stick! Animals can find hours of amusement in repurposed everyday objects. Just make sure you pet-proof these DIY toys first. · Minimize packaging waste by buying pet food in bulk and storing it in reusable containers. · Donate used toys, supplies and old newspapers (for cage lining) to your local shelter. · Explore options for composting pet waste, or invest in biodegradable waste bags – Canada’s popular Earth Rated Poop Bags, for instance, decompose within two years (earthrated.com). Not a pet owner? You can still make environmentally conscious choices that benefit other species. For instance, by picking up litter, you can help eliminate animal choking hazards. And if other people’s animals frequent your front yard, use non-toxic lawn care products and consider landscaping with pet-safe plants. · Source: <http://www.petsadviser. com/>; <http://dogs.about.com/> Issue 114 • Fall 2013

GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN

Taking attendance of special guests at Roots stores

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 from the entertainment industry and sports world who recently visited the company’s stores, head office, factory or were seen wearing Roots. (Stores listed alphabetically).

· Beverly Hills, California – TV talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres went home with a pair of blue Brogues. · Beverly Hills, California – Comedian/actor Russell Brand bought athletic-wear and stood at the front of the store to greet fans. · Bloor Street, Toronto – Rock star Alice Cooper and his wife Sheryl Goddard tried on fall jackets in the store. · Bloor Street, Toronto – Actress Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby) visited Roots to buy workout apparel and a Shirley bag during the Toronto International Film Festival. · Bloor Street, Toronto – Singer Nicole Scherzinger modeled the Original Foam Trucker for

a photo with Roots DJ Garrick (DJ Dr. G). · Bloor Street, Toronto – Third World, Jamaica’s longestrunning reggae band, visited the store during the Small World Music Festival. · Bloor Street, Toronto - Former Toronto Maple Leaf Wendel Clark and his family stopped by to shop for leather goods with Roots leather specialist Andy McCurbin. · Granville, Vancouver – Actress Roselyn Sanchez (Without a Trace, Act of Valor) brought her family, including husband Eric Winter (Days of Our Lives) and their daughter Sebella, to shop. Their purchases included sweats and a Men’s Snowy Fox Hoody. · Polo Park Shopping Centre, Winnipeg – Comedian/actor Russell Brand visited the store. · Sherway Gardens, Toronto – Canadian Olympic Gold Medalist kayaker Adam van Koeverden dropped in to buy sweatpants and gifts. · Sherway Gardens, Toronto – Toronto Maple Leafs winger David Clarkson came by for a visit.

Wendel Clark, (left), and family with Andy McCurbin, (2nd from left) Nicole Scherzinger, (right), with DJ Dr. G

Hilary Swank, (left), with Store Manager Dane Miller Helena Bonham Carter

Roselyn Sanchez, (left), with store employee Nicole Ceralde

Alice Cooper

Third World with DJ Dr. G, (2nd from right)

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Big developments in the life of Roots staff

n September 21, 2013, Cynthia Wilson, Senior Manager of the store in Oakville, Ontario, married Kevin O’ Neill in Bracebridge, Ontario. It was a rainy day but that didn’t put a damper on the festivities. Congratulations Cynthia and Kevin! Send us details of recent marriages, births, graduations and other milestones in the lives of Roots people to be included in The Source. Email info to thesource@roots.com The Source • 15

STAYING POWER SALUTING THOSE WHO GO THE DISTANCE

September and Teeshroughout October, many Roots employare celebrating benchmark

anniversaries with the company. Congratulations to the following people for their huge contribution and enduring loyalty to Roots: Henry Kowalewski, Plant Manager, Factory, 40 years Karl Kowalewski, VP, Leather/ Factory Operations, Factory, 40 years Thuy Thien Ha, Leather Stitcher, Factory, 30 years Jean Singh, Leather Shoemaker, Factory, 30 years Malcolm Guy, Forklift Operator/ Driver, Distribution Centre, 25 years Iria Lopes, Leather Table Work, Factory, 25 years Dariusz Gliwny, Leather Mechanical Engineer, Factory, 20 years Ewa Pisz, Leather Stitcher, Factory, 20 years Fernanda Costa, Leather Stitcher, Factory, 15 years Barbara Niedzielska, Leather Embroidery Operator, Factory, 15 years Mercedita Bautista, Keyholder, Windsor, ON, 10 years Michelle Duhaney, Sales Associate, Toronto, 10 years Khiet Lam, Sewing Machine Operator, Factory, 10 years Phuong Yen Lam, Leather Table Work, Factory, 10 years Sarah Laporte, Leather Table Work, Factory, 10 years Teresa Oliveira, Team Leader, Distribution Centre, 10 years Cheryl Ross, Sales Associate, Pickering, ON, 10 years Kismat Salim, Sewing Machine Operator, Factory, 10 years Lauren Bruce, Manager of Print/ Packaging, Marketing, 5 years Rex Budiwarman, Keyholder, Markham, ON, 5 years Isabel Fiorino-Habib, Sales Associate, Toronto, 5 years Wendy McMahon, Store Manager, London, ON, 5 years JoAnn Muyco, Keyholder, Richmond, BC, 5 years Thi Truc Nguyen, Sewing Machine Operator, Factory, 5 years Chantal Petrie, Store Manager, Toronto, ON, 5 years Chelsey Protano, Keyholder, Winnipeg, MB, 5 years Aleksandra Ristich, Keyholder, Toronto, 5 years Rubinder Singh, Keyholder, Edmonton, AB, 5 Years Pascal Viau, Keyholder, Kanata, ON, 5 years Li Ting Wang, Leather Table Work, Factory, 5 years Cassandra White, Keyholder, Newmarket, ON, 5 years Mei Ling Yeung, Sewing Machine Operator, Factory, 5 years Tanja Zelko, Senior Manager, Digital Marketing, 5 years 16 • The Source

STARTING LINEUP

Introducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores As part of our continuing series of team pictures, this issue spotlights the store in Lasalle, Ontario. Back row, left to right: Karen Girard, Donna Illsley, Beth McGee, Kaitlin Skemer, Lisa Laframboise. (Missing from photo: Rachael Carter, Josh Robinson, Shantal Roy, Lucy Palomba)

Nicole Piché, 15, photo from 1986, Sturgeon Falls, ON Robert Hartman, 18 months, photo from 1983, Richmond Hill, ON Daelynn Hayashi, 4, Scarborough, ON

SPEAK TO MY AGENT

Little – and not so little – customers show their Roots

W Blue Rose Cohl, 2, New York, NY

e often receive unsolicited photos from people eager to show us pictures of themselves, their family members and even their 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 person or pet in the photo, place of residence and a sentence stating that you agree for the photos to be used in The Source. Issue 114 • Fall 2013

MUSICAL ROOTS

Spotlighting Canadian singer/songwriter Trevor Guthrie

orn in Vancouver, Trevor Guthrie has made quite the musical journey. From being a member of a boy band to a burgeoning indie career, the singer/songwriter has shown great versatility and a broad range of talents. Recently, Trevor expanded his repertoire even further by co-writing a song that took the trance world by storm. The track gained worldwide recognition, reached doubleplatinum status in Canada and propelled Trevor into a whirlwind international tour with one of the genre’s top DJs. But despite his sudden prominence in the realm of electronic music, Trevor still considers himself an indie artist at heart. At the age of three, Trevor was already playing piano, and by four, was performing publicly. He learned trombone in elementary school and began playing guitar and writing music during high school. His first claim to fame came in 2000 as a member of the pop band soulDecision. The release of their first couple of singles earned them a spot on Top 40 lists nationally. Impressed with their success, Universal Music signed them to a record deal. Trevor was a vocalist and musician for soulDecision,

and wrote many of their hits including “Faded” and “Ooh, It’s Kinda Crazy.” In 2004, the band switched labels, reinvented its image, released a rockinfused sophomore album and embarked on a national tour. The following year, however, soulDecision called it quits and Trevor had to find his own musical presence. A few years after the band’s break-up, Trevor wrote and performed two songs that were featured in the science-fiction TV series Flash Gordon. He went on to expand his solo career on Myspace, where he posted “Strong Hands,” an acoustic tribute to World War II veterans. In 2012, Trevor collaborated with trance DJ and producer Markus Schulz on the song “Until It’s Gone.” Earlier this year, he co-wrote the electronic trance hit “This Is What it Feels Like” with world-renowned DJ and producer Armin van Buuren. Despite its upbeat style, the song depicts a painful real-

Trevor Guthrie first became known in 2000 as a member of soulDecision

ity: Trevor wrote the lyrics about a friend who was suffering from brain cancer. Multiple remixes of the track have been released, and Trevor recorded an acoustic version of the song in a one-take video available on YouTube. Trevor and Armin performed “This Is What it Feels Like” at the 2013 MuchMusic Video Awards, which significantly increased the buzz surrounding both artists. The music video has more than 25 million views on YouTube and the two are currently in the midst of a worldwide tour.

In a recent radio interview, Trevor revealed that another collaboration with Armin is in the works. However, he also hopes to continue expanding his indie career by releasing more acoustic songs. Trevor is fluent in French, Spanish and Japanese, and maintains a strong relationship with fans through his Twitter account. – Davin Bujalski · To hear Trevor’s music, visit his Myspace page at http://myspace. com/trevorguthriemusic or listen to Roots Radio

CHEF’S CORNER

Roots-friendly recipes that promote a healthy diet and bring pleasure to your palate AVOCADO POTATO SALAD Mayonnaise isn’t the only thing you can slather onto your potato salad. Guacamole is a better, healthier alternative to the typical creamy, fatty dressing. Avocado potato salad is a perfect dish for potlucks, BBQs, or as a salad to go with dinner and can be enjoyed by your meat-loving and vegan friends alike. Total time: 1 hour Serves: 6-8 Ingredients: 2 lbs fingerling potatoes cut into 3/4-inch chunks 2 avocados 1-2 limes 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)

Issue 114 • Fall 2013

1 plum tomato, chopped 1 small red onion, diced small 1 small cucumber, diced very small Scallions for garnish (optional) Preparation: * Prepare this dish close to serving time, as the avocado will turn brown if exposed for too long. 1. Put potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Cover pot and bring water to a boil 2. Lower the heat to a rolling boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are easily pierced with a fork 3. Drain potatoes and set aside to cool 4. Split avocados in half, skin and remove seed 5. Put avocado in food processor

6. Add lime juice, salt and puree until smooth 7. Once smooth and creamy, add tomato and onion 8. Pulse until they are mixed, but not completely blended (you should still see the tomato and onion) 9. Mix the potatoes and cucumbers in a large bowl 10. Make sure the potatoes are cool and add the dressing 11. Mix well 12. Wrap tightly and chill until ready to use 13. Top with scallions if you like · Source: http://www.theppk. com/2011/05/creamy-avocado-potato-salad/ The Source • 17

Introducing The Jackie Bag #rootswishlist