Matt Andersen is big! He’s on his way to the Yukon; a big guy, with a big voice. He’s also big news.
Already a noted performer, Andersen pretty much ran the table at this year’s Canada Maple Blues Awards. He was crowned 2024’s Entertainer of the year; also taking home the honours for Male Vocalist, Recording/Producer and Songwriter of the year.
“Been keeping busy,” he says of the avalanche of accol-
ades. “It’s been years of hard work, but my whole mantra is you got to play to be heard. I do close to 100 shows a year, but this is the busiest one I’ve ever had. Been on the road 250 days.”
Despite decades pinging between dark bars, fancy theatres, and dance clubs, Andersen has parked himself inside a studio enough times to record 16 albums. His signature is a raw, blues-rock sound that shakes the walls; but he brings a surprising vulnerability and gentle touch to ballads and love songs.
I’ve made my bed
And you’ve made up your mind
To take your love and leave the rest behind
There’s no use in wishing, if the well has run dry
cont’d on page 3 ...
Mike Linder is a writer whose heart remains in the Yukon, while his feet
Linder
PHOTO: Sean Sisk
PHOTO:
When I see you on the other side of goodbye - “Other Side of Goodbye,” House to House, 2022
A lot of his recordings feature live performances, and that is where he is truly in his element. His powerful voice and slashing slide guitar take ownership of the space completely, regardless of its dimensions or the crowd size. He does not, however, lack finesse. He does some slick solo picking; his flying fingers a blur, the sound clean and intricate, even when he’s improvising.
He brings that same agility to his singing. On some cuts, a rich baritone slides over the lyrics like warm honey; other times you can feel his vocal chords straining, trying to reach the very peak of his range.
“Sometimes I do go outside of it. The range changes from night to night. It’s no fun staying in your comfort zone, I’d rather push the limits. Let’s see what we can do.
“I started out playing in bars, a lot of the loud stuff comes from me trying to be heard over the drunks.”
Andersen cites John Fogerty, Bonnie Raitt and Jim Croce among his key influences. His music owes a lot to R&B, with country and soul sprinkled liberally throughout; while his material puts him squarely inside traditional blues. A working-class son of the Maritimes, he sings about hard times and hard work; one of his albums is even titled Coal Mining Blues (Really!)
When reality is hard and cold, holidays bring a special kind of joy and warmth. Music-filled family Christmases and a flickering yule log are memories to be cherished, and shared.
“I love Christmas time, and I love Christmas music. I’ll be playing a few classics, but I’ll do my own stuff as well. I’d say about sixty-forty, I wouldn’t want to listen to a whole night with nothing else.”
Andersen’s solo performance, Put the Jolly in Your Holly, runs December 16th and 17th at the Yukon Arts Centre. It’s a gig he says he’s looking forward to. In a big way! ■
PHOTO: Robert GeorgeffPhotography Andersen rocking the blues PHOTO:
Matt Andersen
Bev Brazier has been a
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP A Sandy Eagle story
Sandy reached over to the printer, picking up the pages as they emerged. Four pages of a finely-crafted sermon for tonight: Christmas Eve. She had called it “Silent Night, Holy Night” Not exactly original but she felt good about it. A short, meditative invitation to the greatest story in the world.
She folded them and put them inside her Bible, marking the Lukan passage for the service later. As she did, she prayed that somehow, that sermon would do what it needed to do. That the words on these pages would leap from the page as the baby had leapt inside old Elizabeth from the Christmas story.
Yes that was it; that they would leap from the page, from her lips, and reach out to the people in the pews, meeting the spirits of those very people leaping back toward her. And that in the process something would be born; the knowledge, body-deep and solid, that God was among them in flesh and blood and bone.
She took a deep breath. That was for later. Before this sermon would be preached later this evening, there was the pageant. Time to go to the hall where the children were preparing for the drama they had worked so hard to prepare. That, no doubt, would include leaping of a different sort; with any luck at all, not literally. She closed the door to her office, turned out the lights, and started down the hall. Twenty minutes until the family service would begin.
From the sanctuary, she could hear the sounds of the congregation gathering: Bonnie’s piano prelude; a lovely medley of soft, meditative carols, perfect for setting the mood. Candles set in birch holders placed on every windowsill, reflected in the stained glass.
The scent of pine, winter boots and cheap candle wax, a banner made by the children; angels of felt with round ‘O’ mouths and “O Come Let us Adore Him” cut with safety scissors and glued onto the banner. It was beautiful in every way.
Sandy loved Christmas Eve. The darkness; atmosphere crackling with cold enchantment, the music, the simple wonder of it all. That they would gather for worship tonight, when the rest of the year that place inside them would go hungry, was a source of wonder and pain....and hope.
Not to mention, the feeling that there was always a great deal at stake tonight. Whatever “doing it right” meant, Sandy felt the pressure/hope/expectation of Christmas Eve very personally. No time to linger on that branch, which was probably a good thing. Those thoughts can only take you to scary places. Let’s just enjoy the moment. Off to make sure the pageant is ready to go. She could hear the excitement before she got to the basement. Opening the door, the energy hit like a tsunami. Children and noise everywhere:
9 shepherds racing, (wait for it...)
8 angels texting,
7 toddlers wailing,
6 parents pleading, FIVE MINUTES TO GO!
4 duelling sheep
3 lost kings spilled frankincense, and a donkey with ADHD.
And snippets of conversations: Where is the star? Who is supposed to have the star?
Ummm the shepherds were playing hockey with their staffs and they used it for a puck and... Never mind. It’s ok. Just look up as though you see something. Can you do that?
Sheep – line up over there please. Yes there. Thank you. Tyler, that’s not a sheep costume. That’s a – that’s a lion! Is that a lion costume?
He wanted to be a lion, so in the end we said what the heck … he can lie down with the lamb –it’ll be great. The only problem is, he tends to roar. The narrators are going to have to speak over his roaring. I hope that’s ok. Mary, do you have your doll?
Lindsay forgot to bring it so we wrapped up a bottle of coke. Once it’s in the manger no one will notice. I hope you don’t mind, I drank some. I’m pretty sure the top will stay on though. I did not forget the doll! Nathan threw it and now it’s caught in the basketball hoop.
Amy what’s wrong – are you crying?
No, I’m allergic to frankincense. It’s making my eyes water.
Amy – there isn’t really frankincense in the bottle, dear. Look inside – it’s empty.
Well I’m allergic to something. Don’t worry though. I took a Benadryl so I’ll be ok. If I don’t fall asleep.
Sandy looked at her finelycrafted sermon, folded and placed in her Bible, marking the Luke passage. She looked down at that sermon. She looked up at the chaos all around her.
The worship had already begun. ■
Freelance with Bev Brazier
FEDNA ELDORADO
ar from their homes in the South, three young prospectors mushed their team through the crackling cold. They had covered 30 miles that day over a narrow trail and had but three miles to go to reach their cabin on Eldorado Creek in the Klondike. It was Christmas Eve, 1897.
They suffered from the cold and, in spite of the time of year, wanted only to light a roaring fire to thaw their bones and relieve the searing pain in their chests. They paid no heed to the northern lights that had dropped a dancing curtain of ghostly colours over the frozen valley.
Then, in an open space to the right of the trail, they saw a lonely cabin almost enveloped in frost; the frost itself reflected the colours of the aurora borealis until cabin and sky were joined in a mystical scene, a scene that caused the young men to stop and stare. A faint wisp of smoke drifted from the stovepipe, as if to declare there was life within the cabin; but it was a life that was feeble and quiet.
“Let’s go in and warm up,” said Johnny Lind. They must have gone into Dawson for Christmas and we can get that fire going in no time.”
They unlatched the door and tramped in. Dave Mitchell took a candle from his pocket and lit it in order to find the source of pit-
eous moans coming from the bed in the corner. In the flickering candlelight he, Johnny Lind, and Bill Wilkinson beheld a sight they would remember for the rest of their lives.
A young woman lay on the bed with a newborn baby clutched to her breast. She stopped her faint cries to smile at Dave, who quickly kneeled at her side. Her eyes, pain-filled yet satisfied somehow, opened wide for a moment, fluttered weakly, then closed in death.
The three young men stared at each other, stunned into silence, a silence the baby finally pierced with its shrill, life-filled cry.
While Johnny Lind built up the fire, Bill Wilkinson stripped off his many layers of clothing and even removed his new woollen underwear he had bought in Dawson that day. Quickly he wrapped the baby in the underwear and whatever blankets he could find. Just then the door burst open and another young man ran to the bedside.
“Jen! I’ve got the doctor!” He collapsed on the floor beside the bed and the doctor strode into the crowded cabin. He immediately checked the woman on the bed and the young man on the floor.
“Both dead. He froze his lungs with all the running he did today; it’s 45 below outside; and
the mother... goddammit, these people should never have come north! Is there a woman around here you can take the baby to?”
“No,” said Bill, who still held the baby in his huge arms. “Not close by there isn’t.”
“Well,” said the doctor, “I’ve got to be going. You’ll have to take care of it somehow.”
He packed his case and went out and the miners never saw him again.
They made a tiny bed from a packing box, tucked the baby into it, and dashed over the trail to their own cabin. Using a whiskey bottle and the finger from a leather glove, they fed the squalling child its first earthly meal: bearstew broth with a tiny portion of brandy mixed in. The baby fell asleep in its box while the young men sang Christmas carols and gave thanks to whatever god they believed in.
But that isn’t the end of the story.
Dave Mitchell set out the next morning to find a mother for their Christmas child. The news spread quickly and soon a dozen women arrived at the cabin; each was willing to adopt the baby, and the young miners faced a difficult decision. A Mrs. Brock stood back from the crowd, listening to the arguing. Finally, she could stand it no longer.
assistance is available for victims of intimate partner violence, sexualized violence and violence against
For more information, contact Victim Services at 867-667-8500, toll free 1-800-661-0408 or email victim.services@yukon.ca
“You’re all a bunch of fools!” she exclaimed. “Give me that baby! You, Dave, take up a collection and get going into Dawson for some canned milk. Bring some clean blankets and some diapers too.”
She picked up the baby and held it with such a natural air that the boys knew the right decision had been made. Later they found out Mrs. Brock had lost a baby back in Nova Scotia; here in the Klondike, by a miracle of events, she had found another.
For the rest of the winter the baby stayed in Mrs. Brock’s cabin and it became the centre of attention on Eldorado Creek. The miners found a minister to baptize it in the spring and, after many suggestions, a name was chosen for the child; she was to be called Edna Eldorado. She was christened in an outdoor ceremony with gold nuggets and pokes of dust piled up around her. It was said that the toughest men in the north cried like babies on that spring day in the Klondike.
That is how the story has come down to us – through magazine
and newspaper accounts and personal re-telling – how three gaunt young prospectors were led by the northern lights to the side of a newborn babe on Christmas Eve in 1897.
Note: Johnny Lind’s grandson is Phil Lind, former vice president of Rogers Communications. His lawyer/writer friend Robert Brehl, searched all available records to see where Edna Eldorado ended up – to no avail. I, too, have scoured old newspapers and records from the Yukon and Nova Scotia, but nothing turned up.
Bob Brehl says the last trace of Edna petered out in Edmonton. They have agreed that this version of the Edna Eldorado story is pretty close to what happened that day.
Johnny Lind left the Klondike with enough gold to start a successful concrete business in Ontario, partnering with a member of the Rogers family.
Phil Lind, died in 2023 and had donated his huge Klondike memorabilia collection (valued at $2.5 million) to the University of British Columbia. ■
Sam Holloway is a widower who alternates between his cabins at Marsh Lake and Ross River.
PHOTO: JB Tyrell
The cabin where Edna was born
OUTSIDE THE LINES
Young digital artist has a new exhibition at the Yukon Arts Centre
Riley Cyre is a 14-year-old Whitehorse artist whose work focuses on experimentation with digital art, light and colour.
With a new exhibition titled Pixel Perfect: A Journey Drawing
Outside the Lines now on view at the Yukon Arts Centre, Cyre says she’s thrilled to showcase her
work to family, friends and art lovers in her community.
“I really didn’t know what to expect,” says Cyre of her exhibition’s opening in late November. “The number of people who showed up to help support me and view my art was so cool and crazy – it made me feel so special.”
Cyre’s creative process starts
with a sketch on her digital tablet, which is then overlaid with a black outline, then filled in with another sketch, before the solid lines are drawn on, and finally the piece is coloured and shaded.
After Cyre’s artwork was accepted for showcasing at the YAC, her mother had prints made of her pieces. Seeing her work come to
Dear Yukoners, may the lights of this holiday season shine brightly bringing joy to our gatherings with loved ones.
life was a huge moment for the young artist.
“I’ve never seen it so big,” Cyre says. “It just makes it so much better.”
plore her feelings through creating visual art.
e Honourable Pat Duncan Senator of the Yukon
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Chers Yukonnais, puissent les lumières des fêtes briller de mille feux et illuminer nos célébrations en famille.
Cyre says in the past she’d been scared to show people her art for fear of what they might think, but took a leap and decided the opportunity to have her pieces featured in her own show was too big an opportunity to shy away from.
“I took up art as my meditation,” she explains. “It helps me calm down. Before sports tournaments I’ll draw, or before tests, or if I’m worried, I’ll draw. It just helps me get my emotions out – I like to put my emotions on the paper, my feelings on the paper.
“Sometimes, I’ll crumple up the paper afterwards and get rid
“This is a step forward I was willing to take,” she says. “And here I am now.”
Cyre is open about her struggles with anxiety, and while she says lots of people have told her journaling might help, she calls the practice the bane of her existence, saying she prefers to ex-
of those emotions. So, I use my art kind of for healing, but also for fun and as a hobby.”
Cyre’s pieces each start with an idea, but she says her ideas change a lot throughout the creation process as she finds new directions she can take any given
Manus Hopkins is a Toronto- and Whitehorse-based journalist, musician and lover of heavy metal and cats.
Freelance with Manus Hopkins
PHOTOS: Shelley Cyre
Disco
Stations
Riley Cyre shows her work to excited patrons at the YAC
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work.
“I get distracted really easily, and once I leave an art piece, I can’t go back and continue it, or else I’ll find it boring and want to start a new one,” she says.
“Most of my pieces I get done in one or two or three hours when I’m sitting down and doing them. They change throughout that time; sometimes I’m drawing one character and it’ll change into a totally different character with a whole different story.”
For her gallery opening, Cyre’s mother encouraged her to dress up, so after shopping for a special outfit, she rolled up to the YAC bursting with confidence, which only grew as people started to arrive and walk through the exhibition, taking in Cyre’s art.
“People started coming in who I know and know really well, and they know I’m an artist but they hadn’t seen any of my work, so I’d lock them down and I’d talk to
them about my pieces of art, and I just loved to see the smiles and awe on their faces,” Cyre says. “It made me feel really proud.”
Cyre finds that when an artist is present at an exhibition, hearing the inspirations and stories behind the pieces on display adds a whole new level of depth and appreciation for the work. She was intent on creating an experience like that for her own patrons.
“You might look at one of my art pieces and think it’s this, but it has a whole story and its own personality behind it.”
Cyre is also an avid Dungeons & Dragons player, and many of her pieces are inspired by her campaign. Members of her dungeon group came to the exhibition’s opening, and she was happy to show her art to some of her closest friends who know the influences behind the pieces.
“Everybody imagines it differently in their heads,” Cyre says. “I thought it was super cool for them to come and see what I thought, and bring that imaginary world to life.”
With a public showing now under her belt, Cyre hopes to
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promote herself more and begin selling her art pieces as she works towards an eventual career in the field. She has her sights set on pursuing a post-secondary education in visual arts, and is up for the challenges that come with making a living in a creative industry.
“My dream in life is to be an artist as my job,” she says. “With times now how they are, I know it’s going to be a bit difficult, but if I start now and I keep working at it, selling and promoting, I think it’d be super cool and I might have a chance at that future.
“I couldn’t have done this art journey alone.” says Cyre. “There have been a lot of people who have helped and supported me throughout this journey, and of course the people who taught me to draw and helped me grow my love for it. I just want to thank everyone for that. To become an artist, it’s practice and just doing it over and over.”
Pixel Perfect: A Journey Drawing Outside the Lines is on display in the ATCO Electric Yukon Youth Gallery until Jan. 17 every Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free exhibition is also accessible during evening performances at the YAC. ■
Riley with her friends Luke and Hannah at the artist reception
ART SHOWS
Until Jan 17 Pixel Perfect: A Journey
Drawing Outside the Lines by Riley Cyre YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery
Showcasing the vibrant and evolving artistry of 14-year-old Riley Cyre, whose digital creations reflect themes of empowerment, emotion, and selfexpression.
Until Jan 17 Threads of Change: 50 Years of Northern Fibres Guild YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery
Until Feb 2 Celestial by Yukon Art Society Members Arts Underground Until Feb 20 The Land Speaks to Me by Jackie Olson YAC Yukon Arts Centre
Gallery A rare glimpse at her collected works-in-process: Olson makes works that want to be returned to the land, and many of her works have already been curated back.
Until Feb 20 Land Mass by David Curtis YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Dawson City-based artist David Curtis presents a compelling series of film and multimedia sculpture installations in his latest solo exhibition.
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
Fri Dec 13 Fancy Dancey – A Electro Swing Dance Party 8:00 PM Leftys Well
Featuring CASE235 - Dress in your finest Winter Formal and come dance! Drink Specials and the best electro swing tunes to dance to!
Fri Dec 13 KABN Live! 8:00 PM 98 Hotel
A dynamic northern blues/rock trio that seamlessly fuses the soulful vibes of Buddy Guy, the raw energy of the White Stripes and the iconic sound of The Tragically Hip.
Sat Dec 14 Sugar Daddy XXX-MasDraglesque Extravaganza 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well Get into the xxx-mas spirit with the Draglesque Extravaganza, join Ula-la, Mistress Claus, Mannie Nuff and many more!
Sun Dec 15 Mini Messiah 2:00PM
Whitehorse United Church Join us for our favourite numbers from Part 1 of Handel’s Messiah, Featuring Katie Avery, Bryn Knight, Morgan Ostrander, Sarah Jane Poirier, Ben Johnston-Urey, and Whitehorse Community Chamber Choir, conducted by CD Saint Mon Dec 16 & Tue Dec 17 Matt AndersenPut The Jolly In Your Holly! 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Join Matt Andersen for his special Christmas concert - holiday songs infused with raw blues-rock, rollicking Americana, thoughtful folk, and ecstatic gospel.
Fri Dec 20 & Sat Dec 21 Sing Along with the Problematic Orchestra 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Come ready for a unique experience; this isn’t your average caroling! Bring your voices to join in the singing. Co-directed by Daniel Janke and Hannah Mazurek. https://yukonartscentre.
to make gift wrap for the holiday season using block printing with Leslie Leong!
https://linktr.ee/yukonconservationsociety
Wed Dec 11 Fireside Chat with Kevin Kliman 5:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace
An evening of inspiration and networking, hear from Humi CEO Kevin Kliman as he shares his incredible journey. https:// yukonstruct.com/event/fireside-chat-withkevin-kliman
Wed Dec 11 Longest Lunch Together 11:00
AM Yukonstruct Makespace Our annual Solstice Party in the event space where we’ll be celebrating the heart and soul of our community – YOU! Enjoy delicious food catered by Kit’s Kitchen.
Thu Dec 12 Lights of Life Opening
Ceremony 12:00 PM Elijah Smith Building
Join us to hang a red tag in memory of a loved one. Choral music and keynote speaker at the Elijah Smith building on Main Street. Call 667-7429 for more info. https://hospiceyukon.net/en/2021/12/07/ lights-of-life/
Thu Dec 12 Holiday Soirée 5:00 PM Best
Western Gold Rush Inn Celebrate the season in style and join us for an evening of festive cheer, delightful refreshments, and warm community spirit. https:// www.whitehorsechamber.ca/events/wccholiday-soir%C3%A9e
Fri Dec 13 & Sat Dec 14 The Nutcracker and Land of Sweets 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre A magical event, celebrating the spirit of the holidays through the art of ballet. This heartwarming and timeless tale of The Nutcracker is sure to create cherished memories for all who attend. https://yukonartscentre.com/whats-on/ the-nutcracker/
Fri Dec 13 Gladiator II 7:00 PM Nightly Yukon Theatre Years after witnessing the death of Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius must enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his home. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/gladiatorii Sat Dec 14 Northern Fibres Guild Cranberry Market 10:00 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Northern Fibres Guild members hosting their 2024 Cranberry Market! Join us in the Elders’ Lounge.
Sat Dec 14 Northern Fibres Guild demonstrations 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun
Cultural Centre
Sat Dec 14 Dr. Davis - Ancient SpikedTooth Salmon 1:00 PM Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre Dr. Edward Davis from the University of Oregon as he tells us more about the ancient Spiked-Toothed Salmon. Presented live at the Beringia Centre, Zoom, and Facebook live.
Sat Dec 14 Community Barn Dance 7:30
PM Church of the Northern Apostles Featuring a live band-Megan MacLeod and Rick Avery along with caller Judy.
Fri Dec 13 & Sat Dec 14 Chris Robinson with Sean McDonnell 7:00 & 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge Headliner Chris Robinson is one of the premier comics working in Canada, Sean McDonnell is a rising star in the Canadian comedy scene. Hailing from Vancouver. https://www. jumpcomedy.com/
Tue Dec 17 Beginner Woodworking
– Make a Trivet 5:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn how to reclaim cedar wood and create a personalized trivet (pot holder) with laser engraving.
Wed Dec 18 55+ Social - Christmas Sing-A-Long! 10:00 AM Canada Games Centre Our 55+ Socials are Back!! Join us for a Christmas Sing-A-Long! Coffee & Tea provided, meet on the first floor concourse - by the Flexihall.
Wed Dec 18 Create Cards & Decorations
6:00 PM Raven ReCentre Learn from Whitehorse artist Nicole Bauberger as she explores ways to make decorations, cards, and gifts using the household waste stream! https://linktr.ee/ yukonconservationsociety
Wed Dec 18 Words Out Loud – December
2024 6:45 PM Arts Underground A
monthly open mic event for writers and readers, featuring Telek Rogan & Linda Leon.
Fri Dec 20 Pushpa - The Rule - Part 2 5:00 PM Yukon Theatre The clash is on as Pushpa and Bhanwar Singh continue their rivalry in this epic conclusion to the two-part action drama. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/pushpathe-rule-part-2 Sat Dec 21 2024 Polar Plunge 11:00 AM Whitehorse Elks Lodge ALL plungers (frosty first timers, plunge pros and bounties) will receive the 2024 edition Polar Plunge Towel for their plunge participation. https://soy.crowdchange. ca/90747
Sun Dec 22 Beyond Borders Youth Network - Holiday Celebration 5:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace An evening filled with joy, connection, and celebration. It’s a wonderful chance to meet new people and learn more about Beyond Borders Youth Network!
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 drop-in 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
WEEKLY
Mondays
Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles
Women’s Bible Study 6:00 PM 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
franco-yukonnaise (AFY) Le Café de l’amitié est un rendez-vous hebdomadaire et une occasion de rassemblement pour les francophones de 50 ans et plus.
QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon
Society The Cache 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 2:00 PM Queer Yukon
Society The Cache
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
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
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.
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.
9:30 AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11
AM Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch
Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse
Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone
Whitehorse United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM A caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth
Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00
PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition. Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.
Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church
KIDS & FAMILIES
Until Dec 12 Moana 2 6:00 PM Yukon
Theatre Moana journeys to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, longlost waters for an adventure unlike anything she has ever faced. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/moana-2
Wed Dec 11 Babies Music & Motion 10:00
AM Yukon Arts Centre A free, drop-in 30 minute session of music and movement designed for parents and babies led by Lianne Cranfield in the main gallery.
Wed Dec 11 Moana 2 (French Version) 5:30 PM Yukon Theatre Moana journeys to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she has ever faced. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/ schedule/moana-2
Thu Dec 12 BGC Yukon Community Dinner 3:00 PM Boys & Girls Club Yukon All are welcome to join us for this community dinner, appetizers at 3:00 pm and dinner at 5:00 pm.
Fri Dec 13 Christmas Movie Night 7:00 PM Bethany Church Watch “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” and support our youth group! Entry by donation, concession for sale. Open to all ages, families are encouraged to attend together!
Sat Dec 14 The Nutcracker and Land of Sweets 1:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre A magical event, celebrating the spirit of the holidays through the art of ballet. This heartwarming and timeless tale of The Nutcracker is sure to create cherished memories for all who attend. https:// yukonartscentre.com/whats-on/thenutcracker/
Sat Dec 14 Dungeons & Dragons 3:00 PM Boys & Girls Club Yukon Drop-in for ages 12-17, with DM Aaron, new or experienced welcome! For more info email wypm@ bgcyukon.com.
Sat Dec 21 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Nightly Yukon Theatre Nobody is ready for the mayhem and surprises that ensue when six of the worst youngsters disrupt the town’s yearly Christmas performance. https://yukonfilmsociety. com/schedule/the-best-christmaspageant-ever Sat Dec 21 Kids Night Out 5:30 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Prepare for a fun-filled evening with pizza, games, gymnastics, and a movie!
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
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
Thu Dec 19 Longest Night Society AGM 6:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre WEEKLY
Tuesdays
Rendezvous Rotary 6:30 PM Tony’s Pasta and Seafood House Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at Tony’s Pasta and Seafood. Come and join us for fun, and fellowship.
Thursdays
Toastmasters Decora 12:00 PM Sundogs Toastmasters Club. Club is open to all interested parties and we provide constructive feedback to help develop public speaking skills.
MONTHLY
First Monday Klondike Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa.yk.ca/comingevents/ First Monday Yukon Amateur Radio Association Monthly Meeting 7:00 PM EMO Building Discussion of club business. Prospective hams are welcome. Third Thursday ASAY board monthly meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon Third Thursday Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Monthly Meeting 5:00 PM ZOOM Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition for regular meeting. Everyone is welcome. Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https:// yapc.ca/actions/detail/yapcs-monthlymeetings
ONLINE EVENTS
Wed Dec 11 Financial Organization 101 12:00 PM Online Contact clientservices@ spya.ca for more information.
Thu Dec 12 Contracts & Legal 101 12:00 PM Online Contact clientservices@spya.ca for more information.
Fridays AA Yukon Unity Group 1:30 PM Online For Zoom Room address Contact 334-7693
Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.
Tuesdays Restorative Online Healing Circles 7:30 PM Online Check-in, Q&A, connect and feel the results. No experience necessary. Register online, or call 335-0078 or email alison@ alisonzeidler.com for more info.
Josephine Holmes is a freelance writer and former copy editor of What’s Up Yukon. She is a prairie girl at heart, but loves the Yukon and has been a sourdough since 1994. The other thing she loves, apart from spending time with family, is being called “Grammy”.
BLESSINGS IN BLUE
“Wyth teres blewe and with a wounded herte.”
(“With tears of blue and with a wounded heart.”)
– Geoffrey Chaucer, The Compleynt of Mars
Peace, tranquility and often sadness, when translated to a colour, are blue. The blues or feeling blue are expressions of sadness and sometimes of a deep and profound sense of loss and often loneliness that is heightened during the Christmas season.
The Whitehorse United Church has answered the call to bring peace and comfort during this season. They have wrapped us, collectively, in the arms of quietness, contemplativeness and comfort – bringing what angels might bring as they begin their greetings with “Fear not!” – at a time when all is not right with our world and when we are feeling the blues instead of “great joy.”
Perhaps, as with the angels, the United Church has found a way to bring a gentler, kinder, more-peaceful expression of a season that can be so troubling, so difficult, so lonely or so sad, for so many of us, at times.
The Reverend Frances Kitson (Minister Kitson) wants people to know what to expect when they walk through the doors of the Whitehorse United Church at 7
p.m. on December 12, for the Blue Christmas Service, and that they know they can stay for part of the service or for the whole service.
Who will be among those who come? All those who need rest and those who accompany them.
In the words of Matthew 11:28: “Come … all who are weary and heavy-laden.…” The invitation is extended for all times, but poignantly so during this time of hustle and bustle and family celebrations – and of missing and grieving and longing for connection.
Minister Kitson emphasizes that their church is an Affirming Church, one where members of the LGBTQIA+ community are welcome, and that they also strive to be a culturally-sensitive church. “All are welcome.”
Tall blue candles, like sentinels, stand on either side of the communion table, ready to dispel the darkness: “It’s the colour of Advent,” she says. Blue,
the colour of royalty, signifies the coming king. And it’s the colour of the sky, before the dawn breaks through the darkness – and before sadness gives way to tranquility and peace.
A blue banner, emblazoned with “HOPE,” hangs above and to the right of the table. Advent candles have been placed in a candel-
abra nearby, and row upon row of tealights, in frosted holders, are
waiting for those who may wish to light them.
Ruth Stebbing, the church pianist, will softly play carols that may be sung; or, as Minister Kitson says, “You can let the music wash over you.” She adds that there will be readings from both the Old and the New Testament. “It’s enormously powerful,” she explains, “to hear pain or grief articulated – and so many of the passages validate these feelings and tell you that you’re not alone in these feelings.”
She describes the heart of the service as “being together in a space to be and to feel whatever you’re feeling.” And her hope is that there’s “some kind of healing that takes place.” Not that people need to be fixed, she stresses, or that solutions need to be found. “We live in a solutionorientated society. Sometimes you just need permission to be sad – or angry.”
And her desire for each one who comes? That they “walk out into ‘the night’ with a sense of peace.”
As in these words from a fam-
iliar carol, may you find rest beyond these doors on December 12: “God rest ye merry gentlemen [all humankind, everyone, whoever may enter], let nothing you dismay … O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy.”
What better gift to give and to receive, this Christmas, than the gift of comfort, which may, perhaps, even lead us on a pathway to joy.
On Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. Minister Frances Kitson will be waiting to greet you and will also be available for some time after the service. And, she says of their church, “People are welcome to just come and sit in the sanctuary during office hours. And your dog is very welcome, as well.”
If you have questions, you can reach her at 867-393-5010; or by email at minister.wuc@northwestel.net. She also noted that Riverdale Baptist Church will hold their Blue Christmas Service on Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. and all are welcome there, as well. ■
Freelance with Josephine Holmes
Blue Christmas
PHOTOS: Submitted by Josephine Holmes Sentinels
Hope
TADD MORE ‘GREEN’ TO THE HOLIDAYS
here’s much to love about the end-of-year holiday season. It can be a beautiful time with its colourful and sparkling decorations, time together with family and friends and bright lights during the darkest days of December.
Unfortunately, many of the things that we associate with the holidays, like the decorations, gifts and clothes, end up in a landfill only a few weeks or months later.
Flashy marketing campaigns expertly convince us that there’s so much that we don’t have and so much we desperately need in order to share joy with the ones we love.
The terms “throwaway culture”, “disposable fashion” and “single-use plastic” get tossed around a lot during highly-commercial holidays like Christmas, but sometimes it feels overwhelming to make a change. We feel that we lack time, money and knowledge to do things differently.
Buying decorations in a big-box store feels easiest, ordering gifts online seems like the cheapest and quickest solution and continuing the traditions that we’ve been cultivating for years is comforting, no matter how environmentally unfriendly they are.
Shifting towards more natural holiday decorations and ecofriendly gift-giving rituals doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, in many ways it’s the easiest thing imaginable and can bring fun and warmth back into a celebration that for many has become synonymous with stress, debt, disappointment, loneliness and negative environmental impacts.
Trying to be more earth-conscious doesn’t necessarily mean you have to let go of all the things in your life that don’t adhere to
certain rules. You can keep beloved Christmas tree decorations made of plastic while also introducing foraged “green” materials to your festive touches around the house. It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing situation.
The time needed to make natural holiday decorations and gifts can be a wonderful opportunity to spend time with friends, reconnect to your inner creativity, and to slow down during a period that often can feel insanely hectic.
Here are some sustainable materials to get you started:
• Pinecones
• Beeswax
• Star anise
• Cinnamon sticks
• Thinly-cut and dried orange slices (or sliced grapefruit)
• Popcorn
• Straw flowers
• Foraged evergreen branches
• Dried pear slices
• Twigs
• Fabric
• Wool
• Straw
• Clay
• Salt dough
Many of these can be given back to the earth via your compost after you’ve enjoyed them. As an added bonus, several have a lovely natural scent that they’ll automatically add to your home.
Garlands can be made from popcorn and dried orange and pear slices. Beeswax isn’t only great for making candles, but can also be used to make DIY Christmas tree ornaments.
If making a big wreath feels intimidating, start off with mini wreaths: just a few branches twisted together in a circle and finished off with a pretty ribbon is enough. These can be used as decorations around your house or as a lovely embellishment on your wrapped gifts.
A rustic star made of twigs can serve as a Christmas tree topper, while wool can be felted into delightful creations to add to your nativity scene.
A simple dough made from salt, flour and water can be transformed into ornaments that can last for years, or you can choose to make edible Christmas tree decorations that will only last a
little while before being eaten. You might even feel inspired to have an outdoor Christmas tree this year, decorated with treats for your neighbourhood birds and other local wildlife. Decorate a living tree in your yard with things like dehydrated fruit slices, homemade bird seed or suet ornaments, garlands of plain popcorn and cranberries and rosehips dug
out from your freezer or pine cones rolled in peanut butter. Be sure to only use natural, compostable materials and healthy wildlife-friendly ingredients.
When it comes to gifts, it might not be possible to make them all yourself from “green” materials, but you can at least try to cut down on disposable wrapping paper.
Examples of reusable or recycled wrapping materials include newspaper, kitchen towels, pretty fabrics or thrifted pillow cases. Play silks are especially great for children’s gifts since they’ll be able to enjoy the wrapping as much as the gift inside.
There are countless ideas and recipes to be found online if you feel called to let go of some of the commercialization of the holidays this year. Just remember that natural doesn’t have to be expensive (in fact it shouldn’t be), use what you have, simple is beautiful and making things with others is often a lot more fun. ■
the gift of quality time together in nature & create unique, lasting memories. Annual memberships are all about access, discounts including equipment rentals, and caring for the wild world around us!
Open daily 11:00am-5:00pm. Closed December 25th only.
Jessica Surber is a writer who loves being in the mountains and working with plants. She divides her time between Peru and the Yukon.
with Jessica Surber
PHOTO: Bru-nO - pixabay.com Straw ornament tutorials can easily be found online
PHOTO: Cottonbro studio - pexels.com Foraged evergreen branches bring a fresh and festive smell to your home
Edible Christmas tree ornaments are an eco friendly alternative to more conventional throw away versions
PHOTO: Chavdar Dimitrov - pexels.com
ON THE ROAD WITH RICK MERCER
The Road Years: a memoir continued…
by Rick Mercer Doubleday Canada
304 pages
$27.95
Rick Mercer co-created and performed on CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes, created and starred in Made in Canada, and created and starred in Talking to Americans, the most-watched comedy special in Canadian television history. He went on to host the hugely successful Rick Mercer Report for 15 seasons, 2004-2018.
This book covers the road trip side of that show, focusing on the travel aspect and some of the possibly dangerous stunts that he allowed himself to be talked into doing in various places across the nation. Its 19 chapters follow Mercer and his partner-producer Gerald Lunz as they dreamed up the idea for the show, and then kept coming up with ways to keep it interesting.
So we get to read about his adventures: dog sledding, chainsaw carving, and bear tagging, hanging from a harness (numerous times); riding the Train of Death; and countless other joyous and/or reckless assignments.
met the Trudeaus while they were still a couple, was choked by Jean Chrétien, was read a bedtime story by Stephen Harper, and went fishing and skinny dipping with Bob Rae. He even got to change the flag on the Peace Tower.
After a regular program visit with Belinda Stronach, he found himself invited to accompany her on an unauthorized fact finding mission to Africa, where he learned of the importance of mosquito netting, and was inspired to launch the Spread the Net program, which became a serious feature of the otherwise mostly funny Report for years afterwards. It has gone on to protect the lives of millions.
His rants, patented from 22 Minutes, were always going to be a key feature of the show, as were the little 22 Minute-style sketches, but it was also important to the team to showcase different parts of Canada.
lenge Canadians through humour.” In 2019, he received a Governor General’s Performing Arts Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award. His 2021 memoir, Talking to Canadians, won the Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour. He is from Middle Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador.
We get to thank Covid for giving him the time to work on this book. He ended the show in 2018 and pondered what might come next for a while.
“And then the pandemic happened. And for all of us, the ability to travel to anywhere, under any circumstance, came to an end.
“I was one of the lucky ones. Very lucky. I had a place to hide. That being a small house in the East End of town, on the Atlantic Ocean. Otherwise known as my home province of Newfoundland and Labrador. The house located in Chapel’s Cove had a shed and two wood stoves. It was basically designed for the apocalypse. It was perfect. I was very grateful, and I thank God every day I wasn’t in a small box in the sky in Toronto.”
He spent so many episodes with Jann Arden as a guest, starting out in Calgary and later several more places by popular demand that she has her own chapter.
Other Canadian music royalty
He is particularly happy about having filmed quite different segments with all three members of Rush, including tobogganing, with Geddy Lee , motorcycle riding and indoor skydiving with Alex Lifeson, and drum lessons with Neil Peart.
featured on the show included Sarah McLaughlin, Randy Bachman, the Barenaked Ladies, and Bruce Cockburn.
There were many politicians and public figures. He toured 24 Sussex Drive with Paul Martin,
A modified version of this idea, partly inspired by a Danish program, is Jonny Harris’s Still Standing, which visited Dawson City last year and is still going strong in its ninth season, having been launched in 2015, just three years before the Mercer Report came to an end.
Rick was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2014 for his work with charitable causes and “his ability to inspire and chal-
Out of that experience came two books, Talking to Canadians (2021) and this book (2023). Both of them are amusing and thoughtful, and worth some of your time. ■
Davidson
Dan Davidson retired after more than three decades teaching in Yukon schools. He has
What’s Up Yukon.
Photo: Kara O’Keefe
Cover of The Road Years: A Memoir, continued…
WHOMEMADE PIZZA
Who doesn’t love homemade pizza?
e were sitting on the couch a few years ago and I thought to myself, “I can’t even remember the last time I made a pizza.” I looked at my wife and asked, “Have I ever made you a pizza before?” “Never once,” was the reply. “We’ll have to change that, then!”
My first real part time job in high school was working at our local Boston Pizza. I started out doing dishes and mopping floors, graduated into my first prep cook position and then got promoted into cooking on the line. It was there where I first learned about kitchen work, kitchen hierarchy, kitchen cleanliness and commercial cooking. It was also there where I first learned about PIZZA!
Having cheffed and managed at multiple establishments, I fully understand that a massive amount of responsibility falls on the management and chefs to cover and maintain ‘cost per plate’. The restaurant business has a very fine profit margin and much of the time that profit margin is met or missed through portion sizing.
My old managers would cringe to hear me say this. The absolute key to amazing pizza is – way too many toppings and cheese! There’s no getting around it. Whatever you use for fillings, as long as there’s tons of them and it’s smothered with cheese, you can’t go wrong and you’ll be sure to have an awesome pizza.
There’s really no right or wrong way to make pizza, so this column is going to be a little out of the ordinary. You basically make or
buy the crust, cover it with pizza sauce, add your toppings and then smother it with cheese.
I prefer to make my own crust using a crust mix. That way I can control the thickness. Bake it in the oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese turns a nice golden brown. That’s it! Easy as falling off a log.
Here are a few tips and tricks to try out next time you want to make a great homemade pizza.
1. Buy yourself a proper pizza tray. It makes all the difference.
2. For crispy crust, make your crust thin. For doughy crust make it thick.
3. Store-bought sauces are great. Add a bunch of oregano and basil to them.
4. Layer your toppings from flat to lumpy. IE: Meat slices on the bottom, peppers, pineapple on top.
5. Boston Pizza, when I worked there, used a 50-50 mix of mozzarella and brick for the cheese. In my opinion there is no finer pizza cheese. Lately I’ve been having trouble finding brick so I use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar.
6. If you are using chicken, seafood, pork or ground beef as a topping, be sure to fully cook it before you top your pizza with it. It won’t have time to cook properly on a pizza.
7. The thicker the crust, toppings and cheese, the longer it will take to cook.
8. Fresh tomatoes should almost always be added after the pizza is cooked.
Here are some of our favourites:
• Beef and onion
• Beef and mushroom
• Ham and pineapple
• Pepperoni
• Meat lover’s: ham, pepperoni, salami, ground beef
• Mexican: salsa, nacho beef, black beans, onions, jalapenos, green peppers, guacamole for dipping.
• Nacho: nacho beef, onion, red and green peppers, tomatoes, olives, jalapenos, salsa and sour cream for dipping.
• Rueben: 1,000 island dressing (mixed in with the sauce), corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese
• BBQ: pulled pork, BBQ sauce, onion, jalapenos (you can also substitute chicken or beef)
• Seafood: shrimp, crab, lobster, green pepper, seafood sauce for dipping
• Meatball: onion, meatballs, green pepper
• Philly Cheesesteak: steak cubes, red and green peppers, onions, Cheez Whiz or provolone
You can add fresh tomato slices to just about all of these pizza combinations. There’s really no
end to combinations. If you can think of it, you can make it. So go ahead, give it a try.
Start with something simple like ham and pineapple or beef and onion and then start experimenting with your favourite toppings and different cheeses. I’ll
warn you that it’s a bit habitforming, once you get started.
And, yes. Just like back in college, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with a slice of cold, leftover pizza and a beer for breakfast the next morning. Enjoy! ■
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.
PHOTOS: Courtesy of the Unknown Chef
Steak, green pepper, onion
Toss it in the oven
Meat lover’s
Beef, onion, mushroom
Leela Gilday
Check out ALL EVENTS at whatsupyukon.com
ACTIVE LISTINGS
Fri Dec 13 Christmas
Tournament 5:00 AM Better
Bodies
Sat Dec 14 Don Sumanik Ski
Weekend – Competitive Race
12:00 PM Whitehorse Nordic Centre An exciting competitive classic ski race. https/zone4.ca/ event/2024/loPDeL/
Sun Dec 15 Don Sumanik Ski
Weekend – Chase the Sun
12:00 PM Whitehorse Nordic Centre a fun-filled community event celebrating the legacy of Don Sumanik. https//www. whitehorsenordiccentre.ca/ donsumanik
Sun Dec 22 DPSAY Ibex
Excursion 1 race 11:00 AM Ibex Valley https://dpsay.org/raceschedule-2024-2025/
Mondays
Judo For Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 7:30
AM Northern Strength Academy
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 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 6:00 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.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
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 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
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.
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 12:05
PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 1:00PM
Northern Strength Academy
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
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 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM
Takhini Elementary 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 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
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/
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
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 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
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 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
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
Babynastics with Coach Naomi
3:30 PM Polarettes Gymnastics
Club A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www. polarettes.org/babynastics
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
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 6:00 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM
Takhini Elementary 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 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts
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 12:05 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.
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts Strength & Conditioning 5:30
PM Northern Strength Academy
Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM
Eight Days Martial Arts
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - teen classes 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts 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/
Midweek Morning Warmups 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
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
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05
PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Open Mat 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Sundays Circus Sundays 10:00 AM
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!
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 Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05
PM Eight Days Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning 1:00 PM
Northern Strength Academy
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
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
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
ARKA Brotherhood Men’s Circle: Porcupine Squad 6:30 PM Whitehorse A confidential, structured space that empowers men to transform themselves into self-aware, self-disciplined, empowered and trustworthy leaders. Email mjvernon@gmail. com for more info. http://www. arkabrotherhood.com
AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.
Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
Wednesdays
TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Call or text 867-3341725 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. Cancelled Dec 25/Jan 1.
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
251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.
Fridays
AA “Joy of Living Group” (O)
12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House
AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30
PM Online Zoom ID 482-5189588 PC 334796 call 778-9072971 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.
If you sense your car drifts or pulls to one side, you could have a wheel alignment problem. The alignment of your vehicle’s wheels can affect the way it handles. Your car may drive fine, but when you look at your tires, you may notice that they are wearing. Your steering wheel could also feel not centred. Our team of professionals can align your wheels by placing your vehicle on a wheel alignment machine. This machine uses laser guided measurements to allow our mechanic to set and adjust the suspension components back to the factory specifications. You can prevent the impact of wear and tear on your tires, reduce pulling and feel confident in a safer drive.
YOU CAN ALWAYS DEPEND ON THE KINDNESS OF YUKONERS PART 1
You either love it or hate it–but the Yukon and it’s people have a knack of making folks feel so comfortable it’s hard to leave
Dateline: September, 1999….
Iwas asleep in my hotel room, somewhere in small-town Alberta when the phone rang. I answered,
“What do you want!?” It was Monson, our booking agent. “What are you doing, Gary?”
“Well, I was sleeping, but it’s okay, I had to get up to answer the ‘-------’ phone! What do you want?”
“Do you want to take the boys up to Whitehorse to open a club for a month?
Now I am awake! I sat bolt upright in bed and said, “Hell yeah Wayne, when does this happen?”.
Wayne replied, “Sometime in midOctober.? Oh, and they want you to be a five-piece, so you’ll have to add someone for this gig. How much are you going to charge?”
“Okay. I don’t know…. It’ll be a minimum of $150 per night each, plus five rooms, all the expenses paid there and back, then your commission’s on top. Let me make a few phone calls and I’ll get back to you.”
my paper map and my previous trip a decade ago that (I think) we stopped for gas in Fort Saint John, Fort Nelson and Watson Lake. I called the gas stations in those places to find out current prices and went back to my room to do the math.
I called Monson back. “Hey Wayne, it’ll be $4,250 a week, plus GST. That covers your 15 points”.
“Done”, he said.
“Don’t forget the five rooms on the contract, Wayne!” He had a bit of a history of forgetting things like that at times.
“And I want you to book us into Fort Saint John and Fort Nelson on the way up to break up the drive and costs”. He did. “Oh, and don’t bother booking us out on the way back, we’ll be ready to get back home. Just find us a nice cool three-nighter the following week so we can get some rest and then relax at a nice gig”.
I’d been to Whitehorse ten years earlier to play the Kopper King for a month in January, back when they had that big brass hood over the open fire. I had fallen in love with the place.
Our pianist back then was Earl, and he introduced me to his really good friends, Roly and Marg. I can absolutely say that Roly and Marg are my two longest-tenured friends in the Yukon. We had an awesome month and I couldn’t wait to go back.
Ten years later, I was excited, but little did I know how much my life was about to change.
I didn’t have the luxury of Google, the internet or a cell phone back then. It was cheaper to go buy a roll of quarters and stand plugging them into a payphone than to pay long distance rates from my hotel room, so that’s what I did.
I remembered from looking at
He booked us into Wild Bill’s in Banff, owned by my great friend, Swanny, who always had free drinks, a great band house and free lift tickets for wherever we wanted to ski. Perfect!
I never made it to Wild Bill’s.
We arrived at our newly-renovated gig at the 202 in Whitehorse on Sunday, November 7, only to find it was still full of tradespeople working around the clock to finish drywall, painting, you name it. There was no way that we would be on stage the next night for the grand opening! Their brand-new house PA system was still in boxes covered by tarps on the dance floor.
My meeting with the owner was rather disappointing. He still wanted us to play for a full month
once the club was ready, and he would give us free rooms while we waited, but no pay or food. It would probably be a week of waiting.
“Would we mind hanging his new PA from the ceiling and getting all the lights set up?”
I had no idea how we would all be able to afford to eat for a week. In the end, Tippy Mah turned out to be a true gentleman to us, and treated us very well.
I loaded my gear and luggage into my room in the old annex on the side of the hotel, went out front and jumped into a waiting cab. “Is there any live music in town on a Sunday, preferably a jam?”
“Yep!” “Great! Take me to the jam please”. The 5th Avenue driver put it back in park and said, “Get out and walk, it’s at the Capital, three blocks that way”, as he pointed down 2nd.
I had one of the best nights that I’d had in a very long time. I met and jammed with Mr. Vein, met other musicians and folks who were staff at our club and other places. All these people are still great friends to this day.
The next morning … err, early afternoon … I found my new living-room for the next four to five years, some seedy country bar across the street called the TNT and met a bunch more incredibly cool people. By the end of the day I had a temporary job cooking at the Regina Restaurant and had been shuttled around to see the sights: the Taku, Roadhouse, Best Western, the 98, Airport Chalet, Joe’s Freepour…. Man! My new friends could really drink! But they were amazing people and so welcoming, with open arms. I truly felt at home. To be continued… ■
column with Gary Atkins
Gary Atkins is the editor of What’s Up Yukon, and is proud to promote, feature and support All Things Yukon.
PHOTOS by Pam Atkins Welcome to the Yukon!
ATLIN Sat Dec 14 Christmas Bazaar & Flea
Market 11:00 AM Atlin Recreation Centre Browse local artisianal crafts, jewellery, baked goods and home businesses. To book a table call 250-651-7663
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
Wed Dec 18 Laser Tag 7:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre Fri Dec 20 Family Movie Night Carmacks Recreation Centre Enjoy a family-friendly movie with popcorn and refreshments.
Sat Dec 21 Movie Night 17+ Carmacks
Recreation Centre Special movie night for adults, featuring classic films or seasonal favorites.
Sun Dec 22 Free Holiday Skate and Hot Chocolate Carmacks Recreation Centre Celebrate with free skating and complimentary hot chocolate.
First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month
Carmacks Regular Council Meeting 7:00
PM Carmacks Municipal Building
Mondays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM After School Club 3:30 PM Carmacks
Recreation Centre
Learn To Curl (All Ages) 4:00 PM
Carmacks Recreation Centre
Open Court 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Floor Hockey 5:30 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Bakers & Makers 6:00 PM Carmacks School
Drop In Curling 6:00 PM Carmacks School 14+ Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Tuesdays
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
Open Court 1:00 PM Carmacks Rec
Centre
After School Club 3:30 PM Carmacks
Recreation Centre
Open Court 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Adult Social 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Carmacks Minor Hockey Association 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Drop-in Basketball 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Public Skate 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Volleyball 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Wednesdays
Family Play Group (Ages 0-5) 10:00 AM
Carmacks Rec Centre
Carmacks Library 1:00 PM
After School Club 3:30 PM Carmacks
Recreation Centre Public Skate 4:00 PM Carmacks
Recreation Centre
Open Court 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
Archery 6:00 PM Carmacks School
Shinny Night 14+ 7:00 PM Carmacks
Carmacks Minor Hockey Association 5:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre
6:00 PM Carmacks Rec Centre Badminton 6:00 PM Carmacks Rec
Learn To Skate Ages 13-18 7:00 PM
Rec Centre Public Skate 7:00 PM Carmacks Rec
7:00 PM Carmacks Rec
School Club 3:30 PM Carmacks Recreation Centre
Skate 4:00
COMMUNITY EVENTS...
DAWSON CITY
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at:
Dawson City General Store
Tue Dec 12 Drawlidays V - Exhibit
6:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Drawlidays V is a secret santa portrait exchange. Portraits created will be hung and on display in the ODD Gallery ONE NIGHT ONLY.
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 6:30-9
PM 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 church, or online (Facebook Live)
St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican
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/teabannock-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
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.
BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School
Art Journaling Group 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Bring your own creative supplies that you like to use.
This can be scraps of paper, magazines, glue, paint, pen, markers, stamps, ink etc. and a book or journal to create Thursdays
Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster
Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers.
Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group.
Haines Junction Thrift Shop 2:00 PM St. St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop is a great place to pick up items. Prices are low and numerous adult items are available for $2, and most items for children are $1.
Adult Volleyball 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school
gym
Fridays
Stories and STEM Activities 10:00 AM
Haines Junction Library
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:30 PM
Haines Junction Health Centre
Saturdays
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)
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
QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office
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
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
Sundays Anglican Church Service St. Christopher’s Church 10:30 AM Anglican
Church Service at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican.yukon.net/services.html
AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre
MARSH LAKE
Mon Dec 9 Public Forum – Community-
Based Fish & Wildlife Work Plan 6:00
PM Marsh Lake Community Centre Learn about our recent successes, future plans, and then open up to the community to share your thoughts and concerns around local fish, wildlife, and habitat.
Last Wednesday of every month MLCS
board meeting 7:00 PM Marsh Lake
Community Centre
Tuesdays
Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake
Community Centre
North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre
Wednesdays
South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake
Community Centre 10:00 AM Marsh Lake
Community Centre
Thursdays
Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM
Fridays
Beginner Yoga Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM
Youth Gym Drop-In Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM
Saturdays
Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM
Sundays
Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM
MAYO
Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Haldane Services
MOUNT LORNE
Wed Dec 11 Public Forum – Community-
Based Fish & Wildlife Work Plan 6:00
PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre
Learn about our recent successes, future plans, and then open up to the community to share your thoughts and concerns around local fish, wildlife, and habitat.
1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne
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,
Service School Ages 13+ - Free Fridays
Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon.events/ dawson-legion-8336c3
Open Studio Drop-in 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Enjoy KIAC’s bright, air-conditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even better- we’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.
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.
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
OLD CROW
Mondays
Men’s Night At The Rec Centre 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Tuesdays
Kids Gym 3:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Adult Sewing 6:00 PM John Tizya
Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Youth Gym 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Wednesdays
Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal
Parent and Tots 4:00 PM Old Crow Community Center Call 966-3015 for more info.
Adult Card Game Night 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre
Sundays St. Luke’s Church Service 11:00 AM St. Luke’s Church 867-993-5381
ROSS RIVER
Tuesdays
Sewing Night 7:00 PM The Hope Centre
Wednesdays
Family Bible Study 8:00 PM The Hope Centre
Fridays
Family Game Night- Coffee House 9:00
PM The Hope Centre
Sundays
Church Service 12:00 PM The Hope Centre
SKAGWAY Alaska
Sat Dec 14 White Pass Santa Train 11:00 AM White Pass & Yukon Route Train
Depot The Annual White Pass Santa Train is arriving at the Skagway Depot - a 1 hour ride (Alaska Time) Complimentary to all! No reservations required. https:// wpyr.com/santatrain2024/
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
Sat Dec 21 Winter Solstice Fire - A magical gathering 6:00 PM Yukon Bliss
Wagon Celebrate the winter solstice with us and create unforgettable memories. Dress warmly, bring a blanket, and prepare for an evening of wonder and togetherness.
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 Thu Dec 12 21 Annual House Lighting Contest & Hay Ride Village of Teslin
Office Enjoy horse drawn sleigh rides through town. Hotdogs and hot chocolate around the bonfire.
Church Service 10:00 AM St. John’s Church Service (867) 536-2932 Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School
GATHER
HOLIDAY SEASON DESSERT
What are the essential ingredients in a holiday season dessert? For me it’s warm spices like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, mace, allspice –all the flavours that go into fruit cake, Christmas pudding, pumpkin cheesecake, eggnog cheesecake, gingerbread.
In my house, growing up, dessert on Christmas Day was always plum pudding (not a plum in sight, but lots of dates, raisins, cinnamon, and cloves) served with hard sauce (butter, icing sugar, brandy). My mother made the pudding, with beef suet one of the ingredients, and packed it into small ivory-coloured ceramic
and steaming puddings is a bit of a process. My current household has opted for fruit cake instead, or sometimes a pumpkin cheesecake, or since I discovered it, eggnog cheesecake. All of which share the essential flavours of those warm southern spices.
This year, charmed by the flavour of Yukon spruce-tip beer, I’m branching out. I don’t know if you really taste the spruce as spruce in this cake, but there’s a flavour in there like no other, and the cake is rich and dense and made even more holiday-like with the addition of caramel sauce. For this year’s big day, it’s not only a contender, it’s the winner!
pudding bowls. The puddings were lowered into the big pot (the one also used to make applesauce) and set on top of jar lids to protect the bowls from the burner’s heat. Then they were steamed, in memory, for hours.
I’ve never replicated my mom’s recipe, mostly because beef suet is not that easy to find these days,
SPRUCE TIP BEER SPICE CAKE WITH CARAMEL SAUCE
• 3/4 cup (6 oz) butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup spruce tip sugar (recipe follows)
Such as:
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla, bourbon, or whisky
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1 1/2 cups spruce tip beer (try Winterlong or Yukon Brewing)
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup chopped dried apricots
SPRUCE TIP SUGAR
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup dried, fresh, or frozen and thawed spruce tips
1. Combine sugar and spruce tips in a food processor and pulse until thoroughly blended and spruce tips are pulverized.
2. Store in a jar in the cupboard and use any extra in spruce tip shortbreads, sprinkled on top of sugar cookies, or in gingerbread. Substitute 1/4 to 1/2 of the sugar called for in the recipe with spruce tip sugar.
Makes about 1 1/4 cups.
CAKE
1. Grease and flour a 10 or 12-cup Bundt pan, or a 9 x 13 cake pan. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars together until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla, bourbon or whisky.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt and spices until thoroughly blended.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the
butter and sugar mixture in two batches, alternating with the beer, stirring well after each addition.
5. At the end, stir in pecans and apricots, making sure they’re distributed evenly.
6. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon dipped in hot water.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes (Bundt pan) or 35 minutes (9 x 13-inch pan), until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean.
8. Cool on a rack for 10 to 15 minutes. Loosen the cake from the Bundt pan with a slim bladed knife, place a serving plate over top and flip the pan upside down so the cake is transferred to the plate. Just leave the 9 x 13 cake in the pan.
9. Pour caramel sauce over top of the Bundt cake so it drips down the sides and reserve some sauce for the table. For the 9 x 13 cake, slice and serve the cake and drizzle sauce over each piece, passing reserved
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sauce at the table.
Makes 12 to 14 servings.
CARAMEL SAUCE
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup 35% cream
• 1 tsp bourbon
1. Place ingredients, except bourbon, in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Bring to the boil, stirring frequently. Once blended, cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Add bourbon at the end.
2. Remove from heat and allow to sit for a few minutes before pouring over the cake. Decant extra syrup into a small jug or bowl for serving at the table. Refrigerate sauce in a covered jar—it will keep for several days. Warm up a bit before serving.
Makes about 2 cups. ■
Genest
Michele Genest is a Whitehorse-based chef and writer. She is also somewhat of a gardener. Michele has also written two books, “The Boreal Feast – A Culinary Journey Through the North” and “The Boreal Gourmet – Adventures in Northern Cooking.”
A spoonful of Caramel Sauce
PHOTOS: Michele Genest
Spruce Tip Beer Spice Cake
Dawson City Holiday Gift Guide
Suppor t local businesses and give the gift of a Dawson City experience this holiday season. The perfect way to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories—all just a shor t trip away!
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Keep it Cozy!
Give the gift of coziness this winter! Threadsnorth creates hand embroidered pillows and is available at local stores like Dancing Moose. Kith & Kin carries xurious cashmere socks. heck out Dawson City rading Post and This N That for hand-knitted hats, gloves and scarves f rom local artists.
Book Worms!
Maximilian’s Gold Rush Emporium is your destination for a diverse selection of books, including works f rom talented local authors! Explore Splinter & Shard by Lulu Keating, dive into The Pit by Tara Borin, and uncover the gripping tale of Bury Your Horses by Dan Dowhal. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling fiction or local talent, you’re sure to find your next great read here.
T gl
Inspired by Nature!
Hob Mons c lu
For the nature lover in your life, many local artisans offer online purchases. Pictured here: Monstera pin f rom Jahier Studio, Flower bead print shoes f rom Klondike Hobby Crafts, Pansy earrings f rom Owl Eye Designs Dancing Moose carries jewelry f rom Canadian made Ebony + Sparrow
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