The Wednesday, MARCH 20, 2013 • Vol. 23, No.22 $1.25
It's not exactly spring yet, but it's KLONDIKE getting closer. SUN Back in Town with a Brand New Gown
Gillian Campbell leads the Snowshoe Shufflers and audience in singing some old favourites. See stories on pages 8 and 9. Photo by Alice Thompson in this Issue Oldtimers Still Got it 11 Junior Rangers 12 KVA AGM Report 20 Hockey Success for Dawson. Junior Rangers in Kananaskis KVA actually made money last year. country.
See & Do in Dawson 2 Letters & Comments 5 TV Guide 14 - 18 Food Columns 24 Solutions for Parks Tours? 3 Trek Reports 6 & 7 Yukon is Golden on History Channel 21 Kids' Page 26 Uffish Thoughts 4 Lots of Gillian Campbell 8 & 9 McDonald Lodge to be Replaced 22 City Page 28 P2 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 THE KLONDIKE SUN What to SEE a n d DO in d a w s o n now: SOVA ADMin Office Hours This free public service helps our readers find their way through the many activities all over town. Any small happening may need Library Hours : Mon-Thurs, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. preparation and planning, so let us know in good time! To join this Eventslisting contact the office at [email protected]. : Monday-Thursday 4-7 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Library materials are now available for check-out by the community. Stop in for Art Supply Store Hours PERCY DEWOLFE MEMORIAL MAIL RACE: more details! Mar.28-30. Start times are as : Tuesday-Friday, noon-1 p.m., Thursday 4-5 follows: Percy DeWolfe 10 a.m., Percy Junior noon on the Ice Bridge., Percy p.m.,Conservation Sunday 1-3 p.m. Klondike Society DAWSON CITY INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL: Skijour 12:30 on the Ice Bridge. Info: [email protected] Depot Hours Mar.28-31. More DIAMOND DEMPSTER DAZE: info at www.dawsonfilmfest.com or e-mail [email protected] : Sat, Sun, Mon: 1-5 p.m., Tues: 3-7 p.m. Donations of refundables . may be left on the deck during off hours. Info: 993-6666. Saturday, April 6 Come ride with Dawson Dawson City Recreation Department City Sled Dawgs up the Dempster! Might be your last chance of the season. MeetingsContact: Jeremy Lancaster, 993-6659. Get the Rec & Leisure Newsletter & stay up to date. Website: www.cityofdawson. IODE DAWSON CITY: Bombayca. Facebook: Peggy's "City of Dawson Pub Recreation". Contact us at 993-2353. Meet first Tuesday each month at home of Joyce Caley The Downtown Hotel at 7:30 p.m. For info call Myrna Butterworth, 993-5353, Joyce Caley, 993-5424. Royal Canadian Legion Branch #1: Sourdough saloon Recess for summer July-Oct. Meet second Thursday each month : 11:30 a.m. to midnight. Happy Hour every day 4:30 at Legion Hall (3rd and King St.) at 7:30 p.m. Contacts Helen Bowie, 993-5526, -7 p.m. Hockey Beers during NHL hockey games and served to local teams after Pioneer Women of the Yukon: Weekly Specials: Myrna Butterworth, 993-5353 games. Meet third Thursday each month at 7:30 Mexican Mondays; Tuesdays Game Night and Scrabble p.m. at YOOP Hall. Contact Myrna Butterworth, 993-5353. Recess for summer Tourny at 7 p.m.; Wing Wednesdays; Thursdays Ladies' Night all night Happy June,Klondike July and Aug.Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Hour for ladies; Fridays Rum & Reggae; Sunday - Caesar Sunday All Day & Open in the odd gallery: Under new management: Video store: MicThe @ Westminster7 p.m. with Barnacle Hotel Bob. Video Store Fridays: Jd McCallen in the Tavern Mar.7- Apr.12. is a gallery exhibition that takes the form of a video rental : Every Friday, 5:30-9:30 in the Tav- Sundays: Smallie Sunday and susu Robin store. Under New Management is comprised of curatorial team Suzanne Carte ern. Country/bluegrass/folk/rockabilly. Special guests weekly. BEGINNER GUITAR WITH NIJEN: & Su-Ying Lee. Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. : Sundays starting at 4 p.m. in Upcoming session: Apr.5-May 24, Fridays the Tavern. Listen the the musical talents of Susu Robin on the piano and uku- Yoga with Joanna McDonald: 3:30-7 p.m. $138 for 8 lessons. All ages. lele and enjoy happy hour small drafts! Wednesdays 7-8 p.m. at SOVA, Thursdays Regular live entertainment in the lounge on Friday and Saturday, 10 p.m. to VOLUNTEER FOR The 14TH INTERNATIONAL DAWSON CITY INTERNA- 12:05-12:50 p.m. at KIAC *until Mar.21! $8 drop-in/5 classes for $30. TIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL: Chamberclose. of Commerce & Town Council Chamber Meetings: Dawson City is known for our amazing hos- pitality to our festival guests. Be a part of this dynamic weekend! (Mar.28-31st) Regular meetings on the second Wednesday of each Host a guest during film fest!: Council Meetings: Call Dan at 5005 or [email protected] to sign up! month at the Downtown Hotel. Got a spare room/empty house film fest Regular meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday weekend? There is lots of requests for places to crash. Call Dan at 5005 or e- Confluence members' Gallery call for proposals: of each month. Special Meeting times are posted at the Post Office three busi- mail [email protected]. THness days in advance. Posted meetings are public. Exhibition slots NOMINATION DAY FOR ONE (1) COUNCILLOR: offered to DCAS members: May 23-June 16, June 20-July 14, July 18-August 11 *Dates my be subject to change. For more info contact Ange at 5005 or pro- Thurs, Mar.21 from 10 a.m. to 13th Annual yukon riverside arts festival call for submissions: [email protected] 4ELDERS p.m. at SPRINthe THG Community CAMP: Hall. YOUTH CAMP: April 15-19. Contact: Georgette, 993-7153 The Yukon Riverside Arts Festival takes place August 15-18 in Dawson City. Intial review date: April 1st. Visit www.kiac.ca/artsfestival/participate to find Klondike Visitor'sApril 18-21. Contact:Association Georgette, 993-7153. Yukonout how to College apply. COMEDIAN PETER KELAMIS @ DIAMOND TOOTH GERTIES: Upcoming courses & Programs Saturday, : Meat Curing, Mar.23-24, $75; Leader- April 6. Come support the Dawson City Sled Dawgs at Diamond Tooth Gerties Diamond Tooth Gerties winter openings: M ship for Supervisors, Mar.25-27, $379. Gambling Hall. Bar profits all go to the Sled Dawgs! Doors open @ 7pm! 7-midnight, Fri & Sat, ar.22 & 23; Mar.29 & 30. THE KLONDIKE SUN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 P3 Parks Canada to Offer Business Licences for Announcement is Just Guided Tours at SS Klondike and Dredge No. 4 Downloading 101, says MLA Press Release Press Release
business licenses to interested guided tour opportunities, SS parties wishing to provide Klondike and Dredge No. 4 will Whitehorse (March 8, guided tours to their clients continue to provide information Whitehorse (March 11, 2013) An announcement that the 2013) – Today, on behalf of on SS Klondike and Dredge to the public wishing to explore private sector will take over tours of the S.S. Klondike and the Honourable Peter Kent, No. 4 national historic sites. these sites on their own. Parks Dredge #4 is disappointing but not a surprise, says Klondike Canada’s Environment Minister In addition, Parks Canada will Canada is developing innovative MLA Sandy Silver. He says it is simply confirmation our Member and Minister responsible for waive entry fees for guided technological and print media of Parliament was unable to convince his bosses in Ottawa to Parks Canada, Mr. Ryan Leef, tour groups at these locations. tools to help visitors connect to reverse cuts made a year ago at Parks Canada. Member of Parliament for the Tour operators will be free to the rich history of these sites. “After waiting a year the announcement isn’t really an Yukon, announced that Parks determine the amount charged “National historic sites tell announcement at all. It’s just ‘Downloading 101’,” said Silver. Canada will offer business to their clients. Parks Canada about our history, contribute to licenses to organizations will work with tourism groups our identity as Canadians and “Our MP and the Yukon’s Minister of Tourism really have wishing to provide guided tours to help them provide a safe and support local economies,” said nothing to show for a year’s worth of lobbying. There are no at SS Klondike and Dredge No. enjoyable experience at these Minister Kent. “The Government other options left because the Government of Canada is fixated 4 national historic sites for the sites. of Canada is encouraged by on cutting front line services.” coming visitor season. “I am pleased that the the commitment of the Yukon Silver is also disappointed that tourism stakeholders were “Parks Canada will work Environment Minister and Government and various not kept in the loop as promised by our M.P. during a January collaboratively with interested Parks Canada have heard partners to work together to 21st conference call. businesses and stakeholders to Yukoners, and are presenting welcome Canadians to explore “The Mayor of Dawson, the Mayor of Whitehorse, the enrich the visitor experience a viable solution that enhances and discover our national Klondike Visitor’s Association, myself and the Tourism at SS Klondike and Dredge No. our important tourism industry heritage in the Yukon.” Industry Association all participated in the original call and 4 national historic sites,” said while preserving Yukon’s Parks Canada manages were promised open lines of communication until a solution Mr. Leef. “By working with our heritage,” said the Honourable a vast collection of more was found,” he said. “We all learned about the contents of the tourism partners, Parks Canada Daniel Lang, Senator for the than 250,000 irreplaceable announcement when it was made. Where is the co-operation?” can continue to meet its deficit Yukon. historical and archaeological The Klondike MLA says he is baffled why the Government reduction obligations and offer Mr. Leef also announced that objects currently cared for and of Canada waited until the 11th hour to decide to let private enhanced opportunities for Parks Canada will initiate formal protected in Dawson City. This companies runs tours this summer. the tourism industry in the discussion with the Friends of collection is in good condition “The government has left potential operators almost no time Yukon.” Klondike Corridor Association and will remain in the Yukon to prepare and should have made this type of announcement “The Yukon government is regarding their proposal and continue to be managed months ago,” he said. “It’s a last minute rush that could have very pleased by the measures to establish a new Friends locally by Parks Canada with taken by the Government of organization. Parks Canada assistance from specialized been avoided if the Government of Canada had actually worked Canada to ensure that Yukon values the contributions of national collections and with local tourism organizations.” continues to offer high quality Friends groups and volunteers curatorial staff as required. The announcement also confirms that curation positions at tourism experiences,” said who contribute to ensuring Parks Canada works to Parks Canada will not be restored. This leaves no one on the the Honourable Mike Nixon, that the SS Klondike, Dredge ensure Canada’s historic and ground in Dawson City to look after the extensive artifact Minister for the Department of No. 4 and other treasures of natural heritage is protected collection. Tourism and Culture of Yukon. the Yukon remain a vibrant and, through a network of 44 “In our January 21st call our MP agreed this was a legitimate “The Government of Canada and dynamic part of the Yukon national parks, 167 national concern and promised to keep working on a solution to these clearly recognizes the value visitor offer. historic sites, and four national cuts and I have heard no reassurances on this specific concern,” of Parks Canada sites and Parks Canada is committed marine conservation areas, Silver noted. “The announcement confirms our MP has given up artefacts to Yukoners and has to SS Klondike and Dredge invites Canadians and people the fight on this issue and is prepared to accept what is dictated demonstrated a real willingness No. 4 remaining enjoyable around the world to engage in to him by Ottawa. In his enthusiasm to commend our M.P. our to collaborate with us while and offering meaningful personal moments of inspiring Minister of Tourism has not made any mention of solutions to taking the necessary steps to experiences for visitors. In discovery at our treasured the question of maintaining our heritage.” meet federal fiscal goals.” addition to potential private natural and historic places. Parks Canada will offer THE KLONDIKE SUN In-Store Tel: Specials & 993-6567 Subscription & Renewal Form Fresh Coffee Fax: every day! 993-5973 Name: Address: European cheeses and Organic foods City: Province/ State: “It ain’t gold Our Specialties Postal/ Zip Code: Country: IN A HURRY? Email: but it’s close!” Check out our Deli with ALL KINDS of great snacks! Pizza by the slice, gourmet sandwiches and dessert goodies. To find out how you can Annual (25 Issue) Subscription Costs: contribute , just email See daily specials at Bonanza Market on Facebook! Canada $44.00 klondikesun@ For all your game cutting needs, give Paul a call! U.S.A $75.00 northwestel.net! Camp Orders? No order too big or too small. Overseas $125.00 (Airmail) Winter Hours Contact Information: Mon to Fri: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mail: The Klondike Sun, Bag 6040, Dawson YT, Y0B 1G0 Phone: (867)-993-6318 / Fax: (867)-993-6625 Sat: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Email: [email protected] Sun: CLOSED GST #: 12531 0581 RT / Societies Registration #: 34600-20 Print by THE YUKON NEWS, Whitehorse YT Party Platters for all occasions ~10 different kinds Custom orders ~ just call! P4 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 THE KLONDIKE SUN OPINIONS Uffish Thoughts: Everybody Look at the Big Shiny Objects Story & Photo by Dan Davidson The point I need to make economies of both Whitehorse this week is that Mr. Leef, and and Dawson, the option is, all those people standing next quoting the press release is March 8’s announcement to him in the Star’s photo, to “offer business licenses of a partial reprieve for two are participating in a classic to organizations wishing to of the Yukon’s stellar tourist magician’s trick. That’s the one provide guided tours at SS attractions contained very where the performer directs Klondike and Dredge No. 4 few surprises and was most to the audience’s attention national historic sites for the be noted for the things it didSS away from what is actually coming visitor season.” notKlondike say, still it’s nice to know happening bySS getting Klondike them to No details of how these that Dredge No. 4 and the look at the comely assistant (in businesses are going to be won’t just be sitting this case the ) while selected, or how the people there with padlocks on them performing a slight of hand offering the tours are going to this coming summer. maneuver. be trained. It was interesting to read Con artists use pretty much There’s a mention in the press Dredge No.4 signage – Prior to the March 8 announcement from Mr. Leef’s mouth that the same devices on a larger release that “Parks Canada these interpretive signs and a pamphlet were all that would “We’ve been working on this scale, as do all those email is developing innovative have been available for visitors to Dredge No. 4 to help for just over a year…” money scams we all know so technological and print media enhance the visitor experience. That means that, at about the well. tools to help visitors connect to same time Klondike National The trick is to change the the rich history of these sites.” Historic Sites was finishing focus so that you’re looking at Of course, the units (as they currently cared for and in the release itself. When you up its mandated revisions the Big Shiny Objects. In this say) that would have been able protected in Dawson City…“ deliberately break a system to its management plan and case the BSOs are the boat to produce such resources have will continue to be looked after, that was working and then, announcing these plans to the and the dredge. There are the all been rolled up, downsized managed locally with help from after months of inaction, world, the government had most obvious losses caused to and paid off. They no longer visiting Outside staff. come up with a Hail Mary Jury already decided, in a plan that Parks and to Yukon’s tourism exist. Will Parks be hiring “Managed locally”, eh? By Rigged temporary fix for the we would only learn about industry by the legerdemain outside consultants (a very whom, I might ask, since there problem you created, that is nearly two months later, that known as the Omnibus Budget common habit of the current is not a curator or conservator not called planning. That is it was going to render that Bill C-38. We know that lots federal government) to provide left in the territory? In fact, called covering your posterior. year-long exercise useless by of people went to visit those these resources? there aren’t many left in There will not be an gutting both the staff and the sites, and they’re right out Will they also be used to Canada, and the last visiting “enhanced visitor experience” budget needed to carry it out. there where it’s so obvious refurbish the signs and displays staff from Ottawa were here at either of these sites this Asked about the future of the that closing them, especially that were recently completed barely long enough to wrap coming summer. There will plan at a town council meeting after spending millions of in the two communities, their heads around the sheer be a pale imitation of the last fall, our local Parks dollars to maintain them but which will become stale size of what the Klondike has, visitor experience that used superintendent was only able and make them safe, is not a and faded after a few years let alone look at it all. to be in place, and as the years to say that his staff would have fiscally conservative, prudent exposure to summer sun and The press release also I take particular exception go by, this presentation will planned on a somewhat smaller decision. winter cold? scale if they had had any idea So, having eliminated to the presence of the word become more like a faded fifth “enhance” as it was used in the generation photocopy of a crisp what the federal budget was the option of using trained assures us that the 250,000 announcement that preceded original image. going do to the national parks interpreters working at these “irreplaceable historical this press release and again Weservice. want to hear fromsites you for wages! that fed the and archaeological objects
The Klondike Sun is produced bi-monthly. It is published by The Literary Society of the Klondike, a non- profit organization. Letters to the editor, submissions and reports may be edited for brevity, clarity, good taste (as defined by community standards), racism, sexism, and legal considerations. We welcome submissions from our readership. However, it should be understood that the opinions expressed herein may not always reflect those of the publishers and producers of the Klondike Sun. Submissions should be directed to The Edi- tor, Bag 6040, Dawson City, YT, Y0B 1G0, e-mailed to [email protected], directly to the paper at klond- NEXT ISSUE: April 3 [email protected] or dropped off in the drop-box at our office in the Waterfront Building, 1085 Front Deadline for submissions: Street. They should be signed and preferably typed (double-spaced), or saved on a digital file. If you can give Thursday, March 28 at noon a phone number at which you can be reached, it would be helpful. Unsigned letters will not be printed. “Name For more information: withheld by request” is acceptable and will be printed, providing the writer identifies themselves to the Sun Email: [email protected] editorial staff. A Publishing Policy exists for more details. Telephone: (867) 993-6318 Fax: (867) 993-6625
Editor/Head Writer: Dan Davidson THE KLONDIKE SUN Published by the Literary Contributors: Society of the Klondike: Office Manager: Alyssa Friesen Humane Society Dawson, Marcel Vander Ba g 6040 • Da w s o n Ci t y , Yu k o n • Y0B 1G0 President: Wier, Captain Steve Watton, Michael Dan Davidson Staff Reporter: Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 1-5 PM Lisa McKenna Gates, Dawson Food Secure Advocacy Vice-President: Florian Boulais Tel: (867)-993-6318 Subscriptions/Distribution: Group, Robin Og Bretland, Alice Thomp- Secretary / Treasurer.: Helen Bowie son, Al Sider, Mike Roache, Chad Carpen- Fax: (867)-993-6625 Diverse hands (See volunteer list) Board of Directors: ter, Peter Marinacci and others as noted. Email: Palma Berger, [email protected] Aubyn O’Grady, Evan Rensch Bookeeping: Karen McIntyre PRINTED BY THE YUKON NEWS IN WHITEHORSE, YT Societies Registration # 34600-20 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) GST # 12531 0581 RT for our publishing activities. THE KLONDIKE SUN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 P5 LETTERS Parks Canada is Abondoning Its Responsibilities Appropriate Sled Pulling Species Re: Parks Canada, Dawson City and Yukon Re: article by John Firth that appeared in the Klondike Sun Wednesday, February 20, 2013; Vol .23, No.20, reprinted from The Whitehorse Star. (This Could Revolutionize the Sport of Dog Mushing!) As a born-and-raised Dawsonite, I am fully aware of what Parks Canada has and has not done with regards to the preservation and Dear Editor: utilization of our Klondike heritage assets since their arrival in Yukon. Initially, they had grand ideas – ideas that were in sync with what Dawson wanted and needed at the time. It was with amusement, incredulity and then astonishment that I read the ‘investigative’ piece by John Firth on ‘revolutionizing’ the That involved saving the assets and using them as the core for a sport of dog mushing. tourism economy based on the historic Gold Rush history. In the ever- inventive Yukon, many kinds of animals have been I don’t know what went wrong or why, but the facts speak for used as pack animals and for transportation, but teams of rabbits themselves. pulling sleds? The local Parks Canada people still had a strong passion for the That’s just absurd. vision. But they're As John himself alludes to, rabbits, as a prey species, often zigzag It was, however, long ago set aside at a federal level. Every year from side to side to deek out predators, which would get the lines for at least the last 20 years (and possibly more), it become more very special horribly tangled. Dogs, like cats etc, are a predator species, thus obvious that they had abandoned the vision completely (and never they run together easily as a pack, in a straight line. Rabbits just got a new one). rabbits, I don’t have the strength or stamina to pull a sled. Besides, who could In fits and starts, they tried this and that while continually forget the tale of the tortoise and the hare? tell you! diminishing their ability to preserve, protect and utilize our Gold LetVeronica rabbits Verkley stick with what they know: delivering eggs. Rush assets. By the mid-’80s, they told me that with regard to Bear Creek, they were “happy to record its demise.” That is a sad and sick situation. They were now looking at many of their “assets” as liabilities. With this last round of cuts and the closing of Dredge #4, I have heard many people say, “What are they doing? They are closing their #1 attraction!” Nailing down a #1 attraction is a bit hard to do since Parks has had a number of them; the SS Keno was its #1 attraction at one time until it was closed to visitation (now it’s only partially open). As well, Bear Creek was a #1 attraction until they closed it as well. But it’s not really about #1 attractions. It is really about all the sites that were open and interactive that are now closed or under- utilized, and all the sites that should have been open but never were. It is all about what “we have” being owned by Parks Canada, that we are unable to use to create an economy and/or even enjoy. It is all about an owner who has become more and more delinquent with time. The situation is that Parks has a huge inventory of heritage assets in Dawson. They never did properly utilize them to help build the Klondike Gold Rush tourism economy. As well, they have completely lost the vision and the appetite in even maintaining the assets. They are no longer interested, willing nor able to preserve, protect and utilize the Klondike assets in anything close to what they should be doing, or to a level that both Dawson and Yukon need. As such, I would strongly urge the Yukon government to repatriate all of Parks Canada’s Klondike holdings. The exceptions should be a very few that they will commit to maintaining and making available. I also urge that Yukoners henceforth assume the responsibility of turningGreg Hakonson,those Parks Dawson Canada “liabilities” City into Yukon “assets”. P6 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 THE KLONDIKE SUN Creosote Build-up Creates Seventh Avenue Fireworks Display
Story & Photo by Dan Davidson
Kyla Popadynec. A nearby neighbour
“Improper cleaning, or described it as being a lack thereof, created a bit like a small fireworks o Seventh Avenue in build up of creosote at a few display. Dawson lit up with the distinct spots throughout “On a positive note,” flashing lights of fire trucks the piping,” said Fire Chief Regimbal said, “no one on Tuesday evening as 14 Jim Regimbal. “Needless to was injured, there was no members of the Dawson say the pipe was quite hot property damage and the Volunteer Fire Dept. and there were some very homeowner has a lovely responded to a chimney nice flames shooting out of clean stove pipe.” Trekkingfire at the home ofOver Joe and thethe top.” Top to Tie the Knot Story & Photo by Dan Davidson
Michael and Tracy Yukon Legislative Pollock came to Dawson City to get married during Assembly the Second Trek Over the Top. Tracy says they thought Notice of Sitting about Las Vegas, as this is Take notice that pursuant to Standing Order 73 of the the second time for both of them, but then Michael Yukon Legislative Assembly and being satisfied suggested joining the pursuant to the said Standing Order that the public Trek. Michael had made the interest requires that the House shall meet, I appoint trip over the Top of the 1:00 p.m., Thursday, March 21, 2013, as the time for World/Taylor route 20 such meeting in the Yukon Legislative Assembly years earlier with some other people, though not as Chamber, Whitehorse, Yukon, for the purpose of part of an organized trek Just Married –Michael and Tracy Pollock had their transacting its business as if it had been duly group, so he knew it could wedding feast at Diamond Tooth Gerties during the be great trip. He explained Second Wave of the Trek Over the Top. adjourned to that time. it to Tracy and she thought it would be really neat. So over the top they Dated this 7th day of March, 2013. came, hooked up with Marriage Commissioner This has clearly been a an annual thing. There was Elizabeth Connellan, and wedding they will both a couple who got married David Laxton, MLA tied the knot at her cabin remember for many years. during the 2012 Trek as Speaker in West Dawson. Paul Robitaille at well. Yukon Legislative Assembly Neither of them could the Klondike Visitors say enough about the Trek Association says this organizers and Connellan. seems to be turning into THE KLONDIKE SUN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 P7
Second Trek Arrives for Another Gassing up for the Saturday afternoon Poker Run. Busy Weekend in Dawson Story & Photo by Dan Davidson
The second wave of Trek Over the Top sledders arrived in Dawson on Thursday, March 7, beginning in mid-afternoon. Registration was at the Visitors Information Centre. There were 116 in this week’s contingent. Diamond Tooth Gerties was open for all three nights of the Trekkers’ stay, with banquets on Friday (Firefighters’ Steak BBQ) and Saturday (Prime Rib from Nora’s Kitchen) as well as stage shows by Gillian Campbell on both nights. The Snowshoe Shufflers were part of the entertainment, and the popular Snowmobile Olympics event was back this year, along with the can-can dancers. Friday was a town day, with tours at the museum and a variety of options at the Dawson City Curling Club. From the number of fresh sled trails that appeared after the first trek, come folks simply chose to cruise the rivers, hills and fields. Saturday was the big sledding day, with the Dawson City Sled Dawgs’ celebrated Poker Run. On Sunday, with the good weather promising to hold, the Trekkers headed back to Tok overth the Top of the World/Taylor Highway route, bringing the 20 Trek Over the Top to a close.
Building Safety
Trekkers enjoy the company of the Shoeshoe Shufflers at Revisions to the National Building Code now require Diamond Tooth Gerties (floor shown above) during the second that new heating systems and home construction banquet evening. meet new energy efficiency standards. If you plan to: Roache's Corner by Mike Roache Replace your furnace Install a wood stove Build or renovate a home You need to know that: All oil-fired warm-air furnaces must now be at least 85% efficient All wood stoves installed after March 31st, 2013 must meet EPA-40 or CSA B415.1 standards All new homes must be built to new energy efficiency standards Before you buy a new heating system or build or renovate a home: If you live in Whitehorse contact the city’s Building Inspections office at 668-8340. If you live outside of Whitehorse, contact Building Safety for permits and standards at 1-800-661-0408 (5741), or 667-5741 or visit us in the YG Administration Building, 2071 Second Avenue, Whitehorse. You can also pick up an information sheet at your Municipal Office.
www.community.gov.yk.ca Community Services P8 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 THE KLONDIKE SUN HUMANE SOCIETY DAWSON UPDATE Our Klondike Kate with Katie Pearse, Humane Society Dawson Story by Lisa McKenna Tony Photo by Alice Thompson
Gillian Campbell was at Diamond Tooth Gertie’s this past weekend and it was a show to remember. Gillian has entertained in Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, all over the States, including Disneyland and Disneyworld. She has also entertained all through Alaska and Canada, once spending 5 years as Edmonton’s Kate during their Klondike celebrations. She owns over $100,000 in original gowns, hats, jewelry and Gillian jokes and interacts with the audience, 'bumping' local boas! And they are stunning. Dawsonite Buddy de Guzman. Buddy was later coaxed onstage The evening started out with a group dancing routine. Tony is a male, lab cross, around two years old. the Snow Shoe Shufflers, who He is a gentle giant, and is extremely friendly despite his were awesome as usual. They intimidating size. The first time he meets you he'll be happy to even had a subliminal message greet you with a lick on the face! attached to their upper regions waiting for - Gillian Campbell the funniest things I have seen Tony is well trained, house broken, obedient and he gets welcoming the Trek over the stepped out on the stage in a long time. wearing a fiery red gown, hat, Then she sang Happy Birthday along well with other dogs. He loves going on walks, but is Top boys, andth girls, to Dawson also a relaxed dog who is quite content to lay at your feet or and their 20 anniversary of the and of course the boa. She came to a man in the audience and chew on a bone. meet. out into the audience and had made another woman from the He doesn't want to be stuck inside at the shelter any longer After a brief pause the Snow her trademark banter going out audience bestow the birthday soThis come column and check is provided him out! by the Humane Dawson Society. Shoe girls came out to mingle to everyone. kiss! Hours of operation: Monday, noon to 4 p.m., closed with the customers and four Some of you all know Joey Another short break Tuesday, Wednesday to Saturday noon to 4 p.m. beautiful young ladies, dressed from the Downtown Hotel. followed as Mr. Shiny Shoes Phone number: 993-6900 in full regalia, entertained us Well, she had him up on stage (Ron Thompson aka Smiley) "shaking his bootie". Every came out on stage dressed in with a dance. Story continued on next page... Then what we all had been time she called him “Ducky” he turned bright red. It was one of
PRÉSENTENT Thank you Dawson City!
Yukon NDP MLAs Liz Hanson and Jim Tredger would like to thank the people of the Klondike, and especially Dawson City Mayor Wayne Potoroka and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Chief Eddie Taylor, for the warm welcome and kind hospitality shown on their recent visit. Pièc� d� théâtr� bilingu� ▪ Bilingua� theater pla� If you ever have questions, comments Surtitre� e� anglai� e� françai� ▪ Englis� an� Frenc� surtitle� or concerns for the Official Opposition, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re Whitehors� Dawso� listening and want to hear from you! March 21-22 mars 2013 March 24 mars 2013 8 pm ▪ 20h 8 pm ▪ 20h yukonndpcaucus.ca | [email protected] Old Fire Hall Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre 1-800-661-0408 ext.7050 Inf� 867.668.2636 ▪ [email protected]
La réalisation de cette pièce ne pourrait être possible sans l’appui fi nancier du Fonds pour les arts du Yukon et de Patrimoine canadien THE KLONDIKE SUN WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 P9 Gillan’s Always Delighted to Be in Dawson
Photo & Story by Alice Thompson
Gillian positively glows with excitement when talking about Dawson City in her interview with me. She is a very easy person to interview, because the words and enthusiasm just flow from her. “I have the best musicians, I have Bill Costin from Dawson, we have Ron Thompson as bass player, they are brilliant, and my son of course, Richard Campbell, on the drums. “I feel like I have never been away. Everybody is so nice; they make me feel at home, like we Back Row: Pianist-Bill Costin, Drums-Richard Campbell, Gillian Campbell, Mark Mathers, Bass/Banjo-Ron (Smiley) Thompson, and belong there. Mark and June Snowshoe Shuffler Calamity Sam (Hadley). Middle Row: Sarah Moore Dancers in fringe dresses, Left to Right Shawna Parry, Sarah Mather take such good care Moore, Leah Litwack, Lisa Goebel. Front Row from Left to Right: the rest of the Snowshoe Shufflers, Gold Claim Lorraine (Heynen), of us, all the wonderful meals Tricky Vicky (Stallabrass), Blackjack Jane (Haydock), Gold Dust Darlene (Morgan), Aurora Lauriealis (McCrory) and Lake Lebarge for us, and the cookies were exceptional. Lovely meals June Marj (Eschak). did for us. Oh Dear… We forgot to thank the Downtown Hotel … also KVA.” worked with Sarah Moore for last time was 2 years ago. So we “And I told Vic Peters - he was wasn't thinking of romance, but I quickly resigned myself and years and her Dancers. Sarah is were thrilled to bits to come up the manager of the Commerce, I felt so comfortable with him, it no longer tried to direct the a perfectionist, and her dancers this time, always, to come up to we went out in his pickup truck was like coming home.” interview, just concentrated are such ladies, and it’s always a Dawson City.” to pick up the luggage - and the Edward said, “It was exciting on catching her comments, pleasure working with them. Both Gillian and Edward four showgirls were coming off to sort of get back together delivered “ at a rapid but coherent “My new black costume that agreed that Dawson is very the plane, and Gillian came off again. She asked me what bank pace. my friend Ray Buchanan made, special to them, as it is the City with those two babies, and then I worked at and I said I own and The Snowshoe Shufflers we call it the Marlene Dietrich where they met. I had seen I said“ to Vic, 'I think she will be train race horses.” were great ladies, great ladies... Dress, as someone said, it's the warmth between them the best of the works.’ Gillian ended up walking the they helped with our show and stunning. It was made for this when I ran into Gillian at the She was married at the time horses, and picking up manure. with the audience. They aren't trip up to Dawson. He said 'You Wild & Wooly, where I took and very proper, but we kept “Good for the waistline,” part of my show but we feel have to have a new gown for some portraits of them for the running in to each other” Gillian interjected. “We started like they are family too. Debbie Dawson City and the Sourdough interview. Of course I had to Gillian continued: “We were going out once a week, and I Winston - she used to be part Rendezvous.’ hear the story of how they met... like ships that passed in the would buy him Fish and Chips. owner of the Frantic Follies in “The KVA and Mark & June This was back in 1967 when night. When I was at the PNE We were buddies.” Whitehorse - she said, 'Would Mather invited us up. The first Edward worked as the Dawson working with Bobby Hales Edward concluded, “I always you like to use my Can-Can time he invited us up was 2005 Manager of the local Bank of and Edward would be in the felt very comfortable with skirts?' (for the show). She is for the International Dog Sled Montreal (which was located in audience and I would wave Gillian.”Read the full interview and in Dawson City and we went Mushers. The last time before the BNA Bank building). and say hi. I was driving down video clips of the show with over for tea and picked up the was during the Gaslight Follies Gillian began: “I arrived on the Hasting Street on September 27 Dawson locals participating at skirts and Debbie picked them in the 1980's. Peter Jenkins, plane with my two small sons; 1986 and I saw him so I stopped my blog www.LostMoose.ca. up and steamed them, and the he called us up and we did the they were still in nappies.” the car and went out and gave girls looked fantastic. Debbie’s' International Gold Show with Edward quickly interjected, him a big hug, and he said, 'Why skirts were longer, more frills Daryl Steininger in the 1980's. not have dinner with me?' I and vibrant colours. “The KVA has had us up “We have the Sarah Moore multiple times since 2005, the Dancers out of Vancouver. I have Stay safe this Our Klondike Kate continued.. tongue twister that was about a heating season girl named Suzie who was sitting gold and black and his fingers Hi, I’m Mike Marcuson, Deputy Fire Marshal danced upon the strings making in a shoeshine shop…. He did his banjo sound unlike any extremely well. Congratulations Take these simple steps to safeguard your family and your home: Thomas! instrument I have ever heard. If you burn wood, clean your chimney and your stove regularly; He was fantastic. Then the Shufflers gathered up Now the stage was taken over 8 unsuspecting fellows and put When cooking never leave your stove unattended; them on stage. There they were by four ‘flappers’ in bright red Make sure candles are out before you leave a room; shimmy dresses. Talk about dressed up in red long johns and Test your carbon monoxide detectors and change their energy! One could become some crazy hats and led through batteries regularly; and exhausted just watching them. a slightly disorganized can-can. Needless to say they were Then the men were sent off to Check your smoke alarms and change their batteries. fantastic as well. find 8 unsuspecting women. They danced to ‘hands and Home safety is everyone’s responsibility, Then back she came unto the please do your part. stage. This time she was wearing knees’ and got faster and faster a long back gown, a black boa, and faster still, then they broke and a beautiful black hat ringed up into uncontrollable laughter. in bright red roses. Gillian led After a few more songs and the crowd in a sing-a-long with Gillian’s thanks to the crowd the such old favorites as Shine on balloons were released. Have you ever seen 50+ people all Harvest Moon and Heart of my Community Services www.community.gov.yk.ca Protective Services Heart. over the age of 19, most over the Then the fun began again. age of 40 or 50, playing with a Thomas was brought up on bunch of balloons? I laughed so stage and was given this wicked hard tears ran down my face. Thanks Gillian. P10 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2013 THE KLONDIKE SUN A Day to Zumba! Businesses Asked To Save Parks Canada Tours On Short Notice Press Release
government and is incredibly Canada would be delivered by WHITEHORSE (March 11, unfair to the operators who the end of February, Friday's 2013) - The Tourism Industry have been looking for certainty announcement came at least a Association of the Yukon on this issue since the cuts week later than expected with (TIA Yukon) is concerned were announced almost a year news that according to Hartling, by the short timeline that ago." was 'light on substance and the federal government has Hartling says that operators heavy on sugarcoating'. given the private sector to have to start planning their Private sector tours on the S.S. take on the responsibility seasons eighteen months in Klondike and Dredge #4 were of some of the Parks Canada advance. They tailor their something that Parks Canada front line services that were marketing and staffing authorized in the past and affected by last year's cuts. decisions to the products something that many believed 30 people of all ages showed up for the free Zumba class on The government announced that they plan to offer. Some it would authorize again. The Friday, March 8 in the KIAC ballroom, lead by Zumba instructor Friday that its process of operators may see opportunity fact that this was the crux of Katie Pearse. granting business licenses for in conducting tours of the S.S. Friday's announcement left tours of the S.S. Klondike and Klondike and Dredge #4 for many wondering, 'where's the Story & Photo Dredge #4 would only provide the 2013 season even at this beef?'" by Alice Thompson six weeks for businesses to late juncture, but as many In May 2012, TIA Yukon properly prepare for the 2013 have already said, 'the devil is became the first of many to call season. in the details'. If this model of attention to the ramifications "TIA Yukon could have operation continues beyond that the cuts to Parks Canada Katrina Diles, Program Coordinator of the Dawson Shelter Society, supported a plan to transition this summer, the 2014 season in the Yukon would have on decided a fun way to start the 102nd Anniversary celebration of Parks Canada sites and may offer more opportunities the territory. TIA Yukon International Women's Day would be with a free Zumba class. services to the private sector once the industry has had has consistently stated that Zumba Instructor Katie Pearse agreed this was a great idea, and if adequate time was given a chance to adjust, but for the ideal resolution to this she held her regular Friday class at the KIAC Ballroom, with 20 of for the industry to properly the 2013 season it will be a issue would be for the federal her regular attendees coming along to join 10 new people who come prepare," says TIA Yukon Chair testament to the adaptability government to acknowledge out for the International Women's Day celebration and to try the Neil Hartling. "While we have of individual operators to be its mistake and reinstate the class- sliding, jumping and swivelling to the Latin inspired moves the utmost confidence in the able to make these tours a funding to Parks Canada so of Zumba Fitness. ability of the industry, business success on such short notice. that services affected by the Afterwards, Katrina Diles had a great spread of refreshments and owners should not have been It remains to be seen if any cuts could continue to operate a beautiful 102 Anniversary cake to share. Fourteen Dawsonites put in this position so close to operators will come forward as before. When it became stayed to to look at the literature on International Women's day, and the start of the season. Usually to try to work a miracle for the clear that this was unlikely to to share in the general discussion group after the cake was served. a successful transition like this 2013 season with this tight happen, TIA Yukon stated that would take about two years, not timeline. it would be open to supporting CONTINUED ON P. 12 two months. This shows a real Despite the MP's assurances alternatives to prevent gaps lack of planning by the federal that good news about Parks / iÊ`iÊÃÌÌÕÌiÊvÊÀÌÊ>`Ê ÕÌÕÀiÊÜÌ Ê9ÕÊ iÀ}ÞÊ«ÀiÃiÌÊ
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