FEBRUARY EVENTS NEWSLETTER
Rogers Centre News, a monthly publication, is brought to you with the latest news and information on events at Rogers Centre.
LOVE IS ALWAYS IN THE AIR AT ROGERS CENTRE
February is the month of love. Automobile enthusiasts fall in love all over again in when they see the stunning array of vehicles on display at the CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL AUTOSHOW. Those with a love of baseball and patriotism eagerly await Canada’s participation in WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC. Fans of March Break love that SPRING FLING will soon have its colourful carnival up and running while skating aficionados love that a brand new DISNEY ON ICE show is waiting in the wings. Finally, sports fans love that JAMES STEWART is coming on strong for the upcoming SUPERCROSS race.
QUICKLINKS:
GREEN MEANS GO! ENVIRONMENTAL AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES ON DISPLAY THIS MONTH
ROGERS CENTRE MAKES DEBUT ON THE INTERNATIONAL BASEBALL SCENE
FLING INTO SPRING THIS MARCH BREAK
WORLDS OF FANTASY ARE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK
SUPERCROSS GETS OFF TO A ROARING GOOD START FOR THE 2009 SEASON
THE ANSWER IS CLEAR: ROCK N’ ROLL IS STILL GOING STRONG
A NEW ERA OF AUTOMOBILE ACCOLADES AWAIT AT THE 2009 CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL AUTOSHOW
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| Top Automotive Honours awarded this month in Toronto |
Honoured by the AUTOMOBILE JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION OF CANADA (AJAC), 14 vehicles now vie for the top distinction of being either the 2009 CANADIAN CAR OF THE YEAR or 2009 CANADIAN UTILITY VEHICLE OF THE YEAR. The winners will be announced at the 36th ANNUAL CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL AUTOSHOW (CIAS) arriving in lean and green style from FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 until SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22 at Rogers Centre and the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. This playground of automobile innovation and nostalgia opens daily at 10:30 a.m.
Showcasing the latest automobile advancements and eco-technologies, the 2009 CIAS, also dubbed THE NEW ERA, represents bold solutions and effective alternatives. Embracing this new reality wholeheartedly, determining the “BEST NEW” of 2009 took an intense five days of testing for the AJAC. Knowing how consumers value greener technologies, fuel-efficiency and dependability, the 14 automobiles awarded the distinction of “BEST NEW” reflect these top priorities. Winning a “BEST NEW” standing for 2009 and shortlisted to win further accolades at the 2009 CIAS, the following automobiles took top honours in these categories:
Best New Small Car (>$18K): Pontiac Vibe
Best New Family Car ($22-$30K): Mazda6
Best New Family Car (>$30K): VW Passat CC
Best New Luxury Car (>$50K): Audi A4
Best New Prestige Car: (tie) Mercedes CL 550 and SL 63
Best New Sports/Performance Car (>$50K): Lexus IS F
Best New Convertible: Audi TTS
Best New Pick-up Truck: Dodge Ram
Best New SUV/CUV ($35K-$60K): Ford Flex
Best New SUV/CUV (>$60K): Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Along with announcing AJAC's CANADIAN CAR OF THE YEAR and UTILITY VEHICLE OF THE YEAR, the 2009 BEST NEW DESIGN and BEST NEW TECHNOLOGY will be presented by Shell Canada at the CIAS. All in all, these 14 models have already made a huge impact in the industry and winning one of the four titles will be an added distinction. Consumers have long relied and trusted AJAC to determine the best of the bunch with the huge selection of automobiles on the market. Once again, AJAC gives top marks to cars, trucks and SUV’s for every need and desire of the modern consumer.
Educating car consumers and enthusiasts about the shift in automotive trends and innovations takes on a variety of forms at the 2009 CIAS. ECOTRANSPORT from TRANSPORT CANADA shares with guests green tips and alternatives to help shift into a more environmental way when driving. Information on programs offering rebates when buying fuel-efficient vehicles, the many ways technology can positively effect freight transportation, sustainable transportation options and how technology will further impact the future of driving are a few of the discoveries guests can make at this booth.
While looking forward at THE NEW ERA is critical for transportation of the future, there is always time for nostalgia at CIAS. Vintage hot rods and other classic cars show off vivid paint jobs and souped-up engines that are a marked contrast to the electric hybrids of today. Taking a spin down memory lane, CORVETTE! and the CLASSICS COLLECTION shows us where the automobile came from and how far it has come.
A treasured event that covers 850,000 square feet of display space, presents over 1,000 vehicles in the Canadian market and continues to educate and entertain, the 2009 CIAS steers guests into the automotive future this February.
Tickets for the event are on sale at the Ticketmaster Box Office, Rogers Centre - Gate 7, as well as on-site at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre during the event. Tickets are priced at $20.00 for adults, $7.00 for children (ages 7 – 12) and $40.00 for a Family Pass (2 adults and 2 children). Purchases can only be made via cash and credit card transactions. Groups of 20 or more can purchase their tickets directly via e-mail or by calling 416-341-2255 to speak with a Group Sales Representative.
For more information on the 2009 Canadian International AutoShow, please visit the official website.
2009 WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC STARTS OFF IN DRAMATIC FASHION WITH TEAM CANADA PLAYING TEAM U.S.A.
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| From far and wide, World Baseball Classic captures international interest |
International host cities will set the stage for the first round of the WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC and all eyes will be on Toronto in early March. Rogers Centre has the distinction of being one of four cities to host opening round games from SATURDAY, MARCH 7 until WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 starting with a 2:00 p.m. showdown between Team Canada and Team U.S.A. As participants in Pool C action, Canada and the United States are joined by TEAM ITALIA and TEAM VENEZUELA who will each play three games apiece in order to determine who advances to Round Two.
The World Baseball Classic got its start in March 2006 to the delight of fans and baseball lovers across the globe. Fans had the opportunity to watch MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL players, and other well known professional players from various leagues, leave their team jerseys behind in order to don their national colours. Comprised of 16 international teams, playing a round-robin format, the games were a testament to the patriotism and talent of the players. TEAM JAPAN, led by SADAHARU OH, won the Classic and became the first champions in this inaugural event.
Japan is back to participate in the second World Baseball Classic and defend their title against the competition. All 16 teams who participated in the 2006 Classic have signed on to show the world their talent. Once again, 39 intensity-filled games will be played with 480 participants from around the world.
TEAM CANADA has home-field advantage playing at Rogers Centre and under the guidance of manager ERNIE WHITT plan to take advantage of the home crowd to improve on their finish from 2006. Showing skill and adaptability in 2006, Canada scored a win against SOUTH AFRICA and a momentous upset win against Team U.S.A. Unfortunately, they did not advance to the second round and this year have that as a team goal each time they take a swing or toss a pitch.
Optimistic Canada is focused and ready to show their talents. The provisional roster is highlighted by Blue Jays pitcher SCOTT RICHMOND, Twins infielder JUSTIN MORNEAU and and WORLD SERIES champion MATT STAIRS. Canada makes its WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC 2009 debut against Team U.S.A. on Saturday, March 7 at 2:00 p.m. At 8:00 p.m. Team Italia battles Team Venezuela. Bring your national flags, wear your team's colours, and help support your hometown team to victory.
Single game tickets are now on sale via phone and online orders. Fans can call locally at 416-341-1234 or toll-free at 1-888-654-6529. Individual game and six-game packages are available. Groups are encouraged to contact 416-341-1188 to place their orders.
KIDS HAVE FIVE FULL PLAY DAYS OF CARNIVAL FUN AT SPRING FLING
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| Kids will play all day with the carnival fun of Spring Fling |
Wondering what to do when March Break rolls around? Checking long-term weather forecasts and debating the merits of taking a trip or staying in the GTA? Rogers Centre eases the pressure of March Break planning with a SPRING FLING carnival perfect for family fun and lasting memories. The indoor, daylong carnvial fun runs MONDAY, MARCH 16 until FRIDAY, MARCH 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
Young children, and adults alike, have a full day of excitement in store with 18 rides, midway games and carnival treats. Classic favourites like the MERRY-GO-ROUND, HANG GLIDER and SCRAMBLER whirl and twirl excited youngsters around and the indoor location leaves weather worries behind. Without having to stay bundled up, kids will be able to take part in the fun of the brightly coloured SUPER SLIDE and the FERRIS WHEEL while staying warm and cozy inside Rogers Centre. And with an ALL-DAY RIDE TICKET, kids can take multiple turns on their favourite rides.
The return of the CUCKOO HAUS is guaranteed to bring some spooky fun to the day. Spread over two floors, it takes a sure-footed courageous person to make it through.
March Break gets a boost with a week of indoor carnival fun guaranteed to entertain and delight. Head down to Rogers Centre to get a jump start on spring and create some family memories at the same time.
Tickets are currently on sale via all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre - Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Tickets are priced at $10.00 for a No Ride Ticket, $17.00 for an All-Day Ride Ticket (2 years +) and $30.00 for an All-Week Ride Pass (2 years +). Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.
For more information on the event, please visit the official website.
NEW DISNEY ON ICE – WORLDS OF FANTASY USES FAIRY MAGIC TO MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE
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| A dash of fairy magic creates Worlds of Fantasy |
An ample dash of pixie dust brings a host of Disney characters to life in the brand-new DISNEY ON ICE – WORLDS OF FANTASY show. Waving her magical wand, TINKER BELL enlists the double axel talents of her DISNEY FAIRIES, THE LITTLE MERMAID, THE LION KING, CARS and everyone’s favourites MICKEY and MINNIE MOUSE in this fun and fantasy-filled spectacular. This evening of visual splendor and imagination takes place at Rogers Centre from WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 until SUNDAY, MARCH 22 over multiple performance.
The flutter of tiny fairy wings will send a delightful whoosh through the audience as the show gets underway. PIXIE HOLLOW figures prominently in the four fun-filled classic and current DISNEY stories adapted for the ice. This magical wooded area, housed deep in the heart of NEVER LAND, introduces fans to TINKER BELL’s home and gives them a chance to see the DISNEY FAIRIES live for the first time. Flying and gliding across the ice the mucky March weather will be a distant memory as the audience is transported to the springtime of PIXIE HOLLOW.
If fairies flying over the ice will take your breath away, imagine LIGHTENING MCQUEEN, TOW MATER and the crew from CARS performing their own icy tricks! Built-to-scale electric models bring CARS to life as they freewheel around on the frozen highway of RADIATOR SPRINGS, burning rubber as they go. After their jumps and spins, they may be able to give MICKEY and MINNIE MOUSE a hand with the finicky MICKEY ROADSTER. The colourful, vintage buggy makes an entrance early on in the show as the famous mice take off on a road trip, but a series of mechanical problems leave them without wheels. It is their good fortune to stumble across RADIATOR SPRINGS and the mechanical expertise of the CARS crew.
Along with visiting RADIATOR SPRINGS and PIXIE HOLLOW, both MICKEY and MINNIE have the chance to take in the wild beauty of the LION KING savannah and the wet and wonderful lagoon from THE LITTLE MERMAID. In fact, MICKEY and MINNIE may have such a good time skating with the wildebeest stampede in the savannah or trying out layback spins with ARIEL, FLOUNDER and SEBASTIAN they won’t want to head home.
See for yourself if MICKEY and MINNIE decide to stay with their new friends at one of the Disney On Ice – Worlds of Fantasy performances. A breathtaking delight of visuals, stellar choreography and magic, this is a show not to be missed. Getting her hands on some extra pixie dust, Tinker Bell has worked her magic and as a special bonus, guests are invited to arrive up to one hour early and see a dazzling display of Disney Princess gowns.
Tickets go on-sale to the general public beginning February 14 via all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre - Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Tickets are priced at $15.00, $26.00, $39.00, $65.00 (VIP) and $90.00 (Rinkside). Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.
Visit Disney’s official website for additional details.
NEW DRAMA AND CHALLENGES HAS SUPERCROSS 2009 FLYING OFF THE HANDLE WITH SUSPENSE
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| Chad Reed keeps working hard to defend his title at Supercross 2009 |
Only one month into the 2009 season of MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS and the drama is already at full throttle. With a season opener that saw a SUPERCROSS rookie take top spot over consistent champions JAMES STEWART and CHAD REED, 2009 is shaping up to be a dramatic and eventful year. Fans will be in overdrive on SATURDAY, MARCH 28 when SUPERCROSS comes to Rogers Centre for a memorable day of racing. Qualifying sessions start the day at 12:30 p.m. building up to race finals starting at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 3 was the start of a drama-filled season in Supercross. The first race of the year took place in Anaheim and with Supercross powerhouses STEWART and REED predicted to come out on top, it was to the surprise of everyone attending that rookie JOSH GRANT rode away with the win. To the amazement of the crowd, STEWART and REED crashed into each other on lap six while trading positions for the lead. STEWART, sidelined in early 2008 with a knee injury, was forced to sit out while REED continued on to a third place finish.
All the while, rookie GRANT remained focused, used the race upset to his advantage and managed to create a 12 second lead over the next 10 laps. His win not guaranteed due to a rear braking issue, GRANT managed to pull himself, and his bike, together to cross the finish line and win his first career Supercross race. Certainly considered an unexpected win to all those in attendance, the win was skillfully handled and proved GRANT is a rider to watch this season.
The following Saturday in Phoenix, STEWART and REED returned to dominate the track taking the top two spots on the podium. GRANT continued to impress, placing third against these racing titans.
Back in Anaheim on Saturday, January 17, STEWART proved once again why he is the master of the track, deftly maneuvering his way through the field from fifth to first to claim victory. REED also proved that he knew how to overcome traffic on the race course as he worked hard to finish second after starting in 20th place. GRANT stumbled slightly, finishing fifth, but he showed the crowds that his strong start to the season comes from his racing talents and not blind luck.
If these dramatic first races are any indication of how the season will go, Rogers Centre will be filled with tension and excitement when Supercross makes a stop in March. The competitors are showing immense skill on a track that has proven unpredictable and unforgivable in 2009 and only time and skill will determine the clear winner of the season.
Tickets for the event, ranging in price from $45.00 and $25.00 for adults and $15.00 for children 12 years and under, are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Rogers Centre – Gate 7, charge by phone at 416-870-8000 or online. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Group Sales Office via e-mail.
THE ANSWER LEND THEIR HARD ROCK LICKS TO AC/DC BLACK ICE WORLD TOUR
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| The Answer rocked Rogers Centre |
If fans questioned whether the opening act could rock just as hard as their beloved AC/DC it only took the first few strains of the opening chords to give them THE ANSWER. This hot Irish foursome brought their hard rock and blues sound to the Rogers Centre stage on Friday, January 9 warming up the crowd with a memorable performance at the concert of the year.
Taking the stage in advance of such legendary icons as AC/DC would be daunting for most but these performers, predicted by HMV to make it big in 2009, took it in stride. Invited by AC/DC to join them on the BLACK ICE WORLD TOUR, lead vocalist CORMAC NEESON, lead guitar PAUL MAHON, bass guitarMICHAEL WATERS and drummer JAMES HEATLEY knew this was an opportunity of a lifetime. The opportunity to observe one of the best live acts in the business, and hone their own stage skills, was too great to pass up. An enthusiastic “yes” later and the band were part of the tour.
THE ANSWER got together in 2000 when guitarist MAHON wanted to put together a rock group. After recruiting friends and fellow musicians, THE ANSWER became a live act that rocked Ireland, Europe and now, North America. Their classic rock inspired sound has drawn comparisons to LED ZEPPELIN and with a solid commitment to pure rock n’ roll and some killer guitar licks, THE ANSWER are gaining a wide fan base across the pond.
The show on January 9 was no exception, and the band tore through their six song, 30 minute set. NEESON engaged the crowd with his witty banter and Irish charm and at the end of their set, had the maximum-capacity audience wanting more.
And more is what THE ANSWER intends to roll out for fans. A third album, EVERYDAY DEMONS, is pending release and both the band and fans are excited to hear the new tracks. Releasing their first album RISE in 2006, the band quickly garnered praise and press for their sound. The album went on to sell 30,000 copies in the UK and Europe and when it was released in Japan, sold 10,000 copies on the first day. This impressive first-time outing kept them on the touring circuit and adding to their momentum.
Capturing their growth and maturity as a band, their latest offering EVERYDAY DEMONS channels pure energy, angst and above all, rock n’ roll. Grit and introspection figures prominently in the new disc while still maintaining the band’s distinctive guitar snarls and vocal wails.
With their participation in a world-wide tour, new album ready to drop and a song featured in the next GUITAR HERO game, it’s safe to say that any predictions HMV made about 2009 being the year for THE ANSWER are likely to come true.