What's Up Yukon, January 25, 2023

PHOTO: Cathie Archbould

THE TRAPPER’S LIFE

TO READ ON A TRAPLINE

tells of his father who prospected for silver and gold from Colorado to Mexico, drove Montana cattle to remote camps in British Columbia and ended up in the Cariboo region in 1907. There, he and his sons built a ranch on pristine land next to a lake.

TouchWood Editions, Surrey, B.C.

There are also stories highlighting various travels with his family.

FriesenPress, Altona, Manitoba

We used to use kerosene lamps and candles, but the eyesight doesn’t get any better as we get on in years. Now we use a 5-Watt LED bulb, which the solar battery doesn’t really notice. So here we go with the books to hunker down with on a cold, dark night:

Eric Collier’s Three against the Wilderness, an international bestseller, tells of his family’s move to the Chilcotin area of British Columbia in the 1930s. The beaver is trapped out, but Eric reintroduces them to Meldrum Creek. The title is not well chosen, as Eric and his family would surely have moved back to the city if they’d had a horrible time in the wilderness! But they thrived in it.

From the same publishing house comes The Rainbow Chasers, by Ervin Austin MacDonald. He

Read about A.L. Karras’ rugged trapper life in northern Saskatchewan, where in the 1920s and ’30s, escaping the Depression, he and his brother brave the howling winds and learn to live off the land. North to Cree Lake and Face the North Wind are both illustrated with authentic drawings. PaperJacks, Ontario; and Burns & Maceachern Ltd., Ontario

Are you fond of short adventure-packed stories that highlight life in the bush? Well, Terry Wilkinson, a long-time guide and trapper, has written a book: That Red Headed Yukon Guide and Trapper You will enjoy the mostly short, sometimes-hilarious stories from more than 40 years in the wilderness, with his wife Ruth and their two children Joel and Chelsea.

For all bird lovers out there, Canadian author Katherine Govier’s Creation has sensibly captured J. J. Audubon’s expedition to the Gulf of St. Lawrence in 1833. Audubon’s story is smartly intertwined with Captain Bayfield, of the Royal Navy, whose job it was to chart this labyrinthine coast.

Vintage Canada, Toronto

James Michener wraps countries’ beginnings and histories into very readable novels. Say you want to visit Mexico, Poland or Alaska—he wrote the book. You might start by reading his short story “Journey,” about an overland trip to the Yukon goldfields. Imagine floating from Lake Athabasca to Dawson City. Some tried, fewer arrived. This journey took gold seekers from the Slave, Mackenzie and Peel rivers to the promised land, only to find out that all of the gold claims had

When the evenings get longer, we enjoy reading a good book

PHOTOS: Sonja Seeber

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.

Unpacking a box of books feels like Christmas

already been staked. But before getting to Dawson, those men had to quickly set up winter camp, for two consecutive years, so as not to freeze to death out in the bush.

Fawcett Crest, New York

From master storyteller Ken Follett comes an epic trilogy that will knock your socks off: Fall of Giants, Winter of the World and Edge of Eternity tell the story of five families that span 97 years, from 1911–2008. English, Americans, Germans, Welsh and Russians meet each other and are torn apart by the big wars of the twentieth century, as well as by civil rights, Vietnam, the Wall, and rock ’n’ roll.

Dutton, New York

Wilbur Smith is on the same level as Ken Follett, to be sure. If you can only take one box of books with you, take his—especially River God. Escape to warmer climates like Egypt: there, in 1988, a tomb was found and opened. In a hidden niche were located 10 sealed alabaster vases. The scrolls

from the vases were translated and, subsequently, Wilbur Smith was tasked with rewriting this original transcription into a style that would make it more accessible to the modern reader. He’ll draw you into a magnificent saga of pharaohs, kingdoms, wars, and one very wise eunuch slave named Taita. Once you’ve read River God, you’ll go on to read the following Taita books, although, at this time, “merely” imagined.

Pan Books, London, England

Tired of that long Yukon winter and looking to book a trip to the beach? Take with you an entertaining Robin Cook medical thriller. Pick up Critical, where Laurie, a New York City medical examiner, must find out what’s behind a surge of infections in three hospitals. Time is against her as she has to rush to save her husband’s life as well.

Berkley Books, New York

Have you got sore muscles from all of that snow shovelling? Bruised an ankle from tripping over a snow-covered log? Get Beverley Gray’s award-winning, beautiful coffee-table book (and definitely a workbook) Boreal Herbal, and prepare yourself for next winter. It’s quite amazing how a tree heals itself after I make a blaze mark with an axe; the tree starts to bleed and that blood is called sap or pitch. Collect spruce sap, which works by itself as a lozenge for coughs and sore throats. Or mix it with grease to treat cuts. Use aspen and willow leaves and bark to make a tea. They contain salicin, also found in store-bought aspirin tablets. Dandelions: Do you love them or look at them sideways? Either way, make dandy-oil

with blossoms (and roots), olive oil and vitamin E oil to draw out tension and toxins. It works like a charm.

Aroma Borealis Press, Whitehorse, Yukon

Once you’re done reading all of your books, you can start again or take an old newspaper:

The scene: Two old-timers named Bob and Ted are sitting on stools in their trapper cabin.

Bob reads the five-month-old paper, muttering more to himself: “Says here, ‘Win a return trip for two.’”

Asks His buddy Ted, “Where to?”

Replies Bob, “Well … back here!”

(Thank you, Frantic Follies!)

And if you never tire of snow and ice, then read about the 1991 discovery of Ötzi, the 5,000-yearold Stone Age man in South Tyrol,

Italy. Found laying around him were arrow shafts, his cap, some clothes, fragments of a birchbark container and more. With many pictures. The author is Konrad Spinnler and the book is titled The Man in the Ice, Harmony Books, New York

Check out what Mac’s Fireweed Books in Whitehorse has to offer. You’ll find a plethora of books on the North: from seafaring to canoeing, and from hiking to cooking. Then next time you’re in the big city, check out our lovely second-hand bookstore Well-Read Books. I predict an unexpected find and maybe even a new favourite author! And if you would rather have someone read to you, visit one of our cozy community libraries and check out the audio books.

Be safe now and read on! Sonja Seeber, Yukon Trapper n

MAKING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY

Many of us feel isolated, bombarded and overwhelmed by news of the horrors happening around the world; everything feels tenuous: the economy, the environment, politics. As I write this, it’s early January and people are posting their highlight reels on their social-media accounts about all the wonderful things they experienced in 2022. While the high points should definitely be celebrated and shared, they don’t tell the full story. They don’t show people’s struggles, their fears, their hardships. And sometimes those are the only things that we see in ourselves and our own lives. The holidays and the new year can be a time of a lot of joy and community, but it can also be stressful: it can bring up difficult memories and remind us of our shortcomings. Our financial and emotional burdens can feel especially heavy, and the long, dark nights can lead to feelings of despair and depression. The exact things that are supposed to help us stay connected (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) are also the things

that lead to more comparison in our lives, than ever before, and to more feelings of isolation and separation.

In his newest book, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture, the Hungarian-Canadian physician Gabor Maté explores how we, as a society, have come to this place of increasing chronic disease, stress, addiction and mental illness. In many ways, we’re all currently living in a time of social and possibly personal crisis. Uncertainty and

loss of control are two of the biggest triggers of stress, globally, if not also personally, so many things seem uncertain and completely out of our control. Worldwide, many of us feel disconnected from ourselves, from others, from nature and from a sense of purpose. Maté refers to healing as moving towards wholeness, uncovering our traumas with “compassionate curiosity” and getting to know who we really are, and beginning

In a time when technology seems to connect people in more ways than ever before, it also seems to have brought us to a moment where, emotionally and psychologically, humanity is at an all-time low point

Staying afloat amidst hardship

PHOTOS: Jessica Surber

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

with

Jessica Surber

to live our lives from that authentic self that we’ve lost touch with. However, we live in a society that so often tells us to not be ourselves and that teaches us early on that emotional vulnerability is dangerous and is best avoided.

We put on a happy face and no one can tell the pain that we’re going through behind the mask. Maybe you don’t feel like you can ask for help or be vulnerable with the people closest to you. Maybe you carry a lot of responsibility and believe you need to be strong for everyone else. Unfortunately, there are limits as to how long a person can just keep moving along as if nothing is wrong. The world has lost so many incredible, loving and kind people over the years, and the common reflection after their deaths is always one of shock and sadness over the despair they must have been feeling to have taken that final step. From the outside, we only saw Robin Williams’ humour and Anthony Bourdain’s love for adventure.

This past December, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, a co-executive producer and DJ on the talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show, died by suicide. He had a wife who he made viral dance videos with, and three beautiful young kids. And he seemed to have spent his life spreading joy and kindness. No one knew what he was really going through.

I truly hope that no one reading this is anywhere near such a place of pain and hopelessness. Most likely, however, you are going through something

Maybe we can turn things around and start to use technology to search for pockets of positivity in a world that sometimes seems to be so set on getting us down. Maybe we can use it as a tool to find ways to feel less alone instead of only making us feel like less. And maybe we can begin to use it to learn how to feel more connected to ourselves again. Working on your mental health used to mean that you had to make an

appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist in a town near you. That’s still a completely valid way to move towards healing, but fortunately it’s not the only option anymore. In places like the Yukon, we don’t have the same kind of in-person resources that a large

for example, is an online counselling platform that connects users to licensed therapists with whom you can interact via phone, video sessions, chat or messages. You could be sitting in your off-grid cabin in the Yukon or on vacation on a beach in Mexico and still be

stagram accounts, YouTube channels and podcasts, and some even offer online courses. Whatever kind of help you’re looking for, there is most likely someone out there who will speak to what you’re going through. John Kim (a.k.a. The Angry Therapist) has

thusiastic, no-excuses, practical approach to living a better life. For those interested in the growing research on the benefits of psilocybin therapy and the traditional uses of other plant medicines in treating depression and anxiety, the number of articles online are countless. There are thousands of resources available now to everyone with an internet connection, and often they’re free of charge.

We, as Yukoners, are also blessed with several non-digital mental-wellness tools. We have a great teacher and healer right outside our front doors in the form of the natural world that surrounds us here in the North. Ecotherapy (naturebased therapy) is becoming an increasingly popular form of improving one’s health and well-being by engaging in outdoor activities, and we’re lucky enough to live in a place where we can connect with nature whenever we want and as deeply as we need. We also live in communities, we know our neighbours and we can reach out to the people around us. In a city, one might be surrounded by a greater quantity of people but feel a lot more isolated and disconnected. In a way, the Yukon has its own pharmacy that it offers to us if we’re willing to be open to it.

city might have. It can be weeks or months until a therapist has an opening, and if you live in a rural part of the territory, getting to an appointment can feel like one more reason not to go. Luckily, there are an increasing number of resources online that can bring us closer to wholeness. BetterHelp,

able to talk with an accredited and experienced professional.

If you’re more of a do-it-yourself individual and want to search for things on your own, there are so many therapists, counsellors, life coaches and motivational speakers who are sharing their work online now. They have In-

built an entire therapeutic community online, along with writing several books on relationships, men’s mental health and living your own truth. Mel Robbins, who is best known for her books The 5 Second Rule and The High 5 Habit, launched a podcast at the end of last year that’s filled with her en-

Whether you’re going through the loss of a loved one, generalized anxiety, postpartum depression, loneliness, relationship problems, clinical depression or some other crisis or hard situation, know that you’re not alone. Ask for help, look for podcasts and books that speak to you, find hope online, share your story, spend time outside and reach out to nature and, most importantly, reach out to each other. We hide behind a strong facade sometimes because we think it’s best for the people closest to us. But maybe your vulnerability and openness can not only help save you, but someone else as well. n

Nature as a healer

FRIED OKRA WITH SPICY MAYO

kra

But if you embrace the slime, they are a

fear the slime! Serves 2.

Instructions

Season the egg with salt and pepper. Working in batches, coat each piece of okra with egg mixture, then with cornmeal.

Heat oil in a small pan over medium-high heat (when the end of a wooden spoon placed in the hot oil bubbles , the oil is has reached the correct temperature.

Frying a few pieces at a time, cook the okra until the cornmeal is brown (about 1–2 minutes per side). Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel, then repeat with remaining okra.

Mix together mayonnaise and hot sauce (to taste), for dipping, and serve alongside the fried okra. n

Dip okra in egg, then in cornmeal

column with Sydney Keddy

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.

Okra

PHOTOS: Sydney Keddy

FINGER FOOD FOR DARK NIGHTS

Sausage Rolls for The Darkness

The package nestled under the tree, a ticking time bomb. On Christmas Day, a resident tore away the purple paper and the bomb exploded into lurid blues and yellows emblazoned with screaming white letters: Mick Herron. Bad Actors. A Novel.

Jackson Lamb and his cohort of disgraced spies invaded the house, filling every spare corner. Ordinary life became impossible. Appointments were missed, ski dates forgotten. One resident after another succumbed, pulled into the teeming slough of deceit, betrayal and backstabbing. Mick Herron has been called the new John Le Carré. The style is different; but the terrain, the same: MI5, underdogs, spies, counter spies, suspense and improbable victory stained by loss.

After three days, the residents raised their heads, blinking. The thrilling ordeal was over. The final deal was made, the final betrayal complete. They could ski again. But then a friend lobbed another bomb: earlier Herron novels featuring Lamb and his ragtag team had been dramatized for television. Slow Horses. Two seasons, available on a channel to which the residents subscribed (AppleTV Plus).

The siren called; the noose drew tighter. Escape was impossible. Agents surrounded the house. The dog whined and the family phoned. They were ignored.

The residents took to eating in front of the TV. New recipes became necessary. Food that could be brought from plate to mouth without looking. Smoked oysters and cream cheese on crackers. Sausage rolls. Yes, sausage rolls. On the day the residents bingewatched the entire second season.

Sometimes the only way to banish the darkness of January is to dive into darkness. Slow Horses. Gary Oldman. Good luck.

SAUSAGE ROLLS FOR THE DARKNESS

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes

• 1/3 cup (78 ml) cold water, more as needed.

• 1 lb (4 large) flavourful sausages (try Italian-style moose, bison, caribou or local pork)

• 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 egg, beaten with 1 Tbsp water, for egg wash

Instructions

Pastry

1. In a food processor: add flour and salt to the bowl (of the food processor). Pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until butter is the size of peas. With the machine running, drizzle in the water. Stop the machine and pinch a piece of dough between the fingers. If it holds together firmly, it’s ready. If it’s still

crumbly, add more water, one teaspoon at a time.

2. By hand: whisk flour and salt together in a medium-sized bowl. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives. When the pieces of butter are the size of peas, drizzle in the water, tossing the dough with a fork. When all the water has been added, pinch a piece of dough between the fingers. If it holds together firmly, it’s ready. If it’s still crumbly, add water, tossing with a fork, one teaspoon at a time.

3. Lay a good-sized piece of parchment paper on a countertop. Transfer the dough onto the parchment paper. Using the parchment paper as a barrier between the dough and your hands, press the dough into a rectangle about 9 by 5 inches in size, tucking in any crumbly bits.

4. With the short end of the rectangle facing you, fold the far

edge into the center and repeat with the edge nearest you. Give the dough a quarter turn, press or roll it into a rectangle and fold it the same way again. This folding technique will give the pastry the light, layered texture essential to a top-notch sausage roll.

5. Wrap the dough tightly in the parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 1 day.

Assembly

1. While the dough is chilling, remove the skins from the sausages with a pair of scissors, cutting the length of each one and peeling the skin apart, keeping the sausage shape intact.

2. Preheat oven to 425℉.

3. Sprinkle a countertop with flour. Roll out the dough, dusting with flour as necessary to keep from sticking, until you have a strip of dough 24 inches long and 5 inches wide. Turn the dough so

that the long edge is facing you.

4. Spread mustard on the dough, covering all but 1 1/2 inches in from each edge. Lay the sausages end to end, about 1 1/2 inches from one edge. Brush egg wash between the meat and the edge of the dough. Fold the other edge over the meat and onto the egg-washed part. Make sure the dough is sealed well and the seam is on the bottom. Brush the whole length with egg wash on all sides.

5. Cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces—you should get 16. Place one inch apart on a parchment-lined baking tray and cook for 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

6. Serve hot or at room temperature, with honey mustard for dipping (if you trust yourself not to spill honey mustard all over you or the chesterfield).

Makes 16 appetizer-sized sausage rolls, enough for 4 intensely focussed binge-watchers. n

Miche Genest is a Whitehorse-based chef and writer. She is also somewhat of a gardener. Miche has also written two books: The Boreal Feast - A Culinary Journey Through The North and The Boreal Gourmet - Adventures In Northern Cooking.

The MI5 agents came into the house by stealth, wrapped in worn, crinkled purple tissue paper

PHOTO: Miche Genest

Continuing Studies Northern Institute of Social Justice

YukonU.ca/nisj

WINTER TRAINING COURSES AND SHORT, FREE WEBINARS

Mindful Self-Compassion

Feb. 1 - Mar. 8 Wed 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

CODE: JUST CE107 $200 + GST CRN: 90077

Instructor: Marcia Burton Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on Deadline Jan. 25

Responding with Resilience

Feb 7, Tue 10 am  - 11:30 am

CODE: JUST CE114 FREE CRN: 90044

Instructors: Megan Grudeski & Erin Legault Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Jan 31

Working with Trauma

Feb 9 - 10, Thur - Fri 9:00 am - 12:00 pm  CODE: JUST CE70 $250 + GST CRN: 90045

Instructors: Liza Manolis & Brenda Jenner Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Feb 2

Aging Well in Uncertain Times

Feb 21-Mar 28, Tues 1:00 pm -3:00 pm

CODE: JUST CE109 $75 + GST CRN: 90116

Instructors: Larry Gray and Susan Manning

Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Feb 14

Coping During Crisis

Mar 1, Wed  9:00 am - 10:00 am

CODE: JUST CE103 FREE

CRN: 90046

Instructors: Liza Manolis & Brenda Jenner

Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Feb 22

Applied Suicide Interven on Skills Training

Mar 8-9, Wed-Thur 8:30 am  - 4:00 pm

CODE: ASIS 002 $200 + GST

CRN: 90047

Instructors: Megan Grudeski & Erin Legault Delivered in-person:  Yukon Univers Ayamdigut Campus Rm C1530

Registra on deadline: Mar 1

Mo va onal Interviewing

Mar 31 Fri 8:30 am - 4:00 pm

CODE: JUST CE118 $279 + GST CRN: 90080

Early Bird Registra on deadline: Feb 24 $249 + GST

Instructors: CTRI - Sarah Clou er Delivered in-person:  Yukon Univers Ayamdigut Campus Rm C1530 Registra on deadline: Mar 17

Naviga ng Di cult Client Rela onships       Apr 5, Wed 8:30 am - 4:00 pm

CODE: JUST CE120  $279 + GST CRN: 90048

Early Bird Registra on deadline: Mar 1 $249 + GST

Instructors: CTRI –Natashaa Cha erton Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Mar 22

Talking Tough (Topics) –The Skill and Prac ce of Naviga ng Di cult Conversa ons   Apr 6, Thur 10 am - 11:30 am CODE: JUST CE112 FREE    CRN: 90049

Instructors: Megan Grudeski & Erin Legault

Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Mar 30

Mental Health First Aid Canada for Northern Peoples  Apr 11-13 Tue-Thur 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

CODE: JUST 034 $245 + GST    CRN: 90050

Instructors: Joanne Green & Laura Anderson Delivered in-person:  Yukon Univers Ayamdigut Campus Rm C1530

Registra on deadline: Apr 3

Sit in My Puddle – the art of Empathy and Holding Space

Apr 18, Tue 10:00 am - 11:30 am

CODE: JUST CE111 FREE CRN: 90051

Instructors: Megan Grudeski & Erin Legault

Delivered: Remotely via Zoom Registra on deadline: Apr 11

Yukon First Na ons 101

June 14, Wed 8:30am - 4:00pm

CODE: YFN 001 $325 + GST CRN: 90034

Instructors: Yukon U’s First Na ons In a ves Dept. Delivered in-person:  Yukon Univers Ayamdigut Campus Rm C1530

Registra on deadline: Jun 7

REGISTRATION OPTIONS:

• Contact Registrations & Records at 867-668-8710 EXT 2 and quote the CRN; • Register by emailing registrations@yukonu.ca

WITHDRAWAL POLICY: Please note that if you wish to withdraw from your non-academic course, we require a no ce of seven business days prior to your course start date in order for you to receive a full refund. This adheres to our cancella on policy for all withdrawal of non-academic courses.

PART 2

I heard your goal is the Yukon Quest 250. Can you describe a bit more about this race and why you chose to set your sights on this goal? And what are your next steps to achieve entry and participate in the race?

The Yukon Quest was previously 1,000 miles and is now split into two lengths, one on the American side of the border and the other on the Canadian side.

I would like to run the Iditarod before I turn forty, and I am thirtyfour right now. In order to enter the Iditarod, you have to run qualifying races to get in. You need a certain number of miles and only certain races qualify for the Iditarod. The Yukon Quest is one of them.

The Yukon Quest, on the Canadian side, has three separate lengths: the 450, the 250 and the 100. They all start on the same day, February 11, and the teams run on the same trail, but the teams are spaced out at the start line in Shipyards Park in Whitehorse. In the race, there are checkpoints and people keeping an eye out.

The 250 ends in Pelly, so we hope to finish with wagging tails there. This will be the longest race that I will have run, up to this point, and my goal is to finish happy and healthy.

We’ve already entered into the Yukon Quest 250, and our kennel, Dog Song Rising, [has a] bio up on the website. We still need to get drop bags ready and make sure all the snacks are cut up. We need dog booties, food and racing supplies. Our vet check is already done and the dogs have all been vaccinated. We’ve paid our dues and now we are finishing our training and getting our supplies together.

I’m really excited about the race and would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. Training my yearling team and knowing that I have trained all the dogs on my team helps instill confidence. We will take it one mile at a time. We have already been in some harrowing experiences while training out in the bush, and we are still here. No matter what happens, we will figure it out one step at a time. Number-one rule is never let go. We will do the best we can and that’s all we can do. We aren’t racing to win; we are going for the experi-

ence. Hopefully these yearlings will be the backbone of my future Iditarod team. I am nervous, but I’ve got them and they’ve got me.

My main team is ten dogs. One of my dogs didn’t make the team— Sjoa. She has gone to do tours, to soak up all the attention and run a little slower. I swapped her with a dog from Paul Hamlyn, for one of his younger dogs, Guss. We will be running ten dogs if they all make the cut. We can run with less but will try to get ten dogs on the start line.

For my own body, I don’t have to do anything other than to stay healthy, take my vitamins and try to avoid injury. I am passionate about health and diet and am not afraid of the foods that keep me safe out there. Keeping weight on my body keeps me warm. Fat is fuel. Dogs run on protein and fat. Let’s just say I’m not turning down bacon and coffee at this point! I don’t go to the gym; my life takes care of that. Some people try to lose weight. I’m the opposite. I like to keep a little extra in the tank. I’ll need it. I’ve been focussing on getting good food into my body.

Race, run, rest. This is the process of the Yukon Quest 250. Run six hours and rest four to six hours. It will take a few days, for sure. I’ll be spending nights at the checkpoints and, at times, on the trail. I’ve got no expectations. I’m just going to watch the dogs and pay attention to myself and the weather. Dogs love running, but if you push young dogs too hard, they will think it’s not fun. You want them to want to do more and to have a fun experience with a positive mindset.

How much do you rely on your community and friends to help you with your racing goals, and how much of it is an independent endeavour? Is there anything you are looking for in terms of community support at this time? If so, how can we help?

Well, when I doubt myself, my friends come to my help over long, late-night phone conversations. My best friend is also a dog musher and she has been there for me through it all. My close friends and family are cheering me on and happy for me. They are seeing me thrive af-

ter I’ve been struggling for so long. I’ve gotten off the “survive train” and onto the “thrive train.” People say I inspire them and I do have sponsors for some of my dogs and team and am grateful for them.

But the training and running and being on the trail is a kind of independent thing. No one is going to do it for you. Friends are there for me mentally and physically, when they can be, but a lot of the physical part has been on me. If my dogs are barking at four in the morning, it’s up to me to get up and check out what’s going on. I try to enjoy my midnight post-work dog-yard chores, even when I am tired.

Mushing is an endlessly expensive endeavour. I tried having a t-shirt fundraiser, but it was difficult to get the word out there. I welcome donations, financial support, and meat snacks―and we are always in need of supplies for the race. Mushing and racing is largely self-supported. As an unknown musher, I am taking on more of the financial burden. It will get easier as we do more. Iditarod level is akin to the NHL, and that stuffs expensive!

People can also come cheer me on and follow me and share my posts on social media, this definitely helps. Gifting small donations or purchasing a T-shirt, or gifting extra gear that could help me on the race, is greatly appreciated. Every little bit helps!

Where do you see your mushing goals going after the Quest? Does this feel mapped out or destined to you, or is it one run at a time?

In some ways it seems like a faraway dream, but in other ways the only way to climb a mountain is one step at a time. We will keep aiming for the Iditarod, but it’s important to not sacrifice the adventure for the goal—and to try and enjoy it along the way. If things change, they change.

It’s like one run at a time, but all runs are under the sky. You are always chasing the sun on the horizon and once you get there, there is always another place to go. One will move to the next.

We are going to try to run the Iditarod, like we want to run the Yukon Quest 250, with healthy, happy dogs and who knows what

after that. Even if we don’t run the Iditarod, I will always love this team. Having a goal like the Iditarod keeps me having sight and keeps me going.

What do you feel is important to share with others who want to start mushing or who can relate to your life path?

One thing about mushing is that it’s beautiful, romantic and can show you things you thought you would never see. You will gain confidence but it comes with blood, sweat and tears. Every dog that comes into your life will, at some point, exit your life. You have to be prepared for frozen hands and feet and letting go of dogs. And, it’s really expensive and you are going to sacrifice a lot. It is heartwarming and a tremendous amount of life. Life is messy, and dog mushing is like life. Make sure it is really what you want because your life will be irrevocably changed. There is a tremendous amount of life experience that comes with dogs.

My advice to people wanting to get in with mushing is to experience mushing with someone else, first, and then start with a few dogs to feel what that feels like.

Only the people who are insane enough and love it enough do it. It

takes everything, for better or for worse. Like having a child, maybe you can’t be fully prepared for it, but you have to ask yourself if this is what you really want and are you 100 per cent in. Even if you are mushing with a musher and someone else’s dogs, you will get attached to those dogs.

For women in mushing, I believe it is a chance to gain self-sufficiency and confidence.

It can also be really healing and provide a sense of belonging. I talk about undiagnosed ADHD and being diagnosed later in life. The realization that I am not neurotypical left me perfect for mushing. Dogs get me. A lot of people with ADHD are finding a sense of belonging and thrive with making quick decisions and exercising hyperfocus. The dogs don’t judge you; they love and absorb that attention.

My two female-musher best friends are both on the spectrum, and they excel. There seems to be a correlation. Lots of mushers have ADHD and are on the spectrum, and they connect with dogs and are hyper-focussed. High-performance sports with animals are great for people who find it difficult to connect on a typical level with other people. It is an advantage in mushing. There is a spot,

PHOTO: Jess Sears

column with

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 first book, inspired by a kayaking pilgrimage she did in 2018 from Atlin to Dawson City.

Fall training in all of its glory

Take a break, you deserve it.

especially for women who aren’t diagnosed. They suffer depression, anxiety and self-confidence issues. But the dogs are like therapy to people on the spectrum, and they leave us feeling confident.

I want people who are on the spectrum to know you can do it. Just because you feel like you don’t fit in, don’t give up. Everybody has their place to fit. It is hard to be on the spectrum, but it is also an advantage and helps me excel with my dogs. We suffer enough and can start to accept improvements in our lives, no matter where we are at. I was at the bottom of the barrel, sleeping under the bridge in the rain, and just over a decade later, I am here reaching for something I would have never even dreamed of.

I make better and better decisions because of dog mushing. If you feel like you can’t reach out and get yourself the help you need, do it for your dogs. Sometimes that’s easier. They will love and adore you. They think you are great no matter what. They will always be in your corner, as long as you treat them well and treat them with love and respect.

Is there anything I may have missed that you would like to share with the WUY readers?

I feel like I am in a good place and hope that people who aren’t

in a good place read this and know there is a better tomorrow.

Ten years ago, I was living on the street with undiagnosed ADHD and a severe head injury. I had long-term amnesia. My dogs helped me make better choices when I couldn’t make them for myself. Maybe this could help someone else, down the road, no matter how much people may judge me. It gives me something to believe in. It was really hard to make good decisions in the beginning.

What’s your medicine? What heals you? What waters your roots? What do you reach for and what inspires you to be the best version of yourself?

Mine started with Pollo, then Chi Chi and Lucho Libre. They were in the worst place, but given love and respect, they turned into the most-amazing, fearless dogs. They taught me a lot about myself. I wouldn’t judge my dogs like this— why do I judge myself like this?

We may backslide and have bad days but if we keep trying to make the best decisions, we will always end up in a better place. Get knocked down eight times, get up nine. That is dog mushing. You are going to get up and keep going because there is no choice out there. That is the great experiential lesson of mushing. You can’t disillusion yourself with it. Their

lives depend on you, and your life depends on them. You don’t say “I can’t”; you say “I can.” If you aren’t that kind of person when you start mushing, you will become that person.

I know of a musher named Dee Dee Jonrowe whose house burned down in a house fire, and she saved her 64 dogs from the blaze. Then she had breast cancer and was the only survivor of a fatal car accident. In an interview with her, she says you can’t say “I can’t” … you have to go on.

Between Dee Dee Jonrowe, Laura Allaway and Kathryn Couture, my best friend in Dawson City, these are three of the most-inspiring women mushers who have inspired me and who can inspire you, too. Kathryn is an author, mother and musher who lives in the bush and grows a lot of her own food. Dee Dee Jonrowe is a survivor who has run more Iditarods than any other woman has—and only one less than Jeff King, the record holder. And Laura is a real person who just keeps mushing and running and treating her dogs with love, and doing what it takes. She works as a waitress, to pay her way, and is a regular person (like you and me) who just works really hard. I saw her and thought at some point I can do it, and maybe someone will see me and will think they can do it. You’ve just got to ask yourself how bad you want it.

So inspiring and heartwarming, Jess. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your life and your love of dog mushing with us. All the best of luck for the Yukon Quest 250 and your Iditarod goal!

If you want to support Jess Sears, you can find her on social media, Instagram and Facebook under Dog Song Rising.

Jess would like to give a big thank you and shout-out to her current sponsors:

C & D Feeds

Yukon Inn

Captain Ken’s Adventures

Aroma Borealis

Bear’s Paw Quilts Reflex Nutrition Indian Craft Shop Dogfish Books n

Jess in the dog yard

PHOTO: PerfectShots

In addition to how great the meat tastes, the timing of the spring bear hunt in the Yukon is perfect for people who have been cooking their game meat all winter and are now in need of a fresh supply. Every year, as the amount of meat in the freezer begins to drop and the temperatures outside begin to rise, there is only one thing on our minds: the start of spring bear season.

April 15 is the official first day of the spring bear hunt here in the Yukon, and it goes until mid June. While it is difficult to find bears out of their dens in the first few weeks of the hunt, we always make an effort to get out in April because of how unique the experience is. Glassing snowcovered hills in hopes of turning up an early-season bruin, all the while jigging for lake trout and burbot, is any hunter’s or angler’s dream. With the northern sun now favouring the daylight hours, and the temperatures steadily on the rise, there are days where we spend the majority of our time in T-shirts—sometimes even running out of sunscreen. Getting a sunburn while standing on over a metre of solid ice feels rather paradoxical.

On April 17 of 2019 I set out on the ice, with my good friend and hunting partner Steve Hossack, to check out a new area and to hunt bears. Steve was properly equipped with his cross-country skis, while I roughed it with my old splitboard. Not ideal, but it beat walking. Each of us pulled skimmers that contained our camping and ice-fishing gear, our hunting supplies and a few days worth of food. We pulled an extra skimmer that was empty, in case the hunt was successful. After several hours of skiing up the lake, we found a

nice area to set up the tents. The following morning, we got up early and were treated to some great fishing. It’s always exciting when a new area produces. We managed to hook into one lake trout and several burbot, all before breakfast. Once the fish were cleaned, we made our way back up to camp where we got a fire going and cooked them up. With full bellies and a fresh pot of coffee on, it was time to get busy on the glass. The fire warmed our feet, and the sun began to peak over the mountaintop while we worked our binos and spotting scopes from the comfort of our camp chairs.

At 11 a.m. I noticed Steve’s body language begin to change as he rustled in his chair and leaned forward into his spotting scope. Curious and intrigued, I did my best to point my binos in the direction where I thought he was glassing. I didn’t turn anything up. A few moments later, Steve piped up, “There’s a grizz on that hill.”

Just minutes later, the bear, who was a good three-plus kilometres away from us at the time, offered us a much better look as he turned broadside. “Steve … I think … that’s a black bear.”

After taking the time to watch the animal for a solid hour, we

confirmed that not only were we looking at a black bear, but it was one of the biggest black bears either of us had ever seen.

Even from far away we could see the fat from his hind quarters jiggle as he walked, marching forward with broad shoulders and thick forearms. Characteristics of a big healthy boar. While we watched him, we discussed strategies as to how we could close the gap on this bear while he was on the move. The deeply packed snow on the hillside, the thick patches of trees and alders, and the short and limited sight lines and shooting lanes were all working against us to make this stalk a very difficult one.

After much discussion, Steve and I decided to bet on the fact that this bear was going to indeed behave like a bear and eventually get lazy, come the afternoon. If he bedded down for a nap, it would buy us the time we needed to stalk him to shooting range. Much to our delight, the bruin began to slow down around 12:30 and proceeded to bed down on the hillside. We wasted no time and got our day packs ready, then began the three-kilometre trek across the ice and up the mountain.

You never really expect things to come together on the first day

of a hunting trip. As we walked across the ice, it felt too good to be true. Not only did we find the boar we were looking for, but we might have just found the bear of a lifetime. Allowing our excitement and emotions to get the best of us, we made the hasty decision to go straight up the mountain and at the animal, fearing that a longer approach would give him time to wake up and take off again.

We inched our way up the hill, as quietly as possible, postholing with every step and doing our best not to snap any small trees or branches. After a few hours, we closed the gap and made it to the open area where we thought he was bedded down. Unfortunately, the bruin was one step ahead of us. We saw movement up high and to our right, and we quickly spun around and spotted the bear. He was staring straight at us. Busted.

With Steve set up as our shooter, I hauled out my range finder to confirm the distance—480 yards and straight uphill. Before we could even think about getting set up properly to consider an ethical shot, the bear took off and disappeared up the mountain, never to be seen again … or so we thought. Exactly one year later, Steve and I set out to hunt that same area, but this time with the help of our other good buddy and hunting partner, Rory Allan. This time we set out for a full 10 days and enlisted Steve’s snow machine to help us haul gear and everything we needed to stay comfortable on the ice. We knew full well that the probability of spotting that same big bear, two years in a row, was going to be low, but dumb ambition and the promise of an epic 10-day trip pushed us to give it a try anyway.

On our very first night we were treated to the most-intense northern lights show that any of us had ever seen. Green, pink and multicoloured bands filled the sky, for the entire night, and foiled any plans we had of getting to bed early. Well worth it. We marvelled at the light show all night, and we didn’t crawl into the tipi until things let up, just before sunrise. The first four days of this trip were slow on the glass, but the fishing kept our spirits high. Each day’s fresh catch brought about a taste of the land and a new dish to

In the world of big-game hunting, black bear meat is easily one of the best-tasting and most under-appreciated cuts of wild game there is

The Northern Lights are always a spectacular sight

PHOTOS: Casey Donovan

Derniere Frontiere

Dernière Frontière permet d'explorer et de célébrer les complexités du lien entre les francophones et le Yukon, tout comme le mythe romantique, la réalité et l'espace magique qui les relie.

Dernière Frontière shares diverse voices and stories as it explores and celebrates the complexities of the Francophone connection to the Yukon: the myth, the reality, and the magical space found in between.

VÉRO LACHANCE • FREDERIQUE PIERRE • HAKIM • MARIE-CHRISTINE BOUCHER NICOLAS HYATT • JOHN FINGLAND • AUDRÉE LEWKA JUTEAU

WILLIAM COUTURE • CHLOÉ BARSHEE • JADE BARSHEE • CATHERINE FP

Carrots is a funny little guy with lots to say! He definitely lives up to the husky name and would spend all his time singing if he could. Though he may be vocal, he quiets right down once he’s given any attention. With the right amount of training, he could definitely be taught some alternative ways to ask for pets.

He’s on the smaller side of medium, and has got plenty of energy, and as a former working sled-dog, he would benefit from some healthy outlets for it like cani-cross, bike-jouring, and similar activities! He’s a bit awkward when it comes to other dogs and tends to freeze up when they get close, but we think with time he could become a real social butterfly. He would do well in a home with kids, we don’t know how he is with cats.

If you are interested in adopting Carrots please fill out an online application at humanesocietyyukon.ca. If you already have a pre-approved application with us within the last year, call 633-6019 to put your application towards him.

Y ukon

FOSTER FAMILIES NEEDED

As most adoptions happen in the city, YARN relies heavily on foster homes in the city when pups are ready for adoption. We look after all the vet appointments and adoption applications.

YARN cannot continue accepting litters, unless it has foster homes to care for them in the city, while they find their homes. We are in need of some great Fosters Families to help our little fur-babies when they arrive in Whitehorse.

If you are interested and able to help in fostering please get in contact with us via our page @YukonAnimalRescueNetwork or send us a message via Facebook messenger or email: cheryl@YukonAnimalRescue.net

Klondike Institute of Art and Culture Dawson City, YT

JOEL PLASKETT THURS FEB 2, 7:30PM TICKETS: KIAC.EVENTBRITE.CA BANDSWAP AT GERTIES! A

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

AllStars After School Program

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

PORCUPINE SQUAD

A weekly, action-focused circle of fire + fellowship for those who identify as male. A safe + brave space for men to share their wins and challenges, dig deeper into what’s really holding you back, have honest conversations, set goals and be accountable.

Call/text Michael at 867-332-4722 or email: mjvernon@gmail.com arkabrotherhood.com

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Zumba 6:00 PM

7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Kids BJJ 4:45

& 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Children’s classes are focused on self defense Jiu Jitsu. A typical class starts with a warm up game, stretching, technique/ drilling, and ends with more fun games! For kids 4 - 12 years old.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Sass Class

– Drop in 6:15 PM Velvet Antler

Productions Some super sassy dance cardio and across the floor progressions, along with tantalizing floorwork and sexy choreography. https://bit.ly/3QqUMMz

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Spirit Bear Karate

The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre 6:30 PM & 7:30 PM Traditional Okinawan Shorin-ryu Seibukan Karate Do. Adult Class (16 y/o and up) http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Badminton Adult

Drop-in Takhini Elementary 7:30 PM Open to everyone 18 years old and older and all skill levels

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 NO-GI JIU JITSU

Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM This class is very similar to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, only the students typically practice in shorts and a rash guard t-shirt, rather than a Gi. There is also typically a little more wrestling and leg locks due to the rules in tournaments being less restrictive.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Total Body HIIT 12:15 PM Habit Health and Wellness A 30 minute total bodyweight cardio class.

Drop In

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Intro to No Bun

Ballet – Drop In 6:00 PM Velvet Antler

Productions A low impact, medium/ high energy class. We will strip it all down to the basics while you tighten your core, increase your strength and build on the fundamentals for all VA classes and performances. Register online https:// bit.ly/3CucusG

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Zumba 6:00 PM

7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Women’s Brazilian

JIU JITSU Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM a grappling based art that utilizes takedowns, sweeps, joint locks and strangle holds to subdue your opponent or attacker. BJJ emphasizes a lot of drilling and live sparring also know as “rolling”

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Muay Thai

Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 12:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Badminton Adult

Drop-in Takhini Elementary 7:30 PM Open to everyone 18 years old and older and all skill levels

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Lunchtime Mat Class – Drop in 12:00 PM Velvet Antlers Productions This class will take you through a flowing series stretches intended to increase length and mobility, along with some light core conditioning. A great way to transition from work time to YOU time. https://bit.ly/3jPb9pX

Sat Jan 28 Firstmate Babe Southwick Memorial Race 11:30 AM Ibex Valley Race in honor of Babe Southwick who passed away during the 1965 Rendezvous dog races.

Sun Jan 29 Team Yukon Badminton Camp 10:00 AM Whitehorse Elementary School For more info email info@yasc.ca or call 668-2840

Sun Jan 29 Snow Sliding Meet Up V.2 1:30 PM Mount Sima This meetup is for gender-diverse, queers and BIPOC folx. One and two plankers are welcome! We’ll play some games and get to know each other! Confirm your participation and/or register for lessons email switchridecollective@gmail.com

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Kids Muay

Thai 4:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai teaches combat skills that are good for self-defense along with positive holistic effects like respect, discipline, focus, and confidence. Open to ages 8 - 12.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 BRAZILIAN JIU

JITSU Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM a grappling based art that utilizes takedowns, sweeps, joint locks and strangle holds to subdue your opponent or attacker. BJJ emphasizes a lot of drilling and live sparring also know as “rolling”

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 KIDS MUAY THAI Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM a dynamic and engaging martial art that can be traced to the middle of the 18th century. The sport is also referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs” because it utilizes punching, kicking, elbowing and knee strikes. Muay Thai teaches combat skills that are good for selfdefense along with positive holistic effects like respect, discipline, focus, and confidence. Open to ages 8 - 12.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 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.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Muay Thai

Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 12:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Kids BJJ 4:45 & 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Children’s classes are focused on self defense Jiu Jitsu. A typical class starts with a warm up game, stretching, technique/ drilling, then ends with more fun games! These classes are appropriate for kids 4 - 12 years old..

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00, 12:05 & 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Often referred to as the game of human chess, BJJ is a grappling based art that utilizes takedowns, sweeps, joint locks and strangle holds to subdue your opponent or attacker. BJJ emphasizes a lot of drilling and live sparring also known as “rolling”.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Salsa and Bachata – Beginner and Intermediate Classes 7:30 PM Heart of Riverdale Community Centre A fun and person-centered class, including switching partners will be encouraged to promote communication & further learning open to couples or singles.

Email salsayukon@gmail.com to register and for info

WELLNESS LISTINGS

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.

Tuesdays & Saturdays Counseling Drop-In and Short Term Counselling Service 11:00 AM Canadian Mental Health Association, Yukon Free Drop-In counselling is offered every Tuesday 11am - 4pm and Saturday from 11am3pm. Call 668-6429 for more info.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 AM 100 Lambert St. Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 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.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Dads Matter

Group 5:30 PM NVD Place A group for dads, grandfathers, stepdads, uncles, foster fathers, all male caregivers are welcome. Join us to talk about parenting and meet other male caregivers. For more info contact 3360795 or email ante.tokic@yukon.ca

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Arka

Brotherhood Circle: Porcupine Squad 6:30 PM Whitehorse For men eager to identify and move past selflimiting beliefs, stretch beyond their comfort zone and embody the best version of himself. To register email or call mjvernon@gmail.com 332-4722.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Overeaters Anonymous Meeting 7:30 PM

Overeaters Anonymous For more information contact oayukon@gmail. com for more information

HOW ARE THINGS UNDER THE HOOD OF YOUR CAR?

Have you had a look under your hood, how are your fluid levels, what about your belts and hoses. Most owners manuals show you where to check fluids at, if you have to add any fluids make sure they are the ones for your car. The belts and hoses are sometimes a little harder to check, if you are unable to check them or have any questions, take your car to your mechanic so they can have a look at it for you.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 No Puffin

Group (CM) 8:00 PM Christ Church

Cathedral

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Sally & Sisters/ Soeurs 1:00 PM Whitehorse United Church A safe place for women and children to access a meal.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Beginner w/

Experience – Level 1 5:30 PM Alpine

Bakery – Upstairs Sun Salutation A+B, foundational standing poses. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@ mac.com

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Move with Life

w/Phillipe – All Levels 7:30 PM

Alpine Bakery – Upstairs A condition practice for movers of all types seeking agility, mobility, stamina and strength. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Drop in Morning

Practice with Nakai 8:00 AM The Guild Hall gentle and invigorating morning sessions, led by Nakai’s Artistic Director Jacob Zimmer. Drop in, admission by donation.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Hatha Yoga 12:00 PM Grace Space Find alignment mental and physical during this hour of inspiring hatha yoga,. Register online. https://bit. ly/3kFowWQ

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Mantra and

Relaxation 4:15 PM White Swan

Sanctuary This class is about developing awareness of your inner Light through the practices of chanting mantra and deepening relaxation

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 KDCC Walking with Our Sisters Sewing Group 5:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Vitality Yoga

w/Nancy 5:30 PM Alpine Bakery –Upstairs Kundalini yoga cleanses and detoxifies the body, neutralizes stress, rewires natural pathways. PreRegister by email wallymaltz@mac. com

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Family & Friends

Support Group 7:00 PM Canadian

Mental Health Association (CMHA) A drop-in support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. Call 668-6429 or email programs@ yukon.cmha.ca for more info.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Breathe +

Stretch w/Carrie 7:30 PM Alpine

Bakery – Upstairs A slow paced class to stretch the body. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 AA Polar GroupO/M 7:30 PM Christ Church Cathedral Join our support group in person or for our zoom room address email aapolargroup@gmail.com

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Yoga wake up flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Morning Yoga

Stretch 9:00 AM 7th Ray Studio

Easing into the day with gentling warming up and stretching. All levels are welcome Register online.

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Sally & Sisters/ Soeurs 1:00 PM Whitehorse United Church A safe place for women and children to access a meal.

Fri Jan 27 Soundbath with Dave Haddock 7:20 PM Alpine Bakery –Upstairs An experience of aural and vibrational flow conductive to release, healing, relaxation and meditation. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@ mac.com

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 AA Whitehorse Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Looking for support with your relationship with alcohol? Join the AA Whitehorse Group..

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Men’s Support Group for Indigenous men 18 and over CYFN Council Of Yukon First Nations Family Preservation Services is hosting a Snaring & Trapping Workshop as part of its ongoing Support Group for Yukon First Nations and Indigenous men. Register now as space is limited!

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Slow Flow Resto – All Levels 5:30 PM Stretch, flow + restore – a great way to end the week for a better weekend. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 Yoga with Amber 7:15 PM Habit Health and Wellness book online or email habitcommunity@ gmail.com for more info

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 Kundalini

Wake-Up with Nancy Alpine Bakery & Upstairs 9:00 AM Start the day with classic Kundalini yoga sets and meditations that stimulate the mind, activate the body and magnetize your energy. To register email wallymaltz@ mac.com http://www.yogayukon.ca/ yogayukon/Schedule.html

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Vitality Yoga w/Nancy 9:00 AM Alpine Bakery –Upstairs Kundalini yoga cleanses and detoxifies the body, neutralizes stress, rewires natural pathways. PreRegister by email wallymaltz@mac. com

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Restorative Yoga – All Levels 10:30 AM Alpine Bakery – Upstairs Restorative poses are long holds over supportive props relaxing variations of backbends. PreRegister by email wallymaltz@mac. com

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Self-Love

Sunday – Drop In 11:00 AM Velvet Antlers Productions This class is taught with an easy breezy feel, with a focus on poise and confidence.

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Candlelight YIN with Caitlyn MacMaster 6:45 PM Habit Health & Wellness Yin yoga is a calming practice, using long holds as an opportunity to journey inward, let thoughts settle, and build selfawareness.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Sally & Sisters/

Soeurs 1:00 PM Whitehorse United

Church A safe place for women and children to access a meal.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Smart Recovery

Addictions Support 6:45 PM Sarah Steele Building

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Live And Online

Kundalini Yoga 8:00 AM Online Kriya, mudra, and mantra awaken your body and focus the mind. We will follow one sequence until you are able to find yourself in the flow, before moving on.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Absolute

Beginners – Intro 5:30 PM Alpine

Bakery - Upstairs Introduction to yoga with Erica. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Hips, Hams

Core – All Levels 7:30 PM Alpine

Bakery - Upstairs Fairly vigorous classes with emphasis on breath and slower is stronger. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 AA New

Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Arka

Brotherhood Circle: Grizzly Squad 7:00 PM Whitehorse For men eager to identify and move past self-limiting beliefs, stretch beyond their comfort zone and embody the best version of himself. Register by email or phone bcdrisco@gmail.com/867-332-0465.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Drop in Morning

Practice with Nakai 8:00 PM The Guild Hall gentle and invigorating morning sessions, led by Nakai’s Artistic Director Jacob Zimmer. Drop in, admission by donation.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Sally & Sisters/ Soeurs 1:00 PM Whitehorse United Church A safe place for women and children to access a meal.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Men’s Community Group 5:30 PM Mountainview Church We start with a meal and fellowship, then work through a biblical study, and take time to pray for one another, and for shared requests.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Intermediate – Level 2 5:30 PM Alpine Bakery – Upstairs Explore alignment and form in a wide range of familiar + new poses. Pre-Register by email wallymaltz@mac.com

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Yoga by Amber 7:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A yoga class that is for all levels and abilities, register online.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Better Backs Hips, Hams 7:30 PM Alpine Bakery – Upstairs Critical alignment therapy and therapeutic work for healing. PreRegister by email wallymaltz@mac. com

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

cook up around the campfire later that night. As the weather got up into the double digits, later that week, we spotted our first female grizzly and cubs high up in the alpine. Rory later spotted our first black bear of the trip, but it wasn’t the bear we were looking for.

On day 8 of the trip, I headed over to our glassing spot, alone, while Rory and Steve cooked supper. Just as I dropped my spotting scope down onto the same hillside where we had spotted the big bear, the year before, my jaw nearly hit the floor. There he was … standing within 10 feet of where Steve had picked him up the year prior. I nearly knocked my spotting scope over as I stood up and sprinted back to tell Rory and Steve what I had seen. We watched the bear for a while, discussed our game plan and then set out to see if we could outsmart him this time.

For fear of making the same

mistake twice, this time we swung wide and climbed way up above where we had spotted the animal. We decided that if we dropped down on him, we could play the sun better and give ourselves the best chance at finding a clear shooting lane. To our surprise, the plan worked out perfectly. Once we worked our way through the brush and sidehilled across a thawing creek, we dropped in, right overtop of the bear.

Despite the fact that we had done so well to stay composed, up until that point, we made the mistake of using my old range finder without proper built-in angle compensation to get our yardage. It read 330 yards, but the shot was straight downhill and we failed to properly factor this into the equation.

With the bear completely oblivious to our presence, we could have easily closed the gap another 100–200 yards, but we panicked and tried to get a shot off. Un-

fortunately for us, the shot missed the bear completely. We watched as the bear of a lifetime ran off, now for the second year in a row. Heartbreaking. We spent three hours following his tracks and searching for the smallest droplets of blood, in case we wounded him, but we didn’t turn up anything. A clean miss.

Hunting bears by canoe in late May and early June is a completely different experience than doing it on the ice a month earlier. By May 15 of 2021, our freezers were now in a meat crisis and our thirst for bear meat was also at an all-time high. Steve, Rory and I packed my freighted canoe and set out on the Yukon River to try our luck again. This time we would find success, and after passing on three bears, earlier that day, we finally found a shooter that was within stalking range. We tied up the canoe and began to hike up the steep embankment. Within an hour, we stalked the bear to 20 yards, and this time we managed to get a clean shot off. Down he went. We made quick work of the butchering and packed the boar back down the hillside to the canoe, smiling with each step, knowing that this time we were going home with full packs. That night, we set up a homemade smoke shack, to keep the bugs off the meat, and enjoyed some fresh bear steaks around the campfire.

We are incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to hunt bears in such a pristine and wild part of the world. The thrill of getting up close and personal with these magnificent and cunning animals is something I will never take for granted. Contrary to what I was told while growing up on the East Coast, bear meat is absolutely delicious and easily one of my favourite things to work with in the kitchen. Any time I prepare bear burgers for someone who has never had bear meat, I always enjoy seeing the surprised look on their face as they have their first few bites and come to the same realization that I did, years ago, about the compelling quality.

If I could offer one piece of advice to any hunter looking to get into bear hunting for the first time, it would be to stay patient

and try to harvest male bears. Oftentimes it can be easy to mistake a big mature female for a boar, but making sure you watch the bear long enough to make sure it isn’t a wet sow (sow with cubs) is absolutely necessary. Also, cooking your bear meat to an internal temperature of 165℉ will eliminate any risk of getting trichinosis while still allowing you to keep your meat nice and tender. Keep that thermometer handy!

As for the one that got away … Steve and I still find ourselves getting caught up discussing what might have happened to him. Thinking back to that day (and how we let our emotions impact our decision making) has been the topic of much debate and has led us to re-frame the way we approach every stalk. Unbeknownst to him, that giant black bear taught us a valuable lesson about the importance of staying cool in stressful situations—and of the power that comes from chan-

nelling your emotions to achieve desirable outcomes. Valuable lessons for any hunting scenario and also for when we’re back at home, grinding out our day to day.

Although it’s been a year and a half since we last laid eyes on the giant, we’d like to think that he’s still out there. We hope that in our time apart he has enjoyed fattening up on the berries and shrubs, right there in the mountain block that he calls home, and that he has been lucky enough to find a mate and pass on his strong genes. If we are fated to meet again, during the hunting season, we will be sure to put our best foot forward and to approach this old monarch with the caution and respect he deserves.

Regardless of whether or not he is still out there, one thing is certain: Come April 15, we will be back out on the ice, with our binoculars in one hand and our fishing rods in the other, and ready for adventure. n

PHOTOS: Casey Donovan

Curing the meat at camp

Top: Casey Donovan (left) and Steve Hossack with their harvest

Bottom: A close look at how large a black bear’s paws can be

EVENTS

ART SHOWS

Until Jan 22 A God Show by the Southern Lakes Artist Collective Yukon Arts Centre Featuring Joyce Majiski, Helen O’Connor , Sandra Storey, Donald Watt, and many more.

Until Jan 28 Connections: Moments by Natasha Henderson Arts

Underground Held in the Focus Gallery Painting is a dance between intent and happenstance. Following the creative process, the unknown future, to guide at least some of the work.

Until Jan 28 Wet Paint by Hyfen Arts

Underground Held in the Edge Gallery Impressionistic style of art. The realistic and impasto marks are what draw you in. Painting from life whether it’s landscape, still life, or portraits.

Until Feb 25 Celestial Bodies An exhibition featuring works by Linda Leon and Sandra Storey Yukon Artists at Work Gallery (YAAW).

Until Feb 25 Archival Gold Favourites from the Vault Arts

Underground Held in the Hougen Heritage Gallery, open for viewing Tue-Sat noon to 5 pm

Until April 2023 Dis Orientation:

New Acquisitions to the Yukon Permanent Art Collection Jim Smith Building There are more than 500 works by 275 artists in the collection.

LIVE MUSIC

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Whitewater

Wednesday Night Jam 7:00 PM The Local Bar a 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.

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 VVinyl

VVednesdays 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well Every Wednesday a local record junkie will be showcasing their collections for you, and maybe sometimes trade or buy.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Live Music Thursdays 7:00 PM 98 Hotel

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Well Played - Open Mic 7:00 PM Old fashioned drop in Open Mic - Every ThursdayHosted by Jon Eastlander! - Show up and write down your name, players will be called up in order.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Live DJsThursday Throwdown 9:00 PM The Local Bar

Fri Jan 27 Thorns, Horns, & Lace

– A Night of Drag & Music 9:00 PM The Local Bar 5 drag artists. 2 bands, 1 gay host, and a rockin good time. Cover at the door.

Sat Jan 28 Karaoke Saturday Nights 8:00 PM The Local Bar Every Saturday in January sing for a spot to win $500.00

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 Music For Breakfast 9:00 AM 98 Hotel the last Saturday of every month. All New Members to The Breakfast Club Welcome. Music lasts until noon

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 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. https:// www.whiskeyjacks.ca/ Tues Jan 31 - Feb 7 Open Mic Night with Patrick Jacobson 7:00 PM Best Western Gold Pan Saloon Performers are encouraged to bring their own instrument and mic. All are welcome. No cover.

Wed Feb 1 Shad 7:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre One of Canada’s most revered rappers, a peerless wordsmith who embodies hip-hop’s power to entertain and educate. Tickets online https://bit. ly/3XiPSnx

Fri Feb 3 Local Vibes 9:00 PM The Local Bar Featuring DJ Select & Monstera Cover at the door

Sat Feb 4 Joel Plaskett 4:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre – YAC Tickets online https://bit.ly/3HcjnSd

Sat Feb 4 Folk Coffee House featuring Nick Mah & the Open Stage 7:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Local Nick Mah performs, cover charge at the door. Sign up at 6 PM.

GENERAL EVENTS

Wed Jan 25 Biomass Boiler Fuel

Storage Safety Seminar 8:30 AM Yukonstruct Makespace The session will detail the key aspects for the storage of wood chips and wood pellets for commercial, institutional and municipal bldgs. https://bit.ly/3iKuMPM

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Spanish Conversation Group 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church For more info Louise 867-687-7238 or Michele 867-333-6081

Wed Jan 25 Pottery Class: Beginners Hand Building Ceramic Mug Workshop 6:00 PM Creative Initiatives Warehouse Come chill with clay and make a personalised mug. Hand building with clay is a great introduction to pottery. https://bit.ly/3XBuObr

Wed Jan 25 When you Finish saving the World 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Evelyn and her oblivious son Ziggy seek out replacements for each other as Evelyn desperately tries to parent an unassuming teenager at her shelter, Tickets online or at the door. https://bit. ly/3kr6b3f

Wed Jan 25 & Feb 1 Texas Hold’ Em 6:30 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!

Wed Jan 25 Wildlife Trivia Night (Beginner) 7:00 PM Whitehorse Curling Club Test your knowledge of the Yukon’s wildlife in a fun, laidback trivia contest. https://bit.ly/3kreXhm

Wed Jan 25 Holy Spider 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre A journalist descends into the dark underbelly of the Iranian holy city of Mashhad as she investigates the serial killings of sex workers by the so-called “Spider Killer”, who believes he is cleansing the streets of sinners. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit.ly/3iT653E

Thu Jan 26 Cybersecurity: Securing Online Communications 12:00 PM NorthLight Innovation Learn about the security implications of e-mail, instant messaging, document collaboration tools and more. bit.ly/3HU0KU1

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 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 to help you with presentations and speaking in front of people.

Thu Jan 26 Women’s only HEED

Class 6:00 PM Yukon University Free all-women hunter education course is open to participants of any skill level. Space is limited. https://bit.ly/3iNlsKY

Thu Jan 26 When you Finish saving the World 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Evelyn and her oblivious son Ziggy seek out replacements for each other as Evelyn desperately tries to parent an unassuming teenager at her shelter, Tickets online or at the door. https://bit. ly/3kr6b3f

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Prayer 7:00 PM

Mountainview Church We take some time to connect with one another to praise God and pray for our church, our leadership, our city, and anything else in our hearts..

Thu Jan 26 – Sat Jan 28 Polar Night 7:00 PM The Yukon Arts Centre Polar Night tells the story of a long winter in the far north. From the migrations south that marks the changing seasons, to the joy and glee brought on by the first snow. https://bit. ly/3R2cGWt

Thu Jan 26 thru Sat Jan 28 Dernière

Frontière 8:00 PM Old Firehall Diverse voices and stories explore and celebrate the complexities of the Francophone connection to the Yukon. French with English subtitles. https:// bit.ly/3QUbRPm

Thu Jan 26 She Said 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor, who together broke one of the most important stories in a generation--a story that helped propel the #Metoo movement. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit.ly/3H945g7

Fri Jan 27 TGIF – For Members and Signed in Guests 6:00 PM

Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Tickets available the week leading up to the TGIF. Advance tickets through the legion, NOT for sale at the door!

Fri Jan 27 thru Thu Feb 2 The Fabelmans 6:00 PM The adventures of 16-year-old aspiring filmmaker Sammy Fabelman navigating life, love and family. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit.ly/3QPlwGJ

Fri Jan 27 Sean Lecomber Live 7:00 and 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge One of Canada’s top headlining comedians. He has appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and filmed Just for Laughs galas. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit.ly/3FxxBLl

Fri Jan 27 thru Thu Feb 2 A Man

Called Otto 7:00 PM The story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grumpy widower whose only joy comes from criticising and judging his exasperated neighbours. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit.ly/3QPlwGJ

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 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. Until Fri Jan 28 The Sun Room Old Fire Hall 8-11 am & 4-7 pm The Sun Room brings a taste of brightness, warmth, and colour to dark, cold winter days. Transport yourself for 20 or 50 minutes to this otherworldly beach planet and its giant sun. https:// nakaitheatre.com/sunroom

Until Fri Jan 28 2023 Pivot Festival

Celebrates the weird and wonderful creations of northern artists and minds. Nakai invites Yukoners to embrace the dark and step out of hibernation to come together for music, stories, and community.

Sat Jan 28 Tempeh 11:00 AM Golden

Age Society Try this wonderful Indonesian fermentation to bring umami flavours + increased nutrients availability to your high-protein plant foods! https://bit.ly/3Xlbu2s

Sat Jan 28 Hiver en fête – Glissades

(Winter Festivities) 1:00 PM

Shipyards Park Enjoy warm and friendly moments in the open air to slide, meet new people, or enjoy a snack with your family around the fire.

Sat Jan 28 Sauerkraut & Pickles

2:00 PM Golden Age Society Get ready to preserve the abundance of summer veggies with this ancestral way of making vegetable condiments that are healthy and delicious! https:// bit.ly/3CUto45

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 CribbageMembers 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.

Sat Jan 28 Sean Lecomber Live 7:00 and 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge

One of Canada’s top headlining comedians. He has appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and filmed Just for Laughs galas. Tickets online or at the door. https://bit. ly/3FxxBLl

Sat Jan 28 F.A.N.S Challenge 7:15

PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 This Event uses your phone to answer questions. Games start on time and the 2nd game may be played depending on time.

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 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

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Clothing Room

10:00 AM Whitehorse Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Whitehorse

United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM a caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth.

Sun Jan 29 Silent Movie Afternoon 1:30 PM Yukon Transportation Museum Introduce your family and friends to one of the most magical experiences lost to time - silent movies with live piano accompaniment. Regular admission rates apply.

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 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.

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Sunday

Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 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 can sign in 2 guests MAX

Tue Jan 31 Go Digital Tourism Summit 9:00 AM If you work in or around the tourism industry, join us for a fun and productive day of workshops and inspiration on the theme of digital! https://bit.ly/3WhXR2H

Tue Jan 31 Council of Yukon First Nations Exploring Justice: Our Way 2023 9:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Conference showcases First Nations justice professionals and Indigenous approaches to justice. https://bit.ly/3CWszrl

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Men’s

Community Group Mountainview Church 5:30 PM We start with a meal and fellowship, then work through a biblical study, and take time to pray for one another, and for shared requests.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 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

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Chess Club 6:00

PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn? Looking for Competition? Join us!

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 10 Card Crib

6:30 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 https://bit.ly/3oWjB5W

Tue Jan 31 Woodshop Orientation

6:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn to use the Yukonstruct Woodshop Machines for members only.

Tue Jan 31 New Member Orientation

5:00 PM New Member Orientation for new members of Yukonstruct Makespace https://bit.ly/3kqBKtX

Wed Feb 1 Bluegrass/Old Time Jam 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 A fun and relaxed jam, medium tempos, bluegrass and related genres (old-time, classic country, etc). Lots of opportunities to take a solo if you want, but not at all required.

Thu Feb 2 Indigenous Book Club: She Holds Up the Stars by Sandra Laronde 7:00 PM Whitehorse Public Library Free program invites Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants to read works by Indigenous authors and then come together in-person or virtually to discuss themes and ideas. Author will join the zoom live for reading and discussion. For Zoom Link email YPLevents@yukon.ca call 667-5239 for more info.

Thu Feb 2 War in the 21st Century 7:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre – YAC Gwynne Dyer addresses strategies, tactics, and politics of the war in Ukraine, including its potential nuclear dimension, and the evolving nature and role of war as an institution.

Tickets online. https://bit.ly/3JdYc3V

Sat Feb 4 Tibicos 11:00 AM Golden Age Society Working with these magic grains to transform sweet water to water kefir is a great way to bring fun and healthy fizz to the kitchen! https:// bit.ly/3XgWiDy

Sat Feb 4 Kimchi 2:00 PM Golden Age Society Join us to learn the fascinating art of kimchi making. Register online https://bit.ly/3XARXLh

Sat Feb 4 Comedy Fight Club 8:00

PM Guild Hall 5 Comedians, 5 Fights 1 Champion featuring local comics! Tickets online. https://bit.ly/3Hemycn

Tue Feb 7 Metal Shop Orientation 6:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Get comfortable in the Yukonstruct Metal Shop https://bit.ly/3XkEM18KIDS & FAMILIES

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

LAB Drop-In 12:00 AM Heart Of Riverdale For grades 8+, make beats, write, eat food.

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

Mondays Craft & Activities Drop in Partners for Children 10:00 AM Drop in with optional activity and craft. Guest visitors from local organisations

Mondays Whitehorse Go Club 6:00 PM A&W

Tuesdays Craft & Activities Drop in Partners for Children 10:00 AM Drop in with optional activity and craft. Guest visitors from local organisations

Tuesdays Baby Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library Rhymes, music, stories, movement, art & outside time. Ages 6 - 24 months & caregiver, Whitehorse Public Library meeting room. Free drop-in..

Tuesdays Toddler Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library Rhymes, music, stories, movement, art & outside time. Ages 2 - 4 yrs. & caregiver, Whitehorse Public Library meeting room. Free drop-in.

Tuesdays Free Super Smash Bros. 5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe All skill levels welcome! Please bring your own controller, and if you have a Nintendo Switch and/or Gamecube controller adapter please bring them so that we can have multiple setups.

Wednesdays Polarettes Preschool/ Family Drop In 11:00 AM 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.

Wednesdays Warhammer Wednesdays - Age of Sigmar 5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe

Thursdays Head, Heart and Hands Drop in Partners for Children 10:00 AM Join us for songs, stories, rhymes, share and learn practical parenting tips for lifes challenges.

Thursdays Family Drop-In 11:00 AM

Polarettes Gymnastics Club Open to all ages – Children, youth, and teens

must be accompanied by an adult.

Thursdays Drop-in Pathfinder Roleplaying Game 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Open to ages 11-17 to our free dropin Pathfinder Roleplaying Game program! No experience necessary, supplies and snacks provided.

Thursdays Kill Team Thursdays 5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe 668-5750

Units can be drawn from both the core book, elite book, Kill team annual and white dwarf.

Fridays Family Drop-In 10:00 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Open to all ages – Children, youth, and teens must be accompanied by an adult.

Fridays Standard Format - Magic: The Gathering 6:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe Legal sets = Ixalan, Rivals of Ixalan, Dominaria, Core Set 2019, Guilds of Ravnica, Ravnica Allegiance. Banned Cards = Rampaging Ferocidon

Saturdays Pokemon Saturdays 12:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe Call 668-5750 for more info.

Saturdays Family 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.

Wed Jan 25 Upcycled Clothing 3:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace A fun skill-building sewing workshop for youth ages 11-18. Learn how to use a domestic sewing machine, including threading the machine. Then participants transform unwanted clothing into something new. https:// bit.ly/3QOeRwn

Fri Feb 3 & Sat Feb 4 Magic: Phyrexia All Will Be One – Prerelease 6:00 PM Titan Gaming & Collectibles Sign up in store.

Mon Feb 6 & Tues Feb 7 Brentwood

College School Admissions 5:00 PM Whitehorse If you would like your child to attend Brentwood, meet with admissions to discuss the opportunities. Email crystal.harvey@ brentwood.ca to set up a time.

ONLINE EVENTS

Wednesdays Live And Online Kundalini Yoga 8:00 AM Online Kriya, mudra, and mantra awaken your body and focus the mind. We will follow one sequence until you are able to find yourself in the flow, before moving on. Unfold to your own nature: do what feels good, soak in the good vibes, and watch this beautiful practice transform you. Kundalini has a powerful effect on the endocrine system, improving lymph drainage, hormonal balance, and mood.

Wednesdays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online. Fridays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community

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.you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online

Mondays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help

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.

Tuesdays Mental Health Awareness and Support Online it is essential that people build capacity to support those with mental health concerns. https://bit.ly/3GTz6T5

867-393-6206

ATLIN

EVENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS

COMMUNITY

Fridays Atlin Community Library Atlin

Community LIbrary 2:00 PM Open two days per week, Fridays and Saturdays, covid protocols apply.

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

Tuesdays Craft Dinner 5:00 PM Atlin Mountain Inn Craft and eat with good company, special meal discounts for crafters. Finish an old craft or start something new!

Tuesdays 5 Mile Group (OM) 7:30 PM Tutan Hit building Next to Centre for Culture Call 1-250-651-7900 Ext. 315

Sat Jan 21 Bonspiel Bazaar & Market 11:00

AM Atlin Recreation Centre To book a table 250-651-7663 Concession will be open.

Yukon Communities:

Wednesdays 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.

CARCROSS

Sat Jan 28 Trappers Workshop 9:00

AM Skookies Camp Carcross https://bit. ly/3w7dZK1

First Sunday of Every Month St. Saviour’s Church Services 2:00 pm St. Saviour Church 867-668-3129

Mondays Light Walkers Group (OM) 5:00 PM Fire Hall meeting room 1137 Austin St.

CARMACKS

Wednesdays Toddler Time & Indoor Soccer/Learn to Play 10:00 AM Carmacks Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Teen Movie Night 7:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre

Thursdays Carmacks Open Gym 5:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre

Thursdays Family Movie Night 7:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre

Fridays CTJS Floor Hockey 5:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre Kids & Youth Floor Hockey (5-7PM) and Adult Floor Hockey (7-9PM)

Saturdays Disc Golf Drop-In 1:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre All ages! Free! The Recreation Department has a variety of Driver, Fairway, and Putter Discs to use. https://bit.ly/3QIuxAs

Saturdays Drop In Pickleball 3:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre

Sundays Toddler Time 1:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre

Mondays Drop-in Basketball 5:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre Ages 5-12 (57PM) and Ages 13 to adult (7-9PM)

MondaysCarmacks Spikerz Volleyball 6:00 PM Carmacks Recreation CentreIndoors at the VOC - Rec Center until the outdoor courts at Merv Tew Park & Tantalus School are ready! https://bit. ly/3Ot7cSv

Tuesdays Drop-in Basketball & Soccer

5:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre Ages 5-12 (5-7PM) and Ages 13 to adult (7-9PM)

Tuedays Nerf Battle Dome 5:30 PM

Carmacks Recreation Centre Carmacks Recreation Centre

Tue Jan 31 Early Years + CDC Gathering 5:00 PM Yukon U Carmacks Campus

DAWSON CITY

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.

Tue - Thur 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.

Tue - Thu Saint Mary’s Weekday Mass

5:00 PM Saint Mary’s Catholic Church

Join Father Emanuel for weekday mass Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 55+ Free Fit 2:00 PM

The Fitness Centre All you need is comfy exercise clothes and indoor only shoes! There will be a trainer on site to help with any fitness questions!

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Hatha Yoga with Blackbird 5:45 PM Minto Park Register online.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Multi-Sport Drop

In 6:00 PM Robert Service School Free program, all children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult.

Thu Jan 26 & Feb 2 Drop In Volleyball 7:30

PM Robert Service School

ENTER YOUR EVENTS ON-LINE

It’s Free. It’s Fast. It’s Easy.

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.

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Cards & Conversation

12:30 PM Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1

Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. Proof of double vaccination required for anyone ages 12+. For more info email recreation@cityofdawson.ca or call 993-7400 ext 299.

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Adult Rec & Roll 5:00

PM Robert Service School Gym Free indoor roller skating for ages 18+ Helmet required.

Fri Jan 27 & Feb 3 Rock climbing 6:00

PM Robert Service School All Ages, all skill levels, every Friday until March 10 – free.

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 Under 5 Gym Drop-In

10:00 AM Robert Service School

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 Drop-In Walking Group

12:00 PM Robert Service School Open to all ages, children under 10 to be accompanied by an adult, Parents with strollers are welcome. Set distance goals to achieve or just come for exercise and socialization.

Sat Jan 28 & Feb 4 All Ages Amateur Parkour 12:00 PM Robert Service School

Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info.

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-993-5095 or 867-9933734 for more information

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Under 5 Gym Drop-In

10:00 AM Robert Service School

Sun Jan 29 & Feb 5 Yin Yoga 8:00 PM Art & Margaret Fry Rec Centre For a deep stretch and relaxation before bedtime Email recreation@cityofdawson.ca

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 55+ Stretch & Strong Fitness Class 2:00 PM Art & Margaret Fry Rec Centre A 6-week strength class for Dawsonites Call 993-7400 ext 299

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Badminton & Pickleball 6:00 PM Robert Service School Open to all ages (children under 10 must be supervised).

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Adult Drop-In Basketball 7:30 PM Robert Service School Gym – Free Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Young Peoples Talking Circle 7:00 PM Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Centre

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Romp & Run 10:30 AM YOOP Hall Email Jen.Suttis@cdcyukon.ca for more info.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Preschool Learn to Skate 10:45 AM Art & Margaret Fry Rec Centre Half Hour program for stay at home preschoolers ages 3+. Email recreation@ cityofdawson.ca

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Hatha Yoga 5:30 PM Art & Margaret Fry Rec Centre Improve your posture flexibility and strength. Email recreation@cityofdawson.ca

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 English Conversation Club 7:00 PM YukonU A weekly English Conversation Club for immigrants in Dawson City.

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 7 Magic The Gathering

7:00 PM Minto Park Concession Building FREE Event. Format is commander – Bring your own cards / decks

FARO

Wednesdays & Friday’s Games & Walks

1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Walk or play cards, engage in healthy living.

Wednesdays and Fridays Seniors Yoga 2:00

PM Faro Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Public Skate 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Basketball (Open Court) 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Shoot some hoops, practice your skills on the open court. Call 994-2375 or email recreation@ faroyukon.ca for more info.

Fridays Badminton 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays Public Skate 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays Public Skate 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays Open Gym 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Unstructured activity time where the gymnasium is available to students, families, and/or community members to play pick-up sports. Call 9942375 or email recreation@faroyukon.ca for more info.

Tuesdays & Thursdays Parent & Tot 10:00

AM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesday & Thursdays Carpet Bowling 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays & Thursdays Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre – Must be preregistered, for more info call 994-2375

Tuesdays Adult Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fri Jan 27 Seniors Acrylic Landscape Workshop with Jackie Irvine 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Bring your own landscape photo for reference. To register, call 9942375.

HAINES JUNCTION

Wednesdays Adult Volleyball 16+ 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Wednesdays 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]

Wednesdays Boxing Classes Bill Brewster Arena 5:30 PM Reach your fitness goals by joining this boxing program! Participants must complete out a waiver provided. Call 634-2012 or email dgraham@cafn.ca for more info. https://bit.ly/3mGYALy

Thursdays Step It Up with Shelby 7:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Fridays HJL Story Time 10:00AM Haines Junction Library Registration is required but the program is still run as a drop in. There is no commitment to come each week. https:// bit.ly/3KmBdBC.l

Saturdays Step It Up with Shelby 7:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Mondays Public Skate Bill Brewster Arena 9:00 AM & 2:00 PM

Mondays Step It Up with Shelby 7:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Mondays Smart Recovery Meetings 8:00 PM Munku Hall Everyone welcome, call 3345688 for more info.

Tuesdays Girls Club 6:00 PM St. Elias School Held in the art room, open to Girls and identifying as Girls from Grade 8 to 12.

Wed Jan 25 Regalia Creation 6:00 PM Da Ku Cultural Centre CAFN Culture is hosting regalia creation workshops to support all who are celebrating graduation or performing in cultural arts. All materials and supplies provided.

MARSH LAKE

Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays Jackalope Open for drinks and snacks 5:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

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

Thursdays Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM

Saturdays Knitting Circle 11:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre Everyone wielding a hook, needle or pin is welcome.

Saturdays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 12:30 PM

Saturdays Family Playtime and Open Gym 3:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

MAYO

Mon thru Fri Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Mon, Wed & Fri Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School

Weekdays Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

Weekdays Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Mondays Art/Entrepreneur Club 3:30 J.V Clark School Held in the Lunchroom

Mondays 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

Mondays Dinner and Movie Night 5:00 PM Mayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Mondays Yoga 5:15 PM Mayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays & Thursdays Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Youth Archery 3:30 PM MMayo Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Disc Golf 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Curling 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays 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 Pottery Class 3:30 PM J.V Clark School

Wednesdays Volleyball 7:30 PM J.V Clark School Held in gym

Thursdays Elementary Soccer 3:30 PM J.V Clark School

Thursdays Teen/Adult Floor Hockey 7:30 PM J.V Clark School

Sundays St. Mary’s Church Service 11:00 AM St Mary’s Church (867)667-7746

Sundays 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.

Mon Jan 30 & Feb 6 Drop-in Adult Pottery 7:00 PM J.V Clark School Held in the art room, Hand building pottery sessions.

MOUNT LORNE

Thursdays Parents and Tots Playtime Group 1:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre

Thursdays Community Drop-In 1:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Play games, craft, chat walk, snacks, coffee & tea provided.

Fridays Drop-In Adult Hockey Lorne Mountain Community Centre 7:00 PM For members or non-members (for a small fee)

Mondays Drop-In Yoga Mount Lorne Community Centre 7:00 PM By donation all levels welcome

Tue Jan 31 & Feb 6 Learn how to Knit with Dawn Bouquot 4:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre A series of 6 knitting sessions All supplies will be provided. Open to all ages. If you can only make one hour out of the two that is fine.

Thu Feb 2 Learn how to Crochet with Jennifer Dunn 4:30 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre All supplies will be provided. Open to all ages. Email lmcarecreation@gmail.com for more info.

Sat Feb 4 Sparkler Skate 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre

OLD CROW

Sundays St. Luke’s Church Service 11:00 AM St. Luke’s Church 867-993-5381

Wednesdays Parent and Tots 4:00 PM Old Crow Community Center Call 966-3015 for more info.

Wednesdays Adult Card Game Night

6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Wednesdays Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal

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

Tuesdays Adult Sewing 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Tuedays Youth Gym 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

SKAGWAY

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.

Wednesdays 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 School 4:00 PM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway

Sundays Sunday Worship 10:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway

TAGISH

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

Wednesdays Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 1:00 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.

Wednesdays Intro to Yoga 4:15 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays Beginner and Intermediate Yoga 5:45 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays Tagish Country Line Dancing 5:30 PM Tagish Community Centre For members and non members, beginners at 5:30 PM and Intermediate at 6:30 PM Email recreation@tagishyukon.org

Thursdays 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

Thursdays Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

Thursdays Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting Tagish Community Centre 7:00 PM .

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

Mondays Tagish Butt Kickers Tagish Community Centre 11:00 AM Everyone

Welcome, Biking, Hiking, Skiing

Snowshoeing, Kicksledding, Ping Pong, Pickleball, Dog Walking & Morer

Sun Jan 29 Kicksled Workshop – The Basics 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

For members & non members, fee includes chili lunch. Bring your own kicksled, there will be some available if need be.

TESLIN

Wednesdays Pickleball 12:00 & 7:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Thursdays Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Thursdays Youth Club 7:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Fridays Young Explorers 3:15 PM Teslin Recreation Centre For those who like outdoor adventure.

Fridays Public Skate 5:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Fridays Badminton 6:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Fridays Basketball Drop-in 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Saturdays Parent & Tots 12:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Saturdays Volleyball 7:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

SundaysAdult Futsol 7:00 PM Teslin School

Mondays The Teslin Tigers Cross Country Ski Club 3:15 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Must sign up at rex plex limited spots available.

Mondays Badminton 6:30 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Art & S.T.E.M Afternoon 3:15 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Youth Futsol Ages 8-14 5:30 PM Teslin School

Tuesdays 3D Archery 5:30 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

WATSON LAKE

Daily Public Skate Watson Lake Recreation Centre 8:30-5:30 PM, Wednesdays 7:30 – 9:30 PM and Saturday 10:00 – 6:00 PM

Sundays St. John’s Church Service 10:00 AM St. John’s Church Service (867) 5362932

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

Sundays Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School

Mondays Learn to Skate Watson Lake Recreation Centre Sign up at the Rec Centre

Tuesdays Pickleball & Badminton Watson Lake Secondary School 7:00 PM

COMMUNITY

Victoria Gold and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun Renew and Update CBA

In June 2021, Victoria Gold and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun (FNNND) successfully completed negotiations to update and renew their mutually developed and implemented Comprehensive Cooperation and Benefits Agreement (CBA).

The CBA was first signed in October 2011 and outlines the benefits and opportunities the FNNND government and its citizens will receive during the life of the Eagle Gold Mine.

“The co-operation and mutual collaboration between Victoria Gold and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, which stemmed from the original CBA, has been strengthened and renewed,” says Victoria Gold COO Mark Ayranto. “Victoria Gold looks forward to another decade of constructive relationship-building with, and benefit to, our valued First Nation partner.”

Both Victoria Gold and FNNND acknowledged that the CBA required updating to reflect the Eagle Gold Mine’s development, construction and operations. A primary amendment to the agreement at the request of FNNND is a revised financial benefits schedule. Victoria Gold agreed that an increase was necessary in order to provide an even greater level of financial benefit to FNNND from Victoria Gold activities. This change will come into e ect when Victoria Gold has the approvals and permits required to extend the Eagle Gold Mine.

“The financial benefit amendment will more than triple the existing financial benefit payments to FNNND,” continues Ayranto.

The First Nation proposed a number of other amendments agreed to by Victoria Gold. These aim to improve and enhance communications, environmental monitoring, cross-cultural training and employment and contracting opportunities for FNNND citizens. Victoria Gold and FNNND also recognized the need for a strengthened relationship between the Company and the NND Development Corporation.

Property located approximately 375 kilometres north of Whitehorse and 85 kilometres north, northeast of the Village of Mayo, within the traditional territory of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun (FNNND). The company employs over 500 workers and contractors; half of which are Yukoners At Work and many are FNNND citizens.

If you are a Yukoner with mining experience, Victoria Gold encourages you to become a Yukoner At Work. Visit the “Work For Us” page at vgcx.com/contact/work-for-us/ and send your resume to greatpeoplework@vgcx.com

The Eagle Gold Mine is situated within Victoria Gold’s 100 per cent-owned Dublin Gulch

The entrance to Victoria Gold’s Eagle Gold Mine camp proudly displays the Company’s flag alongside those of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, Yukon and Canada.