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Mushing, Sled Dogs, and Marla!

March 31st, 2023


On Friday, March 31 with bulbs starting to emerge from the ground, Landmark's elementary students heard the first-hand account of the bone-chilling Serum Expedition from veteran dog musher, Marla Brodsky of Hilltown Sleddogs. Students listened with rapt attention to the story of the historic 750-mile Serum Run Trail which follows the old mail trail from Nenana to Tanana and then along the Iditarod trail from Tanana to Nome. The trail travels along the frozen Yukon River and along the Bering Sea where temperatures can reach as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Along with world championship musher, Ms. Brodsky, were two of her dogs, Spunk and Una, who were happily smothered in love and attention from the EMS students. Ms. Brodsky shared her story in the form of a children's book that she is writing and illustrating that is due to be published sometime next year. The students were transfixed hearing the tale of such endurance, grit, and perseverance.

Ms. Brodsky gave all the students in the audience opportunities to ask questions and left everyone in the room in awe of what she admits are important qualities for any dog musher including being "hearty, crazy, tough, and compassionate".

Posted in the category EMS.