PHOTO: Klaas Huizenga from Pixabay
FINDING A NEW FOOTING
On the east slope of Dawson City, overlooking the Moosehide Slide, is a cluster of centenarians–homes that were constructed in the early 1900s and have stood the test of time. One of those homes, with a distinctive roof line, decorative trim and a large bay window, is known as the Melanie Morice House.
After admiring the house for years, Dawson City resident Karen Murray purchased it in 2021
“I thought it was pretty cool because it’s named after a woman, and it’s pretty uncommon for women to have anything named after them from that time,” she says. “I bought the house on my own, so it felt like a nice connection.”
Once she moved in, Murray realized the house needed a lot of love.
“Essentially, the house was falling down,” she says. “I guess I knew it when I bought the house, but I thought, ‘It can’t be as bad as it looks’. It was.”
Because the house was built directly on ground that had frozen and thawed many times over the past 122 years, its foundation was failing, and its basement walls were falling in. The slope of the property and nearby street caused drainage issues that put pressure on the basement walls, making the building unstable
“The basement was terrifying,” says Murray. “All four walls were fully slanted, and one was completely caving in at the bottom. Even the beams that were supposed to straighten the house were on a slant.”
After consulting profession-
als, Murray knew that to save the house, she would have to fill in the basement. This meant moving the house off its foundation, filling the basement with gravel and creating a new foundation, and then moving the house back and placing it on raised cribbing.
With support from the Yukon Historic Properties Assistance (HPA) program, Murray was able to complete the necessary work in the summer of 2022. The HPA program, administered through the Government of Yukon’s Historic Sites Unit, provides funding to preserve, restore, develop or interpret privately owned historically significant properties in the Yukon.
Built in 1902, the house is considered historically significant because of its age and because it is “a contributing element to the historic residential character of the east slope area in Dawson
City,” according to a Yukon Historic Sites’ record.
“I think it’s really great that these funds exist,” says Murray. “Fixing up these old buildings is a huge undertaking and that’s why so many of them go into disrepair and ruin. I’m very grateful that I have the support of my family and the support of these funds, because it’s definitely a larger undertaking than I thought I signed up for.”
Murray says the house still needs a lot of work, including upgrading the insulation in the walls and attic, new flooring, refurbishing the kitchen, and renovating the bathroom. Despite the challenges, she remains committed to fixing up the historic home.
“I think the infrastructure here is what makes Dawson special,” says Murray. “When people come
cont’d on page 14 ...
PHOTO: Karen Murray
Yukoners know how to cope with winter. We fill our freezers, cozy up by the wood stove, and thaw our frozen feet on unsuspecting loved ones. Animals have strategies too, but for them, it’s a matter of life or death. To survive, they migrate, adapt, hibernate or do a combination.
The real snowbirds
Just like the “snowbirds”
among us who head to Arizona and Mexico, some animals–especially birds–know the best way to deal with winter is to avoid the worst of it altogether. Migration is the seasonal movement from one habitat to another for the sake of avoiding harsh weather, or finding more abundant food or a better place to raise young
Most trumpeter swans, for example, are already on the tem-
perate coast of Washington or British Columbia after breeding in Alaska or the Yukon over the summer.
Bats are a more mysterious migrator. After a frenzied summer eating
nearly half their weight in insects every night, they say adios in September. As to where they go, experts aren’t sure, says Shyloh van Delft, a project technician with the Department of Environment’s bat monitoring program.
“We assume they go somewhere to the coast of Alaska where it’s more humid and winter is shorter,” she says. The depart-
ment bands bats with the hope that they will be recorded outside the Yukon. So far, no luck.
Wherever these nocturnal mammals spend winter, they’re not in the sky. After little brown bats migrate, they hibernate to conserve energy while food is scarce.
Still other animals migrate within the North. Porcupine caribou travel between the Arctic coast in the summer, where there is ample forage (food), to their winter range further south (in the Yukon, roughly between Old Crow and Dawson City).
“They need to move to find adequate forage and get out of harsh weather conditions,” says Mike Suitor, the department’s North
The rain was bucketing down on the Fiji coast road from Suva to Nadi.
We had decided to rent a car and drive down to see the capital after a week on Beachcomber Island. The rental was an early Corolla or some such, but in the late ’70s this road really needed something tougher.
On the way back north to Nadi the deluge started, turning the road dust to mud inside and out, and fogging the windshield. (A word to the wise: don’t try to wipe the fog away with a sunscreen-soaked terrycloth sun hat.)
Bouncing and splashing through the mud, we felt something much worse. We had a flat tire.
Well, how bad could it be? I stuck my hand out and it was a lot like the sun-warmed showers in our bure on Beachcomber.
Okay. I struggled into my bathing trunks and got out into the bath. It was actually kinda nice.
On the way to the trunk I saw the value of the 1950s-style frost shields stuck on the back window. It was fog-free in those two at-
tached pieces of clear plastic. Wow. In the tropics. An old tech solution from a cold country.
With the jack and wrench out, I got started. And it was still pissin’ down. I hoped somebody was looking for a towel.
I don’t think I was swearing too much when I realized I had company. Two young Fijian kids were quietly watching and–I hope–not listening. About 10 or 12, I figured, but the Fijian people I’d met were pretty big, so they might have only been eight or nine. I’m remembering their shirts as fairly bright orange and red.
I clearly remember that those shirts looked pressed, like they’d just come out of the package. Starched and neatly folded. I could see the folds. I was in my swim trunks, looking like the proverbial drowned rat, and their shirts looked fresh and most of all dry
We chatted for a bit while I struggled away in the mud changing the tire. Y’know, like where was I from, do they live nearby… touristy questions and
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answers.
Finally the job was done and I asked them if we could drive them somewhere. No no, they were okay thanks. So I started putting stuff away in the trunk again.
Going back and forth to the trunk I noticed that the downpour had produced a real gullywasher in the eight-foot deep ditch, eroding the shoulder to within about three feet of the car.
When I looked up to say goodbye, the kids were gone. Just gone. No sign of them anywhere. I got back in the car as clean as I was when I got out; like I’d just had a shower.
When I told my wife and son about talking to these kids and what their shirts looked like, they asked, “What kids?”
They never saw them.
Oh.
I was working with a Fijian guy at the Vancouver airport back then. When I told him about this adventure, his reply, in all seriousness, was: “Well, they were probably ghosts.”
I still wonder. ■
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PHOTO: gaborszoke from Pixabay
TPASSING ON FAMILY LEGACIES
wenty-four of us recently gathered for the Nakamura reunion: the youngest 18 years and the oldest 84. We were flown together with three of us from the Yukon, and others from Ontario, Alberta, B.C., California, France, Germany and Portugal. We gathered in the South Surrey area in B.C., near the location of the original family home my father built in 1940.
The family reunion was bittersweet in many ways. Our last reunion was prior to the passing of my older sister in 2015. Many of us knew that the 2024 reunion would be the last time that we’d be able to travel and meet together in one place.
The gathering was truly heartwarming. We celebrated the legacy left by our parents and we shared stories of growing up. We reminisced over old photos taken by our father and we shared Japanese food, all of which triggered childhood memories.
As with many inter-generational gatherings, there are differences in what we value and how we live out these values. I couldn’t help being troubled by a conversation I overheard between my younger relatives in their late teens and early twenties and one of the aunts. They were comparing their results from the DNA site “23andMe” and the origins of their apparent ancestors
It struck me as odd that they would share their DNA with complete strangers and trust them with that information, especially as it impacts health matters. How could knowing your DNA results help you to connect to your real ancestors and their stories?
I set up a display of photos of our parents along with the Oihai [mortuary tablet]. This ornate wooden tablet has the Buddhist names of both parents, along with the dates of their birth and death and serves as a tribute to their
memory. I am the safekeeper of the Oihai in my family.
During the storytelling time at our gathering, I decided to remind all the relatives about a Buddhist family record that was translated from Japanese. I had shared this with all my siblings several years ago. My father received the records from his oldest brother in Japan and they lay dormant in the family file box until my parents died.
I took possession of the family documents in 2005. The file contained many precious documents that were the key to opening
much of the history that was hidden to me as a child.
I was shocked and deeply moved by the government documents from the 1940s that listed my parents’ property in B.C., their photo I.D. cards identifying them as Japanese nationals and letters from the government.
One document was a Victory Bond, purchased on the same day as the Federal Government order for the removal of all people of Japanese origin from the BC coast and the confiscation of their vehicles, radios, cameras and firearms.
The document that was especially revealing was a plain envelope that contained columns of Japanese script and dates from 800 to 1866. The document was of the Nakamura family records written in Japanese, which I couldn’t read, and is apparently very difficult to translate.
I consulted with the National Nikkei Museum & Cultural Centre in Burnaby to connect with a genealogist in Japan who could understand and translate the record. In October 1866, the descendent who transcribed the original document wrote in the translated notes:
We have an old family record which is hardly readable in a worm-eaten spot. Therefore I remake new one by using old historical books, other records owned by others. Please write inheritance of descendants properly without making any omission in future.
I encouraged family members to look to the real records, whether from Buddhist temple records, records of births, deaths and mar-
riages, or immigration and census records.
It is important to take time to research and listen to the real stories and records of their history. Oral and written stories and old documents, photos and letters, provide a deeper understanding of the family history.
This is far more important to my mind than relying on DNA sites for genealogy information. If I hadn’t taken the time to research and to use reliable sources of information, I would not have discovered my rich heritage and the threads that bind us together.
I appreciated how the talents and gifts of the older generation are now mirrored in the younger generation… the resourcefulness of grandparents and the creative talents reflected in gardens, art work, film and photography. We all felt pride in the legacy being left behind.
Who knows what stories will be told to the generations that will follow? ■
PHOTOS: Lillian Nakamura Maguire Family photo Oihai
Lillian Nakamura Maguire
Nakamura Maguire
Slope and migratory caribou biologist. He says in winter, these ungulates are focused on eating caribou lichen, digging through snow of various depths to get at it.
Adapt, or else
Wildlife that live in the north all year have physical or behavioural traits that help them stay warm, conserve energy and travel on snow. Their fur traps the heat, deflects wind and repels moisture. Some, like ptarmigan, hare and ermine, undergo a colour change for increased camouflage.
Animals that travel more widely in winter have larger feet for more efficiency on snow, like lynx and caribou. And many will build up food stores so they can burn fewer calories and be less exposed to predation. Pika spend the winter under talus rock piles in the alpine, surviving off their stockpile of plants collected in late summer. Beavers similarly keep a mound of willow and aspen close to their warm lodge.
A very long snooze
Still other animals go the “Sleeping Beauty” route. Hibernation is when an animal’s metabolism and body functions slow down to conserve energy. When bears
go to sleep in their dens, their heart rate decreases from about 50 beats a minute to 10, and they generally don’t eat, drink or defecate, although they will wake and shift positions. Impressive, but Arctic ground squirrels are nature’s ultimate sleepers.
“They are the world champion hibernators,” says Tom Jung, senior wildlife biologist. “As soon as it gets a little bit nippy, they dip down into their burrows and that might be as early as late July for the adult males. And they don’t come out of hibernation until early April.”
Jung says these chatty rodents hibernate longer than any other mammal in the world. Their body temperature also dips to -2.9C, colder than any other mammal in hibernation. Although their brain doesn’t freeze, their heart beats only about once every 45 minutes.
“It’s incredible they can do that,” Jung notes.
Although northern wildlife is well-suited to our climate, winter is still tough, and many will
succumb. That puts human “survival” chores like shovelling snow and chopping wood into perspec-
tive. If you can have a mug of hot chocolate after, it’s not that bad. If you’ve read this far, you’re
on your way to acing beginner wildlife trivia on Nov. 27. Find out about that and other events
hosted by Yukon Wildlife Viewing at Yukon.ca/wild-discoveries ■
PHOTO: Government of Yukon
Caribou have large hooves that distribute their weight over soft snow and tundra
PHOTO: CBM/Government of Yukon
summer, pika store vegetation in “hay piles” like this one that they eat over the winter
PHOTO: Adam Skrutkowski
Snowshoe hares have white fur in winter, and, as their name implies, large feet for moving about on snow
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Please visit whatsupyukon.com for up to date event details. Some events may be postponed or cancelled after we print.
ART SHOWS
Until Nov 15 Kwändü nùchù n-zhà – Early September Stories Yukon Arts Centre Gallery
Celebrates the artists of the Northern Cultural Expressions Society, emphasising the healing, transformation, and sense of family nurtured through art.
Until Nov 15 Abundance Yukon Arts Centre Gallery An exhibition of the latest acquisitions to the Yukon Permanent Art Collection. Featuring 15 Yukon artists, Abundance includes multi-media works. Until Nov 29 Gender Justice: Art as a Call to Action by The Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre & Les EssentiElles Arts Underground
Until Nov 29 Silence - Reflections on the Science of Migration by Misha Donohoe & Kim Melton Arts Underground
Until Nov 29 Selections from the Vault: Celebrating Rolf Hougen Yukon Archives
Celebrate the life of Rolf Hougen. Mr.Hougen was an avid supporter of the Yukon heritage community who donated two major collections to Yukon Archives.
Until Dec 6 Future Generations - Shakaat Artist Residency Showcase Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre On display in the Hude Nju Ku gallery - Future Generations is an exhibit where the artists can leave behind something that they want to be remembered for by the future generations that will come after us. It’s emotional, powerful, inspirational, and personal.
Until March 1 Growing Up With the Yukon - The Van Bibber family Arts Underground Showcases selections from almost two
thousand photographs taken by the Van Bibber family between 1919 and 1965
LIVE MUSIC
Tue Nov 12 Little Miss Higgins – Yukoner Appreciation Night 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre From the Great Northern Plains, Little Miss Higgins struts and serenades her way onto any stage playing music brewed up in early country blues, jazz and folk.
Fri Nov 15 Full Moon Dance Party 8:00 PM Kopper King Neighbours Pub Enjoy the night of the full moon in style on the best dance floor in town. Soundsystem, graphics, and floor lighting - an electric night.
Sat Nov 16 Kim Rogers & Gemini Fire 8:00 PM 98 Hotel Will be a rockin’ good time! Join us as Kim Rogers & Gemini Fire light up the 98 Hotel Stage!
Thu Nov 21 Said The Whale 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Juno award winning Said the Whale, have topped the alternative radio chart in their relentless pursuit of pop-rock perfection.
Sat Nov 23 Jay R Live in Whitehorsefeaturing Mica Javier 6:30 PM Selkirk
Elementary School An unforgettable night of music with Jay R and Mica Javier, community, and giving!
Sat Nov 23 Whitehorse Concerts - Janelle Lucyk and Kerry Bursey 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Janelle Lucyk and Kerry Bursey, with appearances by members of the Whitehorse Chamber Choir. https:// yukonartscentre.com/
Monthly
Mondays Gray Jay Café 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.
Tuesdays Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Wednesdays
Intermediate Jam - Bluegrass & Old Time
7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion bi-weekly Hosted by the Yukon Bluegrass Society Karaoke 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well Whitewater Wednesday 8:00 PM 98 Hotel
Thursdays Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Fridays Live Music 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.
Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Saturdays Live Music at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill. whiskeyjacks.ca/ Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well
Sundays Open Jam 8:00 PM 98 Hotel
GENERAL EVENTS
Tue Nov 12 Late Stage Financial Management with Maddy Clark 5:30 PM Online Delve into the intricacies of financial management with our Advanced Financial Management workshop.
Tue Nov 12 Laser Cutter Basics - Wooden Earrings 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace
Create your own custom wood earrings! In this beginner laser cutting and jewellery-making workshop you will design, cut, and assemble at least 2 pairs of wood earrings. https:// yukonstruct.com
Tue Nov 12 Vertigo 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre A former San Francisco police detective juggles wrestling with his personal demons. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/vertigo
Tue Nov 12 Purple Rain 8:30 PM Yukon Theatre
A young musician, tormented by an abusive situation at home, must contend with a rival singer, a burgeoning romance, and his own dissatisfied band, as his star begins to rise. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/purplerain
Wed Nov 13 HR Professional Series: Employee and Labour Relations 9:00 AM Yukon University Email registrations@yukonu.ca for more info.
Wed Nov 13 Dagoo Taii 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre This film highlights the incredible opportunity for our youth to connect with their heritage, culture, language, and traditional stories, empowering them to embrace their cultural identity. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/dagoo-taii
Wed Nov 13 Goodfellas 7:30 PM Yukon Theatre
The true story of Henry Hill, a Brooklyn kid who is adopted by neighbourhood gangsters at an early age and climbs the ranks of a Mafia.
Thu Nov 14 Voices from the Wind River 5:00
PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre A short film by Bethany Paquette following First Nations youth on a journey down the Wind Riverspecial speakers, live music and info booths https://cpawsyukon.org/
Thu Nov 14 Yukon Trapper Education Workshop 6:00 PM Yukon University Dene Cho Kê’endį Campus In this basic trapper training workshop learn about ethics, regulations, rights and responsibilities and more. Call to register 667-5652 https://yukon. ca/trapper-education
Thu Nov 14 The Evil Dead 7:00 PM Yukon
Theatre Sam Raimi’s Cult Classic! Five friends travel to a cabin in the woods, where they unknowingly release flesh-possessing demons.
Fri Nov 15 2024 Heart to Home Christmas Market 10:00 AM The Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre Whitehorse Over 3 days, a magical market that showcases local artisans and crafters, complete with a fun atmosphere of twinkling lights, cheerful carolers, and the irresistible aroma of seasonal treats.
Fri Nov 15 Confessions - Live at The Cache 6:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Confessions is an open mic night, celebrating and amplifying the stories and talents of trans voices. Performance spots are limited so please sign up in advance! https://www. queeryukon.com/upcoming-events
Fri Nov 15 Ed Wood 6:30 PM Yukon Theatre Ambitious but troubled movie director Edward D. Wood Jr. tries his best to fulfil his dreams despite his lack of talent.
Fri Nov 15 Live Comedy - Mike Rita featuring Ryan Short 7:00 and 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge A night of laughter and good vibes,
an unforgettable evening of comedy with headliner, Mike Rita, and the incredibly funny feature act, Ryan Short!
Sat Nov 16 Fish Leather Creations Workshop 10:00 AM Northern Cultural Expressions Learn to sew medicine bags or Christmas ornaments using sustainably sourced fish leather with Beaver Cree artisan and knowledge keeper Cheryl McLean.
Sat Nov 16 Vintage - Antiques & Collectibles Sale 10:00 AM Hellaby Hall Christmas Items, Toys, Pop Culture & Other Unique Collectibles, Vintage Glass, Ceramics, Linens, Vinyl Records, Coins, Jewellery, Artwork, and Many More Treasures!
Sat Nov 16 Annual Old Fashioned Christmas Sale 10:00 AM Old Log Church Museum
Dream 5:00 PM Yukon Theatre A rare and unique assembly of some of the greatest drummers in the world. This infectious documentary is best experienced in full surround sound! https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/a-drummersdream
Sat
email registrations@yukonu.ca for more info.
Mon Nov 18 Best in Show 6:00 PM Yukon
Theatre A behind-the-scenes look into the highly competitive and cut-throat world of dog shows through the eyes of a group of ruthless dog owners.
Mon Nov 18 Days of Heaven 8:15 PM Yukon
Theatre This indelible romantic drama starring Richard Gere, Brooke Adams, Sam Shepard and Linda Manz is high on atmosphere and features incredible magic hour natural cinematography. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/days-of-heaven
Tue Nov 19 Navigating your role as Manager/ Supervisor 9:00 AM Yukon University Whitehorse Campus For more info email registrations@yukonu.ca
Tue Nov 19 Buster Keaton Rides Again screens with High Steel 5:30 PM Yukon Theatre Screening as part of our 70 Years of Yukon Cinema celebration! Pay what you can!
Tue Nov 19 Beginner Forging - Coat Hook 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Get started blacksmithing and forge yourself a coat hook!
You will use the induction forge to heat and shape metal and learn to use an anvil and basic hand tools.
Tue Nov 19 One-of-a-Kind Ceramic Christmas Gifts 6:30 PM Arts Underground Prepare for the holiday by hand-crafting some gifts from clay! Over 3 evenings and learn the tricks of making and decorating.
Tue Nov 19 Water 7:30 PM Yukon Theatre
Set in colonial India against Gandhi’s rise to power, it’s the story of 8-year-old Chuyia, who is widowed and sent to a home to live in penitence.
Wed Nov 20 Trans Day of Remembrance - Candlelight Vigil 5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache Light a lantern, leave an offering, or add to our Wall of Remembrance. Candles, hot drinks, and soup will be provided. 2SLGBTQIA+ folks and allies of all ages are welcome.
Wed Nov 20 Incendies 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre
This riveting film tells the story of twins who discover, at the reading of their mother’s will, that they have not only a brother, but a father whom they thought was dead. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/incendies
Wed Nov 20 Words Out Loud - November 6:30 PM Arts Underground Open mic event series for writers and readers alike - come early to get an open mic slot! This month featuring Joanna Lilley & Julia Pagel.
Wed Nov 20 Pretty in Pink 8:30 PM Yukon Theatre Celebrate 70 Years of Yukon Cinema with this cult classic - an intelligent teen comedy that takes an ancient premise and injects it with insight and wit of John Huges. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/prettyin-pink
Thu Nov 21 Essential Administrative
Professional 9:00 AM Yukon University
Whitehorse Campus Learn the core skills that will help you use resources efficiently, manage time, communicate effectively and collaborate with others. registrations@yukonu.ca for more info.
Thu Nov 21 Sovereign Soil 5:30 PM Yukon Theatre Set in the northern wilds surrounding the sub-Arctic town of Dawson City, YT. Pay what you can! Director David Curtis in attendance.
Thu Nov 21 Vancouver Film School - Search Tour Info Session 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Info Sessions on our award-winning industry programs to a brand-new scholarship, Live Auditions for actors, and Portfolio Reviews. https://vfs.edu/events/searchtour
Fri Nov 22 - Nov 25 Yukon Words Festival
Whitehorse Various Locations A weekend packed with literary goodness, and help us show how Yukoners Write for the North! Headliner: Richard Van Camp
Fri Nov 22 TGIF Dinner - Members & Signed
In Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch
254 Find out what’s for dinner through the weekly email, sign up online! Tickets available the week leading up to the TGIF. Tickets are NOT for sale at the door! https://bit.
ly/3MqMQuS
Fri Nov 22 Opening Night - Conclave 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow star in this Papal thriller.
Fri Nov 22 Opening Night - Wicked 6:00
PM Yukon Theatre A vivid reimagining of the classic The Wizard of Oz, a long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining two-part cinematic event this holiday season. https://yukonfilmsociety. com/schedule/wicked
Fri Nov 22 Yukon Words Festival 2024 Opening Night 7:00 PM Old Fire Hall A night filled with literary magic. Immerse yourself in a world of words and music with Bria Rose as we kick off this year’s festival. https://www. yukonwords.ca/
Fri Nov 22 Professional Minute Taking 9:00
AM Yukon University Whitehorse Campus
Establish yourself as the minute-taking expert in your volunteer role or workplace! For more info email registrations@yukonu.ca.
Fri Nov 22 Yukon 48 Video ChallengeScreening 7:00 PM Yukon Theatre Screen all short films submitted by local filmmakers produced on the weekend of Nov 1-3 for the Yukon 48 Video Challenge - in Dawson City and Whitehorse. For more info email filmfest@ kiac.ca.
Sat Nov 23 re:design - the craft fair 11:00 AM Old Fire Hall This fair features beautiful, artisan-made products created with discarded/ salvaged materials. Come shop for holiday gifts or pick up something for yourself.
Sat Nov 23 Yukon Words Festival - Workshop with Louie Leyson 12:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Learn from a talented artist Louie Leyson, gain new insights into the world of art and expand your skills. https://www. yukonwords.ca/ywf-schedule
Sat Nov 23 Midnight Moose Market 1:00 PM Elks Lodge 306 Can’t make it to the daytime craft sales? Midnight Moose Collective has you covered! Come check out a variety of vendors - a mix of home based businesses, crafters, bakers!
Sat Nov 23 Yukon Words Festival - Workshop with Tina Biello 4:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Learn from talented artist Tina Biello in her Writing and Sharing Your Story workshop. a mix of writing, discussion, and reading aloud. It’s open to writers of all genres.
Sat Nov 23 Yukon Words Festival - Headliner Richard Van Camp 7:30 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Celebrate best selling author Richard Van Camp, he will share readings from BEAST and talk about the premise of Roth. https://www.yukonwords.ca/ywf-schedule
Sun Nov 24 Yukon Words Festival - Master Class with Richard Van Camp 8:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Learn about Designing Characters And Why We Need Conflict In Our Fiction in this master class with author Richard Van Camp https://www. yukonwords.ca/ywf-schedule
Sun Nov 24 Yukon Words Festival - Workshop with Emelia Symington-Fedy 10:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Discuss The Truth Doesn’t Have to Hurt, Q&A session and writing workshop.
Sun Nov 24 Anatomy of a Scene with Atom Egoyan 11:00 AM Yukon Theatre Atom Egoyan’s Master Class on the Anatomy of a Scene -cover elements such as how to prepare a storyboard, how to establish your mise-enscène and more.
Sun Nov 24 Forbidden Planet 3:00 PM Yukon Theatre A staple of classic 1950s sci-fi cinema!
Starring Erik Nielson’s brother, Leslie Nielson!
Sun Nov 24 Next of Kin 7:30 PM Yukon Theatre
Atom Egoyan’s striking debut feature Next of Kin is the story of Peter, catatonically unhappy with his family life and in video therapy with his parents. Director Atom Egoyan in attendance. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/next-of-kin
Monthly
2nd Monday Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society salvin@northwestel.net
2nd Monday Whitehorse Slow Jam 7:00 PM
Golden Age Society
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 Craft Night 7:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache This is a great place to gather and meet other queer crafters. And there will be tea of course. Regular dropin is still available.
2nd Thursday QYS Movie Nights 5:00 PM
Queer Yukon Society The Cache
Last Thursdays Repair Cafe 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Bring it in and see if it is fixable using soldering irons, multimeters, and other tools. This easy introduction to electronics and small home appliance repair is a useful evening of DIY learning that you can take home.
2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM
Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come on out and test your music knowledge! Teams of no more than 6 people.
Last Friday Pioneer Women of Yukon 12:00 PM Golden Age Society
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.
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
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.
Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society
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 Tuesdays
Bridge 12:00 PM Golden Age Society
Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association francoyukonnaise (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 12:00 PM Whitehorse
United Church Call 333-6081 for more info.
Anglican Holy Communion – Whitehorse 12:10
PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month
Sew & Tell All – Elders Hangout 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Facilitated by Kwanlin Dün Elder-in-Residence Shirley Smith, everyone welcome. Feel free to join and start a beading project or work on something that you’ve already started! For more info email culturalprograms@kdcc.ca
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!
Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar
6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Thursdays
Public Speaking Training - Toastmasters
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)
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.
Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age Society
Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.
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 6333463.
Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church
KIDS & FAMILIES
Sat Nov 16 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory 3:00 PM Yukon Theatre A poor but hopeful boy seeks one of the five coveted golden tickets that will send him on a tour of Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/willywonka-and-the-chocolate-factory
Sun Nov 17 The Iron Giant 5:00 PM Yukon Theatre A young boy befriends a giant robot from outer space that a paranoid government agent wants to destroy. Screening as part of our 70 Years of Yukon Cinema celebration! https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/theiron-giant
Sat Nov 23 Yukon Words Festival - Children’s Writing Workshop 10:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A fun and FREE Children’s Writing Workshop led by the amazing Storri Chesson! Finding your Writing Style (ages 9-12) https://www.yukonwords.ca/ywfschedule
Sat Nov 23 Hunt for the Wilderpeople 1:00 PM Yukon Theatre A national manhunt is ordered for a rebellious kid and his foster uncle who go missing in the wild New Zealand bush. Sun Nov 24 Yukon Words Festival - Youth Writing Workshop 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Songwriting and The Universe Poem with Claire Ness, A fun exercise to generate ideas and create an outline for your writing project. https://www.yukonwords.ca/ ywf-schedule
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
Tuesdays
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 Parent-Child Mother Goose 10:30 AM The Child Development Centre Celebrates the power and pleasure of songs, rhymes and oral stories. Bonding time with your little one or to learn for later.
Wednesdays
Community Connections 1:30 PM Yukon Family Literacy Centre An intergenerational story time and craft program. Meet local elders, have a coffee, do some crafts, and make a friend!
Thursdays
Transformations Along The Chu Nikwän 1:30
PM Yukon Visitor Information Centre Join
Amber for a free walking tour every Thursday along the Whitehorse waterfront to learn about the Yukon First Nations people and the history of the Yukon.
Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30
PM Whitehorse Public Library Youth 11-17 are invited to join, no experience necessary.
MEETINGS
Tue Nov 19 Canadian Parents for French Yukon AGM 6:00 PM Whitehorse Public Library Come to our AGM in person or by Zoom and find out what we have been up to over the past year.
Tue Nov 19 Friends of Yukon Permanent Art Collection AGM 7:00 PM Yukon Visitor Information Centre The Friends of Yukon Permanent Art Collection (FOYPAC) AGM. Join advocacy and acquisition for the Yukon Permanent Art Collection.
Wed Nov 20 Yukon First Nations Hockey Association AGM 6:00 PM Canada Games Centre Yukon Start planning for the 45th Anniversary of the
Weekly
Monthly First
is welcome. Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https://yapc.ca/actions/detail/yapcsmonthly-meetings
ONLINE EVENTS
Tue Nov 12 Late Stage Financial Management with Maddy Clark 5:30 PM Online Delve into the intricacies of financial management with our Advanced Financial Management workshop. Designed for later-stage businesses - register online. https://yukonstruct.com/ event/late-stage-financial-management-withmaddy-clark/ Wed Nov 13 Living with Loss - free workshop 6:30 PM Online Learn about the nature of grief and the various ways it can impact people experiencing different forms of loss, as well as practical tools for self- care that will help you heal and grow through difficult times.
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 3347693.
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.
Yukon First Nations Hockey Association AGM Wednesday, NOVEMBER 20, 2024, 6-8 pm CGC Boardroom
Interested in being on the board or just want to help out volunteering...
Whitehorse, YT Y1A 6L3 (867) 456-7294 ...come to the meeting! Everyone welcome, light dinner provided.
AAN EV SPEED RUN FROM WHITEHORSE TO VANCOUVER: PART 2
fter a relaxing soak in Liard Hot Springs while my Mustang Mach-E recharged, I pushed on again and arrived in Fort Nelson around 1:30 a.m. The new chargers there were really new, only being activated that day.
In fact, I had trouble getting one of them going and when I called in to BC Hydro’s help line (yes, live-staffed even after midnight) they told me nobody had charged at this location yet. While the first charger I tried refused to start a charging session, another one a few feet away connected just fine and I charged successfully.
The sun was up by the time I was done charging at Pink Mountain and I headed down to Fort St. John for my next installment. The BC Hydro charger there is in the Canadian Tire parking lot. I caught a needed nap during the charge, making sure to set an alarm for an hour so I wouldn’t incur idle charges.
Is it cheaper to road trip in an EV? In terms of the actual driving, sure. BC Hydro charges 37 cents per kWh, and I get about 5 km for each one, so that works out to about 7.5 cents.
In the compact truck I used to drive I would get about 9 km per litre, so at $1.80/litre it comes
My charge wasn’t full because I figured I would stop at Prophet River just to try the charger there, but I was disappointed to hit my first real EV snag. The chargers there would not acknowledge my car at all and I had no cell service to call support. I was faced with either pushing on to Wonowon or taking an hour to go back to Fort Nelson.
Nelson was easily on my remaining range, but Wonowon was a stretch. “God hates a coward,” I muttered to myself and pushed on south. I cut my speed to 80 km/h to preserve range and made it down to Pink Mountain, where they had another off-grid charger like the one I’d used at Liard. The cook at the lodge came out to grab a picture because he’d never seen anyone charging there in the week it had been operating.
out to about 20 cents per km, well over double. It is true that you stop more often, though, and it’s not hard to spend more money at those stops.
I had worried a bit about Pine Pass, but from Fort St. John I easily made it down to Bear Lake, where BC Hydro had put a charger at the community centre. It was a bit off the highway and a minor chore to find, but it was a beautiful day and I wasn’t in too big a hurry. At that point it was early afternoon and I hoped to make my hotel in Surrey by midnight.
From that point there was no anxiety. From Prince George south there are many public chargers and if I ran into any problems there would always be another charger available nearby.
I even got to use Tesla Superchargers at Quesnel and Cache
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audiobooks and music through Apple CarPlay.
The next morning, I headed down to the Vancouver Convention Centre to attend Everything Electric. I had been in touch with some staff from BC Hydro and they wanted to find out how my experience had gone, and a number of people I normally only see on YouTube were there in live panel discussions.
The show travels around the world, and not only lets guests see just about all the EVs on the market up close, but even allows test drives on a short track in the downstairs hall.
While it was great to see the cars, it was even better to connect with a larger community of EV enthusiasts. I got to meet many of the BC Hydro staff who had worked on the northern char-
Creek. These are very fast chargers, and almost double BC Hydro’s price but for a driver in a hurry they make a great choice. And still cheaper than gas.
I got into my hotel around 1 a.m.–37 hours on the road, 8.5 spent charging. I know that sounds like a lot, but some of it is covered by time I would have spent stopped anyway, including that hour at Liard Hot Springs, meals and naps. And I was pleased to find my Mach-E was an excellent road-tripper, easily passing slow-moving trucks on two-lane mountain roads and keeping me comfortable and entertained with
ger deployments and I expressed my deep gratitude for effectively opening up the rest of North America to drivers like me.
To be continued… ■
Brett Chandler lives in Whitehorse and likely spends too much of his time planning EV trips.
PHOTOS: Brett Chandler
My trip south allowed me to visit Langley’s Twilight Drive-in weeks before it closed forever
Remembrance Day
THANK YOU from the Whitehorse Legion
The Whitehorse Legion would like to convey its appreciation to those who made the 2024 Remembrance Day Ceremony happen.
A special thanks to:
• The Midnight Sun Pipe Band
• The volunteers, sponsors and organizations participating in the parade
• The members of the Colour Party, whose participants came from different organizations
• Air North for the continued support of the Whitehorse Legion
• Yukon Remembers for all the hard work they have done
• The City of Whitehorse for providing the CGC to host the event
It is the support of the community that makes Remembrance Day possible.
Thank you, and see you next year.
Lest We Forget.
a
THUMBING IT DOWN UNDER - PART 4
Travelling With a Soul Sister
My definition of a soulmate is a friend from the spirit world who helped you plan your trip to Earth and has a role in guiding you on your intended path.
When you first meet one of your many soulmates, you feel like you have known them for-
first was Caroline, whom I met at a youth hostel in Nimbin and travelled around with for two weeks in her car. The second was Maz.
I met Maz in a youth hostel in the Atherton tablelands. The hostel was in a huge Queensland-style wooden house, with screened in verandahs all around the outside.
were out exploring. Except for one exotic, black haired girl still sleeping in the bunk beside mine. She opened one eye to look at me.
“Good afternoon” I said. “I’m going to make myself a coffee. Would you like one?”
“Okay,” she said, sitting up with a groan. “Thanks.”
ever. Years later, it’s easy to see how they changed the direction of your life for the better. I connected with many soulmates on my year’s trip around Australia. Four stand out in particular. The
The bunk beds were on the verandah, providing a beautiful cool breeze to the hot Australian night.
I hadn’t been feeling well, so I slept in until noon. By the time I got up most of the backpackers
Sipping our coffees, I learned that Maz was from a little country town in Victoria, had been travelling overseas for the past two years, and was looking for somewhere quiet to settle down for a
while. She was feeling low and had been lying around in her bunk in that hostel for days.
“Well, that just won’t do at all,” I said. “Get up, get dressed, let’s go on an adventure.”
So we did. Skipping down the road, elbows linked, Maz said that she hadn’t felt so happy and alive for a long time. We hitched all over the Atherton Tablelands, sightseeing. At Tinaroo Dam we found a fun park to play in. It was a playground for adults with a flying fox, tire obstacle course, gigantic maze, et cetera.
The next day we hitched 142 km up the Cape York Peninsula on the northeast tip of Australia. First, down the twisty hill from
Kuranda with a quiet guy, then to the Port Douglas turnoff with a good-looking Dutch carpenter, then into Mossman with two teachers. We stopped for a beer in a Mossman pub and chatted to a few Aboriginals, then got a short lift with a local lady, and a longer one to the ferry with two hilarious Aussie guys.
On the barge across the Daintree River we met two old farmers, Vern and Graham, who came up every few weeks to check their little orchard of pineapples and fruit trees. They gave us a lift to the Crocodylus hostel where we met a Torontonian named Debbie.
column with Donna Lawther
Donna Lawther is
long-time Yukoner, pour-painting artist and author of Harry the Hug Monster.
Cape Tribulation Road, after crossing the Daintree River
PHOTOS: Donna Lawther Maz thought she was in heaven when she saw this shack on the beach
Maz and Debbie enjoying an early morning dip in the ocean
Thumbing It Down Under Part 4
Turns out she was at Dezadeash Lodge the same summer as I worked there.
I remember someone getting mauled by a grizzly in Kluane Park that summer and was amazed to learn that it was her husband. I’m surprised that I didn’t remember her because she carried her flute when she travelled and played it whenever she could.
Maz, Debbie and I decided to go for a walk and came upon Vern and Graham trying to fix their irrigation system. They were growing all kinds of tropical fruits and
ing south soon, so we took them up on the offer. I rode in the back of the truck with Chaos the dog, and Maz rode in the cab.
On the way they told Maz that she could stay at their shack as long as she wanted. They liked the idea of someone keeping an eye on the place to keep the tourists out.
Needless to say, that changed our plans about going south. A few days later we headed back up to Cow Bay to our paradise on the beach. Debbie stayed with us for a couple of days and we had a wonderful time lazing on the beach, skinny dipping in the ocean, walking, laughing, skipping and talking.
The morning Debbie left, she woke us up with some beautiful flute playing from down by the ocean. It sounded magical as it floated on the breeze up the beach.
After Debbie left, Maz and I did lots of exploring, walking and hitching up and down the peninsula. We met lots of locals and made a few friends, including Kon, who took us fishing and snorkelling on his boat.
The funniest hitchhiking ride we got was on the way back from a beautiful swimming hole in our sarongs, both of us squeezed onto the back of a dirt bike! I was happy to be able to add a dirtbike to my list of vehicles that I had hitched rides with.
Eventually it was time for me to leave our paradise. I had decided to head inland to Alice Springs to look for work. Maz decided to hitch part way with me and then continue down to Sydney to get
more of her stuff to move back up to Cow Bay. It took us four days to hitch 500 km to Townsville with many adventures along the way. From there we got on our respective corners. Maz was hitching south to Sydney and I was going west to Alice Springs. Both over 2,000-km journeys.
An hour later another backpacker approached my corner. He was a New Zealander named James and seemed nice enough so I agreed to let him hitch with me. We were so busy getting to know each other that Maz caught a lift without us noticing. I didn’t even get to wave goodbye. ■
gave us a very informative tour of the orchard.
We had a few beers with them and went to see their summer home on Cow Bay. It was an open tin shack with the only walls being around the shower room, which consisted of a 40-gallon drum of water heated by an open fire. The beds were hammocks covered by mosquito nets. Maz thought she had found heaven.
They were going back to Cairns to get parts for their irrigation system the next day and offered us a lift. We had planned on head-
Date: Thursday, November 21
Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm
Photo: Dusty Loops (@dustyloops raf) courtesy of Brampton Arts Organization(@baobrampton
I finished the maze first and had fun watching Maz trying to find her way out
Maz talking to another backpacker on the barge crossing the Daintree River
In this picture that I glued into my journal, Maz demonstrates how most Australians hitchhike with their pointer finger instead of their thumb
From a postcard in my journal. Cow Bay seems like an inappropriate name for our little piece of paradise
Maz reminded me of a magical nymph joyfully dancing on the beach
Finding a New Footing cont’d
to visit, they’re really stepping back into a period of time that has been preserved. You come to Dawson City and it’s not this made-up town that’s trying to look old. A lot of these buildings are original from the Gold Rush, which is really, really neat.”
In 2022, Murray was awarded the Yukon Heritage Conservation Project of the Year Award for her work on the house.
“The community’s very, very grateful,” she says. “I get so many comments all the time, like ‘Thank
from page 2
Author’s Note: MORICO OR MORICE?
When I started researching this story, I was told the house was named for Melanie Morico (with an “o”) instead of Melanie Morice. I looked, but I could not find a record of anyone with the last name Morico living in Dawson City in the early 1900s.
I did find references to a French woman named Melanie Morice, and land title records confirm she was the actual owner of Lot 1 in Block H of the Menzies Addition,
you so much for putting the work in and not either letting the house go into ruin or attempting to tear it down, which would probably be cheaper in the long run.’
“It’s just nice to be able to leave a bit of a legacy in this town and something that people can remember. It feels really great.”
To find out more about the HPA program, visit historic-propertiesassistance-program
the property the historical home sits on.
In the original title document her name was handwritten in cursive and the final “e” in Morice has a long tail on the end of the letter that loops upward, making it look a lot like an “o”. This could explain the error in her name.
Melanie Morice was married to Charles Frias, so she sometimes also shows up in records as
Mrs. Charles Frias or Mrs. Melanie Frias. For example, the Polks Gazetter 1903 directory lists a Mrs. Melanie Frias living in Dawson City. Her occupation was listed as housekeeper.
On September 16, 1908, a Mrs. Melanie Marie Frias passed away, according to the Yukon River Basin, Deaths and Burials, 18872007 database. Unfortunately, there is no further information on where she was buried.
In October 1908, the Weekly News Advertiser in Vancouver published her obituary. It read:
“Madam Charles Frias, one of
the pioneer women of the Klondike, is dead.” It confirmed that she worked as “… a housekeeper of the private mess for a number of the highest government officials and by her good graces and careful and skillful service won from them and their many guests the highest of esteem and commendation.”
The obituary also mentioned that Morice loved to garden, and she prided herself on having “… the first and finest sweet peas and other flowers in Dawson City.”
According to Morice’s estate files, held at the Yukon Archives,
at the time of her death, she owned two pieces of property in Dawson City—the west 65 feet of Lot 1 in Block H of the Menzies Addition and the south half of Lot 6 in Block C of Smith’s Addition.
The buildings on the first lot were assessed at $900 and the buildings on the second lot were $150. It appears that both properties were sold by the Public Administrator and Morice’s estate was split between her siblings in France. ■
PHOTO courtesy of Karen Murray
The house was moved on steel beams while the new foundation was constructed
PHOTO courtesy of Parks Canada
The house pictured in 1973
Vancouver’s popular indie and Juno Award-winning band has topped the alternative radio charts with their bright and vivid sounds. Tickets are $40.
TANYA TALAGA
Please join us for an evening of reading and conversation, featuring author and journalist Tanya Talaga, in conversation with writer and storyteller Ivan Coyote. A co-presentation with Yukon University. Tickets are $10.
ACTIVE LISTINGS
Fri Nov 15 Reservoir dog’s
tournament Better Bodies
Fri Nov 15 Glow & Flow 5:00 PM
Mt Sima Enjoy lit-up park features, glow sticks, and fun on the bunny hill! Last Run Lounge will be open all night. Everyone’s welcome!
Sat Nov 16 Aurora Cup Mt Sima Sun Nov 17 DPSAY Haul Road
Tune-up race 11:00 AM Copper Haul Staging Area https://dpsay. org/race-schedule-2024-2025/ Fri Nov 22 Juniors-only
tournament 5:00 AM Better Bodies
Mondays
Judo For Jiu Jitsu Eight Days
Martial Arts 6:00 AM
Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM
Northern Strength Academy
Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00
AM Canada Games Centre Yukon
Fall/Winter Yoga with Barbara 10:00 AM Whitehorse United Church Yoga for all levels, everyone welcome, drop-in, for more info call 335-1996.
Babynastics with Coach Libby 11:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www.polarettes.org/babynastics
Strength for Endurance 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.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM
Strength & Conditioning 1:00PM
Northern Strength Academy
Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged Babynastics with Coach Libby 10:30 AM Polarettes
Gymnastics Club A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www. polarettes.org/babynastics
Noon Strength & Conditioning
12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Indoor Cycling 12:05 PM
Northern Strength Academy 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.
Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM
Northern Strength Academy
Ladies 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.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days
Martial Arts 7:30 PM
Tuesdays
Strength for Endurance 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
Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
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.
Lifting for Longevity 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Specifically designed for the retired population, but open to anyone.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM Indoor Cycling 5:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Whitehorse Archery Takhini
Elementary 6:30 PM Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www.whitehorsearchery. com/schedule
Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning 7:00 PM Grace Space Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class. http:// amitieyoga.ca
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM
Wednesdays
Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout. Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Morning Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Midweek Morning Warm-ups 9:00
AM The Guild Hall Start your day with gentle, and energizing warm up. Led by Jacob Zimmer and guests. Drop in, by donation. Sign Up Appreciated - Upstairs at the Guild Hall https://whatsupyukon. events/51584e
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 9:30 AM
Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!
Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40
AM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!. http://cuts2.com/jiacg
Noon Strength & Conditioning 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00
PM Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout. Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 12:10 PM Grace Space Movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca
Line Dancing - Beginners 1:00 PM
Golden Age Society
Elderactive Intermediate Hiking 1:00 PM ElderActive Recreation Association Leisure Walking is similar to Nordic walking but is suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace
Line Dancing - Experienced 2:00
PM Golden Age Society
Indoor Cycling 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! northernstrength.ca/ Strength & Conditioning 5:30
PM Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multi-joint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more.
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.
Thursdays
Strength for Endurance 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
Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM
Golden Age Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes.
Lifting for Longevity 10:00 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.
Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:00
PM Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available. bit.ly/3oiTBVz Strength for Endurance 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 No-Gi
Club A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www. polarettes.org/babynastics
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Eight
Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM
Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days
Martial Arts 6:00 PM
Whitehorse Archery Takhini
Elementary 6:30 PM Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www.whitehorsearchery. com/schedule
Fridays
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days
Martial Arts 6:00 AM
Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM
Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Morning Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/
Strength & Conditioning 12:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy
Thursdays Noon Hatha Yoga
12:00 PM Grace Space Energizing blend of Hatha and Kundalini with Pranayama (breathwork), Friendly and Community oriented space! http://www.gracespaceyukon.com
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
Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM
Northern Strength Academy
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 Grace Space A dynamic and invigorating practice to awaken your inner strength. http:// amitieyoga.ca
Ladies Lift 9:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.
Strength & Conditioning 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy 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. northernstrength. ca/
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! northernstrength.ca/
WELLNESS LISTINGS
Wed Nov 13 Living with Loss - free workshop 6:30 PM Online Learn about the nature of grief and the various ways it can impact people experiencing different forms of loss.
Thu Nov 14 Make Your Own Crystal Candle 6:00 PM Majestic Solutions A night of relaxation and fun as you craft your very own, personalized, crystal candle.
Mon Nov 18 Indoor Grief Walking Group 3:00 PM Canada Games Centre Yukon A gentle way to connect with others who are grieving. Walking and breathing can help move our emotions. Drop-ins welcome! No cost – CGC
access is included. Bring indoor shoes.
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 Wednesday QYS 2SLGBTQIA+
Parent & Guardian Peer Support
Nights 6:00 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 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. whatsupyukon.events/4en
Last Monday 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
Last Sunday Spoonie Support
Circle 2:30 PM Queer Yukon
Society The Cache A low-key community hangs, engaging in peer support in facilitated conversations on topics brought forth by participants, and meet other spoonies! For details and to register islairhysrathlin@gmail.com
Mondays
Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Yukon
Aboriginal Women’s Council 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
AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509 Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
AA New Beginnings Group (O, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)
AA New Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral
Tuesdays
Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Yukon
Aboriginal Women’s Council 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
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
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 867-334-1725 for more details
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 251-3635766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
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
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 Yukon
Aboriginal Women’s Council 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
Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or on zoom, Zoom ID 251-3635766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
Fridays
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O)
12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House
AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30
PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.
VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and shower.
Community Kitchen 5:00 PM
Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info.
Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Yukon Employees Union Al-Anon 7:00 PM Trinity Lutheran Church Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.
AA Whitehorse Group (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral
Saturdays
AA Detox Meeting (O, A) 1:00 PM 609 Steele St.1:00 PM
AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:00 PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.
VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and shower.
Community Kitchen 5:00 PM
Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info.
AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212
Sundays
AA Detox Meeting (O, A)1:00 PM
609 Steele St.
AA Yukon Unity Group 1:00 PM
Online By zoom – Zoom ID 482518-9588 PC 334796 For more info call 778-907-2971
Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Inclusion Yukon
AAHospital Meeting (O, A) 7:00
PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212
HOW ARE THINGS UNDER THE HOOD OF YOUR CAR?
Have you had a look under your hood, how are your fluid levels, what about your belts and hoses. Most owners manuals show you where to check fluids at, if you have to add any fluids make sure they are the ones for your car. The belts and hoses are sometimes a little harder to check, if you are unable to check them or have any questions, take your car to your mechanic so they can have a look at it for you.
TBBQ PORK BACK RIBS
These fall-off-thebone ribs will make your mouth water before you even sit down to eat.
his recipe is most definitely one that I stole from a very good kitchen in Whitehorse. But as Bilbo Baggins so famously said in Lord Of The Rings, “After all, why not? Why shouldn’t I keep It?”
I was recreating this recipe in a great restaurant up in Dodge (Dawson City) and we had a very funny encounter. I had been arguing for weeks with the other kitchen crew about how to pronounce Worcestershire sauce. Being British myself, I know that it’s pronounced ‘wuu-ster’, yes-that’s it. Wuuster. No Chestershire or Cestershire or anything other than plain and simple Wuuster.
Now, we kept our Worcestershire Sauce in a big four-litre jug with a ‘W’ marked on the side to identify it. One day we hired a new British chef, who was an amazing chef and I asked him to please pass the ‘wuuster’.
Once again the battle raged. “It’s called Wor-chester-shire Sauce”’ We had nicknamed our new British chef ‘Irish’ due to his thick Cockney accent and he turned to the head chef and said, “I can assure you mate, that it’s pronounced ‘wuuster’. I grew up a few miles down the road from there!”
Well, the head chef got so mad, he grabbed the jug, took out a sharpie and scribbled the ‘W’ out and wrote ‘L+P’ “We will call it Lea and Perrins in this kitchen from this day forward!” he proclaimed.
Whatever you like to call it and however you like to pronounce it, you’ll need some for this recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
• Pork back ribs
• Lea & Perrins (Worcestershire sauce)
• Balsamic vinegar
• Hot sauce (your favourite kind; I use Frank’s Red Hot)
• Maple syrup
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper
• Seasoning salt
• Montreal steak spice
• Red wine
METHOD:
Ingredient volumes are going to vary depending on how many people you are feeding. I typically cut the ribs into sections holding three to five ribs each.
Fill a large pot at least 1/2 full with water and set it on to a high boil. Start adding your seasoning to the water. I always add the liquids first and then the powdered things. Generous amounts of Lea & Perrins, balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. The vinegar and syrup gives it that ‘sweet and sour’ taste infusion. Then add your hot sauce to your liking.
This is also where I add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of red wine. Trust me on this next one: 1 1/2 to 2 ounces of tequila at this point will really make the taste of everything pop! Finally, sprinkle generous amounts of the garlic and onion powders, cajun spice and black pepper.
Once this all comes to a full boil, the house is already going to smell great. Add in your sections of ribs and make sure they are all fully immersed in the water. If you need to add more water that’s okay.
The longer that you boil these, the softer they will be when you eat them. Also, just as we talked about reducing in the turkey soup recipe, as water boils off and you add more it will reduce the taste of your seasoning in it, and in-
fuse the meat with it. So yes, the longer it boils, the better. At a bare minimum, if you’re in a rush, you’ll need to cook them on a high boil for 20-25 minutes to be sure that they are fully cooked
Once you are satisfied, take them out of the water and put them on a cutting board to dry for a bit. One of the great things about this recipe is that now they are fully cooked. They will sit for up to a week in the fridge without going bad and all you need to do is fire up the BBQ and flash them up to finish them off! You can also freeze them for a later date, but I personally hate freezing meat that’s already been cooked, particularly when it’s so soft already.
The ‘cooking’ part is done. Now you’re going to just re-heat them. I like to BBQ even down to
about -15 or -18C. (Tip: remember to make sure that your hands are dry at those temperatures so that you don’t freeze your hand to the doorknob coming in and out!)
Spray some of your favourite veggie spray on each side of the ribs and sprinkle some seasoning salt, Montreal steak spice and garlic powder. Spray again to hold the seasonings on. BBQ the ‘good’ side first, turning once after a couple of minutes to get those nice black lines. Add your favourite BBQ sauce then flip them over, more sauce and finish warming them up. About 10-12 minutes.
If you don’t have a BBQ, or it’s really cold, you can accomplish almost the same effect by putting them in a hot oven at 375F on a grilling tray for about 10-15 minutes. Season and BBQ sauce them
first. You don’t want to cook them any more, just warm them up and crust the sauce a little.
I like to serve them with some potato salad and coleslaw. You could also serve with a nice tossed salad or fries. Really, these mouthwatering ribs are going to outshine your side dish anyway. These ended up on our plates tonight for just under $10 a plate, with leftovers for lunch tomorrow.
To be ‘real fancy’ and all ‘down south’ you can put some water with a squeeze of lemon juice into some ramekins and heat for about 25 seconds each in the microwave to give out finger bowls. Or a big ol’ roll of paper towel on the table will work just fine as well.
Dibs on the ribs! ■
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Gather your ingredients
PHOTOS: Courtesy of the Unknown Chef
The Unknown Chef has fed you at many local restaurants for years, and has decided to share some recipes he has developed, and others he stole from other chefs.
Fancy finger bowls
Dibs on the ribs!
GEOscience Family Day
YUKON GEOLOGY ROCKS!
PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE
EVOLVING ROLE OF
Everyone Welcome!
You're invited!
Saturday, November 16 10am to 4pm
Canada Games Centre Whitehorse
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this free, fun and family-friendly event showcasing how and why mining matters.
Enjoy a range of hands on activities and prizes, a free public skate from 2:00 to 3:00 pm, connect with the people behind industry’s progress and be a part of CKRW, The Rush live on location!
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this free event to learn more about how exploration and mining in the territory happens and improves our lives.
Something for everyone! Enjoy public talks, posters and core displays, appetizers, draw prizes and CKRW, The Rush live on location!
No Registration Required.
3:00 to 4:00 p.m. Appetizers. Posters and Core Displays
4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Public Talks with Q&A
Geology Matters: How Geoscience Supports Yukoners’ Lives - Carolyn Relf
Yukon Deposits and Critical Minerals: How They Are Mined - Kody Penner
Eagle Mine Response Update - Erin Dowd
Indigenous Business Models From AustraliaRowena Leslie
5:30 p.m. Key Note: Are New Models the Future of Yukon Mining?
Presented by Keith Halliday, Yukonomist Columnist for the Yukon News
6:30 p.m. Prize Draws
For more information, visit yukonminers.org/geoscience/ Tradeshow Open 3:00-7:00
Tuesday, November 19
3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Open to the Public
Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre Longhouse 1171 Front Street
ATLIN
Thu Oct 31 Halloween in the Rec Centre
Lounge Atlin Recreation Centre Come dressed in costume – prizes for best dressed – spooky specials all night.
Sat Nov 16 Family Fun Night 5:30 PM
Atlin Recreation Centre Potluck - Silent auction - Games and fun for everyone! Call 250-651-7663 for more info.
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 i
ATLIN
Sat Nov 16 Family Fun Night 5:30 PM
Atlin Recreation Centre Potluck - Silent auction - Games and fun for everyone! Call 250-651-7663 for more info.
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. Drop-in, Free admission! For more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.
CARMACKS
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at:
Sunshine Restaurant
Carmacks Rec Centre
CDC / CIBC Bank
Tatchun Center General Store
First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month
Carmacks Regular Council Meeting 7:00
PM Carmacks Municipal Building
Mondays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
Volleyball 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Baseball / Softball 7:00 PM LSCFN Ball
Diamond
Tuesdays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
Laser Tag 6:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Wednesdays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
Soccer 6:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Baseball / Softball 7:00 PM LSCFN Ball
Diamond Thursdays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
Pickleball 6:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Basketball 8:00 PM Carmacks Rec
Centre
Fridays
Soccer 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Volleyball 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Saturdays Basketball 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Sundays Archery 1:00 PM Carmacks School
Baseball / Softball 7:00 PM LSCFN Ball
FARO
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Discovery Store Van Gorda First and Third Tuesday of every month Faro Council Meeting 7:00 PM Town of Faro
Gym 1:00
PM Faro Recreation Centre
Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation
Volleyball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation
Basketball 7:00 PM Faro Recreation
Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation
Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation
Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre
Youth Group 7:00 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
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at:
Little Green Apple
Thu Nov 14 Haines Junction Library
Board - Annual Bake Sale & Craft Fair 6:30 PM Support Haines Junction Library’s exciting events and programming, and shop for handmade gifts from our many artists, crafters, photographers, herbalists, and talented locals.
Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00
PM St. Elias Convention Centre Village Council meetings are also held the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. [Remote attendance only]
Mondays
Fun with Food 3:30 PM St. Elias
Community School Learn new skills, share recipes and take food home!
Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym
Tuesdays
Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster
Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers. Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00
PM https://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
Water Wednesdays 1:30 PM Pine Lake Come Join us every Wednesday for an afternoon of paddling in the traditional cedar dugout canoe! Da Kų Cultural Centre.
Seniors and Elders Refreshments and Games 2:00 PM Haines Junction Seniors
Residence
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 3:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias
Community School
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.
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
COMMUNITY EVENTS... cont’d
DAWSON CITY
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Dawson City General Store
Until Dec 7 Flight (Cage) by Anne Steves ODD Gallery Welsh-Canadian artist Anne Steves - exhibit featuring tufted wool rugs, photographs, and her own written reflections.
Sat Nov 23 KIAC Holiday Art & Craft Fair 10:00 AM Dënäkär Zho KIAC Ballroom https://kiac.ca/calendarof.../2024-holiday-art-craft-fair/
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. Last coffee house of the season May 4 to resume in the fall of 2024.
Weekly
Mondays
Handbuilding Pottery Drop-in 6:309pm 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
Drop-In Pickleball 5:30 PM Robert Service School
Adult Drop-In Basketball 7:45 PM Robert Service School Ages 16+Free - Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info.
Tuesdays
St Paul’s Anglican Church Morning Prayer 9:00 AM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the
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
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Haldane Services
MOUNT LORNE
1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne
church, or online (Facebook Live)
St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican
Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
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
St Paul’s Anglican Church Morning Prayer 9:00 AM St Paul’s Anglican
Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office
St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican
Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)
Welcome Wednesday Supper and Games 6:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican
Church
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!
Drop-in Volleyball 7:30 PM Robert Service School Ages 13+ - Free
Mountain Community Centre
Mondays
Run Club 6:00 PM Lorne Mountain
Community Centre
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.
Drop-In Yoga 7:00 PM Lorne Mountain
Community Centre By donation all levels welcome
Tuesdays
Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In 6:30
PM Mount Lorne Community Centre
Improve your balance, flexibility, strength and endurance in this indoor class led by Colleen Ennis. Drop in, admission by donation. Suitable for mature youth & adults. https://whatsupyukon.events/fhm
Thursdays
Community Drop In 11:00 AM Mount
Lorne Community Centre
Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre
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, airconditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even better- we’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.
Drop-in Bouldering 6:00 PM Robert Service School Free - drop-in - all ages
Saturdays
Youth Parkour Tumbling 12:30 PM
Robert Service School All AgesFree – Drop-In. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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 867993-3734 for more information
Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30
Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City
Adult Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM Robert Service School Ages 16+Free - Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info.
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
Thu Nov 14 Yukon Trapper Education
Workshop 6:00 PM Yukon University
Dene Cho Kê’endį Campus In this basic trapper training workshop learn about ethics, regulations, rights and responsibilities and more. Call to register 667-5652 https://yukon.ca/trappereducation
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
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
Mondays
AA: Teslin Group (O) 7:00 PM Catholic Church Rectory
Wednesdays
Pickleball 12:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex
Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Drop in seniors Pickleball 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Fridays Open Arena 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Saturdays Parent & Tots 2:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex
WATSON LAKE
Second Saturday
536-2932
Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School
A TRIBUTE TO JESSICA SIMON
Celebrating Yukon
The late Jessica Simon had a gift for bringing writers together. Even after her passing, her influence united three authors—two from the Yukon and one from Germany—on a Frankfurt stage, sharing the voices and stories of the North with a German audience.
literature at Franklin Book Fair
Jessica’s writing group was where our journeys first intersected.
Years have passed since we began planning this reading, and on that October evening, the event became a reality. For Kathy Munro, it was a meaningful moment of closure. Elisabeth Wei-
On October 17, Kathy Munro, Elisabeth Weigand, and I, (living in the Yukon for two years, now living in Germany) gathered at the Kultur im Blitz venue in Frankfurt’s Sachsenhausen district to celebrate Yukon literature and honor Jessica’s legacy.
gand, originally from Frankfurt but a longtime resident of the Yukon, was thrilled to see so many friends and family members in the audience.
Having spent the day immersed in the Frankfurt Book Fair’s whirlwind of literary exchanges, I made
PRODUCTS SOLD
• Bakery Goods & Bread
• Bar Supplies
• Beef / Chicken / Pork / Seafood
• Cappuccino / Slushie Machines
• Co ee Makers
• Compostable products
• Containers & Bags
• Convection Oven / Roller Grills
• Co on Candy Machine
• Cutlery & Utensils
• Dairy / Eggs / Ice Cream
• Deli Meats
• Fridges & Coolers
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• Plates / Wraps / Tinfoil
• Popcorn Machine
• Sandwich Tables
• Slicers / Mixers / Toasters
• Stoves - Propane & Electric
• Toilet Paper / Tissue / Napkins
my way to Kultur im Blitz, where the warm glow of lights and the strains of Great Lake Swimmers’ music set the mood.
Around 40 guests filled the venue, many of whom had come to support Elisabeth and share in our journey. Some had even visited the Yukon and were eager to hear stories of life in the North
We began the evening by reading Jessica’s work, as a tribute to the woman who started it all. I read two short pieces from Jessica’s Circumpolar Duet, while Kathy shared Killerku, Jessica’s inventive blend of haiku and crime fiction. Elisabeth read an excerpt from Jessica’s crime-novel, From Ice to Ashes, a work I had watched Jessica develop over countless writing sessions.
As we read, memories flooded back of those early writing gatherings. I remembered Jessica’s Cramped Hand Writing Workshops
Eventually, Jessica started a regular group at a local coffee shop, where writers could work on their projects side by side—a group that continues to this day, a testament to her enduring impact. My mind drifted to moments
on the industrial outskirts of Whitehorse, where she led writing exercises with writing prompts. It was here where I found an encouraging community of writers.
when Jessica encouraged me to pursue my own writing, always pushing me to take risks and believe in my craft.
It was a powerful evening.
Afterward, Kathy reflected on the event.
“I couldn’t be happier. Although our event was on a much smaller scale than we had originally planned, we achieved what we set out to do: celebrate Yukon literature on a global stage and honor Jessica Simon, whose vision brought us all together so many years ago.”
For Elisabeth, the experience was deeply emotional.
“After coming home from the event, a multitude of feelings kept flooding me—accomplishment, honour, pride,” she shared. “Despite limited support and the challenges of a two-year pandemic, we did it. With grit we finally brought a taste of Canada’s North to Frankfurt, at the world’s biggest literary event.”
The Frankfurt Book Fair’s international stage offered us a unique opportunity to celebrate Jessica’s legacy and share Yukon literature with a broader audience.
That night, as stories of the North echoed through a Frankfurt neighborhood, Jessica’s voice and vision resonated, reminding us of the connections that outlast distance and time. ■
REVIEW
Elke Reinauer is a freelance writer based in Germany with strong ties to the Yukon
column with Elke Reinauer
PHOTO: Jessica Simon
Jessica Simon with her crime novel, From Ice to Ashes
PHOTO: Elke Reinauer
Elke, Elisabeth and Kathy sharing Jessica’s work at the Frankfurt Book Fair
PHOTO: Elke Reinauer
(L-R) Kathy Munro, Elke Reinauer, Elisabeth Weigand at Kultur im Blitz venue in Frankfurt
Festival 2024 ofTrees
