Winter 2012
MEN To the outside world, he’s Ken. To “his kids” he could be everything.
Uncovering
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MNP CoMMUNITY LeADeRSHIP Profile Andrew StibbArd It’s been an exciting year for Andrew Stibbard. This past summer he was promoted to MNP’s Regional Managing Partner for Winnipeg due in no small part to his skills in team building, thinking strategically and delivering strong advice to the people who count on him. Stibbard also draws on those skills to make an impact in the community. As Chair of the 2012 United Way Golf Tournament, Stibbard helped the annual event raise an impressive $106,000. With that money, the United Way Golf Tournament has raised more than $724,000 over the last 20 years to support various causes in the community. “United Way does so much good in our city. It was a privilege to work with the great people on the committee, and we set and met a very aggressive goal,” says Stibbard. An avid volunteer since he was a child, Stibbard has always believed in bringing his skills into the community. Since he became a chartered accountant and, more recently, a leader in Winnipeg for one of Canada’s largest accountancy and business consulting firms, that belief has become even stronger. “MNP is a professional services firm with 250 people in Winnipeg, and we need to give back,” says Stibbard. “But when you get involved with any organization, you always get more than you contribute. Being involved in the community has helped me become the leader I am today because I have met and learned from so many dynamic people.”
While his work with the tournament resulted in a major contribution, for Stibbard, giving back is meaningful whether you’re doing outreach work that might help a whole family or simply helping out a neighbour. His past contributions have included volunteering with organizations such as the Health Sciences Centre Foundation and Riverview Health Centre Foundation’s Cycle for Life Committee. He also served as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Centre for Child Protection from 2007 to 2011. As Regional Managing Partner, Stibbard’s days are full. Typically, he divides his time between focusing on internal initiatives with his team, assisting clients, dealing with office objectives, coaching and mentoring, and working on community involvement opportunities for the firm. How does a husband and father of three balance all that with volunteer work and family time? Stibbard says it’s not easy. “There is no such thing as downtime. You have to plan, be aware of what’s coming up, and leverage the entire day,” he says. “You also use your PvR a lot more,” he adds with a laugh. “You’re watching baseball playoffs a little later.” As regional leader, Stibbard plans to continue encouraging his team to get involved in the community to benefit others and develop their own leadership skills. The importance of giving back is something that’s talked about daily within the office, promoted internally and even part of people’s development objectives.
MNP’s Rick Potter and Andrew Stibbard at the 2012 United Way Golf Tournament.
“I believe that everyone has a role to play in making our community a place we can all be proud of,” he says.
If you’re not talking to your kids about alcohol, who is?
Learn how to start the conversation. Pick up a free booklet at your nearest Liquor Mart or visit us online.
www.betheinfluence.org
Winter 2012
20 FEATUREs
8 Revved Up Hitting the Trails: What you need to know about snowmobiling in Manitoba
16 Get Outdoors Get a bite: Your guide to ice fishing
26 A Century of Grandeur
Uncovering a Hero: To the outside world, he’s Ken. To “his kids” he could be everything.
20
16
The Fort Garry Hotel turns 100
DEPARTMENTS
10 City Essentials Indoor Winter Fun: Stay active without freezing your bits
14 Party Planning 101: A Man’s Guide to Getting it Right
18 Technology Let the Games Begin: Our top picks for gaming consoles
25 In the Kitchen Recipes to impress from Chef Darryl Crumb
29 Men’s Fashion Sharp Dressed Man
32 What’s In Your Bag? Sean Gilmour, sledge hockey player for Team Manitoba and Hockey Canada’s Development Team
33 Men About Town The latest events and info on Winnipeg Men Magazine and our advertisers
34 The Last Word Hollywood North, eh?
ON THE COVER: Photography by Ian McCausland, Ken’s clothing by Danali
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WINTER 2012 | 5
perspective Photo by Ian McCausland
F
Winnipeg Winter 2012
The guide for living local
MEN
Winter 2012: Volume 8, Issue 4
rosty temperatures in Winnipeg mean several things: the end of football season, the beginning of hockey season, holiday parties, and panic over gifts.
Editor Alison Mintenko editor@mediaedgepublishing.com
Though this year we’ve yet to be able to indulge in any NHL level hockey, the holiday parties and gift panic aren’t far away.
CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Parker, Susie Erjavec Parker, Shel Zolkewich, Darryl Crumb, Ben MacPhee-Sigurdson, Christopher Grant Ian McCausland, chronic creative, Kenny Boyce
To help ease the panic, flip over to Winnipeg Women and browse through our Wish List and Holiday Gift Guide for ideas on what to buy. The Splurge page alone is worth the flip. If you’re looking for ways to stay active and avoid frostbite, we’ve got ideas to keep your blood pumping while you stay indoors. If you lean more towards the relaxed end of things, check out our reviews on the three hottest gaming consoles this season. No matter how you choose to indulge in the winter festivities, stay safe and enjoy - the New Year will be upon us before we know it!
Published by
STUD O MEDIA
GROUP
Senior Vice President MediaEdge Publishing INC. Robert Thompson robertt@mediaedge.ca President Studio Media Group Glenn Tinley glenn@studiomediagroup.com Branch Manager MediaEdge PUBLISHING INC. Nancie Prive nanciep@mediaedgepublishing.com
E
very girl’s crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man – isn’t that how the song goes? Check out this issue’s fashion pages for a look for every caliber of holiday party and be the guy women are hoping to find next to them under the mistletoe. Or if you’re planning your own festivities, you can’t go wrong with Party Planning 101: A Man’s Guide to Getting it Right. We advise on booze, music, food – everything you need to set the mood and show your guests a good time. Then, when you need to escape the busy holiday madness, grab a couple of buddies and head out on the lake with a shack and while away the hours with a line in the ice. It’s been great becoming a part of Winnipeg Men and Winnipeg Women this year – here’s to all of you and a prosperous 2013!
Senior Sales Executive Barb Pettitt barbp@mediaedgepublishing.com (204) 510-9192 Senior Sales Executive Dawn Stokes dawns@mediaedgepublishing.com (204) 480-4404 Advertising/Circulation Manager Shawna Schimnowski shawna@studiomediagroup.com Senior GRAPHIC DESIGNER James T. Mitchell jamesm@mediaedgepublishing.com Web Designer Caleb MacDonald For inquiries contact: info@studiomediagroup.com (204) 480-4420 Subscriptions Write or subscribe via our website:winnipegmen.com Winnipeg Men Magazine 531 Marion Street Winnipeg, MB R2J 0J9 (204) 480-4400 FAX: (204) 480-4420 Winnipeg Men Magazine is published four times a year by MediaEdge Publishing Inc/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. 40787580
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the MediaEdge Publishing Inc/Studio Media Group address shown above.
Available at select Manitoba Liquor Marts. 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.
6 | WINTER 2012
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revved up
Hitting the By Shel Zolkewich
What you need to know about snowmobiling in Manitoba
I
f cross-country skiing is just too slow and snowshoeing requires a little more coordination that you might have, it’s time to jump on a machine. Manitoba’s endless sunshine, ample snow (most years, anyway) and impressive trails make for some of the best snowmobiling in the country.
Starting any new hobby requires a little bit of preparation. When it comes to snowmobiling, you’ll need to decide what kind of machine to get, how to properly dress for your excursions, where to go and of course, the rules of operating a snowmobile in this province. Buying a Snowmobile Ask yourself how you plan to use your snowmobile. If you’ve been out riding before and really want to jump in with both feet, a brand new machine may be for you. But if you’re just testing the trails, something from the used lot might be a better fit.
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A new, entry-level snowmobile can start at around $7,500, but you can easily spend over $10,000 for one with lots of power and style. Clothing, insurance and a trailer (yes, you need a trailer) can add another $2,500 to your initial investment. In the used department, sticking to a budget of around $2,500 will likely get you a reliable snowmobile. Used models are widely available at dealerships as well as privately. Keep an eye open for postings at your local grocery store or check out Kijiji.com or buysell.ca. Abide by the Rules You’ll need to register your new ride with Manitoba Public Insurance. All new registrants will get a licence plate and a registration/insurance certificate (keep this with you or with the machine). Attach the plate to the left side of your snowmobile between the seat and running board. 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 to be 16 years old and have a valid drivers’ license.
there are plenty of discounts available to Snopass holders. Pick one up at any Manitoba Public Insurance/Autopac outlet. Ken Lucko, executive director of Snoman Inc. says Manitoba boasts over 12,000 kilometres of groomed trails, all maintained by volunteers who love to ride. 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 said there are normally 16 to 18 weeks of solid riding in Manitoba. Last year, snow was scarce south of the TransCanada Highway but good in areas around Lac Du Bonnet and Swan River. If you want to take your chances riding on a designated trail without a Snopass, you’re risking a fine of $448.50. Keep in mind that snowmobiling is not allowed within the City of Winnipeg.
The Snoman website www.snoman. mb.ca is an excellent starting point for mapping out your weekend excursion. Pick your starting point, then click on the arrow at the end of that trail to see where you can go from there. “You can track your path from one club to the next,” Lucko said. The site also offers up-to-date trail conditions. If you come to the end of the snowmobiling season and want to see what’s new for the year ahead, Lucko said Snoman is hosting the spring show of new snowmobiles. It happens April 5 and 6, 2013 at Assiniboia Downs. Rent It If you really just want to give snowmobiling a try for the day, head to snowmuchfun.com and check out the tours or hourly rentals. Two-hour tours start at $150 per person if you double up. m
Keep in mind that the same impaired driving laws that apply to motor vehicles also apply to snowmobiles. Don’t drink and drive. If you’re driving your snowmobile in a ditch, you should be moving in the same direction as traffic and keep in mind that operating a snowmobile on a roadway is strictly prohibited. If you have to cross, do it within five metres of an intersection at a 90-degree angle. What to Wear It’s hard to have fun when you’re cold, wet and generally miserable. Proper snowmobiling gear can make or break your experience. Start with a base layer of long underwear and make sure it’s not cotton. Layer on pants, fleeces, outerwear, wool or synthetic socks, boots, gloves and face protection. In Manitoba, a helmet that’s approved by CSA, Snell or DOT is mandatory for snowmobiling. Where to Ride Your first step is to pick up a SnowPass that gives you permission to travel on designated Snoman trails in Manitoba. For $125, you can ride the trails in Manitoba and explore Saskatchewan, too. Plus www.winnipegmen.com
Remember...keep it a game.
www.mlc.mb.ca
WINTER 2012 | 9
city essentials
r o o Ind un r e F t n i W arker By Kelly P
Stay active without freezing your bits
I
t comes down to a choice. Do you spend another winter huddled in front of the tube in hibernation mode, or do you get out and enjoy all that winter in Winnipeg has to offer? There is a third option. Winnipeg has no shortage of indoor activities to help you stay active while also retaining possession of your outer bits.
right on site after you’ve showered up. The latter was always part of the plan. “That is always our hope with our adult league, particularly,” says GM Rick Bochinski. “We’ve got the lounge with a bunch of big-screen TV’s, so that’s where we might have an advantage over some of the other (indoor hockey venues in town).”
Curling led the vanguard by heading indoors decades ago, but with the increased number of venues like MTS Iceplex, you’ve now got even more indoor hockey ice time available, and there really is no better indoor hockey venue in town than the Iceplex itself.
Combine those amenities with the world-class training and fitness options that make the MTS Iceplex the home base of the Winnipeg Jets, and the on-site Jets Store, and the venue can be your onestop hockey hub.
Nowhere else in town offers the volume of ice, combined with the quality of restaurant and lounge facilities which together, seat 400, for large gatherings – or as is more frequently the case these days, continuing your evening’s social activities
Hit mtsiceplex.ca for info on joining one of the men’s rec leagues that call MTS Iceplex home.
10 | WINTER 2012
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Make up for last year’s gift.
Liquor Mart Gift Cards, always the perfect fit.
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Please drink responsibly - Moderation tastes so much better
city essentials Now, if you’re looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary to keep your blood moving this winter, River City can offer those as well – with a side of adrenaline. Indoor Rock Climbing: After working at Vertical Adventures for several years, Justin Jones bought the company in 2008. The 5,000 sq. ft. facility offers everything you need to get vertical without the worry of ending up horizontal in the ER. “It’s really not (dangerous),” emphasizes Jones when asked about misconceptions that challenge the sport. “We take every necessary measure to eliminate the potential risks and variables involved.” No experience is necessary to start, with VA offering a selection of adult courses including a three-hour introductory class to get your feet wet (or your hands chalked, as the case may be). Bonus: You live on the Canadian Shield, prime rock climbing country, but with some indoor practice, any rock face anywhere in the world can be your playground. (verticaladventures.ca) Go-Cart Racing: Which of you hasn’t thought you could’ve been a race driver if you wanted to? Go-cart racing is one of those things you just never grow out of, and the city is home to a top-notch indoor venue where you can put on your race-face. Mark Sawatsky is the owner of Speedworld, and he promises two things: 1) It’s not as easy as it looks. “You have to brake just the right amount in the right places, and you have to turn in the right places. People come in and see that top lap time for the day, and
most guys think that they can honestly beat that time their first time out, then they’ll go out and end up two seconds slower. Naturally, they always ask about whether the carts are all the same. It’s pretty funny,” and 2) you’ll get addicted to trying to post your name on top. “There are just not that many opportunities in life to get a real adrenaline rush in a fun way (as opposed to when you almost crash your real car). There are only a few activities that will give you that: paintball, downhill skiing and some of those things,” he says, “but this is definitely something that you get addicted to.” (speedworld.ca) Tactical War Games: Why spend your winter getting dumpy playing your favourite FPS video game when you’ve got the real-life experience right in your backyard? Gordon Lai owns Xtreme Tactics, an indoor tactical war games facility that offers you the chance to take on your crew in a free-for-all or team battle scenario shooting airsoft rifles – full-scale replicas of actual firearms that shoot 6mm round plastic pellets (BBs). Protective equipment such as helmets, masks, and tactical vests provide protection for the important parts, but be assured that you’ll never have more fun earning a welt or two as a souvenir. “It’s an adrenaline rush unlike any other,” says Lai, “and it’s far more physical than people would expect as well – great cardio.” (extremetactics.com) m
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city essentials
Party Planning
101
A Man’s Guide to Getting it Right By Kelly Parker
“G
uys, sometimes, when they’re new at this, they’re not very good at it. I’ve been to some parties where they’ll like, open a bag of chips and throw it on the table…and you’re like, ‘Even a bowl would make it nicer!’”
That quote* is from the ample lips of one Christina Hendricks, who plays office manager Joan Harris on AMC’s Mad Men, and if either of them shows up at your door this holiday season (go with me on this), you want to have your party act together. Look, there’s nothing wrong with inviting a bunch of buddies over, BYOB, and killing a couple of bags of taco chips and a tray of jalapeno poppers, but that’s called Friday night. This is different, and these are the essentials you’re going to need to cover:
Liquor: The terms BYOB and “host” don’t mix. If you’re really hosting, your guests will belly up to your bar, so stock it with vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, scotch, brandy or bourbon, and tequila. You don’t need to go high-end label on any of them. Ok, maybe the tequila. If you want to prove how worldly your palate is with a swig, you’ll blow your suave cover if you utter any statement that includes the word: “Gack!” Standard beers and table wines will do the trick – although you’ll want to avoid names that end with the words “duck”, “goose” or “nun”. For an added touch, maybe hit the Internet for the punch recipe that you’ll be referring to as “the house special.” And buy too much ice and mix – the real stuff, no aspartame.
Food: Presuming you’re not going the sit-down route, you know your crowd, and you’ll want to serve guest appropriate finger foods. You could go all Martha Stewart and serve up mushroom-polenta diamonds (whatever the hell those are), but you’ll just spend all day preparing them and end up wanting to stab yourself in the eye with one. In Winnipeg, at your place, there is nothing at all wrong with the good old TriscuitsTM and cheese, jalapeno poppers (not just for Friday night anymore!), dry ribs, chicken wings, chips and dip and a good old raw veggie platter. Don’t worry about plates of sweets because people will be getting tired of seeing them by two weeks before Christmas; a humble plate or two will do.
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Music: The most important part of putting together your party playlist is to make it eclectic. Plan for some easy but fun lounge-y music for early on, and pick it up as the night gets going, mixing genres, and always keeping tempo in mind. Drop in the odd sure-fire universal favourite (anything from “Folsom Prison Blues” through LMFAO’s “Sexy & I Know It”) to punch up the energy from time to time. If you think your party is going to last six hours, build yourself an eight-hour mix.
*Source: Christina Hendricks on Hosting – AskMen.com.
No matter what, follow the golden rule of hosting: have fun! If you’re not, your guests are going to pick up on it, and that’s a vibe-killer – laugh off the glitches. It’s a party! But don’t take my word for it. Take Christina’s. “It’s very simple. If…you’ve got a cheese plate (and) some crackers…that’s all you need. It’s not that hard. It’s all about presentation.” Unless you’re Christina, don’t go that simple (and if you are, you’re reading the wrong half of this magazine). Point is: approach your party in that spirit. Remember the KISS rule. Keep It Simple, Stupid. If you’re stuck on something, however, ask yourself WWJD? (“What would Joan do?”) If that doesn’t help, try thatsthespirit.com.
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WINTER 2012 | 15
Get Outdoors
Get a
Bite By Shel Zolkewich
Your guide to ice fishing
A
s Manitobans, we’re blessed with a variety and abundance of fish in our lakes and rivers. In summer, fishing is one of the most popular ways that we get out and enjoy the great outdoors. When the temperatures drop below freezing, the fish are still there, the fresh air is just as good and you can’t beat a sunny winter day on the lake. So if you’ve never done it before, make this the year you give ice fishing a try.
1
Licence You’ll need a Manitoba Angling Licence. If you’ve purchased one for summer fishing (what we call open water season), you’re good to go. Otherwise, stop by a sporting goods store (Canadian Tire, Walmart) and plunk down $19.38. Your licence is valid until April 30, 2013. If you’re under 16 or a senior citizen, you fish for free. There’s a little bonus that comes with ice fishing (what we call hard water season) - while ice fishing, you’re allowed to have two lines (not just one like in open water season) in the water, each with two hooks. Auger
fishing season brings, well, ice. So you’ll need to get to the water by drilling a 2 Ice hole. You can use a hand-powered auger if you have a couple of hours, like a chal-
lenge and don’t mind a sore shoulder for the next three days. Otherwise, a gaspowered auger is a must. They run about $400; it’s by far the biggest expense you’ll face to get into the ice fishing game.
3
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Tackle All you really need is a hook and a line. If you don’t want to shell out for specialized ice fishing tackle, you can use the rod and reel you have. But a long rod can get a little cumbersome on the ice and your reel is likely to become an icejammed mess. Ice fishing kits include short rods and spools with a minimum amount of line. Or if you like to sit back in your lawn chair and leave your hands free for refreshments, a tip-up rod is what you need. When a fish is on, a little red flag pops up to let you know.
www.winnipegmen.com
4
Shacked Up Just like a scene from the movie Grumpy Old Men, Manitoba has its share of icefishing villages. You’ll find these along the Red River at Selkirk, Matlock and Gimli, and on some of the lakes in the Whiteshell. If you’re jumping in to ice fishing with both feet, investing in a shack is a sure-fire way to enjoy every day on the lake, no matter what the weather. Another option is a portable shelter. The advantage to one of these is that you can travel from lake to lake and set it up where the fish are biting.
5
Where to Go The traditional hotspots for ice fishing include Lockport and Selkirk on the Red River; Matlock on the west shore of Lake Winnipeg; Balsam Bay on the east shore of Lake Winnipeg; Falcon Lake and Westhawk Lake. That’s just the beginning. If you’ve had some luck on a lake or river in open water season, chances are you’ll have some success in the same spot during hard water season. To see where the fish are biting, pop into some of the online fishing forums and do your scouting there (manitobafishingforum.com). Get a Guide
you’re not sure if ice fishing is for you, the best way to find out is to hire an 6 Ifoutfitter and spend the day on the ice. All the equipment is provided; all you’ll need is a licence. Todd Longley of City Cats will take a party of three out for a full day for $400. It’s your choice whether you want to fish for rainbow trout at Lion’s Lake in the Whiteshell or walleyes at Matlock. You can find more guides and outfitters at fishhuntmanitoba.com m
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WINTER 2012 | 17
Technology
Let the
By Susie Erjavec Parker
Games Begin!
Our top picks for gaming consoles
Gaming consoles can be a great way to get to play your favourite games solo or online, or get the whole family to play together. But consoles are for more than gaming these days. They can be used for exercise. They can be the centerpiece of your home entertainment system. Modern consoles also play DVDs and Blu-Rays, and are often interactive with the user. They take play and gaming to a whole new level. If your household is looking to add a gaming console this holiday season, here are our top picks:
PlayStation 3 250GB (also available in 500GB option) Currently retailing for less than $300, this compact, streamlined PlayStation 3 with 250GB hard drive provides users with a trusted library of PlayStation software in a shell that’s 25 per cent smaller and 20 per cent lighter than the existing PlayStation 3. Featuring online play through PlayStation Network, full media playback capabilities, Blu-ray functionality and whisper quiet operation, the PlayStation 3 provides the ultimate in home entertainment. If buying online, some retailers are offering the PS3 console bundled with top-selling games such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, NHL 13, or Madden NFL 13.
Games to watch for this holiday season: Assassins Creed III Super Mario Bros. 2 Resident Evil 6 Halo 4 Call of Duty: Black Ops II
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Product Features •2 50GB hard drive provides plenty of space to download titles from PlayStation Network or to store your favourite music and movies •C onnects to your HDTV via a single HDMI cable • Built-in WiFi for easy connectivity •D ownload a library of exclusive titles from the PlayStation Network •S ave photos to the hard drive and create slideshows in one of five different modes • Full Blu-ray compatibility • CD/DVD/DivX playback •C onnect to the Internet with the integrated web browser • Connect to Bluetooth accessories including headsets and DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controllers
Mobile Gaming There are now more than 650,000 iOS applications in all, and while they run the gamut from finance to fitness, no category is larger, more popular or more lucrative than gaming. More than 101 million U.S. consumers now engage with mobile games according to a May report published by market research firm Newzoo, which adds that iOS devices combined to generate 84 per cent of all revenues derived from the 200 top-grossing games in Apple’s App Store and the Google Play storefront. Revenues from power-ups and other virtual goods sold in mobile games are on pace to reach $500 million in 2012, up from $350 million a year ago. Some hit games are even expanding beyond the mobile platform: Rovio Mobile’s Angry Birds, the most successful title of the iPhone era, reported revenues of $106.3 million, fueled by close to 650 million downloads as well as merchandise sales, and Zynga’s Draw Something is now the subject of a forthcoming CBS TV game show. Source: http://www.fiercemobilecontent.com/special-reports/ios-killed-handheld-gaming-market www.winnipegmen.com
XBOX 360 250GB Kinect Bundle Product Features • Kinect sensor makes you the controller, so you can jump, dance and play with fun games for the whole family - and all without actually holding a controller • 250GB hard drive allows users to save games and store television shows, movies, music, pictures, trailers, levels, demos and more extras available from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace • 802.11n Wi-Fi is built in for a faster and easier connection to Xbox LIVE; download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, and games from Xbox LIVE Marketplace in 1080p and 5.1 surround sound from anywhere in the house (compatible with b/g/n networks) • The Xbox 360 wireless controller features the Xbox Guide Button for quick, in-game access to friends and music; it also has a range of up to 30 feet and a battery life of 30 hours on two AA batteries • Xbox LIVE brings (requires subscription) • Bundle includes the Kinect Sensor, Dance Central 2 download token, Kinect Sports game, and Kinect Adventures game
Nintendo Wii U 32GB Deluxe The Nintendo Wii U delivers an innovative twist on gaming with this new version. There is now a new way to control the games you and your family love with the Wii U GamePad touchscreen. The Wii U also displays stunning visuals, a revamped online experience with the Nintendo Network and full retroactive compatibility with Nintendo Wii titles. This 32GB Deluxe Edition comes in black and currently retails for approximately $349.99. (This model is sold out at both major retailers we checked.) Product Features: • The Wii U GamePad presents a revolutionary touchscreen
• Four USB 2.0 ports (two at front, two at the rear) • HDMI 1.4 out port Deluxe Set Includes: • Nintendo Land Game • 32GB Wii U Console • Wii U Game Pad • AC adapter for the console and Game Pad • High-speed HDMI cable • Wii U sensor bar • Game Pad charging cradle
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What could be more fun than the already sleek and powerful Xbox 360 S console paired up with a Kinect? You better come ready to play with this system. From its huge 250GB hard drive to the Kinect sensor, and built-in Wireless N, it’s a cinch to move and play the way you want with some of the hottest games already included. The stylish design will make this combo the centrepiece of your home entertainment system. This package deal retails for approximately $349.99.
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COVER STORY
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U n c o v e r i n g
a
By Christopher Grant
To the outside world, he’s Ken. To “his kids” he could be everything.
K
en Opaleke doesn’t want to talk. Not about himself, anyway. Each time I ask a question, he frames his response within his work as Director of the West Broadway Youth Outreach centre. It’s a rare occasion when an interviewee shrugs the attention off themselves and onto their work. I suspect he’s hiding something. We’re sitting in someone else’s boardroom because the WBYO office is a tiny room crammed with books and sports equipment and games; there’s simply no room for us. “We’re a life skills program masquerading as a recreational program,” Ken explains. “All of our 28 programs per week have a teaching component wrapped in a fun activity or sport.”
Superman “Take our ‘Nails & Ponytails’ program. Sounds nice; it’s not. It’s a hygiene program. If a child’s nails are black and long, we don’t criticise, we empathise. Our volunteer tells the child to think of their nails as a canvas, which needs to be cleaned and prepared before it’s decorated. Thus the child learns to clean and care for her nails and gets them painted at the same time. Or they can get a haircut. Life skills within recreation - and we save the family a couple of dollars.” www.winnipegmen.com
Ken waves his hands expansively around the modest boardroom. “This is a homework room at night. We place a couple of coolers with juice and water on a table with 4 or 5 hot pizzas, some treats and then we put it up by the window. And only those kids who asked their teachers for homework are allowed in.” Their job is to work hard for themselves and my job is to say ‘you rock, you walk on water, you’re the most amazing thing since the wheel’.” Pretty awesome motivation to do homework. The point, Ken says, is that the kids see all this and associate that smart people get the spoils. “Smart people, homework kids, are going to see Justin Bieber; smart people, homework kids, are going to the NBA game.” Everything on the calendar has that kind of thought process behind it. “The top 10 homework kids from each year we take to the Red River Ex. We leave at a quarter to four, and try to get them home by midnight. There’s only one rule; the word ‘no’ does not exist. So if a child says can I have a three cotton candys? The answer is yes. Can I go on that ride 10 more times? Yes. Whatever they want, they get.” This may sound like Opaleke is spoiling these kids. He’s not. WINTER 2012 | 21
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“The point is that every single kid in this community is going to hear about how those kids were treated, and that many more are going to ask their teachers for homework so they can try and earn that treatment.” Ken has run WBYO for the past 21 years as of October 12. “I love what I do. Everything I do is so I can keep helping these kids raise their standards. “When I initially applied for the job, I asked the board to explain their philosophy regarding the program. Their goals mirrored mine and so I said if they hired me I’d give them five years. So I’m here for at least another four years. Every five years I judge whether I have met my four goals, and once I’ve met all four, I’m done. I truly thought I could get in there and make things happen overnight and then I realised it wouldn’t be as easy as I imagined it would be.” Then, his praise for the merits of WBYO momentarily exhausted, I strike, bringing the conversation back to him. What are these goals? “I have four of them,” he says, and counts them out on his fingers. “My first is to see 10 of the kids who have moved through the WBYO graduate as medical doctors.”
Why doctors? Because it was the hardest thing Ken could imagine doing; he wanted to make it personal. Why 10? “Because 10 is always a perfect score.” Ken’s second goal was to create a scholarship. “We just gave out our second Janet Sprout Memorial Scholarship this July,” he says. His third is to get out of the current space WBYO occupies in the Crossways building. The cramped corner room looks like it was meant to be a storage room. The kicker, though, is his fourth goal. “I want to leave here without ever taking a sick day.” Twenty-one years and not a ... single ... sick day. That’s 5,460 workdays. And not one day missed due to illness. He laughs. “I attribute that to my Jamaican metabolism.” Ken was born in Jamaica. His mother came to Winnipeg as a single mother and worked to bring her children here one at a time. Eventually she met a man from Nigeria here and basically she sat the children down one day, told them she was marrying this man and thought they should take his name. “I said, as long as you keep smiling, I’m good with that.” www.winnipegmen.com
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COVER STORY Ken lives in the neighbourhood and walks to work, so he saw no need to keep the new Volkswagen he won in a lottery. Instead he traded it in for a van (he hates vans) and donated it to WBYO. His greatest strength is his enthusiasm to participate in the program’s activities. He’ll play with dolls, he’ll cook with you, he’ll play any sport. The WBYO motto, “A child’s potential ends just beyond infinity,” is also Ken’s own. Ken attributes this personal mantra to a woman he remembers only as Gail. “Twenty-three years ago, I was sitting next to this elderly lady on the plane and she was the one who inspired this. I don’t know why I remember her name, but I had been travelling for a long time and I was tired. There were kids running up and down the aisle, screaming and laughing. I turned to give the parents a piece of my mind when I felt this hand on my arm. I turned to look at her and she smiled and said “Isn’t their potential infinite?” “Then two years later I began to build this program and I needed a mantra and I thought of Gail.” And he’s as good as his word. This September, Ken was approached by a young girl who had heard of his program and wanted to become part of it; she brought him her report cards from last year. Her grades had improved all year, with straight A’s as final marks. Opaleke read over the report card and told the girl he’d think it over. “So what I did was, I went to her school, I made a massive production in front of her class; I gave her a plaque and a coupon for anything she wanted to do - a balloon ride, come to school on the back of a motorcycle, see Justin Bieber, anything. “We’ve yet to fail to deliver. From all you can eat pizza to bungee jumping, we’ve never had to say no to any request.” Opaleke’s commitment to his ‘kids’ goes beyond the day they leave for higher education. “I’ve always told my kids that, given a four month lead time, I’ll go and watch them graduate from high school or university anywhere in Canada.’ He’s traveled as far West as Alberta so far, he expects to visit Prince Edward Island next year. “I realised long ago that my goals were not going to be met overnight,” he explains. “First of all, you don’t decide when a family will invite you in. It can take a month, it can take seven years. You don’t impose yourself on a family; you go at their pace. But now he has seventeen kids whose parents went through this program. The key to his success is the WBYO’s success, and that he puts squarely on the shoulders of his volunteers and the parents themselves, who trust him with their children. AQUARACER 500 M CALIBRE 5
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24 | WINTER 2012
“The level of trust now is quite touching and also very humbling,” he says. “It’s like we’ve become woven into the fabric of these families. I feel so honoured to be invited into this position for however many minutes of the week I have their child. I don’t imagine myself as anything more than an academic support and recreational outlet for these kids. For every need Opaleke sees, he builds a solution. Not finds a solution; he creates one. Perhaps, when 10 local doctors can look back with gratitude on the West Broadway Youth Outreach Program, Ken will reveal what it is he’s hiding; a pair of angel’s wings. m www.winnipegmen.com
IN THE
kitchen
Recipes to impress from Chef Darryl Crumb
Eggnog Cheesecake
with Gingersnap Crust
12 ounces gingersnaps (about 48 cookies), finely ground 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup melted butter 32 ounces 1/3-less-fat cream cheese 4 large eggs 2 cups refrigerated or canned eggnog, divided 2 cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup whipping cream Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg
Preparation
1.
Stir together first 3 ingredients; press mixture onto bottom of a 10-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth; add eggs, 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Add 1 1/2 cups eggnog, and beat until blended. Fold in 2 cups powdered sugar and 2 Tbsp. flour; carefully pour cream cheese mixture into prepared pan.
3. Bake at 325° for 1 hour. Turn off oven. Let cheesecake stand in oven, with door closed, 1 hour. Remove to wire rack, and let cool completely. Cover and chill at least 8 hours.
4. Beat whipping cream at high speed with an electric mixer
until stiff peaks form; fold in remaining 1/2 cup eggnog. Spread mixture evenly over top of chilled cheesecake, and garnish, if desired.
about the chef Darryl Crumb is the Executive Chef and owner of the new Billabong Gastropub in the heart of Osborne village. The concept behind this venture is to bring a new approach to classic pub food from around the world, including dishes like fried five spice chicken and waffles, inverted poutine and boeuf bourgounion pot pie. After graduating from culinary school, Chef Crumb moved to Paris, France, to work under world-class chefs such as Alain Ducasse and Cedric Lacaze. From there, he moved to Vancouver, B.C., where he worked as an executive chef in Yaletown. In 2010 he was selected to participate on the first season of Top Chef Canada for the Food Network. Chef Crumb’s style of cuisine is a modern approach to rustic French fare, he has an uncanny ability to bring comfort food to another level.
www.winnipegmen.com
WINTER 2012 | 25
A Century of
Grandeur By Ben MacPhee-Sigurdson
T h e Fort G arry Hot e l t u r n s 1 0 0
The Fort Garry Hotel turns 100 in 2013, no small feat given the events of the world since its doors opened in 1913. Two World Wars, numerous economic slumps and a shift away from Winnipeg as an important cross-continent transportation hub have forced the doors shut on many local landmarks. Somehow the Fort Garry survived. THE BIRTH OF A GRAND HOTEL It’s no coincidence the Fort Garry Hotel is just steps away from Winnipeg’s Union Station. As one of Canada’s iconic grand railway hotels, the Fort Garry (named after the former fort, Upper
26 | WINTER 2012
Fort Garry, located adjacent to the hotel) was built by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway beginning in 1911. The Grand Trunk and Canadian Pacific railways were building grand hotels in cities across Canada in an effort to lure tourists. The original plan for the Fort Garry called for 10 storeys in addition to the two-storey base, and an extra two storeys were added during construction, which was completed in 1913. The château style of the Fort Garry Hotel is echoed in the railway grand hotels across Canada. Montreal architects Ross and MacFarlane surely had the Ottawa’s Château Laurier in mind as they conceived of the Fort Garry. Most stylistically similar to the Winnipeg landmark, however, is New York’s legendary Plaza Hotel. Completed six years before the Fort Garry, the Plaza is an impressive 20-storey building nestled next to Central Park.
Photos from Unknown Source
F
or decades, it was Winnipeg’s tallest building — and while the city has grown up around the Fort Garry Hotel, it’s still one of the city’s most beloved structures.
www.winnipegmen.com
The Fort Garry’s similar look and feel — the marble floors, detailed stonework, copper roof and more — hints at Winnipeg’s optimism and ambition in the early 20th century. Winnipeg was a burgeoning transportation hub often mentioned in the same breath as Chicago, a city filled with its own architectural marvels. As the transportation landscape began to change, however, Winnipeg’s growth slowed, and the Fort Garry eventually fell into a state where it was in need of some serious TLC.
To restore the Fort Garry and make it economically feasible, a lot had to be done. “The early days were the most challenging because there were so many things we had to fix. They weren’t things you could see cosmetically — the hotel had electric heaters, and being in Manitoba that’s not the way you want to heat a hotel. There were times when our hydro
bills were higher than our room revenue. We had to put in gas boilers, fix the elevators, we had to dig up the foundation…” In order to succeed, the Fort Garry had to reestablish its local reputation as one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. “It took a while but eventually people started seeing there was a lot of heart
A RETURN TO GRANDEUR Enter Rick Bel and Ida Albo. When the local couple took over the hotel nearly 19 years ago, it was in poor shape. “We didn’t have hot water all the time, people would get stuck in the elevators… when they even worked,” Albo remembers. Despite the miserable conditions — or, perhaps because of them — the two spent so much time on the hotel that they lived on-site for many years. The challenges involved in getting the hotel into better shape were both logistic and emotional. “When we first took over the hotel it felt a bit like Fawlty Towers,” Albo says, laughing. “Working with my husband, I can certainly identify with some of the frustrations on the show. “
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WINTER 2012 | 27
and soul that was going into the hotel. Most of our support came from the local market… In the same way the hotel is a good corporate citizen in the city, the citizens are very good to the hotel,” says Albo. TODAY’S FORT GARRY HOTEL Local support was crucial in reinvigorating the Fort Garry, and Winnipeggers have responded in spades. The Palm Room, a marvel of ornamental detail, sits at the rear of the lobby, and is a unique spot to sip a cocktail, order from the hotel’s menu and enjoy live music. Visit the hotel on any given day and you’ll see conferences in full swing; on weekends the stately Provencher Room and the ornate seventh-floor Cystal Ballroom and Concert Hall play host to weddings, receptions, parties and more. A decidedly modern facility amongst so much history is Ten Spa, which occupies the tenth floor of the hotel. This co-ed spa has become a favourite among locals — both male and female — and never ceases to surprise out-of-towners. Ten Spa’s hamam program is a unique, relaxing water-centric experience unlike any other you’ll find in Canada.
THE FORT GARRY — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE As the Fort Garry Hotel enters its 100th year, most of its downtown counterparts are owned and operated by national and international chains. “We’re at a disadvantage because of the networking that goes with a chain of hotels,” explains Albo. But being local and independent has its advantages as well. Bel and Albo have been able to transform the Fort Garry based on their vision and without corporate pressure. “We’re very nimble,” explains Albo. “We can do whatever we want. We’re not tied to a brand; we can adapt very quickly to the market.” The hotel has seen its share of luminaries pass through its doors over the last century — from Liberace and Lawrence Olivier in earlier years to Robin Williams, Bill Murray, Sir Ben Kingsley and Renee Zellweger in more recent times. Most recently, Albo notes that pop star Justin Bieber visited Ten Spa while in town for a concert in October.
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With the extensive renovations and strong local support, the Fort Garry Hotel’s future looks bright. Bel and Albo are introducing customer and corporate loyalty programs in 2013, and there are a number of special events being planned to celebrate the hotel’s 100th birthday starting in February. For an extensive history of the Fort Garry Hotel and for more information on upcoming special events, visit www.fortgarryhotel.com. m
IS THE FORT GARRY HOTEL HAUNTED? There are numerous stories of ghosts and other unexplained sightings at the Fort Garry Hotel. Many stories involve the second floor, with Room 202 seeming to be the paranormal hot spot. Former employees and guests have claimed to witness mysterious silhouettes, women in ball gowns and even a man eating in the dining room. Co-owner Ida Albo is decidedly coy about the apparent hauntings. “I think like most people who have been in the hotel as long as I have, you see and feel things where you might not think ‘that’s a ghost’ but are a bit odd. If you believe in ghosts — if you’re open and receptive to it — you’ll feel that energy. And if you’re not, then you don’t notice any.”
www.winnipegmen.com
fashion
Matinique sport jacket (grey check) $329
John Varvatos sweater (forest green) $375
Ted Baker shirt (multi-colored check) $175
Jack Lipson shirt (check print) $160
AG slouchy tapered jean $290
Theory pant (tan) $205 John Varvatos boots (dark brown) $325
Sharp Dressed Man Photography by Ian McCausland
Clothes provided by Danali Models Caleb MacDonald and Ken Opaleke
www.winnipegmen.com
WINTER 2012 | 29
Tiger suit (grey wool) $849 Tiger vest (sold separately) $229 Tiger dress shirt (white and orange pin stripe) $179 Pure silk tie (red, navy and grey)
Matinique jacket (charcoal) $369 Matinique pant (charcoal) $139 Matinique vest (charcoal) $129 J. Lindberg shirt (dark blue) $175
30 | WINTER 2012
www.winnipegmen.com
Theory jacket (charcoal) $555 Theory pant (charcoal) $245 J. Lindberg button down vest (grey wool) $159 J. Lindberg ivory w/light blue shirt $175 Brown John Varvatos jacket (brown) $550 Ted Baker blue/brown wool vest $225 J. Lindberg shirt $195 Naked & Famous indigo selvage denim $135
www.winnipegmen.com
WINTER 2012 | 31
WhAT’s IN YOUR BAG? Sean Gilmour, sledge hockey player for Team Manitoba and Hockey Canada’s Development Team
NRG athletes jersey. One of my favorite jerseys to cover up all the equipment.
Helmet to protect my head.
Sean Gilmour plays defence with Team Manitoba and Hockey Canada’s Development Team. He’s been playing sledge hockey for five years. To him, the best part about the sport is just being out on the ice. “If it’s a game or a practice, or even outdoor skating at one of the clubs around home, I just love to play.”
Name bar. My good luck charm. I got it at my first Sledge Hockey Canada tryouts. It’s been in there ever since.
Skate boot. I’ve taken the skate blades off so I can just use the boot for protection. Hockey sled. It’s what we use to get around the ice.
My sticks. We use 2 sticks with picks on one end and a blade on the other. One is a right blade and one is a left. It’s how we move ourselves in the sled.
Gloves for my hands. We’re really low to the ice so we need good protection.
Elbow pads to protect our elbows.
Shin pads to protect our legs. For more information visit www.sledgehockeymanitoba.com
Photo by chronic creative
32 | WINTER 2012
www.winnipegmen.com
Gold Medal Plates The ultimate celebration of Canadian Excellence in cuisine, wine, the arts and athletic achievement, the annual Gold Medal Plates event recently took place in Winnipeg.
Osten Rice from Wasabi Sabi (atop the podium), along with Jamie Snow from Amici (silver medallist, left) and Michael Shafer from Sydney’s at The Forks (bronze medallist, right).
Congratulations to Indian City! The Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards took place November 2 at the MTS Centre. Among the winning performers were Winnipeg’s own Indian City. Photo courtesy of Manuel Sousa.
Moustache Machismo During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in Canada and around the world. With their “Mo’s”, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives. Several of the men in the Winnipeg Men office joined the cause this year as well. We’re proud of them, and all the other men who grew out their Mo for this great cause.
Winnipeg’s Jared Funk (wheelchair rugby) is interviewed by GMP emcee Adam Kreek during the entertainment portion of the evening.
New Chapter Congratulations to Steve McConnell, Marketing Manager, Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, on his recent retirement.
Hall of Famer
Suit Up
The Canadian Football Hall of Fame recently held its 2012 Induction Ceremony in Winnipeg. Among this year’s inductees was former Winnipeg Blue Bomber Milt Stegall.
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the
LAST WORD
Hollywood North, eh?
S
hooting a film is like planning and holding a large wedding with all the guests in a different location every day for weeks. Often we have three or four weddings going on at the same time in Winnipeg. That’s what film is.
By Kenny Boyce, Manager, Film & Special Events, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, City of Winnipeg
Growth of the film industry in Winnipeg has been phenomenal! In 2000, local film production was $17 million. At a peak in 2006, the industry spent about $125 million here. This year it’ll be around $80 million. I’m often asked, accompanied by a quizzical look, why so many production companies come to Winnipeg and Manitoba to make their films. There are reasons aplenty. In Winnipeg, film sits comfortably on the couch with the other thriving arts and has for 25 years. We’ve become known for our innovative film production companies. As a result of this Culture of Film, we offer highly skilled crews, crews that are well respected throughout the industry for their experience, creativity and ability to adapt to diverse weather conditions. Producers often say the Winnipeg film crews are some of the best in the industry! In addition to the hard work and perseverance of our film community, we have engaging and versatile locations, lots of them! Weather-related, we’ve become known for holiday and sports stories like made-in-Manitoba Goon, the new iconic Canadian hockey film replacing Slapshot. Our national treasure, Old Market Square/Exchange District, is a natural film set from a Hollywood back lot right in our own backyard. Filmmakers love it because they can pan 360 degrees and stay in period. Add in four distinct seasons to accommodate the footage they need, film-friendly citizens and our attractive tax credits and it’s “Let’s make our movie in Winnipeg!” One of my biggest tasks is preserving urban film locations. Films are shot in
34 | WINTER 2012
and outside the city but most stories take place in downtown/urban areas or in specific neighbourhoods. Unlike other North American cities where you can’t film in the evening or at night or some neighbourhoods you can’t go into at all, we are more accommodating. Our neighbourhood locations are used time and time again. The Gates is an example. These citizens welcome us back each time. Film shoots leave behind a footprint of memories, and sometimes legacies at community centres or sports recs to let people know we are not only dedicated and respectful but also appreciative of their cooperation. We are blessed with an unusually high number of local organizations committed to helping local, Canadian and visiting productions tell their story here. The great folks at Manitoba Film and Music, On Screen Manitoba, National Screen Institute and Film Training Manitoba work closely with the Film and Special Events Office. This high degree of cooperation and encouragement is another reason the film industry thrives here. I get to work with world calibre producers, directors, writers and performers, some of whom are home-grown like Guy Maddin, and others who are attracted here to film everything from commercials to documentaries to multi-million dollar features. Every day I’m thrilled to showcase our city, My Winnipeg (pun intended) where I was born and raised, to these gifted artists. Beyond helping fulfill their filming needs, I show our guests how we live here in an extreme city: extreme in sports, culture, weather, creative base. It’s one of the best parts of my job! Every day in Winnipeg, over 500 lucky people, like myself, are proud to work in our fascinating, creative film industry. We tell stories. That’s what we do for a living. So, yes, Hollywood North, eh! Thanks to Winnipeg Men for letting me have the Last Word. m
www.winnipegmen.com
Winter 2012
Index to Advertisers
MEN
Birks & Mayors Inc............................. 4 www.birks.com
MNP........................Inside Front Cover www.mnp.ca
Custom House Currency.................. 22 www.westernunioncanada.ca
Porsche Centre Winnipeg................ 23 www.auto-haus.porschedealer.com
EPH Apparel.................................... 28 www.ephapparel.com
Skin Deep Aesthetics....................... 19 www.skindeepwinnipeg.com
Fountain Tire.................................... 15 www.fountaintire.com
St. James Audi................................. 17 www.stjamesaudi.com
Hanford Drewitt................................. 7 www.hanforddrewitt.com
Winnipeg Jets.................................. 13 www.winnipegjets.com
Lambskin Specialties........................ 12 www.lambskin.com
U.N. Luggage................................... 27 www.unluggage.com
Manitoba Liquor Marts..............3 & 11 www.liquormartsonline.com/e/
W.K. Chan Jewellers........................ 24 www.wkchan.com
Manitoba Lotteries............................ 9 www.mlc.mb.ca
Winnipeg Men & Winnipeg WOMEN are mediaedge Publishing and studio media group publications. to enquire about advertising opportunities please contact:
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GROUP
Senior Sales Executive Barb Pettitt barbp@mediaedgepublishing.com (204) 510-9192
Senior Sales Executive Dawn Stokes dawns@mediaedgepublishing.com (204) 480-4404
WINTER 2012 | 35