What's Up Yukon, February 10, 2005

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Hey Kids!

Collect your Yukon Quest Trading Cards Throughout this magazine

What’s Inside What’s Happening Frostbite Page The Editor’s Page Page Attention Span Page Beer Buzz Page Next Stage Page Yukon Rainbow Page Dining Fine Page Recipe Page

Arts and Culture Ivan Zenovitch Stage In Motion From the Art Cool Threads Audio Borealis Reel Yukon Destinations

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Sports and Recreation Yukon Quest Page 1 Play Makers Page 2 Canada Games Page 3 Walkabout Page 4 Yukon Wild Gamer Page 5 Yukon Night Lights Page 6

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February 10, 2005

What’s Up, Yukon?

Frostbite brings music from all over the world

Page 2

It’s the Thrill on the Hill

Love is in the Air

667-7177 307 Main St. www.plantationflowersandgifts.com

Brenda Barnes knows that the best way to get rid of cold is to get lots of bed rest. But the Frostbite Music Festival begins Friday, Feb. 11, and she is its producer.

But, two weeks ago, it was Day 12 of her cold and the list of her emails (the ones that arrived before the server crashed) is long and unread. And she had just learned Frostbite’s offices will soon be homeless along with the Whitehorse Youth Centre and Bringing Youth Toward Equality.

But she is excited to talk about the line up that the search committee pulled together with the help of a Canada Council grant. It was an exercise that took her to the Winnipeg Folk Festival and the Vancouver Folk Music Festival. Meanwhile, David Prodan, the artistic director, went to Evolve! in Nova Scotia’s Pictou County.

The Canada Council grant made it possible for the committee to decide on a “chase list” that just happens to coincide with Barnes’ “wish list”: “I’ve always wanted to get her,” she says of Carolyn Mark, a guest performer. “She is one of the best singer/song writers in Canada.”

Mark is an “Alt-Country Diva”, says Barnes. And she is no stranger to the Yukon, having played the Dawson City Music Festival a number of times.

Two Locations to serve you

2190 2nd Ave. 212 Main Street 668-6889 393-5000

Po’Girl is another act that Barnes is looking forward to.

The five-piece band is coming up early to perform in Dawson City and Haines Junction. Barnes describes its music as “modernday minstrel, hobo lullabies and sometimes its songs are about bad things that happen to good people”.

Trish Klein, of Po’Girl, will also take part in a “Banjoff”, says Barnes, smiling at the quirky name. She joins Whitehorse’s Kim Barlow; Rae Spoon, a 22-year-old from Alberta who plays in the vein of Woody Guthrie and Hank Williams; and Daniel Koulack, Carolyn Mark is performing at Frostbite a Juno Award-winning claw The Frostbite Music Festival Amber Swift is another hammer banjo player. returns to “The Hill” for performer Barnes is looking Barnes also gets to finally meet the second year following a forward to hearing: “Nobody has her “Email Pal”, Andy White: flirtation with other venues. ever seen anything like her up “He’s a lovely person; I’m looking Barnes says the combination of here. forward to meeting Yukon College’s gymnasium and “She is fiercely him.”

Carpentry Shop with the Yukon independent and White is from “It’s uber-political, not afraid to Arts Centre keeps the action Australia and central. in-your-face fun.” put her politics first heard about “From a spiritual sense, it’s out there – food Frostbite from about what’s happening off the politics, sexual Steve Slade – “The stage and engendering a sense of politics. most excellent ambassador for community.

“It’s uber-political, in-your-face Yukon music,” says Barnes – the “It allows us to reconnect fun.” last time he was Outside. Then with our community of friends This year’s Frostbite will attempt White ran into Allison Russell, of and that is important to our something different. Barnes says Po’Girl, when they both appeared audience.”

Sunday night will be “All Star in Paris.

It’s important to the performers, Night”.

“They got to talking,” Barnes as well. Barnes says the The Vanier Jazz Band will picks up the story, “and decided Yukon Arts Centre is the only be fronted by a rotation of to make their debut as a duo at professional venue in the Yukon performers while Mark will lead Frostbite.” and “performing on that stage the Roots Festival All Stars.

Afterward, they will go to is a right of passage and an On that same night, BYTE has Atlin, BC, to participate in a indication they are on that teamed up with Frostbite to offer song-writing circle. Slade had ladder.” a Youth Talent Showcase. It will organized it and may spin it into A full program of events can be feature winners from the Battle a festival. found at www.frostbitefest.ca. of the Bands.

THE EDITOR’S PAGE I’m just saying …

An editorial by Darrell Hookey Dennis Fentie is the premier of the Yukon and watches over an annual budget of $550 million … but I don’t care about that.

I do care that he likes to play Bridge and, before he lost most of his free time to that government job thingy of his, he played hockey and coached a minor team.

You see, I am the new editor of a new magazine that is devoted to fun – not politics … fun. We write about fun things in a fun way. A bridge in Dawson City is not fun so I don’t care about it. Likewise, vet colleges are not fun. I do care, however, that our children have a quality education system … but I will worry about that on my own time because forty hours a week it is my job to show Northerners how to have fun.

So, what do we have to offer the North? Well, for one thing, we are publishing bi-weekly (for now). That means we can put everything that is happening within the next couple of weeks into one magazine. Handy, eh?

And we have a core of columnists who are enthusiastic and well placed and anxious to show off their own corners of fun.

The first person I hired was Bill Polonsky. He has seen and written about the concert scene in Vancouver, but he loves the small venues of the north. He will be sharing his insights in Next Stage.

Everybody knows James Cackette from his CBC Radio work. He brings his enthusiasm for astronomy to our pages in his Yukon Night Lights.

David Gilmour is hard-working musician. So he is perfect to cover the Northern recording industry in Audio Borealis.

Covering the film industry will be Rod Jacob, who has been involved with the Yukon Film Society for years.

Watch for his column, Reel Yukon.

And, because the idea behind What’s Up, Yukon? is fun, Chris McNutt will offer up a rant or two in Attention Span.

A third of this magazine is devoted to sports, so

we are glad to have George Maratos writing Play Makers. Each column will feature someone behind the scenes who allow others to reach for glory … or just for a good time.

Chris Wheeler loves the North because he loves to hike and bike and ski. We are all invited to join him in Wheeler’s Walkabout.

We found the perfect person to cover the performing arts: Jude Wong is a dancer and has performed in many local theatre productions. Stage In Motion will keep an eye on what is happening in this increasingly dynamic field.

Keeping an eye on the visual arts will be one its most-involved members, Nicole Bauberger. She reports in From the Art. Leisa Gattie-Thurmer will be representing the Yukon Apparel and Design Association with features on Yukon fashions in Cool Threads.

Representing the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community will be Vanessa Willett. Her column, Yukon Rainbow, will keep everyone up to date on activities.

Robin Anderson’s job, as co-owner of Latitude, is to create mind-blowing activities for visitors to the North. He will be featuring these hidden jewels of the tourism industry in Destinations With Latitude.

And, me? I’m good at eating, so I will be reviewing a different restaurant in each issue and tell you what to expect on your next visit. Dining Fine will also feature a recipe from the restaurant’s chef.

All of these departments are focussed on the North. The only exception will be Justin Lemphers’ column, Yukon Wild Gamer. The gaming industry is huge and no one else is covering it. So, he will.

As this magazine grows, we will be able to offer you more and more surprises. We will have more room to spread out and tell your stories of fun.

Until the next time, thank you for reading our magazine. It is a labour of love and we take your trust – and your fun -- very seriously.

Random Acts of Kindness “The road leading out of Takhini North has a sharp turn and it is icy. Instead of following the bend, my red Ranger truck kept going straight and into a snow bank at 8:15 p.m. on Feb. 2. A gentleman, with a moustache, stopped and had me turn my tires just so. Then a small car stopped and four big teenagers piled out.

They practically threw my truck back onto the road.”

Linda Lemphers-Fenton had just finished writing her book, Betrayal of Innocence, when she started looking at the idea of self-publishing. Marsha Stewart, a good friend, offered her $500 US just to have it done professionally.

Elizabeth Beecroft was given a doll by a co-worker. She saw it in a store window and thought it was “the cutest little thing.

So she bought it just so Beecroft could give it to her daughter, Emily.

This week’s winning submission Lena writes: “After one very, long day on the job, I shovelled the rather generous accumulation of snow off my car and headed home. I was not looking forward to clearing the driveway and walkways around my house. When I arrived home, I found the snow had already been cleared! I was thrilled! A big thank you goes out

to my neighbour for this act of kindness.”

Are you the recipient of a random act of kindness? Did someone make your day a little brighter? Give that person the recognition they deserve and encourage others to be kind by sharing your story. Sportees Active Wear will give a $10 gift certificate to the person who submits the best story.

A game

Published by Beese Entertainment Publishing Bi-Weekly Magazine GST# 854 966 777 RT001 #5 – 210 Lambert Street Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 1Z4 Phone: 867-667-2910 Fax: 867-667-2913

What's Up,

Editor Publisher/Sales Mananger Darrell Hookey Tammy Beese editor@whatsupyukon.com sales@whatsupyukon.com Production Manager Mark “Mitch” Mitchell creative@whatsupyukon.com

Overheard in a Whitehorse garage AFFABLE SERVICE DESK GUY: Good morning, sir. How can I help you today?

CUSTOMER: Well ... I just got here last week, so I figured I better winterize my car.

ASDG: Did you just come from Outside?

CUSTOMER: No, I slept on your floor overnight ... of course I just came from outside.

ASDG: No sir, I meant from outside the Yukon. You know, Outside.

CUSTOMER: Oh, oh, I see, Outside. Yes, I just came in from Edmonton.

ASDG: Welcome to the “real” home of the Klondike, sir.

CUSTOMER: Pardon me?

ASDG: Never mind. I suppose you want an oil change?

Something lighter that won’t freeze up so easy?

CUSTOMER: Yeah, please. And check the coolant, too.

ASDG: Do have a block heater?

CUSTOMER: No, I suppose I’ll need one of those. Anything else you can think of?

ASDG: How about a battery blanket?

CUSTOMER: Sure.

ASDG: Oil pan heater?

CUSTOMER: Okay.

ASDG: Internal car warmer?

CUSTOMER: Hey, how much is all this going to cost?

ASDG: You only have to do it once, sir. Is that a rear-wheel drive car? We have some sand bags we could put in the trunk for you. You get better traction that way ... only five bucks each.

This is where we have some fun. I will throw out a challenge and we will see how you, the reader, throw it back.

I call this challenge, “Google Golf” because the lower the score, the better.

Here are the rules: 1. Go to Google.ca.

2. Type in three words with plus signs in front of each word.

Simple, right? Whoever has the lowest number of pages returned, earns 50 out of 100 points.

The other 50 is for style. If you enter, “+silicosis +hornblende +woodlouse” you will get full points because you will find zero pages. But you won’t get any points from me for style just because you are a weenie.

Now, “+brittany +dignified +intelligent” appeals to my love of irony and you would get full marks for style (and a surprising 1,100 pages … but only because “Brittany” is a breed of dog).

Here’s another example: “+sexy +dynamic +editor” displays a profound sense of insight because it comes up with 63,600 hits.

The winner receives a Deli Sandwich (that’s the big one, prepared in front of you), courtesy of The Deli.

Good luck to everyone … except weenies.

CUSTOMER: Okay, okay. But don’t try to sell me any tires. I got all-season radials all around.

We have snow in Edmonton too, you know.

ASDG: You’re allowed to have studded tires here. You might want to consider it. You’ll get a few more seasons out of those radials and save money further on.

CUSTOMER: Well, all right, if it’s going to save me money. Here are the keys, if you just want to write down the licence plate number I’ll give it to you.

ASDG: No that’s all right, sir. It’s parked along the side, right?

CUSTOMER: Yeah, but I haven’t even told you what year and make it is, or even the colour.

ASDG: That’s all right, we’ll know which one. You can pick it up this afternoon.

CUSTOMER: Okay, see you then.

ASDG: Hey, kid!

BACK SHOP GUY: Yeah?

ASDG: Here are some keys. It’s the clean car parked along the side. Give it “The Usual”.

BSG: Right.

ASDG: And, hey kid...

BSG: Yeah, yeah, I know. Don’t forget to crack the windshield for him.

ASDG: Before noon, too. He’s from Outside, you know.

Editor’s note: This has been my attempt at humour. From now on, I want to see your jokes in this space. The best one each issue will earn a free pair of beer mugs, courtesy of Yukon Brewing Company. Keep them short, keep them clean and keep them coming.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the editor are welcome in this space. I reserve the right to edit for length, libel issues, grammar and spelling. I do not accept letters that do not concern the mandate of this magazine – arts, culture, entertainment, sports and recreation – and I will not accept a letter in lieu of a scrutinized press release.

February 10, 2005

What’s Up, Yukon?

Beer and the noble pursuit of nation-building

Page5

What does beer and nuclear weapons have in common?

What does it take to make a country? Paul Martin might say gay marriage or, maybe, a fresh scandal every six or eight months. But I think Frank Zappa had it right. Of course, according to Frank, “You can’t be a real country unless you have a beer and an airline – it helps if you have some kind of a football team, or some nuclear weapons, but at the very least you need a beer.”

Well, let me see now, Canada certainly has an airline … at least this week. Is Air Canada still around, or has Robert Milton finished them off yet? You know, when you Google Robert Milton, you get Robert Milton Zollinger … you know, the guy who was partly responsible for naming the Strom-Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

This is a disease that includes recurrent peptic ulcers and hypesecretion of gastrin.

Now, I don’t know what any of

that really is, but I would bet there are days when Robert Milton can relate.

And, then, beer … of course there is that fine tradition of brewing in Canada. There are two big brewers you might think of when you think of Canadian beer.

One of those guys goes right back to 1786 … and ends right this month in 2005 when it merges with (gulp) the Americans. The other big guy started brewing in Canada in 1847, and is now part of a global empire based in Belgium. Oops, that’s old news … the Belgians merged with a company from Brazil (the whale eats the shark, da dum, da dum) who now boasts a 13% global market share. Trust me, that’s a lot of beer. Trouble is its website boasts seven flagship brands, definitely not including that Canadian one.

When you delve further though, there you find the stalwart from Canada … amongst the 77 brands

listed in their “local brands” section. How far we have come.

he alive today, I would love to tour around our brewery.

who played for the Stanley Cup and …” sorry, we gotta leave that

But this is a local magazine, about local things and local people and local issues. So let’s get back to Frank … who, were

Let’s get back to Frank because (frankly) the Yukon gets it … we have a beer and we have an airline (flying to Vegas, for the love of Pete … wouldn’t Frank have loved that one!). Okay, okay, we don’t have a football team or nuclear weapons (although if Frank had been a Yukoner, he might have said, “a hockey team

nuclear weapons one alone) but, at the very least, we got a beer.

We might not even be a province, but we think we would make a helluva country.

This story is provided by Yukon Brewing Company, an organization that truly appreciates the importance of beer.

Yukon Idol looks for the best Here is the chance for the Yukon to prove how much pop musical talent is up here.

Yukon Idol is a competition that will find our best and shower them with prizes and put them in front of an audience in a Sourdough Rendezvous tent event.

It was a fund-raising idea that was nearly de-railed when the CTV-produced Canadian Idol considered heading north. But when its producers heard about Yukon Idol, they decided the local production was a better idea and offered support instead. Then it was learned CBC Television may televise the local event and legal wrangling ended up in a severing

It’s been a useful exercise

of any possible relationship.

“We were put on hold for a month,” says Duncan Lillico, a Yukon Idol proponent. “But then we had some catching up to do.”

Lillico is the only adult involved in organizing the event. Youth Making A Difference, a nondenominational religious-based public service youth group, has found the organizing end of this to be a useful exercise: “These youth are being exposed to something they’ve never been exposed to before,” he says.

“They are thinking about how to get it done.”

Otherwise, it is a way to get their minds off of the cold and dark, he added.

The first audition was held Feb. 4 and 5. From this group, 50 were chosen to appear on the stage of the Yukon Art Centre on Tuesday, Feb. 15 and on the Thursday.

Four local judges – Mary Sloan, Keith Ellert, Jonathan Trefry and Andrea Simpson-Fowler – will bring this number down to 10 for the grand finale Feb. 18. They will be helped along by Yukoners voting over the Internet.

On the final evening, Matthew Lien will be a guest judge.

Y-MAD is a non-profit organization that usually raises money for food and clothing for families in need. But, for this event, it will send 25 percent to Tsunami Relief efforts.

worth freezin r e e ... b

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: William Kleedehn Age: 45 Birthplace: Bostel / Celle, Germany

Residence: Carcross, Yukon

Kennel: Limp-A-Long Kennel Your start?: Picked up some dogs from Dave Schindler & Susan Baily...

Why run dogs?: I like dogs just like any pet owner loves his or her pet...but to be a part of a team of dogs, running along the winter trails is something special!

Why entered?: It is my favourite race.

Goals?: To win.

Occupation: Labourer with Carcross Highways crew

William Kleedehn Veteran

How do you like it best?

February 10, 2005

What’s Up, Yukon?

What's Up, Yukon? can kill you

The views of this columnist do not necessarily reflect …

OK Yukon – I’m going to say it only once. What’s up? Or, as the online generation has abbreviated that statement to, ‘sup? Not because I’m cool, but because I’m lazy and believe that less syllables are easier on the constitution, I am going to adopt this phrasing. So please, tell me -- ‘Sup? Don’t worry, you don’t have to answer, the question is rhetorical. I’m just saying hello and welcome on behalf of the newest journalistic juggernaut to hit the Yukon streets.

What’s Up, Yukon? is a freight train of information about everything coming and going this way and that which you and your family need to know – along with interesting insight into the vibe of life in Whitehorse and beyond.

So much information your brain might actually become heavier thereby causing your neck to be sore for a few days before the muscles adjust to the extra weight of knowledge in your melon.

In order to fully enjoy this publication, you will need one thing that you probably don’t

have a lot of in your life – spare time. Sorry, I can’t help you there – I don’t have any myself.

But you better find some spare time soon, or stop reading this magazine because it’s bound to

most parents consider exploding heads to be “inappropriate”.

Even if your head doesn’t explode, you will still have a hard time dealing with all this new information, especially if

with Chris McNutt

cause you nothing but frustration in your already stressed-out world by presenting you with even more ideas for things to do.

So many more ideas to stress out on that, in fact, reading this magazine could actually cause your head to explode – and very few people actually survive an incident of an exploding head.

Simply put, reading this magazine could kill you. Consider this the warning like those that appear on cigarette packages.

I suggested an exploding head as a logo but it wasn’t adopted. The kids all thought it was cool, but

you already spend your lunch hour blazing up Two Mile Hill to go cross-country skiing at Mount McIntyre for 35 minutes, drinking 2 litres of spring water while you read the rest of the book you need to have finished for your book club that night, all the time conjugating verbs in Lithuanian along with your language CD so you can use

multiple-verb tenses during your summer bike trip to the Baltics.

Spare time isn’t our strong suit these days – but we don’t really seem to be doing anything about the real cause of the problem: Sleep. If we didn’t have to sleep, we’d have a lot of extra time to do things.

Yah, I know, not getting enough sleep eventually causes you to loose your mind. But I think that is a small price to pay for personal growth.

So, down with sleep and all things sleepy! Long live What’s Up, Yukon? Go forth my friends and become even busier. Stress is your friend, your tonic, your security blanket, your answer to all that ails you. Come, become busy with us, we are here to help.

Editor’s Note: It has not yet been scientifically proven that this magazine can kill you.

Short films advertise short films For the Dawson City International Short Film Festival

DAWSON CITY -- CBC North is looking for short films to advertise a festival about short films.

The Dawson City International Short Film Festival is again looking for the best public service announcement to be aired on CBC North. The winning entry will receive $100.

“Story, story, story,” Lulu Keating tells people who are looking for advice on how to produce an award-winning commercial.

“Decide what you want to say, and then say it well with

engaging images,” she adds.

“Enter the scene at the last possible moment and develop tension in the story by having the character encounter obstacles.”

And do it in exactly 59 seconds and have it delivered before Monday, Feb. 14, at 4 p.m.

The Yukon Film Society in Whitehorse is accepting the entries and will join CBC North and the film festival organizers in the jury to select the winner.

The film festival will be March 25 to 27 in Dawson City.

What’s Happening in your community? editor@whatsupyukon.com Your One STOP Gift SHOP

for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings or just because

Special Gifts for Special People Harwood’s Mall- Bottom of Main Street

Welcome to Whitehorse - What’s Up, Yukon?

Page 4

Bar Listings Capital Hotel Sundays to Wednesdays, live from Vancouver, The Capitals.

Thursdays, 3JDJ spins Top 40, Classic Rock and your requests.

Fridays, DJ’s House Arrest and Synapse spin East and West Coast Hip-Hop with MC Dedicado.

Saturdays, DJKC brings you the best dance music from around the world.

Every night, 7 to 11, Student Specials.

Lizards at the Caribou Hotel Feb. 19, Queen of the Creeks Feb. 23, Dating Game/ Koulbassa-eating contest Feb. 25, Dance Contest/ Knighting Noon to 11 p.m., food available from Mama’s Kitchen.

Backwater Lounge Feb. 11, Jim Quinsey, singer/songwriter.

Feb. 12, Indio, Roots music singer/songwriter.

Feb. 16, Whitewater Wednesday, open mic hosted by Peggy Hanifan Feb. 17, Gordie Tentrees, singer/songwriter Feb. 18, Jim Quinsey, singer/songwriter.

Feb. 23, Whitewater Wednesday, open mic hosted by Peggy Hanifan Feb. 24, Amelia Slobogean and Ana BonBon Feb. 25, Amelia Slobogean and Ana BonBon Feb. 26, Lonesome Buckaroos with Gordie Tentrees and Ken Hermanson

What’s happening in your bar sales@whatsupyukon.com

Deadline: Feb. 15

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Marcelle Fressineau Age: 49 Birthplace: Pompaples, Switzerland Residence: Matawin, Quebec

Finding beauty in a

Artist teaches how

Kennel: Matawin Adventures Bloodlines: Matawin dogs and rescued dogs Breeds: Alaskans from Mirkou Kennel (Paul Boudreau) Your start?: A friend gave me a present: an Alaskan Malamute...

Why run dogs?: I love dogs and I love winter, it's a good reason to try dogsledding.

Why entered?: I scratched in the 2002 Yukon Quest. Now, I have to finish.

Goals?: To finish.

Occupation: Dogsledding expedition outfitter Marcelle Fressineau Rookie

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Bruno Baureis Age: 45 Birthplace: Germany Residence: Gakona, Alaska

Kennel: German Oak Kennels Bloodlines: Baureis. Mackey, Halter/Whiten, Brockman & Philip Your start?: Cooper Basin 300 trail runs behind our house, I volunteered our first year here and was "hit by the mushing bug".

Why entered?: For the beauty and challenge of the race.

Goals?: To finish with a happy and healthy dog team.

Occupation: Power plant Operator/ Maintenance Technician Bruno Baureis Veteran

Emma Barr checks out one of her own w

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: David Dalton Age: 47 Birthplace: Massachusetts Residence: Healy, AK

Kennel: Dalton Gang Bloodlines: Dalton Your start?: My pet Airdale had a litter of 13 Alaska Husky Airdale puppies Why run dogs?: It's a great way to travel the north country wilderness.

Why entered?: To have fun!

Goals?: To finish with a healthy and happy dog team.

Occupation: Dog Mushing Tour Guide

David Dalton Veteran

Emma Barr is helping people find more beauty in their lives.

As a professional artist of mixed media, that has always been her goal. But there is so much more art out there and much of it go unappreciated because many people just do not know enough about it.

Or, perhaps, they know they like it but they don’t know why.

Barr will be teaching a course on art appreciation that begins in early April. She calls it, Art Appreciation 101.

“People get so freaked out by artists’ talk,” says Barr. “I just want people to relax and contemplate and talk about it.”

She will teach her students about

the many design elements in a work of art – colour, composition, line, shape, form, depth, texture, scale – and how they work with each other.

That sounds like a lot to remember, but she says it all starts with “I just wan the idea and then the rela elements are layered on.

We are sitting in the Yukon Arts Centre’s gallery at the entrance of the exhibit she shares with fellow Emerging Yukon Painters Zeb Austin and Meghan Hildebrand. The feature wall displays Hildebrand’s “Greenbelt 2004”. It is an abstract piece that can be dismissed with a casual

Advertising Deadli

(Thursday F

Monday Februa

all the right places

w to appreciate art

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Hugh Neff Age: 37 Birthplace: Chattanooga, Tennessee Residence: Skagway, Alaska

Hugh Neff Veteran

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Lance Mackey Age: 34 Birthplace: Anchorage, AK Residence: Kasilof

Lance Mackey Veteran

works at the Yukon Arts Centre Gallery.

look or appreciated for hours.

Barr paces back and forth from the painting as she picks out elements she likes -- the colour, the texture, the repetition of shapes – and, as she mentions each one, they come nt people to alive in my own eye.

“It helps to know the ax.” artist is concerned with technology encroaching on our natural spaces,” she says. Just as she says this, I instantly interpret the painting as a depiction of the old wharves on the Yukon River. Perhaps that isn’t what Hildebrand had in mind, but it was compelling for me.

“There are many different focal

Kennel: Laughing Eyes Kennel Bloodlines: Erhart, Boulding, Brooks Your start?: University of Chena Marina Why run dogs?: They are my masters.

Freedom.

Why entered?: The "Spirit of Service", a good time in Dawson City, the peaceful, quiet nights on the Yukon River.

Occupation: Tours with Alaska Excursions in Skagway

points, I could go on all day with this,” says Barr. “It never ends.”

Barr remembers selling one of her paintings to a couple who, at first, proclaimed they did not like abstract. She took the time to explain the elements and the inspiration and ended up selling them the painting. The couple had only seen things based on reality, “Now they are more open-minded and they will give more things more of a chance.

“Some art is so obvious and other works need a little more time.”

This couple was surrounded by beauty, but they didn’t see it.

Barr hopes her students will see more beauty, too. Information on the class is available at 633-4291.

ine For Next Issue

February 24)

ary 14 By 5pm

Kennel: Mackey's Comeback Kennel Bloodlines: Old proven champions from across the world!

Your start?: It was my first word "dog" and my first toy.

Why run dogs?: Why entered?: The first 30,000 reasons of course,but on top of that it's known as the toughestrace around, I think I need to bea part of it, and I hear it could get cold - gotta love that, and I never have an always wanted to.

Goals?: #1 Goal - Finish\r\n#2 Finish happy and healthy\r\n#3 Turn heads Occupation: Commercial Fisherman, Carpenter, Musher, DAD!

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Peter Ledwidge Age: 44 Birthplace: London, England Residence: Dawson City, Yukon

Peter Ledwidge Veteran

Kennel: Stardust Kennels Bloodlines: Larry "Cowboy" Smith, Susan Butcher, local Dawson dogs Your start?: Helping a friend film the Yukon Quest.

Why run dogs?: Being out there with my dogs in the bush.

Why entered?: I'm a Yukon Quest addict Goals?: To improve on last year's 4th place finish.

Occupation: Geologist, miner, store owner

How are we doing so far?

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Catherine Pinard Age: 30 Birthplace: Montreal, Quebec Residence: Carcross, Yukon

Kennel: Limp-A-Long Kennel Bloodlines: Kleedehn, Gatt & Tetz Your start?: I was dreaming about it when I was a little girl. Then I moved to the Yukon ..

Why run dogs?: Dogs love to run, I love to run dogs! I like their different personalities, their willingness to go, and the people and places we see while training/racing.

Why entered?: I'm addicted.

Goals?: Finish. Learn. Enjoy.

Occupation: Biologist, First Aid Instructor, Carpenter, etc.

Catherine Pinard Veteran

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Sebastian Schnuelle Age: 34 Birthplace: Germany Residence: Whitehorse, Yukon

Sebastian Schnuelle Veteran

Kennel: Blue Kennels Bloodlines: Larry "Cowboy" Smith, Takalek Kennels, Sam Perrino Your start?: As a tourist on a mushing trip with Chocpaw Expeditions in Ontario. It never let go after that.

Why run dogs?: It's our lifestyle. What better is there than to be on a nice long run, whether its training or racing? Dogs are always happy "people", it's wonderful to be around them.

Why entered?: To give me a goal for the upcoming winter and to see the trail going the other way.

Goals?: I'll know for sure in january, hopefully I learned some last year.

Occupation: Tour Operator

No Smoke, no problem

Pub crawl in post-smoking bylaw Whitehorse

with Bill Polonsky

As a non-smoker, I looked forward to my first pub crawl after the anti-smoking bylaw was rolled out to bars Jan. 1. This sits sideways for some people who think government is putting its nose where it aught not be.

As the majority of live music in this town is presented in licensed establishments, I applaud this forward-thinking legislation and dedicate this column to the hardworking bartenders and servers who can now breathe (what do you call it?) oxygen.

First day, first chance to experience a post-smoking bylaw Whitehorse and all was quiet at the Capital Hotel. This frosty, cold first night was hopping if only for me. “You should have been here last night,” said DJKJ, speaking between sets. “This place was packed wall to wall, it was fantastic”. I found two hard-working DJs before a mostly empty house. DJKJ spun most of the evening with DJ Synapse filling in for a break with some drum and bass. “ It’s amazing how much (DJ) talent we have up here,” said DJKC. “I mean, for a territory of 30,000.”

I was impressed with the dedication of these two showing up to a regular gig on New Year’s.

“I can count the times I’ve missed a Saturday night gig on one hand,” the DJ reflects.

Over at the River View Hotel’s Backwater Lounge, Peggy

Hanifan pulled double duty as MC and guitar player. She asked if everyone was okay with the new smoking ban and the crowd let out a cheer of approval. Chris McNutt got up to riff and rant on television’s The Brady Bunch -- to groans and giggles -- and gave his advice in a bit he called, The Universal Parental Story.

The shining light in an otherwise dull night was Graham Peters, who took the stage and showed a spirited talent for songwriting.

Several original numbers sounded as if they were the bastard children of a Smashing Pumpkins / Billy Bragg union – an aggressive approach to acoustic guitar with naïve romantic lyrics. The acoustic guitar was not made to be a megaphone, but, in Peters’ hands, it spoke loudly.

Gordie Tentrees brought his trio to The Boiler Room for three great gigs on three Friday nights.

It was just what a soul needed to warm up after a spell of cold weather. The Gordon Tentrees Trio sang a feast of big stories and bite-size vignettes set out on a tableau in spicy mexi surf, roots country and blues cabaret.

The overall tone of the band suits a small room. The upright bass, hollow-bodied electric and a voice that can pull off a Tom Waits tune was a sweet mix. And, not for nothing, Gordie Tentrees is a man who wears a shirt well.

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Gerry Willomitzer Age: 35 Birthplace: Germany Residence: Shallow Bay, Yukon

Gerry Willomitzer Veteran

Kennel: Blackjack Racing Bloodlines: Gatt, Kleedehn Your start?: As a handler for William Kleedehn Why run dogs?: I like the lifestyle. Plus, I love doing it!

Why entered?: I wanted to enter it a few years in a row to see how we can improve from year to year.

Goals?: Finish with a large string and improve on my placing from 2004 and have fun doing it.

Occupation: Log Builder, Translator, Dog Musher, Dog Food Dealer

Good X Crew - The X Crtew host, Morgan Waters, was on a mission on Whitehorse’s Main Street.

The Yukon Connection

by Steve Slade

If there's one thing I've come to count on as I travel and gig across the country, it's that there is always a “Yukon Connection”.

It is safe to say that anywhere I've gigged, there has always been someone in the audience with a Yukon connection.

This past year, I've spent my winter working my way across the continent: From Halifax to Vancouver Island; from Saskatoon to Skagway.

I've worked festivals and coffeehouses, bars and pubs, folk clubs and jamborees, house concerts and ritzy restaurants.

Ah, the life of a working, traveling musician. And everywhere I go, there is always a Yukon Connection.

At the Surrey Firefighters Annual Picnic and Fundraiser, Danny Sveinson, the young wunderkind guitar player, and his power trio are rocking the crowd. The CBC-TV crew, that is filming a documentary on "the rock n roll kid", is alternately panning the crowd and getting close ups of Danny's fingers as they fly on his vintage Les Paul. At 11 years of age, and after playing for only two years, Danny has some great chops. In another ten years -- if the interest and energy keep up -- he will be a monster.

Fifteen years ago, Darwin and Jean Sveinson (Danny's parents) took a motorcycle trip -- "a kind of a honeymoon" they say -- up the Alaska Highway to the Yukon, Alaska and then back via the ferry to the lower mainland. For Jean, it was a revelation: Wide open spaces, clean air, friendly people. When they got back to the land of big pavement and power lines she was ready to turn around and go back. However, a steady job, a growing family and now Danny's burgeoning talent keep them rooted in the lower mainland. "Still," she muses, "someday...."

As I walk into Ginger's Pub in downtown Halifax to set up for my gig, a surprised female voice calls my name from across the bar floor. It is some friends from Judas Creek whose wedding I did

the music for several years ago.

They have been at Dalhousie

retired school teacher in Medicine Hat who was the principal at

University this past year. It turns out there is a whole passel of expatriate Yukoners in Halifax.

Friends and acquaintances from Dawson, Whitehorse, Marsh Lake, Haines Junction and more.

At the Rosswood Musical Jamboree in northern BC, David Essig and I close the festival. I explain to the crowd how Dave is -- in a very direct way -- responsible for the Yukon's burgeoning music scene. Dave, along with Barry Redfern and Tim Twardocleb, was instrumental in getting the original Farrago Festival started up in the mid 1970's. This spawned the Dawson and Frostbite Festivals and the rest is musical Yukon history. The crowd, and I, give him a well-deserved round of applause.

In Saskatoon, I step off the stage at the Mid-Winter Blues Festival and almost trip over some friends from Dawson who live in Saskatchewan now. The same thing happens in Swift Current, Kamloops, Calgary, Lethbridge, Victoria, Charlottetown, Parrsboro... the list goes on.

Sometimes it's old friends that I'm meeting. Other times I'm making new ones.

There's the Octogenarian at the Kipawo Arts Centre in Wolfville whose father and uncle were in the Klondike at the turn of the century; the gentleman in Regina whose daughter lives in Dawson and came to hear me because of that Yukon Connection; the

the then newer and shinier FH Collins High School; my own Uncle Ken who, as a young man in the early 50s, learnt his trade drilling water wells along the Alaska highway and then flew my Aunt Pat up to Whitehorse from Duncan so he could propose to her. (She accepted.)

There is something about the Yukon that leaves an indelible mark on people. For some it's the wilderness experience; for others the people and characters who inhabit this northern paradise of ours.

For me, the Yukon is home.

And it always will be. Raised as a "forces brat" I hitchhiked up the highway to the Yukon in 1979 with a backpack, a dog and a battered, scarred 12 string guitar. I never thought I'd leave.

However, the realities of making a living as a working musician demand that I hit the road. And I have to admit that I enjoy it ... most of the time. I still maintain a residence here. My friends, family and personal history are here. My youngest daughter is in high school at FH Collins. My heart is here. But at this point, in what passes for my musical career, I need to spend at least six to seven months of the year working Outside.

And I do enjoy the work ... most of the time. I enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories. I truly enjoy observing and interacting with this amazing cultural and

geographical landscape that we call, Canada. From, as one of my favourite Yukoners would say, "coast to coast to coast".

And the people, for the most part, are varied, interesting and amazingly well spoken in their own vernacular. People like the elderly visual artist living on the east coast who had a sex change operation back in the mid 70's and now lives as an "auntie" next door to her grandchildren; the Vancouver-based Air Canada pilot and flight instructor who balances the technical and stressful demands of his job by painting marvellous landscapes; the long-serving but now retired chair of the Saskatchewan Communist Party whose current crusade is fighting to keep his small town alive; the amateur historian in

Parrsboro, Nova Scotia,who waxes eloquently about the days when their port was one of the biggest on the continent's east coast.

I enjoy meeting the many and varied people; the exchange of ideas and experiences; the discourse that ensues.

I go back on the road again on March 1st. I gig my way down the Alaska HIghway and then across to the Queen Charlottes -- gigging all the way. Then it's a ferry trip down to Port Hardy on Vancouver Island and the "lower mania", across southern BC and Alberta and then back home to the Yukon for May. I look forward to the landscape, the people, sharing my music and generating and receiving ideas and thoughts as I travel this great country of ours. And I look forward to that ever-present, often surprising, and always enjoyable Yukon Connection.

Stay warm and dry. Take care of each other. See you in May. Steve Slade will be sending notes from the road once a month. See them here, or visit his website at www.steveslade. com .

G.A.L.A. provides a service

with Venessa Willett

This is my first column for What’s Up Yukon and I am excited to be able to write about what is happening in the Yukon’s gay community.

We are an organized group that meets the first Friday of every month at the Backwater for an informal gathering; nonmembers are always welcome at these gatherings. Our group is called G.A.L.A., which stands for the gay and lesbian alliance.

The purpose of this group is “to establish and maintain a social, recreational, educational and political outlet for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender, multicultural community.”

Currently G.A.L.A. has thirtyfour members, twenty-seven women and seven men. Members must consider themselves gay, lesbian or bisexual in their sexual orientation. There are also associate memberships available for individuals who wish to

support G.A.L.A.; these members do not have to live in the territory and can be of any sexual orientation. G.A.L.A. is overseen by a five-member board.

For anyone interested in our organization, G.A.L.A. has a website that can be accessed at www.gaycanada.com/galayukon/ . We also have a phone number that is manned by a live and friendly individual who is happy to answer any questions. That number is 333-5800.

G.A.L.A. is here to support individuals in the gay community and we also recognize that people are still subjected to discrimination so every effort is made to protect people’s confidentiality.

I look forward to writing this column to keep the greater Yukon community apprised of what is happening in our community.

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February 10, 2005

Elegance and decadence on a cold night

Like many Yukoners, I had dinner at La Gourmandise Creperie and World Cuisine when it first opened last fall. It was a wonderful experience, but the portions were too big … I had no room left for dessert.

So, I decided to return just for dessert. My LDC and I arrived at 8:00 on a Wednesday night and we were surprised to see the restaurant was 80 percent full.

Yet a corner table, angled just so, allowed us to feel we were all alone.

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with Darrell Hookey

If we wanted even more privacy, Considering the hour, we ordered we could have asked for the decaffeinated coffee to start. private table the restaurant has We called the co-owner, Francois tucked in a wall and hidden by Chretien, back to our table to a curtain. Or, if we were with make sure it was decaffeinated friends, we would have asked for one of two tables that sit in front of a fireplace with a cheery fire.

Even at our corner table, the fireplace still cast a cozy feel over us and was helped more by the warm, sweetness of the air and the butter-yellow walls mixing interestingly with the old wood of the window trim.

The window may have looked old, but my LDC told me she felt no draft. This is certainly an entirely new restaurant as the Yukon-quaint No Pop Francois Chretien prepares dessert.

Sandwich Shoppe has been – it tasted too good – and he told renovated out of existence. us it came from Midnight Sun With blues-jazz playing softly Coffee Roasters in Whitehorse. It in the background, a fresh rose has since been added to my LDC’s on our table and a single flame accenting soft lighting throughout shopping list.

Even before looking at the the restaurant, we had to agree menu, we decided to get crepes this was an elegant and romantic because this is, after all, a experience.

And to think we were just here for dessert made the experience all the more decadent.

Page 10

the seating area. The smells and the colours are a delight.

Our dessert crepes are served and we just want to stare at them. They are works of art.

Dollops of whip cream stand off to one side and are flourished in keeping with the theme of the dessert. Syrup is sashayed about the crepe and the plate and powdered sugar or spices add to the flourish. The lighting over our table, which had recently appeared so soft, now made our plates glow.

My LDC thrilled at the many levels of taste in her mouth as she scooped up the mandarin oranges, crème Chantilly and Grand Marnier.

As for my maple crepe dessert, I can’t describe it until I harken you back to your days of childhood: Do you remember how the preparation of desserts always left a residue of pure heaven – the cake’s icing left over on the serving plate, the sugar drippings from the cinnamon buns in the bottom of the pan, the heavy cream coating at the top of the ice cream box – and you had to beat your brothers and sisters to it?

My entire dessert was just like this. It was two sacks, made from a sweet crepe, which held a

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creperie. Perhaps the next time, if we come back with friends, we will indulge in the chocolate fondue.

If we wanted to be good, we could have chosen one of the allfruit crepes. But we were bad.

I chose the La Canadienne for $12 and my LDC ordered the La Suzette for $14.

The La Poire Belle Helene looked good, too. It had pears, chocolate and hazelnut spread.

Chretien told us the most successful dessert crepe is served at the Sunday brunch; it has brie, apple, cinnamon and honey.

Often, people will watch Chretien make the crepes. It is pure theatre as he scoops and spreads and folds and squirts. A station is set up within view of

heavy mixture of maple syrup and maple sugar.

As good as it was, it wasn’t heavy on my stomach. I slapped myself on the forehead when I realized I could have had this last fall after my large meal.

Anyway, enjoying the afterglow of a fine dessert, my LDC indicated she might have enjoyed the experience even more than I: “I liked it when Francois called me, ‘Mademoiselle’,” she cooed.

This review is not meant to judge quality of food or service. It only describes the experience offered by the reviewed restaurant. The owners were informed in advance of the review and the meals were provided at no cost.

February 10, 2005

What’s Up, Yukon?

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Red Wine and Red Currant Sauce From the kitchen of The Creperie La Gourmandise Preparation time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients:

½ cup of dried cranberries ½ cup of dried apricot 1 cup of bread crumbs 1 bulb of garlic, roasted 1 bunch of arugula 1 tablespoon of olive oil Salt and pepper 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless 8 slices of bacon 2 shallot, chopped 2 cup of port 3 tablespoons of red currant jelly

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Put the garlic on a baking sheet to roast until soft for about 40 minutes. Chop the apricots into small pieces and mix with the cranberries. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the fruit mixture. Combine with bread crumbs. Heat the olive oil in pan over medium heat and drop the arugula in to wilt. Add the arugula to the stuffing mixture and season with salt and pepper.

Make a slit in the side of the chicken breast and make a pocket of it. Stuff in the stuffing mixture and wrap the chicken breast with the bacon slice to cover.

Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts and cook for two or three minutes until the bacon has begun to get a golden colour and render its fat on all sides.

Move to the roasting pan and cook in the oven for a further 25 minutes. In the pan where you rendered the bacon, add the shallots and sauté over medium heat. Deglaze the pan with the port and reduce by a half and later add the red currant jelly and stir until dissolved. Serve on a bed of wild rice with the port and red currant sauce.

Ask Domino’s for your

Do you want your restaurant reviewed?

Contact Darrell at

editor@whatsupyukon.com

What's Up,

And get it delivered

Page 11

February 10, 2005

What’s Up, Yukon?

Toyota:

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the car the Yukon counts on.

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So you don’t have to spend a lot of money to transport your family safely, and have some fun while doing it.

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Page 12

05 Matrix

Your Yukon Toyota Dealer

www.toyota.ca

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IT PAYS TO READ THE FINE PRINT: Vehicle models may not be exactly as shown. Offers are available from Toyota Financial Services on approved credit to qualified retail lessees/purchasers. *For the 2005 Echo Hatchback CE, JT123M(A) Monthly Lease payments of $168 based on 48-month walk away lease with $1,508 down. Total lease obligations are $9,572. Cash purchase price is $13, 975. **For the 2005 Corolla CE, BR32EP(a) Monthly Lease payments of $199 based on 48-month walk away lease with $2,388 down. Total lease obligations are $11,940.

Cash purchase price is $17,620. ***For the 2005 Matrix FWD, KR32EP(A) Monthly Lease payments of $209 based on 48-month walk away lease with $2,598 down. Total lease obligations are $12,630. Cash purchase price is $18,955. Lease payments are based on a maximum of 96,000 km over 48 months. If exceeded additional charges are 7¢/km for Echo Hatchback, Corolla and Matrix. License, insurance and applicable taxes are extra. All offers include a maximum for freight and pre-delivery inspection of $980 for 2005 Echo Hatchback CE, $1,030 for 2005 Corolla CE, $1,030 for 2005 Matrix FWD. Down payment, first payment and refundable security deposit required on signing. Other payment plans available. Fuel consumption ratings from Natural Resources Canada Office of Energy Efficiency –2005 Fuel Consumption Guide.

Contact 1-888-Toyota-8 or visit your Toyota Yukon Dealer. Some conditions apply; offers are time listed and may change without notice. Dealer may sell for less. See your participating Toyota Yukon Dealer for more details.

February, 10 2005

and

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 1

Ivan Zenovitch takes centre stage Now that you can see him … don’t take your eyes off

“I want to stop standing on the side of the stage and looking in …

I want to stand in the centre and look out.”

You know Ivan Zenovitch. More importantly, you have heard him.

He’s the one playing guitar for

any one of a hundred performers.

He is the Forrest Gump of Yukon music.

Zenovitch was here in the 80s when musicians played to the room and they played it well. He performed with Dave Haddock,

Clowns running amok at Yukon Arts Centre

Humour in the finest traditions of Bugs Bunny Skating on wash buckets, pratfalls, explosions and fart jokes – Fart jokes! What can be better than fart jokes? – combine for a rollicking fun circus show.

“It’s the funniest show I’ve seen on a Canadian stage in five years,” says Eric Epstein, the artistic director of the Yukon Arts Centre.

He had heard good things about the show and was able to see it at the Magnetic North Theatre Festival in Edmonton. He tried to book the show for last year, but Cirkus Inferno was touring Australia and was urged to stay for more and more shows.

Trying to explain how an artistic director could be so enthralled with fart jokes, etc, Epstein said there are different levels of comedy for different ages. But, really, he was laughing at the same physical comedy the children in the audience were.

“It’s the forces of anarchy; it’s the fun of the show; it’s in the tradition of the Road Runner and Coyote.”

The premise of the show begins with Lady and Lucky arriving late for a circus. As they walk

over seats, spreading popcorn everywhere, they are just as disappointed as the rest of the audience to learn the circus has been cancelled. So they hop onto stage and start playing with the props.

There will be three shows, each starting at 7

p.m., on Feb. 22, 23 and 24. Tickets are available at the Yukon Arts Centre Box Office and at the Hougen Centre Ticket Office.

Bruce Bergman, Mark Paradis, Paul Stephens and Daniel Janke – from venue to venue, from party to party.

Zenovitch was behind Matthew Lien in Taiwan when he played to 30,000. He was in the Capital Hotel’s house band for two and a half years, learning new songs every three weeks when a new performer came from Outside. He played disco, country, swing, rock and jazz.

He knew Robbie McKay when he was a young man. And, later, he became his student and practised his chord changes over and over at his Marsh Lake home even though he didn’t understand the complexity of musicianship his teacher was pushing him to.

One thing anyone could say about Zenovitch was that he was a professional. He always delivered … in spite of the demons he battled.

“I don’t keep pictures, I don’t keep letters, I’m an underachiever and I don’t dream.

“I have an addictive personality,” he says today. “I get hooked on everything from Caesar salad to worse … much worse.”

Zenovitch is Lately, the demons have been losing. Zenovitch has lost a lot of weight, he picked up a good set of hearing aides so that he can hear is own voice again, he just celebrated his first clean and sober Christmas since childhood and, in this year he turns 50, he is feeling better than ever.

Zenovitch is in love.

“She’s a big influence on me,” he says of his love, whom he refuses to name because she hates the limelight. “She told me, ‘You

Supporting Yukon’s sport, arts, culture, recreation and community volunteer groups

Ivan Zenovitch don’t have to prove anything anymore.’

“I’ve finally broken through, I can write happy, simple song in love. anow.”

His girlfriend reached into his past and pulled back a cassette tape from a one-week recording session in 1991. It was the only copy he had. Twelve were produced and the others had been given away, lost, retrieved and lost again. But, there it was, in his girlfriend’s hand: “This is good,” she told him.

Zenovitch knew it was good.

It featured some of the best session players in Canada at the time and was produced just

for the experience of it … no commercial aspirations at all. The musicianship is as close to perfect as you can ever expect to hear and, yet, he says he is embarrassed at how little he knew back then. One thing, though, Zenovitch was surprised to hear how good his voice was.

He says today he has to take voice lessons to control it better, but that would be a shame because the voice on that tape is a unique instrument. It is real and it lends itself well to the rollicking good time the sum of this tape adds up to.

Zenovitch is poised to burst through to the next level. Once he wins a grant, he will produce a CD. And it will be great.

This edition’s events supported by lottery revenues:

Frostbite Music Festival Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race

LOTTERY DOLLARS ARE HELPING IN YOUR COMMUNITY………………….one ticket at a time!

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 2

Smoke and Zola and emerging artists

with Nicole Bauberger

Although the deadline has passed for the Yukon Art Society’s Smoke Show, you may still squeeze in before the 12th if you ask Marlene Collins very, very nicely. Work by Northern artists will be juried by committee and there will be a $5 fee per accepted entry with a maximum of two. There will be an Opening Reception Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. and the show runs to March 5 at the Art Society gallery on Wood Street ….. Linda Travill and Greg Piwowar will be submitting works to the Smoke Show. Linda will be submitting a collage encaustic piece entitled, The Harvest. She says, “I want to impress that at the end of the fire and smoke comes regeneration.” Rumour has it that Greg will be submitting a short film ….. The Whitehorse Star has hired a new arts reporter

with a fine arts degree and a degree in journalism. Leighann Chalykoff came to the Yukon about two months ago from Nova Scotia ….. Jeanine Baker is hard at work preparing for a show to coincide with the opening of Zola’s new coffee lounge in the Hougen Centre. The show itself will consist of multi-format glass pieces depicting houses. These “bungalows” have bright windows and communicate a feeling of friendliness and warmth. She said after her back injury, people’s warmth and humanity really amazed her. She didn’t know there were that many people who even knew her. Her gratitude for this support inspires the show.

She’s also very excited about the palette of powdered glass in various grain sizes that she’s

collecting and her experiments painting with these colours using her glass fusing kiln. As Snowdrift designs, Jeanine and her husband Paul Baker use a long narrow light table for the new coffee bar. Fused glass tiles in the top will be lit from below. Paul will be doing the carpentry in hardwood ….. Alice Angus and Joyce Majiski are in Dawson City as Artists in Residence in the KIAC program.

It is part of a twoyear collaboration into perceptions of geography, landscape, language and territory. They are interested in the way people form expectations of foreign places.

They are both excited by Dawson’s temperatures that dip below -50 degrees Celsius and

the ice fog. Alice is also excited by her new red long johns with the trap door which she hasn’t taken off since she arrived, like the old time Dawson gold miners who, in fact, never took them off …..

Yukon Artists @ Work Gallery will be reopening Friday, Feb. 18, with its regular winter schedule of Friday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. ….. If you haven’t already checked out the show at the Yukon Centre, go.

Arts Centre After Feb. 20, it will be too late. Janet Cardiff’s For-

ty-Part Motet transforms the space. Scott Price and the Arts Centre installation team rebuilt walls of the gallery to house this well-traveled piece of contemporary art. Forty speakers, at head level, project 40 voices in a magnificent choral piece of music, Spem in Alium by Thomas Tallis, a 16th century English composer. As you walk around the space and come closer to one voice, then to another, you begin to feel the way sound can create an architecture of space. This piece won the Millennium Prize in 2001 and is both cutting-edge international contemporary fare, and accessibly interactive. Not to be missed ….. While you are there, you really have to see Emerging Yukon Artists, a show of three young Yukon-born painters, Zeb Austin, Emma Barr, and Meghan Hildebrand. The three painters use layers of paint with an eye to the expressive power of the physicality of paint and colour ….. That’s all for me for now. What’s your news? I’d love to include it in this column. Email me at nbauberger@yahoo.com.

Till soon ……

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February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page3

Local composer adds to Penderecki String Quartet repertoire

with Jude Wong

A young Canadian string quartet that has become one of the mostcelebrated chamber ensembles in the international music scene will be performing a newly commissioned work by Whitehorse composer Daniel Janke this month at the Yukon Arts Centre.

Janke has not heard the The Penderecki String Quartet perform his piece in full yet, but, “You get better at hearing it in your head,” he said. He did, however, get to have a privileged one-hour workshop with the PSQ in Toronto months ago.

Janke met with me over a bite to eat at the Yukon Inn, current headquarters for his new TV series, Northern Town. Though the new PSQ piece is not titled, Janke says the current String Quartet #1 will likely be replaced once he’s heard the piece performed.

The work is nine minutes long in two movements, as opposed to the more-traditional sonata form of three or four. Janke calls this “New Music”, formally composed but not so rigidly classical. After its premiere here, String Quartet #1 will be played in Toronto this April and will likely go to Italy this July as part of the PSQ’s international tour.

Among an astounding number of current projects on the go, Janke has also been commissioned by Whitehorse Concerts, composing a piece for the Persephone Singers and the Longest Night Ensemble. This new work will be performed in May, as part of WC’s bi-annual Classical Territory series (CDs available at Rose’s Music and Mac’s Fireweed Books).

How did this thriving classical music scene of the North come to be?

The Pendericki String Quartet

Michele Emslie, program coordinator of Whitehorse Concerts, recalls the legendary concert of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra back in the ‘80s. At that time, there was no Yukon Arts Centre.

Instead, the symphony performed in the FH Collins Secondary School gymnasium. Tickets were $25, says Eric Epstein, now the artistic director of the YAC. He also remembers smaller TSO concerts around town, in places like the No Pop Shoppe on 4th Avenue.

Since then, WC’s Classically Yours series has presented the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra

and other famed groups such as the multi-media Gryphon Trio, the world-renowned Tafel Musik, I Musici de Montréal, and the Toronto-based Quartetto Gelato.

At their most recent concert, world-renowned and awardwinning pianist Dang Thai Son received two standing ovations.

As a non-profit presenter of classical music, WC is currently funded by Canadian Heritage; the YTG’s Departments of Education, Tourism and Culture; and by local businesses, fundraisers and individual art lovers.

On Feb. 17, in Dawson City, and again on the 19th at the Yukon

Arts Centre, the Penderecki String Quartet will perform String Quartet #1, Bartok 3, and Beethoven op 131. Before its show on the 19th, and as part of the Classically Yours series, the PSQ will meet with the public in the YAC Production Room at 7:00 p.m. to give a talk.

If you still need convincing, an excerpt from a review of the PSQ in the Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung of Germany says, “… one of the most elevated classes of quartets, illuminated with inner joy and splendid, mild sunshine.”

Tickets are available at the Yukon Arts Centre box office or

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Jon Little Age: 40 Birthplace: England Residence: Kasilof, Alaska

Kennel: Kasilor Kennel Bloodlines: The usual - Wright, Attla, Cotter with some old-timey distance dogs Your start?: Skijoring with my pet dog.

Why entered?: To see new trail, meet new people, race with other mushers.

Goals?: Race these dogs to the best of their ability, then take a long nap in Fairbanks.

Occupation: Journalist/Dog Musher

Jon Little Rookie

February 10, 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 4

It’s All About the Visuals

with Leisa Gattie-Thurmer

Yukon designers, models and photographers work in tandem to showcase the “haute-est” trends from the coolest people in the North and, according to photographer Christian Kuntz, it's all about the pictures. From blue jeans and bush boots to stilettos and silk, Kuntz re-interprets fashion through a lens.

Born in France and schooled as a furniture and cabinetmaker, Kuntz originally came to the North as a carpenter. Today, he sits in his apartment/studio surrounded by his dramatic photographs.

LGT: When did you first get into photography?

CK: I always had a camera.

Wherever I traveled I took pictures … landscapes, animals.

I always ran after the deer (in France) and got in trouble with the wardens.

LGT: When did you become serious about photography?

CK: In 1996, a neighbour said one of my photos had “nice composition”. I thought, hmmm, what is that? That started me on a more serious path. I began to study the technical elements

of photography and enrolled in the New York Institute of Photography. It was a three-year course. The day I finished, I quit my job.

LGT: Your body of work covers a variety of subjects, both commercial and artistic. So how did you develop the fashion element for your pictures?

CK: The course in New York was mostly portraiture, with a section on fashion.

(How they are different is that) the emphases of the picture are to show the texture and colour of clothes. The face is not so important.

LGT: Is it difficult to find good models in Whitehorse?

CK: I get a lot of girls who call.

But they are not serious. They need to commit to shoots, return calls and take it seriously. There are some good models here and I encourage new models, who think they have potential, to check out my Website and then contact me.

LGT: What would you say your “style” is?

CK: (I am) still developing it. It's a new revolutionary style, but

it's not set yet. I like to do things that are more action orientated now, stay away from static poses.

Bear Paw Quilts proudly presents

Lise Merchant’s first book of stained glass

designs for quilters We will launch the book on

Friday, February 18 5:30 to 7:30

When people are free to move, they have their own posture, who they are . . . the picture is more alive.

LGT: Do you prefer to have total control over the shoot, or do like input from a client?

CK: I like to refer people to my Website, www. christiansphotography. com, so they can see the different styles. They can give me an idea of what they want and then I have the ingredients to make it work.

I am open to

all kinds of shoots where I can have a say, a bit of free reign to do it a little bit my way.

LGT: What makes your images different? Do they have a Northern flavour?

CK: Studio pictures can be done anywhere, but the outdoor images, here in the Yukon, they are special. I am developing my own style more and more. Now I am at the beginning of what kind of photography I really want to do.

and

Saturday, February 19 1:00 to 3:00

Lise will be in attendance to sign books Ph: (867) 393-2327 Optometrist Building

Valentines Gift Certificates from

We can keep you out of the doghouse

667-2179 108 Lambert Street

Gordie Tentrees Band carries the weight of the Yukon 29 Loads of Freight isn’t heavy

with David Gilmour

The Yukon creates inspiration for artists of all disciplines. From basement studios and state-ofthe-art professional studios-forhire, this inspiration is finding more of a voice in the Yukon.

One such voice belongs to Gordie Tentrees and can be heard on 29 Loads of Freight. While you probably won't see this on the Billboard's Top 100 any time soon, it is still a surprisingly good effort for a first project.

I guess the thing that really surprised me is the short time Tentrees has been at this. Having started a mere five years ago, he

has come to a point that many artists can take a decade or two to reach.

All of the songs, except for one, are written by Tentrees. A mostly blues-based group of tunes, there are sprinkles of other influences. But these influences are like a good spice that gives flavour without overwhelming the general taste.

Instrumentally, it is the guitar that gets most of the spotlight, but they also bring in a few surprises such as a horn section comprised of just a trombone.

The percussion is snappy, sparse and compliments the rest of the band.

Jim Holland's production - while nothing fancy -- is probably exactly what the group was aiming for. My bet is they wouldn't use any of the fancy studio tricks available today

anyway.

While most of the tunes could be about anywhere and anytime, two of the tunes are specifically Yukon. The first, entitled Dawson City, is a fair try at capturing a unique place. Although, I wonder if any artist, new or old, could truly capture what Dawson City means. The second tune is entitled Whitewater Jam and refers to the weekly jam session held at the Backwater Lounge.

This tune, while more melancholy in tone, still manages to capture the feeling lyrically.

Aylie Sparkes is the only special

guest and contributes electric guitar leads on three tracks and dobro on one track. Always a tasty player, he was also a big influence on Tentrees to pursue and explore what music can do and be. The other members of the band are Patrick Singh on percussion and Matt King on bass.

Micah Smith adds some bass as well as accordion, trombone, organ and, of all things, the saw.

Rounding out the group is Ken Hermanson who shares the electric guitar work along with Tentrees. His playing is clear and clean and has a tone that could have come from a smoky bar in Southside Chicago.

All in all, a promising first effort that indicates real potential for future outings. Don’t forget you can catch these guys live at all sorts of functions around town.

February 10, 2005

We are the Soulstice Music Society Our music is good and good for you

We, the Soulstice Music Society, would like to take this opportunity to invite you in with open arms; to get an insiders view on who we are and what we do.

The Soulstice Music Society is a non-profit group comprised of Jordi Mikeli-Jones, Kevin Jack, Chris Janzen, Steve Swerhun, Andrea Scherle, Dustin Anderson and Jonas Smith.

Our music-inspired collective arose from the intense passion to raise music awareness for youth across the Yukon. Our interests are focused on providing Yukon youth with an outlet for musical expression, showcasing all genres, while also raising money for charitable organizations such as the Humane Society, the Red Cross and the United Way. Our abilities include partnering with local businesses, such as Triple J’s Music Café, Unitech Professional Audio and Lighting, the Northern Hempisphere, Sandors, the Capital Hotel, Yukon Springs and The Zoo Tanning & Apparel.

We have also partnered with other societies, such as Bringing Youth Toward Equality (BYTE) and the Great Northern Ski Society and other venues such as Mount Sima, the Guild Hall, Takhini Arena and the Yukon Inn. This has paved the way for DJs, Hip Hop Artists, Punk Rockers and Ravers alike to showcase their own talents, while also enjoying the talents of others.

Since our inauguration back in 2002, we have successfully produced over 20 shows, including five free all-ages shows.

Our most recent endeavor, a Beach Party Rave, was held up at Takhini Arena on Jan. 21 raising nearly $2,000 for Tsunami Relief.

We are continually driven by the desire to provide a musical forum for a younger demographic, in addition to giving back to our community.

Every penny we make is either donated to a charitable cause or put back into the bank for our next show.

We are calling on all youth to come out and support your local artists. If you have a great idea, share it with us and we’ll try to make it happen.

In the meantime, you can look forward to bigger and better events from the Soulstice Music Society, including Simapalooza at Mount Sima on March 12 and 13. For more info on the lo’ down, call Jordi at Triple J’s Music Café, 456-7555.

Music is the soundtrack of our lives.

This column is courtesy of the Soulstice Music Society.

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 5

What’s happening Whitehorse Healing Circle every Wednesday evening 7 to 9:00 p.m. at Sport Yukon. Info at 393-2750.

The Kat’s Meow Craft and Home Business Show Feb. 26 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Gold Rush Inn’s Town Hall. Call Kathleen at 393-GIFT for information.

La Leche League Canada meets every second Saturday of the month at 11:00 a.m. at Yukon Family Services to offer breastfeeding information and support. Phone Suzanne at 6685949 or Angela at 668-2262 for information.

Getting To Your Roots is a Shamanic workshop Feb. 26 and 27. Learn shamanism in a safe setting from facilitator Cate Innish. For information phone 667-4773.

A reading, hosted by Whitehorse Public Libraries and Well-Read Books, will take place on Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Well-Read Books.

Charlie Wilkins, Berton House Writer in Residence, is featured.

Cirkus Inferno is presented Feb. 22 to 24 at 7:00 p.m. at the Yukon Arts Centre. A matinee is presented Feb. 24 at 1:00 p.m. Tickets and information is available at 667-8574.

Yukon Emerging Artists is showing in the Yukon Arts Centre Gallery until Feb. 20.

The Calligraphy of John Layman shows In The Grotto at Yukon Arts Centre.

Kidz Art Class Feb. 20 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. features Cirkus Crazy with clowns.

Yoga with Claire Tuesdays between 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Alpine Bakery. Information at 456-7897 or synella75@hotmail. com.

Gentle Yoga Thursdays between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at

Alpine Bakery with Ashtanga.

Information at 456-7897 or synella75@hotmail.com.

Tutor training Feb. 12 and 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Yukon Learn Society, 308 Hanson Street. Information at 1-888-6686280.

Faro Make Valentine crafts Feb. 11, after school, at the rec centre.

Valentine Dance Feb. 11, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. for all ages. Ages 11 and up can stay until midnight.

Midnight Skating Party Feb. 12 for ages 11 and up. Wear red.

Tagish Tagish Treasures Feb. 11, 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Pancake Breakfast Feb. 13 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.

Valentine Skating and Crafting Party Feb. 14 at 6:30.

Tagish Treasures Feb. 16 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Stay Fit (S) Feb. 17 from 11:00 a.m. to noon.

Stay Fit Feb. 17 at 7:00 p.m.

Tagish Treasures Feb. 18 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Back Pain Management Feb. 21 at 7:00 p.m.

Coffee and Chat Feb. 16 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Tagish Treasures Feb. 16 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

Stay Fit (S) Feb. 24 from 11:00 a.m. to noon.

Stay Fit Feb. 24 at 7:00 p.m.

Tagish Treasures Feb. 25 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

VINYL CDS ART EQUIPMENT CLOTHING Your specialty music store!

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February 10, 2005

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Bruce Langmaid Age: 46 Birthplace: Oshawa, Ontario Residence: Blackstock, Ontario

Bruce Langmaid Rookie

Kennel: Langmaid Pro Sleddogs Bloodlines: Langmaid - Buser Your start?: Part ownership of a sled and a dog named Mac. Why run dogs?: It's what I do best - mesmerized by them in action.

Why entered?: I owe this race to my current team of dogs; because they need a new challenge and so they can also rise to their potential.

Goals?: To focus and stick to the game plan. To overcome adversity and to win.

Occupation: Kennel Operator

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD

Name: Daniel Bourassa Age: 51 Birthplace: Montreal, Quebec Residence: Lanoraie, Quebec

Daniel Bourassa Rookie

Kennel: Bou Bou Kennel Bloodlines: Swingley, Beck, Reddington, Buser Your start?: When I was in a foster home I was given one dog and a small child sled and I got hooked.

Why run dogs?: I run dogs because it is part of my life. I enjoy mostly building a good team that will work great to take up a DEFI (challenge).

Why entered?: To finish what I started in 1991 but couldn't do then.

Goals?: To finish with all my dogs in the top 10 positions.

Occupation: Team Leader - Big Top Tent Setup

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Martin Massicotte Age: 36 Birthplace: St-Tite, Quebec Residence: St-Tite, Quebec

Kennel: Martin Massicotte Kennel Bloodlines: Massicotte Your start?: By harnessing my family's pet dog.

Why run dogs?: I like to be out on the trail with my dogs, to see how they progress, and to be in the wilderness Why entered?: To watch the thermometer go below -50 C!!!

Goals?: To be competitive.

Occupation: Pavement contractor

Martin Massicotte Veteran

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 6

The three faces behind the Yukon Film Society

There’s more than one way to eat popcorn

with Rod Jacob A group of movie lovers gathers on a frigid Sunday in Whitehorse.

In an apartment living room, they watch movies and eat popcorn.

They laugh with a good comedy and are swept away with a gripping drama. But the home of Yukon Film Society president Michael Vernon is not being used just for a good time.

“We’re actually previewing films for the Available Light Film Festival,” the bearded, amiable, bespectacled Vernon says between handfuls of popcorn. “It is tough work, but somebody has got to do it.”

Vernon (popcorn: extra butter) is serious about bringing a selection of the year’s best Canadian and international feature films and documentaries to the Yukon Beringia Centre and Qwanlin Cinema for the festival that runs March 1 to 6.

A recent addition to the Yukon, Vernon knows his film. By day, he works as an editor at a local broadcaster. He has also edited award-winning documentaries and a Canadian feature film, Love That Boy, directed by Andrea Dorfman.

“I love watching films and filmmaking,” he says. “And I hope the Film Society’s activities will encourage more Yukoners to get their hands on a camera and start shooting.”

The profile of the Film Society has increased steadily since the fall of 2002, when YFS contracted its first part-time manager in its 20 year history -- Whitehorse filmmaker Andy Connors.

Connors (popcorn: butter) is a prime example of a young, struggling Canadian filmmaker.

Between administering and organizing Film Society activities, Connors has produced two films in the Yukon in the past five years. He’s currently finishing a third, The Keno City Project, a

collaboration with musician Kim Barlow. It is about the history of the Keno City mining district in central Yukon.

“I’ve been able to make films in the Yukon because filmmakers here are building a community.

We call on each other for advice and assistance.

Connors says that another crucial ingredient in fostering the Yukon’s emerging media arts community is exhibiting film and video work by local film and video makers.

This year, the Film Society has hired Celia McBride to produce this year’s Available Light Film Festival. McBride is a seasoned producer of live theatre and is currently the Artist-In -Residence at Yukon’s Nakai Theatre. Producing a film festival, however, is a new role for her: “The biggest difference I’m finding is that as an artist I’m used to being the one with the big dreams and being told by the producer that I’m not going to get my wish.

Now I find myself in the position of telling the artistic director of the festival to be more realistic and to stay within the budget.”

McBride (popcorn: home-made with olive oil and she likes to sneak it into theatres) says she’s hoping this position will give her important lessons in the financial side of the artistic production: “I think it’s important for me, as a creative person, to get in the money seat and learn about how things work,” she says. “At the same time I can bring my artistic abilities to the job and shake things up a little. It’s a great learning experience.”

The Yukon Film Society can be reached at 393-3456, or by email at yukonfilmsociety@yknet.ca.

The Film Society’s website is now online at www.yukonfilmsociety. com and will be fully functional

by May.

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#9 -106 Main St. 668-3456

February 10, 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Up North: Up and coming

Page 7

Award-winning outfitter is just a nice guy

I’ve known Mark Stenzig, owner of Up North Adventures, for a few years. But my most memorable meeting with him was during Christmas 2003. My brother, visiting from Calgary, and I had decided to try out a new pair

accommodating approach and our clients rave about their services.

Up North Adventures is a Yukon-based, family enterprise.

Stenzig started the business with his parents in the early ‘90s. His Dad, born in Germany

with Robin Anderson

of snowshoes that he and my sister had given me. A cold but beautiful day, we decided to hit the nearby trails around Chadburn Lake.

We set out along the trail, noticing the tracks of other snowshoers. It was one of those perfect December days in the Yukon. The sky was brilliantly blue, the sun was beaming and although it had been cold in town, once we were in the trees and began moving, the temperature was much warmer.

As we moved further down the trail, the tracks we had been following appeared to grow fresher. We crested a small hill and I spotted a group of people, just off the side of the trail. As my brother and I approached, I realized that it was Stenzig with a group of Asian tourists.

Dressed in his fur hat, Stenzig’s face lit up as he recognized me. After we exchanged greetings and I introduced my brother, our attention turned to the astonished faces of the visitors. Still adjusting to the sheer vastness of the Yukon, to someone from Asia even Miles Canyon seems wild.

I’ll never forget their looks of amazement as Stenzig explained that we knew each other to the only women who spoke a smattering of English and she translated to the others. The amazement turned to smiles when they considered the fact that two acquaintances might meet on a trail in the middle of the Yukon “wilderness”.

I had first met Stenzig a couple of years earlier while I was working for the Yukon Convention Bureau. Stenzig provided a voyageur canoe trip for some potential corporate clients we had brought in from the United States.

Stenzig’s easygoing style, disarming sense of humour and reassuring confidence instantly impressed me. Now the owner of my own company, Latitude, we’ve hired Up North Adventures to help us host some of our own groups. We love their

and working at a well-known Whitehorse bakery, often spoke to visiting German tourists as they stocked up on supplies at the bakery before heading out on their adventures. He was often asked for travel advice, or the best place to see this or that. One day, he came home and asked his son if he’d be interested in opening a canoe rental business with him.

“I had always loved the outdoors and took the outdoor education/ ACES program in high school, so I thought it was a great idea,” said Stenzig. “Dad sent me to the store to get a quote on six canoes and gear. When I came back with a price, he said, ‘good job’, and sent me right back to get a better deal.

“That was my first lesson in business. I realized then what it meant to deal with the ‘bank’ of Mom and Dad.” The business took off. In its second year, Stenzig’s Mom got into the act when she opened a bed and breakfast. “It just seemed to make sense,” said Stenzig.

“We were renting canoes to all these people who needed a place to stay. We’d pick them up at the airport, take them to the B&B, transfer them to their river, pick them up at the other end and return them to the airport. It was seamless and well received by our guests.”

Now providing a wide range of products from guided fishing and quad tours in the summer to snowmobiling and Northern Lights tours in the winter, Stenzig grew the company to a thriving yearround business providing some of the Yukon’s most unique tourism products.

In addition to his tour business, which now includes a Northern Lights viewing centre catering to Asian visitors and a line of corporate and incentive travel products, Stenzig is gaining a reputation of having one of the best water sports shops in the Yukon. Located on Strickland Street, Stenzig sells canoes and kayaks, paddling and camping

gear, dry bags, dehydrated camping food and maps.

“I hope to expand the retail business,” said Stenzig. “I really enjoy it.”

Expansion is definitely a word that Stenzig takes seriously. In 2004 he attended Rendezvous Canada, the country’s most important international tourism trade show, for the first time.

“That was a huge learning experience,” said Stenzig. “We’re giving it three years to see if we realize our investment.”

At $5,000 per trade show, it represents a significant risk, but Stenzig is confident.

It would seem that Stenzig is well on his way to realizing his goals. In 2001, The Tourism Industry Association of the Yukon awarded Stenzig the CKRW Little Guy Award for being the company that has best demonstrated community spirit, promotional excellence and/or management professionalism for the benefit of

Yukon residents and visitors.

“That was something special. My father had passed away earlier that year and I had to start making all the decisions without my safety net, knowing I was going to make tons of mistakes.

To be recognized by the industry that year in particular really blew me and my Mom away and we display that award very proudly.”

Stenzig also won a Business Development Bank of Canada Young Entrepreneur Award in 2004.

“It was great to win, but the award ceremony was at the worst possible time. It was hunting season!” exclaimed Stenzig. He continued, “It turned out to be a really educational trip though and we met business people our own age from all over the country, each experiencing the same challenges as us.”

Despite all the accolades, Stenzig is grounded. He clearly loves dealing with people and

chuckles when he spoke about a recent client from Germany he nicknamed “Frank Six-Socks”, after he discovered his client was indeed wearing six pairs of socks when his feet got cold on an ice fishing tour. “The guy said he knew he had on two for sure, but surprised even himself when he counted six pairs!” Stenzig laughed.

When asked what he is most excited about in his business, he points to the significant number of repeat customers. “We have a number of clients who travel with us year after year, they’re like family. And when someone spends their hard-earned travel dollars year after year, you know you’re doing something right.”

Something right indeed.

Robin Anderson is co-owner of Latitude, a Whitehorsebased company packaging both vacations and corporate/ incentive travel programs.

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Frank Turner Age: 57 Birthplace: Toronto, Ont Residence: Whitehorse, Yukon

Kennel: Muktuk Kennel Bloodlines: Mostly out of Alaska. Halter, Runyan, Johnson Your start?: Had several pets, found an old sled to haul wood and water and later got talked into racing.

Why run dogs?: The teamwork and amazement at their capabilities.

Why entered?: To have a good time and see how good we can be.

Goals?: To be the best we can be as a team.

Occupation: Wilderness tourism operator

Frank Turner Veteran

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: John Schandelmeier Age: 52 Birthplace: Anchorage, Alaska Residence: Paxson, Alaska

Kennel: Crazy Dog Kennels Bloodlines: North Star Borough Animal Shelter Your start?: I'm getting too old to remember...

Why run dogs?: Training Why entered?: To showcase the abilities of cast-off dogs.

Goals?: To run the best race possible with a team of rescue dogs.

Occupation: Commercial Fishing, Dogs John Schandelmeier Veteran

February 10, 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

HOT....rageous HOT....rageous comedy comedy This hilarious slapstick adventure on a circus stage features original, live cartoon sound design, pyrotechnic effects, and unbelievable sight gags.

Suitable for ages 5 up to 99.5

www.yukonartscentre.org

Page 7

Yukon Arts Centre February 22, 23 & 24 - 7 pm (please note early start) February 24 - 1 pm matinee Adults: $20 Children/Seniors $15 Youth Pass $2 Box office: 667-8574 or 1-877-YOUR-TIX

Our Partners in the Arts

Show sponsored by

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 1

Yukon Quest is anybody’s race Although the number of sled dog teams is down this year to 21, and the reigning champion is not returning, Stephen Reynolds thinks these factors will add up to a very interesting Yukon Quest 1,000-Mile International Sled Dog Race.

The manager of the Canadian half of the “toughest sled dog race in the world,” says Hans Gatt’s decision to run the Iditarod instead, along with the absence of last year’s second-place finisher Zack Steer, will allow for another musher’s strategy to win it all.

“It was Hans’ strategy to be leading at the half and hold it,” says Reynolds. Now it is wide open and each musher can run their own race for the $30,000 US top prize. The next 14 racers will share $95,000 US.

And, looking at the line up for this year, Reynolds can’t believe he has to call some of them “Rookies”.

“Bruce Langmaid is the Can-Am 250 reigning champion, but he’s a rookie in the Quest.

“Blake Freking is the reigning champ of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon … but he’s a rookie to us.

Reynolds ponders the entire field and then opines. “I don’t see any one team pulling away.”

But he will leave the speculation to others; he is too busy getting ready for the start on Sunday at 1 p.m. from First Avenue and Main Street.

One of his concerns this year is three stretches of trail that runs through fire-ravaged forests between the start and Dawson City. There has been 60 human

From left, Stephen Reynolds, Sharon Riordon and Bev Regier are at the Yukon Quest offices, getting ready for the race.

days of work spent clearing, but the weight of snow on rootdamaged trees could add an unwelcome surprise, toppling a tree onto the trail.

As for the weather, Reynolds begs not to be quoted: “The typical Yukon weather is holding out so far, but mushers never have enough snow.

“Just so long as it’s packed down.”

Then Reynolds has to be concerned with getting enough volunteers: “We need office people before and after the race, we always need security people and I need people I can call at midnight if a checkpoint person doesn’t show up.”

He is also on an ongoing search for sponsors. The Whitehorse branch of RBC Royal Bank recently joined at the $4,000 level along with the Canadian Rangers and the Whitehorse Star.

And, now that Sorel has found a home with Columbia Sportswear Company, it is still a sponsor at $25,000.

As the Yukon Quest gains more and more media awareness and establishes a reputation for stability, Reynolds believes there will be more corporate sponsorships from across North America.

“But I don’t know if it will be a title sponsor like Fulda,” he says.

Yukon Quest action begins Friday night at 5:30 with a banquet.

Each ticket is $50 and may still be available at the door of the High Country Inn and Yukon Convention Centre.

Ed Hopkins prepares for a training run.

On Sunday, the teams begin assembling at 11:00 for the start at 1:00. And, that night at 8:00, the Yukon Quest 300 begins. It is a qualifying race for next year.

As every year, Reynolds asks that spectators leave their own pets at home. There will already be too much excitement.

Ongoing Yukon Quest coverage

www.yukonquest.com – Regular updates on the internet will include notes from the trail, times of teams at each checkpoint and a list of those that have scratched.

CBC Radio 570 AM – Dave Croft will cover the start on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Trisha Estabrook, a first-time Yukon Quest reporter, will follow the race and provide updates weekdays between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m., 12:45 p.m. and 5:40. On weekends, there will be one report between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. On Thursday and Friday, the New Day morning show and Lunch Break afternoon show will broadcast live from Dawson City.

The finish will be covered live.

CKRW Radio 610 AM, 96.1 FM – Coverage of the start will begin at 12:30 with Ron McFadyen. Quest updates will be offered at 7:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., noon and 5 p.m. No reporter will follow the trail.

Yukon News – Jillian Rogers, the most senior reporter on the trail this year, will offer updates in each of the newspapers Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Whitehorse Star – Reporter Kelly-Anne Riess, a Quest first-timer, will provide statistics and features in each newspaper Monday to Friday.

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February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

She is theShe’sface at the finish a clock-watcher Anyone who has taken part in competitive cycling or running in the Yukon, in these past 20 years or so, has most likely experienced the typical post-race symptoms of excessive sweating, agonizing pain, rewarding sense of accomplishment and that one burning question: “Who is that woman?”

Described by many as “The Welcoming Face at the End of the Race”, Marg White has been tracking race times in the Yukon since 1986.

From the Klondike Road Relay in Whitehorse to the Dome Race in Dawson City, the long-time Yukoner has spent countless

hours at finish lines armed with a stopwatch and smile.

White, herself, can’t help but

with George Maratos

chuckle when she tries to think of places in the Yukon where she hasn’t volunteered her time.

“I still get a kick out of it,” said White. “Sure, there are some

Send in your sport photos editor@whatsupyukon.com

Ted Staffen M.L.A. Riverdale North

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Home: 667-2900 Office: 667-8661 Fax: 393-7400 Toll Free: 1-800-661-0408

days when it is pouring rain and you don’t really want to go, but you know there will always be

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someone out there depending on you.”

White’s winters are equally busy as she spends most of her evenings and weekends at the curling rink. As the Yukon Curling Association’s former head official, with Level 4 certification, White’s knowledge of the game is regularly called upon both around town and across the country.

“I enjoy people, I guess that’s where the involvement starts,” White explains.

“It’s part of my life. Last weekend I had nothing scheduled and it was sort of like, what am I missing?”

Over the years, White has built

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the swimming portion of the competition. Unfortunately, the swimmers forgot to use permanent markers to write their

race numbers on their bathing caps. By the time they crossed the finish line their ID numbers had washed off.

“We just threw our papers away and made up the times,” explained White, with a laugh.

“No one complained or seemed to notice.”

Even if the swimmers had realized, it would have been hard for them to hold a grudge.

White and her husband, Don, have opened their home regularly to athletes, both on the shortterm and longer basis. White remembers one weekend when two full teams of young Haines Junction hockey players slept on her floor.

“They needed a place and asked the question and we had the space,” said White. “So why not?”

That caring attitude and willingness to dedicate countless hours to sport was recognized last fall when White and her husband were inducted into the Sport Yukon Hall of Fame.

“I guess I just haven’t learned to say ‘No’,” said White. “Some day, maybe I will.”

Meanwhile, White will continue smiling, officiating and tracking times at Yukon finish lines.

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quite a reputation for being a perfectionist when it comes to recording race times … although she’s quick to point out that wasn’t always the case.

“One of my first road relays, I was along for support and I didn’t know what the hell I was doing,” said White. “I remember telling runners they had three kilometers left, when it was actually six. I didn’t know distances or anything.

“I got swore at a lot in those days.”

There was also an incident during a triathlon in the eighties that required White to display her improvisational skills.

She had volunteered to time

Kelley Griffin Veteran

Page 2

Kennel: Silver Belle Kennels Bloodlines: Wright-Champaine, Saunderson, Runyan, Butcher, Swenson & others.

Your start?: I borrowed a Lab and a Siberian from neighbors and ran around the subdivision on an American Flyer with my poodle in lead.

Why run dogs?: Due to a genetic defect I run dogs. I enjoy being able to be part of a team that has such joy and enthusiasm for what they do.

Why entered?: To carry the ashes of David "Yukon" Armstrong. He wanted to enter the Quest and his last wishes were to be scattered on the Yukon River. And for the "children".

Goals?: To place as high as we can, with a large team of happy but tired athletes.

Occupation: Dog Food Distributor

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 3

Badminton takes it to the next level Looking for new players to join the pool

“I don’t believe we’ve ever been competitive,” says Gary Burdess, president of the Yukon Badminton Association.

Yet, in 106 weeks, he hopes to send eight members against world-class competition in the 2007 Jeux du Canada Games in

Whitehorse.

“For the most part, it’s drop in.

But there have been tournaments and a Yukon Championship for youth that is open to the communities.

“But it’s not competitive in that we don’t keep ratings. And,

at the tournaments, they seed themselves.”

So, once it was decided by the board to reach for this next level, more coaching and more clinics were laid on.

And each youth member has two extra tournaments to attend each year.

The silver and gold medal winners of each will be invited to compete at the next level up to offer them even more challenge and chances to learn.

Burdess doubts there will be a culture shock amongst the long-time players. Near the end of each evening, the more competitive players gravitate toward the far courts to allow the rest to just have fun. And, “the kids like to be competitive anyway.”

The badminton club will remain a place that welcomes recreational players and those who are just looking for an interesting way to get their cardio workouts.

But Burdess wants to find even more players who are looking for a chance to compete at the national level in a sport that demands much: “Strategy, it’s a very mental game; athletic, it is very demanding; and stamina, there is no set limit and games can go a long time.

“It’s a very fast game, the birdie goes over 100 km/h.”

A large pool of youth needs to be

Stephan Burdess reaches for a shot. found to isolate only those who can compete at such an advanced level. “A lot of kids like to play badminton until they realize it’s a very physical game.” And it will need a lot of commitment.

“There is lots of time to prepare,” says Burdess. “This is the perfect time to start.”

Those who want to take part are encouraged to phone 6685073.

There are already 40 adults in the club and another 20 under 17 years of age.

Clinics will take each badminton player to the very basics – footwork, holding the racquet, different strokes, different shots -- and build from there.

Participants’ ages are from 12 to 17.

Many of the recreational players are willing to help the coaches, Ken Frankish and Bill Madiation.

Recently, Mike Mullin moved to Whitehorse from Inuvik, N.W.T. to add even more depth to the coaching pool.

Besides having players ready to take part in the Canada Games, the badminton club is required to host a nationally sanctioned tournament. There is a bid in now and they are just waiting for word on it.

But, at the end of the day, Burdess says his number one goal is to get more people from more communities playing badminton.

“I just want to get the kids out there playing.”

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Canada Games in 106 weeks

Steven Lai, foreground, and Stephan Burdess are contenders.

Our boxers respected Outside Levi Commons, of the Yukon Amateur Boxing club, returned from the Alberta Bronze Gloves tournament with a gold medal.

Edujardo Aragon and Micah Hoeschele, of Whitehorse, both earned silver medals.

Eleven of 12 boxers, who attended last month’s tournament, were first timers.

Dawson and Whitehorse pugilists drove to Red Deer for the Jan. 29 tournament. But, with flight delays and poor driving conditions, most had to compete with only an hour of sleep.

Stephen Kormandy, of Dawson

City, was narrowly defeated in his first bout, but showed his coach great promise for the future.

Brothers Daniel and Jordan Reti, of Whitehorse, were crowd favourites for their sill and determination, but both lost on points.

Jannel Robertson, of Whitehorse, the only female boxer to represent the Yukon, was forced to move up an age and weight category due to a lack of competition. Still, she lost in a close decision.

Kurtis Fendrick and Brenton Fraser, of Whitehorse, had the

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crowds standing as they displayed great skill and endurance. Both lost narrowly by points. They both vowed to their coach they will train harder for the next competition.

Austin Taylor and Kevin Mendelson, of Dawson City, impressed their coaches and they look forward to seeing them in a tournament again.

Troy Malcome, one of the Yukon’s most-skilled boxers, was unable to finish his bout due to an ailment.

The club’s next tournament will be in Alaska.

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February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Skiing is a Made-in-the-Yukon Experience It’s Wednesday and I’m feeling listless. The kids are at school, my wife is at work and it’s a day off from college classes for me. I want to go for a ski.

I look out the window … it’s still dark. I drag myself to the front door and open it cautiously. To my surprise it is actually quite nice; a little windy, yes, but otherwise unusually warm and pleasant. It will get brighter and, in spite of the warm weather, I layer on the clothing just in case.

Jeans, a T-shirt, a sweater over that, a fleece over that and my trusty old English wool coat on top. I can’t forget my Canadian rabbit-skin hat, the one that says, “Made in China” on the tag.

Then there’s my made-for-the-

What’s Up,

with Chris Wheeler

north but made-in-China Kombi mitts. Finally, my big pair of winter moon boots finishes the picture.

The hill to Granger isn’t steep … but it’s long. Patches pulls me up the hill but I’m puffing by the time we get to the top. I’m also feeling a little warm and sweaty in my many layers of “quality outdoor clothing”. Turning left at Hamilton Boulevard, I head to the end of the road to begin

my circuitous route around the Logan/Copper Ridge area. It’s a great walk because there is always something different to see.

I remember the trails that wound through this area before the roads came. My wife and I would bundle our then-baby son

Sport listings

refreshed.

We turn off Falcon Drive and onto the road that runs past the Copper Ridge Place senior’s complex. There, in front of me, looming out of the snow like a monstrous apparition, is a city of Whitehorse bus shelter. On the side is a big Batman poster with the words, “Holy Blockbuster”.

I stop, and stand dead still in my English coat, Chinese boots, hat and mitts, with my Canadian dog. Patches looks at me like I’m nuts. Overhead there are three big old ravens circling amidst the falling flakes while Batman peers

Here’s how to contact us: Ph: 667-2910 Fax: 667-2913

schedules@whatsupyukon.com

Advertising Deadlines:

Need a drive to Yukon Atom Invitational Championship Feb. 25 to 27? Phone Walter Wallingham at 634-7082 or Dave Morin at 6347006.

Hockey Canada Skills Camp Feb. 26 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Deadline to register is Feb. 24.

Klondike Snowmobile Association is hosting a poker run Feb. 27.

Check website at www.ksa.yk.ca for details on this and organized snowmobiling in the Yukon.

Feb, 14 by 5:00pm for Feb, 24 Issue

Healthy Living Community Tour

Carcross Community Tour Monday February 7, 2005 Please contact: Bryan Woronchak 821-3211 Linda Van Pelt 821-4444

Peewees/Bantams vs. Females every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

Phone Lee Drummond for info at 634-2192.

Whitehorse Yukon Badminton Association tournament Feb. 20 for males and females born 1989 and 1990 at Takhini Elementary School.

Registration from 8 to 8:30 a.m.

Games start at 8:30 a.m.

Send your upcoming events

Yukon communities can look forward to a Healthy Living Community Tour this February and March, sponsored by Health Canada’s Diabetes strategy. The Recreation and Parks Association of the Yukon (RPAY) is working with community partners to organize a one-day event focusing on healthy eating, active living, and diabetes prevention and management. The tour is scheduled to go to Beaver Creek, Burwash Landing, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, and Watson Lake. RPAY plans to contact a dietician and fitness trainer to travel with the tour. First Nations CHR’s community Recreation Directors and Community Nurses have been contacted for workshop ideas and to help the one-day event meet the needs of each community. For more information, specific dates and to participate, please contact Richele Bauer, RPAY Tour Coordinator, (867) 667-4873 Email rbauer@polarcom.com

Haines Junction Peewee/Bantam Practices are now Tuesdays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Fridays, 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.

Watson Lake Yukon Atom Invitational Championships Feb. 25 to 27.

editor@whatsupyukon.com sales@whatsupyukon.com

All Northern, All Fun

Page 4

in his snowsuit, put him on a sled and walk back through here every weekend. Now, no matter how often you pass through, there is either a new house under construction, a road being levelled, a new shade of vinyl siding to notice, or some other fresh human contribution to the ever-changing landscape.

I’m feeling really hot, so I take off a layer of clothing while Patches sits on the snow looking up. That’s a problem with Yukon weather, it’s often difficult to know how much clothing to wear. We carry on. Soon the road begins to head downhill and, despite the slog, I begin to cool down. We stop and I put my coat back on. I’m beginning to feel

out from the poster. I’m suddenly caught up in the absurdity of it all.

I’m glad to be a Yukoner. There are people around the world who would kill for the chance to enjoy the quiet streets that we take for granted here. They might not dream of Gotham City with all its villains and heroes or, perhaps, they are living in one.

I’m wearing clothing made half a world away, and every snowflake that falls contains a grain of dirt that may have originated anywhere else on this planet, but I am standing in the Yukon. What a lucky man. Patches and I head home.

Polarettes and Polar Tumbler Gymnastics Club is hosting the 4th Annual Fitness Challenge Feb. 13 at the Polarettes Gymnastic Club.

Teams of five will compete in 10 events.

Faro Curling Workshop Feb. 19, 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Rec Centre Curling Rink. Phone Rec Centre to register.

Youth Curling Club every Thursday, 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m., at Rec Centre Curling Rink for ages 6 to 12.

Adult Curling League every Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., for ages 13 and up.

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Dan Kaduce Age: 34 Birthplace: Wisconsin Residence: Chatanika, AK

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Kennel: DewClaw Kennel Bloodlines: Joe Redington, Jr., Jim Hendrick, Siebold & Erhart Your start?: Skijoring behind a friend's team.

Why entered?: Only event I could find where a tall, skinny, massochist with a uni-brow could have a possible advantage.

Goals?: To bring another big happy string of dogs to the finish.

Occupation: Carpenter

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 5

World of Warcraft is simply beautiful Game is simple to use and beautiful to look at

with Justin Lemphers For those new to Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games, World of Warcraft is a good place to start.

Right from the beginning, WoW drew me in by giving me the freedom to customize my new character. I chose from one of eight races that include dwarves, elves and taurens. Clicking through the samples, I chose the diminutive gnome. Then I chose his class, gender, skin tone, hair, expression and facial hair.

After a quick loading screen, I was treated to a spectacular view of snow-capped peaks. Much like a snowflake, the camera’s view slowly descended in a lazy spiral into a beautiful valley rich in detail. A voiceover offered a humorous story of the gnomes and I was fascinated to see partially buried ruins and trees,

heavy with snow, pass before my eyes.

The camera’s view arrived at the forest floor and right behind a familiar-looking figure … me. I was amazed to see the game had already begun and it seemed as though my gnome was going to be the star of a computer-generated movie.

Within the next few minutes, I spoke to a few non-player characters, accepting a quest from one to slay some pesky wolves, and easily jumped into battle. Game play was intuitive and simple to master.

All interactions with the game environment could be accomplished with a left or right click of the mouse. After an hour of play, I had completed three quests and advanced several experience levels.

Once I had my fill, Fraser Irvine was able to spare a few minutes from his job at Gecko’z to show me what lay beyond the world of my gnome. From cities crowded with many other players to the depths of dangerous jungles, I was enthralled.

One of the most amazing aspects of the game was watching Irvine’s own character ride a griffon from one city to another. No loading screen here, WoW embraces the journeys and treats you to the sight of your character flying through vast deserts, lush meadows and fiery volcanic fields.

At times the view was so high up that all I could see was the lay of the landscape.

At other times, the griffon would fly beneath the canopy of the trees, passing just over the heads of players and monsters alike.

My first WoW experience was engaging, entertaining and, well, wow.

After sitting for five hours, I had

only seen a small part of the world and loved every minute of it.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind before rushing out to buy a copy of WoW: After the one-month grace period to hook new addicts, it costs $14.99 US each month to play online.

It works out to the cost of four movie rentals.

speed. Considering the Yukon’s distance from the game servers, I would recommend an internet connection speed of at least 100k.

WoW is not very demanding for most systems, but, to really enjoy the game, prospective buyers should make sure they have at least the minimum requirements.

All the specs can be found on

This Gryphon sure beats the run.

WoW’s maker, Blizzard Entertainment, claims the game is playable on a 56k dialup modem, but lag would definitely be an issue at that

the game box or at the official website at www.worldofwarcraft. com.

Games have been kindly provided by Gecko’z.

fourth on the floor and ninth overall and.

Meghan Rodger earned a silver medal on vault and a gold on the floor and was sixth on bars, fourth on the beam and sixth all around.

Sierra Palamar earned the bronze on the beam, a silver on bars and a gold medal on vault. All of this hardware earned her another gold for best all around.

Jasper Martin won a bronze medal on rings, a silver on parallel bars, a gold on the floor and pommel and, in the end, a silver for all around.

The next competition for the girls will be the Mardi Gras Invitational in Sherwood Park Feb. 19 and 20.

Martin will compete in the Jurassic Classic in Calgary in March.

Local gymnasts all win medals

Female Elf with her pet.

The Polarettes Gymnastic Club faced its first competition of the year and earned quite a few medals.

The West Coast Gymnastics Invitational was held Jan. 29 and 30 in Coquitlam, B.C. Gina Sparling won the bronze medal on bars and placed sixth on the vault, ninth on the beam,

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For the fourth year, the Polarettes Gymnastics Club is challenging anyone and everyone to see who is the fittest.

On Feb. 13, at its facility attached to Vanier School, the gymnasts will defend their title from last year … a title they earned by beating 13 other teams.

“Our gymnasts are looking forward to this year’s fitness challenge,” says head coach Kelly Mock. “They had so much fun last year.”

The challenge will consist of

a circuit of 10 events that will test speed, endurance, strength, flexibility, balance and teamwork.

Five-person teams can register and sponsorships can help raise money for other charities besides helping out the gymnastic club.

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Keep warm, stay watching

Page 6

Winter star gazing is fun, but you have to know how

with James Cackette

Toque This, worn inside the parka hood, is the ultimate protection from the cold.

Hat or Hood This is a personal choice.

Some people find the hood too restrictive for viewing.

Down-Filled Parka Helps keep the upper body warm and they are lighter in weight.

Tabs on the cuffs will help keep warm air from escaping.

Velcro Sealed Pockets Makes it easier to access eyepieces, flashlights and other gear you need.

Appropriate Gloves: Remember you need flexibility to adjust the focus and to grip small knobs and change eyepieces.

Insulated Pants or Coveralls This allows flexibility as well as keeping you warm while standing for long periods of time.

Insulated Winter Boots I have found that down booties inside the insulated deep winter boots are worth their weight in gold.

is an awesome and breathtaking Living in the North has many experience. There is an advantages. We have crystal abundance of deep sky celestial clear skies, no air pollution and treasures -- Pleiades Star Cluster, many hours of darkness in the the Orion Nebula and, of course, winter season. This adds up the Big Dipper – and none would to excellent opportunities for be enjoyable if you are freezing. viewing and taking pictures of The the Northern Lights.

Another great advantage of living in the North is the extremely dry air. In humid parts of the world, there is so much moisture between you and the stars, it would be like bird watching from the bottom of a swimming pool.

You can really tell the difference if you partake in photography through a telescope or camera.

Resource Centre However, the North Listed below are my also presents some favourite, usable working challenges to the hobby of tools in astronomy. With these amateur astronomy -- bitterly first particular websites, you can keep cold winters, dust and Above the Whitehorse area, Feb. 11 yourself up to date with total daylight in the current and upcoming summer -- but they can Skychart courtesy of events in the night sky. be overcome by proper On most of them you can www.heavens-above.com clothing and some also type in your latitude helpful tips … Yukon and longitude, which will lesson to learn about Northern Style. let you print star charts. With astronomy is how to be Having been an amateur these simple tools in hand, the comfortable and warm in the astronomer in the Yukon over night sky unfolds before you. sub zero weather.

Realize that the past 15 years, I have learned astronomy is a hobby and not many do’s and don’ts when it www.heavens-above.com a sport … there is very, very comes to the challenging the www.asronomy.com limited activity and the only climate of this great part of the www.cleardarksky.com things that will keep you warm country. www.skyandtelescope.com are winter clothes and coffee or With a little care, you will find hot chocolate. winter star gazing in the Yukon Consider these for clothing:

Celestial Highlights For February Feb. 15-The Pleiades star cluster and moon will pair up for an awesome duo. Also the 1st quarter moon debuts at 7:16 pm.

Feb. 19 – Saturn shines brightly below the moon late this

evening.

Feb. 23 – Full moon 11:54 pm.

Also called the snow moon.

Feb. 26 – In the late evening hours the moon and Jupiter will rise together in the east.

What’s Up, All Northern. All Fun.

Here’s where you’ll find us!

Sport Yukon Peak Fitness Better Bodies Icycle Sport Curves Mac’s Fireweed Yukon Inn Tags Well Read Books

Maximillians

Triple J’s Music Cafe Madtrapper’s Bistro Shopper’s on Main The Deli Cranberry Bistro Java Connection Bank of Montreal Edgewater

Watson Lake Foods Belvedere Hotel

Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters

Additional New Locations and Communities To be Announced The Yukon’s newest magazine that reports on the FUN SIDE from the INSIDE Wanting to distribute? Call: (867) 667-2910

YUKON QUEST TRADING CARD Name: Sam Perrino Age: 28 Birthplace: Lassarre, Quebec Residence: Yellowknife, NWT

Sam Perrino Rookie

Kennel: Frank Kelly, Marcel Marin, own kennel Bloodlines: Frank Kelly, Marcel Marin, own kennel Your start?: With my brother, Marcel Marin.

Why run dogs?: I enjoy the training the most.

Racing is more for making money so that I can keep training my dogs.

Why entered?: To improve my dogs and myself as a long-distance driver. Also heard a lot of good things about the Yukon Quest from my brother, Marcel Marin, who ran it last year.

Goals?: To train properly and race as I trained without "cheating" my dogs.

Occupation: Electrician (summer), Dog Trainer (winter)

Ellen E. Brian

Tarot Card Readings Astrological Charts Call 667-6030 for an appointment

My greatest sports moment … .. was the time I was skating on a pond near the Cowley Creek Subdivision with my cousin, my friend Gavin, my mom and my dad.

The ice hadn’t been skated on yet and it was as shiny and as freshly polished as silver -- perfect for gliding on. We skated all day and had the best of times.

Ben Barrett Forrest, 12, Whitehorse

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

Page 7

Biking is for winter, too

By Aubin Tuzlak Biking in extreme weather is hard on any bike. Whether you have decided to you use your bike all four seasons, or you have purchased a bike just for winter, it needs only one speed. That one high gear makes it easy to power through snow and, let’s face it, your gear selector will probably freeze up anyway.

The best tire is a fat tire … the bigger the tire, the better the traction. You should also have a rust-resistant frame. The chain on your bike will need a good quality lube such as White Lightning Epic, which is good for all weather conditions.

Keep your bike free of dirt, ice and snow. And bring it in for a tune up before and after winter.

If you keep all of this in mind, there is no reason you can’t enjoy winter biking throughout our most challenging season.

Aubin Tuzlak operates Aubin's Bike Shop in Whitehorse.

He offers a repair service, precision bike fitting and custom bike building. He can be reached at 667-2411.

Marcus Wattereus is spinning his way to great health.

February, 10 2005

Whats Up, Yukon?

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Introducing the all-new 2005 Outback.

Every aspect of this new Outback has been enhanced and refined.

The improved clearance, reduced weight and repositioned engine make it better on rough roads. And of course, its sleek looks and full-time All-Wheel Drive make it the perfect vehicle to drive anywhere. See the Outback at your Subaru dealer. You’ll be impressed. Totally.

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WHITEHORSE SUBARU Phone: 867-393-6550 Fax: 867-393-6551 Email: raman@northwestel.net www.whitehorsesubaru.com 17 Chilkoot Way, Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 6T6

Page 8