What's Up Yukon, February 1, 2017

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February 1, 2017 Issue #513

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All Northern. All Fun.

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February 1, 2017

A Yukoner at Heart with a Lot to Give

Porter Creek Secondary graduate Nicolai Bronikowski plans to make his mark on the Arctic

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The engineering program at Bronikowski has been working on ship design and transit studies. MUN is special in the sense that it Through his work in Finland, Rus- requires at least four internships sia and Canada he showcases the to graduate, but most students Yukon’s strong science programs take five or six. This means that and growing potential as an Arctic all students have up to two years of work experience when they research hub.

Bronikowski came to the Yukon graduate, giving them an edge in in 2009 for an exchange year, after figuring out what they like to do finishing Grade 9 in Germany. For and with finding jobs.

He started his Arctic research his first semester, he joined the Social and Science Experimental as an intern with AKAC Inc. – a Program (an outdoor experiential small engineering consulting ofscience program) at Porter Creek fice in Victoria, B.C. specialized in operational ice management.

Secondary School.

He credits his teachers for help- While with AKAC he developed ing him integrate and making him a risk management suite for ice want to stick around. “I was under operations. With the goal of helpthe great guidance of Mr. Andy Pre- ing companies evaluate the risks to, who did a great deal in helping of their operations based on lome learn English by pronouncing cation, mission profile, environall the names for the objects we mental data and equipment such came across in the many outdoor as icebreakers and support vestrips of the program. His support sels.

“I really enjoyed that work beand teaching capacity brought me close with the Yukon’s beauty and cause I got to do a project from concept to finish and I felt I made the people,” says Bronikowski.

He graduated from Porter a difference providing a new safeCreek in 2012 with a newfound ty evaluation tool to the marine industry when operating in northpassion for the Arctic.

“Through my experience living ern areas,” he says.

After a year of trying out ship and graduating from high school in the Yukon I have developed a design and engineering work he deep connection with the North- was given a once-in-a-lifetime chance in the field that he loves. ern frontier,” he says.

He went on to study engineer- He secured a one year trainee posing at Memorial University of New- ition with Aker Arctic Technology foundland (MUN), and has spent in Finland. Aker Arctic (which acclose to two years working in Arc- quired AKAC Inc. in 2015) designed tic research as well as taking ex- about 60 per cent of the world’s change studies and courses in en- icebreaking vessels and is a big

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“At Aker Arctic, I worked for over eight months in an ice research model basin, testing dozens of vessel designs for ice performance. I also was able to pursue my own research.”

He conducted several ice tests with ice ridges, aimed at improving both the testing and calculation procedures involved in such tests.

“It was a very exciting time for a young student like me to be given that much responsibility and to see my own ideas come to life,” Bronikowski says.

He’s interested in looking at ways to improve understanding of the Arctic by implementing people who have experience operating in the Arctic, rather than relying on outsiders. He says that he was told that there is currently no joint interest in the declining offshore industry. (The offshore industry means business operating in open ocean and sea ice environments).

He remains optimistic and he hopes to one day create an Arctic experience centre in the Yukon.

“My goal in the long term is to communicate my experience and that of other people with the relevant Arctic Council groups.

I believe that bringing together the experience from all the past years in the Arctic will be helpful to make policy to prevent future mistakes and secure the future of the pristine environment.”

Michael is editor at What’s Up Yukon. He’s a journalist based in Whitehorse. Lifestory available on request.

February 1, 2017

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Mush Rush

On the Cover Available light film festival showcases Yukon artists. Yukon filmmakers Vivian Belik, Naomi Mark, Allan Code & Michael Code PHOTO: RIck Massie

Check out Brave New Words on the first Tuesday of every month until May

What’s Inside

by Lori Garrison

D

og lovers and mushing aficionados alike will gather on Feb. 4 at Shipyards Park in Whitehorse to watch the start of the 2017 Yukon Quest.

The day begins at 8 a.m., when the dog yard is open to the public and spectators can watch as the mushers prepare themselves and their dogs for the 1,000 mile journey between Whitehorse and Fairbanks, Alaska.

At 10:15 a.m. there will be music and a presentation as the dog yard closes down for final preparations before the race.

The exact series of events is yet to be determined but, Natalie Haltrich, Executive Director of the Quest on the Yukon side, says they are hoping to have “a few surprises at the start line.”

The race officially begins at 11 a.m., when the mushers start at three minute intervals. This is

followed by a break, and then the start of the Yukon 300 at 3 p.m.

The Quest stretches along 1,000 gruelling miles of frozen trail, alternating its starting and ending places each year between the two cities.

This year is Whitehorse’s turn to host the start of the race.

There are currently 22 mushers set to compete in the full race, and 24 mushers entered into the Yukon 300, which is a 300 mile race between Whitehorse and Pelly Crossing.

While the dogs and mushers are certainly the stars of the event, there is a lot going on behind the scenes, says Haltrich. The team of supporting players includes race

PHOTO: Whitney McLaren

A map of the race route made by a Grade 5 class in Dawson City for the 2016 event officials, veterinarians, logistics co-coordinators and a PR team.

“We have an amazing team of volunteers and contractors,” she says.

This year the event also has a new race marshal, Fox Lake resident Fabian Schmitz. A race marshal is in charge of overseeing race operators, enforcing rules with judges to ensure a fair race, and overseeing safety concerns for mushers and dogs alike.

“I’m the guy calling the shots for troubleshooting – with help of course,” he says.

Schmitz, originally from Germany, first became involved with the Yukon Quest in 2009. He has

A canine athlete at the 2016 Yukon Quest PHOTO: Julien Schroder

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since run as a musher in the the Yukon 300, and has been a judge for the event, as well as a Yukon Quest race manager in 2016.

“Dog mushing… is so much more than just a race. It’s an opportunity as a community event, for businesses and people to come together,” he says.

Both Haltrich and Schmitz note that for optimal race conditions, mushers could use more snow – especially on the Yukon side. Hal-

trich is not worried, however.

“These are elite canine athletes and professional mushers – I’m sure they can handle it,” she says. “Besides, what we see in Whitehorse is not necessarily indicative of trail conditions for the 999 remaining miles.”

Support from the community and local business has been incredible, says Haltrich. Thanks to this support, the Yukon Quest was able to raise the purse by $5,000 for this year’s race. This year’s prize is US$120,000, to be divided by percentages among the top 15 competitors.

The first musher is expected to cross the finish line on Feb. 13.

While it is impossible to say when the last musher will cross the finish line, Haltrich says that the final, or “Red Lantern” musher to finish came in five days behind the first place winner in the 2016 race.

Race progress can be tracked in real time online via GPS. All events associated with the Yukon Quest are free to the public, with the exception of the Awards Banquets. Tickets for the banquets are already sold out. A complete list of events is available at www.YukonQuest.com.

Lori Garrison is a Yukoner without a cause. She is currently on hiatus in Montreal.

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Arctic research ..................... 2 Mush rush ............................ 3 All city band ......................... 4 Brave new words ................... 5 Gwaandak ............................ 6 Dog Therapy ......................... 7 Syrian sourdough ................... 9 Jenny’s bitters .....................10 Mother’s kitchen ..................11 Cancan history ....................17 Air North ........................ 12-13 Available light ......................15 Hiking in Japan ....................16 Fishing Atlin .........................17 Dog culture ..........................18 Dawson curling ....................19 Clinton Creek ......................22

Events Whitehorse Listings ................ 8 Highlights ............................18 Active Interests ....................20 Community Listings ...............21

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The All City Jazz Band playing at the 2016 Dessert and Dance event

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Come out to the All City Band’s seventh annual Dessert and Dance Fundraiser on Saturday, Feb 11 at the Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre for an evening of music, desserts and dancing. All proceeds go to funding the band’s trip to Whistler, British Columbia, to take part in the 2017 Whistler Cantando Music Festival.

The All City Band is comprised of students between the ages of 12 and 17, playing alongside more experienced adult musicians. The group is comprised of sections: the All City Jazz Band, the Junior and Senior Concert Bands and the Grade 8 Band.

“The All City Band is a great musical opportunity for students in our schools as well as adult mem-

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bers… to learn and perform quality music,” says Keith Todd, one of the executive directors for the group.

Trumpet player Bill Barrick is one of the adult members of the All City Band. He says he enjoys being part of the group because it gives him the opportunity to share his experience with young musicians, and to participate in programs such as Artists in Schools.

“It’s good for students to work with people who have band experience,” he says. “Music is beneficial to both the performers and the general public… it keeps the mind active and gives people an opportunity to get out into the community. It gives students a sense of obligation to the community. Music students are good all-around members of the community.”

“The evening begins with a

performance by the All City Jazz Band, followed by complimentary swing dance lessons provided by Bruce Sahlstrom, so anyone who has never done this sort of dancing need not worry, says Keith Todd, one of the executive directors for the group.

Following the lessons there will be about two hours of music by the Big City Band, and dancing. The Big City Band is not a part of the All City Band, says Todd, but are generously donating their time.

The night also features a silent auction and homemade sweets.

“All in all, it’s a nice and classy event,” Todd says.

All desserts are prepared by volunteers and parents of students in the band, he adds.

Last year the event raised $3,000 and they hope to raise the same amount this year.

Tickets are available online at www.AllCityBand.com and through Whitehorse City Motors.

Lori Garrison is a Yukoner without a cause. She is currently on hiatus in Montreal.

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Writing Down the Soul

Check out Brave New Words on the first Tuesday of every month from September to May

by Christine Genier

PHOTO:Christine Genier

Susanne Hingley sets down some Brave New Words

A

nyone who has ever put pen to paper knows it can be a daunting experience.

To stare at a blank page waiting for the strike of inspiration.

When something is finally put down on paper, is it something others might want to read? What works? What can be done differently?

Brave New Words is a forum for writers to showcase their work in progress. In its ninth year, it continues to offer a safe haven for wordsmiths – both professional and aspiring.

Susanne Hingley has been running Brave New Words for the last four years. She says it’s an outlet for people who are working on pieces, or have existing pieces, and want to share it with people.

“It’s not a forum for feedback or creation in the room,” Hing-

ley says. “It’s an opportunity to showcase what you already created. “I think that it helps give a writer confidence to write more, to continue with the piece they are working on, and to get braver about sharing other pieces. I think that’s the ultimate goal. That people not only write for themselves, but eventually will share it on a larger scale.”

Sharing one’s work with an audience is often nerve-wracking at best. It is this process that Brave New Words hopes to make friendlier for the writer. “When people get up for the first time ever, they are nervous, it’s hard and you can see the paper shaking,” Hingley says.

After that it gets easier.

“It also instills a bit of confidence in your writing,” she says.

“The next thing you know, you’ll

see those same people get up more and more, and some often become regulars. It’s their outlet for sharing their work before it gets published.”

Also encouraging is that there is no minimum experience level needed to be welcomed into the fold of Brave New Words.

“If you write words in a diary, or jot down notes or keep a journal, you are a writer,” Hingley says.

“The only thing that makes you a writer is that you are writing. It doesn’t mean that you have to be published. Not everybody wants to be published. Some just want to share their writing. They want to bring you into their world.”

When sharing such personal creative work to an audience, there is often an inclination to apologize before one has even begun.

“I’m not good enough. I’m really sorry this sucks. They’ll say that. This sucks. Which is sad, but it happens,” Hingley says.

This is where Brave New Words is instrumental in building confidence in the writer. As participants return to the workshop, they begin to believe more in their talent.

“It’s empowering to be unapologetic about your work. If you have something to share, there are ears out there that will connect with your work.

There is no set style. Everything is welcome,” says Hingley.

“We get people reading postcards, memoirs, manuscripts, excerpts, all forms of poetry, you name it.

We’ve had people story-tell with no paper in front of them at all.

And what is writing, if not storytelling?”

Hingley wears her enthusiasm on her sleeve when she speaks about writing, and about helping others to find their comfort in the world of writing.

“I think the thing I enjoy the most, is being part of a larger community that is becoming more public. Writing is so inherently solitary that it is not unusual for no one to know who writes. We all do it on our own with our doors closed.”

Hingley’s own work has begun

to gain traction and attention on a national scale.

“My latest writing project was putting together a pitch for CBC. I pitched a comedy series at the Available Light Film Festival two years ago and it has finally come to fruition in December. I pitched it to the comedy executives at CBC. It’s a comedy series called Not For Profit. If they go ahead, it will be a six episode miniseries for television. It will be about the notfor-profit sector here in the Yukon, and it will be filmed here in the Yukon.”

Brave New Words runs from September to May on the first Tuesday of the month, at 7 p.m. at the Woodcutter’s Blanket, which is located at 112 Strickland St.

The entry fee is by donation.

“If you can’t afford it, show up anyway, and if you can afford it, donated money goes to the showcased performer for the evening.”

There is always a musician to start the evening for Brave New Words.

“It’s an opportunity to be able to have some small part in providing a space for musicians as well.”

The next workshop takes place Feb. 7. Participants are welcome to simply show up, or they can email susannehingley@hotmail. com to be added to the mailing list.

Christine Genier is a Whitehorsebased writer.

Get ready to study at Yukon College

APPLY NOW! Applications are now being accepted for most Fall-entry programs.

To learn more about studying at Yukon College, call 867.668.8720 or visit:

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She’s Been Bitten

Gwaandak’s new artistic associate is a theatrical multi-tasker

by Ken Bolton that reflected a reality that I was familiar with. And I was hooked. I felt the power of that.”

Sheldon had first encountered the world of drama through Sharron Chatterton, one of her early teachers in Teslin.

“We did a theatre component, and she had us writing our own little scripts. Somebody had to be the director, and there were actors, and I think we had a visit from some professionals,” Sheldon says.

“Then she actually said, ‘You know, Melania, I think you’ve got something and you should really run with it.’ But I was like, ‘Oh, that’s not realistic’, so I kind of talked myself out of my own dream, or my own interest.”

She later enrolled in the thennew Music, Art, Drama (MAD) program at Wood Street, but her focus at University of Victoria was a double minor in Indigenous studies, as well as Greek and Roman studies.

“I took an introductory acting

Her first taste of real theatre with the summer play reading series changed everything. That fall, she tried out for a role in Me and the Girls, a one-woman show about breast health written by Flather and directed by Whitehorse actor Moira Sauer.

“I was at a point in my life that I didn’t have a fulltime job, and I was kind of looking for something. So I thought, ‘Let’s go out and have a laugh. The worst thing is they’re going to say no, and I don’t do it. That’s fine.’

“So I went and read for them, and it was five different characters, which is something I like to do, different voices and different tones. I just went in and had fun with it. And they liked me, I guess.”

The show’s limited budget also allowed Sheldon to use some of the design skills she had developed in a one-year diploma course in fashion design in Vancouver.

“I’m a Salvation Army thrift store shopper, for sure, and was able to piece together some stuff.

The Alpine Bra Boutique also donated a couple of bras, and it was just a good fit. No pun intended.”

Sheldon soon found herself on Gwaandak’s board of directors, eventually becoming president.

Her departure from that role last fall allowed her to accept a newly-created position as artistic associate with the company just

PHOTO: Christian Kuntz Photography

I

t was the promise of bannock that first lured Melaina Sheldon into the orbit of Gwaandak Theatre in 2010.

The Teslin-born actor, writer and arts administrator had just returned to the Yukon after studying and working in British Columbia.

That’s when she saw an ad seeking performers for the company’s summer aboriginal play reading series.

“They were doing the rehearsals at Wood Street School. I was living downtown at the time, so it was accessible. And there was going to be snacks. Especially bannock snacks,” she says with a laugh.

Sheldon admits she was nervous when she entered the audition hall, until she saw Gwaandak cofounders Patti Flather and Leonard Linklater (“with their beautiful smiles”), along with some more familiar faces.

“Patti had me read a character from a Kenneth T. Williams play called Bannock Republic. My character was talking about selfgovernment, and the rez, and bannock: all these things that were quite wonderful,” she recalls.

“I had never read a piece

Teslin-born Melaina Sheldon recently took on a new role as artistic associate with Gwaandak Theatre in Whitehorse class in the summer, and a singing class, and that was OK. But I still wasn’t really interested.”

before Christmas.

Besides that part-time job, Sheldon also holds an “awesome” position in her home village, as community arts and events coordinator for the Teslin Tlingit Council.

One of her key duties with Gwaandak is to organize the play reading series, which takes place in June this year.

“That’s a huge honour, to go full circle from my first step into the theatre world to co-ordinating that event where I got my start,” she says.

Sheldon previously directed two summer readings, and acted in the national tour of the Gwaandak/New Harlem production, The Hours That Remain. She recently added the title of playwright to her resumé with a solo piece called Chance, which has had readings in Winnipeg with Sarasvati Theatre, and in the Yukon with Gwaandak.

It took a while for the theatre bug to bite, but it’s definitely part of Sheldon’s future.

“I love it. I just want to be relevant in any way, shape or form. I love being behind the scenes and I love being on stage in front of the audience,” she says.

“I can write, and I can be an administrator, and I can still take an acting gig. But I do recognize and realize that the future is me making that my full time.”

Ken Bolton is a freelance writer who lives southeast of Whitehorse.

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Team Care

Mental health counsellor Angela Neufeld gets help from her four-legged co-therapists

by Ken Bolton

M

ost people are less intimidated by dogs with floppy ears, and consider white dogs less scary than black ones.

That’s just one awareness Angela Neufeld has picked up in the years she has been using dogs as therapeutic assistants in her practice as a registered psychologist.

“I’m not by any means suggesting that black dogs with pointy ears are dangerous. It’s all about perception. It doesn’t mean you can’t do this with a black, pointyeared dog,” she says.

In addition to her private practice, Neufeld works part-time as a mental health counsellor at Yukon College. She is often accompanied by either Magnus or Allegra, the two floppy-eared, creamcoloured English golden retrievers she selected for that purpose.

“Part of it is looking for an animal that is responsive, but not pushy. There are some breeds that are more suitable than others, but more important is the overall temperament of the dog,” Neufeld says.

“I wouldn’t want a dog that is jumping up on people, or getting too pushy. I want to know that I have some predictability about what’s going to happen in a session.”

Neufeld believes animals can serve a variety of purposes in helping clients deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. She cites the example of a woman who recently sought help after failing her first semester at the college.

“We actually spent the first five or ten minutes just interacting with Allegra, talking a little bit about her. For some people, that’s kind of a nice way to ease

into it, and they can see that this process doesn’t have to be intimidating.”

As her client petted the dog, Neufeld explained that animals also experience stress in different ways and that difficulties are part of life, “she just started crying and started telling me about what the problems were that she’s been struggling with.”

Neufeld acknowledges that animal-assisted therapy is not for everyone. Some people are afraid of dogs, or allergic to them. In some cultures, animals are expected to remain outdoors at all times.

While she always gives potential clients the option of not having a dog present during counselling sessions, her personal experience and research have convinced her that interacting with animals can provide healing benefits.

Neufeld uses only her own dogs in the process because of the important of that relationship.

“That’s a lot of what we’re trying to reinforce here. We’re really focusing on the subtleties of attachment, and helping people who may be struggling to have positive connections with other people,” she explains.

“People who would never hug anybody might come and hug the dog. If they can have a positive connection with an animal, that may support having a positive connection with the therapy process. There’s nothing exciting to watch; it’s pretty subtle.”

As an animal lover who has also studied the use of horses in a therapeutic setting, Neufeld is conscious of the ethics involved in subjecting animals to the process.

“The animal is not a tool. He’s like your co-therapist, and you

need to respect that they are also going to be impacted by every experience that you have.

They take on the energy that’s going on in the room as well,” she says.

“Which is why I wouldn’t use the same dog every day in a therapy setting. Unless it’s a particularly resilient dog, I don’t think that would be fair to the dog. I have a choice to do this work, but they may not have the same choice.”

Although her dogs came from the same breeder in Ontario, they are not related and have different personalities. At three and a half years old, Magnus is an “old soul” who is well-tuned to the vibe in a room.

“If somebody comes in and they’re not that interested, he will just go and lie by the door.”

Two-year-old Allegra, on the other hand, is “sensitive, but not as sensitive, so I think she can kind of handle more,” she says.

Still, the older, larger dog’s strategy of zoning out when ex-

PHOTO: Marcel Brabant pedient apparently had a therapeutic effect on at least one client who had trouble sleeping because of anxiety.

“He considered it kind of a gift that the dog could be so calm and trusting,” Neufeld says.

Ken Bolton telecommutes to work from his home southeast of Whitehorse.

Registered psychologist and Yukon College counsellor Angela Neufeld, at home with her canine co-therapists Allegra (left) and Magnus

8

February 1, 2017

whatsupyukon.com

ENTER YOUR EVENTS ON-LINE It’s Free. It’s Fast. It’s Easy.

Whitehorse EVENTS ARTS SHOWS Sat, Feb, 4, Artist talk - Make Strange 4:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre Artist talk with Michel Gignac and Monique Romeiko Sun, Feb, 5- 27, Art Exhibit - Make Strange Yukon Arts Centre Presented in the Yukon Arts Centre Community Gallery works by Michel Gignac Until Fri, Feb, 17, Art Exhibition - Yukon Archives Collection Arts Underground In the Hougan Heritage Gallery.

Until Sat, Feb, 25, Second Nature: FERAL by Veronica Verkley Yukon Arts Centre Dawson City-based artist Veronica Verkley includes a projected stop motion animation film and its intricate sets within an immersive soundscape filling the darkened room.

Until Sun, Apr, 30, Landmark Exhibition Yukon Government Administration Building An exhibition of new acquisitions to the Yukon Permanent Art Collection.

LIVE MUSIC

Wed, Feb, 1 New North Collective: An Evening of Music and Media Art 7:30 pm Whitehorse Concerts An ensemble of seven performing artists from Yukon, Northwest Territories, Greenland and Nunavut, Songs by the collective will be accompanied by projections of media artists.

Wed, Feb, 1 Top 40 Dance Tunz with Jon Steel 9:00 pm Jarvis Street Saloon Thu, Feb, 2 2017 Skookum Jim Folklore Show 7:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre A Fashion Show & Tell, Elder & Youth Keish Awards, with performances by Willie Thrasher & Linda Saddleback, Ed Peekeekoot, Kiera-Dawn Kolson and the Women Of Wisdom Drummers.

Thu, Feb, 2 Jazz in the Hall - Vocalist Susanne Hingley 7:00 pm The Old Fire Hall Vocalist Susanne Hingley’s food and jazz project. Jazz jam. 867-334-2789 info@jazzyukon.ca Thu, Feb, 2 Whitewater Wednesday 7:00 pm Epic Pizza goes till we are done!

Thu, Feb, 2 Sinister Oculus: Live Cinema Event 8:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre Fusing genres of metal, jazz and classical with projection and spoken word Sinister Oculus brings a cathartic, multi-sensory experience to the screen and stage. Sinister Oculus is a multimedia band based in and influenced by Canada’s North.

Thu, Feb, 2 Available Light Cabaret 8:30 pm The Old Fire Hall Yukon songwriters present their original music in an intimate concert that also serves as an informal showcase to visiting ALFF Industry delegates. SODA PONY in concert plus short Yukon films and other surprises.

Thu, Feb, 2 Karaoke with DJ Carlo 9:00 pm Jarvis Street Saloon Fri, Feb, 3 Yukon Live Music - Ginger Jam 10:00 pm Yukon Inn in the Boiler room fully electric jam session with PA system, drum kit and guitars provided to musicians. Featuring guest co-hosts and performers.

Fri, Feb, 3 Jamaoke With Jackie 10:00 pm Jarvis Street Saloon Fri, Feb, 3 Whitewater Wednesday 7:00 pm Epic Pizza goes till we are done!

Sat, Feb, 4 Yukon Jack Live! 10:00 pm Jarvis Street Saloon Sat, Feb, 4 Yukon Musician: Anne Turner 6:00 pm Westmark Whitehorse Jazz and Easy Listening Sat, Feb, 4 John K. Samson & the Winter Wheat 8:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre Samson returns to the Yukon with his band to kick off the Available Light Film Festival 2017! Folk punk rock from Winnipeg with special guest, Whitehorse singer-songer, Rob Dickson.

Sat, Feb, 4 Open Mic with Patrick Jacobson 8:30 pm Town & Mountain Hotel Sun, Feb, 5 Ryan McNally 7:00 pm Dirty Northern Pub Acoustic jazz and blues, sometimes electric rockabilly and swing, even old time banjo/fiddle tunes and Cajun.

Mon, Feb, 6 Open Mic Night 3:00 pm 98 Hotel Mon, Feb, 6 Ladies Night with DJ Carlo 9:00 pm Jarvis Street Saloon Tue, Feb, 7 ALFF Creative Spotlight: CBC radio in the Fire Hall 4:00 pm The Old Fire Hall Live music performances and conversations with filmmakers and media creators hosted by Dave White in a live broadcast of CBC Yukon’s Airplay.

Musical guest: Soda Pony. Open to everyone.

Tue, Feb, 7 Patrick Jacobson 5:30 pm Tony’s Pizza Local singer/songwriter performs acoustic versions of his original songs and a variety of covers every Tuesday night. patrick@ patrickjacobson.com Tue, Feb, 7 Roxx Hunter Live 6:00 pm Tony’s Pizza Roxx Hunter and Izaak Lazeo-Fairman playing acoustic guitar music covering almost every style and genre.

Or email them to: events@whatsupyukon.com

Tue, Feb, 7 Fiddler On The Loose Joe Loutchan live 7:00 pm 98 Hotel Longest running house band in the Yukon - Traditional fiddle music and more - jigging is encouraged and limericks are the norm.

Tue, Feb, 7 Jam Night with Scott Maynard 7:30 pm Best Western Gold Rush Inn Tue, Feb, 7 Karaoke 9:00 pm Yukon Inn in the Boiler Room Wed, Feb, 8 Coffee House & Open Mic Night - Featuring Stockstill and Rose 7:30 pm Whitehorse United Church In the basement of the United Church, 633-4255 Wed, Feb, 8 Karaoke 9:00 pm Yukon Inn in the Boiler Room

Sat, Feb, 4, Dead North Film Selections 10:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre Experience the Dead North Festival, the world’s only circumpolar genre film festival. Selected short films from festivals past in the genres of Sc-fi, Horror and Fantasy, curated by festival team.

Sun, Feb, 5, Japanese Conversation Classes Whitehorse, Yukon Email Fumi Torigai the Instructor at jcayukon@gmail.com for more info.

Fumi Torigai, Instructor. 393-2588 Sun, Feb, 5, The Sun at Midnight 10:00 am Yukon Arts Centre The Sun At Midnight tells the story of an unusual friendship between a hunter obsessed with finding a missing caribou herd and a teenage rebel who gets lost while on the run.

Sun, Feb, 5, Whitehorse Scrabble Club 1:00 pm Best Western Gold Rush Inn Are you a wordy person, put your words to the test and join the Wed, Feb, 1, Spanish Conversation Group Scrabble Club. Must be 19+ 12:00 pm Yukon Government Administration Sun, Feb, 5, Pour La Suite du Monde 1:15 pm Building Join us inside the Bridges Café 633Yukon Arts Centre The Sun At Midnight tells the 6081 Terry or Michèle story of an unusual friendship between a hunter Wed, Feb, 1, Chamber Choir Rehearsal 7:45 obsessed with finding a missing caribou herd pm Vanier Catholic Secondary Spring 2017 and a teenage rebel who gets lost while on the session for this auditioned a capella choir for run. mixed voices, call, or email to schedule an Sun, Feb, 5, Ceramics Open Studio 2:30 pm audition or for more information. 667-7049 Arts Underground Non-instructed open studio.

Wed, Feb, 1, Hump Day Trivia 9:00 pm Yukon Participants are welcome to use the studio’s Inn in the Boiler Room tools and equipment; clay and some tools are Thu, Feb, 2, Yukon Quest 2017 Start & Draw available for purchase. Every Sunday except Banquet 5:00 pm Yukon Convention Centre long weekends. $5/hour.

Experience the much anticipated musher Sun, Feb, 5, Window Horses 3:30 pm Yukon draw order, a delicious buffet dinner, great Arts Centre An animated story of a young girl’s entertainment, silent auction, and door prizes! journey toward self-discovery. Rosie Ming, a Call the Whitehorse office at 668-4711 or young Canadian poet, is invited to perform at a email yukonoperations@yukonquest.com for Poetry Festival in Shiraz, Iran, but she’d rather information and tickets. be in Paris.

Thu, Feb, 2, Chess Corner 6:30 pm Whitehorse Sun, Feb, 5, Angry Inuk (Opening Gala Film) Public Library Chess played upstairs at the 6:45 pm Yukon Arts Centre A documentary Library, beginners welcome, welcome to bring challenges the southern world to reconsider its your own ‘lucky’ board. Everyone welcome to sit preconceived notions of the commercial seal in on this game of strategy. hunt. By following the lives of Inuit hunters and Fri, Feb, 3, Dusk’a Friday Language Lunches artisans.

12:00 pm Duska Head Start and Family Mon, Feb, 6, Free drop-in computer labs 10:00 Learning Center Bring a bag lunch and come am Yukon Learn Free Drop-In Computer Lab for learn Southern Tutchone with our special guest Self Directed Studies A tutor/Instructor will be speakers. Call Erin Pauls for more information available on site to assist you. 867-668-6280 or 633-7816. All Kwanlin citizens and staff are toll free: 888-668-6280 Fax: 867-633-4576 welcome!

Mon, Feb, 6, Yukon Documentaries: Pictures Fri, Feb, 3, Chilton Crane – Film Actor’s Don’t Lie/Underdog/Shift 12:00 pm Yukon Arts Masterclass Workshop 1:00 pm Kwanlin Dun Centre Three uniquely Yukon documentaries Cultural Centre All workshop participants will one about an elder JJ Van Bibber tells the story work through what it means to be a working of his life during a century in the Yukon Territory. professional actor in the film and television Another with Yuka Honda is a dog musher and industry. Phone or email Katherine for more it’s been her goal to complete the Yukon Quest information 335 2288 larrikinentertainment@ and one about the youth of Carcross constructing gmail.com a bike trail while helping the community.

Fri, Feb, 3, Native North America - A Night of Mon, Feb, 6, Putuparri and the Rainmakers Music, Storytelling and Film 7:00 pm Beringia 2:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre A rare and emotional Centre An evening of music, storytelling, and film journey to meet the traditional rainmakers of that you will never forget.

Australia’s Great Sandy Desert who have fought Sat, Feb, 4, Focus on Marten - Workshop a twenty-year battle to win back their traditional Yukon Transportation Museum Learn pelt homeland in a powerful documentary that has handling, biology, and management, call Brian been 20-years in the making. at 334-1864 or email tasinrange@gmail.com. for Mon, Feb, 6, Arctic Secrets: Yukon Wild 5:00 more information or to register. pm Yukon Arts Centre Yukon-produced nature Sat, Feb, 4-12 Available Light Film Festival documentary series that explores little known 2017 Yukon Arts Centre Venues at the Yukon corners of the Arctic region takes viewers on Arts Centre and Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. a stunningly photographed trip into the Coast 40+ screenings and multi-media performances.

Mountains Sat, Feb, 4, Chilton Crane – Film Actor’s Mon, Feb, 6, GO The Surrounding Game 6:00 Masterclass Workshop 10:00 am Kwanlin pm Starbucks Chilkoot Centre Simple Game Dun Cultural Centre All workshop participants Deep Strategy. Beginners & Visitors Welcome.

For more information email: tjbowlby@gmail.com will work through what it means to be a working Mon, Feb, 6, Euchre Night 6:00 pm Royal professional actor in the film and television Canadian Legion - Branch 254 667-2802 industry. Phone or email Katherine for more Mon, Feb, 6, Intro to Silkscreening 6:30 pm information 335 2288 larrikinentertainment@ Arts Underground Explore the traditional and gmail.com modern processes of silk-screening; learn Sat, Feb, 4, Learn German 10:00 am Alpine printing techniques with open screens, how Bakery Learn German in a fun way with Renate - beginner to intermediate. No charge. Info 334- to make screen positives and print your own original designs.

6948 Tue, Feb, 7, Limit is the Sky 12:00 pm Yukon Sat, Feb, 4, Hypnotherapy Information Arts Centre This nuanced and intimate featureSession 1:00 pm Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre length documentary explores the lives of a Learn about Hypnotherapy and the ability to diverse group of young dreamers - several of establish and assert self-control, self-healing them are new Canadians from Sudan, Lebanon. and self-improvement. Call 334-5177 for more Tue, Feb, 7, Gulîstan: Land of Roses 2:00 pm information, open to all interested.

Yukon Arts Centre Female Kurdish guerrillas Sat, Feb, 4, CUT OFF - Viceland Doc 2:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre Canada’s isolated Indigenous fighting the Islamic State have received a lot of media coverage—but you’ve never seen these communities. This documentary on struggle revolutionary women portrayed like this. and hope for youth in remote Indigenous Tue, Feb, 7, The Apology 2:00 pm Yukon Arts communities. Free screening.

Centre WWII ‘comfort women’ shares personal Sat, Feb, 4, Latin Dance 8:00 pm Mount MacIntyre Recreation Centre Your ticket includes stories of the sexual slavery of women. The a complimentary drink, salsa dance performance second most popular audience choice film at Hot Docs Film Festival 2016. and a free salsa lesson! All proceeds go to Tue, Feb, 7, Quebec My Country Mon Pays Yukon Cares, so we can continue sponsoring refugees in Whitehorse! (19+) Tickets at Midnight 5:30 pm Yukon Arts Centre A cinematic loveletter to Quebec by esteemed filmmaker, John Sun Coffee Roasters Walker about growing up during the Quiet Sat, Feb, 4, Improvaganza 8:00 pm The Guild Revolution and the anglophone exodus that Hall Cash bar, Doors open at 7pm with an 8pm followed it in the 1970s and 80s. Director in start and Admission is by donation. Hilarious attendance.

Improv performed by locals.

GENERAL EVENTS

STACEY’S BUTCHER BLOCK PRIME PACK

HIP PACK

6 lbs Prime Rib Steak/Roast 4 lbs T-Bone Steak 4 lbs Striploin Steak 6 lbs Sirloin Steak/Roast 2 lbs Beef Tenderloin 8 lbs Lean Ground Beef

7 lbs inside Round Steak/Roast 7 lbs Sirloin Tip Steak/Roast 6 lbs Outside Round Roast 6 lbs Minute Steaks 6 lbs Stew Beef 8 lbs Lean Ground Beef

30 lbs @ $280.00

40 lbs @ $240.00

PORTER CREEK MALL

Tue, Feb, 7, Knitting Circle & Fibre Arts Classes 7:00 pm Heart Of Riverdale Free Drop-in & Minimal Cost Workshops. Crochet, work on your own special fibre arts projects ‘in community’.

Tue, Feb, 7, La La Land 8:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre The story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, who are struggling to make ends meet in a city known for crushing hopes and breaking hearts. Set in modern day Los Angeles, this original musical about everyday life explores the joy and pain of pursuing your dreams.

Wed, Feb, 8, Spanish Conversation Group 12:00 pm Yukon Government Administration Building Join us inside the Bridges Café 6336081 Terry or Michèle Wed, Feb, 8, I am the Blues 5:30 pm Yukon Arts Centre A musical journey through the swamps of the Louisiana Bayou, the juke joints of the Mississippi Delta and Moonshine soaked BBQs in the North Mississippi Hill Country. Director in attendance.

Wed, Feb, 8, Chamber Choir Rehearsal 7:45 pm Vanier Catholic Secondary Spring 2017 session for this auditioned a capella choir for mixed voices, call, or email to schedule an audition or for more information. 667-7049 Wed, Feb, 8, Moonlight 8:00 pm Yukon Arts Centre The life of a young black man from childhood to adulthood as he struggles to find his place in the world while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami.

Wed, Feb, 8, Maliglutit (Searchers) 8:15 pm Yukon Arts Centre Inuk filmmaker Zacharias Kunuk returns with this Arctic epic inspired by the classic John Ford western of the same name, about a vengeful husband who sets off in pursuit of the violent men who kidnapped his wife and destroyed his home.

Wed, Feb, 8, Hump Day Trivia 9:00 pm Yukon Inn in the Boiler Room

KIDS & FAMILIES

Mondays - Friday Family Free Play Drop-in 12:30pm Saturdays 10-2pm. Family Literacy Centre 668-8698 /668-6535 This drop-in includes reading time, free play and interactive activities.

All Ages Welcome..

Wed, Feb, 1, Girls Group 5:00 pm Heart Of Riverdale Dinner at 6 with Jess Stone Bus tickets are available. Come by and share your ideas and we’ll put them into action!

Wed, Feb, 1, Adult Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Call 668-4794 or email info@ polarettes.org for more information.

Thu, Feb, 2, La Leche League Meeting 10:30 am Family Literacy Centre Discuss topics such as parenting, feeding, night time routines, for new parents, or parents adding to their families.

Thu, Feb, 2, Youth Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Ages 10 - 17 yrs. Call 6684794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information. Limit of 25 participants, arrive early.

Fri, Feb, 3, Pre-School Drop In 10:00 am Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Ages 18 months to 6 yrs, parent must accompany child. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Fri, Feb, 3, Parent-Child Mother Goose 10:30 am Heart Of Riverdale No Cost for these sessions, but registration is required.

Register online or call 867-393-2623 if you need assistance. Age: Birth to 18 months.

Sat, Feb, 4, Ball Pit Fun 10:00 am Heart Of Riverdale The play area features tonnes of climbing and scurrying equipment for playful monkeys. Parental Supervision Required.

Sat, Feb, 4, Young Explorer’s Preschool Program 10:30 am MacBride Museum 867667-2709, ext.3 parents and children explore the animal gallery together. Play games, create crafts, read stories and sing songs.

Sat, Feb, 4, Boreal Kids Funshops 3:00 pm Breath of Life Collective Each class introduces children to yoga while following along to stories, enjoying mindful games and ending with a final relaxation. This course benefits 5-12 year olds, Taught by Sylvia Gibson Mon, Feb, 6, Pre-School Drop In 10:00 am Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Ages 18 months to 6 yrs, parent must accompany child. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Mon, Feb, 6, Youth Open Mic 7:00 pm Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Share writing, poetry, or songs in a fun safe environments. Tea and snacks available.

Tue, Feb, 7, Science Magic Shipyards Park All ages. Have fun with science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Lets stretch our minds and grow, free and drop in! Two times during the day at 1:30 - 2:30 pm and 3:15 - 4:00 pm.

Tue, Feb, 7, Hip Hop Workshops 5:00 pm Splintered Craft Learn how to produce hip hop, scratch a record, beatbox, freestyle, try out styles of beats. Cypers, jams and production training.

Tue, Feb, 7, Youth Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Ages 10 - 17 yrs. Call 6684794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information. Limit of 25 participants, arrive early.

Wed, Feb, 8, Girls Group 5:00 pm Heart Of Riverdale Dinner at 6 with Jess Stone Bus tickets are available. Come by and share your ideas and we’ll put them into action!

Wed, Feb, 8, Adult Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastic Club Call 668-4794 or email info@ polarettes.org for more information.

MEETING & WORKSHOPS

Wed, Feb, 1, Northern Voices Toastmasters 7:00 am Sport Yukon Supportive members will help you develop your public speaking, communication and leadership skills. Drop-ins welcome.

867-689-6363 toastmastersyukon@gmail.com Wed, Feb, 1, Keystone Kops Meeting 7:00 pm Cliffside Country Store and Greenhouse The Keystone Kops Society are looking for new members. This is an opportunity to join our elite group. Call 333-5677 or email keystonekopsociety@gmail.com for more information.

Thu, Feb, 2, Sundogs Toastmasters Club 12:00 pm Sport Yukon A lunch time session to learn the skills, practice the speaking, receive the feedback to improve your public speaking, communication and leadership skills. Drop-ins welcome. 867-689-6363 toastmastersyukon@ gmail.com Thu, Feb, 2, Grey Mountain Housing Society AGM 5:00 pm Grey Mountain Housing Society Thu, Feb, 2, Midnight Sun Toastmasters Club 5:30 pm Yukon College Room A2714. An after work meeting to help you gain confidence in public speaking, improve communication and add to your leadership skills. Drop-ins welcome.

867-689-6363 toastmastersyukon@gmail.com Sat, Feb, 4, ALFF Industry Conference 12:00 am The Old Fire Hall Highlights include keynote speeches by VICE Canada’s John Turner and the NFB’s Claude Joli-Couer. Master classes with Sandra Oh, EyeSteelFilm’s award-winning Daniel Cross and famed playwright and screenwriter Daniel MacIvor.

Sat, Feb, 4-5, Fitness Instructor Specialist Certification Yukon Health Coaching 25-hour course that will increase your knowledge and confidence level to lead a group fitness class to music. Email yukonhealthcoaching@gmail.com for more information.

Sat, Feb, 4, Yukon Amateur Radio Association: Coffee Discussion Group 9:30 am Emergency Measures Organization YARA’s breakfast at the A&W. Casual event. Hams from outside the Yukon often join.

Mon, Feb, 6, Porter Creek Community Association Regular Meeting 5:15 pm The Guild Hall Call for more information. 633-4829 Mon, Feb, 6, Yukon Amateur Radio Association: Meeting 7:00 pm Emergency Measures Organization Prospective hams are welcome.

Mon, Feb, 6, K.S.A. Board Meeting 7:00 pm Sport Yukon Board room 1, use centre door. Everyone is welcome to attend! Email klonsnow@yknet.ca or call 667-7680 for more information.

Tue, Feb, 7, Executive Meeting 5:15 pm Sport Yukon We produce many newsletters a year, plan and lead river trips, organize the annual whitewater rodeo, and are the Yukon’s sport governing body for flatwater and slalom racing.

Tue, Feb, 7, Law at the Library: Know Your Courts 102 6:30 pm Whitehorse Public Library Yukon Small Claims Court with Chief Judge Karen Ruddy, admission is free, however, preregistration is required. Snacks provided, Held in the downstairs meeting room, Email: yukon. law.library@gov.yk.ca or phone: 667-3086 to register.

Tue, Feb, 7, Busy 7:00 pm YuKonstruct Makerspace Tue, Feb, 7, YuKonstruct Open House 7:00 pm YuKonstruct Makerspace Wed, Feb, 8, Northern Voices Toastmasters 7:00 am Sport Yukon Supportive members will help you develop your public speaking, communication and leadership skills. Drop-ins welcome. 867-689-6363 toastmastersyukon@ gmail.com Wed, Feb, 8, Living with Loss - An Introduction to Healthy Grieving 6:30 pm Whitehorse Public Library We will talk about healthy grieving and share tools that will help you support yourself and others to heal and grow through times of loss. Email administrator@ hospiceyukon.net or call 667-7429 to register.

Call ahead to have your meat pack ready for RENDEZVOUS! Custom Orders

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38 lbs @ $175.00

35 lbs @ $220.00

867-393-2565

February 1, 2017

9

whatsupyukon.com

Hasan Arafat takes a break between classes at Yukon College PHOTO: courtesy of B. Martens

The family Arafat, from oldest to youngest, as their names appear in Arabic and English PHOTO: Jessica Simon u

Syrian Sourdough A year in the Yukon - Hasan Arafat reflects on his first year

by Jessica Simon

I

n much the same way as hospitality is a cornerstone of Islam, Yukoners have fostered a welcoming culture that Europe struggles to build. And perhaps that is why Hasan Arafat, the eldest son of Hussein and Fatima’s nine children, is so animated when he talks about their arrival at Whitehorse Airport in the middle of the night a year ago.

“We were amazed by our welcome. The attention to detail you give, thinking of everything to make sure we are comfortable and welcome, is something me and my family are so appreciative of,” he said through his friend, our translator, Tareef Ja’amour.

Hasan remembers waking on his first morning, overwhelmingly happy to be home in Canada.

Five years earlier the Syrian Army had destroyed their home in Hama and the family had fled to Lebanon, where they applied for

refugee status through the United Nations.

Canada, the United States or Australia would accept such a large family. They applied to all three. “The whole family went to the interview at the UN.” Canada was the first to reply.

here – it’s too cold, there’s no people living there.”

But the Yukon Cares committee had invited them to settle in Whitehorse.

Hasan spoke about his father’s doubts. “I convinced him to come here with a passage from the

family aren’t used to all our hugging and handshaking. “People ask,” says Hasan, whose family was consulted for cultural protocols to welcome our second Syrian family in the fall.

Now he is upgrading his education and learning English at the

A fundraiser is being held on Saturday, Feb. 4 to support bringing

Hassan Arafat’s uncles to Whitehorse. The Yukon Cares Latin Dance Night

fundraiser takes place at 8 p.m. at the Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre.

“Four or five months passed before we got the call.”

Surprised they were going to Montreal, Hasan laughs at his first impression. “I thought we’d landed in France.”

Through translators they learned they would move further west, or possibly north. “People kept telling us we didn’t want to come

Qur’an.”

Tareef loosely translated it to: “You don’t know what good may come from taking a risk.”

Our cultural sensitivity is noticeable Hasan says. “People understand we have other customs, and you work really hard to respect that.”

An example is that he and his

Yukon College in preparation to study pharmacy. He concentrates to force his hand write left to right, which is opposite to Arabic, as he writes out the names of his family.

At school, it’s impossible to overlook Hasan’s notoriety.

“We’re famous now.” He shifts in his chair.

Aside from studying, he and Tareef explored more fishing lakes than they can remember. And they tried ice fishing.

“I’ve never been so cold.”

Hasan shivers.

A sourdough now, Hasan’s ready to build a fire for the families of his uncles, one on his mother’s side, one on his father’s, who will arrive in the coming months.

If there’s one thing Hasan would like to tell people, it’s that media stereotypes of Arabs, Islam and Muslims have nothing to do with terrorism.

“There are good and bad people of every group, but the media only shows a minority of a minority. In reality, the sayings of our prophets and our books are of a religion of peace.”

Jessica Simon is a local author and freelance writer.

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10

February 1, 2017

whatsupyukon.com

Edible Yukon Bar Open 9am to 11pm Off Sales 9am to 11pm Clean, Quiet, Comfortable Rooms 110 Wood Street, 667-2641 Whitehorse

Live Music Thursday Nights 7pm-11pm Sunday Open Mic Night 3pm-7pm

wine urs. o a y t f y a l r e C uniqu s i t a th

4230 Fourth Ave Whitehorse (across from McDonald’s)

633-3536 wines4u@northwestel.net

February Events Every Week

Thursday Jam

Friday February 3: Saturday February 4: Sunday February 5:

The House Cats

Friday February 10: Saturday February 11: Sunday February 12:

Speed Control

Friday February 17: Saturday February 18: Sunday February 19:

Rob Dickson

Friday February 24: Saturday February 25: Sunday February 26:

Soda Pony D-Cide on the B-Side with Scott Maynard

Ukes of Hazard Patrick Jacobson

Mr D and Mo Trouble Driftwood Holly and Crazy Horse Leg Up Hands Down KingSwardFish Trivia with Jona Barr and Adrian Burrill

Band Hours 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm Best Western Gold Rush Inn 411 Main Street, Whitehorse, 668-4500

Better When It’s Bitter

Free Pour Jenny’s Bitters take off over Yukon’s local foodie scene

J

Introducing – a new craft wine kit that lets you discover the world’s most popular wines and the thrill of creating wine blends that are uniquely yours.

with Kim Melton

hosted by Scott Maynard

ennifer Tyldesley has spent her life behind the controls of aeroplanes: in the Air Force, flying search and rescue and most recently for Air North. I imagine her in a crisp white shirt with epaulettes gleaming, watching the Klondike Valley sweep away beneath an old Hawker Siddeley when she is struck by an epiphany: “One day, I’m trading it all in to make cocktail bitters.”

Okay, so that’s not exactly how it happened – but it would have made a good story.

The real deal is that although Tyldesley loved her job, she wanted more time for her family.

“I didn’t have a plan,” she tells me frankly about her decision to leave flying in 2015, only that she wanted to give herself that most precious of gifts: time.

“I filled it with foraging, gardening and tinkering in the kitchen – baking, cooking, mixology,” she says. “It was like an intensifying of my hobbies.”

She goes on use the word alchemy, which I think is appropriate for someone who has managed to combine a host of passions into producing tiny bottles of plant extracts.

“It was a really organic process,” she confesses, saying she had no inkling where it was going – although one might think that her nickname – Free Pour Jenny – could have been foreshadowing the career change.

“One day I realised I was making a lot of bitters – more than enough for Christmas gifts for all of my friends.” The natural next step was a pilot run to test the waters of the retail market.

Consumers bit hard. Free Pour Jenny’s flew off the shelves at the Cranberry Fair and are still available at the boutique liquor store Corked in Horwood’s Mall. If you prefer to have someone else do your mixing, look for them at the Woodcutter’s Blanket and the

Wheelhouse Restaurant on Second Avenue.

Let’s back up for a moment for those who have missed the bitters bandwagon. Bitters are made by steeping plant materials in alcohol, including, you guessed it, bitter ingredients. They have traditionally been used to stimulate the appetite and are often a key ingredient in aperitifs, cocktails to imbibe before a meal.

Tyldesley’s research into the history of bitters suggests that bitter herbs were infused in wine in ancient Egypt, and were certainly in common use by Roman

PHOTO: Jennifer Tyldesley

True Goldrush Atmosphere

Free Pour Jenny’s Bitters bring the flavour of the Yukon to your cocktail glass and beyond times as medicine.

“They aren’t limited to cocktails,” she adds, “You can use them in cooking in place of extracts or in non-alcoholic drinks.”

Her bitters are made by infusing plant material in high-proof spirits including vodka, bourbon and rum. While she currently buys retail, she does hint at an interest in distilling in the future or getting involved with one of Yukon’s entrepreneurial distillers to compound the local nature of her

product.

“I made a commitment that each flavour would have at it’s core a Yukon ingredient,” she says, “Even my orange bitters, they use spruce tips I collected last spring and froze.”

The locality of the artisanal creations is one of the reasons that Tyldesley thinks they are so appealing: “I love how engaged Yukoners are with their food and drink, it’s so important to know where your food comes from, and it’s surprising how many things can grow in the Yukon!”

Nor does she neglect the tourist market potential, describing her bitters as “the essence of the Yukon in a 100ml bottle.” It reminds me of Uncle Berwyn’s Birch Syrup - a whole forest condensed into a tiny bottle of liquid Yukon.

While still in the business planning phase, Tyldesley has already launched an elegant, simple website that she hopes to use for online sales in the near future, and is enthusiastic about the encouragement she has received from the Economic Development Branch of Yukon Government.

“They’re really supportive of small businesses,” she tells me, explaining her plans for expansion beyond the Yukon.

So far, reaction from those close to her has been as supportive and encouraging as that from her excited new customers, once they get over the surprise.

“I didn’t ever think it would be a career shift either!” she says with a laugh, “But now it’s definitely something I want to pursue.”

I’ll drink to that.

For more information go to www.FreePourJennys.com for a complete list of products and recipes.

Kim Melton is an enthusiastic forager and gardener, inspired by all things that make up good, local drink.

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Your Dining Fine Guide

From My Mother’s Kitchen with Murray Martin

Old Time Meat Dishes A

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llow me to take you back to 1950s when we cooked in a specific way. At a time when we still did not rely on canned goods and most items came fresh from the garden. The following is an example of such.

1950 Meat Pie with Cheese Pastry Top Brown a ½ pound of cubed veal shoulder and a ½ pound of cubed pork shoulder in 2 tablespoons of shortening.

Now add in the following and simmer for about 30 minutes.

3 cups water, 1 bay leaf, 2 tablespoons of salt, ¼ teaspoon each of pepper, garlic, salt and thyme, 4 small onions, chopped Add 1 cup of coarsely diced carrots, 1 cup of chopped celery and 1 ½ cups cubed potatoes.

Cook until vegetables are tender.

Blend together ¼ cup enriched flour and ¼ cup of water to form a smooth paste. Add to hot stew and stir constantly until thickened.

Spoon the stew into a 1½ quart casserole dish or a 12x8x2 baking dish. Top with pastry.

To make the cheese pastry topping: Sift together 1½ cup enriched flour, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ cup shortening and ½ cup grated cheese until particles are the size of small peas.

Sprinkle 5 tablespoons of cold water over mixture, tossing lightly until dough is moist enough to hold together. Form into a ball.

Roll out the dough to fit the top of the baking dish. Cut slits to allow steam to escape. Place on hot stew and seal by moistening the edge of casserole and pinching the crust against it.

Bake at 450ºF for 20 to 25 minutes.

Enjoy!

Luncheon Sausage Ingredients: 1 pound of sausage 1 cup flour 1 beaten egg 1 cup milk 1 tsp. baking powder a pinch of salt Method: Cook the sausage in a frying pan and drain off some fat if there is too much.

Make batter by mixing together the rest of the ingredients. Pour the batter over the sausage and bake in an oven pre-heated to 470ºF for about 10 minutes.

Pork Chops with Spiced Orange If you like oranges as well as pork chops, you will enjoy this recipe from the ‘50s.

Ingredients: 4 pork shoulder chops

Allow me to take you back to 1950s when we cooked in a specific way.

salt, pepper and paprika ¼ cup water 3 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp cornstarch ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp nutmeg 6 whole cloves ½ cup orange juice 4 thick slices of orange Method: Brown chops thoroughly over medium heat. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika. Add water.

Cover and simmer until tender – about 50 minutes. Turn several times during cooking and add water if necessary. When chops are tender remove from pan and spoon off fat left in the pan.

Mix sugar, cornstarch, salt and spices. Blend in orange juice into skillet and stir over low heat until sauce is slightly thickened. Add chops to sauce. Place an orange slice on each chop. Cover and simmer 5 minutes. This will serve four people.

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Murray Martin shares recipes from the 1940s and ‘50s with us. Questions about his stories can be sent to editor@whatsupyukon.com.

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People are Talking About

Air North

‘Yukon’s Airline’ Celebrates 40 Years on February 1

by Darrell Hookey

PHOTOS: courtesy of Air North

I

was writing a story about the Tatshenshini River for a magazine, and had just finished a 10-day rafting trip that left us at Dry Bay, Alaska, at the Pacific Ocean... the very definition of “the middle of nowhere.”

The Nahanni River Adventure guides were being coy about how

we would return to civilization.

Right on cue, a Hawker Siddeley turboprop airplane came thundering through the forest, just beyond our clearing, on an impossibly short and narrow runway.

We stowed our gear and settled into the almost-foreign comfort of the upholstered seats. We

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were tired, we looked bad and smelled worse, but the Air North flight attendants took our drink orders, brought us snacks and treated us like royalty.

There. That’s my Air North story.

It seems when Yukoners tell friends they have been Outside, one of the first questions is, “Did you fly Air North?” If so, an Air North story is presented for all to hear.

Air North is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in February. It is the perfect opportunity to explore the importance of these many stories and how an airline, in an industry that needs to efficiently corral passengers from gate to plane to gate, can gather so many

good ones.

Like this one from Environment Yukon: An injured eagle was brought into the Environment Office in Dawson. In an animal crate fit for a large dog, the Air North employees kept the eagle outside, covered in a blanket. Employees even went so far as to move the crate away from the noise and people at the airport’s main building.

Upon arrival in Whitehorse, Air North once again exceeded expectations by unloading the eagle at another gate, away from the baggage unloading and hubbub of the terminal, to maintain the quiet and calm.

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Joe Sparling, the co-founder and president of Air North, says he hears many of these stories through the comment cards.

“The one that catches my eye over and over is, ‘It feels like you are home before you get home.’”

Sitting in his office, at a desk his father used before him, he says, “I thought about that a while and, if you wander into any departure lounge other than ours, you see people staring straight cont’d on page 13...

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People are Talking About Air North... cont’d

by Gary Bremner www.gbpcreative.ca

Joe Sparling, the co-founder and president of Air North, has literally been at the wheel of this airline success story for 40 years

Air North celebrates 40 years of servicing the Yukon on Feb. 1.

It seems most Yukoners have a favourite “Air North story”, but they aren’t usually about those flying machines ... ... they are about the many kindnesses and thoughtful efficiency of the Air North staff (oh, yeah ... and the food!) ahead or reading. Nobody is talking to anybody.

“You go into an Air North departure lounge and you will see quite a different picture: people exchanging stories of where they have been.

“When people end up in our departure lounge after being away for a while, and see people they know (even our flight crew and check-in crew), they feel like they are almost home.

“When you look at our 250 employees, almost every one of our customers will know somebody.

“We told our service providers that they will know a certain proportion of people and you should interact with them the same way you would at the grocery store and greet them by name; for passengers you don’t know, polite professionalism is what we want.”

There is one family of four in Vancouver that got a good dose of this polite professionalism. It was from the Reservations Department: We booked our usual trip to Whitehorse to spend Christmas with my parents. In the middle of December, I had to move my ticket forward by four days to fly up and look after my father who had been ill. The rest of my family flew up on the 23rd and within two hours, one of my children hit his hand on a frozen branch while sledding. A surgeon wanted to see him in Vancouver before our Dec. 28 return home. That meant rebooking two of our four return tickets. Through all of my rebookings, the Air North agents were extremely helpful and even looked for ways to minimize their

profit during a very stressful time for my family.

Servicing customers well is certainly a key to Air North’s success. But so are practical schedules that get people to and from places they need to be.

Sparling’s efforts began with determining how to serve the various governments in the Yukon.

They wanted new gateways, not just duplicating existing services.

“We combined Calgary and Edmonton,” he says today. “It got their attention.

“But in the first few months, we noticed we weren’t getting any government business. So, we went down to the Purchasing Department and the guys said they need daily service to Vancouver for this to work.

“So, the lesson here is don’t listen to the politicians, listen to the people who actually spend the money.”

Then there is the task of raising capital. One of Air North’s directors came across the Yukon Government’s Yukon Small Business and Investment Tax Credit Program.

“I had a stack of prospectuses and thought if anybody wandered by and wanted to discuss buying a share I could speak with them,” says Sparling.

“I was absolutely amazed at the level of interest from local investors.

“I had lineups of people wanting to buy shares; and it wasn’t the wealthy people who had investment money to burn, it was pretty ordinary people who were investing money that was pretty important to them.

“I heard over and over people say they’ve been paying too much for air service and they want to see this product offered locally.

“They didn’t want to earn 10 per cent on investment; it was more about the quality of life.”

These are the stories that are told. Seldom are the stories about Sparling’s flying skills; often it is about the food.

For instance, this couple in their 60s were surprised at how well they ate:

We cannot remember when we were served a FREE meal and drinks on board an aircraft for a domestic flight. Even the onehour flight from Whitehorse to Dawson we were served a very wonderful turkey sandwich. Oh, and that piece of cake served on the Vancouver flight was out of this world!!

Then there are all of the stories around the warm cookies served from the Air North ovens onboard.

“I don’t know who actually pitched the idea,” says Sparling with a chuckle. “But I felt from the outset that was the way to go.

“The cheese cakes were popular, but I personally like the chocolate chip cookies.

“And I like the idea of the aroma it puts in the cabin.”

Darrell Hookey is a freelance writer living in Whitehorse.

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February 1, 2017

KEYNOTE SPEAKER John Turner Director of Development, VICE Media Canada

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Yukon Stories

The Available Light Film Festival features 4 documentaries on Feb. 6 that look at life in the Yukon

by Heather Austin

N

ow in its 15th year, the Available Light Film Festival kicks off on Friday, Feb. 3 with a musical performance by John K. Samson and the Winter Wheat. The festival features over 40 events: film, media art, live performances and artist talks.

The films in the festival come from around the world and across Canada and film industry guests will visit Whitehorse during the festival, which runs until Feb. 12.

Find the full the schedule at ALFF.ca.

Special to the festival this year is a curated series of Yukon short documentaries that explore the wonder of the Yukon and its people. These documentaries will be screened on Feb. 6.

Written and drected by Dawson City filmmaker Lulu Keating, this film shares the storied life of a Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in elder, and the freedom and beauty within. A palpable slideshow reveals the loves, losses and unbelievable adventures of JJ Van Bibber and his kin. The documentary features photographs of the Van Bibber family and friends, set in astoundingly rugged landscapes and life’s real moments.

Carrying the camera all his life JJ, who passed away in 2012, comes to life again as it is his voice you’ll hear describing the fantastic photos of mushing missions through dangerous canyons, rafting the Yukon River to Dawson City, and his wife, Clara, protecting chubby children from conniving wolves. The photos reveal an intimate history of the Yukon. They serve as a chance window into a special life story, as well as a telltale document of cultural politics. Storytelling at its finest.

Yukon legend JJ Van Bibber wrote about his life growing up in the Yukon in the early 1900s

PHOTO: amazon.com

Pictures Don’t Lie

Directed by Allan Code, a Whitehorse based filmmaker, Arctic Secrets is a symphony of immensely strong and surprisingly fragile elements that comprise the wilderness of the Yukon Territory. Stunning imagery abounds in this visual adventure through its waters, mountains, and forests.

Focusing mainly on the more arctic regions of the territory, Code and cinematographer Mike Code capture landscapes and habitats with UAV-mounted cameras (drones) that no helicopter or human could ever reach. Animals of the north have been astoundingly resilient to change and extreme weather conditions in the past. Like the small pika and marmot that live in the glacial moraines of retreated glaciers, and the nearly extinct bald eagle and trumpeter swan that made miraculous comebacks.

An unprecedented shift is occurring in the form of global climate change. Only time will tell what the full effects will be, but there are already some jarring and visible manifestations.

The Yukon’s diverse wildlife serve as an abnormally tough canary in a coal mine for our rapidly changing world.

A still from the short documentary Arctic Secrets, directed by Whitehorse filmmaker Allan Code. Yuka training with her team

PHOTO: Allan Code

Arctic Secrets

Written and Directed by Whitehorse filmmaker Kelly Milner, Shift focuses on the Montana Mountain, which stretches into the skies of traditional Carcross/Tagish First Nation territory in Carcross, Yukon.

The First Nation is modernizing its local economy through a grassroots initiative to build mountain biking trails and market Carcross as a world-class adventure tourism destination. The project has been running 10 years thus far and has been an immense success, attracting mountain biking enthusiasts from around the globe.

The unique thing about this project is that the trails are built primarily by the local youth of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation. The Singletrack to Success (S2S) Program has been a way to get youth involved, back out on the land, and literally shaping and building their community. The film garnered the People’s Choice Award from the 2016 Banff Mountain Film Festival.

Cinematographer Dave Hamlin captures a Carcross-area mountain biking trail and its riders,for the short documentary Shift

Underdog

PHOTO: Vivian Belik

Written and Directed by Vivian Belik and Naomi Mark, two Whitehorse based filmmakers, Underdog tells the story of Yuka Honda, a Japanese woman with an unlikely passion for dog sledding, who competes in the toughest mushing race on Earth: The Yukon Quest.

No matter what path you choose in life, it all somehow ties back into where you come from. Struggling to make ends meet, and grieving over her recently deceased mother, Yuka finds strength in knowing her mother is watching over her daunting quest.

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The documentaries Pictures Don’t Lie, Shift and Underdog screen on Monday, Feb. 6 at 12 p.m. at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. Arctic Secrets screens Monday, Feb. 6 at 5 p.m. at The Yukon Arts Centre.

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February 1, 2017

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Like the Beauty of the Yukon? You’ll Love Hiking Japan PHOTOS: courtesy of Yamnuska Mountain Tours

by Becky Striegler

The Shinetsu Trail near Nagano, Japan takes hikers through forests of beech, oak, mountain ash and maple. These trees are ablaze with colour in the fall

C

oming from urban Japan to the vast Canadian wilderness changed Naoto Motoyama’s life. Now he wants to return the favour, inspiring Yukoners with the unique, natural beauty of his homeland.

Motoyama is the one-person, Yukon branch of Yamnuska Mountain Tours, which is based in Canmore, Alberta. For the past several years, he’s been hosting Japanese visitors in the Yukon, showing them the northern lights and leading hikes in Kluane and Tombstone parks.

Through this work, he’s seen the potential to draw tourists in the other direction — from the Yukon to Japan.

“You know, when you’re guid-

ing Japanese people in Canada, you’re explaining how great Canadian nature is to Japanese guests.

At the same time, we started to feel we should maybe do this kind of thing for Canadians in Japan…

So it naturally came up from our experience guiding in Canada.”

He finds his island homeland has much to offer outdoorsy Yukoners, with its high mountain trails and strong cultural and spiritual ties to nature.

“The relationship between the people and the mountains, that’s something specifically I would like to share with the Canadian people,” Motoyama says, referring to an 11-day hike on the Shinetsu Trail in the mountains near Nagano.

People in the area make traditional Japanese paper from the trees. The trail itself has been used over centuries to transport or trade food and other goods between villages.

On this trip, visitors hike the undulating trail, heading down to villages to stay in traditional Japanese lodges and eat local food. They would see gorgeous panoramas, walk through oldgrowth forests and sometimes climb up to 1,000 metres.

“So they would need some hiking experience.”

Motoyama is a certified mountain guide, but started his career on a much different path. He grew up near Tokyo and as a young adult, launched into the exhaust-

ing life of an urban professional.

“I was an industrial supply salesperson in Tokyo. So… hair gel, tie, rush hour train every day,” he says with a smile.

He would leave home at 6:30 a.m. and return at 10 or 11 p.m.

When Japan’s economy faltered, he wanted a change. He came to Canada, trained as a mountain guide, and moved to the Yukon to set up its Yamnuska branch in 2007.

Today, he still works in an office, marketing and organizing.

“But I can commute by bike sometimes; I can finish my work by 5, have time to play music,” adding he now plays guitar in a band, something he never had time for in Japan.

He feels his time in Canada has given him a new perspective on the outdoor charms of his home county and he wants to share them with Yukoners.

“I feel lucky now, because I don’t have to sell things I don’t like to sell.”

Motoyama is holding a public slide show on the Shinetsu Trail hike on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Whitehorse United Church.

You can also learn more at www.GreatHikesJapan.com or by emailing Motoyama at info@ yamnuska.com.

Becky Striegler is a Whitehorsebased writer.

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Burbot Fishing at Little Atlin Lodge

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F

rom the day we came to Whitehorse it was my partner’s dream to catch a burbot; the only freshwater member of the cod family is found in most Yukon lakes and large rivers.

We were told that they are easily caught overnight on baited set lines, as they are bottom dwellers.

In December we wanted to try our luck. We rented a guest house at Little Atlin Lodge for the weekend.

It turned out to be an ideal place to stay because it is nestled right on the shore of Little Atlin Lake – an excellent lake for ice fishing.

Little Atlin Lodge offers two secluded, lakefront guesthouses.

One of them – called the Pine Guest House – is fully winterized and can be rented year-round. It is very spacious and provides a complete kitchen and a private bathroom with hot shower and flush toilet. What a comfortable place to spend a winter weekend in a natural setting, relax and wait for burbot to bite.

We put out our set lines on Friday and Saturday nights and got rewarded with one burbot each the following mornings. A longawaited wish came true!

If you want to experience bur-

bot fishing yourself, here is a short overview of how we did it: Get a set line license issued by Environment Yukon. The license is free in addition to the Yukon angling license.

Book an overnight stay at Little Atlin Lodge. We spent three nights in the Pine Guest House – the more nights you have your lines out, the better your chances are. The Lodge offers a 10 per cent discount on bookings of three or more nights this winter.

Prepare the set lines by fixing them to a stick. We used big hooks and tried different bait such as shrimp, chicken and bacon.

Place setlines into holes. We covered the holes with snow and made sure our lines were marked with our address and license number. We also marked the holes with sticks to find them again the next morning.

Keep fingers crossed. We enjoyed our overnight stay in the warm and cozy cabin while our lines were out.

Check set lines the next morning (or after a maximum of 30 hours). Both mornings we could shout out loud “FISH ON!” Gut and fillet the fish. We had to check Youtube because it was

our first time preparing a burbot.

Enjoy a delicious meal. Burbot is also called “poor-man’s lobster.”

We tried different recipes such as boiling fillet slices in salt water or frying them in a beer batter.

We were so busy with ice fishing in front of our guesthouse that we didn’t have time for other activities. The lodge would also be a great place for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling or exploring nearby lakes – it’s a good reason to go back some day.

And maybe next time we will be lucky to see the northern lights. It is a great open spot for awesome pictures.

Try it yourself and experience a unique weekend out of town.

The hosts Rahel Diener and Andri Kobler will be happy to welcome you. Tight lines!

For more information go to www.LittleAtlinLodge.com.

Yvonne Mueller lived in Whitehorse for a year to study Multimedia Communication at the Yukon College. She does marketing activities for local businesses such as the Little Atlin Lodge to practice her new acquired graphic design and writing skills.

February 1 - 18 667-2229 • Mon-Fri 10-5:30 & Sat 10-5

HORWOODS MALL

www.duenor thmaternityandbaby.com

2017 FUNDING DEADLINE 2 pm Friday, February 10, 2017 United Way Society of the Yukon provides grants of up to $10,000 on an annual basis to eligible non-profit organizations for projects/programs that benefit Yukon communities, and fit within United Way focus areas.

More information about these focus areas can be found at www.unitedway.ca/our-work.

Completed applications must be received before 2 pm Friday, February 10, 2017, and should be delivered: • By mail to United Way Yukon P.O. Box 31731, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6L3 • By fax to United Way Yukon (867) 456-4302 • In person to United Way’s office 305 Wood Street, Whitehorse, YT We do not accept email applications.

The application package is available on-line at unitedwayyukon.ca.

For more information, contact: Joan Turner at (867) 633-8486 Leslie McRae at (867) 668-6514

Chelsey MacDonald

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February 1, 2017

whatsupyukon.com

Yukon’s Best Friend: DOG CULTURE

Meet our dogs, they live for us, we live for them, the Yukon would not be the Yukon without Dog Culture.

Send us photos of Yukon dogs and their people!

Submitted by:

Carl Maguire

“I’m not bump starting your damn motorcycle. Its winter you idiot!” Or Seemed Like A Good Idea… Maybe Not.

Norton

Norton, circa 1995

What’s Up Yukon is pleased to partner with the Yukon Transportation Museum’s Dog Culture Display, “Yukon’s Best Friend: Doggedness in Love and Labour”. Your photos will be on display at the dog culture exhibit so be sure to stop in. We are open everyday from 10-6 and Tuesdays from 10-8. Selected submissions may appear on both partners social media and inside What’s Up Yukon’s printed issue and website! That’s right your pooch could be appreciated by all!

Highlights

Klondike Institute of Art and Culture Dawson City, YT

MAKE IT WILD: INTRO TO ANTLER CARVING FEBRUARY 2 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

January 26 – February 25, 2017

INDUSTRIAL SEWING MACHINE 101 FEBRUARY 2 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Exhibi� ons OPENING

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 3RD >> in the Yukon Art Society Gallery: 5-7PM THE SEVEN TEXTILE ARTISTS “How Does it Felt” FOCUS GALLERY

Exhibi�on closes December 1st, 2012 JACKIE OLSON: MYHougen OWN REALITIES >> in the Heritage Gallery: FebARCHIVES 3-25 YUKON

Archival Gold: Favourites from the Vault EDGE GALLERY Exhibi�on closes January 26, 2013 PHILOMENA CARROLL: DRAWING WITH COLOUR, LIGHT AND TIME

Open Studio Sessions

>> Ceramic Open Studio Sessions << SundaysCLASSES from 2:30 to 6pm $5 per hour INTRO TO SILKSCREENING WITH REBEKAH SENKO

>> Acrylic Pain�ng Open Studio Dates: February 6-March 13 << with(Mondays) Neil Graham 6:30pm-8:30pm every Time: first and third Wednesday of Cost: $250 + gst (all supplies each month 7 to 9pm included except t-shirt/fabric) $10 per 2 hour session VALENTINE’S DAY PAINTING

IN PAIRS WITH To register call: 867-667-4080 ROSENBERG Email: MAYA recep�on@artsunderground.ca Date: February 14th Time: 6:30-9:30pm Cost: $150 for 2 people (all supplies included)

BOOK BINDING WITH KIM HENKEL Date: April 1 + 2 Time: TBD Cost: TBD

COOL TOOLS- YWITT AFTER SCHOOL SKILLED TRADES COURSES FEBRUARY 6 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

WEEKLY OPEN HOUSE FEBRUARY 7

Boys and Girls Club of Yukon

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

LASER CUTTER 101 FEBRUARY 9 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

COOL TOOLS- YWITT AFTER SCHOOL SKILLED TRADES COURSES FEBRUARY 13 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

HOURS

Monday Closed, Tuesday - Friday 11am - 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 1-9pm www.yukonstruct.com info@yukonstruct.com 135 Industrial Rd.

Ages 11 to 18 Free snack and meal

When: Wednesdays to Saturdays 3 PM to 9 PM Where: 306A Alexander Street Look for the big green door!

Ph. (867) 393-2824

Free Weekly Entertainment Magazine

The Fun Experts

LIFE DRAWING

POTTERY OPEN STUDIO

No instruction provided.

Must have pottery experience.

Dates: Every Sunday (does not run on holidays) Time: 2:30-6:00pm Cost: $5/hour

Programs Arts Underground / Yukon Art Society 867-667-4080 ext 22

Pick up a new issue every Wednesday!

NATIVE NORTH AMERICA

Infolettre

Arts culture et

Informez-vous sur les activités en français au Yukon.

whatsupyukon.com

KIAC Ballroom

An evening of music and storytelling featuring Willie Thrasher and Linda Saddleback. Willie Thrasher is an Inuk singer-songwriter from Aklavik, Northwest Territories.

February 14, 2017, 6:30PM COMING SOON…

VALENTINES DINNER AND A MOVIE Movie - TBA KIAC Ballroom

ARE YOU A PRINT MAKER? KIAC is seeking Print Making Workshop Instructors. If you are interested in proposing a workshop, please go to: kiac.ca/coursesoutreach/workshopproposals/ or call the KIAC office.

Web: bgcyukon.com Facebook: bgcyukon Twitter: @bgcyukon

DROP IN

No instruction, hosted by Andrew Sharp, nude model Dates: Every first Sunday of the month (does not run on holidays) Time: 7-9pm Cost: $5/hour (bring your own supplies)

February 6, 2017, 7PM

Contact:

THE UNDER ACHIEVERS (PAINTING CLUB)

DROP-IN PAINTING WITH NEIL GRAHAM

Dawson artists use sculpture, photography, video and more to explore whether the “Golden Age” of selfies is now, or long gone.

Free Teen Drop In

Date: March 27-31 Time: 9am-4pm Ages: 7-12 Cost: $325

Get feedback from a professional artist as you work on your own projects Dates: Every second Tuesday: Feb 7, 21, March 7, 21 Time: 7-10pm Cost: $10 with membership (bring your own supplies)

THE GOLDEN AGE OF SELFIES

What:

MARCH BREAK KIDS CAMP

Dates: Every second Tuesday: (no class on Feb 14), Feb 28, March 14, 28 Time: 6:30-9:30pm Cost: free with membership (bring your own supplies)

KIAC MEMBERS EXHIBIT

infolettres.afy.yk.ca

Tel: (867) 993-5005 Fax: (867) 993-5838 Website: www.kiac.ca

February 1, 2017

19

whatsupyukon.com

International Bonspiel Comes to Dawson City

by Gabriela Sgaga

T

raditions run long in Dawson City. Take the upcoming international curling bonspiel, for example. This is the 118th bonspiel, making it the oldest continuously running event in the Yukon.

Taking place from Feb. 3 to 5 and hosted by the Dawson City Curling Club, the bonspiel is a weekend of fun, social time and the spirit of competition, with teams from all over the Yukon, as well as visiting teams from Northern British Columbia and Northwest Territories, taking part.

The entry fee is $240 per team, and each team is guaranteed three 8-end games, with prizes for the winners in each event Dawson’s curling history has humble beginnings. The first rink was built in the early 1900’s on a slough in the south end of Dawson City. It consisted of a light wooden frame, covered by canvas, two sheets of ice and a dressing room.

By 1909, the club had expanded to a four-sheet facility with a steamheated spectator room.

Curlers are passionate about their sport. When the international bonspiel was threatened in 2001 and 2002 with lack of a facility to play in, rather than cancel the event and interrupt the tradition, two sheets of curling ice were laid out on the frozen river, with rings painted on with Kool-Aid powder and string for the lines.

Jaimee Gilson, who hails from Australia and is a curler and board member of the Dawson City Curling Club, has been curling every year of the six winters that she’s now been in Dawson.

“Curling is an integral part to

PHOTO: Dan Sokolowski

Local bonspiel at the Dawson Curling Club surviving winter,” she says. “Curling involves a little bit of thought and social recreation, which is important to me.”

Gilson plays in the Dawson Curling Club league, which consists of 22 teams playing over a period of four days a week. The bonspiel, she says, is even more fun, as it brings together a diverse group of people and allows for a

more competitive spirit.

“I love it when other teams come to town (for the bonspiel).

It makes me want to win and have bragging rights,” she says with a laugh.

Gilson decided to join the curling club board to support and help the club and its events. She will be organizing the bar for the bonspiel.

Paul Robitaille, also a curler and board member, is equally passionate about the sport.

“As a kid, I used to think curling was boring. But now, I’d rather watch that than hockey,” he says.

Robitaille likes that curling is accessible to everyone. It doesn’t cost much, and anyone can play, he says.

“What I love about curling is



and counting

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Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Presents:

that it’s instant satisfaction. One good shot can make up for lots of bad shots and make it worth your while. Even beginners can succeed.”

Robitaille also enjoys the social aspect of curling, as well as the fact that it’s a mixed league.

“You can play with your partner, which makes curling appealing and easier than some other sports.”

Along with playing in the bonspiel, Robitaille is also in charge of sign up. He points out that the bonspiel is a mixed tournament, which means that there should be at least one member of the opposite sex on a team, and encourages teams of four from near and far to come to Dawson City to enjoy great prizes and a homemade banquet dinner.

Robitaille is also tasked with making sure everyone at the bonspiel is having a good time. Judging by his passion for curling and his excitement for the upcoming event, this shouldn’t be a problem.

“This is the one weekend I look forward to all year!” he says.

For more information on the 118th International Bonspiel, or the Dawson City Curling Club in general, please contact Paul Robitaille by phone at 993-5575 or by email at curldawson@gmail.com Gabriela Sgaga lives off the grid in her West Dawson cabin with her sled dogs. She enjoys mushing, skijoring and writing about everyday life in the Yukon. Please send comments about her articles to dawson@whatsupyukon.com.

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February 1, 2017

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Active Interest LISTINGS Dr. Mélanie Lachapelle | Dr. Brenna MacPhail | Dr. Jonathan Hawkins Services Available: spinal manipulation & mobilization, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture, custom orthotic, rehab

All are welcome: infants/children, pregnant women, women & men of all ages

For more details: (867) 667-2272 or chilkootchiro.ca

Call For Reader Submissions

Yukoners Living With Wildlife

FOLLOW US ON www.whatsupyukon.com

Send us your high resolution photos with a description of what’s happening in the photo, and the camera equipment you used.

Editor@WhatsUpYukon.com

Wed, Feb, 1 Ultimate Frisbee 12:00 pm Canada Games Centre Ultimate is a sport played with a disc (frisbee). Points are scored by passing the disc to a teammate in the opposing end zone. Players from the Yukon Ultimate Frisbee Association are often present to help facilitate games and teach new-comers, so don’t be shy!

Wed, Feb, 1 Velocity Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 1 Aikido Yukon Kids Advanced Classes 4:30 pm Aikido Yukon Dojo Level: Yellow+ belt. Sessions now has several elements, one every 4 weeks. Each element covers physical skills, techniques, cultural aspects and stories. First class is always FREE, feel free to come try anytime (we will lend you an uniform).

(867) 667-4690 Wed, Feb, 1 Pursuit Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 1 YASC hosting Lacrosse drop in 4:30 pm Canada Games Centre Join us in the flexihall. Participants must be 12 years old or older, have a day pass from CGC and participants are encouraged to bring a helmet and gloves.

Wed, Feb, 1 Scottish Country Dancing 5:30 pm Elijah Smith Elementary School Adults of any age. Families welcome. No experience necessary. For more info call Pat at 668-4976 or Kat at 334-1547.

Wed, Feb, 1 Adult Biathlon 6:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 1 Yukon Broomball Game: Ridge Pub vs Capital Towing 6:30 pm Yukon Broomball Arena Wed, Feb, 1 Yukon Broomball Game: 202 Saloon Shooters vs Yukon Thunder 7:30 pm Yukon Broomball Arena Wed, Feb, 1 Adult Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Call 668-4794 or email info@ polarettes.org for more information.

Wed, Feb, 1 Yukon Broomball Game: P&M Recycling VS NNDDC 8:30 pm Yukon Broomball Arena Thu, Feb, 2 - Sun, Feb, 5 Yukon Curling U18 Championships Mount MacIntyre Recreation Centre Thu, Feb, 2 Velocity Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Thu, Feb, 2 YASC hosting Arctic Sports drop in 5:30 pm Canada Games Centre Join us in the flexihall. Participants must be 12 years old or older, have a day pass from CGC. Thu, Feb, 2 Bouldering with ACC 7:30 pm Yukon College Email for location, membership details info@accyukon.ca Thu, Feb, 2 Youth Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Ages 10 - 17 yrs. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Limit of 25 participants, arrive early.

Fri, Feb, 3 - Sun, Feb, 5 Grande Prairie Races Biathlon Range Fri, Feb, 3 Pickleball 9:00 am Canada Games Centre Pickleball is paddle sport combining elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis.

Pickleball is played on a doubles badminton court over a slightly lowered badminton net. The wiffle ball is played back and forth over the net using a hard paddle.

Fri, Feb, 3 Pre-School Drop In 10:00 am Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Ages 18 months to 6 yrs, parent must accompany child. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Fri, Feb, 3 Golden Horn Judo 3:30 pm Golden Horn Elementary Fri, Feb, 3 Aikido Yukon Teenager Class 13+ 4:00 pm Aikido Yukon Dojo Sessions now has several elements, one every 4 weeks. Each element covers physical skills, techniques, cultural aspects and stories. First class is always FREE, feel free to come try anytime (we will lend you an uniform). (867) 667-4690 Fri, Feb, 3 Adult Drop-In Volleyball 7:00 pm Porter Creek Secondary School Men and women welcome Fri, Feb, 3 Kayak Polo (age 16+) 8:00 pm Canada Games Centre Paddle with members of the Yukon Canoe and Kayak Club. Some gear is available subject to attendance rates; please bring your own if available.

Sat, Feb, 4 Yukon Quest Race Start! 11:00 am Shipyards Park 1,000 mile international sled dog race - Whitehorse to Fairbanks. Follow your favourite teams by watching our live tracker which will be posted to the Yukon Quest home page at race time.

Sat, Feb, 4 Learn to Play Table Tennis 1:30 pm Whitehorse Elementary Enter through the back door, Saturdays until March 18, Call 668-3358 or 333-0299 for info.

Sat, Feb, 4 Rugby Drop-In 3:30 pm Canada Games Centre Join other rugby enthusiasts for a game of non-contact rugby scrimmage Sun, Feb, 5 Adult Soccer Drop-In 9:00 am Canada Games Centre Join in a pickup game of soccer or practising soccer skills or start a game.

Sun, Feb, 5 Yukon Arctic Ultra 10:30 am Shipyards Park Marathon, 100, 200, 300 and 430 miles for Mountain Bikers, XC-Skiers and Runners Sun, Feb, 5 Velocity Practice 10:30 am Biathlon Range Sun, Feb, 5 Pursuit Practice 10:30 am Biathlon Range Sun, Feb, 5 Yukon Broomball Game: Yukon Brewing vs 202 Saloon Shooters 12:00 pm Yukon Broomball Arena Sun, Feb, 5 Bears Practice 1:30 pm Biathlon Range Sun, Feb, 5 Ultimate Frisbee 5:00 pm Canada Games Centre Ultimate is a sport played with a disc (frisbee). Points are scored by passing the disc to a teammate in the opposing end zone. Players from the Yukon Ultimate Frisbee Association are often present to help facilitate games and teach new-comers, so don’t be shy!

Sun, Feb, 5 Pickleball 6:00 pm Canada Games Centre Pickleball is paddle sport combining elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis.

Pickleball is played on a doubles badminton court over a slightly lowered badminton net. The wiffle ball is played back and forth over the net using a hard paddle.

Mon, Feb, 6 Preschool Drop In 10:00 am Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Ages 18 months to 6 yrs, parent must accompany child. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Mon, Feb, 6 Volleyball Drop-in 12:00 pm Canada Games Centre Join a pick-up game Mon, Feb, 6 Velocity Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Mon, Feb, 6 Pursuit Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range

Wellness LISTINGS Richard’s Tire Tips

Do you have a tire

that you have been airing up every so often?

Wed, Feb, 1, The Book of Joy 7:00 am Alpine Bakery Includes stretches to wake up, listen to the book while enjoying a light breakfast, and close by doing the joy practices. Light breakfast included.

Please register: wallymaltz@mac.com Wed, Feb, 1, The Counselling Drop-In Clinic: Yukon Distress and Support Line 10:00 am Many Rivers Counselling and Support Services Free Drop-In counselling is offered every Wednesday from 10am - 4pm.

Wed, Feb, 1, Women & Children Lunch Date 11:30 am Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Delicious Free Lunch for Women & Children Thu, Feb, 2, Ladies Night at Fassy 7:00 pm FASSY an evening of fun activities and socializing for women of all ages. 393-4948 girls@ ycommunityliving.com Thu, Feb, 2, Beginner Yoga with Tammy 7:30 pm Alpine Bakery Increase flexibility and strengthen body and mind. Thursdays from January 12 to March 2 -eight sessions. Call or email to register.

336-4461 tammy.reis37@gmail.com Fri, Feb, 3, Sally & Sisters Lunch 12:00 pm Whitehorse Food Bank Free Hot Lunch for Women & Children 334-9317 Fri, Feb, 3, Body Talk - Art Therapy 2:00 pm Whitehorse, Yukon Art therapy group for women 19+, examine and learn about body image through art. To register call Kim at 667-2970 ext 234

Mon, Feb, 6 Aikido Yukon Kids Beginner Classes 4:30 pm Aikido Yukon Dojo Up to Yellow Belt. Sessions now has several elements, one every 4 weeks. Each element covers physical skills, techniques, cultural aspects and stories.

First class is always FREE, feel free to come try anytime (we will lend you an uniform). (867) 667-4690 Mon, Feb, 6 AquaRunning 8:40 pm Canada Games Centre Run with zero impact! Swimming ability not required. Comfort in deep water recommended.

Tue, Feb, 7 Disc Golf 12:00 pm Canada Games Centre Come and practice your Disc Golf game with our driving targets. A time to work on different discs and throws Tue, Feb, 7 Junior and Adult Tennis Lessons 4:00 pm Yukon College Junior lessons Tuesdays 4-5 pm and 5-6 pm, adult lessons 6-7 pm.

Certified coaches.

Tue, Feb, 7 Junior Shooting Program 7:00 pm Whitehorse Rifle Pistol Club Youth aged 10-20, parent permission required, Registration fee applies. Participants will learn about gun safety and marksmanship. 667-6907 or 689-5967 Tue, Feb, 7 Youth Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Ages 10 - 17 yrs. Call 668-4794 or email info@polarettes.org for more information.

Limit of 25 participants, arrive early.

Tue, Feb, 7 Rugby Drop-In 9:15 pm Canada Games Centre Join other rugby enthusiasts for a game of non-contact rugby scrimmage Wed, Feb, 8 Ultimate Frisbee 12:00 pm Canada Games Centre Ultimate is a sport played with a disc (frisbee). Points are scored by passing the disc to a teammate in the opposing end zone. Players from the Yukon Ultimate Frisbee Association are often present to help facilitate games and teach new-comers, so don’t be shy!

Wed, Feb, 8 Velocity Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 8 Aikido Yukon Kids Advanced Classes 4:30 pm Aikido Yukon Dojo Level: Yellow+ belt. Sessions now has several elements, one every 4 weeks. Each element covers physical skills, techniques, cultural aspects and stories. First class is always FREE, feel free to come try anytime (we will lend you an uniform).

(867) 667-4690 Wed, Feb, 8 Pursuit Practice 4:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 8 YASC hosting Lacrosse drop in 4:30 pm Canada Games Centre Join us in the flexihall. Participants must be 12 years old or older, have a day pass from CGC and participants are encouraged to bring a helmet and gloves.

Wed, Feb, 8 Scottish Country Dancing 5:30 pm Elijah Smith Elementary School Adults of any age. Families welcome. No experience necessary. For more info call Pat at 668-4976 or Kat at 334-1547.

Wed, Feb, 8 Adult Biathlon 6:30 pm Biathlon Range Wed, Feb, 8 Adult Drop In 7:45 pm Polarette’s Gymnastics Club Call 668-4794 or email info@ polarettes.org for more information.

Wed, Feb, 8 AquaRunning 8:40 pm Canada Games Centre Run with zero impact! Swimming ability not required. Comfort in deep water recommended.

ENTER YOUR EVENTS ON-LINE It’s Free. It’s Fast. It’s Easy.

Sat, Feb, 4, Fitness Instructor Specialist Certification Yukon Health Coaching 25-hour course that will increase your knowledge and confidence level to lead a group fitness class to music. Email yukonhealthcoaching@gmail.com for more information.

Sat, Feb, 4, Hypnotherapy Information Session 1:00 pm Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Learn about Hypnotherapy and the ability to establish and assert self-control, self-healing and selfimprovement. Call 334-5177 for more information, open to all interested.

Mon, Feb, 6, Sally & Sisters Lunch 12:00 pm Whitehorse Food Bank Free Hot Lunch for Women & Children 334-9317 Mon, Feb, 6, Shamata Meditation 5:15 pm White Swan Sanctuary Group meditation all levels welcome Mon, Feb, 6, Buddhist Meditation Society 5:15 pm White Swan Sanctuary All are welcome!

Mon, Feb, 6, Overeaters Anonymous Meeting 7:30 pm Many Rivers Counselling and Support Services Overeaters Anonymous Meeting every Monday Please ring the buzzer if the door is locked.

Tue, Feb, 7, Know Your Numbers 8:30 am Yukon Government Administration Building A blood pressure clinic. The clinic will screen for those with undetected high blood pressure, identify those

at future risk and educate the public about the importance of knowing their numbers.

Tue, Feb, 7, Weight Watchers 5:00 pm Yukon College Please arrive 30-minutes prior to the listed meeting time for weigh-in and registration, room A2202. 403-473-0645 blong@weightwatchers.ca Tue, Feb, 7, Golden Horn Yoga 6:00 pm Golden Horn Elementary Terice 668-6631 Wed, Feb, 8, The Counselling Drop-In Clinic: Yukon Distress and Support Line 10:00 am Many Rivers Counselling and Support Services Free Drop-In counselling is offered every Wednesday from 10am - 4pm.

Wed, Feb, 8, Women & Children Lunch Date 11:30 am Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Delicious Free Lunch for Women & Children Wed, Feb, 8, Sharing Circles 5:00 pm Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Men only, Dinner provided Call 633-7688 Wed, Feb, 8, Red Tara Meditation 6:00 pm White Swan Sanctuary Everyone welcome. For more info contact Vicky 633-3715 Wed, Feb, 8, The Alzheimer/Dementia Family Caregiver Support Group 7:00 pm Copper Ridge Place A group for family or friends caring for someone with Dementia. Info and register call Cathy 334-1548 or Joanne 668-7713

WHITEHORSE PHYSIOTHERAPY | KRISTY LERCH AND ASSOCIATES Kristy Lerch Did you know that if you have one or more low tires, your fuel economy will be significantly decreased? Therefore continuing to add air to your tire when it runs low may be costing you more in fuel economy than it would be to have the tire repaired. Studies have shown that the decrease in economy may be as high as 15% in excess fuel consumption. Furthermore when you operate your vehicle with a low tire it may cause permanent damage to the tire causing it to be prematurely removed from service due to irreparable damage.

BSc, BScPT, FCAMPT

Jaclyn Trybowski BScPT, MSc.A PT

Yvonne Emson BPT, MCPA

RECOVER FASTER WITH US! Post-Surgical Rehabilitation Work (WCB) Injuries Acupuncture/IMS Persistent Pain

Spinal Manipulation Sports Therapy Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Motor Vehicle Injuries

CONVENIENT. DOWNTOWN. FREE PARKING TIRE SHOP OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY

867-667-6102 107 INDUSTRIAL ROAD

Call us at 667-2138 or book an appointment online at recoverfaster.ca

February 1, 2017

Wed, Feb, 1, Ladies’ Lunch & Carpet Bowling 7:00 pm Atlin Rec Centre Wed, Feb, 8, Ladies’ Lunch & Carpet Bowling 7:00 pm Atlin Rec Centre

BEAVER CREEK Fri, Feb, 3, Tot Time 9:30 am Nelnah Bessie John School Sat, Feb, 4, Women’s Yoga 9:00 am Nelnah Bessie John School Just yourself in comfortable clothing Sat, Feb, 4, Volleyball 8:00 pm Beaver Creek Community Club Mon, Feb, 6, Tot Time 9:30 am Nelnah Bessie John School Tue, Feb, 7, Women’s Yoga 7:00 pm Nelnah Bessie John School Just yourself in comfortable clothing Tue, Feb, 7, Volleyball 8:00 pm Beaver Creek Community Club

CARCROSS

CARMACKS Mondays-Fridays Kids Club After School Program 3:30 pm Carmacks Recreation Centre Ages 5-12, snacks provided Tue, Feb, 7, Village of Carmacks Council Meeting 7:00 pm Carmacks Recreation Centre

DAWSON CITY Wed, Feb, 1, CFYT Trivia 8:00 pm The Billy Goat A fundraiser for CFYT local radio.

Thu, Feb, 2, Open Mic In The Lounge 9:00 pm Westminster Hotel Hosted by Jonathan Howe Fri, Feb, 3, Harmonica George McConkey 6:00 pm Westminster Hotel In the Tavern Fri, Feb, 3, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Centre 3:00 pm Tr’ondek Hwech’in Youth Centre Fri, Feb, 3, YEU Local Y026 (Klondike) monthly meeting 7:00 pm YTG Property management building Fri, Feb, 3, Boardwalk Burlesque 7:00 pm Diamond Tooth Gerties Featuring all new ladies and all new numbers, this show is guaranteed to shed your winter blues! Tickets at the door.

Fri, Feb, 3, Super Seniors Weights 55+ 11:00 am Dawson City Fitness Centre Fri, Feb, 3, Women & Weights (Ladies Only) 12:00 pm Dawson City Fitness Centre Sat, Feb, 4, Painting 1:00 pm KIAC Klondike Institute of Art & Culture Inspire and be inspired by other artists. Bring your own ideas and painting surfaces. Paints, brushes and easels are supplied, no instruction offered.

Sat, Feb, 4, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Centre 3:00 pm Tr’ondek Hwech’in Youth Centre Sat, Feb, 4, Boardwalk Burlesque 7:00 pm Diamond Tooth Gerties Featuring all new ladies

FARO Wed, Feb, 1, Faro Fire Department Meeting 7:00 pm Faro Recreation Centre Faro Fire Department Wednesday Meeting.

Wed, Feb, 1, Parent & Tot Storytime 11:00 am Faro Community Library For babies to age 4. Stories & crafts will be provided Thu, Feb, 2, Old Timers Hockey 7:30 pm Faro Recreation Centre Call 994-2375 or email recreation@faroyukon.ca for more details.

Fri, Feb, 3, Teen Drop in Gym 7:00 pm Del Van Gorder School Sat, Feb, 4, Family Fishing Day 12:00 pm Faro Recreation Centre Held at Fisheye Lake Bring your poles, lawn chairs, and fishing enthusiasm! Pre-drilled holes, Hot Dogs, and there will be small prizes for the kiddies. Biggest fish, most fish, and smallest fish! We will also have snowshoes, and kick sleds. Call or email for more details. 994-2375 recreation@faroyukon.ca Sun, Feb, 5, Faro Bible Chapel Sunday Service 10:30 am Faro Bible Chapel with Pastor Ted Baker 994-2442 994-2442 Sun, Feb, 5, Faro Church of Apostles Mass 10:00 am Church of Apostles Mon, Feb, 6, Old Timers Hockey 7:30 pm Faro Recreation Centre Call 994-2375 or email recreation@faroyukon.ca for more details.

Wed, Feb, 8, Faro Fire Department Meeting 7:00 pm Faro Recreation Centre Faro Fire Department Wednesday Meeting.

Wed, Feb, 8, Parent & Tot Storytime 11:00 am Faro Community Library For babies to age 4. Stories & crafts will be provided

HAINES JUNCTION Wed, Feb, 1, Adult Volleyball 6:30 pm St. Elias Community School Thu, Feb, 2, Elders’ Tea & Fitness Lunch 11:00 am Mun Ku Thu, Feb, 2, Adult Soccer 7:30 pm St. Elias Community School Thu, Feb, 2, Chair Yoga For Seniors 3:00 pm Haines Junction Seniors Apartments Thu, Feb, 2, Open Mic 7:30 pm St Elias Convention Centre Fri, Feb, 3, Story Hour 10:00 am Haines Junction Community Library Sun, Feb, 5, St Christopher’s Church Service 10:30 am St Christopher’s Church Licensed Lay Leader: Lynn De Brabandere 867-634-2360 Mon, Feb, 6, Fitness Classes - Pilates & Yoga 5:15 pm Da Ku Cultural Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Southern Tutchone Classes 12:00 pm Da Ku Cultural Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Takhini Family Game Night 7:00 pm Takhini Hall Wed, Feb, 8, Adult Volleyball 6:30 pm St. Elias Community School Wed, Feb, 8, Village of Haines Junction Council Meeting 7:00 pm St Elias Convention Centre

MARSH LAKE Wed, Feb, 1, Waste Mgnt Society Meeting 7:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Fri, Feb, 3, Jackalope Friday Dinners 7:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Sat, Feb, 4, Pick-Up Hockey 2:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Ice hockey season is upon us! We welcome all players of all skill levels to drop by the rink. We use small modified nets.

Sat, Feb, 4, Tot Group 10:00 am Marsh Lake Community Centre Sun, Feb, 5, Drop in Badminton 11:00 am Marsh Lake Community Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Darts Night 7:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre We’ll be doing a quick orientation for those who haven’t played before and playing 301. The bar will be open for a beverage while we play.

Tue, Feb, 7, North of 60 Seniors Cafe 2:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Tot Group 2:00 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Yoga 5:30 pm Marsh Lake Community Centre Drop in Yoga info@ yogawhitehorse.ca

MAYO Fri, Feb, 3, Dinner and Movie Night 5:00 pm Mayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre Sun, Feb, 5, St. Mary’s Church Service 11:00 am St Mary’s Church (867)667-7746 Tue, Feb, 7, Mayo Sewing Nights 7:00 pm Yukon College Mayo Campus

Or email them to: events@whatsupyukon.com

MOUNT LORNE Thu, Feb, 2,YOGA 6:30 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre Agnes 667-7083 Fri, Feb, 3, Learning Lions - Homeschoolers Get Together 2:00 pm Lorne Mountain Community Centre Agnes 667-7083

OLD CROW Thu, Feb, 2, Adult Night at the Youth Centre 7:00 pm Old Crow Community Center Sun, Feb, 5, St. Luke’s Church Service 11:00 am St. Luke’s Church 867-993-5381 Tue, Feb, 7, Gym Night 7:00 pm Old Crow Community Center

PELLY CROSSING Tue, Feb, 7, Yukon Quest Race 300 Finish Banquet 6:00 pm Pelly Crossing Celebrate with the YQ300 Mushers and their teams! In partnership with Eliza Van Bibber school and the Selkirk First Nation, the YQ300 Banquet will take place at the Pelly Crossing Checkpoint and YQ300 Finish Line. A feast of fun and a time to congratulate your favourite teams.

TAGISH Tuesday - Saturdays Tagish Treasures Thrift Store 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre Wed, Feb, 1, Tagish Advisory Council meeting 7:00 pm Tagish Community Centre Agenda posted at tagish.ca Wed, Feb, 1, Coffee and Chat: Tagish Community Centre 2:00 pm Tagish Community Centre Fresh baked goods every Wednesday.

Wed, Feb, 1, Tagish Library 12:00 pm Tagish Community Centre 399-3418 Sat, Feb, 4, Tagish Library 12:00 pm Tagish Community Centre 399-3418 Sun, Feb, 5, Tagish Community Church of the Nazarene 7:00 pm Tagish Community Church of the Nazarene 633-4903 tagishcc@ gmail.com Wed, Feb, 8, Coffee and Chat: Tagish Community Centre 2:00 pm Tagish Community Centre Fresh baked goods every Wednesday.

Wed, Feb, 8, Tagish Library 12:00 pm Tagish Community Centre 399-3418

WATSON LAKE Daily at 12-4pm & 6-8pm Yukon`s Northern Lights Showtimes -Two scheduled shows / day 1pm and 6:30 pm – will show on request for large groups as well.Northern Lights Center Features the amazing phenomena known as the ‘Northern Lights’ or ‘Aurora borealis’, the Northern Lights Centre boasts state-ofthe-art panoramic video and surround-sound systems.

Thu, Feb, 2, Drop in Curling 7:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Drop in rates apply, so please stop at the front desk before you head to the ice.

Thu, Feb, 2, Help and Hope Drop in for Moms and Kids 1:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Crafts and Activities together!

Thu, Feb, 2, Body Fit 7:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Contact Meaghan for more information 536-8023 Fri, Feb, 3, 2017 Novice Yukon Cup Watson Lake Recreation Centre This event has been a fantastic experience the brings players and communities together for the past several years from throughout Yukon, northern British Columbia, Northwest Territories, and Alaska.

We will send out registration information shortly. if interested contact Meaghen @ 5368023 Sun, Feb, 5, St. John’s Church Service 10:00 am St. John’s Church Service (867) 536-2932 Mon, Feb, 6, Help and Hope Drop in for Moms and Kids 1:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Crafts and Activities together!

Tue, Feb, 7, Drop in Curling 7:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Drop in rates apply, so please stop at the front desk before you head to the ice.

Tue, Feb, 7, Body Fit 7:00 pm Watson Lake Recreation Centre Contact Meaghan for more information 536-8023 Tue, Feb, 7, Town of Watson Lake Council Meeting 7:00 pm Town of Watson Lake

HAINES Daily Everyone Welcome Swim Haines Community Centre 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM. No Swim Sundays Mon-Thu Haines Public Library Open 11:00 am Haines Borough Public Library Haines Borough Public Library Hours: Mon-Thu 10-9 | Fri 10-6 | Sat/Sun 12:30-4:30 | 7662545 Wed, Feb, 1, Open Mic Nite 10:00 pm Pioneer Bar Wed, Feb, 1, Lutak Dock Community Meeting #3 6:30 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Wed, Feb, 1, Tai Chi 10:30 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Wed, Feb, 1, Aqua Aerobics 8:00 am Haines Borough Swimming Pool Wed, Feb, 1, Tlingit Language Class 3:30 pm Sheldon Museum & Cultural Centre Wed, Feb, 1, Sword Class 6:30 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Wed, Feb, 1, Kids Jujutsu 5:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Thu, Feb, 2, Tai Chi 5:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Thu, Feb, 2, Strength and Stretch 11:00 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Fri, Feb, 3, Yoga with Mandy 1:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts

Fri, Feb, 3, Aqua Aerobics 8:00 am Haines Borough Swimming Pool Fri, Feb, 3, Online Privacy and Security for Children and Adults 12:00 pm Haines Borough Public Library Fri, Feb, 3, Story time 12:00 pm Haines Borough Public Library Sat, Feb, 4, Tai Chi 11:00 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Sun, Feb, 5, St Michael’s - lobby 11:30 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Sun, Feb, 5, Bible Club & Christian Education 12:30 pm Haines Presbyterian Church Sun, Feb, 5, Sunday Worship 11:00 am Haines Presbyterian Church Mon, Feb, 6, Yoga with Mandy 1:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Mon, Feb, 6, Strength and Stretch 11:00 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Mon, Feb, 6, Tai Chi 10:30 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Mon, Feb, 6, Aqua Aerobics 8:00 am Haines Borough Swimming Pool Mon, Feb, 6, Mother Goose Stories and Songs 12:00 pm Haines Borough Public Library Mon, Feb, 6, Private Jujutsu Class 4:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Mon, Feb, 6, Adults Jujutsu 6:30 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Mon, Feb, 6, Kids Jujutsu 5:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Tue, Feb, 7, Legion Monthly Membership Meeting at Legion Hall 6:00 pm American Legion Tue, Feb, 7, Tai Chi 5:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Tue, Feb, 7, Women’s Fellowship 3:00 pm Haines Senior Center Wed, Feb, 8, Open Mic Nite 10:00 pm Pioneer Bar Wed, Feb, 8, Tai Chi 10:30 am Chilkat Center For The Arts Wed, Feb, 8, Aqua Aerobics 8:00 am Haines Borough Swimming Pool Wed, Feb, 8, Tlingit Language Class 3:30 pm Sheldon Museum & Cultural Centre Wed, Feb, 8, Sword Class 6:30 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts Wed, Feb, 8, Kids Jujutsu 5:00 pm Chilkat Center For The Arts

Check Out Our Website www.whatsupyukon.com

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Wed, Feb, 1, Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program Lunch 12:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School For more info:kathleen. cranfield@ctfn.ca 821-4251 Wed, Feb, 1, Hiroshikai Judo 6:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School 332-1031 Wed, Feb, 1, Healthy Choices & Nutrition Activities 9:00 am Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Wed, Feb, 1, AA Carcross 6:30 pm Carcross/ Tagish First Nation Building Wed, Feb, 1, School Council 7:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Thu, Feb, 2, Prenatal Classes for Mothers and Fathers to be 7:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School With Kathleen Cranfield, Registered Midwife and CPNP coordinator Thu, Feb, 2, Pottery with Claudia MacPhee 3:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School Every Tuesday and Thursday, please enter by side door. Everyone welcome! no fee for community members 867-399-3321 Thu, Feb, 2, Sewing Nights 6:30 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Thu, Feb, 2, CPNP Lunch 12:00 pm Carcross/ Tagish First Nation Building Sat, Feb, 4, Traditional Handgames 1:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Sun, Feb, 5, St. Saviour’s Church Service 11:00 am St. Saviour’s Church 867-668-3129 Mon, Feb, 6, Art at the Carving Shed 5:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Mon, Feb, 6, CTRRC Mtng 10:00 am Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Mon, Feb, 6, AA - Tagish 7:30 pm Carcross/ Tagish First Nation Building Tue, Feb, 7, Pottery with Claudia MacPhee 3:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School Every Tuesday and Thursday, please enter by side door. Everyone welcome! no fee for community members 8673993321 Tue, Feb, 7, Tlingit Language Game Nights 6:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Tue, Feb, 7, Excellence Group 5:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Tue, Feb, 7, C/TFN Communication Team Mtng 1:00 pm Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Tue, Feb, 7, Elders Breakfast 10:00 am Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Tue, Feb, 7, Women’s Group 7:00 pm Carcross Community Campus 821-4251 Tue, Feb, 7, Sports Night 6:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School Tue, Feb, 7, Tlingit Language classes 5:00 pm CTFN Capacity Building Wed, Feb, 8, Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program Lunch 12:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School For more info:kathleen. cranfield@ctfn.ca 821-4251 Wed, Feb, 8, Hiroshikai Judo 6:00 pm Ghùch Tlâ Community School 332-1031 Wed, Feb, 8, Healthy Choices & Nutrition Activities 9:00 am Carcross/Tagish First Nation Building Wed, Feb, 8, AA Carcross 6:30 pm Carcross/ Tagish First Nation Building

and all new numbers, this show is guaranteed to shed your winter blues! Tickets at the door.

Fri, Feb, 3, 118th International Bonspiel Dawson City Curling Club Northern Mixed tournament welcomes teams of 4 from near and far to Dawson City to enjoy great prizes, a homemade banquet dinner and northern hospitality. For more information contact the Klondike Visitors Association, 993-5575 or kva@dawson.net Sun, Feb, 5, St. Paul’s Church Service 10:30 am St Paul’s Church 867-993-5381 Mon, Feb, 6, Willie Thrasher and Linda Saddleback 7:00 pm KIAC Klondike Institute of Art & Culture An evening of music and storytelling.

Mon, Feb, 6, Recreation Board Meeting 5:30 pm Art & Margaret Fry Recreation Centre Recreation board grants are due the Thursday preceding each meeting Mon, Feb, 6, Super Seniors Weights 55+ 11:00 am Dawson City Fitness Centre Mon, Feb, 6, Women & Weights (Ladies Only) 12:00 pm Dawson City Fitness Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Step n Strong 7:00 pm Robert Service School For more information email: getrealfit(at)me.com 867-993-2520 Wed, Feb, 8, CFYT Trivia 8:00 pm The Billy Goat A fundraiser for CFYT local radio.

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SKAGWAY Wed, Feb, 1, Aerial Tissue w/Renee 7:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Wed, Feb, 1, SpinFlex w/Katherine 7:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Wed, Feb, 1, TRX Suspension Training 5:15 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Sign up required Thu, Feb, 2, Dance Fusion with Kaera New Latin Hip Hop Class 5:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Thu, Feb, 2, Senior Chair Based Weight Training 10:30 am Skagway Recreation Centre Chair based resistance training program that’s not just for seniors.

Thu, Feb, 2, Basketball For Adults 7:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Thu, Feb, 2, Toddler Yoga 9:30 am Skagway Recreation Centre 907-983-2679 k.nelson@ skagway.org Thu, Feb, 2, Mindful Vinyasa Flow 8:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Thu, Feb, 2, Easy Does it Yoga- Restorative Yoga w/Jeanne- ALL Level 6:15 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Fri, Feb, 3, Spinning w/ Dena 7:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Sat, Feb, 4, Dance Fusion with Kaera New Latin Hip Hop Class 5:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Sat, Feb, 4, Senior Chair Based Weight Training 10:30 am Skagway Recreation Centre Chair based resistance training program that’s not just for seniors.

Sat, Feb, 4, Bouncy House Fun Time! 12:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre A parent or guardian must accompany children 12 and under.

Sat, Feb, 4, Volleyball For Adults 6:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Sun, Feb, 5, Aerial Tissue w/Renee 6:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Special Fee & Sign-up Mon, Feb, 6, Roller Hockey For Adults 7:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Mon, Feb, 6, Easy Does it Yoga- Restorative Yoga w/Jeanne- ALL Level 10:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Mon, Feb, 6, SpinFlex w/Katherine 7:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Mon, Feb, 6, TRX Suspension Training 5:15 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Sign up required Tue, Feb, 7, Dance Fusion with Kaera New Latin Hip Hop Class 5:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Senior Chair Based Weight Training 10:30 am Skagway Recreation Centre Chair based resistance training program that’s not just for seniors.

Tue, Feb, 7, Basketball For Adults 7:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Mindful Vinyasa Flow 8:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Tue, Feb, 7, Back/Hip Yoga with Myofascial Release and Acupressure 10:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Wed, Feb, 8, Aerial Tissue w/Renee 7:00 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Special Fee & Sign-up Wed, Feb, 8, SpinFlex w/Katherine 7:00 am Skagway Recreation Centre Wed, Feb, 8, TRX Suspension Training 5:15 pm Skagway Recreation Centre Sign up required

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February 1, 2017

whatsupyukon.com

A Klondike Korner with Dan Davidson

Gathering Memories of Clinton Creek Proves Difficult

PHOTOS: Dan Davidson

Public meeting regarding the Clinton Creek Oral History Project takes place at the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community Hall on Dec. 7

This photo shows the artificial lake created by the asbestos mine tailings

PHOTO: Rae Brown

u

the site, using federal money.

The intention of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in’s oral history project, led by Allie Winton of Crowberry Consulting, whose family has a wilderness cabin in the area, was to peer into the past of the region and see how it has been used and valued in the past.

As Winton reported to Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in citizens and the larger community during two meetings in the month before Christmas, that project proved to be impossible. It has been 38 years since the mine closed, 49 since it had opened and nearly 60 since traditional activities had been the main draw to the area.

As someone in the Dec. 7 audience of two-dozen said, it was 20 years too late to gather oral history information. Hardly anyone still alive would remember it.

Winton produced a questionnaire consisting of 17 questions intended to probe how people felt about the area. There were 33 online responses to the request for information and nine people submitted written responses.

In addition, she conducted 13 interviews with 15 individuals, following the same general topics.

u

T

he original purpose of the Clinton Creek Oral History Project was to gather information about how the area around the former asbestos mine and company town had been used by locals prior to the establishment of the mine in the mid-1960s.

The mine was about a decade getting off the ground from the time that Conwest first got interested in mining the ore in 1955.

The decision to go ahead was made in 1965, and the mine, as well as the company town of 500 associated with it, flourished from 1967 to 1978.

By the time an entire chapter of a Grade 10 Geography textbook in use in the late 1970s and early 1980s was devoted to it, the mine was already shutting down, doomed by the bad press and scientific evidence accumulating around the fluffy white fibers.

Cassiar Asbestos Corp. Ltd. would eventually close its mine in Cassiar, B.C. as well.

The company undertook remediation from 1978-1992 and by 2002 the federal government was involved as well. In 2003 the Yukon government became responsible for the remediation of

mediation and safety measures; what people thought still needed doing.

Some people went there to work, travel, hunt, fish and visit family or friends. Access to the area ranged from monthly to every decade or so.

As the road is part of the access to Forty Mile, some people were just passing by.

Winton found that people valued the area for reasons related to nostalgia, recreation, sustenance, livelihood and roots (home).

Issues identified included safety; access; concerns about the Clinton Creek Road and the bridge; the effects of climate change; and the fact that some of the remediation attempts have created problems.

While some people want to see the area returned to a natural state as much as possible, others value the existence of the remains of the mine works and want to be able to visit the area, while still others feel the area unsafe and that it should be restricted more than it is now.

The report is still in draft and data form, and Winton’s research will be turned into a finished product by Helen Dobrowolski, while Winton leaves the project to concentrate on having her second child.

These were: historic and current use of the area; access; weather and landscape changes; wildlife and vegetation; importance for sustenance, recreation and nostalgia; knowledge of recent re-

Dan Davidson retired from 32 years of teaching in rural Yukon schools, but continues writing about life in Dawson City. Please send comments about his stories to dawson@whatsupyukon.com.

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Come out and see all your 2017 Air North Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Can Can line as they perform all their dances for the first time!

Date: Feb. 9 2017, High Country Inn Ballroom Time: 6pm

HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL FEAST Featuring “My Fabulous String Quartet”

Join Queen Brooke as she hosts this brand new Queen event and a delicious five course meal prepared by local caterers.

Date: Feb. 15 2017, Kwanlin Dunn Cultural Centre Time: 6pm Tickets: $70 Presented by

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With Velvet Antler Productions Gillian Campbell And RCA Band Soul Orchestra Date: Feb. 24, 2017, Kwanlin Dunn Cultural Centre Time: 8pm Tickets: $35

All events are a great opportunity to meet the Rendezvous Characters, get involved, become a Volunteer, have a great time and meet new people.

All tickets available at the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous office or online at: yukonrendezvous.com

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