October 7, 2024

Community

"Shocked": Dog stolen in the Yukon somehow found safe 5,000 km away in Arizona (Global News)

A heartwarming story highlights the reunion of Midnight, a stolen dog, with his owner Alice in Blaine, near the US-Canada border, emphasizing the deep bond between pets and their owners. This narrative showcases resilience, hope, and the lengths people go to ensure their pets' safety and well-being.

The Yukon Aboriginal Women Council brings awareness to MMIWG issues on Red Dress Day (CHON-FM)

The Yukon Aboriginal Women Council commemorated Red Dress Day on October 4 with a vigil walk in Whitehorse to honor victims of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). This event is part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. Acting Executive Director Anna Barley emphasized the importance of remembering those lost and addressing ongoing issues in the Yukon and across Canada. The walk concluded with a meal and testimonials from affected families.

Economy

Extension granted for furloughed Victoria Gold workers to seek wage protection (Yukon News)

Laid-off workers from Victoria Gold have been granted an extension until December 26 to apply for wage protection funds under the Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP) following a landslide that shut down the mine. The Yukon Federation of Labour confirmed the extension due to the volume of claims needing processing, alleviating concerns about meeting the initial October 9 deadline. Over 250 workers are affected, and WEPP can provide compensation of up to $8,507 for outstanding wages.

Education

Teachers’ union votes 95 percent in favour of job action amid wage dispute (96.1 The Rush)

The Yukon Association of Education Professionals voted 95% in favor of job action due to inadequate wage proposals from the Yukon Government, which offered a 10.5% increase over three years, insufficient compared to a 16.5% inflation rate. The union cites a 9.3% real wage loss and argues for more competitive wages to fill over 50 vacant teaching positions. Negotiations are stalled until December 2024, with no legal strike action possible until conciliation or arbitration is completed.

Statement from Minster Silver on the Yukon Association of Education Professionals collective bargaining (Government of Yukon)

The Government of Yukon is in negotiations with the Yukon Association of Education Professionals to renew their collective agreement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high salaries for educators while being fiscally responsible. The government has proposed a wage increase of just over 12% over three years, while the association is seeking a total increase of 29%. The process will involve conciliation, and no job action can occur until it concludes. Significant increases are proposed for certain groups, such as a 40% raise for teachers on call and a $2,000 allowance for education assistants.

Environment

Moose meat abandoned off trail near Dawson City (Yukon News)

Yukon conservation officers are investigating the abandonment of approximately 405 pounds of moose meat found off a trail near Dawson City. The meat was discovered in cotton game bags on September 22, and officers are seeking information about activities in the area from September 15-22, as it is illegal to waste edible big game parts. Tips can be reported to the TIPP line or online.

National Park in Alaska celebrates 10th annual Fat Bear Week (CHON-FM)

Katmai National Park in Alaska is celebrating its 10th annual Fat Bear Week, featuring an online voting contest for brown bears preparing for hibernation. This year, Bear 402 was tragically killed, causing a delay in contestant announcements. Voting for the contest is open until October 8, with the champion to be crowned that day.

Study warns thawing permafrost could release substantial mercury in Yukon River (Eye on the Arctic)

A new study warns that thawing permafrost along the Yukon River may release significant amounts of mercury stored in sediment, posing environmental and health risks. As permafrost thaws, it destabilizes riverbanks, leading to erosion and the release of mercury accumulated over thousands of years. The research highlights the potential for increased methylmercury, a toxic form that bioaccumulates in the food chain, threatening communities relying on the river for drinking water and subsistence. Future efforts will focus on understanding the mobility of mercury and improving water treatment systems in response to climate change impacts.

Outgoing councillor’s father and longtime business owner runs for Whitehorse mayor (Yukon News)

Stephen Kwok, a longtime business owner in Whitehorse, is running for mayor after his daughter, former candidate Mellisa Murray, dropped out of the race. Kwok plans to focus on issues such as land development, affordable housing, transportation, and public engagement. He has lived in Whitehorse for nearly 50 years and has a diverse background, including experience as a hotel manager, taxi driver, and gold miner. His business acumen has been praised by local lawyer Grant Macdonald, who believes Kwok will be mindful of taxpayer dollars in city budgeting.

President of French school board on Whitehorse council ballot (Yukon News)

Jean-Sébastien Blais is running for Whitehorse City Council, having previously served as president of the French school board and been involved in various community organizations. He emphasizes the need for effective negotiation with federal and territorial governments to secure funding for community plans and aims to enhance the quality of life in Whitehorse through improved transport and recycling initiatives. His collaborative approach is highlighted by a colleague who notes his ability to foster dialogue and consensus.

Mining

Eagle Royalties: Geophysical Survey Conducted at AurMac Gold Project, Yukon (Junior Mining Network)

Eagle Royalties Ltd. announced that Banyan Gold has conducted a helicopter-supported ZTEM geophysical survey over the AurMac Project in Yukon, where Eagle Royalties holds royalty interests. The survey covers 234 square kilometers and follows Banyan's completion of a 15,000m drill program. Test recoveries at the Powerline and Airstrip deposits reached 93% and 90%, respectively. Eagle Royalties, with a treasury exceeding CDN $3.5M, manages a diverse portfolio of 38 royalty interests in western Canada, focusing on various commodities, including precious metals.

Guardian Exploration acquires Yukon claims (Stockwatch)

Guardian Exploration Inc. has acquired key claims covering the historic Clark silver-lead-zinc prospect in the Keno Hill silver district, Yukon. The property now includes 154 claims over 2,970.4 hectares. Historical drilling results indicate significant mineralization, and Guardian plans to conduct further exploration and drilling to modernize the resource estimates. The company is also exploring investment opportunities in the Saudi Arabian mining sector. Jesse C. Grady has resigned as an officer of the corporation.

During Fire Prevention Week, Government of Yukon urges residents to make sure their smoke alarms are working (Government of Yukon)

During Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12), the Government of Yukon emphasizes the importance of having working smoke alarms in homes. Residents are urged to install smoke alarms in key areas, test them monthly, and replace them every 10 years. The Yukon Fire Marshal’s Office and local fire departments will engage with communities to promote fire safety. Smoke alarms are legally required in Yukon homes, and they significantly reduce the risk of fire-related deaths. Minister Richard Mostyn encourages all Yukoners to ensure their smoke alarms are functional and properly placed.

Sports

Yukoner embraces competitive bodybuilding (Yukon News)

Stephanie Howitt represented Yukon in the 2024 Natural Westcoast Iron Vancity Showdown, placing second in both the True Novice Bikini and Open Class C Bikini categories. Howitt's journey into competitive bodybuilding began two years ago, with dedicated training and dietary regimens leading up to the competition. The Yukon boasts a supportive gym community, with personal trainers like Lee Anne Henderson actively promoting bodybuilding initiatives. Other notable competitors include Amanda Whymark and Tanja McPherson, who emphasize the emotional and personal growth aspects of the sport.