Winter 2011
TOP SHOPS
for unusual gifts
HOLIDAY fashion looks
Plus • Dashing thru’ the snow – snowmobile season begins
ACE BURPEE Hot 103 Host balances radio sHow and pHilantHropy
MNP COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROFILE ROBERT MACDONALD, CA
F
or Rob MacDonald, a partner in the Assurance Services division at MNP, finding something you’re passionate about is what makes volunteering rewarding. MacDonald has found that passion on the links. Since 1992 MacDonald has held various positions on boards for the Manitoba Golf Association (now Golf Manitoba) and at a national level with the Royal Canadian Golf Association. This fall, MacDonald was appointed President of Golf Manitoba, an entirely volunteer position that he is thrilled about. “It’s something that’s very exciting because I really do love the game of golf. The game builds character, you have to be an honest player and show perseverance. Kids can learn these qualities through golf, which is another reason I am excited about my position with Golf Manitoba, because of the work we do to introduce kids to the game.” Golf Manitoba brought the game of golf to children in 77 elementary schools across the province through the National Golf in Schools Program, a number the organization hopes to double in 2012. In addition, 4700 kids in Manitoba played the game through the national CN Future Links Program last season. Golf Manitoba is also responsible for promoting participation of the game to all ages across the province and administering the Rules of Golf, handicapping and course rating. On top of his volunteer commitment with Golf Manitoba, MacDonald is also very involved with United Way.
As Co-Chair of the Professions Division - Accounting, MacDonald applies his business expertise to gain professional contributors for the United Way. “We help other professional firms and their employees initiate campaigns in their office. My favourite part about my work with the United Way is the success stories that come through the agency, such as when a fundraising goal was reached or a campaign was really able to help an organization.” MacDonald notes that his involvement in our community is something that is truly backed by his colleagues at MNP. The firm holds community involvement and leadership in high regard and urges all employees to make a difference in their city. “The firm encourages not only partners but all employees at MNP to get involved in the community. We even have a group that assists Habitat for Humanity numerous times a year, so volunteering is definitely a fundamental part of working at MNP.” On the business side, MacDonald also shares a passion for helping his clients achieve their business and personal goals. “I work mainly with mid- to large- owner managed companies as a business advisor, helping clients with business planning so they can grow their business and achieve their business and personal goals. I really do have a passion for seeing my clients and their companies succeed.”
David Comaskey, Executive Director of Golf Manitoba & Rob MacDonald
WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
When MacDonald is not working or volunteering, he can be found golfing at his home club Elmhurst, or spending quality time with his wife Karen, a retired school teacher. WINTER 2011
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winter
13
We talk to media personality Ace Burpee about giving and receiving – but mostly his giving.
DEPARTMENTs
FEATUREs
9 Health Energy drinks – are they good for you?
10 On track Long track speed skater Tyler Derraugh on the road to Sochi.
16 Outdoor pursuits Snowmobiling season is here!
6
City Essentials Teaching children about the holiday spirit, and gift buying made easy.
20 Four looks for the holiday season Tips on how to dress for the season of holiday parties.
21 Men About Town The latest events and info on Winnipeg Men Magazine and our advertisers.
23 What is in your locker? Mark Scheifele – 17 days in the NHL.
25 The Last Word with Tom McGouran and Joe Aiello.
ON THE COVER: Ace Burpee is wearing clothing provided by Danali, 100-530 Kenaston Blvd. Photography by chronic creative.
2 | WINTER 2011
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PROVEN PERFORMANCE. UNBEATABLE DEALS.
PROVEN PERFORMANCE. UNBEATABLE DEALS.
PROVEN PERFORMANCE. UNBEATABLE DEALS.
*Rebates vary by model; see dealer for details. **Offer valid on all qualified models and subject to credit approval from HSBC Retail Services Limited on qualified consumer purchases financed during this program. No payments required until 6 months from the date of purchase. No finance charges will be assessed until 5 months from the date of purchase and 12/31/11. interest is waived if full payment is made by the due date and 5160 Portage Ave, Headingley, MB remains in good standing. Rates will vary with term, account amount financed, and credit profile of the customer. See your 889-5377 headingleysport.com participating Polaris® dealer for all program details. Offer ends 11/30/11. Rider pictured is a professional on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2011 Polaris Industries Inc.
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*Rebates vary by model; see dealer for details. **Offer valid on all qualified models and subject to credit approval from HSBC Retail Services Limited on qualified consumer purchases financed during this program. No payments required until 6 months from the date of purchase. No finance charges will be assessed until 5 months from the date of purchase and interest is waived if full payment is made by the due date and account remains in good standing. Rates will vary with term, amount financed, and credit profile of the customer. See your participating Polaris® dealer for all program details. Offer ends 11/30/11. Rider pictured is a professional on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2011 Polaris Industries Inc.
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*Rebates vary by model; see dealer for details. **Offer valid on all qualified models and subject to credit approval from HSBC Retail Services Limited on qualified consumer purchases financed during this program. No payments required until 6 months from the date of purchase. No finance charges will be assessed until 5 months from the date of purchase and interest is waived if full payment is made by the due date and account remains in good standing. Rates will vary with term, amount financed, and credit profile of the customer. See your participating Polaris® dealer for all program details. Offer ends 11/30/11. Rider pictured is a professional on a closed course. Polaris recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2011 Polaris Industries Inc.
1350 Dugald Rd. Winnipeg, MB 237-5800 rondsmarine.com
Danali 100-530 Kenaston 204.489.0577 www.danali.ca WINTER 2011
|3
perspective
Winnipeg Fall 2011
The guide for living local
Winnipeg Men magazine. He has done so much for our city, and continues to entertain thousands each day as he hosts the morning show on Hot 103, that he deserves everything he gets – and more.
Photo by Ian McCausland
On a sports note, almost every conversation that is had these days has to do with the Jets. We had a chance to chat with Mark Scheifele, the first draft pick of Jets-v2 and get a picture of his locker. Although he was sent back to the Barrie Colts (OHL) to get some experience on the ice with a great coach and mentor (Dale Hawerchuck), everyone in Winnipeg knows that in the very near future, Scheifele will be back to provide excitement and goals pretty quickly, and we can’t wait.
W
innipeg has a Mayor, many great and well known business people, amazing community contributors and an up and coming young generation. Then we have Ace Burpee who just about covers all of these, including unofficial Ambassador of Winnipeg. There are many days that go by that one wonders how he finds the time and energy to fit everything in, but when you sit down one on one with Ace, you come to realize quickly that he is genuine, passionate and true to his beliefs that Winnipeg (and the surrounding area such as Zora and Cooks Creek where he grew up) is the greatest city to live and work in. We may all agree with him, but can we keep up with him? I have watched with amazement as Ace has brought attention to many charities, causes and events, all with the purpose of ensuring that they raise the funds they need to serve their clients. It was more than time that we put Winnipeg’s Ambassador on the cover of
4 | WINTER 2011
The holiday season is also upon us. That means time to celebrate family and friends. There has been a lot going on this year and it seems that it has absolutely flown by, and now is the time to slow down for a bit and remember that family and friends are what things are all about. Make sure that you set aside the time to have that lunch with a friend you have not seen for a long time. You will remember these times a lot longer than you will the few extra hours at the office. I also want to take this opportunity to truly thank all of our readers, advertisers and supporters that we have had over the past years. It is amazing how much has changed, and how much has stayed the same over the past many years that I have been truly blessed to have the opportunity to have this medium to speak with you. Happy holidays!
MEN
Winter 2011: Volume 7, Issue 4 EdItor Barbara Edie (204) 992-3402 dEsIgnEr designtype ContrIbutors Joe Aiello, Jim Chliboyko, Craig Lawrence, Tom McGouran, Kelly Parker, Steve Salnikowski (chronic creative), Shel Zolkewich PublIshEd by
STUD O MEDIA
GROUP
grouP PublIshEr Glenn Tinley glenn@studiomediagroup.com (204) 298-6430 EdItorIAl dIrECtor Barbara Edie sEnIor ACCount MAnAgEr Barb Pettitt barb@studiomediagroup.com (204) 510-9192 ACCount MAnAgEr Greg Corbett greg@studiomediagroup.com (204) 291-7023 ACCount MAnAgEr Tracy Leipsic tracy@studiomediagroup.com (204) 781-6141 AdVErtIsIng/ CIrCulAtIon MAnAgEr Shawna Schimnowski (204) 992-3402 AdMInIstrAtIVE AssIstAnt Linda Rigaux linway@mymts.net For InquIrIEs, ContACt info@studiomediagroup.com (204) 992-3402 WEb dEsIgnEr Mark Semenek Our publications: Dish, Inspired Thinking, Marketplace Magazine, Winnipeg Men Magazine, Winnipeg Women Magazine, itvwinnipeg.com
SubScriptionS Write or subscribe via our website: www.winnipegmen.com Winnipeg Men Magazine 2nd Floor - 65 Dewdney Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3B 0E1 Phone (204) 992-3402 • Fax (204) 475-3003 Winnipeg Men Magazine is published four times a year by Studio Publications Inc. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. © Studio Publications Inc. 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada. Canada Post Publication no. 40037524
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the Studio Media Group address shown above.
to preserve the editorial integrity of our magazines, Studio publications follows strict editorial guidelines based on those set out by the canadian Society of Magazine Editors. to read more on these guidelines, go to www.magazinescanada.ca, the website of Magazines canada and head to the Advertising—Editorial Guidelines link under Advertising.
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Š 2011 Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. Porsche recommends seatbelt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.
For more information visit www.porsche.ca
Never Hibernate. Goosebumps come standard.
Engineered for magic. Auto Haus Porsche 660 Pembina Highway Winnipeg, Manitoba Phone: 204 284-7520 auto-haus.porschedealer.com
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WINTER 2011
|5
city essentials
TEACH CHiLdrEn AbOuT THE
holidayspirit “W hat would you like for Christmas?” This question, whether it comes from Grandma or the jolly man in red, seems easy enough. But as the options multiply and the shopping frenzy escalates, the answer becomes more and more complicated… and expensive! It is important to help children put the holiday season into perspective. Parents should take a look at how they are spending their money and time this holiday season. If their list is more about expensive gifts, party clothes and concerts, think about deliberately cutting something back. Make time for the pleasures of family this Christmas: skating on an outdoor rink, baking and decorating Christmas cookies, driving around town to look at Christmas decorations and lights, or, calling a snow day and staying home for a movie marathon. This creates
6 | WINTER 2011
traditions that children will remember.
Great holiday ideas are habit-forming. So why just save them for the holidays? Going easy on the expenses, investing in fun family time, and remembering people who are less fortunate are lifestyle choices. Gift GivinG made easy You have your list and have checked it twice, but still not sure what to buy for some people in the office, your awkward nephew, assistant or your golf buddy? Here are a few top suggestions to help finish that list. 1. toad Hall toys – Winnipeg’s version of toyland, this jolly store can satisfy any gift needed from toddler to teenager. With unique, old- fashioned and even educational toys, shelves of great books, and fun magic tricks, Toad Hall is a sure winner for kids and kids at heart. 54 Arthur St., 956-2195. 2. Jets Gear – from a jersey or t-shirt to mini stick or flag, Jets gear is a sure hit
for any sports fan on your list. Available from various sports stores around Winnipeg.
3. shelmerdine’s – so much more than a garden centre, to spruce up your gift options with everything from fashion to indoor and outdoor plants, home décor and jewellry, Shelmerdine’s fits any lifestyle and any budget. 7800 Roblin Blvd., 895-7203 4. mountain equipment Co-op – for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests, this eco-friendly two-storey shop offers top quality winter wear and sports gear to warm up the season. 303 Portage Ave., 943-4202. 5. d.a. niels – for those who love to cook (or eat) D.A. Niels offers high-end cookware, culinary accessories and kitchen items galore, for everyone from restaurateurs to amateur chefs… and every foodie on your holiday list. 485 Berry St., 953-2345
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WHAT DOES EVERY TRAVELLER NEED?
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WINTER 2011
|7
Lighter is faster. The all-new A6. Audi ultra lightweight technology combines the lightness of aluminum with the robust strength of steel to create a body that’s 30kg* lighter than its predecessor. A body that makes the new A6 significantly more athletic with better handling, Lighter is faster. and acceleration. The agility, all-new A6. After all, true performance can’t be weighed down. Audi ultra lightweight technology combines the lightness of aluminum with the robust strength of steel to create a body that’s 30kg* lighter than its predecessor. A body that makes the new A6 significantly more athletic with better handling, agility, and acceleration. After all, true performance can’t be weighed down.
Incredibly equipped from $58,800*
The TheAudi AudiS4 S4 The Audi S4 audi.ca
...Girls ...Girlswant wantto tohave havefun funtoo! too! ...Girls want to have fun too!
© 2011 Audi Canada. European model is shown. “Audi”, “A6”, “Vorsprung durch Technik”, and the four rings emblem are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. To find out more about Audi, see your dealer, call us at 1- 800 -FOR -AUDI, or visit us at www.audi.ca. *Based on weight reduction of the new aluminum-steel hybrid frame compared to the 2011 Audi A6.
St. James Audi St. St.James JamesAudi Audi St. James Audi 670 Century Street, Winnipeg 204.788.1100 670 Century Street 670 Century Street 670 Century Street stjamesaudi.com Winnipeg Winnipeg Winnipeg 204.788.1100 204.788.1100 204.788.1100 stjamesaudi.com stjamesaudi.com stjamesaudi.com
*freight/PDI/taxes and fees extra audi.ca
8 | WINTERLOWE 2011 ROCHE
Jody Thomas Jody Jody Thomas Thomas
Jody Thomas Audi Sales Manager Audi Audi Sales Sales Manager Manager jthomas@stjamesaudi.com jthomas@stjamesaudi.com jthomas@stjamesaudi.com Audi Sales Manager
jthomas@stjamesaudi.com
Jeff Harochaw Jeff Harochaw Jeff Harochaw Harochaw
Jeff Harochaw Audi Brand Specialist Audi Brand Specialist Audi Audi Brand Brand Specialist Specialist jharochaw@stjamesaudi.com jharochaw@stjamesaudi.com jharochaw@stjamesaudi.com jharochaw@stjamesaudi.com Audi Brand Specialist
jharochaw@stjamesaudi.com
Dan Hetherington Dan Hetherington Dan Dan Hetherington Hetherington
Dan Hetherington Audi Brand Specialist Audi Brand Specialist Audi Audi Brand Brand Specialist Specialist
danh@stjamesaudi.com danh@stjamesaudi.com danh@stjamesaudi.com danh@stjamesaudi.com Audi Brand Specialist
danh@stjamesaudi.com
Randi Saladin Randi Saladin Randi Randi Saladin Saladin
Randi Saladin Audi Brand Specialist Audi Brand Specialist Audi Audi Brand Brand Specialist Specialist
rsaladin@stjamesaudi.com rsaladin@stjamesaudi.com rsaladin@stjamesaudi.com rsaladin@stjamesaudi.com Audi Brand Specialist rsaladin@stjamesaudi.com
260 Queen Street West, suite 301, Toronto, Ontario M5V 1Z8 416 927 9794 WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
© 2011 Audi Canada. European model is shown. “Audi”, “A6”, “Vorsprung durch Technik”, and the four rings emblem are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. To find out more about Client: File Name:*Based AUDI-P1278-M_Leadership_FP .indd Page: on weight reduction of the new aluminum-steel hybrid1frame compared to theProduction 2011 Audi A6. Artist(s): MB Audi, see your dealer, Audi call us at 1- 800 -FOR -AUDI, or visit us at www.audi.ca.
health
WHAT You SHould KnoW AbouT
energY drinKS Energy drinks are a unique product and many people have questions about why and how energy drinks should be consumed. What are energy drinks? Health Canada says: “Energy drinks are meant to supply mental and physical stimulation for a short period of time. They usually contain caffeine, taurine, vitamins and glucuronolactone, a carbohydrate.” While energy drinks are available in a wide range of flavours, formulations and formats in Canada, they share the following attributes: • are formulated and sold as Natural Health Products (NHPs) • contain caffeine • are intended to supply temporary physical and/or mental stimulation restoring alertness and wakefulness when fatigued or drowsy. Who should consume energy drinks? Energy drinks are formulated and recommended for people who are looking for additional mental and physical stimulation for short periods of time. Energy drinks are not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people who are sensitive to caffeine. As with all NHPs, it is important to read the label and use as directed. Energy drink labels in Canada contain information on recommended use, recommended dosage, intended population, any cautions, and lists of medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients, as well as the amounts of each medicinal ingredient. WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
How many energy drinks should be consumed in a day? It is important to read the product label to understand the recommended daily dosage, as can size and ingredients vary. The maximum recommended dosage is typically one or two cans a day. In addition, consumers should be aware of their caffeine intake from other sources (regular and specialty coffees, tea, chocolate, other NHPs, over-the-counter medications, etc.) and adjust their intake accordingly.
How much caffeine is in an energy drink? Mainstream energy drinks, those products that represent the vast majority of sales in the energy drinks category in Canada, typically contain between 70 mg and 200 mg of caffeine per dose. When consuming the maximum recommended daily dose for most mainstream energy drinks, caffeine intake would be comparable to less than two cups of coffee.
Should energy drinks be mixed with alcohol?
Are energy drinks and sports drinks the same thing?
As stated on the label, energy drinks are not recommended to be mixed with alcohol. The Canadian Beverage Association and its members do not promote mixing energy drinks with alcohol.
No, energy drinks should not be confused with sports drinks. Sports drinks are beverages that are specifically formulated to re-hydrate the body and usually provide carbohydrate energy needed for physical activity. Sports drinks also replenish electrolytes that maintain sodium and potassium balances in the body.
Are energy drinks safe? In Canada, energy drinks are classed as NHPs because they make verified functional claims and because of their ingredients, such as caffeine, taurine and vitamins. Energy drinks are regulated and reviewed by Health Canada for their quality and safety and must display recommended conditions for use and cautions on their labels. Energy drinks are currently sold in more than 160 countries around the world. Health authorities and scientific expert panels in these various jurisdictions have assessed energy drinks and their ingredients and have concluded that energy drinks are beverages that can be safely consumed as foods. Always read the label before consuming and do not exceed the recommended dose.
What are Natural Health Products? Under Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Regulations, NHPs are defined as naturally occurring substances or their synthetic equivalents that are used to restore or maintain good health. NHPs, often called “complementary” or “alternative” medicines, include: vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies and homeopathic or traditional medicines. NHPs must be safe to be used as overthe-counter products and do not require a prescription.
For more information visit www.canadianbeverage.ca. Source: www.newscanada.com
WINTER 2011
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at the speed
OF ICe
WInnIpeg skater On traCk FOr OlympICs
By Craig Lawrence
T
he secret to success as an athlete is difficult to pin down. What is it that makes some of us merely good at a particular sport, while others are truly exceptional? Is it a single-minded determination to realize a particular goal? Smart, efficient training? Genetics? For speed skater Tyler Derraugh, the answer definitely falls into the “all of the above” category. Winnipeg-born Derraugh, 25, a member of the Canadian Long Track Speed Skating team, is one of Canada’s top hopefuls as the country prepares its contingent for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. It’s a goal Derraugh has been determined to reach for some time.
10 | WINTER 2011
“I’ve been skating since I was three,” he says, “and representing Canada at the Olympics has been my focus all along.” His accomplishments in speed skating thus far give a strong indication that an Olympic Games is well within the realm of possibility for this Manitoban: he holds every Manitoba men’s short track record (500m, 1000m, 1,500m, and 3,000m); he was on the silver medal men’s short track relay team at the 2009 World University Games in Harbin, China; named to the 2010 World Sprint Championship Team and represented Canada at the World Championships in Japan finishing as top Canadian; and, he was recently named to the Canadian World Cup Long Track 2011-2012 team. At the time of
this writing, he is slated to compete in World Cup events in Chelyabinsk, Russia, Astana, Kazakhstan, and Heerenveen, Netherlands. His single-minded determination to compete for his country at an Olympic Games is such that even a serious accident – resulting in a concussion at the 2010 Olympic short track trials – couldn’t dissuade him from sticking to his goal. “My focus for four years had been short track, and on the second day of the trials I was taken out by another skater who fell as I was passing him.” He tried to get back on the ice a few days later, but when the team doctor wouldn’t clear him to race, he decided to try his hand at long track. “I looked at the schedule and WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
realized the long track trials were three months away. I thought, ‘I skated long track when I was younger, why not give it another shot?’” he says.
family in your corner is a huge part of any athlete’s success. And Derraugh has no shortage of this kind of backing.
other coaches along the way, my mom was always there, and kept coaching me. She still does,” he adds. Sadly, Derraugh’s biological father, Peter Williamson, is a man he barely knew. Williamson passed away shortly before Derraugh’s fifth birthday. But there’s no question he continues to play a part in his son’s speed skating career.
Unfortunately, with such a short period of time to transition between the two events, Derraugh didn’t make the Vancouver 2010 team. Which has only served to enhance his focus on being part of the 2014 team that will travel to Sochi. But, as any athlete will tell you, competing is the starting point – winning is the ultimate goal. To that end, Derraugh has decided that the team pursuit will provide the best opportunity for a medal. “I’ll still race individually, but hope to make it in the team pursuit, because I believe it will be my best chance for an Olympic medal.” Of course, getting to that stage requires a good deal of the second part of the secret to athletic success: smart, efficient training. And when the athlete happens to be pursuing a degree in law and society at the University of Calgary, at the same time as training at such a high level, efficiency is particularly important. Coached by Michael Crowe and Bart Schouten at Calgary’s Olympic Oval, a typical day for Derraugh consists of: “Up at 7:15, eat breakfast and get to the Oval by 8:30. We have a group meeting at 8:40 then we get on the ice at 9:40 and skate until 11:30. We warm down until 12, have lunch, and then I run to a class at university. Then it’s back to the Oval for another workout – whether it’s in the weight room or on the bike – followed by about 14 minutes in the cold tub. By that point it’s about 5:30, so I go home, have dinner, and call it a day.”
Williamson competed in speed skating for Canada in the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France. An accomplished cyclist, he also raced with Canada’s team pursuit squad at the 1967 Pan Am Games, and served as first alternate for the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
“ I lOOked at the sChedUle and realIZed the lOng traCk trIals Were three mOnths aWay. I thOUght, ‘I skated lOng traCk When I Was yOUnger, Why nOt gIVe It anOther shOt’? ”
A schedule like that, which clearly doesn’t leave a lot of room for typical income generation, puts Derraugh in a situation all too many athletes find themselves – how to make ends meet. In addition to some financial support from the government, many athletes rely on support from other sources. In Derraugh’s case, Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors have become an important member of his support team. “They’ve been great. It’s taken some of the pressure off worrying about (finances) and allowed me to focus on my training.” But support doesn’t just come in financial form. Having friends, teammates, and WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
His family has always been a vital source of encouragement and support. Mom Lori, step-dad, Jeff, and siblings Reece, Elizabeth, Connor, and Chris have been a key component in Derraugh getting to where he is today. “There’s no question I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing if it wasn’t for their support,” he says. And as important as that emotional aspect of family is to him, there’s no ignoring the fact that the other component of family – genetics – plays a significant role in Derraugh’s success. His mom Lori was the Canadian short track champion in 1975 and the Canadian and North American champion in 1977. “She was my first coach,” he says. “And even though I had
But it was as a speed skating coach that Williamson really made a mark. His credentials include: provincial coach and technical director for the Manitoba Speed Skating Association, co-founder of the Coaches Association of Manitoba, and technical director of the Canadian Amateur Speed Skating Association. He also developed coaching manuals for both long and short track. To this day, Derraugh meets people all over the world who have been influenced by his father. “I was in Salt Lake City this summer and a stranger approached me and asked if I was Peter Williamson’s son,” he says. “He told me he knew my dad, and had interviewed him for a coaching clinic on how to become a better coach. Meeting these people has allowed me to connect with him in a real way.”
Besides that, Derraugh has been coached by several people who were coached by Williamson. “Things go full circle. There are definitely things that my dad taught his skaters that have been taught to me.” He then adds, “Skating has been a chance to live a life that he lived. It’s something that I love, he loved, and it’s allowed us to have a connection.” This connection, as well as the support of his family, his fierce training regimen, and maybe most notably, his absolute determination to compete for Canada at an Olympic level, make Tyler Derraugh a very real contender for that goal. Sochi 2014. Watch for him. WINTER 2011
| 11
It’s baaaaaack! (Just really really fast!)
The 21st century Beetle. Now starting from $24,475*
Winnipeg Volkswagen Dealers 12 | WINTER 2011
vw.ca
*Base MSRP of a new 2012 New Beetle 2.5L base model with 5-speed manual transmission is $24,475, excluding $1,365 freight and PDI, license, insurance, registration, any dealer or other charges, options, and applicable taxes. Dealer may sell for less. Vehicle may not be exactly as shown. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. **Limited time finance/lease offer available through Volkswagen Finance on approved credit. Conditions apply. The APR after the rate reduction cannot be lower than 0.0%. A security deposit may be required for lease transactions. Visit your Volkswagen dealer for full details. “Volkswagen”, the Volkswagen logo, are registeredtrademarks of Volkswagen AG. “Das Auto & Design” is a trademark of Volkswagen AG. © 2011 Volkswagen Canada.
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broadcasting
A GIVING SPIRIT Radio host fundRaises tiRelessly on and off aiR By Jim Chliboyko Photos by chronic creative WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
WINTER 2011
| 13
H
ot 103 morning show host Ace Burpee and his crew (Chrissy Troy, Lloyd the Intern, aka LTI) know how to have fun on the air and do get a little rowdy, but neither the program nor its host and director is typical of morning radio. For example, on his Hot 103 blog, Burpee writes, among other things, about the sobering William Kurelek exhibit at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. There’s also an Ace Burpee Book Club on the Hot 103 website. “I would take it as a compliment,” he says, when he’s described as atypical. “I’ve got very diverse interests and, you find out, so do others. People, first thing they want is just to laugh, but if they can laugh and learn something at the same time, they are very grateful.” Like many in a high-profile broadcasting career, Burpee is a busy man. His station, Hot 103, is the top FM station in the city. For his early morning slot, he wakes up, every weekday, at precisely 3:37 a.m. His team starts their Ace Burpee Show (ABS) at 5:30 a.m. and it goes until 10, Monday to Friday. That’s 22.5 hours of programming to fill each and every week. But he’s got also all the other work he does on his own time. After work work, he often has an evening or daytime event, usually philanthropic in nature. Currently, his datebook has 340 entries for the year’s 365 days. When asked how he finds balance in his life, he simply says, “I don’t.”
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Lately, Burpee has been the “man” in the United Way’s One Man One Hundred Thousand Dollars campaign. “I thought of it in the summer,” says Burpee, sounding much mellower after another morning show has wrapped. “I try to do as much as I can with the United Way. I thought it was time to step it up a bit, to do something really big. I donate time and money, but I can also use good ideas, and put them to use for the United Way. Whether it’s a piece of art or a song I make up, it’s like an ongoing series of minifundraisers.” Scott Sime, VP of Marketing and Engagement for the United Way in Winnipeg, often works with Burpee on projects. He says, “I think what Ace brings to the table is complete sincerity and dedication. This is a guy who walks the walk. He really does love this community, and he loves to get involved in different ways, to do things and try to make other people’s lives better. And you don’t sense in it a hint of ego. It really seems to come from a genuine place.” Burpee’s approach isn’t just about asking for money. There’s a trade-off aspect he likes to incorporate into his events. Like with the Halloween songs his crew recorded, or the October skating party at MTS Centre they hosted. “Anything original, any idea I own, I think, ‘how can I mould it to become a fundraiser?’,” he says. “All of my fundraising, I don’t want to just ask for money without someone getting something in return.” WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
“Anything originAl, Any ideA i own, i think, ‘how cAn i mould it to become A fundrAiser?’,” he sAys. “All of my fundrAising, i don’t wAnt to just Ask for money without someone getting something in return.” Burpee has fundraising ideas that the United Way has never seen before, like having people over to his family’s place at Cooks Creek to run an insane-sounding obstacle course, or enlisting the services of Blue Bombers quarterback Buck Pierce to record a phone message for the winning donor of another contest. Sime also says that Burpee and his crew show up to “literally dozens and dozens” of workplace United Way fundraisers to help the organization on the ground. Of course, fans know that the efforts don’t just end there. There are the spontaneous causes, like the ‘I heart Haiti’ T-shirts, the proceeds of which went towards Haitian earthquake relief or the Pray for Japan T-shirts earlier this year, which sported an embedded QR code which allowed people to donate to tsunami relief via their smartphones. There are also annual initiatives like the Ace Burpee Scholarship, a joint effort of Hot 103 and the Tallman Foundation, in which six Manitoban students are given $3000-scholarships. “I asked them if they’d like to partner with me,” says Burpee of Tallman. “We find unique kids who might fly under the radar of a traditional scholarship.” Rather than charities going to him, Burpee often approaches charities. “I initiate, though I have tons of requests, too, but I make a lot of work for myself,” he says. “On purpose. I start things immediately when they’re required, whether it’s the Haiti earthquake or
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Japanese tsunami. As soon as something needs attention, we just drop everything and that becomes the main thing.”
Just a few years later, Burpee would have his own show. Some who work with him aren’t surprised by his success.
Burpee credits his philanthropic approach to life to his parents; his mother works for a mental health organization. “Both my parents have always worked for nonprofits,” he says. “One thing I definitely understood from the get-go was how appreciative organizations are when someone starts something for them.”
“People respond very favourably to him,” says Sime. “He’s got a way to take the rigour or stuffiness out of an event and just make it human, genuine and very fun. That sense of pride and optimism and goodness he exudes, I think you internalize it when you’re around him and it’s cool to be around.”
Perhaps the charity work is a by-product of Burpee’s own sense of community. He’s a rabid Manitoban; he uses the Manitoba crest as his Twitter icon, he’s constantly giving on-air shout-outs to local institutions like the Bombers, the Jets, and Folklorama or unheralded small towns like Tyndall.
And for his efforts, Burpee finds that he learns more about his home province and the people here.
Not surprisingly, Burpee identifies heavily with his upbringing in Cooks Creek, just east of the city. He graduated from Springfield Collegiate, followed by the University of Manitoba, and then went to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology to study journalism. Being a radio personality wasn’t an inevitable career choice for Burpee. At one time, the written word was more his area of focus. “I used to write commercials at CJOB and then a gentleman named Vic Grant (retired CJOB boss) said one day, “Would you like to do a talk show?” I said, “Of course, I would.”, says Burpee. “I was terrified. I would call it the worst show in the history of the world. I’m making it sound worse than it was, because the guests were great. But it was very short lived.”
“The one thing I do find across the board, you always meet the best people and the nicest people involved with some of the hardest situations… You meet so many people who are positive,” he says, followed by a long, signature pause. “That would be the one thing that stands out, meeting people who still actually care about others.”
,1 9 2 / 9 ( 0
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% r D uG 0 hP ehu Graffiti Gallery % r D uG 0 hP ehu Versatech Industries Inc. Advisory Committee Member, The Winnipeg Foundation
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Dashing through the snow COnsIderIng a seasOn On a sled? here’s What yOU need tO knOW. by Shel Zolkewich
t
he sunshine is almost blinding. The fresh snow sparkles like a field of diamonds. There’s hardly a breath of wind. Time to go snowmobiling!
Manitoba’s endless sunshine, ample snow and impressive trails make for some of the best snowmobiling in the country. Instead of spending the winter indoors, consider a season on a sled. Here’s what you need to know. Jeff Snowdon, sales manager at Rond’s Marine says the best selling machine in his shop for the single rider is the Polaris 600 Rush Pro-R. For riding double, the 550 LXT 2 Up trail machine is a popular choice. Before making an investment, Snowdon says it’s important to consider how you want to use your snowmobile.
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“Will they be riding single or double? Will they be just trail riding or fishing? How old are they? There are several questions to determine the proper sled for that first time buyer, or an experienced long time rider?” he says.
to be 16 years old and have a valid drivers’ license.
A new, entry level Yamaha snowmobile starts at $7,499. Snowdon says clothing, insurance and a trailer can add another $2,500 to your initial investment. Of course, used snowmobiles are widely available, both privately and through dealerships.
“Good clothing can make or break your experience,“ Snowdon says. “A proper set of boots, gloves and underwear in layers is key. Then add the outer suit of pants and a jacket.” Snowdon adds that in Manitoba, a helmet that’s approved by CSA, Snell or DOT is mandatory.
When it comes to the laws for off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles, children under the age of 14 aren’t permitted to operate the vehicle unless there’s a parent of guardian in clear view. But in order to cross a roadway, snowmobile drivers need
So you’ve invested in a snowmobile, trailer, clothing and insurance. Now where to go? Ken Lucko, executive director of Snoman Inc. says you’re in luck. Manitoba boasts over 12,000 km of groomed trails, all maintained by volunteers who love to ride.
Like any pastime you choose to pursue in the winter, having the right gear makes all the difference.
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Since 1975, Snoman has served as the umbrella organization for Manitoba’s snowmobile clubs. There are currently 51 clubs on the roster, so finding a place to ride won’t be a problem. Lucko says last year was an exceptional year on the trails. Usually, there’s 16 to 18 weeks of solid riding in Manitoba. Your first order of business is to purchase a Snopass. It gives you permission to travel on designated Snoman trails in Manitoba. An annual Snopass costs $125 and this year, it allows you to travel on trails in Saskatchewan too. Plus there are plenty of discounts available to Snopass holders. The funds are used to maintain and groom
those 12,000 km of trails in Manitoba. After your first outing on an expertly groomed trail, you’ll quickly see the value of your investment. If you want to take your chances riding on a designated trail without a Snopass, you’re risking a fine of $448.50. Pick up a Snopass at any Autopac outlet. Lucko says Snoman’s priority from the start has been safety. “We want people to get out and enjoy winter and do it safely. We’ve always been about safe riding for the recreational family,” he says. The Snoman website includes excellent safety tips for snowmobiling, whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned rider (it never hurts to have a little refresher).
Here are a few reminders: 1. Always watch for open water and thin ice when you’re near waterways. 2. Don’t override your headlights. That means taking extra care when riding at night. Slow down, wear clothing with reflective trim and never ride alone. 3. Watch out for wind chill. Frostbite can quickly become a problem for exposed skin. Invest in a windproof balaclava and mitts and keep the face shield on your helmet down. 4.Travel with a safety kit. It should include a spare belt, plugs and tow rope at the very least. While a cell phone can be a great backup, keep in mind that it might not work in all areas. 5.Don’t drink and drive. Snowmobiling requires all your attention. Even a small amount of alcohol can seriously impair your judgment. Besides, it’s against the law. Visit www.snoman.mb.ca for more safety tips. The site also includes updates from clubs on the conditions of trails. It’s a great way to plan your weekend adventures.
Tina Jones of Banville & Jones Wine Co
invites you to taste the multi-award winning wines of her family's estate in Tuscany. TOLAINI ESTATES
Picconero Valdisanti Al Passo Exclusively available at Banville & Jones Wine Co. 1616 ST MARY’S RD • 948-9463 • WWW.BANVILLEANDJONES.COM WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
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HolidAY Photos by: Ian McCausland Clothing supplied by Danali 100-530 Kenaston Blvd. www.danali.ca
looKS
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Holiday season means holiday parties. This can sometimes cause stress for guys. We want to look good, but don’t necessarily wear a suit everyday, so we need to choose clothes that will be useful once the holidays are over and we are just heading out on a date. For our holiday issue, we chose four combinations that will make you look good when put together, but can also be paired up later to get good use out of your purchase. To make it as easy as possible, we chose a couple of casual outfits and a couple that dress you up a bit more. All too often, we see women at holiday parties who have taken extra care to look fabulous and next to them is us (the guys) who maybe did not take such time. This year, let’s change this image. Get a haircut, a new outfit and shoes. This will make a statement to everyone at the party including your boss, or your significant other, that you take the time to look good, just like you take the time to do a good job. WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
fashion
SHAdeS oF blACK
FiT For KniT
For those who may feel less comfortable in a blazer or suit jacket, a casual jacket over a sweater or shirt provides flexibility for later as well. Depending on the jacket type, you can leave it on or remove it. The key with a jacket (as shown) that is a darker colour, is to match it with a darker sweater or shirt. Also, a grey (as shown) or black pant keeps the outfit looking coordinated. Choosing shoes that can go from flat front pants to denim will let you get good use out of them.
Cardigans have made a big comeback in recent years because they fit properly and don’t simply hang like a set of drapes off your shoulder. A sweater that has some colour, but not too much, will let you move from the office to an evening holiday event easily. It can also go with denim or different pants such as greys and blacks. Keep your shirt simple if your sweater has a pattern, so the shirt and sweater don’t compete for attention. You want people to notice you for simply looking good, not because they are trying to figure out what you are wearing. Rolling the shirt sleeve over adds a nice touch, lets the sweater sleeves stay put, and shows off a great watch as well.
John Varvatos lambskin leather jacket $998; John Varvatos Sweater $250; J. Lindbergh pants $198; Ted Baker shoes $285
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DryKorn for Beautiful People pants $199; Earrest sewn shirt $165; Scotch & Soda Sweater $195; John Varvatos Hipster Shearling Work Boot $375
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fashion
How to get more from your jacket, blazer or suit purchase: l Stay away from too many patterns in jackets and suits. These tend to go in and out of style.
l Use the shirt, shoes and belt to add some interest.
l If buying an item that includes
Well SuiTed
JACKeT reQuired
This suit can easily go from office to dinner party and keep you looking good. A grey suit goes with many colours of shirts, but not ones that are too bright. Keep shirts to earth tones and solids such as browns or blues. If you have the confidence, add a patterned shirt, but don’t go too overboard. Adding a simple brown shoe (and brown belt) would finish this off nicely. If you are not a suit guy at the office, you could wear the pants without the jacket, and add it for more formal occasions. However, don’t wear the pants too often without the jacket or they will get that worn look and no longer look like they go together.
A jacket with some pattern or interesting finish accomplishes two things: 1) It allows you to add some colour or pattern in the shirt easily and make it look natural, and 2) it adds a piece to your wardrobe that works equally well with a great pant or denim. Make sure that when you are picking a jacket that you want to do double duty, let the sales person know. Try on the jacket with both the pants and denim in the store so that you know it works. In this case, we have paired the jacket with a black pant for an evening holiday party. Stick to a black belt (maybe something etched with a pattern) and a solid black lace-up shoe.
a jacket, go with a blazer that you can pair with different pants. That way you can spend a bit more on the jacket so that it lasts and you can alternate pants depending on the occasion.
l Buy a jacket or blazer that does not have a finish that will get ‘shiny’ after you wear it. It may look good now, but in a couple years it will have a sheen that will take away from your outfit.
l On the same note, don’t get a jacket or blazer that has a finish that will start to ‘pill’. Again, this will look bad in a couple years and will be difficult to bring back to new condition.
l You can wear a jacket many Ted Baker Pant $295 Ted Baker Opaleye Jacket $795 Lipson Shirt $105 Ted Baker shoes $340
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Robert Graham shirt $225 Tiger Jacket $525 Tiger Pants $199 Tiger shoes $225
times without having it cleaned. The rule of thumb is to have a jacket cleaned after the season is over (spring/summer or fall/winter), put it away on a proper hanger that will keep the shoulders supported and it will be ready for next season. ALWAYS have it cleaned by a good drycleaner. WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
MaCaLLan SCotCh taStIng
Darren Raeside of Banville and Jones
Macallan Brand Ambassador, J. Wheelock, hosted a complimentary, guided scotch tasting experience to give invited guests a fun and informative sample of four expressions of The Macallan Single Malt Scotch: The Macallan Fine Oak 10 year old, The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 year old, The Macallan Fine Oak 15 year old and The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 year old.
eMPty BowL CeLeBrIty auCtIon
Jon Ljungberg and his alter ego “Elvis”
Photo courtesy of Claudine Gervais
tIPSy thIef event Local artist Kal Barteski Kostenchuk, and award-winning graphic novelist, GMB Chomichuk, performed live art at the newly renovated Children’s Museum on September 27. The more than 300 guests in attendance were also treated to a wine and spirit tasting courtesy of Tipsy Thief Imports. Proceeds of the event were directed to the Health Sciences Centre’s Children’s Ophthalmology Clinic. WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
This year’s Empty Bowl Celebrity Auction at the Delta Winnipeg was sold-out again this year and had a record breaking event raising over $300,000. We had 51 celebrity, humanitarian and local artisan bowls and some exciting oncein-a-lifetime packages including: a trip to Churchill, a Le Cordon Bleu Paris culinary demonstration, NASCAR car race experience, Denise et Jean-Louis Catering dinner for six and a Great Taste of WOW!
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Takes corners and compliments with equal grace. one thing for another. Well that ends here. The 2011 C-Class with Agility Control automatically stiffens dampers through corners and softens them in less demanding conditions to enhance passenger comfort. While the award-winning available 4MATIC™ permanent all-wheel drive system and 10-way power adjustable seats ensure neither tire nor lumbar ever slip. Meaning you never your Mercedes-Benz dealer or mercedes-benz.ca/c to schedule a test drive.
The 2011 C-Class. Starting from $35,900*.
Your accountant will love this. Savings of up to $6,000 until December 31st. Arrange for your test drive today.
Š 2011 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. *Price does not include Freight, PDI, dealer Administrative fees, GST, HST or PST.
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Mercedes-Benz Winnipeg, 2554 Portage Avenue, 204-667-2467, mbwinnipeg.ca
See in store for details.
WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
What’s in your locker? by Kelly Parker
seventeen days. for now, that is the total nhl stay by the winnipeg jets first pick in the 2011 draft. eighteen-year-old centre mark scheifele made a splash in the pre-season, and had his moments when the regular season commenced after the jets kept him on for further evaluation. in the end, “schife”, as his teammates call him, was sent back down to the ohl for a season of, well, “seasoning”, under the tutelage of coach barrie colts and legendary jet dale hawerchuk. such is the life of a hockey player – certainly of one yet to put down roots – that his locker (whether at the jets’ practice facility, the mts icePlex – where winnipeg men caught up with him or at the home rink) is merely a place to gear up and strip off. in fact, not one locker in the room contained anything beyond team gear. still, this was just the practice facility. what about elsewhere? Beyond your regular equipment, is there anything else you keep in your locker of significance? “Not really. I’ve just got a hat, and not really anything else.” Is it at least a lucky hat? “Not really. It’s just a plain Winnipeg hat – nothing too interesting.” What about in the past, when you were a little bit more settled... did you have anything that you used to keep around? No. I’m not really a big superstitious guy. I just use the equipment and go.” Do you have anything at home that you’ve kept over the years? “There’s nothing really superstitious
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or for good luck that I have kept around; just trophies, first goal pucks and hat-trick pucks.” Do you have any personal game-day routines – outside of team stuff – that you like to follow, and maybe feel a bit out of sorts if you don’t? “I have to get a nap in at some point. I love my naps. I also like to have a PB and J bagel whenever I get to the rink. I heard that Crosby likes to do that.” And do you feel out of sorts if you miss that? (A teammate who has been eavesdropping chimes in and says, “Don’t answer that, Schife”, as though he knows that if that were to appear in print, they are going to make him wish he hadn’t.) “No.”
What about other guys? What’s the weirdest superstition or good luck charm you’ve seen or heard about? “One of the guys last year in Barrie who had to wash his own underwear (under layer) before a game; he wouldn’t let the team guys do it. I also find that some guys have to do exactly the same things at the same time on game days, which I think is a little weird.” By all accounts, “Scheife” will be back with the Jets, and a star when that time comes. And maybe, by that time, he’ll havea few more things in his locker.
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Stewart’s Horology
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Minox Arctic Hunter Binoculars 8 x 42mm - 7280
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Humminbird ICE 35 Flasher 30928
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ThE lAsT woRD
with tom Mcgouran and Joe aiello Photography by Chronic Creative
Tom says... How did I end up at Comic-Con at the Convention Center recently dressed up as Batman’s sidekick Robin? I’ve asked myself that question a few times. We didn’t have any plans for Halloween weekend. In fact, I’m not a big fan of getting dressed up in a costume anyway. I think it’s rooted in the fact that I was never one of those who came up with these incredible homemade costume ideas that would stun the crowd whenever they would walk into the room. Then you’d feel lame with that quarter taped to your back, claiming to be a quarterback. Some people just have that talent. I’m not one of them. So I’ve been satisfied to just hand out the candy and be done with it. So Stace and I are just hanging around at home, perfectly content watching the Jets game on a Saturday night. Our friend Jay drops over in his Jedi costume on his way to the bars. Sometime during the third period he asks if we have any plans. As soon as I said we didn’t have any costumes, Stace jumps up and exclaims “Oh yes we do.” Out of nowhere she produces a box full of costumes!
Joe says... With this being the holiday issue of Winnipeg Men, I can feel my annual Christmas anxiety already kicking in. Don’t get me wrong because I love the holidays – getting together with family and friends, sharing a laugh over some food and drink. There are not too many feelings better than being with the people you care about the most. Where the nervousness usually comes in for me is the shopping. I’m not a fan of huge crowds so being in a mall can put me on edge. I know it’s mostly in my head and it’s all worth it in the end because the best thing for me to see is my nieces and nephews opening up their presents. But I have always put a lot of pressure on myself to make sure that they get what they want. I guess I shouldn’t be so competitive at Christmas time, with other family members, but hey, it’s like a popularity contest and I’m willing to buy their votes! WWW.WINNIpEgmEN.com
Next thing I know, I’m trying on the Robin tights. In fact, I had never put on tights before and they’re feeling alarmingly good! This just escalated once I donned the cape and mask. I was a superhero! All of a sudden this quiet evening at home was transformed into a bar hoppin’ night! I hit the bars with the Jedi and Stace looking sexy as hell in a sixties hippie get-up that came out the same box. I played the superhero all night and loved every minute of it! The next day we had planned to hit the Convention Centre and walk around ComicCon. But wait, don’t people dress up in costume’s when they go there? I had never been before, but that’s what I heard. I did have a Robin costume now and it would be a shame to waste the opportunity. After all no one would know it was me and I really wanted to put on those tights again! So I grabbed my cape and off we went. Stace decided that the sixties hippie look wasn’t a good fit for the event, besides the fact, she works at the Convention Centre, and didn’t think it was wise to arrive looking like that anyway. But she willingly went along with Robin. As it turned out, most people actually DON’T wear a costume! As we arrived in the hall, the first person I
Actually, this year might end up being one of the easiest yet as far as making purchases, at least for the kids. You’ll never go wrong with cash or gift cards, but with this being the inaugural season for the Winnipeg Jets, it would be a guaranteed hit to give them Jets gear. Gifts for the adults in my family are a whole different matter. This is where the stress will be at an all-time high for me. I know my family will have low expectations this year, but I want to make sure that everything we plan seems somewhat normal under the circumstances. You see, this will be our first Christmas without my wife, Alanna, who passed away in the spring after an eightyear fight with breast cancer. Even last year when her health took a turn for the worse, she was determined to organize and shop for our families’ presents. That’s just one of
saw said ‘Hi Tom’! I thought I was incognito! As we traveled through the room, many more would say hello addressing me by name! I started to get a little self-conscious, until people began stopping me to get their pictures taken. Actually not with me, but with Robin! I began to seek out others in costume so I wouldn’t feel like such a goof. “Hey let’s get our picture together bro” I would say to the guy dressed as Wolverine. I even met Batman! Of course, his costume was incredible – an exact replica from the latest Batman movie. While we’re posing, he obviously noticed that what I had previously thought was a pretty cool Robin getup, was a pretty shabby version. He kindly suggested next time I should wear a codpiece. I looked down to see what little manhood I had squishing out of my tights. “Let’s go Stace. I think we’ve seen enough” Apparently everyone else had too! I had wondered the night before why everyone smiled when they saw me and now I knew. I think next year, that quiet night at home for Halloween sounds like a good plan. Unless Stace pulls out something that requires me putting on tights again. Then it’s game on! By the way, does anyone know where to buy a codpiece?
many ways that I will be lost without her. This year it’s up to me and it’s important to me not to fail. Looking back at the past year, it was hard enough getting through some major family dates like birthdays, Easter and Thanksgiving. Experts say you have to get by all these humps as you embark on a new journey and continue with the healing process. I guess what I’m hoping for this holiday season is that my family gets one day closer to normalcy. What I’d also like to see is my nieces and nephews stay healthy, happy and have smiles on their faces as they get spoiled at Christmas… this time more than any other. That would be the best gift they could give their Uncle Joe. From my family to yours, I want to wish you all a healthy and happy new year! Here’s to 2012!
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