What's Up Yukon, December 20, 2023

Yukon’s Events Magazine Since 2005

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December 20, 2023 Issue 794

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WH TSUP TSUPYUKON YUKON All Northern. All Fun.

AVAILABLE LIGHT FILM FESTIVAL ... page 24

RIDE FOR DAD COMEDY NIGHT ... page 23

Season’s Greetings

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page

From the North

12

The Best Gift

Winter Solstice PHOTO: Manu Keggenhoff

EVENT LISTINGS | See Pages 5, 8, 9,16,17, 20 & 21 |

Printed inin Canada Canada Printed

A A Reputation Reputation Built Built on on Trust Trust and and Quality Quality Denture Specialist: Denture Specialist: Chris Von Kafka LD DD Chris Von KafkaDenturist, LD DD Canadian Licenced

R Health R Comfort R Function R Appearance R Health R Comfort R Function R Appearance

yukondentureclinic.ca

CanadianDiploma Licenced Denturist, Denturist Denturist Diploma

Call today for an appointment Call today for an appointment 668-2510 or 1-888-660-1839 668-2510 or 1-888-660-1839 #402 - 305 Hawkins Street, Whitehorse #402 - 305 Hawkins Street, Whitehorse ykdenture@klondiker.com

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Merry Christmas And Best Wishes for the New Year! yukondentureclinic.ca

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December 20, 2023

WHY PAY MORE? 203 Main Street, Whitehorse YT 867-667-2615

The Yukon Hospital Foundation raises funds to enhance the quality of healthcare for all Yukoners.

Every dollar you give is used to support the area of greatest need. Your hospital needs your support. There is a great need for advanced equipment, including critical diagnostic imaging, surgical and other specialized tools.

Give our doctors, nurses and staff the necessary equipment to provide the care you need.

For more information visit:

yhf.ca

NEED TO RENT OR BUY A SUIT OR TUXEDO YES We Do Alterations!

For Special Occasions & Weddings

Brands by: 95 Lewes Blvd

867-667-2817

info@mensworld.ca mensworld.ca

Store hours: Monday to Friday 10am-5pm or by appointment.

Freelance with

Gabrielle Dupont Gabrielle Dupont is an adventurous spirit who loves to travel across the territory to discover hidden treasure.

GIVING THE BEST GIFT Gifts for the season, and gifts for all seasons!

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t is easy to become cynical around the holiday season when we are bombarded on all sides with messages like this … telling us to buy and buy and buy for our loved ones—and how convenient it is to do it all at the same time.

So there we go, trotting in store aisles every December, without exception. Consumerist fatigue aside, there is a certain universal joy in offering gifts to those around us. Doing it all together multiplies that effect, lifting us all. And a gift can be many things.

It is not always what you think.

Here are a few gift ideas to spread the joy of giving around you in the coming weeks (and not becoming a version of the Grinch).

Got an avid skier on your list?

The Mt. Sima Alpine Adventure Park and the Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club offer seasonal passes. Offering a membership to your loved one, for their favourite activity, is a sure hit for extending the pleasure way past the holiday season.

A dancer, maybe?

Scottish country-dance classes are offered in Whitehorse. These are fun and low-pressure classes. Give your favourite dancer a chance to get their best “do-si-do” ready for the next cèilidh.

For the art lover Save yourself the extremely daunting task of picking artwork for somebody else and, instead, offer a gift certificate from one of the many excellent galleries around town. Exceptions here are show tickets that you absolutely know would make your loved one happy. Check the local scene for upcoming shows, as well as check-

PHOTO: Pixabay

There is a certain universal joy in offering gifts to those around us ing what’s on at the Yukon Art Centre.

Have a foodie on your list?

Cooking classes make great gifts, as well as a registration to local food-basket delivery services—to enjoy local and fresh food so your food-lover person can try out the newest and best recipes out there (and don’t forget to invite yourself for a thank-you meal!).

Some of us like utilitarian gifts The kind of gift that fills an obvious need. When I wanted my mother to stop giving me trendy clothing for Christmas (clothing that I inevitably didn’t like), I went the utilitarian way: “This year, Mom, what would make me happy would be a gift card from the hardware store … I have tools to buy to fix the garden shed.”

(The jean jackets stopped coming and a new circular saw made my day.)

Utilitarian gifts come in many shapes and sizes: Paying someone’s electric bill for a few months? Is your nephew planning a big hunting trip up the Dempster next year? Offer to pay for the gas as a Christmas present. Is

Netflix getting too expensive for your brother’s budget? Pay the subscription for him and enjoy movie nights together.

And then we have gifts of time These include the familiar babysitting coupons presented by your mother-in-law, or the Love coupon promising a candlelit night with your significant other. What about offering airport-ride coupons to a friend who lives out of town? Or a workshop teaching night for a sought-after skill that you possess?

Lastly, if you are looking for a more of a “body” gift … try looking in unusual places to find it (be curious). The best box of delicate fruit jellies I ever had came from Canadian Tire (a tip from a friend who had, out of the blue, discovered this treasure.

I would love to receive a box for Christmas. Alternatively, it would make an excellent hostess gift for a potluck night.

These ideas also work for birthday presents or as “thank you for being uniquely you” gifts. Any time of the year is valid to offer gifts to the special people in your life—and to that, even the Grinch would agree. n

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December 20, 2023

3

whatsupyukon.com column with

Kylie Campbell-Clarke

AUSSIE GIRL IN THE YUKON

Kylie Campbell-Clarke is an Australian-Canadian writer and photographer exploring the Yukon.

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD Past and present

RUSSIA

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love Christmas. I love the lights and the presents, and I love to spend it in wintertime! Here are some of my more-memorable Christmases from around the world (so far).

The Santa Train travelling the White Pass & Yukon Route

AUSTRALIA

I grew up in a beach city where Christmas was often 30℃ and the main dish was cold, unpeeled prawns. The food was cold: cold ham, cold sides … you get the point. Christmas Day was the big day—December 25th—when we opened presents first thing in the morning with a big breakfast, and then lunch/dinner. Basically, lunch was also dinner because you would eat continuously. Usually, my mum would host the lunch/ dinner festivity, with families stopping by to do presents and eat. Meanwhile, us kids would be in the swimming pool trying to cool down.

AUSTRIA

The beautiful country of Austria loves Christmas, with their Christmas markets being mimicked all over the world, but nothing beats an Austrian one with Gluhwein (warm mulled wine), when it is below zero, and festive little stalls lined with lights and trinkets. I spent one Christmas in Vienna where the whole of December lights up

PHOTO: Kylie Campbell-Clarke

Russia also has an odd Christmas celebration: for one thing, it’s in January. Yes, Christmas is January 7th. A lot of the ex-Soviet countries follow the Orthodox Church to this day. Moscow and (especially) Saint Petersburg go all out with lighting up the beautiful architecture.

Vodka is popular, as well as traditional Russian treats (which are usually followed by vodka).

There’s no turkey; there’s no ham.

ALASKA

with Christmas. The lights and snow and beauty of the old city are spectacular but scarce on Christmas Day, as everyone spends time at home with family.

DENMARK

Possibly the strangest Christmas I’ve had (but still an interesting culture) is with the Danes. I was “adopted” by a Danish family for Christmas and spent it in Skagen, the farthest town north of Denmark. First, our trip to the Copenhagen and Tivoli markets resembled something out of a Hallmark movie. The lit castles and festivities were probably visible from space … okay, maybe not from space, but there were a lot of lights! In Skagen, I got to experience the real Christmas. Three days prior to Christmas Day, the Danes start their Christmas. This involves lots and lots of eating. Then

more eating, then more eating.

Then, for my first time, cutting a Christmas tree! We decorated it with Danish flags and with little holders filled with chocolates and candies. Then we ate some more.

Christmas Eve, December 24th, is Christmas for Denmark.

We went to church and it was the first time I had heard “Silent Night” sung in Danish. Then, back at home was a rather odd tradition: first we each opened a present—one person at a time. In Australia, you’re lucky to even see someone open a present, with wrapping paper flying everywhere! Once each person has opened their present and everyone has watched, it’s time to sing Christmas carols while holding hands and dancing around the Christmas tree. Yes— each person picks a song. There is alcohol and food, and December 25th is a rest day!

Santa Train! Every year, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway provides a free Santa Train that travels through the White Pass!

Yes, you get to meet Santa! I went last year, while pregnant, and it was so fun to go down for the day.

I highly recommend it.

CANADA (a.k.a. meeting the in-

laws and being grown-ups) Canada follows the same traditions as the U.S. on Christmas Day (December 25th), with a large turkey dinner. Ryan and I attempted these things when we first hosted Christmas. But it’s not like how your parents made Christmas dinner!

My first time meeting Ryan’s in-laws was a special occasion because they don’t follow the Canadian Christmas traditions (they are Danish!). So, every year, we go down to Nanaimo and have Christmas on December 24th! n

On the Cover Winter in the North can offer up some magical moments like this beautiful, misty afternoon vista captured by photographer Manu Keggenhoff while snowmobiling in the backcountry.

PHOTO: Manu Keggenhoff

What’s Inside The Best Gift............................ 2 Christmas Around the World......... 3 Gingerbread!............................ 4 Postcards: Holiday Traditions...................... 6 All I Really Want For Christmas..... 7 The Trapper’s Life: Christmas Off-Grid................... 10 Seasonal Recipes..................... 11 Healing and Connection: Winter Solstice....................... 12 Klondike Korner: Dawson Christmas Bazaars......... 13 Christmas Song: We Wish You A Merry Christmas... 14 Grey Matters.......................... 18 Merry Grinchmas..................... 19 The Huron Carole.................... 22

Events Highlights............................. 5 Community Events............... 8,9 Active Events.................. 16,17 Whitehorse Events............ 20,21 With support from:

WH TSUP YUKON All Northern. All Fun. Yukon’s Events Magazine Since 2005

Our Team Editorial Chris Colbourne Team editor@whatsupyukon.com Josephine Holmes Copy Editor

Client Care Mark Beese Team mark@whatsupyukon.com Chelsey MacDonald chelsey@whatsupyukon.com

Design Lesley Ord Team Paulette Comeau

The Countdown IS ON!

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THANK YOU to all the incredible people I got to work with this year.

Wishing everyone peace and hope and a New Year filled with better days.

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December 20, 2023 Freelance with

Elke Reinauer Elke Reinauer is a writer, based in Germany, with strong ties to the Yukon.

Please email comments about her articles to editor@whatsupyukon.com

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Financial Services & Advisory

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Gingerbread: good for gravy and houses

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magine the smell of a roast coming straight out of the oven, with potato dumplings and red cabbage to complete the dinner.

You are sitting in a rustic restaurant, with wood-covered walls and with shelves full of wine bottles, in Nuremberg, a town in Frankonia, in Southern Germany. And you just ordered Sauerbraten, a roast with a slightly sour taste.

What does this have to do with gingerbread? you may be asking.

Well, the gravy of Sauerbraten contains gingerbread—a special kind used for sauce, to make it thicker and give it an aromatic taste of spice. Gingerbread for sauce and gravy is a specialty in some areas of Southern Germany and Czech. It contains less sugar but has lots of spices and flour. Pieces of gingerbread are cut and marinated in water or wine to cook with the sauce.

Nuremberg is famous for its gingerbread or Lebkuchen. Ginger plays only a small role as an ingredient in typical Lebkuchen, and it bears no resemblance to the widely-known gingerbread.

The German translation for gingerbread, Ingwer-Brot, may be confusing. Six-hundred years ago, German gingerbread was still called honey cake. It was part of a healthy diet for monks, during lent.

Then Nuremberg became the hub of the European spice-trade market because many roads crossed in the city.

When Nuremberg gained the monopoly on spices, the original recipe for honey cake underwent several changes: flour and honey were no longer the main ingredients;

spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and aniseed were available and were added.

From the 14th century, gingerbread was baked outside of monastery walls. In 1395, the first Nuremberg gingerbread baker was registered, called Lebküchner.

Later, bakers organized themselves in an association and kept their recipes secret. It is said they were forbidden to leave Nuremberg.

Lebküchner invented the Elisenlebkuchen, a special gingerbread covered in chocolate (even available in summer!). Grab a gingerbread and enjoy a glass of beer or

Düll, a family-owned business that baked 6,000 Lebkuchen per day before factories such as Lebkuchen.

Schmidt is shipping Lebkuchen all over the world and producing three-million pieces of Lebkuchen per day, from September to December.

Lebkuchen’s high season is during the famous Christmas Market, which opens on December 1st with an opening ceremony. It is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to the 16th century when craftsmen were selling their goods in stalls.

One will rarely find a Gingerbread Man in Nuremberg, as it isn’t a German tradition … but gingerbread houses are and they are popular in North America, too. Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century.

It is said that they go back to the story of Hansel and Gretel, written by the Brothers Grimm.

Hansel and Gretel discover a house made of PHOTO: Elke Reinauer sweets and treats in the forest. It is unclear if gingerbread houses were a result of that tale.

The gingerbread bakery Gingerbread houses come in difDüll, in Nuremberg, is a ferent sizes. Everything’s bigger in America, so it’s no wonder that the traditional Lebküchnerei world’s largest gingerbread house which is selling (39,201 cubic feet) was erected gingerbread year-round at Traditions Golf Club in Bryan, Texas, in 2013. According to the Guinness World Records website, it required a building permit and was wine with it in the sun. Elisenleb- built like a traditional house and kuchen contains almost no flour but with 4,000 gingerbread “bricks.” must contain 25 per cent ground But is bigger always better? nuts. The rules are strict and it is Sometimes it’s the small things produced only in Nuremberg. that create that festive feeling. For Each baker uses secret ingredi- me, it has always been the smell ents (mostly spices) and, accord- of Sauerbraten, with the typical ing to the Nuremberg website, the Lebkuchen sauce like my mother bakers of the association produce used to make. (And, remember, if approximately 20-million pieces of you can’t visit Nuremberg, you can still bake Lebkuchen, yourself, and Lebkuchen each year.

In Nuremberg, one will find enjoy the smell of spices and chocsmall bakeries such as Lebkuchen- olate at your house). n

Thank You Yukon We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice in 2024.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Wishing you and yours Good Health & May All Your Smiles Be Bright

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December 20, 2023

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HIGHLIGHTS Klondike Institute of Art and Culture Dawson City, YT

With

wist T n o aYuk

FEAR OF PUBLIC SPEAKING?

December 19 NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION 5:00pm - 6:00pm ………………………..

WOODSHOP ORIENTATION 6:30pm - 8:30pm ………………………..

BEGINNER LASER CUTTING: CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS 6:00pm - 9:00pm ………………………..

December 24 - December 26 MAKESPACE CLOSED ....……………………..

Open Hours: Wed-Sun 1pm-9pm

Meeting at Northwestel building (blue coloured) door around back side.

301 Lambert St at 3rd avenue.

Whitehorse.

Every Thursday noon to 1 p.m.

Winter Session

YUKON FAMILY LITERACY CENTRE DROP-IN PROGRAMS 2023

December 18 - 22, 2023

Registration and level assessment learnfrench@afy.ca

February 2, 2024 @ 7:30-10:30 pm

LearnFrench.afy.ca

Tel: (867) 993-5005 Email: kiac@kiac.ca Website: www.kiac.ca

Youth Drop-In Centre

Recreational program for teen-years youth When: Tuesday to Friday 3pm to 9 pm & Sat 1-9 pm Ages: 12-18 years old For more info: See Facebook page for schedule & activities, or email Oliver: obulpitt@bcgyukon.com

Then closed until Spring 2024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL:

NorthLight Innovation Building 2180 2nd Ave

MATINEE SPECIALS

336-8577 / 668-6535

Yukon Family Literacy Centre @ yukonfamilyliteracycentre

$10 TUESDAYS

dec 22 - 28

Full band performance.

MEN’S CIRCLE

Mon/Tues/Wed & Fri: 10 am–3 pm

Watch our social media for details.

Find us on facebook and instagram at Yukon Family Literacy Centre.

The Weather Station Live Concert at Dënäkär Zho / Klondike Institute of Art & Culture Ballroom

OPEN

The new Family Literacy Centre will open mid-late January, 2024.

Co-presented by Dawson City Music Festival & Klondike Institute of Art & Culture

Starting January 15

Arrive a few minutes before noon at back door.

A member will let you in.

Please see Yukonstruct.com for more info!

Live Concert at Dënäkär Zho / Klondike Institute of Art & Culture Ballroom

January 12, 2024 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Try Toastmasters!

Guests always welcomed.

December 24 - January 1st COSPACE CLOSED ………………………..

Open Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

Cherrie Laurel (DCMF 2024 Songwriter in Residence) & Bird Feet

AllStars After School Program

A weekly, confidential, structured space where we support ourselves and each other to move beyond self-sabotaging behaviours and self-limiting beliefs, find our edge and grow beyond our comfort zones, create community and connect to our best selves.

Contact Michael at 867-335-2496 or email: mjvernon@gmail.com

arkabrotherhood.com

An affordable, quality after school program When: Monday to Friday 3-5:00 pm following the school calendar.

Ages: Ages 6-11 years old Cost: Tuition fees as follows: $315/month allstars@bgcyukon.com for inquiries Location: Downtown/Takhini Elementary

Learning Tree Early Years Centre

An affordable, quality, licensed childcare program When: Monday to Friday 7:30am-5:15pm Ages: 18 months - 5 years of age Cost: Tuition fees as follows: Toddler: $160/month, Preschool: $150/month Emily Howard at 393-2824 ext 206 or eypd@bgcyukon.com Location: Riverdale

Don’t forget: EVERY MONTH!

WONKA fri-thurs, daily sat & sun matinees 112 MINS daily matinees over holiday break

MIGRATION fri-thurs, daily sat & sun matinees 82 MINS daily matinees over holiday break

opening december 29

RENAISSANCE dec 29 & 30, 7 pm jan 4, 7:30 pm 169 MINS opening december 30

THE THREE MUSKETEERS dec 30 & 31, 4 pm jan 2, 6 pm 121 MINS

Tickets and more: yukontheatre.com

YukonTheatre

The Sponsors who make it happen:

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December 20, 2023 with

Jessica Surber

POSTCARDS

Jessica Surber is a writer who loves being in the mountains and working with plants. She divides her time between Peru and the Yukon.

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

(and How To Reconnect With The Magic) “Nobody can “Nobody conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.” - Francis Pharcellus Church

A

s a young girl, I loved this time of year. There was something magical in the air, it seemed, as though anything (no matter how improbable) were possible. To me, the world sparkled a little bit more during the winter days around the holidays.

Despite the rampant commercialization, it was never really the idea of gifts that drew me in … It was the feeling of magic around me. Waking up to the first snow, seeing ice crystals glittering in the sunlight, smelling delicious treats baking in the kitchen and making crafts while listening to Christmas music. Those were the things that made my heart feel light and happy. It was a time that felt nourishing to my imagination, even at a very young age.

I still love this time of the year, although maybe not with the same heightened sense of enchantment and awe. Inevitably, growing up dims our childlike innocence, and our imaginations no longer wander quite so freely. Responsibilities, learned skepticism, “reality” and the pressures of being an adult get in the way of simple joys and fanciful notions.

The traditions of my childhood were never really anything big or fancy. They were little things that added up to a season of warmth,

Holiday magic is everywhere PHOTO: Jessica Surber while the cold winds blew around the house and snowdrifts formed against the windows. They were small rituals that made the days and nights feel extra special. Going out into the forest to get a tree (no matter how scraggly and imperfect) was something I waited for with great anticipation. I loved checking my Advent calendar each morning, going sledding in the afternoon, exploring Christmas markets with my mom, and sprawling out on the floor in front of the wood stove in the evening with a library book. Moonlit walks in the snow, and twinkle lights strung in the neighbours’ yards felt like the backdrop to a festive fairytale.

Christmas movies may have added to my already magically inclined way of thinking as a child.

These stories were filled with characters who celebrated magic

and its ability to make us (especially children) feel empowered and to foster a mindset of possibility and growth. One of these films was the 1989 fantasy movie, Prancer. In it, Sam Elliot’s character reads the following lines from an editorial printed in a New York newspaper, in 1897, in response to a young girl’s letter asking whether or not Santa Claus was real: “You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No

Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.” (Francis Pharcellus Church) The end of the year is so often filled with expectations that we feel we need to live up to, and obligations to attend to. The “shoulds” and the “have-tos” weigh us down and make us forget what it feels like to just be present, together with the ones we love most. It overshadows the wonderful things about this time of year and distracts us from what truly makes us feel good. The holidays shouldn’t be about having to do things perfectly or be about spending money that you don’t have. So how can we reconnect with that carefree feeling of magic we had as little kids?

One possible approach is being more intentional with whom you spend your time, keeping things simple and remembering what felt special to you years ago. Reflect and then readjust your priorities accordingly. What traditions are you keeping alive only because of a sense of obligation? What traditions lie heavy on you each year that you wish you could just let go of? What commitments end up being more of a burden than a pleasure?

And then, on the flip side, what traditions would you love to revive? What rituals used to bring you joy and a sense of excitement, when you were younger, that you’ve forgotten about? What old recipe would you like to dig out and bring back to life so that its scent and taste fill your home once again?

This year will be my daughter’s first Christmas and I’ve been thinking about what holiday rituals I want to share with her. Like Elsie Jordan wrote so beautifully in last week’s issue, there’s something truly magical about introducing these traditions to our little ones.

Naturally, my daughter’s childhood memories of Christmas will be very different from mine, but I hope that no matter how different they are, they will nonetheless be filled with feelings of wonder and joy—and with a glow of love and safety. I hope that she will be able to believe in magic and let her imagination infuse her life with beauty.

In fact, I wish that for all of us.

I hope we can set aside our pessimism, worries and black-andwhite thinking and just enjoy a fun and life-affirming end of the year. I hope we can recognize the unseen, inexplicable magic all around us and let it remind us of how it felt to be a child. n

Season’s greetings Nos meilleurs vœux pour les Fêtes

C’est une période de l’année où l’on célèbre l’esprit de la famille et de l’amitié. Nous espérons que vous profiterez pleinement de cette période de réjouissances et des joies de l’hiver.

Nous vous souhaitons de très joyeuses Fêtes et une bonne et heureuse nouvelle année.

– Le premier ministre Ranj Pillai et son équipe

This is the time of year to gather with family and friends, spread kindness to others and enjoy the many different ways to celebrate the holiday season together.

We hope you take time to enjoy all the amazing wonders of winter.

Happy holidays and best wishes for the New Year!

– Premier Ranj Pillai and team

December 20, 2023

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Freelance with

Aila Massie Aila Massie is a high school student in Whitehorse, Yukon. She enjoys expressing herself through many different forms; be it paint on canvas, pen on paper, or onstage with her fellow NLSD dancers. She aspires to be a book editor someday.

ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS Christmas is always something magical: lights, festivities, the atmosphere ...

B

ut there are sides to it that nobody talks about.

As a 13-year-old who has lived through many Christmases, here is my experience.

Christmas has a lot of factors, and one of many is around gifts.

For parents, this concerns finding gifts for their children and finding the money to get said gifts. But, for the children … well, that’s a different story. Over the past several years of my life, I’ve noticed a trend.

Every October (See? It was ridiculous to be thinking about Christmas when Halloween hadn’t even passed yet!) I start receiving calls, emails and texts from family members, some of whom I haven’t heard from for the past 12 months. Aunts, uncles, grandparents. I’m bombarded from all angles. There’s no escape. And every time I pick up one of those calls, check one of those messa-

ges or open one of those emails, I faceoff with the same question: What do you want?

Now, if I hadn’t caught onto the aforementioned trend or if I’d had an odd habit of not saving contacts … I probably would’ve been horrified. After all, who likes going on their phone and seeing that message, “What do you want?”

As much as we all like to think of ourselves as the main character, I’m sure we’d all rather not be the main character in a murder mystery. So, using my incredible inferencing skills (maybe school has some purpose after all), I narrowed down the possibilities. If the person wasn’t a stalker, wasn’t a criminal and it wasn’t that automatic Bell message I’d decided to reply to the other day, then they must be someone I knew—a family member asking what I want for Christmas. For many kids this wouldn’t be a problem. Who doesn’t love telling family mem-

bers what they want, right? Me. I’ve always thought that people publish the weirdest articles online. Have you ever looked up things to do on a vacation? Most of the lists are exactly the same and, honestly, they could use some work. That’s why I thought I must’ve lost it when I found my-

Christmas is always something magical self searching up “best christmas gifts for 13-year-old girls,” last year.

Before you judge, let me say one thing: I’m a Libra. Indeci-

siveness is kind of our thing.

Anyway, a lot of the suggestions included makeup, new phones or—strangely enough—symbiotic plant and fish tanks (don’t ask).

I scrolled through list after list, looking at hundreds of options, but I just couldn’t find any use for a “Women’s Fabulous Skinny Tumbler,” whatever that is. Yes, I know that these lists are made for parents, not kids, but I just needed some inspiration. I even ended up asking my parents for advice on what I should ask for. After a few weeks, my hunt had still come up fruitless. I was tired both mentally and physically at this point.

Even though I knew PHOTO: Pixabay there was no point in staring dismally at all of my unanswered messages, I didn’t know what else to do.

But, fear not: Though it has been too late for me in the past, throughout those many years I developed a method that might save many people in the future.

Whenever I find myself stuck now,

I think about my routine. It might seem crazy, but I don’t mean you should ask for a toothbrush or for some shampoo. Something that I really like doing is listening to music, so I asked for a gift card for Spotify Premium. Besides, I was sick of hearing the ads for it. They might not make Premium seem like a great deal, but if they make the ads annoying enough, we’ll pay almost anything to get rid of them. I also thought about what I liked to do with friends: I like to go Sima with them … so I asked for a ski pass.

A lot of people (including me) get stuck on gifts having to be a physical object such as a toy or some clothing. You might also think that a gift card isn’t meaningful enough. But when you’re on the receiving end of the gift, it really doesn’t matter what you get. A gift isn’t about the cost of an item.

Now, returning to my strategy, I can’t promise that this method will work, but it’s definitely better than wasting weeks or months searching Google for gift ideas. In hindsight, maybe there’s a reason my family messages me about gifts so early on. n

8

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December 20, 2023

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Clayton’s CAR CARE Tips

ATLIN

MAKE IT A HABIT Having good visibility on snowy roads can make all the difference. You will be able to see things clearly and avoid accidents and injuries. Here are a few tips to sharpen your vision and ensure a safe drive at night. First, check your lights. It is important to check your headlights that includes fog lamps, driving lights and brake lights if they are working properly before heading out. It is also important to visit your local mechanics if your vehicle requires to adjust or change your headlight bulb or if it requires some cleaning in order to have a safe and enjoyable drive.

Sundays St. Martins Anglican Church Sunday Service 10:00 AM St. Martins Anglican Church 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.

Atlin Christian Assembly 11:00 AM St. Atlin Christian Centre 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.

Mon Dec 18 Carpet Bowling 1:00 PM Atlin Recreation Centre Come on out and give it a try, or play a game of crib, or just come for a coffee. Carpet Bowling at the Atlin Rec Centre.

Yukon Communities: Wednesdays AA Yukon Unity (OM) 3:00 PM Online Yukon Health Centers, Live Video Meeting Beaver Creek, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Old Crow, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, Watson Lake. Online users’ sign in info: yukonbcdistrict52@gmail.com

CARCROSS Second Sunday of Every Month St. Saviour’s Church Services 2:00 pm St. Saviour Church 867668-3129 First Friday of the month Mother Goose Group 11:00 AM Haa Shagóon Hídi (Our Ancestors House) Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre Learn stories, songs, and rhymes, lunch provided. Suitable for babies and children 5 and under. Please bring along a water bottle and blanket to sit on. To register, call 332-2389. https:// whatsupyukon.events/jwf

CARMACKS

DAWSON CITY 867-667-6102 107 INDUSTRIAL ROAD

Until Dec-20 Gingerbread House Contest Art & Margaret Fry Recreation Centre Bring your gingerbread creations to the Arena anytime between Dec 9-12! Gingerbread house will be on display and judged Dec 13-20 - Winners Announced Dec 22 Sat Dec 30 Dawson City Ice Bowl Dawson City A Winter Disc Golf Challenge, Freeze Your Body. Warm Your Heart. No Wimps No Whiners.

Sun Dec 31 New Year’s Disco Glow Skate! 5:00 PM Art and Margaret Fry Arena New Year’s Disco Glow Skate! A fun event for all ages!

MONTHLY 1st Saturday of every month Coffee House & Open Mic Night Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) 7:00 PM family-friendly open mic night at KIAC. Admission by donation with all funds raised donated to a different community group each month.

WEEKLY Mondays Handbuilding Pottery Drop-in 6:30-9pm Self-guided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with pottery. Newcomers are welcome, though little instruction is provided. KIAC Classroom, back door.

Ecumenical Mothers’ prayers gathering 7pm St Paul’s Anglican Church Tuesdays

First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month Carmacks Regular Council Meeting 7:00 PM Carmacks Municipal Building

Tire Shop: MON-SAT 7:30-5:30 Mechanical Shop: MON-FRI 8-5

rec office and online at cityofdawson.ca. Wonderful prizes to be won! For more info email recreation@ cityofdawson.ca or call 993-7400 Ext 299

Until Dec 20 12 Days of Christmas Scavenger Hunt Dawson City Walk, ski, run or drive through Dawson to spot our 12 light displays. Ballots available at the arena

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

Wednesdays QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

Screen Printing Drop-in 6:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Self-guided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with screen printing.

CFYT Trivia Night The Drunken Goat Fun filled night of Trivia. Every other Wednesday. A variety of trivia categories! Come with your team or join a team when you arrive!

Thursdays CDC Toddler Program 10:00 AM Klondike Institute of Arts & Culture KIAC Free drop-In for kids 5 & under with parent/guardian Story time & free play!

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

Fridays Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon.events/dawsonlegion-8336c3 Saturdays Open Studio – Drop In 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Space to create and focus on your artistic practice.

AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-993-5095 or 867-993-3734 for more information Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30 Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City

cont’d on page 9 ...

GREETINGS, GOODWILL & GRATITUDE To our neighbours, customers, friends and associates throughout the North

Thank you for making our year memorable and bright.

So Jimmy doesn’t have to give you a lift.

Your kindness and friendship warms us with cheer.

DON’T DRIVE IMPAIRED.

We’re proud of

We send you

our last 35 years

best wishes for a

building better

happy, healthy and

solutions, and we’re

wonderful holiday!

not stopping to

May your New Year

serve you better

bring peace,

year after year.

joy and well-being all year through.

Closed for December 22, to January 3, 2023!

1-17 Burns Road • 867-668-5088 • northerm.yk.ca

December 20, 2023

9

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COMMUNITY EVENTS... ... cont’d FARO

North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

First and Third Tuesday of every month Faro Council Meeting 7:00 PM Town of Faro Tuesdays Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Kids Club Faro Recreation Centre Adult Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Wednesdays Seniors Games & Walks 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre The gym is open for seniors who would like to improve their fitness goals.

Fitness Fun for Seniors 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Volleyball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Thursdays Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Fridays Pickleball 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Seniors Yoga 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Open Gym 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Chair Yoga & Deep Relaxation for Seniors Basketball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Saturdays Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Open Gym 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Sundays Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

MAYO

HAINES JUNCTION Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre Village Council meetings are also held the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. [Remote attendance only] Mondays Fun with Food 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Learn new skills, share recipes and take food home!

Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym Tuesdays Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in.

Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/ caregivers.

Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00 PM https:// bit.ly/3qpWDs1 Men’s and women’s sewing group 1:00 PM Mun kų BGC Game Night 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Play, have fun, build skills and challenge your friends Wednesdays Seniors and Elders Refreshments and Games 2:00 PM Haines Junction Seniors Residence Girls Club 3:20 PM St. Elias Community School Held in the art room, open to Girls and identifying as Girls from Grade 8 to 12.

AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 3:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Art Journaling Group 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Bring your own creative supplies that you like to use. This can be scraps of paper, magazines, glue, paint, pen, markers, stamps, ink etc. and a book or journal to create Thursdays Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in.

Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/ caregivers.

Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group.

Haines Junction Thrift Shop 2:00 PM St. St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop is a great place to pick up items. Prices are low and numerous adult items are available for $2, and most items for children are $1.

Adult Volleyball 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gymFridays Stories and STEM Activities 10:00 AM Haines Junction Library AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:30 PM Haines Junction Health Centre Saturdays AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre Sundays Anglican Church Service St. Christopher’s Church 10:30 AM Anglican Church Service at St. Christophers Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican. yukon.net/services.html AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre

MARSH LAKE Last Wednesday of every month MLCS board meeting 7:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre Wednesdays South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre Thursdays Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM Fridays Beginner Yoga Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM Youth Gym Drop-In Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM Saturdays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM Sundays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM Tuesdays Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Wed Dec 20 Judging – 2023 Christmas Light Display Contest 5:00 PM Village of Mayo Lets light up Mayo for the holidays! Cash prizes for best lit up place!

Make sure to have your lights on by 5 PM, our judges will be viewing all displays throughout the evening!.

Mondays Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Art/Entrepreneur Club 3:30 J.V Clark School Held in the Lunchroom Dinner and Movie Night 5:00 PM Mayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre Video Yoga Classes 5:15 PM Mayo Curling Arena Yoga Videos are used for leading each class. Bring your own Yoga mat or borrow ours. Drop-ins are welcome. For more info call 996-2043 8979962043 Tuesdays Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Youth Archery 3:30 PM Mayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Disc Golf 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre Curling 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre Drop-in Art Night 7:00 PM Mayo Curling Lounge If you can bring a photo that you would like to work from that would be great. No experience necessary.

Wednesdays Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School Pottery Class 3:30 PM J.V Clark School Rec Volleyball 7:00 PM Village of Mayo Pool Thursdays Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Elementary Soccer 3:30 PM J.V Clark School Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Teen/Adult Floor Hockey 7:30 PM J.V Clark School Fridays Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School Sundays St. Mary’s Church Service 11:00 AM St Mary’s Church (867)667-7746 Communion Service St. Mary with St. Mark Anglican Church 11:00 AM where village members come together to worship and offer service to their community and the world.

MOUNT LORNE Sat Dec 23 Snow Much Fun! Solstice 10 KM 11:30 AM Mount Lorne Community Centre Fat Bike, Snowshoe, Ski, Kicksled, run or walk this fun marked 10 km trail.

1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne Mountain Community Centre Mondays Run Club 6:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre Drop-In Yoga 7:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre By donation all levels welcome Tuesdays Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In 6:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Improve your balance, flexibility, strength and endurance in this indoor class led by Colleen Ennis. Drop in, admission by donation. Suitable for mature youth & adults. https:// whatsupyukon.events/fhm Thursdays Community Drop In 11:00 AM Mount Lorne Community Centre Drop-In Skating Lessons – Kids 5:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Learn to skate and improve your skills. Coached by Lyndi Proudfoot - Free to Members. Must bring your own skates & helmet.

Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Drop-In Skating Lessons – Adults 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Learn to skate and improve your skills. Coached by Lyndi Proudfoot - Free to Members. Must bring your own skates & helmet.

OLD CROW Mondays Men’s Night At The Rec Centre 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Tuesdays Kids Gym 3:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Adult Sewing 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Youth Gym 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Wednesdays Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal Parent and Tots 4:00 PM Old Crow Community Center Call 966-3015 for more info.

Adult Card Game Night 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre Sundays St. Luke’s Church Service 11:00 AM St. Luke’s Church 867-993-5381

ROSS RIVER Tuesdays Sewing Night 7:00 PM The Hope Centre Wednesdays Family Bible Study 8:00 PM The Hope Centre Fridays Family Game Night- Coffee House 9:00 PM The Hope Centre Sundays Church Service 12:00 PM The Hope Centre

SKAGWAY Alaska Wed Dec 20 Christmas Caroling 6:30 PM First Presbyterian Church Bring Christmas joy to houses who have requested carolers to brighten up their night.

Thurs Dec 21 Holiday Crafts at the Library 1:00 PM Skagway Public Library Activities for kids and adults alike will be available.

Thurs Dec 21 Blue Christmas Service:6:30 PM First Presbyterian Church Sat, Dec 23 Holiday Crafts at the Library 1:00 PM Skagway Public Library Fun, festive holiday crafts.

Sat Dec 23 Shepard’s Watch 3:00 PM Pullen Pond Picnic Shelter. Food roasted over the fire. Sled down the hill Sun Dec 24 Christmas Eve Service 5:30 PM First Presbyterian Church Sun Dec 24 Eagles Christmas Eve Show 7:00 PM Eagles Hall Santa and his elves come to Skagway to share presents and Christmas cheer!

Mon Dec 25 Holiday Ski in Dyea 11:00 AM Alderworks Alaska Writers & Artists Retreat, Dyea Work off holiday calories with a X-country ski.

Mondays Live Music Red Onion Saloon 6:30 PM Live music every Monday Wednesdays Women’s Morning Worship 7:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway All are welcome. Part of the Alaska Presbytery and the PC U.S.A. Windy Valley Babies 10:30 AM Skagway Public Library Stories, Songs, and Fun with Ms. Anna!

Designed for ages 0-3.

Fridays Skagway Teen Night 6:30 PM Skagway Public Library Sundays Sunday Worship 10:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway\

Sunday School 4:00 PM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway Until Sun Dec 24 Holiday Book Photos 5:00 AM Skagway Public Library Grab your favorite book & get your photo taken by our tree. Celebrate the magic of reading & the magic of the season!

Until Sun Dec 31 Skagway Holidays in Lights! 5:00 AM Skagway Visitor Information Centre Skagway Holidays in Lights! Winter Light & Decorating Contest -Sponsored by Royal Caribbean Group Enter online.

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

TAGISH

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

First Monday of every month Carcross Tagish Renewable Resources Council 1:00 PM Tagish Community Centre First Monday of every month Tagish Advisory Council 8:00 AM Tagish Community Centre First Tuesday of every month Tagish Community Association 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre Second Thursday of every month Tagish Local Advisory Council 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre Wednesdays Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 2:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Targeted literacy programming by Yukon Learn at the Tagish Library. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon.

Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre Thursdays Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre .

Saturdays Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon

TESLIN Tue Dec 19 Let It Snow - Christmas Painting 3:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Paint a Christmas scene with Ayla! Call 390-2530 to sign up! https:// whatsupyukon.events/j04 Fri Dec 22 Christmas Skating Party 12:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Centre Enjoy a fun and festive skate with the TTC Health & Social. Bring your skates and helmet!

Sun Dec 31 Teslin New Years Eve Party 7:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Dress up and dance the new year in, live band, champagne at midnight!

Join in on the potluck or not!

Mondays AA: Teslin Group (O) 7:00 PM Catholic Church Rectory

Outdoor 3D Archery 7:00 PM Sambow Archery Course – Meet at the ball diamond Wednesdays Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Drop in seniors Pickleball 6:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Thursdays

Girls Volleyball 3:15 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Fridays Public Skating 4:00 PMTeslin Lake Recreation Complex Basketball Drop-in 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Saturdays Parent & Tots 12:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Sundays Ball Hockey 7:00 PM Khàtìnas.àxh Community School 12+ Drop in

WATSON LAKE Daily Northern Lights Space & Science Centre Shows 11:00 AM The spectacular dancing Northern Lights are showcased, a video that is broadcast in the NLC’s domed 100-seat theatre daily throughout the summer season. Plays daily on the hour starting at 11:00 AM Second Saturday of the month Watson Lake Direct Aid 2:00 PM Northern Lights Centre Tuesdays Smart Recovery Meetings 3:00 PM Wye Lake Cabin Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services For more information, email joey.mitchell@yukon.ca or call 332-3187 Pickleball & Badminton Watson Lake Secondary School 7:00 PM Wednesdays Drop-In Ninja Tumbling 5:30 PM Watson Lake Secondary School All ages welcome. Adults are welcome too, come to do some stretching or try some handstands etc.

Fridays Friday Night Lanes 7:00 PM Call 335-7979 to register Saturdays Disc Golf 6:00 PM Raven Pines Rent discs at the Rec Centre or bring your fave. All welcome from expert level to beginner.

Baptiste Power Yoga 7:00 PM Fees apply. A muscleshaping and mind-sculpting workout, work at your own level and ability, set to electronic music.

Sundays

Tuesdays

St. John’s Church Service 10:00 AM St. John’s Church Service (867) 536-2932

The ‘Big 4-6’ Sports 4:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School

Season's greetings Season's greetings

Best wishes for a joyful holiday season and continued health and happiness throughout the coming year.

From the Yukon University Board of Governors and employees.

Please note that access to the Yukon University buildings and services may vary during the holidays.

Visit YukonU.ca/holiday-hours for a full schedule.

10

whatsupyukon.com

December 20, 2023 column with

Sonja Seeber

THE TRAPPER’S LIFE

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sonja Seeber and her husband Paul are Yukon trappers who live in the Pelly Mountains and have developed a lifelong passion for the trapping lifestyle in the North.

HOW WE ‘DO’ CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S EVE OFF-GRID!

&

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! from the team at Mighty Wash Thank you for your support.

Mighty Wash is proud to be a part of the NexGen family of companies!

Follow us on

Winter Hours In Effect! Open 7 Days a Week From 9:00 am to 7:00 pm 867-667-4650 • mightywash.ca • 121 Copper Road

NEW YEAR’S Outfits & Accessories available.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING HOURS Dec. 21, 22, 23: Noon to 9 pm CLOSED: Dec. 24, 25, 26, 27 Dec. 28, 29: Noon to 7 pm Dec. 30: Noon to 6 pm CLOSED: Dec. 31, Jan. 1, 2024 Jan. 2: Back to regular hours.

Locally Owned and Operated 211 Black Street • 393-3360 Come see us at our discreet location adulttemptations.ca

Must be 19 years

fr om Y P P AY S A H LID team at HO the SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS: Dec 24: 12-6 pm CLOSED: Dec 25 Dec 26: 12-6 pm Dec 31: 12-6pm CLOSED: Jan 1 Jan 2: 12-6 pm

Regular Hours OPEN DAILY: 12-7 PM

83 Mount Sima Road • Gifts • Beer • Local Food • Off-Sales

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE AND PROMOTE? Let Mallory’s Postering help spread your messaging and showcase your high-quality posters and brochures to help get your message out there!

CONTACT MALLORY AT: (867) 334-6816

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Do you ever dream of spending a very quiet Christmas?

Here it is:

Lebkuchen (Gingerbread) Muffins Ingredients

• 120 g soft butter • 70 g liquid honey • 100 g brown sugar • 2 eggs • 200 g white flour • 1 Tbsp gingerbread spice* • 2 Tbsp cacao • 2 tsp baking powder • Pinch of salt • 120 ml milk

H

ow about taking time for yourself, to recharge, relax and reflect on the past year while sipping on a cute glass of Eggnog? What would you do if you’d have, say, a whole week on your hands without being allowed to clean the house or do your paperwork, or go shopping?

Christmas time is, most years, a quiet time in the bush— especially if it’s a cold week; then, not many critters are moving. We’ll hunker down some more (like the critters), stoke the wood fire and enjoy watching the orange flames. I’ll bring out the big beeswax candle and a few tea lights and read a short Christmas story aloud.

In the early days, we did our reading by the light of kerosene lamps, but now we enjoy sitting in our recliners under the LED lamps, which use hardly any power. We basically live by the light, so in the morning we’ll sit at the table, look out the picture window for an hour, sip coffee and watch the light change and become day. The only sound was (and still is) the draft in the wood-stove pipe. The only appliance that is on is the solar inverter, and we don’t hear it. Maybe the occasional mouse— scurrying around the cabin and looking for bread crumbs—hears it. We’ll go for a shorter (or longer) walk or ski, depending on the temperature. We listen to the crunch of the snow under our boots, smell the balsam firs, hear the pine grosbeaks chirp and see the grey jays that follow us.

For our four-candle Advent wreath, I’ll snip off a few balsamfir boughs and place them around the candles. We used to cut down a tiny Christmas tree, bring it inside and place it to one side of the crêche; but the place seemed too crowded, so now we just hang our decorations on a string just under the top of the picture window. That way, we see them all day and reminisce about the friends who gifted them to us.

The glitter is outside, anyway— the sparkle of the snow (Did you know that not one snowflake looks like the next one?) and the frost on nearly everything, when it’s been a humid night and the light is shining its way through it all.

Sundogs are common. And what is that cracking that you hear, off and on, after the thermometer temperature plunged in the night?

It’s the trees cracking, due to the water that has seeped into little crevasses last fall.

You can watch the breeze play with the fireweed stalks and the tall grasses. On the trail, you can see mouse tracks, where the spruce grouse slept, last night, and how it moved around to get to the dwarf birch seeds and buds.

Instructions

PHOTO: Sonja Seeber

Lebkuchen Muffins After a few days of the colour grey, we feel very happy, indeed, if the sun graces us with her short presence—us wondering if she can still make it over the hill or if she’ll be gone for the day.

Out here on the trapline, before we had internet, we used to carry a satellite phone. We might have used it six times a winter season, to call both our moms on Christmas Day; and later to call the pilot to schedule a pick-up for late March or April; then, on the day of, to let him know what the weather was doing out here. Using that satellite phone was an experience in itself: we’d put on a cowl, hat, gloves and parka, then huddle together outside, trying to point that phone towards where we’d get the best signal. Lucky us if the call didn’t drop while wishing Happy Holidays!

There’s an old radio collecting dust … Many Christmases ago, we pulled it out from under the shelves and tried to tweak out a holiday tune or two. The only station we got to listen to, amid the static crackling, was what sounded like a Russian station.

It was very interesting and also weird, that’s for sure. Nowadays, we can go on the internet and choose any station we want: our favourite, to get into the holiday mood, is a Hawaiian one!

We love listening to good music, but don’t need it. On those festive days, we will savour a few songs (using the laptop)

by Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Jimmy Durante or Glen Miller. But NOT “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” We never have to listen to that song at all, as with not having to rush about in bigbox stores while being blinded by lights and assaulted by what seems to be another tune in nearly every other aisle.

The best gift, we think, is food. I like to give away a special bread, something sweet out of the oven or Paul’s smoked moose meat. Right now, it’s about Christmas baking smells. I tried out a European muffin recipe (And who doesn’t like a good muffin?).

1. Mix together first 3 ingredients, until foamy. Add remaining ingredients, except for milk.

2. Mix everything together, then add with the milk and bake at 350 F for 20–25 minutes until a toothpick, inserted in the center, comes out clean.

Topping

Ingredients

• 100 g chocolate chips • 2 Tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Heat until mixed, then let the mixture cool down and spread it over near-cold muffins.

2. Dust with cinnamon sugar and enjoy!

Makes 12 muffins. *The gingerbread spice mix I used was cinnamon, anise, star anise, coriander, cloves and nutmeg. You may already have a favourite mix, but be careful using cloves (too much can ruin your baking).

Then New Year’s Eve is on the horizon. How do we party out here with just the two of us and the dog? Well, Rupert gets a few extra treats, as do we—but wait, I forgot the bubbly! Oh well, one year we forgot to bring beer (once we’re out of something we don’t panic).

We might enjoy the rare whiskey, with just the right amount of water. Nobody will be the wiser if we go “listen to our pillows” before midnight; after all, somewhere it’s already January 1. A couple of times, we did wait till midnight: we built ourselves a snow bar in front of the guest cabin where the snowdrift came to a halt. The schnapps sure stayed cool in the snow and the tea lights guided us to the liquid, warming before-bed treat.

Getting a whiff of fresh air before bedtime, looking at the stars with Orion hunting in the sky with his dog on the leash, hearing the water in the river down at the bend where it rushed over the ice …

Have you ever heard the crackling sound of aurora borealis? What you can also hear, when it’s very very quiet, is the blood rushing in your head … or, is that the universe?

Prost! With best wishes for a healthy 2024!

Sonja Seeber, Yukon Trapper n

December 20, 2023

11

whatsupyukon.com

column with

Sydney Keddy

SEASONAL RECIPES

Sydney [Oland] Keddy is a recipe developer who lives in Whitehorse. Her work can be found in The Boston Globe, Seriouseats.com as well as in other publications.

MILE-HIGH DONUT BREAKFAST SANDWICH With eggnog, bacon, sausage and cheese

Donuts!

Soak the donuts in egg and eggnog

T

here’s something about this time

Fry the donuts eggnog side down

Assemble the sandwich with bacon, sausage and cheese

of year that really brings out the excess, and that is what this

sandwich is about. It’s salty, it’s sweet.

It will take the edge off of whatever you may be feeling from last night. It’s the perfect holiday-season breakfast.

Ingredients (per sandwich): ❑ 1 egg, beaten ❑ 1 tsp eggnog ❑ 1 day-old donut, halved ❑ 1 Tbsp butter Dill ❑ 4 strips cooked bacon 3 cooked sausages, halved lengthwise ❑ ❑ 1 slice American cheese ❑ Maple syrup, to serve ❑ Hot sauce, to serve

Instructions: 1. Whisk together egg and eggnog, then place halved donut into the mixture, cut side down.

2. Melt butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat, and when the butter is melted, place the soaked donuts into the pan. Dribble any remaining egg into the center of the donut. Cook until the egg is set, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. If necessary, reheat the bacon and sausage, then make the sandwich with layers of bacon, sausage and cheese.

Serve hot, drizzled with maple syrup and hot sauce. n

Mile-High Donut Breakfast Sandwich, with eggnog, bacon, sausage and cheese

THE PERFECT STOCKING STUFFER!

PHOTOS: Sydney Keddy

Are you a Sports fanatic and love all things Sport?

Give the Gift of Taste Open 7 Days A Week Mon - Sun, To Serve You Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner!

CGC 456-7690 • SECOND AVE 668-6889 • MAIN ST 393-5000

We’re looking for Sport Writers to cover local sporting events.

WH TSUP YUKON All Northern. All Fun.

Share your stories: editor@whatsupyukon.com

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December 20, 2023 column with

HEALING AND CONNECTION

Kay Deborah Linley

Kay has lived in the North for eight years. She is interested in spiritual practice, healing, creativity and land connection. Between painting and writing, Kay makes sure to spend quality time in the wilderness that surrounds her. She is currently working on her second book.

WINTER SOLSTICE: KEEPING TIME IN THE DARK On Thursday, December 21, at 8:27 p.m., a total of five hours, 37 minutes and 47 seconds of daylight will grace the rosy, yet perhaps weary, cheeks of Whitehorse locals

Because of the global influence of Britain, the adoption of the time zone by the United States and the reliance on the GMT in the dominant mariner economy, GMT became the prime meridian for most of the world. Eventually, GMT was replaced globally (though still remains a time zone) with a “time standard” called Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which apparently is more precise because it’s based on

a GPS to try and locate zero degrees longitude on the line marking the prime meridian at the Royal Greenwich Observatory in London, England (where GMT was born), you wouldn’t find it—you’d be a few hundred feet off the mark. This is because a GPS relies on satellite data to geolocate. Satellites orbit Earth in a truly spherical manner around the actual mass of the Earth’s core, which is not how the

It’s difficult business, accurately telling time. Try as we may to perfect it, nature is a little too fluid to accurately package up and standardize, and here’s why: The Earth’s orbit around the sun is more elliptical than spherical.

As the Earth travels closer to the sun, it speeds up. Also, the Earth has a tilt to its axis. In the winter, the northern hemisphere tilts away from the sun during its orbit, and in the summer, it tilts towards the

PHOTO: Kathryn Couture

PHOTO: Cathy Milner Nyemeck

T

Trees encased in snow

Sundial

PHOTO: Kathryn Couture

PHOTO: Kathryn Couture

he shortest day of the year (shorter than the June solstice by 13 hours and 31 minutes) chalks us northerners up to being pretty hardcore, or in the very least vitamin D deprived.

We know it’s the winter solstice because we have measured it to be the shortest day of the year.

We’ve measured the difference between light and dark; the length of daylight versus night.

Traditionally, we would have measured the time of day, seasons and these important times of transition, by directly tracking the sun’s movement across the sky. Because of our need to coordinate globally, today we rely almost entirely on standardized time, represented on our digital and analog clocks.

This measurement of time is our attempt at capturing the movement of the sun across the sky.

However, because it simplifies our natural world, it diverges from reality slightly.

Standardized time took off in the mid-1800s. British railway companies and communication advancements spurred the Europeans to standardize time. Eventually, Greenwich, England, was deemed prime meridian for standardized time (Greenwich Mean Time or GMT). The prime meridian is an imaginary longitudinal line running between the north and south poles. It is like ground zero where most time zones around the world are measured from.

Sun dog

Sunrise atomic clocks and the spin of the Earth. UTC continues to be the basis for civil time worldwide.

Only the tip of the toppling “time iceberg”: in our efforts to try and concretize consistent time, we also invented the conundrum that standardized time is literally what we make it or, truer to the point, where we measure it from.

For example, if you were using

observatory and prime meridian were originally measured. In a way, the GPS models a more “perfect” version of Earth, which results in a different location for the prime meridian. It’s said that this doesn’t make the original Greenwich prime meridian incorrect; rather, it brings to light that we can pretty much base standard time on any longitudinal marker around the planet.

sun. Whereas during the equinoxes, it does neither.

Turns out our original timekeeper, the sun, keeps the most accurate time after all.

Being part of nature, it naturally captures the “irregularities” of Earth’s orbit. When the sun is at its highest point in the sky, it is literally solar noon.

Although most accurate, solar time is different everywhere. It’s

more like local time. Back in the day, many cultures used the sun to tell solar time by tracking the sun’s movement across the sky.

In a sense, each community had their own “time zone” based on this method.

And, interestingly, the time the sun tells us is almost always different than what time our clocks say. In Whitehorse, for example, when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, meaning it’s our “solar noon,” your clock will display something closer to 2 p.m.!

And, to top it off, when we take a closer look at the shortest day of the year, the sunrise and sunset do not agree! Although the winter solstice is usually the shortest day of the year in terms of day length, the latest sunrise and earliest sunset do not occur on this day! The latest sunrise instead comes after the winter solstice, and the earliest sunset comes before it. This is because during this time of year, solar noon comes later and later each day and, naturally, the sunrise and sunset follow. Confused? Me too!

Let’s discuss leap years (just kidding, I wouldn’t do that to you).

We’ve got nature doing its thing and then us interpreting nature doing its thing, and they don’t totally match up.

We have abstracted nature with the idea that we can now coordinate ourselves around this abstraction. Yes, our technological advancements can be interpreted as more accurate than our previous calculations. It is absolutely amazing what we are able to figure out with these churning brains, technology and the cash to support our efforts.

However, each and every time the rug still gets pulled out from beneath us and it all seems to boil down to―it’s how we look at it, which means where we look at it from.

In the end, although perhaps inconvenient to the modern human, natural rhythms reign.

The sun continues to be the most accurate and least abstract magistrate of them all, always there, keeping time―even on the darkest day. n

Happy holidays • Ut’àkwädích’e dzänù nàkwítth’ät Joyeuses fêtes • Drin tsal zhìt shòh ohłìi Wishing you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of cherished moments.

December 20, 2023

13

whatsupyukon.com

column with

Dan Davidson

A KLONDIKE KORNER

After three decades in classrooms in Beaver Creek, Faro and Dawson, Dan Davidson retired to continue writing, as he had been all those years.

Please send comments about his stories to dawson@whatsupyukon.com.

IT’S BAZAAR SEASON IN DAWSON Getting ready for Christmas means getting ready for the spirit of the season in every sense … in both giving and receiving

D

awson ushers in the secular pre-Christmas season just before the ecclesiastical season of Advent, with several weekends of craft bazaars, supplementing the buying needs of those who will certainly make an early winter pilgrimage to Whitehorse and fill Canada Post with mail order packages for Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, etc., the way they used to fill up the back room at the Dominion Store with packages from Simpsons-Sears.

PHOTOS: Dan Davidson

PHOTOS: Dan Davidson

Community Christmas Bazaar t The first, largest and oldest of these fairs, the Community Christmas Bazaar, took place on November 19 from 11 to 4 at the Robert Service School Gymnasium, sponsored this year by the school and organized to raise funds for the Grade 12 class.

There was a plethora of baked goods, preserves, jewelry, leather goods, glass creations, pottery, clothing, knitted or crochet work, photographs and artwork.

There was an ongoing cakewalk contest and 50/50 tickets.

St Paul’s Anglican Church During the same time frame, St Paul’s Anglican Church transformed Richard Martin’s Memorial Chapel into a smaller venue and sold lots of baked goods, clothing (especially baby items), knitwear and Christmasseason items. There were also items in the Thrift Store next door. q

cont’d on page 15 ...

Happy holidays Drin tsal zhìt shòh ohłìi

Joyeuses fêtes

May your holiday season be a meaningful journey of connection and shared moments.

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December 20, 2023

Christmas Songs

We Wish You A Merry Christmas (circ. 1500s)

PHOTO: Pixabay

We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year Good tidings we bring to you and your kin We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year Oh, bring us some figgy pudding Oh, bring us some figgy pudding Oh, bring us some figgy pudding And bring it right here Good tidings we bring to you and your kin We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year We won’t go until we get some We won’t go until we get some

WE WISH ALL YUKONERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

We won’t go until we get some So bring it right here Good tidings we bring to you and your kin We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year We all like our figgy pudding We all like our figgy pudding We all like our figgy pudding With all its good cheers Good tidings we bring to you and your kin We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year

December 20, 2023

15

whatsupyukon.com

It’s bazaar season in Dawson... cont’d from page 13

KIAC (Dënäkär Zho) Ballroom

PHOTOS: Dan Davidson

p The next weekend, November 25, the KIAC (Dënäkär Zho) Ballroom metamorphosed into a third bazaar venue with more of an emphasis on handmade goods: glass creations, woodwork, knitted toques, jewelry, artwork, creations from the Yukon School of Visual Arts and the Klondike Institute of Art and Culture.

There was also a selection of lunch goodies and a craft table for the kids.

Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community Hall (Äłät Nëhëjël) The final bazaar in the series took place on December 2 in the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community Hall (Äłät Nëhëjël) between 11 and 4. Some of the same vendors were on display again, but there was more of an emphasis on First Nations wares. There was also a Chase the Ace contest. q

Dawson City Museum

Thank you for your continued support!

As we approach the end of the year, we would like to offer our gratitude for your support. We hope you have a great holiday, and we look forward to your continued business in the New Year.

Wishing you Happy Holidays & a Bright New Year!

From the Whole G-P Distributing Team CLOSED: December 24 - 29 & January 1, 2024 OPEN: January 2, 2024 (Back to Normal Hours)

p This year, the Dawson City Museum’s Open House, from 5 to 8 on December 1, added a craft-fair component, along with live music, goodies in the gift shoppe, door prizes every 15 minutes, kids’ crafts and ornament creation in the audiovisual room, and 10 craft vendors—some of whom were on their third weekend by this time. Oh, and there was the possibility of a visit with Santa in the courtroom upstairs.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Mer�� Christ�as and Happy New Year FROM THE BOARD AND STAFF AT THE YUKON CONVENTION BUREAU

THE YCB OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023 OPENING ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2024.

EMAIL US FOR MORE INFORMATION: orders.foodservice@g-pdistributing.com 29 MacDonald Road, Whitehorse • 867-667-4500 • Monday- Friday: 8 am-4 pm

g-pdistributing.com

WE ARE AVAILABLE BY EMAIL AT INFO@YCB.CA

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ve Lo

fro

m: MERRY CHRISTMAS & WISHES

December 20, 2023

ACTIVE AND WELLNESS COMMUNITY EVENTS EVENTS

FOR A JOYOUS NEW YEAR!

Check out ALL EVENTS at whatsupyukon.com ENTER YOUR EVENTS ON-LINE

667-2229 • Mon-Fri:10 am-5:30 pm, Sat:10 am-5 pm HORWOODS MALL

duenorthmaternityandbaby.com

IT’S FREE. IT’S FAST. IT’S FUN OR EMAIL EVENTS@WHATSUPYUKON.COM

T'IS THE SEASON

ACTIVE LISTINGS Mondays

Your One Stop Christmas Shop

YUKON INN PLAZA 393-3984 MON-SAT: 9:30AM-6PM|SUN: |SUN:11 11AM-4PM

WE HAVE YOUR LAST MINUTE STOCKING STUFFERS!

Judo For Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy Functional fitness training to be stronger and injury-resistant. All levels are welcome. Train ‘functionally’ with NSA Co-owner Jeremy McCulloch. https:// northernstrength.ca/ Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.c Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00 AM Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged Elderactive Pilates level 1/2 9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online.

Babynastics with Coach Stephanie 9:30 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https:// www.polarettes.org/babynastics

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY! WISHING YOU THE BEST OF HEALTH IN 2024.

HOLIDAY HOURS Dec 24 ......................... 8am - 5pm Dec 25 ......................... Closed Dec 26 ......................... 10am - 6pm Dec 27 ........................ 8am - 6pm Dec 28, 29, 30, 31 ...... 8am - 6pm Jan 1 ............................. Closed QWANLIN CENTRE & 211 MAIN STREET

Open 7 days a week

Visit us at shoppersdrugmart.ca

667-6633

TELL EVERYONE! ENTER YOUR EVENT ONLINE:

Your events will show up on-line and in print. whatsupyukon.events/entry It’s Easy. It’s Fast. It’s Free!

Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM Golden Age Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes. Call 668-5538 for more info.

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online. http://cuts2. com/jiacg Noon Strength and Conditioning 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multi-joint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more. https://northernstrength.ca/ Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Kids Muay Thai 4:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts KIDS MUAY THAI a dynamic and engaging martial art that can be traced to the middle of the 18th century. Open to ages 8 - 12.

Zumba with Bonita 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online Women’s Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 6:45 PM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca Spirit Bear Karate 7:30 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM Rest & Restore-Meditative Yin 8:30 PM Avalanche Athletics Suitable for all levels, offering variations and props to support individual needs. Bringing a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water bottle and block are recommended.

Tuesdays Insanity Live! Get Fit For Winter – 6 Week Winter Series 5:30 AM Riverdale Subdivision – Whitehorse Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels.

Register online. https://whatsupyukon.events/b7o

Strength for the Endurance Athlete 6:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM Séances de yoga 8:00 AM Elderactive Yoga with Richard until Oct 24 9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Dance explore the great variety the IYENGAR Yoga method has to offer Yoga with Barbara until Oct 24 10:00 AM Whitehorse United Church Use side door All Levels Yoga. Email bfraingower@gmail.com Babynastics with Coach Naomi 10:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https:// www.polarettes.org/babynastics Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 AM Yoga-Yoga Nidra 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio Awaken and then release as we delve into a one hour yoga class that will prepare us to melt into the 30 minute Yoga Nidra experience. Register online.

Strength for the Endurance Athlete 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:15 PM Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available.

Elderactive Nordic Walking 12:30 PM ElderActive Recreation Association he use of poles provides a full-body workout as well as stability over uneven terrain.

Elderactive Leisure Walking 12:30 PM ElderActive Recreation Association Leisure Walking is similar to Nordic walking but is suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy Exercise to suit your fitness level and Strength & Conditioning Goals. Learn to Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Row and Olympic Lift https://northernstrength.ca/ Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Learn to Fence 6:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School This class introduces the fundamentals of fencing to kids who have never tried fencing. All classes are at Grey Mountain Primary.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Whitehorse Archery Takhini Elementary 6:30 PM Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. https://www. whitehorsearchery.com/schedule Spirit Bear Kobudo (Weapons) Karate 7:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http://spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Intermediate 7:30 PM Grey Mountain Primary School This class picks up from where Learn to Fence ends. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness.

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM Wednesdays Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout. Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy https://northernstrength.ca/ Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00 AM Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged

Elderactive Pilates level 1/2 9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online.

Zumba with Bonita 10:00 AM 7th Ray Studio Zumba routines incorporate interval training — alternating fast and slow rhythms — to help improve cardiovascular fitness. Register online.

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online. http://cuts2. com/jiacg Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

NSA Spin Classes 4:15 PM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https://northernstrength.ca/ Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Spirit Bear Karate 6:25 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning 8:15 PM Avalanche Athletics Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class. Stretch & Stabilize Functional Conditioning http://amitieyoga.ca Thursdays Insanity Live! Get Fit For Winter – 6 Week Winter Series 5:30 AM Riverdale Subdivision – Whitehorse Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels.

Register online. https://whatsupyukon.events/b7o Strength for the Endurance Athlete 6:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM Golden Age Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes.

Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available. https://bit.ly/3oiTBVz Strength for the Endurance Athlete 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels Noon Hatha Yoga until Dec 7 12:00 PM Grace Space Relax, energize and leave with more mental and physical space and capacity!

Register online. http://cuts2.com/gmGhI No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM Babynastics with Coach Ewan 1:00 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https:// www.polarettes.org/babynastics Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Adult Beginner 7:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School If you are looking to learn fencing as an adult. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness

cont’d on page 17 ...

December 20, 2023

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ACTIVE AND WELLNESS EVENTS... ... cont’d Fridays Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM NSA Spin Classes 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https://northernstrength.ca/ Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight & Mondays Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - teen classes Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Saturdays Flow & Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM Avalanche Athletics A dynamic and invigorating practice is designed to awaken your inner strength and leave you feeling revitalized and empowered.

All levels, Bring yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water bottle and block are recommended. http:// amitieyoga.ca Saturday Morning Strength and Conditioning 10:15 AM Northern Strength Academy Full-body movements to improve functional strength.

Suitable for all levels and aligns with NSA’s strength programming. https://northernstrength. ca/ Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM Open Mat Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM Sundays Circus Sundays 10:00 AM Avalanche Athletics We will have equipment for people to try out, including stilts, juggling stuff, aerial silks, aerial hoop, static trapeze, spinny things, balance things…

NSA Spin Classes 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https://northernstrength.ca/ Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509 Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

AA New Beginnings Group (O, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall) AA New Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Tuesdays Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures 12:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre An inclusive Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program for parental & infant support. Enjoy a Drop-In lunch and connect with other families. https://whatsupyukon. events/8kd AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House ARKA Brotherhood Men’s Circle: Porcupine Squad 6:30 PM Whitehorse A confidential, structured space that empowers men to transform themselves into self-aware, self-disciplined, empowered and trustworthy leaders. Email mjvernon@gmail.com for more info. http://www. arkabrotherhood.com AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 PM 100 25 Firth Rd Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details Wednesdays TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details Community Kitchen 11:30 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House Al-Anon 12:00 PM Sport Yukon Al‑Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Inclusion Yukon Overeaters Anonymous Meeting 7:30 PM Overeaters Anonymous For more information contact oayukon@gmail.com for more information AA No Puffin Big Book Study (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall) Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00 PM Our Lady of Victory

Thursdays Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures 12:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre An inclusive Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program for parental & infant support. Enjoy a Drop-In lunch and connect with other families. https:// whatsupyukon.events/8kd

You’re never too old for a sleepover.

DON’T DRIVE IMPAIRED.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House Connect to Culture - Drop-In 1:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In, Open to ALL! Weekly cultural activities from beading to sewing, healing camp trips, elder visits and more. For more info call 667-2093 or email info@vfwomenscentre.com https:// vfwomenscentre.com/events Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or on zoom, Zoom ID 251363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

Fridays AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30 PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778907-2971 for more info.

Community Kitchen 4:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Yukon Employees Union Al-Anon 7:00 PM Trinity Lutheran Church Al‑Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

AA Whitehorse Group (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (O, A) 1:00 PM 609 Steele St.1:00 PM AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:00 PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778907-2971 for more info.

AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Sundays AA Detox Meeting (O, A)1:00 PM 609 Steele St. AA Yukon Unity Group 1:00 PM Online By zoom – Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 For more info call 778-907-2971 Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Inclusion Yukon

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AAHospital Meeting (O, A) 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

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Professional Photo & Video Services irisimagesnorth@gmail.com

780-394-2275

Elder and Counselor available Emotional and Spiritual support, free to Indigenous women, girls, 2 spirited in Yukon, Northern BC: Phone, video appointments or in person.

Call Toll Free 866 667 6162 or visit www. yawc.ca for info.

Tue Dec 19 Mental Health Friends & Family Support Group 5:30 PM Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Is your loved one experiencing mental illness or a psychological disorder? Join us for dinner & discussion. For more info email programs@ yukon.cmha.ca or 668-6429 Wed Dec 20 Holiday Hampers 6:00 PM Whitehorse Food Bank Yukon Food Bank will be handing out holiday dinner hams (1-2 person households) or turkeys (3+ households) as well as some other holiday goodies to folks in need. Drop by.

Monthly 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month The Prenatal Lunch Network 12:00 PM NVD Place (Old Canadian Tire Building) A free prenatal lunch network. Each week will feature a different activity. Call 332-5054 or 332-6476 for more info.

1st and 3rd Wednesday QYS Peer Support Nights 5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache We want to provide a space where parents and guardians of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth can find connection and support from their peers.

2nd Wednesday and last Friday Blood Collection and Lab Work 9:00 AM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Blood Work and Lab Collection Clinic! We will provide regular clinics for blood collection & lab requisitions 1st Thursday of every month Men’s Gathering 5:00 PM A safe place for men to connect with each other and learn traditional teachings. For more info contact Rob at 3325708 or Rob.McLean@kdfn.net Every other Tuesday Sharing Circle 12:00 PM Old Justice Building KDFN Every other Tuesday for recovery focused sharing circles.

Connect, share challenges and gains, and access support and wisdom. Snacks and refreshments served. https://whatsupyukon. events/4en Mondays Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Do you need to repair or upgrade your principal home?

Home Repair Program might be the solution, it provides funding to eligible Yukon homeowners through four streams. emergency repair grant; Open year-round accessibility grant; wildfire grant; and home repair loan.

Application deadline: January 26, 2024, 4:30 pm

Learn more at Yukon.ca - search for “Apply for funding to repair your home” or contact us to talk about the conditions that apply.

Email: ykhouse@yukon.ca Phone: 867-667-5759 or toll free in the Yukon 1-800-661-0408.

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December 20, 2023 column with

GREY MATTERS

Susan Clark

Susan Clark has always been an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys canoeing, camping, biking and cross-country skiing. Her other passions include spinning wool, knitting, reading and writing. Since coming to the Yukon she has taken two sessions of Creative Writing at Yukon University and belongs to two different writing groups.

R

oger was always there when we got out of the car at my great-uncle’s farm.

With a big grin, he usually greeted us with the words, “Santa’s coming tonight!” It did not really matter if it was winter or summer.

Roger was my cousin. Our grandfathers were brothers.

He lived with his family on the ancestral farm where my grandfather had also grown up.

Roger’s grandparents, parents, disabled aunt and younger brother all lived in the old farmhouse.

They had a small mixed farm that included dairy cows, chickens, feed production for the animals and a huge vegetable garden.

This farm was the ideal place for Roger to grow up. He was eight years older than me, mentally challenged but with a strong, fit body. I am sure that raising him had its challenges, but as a child I was not aware of them. He

worked hard on the farm, hauling heavy milk cans to be picked up at the gate, cleaning out the barn and helping with threshing.

Every September, Roger went with his younger brother to the local one-room schoolhouse. And every September, he began the process of learning to print his name—again. All the children at the school were neighbours of the Clark family and it was accepted by everyone that he would attend school like all the other children.

Was he bullied and teased? I was never aware of that. He was just “Roger” and was always excited that Santa was coming. He went to that schoolhouse every year until he was 16. We all wondered what would happen as he aged.

His family never talked about it.

Most of Roger’s day-to-day management was done by his grandparents, as they were the ones who were there all day. His parents were busy with the farm and some outside work as well.

When Roger was in his 20s, with his grandparents aging, he moved into the town of Brockville and went to live in a group home. He seemed to thrive there. He loved having friends and he had a job in a sheltered workshop. He was

 

Anniversary

February 9, 2024 MERRY CHRISTMAS Joyeux Noël Drin Tsul zhìt shò ä̀ hłąy Ut’óhudìnch’i hų́lin dzenú Jesus kòhdlīni dzenḕs kut’eh Ut’àkwädį́ch’e dzänù nàkwį̀tth’ät Dzeen s̱ ẖìit choh s̱ ẖìit soonayh ahłįį Gu.àłshé hà s’àtí yagìyí i jiyís wùk’ê

Kuhīni kuts’įh nahts’į́’ Denetie Chų̄ ę́’ kúlīni dzenḗs sṓgā enahzen



For allowing us to share your stories  Yukon’s Events Magazine since 2005

WHATSUPYUKON.COM

Author’s brother at the opening ceremony of the park

PHOTO: Facebook

Celebrating a man who embodied the “true spirit of Saint Nicholas”

PHOTO: Sarah Humphrey

SANTA’S COMING TONIGHT

Roger’s Place was recently opened in honour of Roger

paid and he was very proud to Brockville. He had regular routes have money. Eventually he had a and people who he routinely girlfriend and they lived together stopped to talk to. His rounds in an apartment with daily included Tim Hortons, City Hall supervision by social workers. (he sat in on all the city council By the time Roger left the farm, meetings and became good I had moved away from Brockville friends with the mayor), the and only saw Roger on my visits hospital (where he chatted with home. He and his friends sat in the front row in church on Sundays, and The most frequent he loved the children’s choruses. He seemed word in all of the to remember me from childhood days on descriptions of Roger the farm and always assured me that Santa is kindness. Roger was was coming. I think that had stuck in his head because, every an example of the true year my family went to the family farm for Saint Nicholas spirit.

Christmas. My parents kept me aware of where Roger was and what he was doing. the workers in the offices there), When Roger wasn’t working and various shops and the mall. He after he retired, I was told that was always helping: holding he spent his days walking and doors, collecting shopping carts, walking and walking, all around cleaning litter from the streets

and parks and never missing a Brockville Braves hockey game.

After church he was at the door, shaking hands and greeting everyone with his enormous grin. He loved to sing, especially “Jingle Bells.”

The tributes after his death are many and all mention his kindness, his smile, his helpfulness and his cheerfulness. One of the tributes mentions that when a mall worker had to push a heavy cart out the door, Roger would leave his friends and his meal to go and hold the door for her. Many speak of him as an ideal citizen and a credit to the town of Brockville. The most frequent word in all of the descriptions of Roger is kindness. Roger was an example of the true Saint Nicholas spirit.

Roger died in 2018 at age 77.

Near his church, a playground has been dedicated to him. It is called “Roger’s Place.” n

December 20, 2023

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whatsupyukon.com

Freelance with

Elsie Jordan Elsie Jordan made the Yukon her home in 2014. She has a passion for storytelling, with a focus on family (mis)adventures featuring a unique Yukon feel to them.

MERRY GRINCH MAS, YUKON!

Y

ou better watch out, Yukoners, because Santa isn’t the only one who has come to town. Christmastime in Whitehorse hosts another popular figure that has been making the rounds for the last few holiday seasons, and he’s a little less likely to greet you with a jolly “Ho ho ho!”

That’s right—straight out of Whoville—the Yukon has their very own Grinch, and he has made a home for himself in our wonderful city, charming and entertaining families for four years now.

Attending local Christmas events and child-care centres, hitching a lift with Garbage Truck Santa, and posing for many a giggle-inducing photo are just a few of the ways that Grinch has been bringing chaos and laughter, wherever he goes, for the children and adults that he easily pulls in with a very charismatic and lively energy.

Families love him, and he definitely brings a lot of joy to many around the city, through the throwing of (good-humoured) shade and celebrating the season with a certain amount of attitude.

He brings an energy that is drastically different from Santa Claus, and Yukoners can’t get enough of it.

“The Grinch is great! My kids just love him,” said Mary Z., a Whitehorse mom of two. “They can’t wait to trade jibes and act silly with him. He really knows how to engage with all types of children and make them laugh.”

But who is the man behind the green … the man who captivated my son to the point where he insisted we watch the Grinch’s antics for almost an hour after their photo was taken and we waited for Santa to arrive?

I was lucky enough to get the chance to find out as we sat down with some hot beverages and chatted a little bit about what it’s like to be the Grinch.

To many he’s known as Jon Trefry, the recently retired paramedic of 37 years who has been highly celebrated for his dedication to the health and well-being of his community. And his passion for helping others continues, as he currently works in education and training for new paramedics, promoting self-care and mental-health awareness.

“I’m like a walking poster boy for coping skills,” Trefry said as he detailed the important work he has been doing. Paramedics encounter trauma on a daily basis, and providing tools and assistance to fellow members of EMS is just one of the ways that he continues to do all he can to keep those he comes into contact with as healthy as possible.

According to Trefry, humour is a powerful tool when trying to lighten the most stressful of situations. It’s a tool that he has used on many occasions to help calm patients in his care, to relax them and garner more cooperation during serious and sometimes lifethreatening scenarios.

He recounts a time when, as a paramedic, he was called to a

provide the space that the child needs—sometimes by mumbling an “It’s alright, I don’t want to see you either,” as a way to give the child an out and hopefully give everyone a chuckle.

But for the ones that do want to come up and say hi or try and have it out with him, he is more than happy to bring out the full Grinchy attitude that one would

try and be on their best behaviour.

They want him to see what good children they are, and they pose nicely as their photo is taken.

I watched my own child do the same—and as he walked away from St. Nick, he looked peaceful and serene, as though he had just met a hero of his and that hero had lived up to everything he had hoped for.

PHOTO: Iris Images North

Getting to know the “man in green,” who has a much bigger heart than stories let on

The Grinch was on hand to stir up some Christmas trouble (and maybe a little fun) at Decora, during Santa photos in early December scene where a lady had fallen and severely hurt her leg. She was in pain and was understandably upset. “I walked in and said, ‘Looks like you’re going to miss the dance finals!’” Zing. She laughed and relaxed a little, which was exactly what he wanted.

After all, when someone is struggling, what better way to immediately connect with them than to make them smile? It builds an instant connection and has helped him countless times … which is why it came as no surprise when I asked him why he enjoys getting into character as the Grinch, and he replied with a simple, “It’s fun in a mask.”

But, more importantly, he added, “It feeds my soul.”

Trefry’s journey as Whoville’s nemesis began four years ago and quickly took on a life of its own.

His impressive ability to read people, recognize their comfort level and to act accordingly, has been a huge part of his success.

He goes on to explain how the comfort level of the children who come up to greet him is what is most important to him, and that is what immediately dictates how he will approach each interaction.

If a child is cautious, he’ll respect that and not force the contact (that just creates an unpleasant moment, and Trefry strives to make each one as happy as possible). He admits that one of the things he doesn’t like is when he sees a child being forced to interact with him. So he will do everything he can to redirect and

expect—because a child’s visit with the Grinch is drastically different from the ones they have with Santa.

I saw it myself as we attended the photo sessions at Decora in early December. Children were definitely excited to greet both Santa and the Grinch, but there was a significant change in demeanour for each interaction.

With Santa, most children tend to

But, with the Grinch … children walked away laughing. They had just interacted with someone who was as sassy as they were, and their demeanour was much more like they had just had a fun time with a buddy of theirs.

As I mentioned earlier, my son didn’t want to leave the Grinch’s proximity, and he got a kick out of trying to get his attention (most notably, by trying to burp at

him). But Grinch was preoccupied with another child at the time; otherwise, I can almost be certain it would have turned into some kind of contest.

The kids love him, and Trefry loves being someone who can give them a moment of laughter to brighten their day. The parents’ and caregivers’ days too.

“The best part is when someone tells me that I made their kid’s night,” Trefry explained, “Because when the kids have a great time, the family does too.”

With a knowing smile, he insisted that this role and moments like that are what provide the greatest amount of joy for him.

“People are struggling. I have seen the darker side of humanity, but I also know that parents (and caregivers) really do try and do good for their children.

“So, if I am able to offer up a moment of seeing their kid laughing at some silly thing I’m doing, I feel lucky to give a family that.”

It should also be mentioned that any of the money or donations that come in for his Grinch appearances go to charity. Trefry has donated funds and toys to Share the Spirit, and he continues to work alongside Wykes’ Independent Grocer, where he donates any of his Grinch funds to providing food boxes for families in need.

As the Grinch, he gets the opportunity to connect with people in the community—to make them feel good, make them laugh, throw a few insults and bring families together. And he assures me that, after every event, he finds himself glowing, as his spirit is happier and more at peace.

Whitehorse is truly lucky to have our very own Grinch. And more than that, we’re lucky to have Jon Trefry as a member of our community who is definitely the heart (which is no longer two sizes too small!). n

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or email them to: events@whatsupyukon.com Please visit whatsupyukon.com for up to date event details.

Some events may be postponed or cancelled after we print.

ART SHOWS

To keep loved ones safe this holiday season.

DON’T DRIVE IMPAIRED.

Until Dec 22 Hibernation by Members of the Yukon Art Society Daily Arts Underground An annual tradition, the Yukon Art Society Members’ winter exhibition features new works in a variety of mediums by artists from across the territory as they explore the theme ‘hibernation’.

Until Dec 23 h’ARTwarming – Seasonal Treasures by YAAW YAAW – Yukon Artist At Work A group exhibit featuring affordable pieces by many of our member artists. https://yaaw.com/events/currentshows/ Until Dec 31 Francophone Community Over Time La communauté francophone au fil du temps. AFY Building A journey through the evolution of the Francophone community’s involvement in Yukon society.

Until Mar 10 This Must be the Place – An Exhibit by Tara Kolla Tara Kolla’s This Must be The Place! fantastical, joyful works that transport the viewer to another world. commemorates Yukon Archives’ 50th Until Spring 2024 Out in the Open – En Plein Art The Jim Smith Building An exhibition celebrating the 2023 acquisitions of the Yukon Permanent Art Collection.

LIVE MUSIC Wed Dec 20 Problematic Orchestra - Early Music 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre For Longest Night 2023, the Problematic Orchestra considers early music—Renaissance and preRenaissance—as a point of inspiration.

Tickets online. https://www.yukontickets. com/ Thurs Dec 21 Problematic Orchestra - Early Music 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre For Longest Night 2023, the Problematic Orchestra considers early music—Renaissance and preRenaissance—as a point of inspiration.

Tickets online. https://www.yukontickets. com/

Call For Reader Submissions

Sat Dec 23 Festivus for the Rest of US 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well Featuring Dylan MacNeil Band and Sean from the Yukon, join us on this completely pointless holiday and enjoy some live music, airing of grievances and our festivus pole.

WH TSUP YUKON

Sun Dec 31 Drag Me Into 2024 9:00 PM Lefty’s Well A New Years Cabaret, performances by AJ, Angelika Sloan, Cherie Coquette, Daddy Supreme, Moth Man, Lau D’Arta, Lexi Honey, Lucille Fir, Massimo, Nancy Clue and more. Cover charge at the door.

All Northern. All Fun.

Sun Dec 31 New Years Eve Disco 9:00 PM Gather Cafe & Taphouse Dance into the new year with eclectic house and disco sounds, food/bevies, ring the new year in with champagne at midnight.

Tickets online. https://whatsupyukon. events/7680fa

Yukoners living with Wildlife Send us your pictures!

Send your high resolution photos with a description of what’s happening in the photo, and the camera equipment you used to: Follow us... editor@whatsupyukon.com Yukon’s Events Magazine since 2005

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December 20, 2023

Sat Jan 6 Jamie Philips-Freedman 7:30 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Born and raised in Whitehorse Yukon, this Whitehorse musician is back in his home town to perform. www.yukontickets.com Monthly 1st Saturday Folk Society Coffeehouse 6:00 PM Whitehorse United Church All ages featuring local emerging and established musicians. Bring cash to buy coffee, tea, and tasty treats!

Every Other Wednesday Bluegrass Jam 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Mondays Live Music Mondays at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill Patrick Jacobson at Whiskey Jack’s every Monday with a weekly “feature performer” for the last set. whiskeyjacks.ca/ Wednesdays Whitewater Wednesday Night Jam 7:00 PM The Local Bar An open mic kinda show and all you have to do is bring in your instrument, find Jack and/or Peggy and we’ll set you up! No need to be shy.

Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well Live DJs - Thursday Throwdown 9:00 PM The Local Bar. Saturdays Live Music at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill At Whiskey Jack’s every Saturday. whiskeyjacks.ca/

GENERAL EVENTS Until Dec 20 12 Days of Christmas Market 11:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A local indoor marketplace offering Yukon hand-crafted and grown products from over 100 local vendors. Find unique art and crafts, farm products, photography, books, and much more.

Until Dec 21 Spruce Bog Boutique 10:00 AM Old Fire Hall Get your holiday shopping started at the Spruce bog Boutique, browse art, crafts, baking, pottery, jewelry, and much more from local Yukon vendors.

Until Dec 21 The Holdovers Nightly & Matinees Yukon Theatre A cranky history teacher at a remote prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go. Tickets online or in-person at the box office https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/the-holdovers Until Dec 28 Wonka Nightly Yukon Theatre Based on the extraordinary character at the center of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl’s most iconic children’s book and one of the best-selling children’s books of all time, “Wonka” https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/wonka Mon Dec 18 Geothermal Heat Energy in the Yukon - Community Perspectives 4:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Dive into the world of geothermal heat energy in the Yukon and hear firsthand from the community about their perspectives. Register online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/e4de5d https:// www.whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/post. php?post=140390&action=edit Mon Dec 18 White River First Nation Annual Christmas Dinner 6:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) https://www.whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/ post.php?post=139862&action=edit Tue Dec 19 Beginner Laser Cutting – Christmas Ornament 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn how to use CorelDraw to cut and raster basic shapes and images, use a snowflake vector generator, and take home at least two 4” by 4” ornaments! Register online! https:// whatsupyukon.events/ldf Wed Dec 20 Holiday Hampers 6:00 PM

Whitehorse Food Bank Yukon Food Bank will be handing out holiday dinner hams (1-2 person households) or turkeys (3+ households) as well as some other holiday goodies to folks in need. Drop by.

Wed Dec 20 Council of All Beings Winter Solstice Gathering 6:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace An interactive workshop for anyone concerned about the condition of our world & interested in participating in activities to help heal Earth.

Register online, admission by donation Thu Dec 21 Solstice Open House – Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition 1:00 PM Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Stop by the YAPC office to say hello, enjoy some holiday treats and meet our new staff.

Everyone is welcome.

Thu Dec 21 Winter Solstice Party 4:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Awards shining a spotlight on the heart and soul of our community YOU! Door prizes, snacks, local brewing beverages, and potluck.

Nominate a deserving member until Dec 19.

Thu Dec 21 Solstice Lantern Parade 6:30 PM Kwanlin Dun First Nation All are welcome regardless if you attended the Solstice Lantern Workshop! Bring your own lantern to help light the way! Walk from Yukon Canoe to the KDCC, to finish with a bonfire and warm drinks. https:// whatsupyukon.events/lsu Fri Dec 22 – 30 Migration Nightly + Matinees Yukon Theatre Take flight into the thrill of the unknown with a funny, feathered family vacation like no other in the action-packed new original comedy, Migration. Plays matinees and nightly, check online for times, tickets online or at the box office. https://yukonfilmsociety. com/schedule/migration Fri Dec 22 White Christmas Revue 7:00 PM The Guild Hall A family friendly show that is sure to be a new family tradition. All of the White Christmas tunes, with some favourite holiday staples performed by an AMAZING live band with some stunning VA company dancers!

Sat Dec 23 White Christmas Revue 2:00 & 7:00 PM The Guild Hall A family friendly show that is sure to be a new family tradition. All of the White Christmas tunes, with some favourite holiday staples performed by an AMAZING live band with some stunning VA company dancers!

Sat Dec 23 YEU Community Laundry Night 6:00 PM Family Hotel Laundromat YEU Community Laundry Night. Do your Laundry for FREE! Yukon Employees’ Union is happy to offer an evening of FREE LAUNDRY https://www. whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/post. php?post=127820&action=edit Sun Dec 24 The Wonder of Christmas 9:30 AM, 4:00 PM & 6:00 PM Mountainview Church Come sing Christmas Carols from your childhood, connect with others over hot drinks and cookies, and hear the story of Jesus. https://mountainview.church/christmas Fri Dec 29 Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé 7:00 PM Yukon Theatre Beyoncé in performance at her recordbreaking RENAISSANCE World Tour and the creative mastermind behind it. Tickets online or in person at the box office. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ renaissance-a-film-by-beyonce

cont’d on page 21 ...

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WHITEHORSE EVENTS... ... cont’d Fri Dec 29 Midnight Series – Cornhole Edition 7:00 PM Yukon Brewing Embrace the winter darkness and enjoy some friendly competition with 6 different tournaments, each one finishing after midnight. Enter online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/c3p

Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Dec 30 Craft Social 11:00 AM Grace Community Church Bring a craft such as your knitting, crochet, colouring, sewing, yarn spinning, paper work, painting, etc All are welcome! We meet to connect, inspire and craft away while sharing about life.https://whatsupyukon. events/068dbb

Euchre - For Members and Signed in Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Euchre a trick-taking card game for four players, two on each team, As a member you Industry Night Lefty’s Well 8:00 PM All are welcome - 20% off everything for our industry family - hot dogs, tunes, games and happy hour all night! https://bit. ly/3L0J3Ce

Sat Dec 30 Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé 7:00 PM Yukon Theatre Beyoncé in performance at her recordbreaking RENAISSANCE World Tour and the creative mastermind behind it. Tickets online or in person at the box office. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ renaissance-a-film-by-beyonce Tue Jan 2 - 27 Nakai Theatre’s - Pivot Festival 2024 5:00 AM Whitehorse Annual festival including exciting events from Filipina Spice Girls of Comedy, otherworldly sun bathing, fire artists, and more..! Tickets online! https://nakaitheatre.com https://www. whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/post. php?post=139341&action=edit Tue Jan 2 - 27 The Sun Room 5:00 AM Old Fire Hall A morning coffee in the sun, post-work picnics with friends, and all your Après dreams are possible this January in the Sun Room. Book your spot online. https://nakaitheatre. com/calendar/the-sun-room2024 https:// www.whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/post. php?post=138676&action=edit Fri Jan 5-11 The Boy and the Heron Nightly + Matinees Yukon Theatre Hayao Miyazaki’s first feature film in 10 years, The Boy and the Heron is a hand-drawn, original story written and directed by the Academy Award-winning director.

Monthly 2nd & 4th Mondays Service Officer 7:00 AM Royal Canadian Legion Whitehorse An invite to all Veterans, Police and First responders for the service hour at the Legion, socialise and find out what is going on. https://bit.ly/3Lm40ZG 2nd & 4th Sundays Grade 8 – 12 High School Youth Group 6:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend.

Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth Monthly 2nd & 4th Wednesdays Whitehorse Photography Club - Meetup 7:00 PM Yukon University - Whitehorse Campus Held in Rm A2204. Discuss photography, share your work, learn new tips and tricks. http://whitehorsephotoclub.ca/ First Thursdays QYS Charmed Stitches 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Fiber crafts night. Bring your knitting, crochet, beading, sewing, stitching, etc, to The Cache to sit and stitch with other queer crafters.

Second Thursday QYS Movie Nights 5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Last Thursdays Repair Cafe 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Bring it in and see if it is fixable using soldering irons, multimeters, and other tools. This easy introduction to electronics and small home appliance repair is a useful evening of DIY learning that you can take home.

2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come on out and test your music knowledge!

Teams of no more than 6 people.

Last Friday Friday Night Karaoke 7:30 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 The last Friday of the month come practise your high and low notes or just watch! For members or signed in guests. https://bit. ly/3XJbTw4 Every 2nd Friday TGIF Dinner 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Every 2nd Friday, tickets to be bought in person at legion throughout the week leading up to dinner. No tickets at the door day of.

Weekly Mondays Play Pool 1:00 PM Golden Age Society Becoming more limber and agile in your movements through playing billiards is a great benefit.

Play Whist 1:30 PM Golden Age Society Classic English trick-taking card game which was widely played in the 18th and 19th centuries. Although the rules are simple, there is scope for strategic play

Women’s Bible Study 6:00pm Women’s Bible Study. Refreshments are served followed by the study. For more info check out www.mountainview.church or email rachel@mountainview.church.

Tuesdays Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) Le Café de l’amitié est un rendez-vous hebdomadaire et une occasion de rassemblement pour les francophones de 50 ans et plus.

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society The Cache 2:00 PM Language Skills for Ukrainians 5:15 PM Yukon Learn A discussion group workshop provides a relaxed and friendly environment where learners can practise and learn English conversation skills.

Weekly Shuffleboard Tournament 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For members and signed in guests. A double knockout style competition and games are limited to 6 ends or 15 minutes Chess Club 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn?

Looking for Competition? Join us!

SuperSmash Bros, Mtg: Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles 10 Card Crib - Members & Signed In Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play!

Learn tips and tricks and have some fun! https://bit.ly/3KP0B5s Wednesdays Spanish Conversation Group 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Casual, no lessons, just conversations. Wednesdays noon, info Louise call 687-7238 or Michele 867-333-6081.

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society The Cache 2:00 PM Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!

Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Call 333-6081 for more info.

Anglican Holy Communion – Whitehorse 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month

Tarot Card Readings with Sari Horvath Baked Cafe 9:15 AM Sari uses her wisdom and guidance through tarot cards to help answer your life questions!

Please use email to book appointments treasurebooksyxy@gmail.com Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age Society Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.

Crib 1:00 PM Golden Age Society Cribbage is an easy game to learn but hard to master. For more info call 6685538.

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society The Cache 2:00 PM Mtg: Pioneer, YuGiOh Casual 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Saturdays Cribbage - Members and Signed in Guests 2:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Masks are mandatory.

Members must have a valid 2021 membership and they may sign in 2 guests MAX. Pokemon, Mtg: Youth Magic, Lorcana 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Sundays Mountainview Church Sunday Service 9:30 AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/ Watch Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone Whitehorse United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM a caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00 PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition.

Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.

Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church

KIDS & FAMILIES Monthly 1st & 3rd Saturdays Grades 5 - 7 Junior Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church Passionate about giving kids opportunities to have fun & make new friends, while teaching them about Jesus & His great love for our world https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth 2nd and 4th Saturdays Grade 8 - 12 High School Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend.

Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth

Weekly Mondays Drop-In 9:00 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Gym Open to all ages – Children, youth, and teens must be accompanied by an adult.

Babynastics with Coach Stephanie 9:30 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Babynastics is a semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5.

Tuesdays Babynastics with Coach Naomi 10:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Babynastics is a semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5.

Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library Join us for stories, songs & rhymes! A free drop-in program for children ages 0-5 and caregivers at Whitehorse Public Library Native Grad Regalia Sewing Program 4:00 PM Northern Cultural Expressions Free accredited program for indigenous high school graduates of 2024. Call 633-4186 or email executiveassistant@ northernculture.org to register.

Wednesdays French Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library Wednesdays French Story Time at Whitehorse Public Library. Songs, stories and rhymes, en français, for children under 5 and their parents.

Thursdays Babynastics with Coach Ewan 1:00 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Babynastics is a semi-structured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5.

Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Youth 11-17 are invited to join, no experience necessary.

Tue Jan 2 - 5 The Sun Room for Kids Daily Old Fire Hall Book a private session with your kids and friends in The Sun Room. A great way to schedule play dates during the cold dark days. Enjoy The Sun Room with just your kid(s) or bring up to nine friends with you to your session. https://nakaitheatre.com/ calendar/the-sun-room2024 Sun Jan 7 Bobs and Lolo 4:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre The creators and stars of the upbeat, musical preschool series - Sing, Dance and Play with Bobs & LoLo. Tickets online. https://www. yukontickets.com Meetings Monthly First Monday Klondike Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa.yk.ca/comingevents/ Third Thursday ASAY board monthly meeting Sport Yukon 10:00 PM Third Thursday Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Monthly Meeting 5:00 PM ZOOM Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition for regular meeting. Everyone is welcome.

Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https:// yapc.ca/actions/detail/yapcs-monthlymeetings Tue Dec 19 Online Friends and Family Support Group 5:30 PM Online A hybrid in-person/online group with guest speakers. For more info or to register 332-3161 or programs@ yukon.cmha.ca. https://whatsupyukon. events/pxn Date 1 https://www. whatsupyukon.com/wp-admin/post. php?post=139673&action=edit

ONLINE EVENTS Fridays AA Yukon Unity Group 1:30 PM Online For Zoom Room address Contact 334-7693 Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.

Native Grad Regalia Sewing Program 4:00 PM Northern Cultural Expressions Free accredited program for indigenous high school graduates of 2024. Call 633-4186 or email executiveassistant@ northernculture.org to register.

Tuesdays Restorative Online Healing Circles 7:30 PM Online Check-in, Q&A, connect and feel the results. No experience necessary. Register online, or call 335-0078 or email alison@ alisonzeidler.com for more info.

Saturdays

Tue Dec 19 Online Friends and Family Support Group 5:30 PM Online A hybrid in-person/online group with guest speakers. For more info or to register 332-3161 or programs@yukon.cmha.ca.

Drop-In 3:00 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club enjoy the gym as a giant indoor play space. A great place to practise skills or just play and explore! Open gym is for members only

Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Thursdays Public Speaking Training Toastmasters 12:00 PM Northwestel Building Guests are always welcome.

There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services) QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society & The Cache Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Find out what role playing games are all about!

Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome.

Mtg: casual Commander, Warhammer 40k & Kill Team 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Mountainview Church Community Group 7:00 PM 16 years or older?

Mountainview Church Community Group! We’ll share some snacks and talk about what the bible has to say about discipleship.

Fridays Yukon Amateur Radio Association Coffee Discussion Group 8:45 AM A&W Restaurant Hams from outside the Yukon and those interested are welcome to join us in this casual event.

Season’s Greetings from Mayor and Council!

The City of Whitehorse wishes you a safe and healthy holiday season, and all the best in the New Year!

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December 20, 2023

Freelance with

Manus Hopkins Manus Hopkins is a Toronto- and Whitehorse-based journalist, musician and lover of heavy metal and cats.

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE A VOICE Child and Youth Advocacy Caseworker Competition closes January 9, 2024 This competition will give preference to candidates of Indigenous ancestry.

This competition is for a full-time term position to September 30, 2025.

Salary will be based on experience within a range from $87,091 to $101,013 per annum plus 12% in lieu of pension.

Reporting to the Child & Youth Advocate, the Child and Youth Advocacy Caseworker is an advocacy specialist responsible for the provision of professional advocacy services for Yukon children and youth by providing information, assistance, advice and support to children and youth, ensuring they have access to Yukon government services, and their views and rights are considered in decisions made about them.

The Child and Youth Advocate is an independent officer of the Yukon Legislative Assembly responsible for administration of the Child and Youth Advocate Act. For more information about the Yukon Child and Youth Advocate Office, please visit ycao.ca.

For more information about his position, please contact Julia Milnes, Deputy Advocate at julia.milnes@ycao.ca or call (867) 456-5575.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to: Justin Gorczyca, Director of Administration, Finance and Systems at the Legislative Assembly Office at justin.gorczyca@yukon.ca.

Essential Qualifications: Please submit your resume clearly demonstrating how you meet the following qualifications. Please note selection for further consideration will be based solely on the information provided in the resume.

MUSIC, PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY Tom Jackson’s The Huron Carole is set to air on Indigenous TV channels APTN and APTN lumi this month

F

irst presented as an inperson live performance at Halifax’s Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, the 36th annual The Huron Carole will see a series of presentations on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and streaming branch APTN lumi this holiday season. The Huron Carole is a Canadian benefit concert founded by musician, actor and activist Tom Jackson.

Beginning December 14, the broadcasting continues with showings throughout the holiday season, including on December 24, aiming to celebrate Tom Jackson’s legacy of raising over $250 million for various humanitarian causes.

In addition to the scheduled broadcasts of The Huron Carole on APTN, the concert will also be available on APTN lumi from December 14 onwards, for viewers to watch it on their own time.

“Featuring a diverse lineup of performers, The Huron Carole perfectly aligns with APTN’s commitment to celebrating Indigenous talent, cultures and communities,” commented Mike Omelus, executive director of content and strategy at APTN. “The concert has evolved into a national symbol of unity and charitable spirit, which we’re delighted to share with our viewers this festive season.”

∙ Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the field of psychology, child and youth care, social work, education, law, or other related discipline. ∙ Extensive experience engaging children and youth of all ages and abilities. ∙ Knowledge of Yukon government and First Nation government(s) programs and services. ∙ Recent experience working with Yukon First Nations governments, and working with Indigenous individuals, families and organizations. ∙ Extensive case management experience including administrative responsibilities, record keeping, drafting correspondence and data collection. ∙ Excellent interpersonal skills including ability to communicate effectively (both orally and written), conflict resolution skills, counselling skills.

Some travel is required.

A Signed Oath of Confidentiality and a Signed Declaration of Conflict of Interest are required for this position.

Mike Omelus Among the artists who appeared onstage at this year’s event are Andrea Menard, PIQSIQ, Loreena McKennitt, Measha

PHOTO: Courtesy of APTN

The Huron Carole aims to celebrate Tom Jackson’s legacy of raising over $250 million for various humanitarian causes Brueggergosman-Lee, Beverley Mahood and more. The 90-minute seasonal showcase was produced by the Christmas & Winter Relief Association Inc. with the goal of supporting vulnerable communities in Canada by raising funds for the Canadian Red Cross, according to APTN. “I’m thrilled that APTN is broadcasting The Huron Carole this year, allowing us to spread the joy of this special concert even further,” said Jackson.

“Together, through the power of music, we can make a positive impact across the nation to help save lives.”

Launched in 1999, APTN is the first national Indigenous broadcaster in the world and has become a global leader in programming that celebrates the diversity of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island and beyond.

The broadcaster presents programming in English, French

Your Guide to Living Yukon Life a Little Better

WH TSUP YUKON All Northern. All Fun.

and multiple Indigenous languages. Nearly 10 million Canadian households regularly tune in, and APTN is proud to feature over 80 per cent Canadian content. The Huron Carole fits right in with the themes and messages APTN strives to put forward.

“My hope is that The Huron Carole will provide a light of joy to a world that sometimes can seem dark,” Jackson tells What’s Up Yukon. “The show brings the gift of faith, hope, empathy, compassion, and mostly love, for all.”

APTN is inviting its viewers to donate in the spirit of giving, which those who are interested can do by visiting redcross.ca/ disasterscanada/huroncarole or simply texting ANGELS to 30333 to contribute $10. To Learn more about APTN and The Huron Carole, visit www.aptn.ca or www. aptn.ca/media-centre/shows/ the-huron-carole/ n

December 20, 2023

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! ! a h ! ! a h

ha!!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

LAUGH YOU R TO GREAT C A** OFF OMEDY

=

DAVE H

EMSTAD

YLOR KELLY TA Kelly is from Northern Saskatchewan, and loves the outdoors. If anyone wants to add him to their Mount Logan expedition he is in. He has toured the world and says the north is the best.

He has multiple TV appearances at all the major comedy festivals including Montreals Just for Laughs. He is the host of a popular podcast “ Tic with a side of Tets” A 3 time finalist for The Search for Canada’s Top comic, and a past winner of Canadian College Comedian of the year.

Born and raised in Thornhill, Ontario, Dave Hemstad was an Academic All-American golfer who was struck by lightning during a tournament...which significantly altered his career path. Dave has spent the last 20 years performing stand-up comedy around the world and is highly sought after for his particular brand of clean humour, dissecting our day-to-day lives with a razor sharp wit that is oh-so-relatable.

Dave is a triple threat in the comedy world as a stand-up, writer, and actor. He has taped numerous gala sets at Just For Laughs, the Halifax Comedy Festival, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, as well as recording his own Comedy Now! special. Dave is a regular and favourite on CBC’s The Debaters and has written for CBC’s Still Standing and for the 2016 Canadian Screen Awards. As an actor Dave starred in the TV series Almost Heroes, co-starred in the CBS Sports golf show Off The Hozzle, and has many other acting credits to his name. His new comedy album “DAD INTENTIONS” is available on iTunes and Spotify.

2 NIGHTS THURSDAY / FRIDAY JANUARY 19, 2024 JANUARY 18

Town Hall at the Goldrush INN TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE through our

facebook page RideForDadYukon

MEDIA PARTNERS:

Raising money for the fight against Prostate Cancer

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ALFF.CA

December 20, 2023