march 2008

The Source • 1Issue 81 - March 2008

A window into the world of RootsRootsRootsRootsRoots Issue 81 • March 2008

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New spring/summer collection takes to the roadGETTING THERE

PublishersMICHAEL BUDMAN, DON GREEN

EditorROBERT SARNER

Editorial AssistantCARLY ANDERSON

InternKASI BRUNO

The Source is published every monthby Roots Canada Ltd. We welcomeletters from readers for publication.Please address all correspondence toThe Source, Letters to the Editor, RootsCanada, 1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto,Ontario, M6B 4C4 or by email [email protected] Letters may beedited for length and clarity.

Each issue of The Source is alsoavailable, in an abridged version, on theRoots website at www.roots.com

DepartmentsFINE PRINT

GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED IN

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAIL

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

GREEN TIPS

HEALTH TIPS

STAYING POWER

I N S I D EI N S I D EI N S I D EI N S I D EI N S I D EI S S U E 81I S S U E 81I S S U E 81I S S U E 81I S S U E 81

SPECIAL DELIVERYA selection of recent letters from the world of Roots

EXTRA! EXTRA!In keeping with our monthlypublishing schedule, the nextissue of The Source will appear inlate March.

• The Source wants to hear from you.Please send your letters to Robert Sarnerat [email protected]. Letters may beedited for length and clarity.

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THANK YOU ROOTSOn behalf of the community weserve, thank you for being partof our recent food drive andsupporting the Daily Bread FoodBank. Your efforts helped feedhungry people all across Torontoby raising much needed nutri-tious food.

With help from concernedcommunity members andsocially involved organizationsand companies, such as Roots,Daily Bread effectively pursuesthe battle against hunger andpoverty in Toronto. Last year,905,000 people in Toronto useda food bank. Sadly, a majority ofthese people are society’s mostvulnerable, with 34% of those inneed being children. As asupporter of Daily Bread, yourefforts have assisted many in ourcommunity to put food on thetable.

We are grateful for yourhelp. Once again, thank you forthinking of Daily Bread andthose less fortunate.Linda CiotolaDevelopment OfficerDaily Bread, Toronto

THEATRE TALESOur presentation of the wonder-ful play Tails at the recentfundraising event at the AlGreen Theatre in Toronto is nowbehind us and we are happy totell you that it was a greatsuccess. The two performances

were well attended and judgingby the smiles on the faces ofeveryone there, it was enjoyedby one and all.

The support of Roots helpedmake this event possible and wewould like to thank you for yourassistance. Proceeds from theshows will benefit the Sick KidsHospital’s Bear Theatre thatprovides much-needed joy tohospitalized children. Since1992, the Bear Theatre has givenmore than 750 performances atthe hospital, bringing some funand laughter into the lives ofchildren going through difficultmoments in their young lives.

We appreciate that Rootschose to include this worthyinitiative as part of your commu-nity support efforts.Tami BermanCommittee ChairBear Theatre, Toronto

DOING IT RIGHTWith good customer service sohard to come by, my recentexperience at your Centrevillestore in Montreal restored myfaith.

Last year, I purchased avegetable-tanned, leather pursebut it was not aging well. Ibrought it back to your storewith the hope it could be treatedin a way to get it back intoshape. Frankly, I did not expectmuch to come of this.

On viewing the purse with

its scratches, worn out edges,and looking more like it was 10years old, Assistant ManagerAngie Ello immediately said shewould see what she could do andget back to me. I expected tohear from her in about a weekbut she called me the next day. Ihad expected that, at best, thepurse would be sent to yourfactory to be repaired. To mysurprise, Angie told me shewould give me a new one.Needless to say, I was veryhappy and grateful.

I’ve been purchasing clothesat Roots for many years and I’mvery satisfied with their qualityand style – they are long-lastingand not fad-oriented. They havea classic cut and stay in styleforever. This is the first time thatI’ve been dissatisfied with aRoots item but as it was handledvery professionally, you can besure that I will tell all myfriends.

I would like to say thanks toAngie for the quick, courteousway she handled this. You arelucky to have her.Adriana Le LayIle des Soeurs, Quebec

GETTING THERENew spring/summer collectiontakes to the road

MAKING THE CONNECTIONRoots adds to reunion of fatherand son after a quarter-centuryapart

WILL FERRELL VISITS ROOTSFlagship store serves asheadquarters for film starduring Toronto media blitz

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBERRoots products highly visiblein popular remake of 80sclassic series

A WINNING DAY AT ROOTSSheridan grad spends time inthe heart of the action

SETTING A GREEN EXAMPLEAlberta mall receives environ-mental certification

Continued on next page

GETTING THEREThe Roots crew heads west on a road trip showcasing the free-spirited spring/summer collection

arriving in stores this month. BY CARLY ANDERSON

With the promise ofwarmer weather closeat hand and an opportu-

nity to shed the restrictive layersof winter, the latest Rootscollection for Spring/Summer‘08 mixes classic casual wearand nature-inspired graphicswith organic blends and hints ofmulti-cultural detailing. Theresult is a comfortably stylishselection sure to inspire one toget outdoors and close to nature.

In early February, the Rootsteam, including Co-FounderDon Green, hit the road insearch of an appropriate back-drop for photographing the newcollection. They found an idealsetting in the scenic woods ofthe West Coast. The theme for

the shoot, appropriately, was thatof a spontaneous road tripthrough the wilderness, ofwearing attire which made youcomfortable in your own skin,letting your cares slip away andembarking into the wild.

“The shoot was inspired by aclassic Canadian road trip,” saysStephanie Holden, Manager,Graphic Design, who helpedconceive of the creative vision.“It was centred around themes offriendship and an appreciationfor our environment. As nature issuch an important part of thiscollection as well as our compa-ny’s values, our team used thisas inspiration for the graphicsthis season.”

With the early morning

hours, multiple outdoor setlocations and many products tofeature, the shoot proved anintense experience for thoseinvolved.

“It was definitely challeng-ing,” says Ilich Mejia, SeniorArt Director, who photographedthe campaign. “The week-longshoot consisted of really longdays and being outside you haveto be completely flexible to theweather fluctuations. It was a lotof hard work but our team pulledit off, the collection looks greatand we all had a good time.”

Styled by Peter Paquette,Visual Coordinator, and SophieGreen, Creative Coordinator,the Spring/Summer offering is ablend of classic Roots apparel

and accessories as well as fresh,new designs for the season. Asalways, comfort and wearabilitytake precedent over fashionabledetailing.

The predominant look is thatof athletic cool. As the comingmonths encourage breaking outof the winter doldrums, the cozyfull zip and kanga hoodies inheathered fleece and suededcrop sweatpants with extravintage washes allow one to dojust that. Expect to see more ofthe Roots Green collectionhitting stores with organic tanks,tees and fluttery jersey dresses.Earthy neutrals, as seen in thepopular utility cargo shorts, arecomplemented with a punch of

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bold, saturated colour found inthe new polos. Graphic tees areanother key piece for the season,featuring watercolour and natureinspired graphics. The newRoots Denim line (as seen inNew and Noteworthy on page11) offers a slightly more formaloption which can be dressedboth up and down depending onoccasion.

The accessory offering forSpring/Summer focuses on dark,rich leather in a variety ofshapes, sizes and texture. TheHeritage collection is highlyvisible while the new Wovens

line features classic Roots bags(the Super Shopper, ZipperClutch) fabricated out of aweave of deep earthy brownleather for a handmade look.

Also new for the season isthe Tree Tap collection, a projectclose to the heart of Director ofLeather, Karl Kowalewski whohas been working on its con-struction and design for morethan 15 years. The innovativeproduct features wild rubber treetap latex (extracted by indig-enous communities in theAmazon region of SouthAmerica) painted over canvasfabric to achieve an original newlook for spring.

The men’s line also centreson traditional outdoors-inspiredgarments with touches of vintagesports styling. Key items includethe slim fit polos and tees, whichare being reintroduced forSpring/Summer ’08, crisp plaidshirts and washed and worn incargo shorts with functionaldetails.

“I can cite the book On theRoad by Jack Kerouac as one ofmy influences for this season,”says Dylan Anderson, AssociateMen’s wear Designer. “Hischaracters and description of theBeat Generation really encom-pass the themes that Roots isusing for the spring and summer

collections.”As glimpsed in the women’s

collection, expect to see avariety of graphic tees hit storeswith the iconic beaver logo andhints of multicultural stylings. Inthe coming weeks, stores willcarry designs strongly influencedby Native Canadian artwork andbright Jamaican hues.

This season, the Rootsdesign team has made sure thatnothing gets in the way of anactive, outdoor lifestyle, creatingstylishly comfortable clothes thatcan withstand even the mostrugged trek off the beaten path.The designers clearly reachedtheir destination. - C.A.


WILL FERRELL VISITS ROOTSFlagship store serves as headquarters for film star during Toronto media blitz

In its continuing involvementwith the entertainment world,Roots hosted popular actor/

comedian Will Ferrell at theflagship store on Toronto’sBloor Street in late February aspart of his film publicity tour.

The actor, who stars in thenew comedy, Semi-Pro, spentthe afternoon at Roots doingseparate interviews with journal-ists. Ferrell also did variousphone interviews for radioshows from inside the store.Roots Co-Founder MichaelBudman greeted Farrell andpresented him with a Roots

Dylan jacket in Bamboo Boul-der.

In preparation for the visit,the store was decorated withmovie memorabilia. The chal-lenge was to make the merchan-dise blend with alreadyexisting Roots displays.“With the new colourfulspring line, matching thebright hues from themovie’s theme with theRoots apparel was easy,”says Visual Merchan-diser, Natalie Barone.“The film props werefun to work into the

displays, and the finishedproduct was young and fresh,making for a perfect pairing.”

Semi-Pro is in theatres nowand also stars WoodyHarrelson and Andre 3000.

Will Ferrell, (l), Andy McCurbin 100 Bloor celebrated the release of Semi Pro

mas with his son approaching,Fernando wanted to get him amemorable gift. He felt a Rootsleather Toronto Maple Leafsjacket would fit the bill per-fectly.

“I thought about the nameRoots and how appropriate itwas that the story of Joey and Iis, in effect, a story of roots,”says Fernando. “I imagined usgoing to a Leaf game togetherwearing those jackets, a trueCanadian outing for any fatherand son.”

Fernando liked the jacket somuch that he decided to alsopurchase an identical one forhimself.

Joey opened his gift onChristmas Eve and was thrilledto receive the Roots jacket. Thegift was a special one for bothfather and son as the jacketssymbolize the bond the two areforging as they build a lastingrelationship.

To contribute to that, Rootshas offered a pair of hockeytickets to Fernando and Joey toattend a Leaf game together atthe Air Canada Centre in March.Fernando says they’ll be proudlywearing their Roots Leaf jacketswhile sitting in the Platinumseats.

MAKING THE CONNECTIONRoots adds to reunion of father and son after a quarter-century apart

Sometimes there really is alot more to a purchase thanmeets the eye. Fernando

Curcione needed a special giftfor a once-in-a-lifetime occa-sion. As such, he headed to theRoots flagship store on Toron-to’s Bloor Street. While there,Fernando shared the storybehind his visit to Roots with acouple of members of the storestaff, who were moved by whathe told them.

For 26 years, Fernando hadlived with the knowledge he hadfathered a child that he hadnever seen. He had alwayswondered what had happened tothe baby boy born in 1981. Lastyear, he decided to try to trackdown his son.

In September, Fernandojoined Facebook, the popularonline social networking site.Armed with the boy’s first nameand the mother’s maiden name,he conducted a network searchfor a Joey McNulty. To hissurprise, Fernando ultimatelycame across a younger, mirrorimage of himself and feltconfident it was his son.

“His face was right in frontof me,” says Fernando, 55, aToronto actor, singer and discjockey. “I felt like I was seeing

myself at a younger age.”Upon further research,

Fernando discovered that Joeyhad been raised without knowingthe identity of his biologicalfather and had often thoughtabout investigating his paternalroots. On the advice of hispriest, Fernando contacted Joeyusing Facebook’s messagingfeature. Shocked and caught offguard, Joey responded, and thetwo began communicating, albeitcautiously. Before meeting inperson, the two felt it necessaryto confirm their genetic relation-ship and agreed to undergo DNAtesting.

In October, after receivingscientific confirmation that theywere indeed father and son,Fernando and Joey set up ameeting. The emotional reuniontook place at Joey’s aunt’s homeand since then, the two havebeen making up for the lostyears.

Joey, now 26, is a specialconstable in the Durham,Ontario court system andpreviously played semi-probaseball in West Virginia. Inaddition to being a skilledathlete, Joey is also a passionateToronto Maple Leafs fan. InDecember, with his first Christ

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Joey, (left), and Fernando reunited in Roots


A KNIGHT TO REMEMBERRoots products highly visible in popular remake of 80s classic series

Those who tuned in to thetwo-hour remake of thehigh-tech crimefighter

series Knight Rider in mid-February would have observed averitable showcase of new andpopular items from the RootsFall/Winter ‘08 collection.

Garnering much mediaattention has been the ruggedmen’s Racer leather jacket thattakes on the role of crimefighting uniform for the maincharacter Mike Traceur. Otherobservant viewers noticed acameo from the women’s blackand red plaid Lumber JackFleece Bomber and the VenetianVillage Tribe bag.

Outfitted by Hollywood

stylist Amy Stofsky (who hasalso featured Roots leather bagsin several seasons of Showtime’sWeeds), and with the help of

Beverly Hills Store ManagerNicole Redd, the cast of the 80sremake look fashionable, modernand in touch with their roots.

The back door pilot featuresJustin Bruening (Mike Traceur)as the estranged son of DavidHasselhoff’s Michael Knight(the original Knight Rider) whobattles crime with the help ofKITT (Knight Industries ThreeThousand), his talking blackFord Shelby Mustang, voiced byVal Kilmer.

The souped-up 21st centuryversion of the cult classicaveraged 12.7 million viewersand attracted mostly positivereviews, triggering talk of itsown future series.

The Racer leather jacket (above)had a starring role in the pilot

SETTING A GREENEXAMPLEAlberta mall receivesenvironmental certification

As a company long committedto helping the environment,

Roots welcomed the recentgreen initiative enacted by thePark Place Shopping Centre inAlberta. The innovative newprogram was undertaken withthe help of the Building Owner’sand Manager’s Association(BOMA) Go Green program inlate February and is alreadyseeing much success.

The Roots location in theLethbridge mall will be positivelyaffected by the newly imple-mented eco-friendly changes.They include extra trees beingplaced throughout the corridorsand each store receiving spiderplants to help purify the air. Astringent smoking ban has alsobeen introduced, prohibitingsmoking within five metres ofany door or window. The ParkPlace newsletter, sent to allstores, contains motivational “gogreen” tips for further action.

“Our mall has been workingfor over a year to complete allthe necessary requirements tobe certified,” says Store Man-ager Amber Wray Burbank. “I’mreally proud to be a part of thenew, green Park Place. I think itshows that we’re committed tobettering the environment andRoots fits in perfectly with suchan eco-friendly atmosphere.”

Built in 1988, Park Place Mallis the largest shopping centre inLethbridge, covering four cityblocks downtown and hostingmore than 100 stores.

The Go Green programemphasizes ecologically soundbuilding practices by establish-ing performance standards insuch areas as energy and wateruse, recycling and indoor airquality. For more information,visit www.bomagogreen.com.

A WINNING DAY AT ROOTSSheridan grad spends time in the heart of the action

When NatalieAlonzi receiveda phone call

saying she’d won thechance to spend the daybehind the scenes of one ofCanada’s leading lifestylebrands, she was pleasantlysurprised.

A recent graduate fromSheridan College inOakville, Ontario, Nataliehadn’t been aware that oneof her friends had enteredher in the Alumni Associa-tion’s “Best Times of OurLives” contest. An initia-tive set up to give gradu-ates memorable experi-ences outside the class-room and an intimate lookinside major companies,the Roots Head Office wasthe setting for one of threegrand prizes.

In early February, Nataliearrived at company headquar-ters in Toronto, prepared tobecome an “Intern For the Day”as the contest promised. Aftertaking a tour of thearchitecturally award-winningworkplace, she had separatemeetings with members of the

Communication, Art and WebDepartments and sat in on atypical morning for them,including a stylish Roots 73/Outlet photo shoot.

“The photo shoot was a greatexperience and really fun,” saysNatalie, who majored in FashionRetail Studies. “I got thrownright into the action and had thechance to voice my opinions on

what shots I liked. We allhad a really good time.”

After a wholesome,healthy lunch, it was timeto get acquainted with theother important sectors ofthe company, includingtours of the leather factoryand Distribution Centre.Capping off her busy dayof seeing a product throughfrom conception to manu-facturing to the sales floor,Natalie visited the Rootsstore in the YorkdaleShopping Centre, whereshe was presented with aVillage bag as a souvenirof her day at Roots.

“I loved the vibe andflow of the Roots environ-ment,” says Natalie.“When I first walked in, I

was impressed. The wholeatmosphere was inviting and Ifelt very welcome and special. Igot a closer look at the lives ofpeople who work for the com-pany and I realized how much Iwould enjoy working there.”

At 21, Natalie is now goingfor a second degree, finishing upher first year in Sheridan’sTourism and Travel Program.

Park Place is officially green

Natalie gets up close and personal with Roots


BEST OF

2 0 0 7FINE PRINT

Here aresomerecentsightingsof Rootsin thepages of

newspapers and magazines:

- Compiled by Carmela Ledo

ROOTS PLAYS STRONG SUPPORTING ROLEAlberta keyholder vies for lead role in newest Mirvish musical

The scene is set for amajor new theatrical production to

debut in Toronto next falland if one Roots em-ployee gets her way,she’ll be a big part of it.The Sound of Music, thelegendary Rodgers andHammerstein musicaland Academy Award-winning 1965 film, isalready a theatre hit inLondon and composer AndrewLloyd Webber is hoping hisToronto show will enjoy asimilar success. In an interestingtwist, in keeping with theemerging trend of reality TVtalent discoveries, the lead roleof Maria will be cast after atelevised, cross-Canada search.

After the first round ofstrenuous singing and dancingauditions, Christina Hardie, akeyholder at the Roots store inMarket Mall in Calgary since2004, has been invited toToronto for the next round ofauditions, making her one stepcloser to winning the covetedrole.

A graduate from the GrantMacEwan Theatre Arts programin Edmonton, and formerly amember of the Calgary Opera,

Christina has always had apassion for performance.Currently touring with theCentre Stage Theatre Company,she travels to schools acrossAlberta as a part of a theatricaland educational ensemble. Forits part, Roots, through itsflexibility and support, has beeninstrumental in Christina’ssuccess. As she copes with theinconsistency of an artist’sschedule, her employment atRoots has moved with her.

“I love working for Roots,”says Christina, 23. “It hasallowed me to pursue my dream.Wherever I go in Canada, I havea solid employment base. Rootsfeels like home.”

The televised search, to airon the CBC this spring, ismodeled after its British counter-

part. The popular BBCversion aired in 2006 and,through it, the Londonproduction’s lead waschosen. The stage showhas gone on to break boxoffice records in England,making a star of theshow’s Maria. TheCanadian Sound of Music,debuts next October at thePrincess of Wales Theatrein Toronto.

Saluting those who gothe distance

Recently, many Rootsemployees marked major

anniversaries of their time at thecompany. By ‘major,’ we meanbenchmark achievements as in5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 yearsspent at Roots.

We invite anyone celebratingsuch an anniversary to send therelevant information to TheSource.

Congratulations to thefollowing employees for theirsignificant contributions andenduring loyalty to Roots:

• Rosa Goncalves, AssistantDirector, Plant Operations,Leather Factory, Toronto, 15 years• Nicole Bechtel, Keyholder,Park Place Mall, Lethbridge, AB,5 years

STAYING POWER

Aspiring star Christina at her day job

THE LUCK OF THE DRAWEast Coast store takes home the prize at retail conference

At the Regent MallAnnual Merchantsmeeting in late Febru-

ary, representatives of RootsFredericton, Manager SarahLewis and Assistant ManagerEmma Lally walked away theenvy of the assembled groupof local retailers with thegrand prize of the evening.

As the conclusion to anight recognizing retailexcellence, a draw was held toreward one lucky store withwinnings that could be creativelyput toward their entire staff.Throughout the year, the top fiveRegent Mall locations with thehighest sales increases for themonth would receive a ballot

making them eligible for thecontest which would come to aclose at the annual meeting. TheFredericton Roots team happilywalked away the winner of a $250-Cadillac Fairview gift card.

“We figured we were theunderdogs,” says Sarah. “We were

just joking about winning so itcame as a complete surprisewhen they actually announcedour name. It was a great wayto end the evening.”

Other highlights of themeeting included a healthydinner and a special guestspeaker on managing stressin the workplace. The Rootsteam took these beneficial tipsto heart.

“We plan to keep the ballrolling and use our prize money tofill the store’s fridge with healthysnacks,” says Emma. “We’re alsogoing invest some of it into prizesas sales incentives for our staff.Winning was a great way tomotivate everyone!”

Fredericton puts their winnings to good use

• Chatelaine, March issue. Rootswatch is featured.• Canadian House & Home,March. Spotlight on Roots clubchair. Also mentions the RootsHelsinki Earflap hat.• Homemaker’s, March. Rootsleather bag and yoga pantsfeatured.• Where Mississauga, Feb. 29.Roots store at Erin Mills TownCentre featured in the ‘TopShopping Destinations’ section.• The Globe & Mail, Feb. 23.Roots envelope clutch featured inthe ‘Spring Ahead’ section.• The National Post, Feb. 22.Letter to the editor from RobertSarner, stating that contrary tomisinformation published recentlyin the Post, Roots first createdyogawear long before Lululemoneven existed.• Toronto 24 Hours, Edmonton24 Hours, Calgary 24 Hours,Ottawa 24 Hours, Feb. 15.Roots Clutch featured in the‘Fashion loves’ section.• Toronto Life, Feb. 14. Oxia’soxygen canister available atRoots featured in the ‘Fitness andWellness’ section.• The Calgary Sun, Feb. 12.Mentions Wayne Gretzky’sassociation with Roots.• Fashion, Feb. 11. Roots smallEnvelope Clutch with heartdetailing is featured on ‘Fashionloves’ site.• Globe & Mail, Feb. 11. RootsNorbie bag and leather beltfeatured in ‘Work’ column. DianeBald is quoted.• National Post, Feb. 9. Rootssmall Envelope Clutch with heartdetail, two heart key charms andsmall heart change pursefeatured in the Valentine’s Dayfeature.• Globe and Mail, Feb 5. Rootsheart sprinkled lovebird T-shirtfeatured in the ‘Style Counsel’section.• The Toronto Star, Feb. 2.Roots patent leather Darwin bagin forest green featured in ‘It’s inthe bag’ section.• Lou Lou, Jan./Feb. (BothEnglish and French editions).Roots yoga mat and organic yogatee featured.

A selection of coverageof Roots in the media


GUESS WHO JUST DROPPED INTaking attendance of special guests at Roots stores

New appointments andpromotions at Roots

ON THE MOVE

• Graham Canning appointed VicePresident and Chief FinancialOfficer, Head Office, Toronto.• Laura Hanna promoted to StoreManager at Spring Garden Place,Halifax, NS.• Malcolm Leach promoted toActing Store Manager at SunnysideMall, Bedford, NS.• Lisa Moorhouse promoted toStore Manager at Bayers LakePower Centre, Halifax, NS.

Joshua Jackson

Billy Connelly

Renate Gotschl

Hermann Maier

Kirsten Dunst

Alexis Denisof (l),Alyson Hannigan (r)

Reba McEntire

Celebrities have long madea point of shopping atRoots. Here are the latest

sightings of prominent figures inthe world of entertainment andsports who visited Roots storesrecently:• Queen Street, Toronto – Bestknown for his role on Dawson’s

Creek,JoshuaJacksonshopped at thedowntownstore, pickingup a laptopbag and aRoyal Shakerscarf.

• Robson St., Vancouver, BC –Scottish comedian and actor BillyConnelly earned rave reviewsfrom staff as he picked up men’s

Originalsweatpants insalt and pepperfor hisworkouts atthe gym.– Two-timeworld cham-pion in

combined anddownhill compo-nents, Austrianalpine skier RenateGotschl visited thestore along withfellow Austrian skierHermann Maier,

winner of two Olympic goldmedals.• Beverly Hills, California –

Starringtogether onthe cult showBuffy theVampireSlayer andhusband andwife in reallife, AlexisDenisof andAlyson

Hannigan came in and purchaseda pair of Overdye Originalsweatpants.- Star of the Spiderman series and

the upcomingHow to LoseFriends andAlienatePeople,Kirsten

Dunst droppedby for warmand comfort-able clothing.- In town to sitdown withDavidLetterman,actor WillFerrell was

spotted wearing a Global Warmingbracelet on thelate night talkshow.- Countrysuperstar RebaMcEntirevisited thesunny Californiastore andpicked up someturtlenecks.- Long-time friend of Roots,CanadianfunnymanMartinShort andwife Nancypicked upsweats,tanks andWayfarer

sunglasses,which Martinwore out of thestore.- Star ofLaverne andShirley CindyWilliamsshopped at thestore, purchas-ing yoga gear,a leatherwallet andseveral leatherbags.

Cindy Williams

Martin andNancy Short

Will Ferrell

Hermann Maier

ENLISTING ANIMALSFOR A GOOD CAUSEOutlet store in Windsor launches store-wide challenge for charity

Proving that the spiritof giving is year-round, the staff in

the Windsor Crossingstore in Windsor, Ontariohave decided to pooltheir resources andpurchase a goat fromWorld Vision for a lessfortunate family, issuing achallenge for all stores todo the same (or better).

Sales AssociateTammy Clavet, who had workedwith the relief organization in thepast, coordinated the initiative withthe help of Store ManagerBernadette O’Beid.

“We’re always looking for waysto get involved with the communityand other charitable outlets,” saysBernadette. “We are so lucky to livein Canada and have the opportunityto help others, so we’re challengingall stores to jump into spring andoffer a great Easter gift to a family inneed.”

In the Gift Catalogue section of

the World Visionwebsite, donations canbe put toward a varietyof animals which willhelp meet pressingneeds such as food,health and income forits recipients. One goat(for only $100) willensure up to 250 litresof protein rich milk ayear, providing nutritionfor growing children and

a marketable commodity for theparents.

“After hearing about this greatinitiative, I decided to purchase apiglet on behalf of the outlet stores,”says Rosemary Eisenhut, Directorof Outlets, Ontario and Quebec. “Ifwe all saved our coffee or lunchmoney for just one day, we couldprobably stock two families’ farms.”

More than a few stores havealready accepted the challenge,including Thunder Bay and the OrfusRoad Outlet in Toronto who arepurchasing a goat of their own.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

In recent weeks, many shoppersat Toronto’s Yorkdale ShoppingCentre noticed a drastic change

to the façade of their local Rootsstore. The flagship location in thebusy mall is currently in the midst ofa major renovation to transform itinto a concept store of boutique-styleshops, featuring separate depart-ments for leather, women’s, men’sand baby.

In keeping with its reputation foreco-friendly building practices, all in-

store finishes are made withsustainable materials from bambooto reclaimed wood flooring tocontribute to a warm, welcomingshopping experience.

Designed by architect DianeBald and Director of Visual Planningand Store Development PaulineLandriault, the newly resized 3,000-square foot space is slated to beunveiled at the end of March. Rootshas had a store at Yorkdale continu-ously since 1985.

Toronto store gets an eco-friendly upgrade

The decorative hoarding conceals the hard work going on behind the scenes


A U G U S T THE ROOTS TOP 10A guide to the sounds ofRoots for March

- Compiled by Davin Bujalski

MUSICAL ROOTSThis month, we spotlight Robbie Robertson

1. Chest Fever, The Band2. Keep That Same OldFeeling, The Crusaders3. Something Big, BurtBacharach4. Twilight, Frankie Beverly& Maze5. Like You’ll Never See MeAgain, Alicia Keys6. Go Back To Your Woods,Robbie Robertson7. Foundations, Kate Nash8. Lively Up Yourself, BobMarley & The Wailers(Bombay Dub Mix)9. Wanna Be Startin’Somethin’, Akon & MichaelJackson10. It Keeps You Running,The Doobie Brothers

GREAT MOMENTS IN RETAILSpotlighting the top performing stores in the month of January

As this issue of The Sourcewent to press, the finalsales figures for stores in

February were not yet in butwe’re delighted to report theperformance of most stores inJanuary was to be trulycommended.

Topping the pack in terms ofcompany stores was theHillcrest Mall location inRichmond Hill, ON thatcaptured the latest Store of theMonth honours, beating its salestarget by 239%.

As for the Roots 73/Outletcategory, the Sunnyside Mallstore in Bedford, Nova Scotiatook first place with a score of152% over its sales budget.

Congratulations to ManagerRachel Roos of the Hillcreststore and Acting Store ManagerMalcolm Leach of theSunnyside Outlet along withtheir respective teams for theirwinning performances.

Likewise, hats off also to allthe other stores that met orsurpassed their goals in January.Sunnyside tops the pack of outlet stores

Jamie Robert Klegerman,better known to the world asRobbie Robertson, was born

in Toronto in 1943 of Jewish andMohawk parents. He wouldspend many summers at thenative reserve with his mother’sfamily, soaking in the uniqueFirst Nations musical traditionand culture. It would be thebeginning of his life-longpassion for music.

While at The Six NationsReserve, west of Brantford,Ontario, he began taking guitarlessons and quickly begancomposing his first songs,reflecting a mix of NativeCanadian folk, rock and countrymusic with a hint of big bandthrown in. Back in Toronto,Robbie garnered attention atlocal gigs and soon dropped outof school to devote all hisattention to songwriting, guitarplaying and singing.

By the summer of 1958, atthe age of 15, Robertson had metsinger Ronnie Hawkins, whoheaded a band called the Hawks.Robbie joined the Hawks andbegan touring extensively until1963 when they disbanded.Robertson, along with fellowmembers Levon Helm, RickDanko, Garth Hudson andRichard Manuel, soon caught theattention of Bob Dylan and they

became the backing band forDylan’s legendary 1965-66 worldtour. Known simply as The Band,they went on to write andperform many classic rock n’ rollsongs such as “The Weight,”“Rag Mama Rag,” “Chest Fever”and “Stage Fright.” Robertsononly sang a few of the songs, butwas The Band’s main songwriteras the group become one of thepremier bands of the late 1960sand early 70s.

In 1976, citing exhaustionfrom years of touring, Robbiebroke up The Band after an all-star concert in San Francisco,filmed by director MartinScorsese. It would be called, TheLast Waltz. This would begin aspecial collaboration between

Robertson andScorsese. Robertsonscored the music forScorsese’s classicRaging Bull, as wellas for The King OfComedy, The ColorOf Money and laterCasino, The De-parted and Gangs OfNew York.

Following thebreakup of the Band,Robertson also wenton to release foursolo albums workingalongside the likes of

U2, Peter Gabriel and DanielLanois. His 1978 self-titledalbum, co-produced by Lanois,brought him a Grammy nomina-tion for best male rock vocaland a Juno award for bestalbum. His songs have beenrecorded by many musicalgreats. Bob Dylan once calledRobertson a “mathematicalguitar genius” and he is listed inRolling Stone magazine’s 100Greatest Guitarists of All Time.

Some of Robertson’s otheraccomplishments includereceiving the Lifetime Achieve-ment Award from the NationalAcademy of Songwriters(1997); the Native AmericanMusic Award (1998); and theAboriginal Achievement Award

(2003). He has been featured onCBC TV’s Life and Times(2001) and in the PBS documen-tary called Making a Noise.

Robertson also performed atthe Opening Ceremonies of the2002 Winter Olympics in SaltLake City, and was inducted intoCanada’s Walk of Fame in 2003.- Davin Bujalski

- Listen to Roots Radio to hear themusic of Robbie Robertson and TheBand. For more about RobbieRobertson visit www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll or http://theband.hiof.no/band_members/robbie.html


GREEN TIP #46Easy ways to help theenvironment

As part of our continuing series of team pictures of all the stores in the Roots retail family, this issue of TheSource 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

STARTING LINEUPIntroducing the people who make it happen at Roots stores

SPEAK TO MY AGENTThe littlest customers show their Roots

Regular readers of TheSource know that lastyear, we launched this

special feature to showcasephotos of children wearingRoots. It grew out of the factthat we often receive unsolic-ited photos from customers whowant to share with us picturesof their children, cousins,

Easy ways to stay healthyHEALTH TIP #43

nieces, nephews, grandchildren,or even pets wearing Roots.They often ask if they could beused in a future advertisingcampaign for the brand. Wecan’t promise that but we arehappy to publish them in TheSource.

Everyone is welcome tosubmit their favourite shots to

The Source to be consideredfor publication. Please sendyour pictures [email protected].

Be sure to include the nameand age of each child or pet inthe photo, where it was takenand a sentence stating that youagree for the photos to be usedin The Source.

Rafi Kastner, 7.5 months, New York, NY

IT’S NOT CALLED JUNKMAIL FOR NOTHING: Putan end to the annoyance ofunsolicited commercial lettersand pamphlets, and the hugewaste of trees and energy thatcreate them, by getting off junkmailing lists. In Canada, thebest way to have your nameremoved from such lists is tocontact the Canadian MarketingAssociation. For more informa-tion, contact the CanadianMarketing Association (CMA).Simply click on the “Do notcontact button at www.the-cma.org.

DON’T KILL YOUR FOOD:To get the most out of the goodthings in your foods, treat themgently. High heat cooks awaymany important nutrients.Boiling, for instance, candestroy half of the vitaminsfound in vegetables. Deep-frying yields fatty foods andproduces the worst kind of fat -trans fat - which can clog yourarteries and increase your riskof cancer. Similarly, yourcancer risk may rise if you makea habit of eating barbecued orgrilled meat that is burnt orblackened. Try not to kill yourfood with too much fire.Instead, lightly steam, quicklystir-fry, or broil foods topreserve their nutritional value.- Source: Secrets of Longevity,by Dr. Maoshing NiAdayr Walsh, 3 years old, Haverton, PA


NEW & NOTEWORTHYA guide to just-launched Roots products

IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERENew baby organics line ensures a cozy slumber

There’s nothing like feelingcomfortable in your clothing,

knowing that it’sgood not only foryour child but also forthe earth. Available instores this month,MerchandiseManager of Baby andKids MarisaBattaglia and BabyDesigner ElsaDeSouza havecreated a line of eco-friendlysleepers adorned with lovable, child-friendly graphics. The brightcollection features bold colours andstylish accents,which can be wornyear round forultimate comfort.

The AnimalJumpsuits, madeof 100% organiccotton jersey, areexceptionally softand soothingagainst a baby’sskin. Ribbed arm and leg openingsadd additional security and adiagonal zipper running the length ofthe garment provides ease of wear.Available in coral sunset, athletic

blue and butter cream, each colourcomes with its own animal graphic

with a choice ofmonkey, whale andgiraffe respectively.

Sizes: XS-XL;Retail price: $29.95

The 100% organiccotton jersey KimonoTwo-piece for babygirls is a stylish takeon loungewear. TheEastern-inspired top

has the customary wrap effect asseen in traditional garb and issecured with quick andeasy snaps. The

matching pantshave an elasti-cized waist,ribbed openingsand the Rootsbeaver iconlocated by thehem of the leg.

Available in coral sunset,the design is completed by thefriendly giraffe graphic on the

flank of the top.Sizes: XS-5T; Retail price:

$29.95The male counterpart, the

Monkey Two-piece for boys

(featuring the simian graphic on thefront of the garment), is a comfort-able simple style great for activewear. Available in athletic blue and

made out of 100%organic cotton jersey,the button down topallows for easy access.

Sizes: XS-5T;Retail: $29.95

As a matchingaccessory, the Three-Pack Animal Bibs,featuring all the animal

graphics in the collection, allow for afun and practical way to protect yourbaby’s clothes from food and drinkstains. Available in white, the bibsare constructed out of 100% organiccotton jersey with a polyester/terryblend on the loop.

One size. Retail price: $22.95

AnimalJumpsuits

KimonoTwo- piece

AnimalBibs

MonkeyTwo-piece

TIE ONE ON FORTHE SEASONSpring’s hottestaccessory hits storeswith a bevy of colour

One of the biggest trends forspring is finishing off a casual

look with a chic, lightweight scarf.The popular neckwear lends a retro70s feel to the season, as well asproving useful in fighting off the chillof early morningsand cooler days.Accessorizedover top of a T-shirt, sweater oreven sweatshirt,the look bySenior Accesso-ries Designer Lynne Morris iscrushed and soft, wound around the

neck twice andloosely knotted inthe front.

By mid-March, an arrayof bright shades,prints, plaids andstripes will be in

select stores, all easy to pair with thecoordinating women’s collection andaccessories offered.

Twig Print Scarf - $38Weekend Scarf - $38Janis Scarf - $38Diane Linen Scarf - $38Chelsea Scarf - $38With the retro look a key style

for Spring ‘08, scarves are alsobeing seendoubling asgirlishheadbands.Rootsmakesaccessorizingeasier witha ‘faux scarf’ headband to match allthe popular fabrications of above,but with less bulk and a sturdyelastic at the back. Available at allstores, feel free to scrunch it up orwear it wide.

Twig PrintHeadband -$15.95

WeekendHeadband -$15.95

JanisHeadband -

$15.95Diane

Headband -$15.95

ChelseaHeadband -$15.95

Twig PrintHeadband

JanisHeadband

Chelsea Scarf

Diane Linen Scarf

Weekend Scarf

JEAN THERAPYNew denim line completes spring wardrobe

Launched in test markets lastmonth to positive reviews, the

quintessential staple of fashiondebuted in select stores for Spring2008. A key component for the newseason, (and launching nation-widein time for back-to-school) RootsDenim for men and women providesdistinctive signature styling in avariety of fits, washes and styles.

For women, the five-pocketSkinny Flare jean is a youthfuloption and very au courant. The low-

rise waist sits just below the bellybutton, with a slim fit throughout thehip and thigh and a gentle flare atthe bottom for a flattering silhouette.Available in dark rinse wash.

The women’s Boot Cut is aclassic style with a looser fit and amedium rise on the waist, which sitsright at the belly button. Fittedthroughout the hip and thigh, theslim leg is wide enough to accom-modate a boot. The style isavailable in a light vintage wash fora casual, worn-in look.

Both women’s designs feature a33” inseam and are made with ablend of cotton and spandex toensure optimum fit and comfort. Thesignature pocket is a series offlattering waves and swirls with asubtle Roots tag at the seam.

Sizes: 24-36; Retail price: $68Its male counterpart, the five-

pocket Boot Cut jean is made froma lightweight cotton/lycra blend for asnug fit and ultimate mobility. Forthe discerning man, the style isavailable in an antique dark rinse fora finished, clean look and a rugged,

casual light vintage wash. Bothcome in a 31” or 33” inseam. Thesignature pocket, as seen on in-store signage is a minimalist lineardesign with a small Roots label bythe seam.

Sizes: 24-36; Retail: $68Roots Denim is a collaborative

effort of the Women’s design team,Associate Men’s wear designerDylan Anderson, Graphic ArtistTracy Klem and Manager of GraphicDesign, Stephanie Holden.

march 2008

Documents

daily bread foodbank

asupporter of daily

correspondence tothe

algreen theatre

toronto useda food bank

support of roots helpedmake

needed nutritious food

feedhungry people