Issuu

PHOTO: Colbourne Creative

WHY PAY MORE?

203 Main Street, Whitehorse YT 867-667-2615

The Yukon Hospital Foundation raises funds to enhance the quality of healthcare for all Yukoners. Every dollar you give is used to support the area of greatest need. Your hospital needs your support. There is a great need for advanced equipment, including critical diagnostic imaging, surgical and other specialized tools. Give our doctors, nurses and sta the necessary equipment to provide the care you need. For more information visit:

THE MUSICAL JOURNEY OF A LYRICIST & MELODY-MAKER

Yukon musician Kim Beggs has carved out a career spanning 30 years and is ready for more

Sitting in a roomy, screened enclosure on the second ﬂoor of her home, longtime Yukon musician and songwriter Kim Beggs sips her coffee and opens a Mac laptop.

She plays a track she recorded recently at her home and then plays the same song performed by friends and musical collaborators U.S. Girls, whom she met a few years back. The band recorded the song in Nashville (though they are from Toronto) and put it on their latest album Scratch It

The song is titled “Pay Streak.”

loves playing at the festival and has a tremendous respect for the venue and its organizer.

says, adding that she didn’t sing back then. “But then I had [the] curiosity to sing, and learn tunes.”

She says she drew a lot of musical inspiration from artists like Lucinda Williams, Neil Young, Bob Dylan and Iris Dement, to name a few.

DCMF is a cherished venue and it ranks up there with some of the other music festivals Beggs has played, including the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and the Vancouver Island Music Festival.

Beggs smiles and remarks on how fascinating it is to hear the same song played and interpreted by two different artists. She also says having the ability to use technology to record in the Yukon and then send it off to someone else in another country is pretty remarkable, especially because it maintains the emotional integrity of the music.

“I’ve played some really good festivals,” she says.

Beggs will also be there to participate in a couple of workshops on the festival Sunday as well.

Beggs has been active in 2025, performing at various shows, and as the Yukon hits high summer, she’s gearing up for a trip back to the Dawson City Music Festival (DCMF) for the ﬁrst time in almost 10 years.

Though often a solo artist, Beggs will perform at this year’s festival with long-time friends and fellow musicians Charlotte Cornﬁeld and Hannah Mazurek and will occupy a spot on the main stage.

“I’ve played there many times,” she says, adding that she

The road to becoming a fulltime musician, songwriter and recording artist has been pretty good for Beggs, she says. It began with some intermittent musical training as a child, to late-night jams around the campﬁre with friends, and then became a burning ember when she was exposed to a vibrant and enthusiastic local scene of musicians in the North.

When Beggs ﬁrst came to the Yukon, over 30 years ago, she bought a guitar from a pawnshop.

“I was musical in my life,” she

“I might have learned one or two of their songs along the way.” Beggs ended up making friends with other people who had arrived in the territory around the same time, she says; and, as it turns out, those people were also musically talented. “We played a lot of music around the campﬁre.”

When Beggs ﬁrst started to think about music as something she could take seriously, she had to face-down a pretty major roadblock.

“I had a lot of stage fright. I was pretty happy just playing around the campﬁre with my friends, and then supporting them in their performances,” she says. It was then as she volunteered

Chris Colbourne is a Yukon-based photojournalist and writer who has had video work commissioned in Southeast Asia, worked for two National Geographic photographers, is an Eddie Adams Barnstorm Alumni and worked as a staﬀ photographer for the St. Albert Gazette for 10 years.

Yukon musician Kim Beggs has seven solo albums to her name

PHOTO: Colbourne Creative

The musical journey

at the Folk Society Coffee House, in Whitehorse, that the ember in her mind began to catch ﬁre.

“I kept thinking to myself, Oh, maybe one of these days I’ll get up here, but I could never get the guts.”

Beggs also found herself going to Whitewater Wednesday’s open-mic nights and jam sessions, hosted by another well-known Yukon musician, Peggy Hanifan. It was there that Beggs began to see herself in a musical light.

“My friends would play and I would think Wow, this is great, but I just never had the courage. But one time when my friends weren’t there, I just got up [on stage].”

The rest, as they say, is history.

In the late 1990s, Beggs was both writing and playing and living in Whitehorse’s famed Shipyards, just before its residents were evicted and the site was bulldozed when the city looked to modernize and redevelop it.

Beggs ended up writing a song about the Shipyards, which ended up in the documentary ﬁlm Shipyards Lament, written by her friend and the ﬁlm’s director, Andrew Connors.

By early 2002, Beggs decided it was time to make an album and sought grant money to help her fulﬁll that dream. After laying

Yukoner and longtime musician Kim Beggs spends her days writing music and recording at her home just south of Whitehorse

down six tracks and getting the “crappy demo,” as she calls it, out into the world, Beggs was approached by the now-defunct Caribou Records and was offered a deal to record more music.

Beggs’s ﬁrst album, Streetcar Heart, was born.

Now, with another six albums under her belt, Beggs is a prominent and much-loved Yukon musician and songwriter. Over her musical career, Beggs has been nominated for music awards num-

erous times and is always writing and playing music whenever she can. She has also recorded in places like Whitehorse, Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.

She adds that she very much enjoys the writing side of music and that there is more to her than just playing guitar.

“I’m a lyricist,” she says, adding that a lot of her lyrics are considered poetry. “And I’m a melody-maker. And those are my strengths.”

So what does the future hold?

“I am always writing,” Beggs says.

So rest assured, there will be more music from Kim Beggs in the near future.

Born in Northern Quebec and then promptly moving to Northern Ontario with her family (her father was a mining engineer), she also spent her childhood and teenage years living in both Montreal and Toronto. Before arriving in the Yukon, she did a couple of years at the University of Guelph and worked as a tree planter, she says.

“I decided I’d take a year off. I came up to visit my sister here. Thinking I’d go back [to] treeplanting, but nope, it didn’t happen.”

Visit dcmf.com for DCMF information. And visit kimbeggs.com for more information about this Yukon musician, lyricist and melody-maker. ■

Kim Beggs—recording in Montreal for her latest album

Beneath Your Skin

PHOTOS: Colbourne Creative

HAIKU WITH A NORTHERN VOICE

The quest has begun …

Would you like to experience the thrill of seeing your haiku poems selected and published in a haiku collection by northern poets from the Yukon, the N.W.T., Nunavut and Nunavik?

The Northern Haiku Project is on a quest for submissions of spring and summer haiku, to add to the collection of fall and winter poems curated so far. The project is coordinated by solstice haiku members, Charlotte Hrenchuk, Pam Harry, Lillian Nakamura Maguire and Sandra St-Laurent.*

For the Northern Haiku Anthology, the ﬁrst collection of fall and winter poems were selected by the coordinators in April and May of 2025. Sandra St-Laurent presented a short video highlighting a sampling of English and French poems at the Haiku Canada Conference 2025, held in Quebec. To view the video, check out the northernhaikuproject.com website.

The poems, curated by the project team, had a big impact on the national audience. St-Laurent said that audience members were “moved to tears, some getting a feel for what it is like to be a northerner, and others were energized by the northern spirit.”

Northern Haiku Project members would like to encourage those interested in writing and submitting spring and summer poems to attend upcoming workshops for beginners to experienced writers. The next workshop will be offered online, via Zoom, on Saturday, July 19 (Paciﬁc Time), from 10 a.m. to noon. Other workshops may be scheduled depending on interest and time available.

Over the next couple of

months, the Project will accept submissions of spring- and summer-themed northern haiku, with a deadline of August 31. The aim is to have a collection selected and ready for publication by early winter.

We’re looking for northern writers who may choose to write in their ﬁrst language and provide an English translation. Modern English-language haiku does not necessarily follow the traditional Japanese 5-7-5 syllable structure. In fact, contemporary English-language haiku is often fewer than 17 syllables. Haikui poets aim for 10 to 12 syllables written in one to four lines. Check out the resources on our website and be in touch if you want to join us on Zoom.

Now Welcoming New and Emergency Patients!

Our dentists and team of dental hygienists have been proudly serving the Whitehorse community for many years. Come in for your first consultation and you’ll leave with something to smile about.

Contact northernhaikuproject@ gmail.com for more information or check out our Facebook page. ■

*solstice haiku was founded by kjmunro (Katherine J. Munro) in 2014 and has grown to include new and published poets who write in both English and French. Munro facilitates the monthly solstice haiku discussions. Contact her via her website at kjmunro1560.wordpress.com

You can expect friendly and welcoming care in an environment that relaxes even the most anxious patients. We all love what we do, and look forward to welcoming you and your family to our practice.

PHOTO: Supplied by Northern Haiku Project

On behalf of Northern Haiku Project members: Charlotte Hrenchuk, Pam Harry, Lillian Nakamura Maguire and Sandra St-Laurent.

ROOTED & READY TO BLOOM

Tickets for this year’s Plant Festival (the first ever!) have quickly sold out, but the Yukon Plant Guild has its sights set on so much more than this first festival …

From the beginner who can barely keep a houseplant alive, to the herbalist with dirt under their ﬁngernails, everyone has been invited to the Yukon’s ﬁrst Plant Festival. The event is organized by the newlyformed Yukon Plant Guild and will take root on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Herbal Hearth in the Wheaton River Valley.

“For this ﬁrst edition of the Yukon’s Plant Festival, we want to create a community and a gathering of people around plants,” says Angelune Drouin, one of the original founders of the Yukon Plant Guild. “We want to connect local people from different interests and ﬁelds, together, through their shared love of plants.”

The festival promises to be inclusive—no plant expertise required. “You do not need to know anything about plants to attend the festival,” Drouin emphasizes. “We invite everyone, from the curious beginner to the knowledgeable plant expert, to come to the festival so we can all share our knowledge and passion for the plant world.”

Get your hands dirty

This is not the typical sit-andlisten event. People can get their hands dirty with hands-on workshops, guided medicinal plant

walks, and demonstrations that will give attendees a new perspective on weeds in their garden.

Local practitioners, who have turned their plant obsessions into their life’s work, will share their knowledge: Beverley Gray (The Boreale Herbal), Amber BerardAlthouse (The Land Heals), Elissa Ciullo (a.k.a. The Garden Witch), Helen O’Connor, Jolene Billwiller (Spruce Cottage Farm), Michele Genest (The Boreal Gourmet), Randy Lamb (Downtown Urban Gardeners), Raven Padmos (Wolf Willow Botanicals), and Sylvie Binette (Heavenly Wild), with more speakers to be announced.

“Everyone will have a chance to participate in a plant walk out on the land, do a hands-on workshop and participate in a plant-related presentation or demonstration,” Drouin explains.

“The point is to make connections and to learn about plants. It’s all about the plants.”

“We are featuring local people who work with plants from herbalists, farmers, urban gardeners, ﬁbre workers and artists, to

vendors and makers selling locally-made products sourced from plants,” says Lyndi Proudfoot, another founding member of the Yukon Plant Guild.

In addition to that, there will be the local food truck Chickadee Wagon, to keep everyone fed. Local musician Annie Avery will provide the soundtrack. The organizers state that they couldn`t do it without local volunteers.

Attendees can browse locally-made products sourced from Yukon plants and beyond, supporting the people who have turned their passion into a business.

The Yukon Plant Guild, founded just last year, has bigger ambitions than a single festival.

The non-proﬁt organization aims to help people to work with and learn from the plants around

The organizers point out that the festival is centred around local people and local expertise.

JULY 18 - 24

You

INEDIA #drama #cult

You should see this, if: you’ve ever been hangry enough to believe that sunlight could replace lunch.

deners, foragers, natural bodycare formulators, artists and others interested and involved with plants,” Drouin says. “Our role as the Yukon Plant Guild is to create space and opportunities for people attending the festival to exchange local knowledge while discovering new skills and ways they can work with plants.”

The goal goes beyond just sharing information. “We also hope people will leave inspired and with a desire to build relationships and work with the plants around us,” Drouin adds.

While this ﬁrst festival is intentionally small-scale, the organizers are already dreaming bigger. “We are Yukon Plant Guild founders, from left to right: Angelune Drouin (president), Sylvie Gewehr (treasurer) and Lyndi Proudfoot (vice-president) taking a small and slow approach for the moment, but we would certainly love to eventually be able to host a multi-day festival in the future,” Drouin says.

The festival represents something bigger than workshops and plant walks: it is about building community through shared curiosity about the natural world that surrounds us. With backing from Lotteries Yukon, the event aims to cultivate a growing movement of plant awareness.

them, connecting everyone from weekend gardeners to professional herbalists.

“We want to connect herbalists, wilderness educators, gar-

Émilie-Jeanne Bercier teaching about permaculture guilds at the Yukon Plant Guild’s Fundraiser on the Wharf in July 2024 The medicinal herb garden at the Herbal Hearth, where some of the plant walks will be happening

Whether people are hoping to ﬁnally understand why their tomatoes keep dying, are curious about which local plants can soothe a headache, or just want to spend a day surrounded by fellow plant enthusiasts, the Yukon Plant Festival promises something for everyone. After all, in a territory where the growing season is precious and the connection to the land runs deep, celebrating plants feels like the most natural thing in the world. Check out yukonplantguild. ca to learn more about the Yukon Plant Guild and about future events and festivals. ■

We are postponing the George Johnston Museum’s 50th Anniversary celebration, originally scheduled for 18–20

We’re doing this out of respect for recent tragic events in our community. We’ll announce a new event date after 21 July.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this loss.

– The Teslin Historical and Museum Society

Yukon Plant Guild founders (L-R) Angelune Drouin (president), Sylvie Gewehr (treasurer) and Lyndi Proudfoot (vice-president)

PHOTOS: Submitted by Yukon Plant Guild

THE SOUND OF SUMMER

How the Dawson City Music Festival defines the Intimacy of Music

The Dawson City Music Festival (DCMF) is preparing for its biggest celebration yet. After navigating the pandemic years with careful rebuilding, the 47th annual edition promises to showcase exactly why Vancouver’s Georgia Straight dubbed it “Canada’s tiny, perfect festival.”

From July 18 to 20, there will be 28 artists and bands from across Canada that will perform across seven venues throughout Dawson’s historic townsite, representing genres from classic rock to electronica to folk. What sets DCMF apart isn’t just the programming—it’s the complete immersion experience that transforms both artists and audiences.

“I think DCMF is synonymous with great music and representing the best of what’s happening in many different genres right across the country,” says Corbin Murdoch, the festival’s artistic director. Murdoch moved to Dawson two years ago to run the operation. “It’s about building a relationship with this place. When people come up for their ﬁrst festival, they ﬁnd a way to come back.”

The festival’s roots go back to 1979, when it began as an intimate gathering—a salmon barbecue in West Dawson, and a dance at Diamond Tooth Gerties. By 1980, local volunteers had incorporated the Dawson City Music Festival Association, recognizing they had something too special to keep secret. Nearly ﬁve decades later, that grassroots spirit remains central to the festival’s identity.

Covid forced signiﬁcant changes. After cancelling 2020 entirely, postponing 2021 and hosting smaller versions in 2022 and 2023, last year’s festival marked the triumphant return to full-scale. Now, 2025 represents a year of reﬁnement.

“This year is about tweaking it, perfecting it,” Murdoch explains. “We’re really happy with the scope and scale and format. It affords unsurpassed intimacy in our performance venues.”

That intimacy plays out across

Arts and Culture and Danojà Zho Cultural Centre round out the performance spaces.

DCMF’s diverse venue lineup. The crown jewel remains the Palace Grand Theatre, originally constructed during the Klondike Gold Rush. This season, it will host performances by artists including Jeremy Dutcher and Shad. “Probably one of the coolest venues I’ve ever seen music in,” Murdoch says.

A major development for 2025 is the partnership with Yukon Arts Centre, bringing their mobile stage to serve as the festival’s new main stage at Minto Park. The same stage recently hosted Our Lady Peace, in Whitehorse, and will anchor the festival’s central hub, complete with food vendors, artisan markets, and beer gardens.

The remaining venues each offer their own character: St. Paul’s Anglican Church provides intimate acoustic settings, while latenight programming takes place at The Pit. The Klondike Institute for

This year’s lineup showcases Canadian musical diversity at its ﬁnest. Toronto’s Charlotte Cornﬁeld, described by Rolling Stone as “Canada’s best-kept secret,” brings her distinctive indie-folk sound north for her Yukon debut. Halifax’s Rich Aucoin delivers electronic experimentation, while Mama’s Broke represents the progressive traditional music scene. Electronic act Yoo Doo Right and hip-hop artist Shad demonstrate the festival’s genre-spanning approach. And local artists will be spotlighted too: John from Dawson takes the Minto Park stage on Saturday night.

The festival’s community integration sets it apart from typical music events. Over 200 volunteers make DCMF possible each year, from Dawson residents to visitors from across the Yukon and beyond. “The festival wouldn’t happen without the support of this community,” Murdoch empha-

sizes. “All those volunteers have ownership over this thing.”

Accommodation exempliﬁes this community spirit. With limited hotel capacity, many artists stay in local homes—a practice that transforms logistical necessity into cultural exchange. “Artists get to stay with people and see how people live up here, literally sharing each other over the breakfast table,” Murdoch explains.

This integration reﬂects DCMF’s evolution into something beyond

remain active, and institutional knowledge passes through generations of volunteers.

As it approaches its 50th anniversary in four years, the 2025 edition of the Dawson City Music Festival represents both celebration and foundation-setting. In an era of increasingly commercial music festivals, DCMF maintains its commitment to intimacy, community integration and the transformative power of exceptional music in an extraordinary setting. ■

entertainment. “DCMF is ingrained into the culture of the town,” Murdoch observes. “Most people in the community have interacted with the festival in one way or another.” Festival founders still live in Dawson, former board members

PHOTO: John Howland

PHOTO: Melissa Naef

• 2025 Campﬁre Talks

• at Tséi Zhéłe/Sinwaa Éex’i Yé/ Conrad Historic Site

Come enjoy:

• Tea and Bannock

• Learn about the history of the area

• Traditional stories and placenames

Where:

When:

Saturday July 26, 11-2

Wednesday Aug 13, 11-2

Saturday Aug 30, 11-2

Saturday Sep 6, 11-2

Friday Sept 19, 11-2

Tséi Zhéłe/ Sinwaa Éex’i Yé/ Conrad historic site (next to Conrad campground)

Tséi Zhéłe/ Sinwaa Éex’i Yé/ Conrad historic site is on the Traditional Territory of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation and is co-managed by the Carcross/Tagish First Nation and the Government of Yukon. This area was a traditional ﬁshing, hunting and camping site used by ancestors of the Tlingit/Tagish Kwan people. Conrad was a short lived mining town established in 1905 and abandoned by 1914.

ART SHOWS

Until Jul 26 Emerald - Celebrating 55 Yrs of the Yukon Art Society Arts Underground Gallery

Local artist Imogene Dali Rose Gignac-Keevil work reflects the world around her and the world she imagines, often melding the two in a surprising synergy. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Until Aug 29 Without Saying by Ernest Chua & Colin Dorward YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery This exhibition challenges the need for labels like “insider” or “outsider,” instead emphasizing the clarity and power of artistic vision. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Until Aug 29 In Northern Light YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery A selection of works from the Yukon Arts Centre’s Permanent Art Collection that celebrate the distinct and transformative light of the North. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Until Aug 29 My Big Bougie Beaded Earrings YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Curated by Teagyn Vallevand, My Big Bougie Beaded Earrings is a vibrant, community-driven exhibition that celebrates the bold, the beautiful, and the unapologetically bougie handmade earrings crafted by local First Nations artists.. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Until Aug 29 Youth Exhibit - Two Great Horse Riders Doing Great Deeds YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Local artist Imogene Dali Rose Gignac-Keevil work reflects the world around her and the world she imagines, often melding the two in a surprising synergy. https://yukonartscentre.com/

LIVE MUSIC

Fri Jul 18 Music on the Patio – Girl Named Jake

6:00 PM Caribou RV Park Live local music on the patio until 8pm.

Fri Jul 18 Son Jarocho - Mexican Music 8:00 PM 98 Hotel Coming in hot all the way from Mexico & Montreal, this trio will be a treat to our 98 Stage for two nights in July.

Fri Jul 18 DanChic Duo & Gordie Tentrees at ‘Round Back 7:00 PM The Guild Hall “Yukon Balladeers” Daniel Halen and “Chic” Callas unite their talents in the instrumental/vocal duo known as the DanChic Duo. https://guildhall.ca/shows/roundback-25.php

Sat Jul 19 Son Jarocho - Mexican Music 8:00 PM 98 Hotel Coming in hot all the way from Mexico & Montreal, this trio will be a treat to our 98 Stage.

Sat Jul 19 Music on the Patio – Megan Haddock

6:00 PM Caribou RV Park Live local music on the patio until 8pm, Fri/Sat

Fri Jul 25 @canada.gov.ca 6:00 PM Yukon Transportation Museum Experience the first-time tour of canada.gov.ca in Canada. Do not miss out on the spectacular shows at the Transportation Museum. http://instagram.com/canada.gov.ca

Fri Jul 25 Johnny Pogue & The Colleens 8:00 PM 98 Hotel Friday nights alright for some east coast dancin’ featuring Lively Irish & East Coast music!

Fri Jul 25 Canada.gov.ca Afterparty with DJ Leaves-Evev 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Fri Jul 25 Music on the Patio – Girl Named Jake

6:00 PM Caribou RV Park Live local music on the patio until 8pm, Fri/Sat

Fri Jul 25 Bria Rose N’ Thorns at ‘Round Back 7:00 PM The Guild Hall Bria Rose N’ Thorns take to the Round Back stage with an acoustic style performance. Free BBQ with admission! https://guildhall.ca/shows/ round-back-25.php

Sat Jul 26 Music on the Patio – Megan Haddock 6:00 PM Caribou RV Park Live local music on the patio until 8pm.

Sat Jul 26 The Compassion Pills 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

Live

Jam 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

GENERAL EVENTS

Mon Jul 14 Celebrate the French National Day 7:30 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) A festive evening combining art, entertainment, and sharing! Charcuterie will be offered on site, accompanied by cheeses, as well as a bar service. Free. https://www. afy.ca/evenement/la-fete-de-la-france

Mon Jul 14 Intro to Encaustic Painting with Nicole Bauberger 5:00 PM YAAW Yukon Artists at Work Paint with molten beeswax! This sculptural material engages all your senses with its sweet scent and the way the colours move under the heat gun. Email whitehorseartexperiences@gmail.com to register. https://yaaw.com/whitehorse-art-experiences Mon Jul 14 Balade découverte sur les plantes sauvages 7:00 PM Miles Canyon Découvrez les plantes sauvages avec Sylvie Binette et apprenez leur identification et utilisation responsable lors d’une balade. yukon.ca/wild-discoveries

Mon Jul 14, 15 & 17 Yukon Theatre – 28 Days Later 7:30 PM Yukon Theatre director Danny Boyle and Academy Award-nominated writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 Years Later, a terrifying new “auteur horror”!

Tue Jul 15 Millennium Trail Weed Pull 5:30 PM S.S.

Klondike National Historic Site A weed pull along the Millennium Trail. Invasives are springing up in full effect, and we need your help to keep them under control! No experience needed—just bring your energy and dress appropriately for the weather!

Wed Jul 16 Introduction to Goldsmithing 10:00

AM Yukonstruct Makespace Join goldsmith Allyson Simmie as she brings her unique experience to Whitehorse, offering a workshop that has been a lifetime in the making. https://yukonstruct.com/event/ introduction-to-goldsmithing

Wed Jul 16 Drive Your Ride to MacBride - Show N

Shine 6:00 PM MacBride Museum Come on down to Front street in front of MacBride Museum for cars, music by Alex Johnston and Friends, free museum admission, BBQ!

Tue Jul 16 Yukon Theatre – 28 Days Later 6:30 PM Yukon Theatre director Danny Boyle and Academy Award-nominated writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 Years Later, a terrifying new “auteur horror”!

Wed Jul 16 Words Out Loud - July 6:45 PM Multicultural Centre of the Yukon Open mic event series for writers and readers alike, featuring Kate Fisher & Ellen Davignaon.

Wed Jul 16 Historical Evening Prayer 7:00 PM Old Log Church Museum Historical evening services (summer only), all are welcome.

Thu Jul 17 Active Voice Storytelling at ‘Round Back 7:00 PM The Guild Hall A night of (mostly true) stories told by Yukoners - A 2-part storytelling workshop for anyone wishing to participate as a storyteller. https:// guildhall.ca/shows/round-back-25.php

Fri Jul 18 - 20 Yukon Theatre – Materialists 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre A young, ambitious New York City matchmaker finds herself torn between the perfect match and her imperfect ex. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/materialists Sat Jul 19 Trivia Night (members & signed in guests) 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Topics: BBC, all other British channels and more! Cash prizes and bragging rights! Bring your own electronic device to play.

Sat Jul 19 Punch Up by Kat Sandler at ‘Round Back (Staged Reading) 7:00 PM The Guild Hall A tragicomedy of three misfits, Punch Up navigates a hostage situation and a life-or-death comedy lesson to show just how far we’ll go for a laugh. https://guildhall. ca/shows/round-back-25.php

Mon Jul 21 Embossing Nature - Crafting GardenInspired Masterpieces 5:30 PM Shipyards Park Explore hands-on printing methods using organic materials to build and design a unique journal. Limited spots available - email mark.steudle@yukonliteracy. com or call 867-668-6535

Wed Jul 23 Weekly Cruise - Whistle Bend Place 5:00 PM Whistle Bend Place See locally owned vintage, retro, modified cars, trucks, bikes anything with wheels, as they stop at Whistle Bend Place to visit with the residents.

Wed Jul 23 & 24 Yukon Theatre – Materialists 5:30 PM Yukon Theatre A young, ambitious New York City matchmaker finds herself torn between the perfect match and her imperfect ex.

https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/materialists

Thu Jul 24 Short Works for Short Nights at ‘Round

Back 7:00 PM The Guild Hall Swapping our chip bags for the real sun, join Nakai and friends for an evening of live performances from local storytellers, musicians and artists. https://guildhall.ca/shows/round-back-25. php

Fri Jul 25 Plant Pressing - Workshop with Recycled

Materials 4:30 PM Chadburn Lake Using recycled materials, you’ll build your own plant press and take home a new way to connect with the boreal forest.

Sat Jul 26 Lip Sync Battle Royale at ‘Round Back 7:00 PM The Guild Hall Bracket-style competitionSign up to compete or bring your enthusiasm to help your favourite artist advance to the next round!

Sat Jul 26 Short Take-off and Landing

Demonstration 10:00 AM Whitehorse Come on out for fun at Cousins Airport. Take in live Airplanes and a Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) Demonstration. Grab a bite at the local food trucks! https://www. copayukon.com/index.php/news-and-more

Tues Jul 29 Birch Bark Basket Making Workshop

8:30 AM Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Make birch baskets, harvest roots, harvest and make medicine. Berry picking! Call 633-7680 or email traditional. parenting@skookumjim.com

Tue Jul 29 Cultivating Culture – Workshop 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre An inspiring in-person event dedicated to succession planning and agri-food sectors. https://eco.ca/

Wed Jul 30 Weekly Cruise - Thomson Centre 5:00

PM Whitehorse General Hospital Come and visit with the residents, and see retro, vintage, modified vehicles locally owned!

Wed Jul 30 The Two Gentlemen of Verona 7:00

PM The Guild Hall Featuring an all-ages cast, this production is Directed by Brandon Wicke. Follows two close friends, Valentine and Proteus, who travel from Verona to Milan.

Monthly

2nd Monday Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society salvin@northwestel.net

2nd Monday Whitehorse Slow Jam 7:00 PM Golden Age Society

First Thursdays QYS Craft Night 7:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache This is a great place to gather and meet other queer crafters. And there will be tea of course. Regular drop-in is still available.

2nd Thursday QYS Movie Nights 5:00 PM Queer

Yukon Society The Cache

Last Thursdays Repair Cafe 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Bring it in and see if it is fixable using soldering irons, multimeters, and other tools. This easy introduction to electronics and small home appliance repair is a useful evening of DIY learning that you can take home.

2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come on out and test your music knowledge! Teams of no more than 6 people.

Last Friday Pioneer Women of Yukon 12:00 PM

Golden Age Society

2nd & 4th Sundays Grade 8 – 12 High School Youth

Group 6:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview.church/connect/ youth Monthly

Weekly

Mondays

Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Women’s Bible Study 6:00 PM Women’s Bible Study. Refreshments are served followed by the study. For more info check out www.mountainview.church or email rachel@mountainview.church.

Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society

Euchre - For Members and Signed in Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Euchre a tricktaking card game for four players, two on each team, As a member you

Beginner ASL Class & Social Hang 6:15 Queer Yukon Society - The Cache

Tuesdays

Common Threads Prayer Shawl Ministry 9:30 AM

Church of the Northern Apostles.

Bridge 12:00 PM Golden Age Society

Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association francoyukonnaise (AFY) Le Café de l’amitié est un rendez-vous hebdomadaire et une occasion de rassemblement pour les francophones de 50 ans et plus.

QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache

Language Skills for Ukrainians 5:15 PM Yukon Learn A discussion group workshop provides a relaxed and friendly environment where learners can practise and learn English conversation skills.

Weekly Shufﬂeboard Tournament 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For members and signed in guests. A double knockout style competition and games are limited to 6 ends or 15 minutes

Chess Club 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn? Looking for Competition? Join us!

SuperSmash Bros, Mtg: Commander 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

10 Card Crib - Members & Signed In Guests 6:00

PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play! Learn tips and tricks and have some fun! https://bit. ly/3KP0B5s

Wednesdays

Keep Fit 10:30 AM Church of the Northern Apostles. Come stretch and breathe with us!

Multicultural Connection Group 11:00 AM

Multicultural Centre of the Yukon – MCY Connect with other parents and caregivers, learn about parenting in different cultures. A free lunch program for immigrants and refugee families. Lunch and transportation provided. Call 332-1803 for more info.

Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Call 333-6081 for more info.

Sew & Tell All – Elders Hangout 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Facilitated by Kwanlin Dün Elderin-Residence Shirley Smith, everyone welcome. Feel free to join and start a beading project or work on something that you’ve already started! For more info email culturalprograms@kdcc.ca

QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache

Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch

254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!

Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Thursdays Public Speaking Training - Toastmasters 12:00 PM Decora Guests are always welcome. There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics

Fireweed Summer Market 3:00 PM Shipyard Park

Grab a picnic dinner and get that special gift. Enjoy local live music and other amusements from buskers. https://fireweedmarket.ca/

Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM

Whitehorse Public Library Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Find out what role playing games are all about! Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome.

Mtg: casual Commander, Warhammer 40k & Kill Team 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Mountainview Church Community Group 7:00 PM 16 years or older? Mountainview Church Community Group! We’ll share some snacks and talk about what the bible has to say about discipleship.

Fridays Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age Society Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.

Mtg: Pioneer, YuGiOh Casual 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Saturdays Yukon Amateur Radio Association Coffee Discussion Group 8:45 AM A&W Restaurant Hams from outside the Yukon and those interested are welcome to join us in this casual event.

Cribbage - Members and Signed in Guests 2:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Masks are mandatory. Members must have a valid 2021 membership and they may sign in 2 guests MAX.

Pokemon, Mtg: Youth Magic, Lorcana 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Sundays

Mountainview Church Sunday Service 9:30

AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch Anglican Worship Service 10:00 AM Christ Church Cathedral.

Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone Whitehorse United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM A caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00 PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition. Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.

Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church The Gathering (Anglican Indigenous Service) 5:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral A celebration of faith, reconciliation, and hospitality.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Tue Jul 15

Knee-high nature: Itty bitty bugs 10:00

AM Jim Light Park Bring your toddlers to explore itty bitty bugs around Whitehorse. Insects and arachnids are waiting for you to discover! yukon.ca/ wild-discoveries

Thu Jul 17 Neighbourhood Nature: McIntyre Creek 7:00 PM Pumphouse at Middle McIntyre Creek Experience the beauty of McIntyre Creek with a nature walk highlighting trails, wetlands, and local flora. yukon.ca/wild-discoveries

Sat Jul 19 Learn about Yukon Bumblebees 1:00

PM S.S. Klondike National Historic Site Learn about Yukon bumblebees on this special outing with Syd Cannings. Meet at the SS Klondike at 1 p.m. (2hrs).

Mon Jul 28 Neighbourhood Nature - Riverdale 7:00 PM Riverdale Subdivision – Whitehorse Explore the many small trails and the Yukon River and Fish Ladder where we will talk about the role the water plays in this ecosystem, and how much the area has changed over the years. yukon.ca/ wild-discoveries

Tue Jul 22 Knee-high Nature: Amazing Amphibians 10:00 AM Pumphouse at Middle McIntyre Creek Uncover the adaptations of Yukon wood frogs! Dive into knee-high nature activities perfect for toddlers and their caregivers. yukon.ca/ wild-discoveries

Tue Jul 22 Small Mammals On The Move 7:00 PM Chadburn Lake Learn about small boreal animals like lemmings and voles. Understand their importance in the boreal forest ecosystem today. yukon.ca/wilddiscoveries

Monthly

1st & 3rd Saturdays Grades 5 - 7 Junior Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church Passionate about giving kids opportunities to have fun & make new friends, while teaching them about Jesus & His great love for our world https://mountainview.church/ connect/youth

2nd and 4th Saturdays Grade 8 - 12 High School Youth Group 7:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https:// mountainview.church/connect/youth

Weekly

Tuesdays

Parent-Child Mother Goose 10:30 AM The Child Development Centre Celebrates the power and pleasure of songs, rhymes and oral stories. Bonding time with your little one or to learn for later. Wednesdays Community Connections 1:30 PM Yukon Family Literacy Centre An intergenerational story time

Thursdays

Monthly

Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa. yk.ca/coming-events/ First Monday Yukon Amateur Radio Association Monthly Meeting 7:00 PM EMO Building Discussion of club business. Prospective hams are welcome.

Third Thursday Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition Monthly Meeting 5:00 PM ZOOM Yukon AntiPoverty Coalition for regular meeting. Everyone is welcome. Call Kathy 334-9317 or info@yapc.ca for a zoom link or join us in person. https://yapc.ca/ actions/detail/yapcs-monthly-meetings

Third Thursday ASAY board monthly meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon

ONLINE EVENTS

Wed Jul 16 Yukon Food for Learning Association AGM 12:00 PM Online Call 633-5352 or email at executivedirector@yffla.ca for additional information and to register to attend this meeting. Everyone is welcome.

Tuesdays

Restorative Online Healing Circles 7:30 PM Online Check-in, Q&A, connect and feel the results. No experience necessary. Register online, or call 335-0078 or email alison@alisonzeidler.com for more info. Anglican Men’s Remote Chat 10:00 AM Zoom don_cheeseman@msn.com for the link. Regular churchgoer or just curious, this is a welcoming, nopressure time for conversation

AA Juste Pour Aujourd’hui

GATHER

GRASPING AT (CHEESE) STRAWS

In the hills near Invermere, the pasture sage was thick and plentiful, scattered across the meadows above the Columbia River, waving its yellow wand of flowers in the wind that came up the river valley

It was late June. A family wedding had taken my roommate and I to Fernie B.C., a stunning part of the world entirely new to me, though members of my family have lived there for several years. After a gorgeous week of parties, hikes, family rambles and a beautiful wedding ceremony, we took a sojourn in the Columbia River Valley. There we haunted ﬁrst the Radium and then the Fairmont hot springs, explored mountains and wetlands and swam in Windermere Lake three times in one day.

It was heavenly to get away, and yet part of me hankered for the Yukon. I wondered what plants and herbs were showing up in the woods, who was ﬂowering, who was going to seed. The sight of the pasture sage brought me, in imagination, to the edge of the clay cliffs in downtown Whitehorse, a favourite walk, and a favourite harvesting spot. Would the ﬂowers be in bloom when we got back?

Several species of sage grow in the Yukon, many of them so strongly ﬂavoured that they’re tricky to use in the kitchen. That said, I have made a fairly successful Absinthe with the bitter Artemesia tilesii, also known as wormwood, mugwort or stinkweed. It could be that the copious amounts of fennel and anise seed had something to do with that success.

Over the years I’ve found pasture sage, or Artemesia frigida, to be the only local sage mild enough to deliver a pleasing culinary experience—in stews, in mufﬁns or scones—even in ice cream.

The sharp, pungent ﬂavour, slightly reminiscent of mint, serves as an excellent foil for the rich, creamy tastes of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. I’ve always enjoyed those fancy boxes of twisty cheese straws, so I thought I’d give them a try. They’re a perfect whizzkid treat to pull out of the cupboard when someone drops by to hang out on the deck with a beverage.

You’ll need to experiment with how much or how little sage you like. I suggest starting with the suggested amounts, below, and ramping it up if you need to.

As always, when trying a wild food for the first time, be 100 percent sure of your identification, and eat small amounts at first, until you are sure you are

not allergic.

PS: the sage ﬂowers on the clay cliffs were not quite in bloom, but they are now!

CHEESE STRAWS OR TWISTS

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

• 6 oz cold, unsalted butter

• 3 oz ﬁnely-grated old cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)

• 2 oz ﬁnely-grated Parmesan (about ½ cup)

• 2 tsp dried pasture sage or 1Tbsp fresh, ﬁnely chopped

• 3 to 4 Tbsp cold milk

METHOD:

1. Preheat oven to 400F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the dough. By hand: Cut the cold butter into small dice and place in a mediumsized bowl. Pour flour over top. Rub butter and flour with the fingers until it’s the texture of coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter scattered throughout. In a food processor: combine flour and diced butter in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until mixture is the texture of coarse crumbs with scattered pea-sized pieces of butter. Transfer to a medium-sized bowl.

3. Add all the cheddar and half the Parmesan to the bowl of butter and ﬂour. Mix with a fork. Add 3 to 4 Tbsp of milk,

stirring with a fork, until a piece of dough clumps together when pinched with the ﬁngers.

4. Transfer the dough—it will be quite crumbly—to a sheet of parchment paper dusted with ﬂour. Press it with your hands into a rectangle of about 9 inches by 5 inches.

5. Working from the long side, fold the top third of the dough over, followed by the bottom third, as if you’re folding a letter in three.

6. Pat or roll the resulting rectangle out to 9 x 5 inches again and repeat the folds. (As you work, the dough will become less crumbly.) Wrap the dough in parchment and chill for 30 minutes.

7. Roll dough into a rectangle of about 12 x 9 inches and 3/8inch thick. Trim the rough edges and reserve the trimmings. Sprinkle the rectangle with most of the remaining Parmesan.

8. Working from the short side, cut dough into strips about 1/2-inch wide, placing each strip on the prepared baking sheets. To make twists, simply twist each strip of dough before laying it on the sheet.

9. Gather the trimmings into a clump, roll out again and cut into as many 1/2-inch wide strips as you can (don’t worry too much about the length).

10. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden and crispy. Eat warm or at room temperature, with a sparkly beverage. Store in a cookie tin in a cupboard—will keep for about one week. Heat the cheese straws on a baking sheet at 350F for 10 minutes, to perk them up again after a few days.

Makes about 24 cheese straws or twists. ■

Cheese straws

PHOTOS: Miche Genest

HELLO NEIGHBORS

BLUES BREWS

Soulful sounds ﬁll the summer air during the Skagway Arts Council’s Blues Brews & BBQ. The second of their summer concert series takes place Saturday, July 19 at Dedman Stage, Mile 1.7 Klondike Highway. Music starts at 5 pm and runs into the night. Headliner Badd Dog Blues Society will perform 2 sets. The ﬁrst at 5:45 pm for the early to bed

crowd and again at 9:30 pm for those who want to dance the night away.

JUNIOR RANGER MOVES TO THE DAHL

Thursday, July 31 is Junior Klondike Gold Rush National the Friends of the Klondike the festivities at the historic of 2nd & Main streets. Fun all ages explore our gold The event features ice cream hosted by the Skagway Fire Skagway Public Library.

Local Alaskan Beer on Tap and a Scrumptious Craft Cocktail Menu with Local Libations

The Cornhole Pit is waiting for you... Come in & Play! Corner of 4th Avenue and State St (907) 983-2238

PARTY WITH US ON JULY 19

BREWS & BBQ BRINGS BIKER TO

New this year, SAC is partnering with Chilkoot Pass Harley-Davidson for a motorcycle exhibit. A bike parade from the Harley shop at 7th & Broadway takes oﬀ for Seven Pastures at 4:30 pm AK time. Bikes will be on display starting at 5 pm at the Soccer ﬁeld just north of Dedman Stage.

DAY

DAHL HOUSE

No need to worry about dinner before heading to the festival. The Station Bar & Grill, Skagway’s longest operating year-round restaurant, is serving up mouthwatering morsels. Lucy’s bakery will have sweet treats available for those in need of a sugar boost. And it wouldn’t be Blues, Brews & BBQ without tasty beverages from the Skagway Brewing Company. The event includes kids activities, making it a great evening in the summer air for the whole family.

The event includes whole

Junior Ranger Day at Skagway’s National Historical Park! This year, Klondike Corridor are heading up historic Dahl house at the corner Fun ﬁlled activities help kids of gold rush history. cream making and activities Fire Department and the

A LAKE WITH A BIG-SKY VIBE

outdoors

During the 2024 paddle season, I celebrated my milestone 50th birthday by paddling over 50 Yukon lakes. Through the winter, I gathered insights and details about each lake, to create the 50 Lakes Yukon guidebook, which will soon be available in bookstores. As part of this summer series, I will be highlighting various Yukon lakes, each with its unique features and highlights. For those looking for a remote big-sky destination, Simpson Lake is a top pick.

Just an hour north of Watson Lake, Simpson Lake is a mediumsized body of water known for its beautiful ombre colours, shallow shorelines and wide-open sky. The lake lies within the Traditional Territory of the Kaska Dena. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, swans, waterbirds and nesting loons. Fishing is popular here, with opportunities to catch lake trout and a small population of whiteﬁsh. It is often quiet, and visiting in the peak of summer might grant you the entire lake to yourself—a perfect setting for a meandering paddle while enjoying the quiet, the birdlife and the big sky.

The south end of the lake can be easily accessed at the Simpson Lake Campground. The Yukon Government campground is well serviced with a boat launch, a dock,

Emerald waters around the

Hillside and mountain views in all directions

Simpson Lake has a big-sky vibe

wheelchair accessible camping and outhouse, playground and picnic shelter. There is access to the north end of the lake with a small parking space, but no boat launch and no services.

If you are looking to explore the lake, there are a couple of great options. From the campground, you can explore the southern bay or head north along the eastern shore to two small islands with plenty of birdlife. From the launch spot at the north end, head west past creek inlets into the shallow waters around the two islands. The vegetation is an ideal place to spot swans and pike.

Simpson Lake drains south into Tucho Tue (Frances River), which eventually ﬂows into the Liard River. To the west, you can see the Simpson Range, while the Pelly Mountains rise to the south and the Logan Mountains are visible to the northeast.

Simpson Lake makes a great remote getaway ideal for ﬁshing, wildlife viewing or just enjoying the backdrop of hillside and mountain views. Its big-sky vibe makes it a worthwhile destination for locals and travellers.

To get to Simpson Lake from Whitehorse, you’ll head south to Watson Lake. Always worth a stop in town for provisions, fuel and enjoying its great nearby lakes. From Watson Lake, you’ll head north for about an hour on the Robert Campbell Highway (Yukon Highway 4) for 81 kilometres. Turn west onto the Simpson Lake Campground road. This section of the highway is chip sealed. The distance from Whitehorse is 519 kilometres with a drive time of ﬁve hours and 40 minutes. ■

PHOTOS: Wendy Morrison

island

Simpson Lake marsh area at the north end of the lake

FREE CONCERT

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Mon Jul 14 Vinyasa Yoga with Meagan 6:00 PM Decora Expect to flow, pause, and explore—all in a vibrant green space that invites you to reset, recharge, and gently challenge your perceived limits. Includes mats, blocks, straps and complimentary tea.

Thu Jul 17-20 Dustball 2025 Pepsi Softball Centre Limited to 65 teamsplay or watch in the stands, lots of fun activities, concession open. https://www. softballyukon.com/

Fri Jul 18 - 20 Tennis Northern Cup Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre Tennis Fun under the Midnight Sun! An annual tennis tournament welcoming players from across the North! All participants are guaranteed two scheduled matches. https://tennisyukon.com/ Fri Jul 18-20 Volleyball Yukon Championship 2025 Whitehorse. Held at the VY Beach Courts https://volleyball. canada.sportsmanager

Fri Jul 18 Intro to Integrative Breathing

6:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A potent, safe and natural healing process which utilizes conscious breathing patterns to induce healing--physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Wed Jul 23 Slow Flow Yoga with Amber 6:00 PM Decora Slow Flow Yoga with Amber at Decora – gentle breath-led movement, deep holds, and grounding energy in a lush, plant-filled oasis.

Fri Jul 25 Yukon Party Golf Fore Change 1:00 PM Meadow Lakes Golf Club 9 holes of golf and a pig roast dinner by Takhini River Ranch, meet the candidates, and enjoy auctions, music and more! Email contact info@ yukonparty.ca for more info.

Sat Jul 26 PAR 3 Fundraiser - 2 Person Scramble 9:00 AM Mountain View Golf Club Support Mountain View Golf Club as we look to continue to make improvements to our facility.Every hole converted into a par 3, cash prizes on every hole, 9x hole-in-one prizes.

Sat Aug 2 Yukon

Elderactive Pilates level 1 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement

Babynastics with Coach Libby 10:30

AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A stimulating environment tailored to your child’s developmental needs. www. polarettes.org/babynastics

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40

AM Northern Lights School of Dance

Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!. http://cuts2.com/jiacg

Noon Strength & Conditioning 12:00

PM Northern Strength Academy

Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00 PM

Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement

Indoor Cycling 12:05 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days

Martial Arts 12:05 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Kids Muay Thai 4:45 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts KIDS MUAY THAI a dynamic and engaging martial art that can be traced to the middle of the 18th century. Open to ages 8 - 12.

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

Northern Strength Academy

Ladies Kickboxing 6:00 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Tuesdays

Strength for Endurance 6:00 AM

Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.

Lifting for Longevity 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Specifically designed for the retired population, but open to anyone.

Yoga with Barbara 10:00 AM Whitehorse United Church Drop-in, no registration required, everyone is welcome. Call 3351996 for more info.

Strength for Endurance 12:00 PM

Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Strength & Conditioning 1:00PM

Northern Strength Academy

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Indoor Cycling 5:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM Takhini

Elementary Whitehorse Archery is a nonprofit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. whitehorsearchery.com/ schedule

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Wednesdays

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/ Morning Strength & Conditioning

7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00 AM

Canada Games Centre Yukon Elderactive has the Flexihall is Booked for you! Some activities get your heart pumping, while others get your mind engaged

Elderactive Pilates level 1 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement

Keep Fit 10:00 AM Church of the Northern Apostles Come stretch and breathe with us - only $5.00

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40

AM Northern Lights School of Dance

Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!. http://cuts2.com/jiacg

Noon Strength & Conditioning

12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00

PM Northern Lights School of Dance

Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement!

Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Elderactive Intermediate Hiking 1:00

PM ElderActive Recreation Association

Leisure Walking is similar to Nordic walking but is suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multi-joint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Indoor Range Night 7:00 PM Whitehorse

Rifle and Pistol Club

Muay Thai Kickboxing 7:45 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay

Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Thursdays

Strength for Endurance 6:00 AM

Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels

Winter Power Hour Series 6:00 AM

BrittyFit 95 Lewes Blvd Ignite your fitness regime in 50 minutes with Brittyfit

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Ladies Lift 7:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.

Lifting for Longevity 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

Strength for Endurance 12:00 PM

Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling 12:05 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts

Strength & Conditioning 1:00 PM

Northern Strength Academy

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts

Ladies Lift 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts

Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM Takhini

Elementary Whitehorse Archery is a nonprofit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www.whitehorsearchery. com/schedule

No-GiJiu Jitsu 7:00 PM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Fridays

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Indoor Cycling 6:30 AM Northern

Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Morning Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Strength & Conditioning 12:00 PM

Northern Strength Academy

Muay Thai Kickboxing 12:05 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts The art of 8 limbs, Muay

Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 4:45 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

Northern Strength Academy

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 PM Eight

Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Saturdays

Ladies Lift 9:00 AM Northern Strength Academy opportunities for women to find community, learn to lift, improve performance, and build strength.

Strength & Conditioning 10:00 AM

Northern Strength Academy

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling 11:00 AM Eight

Days Martial Arts

Open Mat 12:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

WELLNESS LISTINGS

Wed Jul 16 Pet Loss Group 6:00 PM

Location TBA After Pre-Registration An evening of connecting with others who are grieving a pet loss - Make a memory ornament in honor of your special pet. https://hospiceyukon.net/en/2025/06/19/ pet-loss/

Wed Jul 23 Herbal Plant Walk 7:00 PM Chadburn Lake Embark on an herbal exploration with Beverley Gray. Learn about local wild plants and their health benefits in this workshop. yukon.ca/wilddiscoveries

Tues Jul 29 Free Hypnobirthing Info

Session 6:30 PM 308 Wood Street A down-to-earth, informative session to learn how your mind, body, and environment can work together for a smoother, more confident birthing experience. https://www. embodiedbirth.ca/events/

Elder and Counselor available

Emotional and Spiritual support, free to Indigenous women, girls, 2 spirited in Yukon, Northern BC: Phone, video appointments or in person. Call Toll Free 866 667 6162 or visit www.yawc.ca for info.

Monthly

Every other Tuesday Sharing Circle 12:00 PM Old Justice Building KDFN Every other Tuesday for recovery focused sharing circles. Connect, share challenges and gains, and access support and wisdom. Snacks and refreshments served. whatsupyukon.events/4en

Mondays

Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House Infant Feeding Mondays 1:00 PM Yukon Midwifery Program - Yukon Health and Social Services

AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509

Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

AA New Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Sacred Heart - Rear Entrancebasement

Tuesdays

Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 6:00

PM 100 25 Firth Rd Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-3341725 for more details

AA Happy Hour Ladies Group (W, A) 6:15 PM Inclusion Yukon

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or Zoom ID 251 363 5766 no passcode or by phone 1-778-907-2071

Wednesdays

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00

AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details

VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.

Community Kitchen 11:30 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House (Back Entrance)

Al-Anon 12:00 PM 407 Black Street,

downstairs Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

AA No Puffin (C, A) 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

AA Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00

PM Our Lady of Victory

Thursdays

Sally and Sisters 11:00 AM Salvation

Army 311 Black St Yukon Aboriginal Women’s Council A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM

305 Wood St. Captain Martin House (Back Entrance)

Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or Zoom ID 251 363 5766 no passcode or by phone 1-778907-2071

Fridays

Moth & Flame - Bright Light Morning

Meditation Series 9:00 AM Queer Yukon Society - The Cache

AA Morning Joe Group (C, A) 11:00 AM Inclusion Yukon

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House (Back Entrance)

VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! DropIn. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and shower access.

Community Kitchen 5:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children.

Clayton’s CAR CARE Tips

If you sense your car drifts or pulls to one side, you could have a wheel alignment problem. The alignment of your vehicle’s wheels can affect the way it handles. Your car may drive fine, but when you look at your tires, you may notice that they are wearing. Your steering wheel could also feel not centred. Our team of professionals can align your wheels by placing your vehicle on a wheel alignment machine. This machine uses laser guided measurements to allow our mechanic to set and adjust the suspension components back to the factory specifications. You can prevent the impact of wear and tear on your tires, reduce pulling and feel confident in a safer drive.

BRINGING PUPPETRY TO OSAKA, JAPAN

Yukon’s Open Pit Theatre troupe is one of two theatre productions in EXPO 2025’s

Canadian delegation

Open Pit Theatre’s Radio Silence is a puppetry theatre show created in the Yukon and featuring original artwork by Rosemary Scanlon and Vashti Etzel, with original music by Calla Kinglit. Local performers Geneviève Doyon and Brian Fidler are joined in the production by former Yukoner Jessica Hickman, who now lives in Victoria, B.C. The company was ﬁrst invited to present the show at Montreal’s Festival international de Casteliers, a renowned puppet festival, and from there was scouted and selected for Osaka, Japan’s EXPO 2025.

“We were thrilled and happy, and it’s obviously very exciting,” says Doyon. “But then, as the Canadian Pavilion was built, we realized our high-tech show wasn’t going to ﬁt, but we were committed to go, so we’re creating a brandnew show with the same puppets and the same masks and a lot of the same production design. It’s like a spinoff version that is more tourable and more compact.”

Originally dubbing the redesign Radio Silence 2.0, the production team set to work reimagining the show. The visuals and the set design are key elements of the show and were what piqued the interest of the EXPO programmers in the ﬁrst place.

“All of the elements are very aesthetically pleasing,” Doyon says. “It’s deeply rooted in the

North and in that landscape and the animal world, and it’s non-verbal. That was something that was really appealing to EXPO because the Canadian delegation has only two theatre pieces and they really wanted it to be accessible. We didn’t make the show for kids, but it’s deﬁnitely suited for all ages.”

Since Doyon and her team had already spent years crafting the show and its puppets, masks and set pieces, they were intent to keep as much as possible. The new version essentially features mini vignettes of the characters and places seen in the original, to make for a pocket-sized pop-up presentation.

Some of the characters in the play are a female bush pilot in the Yukon, said to be the ﬁrst female bush pilot in the territory, and a

in the 1920s and 1940s, focusing on the story of two sisters who have drifted apart but attempt to reconnect as one goes in search of the other after a plane crash.

“This new version … it’s almost closer to street performance because it’s EXPO, so people are wandering in and out,” says Doyon. “We didn’t want to get tied too much to a linear narrative that they would need to follow in order to understand what was going on.”

Open Pit Theatre is a company that focuses primarily on creating new theatre pieces, and Doyon goes as far as to say she has “zero interest” in adapting stageplays that others have written and performed before.

“We always create from

scratch,” she says. “I would say Radio Silence almost came out of our previous show.”

Busted Up: A Yukon Story, the previous show in question, had 33 characters with stories made from interviews Doyon had collected around the territory. It was heavy on word use, and Doyon said the team wanted to go the opposite

tory that in that huge delegation, with some huge names like Jeremy Dutcher; there’s Diyet, and one of the two plays in the whole Canadian delegation is a Yukon play,” says Doyon. “It’s pretty cool. I think it speaks volumes to the quality of work that comes out of our small territory.

“On a personal level, I’m so

route for their next show and tell a story with their bodies and visual art, instead of through dialogue and verbal narration.

“We just wanted to do a threesixty and try something completely different, which was to make a play that had no words,” she says. “How far can we go in our storytelling without saying a single word?”

When Doyon was ﬁrst asked to take a call to discuss an opportunity, she had no idea it was for EXPO 2025. Her jaw dropped and she had to ask for the information to be repeated, she recalls.

“I just couldn’t believe it,” she says. “It was so surreal and exciting.”

Open Pit Theatre joins Diyet & the Love Soldiers as the creatives representing the Yukon at EXPO 2025.

“I’m super proud of our terri-

excited because I know I’m going to be completely out of my comfort zone and I’m going to encounter people from countries that I wouldn’t otherwise,” says Doyon. “I can’t even quite fathom it.”

The Open Pit Theatre will present two shows a day on the main stage of EXPO 2025’s Canadian Pavilion from Aug. 18 to 23. EXPO 2025 is a World Expo event that started in April and runs until October. Osaka also hosted the World Expo in 1970, making this the second time the city has welcomed international innovators to show off their craft on a global stage. ■

fox who narrates the show without speaking. The show demonstrates what life was like in the North

 A massive caribou puppet playing a role with a human puppet

PHOTO: Mike Thomas

PHOTO:

2025

YUKON SUMMER MUSIC CAMP CONCERT SERIES

2025 Noon Hour Performance Series

@The Pit Yukon University Foyer

12:10–12:50 PM

Monday July 21–Friday July 25, 2025

Camp-Wide Community Showcase

@ Yukon Arts Centre Mainstage

10 AM–12 PM | Saturday July 26

Enjoy a variety of performances by talented musicians from our community and across Canada, held at the ‘The Pit” in the foyer of Yukon University and Yukon Arts Centre!

Concert Series Details:

Daily free noon-hour concerts at The Pit (Yukon University), featuring Juno-award-winning guest artists alongside local Yukon music legends.

Delicious food trucks

Azhong Noodles and Smashed YXY, —serving up tasty meals daily 11 AM–2 PM at the Yukon Arts Centre.

Daily prize giveaways To add to all the fun!

Special Bonus! A free Saturday, July 26 showcase concert from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Yukon Arts Centre, including a silent auction and exciting prizes.

Join us for an exciting week of live music and community fun — only at the Yukon Summer Music Camp!

ATLIN

Fri Jul 11 - 14 2025 Atlin Arts and Music Festival

Tarahne Park The Atlin Arts and Music Festival is BACK! On stages around Atlin, including the main stage at Tarahne Park and the historic Globe Theatre atlinfest.ca/

Sat Jul 19 2025 Mini Concert Series - Dan Chic

Duo 7:30 PM Atlin BC Globe Theatre Join us for this concert mini series this week Dan Chic DuoMulti Instruments. Email exploreatlinsales@gmail. com for more info.

Sundays

St. Martins Anglican Church Sunday Service

10:00 AM St. Martins Anglican Church 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome. Atlin Christian Assembly 11:00 AM St. Atlin Christian Centre 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.

Mondays

Caregiver & Tot Drop-in 10:00 AM Atlin Recreation Centre This is an unstructured hour for You and your Littles to get social and run wild. This IS NOT a drop off, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Call or email 993-4102 atlinarc.coordinator@gmail. com for more info.

Yukon Communities:

Wednesdays AA Yukon Unity (OM) 3:00 PM Online Yukon Health Centers, Live Video Meeting Beaver Creek, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Old Crow, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, Watson Lake. Online users’ sign in info: yukonbcdistrict52@ gmail.com

CARCROSS

Sat Jul 26 Camino gathering, Celebrating St. James Day 3:30 PM Carcross Learn how to wear a backpack for the greatest comfort when walking long distances. Bring a tapa or appetizer to share and whatever you would like to drink. Call 668-1047 or email yukon@santiago.ca

Sat Aug 23 Fly-In to Carcross and meet with Klondike Cruisers classic cars 11:00 AM Carcross

Second Sunday of Every Month St. Saviour’s Church Services 2:00 pm St. Saviour Church 867668-3129

First Friday of the month Mother Goose Group 11:00 AM Haa Shagóon Hídi (Our Ancestors House) Carcross/Tagish Learning Centre Learn stories, songs, and rhymes, lunch provided. Suitable for babies and children 5 and under. Please bring along a water bottle and blanket to sit on. To register, call 332-2389. https://whatsupyukon.events/jwf Wednesdays Yoga with Richard Mueller 12:00 PM Carcross Firehall Free for everyone some fitness required. Thursdays Yoga with Jess Ghùch Tlâ Community School Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. Drop-in, Free admission! For more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.

CARMACKS

Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: Sunshine Restaurant Carmacks Rec Centre CDC / CIBC Bank Tatchun Center General Store

Sat

HAINES Alaska

July 31-Aug 3 Southeast Alaska State Fair. From our Logging Show, to the Fishermen’s Rodeo, to the Wearable Art Review – there’s something for everyone in our communities to take part in! seakfair. org

HAINES JUNCTION

Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: • Little Green Apple Fri Jul 18 Summer Music Series - Crooked Folk 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli A delicious grilled dinner while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical and much more! https://www. villagebakeryyukon.com/live-music.html Sat Jul 19 Summer Music Series - The Compassion Pills 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli Sun Jul 20 Indigenous Summer Play ReadingsJordan 12:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli Join Gwaandak Indigenous Summer Play Readings this July in Haines Junction. Experience new scripts and free admission. https://www.gwaandaktheatre.ca/ indigenous-summer-play-readings-2025

Sun Jul 20 Indigenous Summer Play ReadingsThe Spirit of the Valley 1:30 PM Village Bakery and Deli Join us for the ISPR Spirit of the Valley reading in Haines Junction. Admission is free for this exciting Indigenous theater event. https://www. gwaandaktheatre.ca/indigenous-summer-playreadings-2025

Sun Jul 20 Pine Lake Triathlon Pine Lake Leaving from Pine Lake/Tsi Man beach for a 1km swim, 23km bike ride and 6km run. Open to all! Email runemonstad@gmail.com for questions. https:// raceroster.com/events/2025/105714/pine-laketriathlon Fri Jul 25 Summer Music Series - Caleb Tomlinson 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli A delicious grilled dinner while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical and much more! https://www.villagebakeryyukon.com/live-music.html Sat Jul 26 YWIM 2025 Cook Shack Sessions 2025 11:00 AM Congdon Creek Campsite Free family friendly music events. Everyone - all agesWelcome! Music workshops and live concerts + jam sessions! Sat Jul 26 Summer Music Series - The Band She 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli Sat Jul 26 YWIM 2025 Cook Shack Sessions 2025 6:00 PM Congdon Creek Campsite Free family friendly music events. Everyone - all agesWelcome! Music workshops and live concerts + jam sessions!

Fri Aug 8 – 10 Augusto Children’s Festival St. Elias Convention Centre Yukon’s first dedicated art and music festival for children, this year featuring Claire Ness, Magician Travis Bernhardt, The Great Balanzo! https://www.augustokids.ca/

Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre Village Council meetings are also held the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. [Remote attendance only]

Mondays

Fun with Food 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Learn new skills, share recipes and take food home! Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Tuesdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers. Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00 PM https:// whatsupyukon.events/tea-bannock-68ab07

Men’s and women’s sewing group 1:00 PM Mun kų BGC Game Night 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Play, have fun, build skills and challenge your friends

Wednesdays

Seniors and Elders Refreshments and Games

2:00 PM Haines Junction Seniors Residence

AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 3:00 PM Haines

Junction Health Centre

Girls Club 3:20 PM St. Elias Community School

Held in the art room, open to Girls and identifying as Girls from Grade 8 to 12.

BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Haines Junction Hoobeedoo 6:30 PM The Mezzanine

Thursdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/caregivers. Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group.

Adult Volleyball 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Fridays Stories and STEM Activities 10:00 AM Haines

Junction Library AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:30 PM Haines Junction Health Centre

Saturdays AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre

Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30 AM St. Christopher’s Church Anglican Church Service at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican.yukon.net/services.html AA: “Yukon Unity Group” (O) 1:00 PM Haines Junction Health Centre

KENO CITY

Fri, Aug 1-2 Keno City Music Festival The Keno City Music Festival is a grassroots and free event aiming to unite music enthusiasts in the historic silver mining town of Keno City

MARSH LAKE

Last Wednesday of every month MLCS board meeting 7:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Tuesdays Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre Yoga with Richard Mueller 5:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre Free for everyone some fitness required.

Wednesdays South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre Thursdays Shufﬂeboard 6:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Fridays Beginner Yoga 10:00 AM

online (Facebook Live)

Welcome Wednesday Supper and Games 6:00

PM St Paul’s Anglican Church QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office

Screen Printing Drop-in 6:00 PM Klondike

Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Self-guided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with screen printing.

Dawson City Disc Golf League 8:00 PM Crocus Bluff Disc Golf Course simple, welcoming league for all skill levels

Thursdays CDC Toddler Program 10:00 AM Klondike Institute of Arts & Culture KIAC

Mike Linder is a writer whose heart remains in the Yukon, while his feet continually carry him to places unknown.

YEE WDUWA.ÉEX’ (YOU ARE ALL INVITED!)

The Carcross/ Tagish First Nation is bridging the past with the future

“Haa Léelk’w Hás Jooníx Wutusitee.”

(We are our Ancestors’ dreams!)

Tagish and Tlingit Peoples have been coming together in the place we now call Carcross, for longer than history has been recorded. Items crafted by Indigenous Peoples, almost 5,000 years ago, show that it was a ﬁshing and hunting camp.

But this place has existed much longer and has a deeper and more spiritual signiﬁcance.

“Summertime was the gathering time, along the big lakes, for the Peoples of southern Yukon and Northern B.C., when our food stocks were at their highest,” says Nicole Welin, coordinator for this year’s Haa Ḵusteeyí. “Our people would celebrate making it through the winter.”

And the drums are beating once again, summoning Wolf and Raven Clans from across their Traditional Lands. They are coming together to reconnect, challenge one another and share their unique culture with others who want to learn.

“The celebration is to promote and preserve the language and culture of the Tagish and Tlingit People.” Welin says it is an important time for her people. “We are losing a lot of our Elders and Knowledge Keepers. We need the younger generations to become involved with their language and culture.”

The Haa Ḵusteeyí runs from July 24 to 27. The name of the four-day event translates to “Our way of life” and it will showcase an array of skills, talent and knowledge.

“It is really about bringing together family and friends to celebrate our heritage,” Welin says, “but everyone is welcome.”

There will be opportunities to watch some of the territory’s most-skilled canoeists race across the water, while strength is highlighted in the tug-of-war battle held with a river in the middle. Stay dry, if you can! Other competitions feature the Tea and Bannock Competition and the ﬂashing blades of those seeking fame for

their fish-filleting finesse.

Ever had soapberry ice cream?

Soapberries are pretty bitter, as a rule, although sometimes a frost brings a hint of sweetness. But when processed the right way, they create a foam that talented country chefs can whip into a dessert dish to die for.

Demonstrations will include weaving in the cedar and Chilkat styles—traditional methods for tanning hides and showing how the animal skins can also be used for making boats.

While these Cultural Traditions can be an education in themselves, those wanting to be handson and to learn a skill will have some interesting choices. Workshops are planned for beading projects, tufting and drum making. There will also be opportunities to learn the cedar-weaving skills on display or to learn how to keep your toes toasty this winter if you choose to learn to make your own moccasins.

And yet, the entertainment might overshadow everything else. Friday will feature the Indigenous Fashion Show, which will bring together designers and models from all over the Yukon. Saturday will feature the All Indigenous Showcase, which will include performances by different musicians, bands, hip-hop artists, singers and writers. On the main stage there will be performances by traditional-style dance groups from around the Yukon, as well as from Alaska and Northern B.C. Expect to see some dazzling tattoo artists at work.

There will be food on-site, as well as people selling Traditional Crafts—beading, jewellery, and skin and hair products made from

natural ingredients.

Each of the three nights will end with a community feast that is open to everyone. There will also be entertainment and a Blanket Dance (providing an opportunity to contribute to the costs of the event).

The Haa Ḵusteeyí moves between different communities within the Traditional Lands and, as this year’s host, Carcross is preparing for Peoples coming from Teslin, Haines Junction, Atlin, Haines, Kwanlin Dün, and beyond. Many will arrive in the lagoon, paddling the dugout canoes that propelled their Ancestors through the complex river systems that stretch to the Alaska Coast.

The gathering is not only a celebration but is also a forum to reinforce the hard-won right to chart an independent path for the future. The ﬁrst night will feature a Hand Warming Ceremony at which the self-governing First Nations leaders will address the membership.

Singing and celebrating at the 2023

Black Wolf Bistro

The Haa Ḵusteeyí is about strengthening the bonds—linguistic, cultural, familial, political and aspirational—that will carry the First Nations into the future.

“It means we are on the right path, bringing our language and culture with us in as good a way as we can,” Welin says.

The Ancestors’ dreams do live on, it seems, in the hearts and minds of the Tagish and Tlingit Peoples gathering, this month, where the two lakes meet, at the place we now call Carcross. ■

 Traditions that have been passed on through generations

PHOTOS: Courtesy of C/TFN

Freelance with Mike Linder

Indigenous Peoples in Traditional Regalia, gathering during the Drummers’ song

C/TFN Citizens paddling in a Traditional dugout canoe

 Drummer in Traditional Regalia

Haa Ḵusteeyí 

AUGUST 6

We invite Businesses and Organizations around Whitehorse to join in on this city-wide Lemonade Stand Competition from 11:00am-2:00pm on Wednesday, August 6, 2025

All lemonade stands participating offer their lemonade by donation, and some choose to also include additional draws such as treats, baked goods or a bbq.

All proceeds from The Big Squeeze stay in Yukon to support our agency’s proactive mentoring programs!

THE RULES:

• Big Brothers Big Sisters will provide your team with lemons and pitchers (if required) the Monday before the event. Teams can add anything (non-alcoholic) to their lemonade.

• The agency will promote all locations (which can be indoors or outdoors) that lemonade will be available. You can do additional promotions for your team; it’s encouraged!

• Teams can raise additional funds at their stand by collecting donations, having a bake sale or anything else that is legal and your imagination can come up with. These additional fundraising efforts will go towards your total.

• Lemonade is sold between 11:00am-2:00pm. No lemonade sales (or other fundraising) done before 11:00am, or after 2:00pm will be eligible to be added to your total sales.

• Pledge sheets will be provided to collect information for those who would like a tax receipt.

• Our “celebrity” guest taste testers, along with Big Brothers Big Sisters reps, will be acting as judges and will be coming to each lemonade stand during the sale period to do a taste test. These judges will award the coveted Big Squeeze trophy at the end of the day. Points will be awarded for taste and appearance! There will also be an award for top fundraising lemonade stand.

• Staff members from Big Brothers Big Sisters will be at your location between 2:00pm-3:00pm to pick up the money raised and any remaining supplies.