Page 5 - Donlin Spring 2020 Newsletter Digital

HONORING CULTURAL CONNECTIONS THROUGH MUSHING
By Samantha Angaiak
In recognition of the importance of maintaining ties to culture, Donlin Gold is honored to continue the tradition of sponsoring Yukon-Kuskokwim mushers: Pete Kaiser (Bethel), Isaac Underwood (Aniak), Mike Williams Jr. (Akiak) and Mike Williams Sr. (Akiak).
Mushing is a way of life in the region and one of the many ways that residents
stay connected to their roots. While
Mike Williams Jr. is taking time off from running in the Iditarod to raise his young family and kennel, Donlin continues to support his mission. “Their sponsorship helps to keep my dogs well-fed, which in turn allows me to train and travel with my dogs,” Williams Jr. said. “Keeping them
healthy, family, dogs, fishing/hunting and mushing is my family’s culture.”
Williams and his dad, Mike Williams Sr., also mush to promote healthy communities through sobriety, a message we are glad to help share.
Isaac Underwood raced in the Akiak Dash this year. Isaac said he is able to provide the basic needs that help fuel his team through Donlin’s sponsorship. “With Donlin’s support, I help supplement my dogs’ diet to perform at the high level that dog mushing requires,” Underwood said.
This was a special year for 2019 Iditarod champion Pete Kaiser and his family as both he and his father competed in races during the K-300. Pete earned his fifth K-300 win and his dad, Ron, took second
in the Bogus Creek 150. Donlin has sponsored Pete for the past 10 years and looks forward to continuing to support his efforts.
COVID-19 RESPONSE
While camp operations are suspended due to COVID-19, work is continuing at Donlin Gold. We are focusing on helping communities in need of resources to protect our most vulnerable residents from the disease, including delivering food and face mask kits. We are also helping local businesses and individuals shouldering economic hardships with the application process for federal and state relief programs. We are pleased to collaborate with entities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region, and beyond, to provide support for the health and safety of all who reside in the area. We are grateful to all who have played a role in our COVID-19 preparedness projects so far: The Kuskokwim Corporation, Calista Corporation, Kuik Run Store, Aniak Traditional Council, Joann Fabrics and Crafts of Wasilla, Lake and Peninsula Airlines, NovaGold Resources and Barrick Gold Corporation.
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Photo by Rebecca Wilmarth Photo by Rebecca Wilmarth Photo by Kristina Woolston
Kristina Woolston, Vernon Chimegalrea and team shipping out supplies during the pandemic to rural communities.