Games

Annie B. Gordon, Danny A.’s wife, makes a moving speech to the people who are attending and who helped fundraise for the games. With Danny’s photo hanging beside her, she thanks everyone for coming, and says, “I never thought I will lose my husband…but when I get tears in my eyes, I think I am breaking my promise to him. He was praying for everyone before he left. It hurt me a lot to be here again the last few days, but I thank everyone for being with us, and God is with us, we’re going to be strong again.”

The games include categories for elders, youth and adults, so everyone has a chance to participate. It is especially fun to see elders such as Sarah Meyook take part, as they become as exuberant and competitive as the youth. The Ring Toss game is especially exciting, with competitors dueling in their aiming skills past two in the morning! Through the feasts and the games, the laughter and the story sharing, everyone basks in a sense of harmony and community. Visitors from beyond Alaska and Aklavik are treated with hospitality. Danny A.’s children and friends are picking up where he left off, making sure the games ran smoothly.

One of the highlights is a candy toss. Faith Gordon and Manny Kudlak reach into pails of sugary confections from the roof of Danny A.s cabin, and shower the delighted children below with the treats. “We’re carrying on the tradition!” says Faith Gordon.

The games are not quite the same without Danny A.’s participation, and many conversations revolve around this topic.

“Every year he’ll jump in the games, making announcements to keep everyone informed of what’s going on,” says Manny.

The younger generation are having fun at the games, but they also miss Danny A. Alex Gordon, Danny’s nephew says, “It’s different, it’s quiet. He taught us how to cut fish, he made us laugh lots.” Richard Storr Junior remembers, “He always took care of us.”

“There are lots of Danny A.’s children and grandchildren around, they are a big family. They are all welcoming the people who come. We have to continue the games otherwise it would be too quiet,” says Gerry. “We’ve to continue to teach the kids our culture so we won’t lose it, but looking at the participation in the games, I can see we are not about to lose it. Although Danny’s not here, I am sure he’s watching us have fun at the games.”

Jerry Arey says, “It’s hard to lose a friend or husband that you’re used to coming down here with every year, but like Annie says, this is a place of healing, and it’s good to get away from town. We’re much better here than when we are in town.”

Top: Children, even toddlers, have games geared towards them to compete in.

Right: Jerry and Verna Arey are at Shingle Ponit to support the Gordon family, and to enjoy nature.

Bottom: Youths impressing the crowds with good guitar skills.