What's Up Yukon, March 12, 2025 by What's Up Yukon

PHOTO: Simon Blakesley Photography

Freelance with Angela

Angela Szymczuk is a freelance writer who has contributed many articles to What’s Up Yukon over the years.

HOCKEY, HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY ON ICE

Get ready for the 45th Annual Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament

ity and talent development, the tournament features multiple divisions, making it accessible to players of all skill levels and ages:

• A Division (Competitive): Elite teams showcasing high-intensity play and top-tier hockey skills.

act fast! “Registration opened up on February 4 of this year, and all team spots were filled within an hour,” says Dawson-Beatie. That’s a testament to the popularity and prestige of this tournament — teams are eager to be part of the action!

• B Division (Recreational): Perfect for those who love spirited competition without the high stakes.

H• C Division (Community): A fun, camaraderie-driven division ideal for community teams and newcomers.

But don’t worry. Whether you’re on the ice or in the stands, there’s plenty to enjoy.

ockey fans, mark your calendars. From March 20 to 23, Whitehorse will come alive with the fast-paced action, community spirit and cultural pride of the 45th Annual Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament.

Teams from across Yukon, British Columbia and the Northwest Territories will hit the ice for a thrilling weekend of competition and connection.

• Old Timers Division: A fan favorite, where seasoned players bring experience to the ice.

While the on-ice battles take centre stage, this tournament is about much more than just the game. Spectators and participants can look forward to opening ceremonies, community gatherings, awards and prizes.

“Planning will start in October or November. And the ice time has to be booked a year in advance. Medals also have to be ordered almost a year in advance,” Dawson-Beatie explains.

“I am very excited about the tournament because it brings together our neighbours, it celebrates hockey and Indigenous culture, and you get to see people that you may not always see,” says Michelle Dawson-Beatie, President of the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association.

“From securing sponsorships to coordinating team logistics, every detail is meticulously thought out to make the tournament a seamless and unforgettable experience.”

Since its launch in 1977, the Yukon Native Hockey Tournament has grown from a local gathering into a highly-anticipated annual event, drawing players and fans from all over. It’s more than just hockey — it’s a celebration of Indigenous culture, sportsmanship, and community unity.

“For 45 years, this tournament has given Indigenous hockey players an opportunity to compete at different levels,” Dawson-Beatie adds.

With a strong focus on inclusiv-

• Women’s Division: Celebrating the rise of women’s hockey with fast-paced, exciting matchups.

• Youth Division: The future stars of Indigenous hockey take centre stage, bringing passion and promise.

If you’re hoping to play in next year’s tournaments, remember to

Whether you’re lacing up your skates, cheering from the stands, or simply soaking up the energy of the event, the Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament is not to be missed. The official tournament schedule draw took place on March 6, so keep an eye out for matchups and game times!

For the latest updates, ticket info, and volunteer opportunities, visit the official Yukon First Nations Hockey Association website. See you at the rink! n

Szymczuk

PHOTO: Yukon First Nations Hockey Association

After four decades with Air North, Joe Sparling still loves what he does

When you look around Joe Sparling’s office at the Air North administration building, it’s hard to miss his connection to aviation.

From the many photos of aircraft and paintings of past commercial jets, to the historical news story of the crash of the Queen of the Yukon framed on the office wall, to a large collection of model airliners scattered over desks and bookshelves: the place is full of history.

When I met Joe, I was greeted with a smile and firm handshake, and promptly informed he hadn’t had a chance to eat anything yet, and joked that he’d probably be more conversational and less cranky if he had some food.

Thankfully Joe’s wife and longtime Air North matriarch Deb, is nearby and offers to get him some sustenance so he can keep motoring along.

Soon we are sitting in a pair of supremely comfortable brown leather chairs, among all that aviation memorabilia. With a hot cup of what looks like chilli in Joe’s hands, we continue our interview.

As the president of Air North, Yukon’s Airline, Joe has made a lit-

AVERAGE PILOT

tle history himself. The company is celebrating its 48th year in business in 2025 and from its humble, regional roots to the much-loved and respected commercial airline company it is today, Joe has been at the helm — or more accurately in the cockpit — piloting Air North to new heights.

As a young man, recently arrived in the Yukon in the summer

of 1968 via an old 1952 Morris Minor and traversing the famed Alaska highway (all gravel back then by the way), Joe visited family (his grandfather came here during the Gold Rush) and decided to acquire his private pilot’s licence.

After returning south to complete university, he immediately began pursuing his commercial licence. He found himself back

in the Yukon again in the summer of 1969. He said the plan was originally to spend just one year in the territory and then move on to other things.

“I’m still here,” he said.

Once back in the Yukon he bought his own small plane to log his hours, and he and a friend, Love

Where You Live

PHOTO: Simon Blakesley Photography

Cheesy Jalapeño &

Freelance with Sam Holloway

Sam Holloway is a widower who alternates between his cabins at Marsh Lake and Ross River.

WORLD’S BIGGEST WEATHERVANE

The Douglas DC-3, first built in 1939

You can see this one by the Yukon Transportation Museum near the Whitehorse Airport.

Said to be the world’s biggest weathervane, the old DC-3 on its pivot at the Whitehorse airport has quite a story.

My own affection for the workhorse of northern skies goes back to the early 1970s. I flew in DC-3’s all over the Arctic as a travelling technician for the Northern Canada Power Commission.

My most memorable flight was across the Foxe Basin in the Eastern Arctic when the ceiling of the DC-3 caught fire. We threw open the cargo doors to let the smoke out and landed safely at Hall Beach. The old “gooney bird” could always get you there no matter what happened.

On that flight there happened to be six female school teachers returning from a conference. My ears ring yet with the sound of their screaming as the pilot dove the plane looking for a place to land, while smoke billowed through the cabin and the co-pilot and I tore at the ceiling to get to the fire.

A DC-3 clipped a mountain and tore off four feet of wing at Nanisivik. Of course it flew back to Resolute Bay with no further mishaps. I was not on that flight.

New stewardesses (if we had one) sometimes got the chance to save us all. The pilot would pre-

tend he couldn’t get his wheels down and she had to jump up and down at a certain spot on the floor while the rest of us yelled in unison, “Jump! Jump! Jump!”

The wheels suddenly clacked down and we cheered for the proud, smiling stewardess.

The DC-3 at the Whitehorse airport started life in 1942, wearing the camouflage colours of the American Air Force during World

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War II. It flew transport missions to India and China and at the end of the war was sold to Grant McConachie’s new company, Canadian Pacific Airlines. She was converted for passenger service and flew all over Canada until the mid-1950s when she was sent to the Yukon. The company had upgraded its southern aircraft to new models and the old DC-3 wound up in the North, as so many of them did. (The story of Grant McConachie and his original company, Yukon Southern Airways, will be told in another volume.)

Until 1960, the CF-CPY, as it was designated by Transport Canada, flew the WhitehorseMayo-Dawson run and then it was sold to Connolly-Dawson Airways in Dawson City.

For the next six years she worked hard as a bush plane on wheels and skis, hauling freight to Old Crow and for oil exploration companies in the Eagle Plains district of the Yukon.

Sold again in 1966, the old DC-3 worked for Great Northern Airways in Whitehorse on scheduled and charter runs. She made her last flight in November, 1970.

In 1977, the Yukon Flying Club started the project you see now. Local businesses and some government departments made contributions to the cause.

The plane was painted with the original Canadian Pacific colours and in 1981 mounted on its single pivot. This was an incredible engineering feat for which much of the credit goes to Ed Jacobs of Jacobs Machine Shop in Whitehorse. Queries came in from all over the world, asking how he did it. n

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.

The graceful lady is Heather Steinhagen

PHOTOS: Sam Holloway

Ed Jacobs of Jacobs Machine Shop, Whitehorse

HARDWATER RACING

This year’s annual hardwater snowmobile races take place March 15-16 on Pine Like in Haines Junction

Every March, Yukon Hardwater Racing hosts a weekend-long racing event with people coming from all over to spectate and take part in the excitement. It’s a favourite winter event for Yukoners eager to get outside and brave the cold for a weekend of unique northern fun.

“It’s a family-oriented event, so we have kids races, adult races, women’s races and something for everyone,” says Yukon Hardwater Racing founder Cory Magnuson. “The big driver there is to get everyone involved.”

In addition to the races on March 15-16, the weekend will include fundraisers for local beneficiaries such as the Haines Junction graduating class, minor hockey and the Haines Junction Junior Ranger Patrol.

Four years ago, Magnuson and some other avid snowmobilers had the idea to bring back an event similar to the Pine Lake 150 races, which ended in the early 1990s.

“It ran for 12 to 15 years in the ’80s and ’90s,” says Magnuson. “We kind of resurrected that idea and shaped it into a more familyoriented model.”

The Saturday will kick off with kids’ races before moving onto cross-country lake racing, which Magnuson says is consistently the biggest spectator sport of the weekend. Around 40 racers take part across a few different categories, with a couple of hundred people watching each year.

The day’s races will be followed by an awards presentation

and banquet dinner at the Haines Junction Convention Centre, with live music by Yukon Jack.

“The St. Elias Lions Club gets involved with that and they help us with the evening, taking over the fundraising aspect of that,” says Magnuson. “It’s a pretty good evening party.”

The main event of the Sunday is drag-racing across the water, which Magnuson encourages spectators to stick around to watch as

well.

Magnuson was born and raised in the Junction and grew up snowmobiling. During the pandemic, he was glad to still be able to practise the sport when large indoor gatherings were not allowed.

Together with his friend, Wade Istchenko, Magnuson decided hosting an outdoor event with social-distancing measures in place would be a good way to get people out of the house and doing

p Racers in the adult crosscountry race at the 2024 Yukon Hardwater Racing events

t The hardwater races are familyfriendly, with races for kids taking place the first morning of the events

something active.

“The first year we ran it during Covid, with the full regulations in effect. That was a little bit tricky, but we were able to do it with that much space out on the lake, and that went off with a bang,” Magnuson says.

“It kind of grew from there, and it’s a bit of a growing monster now. It’s awesome.”

As Magnuson puts it. The nowannual event simply came from a couple of guys with a love for their sport and a desire to drum up some community spirit and let people enjoy the things they enjoy.

“There’s something for every-

one, and we’ve tailored the aspects and the rules of the races to make it so it’s very affordable, right down to anyone being able to find a snowmobile in their backyard, fire it up and come out and race that day,” Magnuson says.

“We’ve eliminated some of the things that are more in the pro aspect of racing, like banning expensive studs and stuff like that to keep the race all on one level playing field so someone with a hundred bucks or 20,000 bucks are on the same paying field.”

Magnuson says he doesn’t remember a time in his life when he wasn’t interested in snowmobiling, as he grew up riding with family and friends through elementary and high school, never losing interest in the sport.

“We kind of had a lot more freedom growing up in Haines Junction,” he says. “We rode our snowmobiles to school some days in high school, and that was cool, right? That led to big riding groups, summits and snowmobile trips all over western Canada and Alaska.”

Taking part in snowmobile events in other northern regions and seeing how much support they were getting instilled a desire in Magnuson to be able to bring something like that to his hometown.

“We just decided to host something here where everyone can come out and check it out and hopefully get involved in something different, or stick with something they were thinking of not sticking with,” he says.

Magnuson notes that a lot of work goes into hosting something like the hardwater races, and he isn’t working alone.

“I’m excited that there’s this much interest, and thank the volunteers and sponsors and players who continue to support and come out and help us,” he says. “It’s incredible, and it can’t happen without them.” n

Manus Hopkins is a Toronto- and Whitehorse-based journalist, musician and lover of heavy metal and cats.

THE CHARMS OF CHOCOLATE

YTYP brings a new take on a famous story

ukoners are in for a treat.

YOr they will be, assuming the Yukon Theatre for Young People (YTYP) gets the recipe right, and delivers a confection that promises to tickle the tastebuds of ticket holders. And the entertainment will not only enthrall the epicurean elite, for who among us is not cheered by the charms of chocolate?

A little patience now, while the ingredients simmer. The theatre’s next mainstage production, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will run from June 19-22.

The show is an updated version of Roald Dahl’s famous novel, which was penned in 1964 and made into a classic film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, released in 1971. A newer version in 2005 reverted to the original title.

Whitehorse actor and playwright Brandon Wicke is directing. He says the revised script is one

that connects a timeless story to a new generation.

“The skeleton is the same, but it is very cool to see the ways it has evolved. Your devices, your screen time, some catchy new songs, they’re all ways to make it relevant to young people today.”

He sees the production of a musical, with a huge cast as a gift to both the actors and the community; very few theatre companies have the resources to mount performances on this scale, usually associated with Broadway or London’s West End.

But a partnership with the Yukon Arts Centre and the determination and commitment of those involved make it possible.

“The team are folks who are professional artists, working here and knowing how to speak to Yukoners. I really am inspired by the people at the theatre.”

Auditions were held in January and rehearsals are now underway. Wicke used a brief lull in the schedule to explore and contemplate the new script’s complexities and deeper themes.

“It is such a nice time in the process, reflecting and listening to the tunes. When you zoom far out, the whole globalization of information is in play; are we losing individual human stories? Where does the human story fit in with this overwhelming global operation? Young people are trying to find an identity in a sea of temptation; can we spit out all the ugliness? It’s easy to get lost.”

But dreaming and a wandering mind soon gives way to the reality of herding cats, or the more difficult feat of shepherding a gaggle of teenagers into a harmonious

performance. The musical calls for a cast of more than 50 performers, a directing challenge even with a professional troupe.

Wicke has been working with young people since arriving in the territory in 2015, and says remaining “chill” is the key.

Staying on key, however, can be its own challenge, according to

the show’s musical director, Jillian Durham.

“Especially with the gentlemen, their voices can change dramatically during the rehearsal process. There have been times we needed to switch things up.”

Durham has been involved with music and theatre in the Yukon since she was eight years old. She

says working with youth requires orchestration that goes beyond their voices.

“Scheduling is a problem. We have athletes, volleyball players, youth involved in all kinds of things. We have to balance giving them enough rehearsal time, while not making it overwhelming for those with other interests and commitments.”

Durham has been working with YTYP for four years and says despite the obstacles, nothing is more fulfilling than the mélange of theatre, youth and music.

“I couldn’t imagine doing anything more exciting or fun.”

She, too, is excited by the new project in front of her.

“It’s very, very new. There’s a ton of contemporary music, everything is updated to modern times. You may hear some rapping, and other nods to newer genres.”

Both directors know an experience that is fun and uplifting for playgoers requires a lot of heavy lifting by the cast and crew. While the logistics alone are challenging, finding the artistic and emotional chords is what ultimately resonates with an audience. For this, Durham says, they rely on the creativity and flair of the young cast.

“We really put the responsibility on the youth. When we set the bar high, it is really astounding what they can do when they put their minds to it. We give them the opportunity to do it.”

Yukoners will be among the first to see this new interpretation; it has so far only been performed in a few major centres. If YTYP hits the sweet spot, you won’t Wonka miss this. n

Brandon Wicke

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

Freelance with Mike Linder

Scene from the YTYP production of Newsies

PHOTO: G&B Creative

Scene from Fiddler on the Roof, 2024

PHOTOS: Bruce Barrett

ART SHOWS

Until Mar 29 Synaptic Chemistry by Jesse Devost Arts Underground Explores the concept of physical matter constructing our memories and my attempts to illustrate the interface of matter, memory and imagery.

Until Mar 29 Emerging Artists from the Teegatha’Oh Zheh Studio Arts Underground A group exhibition by the Teegatha’Oh Zheh Studio, featuring work in a variety of mediums by local artists.

Until March 29 All Women – Drawing Exhibition by Maeva Esteva YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery An exhibition of drawings and a call for women’s rights featuring 12 different portraits and stories of women from all over the World.

March 2025 Field Notes from Kluane YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery showcases new works by Christine Koch, the 2023 Kluane National Park Artist in Residence.

March 2025 Aleocharinae: An Entomologist and an Artist YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery A unique exhibition bridges art and science through stunning blown glass sculptures inspired by the intricate genitalia of obscure rove beetles (Aleocharinae).

Until May 21 My Big Bougie Beaded Earrings Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A vibrant celebration of Indigenous artistry and self-expression, showcasing bold statement earrings as symbols of identity, creativity, and presence.

LIVE MUSIC

Fri Mar 14 Blacksmith & BrewerHot in the Ensuite and Thunder Rod

8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Sun Mar 16 Acoustic Live Music at the Huts 3:00 PM Whitehorse Nordic Centre Soak in the springtime vibes with live acoustic music at the huts along the cross-country ski trails! Selina Heyligers-Hare, Ellorie McKnight - Logan McKillop & Dana Jennejohn.

Mon Mar 17 Keitha Clark & Jerry Woolridge 7:00 PM 98 Hotel

Celebrate St Paddy’s Day with the musical duo of Keitha Clark & Jerry Woolridge. Dancing & Green Beers on a Monday!

Monthly

Mondays Gray Jay Café 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.

Tuesdays

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Wednesdays

Intermediate Jam - Bluegrass & Old

Time 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion bi-

weekly Hosted by the Yukon Bluegrass Society

Karaoke 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Whitewater Wednesday 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

Thursdays

Muster Point 6:30 PM Baked Cafe

Muster Point live and featuring a rotating lineup of local guest artists. Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Fridays

Live Music 6:00 PM Tony’s Pasta & Seafood House.

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Saturdays

Live Music at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill. whiskeyjacks.ca/

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Sundays

Open Jam 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

GENERAL EVENTS

Mon Mar 10 Beginner Blacksmithing

- Forge a Fire Poker 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Get started blacksmithing and forge yourself a Fire poker or hook! Learn about the induction forge to heat and shape metal and learn to use an anvil and basic hand tools.

Mon Mar 10 Data Basics for

Business Owners 12:00 PM Kwanlin

Dun Cultural Centre An interactive session designed to help you make sense of the numbers behind your business. https://techyukon.ca/event/ data-basics-for-business-owners/

Tue Mar 11 Public Laundry Night 6:00 PM Family Hotel Laundromat An evening of FREE laundry - you bring your laundry hamper, laundry tokens, soap and dryer sheets available, enjoy a snack while you take care of the washing! Everyone Welcome!

Wed Mar 12 Go Digital Tourism

Summit 9:00 AM Old Fire Hall Topics include AI for Business, Social Media Mastery, and more, led by a mix of both local and guest speakers. Email avery.bramadat@yukon.ca for more info.

Wed Mar 12 Streaming Data Basics 12:00 PM NorthLight Innovation A Hands-On Introduction - break down the fundamentals of real-time data processing. https://techyukon.ca/ event/streaming-data-basics/ Fri Mar 14 Captain America – Brave New World Matinees + Nightly Yukon Theatre Captain America, finds himself in the middle of an international incident and must discover the motive behind a nefarious global plan. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/ captain-america-brave-new-world

Sat Mar 15 Karla Marx - An Ally to Straggots 8:00 PM The Guild Hall

A night of comedy with Karla Marx ‘the First Comrade of Your Heart’ and special guest Brenda Barnes! https:// yukonartscentre.com/

Sat Mar 15 Build Your Own Dashboard, App, or Game 10:00 AM Yukonstruct Makespace Part hackathon, part workshop, designed to help you learn, build, and experiment with AI-driven development tools. https://techyukon.ca/event/build-yourown-dashboard-app-or-game/

Sat Mar 15 Community Barn Dance

7:30 PM Church of the Northern Apostles Join Megan MacLeod(fiddle), Rick Avery (piano, banjo) and Scott Wilson (bass) and the caller Judy Greenhill, email judy.m.greenhill53@ gmail.com for more info.

Tue Mar 18 Jazzed Up Pinch Pots 6:30 PM Arts Underground Learn and practice the basics of pinching clay into bowl, cylinder and barrel shapes, stamping and slip decoration techniques to inspire your approach to surface decoration. https://www. artsunderground.ca/

Wed Mar 19 Indigenous Book Club presents Cody Caetano 7:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Cody Caetano, a writer of Anishinaabe and Portuguese ancestry based in Toronto, presents his memoir Half-Bads in White Regalia. https://yukonlibraries. ca/event/13062158

Fri Mar 21 Opening Night - Snow White Nightly + Matinees Yukon Theatre “Disney’s Snow White” is a live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/snowwhite

Fri Mar 21 - Sun Mar 23 Long

Distance Relationships for Mythical Times 7:00 PM Association francoyukonnaise (AFY) An intimate evening of stories about seeking love and connection at a distance: a Chinese folktale about forbidden love, her parents’ story of immigration, and her own long-distance relationship from Mississauga to Whitehorse.

Sun Mar 23 Pollinator Steward

Training 9:30 AM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Explore the world of Yukon native bees and learn how to support our local pollinators at the Pollinator Steward Workshop. https:// form.jotform.com/250145819362255 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

2nd & 4th Mondays Service Officer

7:00 AM Royal Canadian Legion

Whitehorse An invite to all Veterans, Police and First responders for the service hour at the Legion, socialise and find out what is going on. https:// bit.ly/3Lm40ZG

2nd & 4th Wednesdays Whitehorse

Photography Club - Meetup 7:00

PM Yukon University - Whitehorse Campus Held in Rm A2204. Discuss photography, share your work, learn new tips and tricks. http:// whitehorsephotoclub.ca/ 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

3rd Sundays Messy Church 3:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality. Crafts, singing and food will be the focus.

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 trick-taking 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

Bridge 12:00 PM Golden Age Society Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (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

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 3336081 for more info.

Anglican Holy Communion –Whitehorse 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month

Sew & Tell All – Elders Hangout 1:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Facilitated by Kwanlin Dün Elder-inResidence 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

Writing Things DOWN(town) 6:30

PM A regular, free drop-in writing group at the Whitehorse Public Library. This is a space to start writing your memoir or finish that article. Writing prompts will be provided to generate ideas.

Thursdays

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

Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services)

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.

Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, finds himself in the middle of an

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

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

KIDS & FAMILIES

Fri Mar 14 Opening Night - The Day the Earth Blew Up - A Looney Tunes Movie Nightly + Matinees Yukon Theatre Porky and Daffy, the classic animated odd couple, turn into unlikely heroes when their antics at the local bubble gum factory uncover a secret alien mind control plot. https:// yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/theday-the-earth-blew-up-a-looney-tunesmovie

Mon Mar 17

Exploring Art

Techniques Spring Break Kids

Camp 1:00 PM Arts Underground

In this 5 half-day kids camp, 8-12 year olds will learn about a variety of mediums and techniques used in making art - and some of the famous artists who used them! https://www. artsunderground.ca/

Sat Mar 22 Native Hockey

Tournament Youth Meet & Greet

11:00 AM Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre An incredible lineup of hockey mentors and role models! FREE & open to all youth! No registration required – just show up and be part of the experience!

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.

Weekly

Tuesdays

Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse

Public Library Join us for stories, songs & rhymes! A free drop-in program for children ages 0-5 and caregivers at Whitehorse Public Library

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 and craft program. Meet local elders, have a coffee, do some crafts, and make a friend!

Thursdays

Transformations Along The Chu Nikwän 1:30 PM Yukon Visitor Information Centre Join Amber for a free walking tour every Thursday along the Whitehorse waterfront to learn about the Yukon First Nations people and the history of the Yukon.

Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Youth 11-17 are invited to join, no experience necessary.

Saturdays

Science Saturdays 11:00 AM

Whitehorse Public Library Free DropIn Science and STEM Activities - no need to register - For children to complete with a parent or guardian!

MEETINGS

Thu Mar 20 Pioneer Women of the Yukon Lodge #2 - AGM 7:00 PM Golden Age Society Come on down and renew your membership or if you’d like to join, come see what we are all about!

Weekly

Tuesdays

Rendezvous Rotary 6:30 PM Tony’s Pasta and Seafood House Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at Tony’s Pasta and Seafood. Come and join us for fun, and fellowship.

Thursdays

Toastmasters Decora 12:00 PM Sundogs Toastmasters Club. Club is open to all interested parties and we provide constructive feedback to help develop public speaking skills.

Monthly

First Monday Klondike Snowmobile Association Board Meeting 7:00 PM Sport Yukon https://ksa.yk.ca/comingevents/

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 Anti-Poverty 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

Tue Mar 11 Communication Skills After Separation or Divorce Workshop 5:30 PM Online In this free online workshop, you’ll learn about the impact of conflict on children, alternative ways to respond to conflict and verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

Wed Mar 12 Storytelling To Add Depth To Data 10:00 AM Online Mack Male of Taproot Edmonton for this virtual session, where he’ll share how his team combines data with narrative to inform and engage communities. https://techyukon.ca/event/storytellingto-add-depth-to-data/

Wed Mar 12 Managing Conflict After Separation or Divorce Workshop 5:30 PM Online In this free, online workshop, learn about the process of separation, how to help children cope with conflict and how to renegotiate personal boundaries and develop parenting strategies. https://yukon.ca/ en/family-law-information-centre Thu Mar 13 AI - Ask Anything 12:00 PM Online Open Q&A with AI professionals Katrina Ingram and Eugene Chen, a frank and open Q&A session with our expert panelists where you can ask any burning questions you may have about Artificial Intelligence and its impact on us. https://techyukon.ca/event/ai-askanything/ Fri Mar 14 AI-Powered SMBs - How Small Teams Are Achieving More with Less 10:00 AM Online This session is designed for non-technical SMB business leaders looking for real-world generative AI applications they can implement today. https:// techyukon.ca/event/ai-powered-smbshow-small-teams-are-achieving-morewith-less/

Fridays AA Yukon Unity Group 1:30 PM Online For Zoom Room address Contact 334-7693

Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.

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.

A FURRY GOOD TIME

What to do and where to go after Rendezvous is over in Whitehorse?

Every respectful party-goer will have booked a room in a Dawson City hotel by the middle of January at the latest, in order to keep the good times going by attending the Thaw di Gras Spring Carnival.

If you should find yourself in this history-rich place this month, there’s more to see than Diamond Tooth Gerties. On March 15, amble over to the Robert Service School gymnasium at 909 5th Avenue. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can take part in the biannual Dawson City Fur Show.

Organized by the Dawson District Renewable Resources Council (DDRRC), the show started in the late ’90s as a very small gathering of local trappers in the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Community Hall. Over time it slowly outgrew the hall and now takes place at the school’s gymnasium.

This must-see event promotes and celebrates the social, cultural and economic benefits of the fur industry in the Yukon and supports the integral role of the trapper in each Yukon community.

Trappers from all over the territory are invited to participate and compete for incredible prizes. Up for grabs are skimmers, chainsaws, trapping supplies, Air North tickets and locally-made crafts. Experienced judges are brought in to ensure furs are evaluated to the highest standards.

Fur buyers are also invited to attend so trappers can still get furs submitted to the show off to market. This year a representative from Groenewold Fur and Wool Co. will be in attendance.

The event also serves as an extension of the Robert Service School trapping education program. The Han people used trapping as an opportunity to pass on important life lessons and skills to their youth. Continuing in this tradition, students at the Robert Service School are visited by local trappers for a week-long cultural education program that brings the world of trapping into the classroom.

Hands-on skinning workshops take place as part of the program, and pelts from the student skin-

ning workshops are entered into the youth fur handling competitive categories at the fur show. All youth participants walk away with a smile and a prize while proud family and community members cheer them on.

Arguably, the 200-plus bowls of free moose stew and bannock bring in the crowds. However, once the gym starts to fill up, those who came for the food soon realize they are part of something very special.

What you can expect to see at the show are hundreds of incredibly high-quality furs on display, judges roaming about in a frenzy evaluating the submissions, a high stakes trap setting contest, skinning demonstrations, live music, artist and crafting tables, an awards ceremony, and incredible draw prizes, plus more than a few scruffy trapper characters roam-

NOT JUST FOR TRAVELLERS

Black Wolf Bistro, on the second floor of the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport, offers freshly prepared breakfast and lunch, house-baked goods, daily specials, and locally roasted coffee.

Whether you’re catching a flight or simply craving a great meal with a view, stop by and savour the experience—no boarding pass required.

ing about.

The DDRRC thanks local outfitters for the moose donations used for the community feast and all sponsors, with special thanks to the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Trust for funding support.

For detailed fur show rules and regulations, contact the DDRRC at dawsonrrc@northwestel.net, or (867) 993-6976. Free tables are available for trappers and crafters. Contact the DDRRC to reserve.

Furs must be submitted on Saturday, March 15 between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Submissions are open to trappers and assistant trappers within the Yukon holding a valid trapper’s licence.

Hope to see you all wearing your most excellent furs.

— Sonja Seeber and Nick Wozniewski (DDRRC) n

PHOTO:

column with Sonja Seeber

Sonja Seeber and her husband Paul are Yukon trappers who live in the Pelly Mountains and have developed a lifelong passion for the trapping lifestyle in the North.

PHOTOS: Supplied by DDRRC

Poster of the Dawson City Fur Show

A young participant at the Dawson City Fur Show

Trap setting contest at the Dawson City Fur Show

Fur show judges evaluating pelt submissions

Skinning demonstration by Robert Stitt at the Dawson City Fur Show

Continuing Studies

Northern

Institute

of Social Justice

WINTER TRAINING COURSES and WEBINARS

In mate Partner Violence and Family Law: Part 2

March 27, 2025, 10am-12pm CRN 90060

FREE

Registra on deadline: Mar 20

Delivered: Livestreamed via Zoom

*NEW* Neurodivers At Work

Apr 3, 2025, 9am – 12pm CRN 90111

$169 + GST

$149 + GST Early bird registra on by Mar 13

Registra on deadline: Mar 20.

Late registra on un l Apr 2, by emailing sam@ctrins te.com

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room C1440.

Responding With Resilience

Apr 10, 2025, 10 – 11:30am

CRN 90072

FREE

Registra on deadline: Apr 3

Delivered: Live streamed via Zoom

Administra ve Jus ce: Prac ce And Procedure For Decision-Makers

Apr 9-10, 2025, 9am – 4:30pm Apr 11, 2025, 9am – 12:00pm

CRN 90073

$600 + GST

Registra on deadline:Apr 2

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room C1440.

NOTE: This course is a pre-requisite for Administra ve Jus ce - Advanced Decision-Wr ng.

Administra ve Jus ce: Advanced Decision-Wr ng For Decision-Makers

Apr 14 – 15, 2025, 9am – 4:30pm

CRN 90074

$450 + GST

Registra on deadline: Apr 7

NOTE: Administra ve Jus ce: Prac ce and Procedures for Decision-makers is the prerequisite for this course.

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room C1530

Mental Health First Aid for Northern Peoples

April 15-17, 2025, 9am – 4:30pm

CRN 90241

$260 + GST

Registra on deadline: Mar 31

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room A2712

13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safe

May 2, 2025, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

CRN 90080

$175 + GST

Registra on Deadline: Apr 25, 2025

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room C1530

REGISTRATION OPTIONS:

• Contact Registrations & Records at 867-668-8710 EXT 2 and quote the CRN;

• Register by emailing registrations@yukonu.ca

WITHDRAWAL POLICY:

Please note that if you wish to

*NEW* Narra ve Therapy

May 7, 2025, 9am – 4:30pm

CRN 90112

$329 + GST

$299 + GST Early bird registra on by Apr 16

Registra on deadline: Apr 23

Late registra on un l May 6, by emailing sam@ctrins te.com

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room T1023

FASD Informed Support

May 7, 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

CRN: 90100

$50 + GST

Registra on Deadline: Apr 30, 2025

Delivered: In-person at YukonU in room C1440

Grief And Frontline Professions

May 21-22, 2025, 9am – 4:30pm

CRN 90055

$325 + GST

Registra on deadline: May 14

Delivered: This course is run In-person at McClintock Bay Resort, 62 Swan Haven Dr, Marsh Lake, YT

KEEPING CARIBOU ON THE LAND

Wading through a mountain’s worth of videos, scientists are discovering more about the life of barren-ground caribou — and how it could change

Barren-ground caribou have been roaming the tundra for a long time, and Mike Suitor wants to keep it that way.

The Yukon Department of Environment’s North Slope and migratory caribou biologist says 3,000-yearold antlers gathered along the coastal plain of the Yukon and Alaska indicate a long history of calving there. (Female caribou lose their antlers within days of giving birth.)

Now, at the tail end of a fiveyear study, the Government of Yukon is learning more about how the behaviour of barren-ground caribou (specifically the Porcupine Caribou herd) could change alongside their habitat.

“We know climate change is going to have an impact,” says Suitor. “Most biologists think the impact will be negative, although there might be some positive impacts.”

Interest in this research is broad: partners include the Porcupine Caribou Management Board, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, Inuvialuit, Parks Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada and the United States Geological Survey.

The Porcupine Caribou herd, estimated near 200,000 animals, migrates massive distances between its wintering grounds, where they forage in smaller groups throughout interior Alaska and between Old Crow and Dawson City in the Yukon, to their summer grounds on the North Slope of Yukon and Alaska.

In this treeless tundra, where caribou gather in unfathomably large numbers, researchers collected data from 126 cow caribou using cameras mounted on GPS tracking collars.

Collars recorded nine seconds of video every 20 minutes, giving biologists an incredible firsthand view of how these ungulates spend their time. The collars were

Caribou seek relief from bugs from cool breezes coming off the Beaufort Sea. Members of nearby communities say wind directions have changed over the decades, affecting where caribou go to get away from insects

The first unsteady steps of a newborn calf, born in late May, are caught on camera

In early June, the snow is gone from the tundra and the calf is stronger. In the background, another calf nurses

deployed every spring starting in 2018 and retrieved every fall until the program’s conclusion in 2023.

Sorting through the hundreds of thousands of videos is ongoing, but scientists have already gleaned valuable information.

“I think we were able to capture every single calving event [from cows with camera collars], and usually within 20 minutes of the calf being born,” says Suitor. The GPS information reveals the

When the mosquitoes are bad, caribou gather closely in groups larger than 100,000, limiting their exposure to being bitten

location, while camera footage from the mother reveals if the calf survives the first month. After that, calves become more independent and the herd groups up, making it impossible to identify individuals.

As it captures life, the footage also shows death. A video sequence that Suitor describes as the most amazing he’s seen, starts with a caribou running and panting. Then, it’s dripping blood from its mouth and wading in a creek to evade its

attacker — a wolf, caught on camera.

In a surprise ending, the caribou survives the wolf attack, at least temporarily, but the final frame reveals a grizzly bear standing over its carcass. The footage is visceral but, as Suitor explains simply, caribou are “born to die.” Their role is to feed and sustain the land.

The cameras also show researchers exactly what caribou are munching on, data they previ-

ously collected by literally digging through scat for plant debris. In one video, a caribou feasts on the newly emerged flowers of Arctic cotton grass, the most nutritious part of the plant.

Suitor says by comparing caribou’s preferential food sources with climate models predicting how vegetation could change due to warming temperatures and changes in precipitation, they can estimate where the best-quality habitat will be in the future.

He says the 1002 area in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is already an important area for calving and feeding and they expect it to become even more critical in the future. This is significant, as the region is currently under consideration for oil and gas development.

More insights gleaned from the collars show how mosquitoes, warble flies and nasal bots harass caribou. The worst of these lay eggs in their fur and nose, causing the caribou to sneeze and produce mucus. The animals try to evade these pests by stomping, seeking out wind, or grouping close together and jockeying to limit their exposure.

Graduate student Will Hein is researching insect harassment of caribou and how insects react to warmer temperatures and a longer summer season, says Suitor. “We know insects are going to change over time. How is that going to influence the herd?”

Researchers are also developing an “activity budget” of how caribou spend their time. This offers more insight into how they could be impacted by development, which historically has been difficult to measure. Slight shifts in activity budgets, such as a decrease in eating because an animal is being vigilant and watching a perceived threat, can have significant effects on the herd and result in population declines.

All this information paints a more fulsome picture of caribou behaviour and ecology than ever before. Suitor says results from this breadth of research will start coming out this spring and continue over the next several years, shedding light on this ecologically and culturally important animal.

To learn more about barrenground and woodland caribou, join Yukon Wildlife Viewing for a “Skibou” at Mount Lorne this month. Yukon.ca/wild-discoveries. n

In August, this drier site may give some relief from insects. Soon, the caribou will start migrating to their wintering areas

MINI SCIENCE NIGHT

Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:30pm

MacBride Museum, 1124 Front St, Whitehorse Register now: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

MINI SCIENCE

NIGHT

Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:30pm

At Mini Science Night, you will:

Researchers: Allergy Sleuths: How Doctors Decode Reactions

Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:30pm MacBride Museum, 1124 Front St, Whitehorse Register now: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight Featuring BC Children’s Hospital Researchers:

At Mini Science Night, you will:

MacBride Museum, 1124 Front St, Whitehorse Register now: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

• Hear presentations from award-winning BC Children’s Hospital researchers and health experts

• Explore the wide range of careers in science and medicine

At Mini Science Night, you will:

• Explore the wide range of careers in science and medicine

• Ask your questions directly to world-class scientists

Dr. Tiffany Pediatric Allergist Clinical Associate

Children’s

• Connect with other members of the Whitehorse community is free but space Register today at: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight of the community are register — including teachers, parents, seniors, professionals. No science background is necessary

• Explore the wide range of careers in science and medicine

• Ask your questions directly to world-class scientists

• Hear presentations from award-winning BC Children’s Hospital researchers and health experts

• Ask your questions directly to world-class scientists

• Explore the wide range of careers in science and medicine

• Ask your questions directly to world-class scientists

• Connect with other members of the Whitehorse community Admission is free but space is limited. Register today at: www.bcchr.ca/ minisciencenight

• Connect with other members of the Whitehorse community

• Connect with other members of the Whitehorse community Admission is free but space is limited. Register today at: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

Admission is free but space is limited. Register today at: www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

Allergy Sleuths: How Doctors Decode Reactions

Dr. Tiffany Wong Pediatric Allergist & Clinical Associate Professor

Scott Ramsay Nurse Clinician & Assistant Professor Science Night, you will: presentations from winning BC Children’s researchers and health wide range of science and medicine questions directly to scientists with other members Whitehorse community

Hospital Researchers: Allergy Sleuths: How Doctors Decode Reactions

Dr. Tiffany Wong Pediatric Allergist & Clinical Associate Professor

All members of the community are welcome to register including students, teachers, parents, seniors, and health professionals. No science background is necessary

All members of the community are welcome to register — including students, teachers, parents, seniors, and health professionals. No science background is necessary

All members of the community are welcome to register including students, teachers, parents, seniors, and health professionals. No science background is necessary

From Chromosomes to DNA: Exploring Genetics and the Power of Diagnosis

Dr. Wendy Robinson

Dr. Wendy Robinson Professor & CIHR Sex and Gender Science Chair

Professor & CIHR Sex and Gender Science Chair

Dr. Justina Marianayagam Resident Physician

Justina Marianayagam Resident Physician

Dr. Scott Ramsay Nurse Clinician & Assistant Professor

researchevents@phsa.ca | www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

researchevents@phsa.ca | www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight Dr. Wendy Robinson Professor & CIHR Gender Science From Chromosomes to DNA: Exploring Genetics and Power of Diagnosis Dr.

Dr. Wendy Robinson Professor & CIHR Sex Gender Science Chair From Chromosomes to DNA: Exploring Genetics and the Power of Diagnosis

Ms. Maira Jimenez Sanchez PhD Candidate

researchevents@phsa.ca | www.bcchr.ca/minisciencenight

Clinical Associate Professor

Yukon Youth Summit 2025: A Platform for Change and Environmental Action

By: Agnieszka Pajor

The 2025 Yukon Youth Summit will take place from APRIL 8 TO 10 at the Yukon Arts Centre. This hybrid event will bring together young people, community leaders, and political ﬁgures in both in-person and online formats. The summit aims to provide a dynamic platform for youth engagement, learning, and collaboration across the territory.

Since its inception in 2016, the Youth of Today Society has organized the summit to foster leadership, encourage youth participation in policy discussions, and give young Yukoners a voice on key issues. With a focus on community-building and action, the summit empowers youth to shape their future.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE SUMMIT

educators in the Yukon community, featuring performances by the Selkirk Spirit Dancers and Heart of Riverdale dancers.

APRIL 8 – YOUTH, ELDER, AND EDUCATOR AWARDS NIGHT

APRIL 9 – A FULL DAY OF ENGAGEMENT

From 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM, the second day will feature discussions with community and government leaders on key topics, including the Yukon Territorial Youth Strategy. Concurrently, Elections Yukon will lead workshops on democracy and voting, alongside sessions on video production, mural painting, and music. Youthserving organizations will also host simultaneous workshops, providing a range of learning and participation opportunities. Additionally, various table booths will be available to facilitate further engagement.

include discussions led by CPAWS, First Nations representatives, the Yukon Government, and youth, as well as a youth-produced ﬁlm, Letters to Our Future. The night will conclude with a DJ dance party by Thug Shells, an artist from California.

APRIL 10 – WORKSHOPS, ACCOUNTABILITY FORUM, AND ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS

The ﬁnal day of the summit, running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, will feature workshops and discussions focused on community safety. Concurrently, youth-serving organizations will host additional workshops, offering further opportunities for engagement, learning, and contribution.

PERMAFROST ENVIROFEST

The summit kicks off with the Youth, Elder, and Educator Awards Night from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM at the Yukon Arts Centre. The evening will honour the contributions of youth, Elders, and

At 6:00 PM, the summit will host Permafrost Envirofest, a youth-led music and environmental event featuring performances by Hendrika and The Band She. Focused on environmental action, the event will

The Territorial Youth Collective will lead the Accountability Forum, providing a platform for open dialogue on youth priorities and an assessment of progress on the Territorial Youth Strategy. This year’s forum will evaluate Year 3 priorities, build on Year 2 outcomes, and introduce new programs designed to address youthidentiﬁed needs.

A roundtable session will bring together youth and decision-makers to assess gaps, develop solutions, and ensure that youth perspectives continue to inform policies and services.

CAN’T ATTEND IN WHITEHORSE?

HOST A COMMUNITY HUB!

The Yukon Youth Summit provides up to $1,000 per community to support local participation in the event through an online connection and in-person gatherings. These funds may be used to cover venue costs (including internet access), food, entertainment, interactive activities such as art sessions, and honorariums for local community leaders and Elders.

The initiative aims to engage a minimum of 10 youth per hub, with participation monitored and key highlights shared. Communities across the Yukon are encouraged to take part in this inclusive opportunity.

WHY ATTEND?

Open to youth aged 12 to 30, the summit offers opportunities to connect with peers, gain new perspectives and contribute to meaningful discussions. These events strengthen community engagement and inspire a more resilient Yukon.

SUPPORT THE SUMMIT

The Yukon Youth Summit and Permafrost Envirofest rely on sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Contributions support youth activities, workshops, and projects. We are currently seeking ﬁnancial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and volunteers to help bring these events to life.

THANK YOU FOR THE SUPPORT Youth of Today Society would like to thank the Yukon Government, Cuso International, Yukon First Nation Education, the Arts Fund, Council of Yukon First Nations, Casino Building Our Future Together, Know History, BYTE Empowering Youth, Territorial Youth Collective, BGC Yukon, Yukon Child and Youth Advocate Ofﬁce, Yukon Residential School Missing Children Project, First Nation School Board, UpStream Events, Carcross Tagish First Nation, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch än Council, Selkirk First Nation, The Arts Centre, Yukon University, ATCO Electric, Chamber of Commerce, the City of Whitehorse and Shakat Media Inc. for supporting the 2025 Yukon Youth Summit.

JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE

Mark your calendars for April 8-10, 2025, at the Yukon Arts Centre and Yukon University. Whether in person or online, this summit is an opportunity for youth to make a meaningful impact. See you there!

The Unknown Chef has fed you at many local restaurants for years, and has decided to share some recipes he has developed, and others he stole from

FRENCHED RACK OF LAMB

In true Unknown Chef tradition, here’s another great recipe that’s quick, easy and tastes great!

Imade this over the holidays and, as I mentioned in a previous column, totally dropped the ball on taking pictures for you. So, when I was in my favourite grocery store and saw that they had a 2 for 1 ‘BOGO’ deal, you know I snapped it up.

When I was a kid, my Mum would make some kind of lamb about once a week. Sometimes chops, sometimes Frenched rack. Whenever she did a roast leg of lamb for Sunday dinner, my brother and I were in heaven! We knew that there’d be lamb sandwiches for school lunch and probably a lamb curry later in the week for dinner. Yum!

This is a great, quick recipe that you can do anytime: midweek, weekend or for a fancy dinner. You can use whatever you like for side dishes. Being in a hurry, I did one of our ‘staple midweek’ sides: a veggie pack is what we call it. All told, this took less than 15 minutes of prep time and was start-to-table in about 50 minutes.

I’m going to express a little frustration here. For me, lamb isn’t lamb without mint sauce. Not mint jelly — actual mint sauce. You know? Actual pieces of mint floating in a vinegar sauce.

Jelly is for spreading on toast for breakfast! Mint sauce has been next to impossible to buy in Whitehorse for about a year now. Tons of mint jelly, no mint sauce. I have no idea why, so when I saw some on the shelf quite a few months back, I bought a few bottles.

I had a funny experience a while back. I ran into the assistant manager of my grocery store and asked him when he might bring some mint sauce in again. He said, ‘We have it, back of aisle 4, top shelf’. I said, ‘No you don’t, I was just there!’.

He said, ‘Follow me’ and proceeded to the specified location and pulled a can of mint jelly off the shelf. ‘See?’ he said. ‘That’s not mint sauce, that’s mint jelly!’ I replied.

I think he was having a tough day. He put it back on the shelf and walked away without saying another word.

Ingredients:

• Rack of lamb - thawed

• Potatoes

• Carrots

• Onions Olive oil

• Salt

• Pepper

• Garlic powder

• Rosemary

• Red wine

• Mint sauce!

Method:

1. Set your oven to 350F. Peel your carrots and potatoes. Slice them into reasonably big slices.

Cut your onions into reasonably large wedges (they will separate while cooking and being served).

2. In a large mixing bowl add some olive oil — enough to put about a 1/4 to a 1/3rd of an inch in the bottom. Season with ground sea salt and ground black pepper. Add your potatoes, carrots and onion to the bowl and toss well until everything is nice and evenly coated.

3. Transfer the veggie pack to a 9 inch bread pan. Use a spatula to drizzle the remaining oil and spices from the bowl on top of the veggies, then cover tightly with aluminum foil – shiny side in! Place it in your pre-heated oven and set the timer for 20 minutes. This is going to take roughly 40-45 minutes to cook perfectly.

4. Spray down the bottom of your broiling tray with some veggie spray to help out your dishwasher later. Add about a 1/4 cup of red wine, a 1/4 cup of water, some garlic powder plus ground salt and pepper. Spray the top of the broiler.

5. Spray the bottom side of the lamb to help the spices adhere and spice with garlic powder, salt, pepper and liberal amounts of dried rosemary. Flip it over and do the same to the top side. Place in the centre of the broiler.

6. Depending on how you like your lamb will depend on when you put it into the oven next to the veggie pack. Rare will take about 12-15 minutes of cooking time, medium rare will be about 20 minutes and medium to well will take about 25. When your timer goes off, put the lamb in the oven and set your timer again, accordingly.

7. When it’s all done, take it out of the oven and let the meat rest for a few minutes. Take the foil off the veggie pack using oven mitts or gloves to avoid a scald burn from the steam. Slice the ribs two or three ribs thick and plate it all.

I like to drizzle some of the pan drippings on the ribs and ring the plate with either parsley or paprika for a nice decorative garnish. A fresh garden salad is a very nice accompaniment to this tasty and nutritious meal, as is a nice glass of your favourite red wine. Of course, don’t forget the mint sauce! Enjoy and cheers! n

PHOTOS: Unknown Chef

Dressed to impress!

Prep your veggie pack

Prep your rack of lamb

WHAT’S ON

Art Vibes Spring Break

Morning: Music in Motion with Babies (10am-11am)

Afternoon: Zine workshops with Dakota & Jane

Morning: Art workshop with Alaena Warner for kids

Afternoon: Art workshop with Alaena Warner for teens

Morning: Basia Hinton painting workshop for kids

Afternoon: Basia Hinton painting workshop for teens

Morning: Music in Motion with Babies (10am-11am)

Afternoon: Zine workshops with Dakota & Jane

Morning: Art workshop with Alaena Warner for kids

Afternoon: Art workshop with Alaena Warner for teens

Theatre workshop by Yukon Theatre For Young People 1:00pm-3:30pm

Morning activities 10:00am-Noon (ages 4-11)

Afternoon activities 1:00pm-3:30pm (ages 12 & over)

Tom Wood, decided to pitch the idea of launching regional air service in the form of charters.

“I think there was an informal discussion … possibly with a couple of beers … myself and the guy that ended up being my co-founding partner, thought, ‘Why don’t we take this airplane and lease it to the guy that runs the flying school [and] charter?’” Joe said about Globe Air located in Whitehorse at the time.

So that’s what they did. They pitched their idea, and as it turns out the owner, Ed Phillips, was looking to sell, and pitched that idea back at the young entrepreneurs.

“We thought, let’s offer him $50,000 for his business, subject to financing. We’ll never get the financing, he’ll never say yes. We had nothing to lose. And that’s exactly what we did.”

Much to their surprise the offer was accepted and the duo got financing for the purchase.

“That’s how we got into business,” Joe said.

That was 1977. The outfit consisted of a few small aircraft, like the Cessna 172 and Cessna 206, and a small office-trailer.

“Our radius of operations was, maybe to Dawson City, on a charter basis only.”

Joe said the original idea was to tap into the boom of Yukon’s growing mining industry, flying people and equipment back and forth. The company began with just two employees.

Fast-forward to now, and the man sitting across from me has a staff of over 600 people, at an airline with its own branded in-flight kitchen, making its own food (not just for the planes, but also available at a local grocery retailer), its own restaurant at the Erik Nielsen International airport, and two newly-acquired Boeing 737-800 aircraft with routes to Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto and Ottawa, in addition to regional stops in the Yukon and NWT.

And let’s not forget Air North has its own cargo service too. The company has also held a longtime partnership with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN) in Old Crow, which lies in the northwest corner of the territory. The VGFN has invested heavily in Air North and secured a life-line to their community.

When Air North planned to stretch its proverbial wings and then evolved into scheduled flying to places like Dawson City and Old Crow and even Fairbanks, Alaska, it set the stage for what would be the transition to jetliner air travel for the Yukon.

Joe points out there was some skepticism about expanded routes, but Yukoners, who were hungry for a little competition and lower fares, embraced the idea of a Yukon-based airline.

“Yukoners seemed to have more confidence in us to provide the service.”

Joe is quick to point out that the business is not about making money, but about making the Yukon a transportation hub (rather

than a spoke), thus enabling the territory to be showcased to travellers who come to visit — many by air. That, for him, is a point of pride.

“We’ve made it possible for Yukoners to travel and for Yukoners to travel more often,” he said.

Joe also said having this type of travel freedom opened up many more opportunities for families with children involved in sports for example. Citing his own children (when they were young), getting to and from competitions in hockey or gymnastics would often involve bus travel to places like Fairbanks or Fort Nelson.

“Now Yukon kids, almost every weekend, are travelling to major centres for their competitions, and I think it broadens their horizons and it has given them an opportunity to compete at a higher level. I think for Yukon kids who go out to university, I think being able to return home frequently and affordably makes it easier for Yukon kids to go out to university.”

He thinks that plays a big part in those same post-secondary Yukoners coming back to the territory to put those skills to use

here. Another point of pride.

“I think when you put all those things together, the airline operation not only makes the Yukon a better place to live and work, but it kind of enables the economy.”

Again, that point of pride. He’s mentioned it a few times, and yet he remains very humble about all he’s seen and done in the Yukon through his time at Air North.

Like Joe, Air North is well known for its commitment to the Yukon. Whether air travellers are greeting him personally as he flies to places like Vancouver, or extending “hellos” to flight attendants on a first-name basis, or eagerly awaiting their famous warm cookie, they see a man who cares about his company and its place in the Yukon.

And really, it’s the passengers and Yukoners themselves that motivate Joe to do what he does.

He said one of the best cards of compliment he ever received was one that truly sums up the experience. It said, “It feels like you’re home before you get home.” n

We provide navigation support for internationally educated health professionals. We can help you access services to get your foreign credentials recognized to work in health care in the Yukon. We can:

» provide information on regulated occupations and licensing requirements; » conduct a professional needs assessment;

» create a personalized action plan; » connect you with resources; and » under certain conditions, provide financial assistance.

On final at YXY — bringing Yukoners home safely

PHOTOS: Simon Blakesley Photography

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Fri Mar 14 Chilkoot Trail NonMotorized Weekend 5:00 AM Chilkoot Trail https://whatsupyukon. events/bulletinsb5f16c

Sat Mar 15 Women’s Winter Camp 9:00 AM Vista Outdoor Learning Centre Learn the hands-on ropes of what it takes to make a winter camp adventure happen! Essential bush skills and safety, cooking, traditional knowledge, respect for the land, taking care of the land. For more info email venturenorthyt@gmail.com

Sun Mar 16 DPSAY Season Finisher race 11:00 AM TBD https://dpsay.org/ race-schedule-2024-2025/

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

Whitehorse Archery 6:30 PM Takhini

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

Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning 7:00 PM Grace Space

Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class. http://amitieyoga.ca

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

Wednesdays

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM

The Applicant must be able to work weekends. Fall Arrest Certiﬁcate, Driver's and Forklift License is required. Wage is $24.00-$28.00/hour depending on experience. Group Insurance Beneﬁts available.

Drop resume off at 107 Industrial Road Attn: Cal Murdoch or email to cal@yukontire.com

Sun Mar 16 Whitehorse Spring Nordic Festival 10:00 AM Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club Friendly competition and a festive finish line on the trails that hosted North America’s first World Cup event. whitehorsenordiccentre.ca/festival

Wed Mar 19 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00

PM Eight Days Martial Arts BJJ is a grappling based art that utilizes takedowns, sweeps, joint locks and strangle holds to subdue your opponent or attacker.

Thu Mar 20- Sun Mar 23 Yukon Native Hockey Tournament Whitehorse A weekend of exciting hockey! Weekend passes (available Thursday only) and day passes, email yfnhahockey@gmail.com for more info.

Sun Mar 23 EDI Hut to Hut 11:00 AM Whitehorse Nordic Centre A familyfriendly event, use Nordic ski trails or snowshoes or fat-bikes using the city single-track trails. Hot beverages, snacks, and a fun activity for the family.

Mondays

Judo For Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts

Strength & Conditioning 7:30 AM

Northern Strength Academy

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

Tai Chi Kung Form (Seniors) 10:00

AM Golden Age Society

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

Babynastics with Coach Libby

10:30 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club

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

Noon Strength & Conditioning

12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy

Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00

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

Tai Chi Qigong / Meditation 7:00 PM

Jack Hulland Elementary School

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Tuesdays

Winter Power Hour Series 6:00 AM

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

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 Everyone welcome pay what you can Babynastics with Coach Libby 11:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club

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

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

Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section 2A 6:30 PM Jack Hulland Elementary School

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

Tai Chi Essential Form continued 10:00 AM Heart of Riverdale

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. Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 12:10 PM Grace Space Movement and mindfulness with our Moving Meditation - Slow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca

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 Introduction to Tai Chi 6:00 PM Elijah Smith Elementary School. Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section 1 refinements 7:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School

Indoor Range Night 7:00 PM

Whitehorse Rifle and Pistol Club

Tai Chi Traditional Form, Section

3 continued 7:15 PM Elijah Smith Elementary School.

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.

Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM Golden Age Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes.

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

Babynastics with Coach Naomi 3:30 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club

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

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 non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. www. whitehorsearchery.com/schedule

Tai Chi Essential Form continued 6:30 PM Hidden Valley School

No-GiJiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days

Martial Arts

Tai Chi Yang Hand Forms refinements 7:45 PM Hidden Valley School

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

Flow & Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30

AM Grace Space A dynamic and invigorating practice to awaken your inner strength. http://amitieyoga.ca

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

Sundays

Free drop-in Tai Chi practice 10:00 AM Takhini Elementary

Tai Chi Sword Form 10:30 AM Whistle Bend Elementary School

WELLNESS LISTINGS

Thu Mar 20 Qigong Sound Bath 7:00

PM Grace Space An evening of gentle movement and vibrational healing. Align with the energy of the new season and invite harmony into your body, mind, and spirit.

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

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 Christ Church Cathedral

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 Womens 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 867-334-1725 for more details

AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS)

8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

Wednesdays

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly)

8:00 AM Closeleigh Manor Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Call or text 867-3341725 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, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

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 Big Book Study (C, A) 8:00 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

Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or on zoom, Zoom ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

Fridays

Moth & Flame - Bright Light Morning Meditation Series 9:00 AM Queer Yukon Society - The Cache

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00 PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30 PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.

VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. 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, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info.

AA Whitehorse Group (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Saturdays

AA Detox Meeting (O, A) 1:00 PM 609 Steele St.1:00 PM

AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:00 PM Online Zoom ID 482-518-9588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.

VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In. A safe welcoming space. Drop-in includes laundry and showers. Community Kitchen 5:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info.

AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212

Sundays

AA Detox Meeting (O, A)1:00 PM 609 Steele St.

AA Yukon Unity Group 1:00 PM Online By zoom – Zoom ID 482-5189588 PC 334796 For more info call 778-907-2971

AA Hospital Meeting (O, A) 7:00 PM #5 Hospital Rd. Room 1212

• Arrow tag • Bubble soccer

• Giant inﬂatable slides

• Padded sumo suits

• Themed bouncy castles

• Wipeout obstacle

We deliver and set up all activities. Good for small gatherings, birthday parties, weddings, work team building or large community events.

Clayton’s CAR CARE Tips

BATTERY

Batteries store energy that is needed to start your vehicle, there are a few things to remember about batteries.

Regular maintenance #1 is making sure the battery is secured properly so it doesn’t vibrate, keeping connections clean and tight at the terminal, with loose connections you may run into problems like vehicles won’t start, alternator not charging properly and could cause battery and alternator failure. Making sure your battery is ready for the colder weather we see in the Yukon like adding a battery pad or battery blanket to keep it warm when the vehicle is not in use; by keeping the battery warm in colder weather you will get the most power out of the battery on start up. Here is a side tip: if you don’t drive your vehicle on a regular basis and are experiencing battery problems, you could ask you local mechanic to install a low amp battery maintainer; this will keep your battery fully charged even when the vehicle is parked for a long time.

ATLIN

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

Second Sunday of Every Month St. Saviour’s Church Services 2:00 pm St. Saviour Church 867-668-3129

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

First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month Carmacks

DAWSON CITY 9 9

Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at:

Songwriterin-Residence Program. The series ends with a bang on March 22nd with a performance by Skye Wallace https://kiacyukon.square. site/product/skye-wallace-celebrating-20years-of-dcmf-s-songwriter-in-residenceprogram/354?cs=true&cst=custom Until Apr 13 Tropicana by Juan Ortiz-Apuy ODD Gallery A genuine foray into the world of objects, the youth exhibition seeks to examine the way we consume today to better understand its

Pottery Drop-In 6:30 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Self-guided group studio time for those with some experience with pottery. Newcomers are welcome, little instruction is provided.

Wednesdays

St Paul’s Anglican Church Morning Prayer

9:00 AM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live)

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 5:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or 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.

DCMF Film Selections 7:00 PM Dënäkär Zho

The best committee ever! Just watch movies! Help us select the films for the 2025 film festival. Come once, twice, or all the time! To get on our mailing list, email: filmfest@kiac.ca

CFYT Trivia Night The Drunken Goat Fun filled night of Trivia. Every other Wednesday. A variety of trivia categories! Come with your team or join a team when you arrive!

Thursdays CDC Toddler Program 10:00 AM Klondike

Institute of Arts & Culture KIAC Free drop-In for kids 5 & under with parent/guardian Story time & free play! Drop-in Volleyball 7:30 PM Robert Service School Ages 13+ - Free

Fridays

Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon.events/ dawson-legion-8336c3

Open Studio Drop-in 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Enjoy KIAC’s bright, air-conditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even better- we’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.

Drop-in Bouldering 6:00 PM Robert Service School Free - drop-in - all ages

Saturdays Youth Parkour Tumbling 12:30 PM Robert Service School All Ages - Free – Drop-In. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Open Studio – Drop In 1:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Space to create and focus on your artistic practice.

AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-9935095 or 867-993-3734 for more information

Sundays Anglican Church Service 10:30 Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City Adult Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM Robert Service School Ages 16+ - Free - Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info.

Thursdays Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Drop in seniors

Fridays Open Arena 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Saturdays Parent & Tots 2:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Kids Curling 3:15 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex Interest based, dress warm.

Tagish Community Centre Tagish Community Association Poker Derby for an exciting experience. Enjoy a thrilling event filled with competition and fun.

First Monday of every month Carcross Tagish Renewable Resources Council 1:00 PM Tagish Community Centre First Monday of every month Tagish Advisory Council 8:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

First Tuesday of every month Tagish Community Association 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Second Thursday of every month Tagish Local Advisory Council 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon

Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 2:00 PM

Tagish Community LIbrary Targeted literacy programming by Yukon Learn at the Tagish Library. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon.

Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Thursdays

Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community

LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon

Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting 7:00

PM Tagish Community Centre .

Saturdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community

LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon

TESLIN

Mondays Teslin Tigers Cross Country Ski Club 3:15

PM Teslin Recreation Centre

AA: Teslin Group (O) 7:00 PM Catholic Church

Rectory

Co-Ed Curling League 6:30 & 8:00 PM Teslin

Lake Recreation Complex

Wednesdays

Pickleball 12:00 PM & 7:00 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Youth Pickleball 3:15 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Sundays Adult Volleyball 4:00 PM School Gym

WATSON LAKE

Wed Mar 19 Drop-in Mental Wellness & Substance Use Services 1:30 PM Watson Lake Hospital Rapid access counselling services, information about community resources, referrals to additional services.

Daily Northern Lights Space & Science Centre Shows 11:00 AM The spectacular dancing Northern Lights are showcased, a video that is broadcast in the NLC’s domed 100-seat theatre daily throughout the summer season. Plays daily on the hour starting at 11:00 AM

Second Saturday of the month Watson Lake Direct Aid 2:00 PM Northern Lights Centre

Tuesdays Smart Recovery Meetings 3:00 PM Wye Lake Cabin Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services For more information, email joey. mitchell@yukon.ca or call 332-3187 Pickleball & Badminton 7:00 PM Watson Lake Secondary School

Wednesdays Drop-In Ninja Tumbling 5:30 PM Watson Lake Secondary School All ages welcome. Adults are welcome too, come to do some stretching or try some handstands etc.

Want to be on this page? Enter your event HERE:

OUT OF OLD COOKBOOKS

I’ve started a purge of cookbooks I don’t use, and following my pledge to choose one recipe before I let a book go, I’m discovering all kinds of treasures. Like homemade gnocchi!

Mark Bittman makes them (“The Minimalist Cooks Dinner”); Massimo Capra makes them (“One Pot Italian Cooking”), and Charles Part and Jennifer Warren-Part make them (“A Year at Les Fougères”).

Bittman bakes his potatoes first and adds pureed carrot, Capra boils them and adds an egg, two egg yolks and grated cheese, and Part and Warren-Part add Seville oranges, 2 eggs and an egg yolk and rosemary to theirs. They also cut their gnocchi on the bias,

which I’m going to try next time. Today I went with Bittman, using the last of our garden potatoes, and good old Yukon Grain Farm carrots. (Depending on your potatoes, you’ll need to use more or less flour. Ours were very starchy and just needed the amount specified in the recipe, below.)

Now, the trouble is — you saw it coming — I’m falling in love with these cookbooks again, and I’m finding it really hard to say goodbye to them. Help!

POTATO AND CARROT

GNOCCHI

Be forewarned: this recipe is short on ingredients, long on instructions.

• 1 lb potatoes of similar size (about 5 medium)

• 1/2 lb carrots (about 2 medium)

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

Gnocchi with Brown Butter, Walnuts and Sage

1. Place scrubbed, unpeeled potatoes in a medium pot. Cover with water, add a teaspoon of salt, bring to the boil, reduce heat and simmer until forktender.

2. Drain potatoes and place them on a plate on the counter to cool.

3. While the potatoes are cooking and cooling, prepare the carrots. Peel them, chop off the ends, and dice into small pieces. Place in a small pot and cook until tender and no longer crunchy. (This is not the time for al dente carrots.)

4. Drain carrots and cover with cold water. Once cool, drain in a sieve, shaking to remove excess water. Puree drained carrots in a food processor or with an immersion blender. If you have neither, press them through a sieve with the back of a spoon. Reserve.

5. Once potatoes are cool, peel off the skins. Using the large holes in a box grater, grate the potatoes into a medium-sized bowl. (A food mill or a ricer will also work. But not a blender, the potatoes will become gluey.)

6. Add the carrots to the potatoes and blend thoroughly with a fork.

7. Add the flour, a quarter-cup at a time. (The amount of flour you need will depend on how starchy your potatoes are.) Blend well with a fork before adding the next 1/4 cup.

8. Once you’ve added all the flour, turn the dough onto a counter and shape into a disc. If it holds together, pinch off a piece of dough and drop it into a pot of simmering water. It should fall to the bottom of the pot and rise to the surface after about 3 to 4 minutes. If it disintegrates in the water, add flour a tablespoon at a time, and keep testing.

9. Once you’re sure the gnocchi will not fall apart in the water, divide the dough into four pieces. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

10. Roll each piece out into a rope about 1/2-inch thick. Cut each rope into 1/2-inch pieces. To make the classic gnocchi grooves, roll each piece towards you with the tines of a fork.

11. Place gnocchi, not touching, on the parchment paper, until ready to cook.

Makes about 1 pound.

GNOCCHI WITH BROWN BUTTER, SAGE, AND WALNUT SAUCE

• 1 batch Potato and Carrot Gnocchi

• 1/2 cup butter

• 2 cloves garlic

• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

• 20 sage leaves

• Chopped parsley

• Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce heat so that it’s a rolling rather than a vigorous boil.

2. Cook the gnocchi in three or four batches, for about 3 to 4 minutes each batch. The gnocchi are done when they float up to the top. Remove each batch with a slotted spoon and transfer to a baking sheet, spreading them out.

3. Melt butter in a large frying pan. Add garlic, walnuts and sage leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter smells nutty and starts to brown.

4. Add a couple of tablespoons of pasta water and the gnocchi. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi in sauce, adding more water as necessary.

5. Ladle into four bowls, sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan, and serve immediately. Makes four servings. n

column with Michele Genest

Michele Genest is a Whitehorse-based chef and writer. She is also somewhat of a gardener. Michele has also written two books “The Boreal Feast - A Culinary Journey Through The North” and “The Boreal Gourmet - Adventures In Northern Cooking.”

Potato and Carrot Gnocchi

PHOTOS: Michele Genest

WHERE WE LIVE

STRONG INTENTIONS

each other, that sort of thing,” says Rachelle.

Having community at her doorstep brings Rachelle with a sense of wealth on par with a wellgarnished wallet for others. She explains her feelings of living in a divisive society.

“With Covid and after, it just got worse. I used to be able to share my thoughts and opinions freely, but now, I kind of need to censor myself, and it doesn’t feel good at all”.

Located north of Whitehorse, Rachelle and her partner David, who sadly passed away in February 2024, ambitiously crafted their home.

They first acquired their Grizzly Valley lot in 2013 through a government land purchase, while living the cabin life on Long Lake road on a rented property. They started building as time and money allowed.

“For the first three years, we would both work all year, saving hard, and then BAM !, we made a cash payment on the land and were feeling really good about it,” Rachelle says.

Waiting let them polish their vision for the property.

Rachelle and David didn’t want a generic house. What they wanted was a home, with the surrounding land reflecting who they are and what they believe in. That didn’t include premium vinyl siding, or granite countertops with a suffocating mortgage for dessert. Ditto for the life of a solitary houseplant under corporate fluorescence.

While building the house, they opened their property to others with sites for various dwellings and shared garden space.

“We wanted it to be a sort of refuge, a place for people to grow their food, build their shelter, sharing what we know with

They were joined by friends from time to time, but also by keen strangers. We are in Rachelle’s kitchen and she points at the living room wall.

“A friend who has great dexterity did a lot of the log chinking, I don’t think I could have

done as good a job. Actually, all the chinking was done by friends and community members,” Rachelle explains. Their home, off-grid and

ant that gives them a warm and elegant grey undertone.

Before building, Rachelle and David studied passive house design. A key feature of such design

mostly built with others around 2018, is a straightforward shape: a two-storey shallow rectangle. It is also made of locally sourced logs treated with a natural seal-

• Bakery Goods & Bread

• Bar Supplies

• Beef / Chicken / Pork / Seafood

• Cappuccino / Slushie Machines

• Co ee Makers

• Compostable products

• Containers & Bags

• Convection Oven / Roller Grills

• Co on Candy Machine

• Cutlery & Utensils

• Dairy / Eggs / Ice Cream

• Deli Meats

• Fridges & Coolers

• Frozen & Fresh Food

• Frying & Baking Pans

• Plates / Wraps / Tinfoil

• Popcorn Machine

• Slicers / Mixers / Toasters

• Stoves - Propane & Electric

Toilet Paper / Tissue / Napkins

is south-facing windows. Their own south-facing wall features upper and lower ectomorph windows that David reclaimed from a renovation project in town. Their cheeky red trim speaks of a sense of playfulness, which Rachelle and David shared.

The south wall is also adorned with solar panels – the home’s sole source of electricity – doubling as shades against the highangled summer sun.

Inside, the open plan gives a grasp of the welcoming interior space. Rows of house plants sit on large wooden shelves right under the south facing windows.

The vaulted ceiling in the kitchen and entrance is home to even more, large plants.

“We are off-grid, with no HRV [heat recovery ventilator]. The plants are our air purifier. I have one upstairs in bloom right now

and wow, the scent is so sweet,” Rachelle enthuses.

The simple kitchen is dressed with multiple working surfaces. A solid wood dining table rests next to the kitchen, awaiting new guests or familiar faces for a communal meal.

The house sits on a concrete slab. A lower level about two feet down was designed in its centre, around the woodstove. In the slab, a passive air circulation system of concealed pipes emerges down at each side of the lowered concrete section, interacting with warm air from the adjacent stove.

“It is not working super well, but that was the purpose – having warm air circulating in the slab. A tissue holds up but doesn’t suck in”, Rachelle explains. Installing small computer fans to help with this function is on her agenda.

A steep spiral staircase carefully crafted by David leads to the second floor, where two bedrooms occupy the west wall. A southeast corner office lends expansive views of Lake Laberge, mountains and a bird’s-eye view of what is going on downstairs.

Outside, their many hectares of trembling aspens and white spruces were carefully planned to practise permaculture. First came the excavation of springwater ponds, spiralling from the property’s upper corner down to future gardens.

Then came chickens; more than a dozen. The many garden beds naturally followed. The latest addition came when David purchased carefully-selected fruiting trees and shrubs – apple, hazelnut, Saskatoon berry – all of hardy varieties.

On living outside of convention, Rachelle says, “You know, we are not a bunch of woo woos. Nothing is perfect, we know it ... but we try.” n

Solar panels on south-facing wall

PHOTOS: Gabrielle Dupont

column with Gabrielle Dupont

Gabrielle Dupont is an adventurous spirit who loves to travel across the territory to discover hidden treasure.farm in the countryside and sharing stories from Europe!

Rachelle Dufour’s home