A window into the world of Roots
Issue 81 • March 2008
GETTING THERE
PHOTO BY ILICH MEJIA
New spring/summer collection takes to the road
Issue 81 - March 2008
The Source • 1
I N S I D E I S S U E 81
MAKING THE CONNECTION Roots adds to reunion of father and son after a quarter-century apart WILLFERRELLVISITSROOTS Flagship store serves as headquarters for film star during Toronto media blitz A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER Roots products highly visible in popular remake of 80s classic series A WINNING DAY AT ROOTS Sheridan grad spends time in the heart of the action SETTINGAGREEN EXAMPLE Alberta mall receives environmental certification
Departments FINE PRINT GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL MOMENTS THAT MATTER GREEN TIPS HEALTH TIPS STAYING POWER
Publishers MICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN Editor ROBERT SARNER Editorial Assistant CARLY ANDERSON Intern KASI BRUNO The Source is published every month 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 rsarner@roots.com Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Each issue of The Source is also available, in an abridged version, on the Roots website at www.roots.com
PHOTO BY DON STANDFIELD
GETTING THERE New spring/summer collection takes to the road
SPECIAL DELIVERY A selection of recent letters from the world of Roots THANK YOU ROOTS On behalf of the community we serve, thank you for being part of our recent food drive and supporting the Daily Bread Food Bank. Your efforts helped feed hungry people all across Toronto by raising much needed nutritious food. With help from concerned community members and socially involved organizations and companies, such as Roots, Daily Bread effectively pursues the battle against hunger and poverty in Toronto. Last year, 905,000 people in Toronto used a food bank. Sadly, a majority of these people are society’s most vulnerable, with 34% of those in need being children. As a supporter of Daily Bread, your efforts have assisted many in our community to put food on the table. We are grateful for your help. Once again, thank you for thinking of Daily Bread and those less fortunate. Linda Ciotola Development Officer Daily Bread, Toronto THEATRE TALES Our presentation of the wonderful play Tails at the recent fundraising event at the Al Green Theatre in Toronto is now behind us and we are happy to tell you that it was a great success. The two performances
were well attended and judging by the smiles on the faces of everyone there, it was enjoyed by one and all. The support of Roots helped make this event possible and we would like to thank you for your assistance. Proceeds from the shows will benefit the Sick Kids Hospital’s Bear Theatre that provides much-needed joy to hospitalized children. Since 1992, the Bear Theatre has given more than 750 performances at the hospital, bringing some fun and laughter into the lives of children going through difficult moments in their young lives. We appreciate that Roots chose to include this worthy initiative as part of your community support efforts. Tami Berman Committee Chair Bear Theatre, Toronto DOING IT RIGHT With good customer service so hard to come by, my recent experience at your Centreville store in Montreal restored my faith. Last year, I purchased a vegetable-tanned, leather purse but it was not aging well. I brought it back to your store with the hope it could be treated in a way to get it back into shape. Frankly, I did not expect much to come of this. On viewing the purse with
its scratches, worn out edges, and looking more like it was 10 years old, Assistant Manager Angie Ello immediately said she would see what she could do and get back to me. I expected to hear from her in about a week but she called me the next day. I had expected that, at best, the purse would be sent to your factory to be repaired. To my surprise, Angie told me she would give me a new one. Needless to say, I was very happy and grateful. I’ve been purchasing clothes at Roots for many years and I’m very satisfied with their quality and style – they are long-lasting and not fad-oriented. They have a classic cut and stay in style forever. This is the first time that I’ve been dissatisfied with a Roots item but as it was handled very professionally, you can be sure that I will tell all my friends. I would like to say thanks to Angie for the quick, courteous way she handled this. You are lucky to have her. Adriana Le Lay Ile des Soeurs, Quebec • The Source wants to hear from you. Please send your letters to Robert Sarner at rsarner@roots.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
EXTRA! EXTRA! In keeping with our monthly publishing schedule, the next issue of The Source will appear in late March.
GETTING THERE
PHOTOGRAPHS BY ILICH MEJIA
The Roots crew heads west on a road trip showcasing the free-spirited spring/summer collection arriving in stores this month. BY CARLY ANDERSON
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ith the promise of warmer weather close at hand and an opportunity to shed the restrictive layers of winter, the latest Roots collection for Spring/Summer ‘08 mixes classic casual wear and nature-inspired graphics with organic blends and hints of multi-cultural detailing. The result is a comfortably stylish selection sure to inspire one to get outdoors and close to nature. In early February, the Roots team, including Co-Founder Don Green, hit the road in search of an appropriate backdrop for photographing the new collection. They found an ideal setting in the scenic woods of the West Coast. The theme for
the shoot, appropriately, was that of a spontaneous road trip through the wilderness, of wearing attire which made you comfortable in your own skin, letting your cares slip away and embarking into the wild. “The shoot was inspired by a classic Canadian road trip,” says Stephanie Holden, Manager, Graphic Design, who helped conceive of the creative vision. “It was centred around themes of friendship and an appreciation for our environment. As nature is such an important part of this collection as well as our company’s values, our team used this as inspiration for the graphics this season.” With the early morning
hours, multiple outdoor set locations and many products to feature, the shoot proved an intense experience for those involved. “It was definitely challenging,” says Ilich Mejia, Senior Art Director, who photographed the campaign. “The week-long shoot consisted of really long days and being outside you have to be completely flexible to the weather fluctuations. It was a lot of hard work but our team pulled it off, the collection looks great and we all had a good time.” Styled by Peter Paquette, Visual Coordinator, and Sophie Green, Creative Coordinator, the Spring/Summer offering is a blend of classic Roots apparel
and accessories as well as fresh, new designs for the season. As always, comfort and wearability take precedent over fashionable detailing. The predominant look is that of athletic cool. As the coming months encourage breaking out of the winter doldrums, the cozy full zip and kanga hoodies in heathered fleece and sueded crop sweatpants with extra vintage washes allow one to do just that. Expect to see more of the Roots Green collection hitting stores with organic tanks, tees and fluttery jersey dresses. Earthy neutrals, as seen in the popular utility cargo shorts, are complemented with a punch of Continued on next page
Continued from previous page
bold, saturated colour found in the new polos. Graphic tees are another key piece for the season, featuring watercolour and nature inspired graphics. The new Roots Denim line (as seen in New and Noteworthy on page 11) offers a slightly more formal option which can be dressed both up and down depending on occasion. The accessory offering for Spring/Summer focuses on dark, rich leather in a variety of shapes, sizes and texture. The Heritage collection is highly visible while the new Wovens
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line features classic Roots bags (the Super Shopper, Zipper Clutch) fabricated out of a weave of deep earthy brown leather for a handmade look. Also new for the season is the Tree Tap collection, a project close to the heart of Director of Leather, Karl Kowalewski who has been working on its construction and design for more than 15 years. The innovative product features wild rubber tree tap latex (extracted by indigenous communities in the Amazon region of South America) painted over canvas fabric to achieve an original new look for spring.
The men’s line also centres on traditional outdoors-inspired garments with touches of vintage sports styling. Key items include the slim fit polos and tees, which are being reintroduced for Spring/Summer ’08, crisp plaid shirts and washed and worn in cargo shorts with functional details. “I can cite the book On the Road by Jack Kerouac as one of my influences for this season,” says Dylan Anderson, Associate Men’s wear Designer. “His characters and description of the Beat Generation really encompass the themes that Roots is using for the spring and summer
collections.” As glimpsed in the women’s collection, expect to see a variety of graphic tees hit stores with the iconic beaver logo and hints of multicultural stylings. In the coming weeks, stores will carry designs strongly influenced by Native Canadian artwork and bright Jamaican hues. This season, the Roots design team has made sure that nothing gets in the way of an active, outdoor lifestyle, creating stylishly comfortable clothes that can withstand even the most rugged trek off the beaten path. The designers clearly reached their destination. - C.A.
Issue 81- March 2008
WILL FERRELL VISITS ROOTS Flagship store serves as headquarters for film star during Toronto media blitz
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Will Ferrell, (l), Andy McCurbin
n its continuing involvement with the entertainment world, Roots hosted popular actor/ comedian Will Ferrell at the flagship store on Toronto’s Bloor Street in late February as part of his film publicity tour. The actor, who stars in the new comedy, Semi-Pro, spent the afternoon at Roots doing separate interviews with journalists. Ferrell also did various phone interviews for radio shows from inside the store. Roots Co-Founder Michael Budman greeted Farrell and presented him with a Roots
displays, and the finished Dylan jacket in Bamboo Boulproduct was young and fresh, der. making for a perfect pairing.” In preparation for the visit, Semi-Pro is in theatres now the store was decorated with and also stars Woody movie memorabilia. The chalHarrelson and Andre 3000. lenge was to make the merchandise blend with already existing Roots displays. “With the new colourful spring line, matching the bright hues from the movie’s theme with the Roots apparel was easy,” says Visual Merchandiser, Natalie Barone. “The film props were 100 Bloor celebrated the release of Semi Pro fun to work into the
MAKING THE CONNECTION Roots adds to reunion of father and son after a quarter-century apart
Issue 81 - March 2008
PHOTO BY LAURA SIMPSON
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ometimes there really is a lot more to a purchase than meets the eye. Fernando Curcione needed a special gift for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. As such, he headed to the Roots flagship store on Toronto’s Bloor Street. While there, Fernando shared the story behind his visit to Roots with a couple of members of the store staff, who were moved by what he told them. For 26 years, Fernando had lived with the knowledge he had fathered a child that he had never seen. He had always wondered what had happened to the baby boy born in 1981. Last year, he decided to try to track down his son. In September, Fernando joined Facebook, the popular online social networking site. Armed with the boy’s first name and the mother’s maiden name, he conducted a network search for a Joey McNulty. To his surprise, Fernando ultimately came across a younger, mirror image of himself and felt confident it was his son. “His face was right in front of me,” says Fernando, 55, a Toronto actor, singer and disc jockey. “I felt like I was seeing
Joey, (left), and Fernando reunited in Roots
myself at a younger age.” Upon further research, Fernando discovered that Joey had been raised without knowing the identity of his biological father and had often thought about investigating his paternal roots. On the advice of his priest, Fernando contacted Joey using Facebook’s messaging feature. Shocked and caught off guard, Joey responded, and the two began communicating, albeit cautiously. Before meeting in person, the two felt it necessary to confirm their genetic relationship and agreed to undergo DNA testing.
In October, after receiving scientific confirmation that they were indeed father and son, Fernando and Joey set up a meeting. The emotional reunion took place at Joey’s aunt’s home and since then, the two have been making up for the lost years. Joey, now 26, is a special constable in the Durham, Ontario court system and previously played semi-pro baseball in West Virginia. In addition to being a skilled athlete, Joey is also a passionate Toronto Maple Leafs fan. In December, with his first Christ
mas with his son approaching, Fernando wanted to get him a memorable gift. He felt a Roots leather Toronto Maple Leafs jacket would fit the bill perfectly. “I thought about the name Roots and how appropriate it was that the story of Joey and I is, in effect, a story of roots,” says Fernando. “I imagined us going to a Leaf game together wearing those jackets, a true Canadian outing for any father and son.” Fernando liked the jacket so much that he decided to also purchase an identical one for himself. Joey opened his gift on Christmas Eve and was thrilled to receive the Roots jacket. The gift was a special one for both father and son as the jackets symbolize the bond the two are forging as they build a lasting relationship. To contribute to that, Roots has offered a pair of hockey tickets to Fernando and Joey to attend a Leaf game together at the Air Canada Centre in March. Fernando says they’ll be proudly wearing their Roots Leaf jackets while sitting in the Platinum seats. The Source • 5
A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER Roots products highly visible in popular remake of 80s classic series
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hose who tuned in to the two-hour remake of the high-tech crimefighter series Knight Rider in midFebruary would have observed a veritable showcase of new and popular items from the Roots Fall/Winter ‘08 collection. Garnering much media attention has been the rugged men’s Racer leather jacket that takes on the role of crime fighting uniform for the main character Mike Traceur. Other observant viewers noticed a cameo from the women’s black and red plaid Lumber Jack Fleece Bomber and the Venetian Village Tribe bag. Outfitted by Hollywood
The Racer leather jacket (above) had a starring role in the pilot
stylist Amy Stofsky (who has also featured Roots leather bags in several seasons of Showtime’s Weeds), and with the help of
Beverly Hills Store Manager Nicole Redd, the cast of the 80s remake look fashionable, modern and in touch with their roots. The back door pilot features Justin Bruening (Mike Traceur) as the estranged son of David Hasselhoff’s Michael Knight (the original Knight Rider) who battles crime with the help of KITT (Knight Industries Three Thousand), his talking black Ford Shelby Mustang, voiced by Val Kilmer. The souped-up 21st century version of the cult classic averaged 12.7 million viewers and attracted mostly positive reviews, triggering talk of its own future series.
A WINNING DAY AT ROOTS Sheridan grad spends time in the heart of the action
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what shots I liked. We all hen Natalie had a really good time.” Alonzi received After a wholesome, a phone call healthy lunch, it was time saying she’d won the to get acquainted with the chance to spend the day other important sectors of behind the scenes of one of the company, including Canada’s leading lifestyle tours of the leather factory brands, she was pleasantly and Distribution Centre. surprised. Capping off her busy day A recent graduate from of seeing a product through Sheridan College in from conception to manuOakville, Ontario, Natalie facturing to the sales floor, hadn’t been aware that one Natalie visited the Roots of her friends had entered store in the Yorkdale her in the Alumni AssociaShopping Centre, where tion’s “Best Times of Our she was presented with a Lives” contest. An initiaVillage bag as a souvenir tive set up to give graduof her day at Roots. ates memorable experi“I loved the vibe and ences outside the classflow of the Roots environroom and an intimate look ment,” says Natalie. inside major companies, Natalie gets up close and personal with Roots “When I first walked in, I the Roots Head Office was was impressed. The whole the setting for one of three Communication, Art and Web atmosphere was inviting and I grand prizes. Departments and sat in on a felt very welcome and special. I In early February, Natalie typical morning for them, got a closer look at the lives of arrived at company headquarincluding a stylish Roots 73/ people who work for the comters in Toronto, prepared to Outlet photo shoot. become an “Intern For the Day” “The photo shoot was a great pany and I realized how much I would enjoy working there.” as the contest promised. After experience and really fun,” says At 21, Natalie is now going taking a tour of the Natalie, who majored in Fashion for a second degree, finishing up architecturally award-winning Retail Studies. “I got thrown her first year in Sheridan’s workplace, she had separate right into the action and had the Tourism and Travel Program. meetings with members of the chance to voice my opinions on
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SETTING A GREEN EXAMPLE Alberta mall receives environmental certification
Park Place is officially green
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s a company long committed to helping the environment, Roots welcomed the recent green initiative enacted by the Park Place Shopping Centre in Alberta. The innovative new program was undertaken with the help of the Building Owner’s and Manager’s Association (BOMA) Go Green program in late February and is already seeing much success. The Roots location in the Lethbridge mall will be positively affected by the newly implemented eco-friendly changes. They include extra trees being placed throughout the corridors and each store receiving spider plants to help purify the air. A stringent smoking ban has also been introduced, prohibiting smoking within five metres of any door or window. The Park Place newsletter, sent to all stores, contains motivational “go green” tips for further action. “Our mall has been working for over a year to complete all the necessary requirements to be certified,” says Store Manager Amber Wray Burbank. “I’m really proud to be a part of the new, green Park Place. I think it shows that we’re committed to bettering the environment and Roots fits in perfectly with such an eco-friendly atmosphere.” Built in 1988, Park Place Mall is the largest shopping centre in Lethbridge, covering four city blocks downtown and hosting more than 100 stores. The Go Green program emphasizes ecologically sound building practices by establishing performance standards in such areas as energy and water use, recycling and indoor air quality. For more information, visit www.bomagogreen.com. Issue 81- March 2008
THE LUCK OF THE DRAW East Coast store takes home the prize at retail conference
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just joking about winning so it t the Regent Mall came as a complete surprise Annual Merchants meeting in late Februwhen they actually announced ary, representatives of Roots our name. It was a great way Fredericton, Manager Sarah to end the evening.” Lewis and Assistant Manager Other highlights of the Emma Lally walked away the meeting included a healthy envy of the assembled group dinner and a special guest of local retailers with the speaker on managing stress grand prize of the evening. in the workplace. The Roots As the conclusion to a team took these beneficial tips Fredericton puts their winnings to good use night recognizing retail to heart. making them eligible for the excellence, a draw was held to “We plan to keep the ball contest which would come to a reward one lucky store with rolling and use our prize money to close at the annual meeting. The winnings that could be creatively fill the store’s fridge with healthy Fredericton Roots team happily put toward their entire staff. snacks,” says Emma. “We’re also walked away the winner of a $250Throughout the year, the top five going invest some of it into prizes Cadillac Fairview gift card. Regent Mall locations with the as sales incentives for our staff. “We figured we were the highest sales increases for the Winning was a great way to underdogs,” says Sarah. “We were month would receive a ballot motivate everyone!”
ROOTS PLAYS STRONG SUPPORTING ROLE Alberta keyholder vies for lead role in newest Mirvish musical
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he scene is set for a major new theatri cal production to debut in Toronto next fall and if one Roots employee gets her way, she’ll be a big part of it. The Sound of Music, the legendary Rodgers and Hammerstein musical and Academy Awardwinning 1965 film, is Aspiring star Christina at her day job already a theatre hit in London and composer Andrew Christina has always had a Lloyd Webber is hoping his passion for performance. Toronto show will enjoy a Currently touring with the similar success. In an interesting Centre Stage Theatre Company, twist, in keeping with the she travels to schools across emerging trend of reality TV Alberta as a part of a theatrical talent discoveries, the lead role and educational ensemble. For of Maria will be cast after a its part, Roots, through its televised, cross-Canada search. flexibility and support, has been After the first round of instrumental in Christina’s strenuous singing and dancing success. As she copes with the auditions, Christina Hardie, a inconsistency of an artist’s keyholder at the Roots store in schedule, her employment at Market Mall in Calgary since Roots has moved with her. 2004, has been invited to “I love working for Roots,” Toronto for the next round of says Christina, 23. “It has auditions, making her one step allowed me to pursue my dream. closer to winning the coveted Wherever I go in Canada, I have role. a solid employment base. Roots A graduate from the Grant feels like home.” MacEwan Theatre Arts program The televised search, to air in Edmonton, and formerly a on the CBC this spring, is member of the Calgary Opera, modeled after its British counterIssue 81 - March 2008
part. The popular BBC version aired in 2006 and, through it, the London production’s lead was chosen. The stage show has gone on to break box office records in England, making a star of the show’s Maria. The Canadian Sound of Music, debuts next October at the Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto.
STAYING POWER Saluting those who go the distance
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ecently, many Roots employees marked major anniversaries of their time at the company. By ‘major,’ we mean benchmark achievements as in 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years spent at Roots. We invite anyone celebrating such an anniversary to send the relevant information to The Source. Congratulations to the following employees for their significant contributions and enduring loyalty to Roots: • Rosa Goncalves, Assistant Director, Plant Operations, Leather Factory, Toronto, 15 years • Nicole Bechtel, Keyholder, Park Place Mall, Lethbridge, AB, 5 years
BEST OF FINE PRINT A selection 2 of0coverage 07 of Roots in the media Here are some recent sightings of Roots in the pages of newspapers and magazines: • Chatelaine, March issue. Roots watch is featured. • Canadian House & Home, March. Spotlight on Roots club chair. Also mentions the Roots Helsinki Earflap hat. • Homemaker’s, March. Roots leather bag and yoga pants featured. • Where Mississauga, Feb. 29. Roots store at Erin Mills Town Centre featured in the ‘Top Shopping Destinations’ section. • The Globe & Mail, Feb. 23. Roots envelope clutch featured in the ‘Spring Ahead’ section. • The National Post, Feb. 22. Letter to the editor from Robert Sarner, stating that contrary to misinformation published recently in the Post, Roots first created yogawear long before Lululemon even existed. • Toronto 24 Hours, Edmonton 24 Hours, Calgary 24 Hours, Ottawa 24 Hours, Feb. 15. Roots Clutch featured in the ‘Fashion loves’ section. • Toronto Life, Feb. 14. Oxia’s oxygen canister available at Roots featured in the ‘Fitness and Wellness’ section. • The Calgary Sun, Feb. 12. Mentions Wayne Gretzky’s association with Roots. • Fashion, Feb. 11. Roots small Envelope Clutch with heart detailing is featured on ‘Fashion loves’ site. • Globe & Mail, Feb. 11. Roots Norbie bag and leather belt featured in ‘Work’ column. Diane Bald is quoted. • National Post, Feb. 9. Roots small Envelope Clutch with heart detail, two heart key charms and small heart change purse featured in the Valentine’s Day feature. • Globe and Mail, Feb 5. Roots heart sprinkled lovebird T-shirt featured in the ‘Style Counsel’ section. • The Toronto Star, Feb. 2. Roots patent leather Darwin bag in forest green featured in ‘It’s in the bag’ section. • Lou Lou, Jan./Feb. (Both English and French editions). Roots yoga mat and organic yoga tee featured. - Compiled by Carmela Ledo
The Source • 7
ENLISTING ANIMALS FOR A GOOD CAUSE Outlet store in Windsor launches storewide challenge for charity
P The decorative hoarding conceals the hard work going on behind the scenes
UNDER CONSTRUCTION Toronto store gets an eco-friendly upgrade
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n recent weeks, many shoppers at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre noticed a drastic change to the façade of their local Roots store. The flagship location in the busy mall is currently in the midst of a major renovation to transform it into a concept store of boutique-style shops, featuring separate departments for leather, women’s, men’s and baby. In keeping with its reputation for eco-friendly building practices, all in-
store finishes are made with sustainable materials from bamboo to reclaimed wood flooring to contribute to a warm, welcoming shopping experience. Designed by architect Diane Bald and Director of Visual Planning and Store Development Pauline Landriault, the newly resized 3,000square foot space is slated to be unveiled at the end of March. Roots has had a store at Yorkdale continuously since 1985.
roving that the spirit of giving is yearround, the staff in the Windsor Crossing store in Windsor, Ontario have decided to pool their resources and purchase a goat from World Vision for a less fortunate family, issuing a challenge for all stores to do the same (or better). Sales Associate Tammy Clavet, who had worked with the relief organization in the past, coordinated the initiative with the help of Store Manager Bernadette O’Beid. “We’re always looking for ways to get involved with the community and other charitable outlets,” says Bernadette. “We are so lucky to live in Canada and have the opportunity to help others, so we’re challenging all stores to jump into spring and offer a great Easter gift to a family in need.” In the Gift Catalogue section of
the World Vision website, donations can be put toward a variety of animals which will help meet pressing needs such as food, health and income for its recipients. One goat (for only $100) will ensure up to 250 litres of protein rich milk a year, providing nutrition for growing children and a marketable commodity for the parents. “After hearing about this great initiative, I decided to purchase a piglet on behalf of the outlet stores,” says Rosemary Eisenhut, Director of Outlets, Ontario and Quebec. “If we all saved our coffee or lunch money for just one day, we could probably stock two families’ farms.” More than a few stores have already accepted the challenge, including Thunder Bay and the Orfus Road Outlet in Toronto who are purchasing a goat of their own.
GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN Taking attendance of special guests at Roots stores
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elebrities have long made combined and a point of shopping at downhill compoRoots. Here are the latest nents, Austrian sightings of prominent figures in alpine skier Renate the world of entertainment and Gotschl visited the sports who visited Roots stores store along with recently: fellow Austrian skier Renate Gotschl • Queen Street, Toronto – Best Hermann Maier, known for his role on Dawson’s winner of two Olympic gold Creek, medals. Joshua • Beverly Hills, California – Jackson Starring shopped at the together on downtown the cult show store, picking Buffy the up a laptop Vampire bag and a Slayer and husband and Joshua Jackson Royal Shaker scarf. wife in real • Robson St., Vancouver, BC – life, Alexis Martin and Scottish comedian and actor Billy Denisof and Nancy Short Connelly earned rave reviews Alyson from staff as he picked up men’s Hannigan came in and purchased Original a pair of Overdye Original sweatpants in sweatpants. salt and pepper - Star of the Spiderman series and for his the upcoming workouts at How to Lose the gym. Friends and – Two-time Alienate world chamPeople, pion in Cindy Williams Kirsten Billy Connelly 8 • The Source
Dunst dropped by for warm and comfortable clothing. - In town to sit down with David Letterman, actor Will Kirsten Dunst Ferrell was spotted wearing a Global Warming bracelet on the late night talk show. - Country Hermann Maier superstar Reba McEntire visited the sunny California store and Will Ferrell picked up some turtlenecks. - Long-time friend of Roots, Canadian funnyman Martin Short and wife Nancy picked up sweats, Alexis Denisof (l), tanks and Alyson Hannigan (r) Wayfarer
sunglasses, which Martin wore out of the store. - Star of Laverne and Shirley Cindy Reba McEntire Williams shopped at the store, purchasing yoga gear, a leather wallet and several leather Hermann Maier bags.
ON THE MOVE New appointments and promotions at Roots • Graham Canning appointed Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Head Office, Toronto. • Laura Hanna promoted to Store Manager at Spring Garden Place, Halifax, NS. • Malcolm Leach promoted to Acting Store Manager at Sunnyside Mall, Bedford, NS. • Lisa Moorhouse promoted to Store Manager at Bayers Lake Power Centre, Halifax, NS. Issue 81- March 2008
MUSICAL ROOTS
AUGUST This month, we spotlight Robbie Robertson
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amie Robert Klegerman, better known to the world as Robbie Robertson, was born in Toronto in 1943 of Jewish and Mohawk parents. He would spend many summers at the native reserve with his mother’s family, soaking in the unique First Nations musical tradition and culture. It would be the beginning of his life-long passion for music. While at The Six Nations Reserve, west of Brantford, Ontario, he began taking guitar lessons and quickly began composing his first songs, reflecting a mix of Native Canadian folk, rock and country music with a hint of big band thrown in. Back in Toronto, Robbie garnered attention at local gigs and soon dropped out of school to devote all his attention to songwriting, guitar playing and singing. By the summer of 1958, at the age of 15, Robertson had met singer Ronnie Hawkins, who headed a band called the Hawks. Robbie joined the Hawks and began touring extensively until 1963 when they disbanded. Robertson, along with fellow members Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Garth Hudson and Richard Manuel, soon caught the attention of Bob Dylan and they
became the backing band for Dylan’s legendary 1965-66 world tour. Known simply as The Band, they went on to write and perform many classic rock n’ roll songs such as “The Weight,” “Rag Mama Rag,” “Chest Fever” and “Stage Fright.” Robertson only sang a few of the songs, but was The Band’s main songwriter as the group become one of the premier bands of the late 1960s and early 70s. In 1976, citing exhaustion from years of touring, Robbie broke up The Band after an allstar concert in San Francisco, filmed by director Martin Scorsese. It would be called, The Last Waltz. This would begin a special collaboration between
THE ROOTS TOP 10 A guide to the sounds of Roots for March Robertson and Scorsese. Robertson scored the music for Scorsese’s classic Raging Bull, as well as for The King Of Comedy, The Color Of Money and later Casino, The Departed and Gangs Of New York. Following the breakup of the Band, Robertson also went on to release four solo albums working alongside the likes of U2, Peter Gabriel and Daniel Lanois. His 1978 self-titled album, co-produced by Lanois, brought him a Grammy nomination for best male rock vocal and a Juno award for best album. His songs have been recorded by many musical greats. Bob Dylan once called Robertson a “mathematical guitar genius” and he is listed in Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time. Some of Robertson’s other accomplishments include receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Songwriters (1997); the Native American Music Award (1998); and the Aboriginal Achievement Award
1. Chest Fever, The Band 2. Keep That Same Old Feeling, The Crusaders 3. Something Big, Burt Bacharach 4. Twilight, Frankie Beverly & Maze 5. Like You’ll Never See Me Again, Alicia Keys 6. Go Back To Your Woods, Robbie Robertson 7. Foundations, Kate Nash 8. Lively Up Yourself, Bob Marley & The Wailers (Bombay Dub Mix) 9. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’, Akon & Michael Jackson 10. It Keeps You Running, The Doobie Brothers - Compiled by Davin Bujalski
(2003). He has been featured on CBC TV’s Life and Times (2001) and in the PBS documentary called Making a Noise. Robertson also performed at the Opening Ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, and was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2003. - Davin Bujalski - Listen to Roots Radio to hear the music of Robbie Robertson and The Band. For more about Robbie Robertson visit www.allmusic.com/cg/ amg.dll or http://theband.hiof.no/ band_members/robbie.html
GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL Spotlighting the top performing stores in the month of January
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Sunnyside tops the pack of outlet stores Issue 81 - March 2008
s this issue of The Source went to press, the final sales figures for stores in February were not yet in but we’re delighted to report the performance of most stores in January was to be truly commended. Topping the pack in terms of company stores was the Hillcrest Mall location in Richmond Hill, ON that captured the latest Store of the Month honours, beating its sales target by 239%.
As for the Roots 73/Outlet category, the Sunnyside Mall store in Bedford, Nova Scotia took first place with a score of 152% over its sales budget. Congratulations to Manager Rachel Roos of the Hillcrest store and Acting Store Manager Malcolm Leach of the Sunnyside Outlet along with their respective teams for their winning performances. Likewise, hats off also to all the other stores that met or surpassed their goals in January. The Source • 9
GREEN TIP #46 Easy ways to help the environment
STARTING LINEUP Introducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores
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s 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 Station Mall store in Sault Ste. Marie, ON. From left to right: John Mullin, Crystal Willet, Luke Ruicci, Jocelyn Iozzo, Maegan Brennan and Katherine Bock. Missing: Meagan Smith
IT’S NOT CALLED JUNK MAIL FOR NOTHING: Put an end to the annoyance of unsolicited commercial letters and pamphlets, and the huge waste of trees and energy that create them, by getting off junk mailing lists. In Canada, the best way to have your name removed from such lists is to contact the Canadian Marketing Association. For more information, contact the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA). Simply click on the “Do not contact button at www.thecma.org.
HEALTH TIP #43 Easy ways to stay healthy
SPEAK TO MY AGENT The littlest customers show their Roots
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egular readers of The Source know that last year, we launched this special feature to showcase photos of children wearing Roots. It grew out of the fact that we often receive unsolicited photos from customers who want to share with us pictures of their children, cousins,
nieces, nephews, grandchildren, or even pets wearing Roots. They often ask if they could be used in a future advertising campaign for the brand. We can’t promise that but we are happy to publish them in The Source. Everyone is welcome to submit their favourite shots to
Adayr Walsh, 3 years old, Haverton, PA 10 • The Source
The Source 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 and a sentence stating that you agree for the photos to be used in The Source.
Rafi Kastner, 7.5 months, New York, NY
DON’T KILL YOUR FOOD: To get the most out of the good things in your foods, treat them gently. High heat cooks away many important nutrients. Boiling, for instance, can destroy half of the vitamins found in vegetables. Deepfrying yields fatty foods and produces the worst kind of fat trans fat - which can clog your arteries and increase your risk of cancer. Similarly, your cancer risk may rise if you make a habit of eating barbecued or grilled meat that is burnt or blackened. Try not to kill your food with too much fire. Instead, lightly steam, quickly stir-fry, or broil foods to preserve their nutritional value. - Source: Secrets of Longevity, by Dr. Maoshing Ni Issue 81- March 2008
NEW & NOTEWORTHY A guide to just-launched Roots products
JEAN THERAPY New denim line completes spring wardrobe
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aunched in test markets last month to positive reviews, the quintessential staple of fashion debuted in select stores for Spring 2008. A key component for the new season, (and launching nation-wide in time for back-to-school) Roots Denim for men and women provides distinctive signature styling in a variety of fits, washes and styles. For women, the five-pocket Skinny Flare jean is a youthful option and very au courant. The low-
rise waist sits just below the belly button, with a slim fit throughout the hip and thigh and a gentle flare at the bottom for a flattering silhouette. Available in dark rinse wash. The women’s Boot Cut is a classic style with a looser fit and a medium rise on the waist, which sits right at the belly button. Fitted throughout the hip and thigh, the slim leg is wide enough to accommodate a boot. The style is available in a light vintage wash for a casual, worn-in look. Both women’s designs feature a 33” inseam and are made with a blend of cotton and spandex to ensure optimum fit and comfort. The signature pocket is a series of flattering waves and swirls with a subtle Roots tag at the seam. Sizes: 24-36; Retail price: $68 Its male counterpart, the fivepocket Boot Cut jean is made from a lightweight cotton/lycra blend for a snug fit and ultimate mobility. For the discerning man, the style is available in an antique dark rinse for a finished, clean look and a rugged,
casual light vintage wash. Both come in a 31” or 33” inseam. The signature pocket, as seen on instore signage is a minimalist linear design with a small Roots label by the seam. Sizes: 24-36; Retail: $68 Roots Denim is a collaborative effort of the Women’s design team, Associate Men’s wear designer Dylan Anderson, Graphic Artist Tracy Klem and Manager of Graphic Design, Stephanie Holden.
IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE New baby organics line ensures a cozy slumber
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here’s nothing like feeling comfortable in your clothing, knowing that it’s good not only for your child but also for the earth. Available in stores this month, Merchandise Manager of Baby and Kids Marisa Battaglia and Baby Animal Jumpsuits Designer Elsa DeSouza have created a line of eco-friendly sleepers adorned with lovable, childfriendly graphics. The bright collection features bold colours and stylish accents, which can be worn year round for ultimate comfort. The Animal Jumpsuits, made of 100% organic cotton jersey, are Kimono exceptionally soft Two- piece and soothing against a baby’s skin. Ribbed arm and leg openings add additional security and a diagonal zipper running the length of the garment provides ease of wear. Available in coral sunset, athletic Issue 81 - March 2008
blue and butter cream, each colour comes with its own animal graphic with a choice of monkey, whale and giraffe respectively. Sizes: XS-XL; Retail price: $29.95 The 100% organic cotton jersey Kimono Two-piece for baby girls is a stylish take on loungewear. The Eastern-inspired top has the customary wrap effect as seen in traditional garb and is secured with quick and easy snaps. The matching pants have an elasticized waist, ribbed openings and the Roots Animal beaver icon Bibs located by the hem of the leg. Available in coral sunset, the design is completed by the friendly giraffe graphic on the flank of the top. Sizes: XS-5T; Retail price: $29.95 The male counterpart, the Monkey Two-piece for boys
Monkey Two-piece (featuring the simian graphic on the front of the garment), is a comfortable simple style great for active wear. Available in athletic blue and made out of 100% organic cotton jersey, the button down top allows for easy access. Sizes: XS-5T; Retail: $29.95 As a matching accessory, the ThreePack Animal Bibs, featuring all the animal graphics in the collection, allow for a fun and practical way to protect your baby’s clothes from food and drink stains. Available in white, the bibs are constructed out of 100% organic cotton jersey with a polyester/terry blend on the loop. One size. Retail price: $22.95
TIE ONE ON FOR THE SEASON Spring’s hottest accessory hits stores with a bevy of colour
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ne of the biggest trends for spring is finishing off a casual look with a chic, lightweight scarf. The popular neckwear lends a retro 70s feel to the season, as well as proving useful in fighting off the chill of early mornings and cooler days. Accessorized over top of a Tshirt, sweater or even sweatshirt, the look by Weekend Scarf Senior Accessories Designer Lynne Morris is crushed and soft, wound around the neck twice and Diane Linen Scarf loosely knotted in the front. By midMarch, an array of bright shades, prints, plaids and stripes will be in select stores, all easy to pair with the coordinating women’s collection and accessories offered. Twig Print Scarf - $38 Weekend Scarf - $38 Janis Scarf - $38 Diane Linen Scarf - $38 Chelsea Scarf - $38 With the retro look a key style for Spring ‘08, scarves are also being seen Chelsea Scarf doubling as girlish headbands. Roots makes accessorizing easier with a ‘faux scarf’ headband to match all the popular fabrications of above, but with less bulk and a sturdy elastic at the back. Available at all stores, feel free to scrunch it up or wear it wide. Twig Print Headband $15.95 Weekend Headband $15.95 Janis Janis Headband Headband $15.95 Diane Twig Print Headband - Headband $15.95 Chelsea Headband $15.95 The Source • 11
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Issue 81- March 2008