What's Up Yukon, September 10, 2025 by What's Up Yukon

PHOTO: Harry Kern

OUR OWN JUNIOR CANADIAN RANGER PATROL

The 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group is located throughout the Yukon,

The 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (1 CRPG), headquartered in Yellowknife, has several patrols around the Yukon in communities including Haines Junction, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Dawson City, Old Crow and more. A number of Junior Canadian Ranger (JCR) patrols also operate around the territory, with a new one set to launch in Whitehorse.

“We’ve got many Junior Rangers programs in the territory, and we have since 1998,” says Ranger Sergeant Wade Istchenko. “It’s sort of the stuff the Rangers do, but the Junior Rangers do it. It’s been a very successful and active organization in many communities across the North and it helps guide the youth in northern communities and gives them many, many opportunities to do a lot of different stuff.”

Istchenko was one of the Rangers approached by high-ranking members of the organization,

back in the late ’90s, who had concerns that youths aged 12 to 18 could beneﬁt from a similar program geared towards a younger demographic, especially in rural communities across the three territories.

“We just ﬁnished up, in the summer, an Enhanced Training Seminar (ETS) for the Junior Rangers,” says Istchenko. “Over twohundred kids come to Whitehorse and they get to do whitewater rafting, horseback riding and some traditional skills like trapping. Just about everything the Rangers do, they get to experience, and they get to meet other Junior Rangers from different areas.”

Istchenko is based in Haines Junction and says his community’s Junior Rangers patrol has been the top air riﬂe shooting team in Canada for the past ﬁve years in an annual shooting competition.

“We’re really proud of our kids,” he says. “Some of the other communities will all send scores

in, and they send the top shooters to somewhere in Canada where they shoot against other Junior Rangers, so that’s another good thing that they do.”

The Junior Rangers are also given the opportunity to train with the seasoned regular Rangers patrols.

“We have Ranger instructors and Junior Ranger instructors, and they’ll come over once in a while for a main exercise, but mostly it’s the Rangers in the community that do the training of the Junior Rangers and work with the youth of our community.”

Harry Kern, a Ranger with the Carcross/Tagish patrol, has been involved with the Rangers since 1992. For Kern, the Rangers is a valuable program to teach northerners necessary survival skills for the climate they live in.

“There are many facets to our Yukon community,” he says. “There’s the city of Whitehorse, which is in most respects a city just like Vancouver, Toronto or Edmonton, or any larger centre. But we’re surrounded by a lot of smaller communities that are still rubbing shoulders with the bush

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Haines Junction JCR proudly displaying their shooting medals

PHOTO: Supplied by Wade Istchenko

PHOTO: Harry Kern

and where many of the people living in those communities still interact with the wilderness on a regular basis. I just feel it’s important to have a general involvement with those communities.”

Kern remembers feeling a sense of relief upon joining the Rangers program, seeing the federal government recognize “the value of frontier wilderness experience and knowledge.” He found cities overwhelming and yearned for proper education on how to live safely and successfully off the grid.

“The emphasis was more and more and more on living a city life, and there was less and less value in knowing how to sharpen an axe, how to build a ﬁre, how to hunt—we were just losing touch with nature.”

On his ﬁrst 10-day exercise that he underwent in training, Kern was thrilled to see that the Canadian government was placing value on having rural citizens be part of society and to have their skills recognized as being useful.

“It was a great sense of relief and it made me very happy to think that the federal government

was actually ofﬁcially recognizing something besides the modern world. I think that is still really important.”

A subcomponent of the Canadian Army Reserve, the Canadian Rangers operate in remote, isolated and coastal regions of Canada. With a total of ﬁve groups, the 1st CRPG accounts for the three territories. Rangers are Canadian Armed Forces members who are on duty when training. The patrol leaders, Canadian Ranger sergeants are internally elected.

There are around 5,000 Canadian Rangers in more than 200 communities across the country.

Master Corporal Christopher Camenzuli of the Carcross/Tagish Patrol has lived in both the N.W.T. and the Yukon over the past 20 years. With a background in social work and a career spent supporting youth, he dedicates as much time as he can to developing outdoor survival skills and hopes to be able to pass them on to younger folks as well.

“The Canadian Rangers play a

vital role in Northern Canada, providing support in times of emergency, contributing to community resilience and preserving Traditional Knowledge,” he says. “We serve as a bridge between military readiness and local understanding, especially in remote areas where resources are limited.”

Camenzuli says being a Canadian Ranger is part of what gives him his sense of connection to his community.

“I take pride in preserving northern traditions and serving in a meaningful way,” he continues. “Working with the Junior Canadian Rangers allows me to mentor youth, help them build conﬁdence, and develop practical skills. I value the outdoors, handson learning and the responsibility that comes with this role. Sharing those values with the next generation is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.”

Istchenko says that lots of the Junior Rangers who stay in their communities or come back to them continue on in the organization, becoming full Rangers. While some might go off to university or other life ventures, Istchenko be-

lieves that having been involved with the Junior Rangers is something that can provide valuable life lessons and skills to anyone who participates in the program, whether they choose to stick with it into adulthood or not. Istchenko hears from lots of people that there isn’t much for kids to do in northern communities, so for him it’s important to run programs like the Junior Rangers so there can be productive and healthy outlets for youth in remote areas.

“If you’re between the ages of 12 and 18 and you want to be a Junior Ranger, you can,” he says. “It’s not like there’s a criteria, by any means. You’ve just got to be between those ages. It’s great camaraderie and it’s a great program.”

For more about Junior Canadian Rangers, visit junior-canadian-rangers.html. And visit canada.ca/en/ army/corporate/canadian-rangers for more about the 1st CRPG.

Editor’s Note: Please visit our website, whatsupyukon.com, to see more pictures of our local JCR and 1 CRPG. ■

Love Where You Live

Mercy Judith Sarah

Patrolling the river

JCR and 1 CGRP at Boyle Barracks in Whitehorse

PHOTO: Harry Kern

PHOTO: Supplied by Wade Istchenko

I’ve just entered my ninth decade

And with the increasing frequency of certain bodily urges, I’m fortunate in that I can still deal with these urges standing up.

These urges are reliably triggered by beer, a walk by the creek, the turning on of a tap or, God help us, ﬁlling the water tank at the Deep Creek Water Treatment Plant.

(Side issue: Current health guidelines suggest that an old guy should drink lots and lots of water.)

If I’m unable to relieve these urges in a relatively-inconspicuous outdoor setting, common courtesy would require that I raise the toilet seat beforehand, and close it thereafter. And therein lies the problem of separating the noises I may or may not produce at home from those that are not appropriate in other venues.

Y’see, I’m pretty much programmed to givin’ our soft-close lid a swat and lettin’ it settle on its own. Quietly.

Yer average standard toilet seat is a different story.

Some businesses have put in place damage-control measures like a soft-close seat. (Or have they?)

Consistent, perhaps, with gittin’ old is carrying my home habits into the public domain. And yes, this involves the toilet seat.

It’s possible that nobody’s gonna hear that Bang! in Canadian Tire or Tim Hortons. I won’t have to remember to check. Home habits will remind me, I’m sure. But jeez … it’s so embarrassing at the Whitehorse Health Centre. And it’s even worse at yer friends’ place. Shattering their peace and tranquility, due to the lack of hydraulic dampening, is not polite.

(Sotto voce): “D’you think he broke our toilet?” Well, there is another option where that Bang! doesn’t matter. In fact, in some circumstances it can be a real plus … I once scared away a large fur-bearing carnivore by slamming the lid in our old crapper. (It also signals availability of the facility to the next in line.)

To clarify: Notwithstanding the introduction, and with clear evidence of declining mental acuity, I am not 90 years old. Yer ﬁrst decade is from ages one to 10. Right? Do the math— or, rather, the arithmetic. Cheers. ■

PHOTOS: Carl Maguire

The loud clapper crapper

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Twenty runway designs by Yukon artists that imagine what life forms might look like in the future.

TROUBLESHOOTIN’ TOM —

At times it was a struggle for Troubleshootin’

Tom (TST) to keep his personal life on track, and his financial condition was a continuous struggle as well

Some of his past business deals hadn’t been completely kosher and had ﬁnally caught up with him. There were remnants from a few of those sour deals that prevented him from having a bank account. The lack of a bank account never mattered, for a number of years, until he started to make humongous cash while working in Inuvik. Finding places to store all that cash was becoming a problem. Naturally, he made the same shootfrom-the-hip decision he had made so many times in the past: he went to the bank and ordered a stack of thousand-dollar bills.

I was probably the only person who knew that there were many portraits of Canada’s seventh prime minister inside his bulging right-hand shirt pocket. The man definitely was his own worst enemy and it still baffles me how he could straighten out other people’s problems with ease but that when it came to his own situation, all bets were off. Over the years, I saw him come up with solutions to problems that qualified people claimed were impossible.

One such situation happened in the spring of 1999 when the Yukon government surprised the oil industry in Inuvik by putting weight restrictions on the North Klondike Highway, earlier than expected. With some difﬁculty, the oil com-

Part Three

pany managed to get their rig transported south—except for one large heavy piece of equipment.

A trucking specialist was ﬂown to Inuvik to ﬁnd a way to get the last piece out. The specialist said he could put extra wheels under the load until the cows came home but it still wouldn’t meet the weight restrictions.

The oil company was in a jam and the rent bill meter would keep ticking for months. Luckily for them, there was an overweight, Copenhagen-packin’ trucking specialist with the answer—TST.

Memorized between his ears were the trucking regulations for Alberta, B.C. and the Yukon. He used to say, “It’s my job to know such things.”

I received a call from Troubleshooter, telling me he was sending me some cash to purchase a particular trailer, sitting in Whitehorse, that he planned to use to haul the load south. The next night there was a knock on my door and I was handed an envelope. Inside were seven crisp $1,000 bills.

I never got the opportunity to

see Tom when he passed through Whitehorse with his “special” load, but I was told that it was an ugly-looking sight as it headed toward Edmonton. He told me later that he had to endure a barrage of colourful barbs on the radio from passing truckers. Ugly or not, he had the satisfaction of knowing that his load was completely legal at every weigh scale along the way.

Troubleshooter also had an uncanny knack for knowing when faked ignorance was the best policy and to just let circumstances take their appropriate course.

His predicament began when a mining company rented his trailer to haul some equipment out to the Livingston mining area, east of Whitehorse, and then they promptly went broke.

He was in a pickle. Heavy equipment would be needed to access the remote site, to retrieve his trailer and get it back to Whitehorse. He started to search for another solution that would be easier on the pocketbook.

After sifting through the local

scuttlebutt, for some time, the solution became crystal clear … Just wait for the court to get involved. Tom had observed enough government behaviour over the years to know that you just had to have patience, because bureaucracy was like a super tanker— slow to get moving, but nearly impossible to stop.

Sure enough, the court eventually ordered the sheriff to seize all of the company’s equipment at the mine site. Just as Tom suspected, the gung-ho sheriff didn’t conduct proper due diligence and stickered every piece of equipment on the site.

So far, the process was moving at a snail’s pace, but it was staying on track, following Tom’s imagined script that had been bouncing around in his noggin for some time.

The ﬁnal piece of the puzzle fell into place when the sheriff hired a contractor to haul all the equipment into Whitehorse so it could be sold at auction. It almost seemed as if the system had inadvertently become Tom’s pup-

pet—every step executed like a maestro’s performance.

A green Ford pickup circled the sheriff’s compound daily until the prized possession arrived.

The sheriff resembled a sputtering Model T when Tom asked him why his trailer was in the compound. It took a moment or two for the court’s representative to recover, with a bit of bluster, but in the end, reason prevailed. The pouting sheriff had to hand over the trailer free of charge when Tom produced documents of ownership.

I’m sure the systems representative will go to his grave never realizing that he had played the starring role in the chubby maestro’s imagination.

Even though there are enough Troubleshooter stories to cause a paper shortage, I only have space for one more.

Tom loved to pull stunts where he got the last laugh (even to the point of humiliation), but there were a few times when the tables were turned.

He had an indolent ulcer near his ankle, around an inch in size. It was open, refused to heal, and at times it was extremely painful. Almost everything had been tried to get it to heal, so he was desperate to hear any new suggestions that came along.

We all know that when you’re open to suggestions about anything medical, there’s usually a quack ready to ﬁll the bill. The tableturning quack who came to the rescue was a construction worker with a convincing, smooth tongue. There’s no doubt that an intelligent fella like Troubleshooter was desperate. Most of us cringe at the thought of almost any substance coming in contact with an open wound. The table-turning quack coaxed Troubleshooter to apply a thick layer of extra-strength RUB. A535.

Ouuuch! ■

PHOTO: Pixabay

COMMUNITY EVENTS WHITEHORSE EVENTS

ART SHOWS

Until Sept 10 I Am More Than You See Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A bold and heartfelt exhibit of youth voices, where learners across the First Nation School Board share who they are - beyond what the world sees.

Thu Sep 11 Exhibition Opening:

Held in Motion - New Acquisitions to the YPAC 5:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Join us for the opening reception of Held in Motion, an exhibition for the 2024- 2025 Yukon Permanent Art Collection acquisitions.. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Thu Sep 11 Exhibition Opening:

Yukon Prize 2025 Finalists 5:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery This exhibition brings together the work of 6 contemporary artists shortlisted for the 2025 Yukon Prize for Visual Arts. Experience the vision and creativity of the finalists, each offering a powerful lens on the world around us. https:// yukonartscentre.com/

Until Sept 15 Creating Community: A Look at Visual Arts Arts Underground

This exhibition is presented by Friends of the Yukon Archives Society. https:// www.artsunderground.ca/currentexhibitions

Until Sept 27 Safety by Theresa Roberts Arts Underground https://www. artsunderground.ca/

Until Sept 27 Forest Nymph Creations by Alicia Harry Arts Underground https://www.artsunderground.ca/

Until Nov 14 Yukon Prize 2025 Finalists YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery This exhibition brings together the work of 6 contemporary artists shortlisted for the 2025 Yukon Prize for Visual Arts. Experience the vision and creativity of the finalists, each offering a powerful lens on the world around us. https://yukonartscentre.com/

Until Nov 14 Held in Motion - New Acquisitions to the YPAC YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery An exhibition for the 2024- 2025 Yukon Permanent Art Collection acquisitions.. https:// yukonartscentre.com/

LIVE MUSIC

Thu Sep 11 Happy Time Radio Family

Band 7:00 PM 98 Hotel

Fri Sep 12 Lefty’s 3rd Anniversary 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well Lefty’s Well 3rd Year Anniversary Party, featuring: Bria Rose n Thorns, Electric Lemonade, and John From Dawson!

Sat Sep 13 Lefty’s 3rd Anniversary

Karaoke Competition 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well Lets celebrate! Hosted by Jon Waters, each song sung will count as one entry into a draw, with limits to one entry per person. 1st prize is $500!!

Sun Sep 21 Culture DaysCommunity Barn Dance 7:00 PM

The Guild Hall A monthly dance series that runs through the fall, winter, spring, Dances are taught by Judy Greenhill, live music performed by local musicians! https://culturedays.ca/

Sun Sep 28 Jazz on the Wing - James Danderfer Quintet 7:30 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Jazz on the Wing: James Danderfer Quintet Clarinet, grand piano, congas, upright bass, drums“ One of the best kept secrets in Canada”

Monthly

Tuesdays

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Wednesdays

Intermediate Jam - Bluegrass & Old

Time 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion biweekly Hosted by the Yukon Bluegrass Society

Whitewater Wednesday 7:00 PM 98 Hotel

Karaoke 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

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

Fiddle Night 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

Fridays

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

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Live Music 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

Saturdays

Live Music 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well

Sundays

Open Jam 8:00 PM 98 Hotel

GENERAL EVENTS

Mon Sep 8 Yukon Theatre - Freakier

Friday 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Disney re-boot of the Lohan-Curtis trading places comedy. Directed by Canadian filmmaker, Nisha Ganatra! https://www. goelevent.com/YukonFilmSociety/e/ FreakierFriday

Mon Sep 8 & Thu Sep 11 Yukon

Theatre - Americana 7:30 PM Yukon

Theatre The lives of local outsiders and outcasts violently intertwine when a rare Lakota Ghost shirt falls onto the black market in a small South Dakota town. https://www.goelevent.com/ YukonFilmSociety/e/Americana

Tue Sep 9 Yukon Theatre - Freakier

Friday 4:30 & 7:00 PM Yukon Theatre

Disney re-boot of the Lohan-Curtis trading places comedy. Directed by Canadian filmmaker, Nisha Ganatra! https://www.goelevent.com/ YukonFilmSociety/e/FreakierFriday

Tue Sep 9 & Wed Sep 10 Yukon

Theatre - Americana 8:00 PM Yukon

Wed Sep 10 Yukon Theatre – Shin Godzilla (4k Restoration) 5:30 PM Yukon Theatre Thrilling origin story to one of cinema’s greatest creations. Propelled by astounding visual effects and rapid fire dialogue. https://www. goelevent.com/YukonFilmSociety/e/ ShinGodzilla

Wed Sep 10 & Thur Sep 11 Yukon Theatre - Freakier Friday 6:00 & 8:30 PM Yukon Theatre Disney reboot of the Lohan-Curtis trading places comedy. Directed by Canadian filmmaker, Nisha Ganatra! https://www. goelevent.com/YukonFilmSociety/e/ FreakierFriday

Thu Sep 11 WHL Yukon ShowcaseMeet the Teams - BBQ 5:00 PM Jim Light Park Meet the WHL Medicine Hat Tigers and Kelowna Rockets players in person! Free and family friendly! Everyone is welcome! BBQ, autographs and draw for game tickets!

Thu Sep 11 Auditions - The Weir by Conor McPherson 6:00 PM The Guild Hall Audition for The Weir by Conor McPherson, directed by Reid Vanier, flexible rehearsal schedule, performances Oct. 29-Nov 15. Email guildproducer@gmail.com for more information.

Fri Sep 12 Ceramics Level 1 with Annie Broadhurst 12:30 PM Arts Underground Annie Broadhurst will teach all the foundational skills required for wheel throwing, from start to finish. https://www.artsunderground.ca/events

Fri Sep 12 Raise Your Stein –Oktoberfest 1:00 PM Caribou RV Park Raise Your Stein – Oktoberfest. Join Cork&Fork at Caribou RV Park for an authentic Bavarian celebration. https:// whatsupyukon.events/2a8883

Fri Sep 12 Fireweed Paint & Sip

Night 6:30 PM The Mini Makerspace Beginner-friendly - step by step instructions on how to paint the painting in the photo - Mountains and Fireweed. All materials included, plus a glass of spirits! https://www.theminimakerspace. com/

Fri Sep 12 Alyssa Bunce – Our Lady of the Home 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre The story of Liza, a housewife of the 1960s who finds herself troubled by her reality. https://yukonartscentre. com

Fri Sep 12 SWWorker Pride Movie Night - Draglesque Extravaganza 7:30 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre 19+ Event Celebrate sex worker pride with a sizzling night of glamour, grit, and good times. https://www. swapyukon.com/

Sat Sep 13 Working with Cinematographers & Advanced Camera Workshop 10:00 AM SPYA Studio Work with experienced DOP Kaayla Whachell to learn how to collaborate as director or cinematographer with your counterpart on set. https://spya.ca/bootcamp

Sat Sep 13 Auditions - The Weir by Conor McPherson 12:00 PM The Guild Hall Audition for The Weir by Conor McPherson, directed by Reid Vanier, flexible rehearsal schedule, performances Oct. 29-Nov 15. Email guildproducer@gmail.com for more information.

Sat Sep 13 Humane Society Yukon Fundraiser 5:00 PM Boston Pizza Dinner and soft drinks, silent auction and door prizes. Meet some of the Humane Society’s adoptable animals who will be there in person.

Tue Sep 16 Workshop - Mosaic Mirror Frames with Chris Scherbarth 6:30 PM Arts Underground Learn the basics of making a mosaic using chards of broken tile and other inert materials. All supplies included. Email programs@artsunderground.ca for more info.

Wed Sep 17 Workshop - Making Ceramic Teapots with Larry DuGuay 6:00 PM Arts Underground An opportunity for intermediate pottery students to learn the tricks of making a teapot, as well as advance their throwing skills. https://www. artsunderground.ca/events

Thu Sep 18 Restorative Communication & Courageous Conversations 9:00 AM Yukon First Nation Education Directorate (YFNED) Practice using restorative questions and navigating real-life scenarios to strengthen our ability to communicate with clarity and care in restorative conversations. https://forms.gle/ VMpENYQSzzQrprcp7

Thu Sep 18 Pitches & Pints Social Hour 5:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Mingle with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry supporters over drinks and light snacks, build your network, find collaborators, or just enjoy the vibe.

Thu Sep 18 Ritual Mountain Biking Film Tour 6:00 PM CSSC Mercier Commission scolaire francophone du Yukon An evening of mountain bike films, big screen stoke, and community. Family friendly and open to everyone. Entry by donation.

Thu Sep 25 Embassy Liaison Tour 2025 12:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) Learn about international recruitment services and immigration programs at our information session hosted by representatives of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). https://recrutement.afy.ca

Thu Sep 25 2025 Education, Career and Volunteer Expo 9:00 AM Yukon University Whitehorse Campus Community members to connect with organizations, discover new opportunities, and take meaningful steps toward their future. https:// volunteeryukon.ca/expo/ Fri Sep 26 Oktoberfest 6:00 PM Winterlong Brewing Co. Our annual FESTBIER release, Happy Schnitzel food truck, Pretzels by the Swiss Bakery, beer garden vibes, festive music and fotobooth! Lederhosen and Dirndls encouraged!

Monthly

Thu Sep 18 TOSCA – Dress

Rehearsal 7:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre YAC A rare opportunity to experience the full staging, music, and drama while also witnessing the production in its final stage of preparation. https:// yukonartscentre.com/ Fri Sep 19 Culture Days - Form Line Design and Painting Workshop 10:00 AM Northern Cultural Expressions Artists, Duran and Violet in learning how to create and paint an original design using form line in the Northwest coast art form. Email gallery@northernculture.org for more info. https://culturedays.ca/en/ events/e7cccb06-4e2a-47f1-980e68a62c93e470

Fri Sep 19 Live Comedy - Pat Burtscher & Garrett Jamieson 7:00 & 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge 2 headliners! Pat Burtscher, out of New York, and Garrett Jamieson, out of Toronto, will be gracing the stage for four amazing shows! https://www. jumpcomedy.com/

Fri Sep 19 TOSCA 7:00 PM Yukon Arts Centre YAC The intense story of a passionate singer, Tosca, and her lover, the painter Cavaradossi, whose lives are torn apart by the manipulative and cruel chief of police, Scarpia. Featuring the Problematic Orchestra and the Yukon Community Choirs. https:// yukonartscentre.com/

Sat Sep 20 Alternate Evolutions – a Wearable Art Show 2:00 PM Old Fire Hall 20 local artists explore the theme - In a post-apocalyptic world at an unspecified point in the future… what life forms would exist? https:// yukonartscentre.com

Sat Sep 20 Rivers to Ridges - 10 Year Celebration! 1:30 PM Grey Mountain Primary School Held at the Dlüra Forest -behind Grey Mountain Primary School - Outdoor potluck dinner, family activities, live music & entertainment, campfire! https://www.riverstoridges. org/

Sat Sep 20 Live Comedy - Pat Burtscher & Garrett Jamieson 7:00 & 9:30 PM Boiler Room Lounge 2 headliners! Pat Burtscher, out of New York, and Garrett Jamieson, out of Toronto, will be gracing the stage for four amazing shows! https://www. jumpcomedy.com/ Mon Sep 22 Yukon Women’s Money Club Location TBC https:// yukonventureangels.ca/yukon-womensmoney-club/

Tue Sep 23 Veterans Affairs 8:30 AM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254

Wed Sep 24 Contact Ouest 2025 10:00 AM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Francophone performing artists, concert presenters and music industry professionals from all over Canada, for a week of workshops, discussions, networking and music showcases. https://yukonartscentre.com/whats-on/ contact-ouest-2025/ Thu Sep 25 Business After Hours 5:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) Discover concrete services and resources that can help you meet your recruitment and retention challenges. Registration required. Free admission. https://www.afy.ca/evenement/ business-after-hours

2nd Monday Ukulele Group 6:00

PM Golden Age Society salvin@ northwestel.net

2nd Monday Whitehorse Slow Jam 7:00 PM Golden Age Society Last Thursdays Repair Cafe 6:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Bring it in and see if it is fixable using soldering irons, multimeters, and other tools. This easy introduction to electronics and small home appliance repair is a useful evening of DIY learning that you can take home.

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

Last Friday Pioneer Women of Yukon 12:00 PM Golden Age Society 2nd & 4th Sundays Grade 8 – 12 High School Youth Group 6:00 PM Mountainview Church A positive place for your teen to hang out on the weekend. Take part in games and activities, learn about the Bible, and deepen faith. https://mountainview. church/connect/youth Monthly

Weekly

Mondays

Mtg: Competitive Commander 6:00

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

Ukulele Group 6:00 PM Golden Age Society

Euchre - For Members and Signed in Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Euchre a 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 Drawing Club 6:30 PM Arts Underground Join like minded artists in the studio for a free drawing club. Bring your own supplies and be creative in a group environment. https://www. artsunderground.ca/events

Tuesdays

Common Threads Prayer Shawl Ministry 9:30 AM Church of the Northern Apostles. Bridge 12:00 PM Golden Age Society Café de l’amitié 2:00 PM Association 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

cont’d on page 9 ...

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

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

10 Card Crib - Members & Signed

In Guests 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play! Learn tips and tricks and have some fun! https://bit.ly/3KP0B5s

Wednesdays

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

Multicultural Connection Group 11:00

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

Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse United Church Call 3336081 for more info.

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

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

QYS Drop-in 2:00 PM Queer Yukon

Society The Cache

Fireweed Summer Market 3:00 PM

Shipyard Park Grab a picnic dinner and get that special gift. Enjoy local live music and other amusements from buskers.https://fireweedmarket.ca/ Pathfinder Role-Playing Game for Youth 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Find out what role playing games are all about! Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are always welcome.

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

Mountainview Church Community Group 7:00 PM 16 years or older?

Mountainview Church Community Group! We’ll share some snacks and talk about what the bible has to say about discipleship.

Fridays

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

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

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

Saturdays

Yukon Amateur Radio Association

Coffee Discussion Group 8:45 AM

A&W Restaurant Hams from outside the Yukon and those interested are welcome to join us in this casual event. Cribbage - Members and Signed in Guests 2:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Masks are mandatory. Members must have a valid 2021 membership and they may sign in 2 guests MAX.

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

Sundays

Mountainview Church Sunday Service 9:30 AM Church In The Building 9:30 AM, 11AM or Church At Home 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11 AM

Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch

Anglican Worship Service 10:00 AM Christ Church Cathedral.

Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse

Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone

Whitehorse United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM A caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth

Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00

PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist

Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition.

Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.

Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church

The Gathering (Anglican Indigenous Service) 5:00 PM Christ Church

Cathedral A celebration of faith, reconciliation, and hospitality.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Wed Sep 10 Kids Beginner Judo 5:00

PM Yukon Regional Training Center

Give your child the gift of martial arts with Kids Beginner Judo classes, designed for kids aged 5-12 to start their judo journey. http://www.yrtc.org

Sat Sep 13 Kids Beginner Judo 11:30

AM Yukon Regional Training Center

Kids Beginner Judo welcomes children aged 5-12 to learn valuable skills from NCCP certified black belt coaches. www.yrtc.org

Sat Sep 20 Culture Days - Special Guest Story Time with Grant Zazula 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library

The inaugural Special Guest Story Time with Yukon Palaeontologist Grant Zazula!

Monthly

1st & 3rd Saturdays Grades 5 - 7

Junior Youth Group 7:00 PM

Mountainview Church Passionate about giving kids opportunities to have fun & make new friends, while teaching them about Jesus & His great love for our world https://mountainview.church/ connect/youth

2nd and 4th Saturdays Grade 8 - 12

High School Youth Group 7:00

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

Weekly

Tuesdays

Parent-Child Mother Goose 10:30

AM The Child Development Centre Celebrates the power and pleasure of songs, rhymes and oral stories. Bonding time with your little one or to learn for later.

Wednesdays

Community Connections 1:30 PM Yukon Family Literacy Centre An intergenerational story time 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 Drop-In Science and STEM Activities - no need to register - For children to compete with a parent or guardian!

MEETINGS

Thu Sep 11 Yukon Freestyle Ski Association AGM 7:00 PM Sport Yukon Lets recap last season, share exciting plans for this winter, and elect their new Board of Directors. If you’ve ever thought about helping out, now’s the time to put your hand up!

Mon Sep 15 EWES School Council AGM 6:00 PM École Whitehorse Elementary School Regular scheduled council meeting will follow at 6:30pm, Free pizza! A babysitter will be available. Email ewesschoolcouncil@ gmail.com.

Tue Sep 16 Nakai Theatre AGM 6:00 PM TBD https://nakaitheatre.com/ agm-2025

Tue Sep 16 Ecole Selkirk Elementary School Council AGM 6:30 PM Selkirk

Elementary School

Thu Sep 25 Yukon Roller Derby Association AGM 7:00 PM Sport Yukon Elect a new board of directors, reflect on this past year and discuss plans for the next. Dues paying members have voting rights. Virtual options are available.

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. The 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/yapcsmonthly-meetings

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

ONLINE EVENTS

Wed Sep 10 Managing Conflict After Separation or Divorce Workshop 5:30 PM Online Learn about the process of separation, how to help your children cope with conflict... email flic@ yukon.ca for more info.

Tuesdays

Restorative Online Healing Circles 7:30 PM Online Check-in, Q&A, connect and feel the results. No experience necessary. Register online, or call 335-0078 or email alison@ alisonzeidler.com for more info.

Anglican Men’s Remote Chat 10:00 AM Zoom don_cheeseman@msn. com for the link. Regular churchgoer or just curious, this is a welcoming, nopressure time for conversation

AA Juste Pour Aujourd’hui (C) 5:00 PM, Zoom ID 833 9614 4061 mot de passe 0 ou telephone 1-587-328-1099

Thursdays

AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:30 PM Online Zoom ID 868 3045 2752 pc 6y2K8a or phone 1-587-328-1099

Fridays

AA Yukon Unity Group @ 1:30 pm (O) Zoom ID 868 3045 2752 passcode 6y2K8a or phone 1-587-328-1099

Saturdays

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

AA Yukon Unity Group (O) 1:00 PM Online Zoom ID 868 3045 2752 pc 6y2K8a or phone 1-587-328-1099

Sundays

AA Yukon Unity Group 1:00 PM Online By zoom – Zoom ID 868 3045 2752 pc 6y2K8a or by phone Phone 1-587-238-1099

Call for Instructors 2025-26

Artist in the School delivers arts instruction and experiences to elementary and secondary school students across the Yukon. High quality, engaging and culturally diverse programming is oﬀered by Artists from a variety of disciplines, over the course of the school year.

Are you a professional artist with proven teaching experience? We would love to hear from you! Artists from all artistic disciplines are invited to apply.

To take a closer look and/or apply go to artistintheschool.ca

Questions? Contact Marlene Collins, Artist in the School Coordinator: info@artistintheschool.ca or 867.332.1904

We are a non-proﬁt initiative celebrating creative talent in Yukon, NWT and Nunavut. Shifting Ice Yukon Shop is dedicated to supporting northern makers, come and ﬁnd a unique piece of art! Support local: ykshop.shiftingice.ca @ shifting_ice_shop 1-867-668-6535 info@shiftingice.ca

Freelance with Elke Reinauer

YUKON IN ZURICH

From graduation to the global stage

Two weeks before graduation, Lisa Dewhurst’s daughter brought her mother a plain dress from an online store and asked her to make “something Indigenous” out of it. This is the anecdote Heidrun Löb, curator of the Zurich Nordamerika Native Museum (NONAM), tells a small group of visitors at the exhibition Honouring our Future: Yukon First Nations Graduation Regalia, which displays graduation dresses of Yukon First Nations.

Löb points at the graduation dress of Dewhurst’s daughter, a black and white dress with applications of fur, pearls and prints, and continues telling the anecdote: “Lisa couldn’t believe it, since she is the curator of the Yukon Arts Centre. But this is what she made of it,” Löb says and smiles. None of the visitors have been to the Yukon yet. One man confuses Yukon with Yucatan, and a woman wants to know if First Nations in the Yukon are living traditionally.

Such conversations are common at the Nordamerika Native Museum (NONAM), which is hidden behind a street corner in Zurich. A shady courtyard, a totem pole, a big painting showing West Coast First Nations patterns in red and blue: they remind the visitor of Canada.

While the museum has a permanent exhibit on showcase, they are hosting travelling exhibitions such as Honouring Our Future. This exhibition has been shown in several Yukon communities before it came to Canada House in London, U.K., last year; and now, Zurich. A delegation of Yukon First Nations was travelling to Zurich for the opening of the exhibition, which is a bit smaller than the original exhibit because of logistics, Löb says.

Editor’s Note: Please visit our website, whatsupyukon.com, to see these, and additional, full-colour pictures of this exhibition.

The curator of NONAM, Heidrun Löb, explains what the dress of Shanina Hogan is all about

Honouring our Future: Yukon First Nations Graduation Regalia

What the exhibition is about Yukon First Nations Regalia is celebrated when young people ﬁnish school. Since 1975, the celebrations have been taking place, in addition to other high-school graduation celebrations.

The ﬁrst dress that welcomes the visitor is Shania Hogan’s Graduation Dress. “She told us that she felt like royalty when she put it on for the ﬁrst time. It was a very special moment for her. She felt carried and supported by her ancestors,” Löb says.

Shanina Hogan’s mother had worked on this dress for six months. The bottom blanket shows the crow on the back, the symbol of her clan. Löb explains that she learned that Yukon First Nations show their back to the audience, so they can see the clan symbol.

“First comes the community, then the individual,” Löb says. It is the other way around in western countries, she states, and makes one think about our modern world. This community-ﬁrst approach runs throughout the exhibition, which Löb frames within a larger historical context.

Löb started the guided tour of Honouring Our Future by telling the group about residential schools, a dark chapter of Canada’s history. She then moves on to the future of First Nations in the Yukon.

“The graduation ceremony itself represents reclaimed power in action.” The annual First Nations high-school graduation ceremony means celebrating education of young people and their culture. It brings together all Indigenous Peoples of the Yukon. “Yukon First Nations are an [outstanding] example for First Nation culture in Canada,” Löb says.

What we think of as typical Indigenous clothing, with elements of beads and fringe, was brought in by outsiders, Löb explains. Like glass pearls, they were carried to the Yukon by nuns. “But First Nations made it their own. They learned how to stitch but developed their own art and style.” And this is how it is today: Indigenous Peoples are mixing the mod

zen and unfrozen eight to 10 times. The vest shows ﬁreweed applications of glass pearls, but also the emblem of a sports team, which connects traditional symbols with modern life.

The response has been incredible so far, Löb says.

Mary Bradshaw, director of Visual Arts at the Yukon Arts Centre, agrees: “The response in London was incredible. We doubled the average daily attendance for exhibitions at that venue.” The exhibition’s journey from communities in the Yukon, to London and now Zurich, has proven the universal appeal of these stories.

The graduation dress Lisa Dewhurst made for her daughter

ern with traditional. She points at a vest made of moose leather and explains the process of tanning. Over the time from November till April, the hide is fro-

Lisa Dewhurst, curator, highlights that Honouring Our Future is an exhibit to bring together all of these beautiful forms of art in one space and to share the heartfelt story of family and community support, and pride.

“Whether we were setting up in the Danoja Cultural Centre or London, England, the authenticity of this exhibit for Indigenous People, and being curated by one has ensured this. I believe this is one of the main reasons it has seen the success it has.”

The exhibition will be shown at NONAM until Sept. 28 and will then return to North America and to be considered for further touring in other provinces, Bradshaw says. Each piece carries a story that is worth sharing across many places.

North America and to be con-

Seeing the Bigger Picture

I got Canada vibes on the day I visited the Nordamerika Native Museum NONAM, in Zurich: Seeing the totem pole in front of the entrance of the museum reminded me of the totem pole in Whitehorse by the Yukon River. The paintings and patterns of the typical West Coast style of Indigenous art, in the courtyard, immediately transferred me back to Vancouver Airport, where I would soon be landing on my way to the Yukon.

I closed my eyes for a moment and got carried away by a feeling of longing—longing for wilderness, for wide-open spaces … for Canada Always the dream of a European who lives in cramped places. Happy to see a part of the Yukon in Zurich! (It is possible in our global world.)

The exhibition showed familiar patterns of the Crow and Wolf clans—of fireweed and fur. Traditional clothing mixed with sport emblems or a modern dress bought online, stitched with added pearls and applications. Why not? Tradition is not something fixed; it is fluid, like water. Impressed by First Nations Culture, mixed with a longing for a visit in Canada, especially in the Yukon—my second home.

It is about time to come back … to wander along the Yukon River … to pass by the totem pole. – Elke

The entrance to NONAM in Zurich

PHOTOS: Elke Reinauer

Elke Reinauer is

WHAT’S ON TOSCA DRESS REHEARSAL

DISCO DANCE PARTY

The Yukon’s long running dance party experts, Major Funk Orchestra , have assembled an all-star team of musicians and dancers to bring you an unforgettable night of Disco dance music. Held at SPYA (former Yukon convention centre), it will also feature DJ J on Gelinas & DJ Katabatik. Get ready to groove! Tickets are $33.50.

DATE: October 3 | 8:00 PM (doors open @ 7:00)

Due to popular demand, the dress rehearsal for the Sept. 18 TOSCA opera production is open to the public at pay-what-you-decide rates. The creative team may pause the rehearsal to make final adjustments.

DATE: September 18 | 7:00 PM

RAMSHACKLE THEATRE

A dystopian cardboard clown show, created by Brian Fidler and the Ramshackle Collective. Come and build the cardboard city of Atlantis and the joyful chaos of a Ramshackle Theatre show! Tickets are $20. Cabaret seating on the stage.

DATE: October 14-16 | 7:00 PM

GROUND FOR DISCOVERY

A few years ago, my partner and I bought land at Lake

Laberge

Some people cement their relationship with a marriage; others adopt a puppy. We acquired forested land on the shore of the third-largest lake in the Yukon. To get more familiar with the property, I organized a weekend campout.

To access the property, one has to drive on Fossil Point Road, a narrow, sturdy gravel road, past Lake Laberge Campground in the Deep Creek subdivision. Since there are no longer white horses in Whitehorse, the question has to be asked: Are there fossils at Fossil Point Road?

In my invitation email to the campout, I enticed friends to join me, with promises of trail biking, free-store shopping at the local dump and, as the cherry on top, fossil hunting.

The ﬁrst night, we gather around a beach campﬁre, catching up on one another’s life. The lake is dead quiet and offers us beautiful vistas—so much so that my friend P set up his tent right

on the shore. I mention the fossils again and reiterate my ambition to ﬁnd one, suggesting a few sites to investigate.

The following day, we pair shopping with biking. From Fossil Point Road, we come across ATV trails that perhaps, we think, might lead to the west, towards the Deep Creek dump. With a mixture of luck and trail-orientation skills, we cycle on to ﬁnd ourselves at the gate of the dump. There we marvel at the wellorganized site and look for goodies at the free store. My friend N scores a few things that she stores in her small backpack. She is running out of space for a car-seat cushion that would make long drives more comfortable for her petite frame. “We could strap it to my bicycle rack ?” I offer, and a bungee cord miraculously appears from our friend B’s hand.

On our cycle back to the property, B and I come across a family in their Toyota Yaris. In pure conjuncture, they, too, are looking for fossils. “I came there as a kid and remember seeing one … a nice fossil on the rock face,” says the young father. “But I could not ﬁnd it today.” (Two little girls are busting in the back of the Yaris. Unfazed at the lack of rock imprints,

they hand out freshly-picked wildﬂowers to my friend B.)

At the beach, the weather is turning and we are soon thinking rain jackets and wool sweaters

I sense it might be the right moment to investigate the fossil matter while we might be grounded and under fresh intel. There are many rock faces around; in fact, a large part of the shoreline seems like one long rock face. We start higher up, walking along a ridge. Soon enough a “Private Property” sign appears and, for a brief moment, we consider ignoring it. We keep looking on the rock bluff but, resigned, we turn around. Later, going back down along the beach, we look at other faces. Niet.

I dread that we may never ﬁnd

the fossil. There are too many rock faces and blurred childhood memories.

The last night comes and our friend T arrives for happy hour. I know he has spent time around here as a kid, just like the Yaris man. “Does that make any sense to you … that whole fossil affair?”

I ask. He says yes—that he, too, remembers seeing them but says, “I wouldn’t know where to look right now.”

With the wind picking up, the lake is not as calm and we wonder if this could turn into a miserable camp. Fortunately, suppertime comes and the lake settles. Once again we are rewarded with another night of gorgeous scenes and vistas at Lake Laberge.

The next morning, before heading back to town, N, B and T venture for a paddle on the lake while I stay on shore, watching them, the little dots above the

water—now my friends. I contemplate the lake and still think about those damned fossils. I would like us to go out one more time to look for them.

Behind me, I hear steps on the pebble beach. A woman and man in their seventies soon emerge. We greet each other and start chit-chatting. They are neighbours, full-time residents, and have come to see what is up on the lake.

More importantly for me, they must be “plugged-in.”

“Do you know where the fossils are around here?” I query, boldly. They do and they point at yet another rockface. Later, we will all go check it out and ﬁnd a fossil. So, as they say, there are fossils at

■

Fossil Point Road.

The quiet shoreline at Lake Laberge

PHOTOS: Mark Jeffery

Driftwood on the pebble beach at Lake Laberge

Gabrielle Dupont is an adventurous spirit who loves to travel across the territory and discover hidden treasure.

MWriting from the family cabin in Southern Ontario, not long before Labour Day

y roommate and I have spent the past two weeks revelling in warm lakes and starry nights, swimming in silky water under the Milky Way. We have eaten luscious ﬁeld tomatoes, fresh peaches and the best corn on the cob you can ﬁnd anywhere in this world.

In our Eastern Sojourn, camping beside one of those warm lakes, we rediscovered the glory of hot sandwiches. On a warm night, when nobody felt like grilling the salmon intended for that evening’s supper, we whipped up a big omelette, toasted bread on the barbecue, slathered it with butter and mayonnaise, cut the omelette in quarters and ate Western sandwiches. Remember those? They used to be a staple on every greasyspoon menu; and man, do they deserve to make a comeback.

On another day, fresh from a swim, we ventured into Monte Cristo territory, that glorious variation on a grilled cheese and ham sandwich, where you dip the sandwich in beaten egg and milk before cooking. We improvised with what we had in the cooler, subbing old cheddar for the usual Swiss cheese, and thick slices of back bacon for the sliced ham and turkey. Fresh salsa, made with juicy ﬁeld tomatoes and fresh tarragon, upped the ante just a little.

In these last days of August, we have watched from afar the reports of sunny summer skies in the Yukon, raising hope in our

hearts that the good weather will continue into September and that there will be more camping adventures before the snow falls. Hot sandwiches will deﬁnitely be a feature on the camping menu.

IMPROVISED MONTE CRISTO SANDWICHES WITH

TOMATO TARRAGON

SALSA

Double or triple the recipe, depending on the size of your group. For larger groups, it helps to set up an assembly line of folks buttering bread, spreading Dijon, slicing cheese, putting sandwiches together and dipping the assembled sandwiches in the egg mixture.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 slices sturdy bread

• 6 to 8 oz old cheddar cheese

• 4 thick slices cooked back bacon, or 8 slices deli ham

• Butter

• Dijon mustard

• 2 large eggs

• 2 Tbsp milk or cream

• Pinch of salt

• 1/4 tsp freshly-ground pepper

• 2 to 4 Tbsp butter for frying

METHOD

1. Cut cheddar into thin slices. Butter each slice of bread and spread Dijon mustard on 4 of the slices.

2. Lay cheddar cheese on 4 but-

tered slices of bread, covering the whole surface. (You want lots of cheese!) Place bacon or ham on top. Place a slice of bread, Dijon side down, on top of each sandwich.

3. In a small bowl, whisk eggs, milk or cream together until thoroughly blended and lemony in colour. Whisk in salt and pepper.

4. Pour half the egg mixture into a shallow plate. Dip each side of two sandwiches in the egg mixture, making sure the bread is saturated. Place on a tray or baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining egg mixture and remaining two sandwiches.

5. Melt half the butter in a 10-inch frying pan over medium heat. (If you’re cooking on a campﬁre, set the grill about 8 inches above the ﬂame.) Once the butter is sizzling, place two sandwiches in the pan, cheese side down. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning the pan now and then to brown the bread evenly. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until cheese begins to ooze out the sides.

6. Remove sandwiches from the pan and tent with tinfoil, or cover with a plate or pot lid to keep warm.

7. Melt the remaining butter in the pan and cook the remaining two sandwiches the same way, reducing the heat or moving the pan to one side of the ﬂames if it’s getting too hot.

8. Remove from heat, cut in half and serve at once, with Tomato Tarragon Salsa, ketchup, chili crisp or any other of your favourite condiments. Or go the traditional route: a sprinkle of icing sugar and a dollop of strawberry jam. Makes four sandwiches.

TOMATO TARRAGON SALSA

A salsa that celebrates the fresh tarragon and the juicy red tomatoes of garden harvest time.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 spring onion, ﬁnely sliced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 large tomato or 20 cherry tomatoes, diced

• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh tarragon or 1 tsp dried

• A splash each of olive oil and balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt

METHOD

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Makes about 1 cup. ■

Monte Cristo Sandwich and Tomato Tarragon Salsa

PHOTO: Miche Genest

Friday, October 3, 4 – 8 PM Downtown Whitehorse

FRIDAY, OCT. 3

Three

YUKON PRIZE AIR NORTH ART CRAWL 4 – 8 PM

Art exhibits, sales, live music, refreshments, and artists’ demos at more than 18 downtown Whitehorse locations!

SATURDAY, OCT. 4

A FULL DAY OF FINE ART TALKS, TOURS AND WORKSHOPS

10 –11 AM Jurors Panel: What I Look For In Contemporary Art Jean-François Bélisle, Sarah Moore Fillmore and Dr. Heather Igloliorte

11 AM Artists in Conversation

Adad Hannah, Guná Jensen and Leslie Leong

12:15 PM Meet-And-Greet Lunch

1:30 PM Artist-led Tour of Finalists’ Exhibition

The six artists who are finalists for the Yukon Prize for Visual Arts will give a tour of their work at the Finalists’ Exhibition at the Yukon Arts Centre Gallery.

2:30 – 4 PM Art at the Archives – drop in to see a selection of art from the vault.

CASINO MINING VIEWERS’ CHOICE AWARD

Vote for your favorite artwork. The winning artist will receive the $3,000 award, to be awarded October 30.

SUNDAY, OCT. 5

OPEN ARTISTS’ STUDIOS

11 AM – 4 PM Meet local artists in their studios, see their latest work and hear the stories behind their art. Enjoy this self-guided tour at your own pace.

// Yukon Arts Centre, Yukon University, and Yukon Archives, University Drive, Whitehorse

CELEBRATION EVENING

// Artists’ studios will be open in Whitehorse, Golden Horn, Carcross Road and Haines Junction.

YOUTH LIFE DRAWING WORKSHOP

10 AM –12 PM Advance registration required.

// Arts Underground

KIDS KREATE

( Ages 4 –11)

1– 4 PM

// Yukon Arts Centre

Saturday, October 4, 6 – 9 PM, Yukon Arts Centre

JOIN US FOR THE YUKON PRIZE AWARDS SHOW FOLLOWED BY THE FEAST OF SMALL PLATES, CELEBRATING VISUAL ARTS, PERFORMING ARTS AND CULINARY ARTS!

DON’T MISS THIS EXCEPTIONAL EVENING!

X See top-notch Yukon entertainment by the Dakhká Khwáan Dancers and Erica Dee Mah in the Yukon Arts Centre theatre and experience the first movement of Matthew Lien and Diyet’s Kluane Compositions

X Be there for the announcement of the $20,000 Yukon Prize Recipient.

X Enjoy a reception with culinary creations by six local chefs, inspired by the art of the six Yukon Prize finalists.

X Create a lasting souvenir of the evening at the Portrait Parlour.

Thanks to our sponsors, all events other than the Celebration Evening are free!

Tickets are limited!

Purchase yours today from the Yukon Arts Centre box office

Paloma W. by

Alainnah Whachell.

Photo by Mark Kelly Photography.

Erik Pinkerton Photography 2020 Mike Thomas

The Yukon Hospital Foundation raises funds to enhance the quality of healthcare for all

Every dollar you give is used to support the area of greatest need. Your hospital needs your support. There is a great need for advanced equipment, including critical diagnostic imaging, surgical and other specialized tools. Give our doctors, nurses and sta the necessary equipment to provide the care you need.

TTAILS AT HOME

Julie, a registered veterinary technologist, provides nursing care to pets in their homes. Services may require up-to-date exams, diagnosis, prescriptions and/or treatment plans from a veterinarian.

THE TRAVELLING WESTIE

Roxy’s humans had tried, several times, to provide SQ ﬂuids, with mixed results. They got the ﬂuids into her, but the ensuing battle of wills, between Roxy and her people, led to feelings of stress, uncertainty and to wondering if they were doing more harm than good. (Oh, Roxy!)

he ﬂip side of this is their sheer stubborn (iron) will. Woe betide anyone who tries to convince a Westie to take a different course of action when they have already decided on one for themselves.

Roxy is a senior Westie, from southern Canada, who has been diagnosed by her veterinarian with Stage 2 chronic kidney disease.* One of her prescribed treatments is subcutaneous (SQ), or under the skin, ﬂuids. This helps hydrate her and her kidneys, and as her humans have observed, “puts a pep in her step for several days.” This can be a relatively simple treatment to provide at home for a pet when prescribed by a veterinarian. Enter the Westie stubbornness of Roxy.

many weeks prior to the trip itself, and this summer we ﬁnally met at their campsite. Roxy is a lovely dog and she epitomizes that Westie take-charge attitude, sniffinspecting me thoroughly before welcoming me to her home away from home.

She does not want this treatment, she does not want a needle under her skin and she especially does not want to stand still for the prescribed amount of saline to drip into her at the speed of gravity … No thank-you. As is often the case, the challenge of providing veterinary treatments often lies in not being able to explain what we are doing (or why) to our pets and patients.

How can we relate to Roxy, speciﬁcally, that what we are doing right now is the very thing that will put that pep in her step?

What do you do with that stubborn Westie iron will of determination when planning a trip across Canada to the Yukon? Could this feel intimidating, travelling far away from the support of Roxy’s regular veterinarian and vet clinic? (I suspect we would all agree with a resounding “Yes, indeed!”)

Tom and Debbie’s Yukon friends recommended they reach out to me to see if registered veterinary technologist (RVT) services would be helpful during their visit, since they already had a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Our initial conversation was

Roxy’s veterinarian in southern Canada provided a treatment plan for her, including the prescription of the saline for SQ ﬂuids and all of the supplies for administration. When I arrive, I am then enabled to assist Roxy’s humans to complete the treatment, right “at home” (at the campsite), after a discussion on what does and does not work, as per Roxy’s personality and comfort level.

Roxy allowed Tom to help her stay still as I gave her saline ﬂuids under the skin via needle. We were soon done her treatment, as I have a trick or two up my RVT sleeve to reduce the time of gravitydrip SQ ﬂuid administration. She did very well, despite her short window of patience while also loudly sharing her “opinion.”

Once we had completed her SQ ﬂuids, she took to marching up and down the campsite, putting herself squarely back in charge of her territory, or so it seemed to me. Over two separate occasions, I was able to observe Roxy and her unique traits, during which Tom and Debbie were willing to try my suggested methods of handling. Based on Roxy’s personality, the speciﬁcs of her people and with changes to handling (giving Roxy the impression she was in control while also allowing for delivery of her treatment), my recommendation was that the human-to-Roxy ratio for best success be 3:1 going forward.

It is true that SQ ﬂuid administration can be simple, and it is also true that Roxy is a challenging patient in that she will not accept things of which she is not in charge. Perhaps the small tweaks we discovered, as Roxy’s care team, will empower Tom and Debbie to try again with Roxy’s SQ ﬂuid treatment in the future, allowing them to support her chronic kidney disease, as prescribed, at home. They want the best quality of life for her and to feel that they are managing her health well.

As they plan to head to Dawson City to continue exploring the Yukon, they will get to enjoy observing Roxy taking charge with that renewed pep-in-her-step energy and attitude.

Author’s Note: All stories are told with clients’ consent, and all names have been changed to protect privacy. ■

*Chronic kidney disease is diagnosed by a veterinarian and staged 1 to 4 via assessment of diagnostic tests. While there is no cure for chronic kidney disease, symptoms are managed with various prescribed treatments and/or medications.

PHOTO: Julie Kerr

Column with Julie Kerr

Roxy welcomes me after giving me a thorough inspection

Roxy at her campsite (Tom is vital to the hanging out, but not visible)

PHOTO: Julie Kerr

WHAT OUR LIVES WOULD LOOK LIKE WITHOUT YUKON METALS AND MINERALS?

The world needs more Yukon zinc to sustain our lives and our livelihoods. Sourced ethically. Responsibly. Right here at home.

BRANDON ISAAK RETURNS THIS FALL

The Yukonborn, B.C.-based bluesman has released a new album

The Yukon will always be home to Brandon Isaak.

Though the three-time Juno Award–nominated blues troubadour has been based down on Vancouver Island for much of his career, he was born and raised and has cut his teeth up north. With a new record titled Walkin’ With The Blues, released in June, Isaak’s fall tour will see him return to Whitehorse in October.

“It’s a blues album, because I’m a bluesman,” Isaak says of his new release. “It’s an electric album with horns and all that stuff, so it’s a little different than a lot of the records I’ve put out, which are more acoustic.”

Incorporating new elements into his music was a way for Isaak to further his musical journey, as he felt making records that were too similar to previous works of his would feel stagnant. The new music is still blues, naturally, but within the blues there are many styles to be explored, and Isaak aims to cover as much ground as he can through his far-from-over career.

“My last album (2023’s One Step Closer) was all New Orleans stuff, like tubas and washboards and clarinets, so another different style of blues,” he explains. “This new one’s a little more straightup, traditional electric blues.”

The most-recent of Isaak’s three all-time Juno Award nominations was for One Step Closer in the Blues Album of the Year category. “It’s always exciting,” he says. “It always brightens your day.” When the last call came from Isaak’s publicist, telling him his record was nominated, the musician was on vacation in Mexico. “It means you’re doing something right,” he says.

Because the blues is an old traditional form of music, Isaak is always searching for new ways to modernize it and create contemporary music drawn from inﬂuences of decades long past. Experi-

menting with different chords, drum beats and even drum machines, along with modern lyrics that delve into current world issues, are all methods he employs on his newest album.

“There’s always love as the strong thread running through it,” Isaak says of his lyrical content.

“But I talk about other things, too, like the state of the world and those sorts of things too. I like to do that, but on the other hand, art is something that it’s nice to sometimes put on and forget about the world and all its problems, so you don’t want to inundate them with hard world issues too much. You want them to relax and have fun and not have to stress out.

There’s a ﬁne line.”

By the time a new record actually sees the light of day, it’s already old hat to Isaak, he admits. Though it feels good to share with the world whatever he’s been working on, he doesn’t like to dwell on it.

“I put it out, and I’ve started on my new album,” he says. “That album’s been out about a month, and it’s yesterday’s news to me.

Maybe the rest of the world is playing it and that’s good stuff. That’s what I want … I want them to do that, but I’m back in the trenches and I’m working on a new album. I don’t really sit and enjoy it too much, but when you’re mixing the records and stuff like that, you tend to hear the songs thousands of times over—so, really, if you never hear it again, you’re pretty much okay with that.”

Luckily for Isaak, he says it is different hearing new songs in a live setting when performing them. With a string of shows slated through the summer and fall, mainly across B.C. and Alberta, Isaak will perform a mix of festival slots and headlining concerts.

“We do play these songs, and that’s a different story when you’re playing them live versus listening to a recording,” he says. “It’s always fresher.”

Isaak doesn’t go out on the road these days—not nearly as much as he did in his younger years. The bluesman says in his 20s he would be on tour for months on end, often playing around 20 shows a

month and still barely scraping by ﬁnancially.

“That’s one of the nice things about youth is that you’re nuts and you’re ready to take on anything,” he says. “We like to put tours together now that go a couple days, or maybe four days and then some days off. We’re not in a situation where we have to be out there working our butts off to make a living. We can pull it off with six or seven shows a month and have a comfortable lifestyle.”

Back in the day, Isaak usually found himself playing bars, pubs, breweries, restaurants and other types of small venues where he would provide background noise to accompany the conversations of uninterested patrons.

“Nobody gives a crap about you when you’re in the corner,” he says. “It’s hard, and it was wearing on me. I was getting tired of that.”

Isaak credits his wife and manager, Cindy Mae Isaak, with pulling him out of that scene and opening the doors for better opportunities.

“In order to take the next jump, you have to drop the small bars, breweries, restaurants—all that—out of your repertoire and just start focusing on bigger gigs,” he continues. “That was a big jump for us when we ﬁgured that out, and it’s a scary jump as well. All of a sudden, you’re quitting your day job and trying to push to a higher tax bracket.”

Isaak’s fall touring schedule

will also see him making his way back up to Whitehorse for a Halloween show at Marsh Lake and an evening at the Old Fire Hall the following day on Nov. 1. Isaak will be joined by celebrated local musicians Lonnie Powell and Dave Haddock. The shows will beneﬁt the Ukrainian Canadian Association of Yukon.

“There’s 680 [Ukrainian people] up there in the Yukon, and they don’t plan on staying,” Isaak says. “They’re grateful to be there, but they are also looking forward to heading back to Ukraine, come the right time, so we’re gonna help them raise some money, and they put money into ambulances and medical supplies … It’s quite the story in itself.”

Isaak, himself, has some family history in Ukraine, with ancestors of his murdered and run out of the country in the 1920s.

“It’s replaying itself now, so I’m happy I can help do anything I can,” he says. “Like my wife says, people want to help but they don’t know how, so we’ll be doing these two shows in Whitehorse and we’ll be donating money from our CDs towards Ukraine.”

As far as coming back to Whitehorse goes, Isaak is thrilled to be visiting his hometown and catching up with old friends and family.

“I always love coming home,” he says.

Visit Isaak’s website at brandonisaak.ca to keep up with his music and touring schedule. ■

PHOTO: Submitted by Brandon Isaak

Manus Hopkins is a journalist and musician who grew up in Whitehorse.

Brandon Isaak’s new album, Walkin’ With The Blues, is available for streaming now

bluesman

PHOTO: Christian Kuntz

WELCOMETOFALL!

Sep 16 Leading Through Fa gue, Complex and Uncertain 10-11:30 am Livestream

Sep 23 Conscious Aging Talk ( 2 hrs.) 7- 9 pm

Oct 1-3 Mental Health First Aid for Northern Peoples

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm T1023

Oct 6 13 Factors of Psychological Health and Safe

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1530

Oct 6-10 NEW FASD for Frontline Workers (5 days)

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1440

90650

90526

90525

Oct 17 Transforma onal Leadership: Segment A - The Resilient Leader

am-12 pm

Rm C1530

90527

Oct 17 Transforma onal Leadership: Segment B - The Resilient Organiza on 1-4 pm YukonU Rm C1530

Oct 23 NEW Conscious Aging: Trans ons

Oct 28

CRN 90528 $135+GST Register by Oct 10

9 am-4 pm Normandy Living, 468 Range Rd CRN 90651

NAVIGATING DIFFICULT CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1530

CRN 90644

$329+GST or $299+GST Early bird

Registra on deadline with YukonU is Oct 21, Early Bird registra on by Oct 7. Late registra on un l Oct 27: email sam@ctrins te.com

Nov 6 NEW Conscious Aging: Harves ng Wisdom from Lived Experience

9 am-4 pm Normandy Living, 468 Range Rd

Nov 7 Loss in the Workplace

8:30 am-12 pm L’AFY, 302 Strickland St.

Nov 17 De-escala ng Poten ally Violent Si a ons

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1440

CRN 90652

CRN 90595

CRN 90642

$150+GST Register by Oct 31

$135+GST Register by Nov 1

$329+GST or $299+GST Early bird

Registra on deadline with YukonU is Nov 10, Early Bird registra on by Nov 3. Late registra on un l Nov 15: email sam@ctrins te.com

Nov 19-20 Applied Suicide Interven on Skills Training (ASIST)

8:30 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1440

Dec 2 Mo va onal Interviewing

9 am-4:30 pm YukonU Rm C1530

CRN 90627 $245+GST Register by Nov 14

CRN 90653

$329+GST or $299+GST Early bird

Registra on deadline with YukonU is Nov 25, Early Bird registra on by Nov 10. Late registra on un l Dec 1: email sam@ctrins te.com

HOW TO REGISTER

• Register by phone at 867 668 8710 ext. 2 or

• Register by emailing registrations@yukonu.ca

WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE EXPECTING FOUR LEGS

nessed a light-coloured baby on the ground, standing and nursing.

On the evening of July 4, Blue had waxed (she had the sticky colostrum-rich substance that coagulates at the teats)

Blue typically foals within four to six hours of this event, so we knew that foaling was imminent. My ﬁance, Bryan, and I had not gotten much sleep for the past two weeks, checking the camera every few hours. We were ready for the long haul, checking the camera every hour.

I checked the camera again at 5 a.m. and found nothing but a sheisty palomino mare grinning at me on camera, still holding her baby hostage. At 5:20 a.m., I checked the camera again only to have a shock of goosebumps rip from head to toe as I wit-

Poor Bryan. This is not the ﬁrst time he has been in a completely relaxed state or sleeping, only to be rudely awakened by shrieking and having the blankets ripped off of him. I know he’s just as excited, but he deﬁnitely hides it better than I do. I have to let it out or my body would explode.

We hit the ground running with the foaling kit and lots of towels in hand, then calmly approached the barn door to observe the most beautiful golden palomino foal, standing and nursing already like a vac truck.

Mom and baby both visually checked out perfectly healthy, so now it was time for a closer inspection. While Bryan was gently drying baby off, I was checking both of them for any signs of health problems. We conﬁrmed mom had passed the placenta, and not only did I have to make sure all of it came out, with no pieces left behind, but I needed to get it removed before the scent started to lure predators.

Everything looked intact, so I carefully placed it in a garbage bag and removed it from the barn. Bryan is lucky, as this

time I didn’t throw the placenta in his truck for further investigation. I confirmed and announced that we had a filly on the ground, and also got her umbilical stump cleaned. Baby had passed her meconium (first poop) and all systems were go.

I was a tad concerned that baby would have a hard time navigating over the large 6 x 6 timber door frame out of the barn, and within 45 minutes she had taken her ﬁrst jump right out into the open, with mom in hot pursuit. Another problem foals can run into is deformities in the limbs, and there are many conditions that will correct themselves over time—knock knees, over at the knee, toes out or in—and some that need help if they are to have a ﬁghting chance at growing normally, such as contracted tendons.

This girl was very slightly knees in when born, but by Day 3 she was straight as an arrow and hit the ground galloping. It was evident that we had a very special girl on our hands, as her spatial awareness, balance and strength on Day one was shocking.

Bryan and I were ﬁnally able to make a pot of coffee, take a deep breath and relax on my cus-

tom-made bench seat on coasters from a 1972 Chevy C10, which has been my lounging chair for years. The long 11-month wait was over, and the bare minimum that we could’ve asked for not only happened with mom and baby being safe and healthy, but it was evident with every minute that went by, in observation, that we had a little superstar on our hands. With all of the stress and no sleep and the preamble just for these amazing broodmares to pop their babies out … It was like it was just another day at the ofﬁce.

Now, as I look back at the last month and a half of this amazing gift of life and watch her tear around and stir up everyone’s smiles, hearts and safety (especially my own), I reﬂect on Mother Nature and absolutely how perfect she is when left alone in her own peace. I am unbelievably humbled and grateful for these experiences, and at the end of the day, memories are all we will have to take to the grave.

GoldSmith’s Pure Honey (a.k.a. Honey Butt) has stolen the hearts of horse enthusiasts, family and friends all over the globe. Some of the most well-respected breeders in the Morgan industry have

been stirred over her presence at what an athlete she is. These Morgans hold our history, and their versatility and adaptability hold our future.

We were lucky enough to have 10 members of our family visit from down south, just a week and a half after she was born, and there were many connections made with my beautiful horse family. Honey got exposure to so many loving people early on in life—to put smiles on people’s faces where there is sadness, desperation and depression. To give people hope of a connection, faith that there is still beauty in the world and something to look forward to.

Horses are needed now more than ever as our world sometimes ﬁnds its balance completely shaken from its foundation. Horses remind us every day to live in the moment, and that all you need is right in front of you and tomorrow will take care of itself.

I very much look forward to telling you future stories and sharing this journey with my beautiful family, as we raise our little Honey Butt (stay tuned for more). ■

Smith

Part Three of Three

Belas Blue Curacao (Blue) half an hour after delivering GoldSmith’s Pure Honey

Pure Honey enjoying summer rays

Blue and Honey enjoying rest, sunshine and grub

Blue making sure Honey is getting her rocket fuel

PHOTOS: Rita Smith

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

Come enjoy:

• Tea and Bannock

• Learn about the history of the area

• Traditional stories and placenames

Where:

When:

Friday Sept 19, 11-2 Join us for the last campﬁre talk of the season!

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

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

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Wed Sep 10 Ahh Nuts – Lunchtime 12:15 PM Robert Service Campground Red Squirrels are working feverishly to collect enough cones for them through winter. The chatter of these animated rodents will take on new meaning after this short lunchtime walk with biologist Meghan Larivee. https://yukon.ca/en/wilddiscoveries

Thu Sep 11 Neighbourhood Nature –Mount McIntyre 7:00 PM Whitehorse Nordic Centre Explore local trails as part of our neighbourhood nature series. On this walk we’ll look at the ecosystem around the Rocky Canyon and The Collective trails at Mt. McIntyre. https://yukon.ca/en/wilddiscoveries

Sat Sep 13 Yukon MTB Champs Whitehorse https://yukoncycling.com/

Sat Sep 13 YCKC - Whitewater Rodeo 2025 11:00 AM YCKC Bins Showcasing the talents of Whitewater Paddlers in the Yukon - Multiple events over a variety of disciplines means there are participation opportunities for all skill levels with a BBQ and beer garden.

Sun Sep 14 Terry Fox Run 2025 - Whitehorse Robert Service Campground Register, pre-warm up, enjoy the BBQ, make a donation and be with the community. The route will be the Millennium Trail. Direction will be dependent on which way the wind is blowing. https://run.terryfox. ca/93003

Tue Sep 16 Neighbourhood Nature

– Stinky Lake 7:00 PM Porter Creek

Explore local trails as part of our neighbourhood nature series. On this walk, we’ll take a stroll around “Stinky Lake” in Porter Creek. Meet at the end of Pine Street (at the junction of Ponderosa Drive) https://yukon.ca/en/ wild-discoveries

Wed Sep 17 Line Dancing 1:00 PM Golden Age Society Golden Age Centre Line dancing. A fun, social, low impact and mentally stimulating activity, perfect for keeping us young at heart

Thu Sep 18 Boogie-woogie Elk bugling 6:00 PM Yukon Department of Environment We’ll drive out to the Takhini Valley and call for these large members of the deer family to see if they respond. We’ll also talk about the history of these ungulates in the Yukon and how they survive here. https://yukon.ca/en/wild-discoveries

Sat Sep 20 Polarettes New Facility

- Grand Opening Celebration 1:00 PM Yukon Gymnastics Centre Join us for the Grand Opening of our new facility in Whistlebend, expect a ribbon cutting, face paint, demos, “try it” circuits, freebies, new merch, free cake, kids activities, door prizes, games and facility tours!

Sat Sep 20 Cross Country Championships 10:30 AM Gunnar

Nielsen & Mickey Lammers Research Forest Annual Yukon Cross Country Championships is one of Athletics Yukon’s most popular events! https:// www.sportyukon.com/events/5000mtrack-race-n66my-8bwtb

Sat Sep 20 Area 55 - Hard Enduro

Race 9:00 AM Enduro and MX tracks AREA 55 is a GO — from Kids to Expert Riders - Fun is guaranteed!

Sun Sep 21 YSSDS Self-Defence Workshop for Women 1:00 PM

Location TBC Learn and foster selfdefence skills, situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, personal space, and much more. www.yssds.ca

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

Noon Strength & Conditioning 12:00

PM Northern Strength Academy

Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00

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

Indoor Cycling 12:05 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days

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

Kids Muay Thai 4:45 PM Eight Days

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

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

Northern Strength Academy

Broga - Yoga for Men 5:30 PM

Tai Chi Qigong / Meditation 7:00 PM

Jack Hulland Elementary School

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 7:30 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Tuesdays

Strength for Endurance 6:00 AM

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

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts

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

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

Yoga with Barbara 10:00 AM

Whitehorse United Church Drop-in, no registration required, everyone is welcome. Call 335-1996 for more info.

Strength for Endurance 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Join our supportive running community and hone your technique, speed and pace with the Yukon’s top endurance coach. Inclusive for all levels.

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

Strength & Conditioning 1:00PM Northern Strength Academy

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

Indoor Cycling 5:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength. ca/

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

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

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

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. whitehorsearchery.com/schedule

Yoga with Jess 7:00 PM Golden Horn Elementary School Yoga is for everyone, join a community class, beginners

Sat Sep 20 Yukon Strong 2025 10:00 AM Shipyards Park An all-day community Strongperson competition celebrating northern grit, resilience, and healthy living

Centred - Yoga Breath Sound Chant Drum Dance Breathing, stretching, moving, strengthening, decompressing, inverting, balance work, manly selfcare at its finest. Email malbacph@ hotmail.com for more info.

Ladies Kickboxing 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts

Wednesdays

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM

Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

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

Morning Strength & Conditioning

7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Elderactive CGC Flexihall 9:00

AM Canada Games Centre Yukon

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

Elderactive Pilates level 1 9:30 AM

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

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

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

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40

AM Northern Lights School of Dance

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

Noon Strength & Conditioning

12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy northernstrength.ca/

Elderactive Pilates level 1 12:00

PM Northern Lights School of Dance

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

Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM

Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

Elderactive Intermediate Hiking 1:00

PM ElderActive Recreation Association

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

Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM

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

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 6:00 PM Eight Days Martial Arts 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

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 7:00 PM 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

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

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

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

WELLNESS

LISTINGS

Fri Sep 12 Sound Journey with Dave Haddock 7:30 PM Centred - Yoga Breath Sound Chant Drum Dance Dave offers a sound journey of “healing” or vibratory instruments of many cultures, and voice. Email wallymaltz@mac.com for more info.

Sat Sep 13 Soul Song Workshop with Dave Haddock 1:00 PM

Centred - Yoga Breath Sound Chant Drum Dance A guided exploration of your sound, mindful, playful session that encourages you to make sound, align your voice with your inner world, relax some inhibitions, and move your body.

Tue Sep 16 Next Level Carb Counting & Insulin 101 6:00 PM Yukon Healthy Living Program (formerly CCSP) Learn how to identify and balance your carbohydrate intake to improve your blood sugar control and also better understand the safe and effective use of various types of insulin. Call 667-8733 for more info. Fri Sep 19 Spouse / Partner Loss Grief Group 6:00 PM Location TBA After Pre-Registration Connect with others - Learn about what helps when grieving - Feel less isolated in your grief and pain. A free event and vegetarian dinner will be served. https://hospiceyukon.net/ en/2025/08/26/partnerloss/ Fri Sep 19 Energy Healing Retreat 6:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A transformative local retreat where we’ll gently explore the behaviors and triggers that impact us today.

Tue Sep 23 ARKA Brotherhood Open House – Intro to Men’s Work 7:00 PM Yukon Literacy Centre Join a men’s group - We inspire men to improve their relationships, take accountability for their lives, and become trustworthy leaders.

Wed Sep 24 Living with Loss - free workshop 6:00 PM Normandy Living Learn about the nature of grief and the various ways it can impact people with different kinds of loss. https:// hospiceyukon.net/en/2023/07/07/ livingwithlosstogether/

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

Monthly

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

Mondays

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

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

Infant Feeding Mondays 1:00 PM Yukon Midwifery Program - Yukon Health and Social Services

AA Life Ahead (O, A) 7:00 PM 509 Hanson St. Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

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

Tuesdays

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

VFWC - Drop-In 11:00 AM Victoria

Faulkner Women’s Centre Drop-In includes Laundry and Shower.

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 6:00 PM 100 25 Firth Rd Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight? Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details

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

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00

PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or Zoom ID 251 363 5766 no passcode or by phone 1-778-9072071

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 (Back Entrance) Al-Anon 12:00 PM 407 Black Street, downstairs Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

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

AA Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00 PM Our Lady of Victory

Thursdays

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

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

Help Shape Yukon’s Future

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

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

Polar Group (O, A) 7:30 PM 311 Elliott St. & 4th Ave. Held in person or Zoom ID 251 363 5766 no passcode or by phone 1-778-907-2071

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 (Back Entrance) VFWC – Drop-In 1:30 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre

Health Canada is seeking Yukon residents to be considered as a federal nominee to the Yukon Water Board, the sole regulator of the use of water and deposit of waste into water in the Yukon.

Applicants must have knowledge or experience relevant to the mandate of the Yukon Water Board, such as experience with Northern boards, cultural awareness, engaging and consulting with Northerners/First Nations and use of traditional knowledge in decision making. Board members must be able to participate in monthly meetings and to accommodate unanticipated increases in related commitments and duties. Appointments will be made for a three-year term. Board members receive honoraria and eligible travel expenses from the Yukon government.

As part of Health Canada’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including those of diverse ethnicities, communities, genders and abilities.

If you are interested in being a member on the Yukon Water Board, please send an email to water_eau@hc-sc.gc.ca with the following:

■ Curriculum vitae (CV) & contact information

■ A brief cover letter demonstrating how your knowledge or experience is relevant

Application deadline: October 9, 2025

Those received after this date may be retained and considered for future nominations to the Yukon Water Board. Applications in English or French are welcome.

For more information on the Yukon Water Board, visit https://yukonwaterboard.ca or https://yukon.ca/en/your-government/boards-and-committees/water-board-yukon

Adult

ATLIN

Sat Sep 13 Atlin Rec Centre Pot Luck 5:30 PM Atlin Recreation Centre

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

St. Joseph Catholic Mission Holy Mass 3:00 PM St. St. Joseph Catholic Mission.

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. Dropin, 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

Saturdays

Court 3:00 PM Carmacks Rec

FARO

Pick up your copies of What’s Up Yukon at: • Campbell Region Interpretive Centre • Liquor Store • Van Gorda Thu Sep 25 Arctic Winter Games

DAWSON CITY

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)

form a band with your friends, learn 2 cover songs of your choice + one assigned song , perform live!

Sun Sep 14 Terry Fox Run 2025 1:00 PM Front Street Picnic Shelter Run, walk, or bike the 45th anniversary Terry Fox Run! https://terryfox.org/

Tue Sep 16 Creative Cash Flow - CRA Tips for Artists & Small Biz 6:00 PM Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) A free, artist-friendly workshop with a CRA Liaison Officer, who’ll help you run your creative practice like a pro. Email gallery@kiac.ca for more info. kiac.ca/ calendar-of-events/ Weekly

Mondays

Handbuilding Pottery Drop-in 6:30-9

PM Self-guided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with pottery. Newcomers are welcome, though little instruction is provided. KIAC Classroom, back door Drop-In Pickleball 5:30 PM Robert Service School

Adult Drop-In Basketball 7:45 PM Robert Service School Ages 16+ -Free Call 993-7400 ext 299 for more info.

Tuesdays

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)

Hand-Building 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) Selfguided group studio time for those who have some knowledge and experience with screen printing.

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

Thursdays

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

Free drop-In for kids 5 & under with parent/guardian Story time & free play!

Yoga is for everyone, join a community class, beginners welcome and all equipment provided. Drop in by donation. Email yoga.jessyukon@ gmail.com

Tuesdays

Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In 6:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Improve your balance, flexibility, strength and endurance in this indoor class led by Colleen Ennis. Drop in, admission by donation. Suitable for mature youth & adults. https://whatsupyukon.events/fhm

Thursdays

Community Drop In 11:00 AM Mount

Lorne Community Centre

Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne

Community Centre

LMCA Tennis Drop-In 7:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre All equipment provided, all ages and abilities welcome!

OLD CROW

Mondays

Men’s Night At The Rec Centre 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Tuesdays

Kids Gym 3:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Adult Sewing 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Youth Gym 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Wednesdays

Stroller Walks 10:00 AM Kih Tsal

Parent and Tots 4:00 PM Old Crow Community Center Call 966-3015 for more info.

Adult Card Game Night 6:00 PM John Tizya Centre & Old Crow Community Centre

Sundays

St. Luke’s Church Service 11:00 AM St. Luke’s Church 867-993-5381

ROSS RIVER

Fri Sep 26 Arctic Winter Games in your Community Ross River Michael Jay the Fox will be along for the fun as we visit schools and connect with the community. A free community BBQ with games, prizes!

Mondays Adult Softball 7:00 PM Baseball Field Ages 16+ Bring your glove, and friendsno experience needed.

Tuesdays

Sewing Night 7:00 PM The Hope Centre

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-legion8336c3

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 (O, A) Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion

Sundays

Anglican Church Service 10:30 AM

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+

Street Hockey 7:00 PM Ross River School Open to all ages and skill levels

Wednesdays

Family Bible Study 8:00 PM The Hope Centre

Thursdays

Community Softball Nights 7:00 PM Baseball Field Come out and have some fun, fitness and community spirit! All ages welcome.

Fridays

Family Game Night- Coffee House 9:00 PM The Hope Centre

Sundays Church Service 12:00 PM The Hope Centre

SKAGWAY Alaska

Wednesdays

Women’s Morning Worship 7:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway All are welcome. Part of the Alaska Presbytery and the PC U.S.A.

Windy Valley Babies 10:30 AM Skagway Public Library Stories, Songs, and Fun with Ms. Anna! Designed for ages 0-3.

Fridays

Skagway Teen Night 6:30 PM Skagway Public Library

Sundays Sunday Worship 10:00 AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway Sunday School 4:00 PM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway

TAGISH

Wed Sep 10 Community BBQ and Music

Night 5:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Site Join us after coffee and chat for a free BBQ and live music from band “On the Marge”. The second half of music will be a Slow Jam, bring an instrument, some music you want to play and a few sheets to share with your fellow musicians!

Sat Sep 13 Tailgate Sale Tagish Community Centre 1:00 PM Contact “recreation@tagishyukon.org” to register for a spot. Swing by and check it out, we might have what you’ve been looking for!

First Monday of every month Carcross Tagish Renewable Resources Council 1:00 PM Tagish Fire Hall

First Monday of every month Tagish Advisory Council 8:00 AM Tagish Fire Hall

Third Wednesday of every month Tagish Community Association 7:00 PM Tagish Fire Hall

Every 2nd Wednesday Coffee And Chat

2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre Held every 2nd Wednesday at the Rink

Second Thursday of every month Tagish Local Advisory Council 7:00 PM Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday Tagish Wheely Great Community Library 12:00 PM Tagish Community Centre Site

Thursdays Tagish Local Advisory Council Meeting 7:00 PM Tagish Fire Hall

TESLIN

Mondays Teslin Tigers Cross Country Ski Club 3:15 PM

Clayton’s CAR CARE Tips

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

YUKON LADIES ASK

Finding belonging in the North

When you move somewhere new, you hope to ﬁnd more than just a place to live; you hope to ﬁnd home. For one woman and her family, the Yukon quickly became just that: a place not only of staggering beauty, but of purpose, connection and community.

“My husband Shawn, our dogs and I came up for a three-day trip when he was offered a job at Whitehorse Motors,” Kaley-lynn Hewitt-MacDougall shares. “We ended up falling head over heels in love with the territory. We just knew that if we said no to this opportunity, we’d always wonder what could’ve been. And when one option comes with regret, well, it’s not really a choice anymore, is it? So we said yes!”

That yes opened the door to a new life. What started as a leap into the unknown quickly turned into something extraordinary.

While the mountains, lakes and crisp air are all part of what makes the Yukon so special, she says the heart of it all lies in the people. And it was from this belief that Yukon Ladies Ask (YLA), a thriving Facebook group, was born.

“I started the group because I was new and working from home, running my own business. I had so many questions: where to go for a good date night, which vet to trust, even which winter boots wouldn’t leave my toes frozen,” she says, then laughs. “I needed a place to ask, and it turned out a lot of other women did too.”

What happened next was nothing short of magical. Over 1,000 members joined in the ﬁrst 24 hours. Today, the group is closing in on 5,000 members—women from all walks of life, united by a

desire to connect, support one another and build something meaningful.

“It started as Q and A, but it’s become so much more,” she explains. “We’ve hosted meetups, clothing swaps, fundraisers and collaborative community projects. And it’s all rooted in the same simple idea: women supporting women.”

One standout initiative that the YLA team revived was Once Upon A Prom (formerly known as the Cinderella Project), which helps provide formal wear for teens who might not otherwise be able to obtain it. Then there’s Paint It Furward, where Kaley and Jana, the owner of Fireweed Fine Finish, put together a group of women who rolled up their sleeves and refreshed the kennels at Humane Society Yukon. Clothing swaps have donated over 100 items to the Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre, and a unique speed-dating-style networking event helped connect local women entrepreneurs.

“It’s amazing what can grow from a single idea when you’re in a place like the Yukon,” HewittMacDougall says. “Back in a bigger city, it can be easy to feel like just another face in the crowd. But here, if you have an idea and the heart to follow through on it, you can make real change. The Yukon makes space for your dreams.”

That dream is supported by two key women who have been instrumental since the beginning: Riley Denny and Kristie Sereda.

“Riley reached out to me my ﬁrst week here. We had coffee, and she’s been by my side ever since. I call her ‘Fix-It Riley.’ She’s resourceful, kind and genuinely one of the most supportive people I’ve ever met.” Then there is Kristie: “She’s sunshine in human form,” she says with a smile. “Warm, funny, real … She lights up a room and brings so much heart to everything she does.”

Together, the trio has transformed YLA into more than just a Facebook group. It’s become a true community, with a powerful impact on local women-owned businesses. One of their key initiatives is the Yukon Women-Owned Business Registry, which now features over 100 businesses and continues to grow. This registry is part of what sets YLA apart from other Facebook groups. Hewitt-Mac-

Dougall is the owner of Briar Rose Photography and she envisioned YLA as a space to celebrate and support women in business, championing the message of community over competition. That vision now shines through in initiatives like the new Foxy Business Highlight series, which gives local women the spotlight they truly deserve.

She recalls stories that exemplify the group’s spirit: Recently, a woman gave away $900 in gift cards before they expired; and a time when she delivered a laptop to Edmonton for a fellow member, during a family crisis. “We’ve helped reunite lost pets. The group has been a place of support for women through postpartum depression, pediapause, divorce and chronic illness. In this space you don’t have to feel alone—even during the darkest times.”

It’s that strength—quiet, steady, deeply rooted—that deﬁnes what it means to be a Yukon woman.

“If Yukon strength were a superpower,” she says, “it would be the quiet kind of power that moves mountains, literally and ﬁguratively. It’s the ability to dig deep, show up, and make a difference, not just for yourself but for others. It’s kindness, grit and unity rolled into one.”

So, what advice does she have for women moving to the territory?

“Yukon Ladies Ask!” she says and grins. “Seriously, join the group. Ask the questions, come to an event. Get involved. You’ll ﬁnd your people, and maybe even your purpose.”

As for the women already living in the Yukon, she offers this message: “Keep showing up for one another. Keep dreaming, building and lifting each other up. The strength we have when we stand together? It’s unstoppable.”

For her, being a Yukon lady is about more than geography. It’s about living with intention, kindness and connection. And through Yukon Ladies Ask, she’s created a place where all of that, and more, can thrive.

“This isn’t just where I live,” she says softly. “It’s where I belong.” ■

PHOTOS: Supplied by Kaley-lynn Anne Hewitt-MacDougall / Briar Rose Photography

with Kylie Campbell-Clarke

Kylie Campbell-Clarke is an Australian writer and photographer exploring the Yukon.

 Founder of Yukon Ladies Ask, Kaley-lynn Anne Hewitt-MacDougall

 YLA Paint It Furward crew

DA remote gem that’s full of surprises

uring the 2024 paddle season, I celebrated my milestone 50th birthday by paddling over 50 Yukon lakes. The information gathered about each lake was used to create the 50 Lakes Yukon guidebook, now available for purchase online and in local shops. As part of this summer series, I’m highlighting various Yukon lakes, each with unique and notable features. For those planning a fall adventure on the remote South Canol Road, a sweet gem awaits at Rose Lake. Within the Traditional Territory of the Teslin Tlingit Council lies the remote gem, Rose Lake. Its Tlingit name, Łʼèx Hîni Shâk Âyi, means “lake at the head of aluminum river.”

Not to be mistaken for the wellknown Rose Lake near Kusawa Lake, the smaller road-accessible Rose Lake is located at kilometre 156 of the South Canol Road. The lake is better recognized for its river that weaves across the South Canol Road, marked by multiple bridges along the way. Łʼèx Hîni

Shâk Âyi is an expansion of the Rose River, which ﬂows into the Nisutlin River, then to Teslin Lake and, ultimately, connects with the Yukon River.

This small, unassuming lake is seldom mentioned in regional literature, making it a true hidden gem. There is a small gravel parking area, but otherwise no other services—nothing but the lake’s own loveliness. Surrounded by gentle silty hills, the broad valley offers stunning views of the Pelly Mountains and the Saint Cyr Range.

A visit to Rose Lake offers a fantastic detour from the South Canol Road, allowing you to swim, paddle or simply relax by the creek. Its water is cold, refreshing and worth the plunge. Although the lake’s length is less than two kilometres, there is a surprising seven kilometres of shoreline, so it’s worth the extra time exploring the islets and small coves.

On my trip there last summer, meandering on my paddleboard along the lake’s shoreline, I spotted a large beaver lodge and a ﬂash of hot pink. As I approached, the splash of colour turned out to be a Barbie boat, a plastic toy that was likely taken by the winds across the lake. While Barbie’s

boat had obviously been there a while, it was still in great condition. It appeared that there had been a half-hearted effort by the resident beaver to weave the boat into the lodge. Pulling away a few small branches, I released the boat and plopped it onto the

deck of my board. It was a long way to travel back home in Whitehorse with litter to bring to one of the free stores. When I returned to the gravel area where I had launched, there was a family with three young girls playing in the creek. Imagine ﬁnding the perfect recipients to gift a Barbie boat to in the Yukon wild, after 36 hours of not seeing another person on my travels. Imagine playing by a creek and having a lone paddleboarder arrive across the lake to gift you a toy the colour of a wild rose. ■

ʼèx Hîni Shâk Âyi (Rose Lake) with its many islets and bays

PHOTOS: Wendy Morrison

This little lake makes a big splash

Lake mountain views to the south

The lost Barbie boat that drifted into the resident beaver lodge

Carrie McClelland is the lead education and outreach biologist with the Government of Yukon Department of Environment. In the fall she loves going for walks and “leaf peeping” (viewing the changing colours of the leaves).

TRUE COLOURS SHINING THROUGH

Autumn is a time for change and colour

Throughout the summer, Yukoners enjoy exploring trails and waterways across the territory, catching a glimpse of a moose across a pond, smelling the rich Labrador tea after a rain, or listening to the wind shake the leaves of trembling aspen. But everything has a season, and seeing that ﬁrst yellow leaf can make us grimace, especially in the North when it feels like summer has only just begun. As the days shorten and the temperatures fall, plants and animals go through changes in advance of winter.

It ain’t easy being green

Green plants are the original solar panels. Leaves contain chlorophyll, a chemical that allows plants to absorb sunlight. But chlorophyll absorbs only blue and red wavelengths (green wavelengths are reflected, which is why plants look green to our eyes). Plants take carbon dioxide and water and add a dose of sunlight to create the sugars they need in order to grow. All living things in the North must somehow survive cold, dark winters, and plants are no different. Plants protect their cells by shutting down their circulatory systems, stopping the flow of water, sugars and chemicals to their “extremities.” Chlorophyll is cut off from the leaves, so green wavelengths are no longer being reflected. It is in fall when the true colours of plants shine through. The yellow, oranges and reds that you see are a result of carotenoids and flavonoids (pigments) that are always present in plants but just hidden all summer by the green wavelengths that are reflecting.

Fall colours start early in the alpine, in mid- to late August.

Low shrubs, such as dwarf birch (sometimes referred to as buck brush), turn a brilliant red. Meanwhile, the willows are changing to yellow, and smaller shrubs will be everything in-between.

At lower elevations, green leaves are still busy with photosynthe-

sis so you can still enjoy the last days of summer.

The Golden Encore Into September, the willows, trembling aspens, balsam poplars and tamaracks turn a brilliant golden yellow. Hillsides of evergreen trees will be dotted with patches of yellow as these

trees shut down their energy centres and brace for winter. Though snow may have already dusted the alpine, lower elevations are a bit behind and the later display of yellow is sometimes known as the Golden Encore. One of the best places to see this display is in the young forests of the Takhini Valley or in the Fox Lake/Braeburn area.

On a bright fall day, the hills practically glow with their own light, giving us a little encore of plant beauty before settling down for a long winter’s nap.

Animals are changing, too Plants aren’t the only ones preparing for winter. Ptarmigan, ermine/least weasel, Arctic foxes and snowshoe hares all change their colours to white, to camouﬂage in the snow. In the fall, you might catch one of these critters mid-change, looking rather mottled, with patches of white on their coats. If the snow is late in arriving, their white forms stick out on a brown landscape, making them quite visible and vulnerable to predators. Snowshoe hares are around the peak of their population cycle, so you might have a good chance of spotting rabbits as the leaves fall off of the trees and shrubs and as their white coats stand out.

Another sure sign that winter is coming are the ﬂashes of red that are zooming up rivers and creeks. Salmon have returned from the ocean to spawn. Salmon are silvery when they live in the ocean, but when they begin the long migration back upstream, their colours change. It’s believed this is to attract a mate—similar to the breeding plumage of birds in spring. Being bright and ﬂashy attracts a lot of attention and signals their readiness to spawn.

Let’s get outside!

Summer may be over, but fall is an exciting time to do some wildlife viewing. The changing landscape has lots to show us as plants and animals prepare for winter. You can join in our ﬁnal Wild Discoveries events of the season, including a tour to the Fox Lake Burn where you can experience the Golden Encore. Visit yukon.ca/wild-discoveries for event listings. ■