TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 21, 2009) -
Attention Entertainment Editors
Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this Press Release.
Following 70 regional competitions and a star-studded
National Final on October 19th at the famed Concert Hall in the
Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Jeanne Rodrigue of Kamloops, British Columbia was
named Chartwell's 2009 Senior Star.
It was a difficult decision for celebrity judges Gordie
Tapp, Tim Louis and Dan Clancy all well-known performers who have each made
their own impact on the Canadian music and television industry. First runner-up
Dan Minor hails from Surrey, British Columbia and the second runner-up, 90 year
old Paul Rosa, is from Toronto, Ontario.
"The opportunity to compete at a national level with such a
talented group of finalists is without doubt one of the most exciting
opportunities I've had in my musical pursuits," said winner Jeanne Rodrigue.
"Music has always been an important part of my life and participating in
Chartwell's Senior Star has given me the occasion to challenge myself in a new
and exciting way."
Accompanied by The Laura Lynn Band, Jeanne dazzled the crowd
with a mesmerizing rendition of "Lady is a Tramp." Judge Gordie Tapp commented
that he'd worked personally with Ella Fitzgerald and "I don't know if Ella
delivered it that well." Host Dinah Christie referred to Jeanne as a
"powerhouse."
The 10 finalists each qualified in regional Senior Star
competitions held across Canada last June. The National Final was hosted by the
talented Dinah Christie and featured some of the best senior performers in
Canada.
"Senior Star has grown to be the largest celebration of
seniors' talent in Canada," said Brent Binions, President and CEO of Chartwell
Seniors Housing REIT. "When you witness the performances of these participants,
you realize how much incredible senior talent exists across Canada and how
eager they are to share their gift."
"Jeanne has an incredible voice and stage presence proving
that talent has no 'best before' date," added Phil McKenzie, Executive Vice
President of Marketing and Public Relations. "All of our performers shatter
traditional misconceptions about slowing down in ones' later years."
Chartwell Seniors Housing REIT is Canada's leading provider
of high quality seniors housing offering a full spectrum of care. Chartwell
operates and manages retirement residences and long-term care homes across
North America.
Additional photos are available upon request. A full list
of finalists can be found at www.chartwellreit.ca.
To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link:
http://www.marketwire.com/library/20091021-CREITwinnerLG.jpg