What's Up Yukon, May 29, 2024

THE LOST ART OF LETTER WRITING

I had my first pen pal before I could properly write a whole sentence

Mreplicated in the digital realm. In his poem To Sir Henry Wotten, the English poet John Donne wrote this: “Sir, more than kisses, letters mingle souls.” Anyone who’s ever gotten a love letter knows that to be true. In a world where everything is instantaneous, there’s something marvelous about a little bit of delayed gratification, every now and then, and knowing that someone took a bit of extra time and energy to put their thoughts on a page for you.

sages, can open up your eyes to different cultures and ways of living. A long-distance pen pal is a great way to practise a new language and to improve your vocabulary and spelling.

Writing a letter is an exceptional and pure way of sharing deep feelings of passion and devotion, but beyond that it has so many other applications and benefits.

3. Some letters are like journal entries that you’ve chosen to share with someone and may actually be written more for yourself than for the person receiving them. Writing, whether in a journal or in a letter, can be powerfully therapeutic. It can help you work through problems, relieve tension, process emotions and even heal from painful and traumatic experiences.

y family and I were moving thousands of miles away from the only home I had known, up until then, and I had just made my first friend in kindergarten. It was the early nineties and email was mostly used by businessmen in fancy offices, while Facebook and WhatsApp were still years away from being launched. My dad had the idea that I could stay in touch with my friend via the postal service. Those initial “letters” were mostly drawings with a few scribbled sentences that I probably wrote with the help of my mom. Over the years, they changed into moreelaborate correspondence and were joined by Christmas cards, thank-you notes and birthday wishes to other friends and family far away. Sometimes I had no idea what to write, but somehow the blank page would get filled. I remember the joy it gave me to pick out stationery or to decorate those childhood letters with stickers and colourful pictures. I’m still in touch with that first friend, but in recent years, the letters have become fewer and farther between. Gradually, they were replaced by hastily recorded WhatsApp voice messages, a few quick pictures, the occasional longer text and, if we were feeling very ambitious, the odd postcard from a vacation or a birthday package, perhaps.

Technology has definitely made our way of communicating faster and more convenient, but it feels like maybe something has been lost along the way. There’s a certain intimacy to a letter— both in the writing and the receiving—that just can’t really be

4. A letter shows that you care. It takes time, energy, a little bit more care and a little more effort than just sending a few random emoticons via text message. The back and forth of sending and receiving letters creates a web of connection in a disconnected world.

It may seem old-fashioned and a rather inefficient way of staying in touch these days, but here are a few reasons you may want to reconsider:

1. Sitting down to write a letter forces you to slow down, especially if you’re writing it by hand. Putting thoughts to a page can get you to reflect on your life and make you pay closer attention to it. It lets you explore your feelings and organize your thoughts in a way that we don’t usually do or have the time for anymore.

2. Corresponding regularly with someone from a different part of the world, via long-form mes-

5. Having a pen pal as a child is an awesome way to improve writing and literacy skills, especially if it’s done by hand. A team of Norwegian researchers found that writing by hand results in much greater brain connectivity and promotes learning. Encourage your kids to start exchanging letters with a distant cousin or with a friend they made on vacation. Their English teachers will thank you.

6. According to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, “Letters are among the most significant memorials a person can leave behind them.” They’re something you can hold on to, look back on, and they can help you remember a moment in time that would have otherwise been forgotten.

7. Letter writing can inspire creativity and can help you find your own voice. The act of discovering your own way of expressing what you want to say can help you tap into your imagination and channel your inner muse. n

Jessica Surber is a writer who loves being in the mountains and working with plants. She divides her time between Peru and the Yukon.

Jessica Surber

IT’S THE ‘LITTLE THINGS’

The things that seem the most normal are always the most thought provoking, aren’t they?

You know, I like to think that I’m good at Rock Paper Scissors. I win an average amount, lose an average amount, tie an exceptional amount ... but what can you do? It’s such a simple game, isn’t it?

Well, on the surface it may seem simple or easy, but Rock Paper Scissors is much more than just a guessing game. It’s a game of the mind. It requires being able to think as though you were somebody else and not just any random person: you have to embody the person you are playing against. You need to be able to read their faces as though they’re classified at a firstgrade reading level, and you need to be able to do it in seconds. Throughout my many years, I’ve studied the practice of Rock Paper Scissors and have drawn many helpful conclusions on how to successfully enter said minds. That is, helpful to those who don’t crack under pressure like I do.

The school kept track of these wins through a system of beaded necklaces: everyone started the day with one coloured necklace and as they lost or won games, they gave away their jewelry or received necklaces from other students and teachers. It was simple. But I lost my first round and was out of play for the rest of the day. Oops. Still, I continued down the halls and couldn’t help but notice many other people wearing those beaded necklaces in a wide variety of num-

The other day, my school hosted a Rock Paper Scissors tournament. I did not win. I also (regrettably) did not try very hard. The premise of the game was to win the most rounds of Rock Paper Scissors and, in turn, you would receive a prize.

from the winner, so I soon gave up on my childhood dream of becoming the master of Rock Paper Scissors (no, seriously) and let my mind wander.

My mind did not wander very far. In fact, it wandered right back to the beaded necklaces. It hadn’t been that long since I had seen such accessories. They aren’t fancy and I often see their likenesses in various stores around town. But they struck my attention, nonetheless. Needless to say, I was not surprised to

bers: some had two, some had six, some had many more and some had none.

At first, I was ashamed (well, maybe not ashamed, per se, as I didn’t actually care all that much about what other people thought of my plastic necklace collection), making my way through the crowds of competitors with my bare neck. But, in hindsight, it was probably more shameful to have one necklace than none, as it suggested that you didn’t even try to win a battle. Interesting. Either way, I was far

myself wondering what the significance of those beads were. And perhaps there isn’t a significance; I, myself, think that they may just be a fun way to express festivity.

But maybe they symbolize something else—something from the past, something we have forgotten along with the ‘r’ in February. I definitely know that I forget things often.

see them, although I was (and still am) genuinely curious as to where my school purchased them in such a massive quantity. So, why was I struck by the plastic beads?

You tend to see similar sorts of things around the holidays: gauzy, cheap jewelry reminiscent of smoke-filled corridors, feathers and old-school jazz. I’m sure many families in Whitehorse have bought plastic necklaces from the store, at some point—maybe green ones for Saint Patrick’s Day; maybe rainbow ones for New Year’s. But I found

I mean, I even forgot my longstudied system for winning Rock Paper Scissors, when it finally came down to it. I’ve always found it funny how easily things can become part of day-today life—things you don’t necessarily even notice. There is probably some sort of significance to everything you see around you … at least at some point. There is even a significance to Rock Paper Scissors, most likely as a children’s game, which I completely disagree with. Rock Paper Scissors is way too complicated and strategy based to be considered child’s play.

I’m not ashamed to say that it could be on par with Chess if people were brave enough to risk everything based solely on their perception of others, which they obviously aren’t. Which is also fair. Humans are not generally as easy to read as a first-grade-level book, which is unfortunate because I would most definitely have won the Rock Paper Scissors tournament if they were.

But sometimes it’s fun to notice little things. You never know what they’ll inspire you to do. n

Aila Massie is a high school student in Whitehorse. She enjoys expressing herself through many

be

paint on canvas, pen on paper or onstage with her fellow NLSD dancers. She aspires to be a book editor someday.

Massie

PHOTO: Wikipedia Scissors Paper

Minnie Clark sitting with her fur harvest in front of one of her cabins out at Teslin Lake.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Minnie Clark

When we ask for advice

I’m

Freelance with Manus Hopkins

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

OFF TO THE INDIGENOUS FASHION ARTS FESTIVAL

in the Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival in Toronto from May 30 to June 2

In 2022, Vashti Etzel was part of a cohort sent by Yukon First Nations Culture & Tourism Association and Adäka Cultural Festival to experience the bi-yearly Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival (IFA) in Toronto. There, The Farobased designer and the rest of her group immersed themselves in the market and the panel discussion of the festival, with the goal of determining whether they’d make good fits for the festival and be interested in participating in the future.

“It was so inspiring,” said Etzel. “We spent about three days there, and there were quite a lot of vendors and tons of people. It’s a really high-paced environment.”

Among the attendees, Etzel noted, could be celebrities and social influencers, so there’s no knowing who might stop by to look at any vendor’s art and clothing, and any potential sale could go a long way. This year, Etzel will be participating as a vendor, but says she eventually would like to be part of the festival’s fashion show, as well, after a good year or two of preparing a collection for it.

“I decided last winter when they put a call out for applications,” she said. “I definitely wanted to take part in the market-

Etzel started sewing and beading around a decade ago

place as a vendor.”

Etzel describes her work as “slow fashion” and “luxurious Indigenous fashion.”

“My work is actually quite intricate,” she explained. “There’s a lot of details that go into my work and I’m known for my vibrant colours and my colour palettes that really stand out. I like to incorporate beadwork, porcupine quills and sometimes I’ll add some fancy gemstones in there, or sterling silver or gold beads. I really enjoy it; it’s a lot of fun.”

Etzel started sewing and beading around a decade ago when she had her first child. Living in Ross River at the time, she wasn’t finding a lot of employment opportunities and was staying home to raise her child as there was no daycare in town at the time.

“My way of reconnecting with my culture was teaching myself how to sew,” she said.

“I like to call it blood memory. My grandmother was a sewer, too, and I remember sitting and spend-

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

ing a lot of time with her while she sewed.” It started with Etzel making clothing, shoes and accessories for her son, but from there, she began playing around more and more to make whatever she could. After posting a beaded poppy to Facebook, to show family and friends something she was proud of, Etzel found her inbox flooded with people asking how they could buy the piece.

“I’d never sold anything I’d made before,” she said. “It was an eye-opening experience because I never thought that I would be able to make a living off of something that I made.”

The IFA takes place in Toronto from May 30 to June 2. The festival’s commitment is to explore connections between mainstream fashion, Indigenous art and traditional practice, with a marketplace, runway show and a variety of panels and workshops. To learn more about the IFA, visit indigenousfashionarts.com n

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

PHOTO: Courtesy of Damien Nelson

YUKON ARTS CENTRE

The Yukon Arts Centre Gallery and the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre have partnered to celebrate Yukon First Nations culture and art by showcasing the splendour and significance of the regalia worn at past graduation ceremonies.

GRADUATION REGALIA EXHIBIT GOING TO U.K.

In collaboration with the Yukon Arts Centre and the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, a selection of the Honouring Our Future: Yukon First Nations Graduation Regalia exhibition is set to embark on an international journey to London

The exhibition will be hosted at Canada House in London, England, from June 13 to October 6. It will feature about 15 pieces of regalia from across the Yukon. A Yukon First Nations beadwork workshop will also be hosted at the esteemed Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, U.K.

The popular exhibition has just finished its three-year Yukon tour, including stops at Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre (KDCC), Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre, Haa Shagóon Hídi, Da Kų Culture Centre and Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre.

The annual Yukon First Nations high-school graduation ceremony, which began in 1975, celebrates graduates, who will be wearing handmade regalia featuring the

Sarrah Telep, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council

Janelle AbelChitze, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation

local materials, intricate beadwork and creative designs reflecting their heritage.

The regalia—handcrafted by mothers, aunties, clan members, community matriarchs and patriarchs—tell stories that resonate deeply within our communities.

The effort and artistry that each graduate and their family have poured into each piece is a testament to the pride, support and love that binds our communities together.

Led by Indigenous curator Lisa

Nevada Joe, Champagne & Aishihik First Nations

Shania Hogan, Teslin Tlingit Council

Dewhurst, the exhibition focuses on the artistry and stories behind each piece. Entire communities came together to plan many of the dresses, vests, moccasins and more. Some pieces begin years in advance of a student’s graduation.

“Having the exhibit showcased in London is an amazing opportunity. This is a very special story: these beautiful pieces of art and the stories of pride, love and support for the First Nation graduates, by their families and communities, will truly shine in Can-

Tiana Wolfe-Smarch, Carcross/Tagish First Nation

ada House,” said Dewhurst.

“I am deeply honoured to witness the international journey of our Honouring Our Future: Yukon

“The regalia, meticulously handcrafted by Yukon First Nations, carries the stories of our people and the essence of our communities. I am immensely proud of the graduates who wear these regalia, and the families who pour their love and support into each piece. This exhibition is a testament to the resilience, artistry and unity of Yukon First Na-

tions, and it’s a privilege to share our heritage with the world,” added Grand Chief Peter Johnston, Council of Yukon First Nations.

“We are delighted to join hands with KDCC to illuminate the remarkable artistry from across our territory, to an international audience. Each piece of regalia encapsulates profound stories and deep cultural connections, serving as a beautiful reflection of the talented young graduates,” said Mary Bradshaw, Yukon Arts Centre director of visual arts. n

PHOTOS: Mike Thomas, Yukon Arts Centre

HIS BEST REMOTE LIFE DISPATCHES

Interview with a nomad programmer

Today I decided to interview someone we could describe as a “digital nomad.” Victor works remotely, as a programmer, while travelling the world with his mobile HotSpot. I was curious to know how he ended up in the Yukon …

Please introduce yourself

My name is Victor. I am a computer programmer who works remotely for companies based in the United Kingdom. I come from France. I grew up in [a] suburb of Paris. Then, with my partner, we lived in different countries and travelled a bit worldwide.

How did you end up in the Yukon?

“With my spouse. We used to live in the United Kingdom, in London, and we were looking for more wilderness and nature. We applied for permanent residency in Canada, which we luckily got. That brought us to British Columbia. We first lived for nine months in the Cowichan Valley, north of Victoria, on Vancouver Island. At some point, we were looking for more wilderness.

In our imagination, before moving to Canada, we had these pictures of pretty high mountains,

open fields [and] wild animals such as grizzly bears. My partner, one day, told me, “Well, I think we have seen what we wanted to see on Vancouver Island. Let’s try something new.” And that’s how she brought up the idea of moving to the Yukon. She looked for farms where she could work for, as a woofer; first, sixty kilometres away from Dawson City; and then more south, closer to Whitehorse. We packed everything up in our car and left Vancouver Island to drive up north to the Yukon.”

How did you decide to work remotely in the Yukon?

So, at first, when I moved to Canada, I kept my old job. It was during the pandemic. So everyone in my company was forced to work remotely. That’s how I started to work remotely, really, for my original U.K. employer. And then, with a colleague of mine working for this company, we decided to leave and start our own thing. We could call it a consultancy shop for programming. He was still based in the United Kingdom and I was in Canada. It happened naturally, really.

What do you like about working remotely?

There are things I like, and there are things I don’t like, obviously. What’s pretty nice when I was working with my colleague and started our own thing is that I was really the master of my own

time. I could decide when to start and when to finish work. What was pretty fantastic when we lived on farms, especially on the one next to Dawson, was that during lunch time I could go fishing. I could take an hour-and-a-half break and fish Arctic graylings. That was pretty fantastic.

I could pretty much organize myself as I wanted. That gave us the opportunity to spend a lot of time outdoors, go to Tombstone, spend even more time on the Dempster Highway, go to the Arctic Circle and do lots of fun stuff which I wouldn’t have been able to do if I had programmer work in some big company elsewhere. I would have had to be in Vancouver or some other big city, and be in an office, with a lot less flexibility to organize my own time.

Another good point is that my partner was working as a woofer on farms; meaning, we got to meet farmers who introduced us to a bunch of people as well. I did not feel loneliness with this set-up. But it’s after we left the Yukon, to go on different adventures, that I had this feeling of loneliness, which was starting to kick in a little more, and I was looking for a more social life.

What’s special about the Yukon for you?

I think it’s pretty amazing. It’s one of those frontier territories where humans have not completely destroyed everything yet. And it

gives me a taste of what the world was like before we colonized and damaged the Earth. To me, I still remember, vividly, this feeling of being very small there. When I went hiking, I was not the apex predator anymore.

It was the first time in my life I had this feeling of symbiosis with the environment surrounding me. I was feeling part of nature, and nature was not just something contained in a park, surrounded by humans or by infrastructure. I have never in my life seen that elsewhere.

And also a very strong sense of support and community, because the conditions are harsh. If you are parked on the side of the road, people will just stop and ask if you need anything or if you are in distress.

Why did you decide to leave?

It was getting pretty cold! To put some context, we were living on isolated farms away from commodities, in pretty basic wood cabins with a bed and a wood stove. Dry toilet was outside. The shower was outside and the pipe had exploded so we had to wash ourselves with water bottles for quite a while. The living conditions were pretty fun when the weather was relatively okay, but when it gets to minus 25 F or less, on a daily basis, it gets more complicated. I was looking for more accommodating weather and a bit

• Excavators (Cat 315 to Cat 330)

more sunlight.

We knew we would not stay for the whole winter; we had a trip planned for the United States. We left the Yukon in the middle of winter.

Have you thought of going back to the Yukon?

The question has been on my mind for quite a while. It is a place which I love. But it is far from where I come from—from my friends and family. On top of that, I have a deep respect for people living in small communities, who spend the whole year there, because the conditions are pretty harsh. I find that mentally it is not easy to go through six or seven months of winter, with little sunlight. But still, it is on my mind and I have not found it an easy question to answer.

Thank you Victor!

The most secure licences in Canada are here.

Driver’s licences and general identification cards are getting a new look.

Driver’s licence fees will rise to $20 per year as of May 31, comparable to the national average. The fee for general identification cards remains the same. for more information, visit yukon.ca/yukon-identification-cards

• Telehandlers

• Loaders (Cat 950H)

• Skid Steers (262C to 289D3)

• Single Drum Packer (XCMG CV123)

• Frost fighters 350K BTU

• Heat Trailers, Ice fighter 700K BTU

• Enclosed Trailers

• Car Hauler Trailers

• Gooseneck/5th Wheel Trailer with winch

• Generators, 30KW to 500KW, Propane and Diesel

• Transformers 750 Kva 480:4160V, 750 Kva 480:600V, 600/480 300Kva

• Load Bank (100KW @ 120/208)

column with Sophie Andre

Sophie is in her 30s and French. She studied and worked in the U.K. and in Senegal, before moving to Canada. The time she spent in the Yukon changed her life for the best. She developed a true interest for quiet, wild spaces and a more rural life. She is now back in France, starting a goat farm in the countryside and sharing stories from Europe!

PHOTO: Sophie Andre

Fishing far from the homeland

COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS

ATLIN

Tue May 28 Paint Your Partner Night

7:00 PM Atlin Recreation Centre Silly or serious, come show off your skills or lack thereof... paint your partner, bestie, mother, father, sister, brother, neighbor... Sign up at the members lounge, supplies provided.

Sundays

St. Martins Anglican Church

Sunday Service 10:00 AM St. Martins Anglican Church 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.

Atlin Christian Assembly 11:00 AM

St. Atlin Christian Centre 10:00 AM Everyone is welcome.

Mondays Caregiver & Tot Drop-in 10:00 AM

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

Yukon Communities:

Wednesdays AA Yukon Unity (OM)

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

CARCROSS

Sat Jun 1 Carcross Beach Boogie! 7:00 PM Carcross Desert Dance & movement experiences with silent disco headsets where people of all ages & abilities can revel in the joy of movement! Email borealboogie@gmail. com for tickets.

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

Thursdays Yoga with Jess Ghùch

Tlâ Community School Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. Drop-in, Free admission! For more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.

CARMACKS

First & Third Tuesdays of Every Month

Carmacks Regular Council Meeting 7:00 PM Carmacks Municipal Building FARO

First and Third Tuesday of every month

Faro Council Meeting 7:00 PM Town of Faro

Tuesdays

Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro

Recreation Centre

Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation

Centre

Kids Club Faro Recreation Centre

Adult Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre

Wednesdays

Seniors Games & Walks 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre The gym is open for seniors who would like to improve their fitness goals.

Fitness Fun for Seniors 2:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Volleyball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Thursdays

Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro

Recreation Centre

Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation

Centre

Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays

Pickleball 1:00 PM Faro Recreation

Centre

Seniors Yoga 2:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre

Open Gym 2:30 PM Faro Recreation

Centre Chair Yoga & Deep Relaxation for Seniors

Basketball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays

Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation

Centre

Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre

Open Gym 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Sundays

Open Court Basketball 3:00 PM Faro

Recreation Centre

HAINES JUNCTION

Fri May 31 2024 Summer Music

Series - Major Funk 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli Dinner + music experience, patrons can enjoy a freshly prepared meal while taking in the beautiful views and listening to the featured Yukon musician/band of the night. Reservations online. https:// www.villagebakeryyukon.com/livemusic.html

Sat Jun 1 2024 Summer Music

Series - Kingswordfish 6:00 PM Village Bakery and Deli Dinner + music experience, patrons can enjoy a freshly prepared meal while taking in the beautiful views and listening to the featured Yukon musician/band of the night. Reservations online. https://www.villagebakeryyukon.com/ live-music.html

Fri Jun 7-9 Kluane Mountain Bluegrass Festival Haines Junction, Yukon A weekend mix of ticketed and public events including concerts, workshops, slow-jams, dances, kids programming and even a roving band to get music out to the corners of the community! https://yukonbluegrass. com/

Fri Jun 7 2024 Summer Music

Series - The Bennett Sun 6:00 PM

Village Bakery and Deli Dinner + music experience, patrons can enjoy a freshly prepared meal while taking in the beautiful views and listening to the featured Yukon musician/band of the night. Reservations online. https:// www.villagebakeryyukon.com/livemusic.html

Sat Jun 8 KMBF - Kids’ Fiddle Workshops 10:00 AM St. Elias Community School Have a mini musician in your life? Get them involved in bluegrass! Kids’ fiddle workshops are free and open to the public! https://yukonbluegrass.com/

Sat Jun 8 2024 Summer Music

Series - Bria Rose N’ Thorns 6:00

PM Village Bakery and Deli Dinner + music experience, patrons can enjoy a freshly prepared meal while taking in the beautiful views and listening to the featured Yukon musician/band of the night. Reservations online. https:// www.villagebakeryyukon.com/livemusic.html

Sun Jun 9 KMBF - Kids’ Fiddle Workshops 10:00 AM St. Elias Community School Have a mini musician in your life? Get them involved in bluegrass! Kids’ fiddle workshops are free and open to the public!

Second and fourth Wednesday of every month Village Council meetings 7:00

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

Mondays

Fun with Food 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Learn new skills, share recipes and take food home!

Drop-In Basketball 6:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Tuesdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/ caregivers.

Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00 PM https://whatsupyukon.events/ tea-bannock-68ab07

Men’s and women’s sewing group 1:00 PM Mun kų

BGC Game Night 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Play, have fun, build skills and challenge your friends

Wednesdays

Water Wednesdays 1:30 PM Pine

Lake Come Join us every Wednesday for an afternoon of paddling in the traditional cedar dugout canoe! Da Kų Cultural Centre.

Seniors and Elders Refreshments and Games 2:00 PM Haines Junction

Seniors Residence

Girls Club 3:20 PM St. Elias Community School Held in the art room, open to Girls and identifying as Girls from Grade 8 to 12.

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

BGC Rec in the Gym 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School

Art Journaling Group 3:30 PM St. Elias Community School Bring your own creative supplies that you like to use. This can be scraps of paper, magazines, glue, paint, pen, markers, stamps, ink etc. and a book or journal to create

Thursdays

Romp & Run 11:30 AM Bill Brewster Arena Drop in. Programming is for kids 4 and under and their parents/ caregivers.

Seniors Activities 2:00 PM St. Elias

Community Centre Floor curling, carpet bowling and indoor walking group.

Haines Junction Thrift Shop 2:00

PM St. St. Christopher’s Thrift Shop is a great place to pick up items. Prices are low and numerous adult items are available for $2, and most items for children are $1.

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

Fridays

Stories and STEM Activities 10:00

AM Haines Junction Library

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

Saturdays

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

Sundays Anglican Church Service St. Christopher’s Church 10:30 AM Anglican Church Service at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church in Haines Junction https://anglican.yukon. net/services.html

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

MARSH LAKE

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

Tuesdays

Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Wednesdays

South of 6 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM Marsh Lake Community Centre

Thursdays

Shuffleboard Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM

Fridays

Beginner Yoga Marsh Lake Community Centre 10:00 AM

Youth Gym Drop-In Marsh Lake Community Centre 6:00 PM

Saturdays

Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM

Sundays

Pickleball Outside Marsh Lake Community Centre 11:00 AM

MAYO

Tue May 28 Mapping with Drones Training Mayo, YT This course is designed to foster a new generation of Indigenous drone operators and mappers. Knowledge of drones will be useful but not necessary for this course. https://6w5dcxu0uii.typeform. com/to/k0nkXgX5 Sat Jun 1 YWIM - House Concert on Mayo Road 7:00 PM Location TBC A fundraiser is in support of the YWIM 2024 production of The Cook Shack Sessions. An outdoor concert by the fire featuring Lindy

Jo Aston, Christina Mae and more. Email cookshacksessions@gmail. com for tickets or more info. https:// yukonwomeninmusic.com/cook-shacksessions

MOUNT LORNE

1st Tuesday Monthly LAC Meeting Lorne Mountain Community Centre

Mondays

Run Club 6:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre

Drop-In Yoga 7:00 PM Lorne Mountain Community Centre By donation all levels welcome

Yoga with Jess 6:00 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Beginners welcome, all equipment provided. To register or for more info email yogajessyukon@gmail.com.

Tuesdays

Active Fun Fitness Class - Drop In 6:30 PM Mount Lorne Community Centre Improve your balance, flexibility,

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

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

First Monday of every month Tagish Advisory Council 8:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

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

Second Thursday of every month

Tagish Local Advisory Council 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Wednesdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish

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

Yukon Learn at Tagish Library 2:00

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

Coffee And Chat 2:00 PM Tagish Community Centre

Thursdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish

Community LIbrary Tagish Library is an active and bright addition to our community. What’s Up Yukon, discover what’s happening around the Yukon Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish Community Centre

Tagish Local Advisory Council

Meeting 7:00 PM Tagish Community Centre .

Saturdays

Tagish Library 12:00 PM Tagish

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

TESLIN

Tue May 28 Rookie League Parent

Game 6:30 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Sat Jun 8 Amazing Race Teslin 5:00

AM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Race against teams to complete various challenges! Family friendly event, Pitstop: Community BBQ Lunch. To register email admin.teslin@teslin.ca

Mondays

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

Tuesdays

The ‘Big 4-6’ Sports 4:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Outdoor 3D Archery 7:00 PM Sambow Archery Course – Meet at the ball diamond

Wednesdays

Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Drop in seniors

Pickleball 6:00 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Thursdays

Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Girls Volleyball 3:15 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Fridays

Basketball Drop-in 7:00 PM Teslin Lake Recreation Complex

Saturdays

Parent & Tots 12:00 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Sundays Ball Hockey 7:00 PM Khàtìnas.àxh Community School 12+ Drop in WATSON LAKE

Daily Northern Lights Space & Science Centre Shows 11:00 AM

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

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

Tuesdays

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

Pickleball & Badminton Watson Lake Secondary School 7:00 PM

Wednesdays

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

Fridays Friday Night Lanes 7:00 PM Call 3357979 to register

Saturdays

Disc Golf 6:00 PM Raven Pines Rent discs at the Rec Centre or bring your fave. All welcome from expert level to beginner.

Baptiste Power Yoga 7:00 PM Fees apply. A muscle-shaping and mindsculpting workout, work at your own level and ability, set to electronic music.

Sundays

St. John’s Church Service 10:00 AM St. John’s Church Service (867) 5362932

Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School

DAWSON CITY 9 9

Tue May 28 River Doucette – Artist Talk 5:30 PM Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre Along with visual art, Doucette is also a floutist and singer-songwriter. Join us to see what Doucette has been working on during her residency. https://kiac.ca/calendar-of-events

Wed May 29 Patrick Lundeen –Open Studio 6:00 PM Macaulay House Artist Residence Join us at the Macaulay House to see what current Artist in Residence Patrick Lundeen has been working on while in Dawson. There will be snacks! https://kiac.ca/ calendar-of-events

Fri May 31 – Sun Jun 2 Tombstone Weekend on the Wing! Tombstone Territorial Park Interpretive Centre Weekend on the Wing welcomes back the beautiful bird song and the start of the summer season in Tombstone Territorial Park. For more info call 993-7714.

Sun Jun 3 Commissioner’s Family BBQ 4:00 PM Dawson City, YT Join Yukon Commissioner Webber for a Family BBQ, games, and celebration! For more information or to volunteer, contact CommissionersOffice@ Yukon.ca www.commissioner.gov. yk.ca.

MONTHLY

1st Saturday of every month Coffee House & Open Mic Night Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) 7:00 PM family-friendly open mic night at KIAC. Admission by donation with all funds raised donated to a different community group each month. Last coffee house of the season May 4 to resume in the fall of 2024.

WEEKLY

Mondays

Handbuilding Pottery Drop-in 6:309pm 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.

Ecumenical Mothers’ prayers gathering 7pm St Paul’s Anglican Church

Tuesdays

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

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

QYS Drop-in 1:00 PM DCMF Office

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening

Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

Screen Printing Drop-in 6:00 PM

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

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

Thursdays

CDC Toddler Program 10:00 AM

Klondike Institute of Arts & Culture

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

St Paul’s Anglican Church Evening

Prayer 4:00 PM St Paul’s Anglican Church Join us in person at the church, or online (Facebook Live) Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm Yukon Time for Evening Prayer.

Fridays

Cards & Conversation 1:00 PM

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. whatsupyukon. events/dawson-legion-8336c3

Open Studio Drop-in 1:00 PM

Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) Enjoy KIAC’s bright, airconditioned space to create and focus on your artistic practice. Even betterwe’ve waived the drop-in fee this day.

Saturdays

Open Studio – Drop In 1:00 PM

Klondike Institute of Art & Culture

KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor) Space to create and focus on your artistic practice.

AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-993-5095 or 867993-3734 for more information

Sundays

Anglican Church Service 10:30 Anglican Church Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City. Corner of Front and Church Streets at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Dawson City

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE AND PROMOTE?

Let Mallory’s Postering help spread your messaging and showcase your high-quality posters and brochures to help get your message out there!

CONTACT MALLORY AT:

(867) 334-6816 mallory@inclusionyukon.org

@MallorysPostering

AN INTERVIEW WITH MINNIE CLARK

A trapper and crafter/artist navigates “a unique blend of cultures”

It’s a pleasure having you here, Minnie. Tell us a bit about your growing up I was raised at Johnson’s Crossing on our family trapline in the southern Yukon. With my Tlingit heritage from my mother and the English roots from my father, my siblings and I navigated a unique blend of cultures. Growing up in a remote part of the Yukon and living without electricity and running water helped shape me into the woman I am today. All activities were geared to the outdoors and were not always conventional or easy. There were many chores. We packed water from the river, we helped bring in the firewood for heat, we had gas lanterns for light, and every Saturday night we had a bath in a tin tub in front of a blazing fireplace. Romantic, hey? We washed clothes every Sunday and hung them to dry outside on a clothesline. I can certainly attest that there is nothing like the smell of fresh laundry right off the line! Monday through Friday, we rattled sixty miles down the Alaska Highway on the bus to the nearest school in Teslin, and in the evening after dinner, we would

sit around the kitchen table with a coal-oil lantern for light, doing homework or reading before bed. Working hard and doing heavy chores taught us good work ethics and to be self-reliant, but more importantly, we learned to keep ourselves entertained, whether it was with book reading or crafting. These tools [are] instrumental in my life today.

What does your work life and trapping life look like?

After a thirty-two-year career with the Yukon government, I have now been retired ten years this summer. My husband and I maintain the small trapline running along Teslin Lake and about twenty miles down the Teslin River. A typical winter day starts off with a nice cup of coffee, answering emails and making plans for the day as we enjoy the quiet hours of the early-morning sunrise. After a quick breakfast, we do all our outdoor chores and then we are off to run the trapline. Sometimes, if the ice on the lake isn’t safe, we truck the snow machines down the highway eleven miles and take our river trail up onto the lake and begin checking our line. Often we are re-breaking the trails, cutting wind-fallen trees and bringing in firewood on our return trip down the line.

If we have been successful that day and have harvested furs, we will bring them home and process the pelts in the garage. These furs

GOLD NUGGET GOLD NUGGET

are cared for and handled in a respectful manner. We are always mindful that these animals come from the environment we love to be part of. You have to have respect for what you take from the land. Trapping is very expensive and you certainly require disposable income in order to run a successful line, or you should have a job to help supplement the expenses of running a trapline life-

style. We did make a commitment to my parents to keep the trapline in good standing for the grandchildren, and that is what we have been doing every day for the past thirty-five years. If you really want this type of lifestyle, you have to accept everything that comes with it, and everything that doesn’t come with it. Not every couple wants to live remote; however, if you really want to do it, you just

have to make that commitment, make that leap and just do it!

Where do you work on your fur pieces?

My husband and our boys recently built me a little studio right out my back door here at Timberpoint. And so, on a day [when] we aren’t out on the line, after break-

cont’d on page 11 ...

Join us as we embark on our 7th year racing in the Yukon River Quest! Since 2016, Stix Together, our team of 8 women voyageur paddlers, has proudly raised over $100,000 for the Yukoners Cancer Care Fund.

This vital fund o ers nancial assistance to Yukoners, as well as individuals from Atlin and Lower Post, BC, facing a cancer diagnosis. In 2023 alone, the fund assisted more than 40 individuals.

We're grateful for the ongoing support from Schmidt Mining of Dawson City, who have generously donated a gold nugget to aid our fundraising e orts once again this year.

Enter your name in the draw and consider making a donation to the Yukoners Cancer Care Fund. Every contribution, no ma er the size, makes a meaningful di erence.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Minnie Clark

Checking the line with my snow machine out on Teslin Lake, with two harvested pine marten

gold nugget is generously donated by Schmidt Mining - Dawson City

column with Sonja Seeber

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

Minnie

ing and beading, this provided me with great comfort as I was grieving her loss. I have now recently started taking workshops to other Yukon communities, sharing my mother’s patterns and teaching skills I had learned as a young girl. I wish to ensure these traditional skills of crafting with furs and leathers are not lost on the youth of today. In order for these traditions to carry on, we must teach these skills to others so that they may one day pass this knowledge to their children.

Also, in a world where there is so much drug and alcohol abuse in our small northern communities, I can only hope that by passing these traditional skills on, this could somehow help provide alternative, healthy lifestyles to our young people. And especially to our youth at risk.

Where can we buy your unique items?

Some challenges, as a rural

stay at home, maintain the trapline and turn these harvested pelts into a small cottage industry. My husband and I work closely together to get my products to where they have to go. Everyone has their daily chores. My husband, Jim, is a very instrumental part of the business. While I’m busy sewing or off teaching, he’s at home minding the homestead (keeping the home fires burning), preparing meals, running errands, taking care of our lab (Remington), or clearing snow from the driveway.

I will always be grateful to my parents, who have inspired me in life. My appreciation for nature, vivid colours and my eye for composition can be mainly attributed to their love of the land and to the lifestyle in which we were raised as children. That had a lot to do with my present self.

We were taught to work hard, show up on time and be respectful and mindful of the needs of others. n An interview

fast, my husband will light the wood stove in the studio to warm it up for me, and I would begin gathering my latest project together for a day of sewing. I often have local women drive down to spend the day learning many of the patterns that have been passed down through generations of my mother’s family.

It is here where all the magic

happens—my days are filled with crafting furs into fashionable pieces of art.

What other art form are you pursuing?

Photography is another great hobby of mine. So of course most of my pieces are photographed before taking them off to market. I use my camera to capture a lot of

My base cabin at night on Teslin Lake—we call this cabin “Shat’ lein cabin” (Shat’ lein is theTlingit word for “Big Mountain”): my grandfather, Jake Jackson, cut the trail up the mountain behind this cabin

Lynx scarf, with a beaded cranberry flower, utilizing a moose-horn button and furs harvested from my line

Artist Basia Hinton in her studio, Dawson

Photo: Miriam Behman

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Minnie Clark

Beaded fireweed on grey-wool melton for the silver fox wrap

Snowshoe rabbit fur stole, with brooch

IDIOMATIC ORIGINS

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

And some variations on that

Iopened the dryer door a week and a half ago and smiled to myself, then chuckled as I said out loud: “Let the games begin!” I could have subbed in the everpopular “Game on!” but the first seemed more fitting. You may be thinking, How weird or What on earth does this have to do with dryers?

You see, I decided to go back to using dryer balls—those organic, friendly, unbouncy, wool tennissized balls that (reportedly) do the same job as dryer sheets but without any scent at all. Great news for someone like me with scent sensitivities. And they are even said (reportedly) to decrease dryer time, thereby saving $$ in electricity costs (I assigned a conservative “$$” here because I don’t know how accurate the calculated savings are).

But back to “the games.” My last attempt at using dryer balls lasted about 10 months, which I thought was pretty good since they were quite elusive. If Harry Houdini, the great American escape artist, had invented anything, I think it would have been dryer balls. Round 1: Josephine, in the far corner, waiting for the Ding! And, in the opposite corner, six wily opponents gaining momentum and preparing to hurl

themselves out of their corner (the drum) and boldly go where no dryer balls have gone before …

That might sound overly dramatic but it really has become a game of sorts.

They lunge and roll their way into laundry baskets, behind furniture, down the hallway or under the bed—that last one demanding that I shift to a crawl-and-sweep maneuver, using whatever long implements I can find … a shoe, a broom or even the vacuum cleaner—a real workout as we have a Yukon-made, four-poster pine bed that is beautiful but immoveable.

They hide themselves in shirt sleeves and bed linens and pop gleefully out of my nightgown sleeve under the cover of darkness. And the most gifted escape artist of all looked up and smiled at my daughter from a planter box outside of her dry cabin, about 10 minutes from our place. She does her laundry at our place (they aren’t that talented).

Hence my Let the games begin, which brings me to the idiom and the even more popular Game on! version of that. Dryer balls aside, the idiom has so much more to do with life’s challenges, often issued to one another in a moment of joviality, frivolity or hilarity—with an I-dare-you, exclamatory tone— and are most often met with an echoing “Game on!” or sometimes a “Let the games begin!”

Some may recall the cry of “Game on!” in the 1991 comedy

Wayne’s World. And some may relate it to a game of darts. Whatever competition it reminds you of, it’s typically friendly, even if it’s said in a quasi-serious, competitive tone.

And occasionally it’s a collective Game on! A Let’s do this! or a Let’s roll! That last one brings back memories of 9/11, of a day we would all like to forget, and is a reminder of the courage heard in Todd Beamer’s collective call to action on board United Airlines Flight 93. Truthfully, for as long as we can remember, we will never forget.

Some may be concerned about me issuing a challenge to my “new and adventurous friends,” but, hey, there must be some humour in the mundane things of life, and I can’t think of a more mundane household chore than laundry.

So, let the games begin! n

PHOTO: Josephine Holmes

Hiding in plain sight

column with Josephine Holmes

Josephine Holmes is a freelance writer and the copy editor at What’s Up Yukon. She is a prairie girl, at heart, but loves the Yukon and has been a sourdough since 1994. The other thing she loves, aside from spending time with family, is being called “Grammy.”

SHRIMP SAGANAKI — A SUMMERY TREAT

Who remembers the Greek restaurants of the ’80s, when Saganaki Opa! was on the menu?

The waiter would arrive tableside with a frying pan boasting a sizzling slice of just-melting cheese, douse it with brandy, set it on fire, yell “Opa!” and plunk the flaming pan down on the table with a flourish. A fabulous bit of showbiz. Does this happen anymore? I hope it does somewhere!

Last year, at this time, I was in Athens, noticing new and old menu items. Saganaki was present, without the flames (apparently that’s a North American tradition), and so was something that was new to me: shrimp saganaki. Of course we ordered it. When the dish of caramelized tomatoes, melting feta and perfectly cooked shrimp arrived, I said to myself, Ah. In the ’80s we used to call this “Shrimp Cooked in the Oven with Tomatoes and Feta ” Times change and so do names, but tomatoes, feta and shrimp, by any other name, tastes as sweet.

B.C. spot prawns are in season, so if you’re in the neighbourhood, try to snag some and bring them home frozen. Here in the Yukon, supermarkets have their versions of sustainably harvested shrimp; and in Whitehorse, Haines Packing Company typically sells Alaskan coon stripe shrimp, year-round. They doubt they’ll be selling spot prawns at the Whitehorse outlet this season, but, if you’re heading to Haines, you might be lucky. If you are lucky, give this dish a try. Give it a try with whatever shrimp you can find.

Shrimp Saganaki is most definitely a treat—a summery, familystyle, informal-gathering kind of treat, with everybody sitting around the table dipping bread into the communal pan.

SHRIMP SAGANAKI

Ingredients:

Shrimp

• 1 lb coon stripe shrimp or spot prawns, peeled and rinsed

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 Tbsp Ouzo, Aquavit or Absinthe (optional)

Sauce

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes, washed, or 1 28-oz can plum tomatoes

• 2 tsp dried oregano

• 4 to 6 oz feta cheese (the kind that comes in a block)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. In a medium bowl, toss shrimp or spot prawns in olive oil, garlic, parsley and Ouzo or Aquavit, if using. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

2. Heat oil in a 10-inch cast-iron frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes to the pan. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, cook until the tomatoes pop and release their juices. Cook another 2 minutes or so, until some of the juice has evaporated. If the pan starts to get dry before the tomatoes pop, add a splash of Ouzo, Aquavit or Absinthe.

4. If you’re using canned tomatoes, add them, juice and all, to the pan. Break up the tomatoes with a fork and cook until most but not all of the juice has evaporated. (Add the optional liquor, by all means!)

5. Lay marinated shrimp overtop of the sauce, pouring the marinade in and around them.

6. Cut feta into 6 to 8 slices, 1/4-inch thick, and lay overtop of the shrimp so that most of the pan is covered.

7. Place frying pan in the oven. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melting at the edges and beginning to brown.

8. Remove from the oven. If you have a good trivet to protect the table, bring the frying pan to the table with an oven mitt on the handle and lots of reminders that the pan is HOT. It’s a nice way to serve, with some crusty bread and a green salad on the side.

Makes 4 dinner servings or 8 appetizer servings. n

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

Shrimp Saganaki

PHOTO: Miche Genest

SEASONAL RECIPES

FRIED RICE WITH GARLIC, TOFU AND SCALLIONS

Make sure the tofu is browned before adding the rice

Easy on the wallet; and easy, in general. Feel free to add more vegetables and top with a soft egg, if you’re feeling fancy. Serves 2.

INGREDIENTS

❑ 2 Tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, grapeseed)

❑ 6 cloves of garlic, sliced

❑ 1 block firm tofu, diced

❑ Salt and pepper, to taste

❑ 2 cups cooked rice

❑ 2 Tbsp chopped scallions

❑ 2 Tbsp butter

METHOD

1. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the garlic and cook, stirring often, until the garlic begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the tofu and stir, to toss, with the garlic; then season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Let the tofu and garlic cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes or until the tofu is browned on one side.

2. Add the rice and scallions to the tofu mixture and continue to cook and toss until the rice is separated and incorporated with the tofu. Add the butter to the rice and toss the mixture with a spatula until the butter is melted. Serve hot with lots of condiments: soy sauce, chili oil, mayonnaise, Maggi sauce, etc. n

column with Sydney Keddy

Sydney [Oland] Keddy is a recipe developer who lives in Whitehorse. Her work can be found in The Boston Globe, Seriouseats.com as well as in other publications.

Garlic and scallions

Fried Rice with Garlic, Tofu and Scallions

PHOTOS: Sydney Keddy

Diced tofu

Seasoned tofu in the skillet

ACTIVE

LISTINGS

Wed May 29 Almost Summer Stroll 5:30

PM Boston Pizza Explore the Quartz road wetlands, meet at the Boston Pizza parking lot. A family friendly stroll with Jim Hawkings.

Sat Jun 1 Yukon Learn PGI Golf

Tournament 9:00 AM Mountain View Golf

Club Annual golf tournament to support Yukon Learn, shotgun start, lunch provided, networking and prizes. Register online.

https://yukonlearn.com/PGI

Sat Jun 1 Sunshine Shuffle - A Backyard

Ultra 10:00 AM The Gunnar Nilsson & Mickey Lammers Research Forest A race where participants run a 6.7km loop once every hour starting on the hour, the race continues until there is only one runner left! Register online. https://backyardultra.com/

Sat Jun 1 Helmut Grünberg Yukon

Birdathon 6:00 PM Rotary Peace Park The Yukon Bird Club’s annual 24-hour birding fundraiser is fun and easy! Prizes to be won and all funds raised will go to the Yukon Bird Club! Bring your stories of adventure to share! https://yukonbirds.ca/birdathon/

Sun Jun 2 Birding Workshop 7:30 AM Porter Creek Super A 3 hr workshop with Pam Sinclair, birding and eBird primer.

Sun Jun 2 Kidney Walk 2024 - Whitehorse

11:00 AM Robert Service Campground Get behind the one you love, celebrate with our community by joining the Kidney Walk. Register online. https://kidney.akaraisin.com/

Mon Jun 3 - Jun 9 Active Commute Week

‘24 5:00 AM Whitehorse Various Locations A city-wide movement to swap your solo drive for an active ride! Help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and boost your health while having fun! Register online. https://www. whitehorse.ca/event/active-commute-week/

Wed Jun 5 Active Commute Week

‘24 - Walking 101 Workshop 6:00 PM Canada Games Centre Yukon Learn all about the benefits of walking as a mode of transportation, how to stay safe while walking, and tips for incorporating walking into your daily routine. Register online.

https://www.whitehorse.ca/event/activecommute-week/

Fri Jun 7 Copperbelt Charity Golf Classic

12:00 PM Meadow Lakes Golf Club Join NHL player Tim Hunter this year for a fun day of golf for two great Yukon organizations! Yukon T1D Support Network and LDAY Centre for Learning. Register online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/3rp

Fri Jun 7 Active Commute Week ‘24Biking 101 Workshop 6:00 PM Takhini Broomball Arena Learn about bike safety, maintenance tips, and feeling comfortable about biking around the city. Register online.

https://www.whitehorse.ca/event/activecommute-week/

Sat Jun 8 Yukon Rugby Championships

12:00 PM Porter Creek Secondary School

1 day Yukon Champs Rugby Tournament featuring full contact competitive sevens rugby. Men’s, women’s, and juniors divisions.

https://www.facebook.com/YukonRugby/

Sat Jun 8 Gritty C.O.G - Clash of Generations 1:00 PM Winterlong Brewing Co. 40 or 64 kms of gravel and dirt - SOLO and 2 or 3-person TEAM options - Prizes for fastest combined time, team with the most riders, and team with the most female riders. Register online. https://whatsupyukon. events/roa

Sat Jun 8 & Jun 9 Spey Days 9:00 AM Rotary Peace Park Booth located at the gravel bar, boat launch at Rotary Park. Day includes demos of all rods, take part in single and double hand spey workshops. https:// whatsupyukon.events/whp Mondays

Judo For Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts

6:00 AM

Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30

AM Northern Strength Academy Functional fitness training to be stronger and injuryresistant. All levels are welcome. Train ‘functionally’ with NSA Co-owner Jeremy McCulloch. https://northernstrength.ca/

Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 8:30

AM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving MeditationSlow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.c

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 1/2 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing

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

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing

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

Noon Strength and Conditioning 12:00

PM Northern Strength Academy Functional strength class teaches compound multijoint lifts that improve athleticism, strength, coordination, power and more. https:// 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.

Zumba with Bonita 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio

A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Women’s Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Move & Meditate - Slow Vinyasa Yoga 6:45

PM Avalanche Athletics Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of movement and mindfulness with our Moving MeditationSlow Vinyasa Yoga. http://amitieyoga.ca

Spirit Bear Karate 7:30 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 7:30 PM

Rest & Restore-Meditative Yin 8:30 PM

Avalanche Athletics Suitable for all levels, offering variations and props to support individual needs. Bringing a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, water bottle and block are recommended.

Tuesdays

Strength for the Endurance Athlete 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 Eight Days Martial Arts

6:00 AM

Séances de yoga 8:00 AM

Flow and Fly – Vinyasa Yoga 8:30 AM

Grace Space This dynamic and invigorating practice is designed to awaken your inner strength and leave you feeling revitalized and empowered.

Elderactive Yoga with Richard until Oct 24

9:30 AM Northern Lights School of Dance explore the great variety the IYENGAR Yoga method has to offer

Yoga with Barbara until Feb 20 10:00 AM

Whitehorse United Church Use side door All Levels Yoga. Email bfraingower@gmail.com

Babynastics with Coach Naomi 10:15

AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semistructured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https://www.polarettes.org/ babynastics

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

Yoga-Yoga Nidra 5:45 PM 7th Ray Studio Awaken and then release as we delve into a one hour yoga class that will prepare us to melt into the 30 minute Yoga Nidra experience. Register online. Strength for the Endurance Athlete 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.

Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:15 PM Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available.

Elderactive Leisure Walking 12:30 PM

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

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 4:45 PM Strength & Conditioning 5:30 PM Northern Strength Academy Exercise to suit your fitness level and Strength & Conditioning Goals. Learn to Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Row and Olympic Lift https:// northernstrength.ca/ Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Learn to Fence 6:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School This class introduces the fundamentals of fencing to kids who have never tried fencing. All classes are at Grey Mountain Primary.

Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Whitehorse Archery Takhini Elementary 6:30 PM Whitehorse Archery is a non-profit club for the recreational shooter, hunters, and those who just want to work on their skills. https://www.whitehorsearchery.com/schedule Spirit Bear Kobudo (Weapons) Karate

7:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http://spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Intermediate

7:30 PM Grey Mountain Primary School

This class picks up from where Learn to Fence ends. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness.

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

Stretch and Stabilize – Functional Conditioning 7:45 PM Grace Space Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class.

Wednesdays

Muay Thai Kickboxing 6:00 AM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout. Morning Strength and Conditioning 7:30 AM Northern Strength Academy https://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 1/2 9:30 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online.

Zumba with Bonita 10:00 AM 7th Ray Studio Zumba routines incorporate interval training — alternating fast and slow rhythms — to help improve cardiovascular fitness. Register online.

Elderactive Pilates level 2 10:40 AM

Northern Lights School of Dance Energizing Level 2 Pilates tailored for seniors. Elevate wellness with gentle movement! Register online. http://cuts2.com/jiacg

Ladies Kickboxing 12:05 PM Eight Days Martial Arts Muay Thai Kickboxing full body workout.

NSA Spin Classes 4:15 PM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https:// northernstrength.ca/

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 PM Spirit Bear Karate 6:25 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

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.

Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning 8:15 PM Avalanche Athletics Purposeful movement with our Functional Conditioning non-yoga movement class. Stretch & Stabilize - Functional Conditioning http://amitieyoga.ca

Thursdays

Insanity Live! Get Fit For Winter – 6 Week Winter Series 5:30 AM Riverdale Subdivision – Whitehorse Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels. Register online. https:// whatsupyukon.events/b7o

Strength for the Endurance Athlete 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 Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM

Tai Chi for Seniors 10:00 AM Golden Age

Society Come early, bring water, and wear comfortable, smooth soled indoor shoes.

Lunchtime Fitness Classes 12:00 PM Northern Strength Academy Tuesdays classes are more resistance and strength focused and Thursday classes more HIIT cardio. Drop in & passes are available. https://bit.ly/3oiTBVz

Strength for the Endurance Athlete 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

Noon Hatha Yoga until Dec 7 12:00 PM

Grace Space Relax, energize and leave with more mental and physical space and capacity! Register online. http://cuts2.com/ gmGhI

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM

Babynastics with Coach Ewan 1:00

PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A semistructured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5. Immerse your little one in song, socialization and a very colorful and stimulating environment. Free with membership. https://www.polarettes.org/ babynastics

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

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

Midnight Sun Fencing Club: Adult Beginner 7:00 PM Grey Mountain Primary School If you are looking to learn fencing as an adult. In this class students are taught fencing technique, strategy, and fitness.

Fridays Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Eight Days Martial Arts 6:00 AM

NSA Spin Classes 6:30 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https:// northernstrength.ca/ Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 9:30 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

Thursdays Noon Hatha Yoga 12:00 PM Grace Space Energizing blend of Hatha and Kundalini with Pranayama (breathwork), Friendly and Community oriented space! Register online. http://www. gracespaceyukon.com

Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight & Mondays

Saturday

Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available.

eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

No-Gi Jiu Jitsu - drilling Eight Days Martial

Arts 12:05 PM Open Mat Eight Days Martial Arts 12:05 PM

Sundays

Circus Sundays 10:00 AM Avalanche

Athletics We will have equipment for people to try out, including stilts, juggling stuff, aerial silks, aerial hoop, static trapeze, spinny things, balance things…

NSA Spin Classes 10:00 AM Northern Strength Academy NSA offers Indoor Cycling classes with certified instructors Adrienne Marsh and Maria Wise. Improve your conditioning and strength on the bike! https:// northernstrength.ca/

Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:15 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available.

eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yoga-classes

WELLNESS LISTINGS

Mon May 27 Grief Walking Group 6:30

PM S.S. Klondike National Historic Site A walking group to help you get outside and connect with others who are grieving. Moving the legs and breathing a little deeper can help shift our emotions. https://hospiceyukon.net/ en/2023/08/11/grief-walking-group-sept/

Wed May 29 Atrial Fibrillation:

A Deeper Dive 12:00 PM Chronic Conditions Support Program (CCSP) Learn exactly atrial fibrillation from a Chronic Conditions Nurse Educator, and a review of some of the lesser known facts about it. Call 667-8733 or email ccsp@yukon. ca to register. https://yukon.ca/en/ events/atrial-fibrillation-deeper-dive0?date=2024-05-29

Thu May 30 Tai Chi Yukon outdoor practice 5:30 PM Whitehorse Waterfront Wharf Tai Chi Yukon outdoor practice On the Wharf at the foot of Main Street Thursday 5:30 to 7 pm May 30 to August 29.

Fri May 31 Mental Wellness & Substance Use Community BBQ

11:00 AM Sarah Steele Building Bring your appetite as we are firing up the BBQ and serving hot dogs, snacks, cold drinks and cake! All welcome to take part!

Fri May 31 Power Of Breath – Live Music Holotropic-Style Breathwork

7:20 PM Alpine Bakery Featuring Lonnie Powell On Drums w/ Philippe Mouchet on didge, jaw harp + singing bowls. To register email wallymaltz@ mac.com

Sat Jun 1 M.O.R.P.H 2:00 PM Teen Parent Centre Live butterfly release for infant & pregnancy loss.

Sit, support and gather with others who have walked the unimaginable path of grief and loss of a child. Light snacks and beverages provided. https:// whatsupyukon.events/yh6

Fri Jun 7 Lunch & Learn - Advanced Care Planning 12:00 PM Chronic Conditions Support Program (CCSP) Learn about advanced care planning and wills with the Palliative Care team, and how to plan for their future and unsure of where to begin. To register call 667-8733 or email ccsp@yukon.ca https://yukon.ca/en/events/advancedcare-planning-lunch-and-learn-hostedpalliative-care-team?date=2024-06-07 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

1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month

The Prenatal Lunch Network 12:00 PM NVD Place (Old Canadian Tire Building) A free prenatal lunch network. Each week will feature a different activity. Call 332-5054 or 332-6476 for more info.

1st Wednesday QYS 2SLGBTQIA+ Parent & Guardian Peer Support Nights 6:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache We want to provide a space where parents and guardians of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth can find connection and support from their peers.

2nd Wednesday Blood Collection and Lab Work 9:00 AM Queer Yukon

Society The Cache Blood Work and Lab Collection Clinic! We will provide regular clinics for blood collection & lab requisitions

1st Thursday of every month Men’s

Gathering 5:00 PM A safe place for men to connect with each other and learn traditional teachings. For more info contact Rob at 332-5708 or Rob. McLean@kdfn.net

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. https:// whatsupyukon.events/4en

Last Monday Blood Collection and Lab Work 9:00 AM Queer Yukon

Society The Cache Blood Work and Lab Collection Clinic! We will provide regular clinics for blood collection & lab requisitions

Mondays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM

Whitehorse United Church 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 Yukoners who are pregnant or have a baby under 12 months are invited to learn about feeding their infants and get support with challenges. Call 393-7120 to book a private appointment or drop-in.

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 (O, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

AA New Beginnings Group (OM, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Tuesdays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM

Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures 12:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre An inclusive Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program for parental & infant support. Enjoy a Drop-In lunch and connect with other families. https:// whatsupyukon.events/8kd

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

ARKA Brotherhood Men’s Circle: Porcupine Squad 6:30 PM Whitehorse A confidential, structured space that empowers men to transform themselves into self-aware, selfdisciplined, empowered and trustworthy leaders. Email mjvernon@gmail. com for more info. http://www. arkabrotherhood.com

AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-907-2701 for more info.

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

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

Community Kitchen 11:30 AM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 6672693 for more info

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

Al-Anon 12:00 PM Sport Yukon

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

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00

PM Inclusion Yukon

Art Therapy for Grief 5:30 PM Hospice Yukon Learn more about living with grief and self-compassion in a supportive space with others who are grieving the death of a loved one

Overeaters Anonymous Meeting 7:30

PM Overeaters Anonymous For more information contact oayukon@gmail. com for more information

AA No Puffin Big Book Study (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00

PM Our Lady of Victory

Thursdays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM

Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

Healthy Babies Healthy Futures

12:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre An inclusive Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program for parental & infant support. Enjoy a Drop-In lunch and connect with other families. https:// whatsupyukon.events/8kd

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

Connect to Culture - Drop-In 1:00

PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre FREE! Drop-In, Open to ALL! Weekly cultural activities from beading to sewing, healing camp trips, elder visits and more. For more info call 667-2093 or email info@vfwomenscentre.com https://vfwomenscentre.com/events

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

Fridays

AA “Joy of Living Group” (O) 12:00

PM 305 Wood St. Captain Martin House

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

Community Kitchen 4:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, lowbarrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00

PM Yukon Employees Union

Al-Anon 7:00 PM Trinity Lutheran Church Al-Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

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

Saturdays

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

Steele St.1:00 PM

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

AA Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Sundays

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

Steele St.

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

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings 7:00

PM Inclusion Yukon

AAHospital Meeting (O, A) 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

HEY, MUD PUDDLE!

(Get a little messy with your kids!)

Whitehorse has been getting an unusually long spring this year. And springtime brings with it a lot of water, which, in turn, gives us something that children can’t seem to get enough of.

Mud. More specifically, mud puddles. Now, when I think of mud puddles, I’m immediately brought back to the classic Robert Munsch storybook. Mud Puddle tells the tale of Jule Ann, a young girl who is continuously ambushed and covered from head to toe by a mischievous pile of mud in her backyard. The battle between them leads to many baths and to Jule Ann’s eventual victory over her dirty opponent, with pockets full of soap. It’s a fun story, but one that doesn’t exactly paint the picture of mud being something fun and enjoyable.

This is not true for my son—and for most children in the Yukon. Heck, for children all over the world.

Playing in mud can be an unbelievably pleasurable pastime for little ones. Not only does it provide a sensory-filled experience for them, but it allows them to get down-and-dirty and just be kids.

In fact, I’m sure many of us can still recall the utter joy of splashing and squishing through mud as children. We weren’t worried

about the mess we were making or whether our clothes would need a good cleaning afterwards. Mud puddles provided an opportunity for us to let loose, to stomp and to get messy. It just made us happy. And it still does.

Heck, mud baths have been used for centuries and are widely offered as spa-treatment options all across the globe. Science has shown that mud baths offer a wide variety of benefits, including relaxation and detoxification properties. So maybe there really is a reason that we, as human beings, are just instinctively drawn to mud.

I know with my son, watching him play in the mud is something that always brings a smile to my face. Keep in mind that this is a child who does not normally like to get dirty. He refuses to finger paint—not liking the paint marking up his hands. And he continuously wants to change, should a drop of water or juice land on an item of his clothing.

Yet, when in the presence of mud, he just can’t help himself. His need to explore it—to dig into it and to squish it in-between his fingers—wins out, and he jumps right in.

Just recently, on a trip to the playground, some of the melted snow had mixed with the sand to create giant mud puddles all over the place. He was in heaven. And

I watched him move from one to the next, completely engaged in exploration. One moment he was dropping pebbles into them; the next he was jumping into the puddles to see how high he could splash. I watched him use sticks to

write out his letters before gathering pine cones to create little stories and landscapes.

It was childhood in its purest of forms and I was mesmerized by these five puddles of mud and how they could create so many stimu-

lating learning experiences for my son. I also remember how my adult brain kicked in and I started wishing that I had put him in his rainboots before we left the house.

That thought made me laugh to myself how, as adults, we need to plan to have fun. It’s so easy to let those invasive thoughts in as a grown-up. My son wasn’t worried about having rain boots. Getting his sneakers dirty wasn’t going to stop him from having a good time. And while it is not always great to let items of clothing get ruined, I did sit there and think about what he would have missed out on if I had stopped him.

So I let him continue while making a mental note to have him wear his boots next time. Because the happiness on his face was worth it. The things he was learning and the memories he was making were also worth it.

I know that summer is just around the corner and that the warm weather will definitely lower the number of mud puddles that we come across. So, in the meantime, my son and I will be on the lookout for more of these puddles of mud and the opportunities for play that they invite. Because, after all, life is always more fun when you can get a little messy with your kids, right? Right. n

Dropping Pebbles

PHOTO: Elsie Jordan

Elsie Jordan made the Yukon her home in 2014. She has a passion for storytelling, with a focus on family (mis)adventures featuring a unique Yukon feel to them.

column with

Elsie Jordan

ART SHOWS

Until Jun 1 Beyond the Page, Panel, and Gutter

- Experimenting

May 31 Bria

Debut 6:30

EP, Sprout and their first music video! Surprise special guests will be joining the evening. Tickets at the door or pre-sale online. Sat Jun 1 Live Music at the Cork & Fork Patio with Steve Slade 6:00

Indulge in our authentic European dishes, expertly prepared by Chef Sandra, while enjoying Steve’s amazing performance.https://whatsupyukon.events/ c24b0f

Mon Jun 3 Arts in the Park 2024 - The Bennett Sun 12:00 PM LePage

LIVE MUSIC

Mon May 27 Arts in the Park 2024 - Major Funk 12:00 PM LePage Park Free LIVE performances & interactive visual art experiences - Showtimes: Monday to Friday, 12 to 1:00pm, Special KIDFOCUSED performances Wednesdays at noon + Wednesdays evenings at 5pm! https://musicyukon. com/artsinthepark/

Tue May 28 Arts in the Park 2024 - Café des Voix 12:00 PM LePage Park

Wed May 29 Arts in the Park 2024 - Bingo Bongo Boogie Band 12:00 PM LePage Park

Wed May 29 Arts in the Park 2024 - Franklin 5:00 PM LePage Park

ENGINE OIL

Your Vehicle’s

Operational Lifeline

Batteries Engine oil provides proper lubrication for all the moving parts inside an internal combustion engine - to disperse heat and prolong the life of all components. Without engine oil, serious damage can occur in a very short amount of time. Modern engine oils prevent blockages and contaminants from restricting oil flow. Oil breaks down and loses its properties over time, you should always check your oil on a regular basis. We recommend every 10,000km to 20,000km. Some circumstances, may require more frequent changes. For example if the vehicle is operated under abnormal conditions like 4wding, towing, racing, or excessive stop-start driving. It is also important to use the correct grade and specification of oil in your engine. Many modern European and diesel engines require certain additives which are present only in specific oil grades, and using the wrong specification can cause major and expensive engine and component damage.

Wed May 29 Cafe des Voix 5:30 PM Baked Cafe Listen to Cafe des Voix, Carl Schulze & Caroline Watt, Lynda Reeve, Susanne Hingley along with Annie Avery on piano and hosted by Fawn Fritzen!

Thu May 30 Arts in the Park 2024 - The Big Band 12:00 PM LePage Park

Fri May 31 Arts in the Park 2024 - Bria Rose N’ Thorns 12:00 PM LePage Park

Fri May 31 2024 Yukon First Nations Graduation Ceremony 12:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre Reception prior to the ceremony, ceremony will be outdoors, please dress for the weather. Graduates must register online. https://forms.gle/ THgVtBGgWnMX4EEDA

Fri May 31 Poker Run to Emerald Lake 5:00 PM Canada Games Centre Yukon Poker Run on the South Klondike Highway, stops at Kookatsoon Lake and Emerald Lake for additional cards. Register day of. https://whatsupyukon.events/wog

Sat Jun 1 Spring Sale (multiple vendors) & BBQ Lunch 10:00 AM Hellaby Hall A spring sale with multiple vendors. Mostly used, but some new items. BBQ lunch. If you would like to book a table email jeannieroches@hotmail.com.

Mon Jun 3 June 3rd - School Absence Day 8:00

AM Mon Jun 3 Beginner Leather Work - Bespoke Belt 5:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn how to use templates to cut, rivet or add snaps, do some simple tooling (embossing) and finish leather while constructing a Bespoke Leather Belt made to their measurements that they will take home! Register online. https://yukonstruct.com/calendar/

Thu Jun 6 Active Commute Week ‘24Motherload Film Screening 6:00 PM Association franco-yukonnaise (AFY) As a part of Active Commute Week, watch this crowdsourced documentary about how cargo bikes will save the world! Free Event! https://www.whitehorse.ca/event/ active-commute-week/

Fri Jun 7 Whitehorse Legion Branch 254Annual Garage Sale 5:00 PM Takhini Arena Come on out and find your treasures and help support the Whitehorse Legion!

Fri Jun 7- Jun 9 2024 Ride for Dad Yukon –Registration & Bike Games Night 5:00 PM Come out for Bike Games and registration night on Friday night to pre register to make things go smoothly both days. https://ridefordad.ca/chapter/yukon/ Sat Jun 8 Sweep Meet 10:00 AM Territorial Auto Parts Sell tires, engines, transmissions, licence plates, heads, wheels, highway signs, windows, fenders, and that box of oil filters in your shop. Bring a table if you like. https://whatsupyukon. events/9ae132

Sat Jun 8 2024 Ride for Dad Yukon 8:30 AM Shipyards Park The 14th Anniversary of Ride For Dad Yukon, breakfast and registration and kickstands up at 10:30am sharp!! Register inperson or online. https://ridefordad.ca/chapter/ yukon/

Sat Jun 8 World Environment Day 2024 12:00 PM Lumel Studios & Lumel Glass World Environment Day, a global initiative held on June 5th, revolves around evolving themes, and this year’s focus is on “Our land. Our future. Family friendly, join us for a BBQ and fun activities.

Sat Jun 8 Hand Building Round-Belly Mugs with Claire Strauss 6:00 PM Arts Underground Learn hand-building techniques of pinching, slab construction, and unique detailing to create one-ofa-kind round-bellied mugs. Tickets online. https:// arts-underground

Sun Jun 9 CNC Router 101 9:00 AM Yukonstruct Makespace In this 6 hr session covers the basics of how to use Yukonstruct’s CNC Router including safety, design software, print settings, material and bit selection. Register online. https://yukonstruct. com/

Monthly

2nd & 4th Mondays Service Officer 7:00 AM Royal Canadian Legion Whitehorse An invite to all Veterans, Police and First responders for the service hour at the Legion, socialise and find out what is going on. https://bit.ly/3Lm40ZG

2nd & 4th Wednesdays Whitehorse Photography Club - Meetup 7:00 PM Yukon UniversityWhitehorse Campus Held in Rm A2204. Discuss photography, share your work, learn new tips and tricks. http://whitehorsephotoclub.ca/

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

2nd Thursday QYS Movie Nights 5:00 PM Queer Yukon Society The Cache

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

2nd Thursday Music Trivia 7:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Come

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

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

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 Industry Night Lefty’s Well 8:00 PM All are welcome - 20% off everything for our industry family - hot dogs, tunes, games and happy hour all night!

https://bit.ly/3L0J3Ce

Tuesdays

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

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

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

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

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

SuperSmash Bros, Mtg: Commander 6:00 PM

Titan Gaming and Collectibles

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

PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Whether you are a seasoned crib player or a beginner, come play! Learn tips and tricks and have some fun!

https://bit.ly/3KP0B5s

Wednesdays

Multicultural Connection Group 11:00 AM

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

Spanish Conversation Group 12:00 PM

Whitehorse United Church Casual, no lessons, just conversations. Wednesdays noon, info Louise call 687-7238 or Michele 867-333-6081.

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

Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests.

Bragging rights!

Spanish Conversation 12:00 PM Whitehorse

United Church Call 333-6081 for more info.

Anglican Holy Communion – Whitehorse 12:10

PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month

Mtg: Modern, Warhammer Age of Sigmar 6:00

PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles

Thursdays

Public Speaking Training - Toastmasters 12:00

PM Decora Guests are always welcome. There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics

Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM

Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services)

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

Fireweed Community Market 3:00 PM

Shipyards Park Wonderful aromas, delicious fresh foods, and unique artisans from our approximately 70 weekly vendors. Grab a picnic dinner and get that special gift. Enjoy local live music and other amusements from buskers.

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

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.

Tarot Card Readings with Sari Horvath

Baked Cafe 9:15 AM Sari uses her wisdom and guidance through tarot cards to help answer your life questions! Please use email to book appointments treasurebooksyxy@gmail.com

Coffee & Chat 11:00 AM Golden Age Society

Coffee and chat is a way to connect with your community, develop friendships, and have fun.

Crib 1:00 PM Golden Age Society Cribbage is an easy game to learn but hard to master. For more info call 668-5538.

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

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

Saturdays

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

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

Sundays

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

Mountainviewwhitehorse.ca/Watch

Clothing Room 10:00 AM Whitehorse Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone

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

Secondhand Clothing Bizarre 2:00 PM Whitehorse Seventh-Day Adventist Church Clean clothes needed and donations accepted if in good condition. Please call before dropping clothes off and for more info 633-3463.

Sunday Gatherings 3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church

KIDS & FAMILIES

Until Jun 6 The Garfield Movie Nightly & Matinees Yukon Theatre Garfield (voiced by Chris Pratt), the world-famous, Monday-hating, lasagnaloving indoor cat, is about to have a wild outdoor adventure! Tickets online or in person at the box office. https://yukonfilmsociety.com/schedule/thegarfield-movie

Tue May 28 Baby Pillow Workshop 12:00 PM Skookum Jim Friendship Centre Learn how to make a traditional baby pillow in this 3 day workshop. RSVP by calling 633-7680

Wed May 29 Music and Motion with Babies 10:00 AM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Free, drop-in 30 minute session of music and movement designed for babies led by Lianne Cranfield. Music and Motion with Babies https://yukonartscentre.com

Wed May 29 Kids’ Bike Rodeo 3:30 PM Shipyards Park Learn safe biking tips, get your ride checked by specialists, participate in an obstacle course for all levels. Bring your own bike and helmet to participate. Open to ages 4 to 14 years, with a guardian. https://www.whitehorse.ca/event/lets-ridekids-bike-rodeo/

Thu May 30 Art from the Heart 7:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Art From the Heart is made-up of 4 different performances: Game Over, Inside Ballet, Give a Mouse a Cookie, Matilda Jr. Tickets online. https://www.yukontickets.com/TheatreManager/ Fri Jun 7 Fridays in the Park - Where fun meets community! 3:30 PM Whitehorse Various Locations Friday afternoons throughout the summer for an unforgettable experience at our neighbourhood parks. Exciting games and activities, healthy snacks and refreshments and of course fun and learning! Email parks@whitehorse. ca for more info. https://whatsupyukon.events/w8h Fri Jun 7 IF Nightly & Matinees Yukon Theatre About a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends. Tickets online or in person at the box office. https://yukonfilmsociety. com/schedule/if

Sat Jun 8 Midnight Sun Moppets Children’s Festival 10:00 AM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Midnight Sun Moppets Children’s Festival, free activitiespoppet workshop, parade, tie dye, and much more. See performers: Mattie Battie, Kym Gouchie and Tiny Islands Brass Band - Tickets online. https:// yukonartscentre.com/whats-on/midnight-sunmoppets-childrens-festival/

Sat Jun 8 Kym Gouchie – Midnight Sun Moppets

Children’s Festival 1:30 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Lheidli T’enneh artist, storyteller, children’s performer and cultural ambassador Kym Gouchie celebrates the healing power of music and the joyful spirit of childhood that resonates within us all. Tickets online. https://www.yukontickets.com/ TheatreManager/1/online?performance=3561

Sat Jun 8 Mike Battie - Midnight Sun Moppets

Children’s Festival 1:00 PM YAC Yukon Arts Centre Be delighted by Mike Battie, children’s performer showcasing his comedic juggling expertise. Tickets online. https://www.yukontickets. com/TheatreManager/1/login?event=2826

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

Mondays

Drop-In 9:00 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Gym Open to all ages – Children, youth, and teens must be accompanied by an adult.

Tuesdays

Babynastics with Coach Naomi 10:15 AM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Babynastics is a semistructured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5.

Story Time 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library

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

Native Grad Regalia Sewing Program 4:00 PM Northern Cultural Expressions Free accredited program for indigenous high school graduates of 2024. Call 633-4186 or email executiveassistant@ northernculture.org to register.

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. Register online. https://whatsupyukon.events/lj5

Let’s Create - Crafting Together 5:30 PM The Child Development Centre A fun crafting group for families with children aged 2 and up, light dinner will be served, transportation available. For more info call 332-4997 or email donna.light@yukon.ca

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

Babynastics with Coach Ewan 1:00 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club Babynastics is a semistructured parent and tot class for new movers, all the way to age 5.

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

Native Grad

Saturdays

Submitted by Steve Wilson

WHERE THE ROAD MEETS THE SEA