Meet the Finalists

Dreams Take Flight
Dreams Take Flight Winnipeg’s goal is to provide a once in a
lifetime opportunity for physically, mentally or socially challenged children to be “a child for a day in Disney World”.
Air Canada donates the aircraft, Shell fuels the flight to
Orlando, and other businesses donate their services and
products. Fundraising takes place throughout the year to
cover other expenses. Air Canada employees and members of the community donate
their time year round to raise the funds, plan the adventure, and make this a memorable
day for special children from Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
YOU BE THE JUDGE!
Each ticket holder will have a token to cast their vote. In order to increase your voting
power, you may purchase gold stars which will give you 5 additional voting tokens per
star. Representatives will be walking throughout the event selling the gold stars.
Air Canada Dreams
Idol Event Itinerary
7:00pm - Doors open to the public
8:15pm - Introduction by Beverly Watson, President of Dreams Take Flight
8:30pm - Idol Judge Suzanne Mariani opens the show
8:40pm - Contestants 1- 7 perform
9:30pm - Food and Live Auction of Jacuzzi Hot Tub hosted by Laurie Mustard
10:00pm - Maria Aragon opens 2nd half of show; Contestants 8 - 15 perform
11:00pm - Silent auction winners announced
11:30pm - Voting for Dreams Idol Winner
12:00am - Dreams Idol Winner Announced
12:00am - 1:00am - After Party (Music by Nu Frequency)
Hosted by:
&
Energy 106’s Frankie Hollywood
CTV’s Maralee Caruso
Meet the Judges...
Tracy Koga
Tracy Koga is senior producer for arts and entertainment on Shaw
TV, she is the host and producer for “Backstage” that covers all
the great shows, events and celebrity outings in our city. Tracy’s 12
years of experience in television has brought great opportunities for
interviews and to travel from Israel to Churchill Manitoba! She is
currently seen Monday nights @ 8pm on Shaw TV nationally as host
and executive producer of “Urban Star” and is most excited to be part
of the media team going on Dreams Take Flight 2012 !
Flo
Flo is a Canadian R & B phenomenon from Winnipeg, Manitoba, She’s
graced the stage at many a festival and concert with the likes of Boys
II Men, 112, Burton Cummings and this May, will open for superstar
songstress, Lauryn Hill. Flo was born to shine. Without hearing her
sing a single note, one knows she is a lady, a queen. Strong and intelligent, the chocolate-honey alto that comes so naturally to her sends
her audiences soaring. Her melodies ring in your mind for days. Flo
is emotion and truth juxtaposed. Her musical style is firmly rooted in
R&B, with generous infusions of soul, jazz, and a hint of pop.
Meet the Judges...
Suzanne Mariani
Self taught Canadian singer who discovered her talents took her on
the stage with Celine Dion in 1996. Suzanne has performed for audiences over 3 thousand in Las Vegas, and performed at our own Pan
American Games, She has co-written songs with Grammy nominee
I.E. Freshie, along with a cool and the Gang member and Earth wind
and fire. Suzanne has ventured in films as well including a film with
Dan Akroid and other Winnipeg film projects. In New York - Kenny
Kramer, The original Kramer of “Seinfeld” said this about her: “Great
Voice, Great talent, a success story about to happen… giddy up!!
Laurie Mustard
Laurie Mustard: Born in Killarney, Manitoba middle of the last century, moved to Winnipeg in 1957 (St. James), actually attended school
(Linwood, St. James Collegiate and U of W - theatre major); worked
in the media for 35 years - radio, television, newspaper. Loves: his
wife Marly, their 3 children, 5 grandchildren, plethora of pets, and his
shedfull of classic cars. Just completed a couple of tv/movie projects
and is looking forward to having some fun as a member of CAPS (Canadian Association of Profesional Speakers). Long time fan/supporter
of phenomenal charity - Air Canada Dreams Take Flight!
Meet the Judges...
Maria Aragon
Since the age of seven, Maria Lourdes Aragon has been posting videos of numerous music covers on Youtube. Only a day after posting
her 72nd video - a cover of Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” - Maria
caught the eye of the Fame Monster herself. On March 3rd, 2011
Maria and Lady Gaga performed a duet of the popular hit; not once,
but twice, for a sold out concert of over 20,000 screaming fans in
Toronto. Since then, the 11 year old has caught the attention of fans
worldwide resulting in her cover of Born This Way being the eighth
most downloaded video in the history of the internet with over 100 million downloads.
Meet the Finalists...
Amanda Ruiz
My name is Amanda Joy Ruiz and I am a 24 year old registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital, working on the pediatric burns and surgical unit. I have been singing since
the age of 3, and I enjoy performing in front of crowds and
making audience members smile; similarly, at work, I love
singing for the kids and putting smiles on their faces, despite of all the pain and hardships that they are currently
encountering. I would like to win Air Canada Dreams Idol
because, as a child, it has always been my dream to travel, explore the world, and learn about different cultures
and traditions. As a newer nurse with a limited budget, winning Air Canada Dreams
Idol, would provide me the opportunity to further explore various destinations within the
world, while raising funds to help less fortunate children fulfill
their dreams to experience the magic of Disneyworld.
Meet the Finalists...
Emma Cloney
Hi, I’m Emma Cloney and I am a 28 year old mother of
two little girls and a nursing student at the University of
Manitoba. I have been a singer/songwriter for as long as
I can remember and have always used music as a way to
express myself. Singing allows me to reach out and share
a part of myself with the world that might otherwise stay
hidden amidst my busy life as a mom and student. I am
fortunate to have had the opportunity to perform by original music all across Canada, with songs from my debut
album featured on CBC Radio and stations across Canada/
USA and Ireland. It is an honour to be selected to perform for Dreams Idol, and I am
grateful for the opportunity to share my gifts for the benefit of deserving children. The
opportunity to be chosen, as the winner of Dreams Idol would be an amazing affirmation
that talent and beauty can come in any shape, any size, at any age, or in any station in
life. Staying true to myself and sharing my passion with the masses. I can’t wait to sing
for you all in March 10th!
Elsaida Alerta
My names Elsaida Alerta, I am 25 years old. I have been
singing since I was a little girl. I’ve entered various competitions, & sang at many charity events. I am currently a
student at the University Of Manitoba and a part time bartender & karaoke Host at the limelight tavern. I was in the
top 200 in Canadian Idol in 2003, First Grand champion in
a filipino community singing contest call Pinoy Pop Star
2010, & hopefully be crowned the first Dreams Idol. I’m
so excited to be part of this event not only to showcase
my talent but to also fundraise & support Dreams Take
Flight to make wishes & dreams come true! I feel this competition will not only be a
challenge but also a learning experience for me. Becoming the potential
winner would be such an honor especially competing against 14 other
talented contestants.
Meet the Finalists...
Keegan Robins
My name is Keegan Robins. I have loved singing since I
was a young child. If I could I would just sing all the time
instead of talking. I used to sing in voice lessons and I
used to compete in competitions. I miss singing on stage
so much. My most joyfullest times in my life is when I
am in the spotlight pouring out my all, I could not be any
happier. One of my dreams is that a famous music artist
will hear me and my name would be out there. Choose me
to let my dream come true! If I win I would love to go to
Disney World in Florida. I was there a long time ago when
I was really little, and I would love to relive that trip again.
Joseph Ballesteros
Salutations! My name is Joseph Ballesteros, I was born
and raised in Winnipeg but people tell me I’m out of this
world so I don’t know what to believe anymore. I guess I
could say I’ve been singing ever since I was born because
that’s basically how someone would describe me when
I perform: just a lot of ear piercing screaming and a lot
of tears.. from the audience. I feel truly privileged being
a part of the Dreams Take Flight event, knowing that I’m
entrusted to give the best performance I’ve ever given for
a cause that is much larger than this competition. Coming
out of this a winner would just be an extra cherry on top of an already fantastic gourmet
low fat, chocolate waffle enveloped, crushed kit kat sprinkled, strawberry ice cream
sundae.. with a fortune cookie.
Meet the Finalists...
Marie Wheeler
Born in England into a musical family, I began singing in
my school choir at the early age of five. Motivated by my
love of singing, I gained further experience while taking
dance, drama, and voice classes at the age of 12 after
moving to Canada. It was only recently that I began to
break out of my shell after joining alternative rock band
Split Crooked, bringing my RnB flavour to the group. I feel
very honoured to be chosen as a finalist for the Energy
106 Dreams Take Flight Idol competition, and I am very
excited to be given the opportunity to shine. I would be
thrilled to be the Energy 106 Dreams Take Flight Idol winner, but even if I do not win,
I would still come away from the competition feeling like I won, just by having the opportunity to be a part of it all!
Maxine Peters
At 21 years old, Winnipeg’s Maxine Peters is on her way up
in her music career. Throughout 2010, she started playing
locally, then took her act down south to Nashville in early
2011. In Nashville she had the opportunity to perform,
write, and record with industry professionals. After touring
the Midwest United States, Maxine is back in Manitoba
and excited to move forward with her music. Her songs
are honest, fun, and full of emotion, perfectly delivered by
her surprisingly big, sweet-yet-soulful voice. I’m so excited to be a part of this competition! It’s great that our
performances help send a plane full of deserving kids to Disneyworld. Honestly, I’m
mostly excited to just be a part of this, and be able to sing for people who don’t know
me. If I was to win, I would be so thrilled, and would probably use of the tickets to fly to
Nashville or Ohio, and finish recording my EP (which has been put on hold momentarily).
Either way, I feel honoured to have been selected as a finalist.
Meet the Finalists...
Kayla Lauzon
Hi! My name is Kayla Lauzon, I am 21 years old and I love
to sing! It has been one of my passions ever since I could
remember. I started singing at the age of 9 in many competitions, talent shows, weddings, and local community
events. I am currently taking my Bachelor of Nursing at
the UofM. I hope to one day pursue my dream as a singer,
but like they say, “Good things come to those who wait”
so my chance might still be out there for me. I am originally from Barwick, Ontario but I am new to Winnipeg for
school. I am very excited to be in Winnipeg’s Dreams Take
Flight competition because it’s for such a good cause, plus I want to show people what
I can do! Good luck to all the other contestants!
Robyn Gel
From putting on concerts for my teddy bears, to completing the highest level of Musical Theater at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, music has and always will be a major part
of my life. Music can heal, music evokes emotion, music
can give you hope and the strength to overcome, music
makes you wanna get up and dance. My love for music
first evolved with my love of Disney movies. Belting out
Part Of Your World with Ariel, or learning a very valuable
phrase from the Lion King “Hakuna Matata”. I was very
fortunate as a child to have been able to visit Disneyland. I
feel every child should have the opportunity to experience its magic. I am so privileged
to be able to be a part of the Air Canada Dreams Take Flight fundraiser, and to be able
to do that with music, makes it that much more special. Singing is my passion, and I am
excited to get on that stage for a great cause, and be your next Air Canada Dreams Idol!
Meet the Finalists...
Reynalyne Mae Gacilan
Reynalyne is 14 years old and she’s been singing, playing
piano and performing since the age of 3. Her love of music and her talent encouraged her to perform at Universal
Studios and audition for Broadway. Her drive to succeed in
music is also mirrored with her drive to succeed in swimming.
She joined Air Canada Dreams Idol competition to share
her talent and to be a part of this fundraising event which
allows others to experience a dream of a lifetime.
Jesse Baris
My name is Jesse James Baris. 25, and currently an Educational Assistant and supervisor at a school and also
working in retail. On my off time I love to draw, sing and
dance. I love sharing my talent of singing. And of course
making a difference with it. I’ve even gone as far as creating a Glee Club in the city. We do non profit events to help
others in need while sharing what we love to showcase
the most. Our talent of singing. the quote I associate with
the group is “changing the world, one note at a time.” I’ve
being singing ever since I can remember. And there’s no
stopping me anytime soon. Whether a party, a concert, or just in the shower.. I just love
singing so much. Winning this competition would be great. I’d love to see outside Winnipeg and experience other wonders out there. On top of that, it’s like the quote I use with
my glee club. To still make a difference even through competition is such a great feeling
too. Win or lose, I still can win with the feeling of making that difference. As corny as
that may seem. I really mean it. Lastly, to represent Winnipeg is also pretty cool. Singing
for a reason makes everything seem that much better!!
Meet the Finalists...
Seun Olagunja
Singing is fun and therapeutic. Everybody should sing. It
can put you in a good mood when you’re down, or it can
let you feel your temporary melancholy so that you can
eventually release it. I sang in the school choir in elementary, and I sang in the choir at church when I was really
young. Then at random karaoke events for birthday parties
and random fun times. Sometimes I drop choruses for my
Hip Hop affiliates. Now I’m here singing for a good cause
so hey why not. It’s a whole different ball game singing in
front of camera by yourself rather than in front of a live
crowd. But there’s no escape for me now so here we go!
Shayna Paulicelli
Shayna’s love for music and singing started from the day
she could talk. She has been involved in musical theatre
for the past 12 years and continues her passion to perform
today. She is currently in her final year at the University
of Winnipeg, majoring in Theatre and Film. Shayna has
performed for fundraisers such as the Museum of Human
Rights and the Japan Earthquake relief. She has been in
multiple singing competitions but the Air Canada Dreams
Idol is special because it is all about giving kids who live
with different challenges one special day of beautiful
memories.
Meet the Finalists...
Sommer Dunn
My name is Sommer Dunn. When asked why I want to win
this contest… why do I? All I know is this…when I sing
for my friends and family, I see the joy and sometimes
sadness (due to my genre.Lol)in their eyes. Whether I am
the best singer that ever lived…probably not…lol. But to
them I am. So, for them, my friends and family that mean
the world to me I would love to give back to them the love
and support they have shown me. In particular If I happen
to win the Air Canada Dreams Idol Vacation. I would love to
share it with my Mother, Joanne Watts, Director of Development for the Manitoba Theater for Young People. Who as a single mother has shown
me to be strong, independent and believe in myself…therefor I send you this video of
me bearing all. Thank You for this opportunity, I hope you enjoy.
Leanne Nacionales
Where to start.. I’m a newly thrown in to the lions mouth;
single mother of 3 beautiful children. I’ve always known
myself to be a strong women but with life’s little surprises
it takes us for a loop sometimes and for the first time I was
down on my knees, not knowing where to go or what to
do in my present situation. My kids were my breath they
were savior and they kept me sane. Along with my kids
were family and my passion for singing. A family member
advised me to touch back into music and there I would
find happiness as they once remembered me being. As
far as I can remember I was either humming or singing a tune so naturally I became a
performer and soon became a student of theatre. The passion I had for music was 2nd
nature. Through music I’ve filled my home and my heart with love and laughter and
I found myself. Slowly but surely. So I hope through this contest people will see that
even in your darkest hour you will always pull through. It’s the hardships that make us
stronger and open to all of the good things in life. For myself; I want to express that
through my voice. So thank you to everyone at Energy 106 for this great opportunity
and experience!!
Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Dreams Take Flight Thanks all our
Air Canada Dreams Idol Sponsors
Air Canada
Canad Inns
Energy 106
NU Frequency
Media Integration
CTV News
Staples
BW Imaging
Sign Express
Geoff and Regan Archambault
Century 21
Fluid Isometrics
Belgian Alliance Credit Union
Suzanne Mariani/Remax
Once Upon a Child
FABCA LTD.
Hilary Druxman Jewelry
The Keg
Colors for Hair
Epicure
Inn at the Forks
Shooters Golf Centre
High Tea Bakery
Rickis
Piston Ring
Mona Lisa Restaurant
Art Beat
Vickar Community Chevrolet
Ten Spa & Hotel Fort Garry
The Bay – St.Vital
Dr. Gary Levine
20/20 Eye Care
La Collection
Bill Knight Carpet
Kathy Blacker Family
Bombers
Turquoise Sand
Moxies – Regent
Caddy Shed
Bentleys
Crocs
The Shami
Boston Pizza
Harwood Floors
Famous Players
Sandman Hotel
Fairfield Hotel
Kern Hill
Royal Sports
Tommy’s Welding
Krevco Ltd.
Deluca’s
Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Country Charm
Celebrations
Lacosse Gallery
Assiniboine Credit Union
Safeway
Dr. Tim Dumore
CBC
Taco Bell
Starbucks – Pembina
ABB
AMICI
Marble Slab Creamery
Smittys – Meadowood
Banville and Jones
Magic Room – St. Mary’s
Josef Ryan Jewelers
CAA
Perths
LCL Spas
My Style Sense
Rumors
Man Art Group
River Grove Chiropractic
Walmart – Leila
Tim Hortons – McPhillips
Maples Dance Academy
Tomboy Tools
Collett Communicators
Thomson Funeral Home
Place Louis Riel
Pole Fit
Raber Gloves
Cora’s
Shaw TV
Eastern Sales
Avon
Sugar Bare
Total She
Shear Style
City Jewelers
Quintex
Valent
BCME
Lug
Tonic Spa and Hair
G and L Sales
Western Gloves
Assante Wealth
Tiber River
Dreams Take Flight Thanks all our
Air Canada Dreams Idol Sponsors
Scotia Bank – Garden City
Metamorphosis Spa & Salon
Royal Canadian Mint
Green Acres Funeral Home
Richulu Manufacturing
Birchwood Galleries
River City Ink and Steel
Tupperware- Valerie Huard
Couture Capital Grou
Sunova Credit Union – Garden City
Walter Janzen Photography
Southbeach Hotel
Dr. McFarlane
Over the Top Handbags
Daddy’s Girl
Jacuzzi Manitoba
Mona Lisa Florists
Mordens Chocolates
Neptune Fisheries
InDecor
Mega Sale
Pilates Manitoba
A Dream Wedding
Herbal Market
Harley Davidson
Cosmopolitan Florist
True North
Winnipeg Winter ClubLori Mann
Boeing Canada
Art Junction
Gags Unlimited
Laurie Gretchman
Patrick Beal Gemologist
Sargent Sundae
Camelot Introductions
Sweetness Buffet
Transcona Optimist
Canadian Event
Production Services
Rumors Comedy Club
Stephen Douglas
Photography
Thermography Clinic
Ichiban
Passion Parties