THAW OUT IN TIME FOR SPRING AT THE 64th TORONTO SPORTSMEN’S SHOW!

Boat loads of fun and entertainment for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike March 16-20

Outdoor sportsmen will be out in full force at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) to celebrate the great outdoors at the 64th annual Toronto Sportsmen's Show. From March 16 to 20, consumers can experience the latest in “everything outdoors” including new equipment and gadgets, expert seminars, travel and the largest selection of new boats in North America.

“We’re excited to kick-off another spring season with more than 450 exhibitors displaying absolutely everything to do with the great outdoors,” says show manager Mitch Ostaphuk. “Whether you are an avid fisherman, a casual hiker, or simply a dog lover, the selection of entertainment and exhibits truly offers something for everyone.”

Dog features have been a show highlight and crowd favourite for more than 60 years. This year visitors can take in the Purina Pro Plan All Star Dog Show and the electrifying Gold Whistle Retriever Trials, where the bond between handler and dog is put to the ultimate test in this exciting hunting simulation. The Big Air Dog Show is a guaranteed good time, where man’s best friend shows off leaping and retrieval skills with the top dogs in the competition traveling more than five metres through the air. The soaring jumps and huge splashes are sure to get the crowds going! Visitors can also marvel at the Dogs with Jobs demonstrations, including police, search and rescue, and guide and assistance dogs.

The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show will feature exciting highlights, including an appearance by Bob Izumi, host of Canada's longest running fishing show, “Real Fishing”. Bob will entertain fans as he teaches them the tricks of the trade to reel in that ultimate catch. For those who would rather fish for prizes, visitors can still cast their rods at the Toronto Sun Casting Pond for a chance to win a share of $75,000 in cash and prizes.

Want to unleash your wild side? The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is hosting the wild turkey seminar, a program that includes information about the natural history of wild turkeys, hunting safety and ethics. After learning the art of the turkey call, visitors can get wild over the fascinating birds of prey exhibit. Some of North America's endangered species such as the Peregrine Falcon, Eastern North American Barn Owls and Bald Eagles will be on hand to get up close and personal.

The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show runs from March 16 to 20, 2011 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For complete show information visit: http://www.torontosportshow.ca/

What: The 2011 Toronto Sportsmen’s Show

When: Wednesday, March 16, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday, March 17, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, March 18, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 19, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
255 Front Street West, Toronto

Cost: Adults $19.00
Seniors $13.00
Juniors $13.00 (Ages 10 to 15)
Children FREE when accompanied by an adult (under six years)
Family Pass: $45.00 (two adults and two juniors)

About CNSS
CNSS is a non-profit corporation and the largest producer of boat, fishing, sportsmen’s, ski, outdoor and motorcycle shows in Canada. Through its family of shows, the corporation raises funds to ensure that generations of young Canadians can benefit from Canada’s outdoors. Since the first show held in 1948, $31 million has been committed to these causes.


For media registration and show updates:
Jessica Patriquin, PUNCH Canada
T: 416.360.6522 x.245
E: jessica@punchcanada.com

Farewell Lansdowne Park - Hello Capital Exhibition Centre

The 36th Ottawa Boat & Sportsmen’s Show celebrated its last year at Lansdowne Park, February 24-27, 2011 before it moves to its new location at the Capital Exhibition Center in 2012.

More than 200 exhibitors took part in what is Canada’s largest showcase of the latest boats, gear, gadgetry and tackles. Internationally renowned anglers and outdoorsmen shared their trade secrets with show attendees, helping them improve their skills and hopefully land that ultimate catch!

Check out what’s in store for the 2012 Ottawa Boat & Sportsmen’s Show here: http://www.ottawaboatandsportshow.ca/

See you at the show – its boat loads of fun!

Tim Hortons’ double dribble

It appears there are too many leaks happening across the country for Tim Hortons to keep a lid on this story.

It involves millions of Canadians whose frustration has been percolating for some time. Tired of hot coffee spilling from the top of their fresh cup, Canadians are rallying against what they claim is a need to improve an antiquated lid design.

Maclean’s magazine has stepped in with a report on this brewing controversy….

http://www2.macleans.ca/2011/03/02/double-dribble/

Top industry experts and celebrities to participate in 2011 National Home Show

Visit the upcoming Home Show to restore, refresh and renew your home!

Get ready home owners - Canada’s largest home show, the 2011 National Home Show presented by RE/MAX is almost here! Receive advice from top celebrity and design experts, shop the latest products with over 700 retailers, and find out the latest in new home ideas and solutions.

The show will take place February 18 - 27, at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, in the heart of downtown Toronto.

This year’s show highlights include:

·Renowned decorating icon, award-winning author and international TV personality - Debbie Travis. Along with a book signing, Debbie will offer insider tips and how-to advice.

·A live appearance from multiple Olympic medalist, Clara Hughes.

·Toronto-based designer and frequent CityLine expert, Ramsin Khachi shed light on the latest trends and design innovations. (Please see how this is positioned in the latest release as there is sponsor information that must be mentioned in association with his appearance)

·Decorating expert and CTV’s Canada AM top design authority, Karl Lohnes presents his do-it-yourself, simple, stylish and no-nonsense decorating recommendations.

·Wednesday is Sears Day! Enjoy Sears speakers, as well as some sizzling culinary advice from Toronto’s very own Radisson Hotel gastronomic talent - Chef Romel and a live appearance by Emmanuel Belliveau, host of HGTVs "World's Greenest Homes."

·Celebrate Lowes Day at the Home Show as HGTV’s Disaster DIY host, Bryan Baeumler hits the stage to offer his how-to advice.

·Hosts of Colin & Justin’s Home Heist and international design superstars, Colin & Justin explore the world of home décor and more as part of Toronto Star Day.

·CityTV's weather and garden specialist, Frank Ferragine offers up his green-thumb help and all-year-round planting knowledge.

·Get 20-years of master contractor expertise as HGTV’s Real Reno host, Jim Caruk offers up design and structure know how.

·Family Day attendees will enjoy show perks today, such as: complimentary admission for children 17 and under are free courtesy of Rogers, daycare, a visit by Bob the Builder, as well as expert advice from Meghan Telpner, Certified Nutritionist & Holistic Lifestyle Consultant.

Bahamas: Get The Inside Dish - February Newsletter

Greetings –

February is the month of romance so find out how to spoil the one you love with romantic sunsets and sensational cuisine in The Island Of The Bahamas, all without breaking the bank. And if you’re running away from Cupid’s bow, consider The Bahamas Marathon – an alternative to pounding the slushy pavement.

Enjoy!

Jessica

Running is Better in The Bahamas!

I recently had the pleasure of taking a short flight to Nassau to participate in the 2011 Marathon Bahamas.

More than 100 runners took to the streets of Nassau for the full marathon including several Canadians. There’s nothing quite like running across the bridge to Paradise Island and watching the sun come up over the gin clear waters and white sand beaches that line the coast.

I met some amazing people and made friends along my 26.2-mile (42.2 kilometres) journey to the finish line at Arawak Cay. It was a hard road, but I ran a personal best of 4:30:44 – not quite Boston Marathon worthy, but I was happy just the same. German Simone Maissenbacher took home first place with an amazing time of 03:02:39.

I was also lucky enough to be able to participate in the Susan G. Komen For The Cure 5 -kilometre race the day before the full marathon, which happened to be my birthday. I can’t think of a better place to spend it in!

It was a very well organized event and it could not have been done without the help of local policemen and women, water station volunteers and those spirit-lifting cheering sections along the way.

It was an amazing weekend and I hope to be able to do it again next year!

By Katherine Griggs

Toronto Motorcycle Show is revved up and ready to roll!

Bike enthusiasts gear up for 2011 line-up at Dec. 10-12 event

The Toronto Motorcycle Show, widely recognized as the Canadian motorcycle and ATV industries’ premier motorcycle, scooter and ATV showcase, is just a week away from offering the first public viewing of the coolest new rides for 2011. The show is the first stop on the MMIC seven-city, cross country tour where leading manufacturers and distributors offer the riding community a first glimpse of their new 2011 models, and is the only show in Ontario of its kind.

“The Toronto Motorcycle Show is the premier show of its kind. It’s the perfect venue to introduce new products to the public and the industry,” said Bob Ramsey, President of the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC). “The usual suspects like Aprilia, BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley- Davidson, Honda, Husqvarna, Hyosung, Kawasaki, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Polaris, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa, Victory, and Yamaha will be showcasing what’s new for 2011,” he added.

“Although the 2010 riding season is ending, for many enthusiasts, The Toronto Motorcycle Show signifies the beginning of the new 2011 season,” said Darryl Bond, Show Manager. “Dec. 10-12 is going to be an action-packed, family friendly weekend that will appeal to new and avid riders, women, and kids of all ages. There’s something for everyone,” he added.

New motorcycles and scooters to expect at The Toronto Motorcycle Show include:

• Yamaha Canada’s new Super Tenere, Stryker, FZ8 and Stratoliner Deluxe


• Harley Davidson’s 2011 Sportster Superlow, Road Glide Ultra, Street Glide and CVO Road Glide Ultra


• Honda’s all new 2011 CBR250R, CBR125R, CB1000RA and the debut of TRX 500
  
  
• BRP presents its new Spyder RT Limited, Spyder RS-S, Commander 1000 and Commander 800


• Canadian Kawasaki’s new Ninja ZX10R, Vulcan 1700 Vaquero and Ninja 400R
  
• Ducati’s all new Diavel musclecruiser, Multistrada and Monster 796
  
• KTM’s 990 SMT and all new 350 SX-F motocross


• Triumph’s new Tiger 800XC
  
• National Motorsports introduces the Hyosung ST7 Aquila and Zero electrics
  
• Norton 961 Sport from Norton Canada
  
• BMW introduces the all new K1600GT and GTL, G650GS and R1200R
  
• Suzuki’s new GSXR 750, TU250 Retro and totally revamped GSXR 600
  
• New Husqvarna TE449 Enduro
  
• Royal Enfield’s new Bullet Classic Military
  
• Piaggio Canada presents the Aprilia RSV4 Factory, Moto Guzzi V7 Classic, Vespa GTV300 and Piaggio three wheeled MP3 Sport.
  
  SPECIAL FEATURES
  
• SHE RIDES NITE: The Toronto Motorcycle Show presents SHE RIDES NITE on Friday, December 10 offering free admission for ladies after 5 p.m. With more women becoming involved in the sport, SHE RIDES NITE is an industry-sponsored evening for women who ride or are considering taking up the sport.
  
• Inside Motorcycle’s Winners’ Circle: Inside Motorcycles and Inside Moto-X are proud to present the first-class machinery and personalities that contribute to Canada's racing successes. Meet the fearless riders and their winning bikes, talk to skilled tuners and admire the dedication and craftsmanship that go into creating a race-winning motorcycle. Special guests include: Jordan Szoke, Doug Beattie, Steven Nickerson, Brian Wojnarowski and Bobby Kiniry. Szoke, the consecutive winner of the Canadian Superbike National Crown and the CMA National Trails Champion, will be available all weekend long for autograph signings with his winning Honda CBR1000RR and the Gas Gas Raga 300.
  
• Yamaha Riding School for Kids: Yamaha Canada and Canadian Motorcycle Training Services present a free opportunity for kids aged 6 - 12 (certain conditions apply) to learn to ride on the latest Yamaha TT-R off-road motorcycles.
  
• Riders Marketplace specials: Looking to save some cash on 2010 models and gear? With dealers anxious to clear space for new 2011 bikes and ATVs, take advantage of year-end sales incentives and rebates on bikes, aftermarket apparel and parts, accessories and protective equipment - exclusively at The Toronto Motorcycle Show.
  
• Parts Canada and Heather Ireland: Parts Canada will present seminars offering budding racers tips on how to obtain those elusive sponsorships. Meet Biker TV’s Host and female motorcycle enthusiast, Heather Ireland at the Parts Canada display.
  
• Full Throttle Theatre Celebrity Stage: The interactive seminar stage offers the latest in the racing scene and a chance for show-goers to meet the some industry celebrities. Hosted by Frank Wood, the stage offers non-stop action all weekend offering interviews, racing personalities, movies and exciting guest speakers, including: Patrick Trahan, Rene Cormier, Jordan Szoke and more!
  
• One cause, 26 countries and 60 days on a bike - Patrick Trahan: The man with a plan will be at the show to talk about his upcoming quest in support of the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada. In winter 2011, Patrick will attempt a record-setting circumnavigation of Africa, though 26 countries in 60 days on rough, remote and dangerous terrain in an attempt to raise $25,000 for kids. Visit him in the Honda Canada booth with his 2011 XR650L bike.
  
• Rene Cormier: Join the adventure as 33-year-old Canadian BMW rider Rene Cormier tells the story of how he stepped away from the corporate world, cashed in what few possessions he had to finance a $25 a day, three-year, 154,000 kilometer motorcycle trek through 41 countries. Rene will be presenting all weekend at the Full Throttle Stage.
  
• Rider Nation: Rider Nation features a variety of riding groups, associations, weekend race events, charity rides and outings that motorcyclists from all walks of life can enjoy.
  
• Memory Lane…Vintage Bikes: The Vintage Road Racing Association (VRRA) presents an exhibit of rare and well preserved racing bikes and heritage motorcycles from the past.
  
  Show Details
• Where:
  The Toronto Motorcycle Show
  South Building, Metro Toronto Convention Centre
  222 Bremner Boulevard (beside the CN Tower)
  
• When:
  Friday, December 10, 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
  Saturday, December 11, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  Sunday, December 12, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  
• Admission:
  Adults: $16.00
  Juniors (Ages 6 to 15): $10.00
  Children (under six years): Free when accompanied by an adult
  Family Pass (two adults & two juniors): $38.00
  
  The Metro Toronto Convention Centre will host The Toronto Motorcycle Show, one of seven Canadian motorcycle and ATV shows owned by the Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC) and Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV).
  
  Complete show information is available at: http://www.motorcycleshows.ca/ or http://www.sportshows.ca/.
  
  – 30 –

About CNSS
CNSS is a non-profit corporation and the largest producer of boat, fishing, sportsmen’s, ski, outdoor and motorcycle shows in Canada. Through its family of shows, the corporation raises funds to ensure that generations of young Canadians can benefit from Canada’s outdoors. Since the first show held in 1948, more than $30 million has been committed to these causes.