What's Up Yukon, March 20, 2024

Long-time Yukoner Pat Ellis has compiled a collection of historical tidbits detailing the 65-year history of St. Mary’s Hospital in Dawson City, released as a book with a limited run

Pat Ellis spent years interested in the history of St. Mary’s Hospital in Dawson City, a largely undocumented subject. She’d read an out-of-print book years ago about Father William Judge and his letters from the Klondike, which she thought were remarkable bits of history.

“Over the years, I’ve been going to Dawson and visiting St. Mary’s Park, but there wasn’t that much information about the history of St. Mary’s Hospital,” Ellis told What’s Up Yukon. “I did backtrack over the years trying to find more information; there was very little on St. Mary’s Hospital and almost nothing on the fire that destroyed it.”

Ellis first visited Dawson in 1962, to see the musical Foxy playing at the newly opened Palace Grand. As her bus passed the old Commissioner’s Residence, then a home for seniors, she was surprised to see a Sister in full nun regalia who was wheeling a patient across a boardwalk. This sparked a lifelong interest for Ellis.

Finding a need to put together a book on the scattered history, Ellis decided, at 88 years old, to take on the challenge, recruiting her friend Don Cheeseman for the

task of creating the layout, successfully obtaining a $4,000 Heritage Grant, and spending many hours researching.

“I was fortunate to find some interesting stories and pictures from pioneers with connections to St. Mary’s,” Ellis said.

Ellis said that in the many decades since the hospital closed down in the early 1960s, many of Dawson’s people have forgotten parts of the history, especially as there was not an awful lot of records kept of any kind regarding the hospital. She was able to track down the son of Dr. Barry Duncan, who was kind enough to tell her about the fire. “His dad was the doctor, then, and was trying to rescue all the equipment and papers,” Ellis said. “It was a very sad fire. It was in January of 1950, very cold, and it was just volunteer firemen. Some of the equipment didn’t even work, so it just burned right down.”

Ellis’ book, American Mission-

ary in the Klondike: The Saint of Dawson City, starts with the story of Father Judge, an American missionary from Alaska who ended up in Dawson at the time of the Klondike Gold Rush. Judge’s letters give readers a snapshot of history through the eyes of someone who was there. Fr. Judge established St. Mary’s Hospital in August, 1897.

Ellis believes the book will be of interest to people in the medical field, as well as to anyone interested in lesser-explored areas of Yukon history, as the book walks readers through the entire history of the hospital, from its opening to its long-lasting legacy, with lots of stories from its time.

A limited number of copies of Ellis’ book are available for $12 each at local bookstores, and Ellis has donated some to Maryhouse. She has no plans to print any more.

“To get a thing like that together, it took a lot of effort,” Ellis said. n

PHOTO: Yukon Archives, Finnie family fonds, 81/21, #542. Photographer, Oswald Sterling Finnie

St. Mary’s Hospital, Dawson 1901

STEP OUTSIDE

column with Larry Leigh

Larry Leigh is an avid angler, hunter and all-round outdoors person who prefers to cook what he harvests himself. He is a past president of the Canadian Wildlife Federation and a retired hunter-education coordinator for the Government of Yukon.

BANNOCK AGAIN?

(Again and again!)

At our house or cabin, bannock never gets old. In a ziplock or sealed container, it keeps for days in the fridge or probably forever in the freezer; or outside, in winter, protected from squirrels or whiskey jacks. If frozen, it should be thawed in a microwave, in a cast-iron pan or over the wood stove. Sliced edge to edge, it is good from the toaster or held over the stove, or over the coals of an outdoor fire. If thick enough, slice them top to bottom and spread with peanut butter, jam or honey. A sprinkle of Parmesan or cinnamon is always acceptable. Carried as a lunch or snack, while outdoors, deals with hunger pangs (feels you have eaten something!). It is not fragile and can double as a wiener, smokie or burger bun. The dry ingredients can be premixed and carried in a ziplock, adding water and mixing in the bag when you arrive at your destination.

Basic bannock mix is just flour, salt, baking powder and water. However, a quick online or old cookbook search will produce a variety of suggestions suiting any of the taste buds that are out there. Common additions are sugar, lard, milk powder, wholewheat flour, flax, wheat germ, cornmeal, etc. Others include

dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, apple, broken-up bacon or cheese and pieces of cooked or smoked fish.

Cooking is easiest in a cast-iron pan, but if you make a thicker batter, it can be wrapped around a stick, in a reflector oven or placed on a hot rock, on woven sticks or on a fine grate. These last methods need a slower heat to avoid blackening the outside while the inside is uncooked.

Inuit bannock

SIX-PERSON BANNOCK

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups white flour

• 2 cups whole-wheat flour

• 1/2 cup bran

• 1/2 cup wheat germ

• 2 Tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 2/3 cup milk powder

• 2/3 cup shortening

METHOD

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add shortening/lard and mix well.

2. Gradually add the water in small amounts, mixing thoroughly as you go, until the dough is thoroughly dampened but not sticky. Add any fruit, etc. (see last four ingredients above), at this point.

3. Knead on a floured surface, about 30 seconds.

• Dried fruit, as desired (raisins, cranberries, apple, etc.)

• Bacon or fish, broken or cut into pieces, as desired

• Cheese such as Parmesan, as desired

• Cinnamon (optional)

4. Scoop/cut dough, flatten to two centimetres thick and cook in oiled pan over medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes.

5. Enjoy while still warm, but cool before packaging in order to avoid condensation inside of the container. n

PHOTO: Pixabay

I Played Guitar With Them

Charlie P. Charlie Sr. at Old Crow

Peter Tizya at Old Crow

Peter Benjamin at Old Crow

Happy Robert at Fort McPherson

Trimble Gilbert at Midway

Jimmy Robert at Fairbanks

David Salmon at Fairbanks

Charlie Peter at Fairbanks

Kias Peter at Fairbanks

Charlie Linklater at Midway

Colin Adjun at Midway

Bill Stevens at Dawson

George Robert at Old Crow

Charles Koe at Midway

Ben Charlie at Adaka

Gerald Edzerza at Whitehorse

Gilbert Stevens at Fairbanks

Frank Cockney at Fairbanks

John Christian at Fairbanks

Randall Baalam at Fairbanks

Robert Linklater at Fairbanks

James Rogers at Yellowknife

Lincoln Robert at Fairbanks

Tommy Ross at Fairbanks

Angus beaulieu at Midway

Thomas Manual at Fort Good Hope

Wally Firth at Victoria

When I was a kid, this Elder gave me a Gwich’in name, CHIH AHAA.

Translated, it means “walking ahead.”

Allan Benjamin CHIH AHAA

Allan Benjamin is a poet, a cartoonist, a fiddle player and a snowshoe racer from Old Crow, Yukon. Allan is a Vuntut Gwich’in artist who provides cartoons and poems to What’s Up Yukon. He introduces us to two sets of characters who represent Allan’s family and traditional Gwich’in life growing up in Old Crow.

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Now Welcoming New and Emergency Patients!

You

Freelance with Manus Hopkins

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

LOST IN PARADISE

The Yukon will host its very first Para Snowboard World Cup, the “Lost in Paradise” Banked Slalom Event, March 28 to 29 at Mount Sima

Mount Sima will see a busy weekend and a huge celebration of snowboarding this spring when the Yukon hosts its very first Para Snowboard World Cup, the “Lost in Paradise” Banked Slalom Event, which takes place March 28 to 29 at Mount Sima.

The event will be the Para World Cup FInals and the final international race of the season, and additionally, Snowboard Yukon will be hosting the 2024 Yukon Championships.

“The world of Para Snowboarding will truly come together as the event unites athletes, fans and the local community in a remarkable showcase of athleticism, technical ability and inclusivity,”

reads a statement from Canada Snowboard, Mount Sima, Snowboard Yukon and Sport Yukon, who collaborated on the event with the goal of welcoming the world to the North.

“The partnership between these organizations has enabled ‘Lost in Paradise’ to come to life,” the statement continues.

“The second ever World Cup in any snowsport to be hosted in

the Yukon, the event will build off a successful decade of Para Snowboard Events at Big White.

With the 2024 ‘Welcome to Paradise’ Para SBX event preceding ‘Lost in Paradise,’ the double header offers an attractive proposition for national teams from all over the world to travel to Canada.”

According to the companies,

“Lost in Paradise” marks a his-

The “Lost in Paradise” Para Snowboard World Cup is set to take the banked slalom world by storm at Mount Sima

toric moment for the Yukon while also setting the stage for the continued growth and development of winter sports in the region. The “Lost in Paradise” Para Snowboard World Cup is only the second World Cup in history to be hosted in the Yukon—the first being a Cross Country World Cup way back in the 1980s.

The fun begins Wednesday, March 27, with the Lost In Para-

dise Kick-Off Event at the Canada Games Centre from 6 to 8 p.m. This will include the introduction of the Para World Cup athletes as they are presented with their bibs for the race. Attendees can meet Team Canada and welcome the international athletes while learning more about Para snowboarding.

The following two days, March 28 and 29, will see the FIS Para Snowboard World Cup Banked Slalom Event, and the NorAm Banked Slalom Event at Mount Sima. Included will be a variety of activities for children, an assortment of vendors and a live-stream viewing area to watch the racing. The Yukon Championships, also at Mount Sima, will take place March 29 to 31.

“The ‘Lost in Paradise’ Para Snowboard World Cup promises to be an extraordinary event that will leave a lasting impact on the Yukon community, its athletes and the global snowboarding community,” the statement from the organizers concludes.

For more information and to see the full events schedule, visit shredthenorth.ca/en/events/ lost-in-paradise. n

PHOTO: Canada Snowboard

¿HABLAS ESPAÑOL?

Mastering a new language for your next vacation

Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America are incredibly popular vacation destinations for Yukonners. Can you blame us? Six months of snow and ice will lead almost anyone to daydream, at some point, about a sunny, exotic vacation somewhere far away. When I first travelled to Peru, years ago, I knew maybe three words in Spanish. Stepping off the plane, I felt lost even though I was able to get by with speaking English. I felt like I couldn’t really connect with the people I came into contact with. Every so often, a kind stranger would enthusiastically ask me, “¿Hablas español?” (Do you speak Spanish?). I would shake my head no, and the disappointment on their faces would echo my own. I wished that I could answer yes, but very much doubted that that would ever be the case.

I eventually enrolled in Spanish classes in Cusco, but after five days decided that it wasn’t for me. The other students were mostly interested in learning how to navigate the local nightlife and I was looking for something else. I had Duolingo, the popular language learning app, on my phone and would occasionally spend some time on it, but the repetitive nature, in time, became tiresome.

In the end it was immersion and time that got me to where I am now. My Spanish isn’t perfect and I still make grammatical errors that I’m too lazy to correct, but I can now navigate daily life with very few problems. I can make jokes, understand other people’s stories, run errands and express myself in a manner that is almost how I wished it could one day be.

Some of the best things about travelling are sharing experiences and stories and connecting with other people. Much like how you might be curious about the lives of local people in the places you visit, most likely they feel the same way about you. People want to hear about where you came from and how people live their lives there—the similarities and the differences. They want to ask you questions and share their own stories as well.

Whether you have an endof-winter trip coming up or are already thinking of the next season, here are some tips that may help you in your quest to master a new language.

Let go of perfection

Spend enough days in silence in a group of people who are speaking a different language and you’ll quickly give up on the notion that you have to be

able to speak perfectly before you open your mouth. For way too long, I felt I couldn’t speak unless what I was about to say was flawless, both grammatically and in terms of pronunciation. I would repeat phrases and questions in my head, over and over, before heading out to the market or to meet friends. I remember days where I wouldn’t say a single word all day because I was afraid I might make a mistake or not know a word.

The problem with wanting to do things perfectly is that often it prevents you from doing them at all, and if you’re learning a new language, the most important thing is practise. Get used to people maybe not understanding you initially, having to repeat something or realizing later on that you made a mistake. It’s not the end of the world, and those errors are what will carry you on to the next level in your foreignlanguage journey.

Visiting a place like Cusco, Peru, is a much more enriching experience if you know a bit of the local language

PHOTO: Jessica Surber

Immerse yourself

When I’m in Peru, I spend about 99 per cent of my time with people who speak only Spanish. That kind of immersion may not be realistic if you’re going on vacation, but it’s worth it to make the extra effort to distance yourself a bit from the tourist bubble when you can. Immersion will teach you things that no classroom can offer. Surround yourself with the language you want to learn—not only with people who can’t or won’t speak English, but also with music, TV shows, news sources, podcasts, movies and cheesy talk shows. I have a friend who once told me that when she first was learning Spanish, she would listen to a lot of reggaetón and it helped her immensely. Imagine that you are already fluent in the language you want to learn, then try to live your life that way.

Don’t forget to read

If you learn a language by mostly surrounding yourself with people who speak it, you will undoubtedly learn a lot over time. However, you may have no idea how the words you’re saying are written. Initially I had so many moments where I would see a word in print, with no clue as to what it meant until I would say it out loud to myself. Language comprehension is a mixture of both speaking and writing and reading. Pick up a newspaper, buy your favourite book in the language you’re wanting to learn, make a new local recipe or find an interesting blog to follow online. Likewise, if you’re learning a language through mostly reading, don’t forget to practise pronunciation; after all, a language isn’t worth much if you can’t speak it.

Kids are awesome to practise with

I remember going on a Sunday outing with a big group of people during my first few months in Peru. One might think that hanging out

on a sunny day and barbecuing by the pool would undoubtedly lead to lots of great conversations and opportunities to practise a new language, but for me, with my then very limited Spanish, it was way too intimidating. Instead, I ended up hanging out with a sixyear-old boy, playing with toy cars and building ramps and tunnels in the dirt. His vocabulary was much closer to my own and he didn’t judge or criticize or laugh at my bad pronunciation and grammatical errors. He was just happy that he had someone to play with, and I was grateful to practise my Spanish with him.

It’s never too late

I learned my first foreign language when I was about six years old. I can’t really remember how I learned it; looking back, it almost feels like I had always known how to speak it. I can’t remember the process but I imagine I was just very much like an innocent and curious parrot (repeating whatever I heard without overthinking it). Learning a foreign language as an adult is a very different journey, but it’s not impossible. Time and curiosity are your friends. Be patient and kind with yourself. Ask questions and be open. And know that if you keep at it, it is inevitable that you will get better.

If you’re thinking about learning Spanish, consider checking out the Spanish Conversation Group held at noon on Wednesdays at the Whitehorse United Church. For info, call Louise at 867-687-7238, or Michele at 867-333-6081; and check out Speed Spanish, an online Spanish course offered by Yukon University (ed2go.com/yukon/online-courses/speed-spanish). n

Yukon-related Spanish Vocabulary (to help get you started)

Yukon Territory — el territorio del Yukón

North — norte

Midnight sun — el sol de medianoche

Northern lights — las auroras boreales

Klondike Gold Rush — la fiebre del oro de Klondike Bear — oso

Fox — zorro

Wolf — lobo

Moose — alce (can also mean elk)

Trout — trucha Eagle — águila

Snow — nieve

Winter — invierno

Cold — frío

Glaciers — glaciares

Frozen — congelado

Boreal Forest — bosque boreal

Lakes — lagos

Mountains — montañas

Yukon River — el río Yukón

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

MEN’S CIRCLE

March 25

YWITT MAKERS CLUB (T4T):

WELD A ROSE 5:30pm - 8:30pm

March 26

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION 5:00pm - 6:00pm

LASER CUTTER BASICSWOODEN EARRINGS 6:00pm - 9:00pm

WOODSHOP ORIENTATION 6:30pm - 9pm ………………………..

March 27

or email: mjvernon@gmail.com arkabrotherhood.com

BEGINNER SEWING: COASTERS 6:00pm - 9:00pm

March 28

REPAIR CAFE: PUBLIC EVENT! 6 - 9pm

Open Hours: Wed-Sun 1pm-9pm March 20

WELCOME WEDNESDAY NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION 11am

Open Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

Please see Yukonstruct.com for more info!

is your best resource for events across the Yukon!

Saturdays

Open Studio – Drop In 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Space to create and focus on your artistic practice.

AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-993-5095 or 867-993-3734 for more information

Sundays

EVENTS PROMOTERS

What’s Up Yukon is now a local option to sell your tickets on-line!

Email us: events@whatsupyukon.com

ATLIN

Fri Mar 29 Jenny Hamilton - Teenage Cult Leader 8:00 PM Atlin Jenny Hamilton’s stories deep-dive into her childhood dreams and experience growing up queer in 1980’s Whitehorse. https://larrikinentertainment.ca/ jenny-hamilton-1

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

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

Mondays

Caregiver & Tot Drop-in 10:00 AM Atlin Recreation Centre This is an unstructured hour for You and your Littles to get social and run wild. This IS NOT a drop off, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call or email 993-4102 atlinarc.coordinator@gmail. com for more info.

Yukon Communities:

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

CARCROSS

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

First Friday of the month Mother Goose

Group 11:00 AM Haa Shagóon Hídi (Our Ancestors House) Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre Learn stories, songs, and rhymes, lunch provided. Suitable for babies and children 5 and under. Please bring along a water bottle and blanket to sit on. To register, call 332-2389. https://whatsupyukon.events/jwf

Thursdays Yoga with Jess Ghùch Tlâ Community School Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. Dropin, Free admission! For more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.

CARMACKS

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

DAWSON CITY

Thu Mar 28 - March 31 Dawson City International Short Film Festival 5:00 AM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) 25th annual film festival, includes local and international short films, with guest filmmakers and much more. https:// dawsonfilmfest.com

Sat Mar 30 QYS Community Dinner 4:00 PM Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community Hall Family-friendly event provides free food for the whole community. Vegan, dairy and gluten-free options, Takeout and delivery are available. Email calhoun@queeryukon.com for more info.

MONTHLY

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

Weekly

Mondays

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

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

Tuesdays 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.

Hand-Building Pottery Drop-In 6:30 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Self-guided group studio time for those with some experience with pottery. Newcomers are welcome, little instruction is provided.

Wednesdays

QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office

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

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

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

Thursdays

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

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

Fridays

Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon.events/dawson-legion-8336c3

Open Studio Drop-in 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Enjoy KIAC’s bright, air-conditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even better- we’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.

Anglican Church Service 10:30 Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City

FARO

First and Third Tuesday of every month Faro Council Meeting 7:00 PM Town of Faro

Tuesdays Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre

Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Kids Club Faro Recreation Centre

Adult Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Wednesdays

Seniors Games & Walks 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre The gym is open for seniors who would like to improve their fitness goals.

Fitness Fun for Seniors 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre Volleyball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Thursdays

Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre

Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays

Pickleball 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Seniors Yoga 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Open Gym 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Chair Yoga & Deep Relaxation for Seniors

Basketball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays

Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre

Open Gym 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Sundays

Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

HAINES JUNCTION

Wed Mar 27 Jenny Hamilton - Teenage Cult Leader 8:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre Jenny Hamilton’s stories deep-dive into her childhood dreams and experience growing up queer in 1980’s Whitehorse. https://larrikinentertainment.ca/jennyhamilton-1

Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre Village Council meetings are also held the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. [Remote attendance only]

Mondays

Fun with Food 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Learn new skills, share recipes and take food home!

Basketball 6:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Tuesdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers.

Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00 PM https://whatsupyukon.events/tea-bannock-

68ab07

Men’s and women’s sewing group 1:00 PM Mun kų

BGC Game Night 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Play, have fun, build skills and challenge your friends

Wednesdays

Seniors and Elders Refreshments and Games 2:00 PM Haines Junction Seniors

Residence Girls Club 3:20 PM St. Elias Community School Held in the art room, open to Girls and identifying as Girls from Grade 8 to 12.

AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 3:00 PM

Haines Junction Health Centre

BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias

Community School Art Journaling Group 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Bring your own creative supplies that you like to use. This can be scraps of paper, magazines, glue, paint, pen, markers, stamps, ink etc. and a book or journal to create

Thursdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers.

Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias

Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group.

Haines Junction Thrift Shop 2:00 PM

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

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

Fridays Stories and STEM Activities 10:00 AM

Haines Junction Library

AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:30 PM

Haines Junction Health Centre

Saturdays AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM

Haines Junction Health Centre

Sundays Anglican Church Service St. Christopher’s Church 10:30 AM Anglican Church Service at St. Christophers Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican.yukon.net/services.

html AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM

Haines Junction Health Centre

MARSH LAKE

Last Wednesday of every month MLCS

board meeting 7:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Tuesdays Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake

Community Centre

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

Wednesdays

South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake

Community Centre 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Thursdays

Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM

Fridays

Beginner Yoga Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM

Youth Gym Drop-In Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM

Saturdays Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM

Sundays

Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM

MAYO

Sat Mar 23 & Sun Mar 24 Mayo Carnival

Village of Mayo Annual winter festival, fun for the whole family, take part in various events throughout the weekend. Adult activities running in the evenings.

Sun Mar 31 Easter Church Service 4:00 PM St. Mary’s in Mayo Gather for a communion service on Easter Sunday along with a baptism. The service will be on Easter Sunday afternoon.

Mondays

Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00

AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School

Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Art/Entrepreneur Club 3:30 J.V Clark

School Held in the Lunchroom

Dinner and Movie Night 5:00 PM Mayo

Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Video Yoga Classes 5:15 PM Mayo Curling

Arena Yoga Videos are used for leading each class. Bring your own Yoga mat or borrow ours. Drop-ins are welcome. For more info call 996-2043 8979962043

Tuesdays

Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00

AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Youth Archery 3:30 PM Mayo Community

Hall And Recreation Centre

Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation

Centre

Disc Golf 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

And Recreation Centre

Curling 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

And Recreation Centre

Drop-in Art Night 7:00 PM Mayo Curling

Lounge If you can bring a photo that you would like to work from that would be great. No experience necessary.

Wednesdays

Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00

AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School

Pottery Class 3:30 PM J.V Clark School

Rec Volleyball 7:00 PM Village of Mayo Pool

Thursdays

Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00

AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Elementary Soccer 3:30 PM J.V Clark

School

Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

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

Fridays

Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00

AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark School

Sundays St. Mary’s Church Service 11:00 AM St

Mary’s Church (867)667-7746

Communion Service St. Mary with St. Mark Anglican Church 11:00 AM where village members come together to worship and offer service to their community and the world.

Mount Lorne

Mon Mar 18 - 22 March Youth Days 5:00

AM Mount Lorne Community Centre 5 days of different activities for youth aged 8-14, lunch provided, and time spent skating outside. Register for all 5 days or individual days! Email recreation@mtlorne.ca for more info.

1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne Mountain Community Centre

Mondays Run Club 6:00 PM Lorne Mountain

Community Centre

Drop-In Yoga 7:00 PM Lorne Mountain

Community Centre By donation all levels welcome

Yoga with Jess 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. To register or for more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.

Tuesdays Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In

6:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre

Improve your balance, flexibility, strength and endurance in this indoor class led by Colleen Ennis. Drop in, admission by donation. Suitable for mature youth & adults. https:// whatsupyukon.events/fhm

Thursdays Community Drop In 11:00 AM Mount Lorne Community Centre

Drop-In Skating Lessons – Kids 5:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Learn to skate and improve your skills. Coached by Lyndi Proudfoot - Free to Members. Must bring your own skates & helmet.

Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre

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

OLD CROW

Mondays Men’s Night At The Rec Centre 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Tuesdays

Kids Gym 3:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

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

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

Wednesdays Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal

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

Adult Card Game Night 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

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

ROSS RIVER

Tuesdays

Sewing Night 7:00 PM The Hope Centre

Wednesdays Family Bible Study 8:00 PM The Hope Centre

Fridays Family Game Night- Coffee House 9:00 PM The Hope Centre

Sundays Church Service 12:00 PM The Hope Centre

SKAGWAY Alaska Mondays

Live Music Red Onion Saloon 6:30 PM Live music every Monday

Wednesdays

Women’s Morning Worship 7:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway All are welcome. Part of the Alaska Presbytery and the PC U.S.A.

Windy Valley Babies 10:30 AM Skagway Public Library Stories, Songs, and Fun with Ms. Anna! Designed for ages 0-3.

Fridays Skagway Teen Night 6:30 PM Skagway Public Library

Sundays Sunday Worship 10:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway\ Sunday School 4:00 PM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway

TAGISH

Sun Mar 24 Yoga Workshop 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre Facilitated by certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher Richard Mueller - of Whitehorse. Free for Tagish Community Centre Members. To register email recreation@tagishyukon.org or call 399.3407.

First Monday of every month Carcross Tagish Renewable Resources Council 1:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

First Monday of every month Tagish Advisory Council 8:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

First Tuesday of every month Tagish Community Association 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Second Thursday of every month Tagish Local Advisory Council 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community

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

Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 2:00 PM

Tagish Community LIbrary Targeted literacy programming by Yukon Learn at the Tagish Library. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon. Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Thursdays

Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre .

Saturdays

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

TESLIN

Wed Mar 27 Teslin Recreation Society Dinner & AGM 6:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Eat spaghetti, hear what we are up to, discuss ideas, join the board or a committee.

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

Tuesdays

The ‘Big 4-6’ Sports 4:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Outdoor 3D Archery 7:00 PM Sambow

Archery Course – Meet at the ball diamond

Wednesdays

Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre

Drop in seniors

Pickleball 6:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Thursdays

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Girls Volleyball 3:15 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Fridays Public Skating 4:00 PMTeslin Lake Recreation Complex

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

Saturdays Parent & Tots 12:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Sundays

Ball Hockey 7:00 PM Khàtìnas.àxh Community School 12+ Drop in

WATSON LAKE

Daily Northern Lights Space & Science Centre Shows 11:00 AM The spectacular dancing Northern Lights are showcased, a video that is broadcast in the NLC’s domed 100-seat theatre daily throughout the summer season. Plays daily on the hour starting at 11:00 AM

Second Saturday of the month Watson Lake Direct Aid 2:00 PM Northern Lights Centre

Tuesdays

Smart Recovery Meetings 3:00 PM Wye

Lake Cabin Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services For more information, email joey.mitchell@yukon.ca or call 332-3187

Pickleball & Badminton Watson Lake Secondary School 7:00 PM

Wednesdays Drop-In Ninja Tumbling 5:30 PM Watson

Lake Secondary School All ages welcome. Adults are welcome too, come to do some stretching or try some handstands etc.

Fridays

Friday Night Lanes 7:00 PM Call 335-7979 to register

Saturdays Disc Golf 6:00 PM Raven Pines Rent discs at the Rec Centre or bring your fave. All welcome from expert level to beginner. Baptiste Power Yoga 7:00 PM Fees apply. A muscle-shaping and mind-sculpting workout, work at your own level and ability, set to electronic music.

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

Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School

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Sydney

Keddy is a recipe developer who lives in Whitehorse. Her work can be found in The Boston Globe,

as well as in other

THE MANY USES OF WHEY

In last month’s column I mentioned my roommate has discovered yogurtmaking and the subsequent, luminous introduction of whey to our pantry

When a batch of yogurt is ready, we strain it for a couple of hours in a sieve lined with cheesecloth, resulting in about four cups of thick yogurt and two cups of whey. I’ve fallen in love with this new ingredient.

For those unfamiliar with whey, it is the liquid by-product of cheese or yogurt-making. When rennet or acid is added to heated milk, the proteins in the milk coagulate and separate from the liquid. Once strained, you’re left with a solid mass; and in the bowl, a thin, yellowish liquid. Commercial yogurt eaters will be familiar with this liquid (when a carton has sat in the fridge for a couple of

Almost gjetost—experiments in whey cheese-making

days, the liquid that separates out from the solids is whey).

There is sweet whey, resulting from using rennet to make hard cheeses such as cheddar or Swiss; and acid or sour whey, resulting from making cheeses with lemon juice, vinegar or other acids. Yogurt whey is acidic or sour, but there’s a beautiful, elusive, caramel-y undertone that adds richness to cheese sauces and gravies and becomes more pronounced when the whey is reduced by simmering.

You might have tried the very expensive and delicious Ski Queen Gjetost, a goat’s whey cheese from Norway that is available in our local supermarkets, sometimes, and sometimes at Cultured Fine Cheese in Whitehorse. This is cheese as candy, a cross between fudge and hard cream cheese and

utterly beguiling, for some. (My father used to liken Ski Queen to cross-country ski wax.)

Years ago, when Brian Lendrum and Susan Ross were tending goats on the shores of Lake Laberge and making cheese, they kindly gave me a couple of gallons of whey, left over from feta-cheese production, so I could experiment with producing Gjetost at home. After hours of simmering whey in a giant pot set on low heat, I produced a quarter-pound of grainy, Snow Queen-like Gjetost of which I was inordinately proud.

I haven’t tried that since, but I’m wondering what would happen if I froze each batch of whey and, once a gallon had accumulated, experimented again. (Note that since I’d be using cow’s-milk yogurt, I would end up with mysost, not Gjetost.) Meantime, I’m

substituting whey for milk, yogurt or buttermilk in baking; and recently, for some of the milk in the cheese sauce for mac ‘n’ cheese, which is brilliant. A tablespoon of whey adds brightness to a stir-fry, and I don’t see any reason not to try it in salad dressing instead of vinegar.

Should you somehow end up with a lot of whey and don’t know what to do with it, there are many helpful articles and tips available online, but for starters, you could make cheesy pinwheel buns.

CHEESY

PINWHEEL BUNS

[Adapted from the Liquor Board of Ontario’s Food and Drink, Summer 2003]

Cheese Filling

INGREDIENTS

• 4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature

• 1 Tbsp butter

• 1 tsp juniper berries

• 1 tsp coriander seeds

• 1 1/2 cups finely grated Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese

*The original recipe calls for 1 tsp coarsely ground pepper; try it, and feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin and cardamom.

METHOD

1. Coarsely grind juniper berries and coriander seeds in a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

2. Melt butter in a small pot, add seeds and cook for a couple of minutes.

3. Remove from heat and cool slightly, then combine with cream cheese in a small bowl.

Dough INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 Tbsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

• 2 tsp granulated sugar

• 2 tsp kosher salt

• 1/4 tsp freshly-ground black pepper

• 8 oz butter, very cold, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 cup chilled whey, buttermilk or yogurt

METHOD

To make dough: in a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt and pepper. Scatter in the butter and toss.

1. With your fingers, a pastry cutter or two knives, cut in the butter until the pieces are the size of peas.

2. Make a well in the center and pour in the whey, buttermilk or yogurt. Stir with a fork to combine. When the dough is close to coming together, mix in the final bits of flour with your hands.

3. Lightly flour a counter or a piece of parchment paper. Transfer the dough to the floured surface and form into a rough rectangle of about 10 x 5 inches. Fold into thirds, as you would a letter. Rotate, so the long side is facing you. Cut in half crosswise and stack the two pieces on top of each other.

4. Using a rolling pin, gently roll dough into a rectangle and repeat the process above.

5. Roll dough into a 9- x 13-inch rectangle. Turn so that the long side is facing you. Spread cream-cheese mixture evenly across the dough, right to the very edges. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over top.

6. Roll dough onto itself lengthwise, into a tight coil. Cut the log into 12 even rounds. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, 2 inches apart. If the rounds have gotten squashed in the cutting, press them back into a circle with your fingers. Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.

7. Preheat the oven to 400 F.

8. Brush tops of rolls with whey, buttermilk or yogurt. Bake until golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool before serving. These are best eaten at room temperature for maximum flakiness.

9. If you like, freeze unbaked rolls, after brushing them, and bake them straight from frozen at 400 F, but lengthen the cooking time by 7 to 10 minutes.

10. Tip: When a couple of days old, the buns are great toasted— you miht have to slice a bit off the top so they’ll fit in the toaster, though. Once toasted, spread with butter. Best breakfast ever! n

Liquid gold: leftover whey from yogurt-making

PHOTO: Miche Genest

Cheesy Pinwheel Buns

march 27-31 at Mount sima

wednesday march 27 | Kick off evening

6: 00- 8: 00 pm , canada Games centre

meet the canadian national para snowboard team & welcome the international athletes

- Autograph signing

- Vendor Village with free snacks and giveaways

- Kids can try snowboarding indoors! (Guardian signed waiver required)

thursday & friday march 28 - 29 | festival

11: 00 am - 2: 00 pm daily , Mt sima cheer on the athletes and join the festival fun

FESTIVAL

- Live streamed action on the big screen by NorthwesTel TV

- Northland Beverages High Five Zone — free hot dog lunch

- Try It - sit ski with BC Adaptive Snowsports

- Try It - Dene Games with the Yukon Aboriginal Sport Circle

- Kids Zone with Boys and Girls Club, RPAY & City of Whitehorse

- Mt. Sima Sledding Slope and Mini Park

- Vendor Village & giveaways

- Air North, Yukon’s Airline, Lounge- cookies !

- DJs, Beer Garden and food concession

DAILY RACE SCHEDULE

- 11:00 am: Para World Cup

- 2:00 pm: NorAm

- 2:00 pm Friday: Yukon Champs - Locals Banked Slalom

- 4:00 pm: Awards

2024 yukon snowboard champs march 29 - 31

info & registration: snowboardyukon . com

Meet the Canadian National Para Snowboard Team!

Catch all the high speed action & cheer on your favorite riders!

Kids can try snowboarding indoors at Wednesday’s Kick Off Evening at the CGC!

full festival schedule | www . lostinparadise . ca

- Tyler Turner, 2022 Paralympic Gold & Bronze Medalist (top right), Alex Massie, 2022 Paralympian (top left), & Sandrine Hamel, 2022 Parlympian (bottom Right)

CRY ‘WOLF!”

The good, the bad and the ugly of an idiom

Once upon a time there was a shepherd boy who was diligently doing his duties, according to Aesop, but perhaps got a little bored, a little lonely or was just trying to be a little bit funny. We really don’t know for sure, and therein lies the mystery in the fable-turned-idiom about crying “Wolf!”

Fables weren’t written just to tell stories; they were written to teach valuable lessons or morals. The value of some of these probably improbable tales may be disputed by some and misunderstood by others. This is one such tale, but let’s take a detour for a moment …

In 1993, another boy, equipped with a camera and armed with a heightened sense of enthusiasm, practically leapt out of the back passenger side of a Suburban, in mid-February, enticed by the sight of two grey wolves. His Yukon adventure had begun. The wolves were stunning. I had never

seen wolves in the wild and have never seen one again since. My childhood imagination sprang to life, but I stayed in my seat (my husband didn’t). We were on our first ride through the Yukon wilderness, guided by a senior couple we had just met; our trusty steed, a rusted Suburban (probably when we first fell in love with Suburbans).

I bet you are eager to hear how this story turned out. No one was eaten. Neither did my husband garner any photographic evidence of our first and probably last Yukon wolf encounter. Wade had given us all a start and I was more than a little concerned as we watched him disappear into the boreal forest. We could hear him whistling (yes, whistling!). He’s an amazing whistler and I guess he hoped the wolves would linger just long enough for a photo shoot. Just seconds and the deed would be done. But no such luck. And, thankfully, there was no cry of “Wolf!” from the forest edge.

boy—the shepherd—who was minding his own business and watching his flock when a wolf ap-

age of the child, the moral of this story is an important one that has endured for a very long time (centuries).

Getting back to that other

peared; well, his cry of “Wolf!” was dismissed by any and all who had heard it, according to Aesop’s fable Apparently, no matter the

Now it’s time to talk about the good, the bad and the ugly of this idiom.

t The good

What the fable and the idiom emphasize is that integrity is of the utmost importance. Honesty is a virtue to strive for and one by which we should live our lives. The shepherd boy momentarily showed a lapse in judgment as he foolishly cried “Wolf! Wolf!” when he knew that there was no wolf. And, as the story goes, he did this time and time again until no one came running to rescue him or his sheep. (People’s hearing tends to get a bit dull when others spin half-truths as easily as they would spin wool; or, worse yet, when others tell out-and-out lies.)

t The bad

Well, for Aesop’s shepherd boy, the story did not end well—at least not for the sheep. Too many

cries of “Wolf!” ended in peril for at least one member of the flock. The lesson to be learned here is that people will no longer believe someone (or be less likely to believe them) when they finally do tell the truth), after they have told so many stories, half-truths, little white lies or worse. So, the moral of the story is simply this: Tell the truth.

t And the ugly

Besides the ugly outcome for the shepherd boy and his sheep, there is, potentially, an ugly outcome if this idiom is misunderstood: some may think they should not cry “Wolf!” if they are not 100 per cent certain that there is a “wolf.” As a mother and grandmother, I have always affirmed the virtue of being honest … but I also believe it’s perfectly fine to cry “Wolf!” even if you are not absolutely certain that there is one

Whatever you may decide about this idiom, remember this: Never run after a wolf! Don’t whistle at it. And don’t think I might be interested in a photo op!

All kidding aside, let’s end this story well: Embrace honesty, tell the truth … and don’t be afraid to cry “Wolf!” if you need to. n

PHOTO: Pixabay

column

Josephine Holmes is a freelance writer and the copy editor at What’s Up Yukon. She is a prairie girl, at heart, but loves the Yukon and has been a sourdough since 1994. The other thing she loves, aside from spending time with family, is being called “Grammy.”

Fables weren’t written just to tell stories; they were written to teach valuable lessons or morals

IN CELEBRATION

FRESHWATER

March has always been my favourite month of the year

Ienjoy the longer days and blue skies. We Yukoners can spend afternoons shedding layers of fleece or wool, to bask in the glory of the warmth on our pale skin, too long tucked away from the sunshine. We can enjoy end-of-seasondays kick-sledding, cross-country skiing, fat biking or any recreation

TFirst SUP on Marsh Lake

of our choosing.

This year, I am deeply distracted from being in the moment of March’s glory. Instead, I’m dreaming of late-spring days when open water will finally reach Yukon’s lakes. There are months of frozen water still ahead, held in winter’s long grasp.

YESAB’s process is about the people, the land and resources. We invite you to participate in the assessment of crucial projects within your district and make a meaningful impact on the decision-making process.

To know more about projects under assessment and how to comment on them, visit the YESAB online registry by scanning the QR code here:

867-668-6420

his week, on March 22, the world will celebrate World Water Day. It’s an annual day of observance by the United Nations, to highlight the huge importance of fresh water. These days, I’m reflecting a lot on the significance of Yukon’s freshwater lakes. Canada is home to 7 per cent of the world’s freshwater. In the Yukon, we have so much of it in our backyard. It was easy to craft a list of over 50 lakes accessible to paddle within three to four hours of Whitehorse. So began an ambitious plan to stand-up paddleboard 50 lakes this approaching paddle season. The idea started with some musing about how to celebrate my 50th year. Friends encouraged me to do what I love. Combining stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and the Yukon was the obvious choice. Few things compare to the deep joy that comes from being out on my board along the shores of a lake. A summer of paddling 50 lakes was the seed of an idea that turned into a planned adventure. Nearly a decade ago, living near the shores of Marsh Lake, I bought my

Marsh Lake with choppy waves

first paddle board. At the time, my weekdays were spent commuting to Whitehorse for work and juggling duties with two young kids and a zoo full of animals. On the weekends, my country-residential chores keep me busy hauling wood and water. There were rare windows of free time long enough to haul the canoe, paddle a river and arrange a shuttle back. The new SUP was the easy choice to portage between the lake and home or my car’s roof rack.

Having never tried SUP before, there was no better place to start than Marsh Lake. Easy, calm mornings allowed me to learn the basics of balance and a good paddle stroke. In the afternoons when the winds picked up, I could improve my efficiency and power against waves or a strong headwind. There was even a bit of time to float, chill and enjoy a late-evening sunset.

Over the coming months, this column will profile some of the incredible lakes worthy of exploration, recreation and relaxation (Marsh Lake will be one of them).

The tour of 50 Lakes will likely kick-off within the city limits of Whitehorse, on smaller lakes where

Freelance with Wendy Morrison cont’d on page 15 ...

OF

Wendy landed in the Yukon 18 years ago on a February day, with minus-40 temperatures and a clear blue sky. Since that day, the Yukon has been the love of her life. Her outdoor adventures started with canines: working for the Yukon Quest, skijor racing and making her way through the Whitehorse and Area Hikes & Bikes book with her two dogs. Then came the paddling: whitewater classes with Yukan Canoe, a two-week expedition on the Wind and Peel rivers, 720 kilometres in a tandem canoe (in the Yukon River Quest). The purchase of her first stand-up paddle board launched a growing SUP obsession. Her target is 10,000 more hours on the water, whether it brings mastery or not.

PHOTOS: Wendy Morrison

In celebration of freshwater cont’d from page 14

Campbell Highway and the South Canol Road.

any beginner can grow their skills and confidence to go bigger and farther. We’ll travel the Southern Lakes Loop to the interconnected lakes that cross borders and connect us with friends and neighbours in B.C. and Alaska. This series of big lakes can test the skills, savvy and focus of the most-experienced paddlers.

The Northern Loop will take the North Klondike Highway past Carmacks to the less-travelled routes of Frenchman Lake Road, Robert

We’ll head west to the shores of Kluane Lake, Yukon’s largest and grandest lake, dominated by the backdrops of the St. Elias and Kluane mountain ranges.

In the east, between Watson Lake and Teslin, we’ll paddle some lesser-known gems along the Alaska Highway.

There are some plans mapped out. A social group paddle on Chadburn Lake, with an aim of gathering 50 women on SUPs. A paddle cookout with local chef and writer Michele Genest. And a multi-day camping trip exploring Snafu Lake. Other days will be left open to new paddle partners and adventures, as they arise.

However the expedition comes together, there will be laughs and learning and a few dumps along the way. Stories of honouring the water,

places and people. Moments to feel the hurt and fabulousness of 50. And, always, a celebration of the amazing freshwater lakes that we

can experience here at home. n

PHOTOS: Wendy Morrison

Wendy in her happy place on the beach at Marsh Lake

Marsh Lake on a hot day

Marsh Lake at sunset

SHINING A LIGHT ON LONELINESS

“My headspace is kinda foggy.”

ot hungry these days, but felt like I should have something … so, made some popcorn.”

“I ended up on the floor the other day … not sure how I fell and don’t remember when it happened.”

“I got a new Smart TV, but I’m not smart enough to get the news channel!”

“I’m feeling kinda lonely. Not much to do.”

“It’s cloudy, windy, [and] rainy outside today. Haven’t been outside for a walk for a long time.”

These are some of the comments I have heard recently from an older relative. Some of them could be attributed to loneliness. Feeling isolated, lacking support daily and limited social contact with others are common issues for many older adults living alone. There may be a lack of motivation to get out for a walk or to call or visit a friend or relative. Sometimes technology (used at home for people living alone) can be overwhelming.

The National Institute on Ageing (NIA), from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), released their 2023 report on social isolation and loneliness. Although these terms are similar, social isolation refers to the number of social relations a person has; whereas loneliness is more about

I have a Smart TV, but I’m not smart enough to know how to use it!

how a person is feeling about the quality or quantity, compared to what they would like. In other words, you can have a large group of people that you know, but not feel deeply connected to any of them, and be lonely.

What are the effects of social isolation and loneliness?

Reflective of some of the experiences of my older relative, the NIA reports that a person may experience falls or experience such mental health issues as depression or anxiety or dementia—and feel less motivated to go for walks or to eat healthy meals on a regular schedule. According to a 2019 Canadian Medical Association Journal article

( cmaj.ca/content/cmaj/191/17/ E476.full.pdf), loneliness is connected to increased blood pressure and risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Socially isolated seniors are more at risk for unhealthy behaviour, such as drinking and smoking, and may include potential elder abuse, financial abuse and scams. All of these are costly to seniors and their caregivers, as well as to the health-care system.

When people are isolated, they may lose connection to the community and access to support services, which can reduce a person’s self-esteem and confidence and their ability to contribute meaningfully as a volunteer or worker in their community.

National Institute on Ageing solutions for social isolation and loneliness

1. Development of a national strategy by the federal government (to lead a discussion at the provincial, territorial and municipal level) about a coordinated approach for Canadian initiatives and programs in dealing with the issue of social isolation and loneliness. In 2018, the United Kingdom created a Minister for Loneliness. They developed measures to test for loneliness and provided funds for research. They suggested to doctors to try social prescribing, to encourage patients to attend social and community events, rather than using medications. Community agencies provide added individual support. In May 2023, Japan enacted laws to find ways to support people of all ages who are experiencing social isolation and loneliness.

2. In previous “Grey Matters” columns, we have advocated for age-friendly communities, businesses and services, for phone companies or cable-TV outlets to provide more hands-on support and assistance in using various electronic devices and to provide affordable and easy access to the internet. The Whitehorse Public Library and the libraries in Yukon communities provide great community

service by supporting people in accessing the internet and using computers in libraries.

Electronic technology provides useful tools at home, but those less familiar with these tools may need extra tutoring or hands-on guidance. As my older relative exclaimed, “I got a new Smart TV, but I’m not smart enough to get the news channel!” While visiting, we were both unable to figure out the TV. Questions arose about which remote to use, which buttons to press and in what sequence, and about what the tiny icons on the screen meant, etcetera. It took two younger relatives in their 40s to figure it out, after about 45 minutes! Thankfully, they wrote down a fivestep process and walked us through the process a couple of times. Why can’t companies make TV programs more accessible and affordable?

Screens should be designed and defaulted for older eyes by including options for larger fonts, larger icons and better contrast in order to see icons more clearly.

As a community, we also need to explore and consider the many examples, in Canada and worldwide, of initiatives that support those who live alone, are feeling lonely and may be socially isolated. It would not only save frustration for caregivers and for those experiencing loneliness and social isolation, but it would also save health-care costs and heartaches in the long run. n

Supports to improve your business

The Economic Development Fund supports projects that benefit

The Economic Development Fund supports projects that

You may be eligible to receive funding for:

You may be eligible to receive funding for:

• product development;

• product development;

• market expansion;

• market expansion;

• purchasing or leasing capital assets;

• purchasing or leasing capital assets;

• leasehold improvements; or

• leasehold improvements; or

• an innovative project you need support with.

• an innovative project you need support with.

The application deadline is April 15 for funding requests between $30,001 and $100,000.

The application deadline is April 15 for funding requests between $30,001 and $100,000.

Fast track your community project

The

Eligible projects include:

Eligible projects include:

•

The application deadline is April 15 for

The application deadline is April 15 for funding requests between $20,000 and $75,000.

PHOTO: Kiyoshi Maguire

GREY MATTERS

column with Lillian Nakamura Maguire

Lillian Nakamura Maguire, a retired rural Whitehorse resident, enjoys writing plays, personal essays and haiku, while exploring other creative expressions.

MOVING MOM

I just spent seven weeks on the Alzheimer’s floor—settling my mom into a nursing home

Ivisited Mom every day, trying to help her get her bearings and become as self-sufficient as possible. Only five years ago she was doing yoga and hiking with her friends, so it was hard to see her in a wheelchair trying to remember what she was supposed to do to make it move. Suddenly, I had to mother my mother; it was like having a baby again.

Downsizing Mom’s belongings from her one-bedroom apartment in a fancy assisted-living home, to fit into a shared room in a nursing home, was a daunting task. Since we were still paying the rent at her apartment, they let my sister and I stay there until the end of the month to pack, while still visiting Mom every day. Our siblings and their kids all made quick trips to Calgary to visit Mom and to choose any keepsakes they wanted.

After researching the cost of shipping furniture, my husband drove down from Whitehorse to take some of our family heirlooms back to the Yukon. He engineered

the packing beautifully and got it all home safe without breaking the glass windows on the china cabinet that my dad made.

Mom was so depressed that she was not able to help us make any decisions … even which clothes to save. We chose to keep only soft, stretchy, comfortable clothes, as well as any that still had tissues in the pockets, as they were obviously her favourites. Everything else, we donated or threw out.

While we were packing our Yukon-style moving truck, we often saw the Senior Relocation Solutions van outside the loading dock. It was interesting to learn that there are companies that specialize in moving seniors and will pack, unpack and donate everything for you. A nice option if you have more money than time.

My mom was in the hospital for three weeks before they found her a warm bed in a nursing home. My youngest sister, Valerie, got there first and lined the windowsill with pictures of Mom’s relatives, past and present. Many of the hospital staff commented on how nice it was to have something to ask Mom about, to get to know her better. When she moved into her shared room at her new place we hung

Enjoying some fresh air and exercise

Freelance with Donna Lawther

the pictures on her wall, which made it feel more like home.

After all the moving was done, Valerie went home. I rented an Airbnb, close to Mom’s nursing home, for a month, so that I could continue supporting her. I always enjoyed the walk, there and back, to clear my head and be in the moment.

The first week, I observed the nursing home’s rhythm, to decide when the best time was to visit. On weekdays there was always some kind of organized physical activity, between breakfast and lunch (like hitting big balloons around), that Mom was more willing to join in on if I wasn’t there. The afternoon activities were more my style— like weekly Bingo and Happy Hour

cont’d on page 24 ...

PHOTOS: Donna Lawther

Donna Lawther is a long-time Yukoner, pour-painting artist and author of Harry the Hug Monster.

My husband built a wooden frame to safely transport the china cabinet under all of the other furniture

Our Yukon-style moving truck ready for the long trip back to Whitehorse

COMMUNITY EVENTS ACTIVE AND WELLNESS EVENTS

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Tue Mar 19 Intuitive Hatha Yoga 5:30 PM

Grace Space Work on connecting mind with body and breath, and learn to move intuitively based on what is in our highest and best good. Drop in as space permits. https://whatsupyukon.events/77dc4a

Sun Mar 24 Season Finisher 11:00 AM

Copper Haul Staging Area DPSAY Season Finisher at the Copper Haul Rd. (off Fish Lake Road by Icy Waters) 10 / 6 / 1 mile Mush, kicksled, bikejor, canicross, kids

Fri Mar 29 Solvest 70th International

Bonspiel 5:00 AM Whitehorse Curling Club An Open Bonspiel (teams can be composed of any gender combination). All skill levels are welcome. Seeded pools based on team skill level. 4 game guarantee. Live music Friday and Saturday nights. Catered dinner Saturday. https://whatsupyukon.events/ f06ba1

Mondays

Judo For Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM

Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy Functional fitness training to be stronger and injuryresistant. All levels are welcome. Train ‘functionally’ with NSA Co-owner Jeremy McCulloch. https://northernstrength.ca/

Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.c

Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00 AM Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged

Elderactive Pilates level 1/2 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online.

Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 6:45 PM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca

Spirit Bear Karate 7:30 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts

7:30 PM

Rest & Restore-Meditative Yin 8:30 PM Avalanche Athletics Suitable for all levels, offering variations and props to support individual needs. Bringing a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water bottle and block are recommended.

Tuesdays

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

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM

Séances de yoga 8:00 AM

Flow and Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM

Grace Space This dynamic and invigorating practice is designed to awaken your inner strength and leave you feeling revitalized and empowered.

Elderactive Yoga with Richard until Oct 24 9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Dance explore the great variety the IYENGAR Yoga method has to offer

Yoga with Barbara until Feb 20 10:00 AM

Whitehorse United Church Use side door All Levels Yoga. Email bfraingower@gmail.com

Babynastics with Coach Naomi 10:15

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

Whitehorse Archery Takhini Elementary 6:30 PM Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. https://www.whitehorsearchery.com/ schedule

Spirit Bear Kobudo (Weapons) Karate 7:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http://spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Intermediate 7:30 PM Grey Mountain Primary School This class picks up from where Learn to Fence ends. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness.

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM

Stretch and Stabilize – Functional Conditioning 7:45 PM Grace Space

Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class.

Wednesdays

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout. Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy

https://northernstrength.ca/

Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00 AM Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged

Elderactive Pilates level 1/2 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing

Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online.

Zumba with Bonita 10:00 AM 7th Ray

Studio Zumba routines incorporate interval training — alternating fast and slow rhythms — to help improve cardiovascular fitness. Register online.

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online. http://cuts2.com/jiacg

Babynastics with Coach Stephanie 9:30

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

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

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days

Martial Arts 12:05 AM

Yoga-Yoga Nidra 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio

Awaken and then release as we delve into a one hour yoga class that will prepare us to melt into the 30 minute Yoga Nidra experience. Register online.

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

Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:15 PM

Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

NSA Spin Classes 4:15 PM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https://northernstrength.ca/

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM

Spirit Bear Karate 6:25 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available.

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online. http://cuts2.com/jiacg

Noon Strength and Conditioning 12:00

PM Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multijoint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more. https:// northernstrength.ca/

Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

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

Zumba with Bonita 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Women’s Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Elderactive Nordic Walking 12:30 PM

ElderActive Recreation Association he use of poles provides a full-body workout as well as stability over uneven terrain.

Elderactive Leisure Walking 12:30 PM

ElderActive Recreation Association Leisure Walking is similar to Nordic walking but is suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

Northern Strength Academy Exercise to suit your fitness level and Strength & Conditioning Goals. Learn to Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Row and Olympic Lift https://northernstrength.ca/

Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Learn to Fence 6:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School This class introduces the fundamentals of fencing to kids who have never tried fencing. All classes are at Grey Mountain Primary.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM

Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning 8:15 PM Avalanche Athletics

Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class.

Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning http://amitieyoga.ca

Thursdays

Insanity Live! Get Fit For Winter – 6 Week Winter Series 5:30 AM Riverdale Subdivision – Whitehorse Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels. Register online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/b7o

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days

Martial Arts 12:05 PM

Babynastics with Coach Ewan 1:00

PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semistructured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https://www.polarettes.

org/babynastics

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Eight Days

Martial Arts 4:45 PM

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM

Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Adult Beginner 7:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School If you are looking to learn fencing as an adult. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness.

Fridays

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts

6:00 AM

NSA Spin Classes 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https://northernstrength.ca/

Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 9:30 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available.

eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight & Mondays Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - teen classes Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM

Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Saturdays

Flow & Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM

Avalanche Athletics A dynamic and invigorating practice is designed to awaken your inner strength and leave you feeling revitalized and empowered. All levels, Bring yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water bottle and block are recommended. http:// amitieyoga.ca

Saturday Morning Strength and Conditioning 10:15 AM Northern Strength Academy Full-body movements to improve functional strength. Suitable for all levels and aligns with NSA’s strength programming. https://northernstrength.ca/

Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days

Martial Arts 12:05 PM

Open Mat Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM

Sundays Circus Sundays 10:00 AM Avalanche

Athletics We will have equipment for people to try out, including stilts, juggling stuff, aerial silks, aerial hoop, static trapeze, spinny things, balance things…

NSA Spin Classes 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike!

https://northernstrength.ca/

Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

WELLNESS LISTINGS

Wed Mar 20 Men-torship - Meet & Greet 4:00 PM Skookum Jim Friendship Centre A men’s drop in group that aims to support and encourage healthy coping skills, habits and experiences by providing facilitated discussions, outdoor activities, music lessons as well as traditional life skills. Register online. https://forms.office.com/r/ NGcw5UkSKq

Sat Mar 23 Sound Journey 7:00 PM 7th

Ray Studio Sound healing can help you clear energetic blockages and thus facilitate healing on a physical and mental level. Register online. https://www.7thraystudio. com/

Mon Mar 18 Women of Wisdom – Winter Sewing Group 10:00 AM Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Bring any projects in progress, food, refreshments, sewing equipment and childcare are provided. Transportation provided if needed. Register online. https://skookumjim.sharepoint.com

Wed Apr 03 Grieving a Death due to Substance Use? 5:30 PM Venue shared upon registration Are you grieving the death of a loved one due to substance use? Connect with others who have had a similar loss. To register please email (and include phone number): carlie@hospiceyukon.net

Elder and Counselor available Emotional and Spiritual support, free to Indigenous women, girls, 2 spirited in Yukon, Northern BC: Phone, video appointments or in person. Call Toll Free 866 667 6162 or visit www.yawc.ca for info.

Monthly

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

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

2nd Wednesday and last Friday Blood Collection and Lab Work 9:00 AM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Blood Work and Lab Collection Clinic! We will provide regular clinics for blood collection & lab requisitions

1st Thursday of every month Men’s Gathering 5:00 PM A safe place for men to connect with each other and learn traditional teachings. For more info contact Rob at 332-5708 or Rob.McLean@kdfn.net

Every other Tuesday Sharing Circle 12:00 PM Old Justice Building KDFN Every other Tuesday for recovery focused sharing circles. Connect, share challenges and gains, and access support and wisdom. Snacks and refreshments served. https:// whatsupyukon.events/4en

Mondays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse

United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House Infant Feeding Mondays 1:00 PM Yukon Midwifery Program Yukoners who are pregnant or have a baby under 12 months are invited to learn about feeding their infants and get support with challenges. Call 393-7120 to book a private appointment or drop-in.

AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509 Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-3635766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

AA New Beginnings Group (O, A) 8:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

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

Tuesdays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse

United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures 12:00

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

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

ARKA Brotherhood Men’s Circle: Porcupine Squad 6:30 PM Whitehorse

A confidential, structured space that empowers men to transform themselves into self-aware, self-disciplined, empowered and trustworthy leaders. Email mjvernon@ gmail.com for more info. http://www. arkabrotherhood.com

AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM

Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-9072701 for more info.

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 6:00

PM 100 25 Firth Rd Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-3341725 for more details

Wednesdays

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00

AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight?

Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details

Community Kitchen 11:30 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

Al-Anon 12:00 PM Sport Yukon Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM

Inclusion Yukon

Art Therapy for Grief 5:30 PM Hospice

Yukon Learn more about living with grief and self-compassion in a supportive space with others who are grieving the death of a loved one

Overeaters Anonymous Meeting 7:30 PM Overeaters Anonymous For more information contact oayukon@gmail.com for more information

AA No Puffin Big Book Study (C, A) 8:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00 PM Our Lady of Victory

Thursdays

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

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures 12:00

PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre

An inclusive Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program for parental & infant support. Enjoy a Drop-In lunch and connect with other families. https://whatsupyukon.events/8kd

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

Connect to Culture - Drop-In 1:00

PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre

FREE! Drop-In, Open to ALL! Weekly cultural activities from beading to sewing, healing camp trips, elder visits and more. For more info call 667-2093 or email info@vfwomenscentre.com https:// vfwomenscentre.com/events

Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or on zoom, Zoom ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701

by Jane Isakson at the “Free Space” offered by Northern Front Studio.

Until Mar 30 Feathers and Wings, Beaks and Bills by Kathy Piwowar Arts Underground Held in the Focus Gallery. Inspired by birds and their beauty and inaccessibility.

Until Mar 30 Emotional Rise And Fall by Blake Shaa’koon Lepine Arts Underground Held in the Edge Gallery, a modern voice to an ancient art, but also carries it into modern mediums other than the traditional forms of carving and painting of his ancestors.

Saturdays

Live Music at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill At Whiskey Jack’s every Saturday. whiskeyjacks.ca/

GENERAL EVENTS

Wed Mar 20 Words Out Loud 7:00

PM Arts Underground Featuring John Firth – Yukon’s story laureate with Eleanor April and Dawn MacDonald.

Thu Mar 21 Banff Mountain Film Festival 7:30 PM YAC Yukon Arts

Centre The best in mountain and adventure films to theatres around the globe - 37 films from around the world, including films from Canada, USA, Switzerland, France, Sweden and more! Tickets online. https://www. yukontickets.com/

Thu Mar 21 Movie Night! Changing

Course - A River’s Journey of Reconnection 6:00 PM CPAWS

Tue Mar 26 MINE REMEDIATION & RESTORATION In The Yukon: The state of Research 7:30 PM Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre applied research projects that support Yukon mining companies as they develop environmental best practices http:// yukonscienceinstitute.org

Tue Mar 26 Laser Cutter Basics

- Wooden Earrings 6:00 PM

Yukonstruct Makespace Beginner laser cutting and jewellery-making workshop you will design, cut, and assemble at least 2 pairs of wood earrings. Register online. https:// yukonstruct.com/

Wed Mar 27 Beginner Sewing

- Coasters 6:00 PM Yukonstruct

Makespace Learn the important parts of your sewing machine, how to thread the machine and bobbin, sew basic stitches including zigzag and put your skills to use when we make a Coaster! Register online. https://yukonstruct. com/

Wed Mar 27 Cherie Dimaline

Performance and Discussion

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

Until May 17 Where the Waters Narrow by Violet Gatensby Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Her first solo exhibition, she incorporates these influences into her art, bridging the traditional and contemporary worlds.

Until May 17 Shii’itsüh - Crying in the Heart by Teresa Vander MeerChassé Yukon Arts Centre Gallery

As a way to process grief and loss, Teresa Vander Meer-Chassé has created a literal and metaphorical shelter that has been reclaimed, reconstructed, and revitalised.

Until Spring 2024 Out in the Open –En Plein Art The Jim Smith Building An exhibition celebrating the 2023 acquisitions of the Yukon Permanent Art Collection.

LIVE MUSIC

Fri Mar 22 Beach Party! 8:00 PM

Lefty’s Well Beach Party! Featuring Bria Rose N Thorns - Baby Ronka and the Boyfriends! Come dress like a beach and you can win prizes!!

Thu Mar 28 Frazey Ford 7:00 PM

YAC Yukon Arts Centre Vancouverbased Soul-Americana artist Frazey Ford showcasing songs from her new album as well as fan favourites. Tickets online. https://www. yukontickets.com/

Fri Mar 29 Good Vibeday 7:00 PM

Lefty’s Well A night of righteous vibes, dancing to the sweet tunes with DJ Toddilicious and DJ SNAXX!

Admission is Pay What You Can - DOOR PRIZES for best VIBE. Interpret this as you will.

Monthly

1st Saturday Folk Society

Coffeehouse 6:00 PM Whitehorse United Church All ages featuring local emerging and established musicians. Bring cash to buy coffee, tea, and tasty treats!

Every Other Wednesday Intermediate

Jam – Bluegrass, Old-Time 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion A fun jam of bluegrass and related genres (oldtime, classic country, etc). Medium tempos, lots of opportunities to take a solo if you want, but not required. Contact ian.boyce@northwestel.net for more info.

Wednesdays

Whitewater Wednesday Night Jam 7:00 PM The Local Bar An open mic kinda show and all you have to do is bring in your instrument, find Jack and/or Peggy and we’ll set you up! No need to be shy.

Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Thursdays

Live DJs - Thursday Throwdown 9:00 PM The Local Bar.

Yukon Join us in-person or via live stream to watch Changing Course: A River’s Journey of Reconnection (2024) in celebration of World Water Day! Snacks and refreshments served. https://whatsupyukon.events/ s7p

Thu Mar 21 - Sat Mar 23 Spruce Bog

- Easter Boutique 10:00 AM Yukon Inn Browse the wares of over 50 local artisans and crafters, from baking to jewellery. Help the Easter bunny fill those baskets with products from local vendors! Open until 6 pm each day. https://whatsupyukon.events/tlp

Thu Mar 21 SALMON FUTURES –Science and Stewardship of Salmon

Ecosystems 7:30 PM Yukon Beringia

Interpretive Centre Aquatic ecologist Jonathan Moore to present on the need for climate change action and local opportunities to increase climate resilience. http://yukonscienceinstitute.

org

Fri Mar 22 Book Launch - Beauty

Through Decay by Jenffer A. Jay

12:00 PM Inclusion Yukon Beauty

Through Decay prompts audiences to consider the possibility and value of what humans throw away. Book signing by Jenffer. https://www.

facebook.com/events/3218107008797

12/?ref=newsfeed

Fri Mar 22 TGIF Dinner 6:00 PM

Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Every 2nd Friday, tickets to be bought in person at legion throughout the week leading up to dinner. No tickets at the door day of. No TGIF Dinner on Good

Friday

Fri Mar 22 Friday Night Karaoke 7:30

PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 The last Friday of the month come practise your high and low notes or just watch! For members or signed in guests. No karaoke on Good Friday

https://bit.ly/3XJbTw4

Fri Mar 22 – Thu Mar 28

Ghostbusters - Frozen Empire

6:30 PM Plays nightly The Spengler family returns to where it all started – the iconic New York City firehouse – to team up with the original Ghostbusters! Tickets online or at the box office.

Sun Mar 24 Easter Minis 11:00 AM

Whitehorse Motors Each session is 10 minutes long and you receive 3 edited images from our time together. A total of 4 adults or kids are welcome at each booking. Photos delivered by Easter! Book online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/i47

Sun Mar 24 Encore Screening: ALFF - 500 Days in the Wild 4:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre YAC Follow Dianne Whelan on the Trans Canada Trail by land and by water, she is the only person to have accomplished the journey. Tickets online.

Sun Mar 24 Encore Screening: Zone of Interest 7:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre YAC The Zone of Interest forces us to take a cold look at the mundanely behind an unforgivable brutality. Tickets online.

Hosted by Ivan Coyote 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre An evening of reading and conversation, featuring author Cherie Dimaline, in conversation with writer and storyteller Ivan Coyote. Tickets online https:// yukonartscentre.com/

Thu Mar 28 Indigenous Book Club - Moon of the Turning Leaves by Waubgeshig Rice 6:00 PM Online Join us online for a conversation, reading and Q&A with author and journalist Waubgeshig Rice and discuss his latest bestseller, Moon of the Turning Leaves. Email YPLevents@yukon.ca for more info. https://whatsupyukon.events/dfj

Sat Mar 30 Trivia for Members & Signed in Guests 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Trivia Night - Topic- 2023 - CASH prizes and bragging rights - Bring your electronic device to play or play from home for free!!

Monthly

2nd & 4th Mondays Service Officer 7:00 AM Royal Canadian Legion Whitehorse An invite to all Veterans, Police and First responders for the service hour at the Legion, socialise and find out what is going on. https:// bit.ly/3Lm40ZG

2nd & 4th Wednesdays Whitehorse Photography Club - Meetup 7:00 PM Yukon University - Whitehorse Campus Held in Rm A2204. Discuss photography, share your work, learn new tips and tricks. http:// whitehorsephotoclub.ca/

First Thursdays QYS Charmed Stitches 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Fiber crafts night. Bring your knitting, crochet, beading, sewing, stitching, etc, to The Cache to sit and stitch with other queer crafters.

Second Thursday QYS Movie Nights 5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache

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

2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come on out and test your music knowledge! Teams of no more than 6 people.

3rd Sundays Messy Church 3:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality. Crafts, singing and food will be the focus.

cont’d on page 23 ...

2nd & 4th Sundays Grade 8 – 12

High School Youth Group 6:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview.

church/connect/youth Monthly

Weekly

Mondays

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

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

Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Women’s Bible Study 6:00pm Women’s Bible Study. Refreshments are served followed by the study. For more info check out www. mountainview.church or email rachel@ mountainview.church.

Euchre - For Members and Signed

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

https://bit.ly/3L0J3Ce

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

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society

The Cache 2:00 PM

Language Skills for Ukrainians 5:15 PM Yukon Learn A discussion group workshop provides a relaxed and friendly environment where learners can practise and learn English conversation skills.

Weekly Shuffleboard Tournament

6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch

254 For members and signed in guests. A double knockout style competition and games are limited to 6 ends or 15 minutes

Chess Club 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn? Looking for Competition? Join us!

SuperSmash Bros, Mtg:

Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

10 Card Crib - Members & Signed In Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play! Learn tips and tricks and have some fun! https://bit.ly/3KP0B5s

Wednesdays

Multicultural Connection Group

11:00 AM Multicultural Centre of the Yukon – MCY Connect with other parents and caregivers, learn about parenting in different cultures. A free lunch program for immigrants and refugee families. Lunch and transportation provided. Call 332-1803 for more info.

Spanish Conversation Group

12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Casual, no lessons, just conversations. Wednesdays noon, info Louise call 687-7238 or Michele 867333-6081.

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society

The Cache 2:00 PM

Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!

Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Call 3336081 for more info.

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

Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Thursdays

Public Speaking TrainingToastmasters 12:00 PM Decora Guests are always welcome. There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics

Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services)

QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society & The Cache

Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Find out what role playing games are all about! Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome.

Mtg: casual Commander, Warhammer 40k & Kill Team 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Mountainview Church Community Group 7:00 PM 16 years or older?

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

Fridays

Yukon Amateur Radio Association Coffee Discussion Group 8:45 AM A&W

Restaurant Hams from outside the Yukon and those interested are welcome to join us in this casual event.

Tarot Card Readings with Sari

Horvath Baked Cafe 9:15 AM Sari uses her wisdom and guidance through tarot cards to help answer your life questions! Please use email to book appointments treasurebooksyxy@gmail.com

Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age Society Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.

Crib 1:00 PM Golden Age Society

Cribbage is an easy game to learn but hard to master. For more info call 668-5538.

QYS Drop-in Queer Yukon Society

The Cache 2:00 PM

Mtg: Pioneer, YuGiOh Casual 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Saturdays

Cribbage - Members and Signed in Guests 2:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Masks are mandatory. Members must have a valid 2021 membership and they may sign in 2 guests MAX.

Pokemon, Mtg: Youth Magic, Lorcana 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Sundays

Mountainview Church Sunday Service 9:30 AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church

At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM

Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch

Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse

Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone

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

Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00

PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition. Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.

Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church

KIDS & FAMILIES

Mon Mar 18 Family Resource Centre – Drop-In 10:00 am Partners for Children If you have any parenting questions, or want to explore our resources outside drop in hours, please email Marianne at dropin@ partnersforchildren.info

Mon Mar 18 Youth Oil Painting

Workshop 1:00 PM Creative

Initiatives Warehouse Experienced art instructor Katherine LeBlanc to teach multiple techniques with emphasis on colour and composition, examine approaches from different well-known artists. To register or for more info call 334-0920 or email katherine.m.leb@ gmail.com

Wed Mar 20 Music and Motion with Babies 10:00 AM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Free, drop-in 30 minute session of music and movement designed for babies led by Lianne Cranfield. Music and Motion with Babies https://yukonartscentre.com

Wed Mar 20 Stitch it Together 11:00

AM Yukon Family Literacy Centre Create a unique story book that your child, grandchild, niece or nephew will be able to keep forever this workshop is for you! To register email mark. steudle@yukonliteracy.com or call 668-6535. https://whatsupyukon. events/4xy

Until March 21 Kung Fu Panda 4 Nightly + Matinees Yukon Theatre Po encounters a villain called the Chameleon who conjures villains from the past and discovers that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/kung-fu-panda-4

Sat Mar 23 Spring Break Family

Feast 12:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural

Centre Feast is for Whitehorse-based families with Indigenous kids aged 0-18. First come, first served for 250 hampers, per feast. Email nutrition@ yfned.ca for more info.

Sat Mar 23 & Sun Mar 24

Ghostbusters - Frozen Empire 4:00

PM The Spengler family returns to where it all started – the iconic New York City firehouse – to team up with the original Ghostbusters! Tickets online or at the box office.

Sat Mar 30 Easter Egg-Stravaganza

A Most Eggcellent Easter Scavenger Hunt 11:00 AM Yukon

Wildlife Preserve All day Scavenger hunt – follow the clues through the Preserve to solve the riddle and get your chocolatey treats. Please be prepared to - Walk/bike/ski/ generally be self-powered - General Admission. https://yukonwildlife.ca/experience/ events/

Monthly

1st & 3rd Saturdays Grades 5 - 7 Junior Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church Passionate about giving kids opportunities to have fun & make new friends, while teaching them about Jesus & His great love for our world https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth

2nd and 4th Saturdays Grade 8 - 12 High School Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview. church/connect/youth

Weekly

Mondays

Drop-In 9:00 AM Polarettes

Gymnastics Gym Open to all ages –Children, youth, and teens must be accompanied by an adult.

Tuesdays

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

Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library Join us for stories, songs & rhymes! A free drop-in program for children ages 0-5 and caregivers at Whitehorse Public Library

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

Wednesdays

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

Thursdays

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

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

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

Saturdays

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

MEETINGS

Mon Mar 18 Sharing and Community Dialogue 1:00 PM Yukon Inn Indigenous arts community is invited to engage in a 3-hr discussion regarding the current trajectory of our 3 year pilot project. https://www.gwaandaktheatre. ca/

Wed Mar 20 Yukon Conservation Society AGM 7:00 PM Yukon Conservation Society Members are invited to register for the hybrid event in two ways: Attend remotely via Zoom OR join us in-person.

Tue Mar 27 Fuelling Collaboration – Brewing Success 6:30 PM Decora A gathering for small business owners to chat, connect, and collaborate. A place to ask questions and engage in conversations to share and receive insight, form connections, and share best practices. https://whatsupyukon. events/j79

Thu Mar 28 AGM – Ukrainian Canadian Association of Yukon 6:30 PM Multicultural Centre of the Yukon Held in the big room at the Multicultural Centre of the Yukon. All are welcome to attend and participate; beverages and snacks will be provided. https://www.facebook.com/ events/775009411141585/?ref=new sfeed

Monthly

First Monday Klondike Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa.yk.ca/comingevents/

Third Thursday ASAY board monthly meeting Sport Yukon 10:00 PM

Third Thursday Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Monthly Meeting 5:00 PM ZOOM Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition for regular meeting. Everyone is welcome. Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https://yapc.ca/actions/ detail/yapcs-monthly-meetings

ONLINE EVENTS

Fridays AA Yukon Unity Group 1:30 PM Online For Zoom Room address Contact 334-7693

Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.

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.

Mon Mar 18 Beringia Centre Science Talks - Audrey Rowe 11:00 AM Online PhD candidate Audrey Rowe to talk about her recent paper “A female woolly mammoth’s lifetime movements end in an ancient Alaskan hunter-gatherer camp” Live Streamed on FB or register for zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/.../701.../ WN_2wYzUkvwQJe7eKOriifnFA

Want to be on this page?

Enter your event HERE:

whatsupyukon.events/entry

It’s

Moving Mom cont’d from page 18

Valerie, Mom and I with the Kindness Monkey that my sister Carolyn had

to Mom in the hospital q

with live music—so that’s when I planned my visits.

Whenever it was nice enough, we went for a stroll through the

park in her wheelchair. We used the Handi-Bus to get to the optometrist. What a great service that is! When we took the CTrain to the mall for a Teen Burger, it was heartening how helpful people were.

The hardest part of every visit was leaving. I liked to wait until Mom was tucked into bed, but she would always get teary-eyed at bedtime. So, one night, after having a cleansing cry on the walk home, I decided to start leaving her at dinnertime. It was still hard to leave, but nice to have a bit more time to myself in the evening.

As soon as I was outside, I would try to remember to do a little shudder dance to shake off any unwanted energy. Then I would touch or hug a tree (if nobody was watching) to soak up some of its grounding energy.

Most nights I would write a quick update in a group email to my extended family and a few of Mom’s friends. Not only did it keep them

in the loop, but it helped clear my mind. Now they return the favour by writing updates to us all whenever they visit Mom.

One of the bonuses of this whole transition is that it has brought our family even closer together. My brother is the only one who still lives in Calgary, and his five sisters are spread around the country. We all have different strengths and personalities and have managed to share the load by each doing what we can. I also had the pleasure of catching up with some of my aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews—as well as with Mom’s friends who live in Calgary, who help support Mom, too.

p The hospital windowsill lined with pictures of Mom’s loved ones (the woodpecker represents my dad, who was a carpenter)

When your turn comes to care for your parents, remember to appreciate and honour this chance you have to return all the care you were given. The last day that I saw Mom, I helped her out of her wheelchair and onto the toilet, three times … and wiped her butt afterwards. As gross as it was, it felt like a gift to her—payback for all the times that she had wiped mine. n

The china cabinet that Dad made for Mom for their 25th wedding anniversary u

given

Thank you to all of our Amazing Volunteers who spent many hours making the 60th yukon rendezvous a success!

We apologize to anyone that we may of missed. We appreciate the hard work put in by all our volunteers and the community. Thank you!

Alix Todd, Alser Sugasawa, Andrea Badger, Andrew Seal, Aparna Verma, Bethanna Cavey, Branden Licup, Brett Cross, Brittnee Seely, Carol Massad, Dane Freiburger, Dani Usselman, Dawn Conrad, Dez Dzik, Diana Iwanoczko, Doris Marshall, Douglas Santos, Dustin Grant, Edgardo Cobrador, Elisabeth Fritsch, Emily Howard, Eric Labrecque, Felixberta Albeos, Finn Roberts, Gregory Shaw, Hope McDonald, Kaelynn Tessier, Karina Flor, Rebong, Karla M Watts, Kimberly Dawn, Jami eson Kirk, Gilbert, Kristen Richmond, Kylie Slahvahshkah, Labonya Nirjan, Lucy Epp, Lynn Sparks, Madison Jensen, Maureen Yaklin, Melanie Resseguier, Myles Terry, Nicole Percival, Nicole Rowett, Pamela Joyce, Tobias, Peri Livesey, Rafaqat Ali, Rea Knight, Ru Jia, Stacey Ashley, Stephen Balan, Taiki Tejima, Taylor Daniels, Yuwen Fang, Zane Daniels, Girl Guides of Canada, Nakita Goodwin, Carrie Jackson, Kiera Howard, Ken Howard, St Francis School, St Johns Ambulan ce, Gail Luffman, Jacob Rohloff, Stephanie Gies, Darius Wolsynuk, Stephen Belanger, Christine Vandenburg, Deb Wlasichuk, Boys & Girls Club Yukon, Sascha Ullmann, Ryan West, Patrick Vis, Larry Bagnell, Matthew Hitchcock, Michelle Kelly, Marj Eschak, Lorraine Heynen, Vicky Stallabrass, Darlene Morgan, Jane Haydock, Reba Parris, Leanne Broesky, Karina Watson, Kim Solonick, Mary Leger, Tamara Fischer, Greg Fischer, Callum Fischer, Trustin Boulanger, Karen G, Bun ny B, Sandra Schuschkleb, Christina Anderson, Dawn Power, John Matheson, Michelle Matheson, Kenedi Thompson, Jamie Law, Kim Graw, Natalya Yaklin, Nickole Wlasichuk, Robyn Gillespie, Ron de Avila, Kate Davidson, Hope McDonald, Jasmin M, Joel G, Evan M, Kyle V, Syvanna S, Jenn M, Starr E, Juel S, Felicia B-C, Gab B, Stu C, Jessica Gatensby, Manu Keggenhoff, Marianne Goebel, Kerri Scholz, Julie Smith, Sam Fleshman-Carlick, Merridith Edwards, Brenda Pilatzke-Vanier, Ka te McConnell, Amanda Bourque, Taylor Champeval, Kaylee Gordon, Elizabeth Seidl, Michelle Day, Jamie King, Darren Murphy, Kassee Schille, Justine Fair, Kylee Fernandes, Michelle Koch, Nona Faulds, Madisen Bacon-Traplin, Ashley Sale, Lindsey Catherine, Christie Harper, Britney Widrig, Cara Millar, Shawn Hamilton, Robbyn Chiles, Lesley Joensen, Debbie Summer, Melanie Graham, Levi Davignon, Nathan Davignon, Richard Graham, Michel Dubois, Brayden Dubois, Patt y O'Brien, Paul Scholz, Jamie Martel, Melanie Brais, John Streicker, Lisa Gallant-McRobb, Ron Chambers, Merilee Chambers, James Mooney, Susan Mooney, Jr. Can Can Line Dancers, Northern Lights School of Dance Choreographers, The Local Bar Staff, Doronn Fox, Mark Rutledge, Darryl Rutledge, Danica Rutledge, Ian Angus, Claire Ness, Yukon Theatre for Young People

SPORTS BEAT

THE LONG GOODBYE

Part 1: A Yukon cross-country legend—Dahria Beatty—ready for retirement

Dahria Beatty is ready for retirement.

What’s Up Yukon spoke to the Whitehorse cross-country legend, recently, after she held a cross-country workshop at Mount McIntyre. Beatty explained why she decided to retire now

“Take it a step all the way back to just before the 2022 Olympics in Beijing. I always knew that I was going to do a second Olympic cycle, after 2018, focused on the 2022 Olympics. There was a lot that I wanted to still try to accomplish.”

She originally wanted to retire after the Beijing Olympics.

But having seen other teammates retire after an Olympic year—and that pressure of my Olympic year and then going from that to not having your main identity be associated with sport anymore—it didn’t seem like something that super easy or that I necessarily wanted to do. So I made the decision that I wanted to ski one year after the Olympics and have a season where I had the opportunity to say goodbye to all the places I was racing.”

One of those places was Switzerland, where she raced every year for eight years. Beatty said she thought, This is my last race here. This is my last training camp with the team

Beatty said, “[I] wanted to be able to have those moments in a season where every thought was not trying to make the Olympics, perform at the Olympics. Have a farewell season where I’m still working to perform as well as I

can, but it’s a slightly different pressure.

“Because, if we’re being honest, cross-country skiing is not a super-popular sport in North America, compared to Europe, and most people pay attention [to their] Olympic year, which is awesome. It gives you a lot of exposure that you wouldn’t get in another year, but it also adds that pressure. So I made that decision back in 2022 (that after the 2023 season, I was going to stop racing), and so it gave me a lot of time to prepare for it and to prepare for what I was going to do next.”

Beatty said she put in 11 years of full-time dedication to skiing after she graduated from high school.

“I felt like I had the opportunity to give it my best shot at every level. I got to go to the Olympics twice and try to perform to [the] best of [my] ability. World Championships three times. I raced ninety-five world cups, individual starts and countless team events. I felt like I had done everything I could to be the best version of my athlete’s self, and continuing wouldn’t necessarily change any results in the future. I had given it everything, so at some point you kind of have to decide.

tral Europe—similar to the Tour de France, which is part of the World Cup.

“That was that final ‘box’ on my checklist of things I wanted to do in my career. I was able to do that. And then, so, retiring felt like the perfect time and I got engaged last year; and so, like, tran-

ever time getting into the top thirty, which gives you World Cup points. And my parents were there. Many of my friends were there. It was kind of a breakthrough moment in my career. And to do it at my second home, Canmore, where I trained out of—where the national team is based out of … It was an extremely special moment.”

“And for me it felt like the right time where I had given onehundred-and-ten per cent to the sport for so long. I had loved every moment of it. And I didn’t want it to start feeling like I was resenting having to commit fully to the sport, first, before the rest of my life. So it was a perfect transition, really.”

Last year, Beatty had an opportunity to do the Tour de Ski, the seven-day stage race in Cen-

sitioning into a new section of life as well and looking at what could be next. Not spending my entire winter in Europe has been nice, too.”

Needless to say, Beatty has a few achievements in her career that stand out. One of those is Ski Tour Canada, in 2016, which went to Quebec City; to Gatineau, Quebec; and to Canmore, Alberta.

“In the Canmore Classic Sprint, I placed fifteenth. It was my first-

Another such moment was placing 18th in the 2022 Beijing Olympics in the 10-kilometre Individual Classic. Beatty said, “It was not the race I was targeting going into the games, at all …. I knew I had a really good race, but I also wasn’t sure what it would result in. It was just one of those races where I was so happy with how I skied, every portion of the course.

“I executed on my plan. I was really able to push as hard as I could in the sections I wanted to, and I was super happy with how I raced. There’s not that many races where you finish, like, “There’s not much I could have done better if I redid it—and that was one of those races, and to have one of those at the Olympics was really cool.”

The third highlight was a 30-kilometre race in the Engadin Valley, in Switzerland, where she matched her career-best World Cup result of 15th. She was in a second group that caught up to the first group—a rarity for Beatty. She said it was so exciting to be that close to the podium.

“I just loved it. It was just so much fun. I was having fun while also in extreme pain the whole time.”

As for her favourite memories, Beatty has a few of those, too. One of those was from the 2018 Olympics, in South Korea, where

she skied with Emily Nishikawa, who’s also from Whitehorse.

“That was such a cool memory. Representing Canada obviously in a two-person team event, very cool. But then for both of us being from Whitehorse, from the same club, it was so cool. The support we got from back home … and everyone was cheering for Canada, but they were also cheering for the club and the territory.

“Our bibs from that race are hanging up in the ski chalet. It was such a cool moment to have it tied back so closely to where it all started at the highest level of sport. So that was an amazing, amazing memory and definitely something I feel very lucky to have been a part of.”

Beatty said some of the other moments aren’t even necessarily race moments.

“They’re those training camps or those times in-between races, like spending Christmas in Europe with my teammates because we’re preparing for a race, and that family that you create with your teammates because you do spend so much time and travel together. Bringing all the Christmas traditions from everyone’s different family together, as you’re spending Christmas in Switzerland, thousands of kilometres away from your own family.”

Beatty also treasures the friendships she’s made along the way, including with athletes from other countries.

“I’ve made a network of friends that spans the globe, which is really cool.”

Note: In Part 2, in the next issue of What’s Up Yukon, Beatty will talk about her legacy, including being a role model for young up-and-coming Yukon skiers, as well as about the influences on her career and what’s coming up in the next chapter of her life. n

Dahria Beatty 2022 Olympics post 10 km Classic

PHOTO: Courtesy of Dahria Beatty

column with Morris Prokop

Morris Morris Prokop is a Whitehorse-based writer and sports editor. He covers a variety of sports in the Yukon, including the Yukon Quest, Yukon River Quest and Yukon Ultra. He enjoys the outdoors, playing soccer and softball, and hanging out with his dog Bandit.

TEAMWORK

Teagan Cartwright

Since May 2022, Teagan Cartwright has worked for Victoria Gold at the Company’s Eagle Gold Mine as an ADR Supervisor the site’s Adsorption, Desorption and Recovery (ADR) plant, which recovers the mine’s gold from the ore.

Teagan’s role involves overseeing all things related to the mine’s Gold Recovery Plant (ADR) from safety, plant and refinery operations and troubleshooting, to the coordination of maintenance work and operator development. She also helps prepare the gold once poured for shipment.

“This role has been a great stepping stone for my career as I have hopes of one day working in upper management,” says Teagan. “Working for Victoria Gold at the Eagle Gold Mine has been a great learning experience in managing personnel. I’m lucky to work with the team here and learn from them every day.”

A typical day at site for Teagan begins before 5:30 am with a 5:55 am call with the night shift operators and a shift crossover meeting with the department superintendent, planners and supervisors. She is in her o ce in the plant by 7 am.

“I usually start with a walk around the Gold Recovery Plant to see if there are any changes from the previous day,” continues Teagan. “If the night shift operators reported any issues, I immediately work to get those addressed by connecting with other related departments. I then complete my daily reporting and after that, my day varies depending on what we have on the go. I routinely do checks around the plant throughout the day and check in with the operators.”  Teagan’s day concludes by 6:45 pm with a crossover meeting with the night shift operators to summarize how the day went and to hand o any tasks to be completed. Adds Teagan, “After my shift, I go to the gym most evenings and in the summer, I try to get out on the site’s walking trail as much as I can. On Friday nights, I also attend the site’s ‘Name That Tune’ activity.”

In May 2023, Teagan represented Victoria Gold at the CIM Conference held in Montreal, which brings together thousands in the mineral industry over three days of learning, knowledge sharing and professional development surrounding innovative mining best practices, technology and services.

“I’m a firm advocate of gender diversity within the mining industry and was lucky to represent Victoria Gold at the conference to showcase the unique operation we are running at the Eagle Gold Mine here in the Yukon,” concludes Teagan.

Since May 2022, Teagan Cartwright has worked for Victoria Gold at the Company’s Eagle Gold Mine as an ADR Supervisory at the site’s Adsorption, Desorption and Recovery (ADR) plan, which recover’s the mine’s gold from the ore. She joins over 470 employees directly employed by Victoria Gold; the majority of which work on a two-week shift rotation at the mine.

If you have mining experience, the Victoria Gold team encourages you to visit the “Work For Us” page at vgcx.com/contact/work-for-us and submit your resume to greatpeoplework@vgcx.com.

Teagan Cartwright, at work at Victoria Gold’s Eagle Gold Mine’s Gold Recovery (ADR) Plant.