The Atlin Whisper, December 13, 2023

Wednesday December 13th, 2023

The Atlin Whisper “Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world.”

Margaret Mead

ATLIN KARATE CLUB The Atlin Karate Club (AKC) is a member of Karate BC.

Grading test Kyokushin Karate Everybody is welcome on grading day We hope to see many spectators, the participants really appreciate that Grading day is: 19th of December 2023 Time: 03.30 – 5.15 PM Location: Gymnasium Elementary School Program: 3:30 PM Meditation 2 minutes Warming up 13 minutes 3:45 – 5:15 PM Introduction 1 Physical Fitness Test 2 Kihon: Elementary Karate Techniques 3 Kihon no Kata: Advanced Karate Techniques 4 Renraku Waza: Combination of Karate Techniques

5 Kata: Defending oneself against imaginary opponents.

6 Kata team demonstration and application 7 Kumite: Ippon kumite, Kyokushin kumite, free fight 8 Breaking Boards 9 Awarding Certificates and Belts

THE PRESENT, THE PAST

By Paul Lucas Atlin. Present Day. I sit in my kitchen chair, my old Gibson on my knee, staring down Torres channel, like I do, waiting for the muse. She is tardy today. She cares not whether I live or die; and finally, when she arrives, she has little to say.

“Art shmart,” is all she can whisper in my ear. “Pack it in, put on those boots and split some wood you lazy bastard.

You’re gonna get nothing from me today, I don’t care how much you strain that pea brain of yours.”

So, with nothing else occupying my mind, I let it drift - back to another seat, another window in what now seems like a faraway land, both in time and in space.

--North Vancouver,1968. I was sitting on a little makeshift bench in my ramshackle flat above the barber shop, looking out over Lonsdale Ave. I had a topographical map of the land north of Pemberton B.C. spread out on my lap - one of the areas I’d hoped to stake property. As recounted earlier, that hope was dashed when I found I’d already missed the deadline. I was disappointed. Still, I never forgot that beautiful country.

What I didn’t know at the time was that, one day, I would meet a man who didn’t miss that deadline - Bernhard Thor.

His is a tale worth telling.

--BERNHARD THOR I first met Bernhard through my partner Lynn. They met at the Vancouver School of Art, and became fast friends. Not long after graduation, Bernhard set out to find land in the very same area I was perusing a mere year later. And he found the perfect location.

Up on the mountain above Anderson Lake, Bernhard built his home - but not just any home. A multi-faceted man of the arts, he is skilled in everything from painting to sculpture. He is an expert stone mason and wood carver. As a result his house is, itself, a piece of art.

As soon as I laid eyes on him, I knew who he was. Like many successful wilderness dwellers who live on the land with grace, he had that elegant balance of bush competence, talent, exuberance and humour. He also had, to my way of thinking, that most important of all traits - a functional philosophy.

Many folks who choose alternate lifestyles come from rocky, or at least interesting, backgrounds. Bernhard’s tale though, stands alone.

He grew up in East Berlin. For the first 17 years of his life he lived with that wall, that barbed wire, those guard towers, those machine guns and that repressive communist government. When the final showdown came with his old-school German father, he decided life was intolerable. He toyed with the idea of suicide but decided that if he was going to deal in that sort of desperation, he may as well capitalize on it and take a shot at freedom.

He wanted a life in the West, but before that could happen, he had to escape the horrendous oppression he felt behind the wall. So, putting his faith in fate, he made a run for it - through minefields, razor wire, electrified fences, and booby traps - all overseen by guard towers and machine gun nests. The whole thing was madness.

But Bernhard, like me, had a guardian angel looking out for him, and his was on the job that day. First of all, it had snowed heavily, and a blanket of snow was covering the minefield, spreading the weight of footfalls and making passage possible. Secondly, a thick fog had descended, rendering the guards blind but, more importantly, causing the electric fence to be inoperable - a fact that was clear because of the absence of the ‘shimmer’ that could always be seen in the mist.

So, armed with good fortune and a small axe, Bernhard walked into no-man’s land with only one more thing to consider the bands of roaming guards patrolling the fence lines. But once again, fate stepped in. As it turned out, because of the fog, the guards roaming those fences could only communicate vocally, prompting a brilliant directive from the chain of command that the soldiers hoot like owls to indicate their locations - a gift from heaven for escapees.

But the cover wasn’t perfect. Bernhard still found himself dodging live fire from those guards who did manage to spot him. He was lucky, but it was a luck he questions to this day because, with all that firepower, he figures one of those bullets should surely have found him. Looking back, he thinks it possible that they might have been missing him intentionally - letting him escape. Go figure. The human spirit finds a way.

In the end, with only a couple of hitches, one where he managed to cut through two fences only to find that he’d walked in a circle, ending up back in East Berlin, Bernhard made his escape to the West. He was free.

But he looked like hell. His sartorial state had taken a beating from climbing, crawling and the like, the worst indignity being the ravages of a barbed wire fence that had ripped his pants on the final jump. It wasn’t a little rip either - the whole front of his trousers tore off, leaving his boys languishing in the breeze.

What the West Berlin patrol saw on their first round then, was this bum sitting on a rock patching up his crotch. They had no idea ...

--The film, ‘A Mountain Life,’ features several extraordinary individuals and their epic tales of adventure in the bush. Bernhard is one of those chosen to appear in it. It is a spectacular piece of work and worth seeing.

Bernhard and Mary Thor live up on the mountain above Anderson Lake to this day. We visit them in that mountain paradise as often as we can. It’s always like coming home.

Bernhard Thor

POSTSCRIPT The repressive Communist government of post-war East Germany bred fear, isolation and desperation. I caught a brief glimpse of that desperation when I entered East Berlin shortly after the wall fell. The place was a mess. The Russians had left the town to rot. The facades of the buildings had decayed, the streets were unsurfaced and pot holed, and every person I met, even then, had those shell-shocked post war lines on their faces - a look I learned to identify as a small child in England after the war.

One of the unforeseen consequences of the whole mess though, was the art. The work I saw in those galleries was some of the most powerful art I had ever experienced. It reached out like a John Coltrane solo - no messing around, straight to the point and straight from the gut.

I’m guessing those roots affected how Bernhard approached his own art in the years to come.

--Atlin. Present Day. Suddenly I was falling backwards. Evidently, while daydreaming, I’d been rocking back and forth on the back two legs of my kitchen chair and it had finally decided it’d had enough.

Clutching the guitar with my right arm, I reflexively grabbed the edge of the table, managing to turn a skull crushing, Gibson busting fall into a little twisty thing where I ended up with my entire weight on my right foot. For a minute I just hung there ... balanced in stasis like some sort of grizzly tableau. I finally extricated myself, replaced the upturned chair on its legs, and sat back down with a sigh.

I reached for my coffee, which had miraculously managed to stay in the cup, and took a sip. I thought back to my disappointment at missing out on that land in the Pemberton Valley those many years ago, and I shook my head. How was I to know that just a few years later, I’d find this magic little spot, along with a brand new life, a thousand miles to the north on the Yukon Border.

Anyway, it’s here that I sit this very afternoon - sipping coffee and staring down Torres channel, Gibson on my knee - still barren of inspiration - still waiting for the muse. She seems to have even given up taunting me now. Maybe I should just do as I’m told. Maybe I should just put on my boots, and drag my sorry behind outside to split some wood.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT THE HYDRO PROJECT A Hypothetical Alternative Let’s say, for the sake of argument, that Lina Creek had the same head, flow and, hence, the same power generating capabilities as Pine Creek.

And let’s further say that a corporation made up of entirely of shareholders from the town of Atlin was applying to build a 9.3 mw power plant on the shore of Atlin Lake at Five Mile Point, complete with penstock, access road, power lines and resultant noise pollution, all of which was to be located meters from the residences in the area.

And let’s also say that all of the power generated from that plant was to be shipped to the Yukon purely as a profit-making venture with no consideration or financial benefit whatsoever for the people whose land it was disrupting.

How do you think the members of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation would feel about that? My guess is outrage. And they would be right.

Respectfully Submitted by Paul Lucas

“I Take You Wherever I Go” I take you wherever I go so I never walk alone.

I take your spirit with me to see beauty everywhere.

You’re my comfort and my joy.

You are the guide beside me leading me on the right path.

You bring forth the best in me for others in their time of need.

You’re my comfort and my joy.

I take you wherever I go as you’re the gift that surrounds me with love and understanding.

—Jeff Salmon

LANDFILL *WINTER DAYS* *Effective – Sunday, November 5, 2023* SUNDAY & MONDAY 11 AM - 4 PM … PST

CLOSED at temperatures -28 C & below ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CLOSED ON ALL BC STATUTORY HOLIDAYS Remembrance Day (Saturday) - Open Nov 12, 13 Christmas - Closed Monday, Dec 25th …… Open Dec 24, 26 New Year - Closed Monday, Jan 1st …… Open Dec 31, Jan 2 Family Day - Closed Monday, Feb 19th …. Open Feb 18, 20 Easter (Good Friday) - Open Mar 31, April 1 Operated by the Atlin Community Improvement District

NORTHERN HOMES REAL ESTATE Surprise Lake Road 6 acres along the Spruce Creek with a fabulous meadow surrounded by the woods and the roaring creek, room for several guest cabins if you chose. Main house is 2 storey and a main level cozy self contained mother-in-law cottage is perfect for guests. So much potential to expand. $350,000 Watson Avenue Two adjoining lots totalling 75x100’ providing ample room to build a new home while restoring a colorful and historic building, if you chose. No neighbors or roads to the north so lots of privacy. $225,000 4th Street 400 sq.ft., one bedroom cabin plus a large workshop on two adjoining 50x100 lots, fully fenced. Quiet location with lots of room for expansion. Great potential for expansion. $249,000 43.6 Beautifully maintained, inside and out, this cosy two bedroom home is so private featuring a second cottage with sleeping loft (often used as a B&B), a third cabin for guests, great garage/workshop, plus various other craft/workshops and fencing. Mountain views in every direction plus a short walk to Atlin Lake sandy beaches. Just waiting for you!

Viewing by appointment ONLY. $597,000 Pearl Street 1700 sq.ft. historical building suited for combination comfortable living plus retail. Living room, kitchen, two bedroom and huge third room to adapt to your needs! Recent extensive foundation and roof restoration plus interior renovations utilizing the original wood and fixtures. This is the original Atlin and your opportunity! $395,000 Historic Rant This 3 bedroom bungalow appears to have been one of the Eaton catalogue pre-packaged houses, either original or salvaged with what appears to be solid beautiful Douglas Fir wood throughout just begging for restoration. With a fabulous view of the mountains and lake this is big enough for a young family. Plus, within walking distance of all amenities. An adjoining lot perpendicular to this homesite is also available. You could live here while building a dream home on the adjoining lot. $175,000 Warm Bay Road This gem is off grid, well maintained and absolutely the perfect retreat. Two bedrooms, large open dining/living room, galley kitchen and spacious pantry. Storage in walk out cellar plus numerous out buildings. Bonus is a warm spring flowing through year around! $230,000 Second Street 100x30 foot lot, sloping between the lake and mountain view. Great central location waiting for you. Develop your new home at your own pace. $135,000 4th of July .78 acres of Crown Land Lease, gated, partly cleared, the perfect spot to keep your RV and recreational necessities there for year around enjoyment. Lease term to 2042 $53,500 Call Myrna at (250) 775-1019 Please text or email a message (rather than voice mail) myrnablake1@gmail.com .or myrnablake1@zoleo.com when I am traveling Go to northernhomesbc.ca for more details.

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM

The story of Christ's birth is probably one of the most touching stories ever told — a young and very pregnant woman journeying by donkey and foot to a town far away, only to be met by closed doors and the imminent birth of her child in a stable.

I think of Joseph and his frustration and concern for his burdened wife and their plight. How desperate he must have felt being unable to secure a private and warm accommodation for her, in which to give birth. How his heart must have beat as her time drew near and there was only hay and cattle as their helpmates. God was there, to be sure, and though they did not understand completely, this was all part of His wonderful, infinite plan. He knew their hearts and minds were right with Him and that was all they would need to welcome this, His Son, into the world. Still, they must have wondered just what on earth He was up to!

Their child, the Son of God, was born, and all heaven cried out for joy, but very few on earth were even aware of the miracle within the barn that night.

Today we once again prepare to journey forth to Bethlehem. We bake, we make, we shop and carry. We arrange and maybe pack, decorate or generally join in upon the festivities. Santa packs his bag and hollers, "Ho, Ho, Ho!" and all the heavenly hosts might still sing, "Hallelujah to the newborn King!" As we rush through to be prepared for this our yearly pilgrimage, I wonder, however, if we've checked the road on which we travel, or if we know why it is we go at all.

Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem because it was decreed. We go because it's what we've always done. When the labour pains begin in full, though, and the Spirit of Christmas demands its birth, is there room in our inn?

Are our hearts and minds right before God as were Mary and Joseph's? Or does God in heaven look around and wonder what on earth we're up to?

Thou didst leave Thy throne And Thy kingly crown When Thou camest to earth for me, But in Bethlehem's home Was there found no room For Thy holy nativity: O come to my heart, Lord Jesus, There is room in my heart for Thee!

MENU Daily and always available: Coffee, Fresh Made Sandwiches & Bakery Pastries All items OVEN baked ~ not deep fried Monday 9:30-5:00

Tuesday 9:30-5:00

Wednesday 9:30-5:00

Thursday 9:305:00

Fresh made sandwiches and pastries.

Chicken, Beef or Veggie, Cheese, Loaded Nachos.

Starts at 11am until sold out.

Small $14 Large $25 Roasted Whole Chicken.

Starts at 3:30 until sold out. $20-$25

Wings hot and ready to go.

Sold by the pound.

Starts at 11am until sold out. $21.99 per pound All variety of sauces available.

Choice of naked or breaded

Roasted Whole Chicken.

Friday 9:30-5:00

Saturday 9:30-5:00

Sunday Closed

Fried Chicken Dinner with Potato Wedges and choice of Salad. Starts at 11am until sold out.

Pizza Day. All in house made fresh. Starts at 11am until sold out. $ 18 - $43

Shani’s Rest Day

2, 4, 8 piece or 12 piece Family Bucket w/potato side and choice of salad.

Price for 2 - $ 12 Price for 4 - $ 21 Price for 8 - $ 37.50 Family Bucket $ 65

Pizza by the slice while supplies last $7

Starts at 3:30 until sold out. $20-$25

*Pre-order meals by 4pm the day before – Roast Chicken, Roast Beef, Pork Ribs * Available Tues, Wed, Friday, Saturday

~Catering, Donut, Pizza available any day when booked 48 hours in advance~

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OPPORTUNITY If you are hungry, and have no money, we have meals/snacks vouchers that have been paid for in advance.

Take a ticket & bring to counter to use on any food item up to the amount shown on receipt. Meals tickets are available now.

Store Hours: Christmas Schedule Saturday Dec 23 10am – 5pm Sunday Dec 24

Closed

Monday Dec 25 Closed Tuesday Dec 26 Closed Wednesday Dec 27 – Saturday Dec 30 regular hours Sunday Dec 31 Closed Monday Jan 1 Closed Tuesday Jan 2 Regular hours

Gary Pumps Ltd.

Please note that requests for same day water delivery must be received no later than 11 am of said day.

Thank you!

Water delivery and Sewer Removal are available Monday through Friday Home Heating Fuel, Bulk Fuel and Bulk Oil Available

Atlin Mountain Inn FALL Food Hours (Sept 15-Dec 1st) Sunday: Restaurant: Dinner 6pm-8:00pm Monday: Restaurant: Dinner 6pm-8:00pm Tuesday: Restaurant: Dinner 6pm-8:00pm Wednesday: Restaurant: 6pm-8:00pm Thursday: Restaurant Closed Friday: Restaurant: Dinner 6pm-8:00pm Saloon: Open 5pm to close-Pizza 5-8pm

Phone 250-651-7463 Email garypumpsltd@gmail.com Mailing address is Box 147, Atlin BC V0W 1A0 Office hours – Monday to Friday 8 am – noon With thanks, Gary McNeil and Jody Smallwood

Saturday: Restaurant: Dinner 6pm-8:00pm Saloon: Open 5pm to close Every Day!! Self-serve cafeteria in the restaurant 8am-8pm

Winter store hours (Starting Sept 20) Please take note that we will be closing on Sundays Monday - Friday 9:30am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 5pm Sunday Closed Also closed on all Statutory holidays.

Will operate on MST this Fall/Winter. ~Weekly freight truck run on Mondays and freight runs available upon request~

Atlin Pet Care 287 Tatlow Street

Your pets home away from home!

~Weekly freight truck run on Mondays and freight runs available upon request~

Indoor/Outdoor Runs Heated Kennels Boarding-Grooming-Pet Supplies Emergency Care-Veterinarian Referrals SPCA AGENTS George Holman 250-651-7717 or Marj Holman 250-651-7758

Please note that the next edition of the Whisper will NOT be on December 27th, but one week later on Wednesday, January 3rd.

The deadline for submissions is Sunday December 31st by 6 p.m.

May each of you enjoy a wonderful Christmas Season and a happy and healthy New Year!!!!

Atlin Christian Centre Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada Service and Sunday School Sunday 11 a.m.

Come join us!

St. Martin’s Anglican Church 10 a.m.

Sunday

250-691-0128

Everyone welcome!

Mountain Shack Café Restaurant Fast Fancy Food Great Service 110 Discovery Avenue In Atlin, B.C.

EAT IN OR TAKE OUT Wednesday thru Monday 250-651-7789

MOBILE WELDING SERVICE AVAILABLE Contact: Alain Vanier 250-651-0037

Reasonable Rates!

Smallwood Enterprises Ltd We provide Concrete, Drain Rock, Screed gravel, Sand, Topsoil and Septic systems.

We also provide Equipment Rentals, Excavations, Covered Storage, Firewood and Snow Removal.

Please call (250) 651-2488 or email bobscontracting2020 @gmail.com

Atlin Community Library Due to the Courthouse repositioning, will be closed from August 13th onward.

Reopening date unknown, but watch for announcements.”

The next Whisper is Wednesday January 3rd.

Submissions are due no later than Sunday 6pm December 31st The Purpose of the Atlin Whisper is to encourage, build-up and inform the people of Atlin concerning ongoing community events and happenings. The Whisper is not a political mouthpiece.

Compiled and edited by Lynne Phipps. Paper for printing courtesy of Northern Homes Real Estate Printing courtesy of Dani McNeil and the RCMP Atlin. Delivery by Bobbie Whelan and Gary Hill.

Classifieds, news, upcoming events Contact 1-867-334-7949 or lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com if you have, pictures or articles you would like to submit.

Please note that submissions should be sent in either WORD or JPEG whenever possible. PDF must first be printed and then scanned back into the computer in order to format it into the paper. This costs in both paper and ink. We know that at times a PDF is the only way, which is okay when necessary, but otherwise, as the Whisper is a FREE community service we appreciate your support in helping to keep the costs down as much as possible. Thank You!