PHOTO: Peter Mather Photography
HOMES BY DESIGN
We had plans to go see her shipping container. We wave hands and moments later our convoy of two vehicles rolls onto the Takhini Hot Springs Road. A few more minutes passed and her compact SUV and my fierce Corolla set flaring the June dust on the Takhini River Road.
At the top of a steep slope, she made a right turn and we engaged on private land, on a driveway that can’t be wider than a golf cart, and after some twists and turns, the shipping container came into sight — or rather, an elegant dwelling amongst a sea of trembling aspens.
For the record, Read is a registered architect with her own flourishing practice in Whitehorse. She carefully led this retrofit project — turning a shipping container into a cozy home — her home.
Searching for a place to buy, circa 2014, started the whole project. She had cash for a humble home but not for the land to sit it on. “It tells you how housing can be challenging here and, I mean, I am a professional, right … Can you imagine?” Read shares. She wanted mobility for when she would buy land, some years down the road. She had thoughts about Airstreams, mobile homes and shipping containers. This last option provided her with both an interesting professional challenge and a chance to design the space herself.
She first secured leased land through an acquaintance. “I wanted a 10-year lease for the plot of land — enough time to buy my own. Turns out it’s been precisely 10 years now. It’s been a good deal.”
Read found the container locally, an extra-tall unit at 9 feet 6 inches. It had been the property of the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, down in Skagway,
and conveniently found its way to Whitehorse before she bought it. In the meantime, she had reached out to a Vancouver architect who specialized in shipping-container retrofits, where she learned tips and tricks to make it work.
The container needed openings, insulation and finishing, amongst other things. She went with spray-foam insulation for the walls and roof and cleverly ran all of the electrical wiring on the outside face of the container walls, under the spray foam.
“It’s a clean finish, everything is hidden, you are not losing any interior space that way,” she said. The spray foam has a white exterior protective coating. “It could stay as is,” she said as she shakes her head, “but I didn’t want a big white marshmallow.” Instead, she chose an intricate wood burning process from Japan, Shou Sugi Ban, to cover the spray foam. Using yellow cedar planks, she did
Mary Ellen Read’s shipping container
PHOTOS: Mary Ellen Read
RETURN OF THE SWANS
The Swan Haven Interpretive Centre presents A Celebration of Swans, from April 1 to 30, ushering in spring with the mass migration of thousands of swans, ducks and geese
One of the surest signs that spring has begun in the Yukon is the presence of swans. With the famed birds returning for the annual migration, the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre is open daily from April 1 to 30, with free entry.
Overlooking McClintock Bay in Marsh Lake, where there is open water that water birds feed and rest on, the interpretive centre is a place to learn about the migration patterns of birds such as swans, ducks and geese, as well as a place to see the creatures up close on the shoreline trail. And you won’t just see them; you’ll hear them, too.
“I actually called a neighbour to Swan Haven and he said he saw
Freelance with Manus Hopkins
still there, but hopefully this is the start of the arrival now.”
a pair of swans arriving on March 9, and he got all excited, and then they left the next day,” said wildlife-viewing specialist Karen McColl, who spoke with What’s Up Yukon towards the end of March.
“But a day or two ago, another pair arrived. There’s not a ton of open water there yet and it seems a little bit late, compared to usual, in terms of the ice that’s
A Celebration of Swans runs from April 1 to 30 and, as McColl explained, the time frame generally captures the majority of the bird migration and best sighting results. “The peaks vary,” she said. “The average peak is now right smack-dab in the middle of April in terms of when the most swans are at Swan Haven; however, they have peaked at the beginning of April and they have peaked at the beginning of May,
over the last twenty-odd years.”
In 2019, Swan Haven saw a record number of swans, with over 3,000 counted in a day. McColl said that most years see over 1,000 birds for a period of time at the migration peak. “At the beginning, it may be just a few dozen, but then it does get up to a thousand or two thousand.”
McColl said that last year didn’t have a huge peak but the number of swans sat steady, around 1,800,
cont’d on page 12 ...
PHOTOS: Peter Mather Photography
Swans in flight
Manus Hopkins is a journalist and musician hailing from Whitehorse.
Homes
the wood torching herself.
About the openings, Read explained, “The general rule is to have them at one-third or twothirds of the wall length, to keep the structural integrity.” (She worked with a structural engineer who provided stamped drawings.)
The location of these openings, soon filled with sliding doors and windows, dictated the floor plan. At one end, the living spaces — kitchen, dining, living room. At the other, a calm room, the only bedroom. In-between, the “wet area”: a toilet, closet, stacked washer and dryer, a bathroom sink and plumbing for a corner shower.
During the various construction phases Read planned for as
much work as possible to be done in town, where the container was, and would only bring contractors and the container itself on-site at later stages. This proved to be an effective cost-saving strategy.
The home is connected to the electric grid and an insulated crawl space provides space for utilities under the container. Heat is supplied by electric baseboards and a wood stove. The radiant heat and the metal container walls make for an interesting pair. “It can be thirty degrees in here, in winter, when the stove is roaring, and yet you touch the metal walls and they are still very cold. It is always so surprising … it is really cozy in winter.”
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p Shipping container on moving day
t The bedroom deck
As for reusing shipping containers for dwellings, she said, “There are risks. There could be toxic paint, substances, in there.” To minimize these risks, the whole interior was encapsulated in a thick coat of white sealant and, she said, “You do want an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator), running 24/7, because it is really airtight. It is a shipping container. You do feel like you are running out of air otherwise,” she said with the smile of someone who “ate that cake” before.
The container had been her primary residence for a number of years but, having eventually bought her own place, there are now no plans to relocate it. The container also served as a short-term rental, a place to self-isolate during Covid; and now, Read said, “I have people interested in buying it.”
On the verge of passing the shipping container to others, she said, “It was difficult. I had contractors not listening to me, costing me more money. I had mixed feelings once it was done. But now I really like it.” n
You can expect friendly and welcoming care in an environment that relaxes even the most anxious patients. We all love what we do, and look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice.
PHOTOS: Mary Ellen Read
CHASING LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS
Embracing Life, One Step at a Time: Kevin Crowe’s Story
A long-time runner with a passion for life and a mission to bring families together — one mile at a time
Inever imagined that a race could change the way I see life. Yet, the Yukon Arctic Ultra marathon became much more than a gruelling test of endurance; it had evolved into a testament to living deliberately, a tribute to those who inspire us and a mission to give back to the community through my charity, Give A Mile.
A few years ago, I found myself confined to a hospital bed, battling the excruciating pain of trigeminal neuralgia (often referred to as the
“suicide disease”). In that vulnerable moment, facing my own mortality, I realized how much life I had left undone.
The wake-up call was both brutal and transformative. Memories of my dear friend Ryan Westerman, who valiantly fought brain cancer until he passed away at 37, flooded my thoughts. Ryan’s courage and the profound impact of seeing his loved ones spend time with him, before he passed, ignited a spark within me. I promised myself that if I emerged from that dark period, I would not only push my physical limits but also create a lasting impact.
Running the Yukon Arctic Ultra and giving back was my commitment to that promise.
I set out to take on the hardest, coldest ultra in the world, while raising funds to provide 37 flights for people to be with their dying loved ones — a chance for a final goodbye — 37 flights for Ryan, in honour of the age he was when he passed away.
Training for the race wasn’t merely about logging miles. It was about preparing both mind and
body for the unexpected. I dedicated six days a week to rigorous physical training, often spending up to 14 hours on long hikes and runs. My weekends became a mix of camping under open skies, sleeping in my backyard, and even taking ice plunges to toughen up against the chill of the Yukon. I incorporated daily yoga, stretching and meditation into my routine. For me, mental strength was paramount: I learned to view pain and fatigue as temporary obstacles — as small challenges to overcome, rather than insurmountable barriers.
Despite all the physical preparation, the most daunting challenge was the battle within. Doubt crept in constantly, whispering that I wasn’t ready or worthy to run alongside some of the mostexperienced athletes. I almost withdrew my entry during the holiday season. But in every moment of fear, I remembered Ryan’s legacy and the families who were counting on Give A Mile to bring them one last moment of connection. I made the decision to confront that inner critic head-on,
to see it as a part of the journey rather than a stop sign.
Race day arrived with a mix of nervous energy and determination. The night before, sleep had eluded me, but I welcomed the jitters as a sign of how deeply I cared. Standing at the starting line, I reminded myself to focus on one step at a time. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the daunting distance ahead, I concentrated on reaching the next checkpoint, then the one after that.
In the unforgiving cold of the Yukon, I learned that you don’t battle the weather … You adapt. I kept my fear at bay with reassurances: warm clothes, a sturdy sleeping bag and a plan for every challenge. When my spare gear froze solid, leaving me momentarily distraught, I remembered that every setback was just another part of this incredible journey.
As I pushed forward, I experienced moments of sublime beauty amidst the hardship. The northern lights danced across the sky like a celestial symphony — a breathtaking reminder of the wonder and unpredictability of life. Even when my trekking poles broke, my sleeping-bag zipper failed, and fatigue threatened to overwhelm me, I broke the race into manageable pieces: One checkpoint, one mile, one step at a time. That was my mantra.
On Day 7, utterly exhausted, bent over and unable to stand straight, with frostbitten hands ravaged by the cold, I made the difficult decision to end my race. Despite the challenges, I take great pride in having made it the fifth farthest on the course — a testament to perseverance and determination. The Yukon Arctic Ultra marathon wasn’t just about finishing a race; it was a profound lesson in overcoming resistance, in proving to myself that life’s hardest battles are best fought with unwavering determination. Every gruelling step reaffirmed my commitment to live fully, to seize the moment and to honour the memory of Ryan by continuing to raise flights for families in need. As of today, we have successfully raised 34 flights for Give A Mile, bringing us closer to our goal of reuniting loved ones in their final moments.
Now, as I recover and plan my next adventure, I carry with me the truth that action dispels fear. I’ve learned that when you push beyond your limits, the world opens up in unexpected and beautiful ways. And so, I will keep running … pushing my boundaries and embracing every challenge — one step at a time. n
PHOTO: Supplied by 2C Media
marathon headshot
Kevin and Ryan
Photo: Supplied by Ryan Westerman
When Aubyn O’Grady arrived as a student at the Yukon School of Visual Arts (SOVA), in 2011, she discovered a “completely different way of doing school”
“The traditional model didn’t work for me,”
O’Grady said. “And it doesn’t work for many students. At SOVA you’re taken really seriously as a subject.”
By this, O’Grady means that students are treated as active, developing artists with unique perspectives and creative potential. “As a cohort,” she said, “you kind of develop a competitiveness at the same time you develop care.…” Looking out for one another is part of the program ethos.
Six years later, O’Grady landed the job of program director and chair at SOVA, the school that had changed her life trajectory.
O’Grady isn’t the only one who finds SOVA intriguing. Across Canada and around the world, people reach out to interact with SOVA —
often proposing collaborative research projects.
Following her year of visual arts in Dawson, armed with an earlier degree in Human Geography, O’Grady attended grad school, intending to unpack and analyse the experience she’d had at SOVA. She became interested in art schools as centres of radical thought, and in art instructors who broke away and created their own schools. “What was it they [the instructors] were fighting against?” she questioned. She studied SOVA as an atypical model.
O’Grady found that, especially within Arctic and sub-Arctic communities, there is a fascination with SOVA’s location and its activities. This remote Yukon town of 2,400 (2023), with harsh climate conditions and a perpetual housing crisis, somehow keeps a foundation-year art school thriving. SOVA’s solid reputation (and that it’s a part of Yukon University) ensures that these unique, freespirited, foundation-year graduating students are welcomed into the second year of Canada’s major art schools. O’Grady and the faculty, who have been a part of SOVA over the years, have sculpted an unusual experience — magical even, if you ask O’Grady.
“The impossibility of this program makes it necessary to operate with a level of naïveté,” O’Grady said, laughing. “You need a little bit of naïveté, because that’s
where the magic comes from, to be able to uphold this kind of impossible institution,” she said. There are almost no supports, such as those offered by a four-year art school, and there is a severe lack of housing. If a parent is involved in the decision-making process, they’d generally encourage a more traditional school. “[Yet] year after year, these students show up for a foundation-year program, which is already unusual when you think about the leap between high school and post-secondary and what it would take to make the decision to come to SOVA.
“Students tend to self-select. I never know who’s going to walk through the door at the beginning of the school year,” O’Grady said. In 2021, O’Grady realized the need to pay attention to local artists and, at the same time, decided that she wanted to bring Jackie Olson into the teaching faculty. Olson, a Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in artist from Dawson who harvests many of her art supplies from the land, has grown the curriculum based on her relationship to the land and her own art practice, said O’Grady. Her teachings have connected students to the land, with Olson’s collaboration, and they are working towards inviting creativity into the mine remediation process, turning a [former] goldfield into a sculpture garden.
Olson tells the students, “The willow will fight you. I’ve had many tangle-ups with willow, trying to sculpt and shape it. You need to be flexible in your vision and your process.” If it’s a fight to the end, that’s information for the student, Olson explains. Acceptance is part of the process.
“It’s an important life lesson — not everything goes your way. It’s about taking the time to get to know your materials.” They’re taught that “if you harvest it, you have to use it.”
When studying art at Camosun College, Olson determined that using human-made materials was not her thing. It felt wasteful. “I try to instill in the students that everything has value. I’m always reusing my materials or returning them to the land. It fills my heart, this circle of life.”
Yukoners might say that a place like SOVA could only exist in Dawson City, where the magic is in creating the impossible. n
p Aubyn O’Grady at SOVA
p Jackie Olson
I LOST IT. AM I LOSING IT?
2024 was definitely not an uneventful year
Ihad only one job: show my papers and get on the damned plane.
It was a Tuesday evening, and we were en route from beautiful Cusco in south-central Peru, to the capital city, Lima. In three hours, we’d be whisked off to Miami for breakfast, then on to Pearson International.
Home before Canada Day, after five weeks in a beguiling land where (don’t ever forget it) you are the foreigner, not those other
folks. If they choose to eat roast guinea pig, or raw fish briefly marinated in lime juice, tuck in and join them. You may love it.
My longtime pal, Mike, had floated the idea of a trip together a few months earlier. Numerous niggly details and setbacks later, we found ourselves in Peru in late May.
After a week, we were ready to trade the relative blandness of Lima for the more obvious delights of Arequipa, with its unforgettable museums, legions of military, and tons of saints and martyrs. Not to mention block upon block of eyewear stores, although few locals seemed to wear glasses.
From there, we headed to
Cusco, a city drenched in Incan history and culture, with enough rugged Catholicism in evidence everywhere to remind you who won the wars (but did they, really?).
Cusco turned out to be my kind of place, with its narrow, cobbled streets, its monasteries and museums, massive hand-cut stonework, and exuberant parades at the merest hint of an occasion. I was even willing to ignore the constant onslaught of street artists and other pedlars, who actually have a separate police unit to keep them moving.
Mike is 14 years my junior and quite spry. We hadn’t seen each other for years, so I’m sure he hadn’t anticipated spending so much of his holiday waiting for me to catch up after pausing every 30 metres to lean against an ancient stone wall for a quick breather.
He wasn’t with me the day I took a tour bus to the legendary
Andean peak known as Vinicunca, aka Montaña de Siete Colores, aka Rainbow Mountain. My breath was laboured at much lower elevations; it would definitely face a challenge at 5,036 metres (16,522 feet).
After driving hefty quads as high as we could, we still faced many metres to the summit. My lungs and hips screamed for mercy, each breath threatening to be my last. But our tour guide adopted me as a personal project. “Keep going, Canada. You can make it.”
And, by golly, I did, winning an unexpected round of applause from my fellow sightseers of many nationalities.
But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s get back to that flight from Cusco to Lima.
After showing my boarding pass and passport, I lurched down the aisle with my carry-on, my fanny pack, my neck pillow and lap blanket from Cancun, the genuine Peruvian grass hat (made in China … of paper), and a thick alpaca poncho bought in Cusco for a fraction of its worth.
With my gear safely stowed, I squeezed into 26B between a robust woman of obvious Incan lineage and an equally robust young man. Neither seemed intrigued by the prospect of travelling with an elderly Canadian.
I opted for some sleep-inducing detective fiction on Kindle, and awoke just before touchdown at Jorge Chavez International. As everyone else herded out, I frantically gathered my stuff. From two rows ahead on the opposite side, Mike urged me to hurry.
With a sense of total panic, I
mouthed the words, “No passport. I can’t find my [expletive-deleted] passport. It’s not here.”
I checked every pocket, every fold, every sleeve. Over and over. Checked the magazine pouch in the seat ahead. Checked my blanket, my fanny pack, my carry-on. Searched under the seats two rows ahead and two rows back. Searched every cranny capable of concealing a Canadian passport.
I was about to start ripping out seats when the flight attendant said I had to leave. It was the day’s last flight, and the crew had no intention of spending the night with a befuddled Geezer whose Spanish vocabulary consisted mostly of ¿el baño?
Even as we reached the departure area, I refused to abandon hope. One of two things would surely happen: either the passport would emerge from some impossible hiding place, or a jubilant cabin cleaner would come running after us, shouting, “Hola señor. ¿Es este tu pasaporte?”
Or a third possibility might exist. A soft-hearted border agent could say, “Don’t worry, Sir. This happens all the time. Just wait here. We’ll get you a temporary travel document and honour your existing ticket. You’ll be on your way in no time.”
I learned another valuable lesson on that trip. Pigs really, really do not fly.
To be continued…. n
Peru’s legendary Rainbow Mountain left me breathless
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column with Ken Bolton
Our resident Geezer likes to look on the lighter side of darker realities.
Outdoor Wood Furnace
The quads we drove toward the summit overlooking Rainbow Mountain
roasted guinea pig
PHOTO: Ken Bolton
PHOTO: Mike Linder
PHOTO: Ken Bolton
or email them to: events@whatsupyukon.com
ART SHOWS
Until Apr 26 Cardboard Tales by Aurore Favier Arts Underground Each piece in the exhibition is handcrafted entirely from cardboard, from sweeping Yukon vistas to a 30-square mosaic exploring textures & patterns.
Until Apr 26 Echo by Amberley Cooke & Esa Suominen Arts
Underground An exhibition of tangible depth you can feel over the clay with sewn texture impressions, a hand carved clay skull stamp and glaze finishes.
Until Apr 30 Drawn Together. One Artist and Fourteen Hundred Swans by Martha Jane Ritchie YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery
An exhibition of work inspired by two weeks of living and working at Swan Haven during the 2024 Spring migration and Celebration of Swans
Until May 21 My Big Bougie Beaded Earrings Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre
A vibrant celebration of Indigenous artistry and self-expression, showcasing bold statement earrings as symbols of identity, creativity, and presence.
Until May 23 Nature’s Touch – Art by Isaac and Isabel YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Our art is about the beautiful Wilderness and our family’s Culture. We enjoy bringing the peacefulness of nature into our artwork, because it is good for the soul and it is where we connect with our ancestors and friends.
Until May 23 Field Notes from Kluane YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery showcases new works by Christine Koch, the 2023 Kluane National Park Artist in Residence.
Until May 23 Aleocharinae: An Entomologist and an Artist YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery A unique exhibition bridges art and science through stunning blown glass sculptures inspired by the intricate genitalia of obscure rove beetles (Aleocharinae).
Until Jun 28 The Andover-Harvard Yukon Expedition: 1948 Arts Underground A series of photographs from The Andover-Harvard Yukon Expedition: 1948, presented by MacBride Museum.
LIVE MUSIC
Fri Apr 11 YWIM 3rd Annual Fundraising Concert - The Unbroken Circle 6:30 PM Whitehorse United Church A beautiful evening of music and community. Tickets are by donation - email yukonwomeninmusic@ gmail.com for more info. https:// yukonwomeninmusic.com/ Fri Apr 11 90’s Grunge Night - Electric Lemonade and Garbageman 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Sun Apr 13 JOTW – Montréal
Bassist Carl Mayotte Quintet 7:30
PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Jazz on the Wing highlights the Carl Mayotte Quintet’s latest release. Dive into the vibrant sound of their album, Carnaval. jazzyukon.ca
Monthly
Mondays
Gray Jay Café 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.
Tuesdays
Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Wednesdays
Intermediate Jam - Bluegrass & Old Time 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion bi-weekly Hosted by the Yukon Bluegrass Society
Karaoke 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Whitewater Wednesday 8:00 PM 98 Hotel
Thursdays
Muster Point 6:30 PM Baked Cafe
Muster Point live and featuring a rotating lineup of local guest artists. Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Fridays
Live Music 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.
Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Saturdays
Live Music at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill. whiskeyjacks.ca/
Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Sundays
Open Jam 8:00 PM 98 Hotel
GENERAL EVENTS
Mon Apr 7 Beginner Wood Lathe
- Candlestick 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn basic wood turning with the wood lathe, including setup, chisels and walk home with your unique candlestick!
Mon Apr 7 Portrait Painting with Suzanne Paleczny 6:00 PM Arts Underground Participants will paint three portraits of live models, and will receive individual instruction as they paint. Any level of painting experience is welcomed! https://www. artsunderground.ca/
Wed Apr 9 Copyright in Media 5:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace An introductory session with Martha Rans where you’ll learn about the different types of copyright that might apply to your creative work. https:// whatsupyukon.events/b2b585
Wed Apr 9 – Sat Apr 12 The Cat’s Cradle Wood Street School
Wed Apr 9 Permafrost Envirofest
2025 6:30 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre A transformative evening and contribute to a greener, more resilient Yukon!
Thu Apr 10 Music Trivia (members & signed in guests) 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Bring a team or play alone! Test your music knowledge!
Fri Apr 11 -16 National Canadian Film Day (but it’s a whole week) Yukon Theatre Hit pause on Netflix, bring a friend, grab some popcorn, and, for the love of Canadian stories and the filmmakers who bring them to life. — support your local cinema. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/
Fri Apr 11 Hand Embroidery Workshop 6:00 PM The Mini Makerspace Learn simple embroidery techniques and leave with everything you need to complete a full DIY project. Email thewildstitch.yt@gmail. com for more info.
Fri Apr 11 Selling Yourself - Film Pitch 101 6:00 PM SPYA Studio An introductory workshop for anyone looking for tips on how to sell your film or series project. Contact clientservices@spya.ca for more information.
Fri Apr 11 Mickey 17 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre The unlikely hero, Mickey Barnes has found himself in the extraordinary circumstance of working for an employer who demands the ultimate commitment to the job… to die, for a living. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ mickey-17
Sat Apr 12 Pre-Easter Garage & Bake Sale 9:00 AM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Table Sale: 9am to 1pm - Bake Sale: 10am to 1pm - Funds to support the general operation of the Branch - Call 3322740 to arrange drop-off.
Sat Apr 12 Yukon Biodiversity Forum 9:00 AM Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre Join us for a fun day of presentations and posters on the status, trends and new discoveries about Yukon wild species. https://www.yukonu.ca/ research/projects/biodiversityworking-group-annual-forum
Sat Apr 12 Idea to StoryMasterclass Workshop 10:00 AM SPYA Studio A full-weekend intensive, you will work with Dawn Brett, and producer, Eric Lapointe, who will foster your idea for a film or series into a fully-conceived story ready for pre-development. Email clientservices@spya.ca for more info. https://spya.ca/event/spyatraining-idea-to-story-masterclassworkshop/ Sat Apr 12 Spring Market 10:00 AM The Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre Whitehorse So many local vendors, businesses and crafters together all in one place to give you an exceptionally diverse shopping experience you won’t want to miss.
Sat Apr 12 Easter Spruce Bog 10:00 AM Best Western Gold Rush Inn 2 day sale is going to include so many talented local artisans! Come support our Yukon artists, shop local, and shop Canadian https://www. sprucebog.com/
Sat Apr 12 Bones - Bottles & Birchbark Baskets - Free Artifact IDing Event 2:00 PM Whitehorse Public Library Drop by, bring your treasures, and engage with local experts as we delve into the rich archaeological and palaeontological heritage of the Yukon!
Sat Apr 12 Community Barn Dance 7:30 PM Church of the Northern Apostles Join Megan MacLeod(fiddle), Rick Avery (piano, banjo) and Scott Wilson (bass) and the caller Judy Greenhill, email judy.m.greenhill53@ gmail.com for more info. Sat Apr 12 & 13 Mickey 17 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre The unlikely hero, Mickey Barnes has found himself in the extraordinary circumstance of working for an employer who demands the ultimate commitment to the job… to die, for a living. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ mickey-17
Sun Apr 13 - 26 Awaken Festival 2025 TBD Gwaandak Awaken Festival! Participate in workshops and showcases designed for Indigenous and Northern artists. https://www. gwaandaktheatre.ca/awakenfestival-2025
Sun Apr 13 Spring Market 10:00 AM The Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre Whitehorse So many local vendors, businesses and crafters together all in one place to give you an exceptionally diverse shopping experience you won’t want to miss.
Sun Apr 13 Awaken Festival 2025 - Opening Ceremony ft. Bria Rose 6:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre An opening smudge, welcome from EAD Colin Wolf, as well as music by Bria Rose! Snacks and refreshments available as well as a colouring station for children.
Mon Apr 14 Federal Election AllCandidates Debate 7:00 PM -Gold Rush Inn. Yukon Federation of Labour invites all Yukon residents. This event lets voters hear from candidates for MP about issues important to workers, families, and communities.
Tue Apr 15 Mickey 17 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre The unlikely hero, Mickey Barnes has found himself in the extraordinary circumstance of working for an employer who demands the ultimate commitment to the job… to die, for a living. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ mickey-17
Wed Apr 16 Awaken Festival 2025 - Superbloom Community ArtMaking Session 6:00 PM The Guild Hall Facilitated by Krystle Silverfox & Nicole Schafenacker https://www. gwaandaktheatre.ca/home-awakenfestival-2025/in-person-workshops Thu Apr 16 Learn-to-Ring Handbell Workshop 7:00 PM Trinity Lutheran Church Share in the joy of ringing together, and learn more about Whitehorse’s newest community performance ensemble! Email tlc@ northwestel.net for more info.
Fri Apr 18 Awaken Festival 2025Dear Star Trek - A Work in Progress 7:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Created and performed by Christine Genier in collaboration with Jacob Zimmer. https://yukonartscentre.com/ Sat Apr 19 2025 Wild Game Banquet & Fundraiser 5:30 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A celebration of nature, wildlife, and the outdoor community - Indulge in a delicious dinner - Live music with Justin Sutton & North of 49! https://www.yukonfga. ca/.../wild-game-banquet-andfundraiser
Mon Apr 21 Awaken Festival 2025 - Exploring Indigenous Play Readings 7:00 PM Kwanlin
Dun Cultural Centre Colin Wolf will host as we read plays created by Indigenous writers and share them out loud together with vigour, experiencing what it feels like to perform with emotion. https://www. gwaandaktheatre.ca/home-awakenfestival-2025/in-person-workshops
Please visit whatsupyukon.com for up to date event details. Some events may be postponed or cancelled after we print. cont’d on page 9...
Monthly
2nd Monday Ukulele Group 6:00
PM Golden Age Society salvin@ northwestel.net
2nd Monday Whitehorse Slow Jam 7:00 PM Golden Age Society
2nd & 4th Wednesdays Whitehorse
Photography Club - Meetup 7:00
PM Yukon University - Whitehorse Campus Held in Rm A2204. Discuss photography, share your work, learn new tips and tricks. http:// whitehorsephotoclub.ca/
First Thursdays QYS Craft Night 7:00
PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache
This is a great place to gather and meet other queer crafters. And there will be tea of course. Regular drop-in is still available.
2nd Thursday QYS Movie Nights
5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache
Last Thursdays Repair Cafe 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Bring it in and see if it is fixable using soldering irons, multimeters, and other tools. This easy introduction to electronics and small home appliance repair is a useful evening of DIY learning that you can take home.
2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM
Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come on out and test your music knowledge! Teams of no more than 6 people.
Last Friday Pioneer Women of Yukon 12:00 PM Golden Age Society
3rd Sundays Messy Church 3:00
PM Christ Church Cathedral church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality. Crafts, singing and food will be the focus.
2nd & 4th Sundays Grade 8 – 12
High School Youth Group 6:00
PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview. church/connect/youth Monthly
Weekly
Mondays
Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00
PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Women’s Bible Study 6:00 PM Women’s Bible Study. Refreshments are served followed by the study. For more info check out www. mountainview.church or email rachel@mountainview.church.
Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society
Euchre - For Members and Signed in Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Euchre a tricktaking card game for four players, two on each team, As a member you Beginner ASL Class & Social Hang 6:15 Queer Yukon Society - The Cache
Tuesdays
Bridge 12:00 PM Golden Age Society Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) Le Café de l’amitié est un rendez-vous hebdomadaire et une occasion de rassemblement pour les francophones de 50 ans et plus.
QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache
Language Skills for Ukrainians 5:15
PM Yukon Learn A discussion group workshop provides a relaxed and friendly environment where learners can practise and learn English conversation skills.
Weekly Shuffleboard Tournament
6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch
254 For members and signed in guests. A double knockout style competition and games are limited to 6 ends or 15 minutes
Chess Club 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn? Looking for Competition? Join us!
SuperSmash Bros, Mtg: Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
10 Card Crib - Members & Signed In Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play! Learn tips and tricks and have some fun! https://bit.ly/3KP0B5s
Wednesdays
Multicultural Connection Group 11:00 AM Multicultural Centre of the Yukon – MCY Connect with other parents and caregivers, learn about parenting in different cultures. A free lunch program for immigrants and refugee families. Lunch and transportation provided. Call 332-1803 for more info.
Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Call 3336081 for more info.
Anglican Holy Communion –
Whitehorse 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month
Sew & Tell All – Elders Hangout
1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre
Facilitated by Kwanlin Dün Elder-inResidence Shirley Smith, everyone welcome. Feel free to join and start a beading project or work on something that you’ve already started! For more info email culturalprograms@kdcc.ca
QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!
Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Writing Things DOWN(town) 6:30
PM A regular, free drop-in writing group at the Whitehorse Public Library. This is a space to start writing your memoir or finish that article. Writing prompts will be provided to generate ideas.
Thursdays
Public Speaking TrainingToastmasters 12:00 PM Decora Guests are always welcome. There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics
Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services)
Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Find out what role playing games are all about! Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome.
Mtg: casual Commander, Warhammer 40k & Kill Team 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Mountainview Church Community Group 7:00 PM 16 years or older?
Mountainview Church Community Group! We’ll share some snacks and talk about what the bible has to say about discipleship.
Fridays
Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age
Society Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.
Mtg: Pioneer, YuGiOh Casual 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Saturdays
Yukon Amateur Radio Association
Coffee Discussion Group 8:45 AM
A&W Restaurant Hams from outside the Yukon and those interested are welcome to join us in this casual event.
Cribbage - Members and Signed in Guests 2:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Masks are mandatory. Members must have a valid 2021 membership and they may sign in 2 guests MAX.
Pokemon, Mtg: Youth Magic, Lorcana 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Sundays
Mountainview Church Sunday Service 9:30 AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM
Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch
Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse
Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone
Whitehorse United Church Worship
Service 10:30 AM A caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth
Secondhand Clothing Bizarre
2:00 PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition. Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.
Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church KIDS & FAMILIES
Until Thu Apr 17 A Minecraft Movie 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Welcome to the world of Minecraft, where creativity doesn’t just help you craft, it’s essential to one’s survival! Sat/ Sun matinees at 3:00 PM https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/aminecraft-movie
Tue Apr 8 - 11 Yukon Youth Summit
2025 YAC Yukon Arts Centre Step into a space where your ideas are valued, and your contributions can lead to positive outcomes for your community. Youth and youth organizations to come together, make an impact, and shape the future.
Thu Apr 10 École Whitehorse
Elementary School Public Open
House 6:30 PM École Whitehorse Elementary School Learn more about the new École Whitehorse Elementary School ask questions and your feedback is important! Everyone is welcome!
Sun Apr 13 Bannock Making 11:00
AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Youth ages 10-14 to experience making traditional bannock, learn, connect, and share in the cultural significance of traditional foods. https://bit.ly/4hVnQYy
Sat Apr 19 The Most Eggcellent Easter Eggstravaganza Scavenger Hunt 11:00 AM Yukon Wildlife Preserve All day Scavenger hunt –follow the clues through the Preserve to solve the riddle and get your chocolatey treats. BYO Roastables! Members free, regular admission applies. https://yukonwildlife.ca/
Monthly
1st & 3rd Saturdays Grades 5 - 7
Junior Youth Group 7:00 PM
Mountainview Church Passionate about giving kids opportunities to have fun & make new friends, while teaching them about Jesus & His great love for our world https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth
2nd and 4th Saturdays Grade 8 - 12
High School Youth Group 7:00
PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview. church/connect/youth
Weekly
Tuesdays
Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse
Public Library Join us for stories, songs & rhymes! A free drop-in program for children ages 0-5 and caregivers at Whitehorse Public Library
Parent-Child Mother Goose 10:30
AM The Child Development Centre Celebrates the power and pleasure of songs, rhymes and oral stories. Bonding time with your little one or to learn for later.
Wednesdays
Community Connections 1:30 PM Yukon Family Literacy Centre An intergenerational story time and craft program. Meet local elders, have a coffee, do some crafts, and make a friend!
Thursdays
Transformations Along The Chu Nikwän 1:30 PM Yukon Visitor Information Centre Join Amber for a free walking tour every Thursday along the Whitehorse waterfront to learn about the Yukon First Nations people and the history of the Yukon.
Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Youth 11-17 are invited to join, no experience necessary.
Saturdays
Science Saturdays 11:00 AM Whitehorse Public Library Free DropIn Science and STEM Activities - no need to register - For children to complete with a parent or guardian!
MEETINGS
Fri Apr 11 Hockey Yukon AGM 7:00
PM Sport Yukon In-person or attend via zoom, get updates on Hockey Yukon initiatives, have your voice heard, connect with the hockey community. Email executivedirector@ hockyyukon.ca
Tue Apr 15 YEU - Local Y010 AGM 8:00 AM Yukon Employees & Union A valuable opportunity to connect with fellow members, share insights, and actively participate in decision-making. Attend in-person or over zoom. https:// www.yeu.ca/local_y010_agm_2025 Tue Apr 15 Klondike Cruisers
AGM 7:00 PM Yukon Transportation Museum The AGM agenda, minutes of the last AGM, and the financial report will be emailed to the membership separately. Everyone is welcome, only members vote.
Weekly
Tuesdays
Rendezvous Rotary 6:30 PM Tony’s Pasta and Seafood House Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at Tony’s Pasta and Seafood. Come and join us for fun, and fellowship. Thursdays Toastmasters Decora 12:00 PM Sundogs Toastmasters Club. Club is open to all interested parties and we provide constructive feedback to help develop public speaking skills.
Monthly
First Monday Klondike Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa.yk.ca/comingevents/
First Monday Yukon Amateur Radio Association Monthly Meeting 7:00 PM EMO Building Discussion of club business. Prospective hams are welcome.
Third Thursday Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Monthly Meeting 5:00 PM ZOOM Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition for regular meeting. Everyone is welcome. Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https://yapc.ca/actions/ detail/yapcs-monthly-meetings
Third Thursday ASAY board monthly meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon
ONLINE EVENTS
Mon Apr 14 Supporting the Grieving Child 5:00 PM Online A free, online workshop for people who support children in after school and recreational programs and other caregivers. https://hospiceyukon. net/en/2021/10/01/supporting-thegrieving-child/
Fridays AA Yukon Unity Group 1:30 PM Online For Zoom Room address Contact 334-7693
Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.
Tuesdays Restorative Online Healing Circles 7:30 PM Online Check-in, Q&A, connect and feel the results. No experience necessary. Register online, or call 335-0078 or email alison@alisonzeidler.com for more info.
Want to be on this page? Enter your event HERE:
VENUS MILL PROJECT
Perched precariously on a steep slope on the west side of Windy Arm on Tagish Lake, the Venus mill’s remains are a recognized landmark to those who travel the South Klondike Highway in the Traditional Territory of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation.
The deteriorating structure inspires curiosity and conjures images of a lesser-known period in Yukon history; a time before highways when silver ore was shipped on Tagish Lake in the early 1900s.
Though the mill has deteriorated past the point of structural conservation, technology and innovation are enabling a new way to conserve the site and give the mill new life through documentation and interpretation.
John. H. Conrad came to the Yukon in 1903. With dreams of becoming rich, Conrad became president of Conrad Consolidated Mines Ltd. and began optioning mining claims around Windy Arm. The company eventually built and operated the Venus mine, and at first the financial outlook was promising.
In June 1906, the Whitehorse Daily Star reported that an assay from the mine netted 900 ounces of silver and $70 worth of gold per ton, which “shows it to be the richest property discovered in modern times.”
In 1908, Conrad finished building a seven-level 91-tonne mill to process the silver ore on-site, instead of losing money by shipping it out for processing. The Venus mill became the first concentrating mill in the Yukon, and it was outfitted with the most modern equipment available at the time.
While in operation, an aerial cable tramway ferried ore about half a kilometre downhill from the mine to the mill. There, the ore was fed into a hopper and a steam-operated pulley system carried it down through several levels of crushers, screens and concentrators that all worked to separate the mineral from rock.
Once at the bottom, the concentrated powder was loaded onto a steamship for transport to Carcross, and then it was brought by train to Skagway, Alaska to be shipped out for smelting. At peak performance, the Venus mill could process 10 tons of silver ore concentrate per day.
“Complicated yet simple, it is a wonderful combination of mechanism, perfection and utility,” reported the Whitehorse Star in November 1908. “One thirty-horsepower engine operates the whole thing, every part of which runs with the smoothness and nicety of a new sewing machine and with but little more noise.”
Over time, the mine proved less lucrative than first hoped. The ore in the Venus vein was not consistent in quality. It was also oxidized, which meant that it had to be chemically treated before fully extracting the metals. There were plans to bring a treatment plant on site, but those plans did not materialize.
Due to ore quality, falling silver prices and high shipping costs, the Venus mill closed and was abandoned in 1912. Between 1916 and 1920, its equipment was updated, and it was reopened and run by a series of other companies, each for a short time.
The mill was never used again after 1920, although there were intermittent efforts to mine the area again in the 1960s and the 1980s.
Today, the site is a heritage reserve, managed by the Government of Yukon. The mill’s age, condition and situation on a steep slope make it unstable and at risk of collapse.
“It was highlighted as a site where we really need to do something now or we may lose the opportunity,” says Rebecca Jansen, manager of the Historic Sites Unit (HSU), Government of Yukon.
“In this case, we’re focusing on thorough documentation to be able to tell the story of a place that we can’t physically conserve in perpetuity.”
Good documentation ensures that if something were to happen to the site, the HSU has a comprehensive record of what was there to further understand the site, how it worked and what it would have looked like while in operation.
“While it may appear that we’re doing nothing because the structure is deteriorating, we’re actually doing a lot to conserve aspects of this site by using new, innovative technologies for documenting and presenting that information out to the public in a
safe and accessible way,” says Jansen.
A few years ago, the HSU began its research and partnered with digital documentation experts through Carleton Immersive Media Studio (Carleton University), located in Ottawa. In July 2023, faculty members and researchers spent a week taking photos and measurements of the mill, including 3D scans, panoramic photographs, as well as drone images to map the site’s topography.
Because of safety concerns, the team was not able to enter the structures, but they used state-of-the-art technologies that could collect the data they needed from the edges of the site.
“You don’t need to go and measure by hand; you don’t need to be physically there engaging with those areas that are quite dangerous,” says Mario Santana Quintero, a professor in architectural conservation and sustainability engineering at Carleton´s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.
“Basically, a laser scanner is a device that you put on a tripod. It rotates, and it captures a threedimensional point cloud of the space. Then, you can use all these three-dimensional point clouds to either model the site, or to create measure drawings.”
Santana Quintero’s team is multi-disciplinary, composed of students and researchers from different departments, from architecture to engineering to media studies. They work on documenting heritage in Canada and internationally.
The data collected in the Yukon was used to prepare floor plans and cross-section drawings of the structures. In the current phase of the project, another team in the media studio is using that data to create a virtual tour that will eventually be presented to the public through interactive online storytelling.
“We strongly discourage people from entering the area and putting themselves and the structure in danger by trying to climb around it,” says Jansen. “Instead, they will be able to see and learn about the site through the virtual tour once it’s available.”
To learn more about historic sites and heritage reserves, visit yukonheritage.com n
column with Leighann Chalykoff
Leighann Chalykoff is a Yukon writer chronicling projects and people preserving Yukon’s history. This series is provided by the Government of Yukon Historic Sites to highlight the work of Yukoners and their connections to the territory’s heritage.
The Venus Mill shown from Tagish Lake before the South Klondike Highway was constructed
The Venus Mill’s remains, 1975
Adam Weigert and Arkoun Merchant recording the accessible areas of the interior of the mill using a 3D scanner in July 2023
Stephanie Murray 3D scanning the mill in July 2023
GATHER
KETCHUP IS A VEGETABLE
Mine
is the lone, dissenting voice in a family that loves ketchup
When we were growing up, my four siblings slathered ketchup over everything — bacon, meatloaf, fish sticks — except roast beef dinner on Sunday night. I believe it was banned on those occasions, even though my parents, too, were ketchup fans.
My family might object to the term “slathered,” but that’s how it appeared to me. I emphatically didn’t like ketchup, not the colour, not the loud, acidic tang. Yellow mustard, yes; relish, yes. Ketchup, never, not even on a burger.
I remember vividly a traumatic event in grade two at the endof-year school picnic. My parents were away, and we had a live-in babysitter. She made our lunches and made them with care.
However, she did not know my tastes. In the break between running races and jumping into the pool, hungry and eagerly anticipating my sandwich, I opened the neatly folded waxed paper pack-
Rosehip ketchup and homemade fries
age. To find baloney on soft, fresh white bread saturated with ketchup, oozing red like a bandage in the sun. I was horrified.
Well. I have since moved on from the trauma, and can now accept ketchup on the table, even enjoy it, in tightly controlled circumstances. Combined with mayo, for example, for the dipping of French fries.
My roommate, though he grew up in a Scottish household ungraced by ketchup, has always had a fondness for the condiment. He is the one who introduced
rosehip ketchup to our household. Now it is a staple.
Recently I went rummaging in the freezer, as one does at this time of year, making room, and found a bag of rosehips labelled “Sam McGee, September 2023. 6 cups.” I remember that day — we set out to pick highbush cranberries and found not a one, but there were tons of rosehips. We picked rosehips.
Six cups is exactly the amount you need for a batch of rosehip ketchup. My discovery was timely — we badly needed ketchup. My youngest brother was coming for a visit. This is the brother who, when asked by my mother to please, eat his vegetables, not just ketchup and meatloaf, replied, “Ketchup IS a vegetable.” We were ready for him.
ROSEHIP KETCHUP
• 6 cups rosehips, stemmed, cleaned and rinsed
• 4 cups water, divided
Continuing Studies Northern Institute of Social Justice
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp cayenne
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp soya sauce
• 1 tsp salt
1. Combine rosehips and 3 cups water in a medium saucepan and bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Strain rosehips into a clean bowl and reserve liquid. Take another clean bowl and press cooked rosehips through the strainer into the bowl, pouring the reserved liquid over top in batches to help loosen the flesh from the seeds.
3. Return rosehip pulp and seeds to the pot, add 1 cup (250 mL) water, bring to the boil, simmer for 2 minutes and press through the strainer again. You should be left with nothing but seeds in the strainer, and about 4½ cups of combined pulp and liquid. Discard seeds.
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4. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a clean saucepan and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and spices and sauté for another minute. Add sugar, vinegar and rosehip puree, and stir to combine.
5. Bring to the boil, reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and blend until smooth with an immersion blender or in a food processor — if the latter, be careful when pouring to avoid burns.
6. Return to the heat and continue to simmer until thick, about 10 minutes. Test by pouring a small amount onto a clean saucer and cooling for one minute. If the mixture holds its shape when you tilt the saucer, it’s ready.
7. Pour into hot, sterilised jars, seal and process in a boiling water bath for 12 minutes. Refrigerate after opening. Store jars in a cool dark place and consume within six months.
Makes about 5 cups, or 5 250 ml jars. n
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column with Michele Genest
Michele Genest is a Whitehorse-based chef and writer. She is also somewhat of a gardener. Michele has also written two books The Boreal Feast - A Culinary Journey Through The North and The Boreal Gourmet - Adventures In Northern Cooking.
PHOTO: Michele Genest
for much of the season. It’s difficult to predict how many swans will make it up to the Yukon and when the peak period will be, but some specialists in Washington and California have tagged some birds to get better estimates, according to McColl.
“They might have an idea,” she said, “but here, we’re very much focused, locally, on our festival.”
Trumpeter swans from the B.C. and Washington areas commonly make it up to the Yukon each spring. The timeline can depend on how late or early spring comes, but with an entire month of events and activities going on at Swan Haven, there is always something to experience.
“A lot of people associate the festival with the arrival of spring,” said McColl. “We have events for all ages and interest levels.”
The festival kicked off on April 1 with a screening of Return of the Trumpeters, a one-hour film about the rescue of the trumpeter swans from the brink of extinction. The following day, expert birder and photographer Jukka Jantunen shared a presentation on identification and viewing tips for common spring birds seen at Swan Haven and around the Southern Lakes.
“That’s exciting for people to kind of learn what the main birds are — not learning all of them because there are so many of them, but figuring out a few of them,” said McColl. “Then you go out to Swan Haven and you actually have a chance to identify them, so connecting those dots is pretty cool.”
Last year’s astronomy night, in conjunction with the Yukon Astronomical Society (YAS), proved to be a success and will be presented again this year on April 4. A Starry Night consists of an interpretive walk, with Yukon Wildlife Viewing staff, followed by an indoor presentation by YAS. Other events through the month include bird-origami workshops by the Japanese Canadian Association of Yukon, Family Weekend Swan Olympics, open studio days with Swan Haven artist-in-residence Rhoda Merkel, and more. New this year is a self-guided
audio tour called A Walk with the Swans. It can be accessed through a QR code at the centre, and people can walk alone and listen to lectures at each station on their phones.
“Outside of the hours that the interpretive centre is open, the grounds always remain open,” said McColl. “This is something that, if they can’t get inside to talk to one of our interpreters, people can do this tour and learn more while they are out there.”
McColl encourages people to check out the evening events, as there is more to be seen when the sun starts to set. “A lot come out to Swan Haven during the day, which is great. It’s beautiful out there,” she said, “but in the evening, when the sun is a bit lower, it is a really special time to be out there. The light is just a bit better — it’s not so glary — it’s just that pretty time of day.”
As a wildlife-viewing specialist, McColl enjoys taking people out into the wilderness to teach them about the animals on the land, but also is heavily involved in event organization. McColl said it’s nice to see Swan Haven visits become tradition for families and that the people who would go to see the birds and take part in the events, as kids, are now grown up and are bringing their kids. She hopes seeing the swans in the air from town will lure some people out to view them up close at the interpretive centre.
“It’s easy to take it for granted because it happens every year and it’s this regular thing, but to have a congregation of that many swans in such a scenic location is really a special thing to get to experience,” she said. “When the bird experts get excited, you know it’s a big deal.”
As part of the Wildlife Viewing Program with the Department of Environment, McColl and her team organize A Celebration of Swans, as well as other wildlife-focused events throughout the year, with a focus on the summertime.
“We do elk, and we talk about plants and we talk about all sorts of things with hikes, lectures and guided walks,” she said. “That’s our Wild Discoveries program in the summer.” n
On the water
PHOTOS: Peter Mather Photography
GOLD OF A DIFFERENT KIND
CHAMPION OF YUKON JOURNALISMMAX FRASER
Knowing someone for years doesn’t necessarily mean you know much about them at all
Iquickly found this out after sitting down to talk with longtime Whitehorse journalist, filmmaker, military history buff (and more recently, musician), Max Fraser.
You might know Max as stoic and understated, but once you open the door to his storied history you are brought into a colourful and lively world. Max is a serious and self-contained guy. But don’t let the calm waters fool you – there is also a deep appreciation for connection, fun and hidden emotionality bubbling under the surface.
Let’s start with some roots.
Max comes from Scottish military stock who first arrived in North America to serve in various war campaigns in the 1700s, then settled on land grants afterward. He is a product of these hardy adventurers: an upstanding man of integrity; a gentleman who holds fast to old-school traditions and reverence for the preservation of our collective history and stories.
He is also a fierce defender of democracy and social justice. Max found a means of expression for these values early on.
The tiny seed that would become an oak tree was planted when Max was a young lad with a paper route in Vancouver. There began his early fascination with “the magic of information” and a curiosity about what’s going on in the world. In high school Max got involved with his school newspaper, from there became a copy boy in the newsroom of the Vancouver Province paper, then en-
rolled in journalism school.
As a 21-year-old graduate Max was ripe for adventure. When his instructor told him about a summer opportunity in the Yukon as a reporter-photographer for the Whitehorse Star, his first reaction was “Where the hell is Whitehorse?” But it sparked his curiosity. After doing some research at the college library he was game to go north and left Vancouver for good, straight into a whole new world.
Max describes those early years in Whitehorse as “some of the best years of my life.” Whitehorse of 1974 was a small town of 11,000, which was a lively scene full of young people where every mundane errand (post office, bank, grocery store) was a social event.
There was a plethora of bars and live music every night of the week. “And there was a lot of dancing,” he says. “Everyone danced back then.”
Max loved the wide-open spaces of the Yukon, combined with the
Max sporting his fur hat, which he dubs “the missing lynx”
open acceptance and fast friendships that form in a small community. Max takes pride in his ability to come from the city as a young man and adapt to a completely different environment, embracing rural living, building his own house, developing a do-it-yourself lifestyle and then proudly becoming a dad to his daughter Robin.
Three months at the White-
horse Star turned into four years, which allowed Max to travel all over the territory, immersing himself in learning and writing about the Yukon of that time, which was very much still a colony of Canada.
Various stepping stones led him to several other journalistic ventures, including running a
cont’d on page 15 ...
column with Kim Rogers
Kim Rogers is a local musician, history fanatic and occasional columnist who likes to showcase extraordinary Yukoners.
PHOTO: Tina Brobby Photography
Champion of Yukon journalism - Max Fraser cont’d
print production unit at the Yukon Indian News, where he worked alongside a variety of strong, determined and politically influential First Nation leaders.
Max says it was an exciting time to witness and be a part of the evolution of governance in the Yukon. The Yukon First Nation Land Claim process began in 1973, and the changeover from a Territorial Advisory Council to our Yukon Legislative Assembly set the stage for Max to take a turn in his career from journalism toward more involvement in the local political landscape.
Throughout most of the 1980s and into the ’90s Max did extensive work for the New Democratic Party in various capacities including electoral campaigns, research, media, communications and political assistant postings for former political leaders such as Tony Penikett, Piers McDonald, and Audrey McLaughlin.
In the late ’90s while chaperoning his daughter’s class on a trip to Italy and France to tour WW2 battlefields, Max’s passions took yet another pivotal turn. After visiting cemeteries full of Canadian soldiers’ graves (and realizing that any one of them could have been his father who had served overseas) he was “bit by the Remembrance bug,” as he puts it, which was the beginning of an avid interest in military history.
Since then, Max started to aim his journalism lens toward documentary filmmaking, beginning with several short films on Yukon-based subjects. In 2011 he
released the notable and awardwinning Never Happen Here – The Whitehorse 911 Story.
The film is now a jewel of Whitehorse history and has been
screened at film festivals in Canada and Alaska, and seen on CBC’s documentary channel, Whitehorse Community Cable and Alaska Public TV. Max says he would like to produce a follow-up film to mark the 25th anniversary of that event.
In keeping with Max’s military interests and researching his father’s WW2 regiment, he then released the heartfelt Bond of Strangers -The Operation Husky Story in 2015.
This film documents an emotional and life-changing journey that ten Canadians made to Italy to retrace the steps that their soldiering forefathers had made during the invasion of Sicily 70 years prior, the same path as his dad. It aired on the Knowledge Network, Whitehorse Community TV and
from page 14
was taken on tour for several special screenings and festivals across Canada.
Max’s more recent film work is a foray into the world of feature film: an award-winning postapocalyptic eco-fantasy (Polaris) filmed in the Yukon which Max co-produced Released in 2022, it garnered ‘most popular showing’ at Yukon’s Available Light Film Festival, and has screened at festivals and theatres across Canada and around the world. It can now be seen on CRAVE TV and globally on streaming services.
Max is not one for bucket lists, but he does have a passion project he would love to see come to fruition. This one will document the
life of ‘Klondike’ Joe Boyle, an adventurous and colourful mining entrepreneur in Dawson City, as
well as a decorated WWI hero.
Max sees filmmaking as an investment in ideas. “You gotta have a lot of irons in the fire and whatever lights up first is what you go with.”
There is yet another iron in Max’s fire of late: music. What started out as casual campfire singing, turned into the formation of a folk group a few years ago called the Semi-Optimistics. During the pandemic, Max dusted off his grandfather’s violin and has since been accompanying musicians at Folk Society coffeehouses and Whitewater Jams, as well as sharing the lead on vocals and violin in a four-piece venture called ‘Road Trip’ (along with his partner Arlin McFarlane on bass).
Obviously Max Fraser is a man with an impressive roster of talents, interests and accomplishments, but what are the elements that tie them together? What does it all boil down to?
Max notes that when he first came to the Yukon, he noticed there was always an opportunity to volunteer for things everywhere he went. This formed the character that was needed for public service.
Subsequently, the primary driver of Max’s work in journalism, film, and music has always been to serve the interests of people while forming connections to them and telling stories that define our unique community.
His will to pitch in, be a part of things, offer his skills, and form long standing relationships with people is the gold that Max brings: “It’s my love of friendship and
community … it’s contributing to the social wealth of the Yukon,” as he puts it.
Max demonstrated this ‘gold’ last year, after the newspaper that had originally brought him to the Yukon 50 years ago (the Whitehorse Daily Star) stopped its presses after 124 years in operation. For Max, this represented a heavy blow to the longstanding “vigorous journalism” he has such a passion for, and he was compelled to try to revive it.
After various community supporters pulled together for the cause, a fresh and bright new paper, The Yukon Star, was born, with Max at the helm as publisher and former Whitehorse Star staff climbing aboard.
Although the paper was ultimately and sadly unable to succeed, the editions that were published demonstrate undeniable excellence. The valiant attempt of those who worked alongside Max’s capable direction to preserve the high standards and accountability of responsible journalism, is truly commendable.
If you see Max Fraser at the post office, grocery store, bank, or local bar in your everyday mundane travels, be sure to stop and say hello. If he doesn’t know you, just introduce yourself. He’s been meeting up with people that way since he arrived here in 1974, and it keeps him in touch with the nostalgic small town feel and social connection he likes so much about Whitehorse.
Illegitimi non carborundum, Max n
First journalism posting at the Whitehorse Star, 1974
Max presenting a case study of the film Polaris at a local screen industry conference, November 2023
PHOTO: Mark Kelly Photography
PHOTO: Max Fraser’s collection
ACTIVE LISTINGS
Fri Apr 11 Bowl for Kids Sake 2025
6:00 PM Northern Lights Bowling
A chance to make a difference in the lives of Yukon youth and their families. Gather your friends, family, or colleagues and sign up 4-6 people to bowl! Call 669-7911, or email bbbsyukon@gmail.com for more info. https://yukon.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/
Mondays
Judo For Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM
Northern Strength Academy
Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00
AM Canada Games Centre Yukon
Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged
Elderactive Pilates level 1 9:30 AM
Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement
Tai Chi Kung Form (Seniors) 10:00
AM Golden Age Society
Babynastics with Coach Libby
10:30 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club
A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www.polarettes.org/babynastics
Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40
AM Northern Lights School of Dance
Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!. http://cuts2.com/jiacg
Noon Strength & Conditioning
12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy
Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00
PM Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement
Indoor Cycling 12:05 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength. ca/
Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days
Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.
Kids Muay Thai 4:45 PM Eight Days
Martial Arts KIDS MUAY THAI a dynamic and engaging martial art that can be traced to the middle of the 18th century. Open to ages 8 - 12.
Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM
Northern Strength Academy
Ladies Kickboxing 6:00 PM Eight
Days Martial Arts
Tai Chi Qigong / Meditation 7:00 PM
Jack Hulland Elementary School
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Tuesdays
Winter Power Hour Series 6:00 AM
Strength for Endurance 6:00 AM
Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Lifting for Longevity 10:00
AM Northern Strength Academy Specifically designed for the retired population, but open to anyone.
Yoga with Barbara 10:00 AM
Whitehorse United Church Drop-in, no registration required, everyone is welcome. Call 335-1996 for more info.
Babynastics with Coach Libby 11:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club
A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www.polarettes.org/babynastics
Strength for Endurance 12:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05
PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 1:00PM Northern Strength Academy
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Indoor Cycling 5:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength. ca/
Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section 2A 6:30 PM Jack Hulland Elementary School
Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM Takhini
Elementary Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www. whitehorsearchery.com/schedule
Stretch & Stabilize - Functional
Conditioning 7:00 PM Grace Space
Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class. http://amitieyoga.ca
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Wednesdays
Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.
Morning Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/
Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00
AM Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged
Elderactive Pilates level 1 9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement
Tai Chi Essential Form continued 10:00 AM Heart of Riverdale
Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40
AM Northern Lights School of Dance
Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!. http://cuts2.com/jiacg
Noon Strength & Conditioning 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/
Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00
PM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!
Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.
Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 12:10 PM Grace Space Movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca
Elderactive Intermediate Hiking 1:00 PM ElderActive Recreation Association Leisure Walking is similar to Nordic walking but is suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace
Strength & Conditioning 5:30
PM Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multi-joint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Introduction to Tai Chi 6:00 PM Elijah Smith Elementary School. Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section 1 refinements 7:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School
Indoor Range Night 7:00 PM Whitehorse Rifle and Pistol Club
Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section 3 continued 7:15 PM Elijah Smith Elementary School. Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.
Thursdays
BrittyFit 95 Lewes Blvd Ignite your fitness regime in 50 minutes with Brittyfit
Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength. ca/
Strength for Endurance 6:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels
cont’d on page 17 ...
Winter Power Hour Series 6:00 AM
BrittyFit 95 Lewes Blvd Ignite your fitness regime in 50 minutes with Brittyfit
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days
Martial Arts
Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM Golden Age Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes.
Lifting for Longevity 10:00 AM
Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach.
Inclusive for all levels.
Strength for Endurance 12:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach.
Inclusive for all levels
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 1:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy
Babynastics with Coach Naomi
3:30 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club
A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www.polarettes.org/babynastics
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM Takhini
Elementary Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www. whitehorsearchery.com/schedule
Tai Chi Essential Form continued
6:30 PM Hidden Valley School
No-GiJiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days
Martial Arts
Tai Chi Yang Hand Forms refinements 7:45 PM Hidden Valley School
Fridays Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength. ca/
Morning Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/
Strength & Conditioning 12:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy
Muay Thai Kickboxing 12:05 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy
Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.
Saturdays
Flow & Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30
AM Grace Space A dynamic and invigorating practice to awaken your inner strength. http://amitieyoga.ca
Ladies Lift 9:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Strength & Conditioning 10:00 AM
Northern Strength Academy
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling 11:00 AM
Eight Days Martial Arts
Open Mat 12:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Sundays
Free drop-in Tai Chi practice 10:00
AM Takhini Elementary
Tai Chi Sword Form 10:30 AM
Whistle Bend Elementary School
WELLNESS LISTINGS
Wed Apr 9 Breaking the Cycle –
Overcoming Your Anxiety 6:00 PM
Start the season with new beginnings by trying something new for your mental health. Email program@ yukon.cmha.ca for more info.
Elder and Counselor available
Emotional and Spiritual support, free to Indigenous women, girls, 2 spirited in Yukon, Northern BC: Phone, video appointments or in person. Call Toll Free 866 667 6162 or visit www. yawc.ca for info.
Monthly
Every other Tuesday Sharing Circle 12:00 PM Old Justice Building KDFN Every other Tuesday for recovery focused sharing circles. Connect, share challenges and gains, and access support and wisdom. Snacks and refreshments served. whatsupyukon.events/4en
Mondays
Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00
PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House
AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509 Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
AA New Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Sacred Heart - Rear Entrance - basement
Tuesdays
Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.
VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00
PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House
TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly)
6:00 PM 100 25 Firth Rd Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details
AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.
Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00
PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
Wednesdays
TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly)
8:00 AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Call or text 867-3341725 for more details
VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.
Community Kitchen 11:30 AM
Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre
Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00
PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin
House Al-Anon 12:00 PM 407 Black Street, downstairs Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.
AA No Puffin (C, A) 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)
AA Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00 PM Our Lady of Victory
Thursdays
Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.
VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00
PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin
House
Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311
Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or on zoom, Zoom ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
Fridays
Moth & Flame - Bright Light
Morning Meditation Series 9:00 AM
Queer Yukon Society - The Cache
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00
PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin
House
AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30 PM
Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.
VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and shower access.
Community Kitchen 5:00 PM
Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info.
AA Whitehorse Group (C, A) 7:00
PM Christ Church Cathedral
Saturdays
AA Detox Meeting (O, A) 1:00 PM 609 Steele St.1:00 PM
AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:00 PM
Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.
VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and showers. Community Kitchen 5:00 PM
Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info.
AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212
Sundays
AA Detox Meeting (O, A)1:00 PM 609 Steele St.
AA Yukon Unity Group 1:00 PM
Online By zoom – Zoom ID 482-5189588 PC 334796 For more info call 778-907-2971
AA Hospital Meeting (O, A) 7:00 PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212
Administrative Assistant Permanent, part-time
Are you a caring, organized person? Can you provide administrative and reception duties, and offer front line support to people in a vulnerable state? If you’re interested in working in the grief and end-of-life field, please reach out with your compassion and skills. Hospice Yukon Society offers a supportive caring environment for a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Wage range is $24 - 26/hr plus benefit package. The part-time hours are Monday-Friday from 10am – 3pm.
To join our motivated team in meaningful work, please download the job description at hospiceyukon.net/employment and then email stacey@hospiceyukon.net with your cover letter and resume.
Only shortlisted applicants will receive a reply.
CLOSING DATE: TUESDAY APRIL 22 AT NOON.
Beginner Wood Lathe Candlestick April 7 6PM-9PM
New Member Orientation April 8 5PM-6PM
Beginner Blacksmithing Simple Hook April 15 6PM-9PM
Social Hour With Yukon Venture Angels April 15 4PM-6PM
PORK LEG ROAST
This hearty meal is great for a Sunday dinner with the whole family
Do people even cook Sunday dinner anymore? We sure do! Now that our kids are all long gone and raising their own families, we do tend to end up with a fair amount of leftovers, though.
The leftovers carry into the new week and we use them for things like curries, soups, Shanghai noodles, sandwiches, even leftovers for dinner. I’ll be using some of the leftovers from this delicious meal to make a Curried Pork on Rice later in the week that I’ll be sharing with you all soon enough.
I often talk about ‘my favour ite grocery store’ or ‘my favourite butcher’ but we sourced this leg roast from one of our local farms. I can honestly say that I watched this little piggy grow up and then go to market! The farm is just down the road and run by some of our dearest friends.
When you buy locally, not only are you helping the local econ omy, but you are guaranteed to be getting the best of the best as far as quality goes. We’ve bought pork, lamb, chickens and turkeys from this farm for many years and we know how they are raised, fed and cared for.
Sure, it might be a little bit more expensive than buying from
a big grocery chain that trucks this from 1,000s of miles away, but I can honestly say that the meat is way better, fresher and tastier.
Not to mention healthier! You can find a list of all kinds of local producers right here: https://yukon.ca/en/doing-business/support-agriculture/findprovider-yukon-grown-products
Ingredients:
• Pork leg roast
• Onion
• Garlic
• Potatoes
• Vegetables (your choice)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Butter
• Sour cream
• White pepper
• Nutmeg
• Beef bisto
• Flour
• Red wine
Method:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 325F. Veggie spray your roasting pan. You will not need the lid for this one.
2. Slice an onion and 3 garlic cloves. Try to slice the onion into about 1/3rd of an inch slices. Lay the onion in the bottom of the roasting pan and sprinkle the garlic around it. Add some ground pepper and garlic powder. Add
about 1/2 a cup each of water and red wine. You’re going to want to make sure that the onion is submerged but not too much. You want the roast to sit on top of this instead of being directly in contact with the bottom of the pan.
3. Rinse your roast and pat it completely dry. Add any blood to the roasting pan with the water and wine. Position the roast with the fat cap up. Lightly spray the fat cap with veggie spray and grind some sea salt generously on the fat cap. Try to not salt the pork meat itself as salt dries out pork quite easily. Place in the roasting pan, fat cap up, uncovered and put it into the oven.
4. Pork leg generally takes 25-
30 minutes per pound. This one was a 4 pound roast. The trick to not drying out these roasts is to cook it at a lower temperature for a longer time, then turn up the heat for the last little bit to sear the fat cap into crunchy goodness! I did this one for almost 2 hours at 325F then turned it up to 420F for about 20 minutes to finish it off.
5. Prepare your potatoes and veggies to coincide with the roast being finished. I did my usual whipped potatoes. Boil, drain, add some butter, white pepper and nutmeg then mash with a fork. Add some sour cream and whip them up! If they are still a little thick you can whisk in some milk.
6. Make your veggies for the side, I did peas and carrots for this one. Prepare your gravy by using about 3 cups of water, 1 1/2 tablespoons each of beef bisto mix and flour. Take your roast out of the pan and let it rest for a good 5 minutes while you mash your potatoes and make your gravy. Pour the gravy mix into the roaster on medium-high heat and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Plate this all and ring with some dried parsley. All in all this took me about 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish. Of that time, the prep was only about 25 minutes with most of that being the veggies, potatoes and gravy. So good! So healthy! So local! (The carrots, potatoes and pork are all from Yukon farms!) So, support our locals, they make some amazing food! n
The Unknown Chef has fed you at many local restaurants, for years, and has decided to share some recipes he has developed and others he has stolen from other chefs.
Arrange onion and garlic in the roasting pan
Time potatoes and veggies with the roast
PHOTOS: The Unknown Chef
Plate, ring with parsley and serve
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS JANUARY 24 - APRIL 19
Photos: John Howland Photography
ATLIN
Sundays
St. Martins Anglican Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM St. Martins Anglican Church 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome. Atlin Christian Assembly 11:00 AM St. Atlin Christian Centre 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.
Mondays Caregiver & Tot Drop-in 10:00 AM Atlin
Recreation Centre This is an unstructured hour for You and your Littles to get social and run wild. This IS NOT a drop off, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call or email 993-4102 atlinarc.coordinator@gmail. com for more info.
Yukon Communities:
Wednesdays AA Yukon Unity (OM) 3:00
PM Online Yukon Health Centers, Live Video Meeting Beaver Creek, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Old Crow, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, Watson Lake. Online users’ sign in info: yukonbcdistrict52@gmail.com
CARCROSS
Second Sunday of Every Month St. Saviour’s Church Services 2:00 pm St. Saviour Church 867-668-3129
First Friday of the month Mother Goose Group 11:00 AM Haa Shagóon Hídi (Our Ancestors House) Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre Learn stories, songs, and rhymes, lunch provided. Suitable for babies and children 5 and under. Please bring along a water bottle and blanket to sit on. To register, call 332-2389. https://whatsupyukon.events/jwf
Wednesdays Yoga with Richard Mueller 12:00 PM Carcross Firehall Free for everyone some fitness required.
BRAKE FLUID
Regular brake fluid changes ensure that a car’s braking system operates safely and effectively. Modern braking systems use brake fluid to transfer the application of the brake pedal down to the front and rear brakes, to bring the vehicle to a stop. The fluid is usually silicone based, which does not compress, giving a solid pedal feel and an increased temperature rating. The downside to using this style of fluid is that it absorbs moisture from the air. Constant braking causes massive amounts of heat to be generated by the braking components, which is then transferred into the fluid. If there is moisture in the fluid, this will decrease the temperature rating of the fluid, and can result in a soft brake pedal and increased stopping distance. Most manufacturers recommend brake fluid changes every 2 years, regardless of kilometres travelled, but it may need to be changed more frequently if the vehicle is operated under abnormal conditions.
Thursdays Yoga with Jess Ghùch Tlâ Community School Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. Drop-in, Free admission! For more info email yogajessyukon@gmail. com.
CARMACKS
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at:
• Sunshine Restaurant
• Carmacks Rec Centre
• CDC / CIBC Bank
• Tatchun Center General Store
Until April 8 Spring Awakening Bazaar 5:00 AM Carmacks Recreation Centre Indoor market celebrating the changing seasons.
First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month
Carmacks Regular Council Meeting 7:00 PM Carmacks Municipal Building Mondays Carmacks Library 1:00 PM After School Club 3:30 PM Carmacks
Recreation Centre Learn To Curl (All Ages) 4:00 PM Carmacks
d4c5c9
Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre Village Council meetings are also held the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. [Remote
DAWSON CITY 9 9
Thursdays
CDC Toddler Program 10:00 AM Klondike
Institute of Arts & Culture KIAC Free drop-In for kids 5 & under with parent/guardian Story time & free play!
Drop-in Volleyball 7:30 PM Robert Service School Ages 13+ - Free
Church Morning Prayer
9:00 AM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer
5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
Hand-Building Pottery Drop-In 6:30 PM
Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC)
Self-guided group studio time for those with some experience with pottery. Newcomers are welcome, little instruction is provided.
Wednesdays
St Paul’s Anglican Church Morning Prayer
9:00 AM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer
5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
Welcome Wednesday Supper and Games
6:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office
Screen Printing Drop-in 6:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Self-guided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with screen printing.
DCMF Film Selections 7:00 PM Dënäkär
Zho The best committee ever! Just watch movies! Help us select the films for the 2025 film festival. Come once, twice, or all the time! To get on our mailing list, email: filmfest@ kiac.ca
CFYT Trivia Night The Drunken Goat Fun filled night of Trivia. Every other Wednesday.
A variety of trivia categories! Come with your team or join a team when you arrive!
Art Journaling Group 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Bring your own creative supplies that you like to use. This can be scraps of paper, magazines, glue, paint, pen, markers, stamps, ink etc. and a book or journal to create
Thursdays
Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers.
Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group
Haines Junction Thrift Shop 2:00 PM St. St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop is a great place to pick up items. Prices are low and numerous adult items are available for $2, and most items for children are $1.
Adult Volleyball 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym
Fridays
Stories and STEM Activities 10:00 AM Haines Junction Library
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:30 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
Saturdays
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30 AM St. Christopher’s ChurchAnglican Church Service at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican.yukon.net/services.
html
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
MARSH LAKE
Mon Apr 7 Sunset Swan Walk 7:30 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre An interpretive walk along the shore in the gloaming. Dress for the weather and wear footwear appropriate for walking on the ice. yukon.ca/swans
Sat Apr 12 New Yukoner Day 12:00 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre A guided walk along the shoreline trail to learn why so many birds gather in this spectacular place, or explore on your own. Bring your lunch or grab a snack next door at the McClintock Bay Resort.
https://yukon.ca/swans
Sun Apr 13 Bird Origami 1:00 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre Join JapaneseCanadian Association of Yukon in a traditional way of celebrating wildlife: folding origami. yukon.ca/swans
Tue Apr 15 Not-Quite-Sunset Swan Walk 7:30 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre An interpretive walk along the shore in the beautiful evening light. Dress for the weather, audiences of all ages are welcome. https:// yukon.ca/swans
Fridays Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM Royal
Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon.events/dawson-legion-8336c3
Open Studio Drop-in 1:00 PM Klondike
Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Enjoy KIAC’s bright, air-conditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even better- we’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.
Drop-in Bouldering 6:00 PM Robert Service School Free - drop-in - all ages
Saturdays Youth Parkour Tumbling 12:30 PM Robert Service School All Ages - Free – Drop-In. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Open Studio – Drop In 1:00 PM Klondike
Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Space to create and focus on your artistic practice.
AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00
PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-993-5095 or 867-993-3734 for more information
Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30 Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City
Adult Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM Robert Service School Ages 16+ - Free - Call 9937400 ext 299 for more info.
Sat Apr 19 Face Painting with the Girl Guides 1:00 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre Face painting is fun for all ages, whether you want to become a swan, tiger or unicorn! This colourful experience is a great way to add some extra excitement to your day. https://yukon.ca/swans
Sat Apr 19 Family Weekend – Swan Olympics 11:00 AM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre Fun for the whole family, self-guided activities. Learn about swans and test your abilities at our Swan Olympics with games, crafts, bird viewing and more. https://yukon.ca/swans
Sun Apr 20 Clay Workshop 1:00 PM Swan Haven Interpretive Centre Listen to swan stories while making a 3D or hanging ornament of a swan using clay. You can also sew a button onto a button blanket. https://yukon.ca/swans
Last Wednesday of every month MLCS board meeting 7:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre
Tuesdays Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre
North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre
Yoga with Richard Mueller 5:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre Free for everyone some fitness required.
Wednesdays South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre
Thursdays
Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM
Fridays Beginner Yoga Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM Youth Gym Drop-In Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM
Saturdays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM
Sundays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM MAYO
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Haldane Services
MOUNT LORNE
1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne Mountain Community Centre
Mondays Run Club 6:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre
Yoga with Jess 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. To register or for more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com. Drop-In Yoga 7:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre By donation all levels welcome
Tuesdays Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In 6:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Improve your balance, flexibility, strength and endurance in this indoor class led by Colleen Ennis. Drop in, admission by donation. Suitable for mature youth & adults. https://whatsupyukon.events/ fhm
Thursdays Community Drop In 11:00 AM Mount Lorne Community Centre Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre OLD CROW
Mondays Men’s Night At The Rec Centre 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Tuesdays Kids Gym 3:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Adult Sewing 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Youth Gym 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Wednesdays
Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal Parent and Tots 4:00 PM Old Crow Community Center Call 966-3015 for more info. Adult Card Game Night 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Sundays St. Luke’s Church
Thursday of every month Tagish Local
Council 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre
Wednesdays Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 2:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Targeted literacy programming by Yukon Learn at the Tagish Library. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon.
Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre
Thursdays Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre
Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre .
Saturdays
Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon
TESLIN
Mon Apr 7 Teslin Recreation Society AGM 5:30 PM Teslin
WAS IT MARLEY’S GHOST…
… or something else?
The first scary movie I watched as a young girl was the 1951 version of A Christmas Carol. The scene where Ebenezer Scrooge meets Marley’s Ghost is forever etched in my memory. The heavy footsteps, the sound of chains, the lamenting ghosts … super scary!
I have one other vivid memory about Marley’s ghost that still haunts me and gives me goosebumps. It was the night we thought we had the campground all to ourselves in the Yukon.
My husband and I lived in Whitehorse in the late 1970s. We took every opportunity to go camping on weekends and on holidays. This is a common activity for almost everyone who has lived in the breathtaking Yukon. We took advantage of hiking, fishing, and especially relaxing in the tranquil, beautiful outdoors.
We had our usual routine on a Friday night after work. Our Volkswagen van was all packed and ready with our camping supplies. We stopped to pick up a bucket of chicken for the road. We popped in our cassette tapes and often listened to Long John Baldry and Cat Stevens while heading to our camping destination.
I distinctly remember a particular October weekend. It was the Friday before Thanksgiving. We were heading to one of our favourite camping sites at the Tarfu Lake campground. We arrived in the early evening, thrilled to have the campground all to ourselves. It was later in the camping season, yet still surprising not to see anyone else on the Friday night before a long weekend.
We enjoyed a perfect evening at the campsite, sitting beneath the stars and hearing only the crackling of the fire on this crisp,
cold night. We considered ourselves lucky to be able to head to our bed in the van. No need to put up a tent tonight.
During the night, my husband and I were startled awake by a loud, unusual noise. Slow, heavy footsteps along with the sounds of clanking, dragging chains were circling our van. The first thing I thought about was the scene in A Christmas Carol with Marley’s ghost.
My second, equally unpleasant thought, was that it was a large, hungry and unhappy animal caught in a trap and dragging the chains with them.
I know very little about vehicles, yet at that time I had heard something about Volkswagen vans and little tin sardine cans. This did not make me feel better.
The circling around the van continued for a while. My husband and I did not move a muscle or make a sound. I don’t know whether playing dead works inside a van. I am always confused whether to play dead, or make noise and act large. Our instincts
told us to stay quiet and play dead, or become dead.
Things quieted down outside and we drifted back to sleep. In the morning light we peeked outside the window. We saw nothing unusual. We cautiously opened our side door and stepped outside the van. All quiet and nothing was moving. Just another gorgeous morning in the Yukon.
We did not stray far from our campsite and one of us always kept a lookout when nature called us to the outhouse. More campers came along that morning, so we decided to stay for the rest of the weekend.
We have many unforgettable memories and unique stories from our adventures camping in the Yukon.
I still get goosebumps recalling the night we were all alone at Tarfu Lake. To this day, I have no idea who or what was circling our van. I suspect it was not Marley’s ghost, even though it sounded like him.
Your guess is as good as mine. n
Freelance with Erica Henault
Erica taking a photo of the Tarfu Lake Campground Sign (2011)
Gorgeous autumn scene near Tarfu Lake Campground (2011)
Erica’s husband, Chuck, enjoying the tranquil scene near Tarfu Lake Campground (2011)
Our always-dusty Volkswagen van, camping in the Yukon (circa late 1970s)
PHOTOS: Erica Henault
