Ethan Tassiuk awarded Governor General medal
Arviat
“This is a great moment for me,” said Ethan Tassiuk after returning to his hotel in Ottawa Thursday, April 21.
He had just received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from Governor General Mary Simon at Rideau Hall.
Tassiuk, recognized for his efforts to combat social issues in the Arviat Film Society, was one of 23 recipients to receive the medal.
He was particularly noted for his advocacy for youth resilience and community engagement, as well as fostering open discussions on sexual health awareness and bullying.
“These were the most important subjects for me,” said Tassiuk, who has been involved with film and television since 2012.
In her speech, Simon said she was grateful the recipients were nominated, because it gave her a chance to learn their stories.
“All of you being honoured today met challenges head-on, addressing the greatest needs in your communities by giving of your time and expertise,” said Simon.
“You have made a difference with your outstanding devotion, dedication and commitment. You did so without the expectation of recognition. But your work didn’t go unnoticed.”
She called it a privilege and responsibility to share their work.
“You have done good in your communities,” said Simon. “You continue to do good. You shape our society through your actions and stories, helping others because it’s the right thing to do.”
Tassiuk said he was feeling confident heading back home to Arviat, and he’s planning to work on a new documentary-style video this summer.
Big prizes for big fish
Rankin Inlet
The Rankin Inlet Fishing Derby released its 2022 competition schedule and prizes, with tens of thousands of dollars up for grabs between trout and cod derbies in May.
Top prizes for both categories include either a 2022 Ski-Doo Grand touring 600 Ace or a Honda Rubicon 520. Second prizes are $9,000, then $8,000 for third place and so on for the top 10 finishers.
The trout derby will take place May 20-23 with a 50-mile boundary and list of allowable lakes, while the cod derby will take place May 27-29.
Both derbies require participants to register in advance. More information is available on the Rankin Inlet Fishing Derby Facebook page.
Businesses offered free Covid tests
Kivalliq
The Government of Nunavut is offering rapid antigen tests (RATs) and masks to Nunavut businesses that request them.
The goal of the program is to help businesses maintain their operations safely and support the health and safety of employees, while ensuring continuity of the supply chain in Nunavut.
“These RATs and masks are not for resale or public distribution,” wrote the GN’s news release April 21.
Businesses in the Kivalliq interested in free RATs and masks should contact 867-645-8451 or EDTkivalliq@gov.nu.ca.