September 6, 2024

Arts

Whitehorse author goes deep and dark with The Black Hunger (Yukon News)

Nicholas Pullen's debut novel, The Black Hunger, is a queer gothic horror story that intertwines historical narratives, including a man trapped in an asylum and tales from the 1870s and the Crimean War. Set to release on October 8, 2024, the novel reflects Pullen's blend of academic history and fiction writing, allowing him to explore themes of authenticity and creativity in storytelling. He plans a local launch and events in England and Toronto to celebrate the release.

Business

CRTC denies request to release details of Bell Media sale in the North (APTN)

The CRTC has denied a request to release financial details of Bell Media's sale of Northwestel to a consortium of Indigenous businesses, citing the need to keep sensitive information confidential. The decision has drawn criticism from the Public Interest Advocacy Center, which argues that transparency is essential for a monopoly service like telecommunications in the North. Despite the confidentiality, some details about the partnership and operational support between Bell and Northwestel were disclosed, but concerns about competition and public interest remain.

Community

Long-time Whitehorse resident and prominent businessman, Rolf Hougen, passed away at 95 (96.1 The Rush)

Rolf Hougen, a prominent businessman and long-time resident of Whitehorse, passed away at 95. He was the founder of the Hougen Group of Companies and played a key role in launching CKRW radio in 1969, significantly contributing to the introduction of television and commercial radio in the Yukon.

Yukon Conservation Officer Services seek information on suspected illegal Bison kill (96.1 The Rush)

Yukon Conservation Officer Services are investigating a suspected illegal bison kill reported on August 25, where a white Chevrolet pickup truck was seen with a bison head on a trailer. They are offering a cash reward for information leading to a conviction and are particularly interested in dash cam footage from that day. Anyone with information is urged to contact the TIPP line or file an online report.

Culture

Parks Canada sees transfer of saloon, heritage building to Yukon gov't (Yukon News)

The Yukon government has officially taken over the Red Feather Saloon and former territorial courthouse in Dawson City from Parks Canada. While operations at the saloon will continue, the courthouse may be repurposed for public services. The transfer follows negotiations that began in 1987, with the saloon originally built in 1902 and later replicated after a fire. The courthouse, designated a national historic site, has been unused since 2017 due to structural issues. Significant renovations will be needed to make the courthouse usable, and discussions about future property transfers to the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation are ongoing.

Education

Premier presents Council of the Federation Literacy Award (Government of Yukon)

Denis Vachon received the Yukon’s 2024 Council of the Federation Literacy Award, presented by Premier Ranj Pillai on September 4, in recognition of his commitment to literacy and inspiring others, particularly adult learners. Overcoming early barriers, Denis returned to education, achieving multiple diplomas and actively volunteering in the community. The award highlights the significance of literacy in fostering active citizenship and celebrates its personal and communal impact.

Government

Yukon First Nations and Government of Yukon leaders meet for Yukon Forum along with guests from the Government of Canada (Government of Yukon)

Leaders from Yukon First Nations, the Government of Yukon, and the Government of Canada met at the Yukon Forum on September 5, 2024, to discuss priorities such as new minerals legislation, land use planning, emergency management, and housing needs. The forum aims to strengthen government-to-government relationships and advance reconciliation efforts in the territory.

Deputy Environment minister named among premier's leadership swap (Yukon News)

Premier Ranj Pillai announced senior leadership appointments effective September 9, including Dennis Berry as deputy minister of environment, following the death of Michael Prochazka in a collision. Paul Moore becomes interim deputy minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, while Philippe Mollet is appointed president of the Yukon Liquor Corporation and deputy minister of French Language Services. Pillai expressed gratitude for Briar Young's leadership during this transition.

Health

Kwanlin Dün First Nation declares substance use health emergency (Yukon News)

Kwanlin Dün First Nation has declared a substance use health emergency due to rising overdoses and drug-related issues in the community. The emergency aims to enhance access to treatment, improve public safety, and engage the community in finding solutions. KDFN plans to expand outreach teams and enforce policies against illegal activities in housing. This declaration aligns with similar emergencies declared by other First Nations and the Yukon government, emphasizing a commitment to support the community in a non-judgmental manner.

Cyclists to pedal through Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk for Parkinson’s (Cabin Radio)

The Spinning Wheels Relay Team is cycling through Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk to raise awareness for Parkinson's disease, covering a total of 10,000 km across Canada. The team, consisting of cyclists living with the disease, aims to engage communities and raise funds for local resources. They will host events, including a pub night and a ceremonial dip in the Arctic Ocean, while emphasizing the importance of exercise and community support for those affected by Parkinson's.

Infrastructure

Tesla cybertrucks roll through the Yukon and N.W.T., en route to the Arctic Ocean (CBC)

Futuristic Tesla cybertrucks are traveling the Dempster Highway in the North, aiming to deliver electric vehicle chargers to more communities.

Behind the scenes of the Whitehorse airport's runway reconstruction (CBC)

The Whitehorse airport is undergoing a major construction project to reconstruct its runway. Heavy equipment, construction crews, and large piles of dirt are visible at the site. The goal is to improve and rebuild the runway infrastructure. 

Safety

Parks Canada plans for prescribed burn in Kluane National Park (Yukon News)

Parks Canada plans a prescribed burn in Kluane National Park between September 9 and 19 to restore forest health, collaborating with local First Nations. While most of the park will remain open, certain areas will be closed during the burn, and smoke may be visible in neighboring areas. Safety is a priority, and the operation will involve helicopters and trained personnel from the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.

Travel

Why You Should Travel to the Yukon in the Winter (AFAR)

Traveling to the Yukon in winter offers unique experiences, including stunning landscapes, the northern lights, and rich Indigenous culture. Activities like dogsledding, snowshoeing, and exploring historic Dawson City highlight the territory's beauty and history, making it an exhilarating destination beyond just the aurora borealis.