What's Up Yukon, August 9, 2023

Freelance with Angela Szymczuk

Angela Szymczuk is a Whitehorse-based writer and espresso-infused, news-consuming “machine” who loves the gym, boxing and spin classes while still finding time to enjoy a Macanudo cigar, a glass of Glenfiddich 18-year-old scotch and pondering how she might teach her cat to scuba dive.

PADDLE LIKE A ROCKSTAR!

Nothing says summer like fun on the water

Enjoying

firsttime glide

paddleboard

Nothing says summer like super-fun water sports. Surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, tubing, dragon-boat racing, and paddleboarding are some of the many water sports to choose from. Personally, I love water sports very much. The first time I took a canoe ride was several years ago out in the Marsh Lake area. For the most part, the canoe ride was fun, but then heading back to the boat launch I might have caused the canoe to capsize and plunge myself into the water. However, that little incident did not deter me from going back to water sports.

Lately, paddleboarding has become quite trendy. Not only can you glide across the water on a paddleboard, but doing yoga on paddleboards has become a muchtalked-about and Instagrammable experience. While I am no stranger to yoga, I am a stranger to paddle-

boarding. So, I thought it best just to focus on the basics for my first time trying it.

(Paddleboarding 101 for Noobs)

• First thing to consider is wind. If you are a paddleboard noob, then you want to be in calm waters. Wind should be below 10 kilometres per hour. Less wind will allow you to balance better, and balance is definitely key when on a paddleboard.

• Second thing to consider is size. You want a paddle board that is wide, so this way you can better familiarize yourself with what standing on it feels like.

• Third thing: don’t try to be a know-it-all. It may look easy getting on a paddleboard and floating calmly across the water, but I can assure you it is not that easy. Your first task is to set your paddleboard’s handle height. The handles are adjustable. You want it to be no higher than six inches above your head. The paddle is key, so you need enough handle space to guide your paddle in long strokes.

• Fourth: you tether yourself to

your board. Next, you want to start by getting on the board in an upright kneeling position. By doing this, it is a bit easier to balance yourself, as well as to become familiar with the paddling motion. Once you get the hang of it, you can start to slowly stand up. Keep your feet shoulderwidth apart for the best balance.

For myself, I would say that the paddling part went well. I managed to stay on the board (looking cool with my shades on) and staying in perfect balance. I was even able to go from standing to sitting down on it, and just hanging out in the water for a bit and enjoying the view. The only part that was challenging for me was getting on the board. I did flip myself over a few times. Not a great experience, especially when you wear glasses … but I was determined to get on that board. Once I did manage to get on successfully, all was well. Next up, definitely going to try paddleboard yoga and the party paddleboard experience, which is a larger board that can fit four to six people. n

PHOTO: Angela Szymczuk

SNAKES AND ‘LADDERS’

(Not as much fun as the game …)

Iam spending the summer “Outside,” away from the Yukon. These days I am in the town of Rossland, in the Kootenay region of British Columbia. It is surrounded by high and not-so-high mountain peaks in the Rossland Range and is a quaint little town that has, not surprisingly, a strong mining history. The town sits at more than 1,000 metres above sea level, and prospectors found gold and copper on the local slopes, a little longer than 100 years ago. The usual mining frenzy ensued for the next several decades. Sound familiar?

Mining is not really “a thing” anymore. The town is known as a ski-bum destination and its economy is now fuelled by tourist money from its world-class ski slopes and hip mountain-biking trails. The townsite is located right on a mountainside, and its main commercial artery, Columbia Avenue, acts as a boundary line. Above Columbia Avenue is the upper part of town, with small businesses, new developments and established neighbourhoods. Below this are quiet, older residential streets in the area called Lower Rossland.

All in all, Rossland is small and walkable. And getting groceries under your own steam is within reach, regardless of your altitude.

We are in Lower Rossland, which means we walk uphill to go into town, on Columbia Avenue. The walking distance is nothing worth talking about (a mere 500 metres), but the elevation gain is. At a 20 per cent grade, the hill we are climbing is so steep that a bus driver would not attempt it (unless their name was Sandra Bullock from the movie Speed). Driv-

between the street levels was built, over the years, with gentler grades for the “walking humans” and with landings in-between the long, steep sections. These are greatly appreciated by the locals who want to get up to the commercial streets and then back down and they are now part of the local culture and landscape. Sadly, we don’t have

in Newfoundland. They are not known to bite, and if they do, the bite is not poisonous. The garter snake is shy, like most reptilians, and harmless. They are darkcoloured but their unique yellow stripes make them easy to see in foliage or on pavement.

Alas, my aversion to snakes is strong. The garter snakes of Rossland may be considered small and are certainly fearful of people, but each time one crosses my path on the way to town (which happens quite often), I experience a strong stress reaction. I scream and run the opposite way, hopefully uphill, for a few seconds. Yes—a rather comical scene. What is truly remarkable is that the snake does just the same, minus the screaming. It is irrational, but snakes are the subject of one of the most-common, fearful reactions by humans. We have a history of not wanting them around, but in the case of the garter snake, this reaction is absolutely not warranted.

ers avoid it too. By comparison, it is around four times steeper than Two Mile Hill. Yet, we drag our bodies, walking up, shins burning hot under the muscular effort of reaching the Columbia Avenue plateau. On a punishing hot day, it’s worth thinking twice before making the short-but-intense trek into town—even for ice cream.

Challenging as these hills can be, a series of covered stairs

one of these structures nearby. In addition to the absurd elevation gain, all kinds of creatures may cross your path on the climb to town: blind dogs, grouses, nosy neighbours, and snakes (yes, snakes!) because they like to hang out on hot paved roads (the same roads that lead to town—steepness and all). These are garter snakes, a common snake found in nearly every province, except

In the classic game of Snakes and Ladders, ladders are always outnumbered by snakes—a message, by design, about going in the “right” direction instead of heading into trouble (the latter choice being always the easier and more-plentiful one). On my way to town, on a grand quest for ice cream, I optimistically wished there were more covered stairs (to help me climb the grueling hills) then there were snakes to run from. n

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

Freelance with Gabrielle Dupont

Garter snake on a street in Rossland

PHOTO: Mark Jeffery

On Friday, August 18 we’ll be hosting a ‘PUPPY’ event at Mighty Wash to view pups up for adoption. A portion of August wash sales will be donated directly to the Humane Society, to help the shelter’s work with animals. For times check our social media pages and get your car washed this month for a great cause.

Skills Canada Yukon promotes trades and technology careers as a top choice for Yukoners. If you are interested in learning more about the trades and technology sectors, or want to connect with our community, please call 867-332-7446 or send an email to yukoncommunications@skillscanada.com You can also find us on Facebook and on Instagram @skillscanadayukon.

Skills Yukon Affiliation:

2021 Territorial Skills

Competition Competitor

Age: 23

Trade and Certifications: Red Seal Electrician

Current workplace: Jaytech Electric & Controls

How did you decide on your trade?

I always knew I wanted to work with my hands and pursue a trade. Electrical called me the most because of the problem solving required.

Can you tell us about your experience in the trade/ technology sector so far?

How has your trade made your life better?

Electrical has allowed me to earn an income while working towards a certificate.

Was there someone who inspired your journey into the trades and/or technology sector?

Growing up, my dad worked in the trades. He has always been an advocate for building things yourself and being able to fix what is broken. I mean, you can not break them any more than they already are.

How has your trade and/ or technology career made your life better?

Electrical has given me a reliable and steady career. I feel that I am always learning and am improving myself.

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I have really enjoyed working in the trades, especially gaining experiences of troubleshooting and problem solving that is required in electrical. My trade is like a puzzle and I find it extremely rewarding when taking a step back, at the end of the day, and seeing the progress I have made.

How did you start exploring the trades and/or technology career?

I completed the PreApprenticeship Electrical Program at Yukon College (now Yukon University), after high school, to gain an idea of what it would be like to be an electrician.

Where did you take your training?

I completed my first and second year at Yukon University, then my third and fourth levels at SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) in Calgary, Alberta.

What does a regular day on the job look like?

One of my favourite aspects of this trade is that every day is different. I have been sent to work sites all over Whitehorse and in various communities in the Yukon.

If you met someone who was looking at exploring the trades and/or technology sector, what piece of advice would you give them?

I would advise them to ask questions if they do not understand something. You are there to learn—so as long as you start with a positive attitude, you will go far. You are not going to understand everything, right away, and that is okay.

What is the most-interesting thing/project you have worked on?

Due to the partnership between Alberta and the Yukon, I was able to work on projects in the industrial sector of Calgary, for several years.

Is there something about your trade that you think not many people know?

The amount of planning that goes into a project before you even pick up a single tool.

Where do you see your career in five to 10 years?

In five to 10 years, I hope I continue to improve and learn more of my trade in order to have an increasingly positive impact on bettering the community.

If you competed at the Territorial or National Skills Competition, tell us about your experience!

I competed in the Territorial Skills Competition in 2021. I found the competition challenging and that it impacted the way I think about my craft in ways I had not thought about prior to that.

Mackenzie Orban at the Skills territorial competition in 2021

Now Welcoming New and Emergency Patients!

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

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.

column

PROFILES: Mackenzie Orban

HIGHLIGHTS

Would you like to improve your public speaking skills, build confidence and hone your listening skills?

ü Feel free to attend with no obligation, any Toastmaster (TM) meeting.

ü You can attend 3 meetings as a guest while deciding to join.

ü You can just show up at a meeting before we begin (11:55am).

Actually, great value for the benefit, private public speaking professionals charge hundreds of dollars for courses, TM is much more affordable.

WHEN: Thursdays noon to 1pm (meet at 11:50 to noon at door)

WHERE : Northwestel bldg, Lambert St & 3rd Ave (blue coloured door around back side)

QUESTIONS: herbeeking(at)hotmail.com

GUESTS WELCOME

Do you have a fear of PUBLIC SPEAKING? Youth

affordable, quality, licensed childcare program

When: Monday to Friday 7:30am-5:15pm

Ages: 18 months - 5 years of age

Cost: Tuition fees as follows:

Toddler: $160/month, Preschool: $150/month Emily Howard at 393-2824 ext 206 or eypd@bgcyukon.com

Location: Riverdale

YUKON TRAPPERS ASSOCIATION TURNS 50!

ated out of a beautiful log cabin in the Industrial Area in Whitehorse. Grant offered up his lot for purchase at 175A Titanium Way and, since 2018, with his very gracious offer, we were able to stay in business and reach our milestone of 50 years.

Over the years, the Yukon Trappers Association (YTA) has relocated a few times, but their mandate remains the same: to provide all Yukon trappers with education through our workshops, to provide a store where they’ll be able to buy their lures, snares or traps and, at the same time, to provide a place to drop off furs for either the tannery or the auction house.

The YTA store is open to the public (come see and buy the tanned furs!).

Jackie Yaklin, our long-time secretary-treasurer, store manager and volunteer, lived through a few interesting bits: she started work with the YTA, at the store on Fourth Avenue, in 2007, and since 2009 she has brought the association, with the help of volunteers like Kathryn Boivin, back from the brink of extinction.

Since 2018, thanks to director Grant Redfern, we have oper-

Our president, Brian Melanson, talks about some of the challenges in trapping:

The faces of the industry haven’t changed too much in the last 50 years. If trapping is in your family, you have likely headed out on the land for awhile before you could legally buy a drink.

No one can start trapping this year and know everything and hope to be successful by the end of the season. It takes five to seven to 10 years to learn the skills and to develop proper fur-handling techniques, but only if you’re skilled enough to catch the fur—if you’re able to physically go out and set the trap, if you’re one of the fortunate ones with a trapline and, last but not least, if you have a healthy mind and body (read: being out on the land is in your blood) to go out and face every aspect of this lifestyle.

So for the future, I see this happening in the Yukon: get the

youth of today out into the bush, into sewing and making value-added products … Yukon furs are the best in the world and are in high demand globally. We need to show that Fur is Green and environmentally friendly and safe.

Victor Sokalski shares a bit about himself and the Yukon Trappers Association:

Ted Geddes was one of the founders in 1973 and was spoken highly of by everyone I met. I start-

ed trapping in the mid ‘70s when I had an assistant license on a small trapline by Judas Creek, on the Alaska Highway. Back then, when the concession holder wouldn’t go out and trap, the line was taken away from them. In the early ‘80s, lynx sold for over $1,000. That was in the fur industry’s heyday. Trappers, naturally, were a lot more active back then and there were more of them. The AGMs were held over two days, usually in the Elks Hall, with guest speakers galore. The Ontario Trappers Association was mentoring the YTA, and through that association came the only auction house left in North America: Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. in North Bay, Ontario. The YTA’s first office was in what is now the Yukon Inn, which was formerly the Tourist Services.

Tanned

PHOTOS:Sonja

Darlene Richardson (indispensable at the YTA store) talks about the trapping life:

Trappers need to help themselves and step up to the task of staying in one unit. I remember one couple from Watson Lake who, on their own time, in the summer months, would visit Yukon campgrounds to talk to interested Yukoners and tourists about trapping and the trapper’s life. The Yukon government, in the ’90s, had a really good program going where leghold traps could get exchanged to Conibear (trappingtoday.com/ trapping-supplies/traps/) traps. Harvey Jessup was very involved in assisting the Yukon trappers’ community.

Come see us at the event and feel the furs!

Sonja Seeber, Yukon Trapper n

After 50 years, YTA continues to provide education, information and services to Yukoners

PHOTOS: 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.

Tuesdays 3 - 7pm

Saturdays 10am - 2pm

Fridays from 4 to 6pm until Sept 1. Presented by Music

Yukon.

August 11

Vanstones & Blues Cargo

August 18

Elijah Bekk

August 25

Soir de Semaine & Major Funk

September 1

The Follower & Wonderhorse Pre-Fest Event

We’d love your feedback! Take our short survey at whitehorse.ca/townsquare or call us at 867-334-1083.

Public bathrooms located between the White Pass Building and the Old Fire Hall and at the Visitor Information Centre on Hanson Street between Front and 2nd Avenue.

Parkades located at 2nd Avenue and Steele Street and 3rd Avenue and Steele.

Tlél aadé a kát seigaax'aagu yé (There’s no way he/ she/it can forget)

by Laurence Smith and Carvers from the Northern Cultural Expressions Society

Whitehorse Summer 2023

COMMUNITY EVENTS COMMUNITY EVENTS

ATLIN

Fridays Atlin Community Library Atlin Community

LIbrary 2:00 PM Open two days per week, Fridays and Saturdays, covid protocols apply.

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

Tuesdays Craft Dinner 5:00 PM Atlin Mountain Inn Craft and eat with good company, special meal discounts for crafters. Finish an old craft or start something new!

Tue Aug 1 & 8 5 Mile Group (O) 7:00 PM Tutan Hit

Building For more info call 250-7695 Ext 108

Yukon Communities:

Wednesdays Yukon Unity (OM) 3:00 PM Online

Yukon Health Centers, Live Video Meeting

Beaver Creek, Carcross, Carmacks, Dawson City, Destruction Bay, Faro, Haines Junction, Mayo, Old Crow, Pelly Crossing, Ross River, Teslin, Watson Lake. Online users’ sign in info: yukonbcdistrict52@ gmail.com

CARCROSS

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

867-668-3129

Sundays Public Swim 2:00 & 6:00 PM Carcross Pool

Mondays - Thursday Public Swim 1:00 & 4:00 PM

Carcross Pool

Mondays Light Walkers Group (OM) 5:00 PM Fire Hall meeting room 1137 Austin S

CARMACKS

Wednesdays Toddler Time & Indoor Soccer/

Learn to Play 10:00 AM Carmacks Recreation Complex

Wednesdays Teen Movie Night 7:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Complex

Thursdays Carmacks Open Gym 5:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Complex

Thursdays Family Movie Night 7:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Complex

Department has a variety of Driver, Fairway, and Putter Discs to use. https://bit.ly/3QIuxAs

Saturdays Rock Wall Drop-In 12:00 PM Carmacks

Recreation Complex

Saturdays Drop In Pickleball 3:00 PM Carmacks

Recreation Complex

Saturdays Laser Tag Battles 6:00 PM Carmacks

Recreation Complex Ages 6-11 6PM, Ages 12-

18 7:30 PM Sundays Toddler Time 1:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Complex

Mondays & Wednesdays Rock Wall Drop-In 3:00 PM Carmacks Recreation Complex

Mondays Drop-in Basketball 5:00 PM Carmacks

Recreation Complex Ages 5-12 (5-7PM) and Ages 13 to adult (7-9PM)

Tuesdays Drop-in Basketball & Soccer 5:00 PM

Carmacks Recreation Complex Ages 5-12 (5-7PM) and Ages 13 to adult (7-9PM)

Tuesdays Laser Tag Battles 6:00 PM Carmacks

Recreation Complex Ages 6-11 6PM, Ages 12-18 7:30 PM

Sat Aug 12 Emergency Response Center & Fire Hall Grand Opening 12:00 PM Carmacks The collective celebration for the grand opening of the new municipal Emergency Response Center (Firehall)

DAWSON CITY

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.

Tue - Thur 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.

Tue - Thu Saint Mary’s Weekday Mass 5:00 PM Saint Mary’s Catholic Church Join Father Emanuel for weekday mass Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Daily Gertie & the Goldrush Girls Showtimes

8:30, 10:00 PM & 12:00 AM Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall. Shows nightly – NO 12:00 AM show on Tuesdays/Wednesdays Cabaret-style show combines moments of the Moulin Rouge and its famous French CanCan with the glitz and glamor of legendary Vegas showgirls

Until Aug 10 It Is Meant To Be Read by Aileen

Bahmanipour Klondike Institute of Art & Culture (KIAC) Held in the ODD Gallery. An interactive drawing and sculptural installation by IranianCanadian visual artist Aileen Bahmanipour.

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot

7:30 AM, 12:30 & 4:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Public Swim 2:30 & 5:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Aquafit 1:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Clayton’s CAR CARE Tips

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

Tire Shop: MON - SAT 7:30-5:30

Mechanical Shop: MON-FRI 8-5

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Drop Dance and Roll 1:30 PM

Klondike Institute of Art & Culture A fun and active hour practicing movement and rhythm! Totally Free! Drop-in for kids under 5 + a parent/guardian.

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Preschooler Gymnastics with Terrie Turai 4:00 PM Robert Service School Introduce your 3 and 4-year-olds to tumbling and rolling!

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Youth Softball Grades K-3 5:30 PM Minto Park To register call 993-7400 x 299

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot

7:30 AM & 12:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Public Swim 1:30 & 5:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Multi-Sport Drop In 6:00 PM Robert Service School Free program, all children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult.

Thu Aug 10 Mo Kenney with Sophie Noel 7:30

PM Dënäkär Zho KIAC Incredible East Coast musicians as they bring their folk-inspired melodies to the North. http://cuts2.com/IHDhw

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Summer Volleyball 7:30 PM Minto Park Ages 13+ Free, Drop-In

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Queer Yukon – Drop-In 11:00

AM Queer Yukon – Dawson City Open Community Engagement hours.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Cards & Conversation 12:30 PM

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 1 Dawson City Free! Drop-In! No registration necessary. Proof of double vaccination required for anyone ages 12+. For more info email recreation@cityofdawson.ca or call 993-7400 ext 299.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot

12:00 & 3:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Dawson Summer Concert Series

12:00 PM Dawson City Waterfront A free lunch-time music series that takes place each Friday. Come out and enjoy the music all summer long.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Public Swim 1:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Aquafit 4:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Hän Ghả Chukėt Träätätsey

Artist Market 11:00 AM Front Street Picnic Shelter

Sat Aug 19 Dawson Horticultural Exhibition

11:00 AM Front St. Dawson City Enter and view the delicious and impressive stuff that gets grown or made in Dawson City!

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Drop-In Walking Group 12:00

PM Robert Service School Open to all ages, children under 10 to be accompanied by an adult, Parents with strollers are welcome. Set distance goals to achieve or just come for exercise and socialization.

Sat Aug 12 & 19 AA North Star Group Dawson City 7:00 PM Royal Canadian Legion In person or Videoconference option available Call 867-9935095 or 867-993-3734 for more information

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Under 5 Gym Drop-In 10:00 AM Robert Service School

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot

10:00 AM Dawson City Pool

Sun Aug 13 The Great Klondike International

Outhouse Race 1:00 PM Dawson City Come out and watch, or better yet, run in this hilarious and exciting afternoon! https://dawsoncity.ca/

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Public Swim 11:30 AM & 3:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Aquafit 2:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot

7:30 AM & 12:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Aquafit 3:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Water Polo 3:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Swimfit & Adult Lane Swim

3:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Public Swim 4:00 PM Dawson City Pool

Mon Aug 14 & 21 55+ Stretch & Strong Fitness Class 1:30 PM Minto Park A 6-week strength class for Dawsonites Call 993-7400 ext 299

Mon Aug 15 & 22 Drop Dance and Roll 1:30 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture A fun and active hour practicing movement and rhythm! Totally Free! Drop-in for kids under 5 + a parent/guardian.

Mon Aug 15 & 22 Youth Softball Grades 4-7 5:30 PM Minto Park To register call 993-7400 x 299

Mon Aug 15 & 22 Badminton & Pickleball 6:00 PM Robert Service School Open to all ages (children under 10 must be supervised).

Mon Aug 15 & 22 Handbuilding Pottery Drop-in

6:30 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture KIAC Classroom (enter via backdoor)

Mon Aug 15 & 22 Young Peoples Talking Circle

7:00 PM Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Youth Centre

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Romp & Run 10:30 AM YOOP

Hall Email Jen.Suttis@cdcyukon.ca for more info.

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Lane Swim & Parent and Tot 12:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Public Swim 1:30 PM Dawson City Pool

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Drop Dance and Roll 1:30 PM Klondike Institute of Art & Culture A fun and active hour practicing movement and rhythm! Totally Free! Drop-in for kids under 5 + a parent/guardian.

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Running Club 3:00 PM Robert Service School Grades 2-5 Register online

Tues Aug 16 & 23 Skipping for All Ages 5:00 PM Minto Park Free drop-in Skipping! A fun and easy activity for all ages to get moving!

Tues Aug 16 & 23 English Conversation Club

7:00 PM YukonU A weekly English Conversation Club for immigrants in Dawson City.

Thu Aug 17 Authors on Eighth Walking Tour and Writing Contest 1:30 & 3:30 PM Jack London Museum Writers and book lovers of all ages are welcome to join us for this FREE event!

Thu Aug 17-19 Discovery Day Golf Tournament

2:00 PM Dawson City Golf Course Teams of 4 play 18 holes of scramble (best ball) with great prizes, great food, and exceptional golfing.

Thu Aug 17-21 Discovery Day Celebrations Dawson City Family-friendly events, a parade, a pipe band on the Midnight Dome to a literary tour, and a fastball tournament.

Fri Aug 18-31 Dawson Daily News Print and Publishing Festival 9:00 AM Dawson City

An inclusive, innovative, community-minded celebration of visual printmaking, literature, publishing, and heritage.

Fri Aug 18 Discovery Days Fastball Tournament

5:00 PM Minto Park & Crocus Bluff Ball Fields Quality fastball, fans and players can enjoy a concession, beer garden, lawn games, world-class heckling, and a home-run derby!

Sat Aug 19 Saltwater Hank with Ellorie McKnight 7:30 PM Dënäkär Zho KIAC As a part of The Print & Publishing Festival. Saltwater Hank brings together an ancient, traditional past with the modern sounds of country music.

FARO

Wednesdays Seniors Games & Walks 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Walk or play cards, engage in healthy living.

Wednesdays Seniors Yoga 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Pickleball 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Basketball (Open Court) 4:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Shoot some hoops, practice your skills on the open court. Call 994-2375 or email recreation@faroyukon.ca for more info.

Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays Open Swim 2:00 PM Faro Swimming Pool

Thursdays Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre

Thursdays Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Thursdays Faro Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays Pickleball 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays Seniors Yoga 2:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays Open Gym 2:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Fridays Volleyball 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays Open Swim 12:00 PM Faro Swimming Pool

Saturdays Pickleball 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Saturdays Basketball (Open Court) 3:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre Shoot some hoops, practice your skills on the open court. Call 994-2375 or email recreation@faroyukon.ca for more info.

Saturdays Open Gym 4:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Parent & Tot 10:00 AM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Open Gym 1:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Faro Kids Club 3:30 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Archery 6:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Adult Floor Hockey 7:00 PM Faro Recreation Centre

867-667-6102 107 INDUSTRIAL ROAD

Wed Aug 16 Faros Fireweed Market 6:00 PM Live music, local artists, food vendors and art workshop.

HAINES JUNCTION

Wednesdays Movement Wednesdays 7:00 PM Haines Junction, Yukon Dezadeash River Trailhead, walking, jogging or running to the gun range and back. As the snow clears we will explore more trails. Prizes to be won. https://bit.ly/3GuVkx0

Wednesdays Adult Volleyball 16+ 7:00 PM St. Elias Community School Meet in the school gym

Wednesdays 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]

Wednesdays Boxing Classes Bill Brewster Arena 5:30 PM Reach your fitness goals by joining this boxing program! Participants must complete out a waiver provided. Call 634-2012 or email dgraham@cafn.ca for more info. https://bit. ly/3mGYALy

Thursdays Step It Up with Shelby 5:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Fridays HJL Story Time 10:00AM Haines Junction Library Registration is required but the program is still run as a drop in. There is no commitment to come each week. https://bit.ly/3KmBdBC.l

Saturdays Step It Up with Shelby 7:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Mondays Step It Up with Shelby 7:00 PM Bill Brewster Arena Cardio Aerobic Step Class is a classic cardiovascular workout, using a 4 or 6 inch step platform.

Mondays Smart Recovery Meetings 8:00 PM Munku Hall Everyone welcome, call 334-5688 for more info.

Tuesdays Girls Club 6:00 PM St. Elias School

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

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Farmers Market Dakwakada Haines Junction

Thu Aug 10 William Prince 7:00 PM St. Elias Convention Centre William Prince has become one of the country’s most respected and celebrated songwriters. Tickets at the door.

Fri Aug 11 2023 Summer Music Series – Major Funk Village Bakery and Deli 6:00 PM BBQ with an assortment of sides while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical, anything goes! Reservations online or listen for free. https://www. villagebakeryyukon.com/live-music.html

Sat Aug 12 2023 Summer Music Series –Garbageman Village Bakery and Deli 6:00 PM BBQ with an assortment of sides while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical, anything goes! Reservations online or listen for free. https://www.villagebakeryyukon.com/livemusic.html

Tue Aug 14 Tea & Bannock – Haines Junction 1:00 PM Munku Haines Junction

Fri Aug 18 2023 Summer Music Series – TBA

Village Bakery and Deli 6:00 PM BBQ with an assortment of sides while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical, anything goes! Reservations online or listen for free. https://www. villagebakeryyukon.com/live-music.html

Sat Aug 19 2023 Summer Music Series – Logan Canada Band Village Bakery and Deli 6:00 PM

BBQ with an assortment of sides while you enjoy some of the best Live Yukon music on the patio, rain or shine: bluegrass, rock, jazz, classical, anything goes! Reservations online or listen for free. https://www.villagebakeryyukon.com/livemusic.html

MARSH LAKE

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

Fridays 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

Tuesdays Play Bridge 1:00 PM Marsh Lake

Community Centre

Tuesdays North of 60 Seniors Coffee and Chat 2:00 PM Marsh Lake Community Centre

MAYO

Mon thru Fri Morning Video Workout 6:15 AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Mon, Wed & Fri Teen Workout 12:00 PM J.V Clark

School

Weekdays Lunchtime Lengths 12:00 PM Mayo

Recreation Centre

Weekdays Mayo Mornings Parent and Tot Time 10:00 AM Mayo Recreation Centre

Mondays Art/Entrepreneur Club 3:30 J.V Clark

School Held in the Lunchroom

Mondays Video Yoga Classes 5:15 PM Mayo Curling Arena Yoga Videos are used for leading each class. Bring your own Yoga mat or borrow ours. Drop-ins are welcome. For more info call 9962043 8979962043

Monday – Friday Public Swim 3:30 PM Village of Mayo Pool

Mondays & Thursdays Aquafit 7:00 PM Village of Mayo Pool

Mondays Dinner and Movie Night 5:00 PM Mayo

Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays & Thursdays Tabata Training 5:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Youth Archery 3:30 PM Mayo

Community Hall And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Disc Golf 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Curling 7:00 PM Mayo Recreation Centre And Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Drop-in Art Night 7:00 PM Mayo Curling Lounge If you can bring a photo that you would like to work from that would be great. No experience necessary.

Wednesdays Pottery Class 3:30 PM J.V Clark School

Wednesdays Rec Volleyball 7:00 PM Village of Mayo Pool

Thursdays Elementary Soccer 3:30 PM J.V Clark School

Thursdays Teen/Adult Floor Hockey 7:30 PM J.V Clark School

Sundays St. Mary’s Church Service 11:00 AM St Mary’s Church (867)667-7746

Sundays Communion Service St. Mary with St. Mark Anglican Church 11:00 AM where village members come together to worship and offer service to their community and the world.

Sundays Public Swim 11:00 PM Village of Mayo Pool

MOUNT LORNE

Thursdays Little Green Thumbs 10:00 AM Mount Lorne Community Centre A preschool drop in program for kids and families who want to spend time in the garden.

Thursdays Run Club 6:00 PM Mount Lorne

Community Centre

Sundays, Tuesdays & Thursdays Community Garden

Sat Aug 12 Tow Ripper Live 9:00 PM Skagway Brewing Company

TAGISH

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

Wednesdays 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.

Wednesdays 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

Thursdays Carpet Bowling 10:00 AM Tagish

Community Centre

Until Sep 23 Honouring our Future: Yukon

First Nations Graduation Regalia Exhibit Teslin Heritage Centre

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

Tuesday-Friday Family Swim 9:30 AM Watson Lake Dennis Ball Memorial Pool

Tuesday – Friday Public Swim 3:00 PM

Watson Lake Dennis Ball Memorial Pool

Tuesday – Wednesday – Friday Aquafit 6:30 PM Watson Lake Dennis Ball Memorial Pool

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.

Wednesdays

Wednesdays

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

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

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

SKAGWAY

Wednesdays Women’s Morning Worship 7:00

AM First Presbyterian Church of Skagway All are welcome. Part of the Alaska Presbytery and the PC U.S.A.

Wednesdays 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 School 4:00 PM First

Presbyterian Church of Skagway

Sundays Sunday Worship 10:00 AM First

Presbyterian Church of Skagway

Mondays Live Music Red Onion Saloon 6:30 PM

Live music every Monday starting at 6:30 pm.

Thu Aug 10 Drag Bingo and Performances Skagway Brewing Company Drag bingo, performances, and sometimes we will even have Burlesque! Hosted by the fabulous Roman Wilde with prizes for Bingo.

Thu Aug 10 Jim Lewin, Diana Z & Barry Sless 9:00 PM Red Onion Saloon Live Music

Extravaganza with Jim Lewin, Diana Z & Barry Sless (of Bob Weir & Wolk Bros., Phil & Friends, Moonalice)

Fri Aug 11 Juan Solo 8:00 PM Happy Endings Saloon Live music that’ll make you wanna dance!

Thursdays 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

Wednesdays Pickleball 12:00 & 7:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Wednesdays Dominos 1:00 PM Teslin Recreation CentreCome out and play a game of dominos, for seniors but will play anyone!

Thursdays Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Thursdays Ball Night 7:00 PM Teslin Recreation

Centre Ball diamonds

Thursdays Teslin Disc Golf 7:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre Held behind the ball diamond

Fridays Hop On Bike Club 3:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Fridays Badminton 6:30 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Fridays Basketball Drop-in 7:00 PM Teslin Lake

Recreation Complex

Saturdays Parent & Tots 12:00 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Mondays Warriors of the Water 5:30 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

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

Tuesdays Group Fitness 5:30 PM Teslin

Recreation Centre

Tuesdays Outdoor 3D Archery 7:00 PM Sambow

Archery Course – Meet at the ball diamond

Tuesdays Ball Night 7:00 PM Teslin Recreation Centre Ball diamonds

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.

Saturdays Baptiste Power Yoga 7:00 PM Fees apply. A muscle-shaping and mind-sculpting 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) 536-2932

Sundays Sunday Nite Volleyball 11:00 AM Watson Lake Secondary School

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

Tuesdays Pickleball & Badminton Watson Lake Secondary School 7:00 PM

Sat Aug 12 Liard Canyon Walk 11:00 AM Lucky Lake A simple hike down the trail from Lucky Lake to the Liard Canyon. Picnic on the rocks beside the Liard River, watching for waterbirds, river otters, and other critters. http:// cuts2.com/HyfBm

Sat Aug 12 & 13 Going More Batty in Watson Lake 10:00 PM Watson Lake Airport Join wildlife biologists for a second night of trapping and banding Little Brown Bats, and answering questions about these flying mammals. http:// cuts2.com/LCzlj

Sun Aug 13 Why Wye? 10:00 AM Watson Lake

Local biologists as we stroll along the easy walking trail, looking for the plants and animals that live there. Bring binoculars to check out the waterbirds on the lake. http://cuts2.com/dhpOT

Fri Aug 19 & 20 Watson Lake Discovery Days Wye Lake Park Family activities, food vendors, fun for the whole family.

Beautiful 2nd floor modern clinic, spacious 12 x 12 feet operatories with extra large windows

Latest equipment technology, piezo, and GBT from EMS/Oral Sciences

Treatment coordinators to help facilitate your workflow Mentorship and collaboration with an experienced owner and hygienist who are hands-on and work full time

High remuneration and applications are strictly confidential.

Please send your resume to:

HEALING AND CONNECTION

Kay has lived in the North for eight years. She is interested in spiritual practice, healing, creativity and land connection. Between painting and writing, Kay makes sure to spend quality time in the wilderness that surrounds her. She is currently working on her first book, inspired by a kayaking pilgrimage she did in 2018 from Atlin to Dawson City.

THERE IS A RIVER

of Chinook salmon, for her analysis. Based on the strontium imprint found in both the rivers and salmon, her research will help to identify where the Chinook salmon’s rearing and overwintering habitats are. The results may also help to identify the salmon’s dis-

bursement patterns, their movement patterns and critical timings in their lifecycle. Currently, we don’t have this level of information in the Yukon, and without it, it’s difficult for us to know or anticipate the movements of juvenile salmon in their freshwater environment.

Natasha had already sampled a number of rivers and creeks across the Yukon. On this trip, we would be adding to her data by sampling

cont’d on page 11 ...

Getting to know the waterways along the Robert Campbell Highway

“Iremember when we canoed the Pelly River in our handmade birchbark canoe, back in 2001,” Natasha reminisced as she looked across the river’s glistening surface from the grassy shoreline. “We had to portage just up ahead, around the Hoole Canyon. Imagine that … fourteen people carrying a sopping-wet birchbark canoe and gear over nearly two kilometres!”

I chuckled at the mental image while leaning over the riverbank

and dangling a thermometer into the Pelly River, just upriver from its confluence with the Hoole River. “That sounds like something!”

(I pulled the thermometer out of the churning water and squinted my eyes to see the number next to the red line.) “Thirteen degrees,” I replied. Natasha recorded the temperature in her log book.

I had joined my friend Natasha on a road trip along the Robert Campbell Highway. It was the Canada Day long weekend, 2023; however, we weren’t solely meeting for a fun catch-up and a leisurely camping trip. Natasha was conducting part of her research for her PhD at the University of Waterloo.

Natasha was not only testing the temperature of the water

but, more importantly, she was collecting water samples so they could be analyzed for strontium isotopes.

Strontium is a pervasive element derived from riverbed rocks, and its levels and ratios are often unique to each river. In addition to being a unique marker for each river, strontium markers are also found in the calcified ear bones (the otoliths) of fish―and in the case of Natasha’s PhD study, in Chinook salmon.

Natasha is sampling the Yukon’s primary river systems and related waterways, as well as the otoliths

PHOTOS: Kay Linley

p Coffee Lake

column with Kay Deborah Linley

Natasha on the Ketza River q

nine more waterways, including the Pelly River, in two locations, as well as Drury Creek, Magundy River, Lapie River, Starr Creek, Mink Creek, Ketza River, Hoole River and the Big Campbell River.

To access these rivers, we drove 100 kilometres east of Carmacks and set up camp at Little Salmon Lake. From there, we drove farther east in the summer heat, through an impressive sprawling landscape. Aside from the road we drove on, the land was largely untouched and a powerful force unto itself and us travellers. The aspen leaves flickered in the bright summer’s light showering us with attention as we rolled down the gravel road.

We sampled the rivers in good

company, with each of us having two dogs by our sides. The leg count in our respective trucks brought new meaning to the term 4x4! We agreed that, in addition to having much-needed space for our abundance of dogs, it was better to have the two vehicles for safety, in case something happened to the other.

We continued beyond Ross River, venturing onto the unpaved section of the Robert Campbell Highway. The dirt road wound its way through wetlands, around lakes and across charismatic rivers.

As we visited each river, it became apparent that they had their own unique personalities.

The Lapie, a well-known paddler’s challenge, offered a dramatic canyon with rock side-walls that expressed like animal faces. Swallows swooped in and out of their nests on the opposite bank above the Lapie’s bright aquamarine water, which kicked up and swept past us as we ate lunch

on the shore. Other rivers, like Starr Creek, were channelled with rip-rap boulders and culverts from the highway construction. Even so, looking just up or downstream told a wilder story, one of moss carpets, scratchy-barked spruce trees and surely a critter or two just around the bend.

We covered a long distance in a short period of time, and the weather changed with the landscape. Near the end of our easternmost extent at the Big Campbell River, about 180 kilometres from the Ross River turnoff, we encountered a dramatic lightning and rain storm that pelted our vehicles. Although extreme, the weather was exciting. The forked lightning decorated the sky in a momentary show, followed by low, deep rumbles and bursting raindrops. The storm cooled the air, a welcome change to the nearly unbearable heat of just moments earlier.

On our return drive west, away from the thick alders and even thicker mosquitos of the Big Campbell River, we continued sampling rivers. The confluence

of the Hoole and Pelly rivers left a memorable impression on both myself and Natasha. We wandered down to the shore of the Pelly River, to get our bearings on how to sample the two merging water bodies. Staring back up at us from the rounded, grey river rocks was an endearing smiley face, perfectly arranged quartz etchings within a small, grey stone. Cherishing the unexpected and positive sign, we continued walking up the Hoole River, away from the confluence, to take samples.

As I knelt down on a curved boulder beside the Hoole’s edge, I felt invited by the sound of its rushing water. The water churned and swirled delightfully over submerged boulders. I felt drawn in. The more I watched the water, the more I felt I reached a new understanding of it.

The water was completely itself. It was fluid and moving this way and that. Parts of the river would circle around in a backeddy, only to return and continue down the river’s mainstem. One thing was sure, the water never stopped being water: it kept flow-

ing. I noticed how the water was not apologetic for being itself, it was 100 per cent elemental being. It was fully water at every juncture along its path, and it continued to be as water, no matter what landmark or impediment it came into contact with. It wasn’t thinking about how to be water, or which way to go … it simply was water.

It was as if the river was giving me permission to be 100 per cent my unique element. I felt encouraged to drop out of my brain’s chatter and down into my body— and immediately felt peaceful. An assured knowing washed over me. I suddenly knew where I came from, where I was going, and I felt at home with all of it. Amidst this feeling of belonging, I was reminded of the salmon that Natasha was researching. Their otoliths guide them from inception, to the ocean and return, over thousands of kilometres, all the way home― and always at home. n

There is a river cont’d from page 10

PHOTOS: Kay Linley

Summer Storm on the Horizon on the Robert Campbell Highway q p Lapie River

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SEASONAL RECIPES

EGGPLANT BITS WITH COMEBACK SAUCE

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

For more information visit:

Eggplant is controversial, but even the most skeptical can appreciate these juicy little bits. Especially when dipped in comeback sauce, which is a staple at fast-food restaurants such as Sonic, throughout the south of the U.S. Serves 4 as a snack.

Ingredients

❑ 1 eggplant, cubed

❑ 1 Tbsp salt

❑ 3 Tbsp olive oil

❑ 2 tsp garlic powder

❑ 1/2 cup mayonnaise

❑ 1/4 cup chili sauce (Heinzstyle sauce)

❑ 2 Tbsp yellow mustard

❑ 1 tsp sugar

❑ 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

❑ Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Toss cubed eggplant with salt and let sit for 15 minutes. Press with a paper towel, to get rid of excess liquid, then toss eggplant with olive oil and garlic powder and place on a sheet tray or into the basket of an air fryer. Cook for 20 minutes at 400℉ or until the eggplant is golden brown.

Mix together mayonnaise, chili sauce, mustard, sugar and Worcestershire. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper and serve with eggplant bits. n

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.

PHOTOS: Sydney Keddy

Sliced eggplant

Cubed eggplant

MEATLOAF IS MARVELLOUS, HOT OR COLD

A couple of weeks ago we dropped in on a friend on our way to Pine Lake, near Haines Junction

Just as we were leaving, he said, “Oh, wait, you can save me a trip into town,” and he disappeared into his shed. He emerged with three one-pound packages of frozen ground bison. “Here you go,” he said, “I’ve been meaning to get these to you forever.”

We popped them into our cooler, with big thank-yous, and hoped against hope they would stay frozen until our return to Whitehorse in three days. They did not.

Suddenly there was a need to come up with a bunch of ways to cook that bison, fast. Spaghetti sauce was a no-brainer, our household standard with olives and chopped lemon and a spoonful of powdered cocoa for richness and body. Tourtière with last year’s dried Agaricus mushrooms—another quick solution.

Then a visit to the Fireweed Market revealed that the Yukon Meat Company was selling something they called “Simply Heavenly”—a mix of equal parts ground pork and ground beef, in one-pound packages. Perfect to

augment my final pound of bison. I snapped up two pounds—one for now, one for later.

Just that day, one of my dear friends had said, “One of the nicest things you can do for anybody who’s going through a hard time is to make them a sandwich.” She was so right! “Who does not love a “bacon and egger,” or cold meatloaf on soft bread with the cheap kind of mustard?”

Who indeed? I had my third recipe. And I am happy to report that cold meatloaf sandwiches are simply the best, with the cheap kind of mustard, or Dijon, or greentomato chutney, or apple jelly, or cold miso gravy—or anything you like. Hint: a meatloaf sandwich is a great way to use up that arugula that’s bolting in the garden.

BISON AND MOREL MEATLOAF

Ingredients

• .5 oz dried morel mushrooms (about 1/2 cup)

• 4 oz thick-cut bacon, diced

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 Tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp rosehip ketchup, ketchup, barbecue sauce or Roasted Rhubarb Barbecue Sauce: www.whatsupyukon.com/recipes/bbq/ the-secret-to-good-rhubarb/

• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh herbs

• 1 lb ground bison

• 1 lb Yukon Meat Company

“Simply Heavenly” mix of ground pork and ground beef, or 1/2 lb ground pork and 1/2 lb ground beef

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of hot water over morel mushrooms and allow them to rehydrate for 30 minutes. Squeeze the excess moisture from them, reserving liquid, and chop into bite-sized pieces.

2. Meanwhile, sauté the bacon

over medium heat, until crispy. Remove from the pan to a medium-sized bowl, leaving the bacon fat in the frying pan.

3. Add the onion to the same frying pan, adding a tablespoon of butter, if necessary, and sauté until onion softens, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in morel mushrooms and garlic and sauté for two minutes. Pour in the reserved morel soaking liquid and cook until all the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat, add onion and mushroom mix to the bowl with the bacon, and let cool for a few minutes.

5. Stir in breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce, breadcrumbs and chopped fresh herbs.

6. Add meat to the bowl and, using two forks, mix everything together until thoroughly combined.

7. Press mixture into a buttered 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Place in a preheated, 350℉ oven and cook for 30 minutes. Spread remaining 2 tablespoons of ketchup or barbecue sauce over top of the loaf and return to the oven. Cook for another 30 minutes or until the meatloaf has formed a nice crust and has drawn away from the sides of the pan. Allow to sit for 10 minutes before slicing.

8. Serve hot with Simple Miso Gravy, or make a sandwich the next day—because the whole-

point of meatloaf is cold meatloaf sandwiches, as we know.

SIMPLE MISO GRAVY

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp butter

• 2 Tbsp flour

• 1 1/2 Tbsp miso

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tsp soya sauce

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once butter is bubbling, whisk in flour and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, until lightly browned.

2. Meanwhile, dissolve miso in boiling water and have on hand.

3. Add miso broth to the pot, stirring continuously while gravy thickens. If it’s too thick, add more hot water as needed.

4. Stir in vinegar and soya sauce, cook for another couple of minutes, to blend flavours, and serve hot or cold, the next day, on your meatloaf sandwich. Makes about 1 1/4 cups. 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.

Bison and Morel Meatloaf

PHOTOS: Miche Genest

Simple Miso Gravy

AMANITA MUSCARIA

Iwas taught at a young age that an iconic red-and-white mushroom, known as the fly agaric (Amanita muscaria), was among the most dangerous things in the forest. I’m not exactly sure where I got that idea from. Wherever it originated (probably from a mixture of cautious teachers, wellintentioned parents and misinformed children’s books), the warning was very clear: Don’t eat it, don’t touch it, don’t even go near it. I spent most of my life believing that. A few years ago, someone challenged that belief and I began to do some investigation. It turns out what I was taught was completely wrong. I’m not saying that it would be a good idea to go out and pick some Amanita for dinner, but it’s far from the skull-and-crossbones kind of mushroom that I had believed it to be for so long. I felt completely disillusioned, as if I had been lied to my entire life.

Apparently, the fly agaric has a long history of being utilized for all sorts of remarkable things. The book The Fungal Pharmacy by Robert Rogers, for example, includes more than 15 pages of information on how it has traditionally been used around the world. While it is toxic, Rogers writes that “fly agaric intoxications make up 1 to 2 percent of all cases of mushroom poisoning” and that there is only “one record of death from the fresh mushroom in the United States.” This hardly adds up to the highly dangerous and poisonous image that I had in my mind.

The list of its confirmed and unconfirmed uses turns out to be very extensive and has been recorded in legends, songs and poems, for hundreds of years. It’s said to have been used in Russia to alleviate joint pain (by external application), to cure snake bites and to treat sore throats and even cancer. It’s other medicinal and traditional folk uses include being cooked and eaten (after careful and knowledgeable preparation) as a tool in shamanic rituals, as an eyewash to fight infection, as

an entheogen, as an aid in therapeutic massage, as a way to catch flies and as a fermented ale made with fireweed. It is even believed to be the inspiration behind the contemporary depiction of Christmas with its Santa Claus, clad in red and white, accompanied by his flying reindeer.

It made me wonder how many other things we get taught throughout our lives that are actually inaccurate. What have you

been told that you’ve just taken to be true without digging deeper? What “facts” have ingrained themselves into your being that are actually false? What about unfounded assumptions, racist ideologies and erroneous beliefs regarding your personal capabilities and limitations that you picked up along the way without realizing it? These things didn’t come from you, but maybe you never questioned them and they became a

part of you.

As children, we were curious and loved to ask questions and often even questioned the answers that we were given to those initial inquiries. As we got older, such inquisitiveness wasn’t really encouraged anymore. Accepting things as we were taught just felt easier and safer. We eventually got seduced by the concept of certainties. But certainty is just an illusion—a potentially danger-

ous one that often gives rise to arrogance and closed-mindedness. I could have spent the entirety of my existence being scared of a scarlet fungus in the forest. It probably wouldn’t have made a big difference in my life, in the long run, but what about other things I have believed without questioning them?

There are certain “facts” that we accept that can change the entire course of our lives. A disparaging comment about one’s intelligence, when we’re young and naive; a doctor’s misconceived diagnosis, when we’re vulnerable and scared; or a society’s prejudiced thinking broadcast through the media in a time of uncertainty. These things should all be challenged. As recent thunderstorms hopefully have brought with them a new batch of mushrooms, keep an eye out for the unmistakable and beautifully stunning Amanita muscaria. If you run across it in the forest, maybe don’t take it home with you, but do take it as a reminder to challenge your assumptions and examine your cultural biases.

Remember that intellectual curiosity and critical thinking are the antidotes to the toxicity of rigid beliefs. Don’t accept everything you’ve been taught or told: stay open to new possibilities, spend time with people who challenge your point of view, and remember to never underestimate the importance of questioning things. n

And the importance of questioning what we’ve been taught

A fly agaric growing in a bed of mossberries

PHOTOS: Jessica Surber

with Jessica Surber

The book that opened my eyes to the fly agaric’s astonishing past and present uses

ACTIVE LISTINGS

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Ladies

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

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Zumba 6:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Bike Park Days 5:30 PM Mt. Sima Join us for downhill shredding in July & August. Register online BBQ available.

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Insanity Live – Beginner 6:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre 8 week series, drop-in or register online https://bit.ly/3SyoqAL

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Spirit Bear Karate The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre 6:30 PM & 7:30 PM Traditional Okinawan Shorin-ryu Seibukan Karate Do. Adult Class (16 y/o and up) http:// spiritbearkaratekobudo.ca

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Insanity Live 6:00 AM Rotary Park Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels. Call/text 335-4281 for more info.

Thu Aug 10 & 17 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

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Zumba 6:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves. Register online

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts

12:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Lunchtime Mat Class – Drop in 12:00 PM Velvet Antlers Productions This class will take you through a flowing series stretches intended to increase length and mobility, along with some light core conditioning. A great way to transition from work time to YOU time. https://bit.ly/3jPb9pX

Fri Aug 11 Try Derby with Yukon Roller Derby 7:30 PM Porter Creek

Secondary Put on skates and gear and see what it’s like to be with us on the track. Register online.

Sat Aug 12 ACC Yukon Presents: Climb-a-Thon 9:30 AM Whitehorse

A day of climbing, socializing, music, and friendly competition! http:// cuts2.com/AvNwf

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Bike Park Days

1:00 PM Join us for downhill shredding in July & August. Register online BBQ available.

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Insanity Live

– Beginner 6:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre 8 week series, drop-in or register online https://bit.ly/3SyoqAL

Mon Aug 14 & 21 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.

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Muay Thai Kickboxing Eight Days Martial Arts 12:00 PM The art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai Kickboxing has proven itself to be the go to striking style of many martial arts champions.

Mon Aug 14 & 21 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

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Insanity Live 6:00 AM Rotary Park Incinerate fat and calories in 50 minutes with the ultimate cardio-conditioning program that is tailored to ALL fitness levels. Call/text 335-4281 for more info.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Salsa and Bachata – Beginner and Intermediate Classes 7:30 PM Heart of Riverdale Community Centre A fun and person-centered class, including switching partners will be encouraged to promote communication & further learning open to couples or singles. Email salsayukon@gmail.com to register and for info

Wed Aug 16 Plants of the Boreal: A Walk and Talk Series 2:00 PM Yukon University Pumphouse A guided walk to learn all about the plants in our local landscape. Drop-In!

Fri Aug 18 BSC Golf Classic 1:00 PM Mountain View Golf Course A golf tournament with all proceeds supporting Polarettes Gymnastics Club new facility endeavors. http:// cuts2.com/hiyBQ

WELLNESS LISTINGS

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.

Monday, Tuesdays & Thursdays

Sally and Sisters 11:30 AM Whitehorse United Church A welcoming environment where women and their children can enjoy a hot meal.

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

Wed Aug 9 & 16 TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 AM 100 Lambert St. Common Room Want to improve or maintain a healthy weight?

Join us! Every Wednesday morning. Call or text 867-334-1725 for more details

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Porter Creek Step Meeting (C) 8:00 PM Our Lady of Victory

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Yoga Classes at Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs 10:00 AM Yoga mats are provided. Booking options that include yoga classes alone and yoga with discounted entrance to Eclipse are available. eclipsenordichotsprings.ca/yogaclasses

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Community Kitchen

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

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Dads Matter Group 5:30 PM NVD Place A group for dads, grandfathers, stepdads, uncles, foster fathers, all male caregivers are welcome. Join us to talk about parenting and meet other male caregivers. For more info contact 3360795 or email ante.tokic@yukon.ca

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Arka Brotherhood: Men’s Circle 6:30PM A weekly, confidential, structured space where we support ourselves and each other to move beyond self-sabotaging behaviors and self-limiting beliefs, find our edge and grow beyond our comfort zones, and connect to our best selves. More info: mjvernon@gmail.com 335-2496

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Narcotics

Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM

Inclusion Yukon

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Overeaters

Anonymous Meeting 7:30 PM Overeaters Anonymous For more information contact oayukon@gmail. com for more information

Wed Aug 9 & 16 No Puffin Big Book

Study (C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church

Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Hatha Yoga 12:00 PM Grace Space Find alignment mental and physical during this hour of inspiring hatha yoga,. Register online. https://bit.ly/3kFowWQ

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Mantra and Relaxation 4:15 PM White Swan

Sanctuary This class is about developing awareness of your inner Light through the practices of chanting mantra and deepening relaxation

Thu Aug 10 & 17 KDCC Walking with Our Sisters Sewing Group 5:00 PM Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre.

Thu Aug 10 Fen & Now 7:00 PM Whitehorse A guided walk down into the fen behind Arkell. http://cuts2.com/ JeniU

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Yoga wake up flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online

Thu Aug 10 & 17 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.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Morning Yoga

Stretch 9:00 AM 7th Ray Studio Easing into the day with gentling warming up and stretching. All levels are welcome Register online.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Men’s Support Group for Indigenous men 18 and over CYFN Council Of Yukon First Nations Family Preservation Services is hosting a Snaring & Trapping Workshop as part of its ongoing Support Group for Yukon First Nations and Indigenous men. Register now as space is limited!

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Yukon Unity Group

(O) 1:30 PM Online Zoom ID 482-5189588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Community Kitchen 4:00 PM Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre Hot nutritious meals to-go, a free, low-barrier, program for women identifying individuals and children. Call 667-2693 for more info.

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Narcotics

Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Yukon Employees Union

Fri Aug 11 & 18 Whitehorse Group

(C, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church

Cathedral

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Detox Meeting (O, A)

1:00 PM 609 Steele St.1:00 PM

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Yukon Unity Group

(O) 1:00 PM Online Zoom ID 482-5189588 PC 334796 call 778-907-2971 for more info.

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Hospital Meeting 7:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Detox Meeting (O, A)1:00 PM 609 Steele St.

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Yukon Unity Group

1:00 PM Online By zoom – Zoom ID

482-518-9588 PC 334796 For more info call 778-907-2971

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Narcotics

Anonymous Meetings 7:00 PM Inclusion Yukon

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Hospital Meeting

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

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Live And Online

Kundalini Yoga 8:00 AM Online Kriya, mudra, and mantra awaken your body and focus the mind. We will follow one sequence until you are able to find yourself in the flow, before moving on

Mon Aug 14 & 21 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.

Mon Aug 14 & 21 New Beginnings Group (O, A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral (Hellaby Hall)

Mon Aug 14 & 21 AA New

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

Tue Aug 15 & 22 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. https://bit.ly/42yV21Q

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Sewing Circle

1:00 PM Champagne and Aishihik

First Nations CAFN Sewing Circle is every Tuesday. A gathering space available to work on your projects. Refreshments and snacks will be served.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Juste Pour Aujourd’hui (O) 5:00 PM En ligne avec Zoom pour info jpawhitehorse@gmail.com

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Men’s Community Group 5:30 PM Mountainview Church We start with a meal and fellowship, then work through a biblical study, and take time to pray for one another, and for shared requests.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Ugly Ducklings Group (O,A) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral Held in person or by zoom – ID 251-363-5766, call 778-9072701 for more info.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) 8:00 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

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Yoga by Amber 7:00 PM 7th Ray Studio A yoga class that is for all levels and abilities, register online.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 AA UglyDuckling Group (C/M, NS) 8:00 PM Christ Church Cathedral New members always welcome, this is a non smoking group.

Wed Aug 16 Mindfulness for Stress Reduction 12:00 PM Chronic Conditions Support Program (CCSP) This session is for participants living with chronic health conditions looking to learn how meditation and mindfulness can reduce stress and improve health. Call 667-8733 or email ccsp@yukon. ca to register.

Sat Aug 19 Art is Healing Workshop 1:00 PM Victoria Falkner Centre Come and play with collage and paint and, together, let’s create a mural for our space! Meghan Hajash, Tlingit born and raised certified Expressive Art Therapist will be our guide.

Tue Aug 22 Yoga with Barbara 10:00 AM Whitehorse United Church Use side door All Levels Yoga. Email bfraingower@gmail. com

First Na�ons Health Programs at Yukon Hospitals is seeking dona�ons of Wild Game for our Tradi�onal Food program. Without community dona�ons, Yukon Hospitals would not be able to operate the Tradi�onal Food program for our First Na�ons, Me�s, and Inuit pa�ents.

To make a dona�on, please contact Michele Thompson, Cultural Programs Coordinator at (867) 393-8891.

We give thanks for your dona�ons and support of this important program.

Màhsi’ choo, Mähsi’ cho, Sógá sénlá’, Másin cho, Shäw níthän, Gùnèłchīsh, Gunałchîsh, Tsin’įį choh

YUKON HOSPITALS NEEDS WILD GAME DONATIONS

MOUNTAIN HUNTING: WHAT’S IN MY PACK

It can literally make or break an outing. Fortunately, packing correctly doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Over the years, I’ve learned that when mountain hunting—less is more. If you approach the problem with a few basic systems, it’s pretty straightforward.

In this article, I’ll cover the essentials and explain why I chose to pack specific items. Remember, what works well for me may not work perfectly for you. I’m sure there are more-experienced hunters out there who will disagree with some of my choices. Personal preference means everyone carries a slightly different kit, and it will evolve over time. I break down all my gear into five fundamental systems: clothing, survival, primary shelter, food and water, and hunting. By packing my gear into these systems, I have everything I need to hunt safely and ethically, regardless of what the mountain throws at me.

Comfort is a consideration, but sometimes comfort needs to be sacrificed for efficiency.

◗ Clothing

Having suitable clothing is essential to persist in a mountain environment. A robust clothing system has a few key ingredients: a base-, mid- and outer-layer insulation, rain protection, footwear, gloves, trekking poles and a headlamp. Depending on the duration of the trip, I may bring an extra set of socks and underwear, but that’s it.

Whether packing for two to four days of scouting or for a twoweek remote backcountry trip, these layers live in my pack. The items I pack may vary depending on the climate, region and season.

For multi-day trips, I wear a Merino base layer. Wool has antimicrobial and thermoregulating properties, making it hard to beat when constantly transitioning between activities. Synthetic materials tend to dry out faster, but they quickly develop odours. This may not be a dealbreaker for rifle hunters, but scent is a significant consideration for bow hunters. The same goes for camouflage.

Insulation can be either down or synthetic. Down has clear benefits for mountain hunting. It’s warm for its weight, and it packs down small. Nowadays, some down is hydrophobic (retains loft when wet); however, it’s expen-

sive and may not be necessary unless you spend a lot of time mountaineering. Synthetic insulation keeps you warm, even when wet, and is typically more affordable. Hybrid insulation pieces also work well.

Rain gear is a must. Whether packing for a June bear hunt or a late-October moose hunt, you need reliable rain gear. You can pack around the rubber stuff or lighter “breathable” membranes. Pit zips are a great feature. Buy what you can afford and try to select something reasonably durable but lightweight. You’ll likely spend more time wearing it than you think. So, if you’re in the mood to spend, this is a good investment.

Another foundational piece is footwear. On extended mountain hunts, I wear sturdy mountaineering boots. On shorter trips, I wear trail running shoes or ultralight hikers. Some boots have a waterproof membrane but can make your feet sweat, resulting in blisters. Buyer beware. Gaiters that protect your boots from filling with water and debris are sometimes helpful but can also cause hot feet. Depending on the terrain and season, I pack them as needed. Camp footwear is a nice treat. I prefer Crocs, as they work well for creek crossings and they dry quickly.

The remaining components are accessories. You need a decent pair of gloves. I like leather palms

with a breathable synthetic top. I always pack a waterproof insulated mitt. It’s easy to ditch these but I’ve used them every month of the year. Preventing your hands from seizing up, when caught in a hailstorm, can be the difference between comfort and hypothermia.

You’ll likely want a hat. It can be a toque or a ballcap—or both. Trekking poles are also handy. They relieve your knees and back stress when hauling heavy loads. I suggest packing a headlamp. I use one with a high-quality, rechargeable lithium battery, but disposable-battery models work too. Bring extra batteries. Chances are you’ll need them at some point—even during the fair-weather months (it gets dark on cloudy nights).

◗ Survival Gear

I try to keep safety a priority. If there’s one thing you shouldn’t skimp on, it’s emergency gear. You rarely need it, but when you do, you’ll be glad to have it. An essential survival system includes water purification, a fire starter, a two-way communication device, an emergency shelter and a first-aid kit.

For water treatment, I carry enough water-purifying tablets to treat eight litres of water per day. Eight litres a day is enough to cover me and my partner in an emergency. I store them in a waterproof bag. Purifying drops

work well but are heavier. Fire starter is often overlooked, especially during alpine adventures because of the lack of burnable material in the high country. If you are in a bad situation but still mobile, chances are you can hike down to the treeline for cover. I carry cotton balls rubbed with petroleum jelly as my primary fire starter. I also carry a small beeswax emergency candle. Beeswax burns longer, brighter and cleaner than paraffin. As an igniter, I carry two lighters that are each wrapped with electrical and duct tape. I keep one on my person and one in my survival kit. I also pack a small ferrocerium rod and striker. I’d forfeit a lighter before the ferro rod. Nowadays, leaving home without a two-way communication device is just silly. Don’t be silly. There are multiple options: InReach, Spot, Zoleo, Iridium … take your pick. They aren’t cheap but may well save your life. Always leave a trip plan with someone, and never use the SOS function unless your life is in danger.

For emergency shelter, I repurpose other items I’m carrying. Suppose you’re stuck away from your primary shelter for a night. In that case, you’ll need something under you to keep you off the ground, some insulation for warmth, and something to shelter you from the elements. I have

cont’d on page 22 ...

Yukon Unguided is a grassroots educational platform that aims to inspire an ethical and passionate community of DIY hunters and anglers.

One of the most challenging aspects of mountain hunting is figuring out what you need to pack and what to leave at home

A comfortable shelter/sleeping set-up will keep you rested and ready for long days in the field

Never skimp on good-quality emergency gear, as it can be the difference between life and death

Your hunting kit should include a rifle or a bow, a shooting rest, optics and a field-dressing kit

Having clean and safe drinking water is essential while travelling in the backcountry

PHOTO: Steve Hossack

August 17 - 20

DISCOVERY DAY CELEBRATIONS

You’ve probably ran TO an Outhouse, now’s your chance to run WITH an Outhouse! Sign up today for the Great Klondike International Outhouse Race!

KLONDIKE INSTITUTE OF ART & CULTURE

Saltwater Hank with Ellorie McKnight Saturday, August 19th join us for an inspiring live performance.

KIAC.ca

BOMBAY PEGGY’S

Come and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at our pub with a seasonal outdoor patio.

Open daily at 3pm Located at 2nd & Princess St.

For room reservations BombayPeggys.com

(867) 993-6969

DOWNTOWN HOTEL

Welcome to the Downtown Hotel. Freshly renovated rooms with a Klondike atmosphere. Dine at Jack London Grill with a summer patio and visit the Sourdough Saloon, home of the famous “Sourtoe Cocktail”

DowntownHotel.ca

BONANZA GOLD MOTEL AND RV PARK

We offer Queen, Double, Kitchenette & pet friendly motel rooms. 50, 30 & 15 amp RV sites available. Free wifi, public laundry, showers & car wash. A great place to stay!

BonanzaGold.ca

UPCOMING EVENTS

Aug. 17 Authors on 8th Walking Tour

Aug. 17-20 Discovery Day Celebrations

Aug. 18-20 Dawson Dailey News Print & Publishing Festival

Aug. 19 120th Horticulture Exhibition

Sep. 1-3 Labour Day Mixed Slo-pitch Tournament

DIAMOND TOOTH GERTIES

Experience Canada’s First Casino Diamond Tooth Gerties! Replete with Klondike flair, featuring slots, black jack, roulette and the best Cancan shows north of Vegas! DiamondToothGerties.ca

ANNABELLE’S NOODLE HOUSE

Enjoy the best noodles in the Klondike! Whether you like Pad Thai, Red Curry, Pho or Spring Rolls- there is something here for everyone!

Open 7 days a week 12pm-8pm Dine-in & take out. Fully licensed. AnnabellesNoodleHouse.ca

GOLDRUSH CAMPGROUND

Located downtown Dawson City close to amenities, with history and adventure minutes from our facility. Showers and laundry provided on-site.

GoldrushCampground.com

KLONDIKE KENNELS

Meet the rarest breed of dog in the world Qimmiq Inuit Dogs, or come for an overnight local off-grid experience in our cozy rustic cabin.

Klondike-Kennels.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS WHITEHORSE EVENTS

ART SHOWS

Until Aug 25 The Forgetting by Suzanne Paleczny YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery Whitehorse based artist, Suzanne Paleczny navigates the impacts of her parents’ dementia, she explores the fluid nature of memory, and the importance of memory in the making of the self through the construction of a personal narrative. https://shorturl.at/yFSZ7

Until Aug 25 The Nahanni by Neil Graham YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery A Whitehorse-based painter, takes us on a voyage along the magnificent Nahanni River with dynamic paintings that capture one of North America’s most breathtaking wild rivers. https://shorturl.at/houLO

Until Aug 25 Chilkoot Connections & A Precious Place Screening YAC Yukon Arts Centre Gallery An exhibit featuring traditional and contemporary art inspired by the Chilkoot Trail and A Precious Place video series which shares the connection and stories of those who live and work in this treasured place. https://tinyurl. com/2s3r6emm

Until Aug 26 Drawings from the Boreal Forest by Ava P Christl Arts Underground Large scale oil paintings about the land; about nature and place; nature as healer; the vast wilderness; and our human relationship to the living land.

Until Aug 26 Worldview by Shadunjen Van Kampen Arts Underground A group of watercolor/ink paintings that help both the artist and the viewers.

Until Sept 30 Bringing Back the Light – Healing Dugout Canoe Kwanlin Dun Cultural Centre A unique interpretive experience. Learn about the history and the process of carving an 800 year old cedar tree into a 25ft functional watercraft. Create a traditional piece art or craft

LIVE MUSIC

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Whitewater

Wednesday Night Jam 7:00 PM The Local Bar An open mic kinda show and all you have to do is bring in your instrument, find Jack and/or Peggy and we’ll set you up! No need to be shy.

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Live Music

Thursdays 7:00 PM 98 Hotel

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Ginger Jam 7:00 PM Lefty’s Wel

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Live DJs - Thursday

Throwdown 9:00 PM The Local Bar.

Fri Aug 11 Mainstreet Concert Series: Vanstones & Blues Cargo 4:00 PM

A series of concerts with local artists presented by Music Yukon.

Fri Aug 11 Dunch with Dylan McNeil Band & B Cray 8:00 PM Lefty’s Well .

Sat Aug 12 Gaylight All Night: A Pride

Dance Party 8:30 PM The Local Bar

Get ready to dance all night long at Gaylight All Night, the ultimate pride with Illona Verelry and Guests! Tickets online or at the door (if not sold out)

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Live Music

Mondays at Whiskey Jacks 7:00 PM Whiskey Jacks Pub & Grill

Patrick Jacobson at Whiskey Jack’s every Monday with a weekly “feature performer” for the last set. whiskeyjacks.ca/

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Open Mic Night

with Patrick Jacobson 7:00 PM Best Western Gold Pan Saloon Performers are encouraged to bring their own instrument and mic. All are welcome. No cover.

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Industry Night Lefty’s Well 8:00 PM Industry discount, music, hot dogs, games, fun all night long!

Sat Aug 19 Burlesque Brunch with Babes in the Bush 12:00 PM 98 Hotel Tessa Lation, Lady Pisces and Chérie Coquette! Entrance is free, but brings dollars to tip the performers!

Fri Aug 18 Mainstreet Concert Series: TBA 4:00 PM A series of concerts with local artists presented by Music Yukon

GENERAL EVENTS

Until Aug 13 Whitehorse Pride Whitehorse Various Locations

Celebrate pride in Whitehorse, This year will feature the return of the Pride Parade, dance parties, musical

performances, and more. https://www. queeryukon.com/pride-festival-2023. html

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Anglican Holy Communion – Whitehorse 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral The Book of Common Prayer, 2nd Wednesday of the month

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Texas Hold’ Em 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 For signed in members and guests. Bragging rights!

Wed Aug 9 Wednesday Cruise with Klondike Cruisers 6:00 PM Whitehorse A&W

Wed Aug 9 Oppenheimer 7:30 PM

Yukon Theatre Physicist J Robert Oppenheimer works with a team of scientists during the Manhattan Project, leading to the development of the atomic bomb. http://cuts2.com/fUaVi

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Anglican Thursday at the Cathedral 12:10 PM Christ the Church Cathedral Bring a lunch (Book of Alternative Services)

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Fireweed Community Market 3:00 PM Shipyards Park

Experience this market throughout the summer with family and friends in the open air along the beautiful Yukon River. Be carried away by the wonderful aromas, delicious fresh foods, and unique artisans from our approximately 45 weekly vendors. https://bit.ly/3ZQkTQc

Wed Aug 9 & 16 Roundhouse Cabaret 6:30 PM White Pass & Yukon Railroad Whitehorse Roundhouse A sultry 1940’s variety cabaret at the historical Roundhouse in downtown Whitehorse. http://cuts2.com/nbRIP

Thu Aug 10 Public Speaking Training - Toastmasters 12:00 PM Northwestel Building Guests are always welcome. There are many roles to learn at Toastmasters. Practice 2 minute table topics

Thu Aug 10 Barbie 5:30 & 9:00 PM Yukon Theatre To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. Tickets online or in-person at the box office. https:// tinyurl.com/ypcjze52

Thu Aug 10 Queers & Beers 6:30 PM Winterlong Brewing Co. Enjoy the sunshine and limited edition Rainbow Brite craft brew at this hangout party.

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Roundhouse Cabaret 6:30 PM White Pass & Yukon Railroad Whitehorse Roundhouse A sultry 1940’s variety cabaret at the historical Roundhouse in downtown Whitehorse. http://cuts2.com/nbRIP

Thu Aug 10 Oppenheimer 7:30 PM

Yukon Theatre Physicist J Robert Oppenheimer works with a team of scientists during the Manhattan Project, leading to the development of the atomic bomb. http://cuts2.com/fUaVi

Thu Aug 10 & 17 Prayer 7:00 PM

Mountainview Church We take some time to connect with one another to praise God and pray for our church, our leadership, our city, and anything else in our heart

Thu Aug 10 Choir Workshop with Lorène Charmetant 8:00 PM The Heart of Riverdale Community Centre

A fantastic choir workshop with Lorène Charmetant as part of the Youth Arts Incubator Program!

Fri Aug 11 TGIF (Members & Signed in Guests) 6:00 PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 Tickets for sale in-person the week of, NO tickets sold at the door.

Fri Aug 11-13 Oppenheimer 8:00 PM Yukon Theatre Physicist J Robert Oppenheimer works with a team of scientists during the Manhattan Project, leading to the development of the atomic bomb. http://cuts2.com/fUaVi

Sat Aug 12 & 19 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.

Sat Aug 12 & 19 Mainstreet Market

Days 10:00 AM Market days, featuring local artisans, food, and more.

Sat Aug 12 & 19 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.

Sun Aug 13 & 20 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

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Clothing Room 10:00

AM Whitehorse Church of the Nazarene Free of charge to anyone and everyone

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Whitehorse United Church Worship Service 10:30 AM a caring community of faith, based on a foundation of Biblical teaching and spiritual truth

Sun Aug 13 Drag Me to Brunch with Llona Verley and Guests (All Ages)

11:00 AM Whitehorse Ilona Verley and friends for a fabulous drag brunch experience that’s suitable for all ages. Tickets online http://cuts2.com/dOnLM

Sun Aug 13 & 20 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.

Sun Aug 13 & 20 Sunday Gatherings

3:00 PM The Northern Collective Church

Mon Aug 14 & 21 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

Mon Aug 14 YWITT Open Shop Time 5:00 PM NorthLight Innovation You bring a project we will bring the snacks! This is a great opportunity to get advice and socialise while working on a project! http://cuts2.com/rXmTD

Mon Aug 14 & 21 Men’s Community Group Mountainview Church 5:30 PM We start with a meal and fellowship, then work through a biblical study, and take time to pray for one another, and for shared requests.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Mainstreet Market Days 3:00 PM Market days, featuring local artisans, food, and more.

Tue Aug 15 New Member Orientation

5:00 PM Yukonstruct Makespace We are hosting informative & mandatory new member orientations. This is a free but essential session for all new members. Register online.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 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.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 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

Tue Aug 15 & 22 Chess Club 6:00 PM Titan Gaming and Collectibles Love Chess? Want to learn? Looking for Competition? Join us!

Tue Aug 15 Woodshop Orientation 6:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace Learn to use the Yukonstruct Woodshop Machines. We are hosting informative & mandatory new member orientations. This is a free but essential session for all new members. Register online.

Tue Aug 15 & 22 10 Card Crib 6:30

PM Whitehorse Legion Branch 254 https://bit.ly/3oWjB5W

Wed Aug 16 Main Street – Take Over

– Take Out 6:00 PM Whitehorse Main Street View local vintage vehicles parked along main street, support local food trucks and eateries.

Wed Aug 16 One Night Pottery Class: Hand Building Mug or Cup 6:30

PM Creative Initiatives Warehouse Create a personalised hand building pottery mug. For more info email kinworkpottery@gmail.

Wed Aug 16 – Fri Aug 18 RENT 7:00

PM Yukon Arts Centre YAC Featuring Yukon artists between the ages of 1619 years of age, Rent is set in the East Village of New York City. Yukontickets. com

Thu Aug 17 Building Strong Leaders for Skilled Trades 8:30 AM Best Western Gold Rush Inn For trades professionals, by trades professionals, discuss Yukon-based research of why people either stay in or leave the skilled trades. http://cuts2.com/Iudra

Fri Aug 18-22 Insidious: The Red Door 9:00 PM Yukon Theatre The final chapter of the Lambert family’s terrifying saga and put their demons to rest once and for all. http://cuts2.com/

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Tue Aug 22 Metal Shop Orientation

6:30 PM Yukonstruct Makespace We are hosting informative & mandatory new member orientations. This is a free but essential session for all new members. Register online.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays LAB

Drop-In 12:00 AM Heart Of Riverdale For grades 8+, make beats, write, eat food.

Mondays Drop-In 9:00 AM Polarettes

Gymnastics Gym Open to all ages –Children, youth, and teens must be accompanied by an adult.

Mondays Whitehorse Go Club 6:00 PM A&W

Tuesdays Story Time at WPL Whitehorse Public Library 10:30 AM

Join us for stories, songs, rhymes and outside play! A free drop-in program for children ages 0-5 and caregivers

Tuesdays Free Super Smash Bros.

5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe All skill levels welcome! Please bring your own controller, and if you have a Nintendo Switch and/or Gamecube controller adapter please bring them so that we can have multiple setups.

Wednesdays Warhammer Wednesdays - Age of Sigmar 5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe

Thursdays Until June 8 Drop-in

Pathfinder Roleplaying Game for Teens 3:30 PM Whitehorse Public Library Open to ages 11-17 to our free drop-in Pathfinder Roleplaying Game program! No experience necessary, supplies and snacks provided.

Thursdays Summer Program at WPL Whitehorse Public Library 10:30 AM Whitehorse Public Library invites kids ages 6-12 to have fun exploring a new topic every week. No registration required. All are welcome!

Thursdays Kill Team Thursdays 5:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe 668-5750 Units can be drawn from both the core book, elite book, Kill team annual and white dwarf.

Fridays Standard Format - Magic: The Gathering 6:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe Legal sets = Ixalan, Rivals of Ixalan, Dominaria, Core Set 2019, Guilds of Ravnica, Ravnica Allegiance. Banned Cards = Rampaging Ferocidon

Saturdays Pokemon Saturdays 12:00 PM Titan Gaming Cafe Call 668-5750 for more info.

Saturdays Drop-In 3:00 PM

Polarettes Gymnastics Club enjoy the gym as a giant indoor play space. A great place to practise skills or just play and explore! Open gym is for members only.

Until Aug 24 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Yukon Theatre The Turtle brothers as they work to earn the love of New York City while facing down an army of mutants. http://cuts2.com/ddkbv

Thu Aug 10 Combining Art Forms to Create a Booklet 6:00 PM Yukon Artists at Work Join Marie- Hélène Comeau Create a small colourful art book using watercolor, collage and creative writing. http://cuts2.com/ UiHQN

Fri Aug 11 Teen Pride Movie Night 6:00 PM Queer Yukon Society-The Cache For ages 14-19 A teens-only movie night! Enjoy snacks, tarot card readings, and crafts! http://cuts2.com/ RBOvD

Mon Aug 14 – 18 Camp Spirit Day Whitehorse United Chuch Campers: aged 5-11 years and Leaders in Training 11-14 years. Register online www.campspirit.ca/

Mon Aug 14 Family Night at Polarettes 4:00 PM Polarettes Gymnastics Club A fun-filled Family Night at the Polarettes Gymnasium! http://cuts2.com/SnFAj

Fri Aug 18 Toopy and Binoo: The Movie 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Toopy, Binoo and a genie travel to a fabulous land to find Binoo’s beloved stuffed animal.http://cuts2.com/tUDaX

Sat Aug 19 & 20 Toopy and Binoo: The Movie 3:00 & 6:00 PM Yukon Theatre Toopy, Binoo and a genie travel to a fabulous land to find Binoo’s beloved stuffed animal.http:// cuts2.com/tUDaX

ONLINE EVENTS

Wednesdays Live And Online Kundalini Yoga 8:00 AM Online Kriya, mudra, and mantra awaken your body and focus the mind. We will follow one sequence until you are able to find yourself in the flow, before moving on. Unfold to your own nature: do what feels good, soak in the good vibes, and watch this beautiful practice transform you. Kundalini has a powerful effect on the endocrine system, improving lymph drainage, hormonal balance, and mood.

Wednesdays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online.

Fridays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community

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

Saturdays AA Detox Meeting (OM, NS) 1:00 PM Online For Zoom Room address call 334-7693.you build a consistent and comfortable yoga practice and build a community around that practice! https://www. rootedtreemassage.com/book-online

Mondays Yoga Wake up Flow with Sheila 7:20 AM Online These classes are intended to help

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

Tuesdays Mental Health Awareness and Support Online it is essential that people build capacity to support those with mental health concerns. https:// bit.ly/3GTz6T5 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/ register/tZIpdmvrTwpHNUG

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Mountain hunting: What’s in my pack cont’d from page 18

pain medication, nitrile gloves and a sharpie marker wrapped with some kinesiology tape. The theme here is treating major extremity bleeding. You can vacuum seal it or throw it into a freezergrade Ziploc. I’ll add a burn dressing for other hunts, since fires are much more common on those outings. I’ll also bring trauma shears, a decompression needle and a nasopharyngeal airway device.

I’m not an authority on First Aid, so I encourage you to contact some of the experts in our community, for better advice. Getting Wilderness First Aid training is a good idea (your hunting partners should have it too).

◗ Primary Shelter

a contractor garbage bag in my field-dressing kit, to cut open as a groundsheet. I keep a mylar bivy (or “space blanket”) in my trauma kit, which doubles as my waterproof shelter. They reflect heat, pack down small and are affordable. I’ll use the insulation layers in my pack, for warmth. Together, these pieces provide what I need to get through most emergencies.

The last part of your survival

system is a purpose-built first aid kit, to treat serious injuries.

You’ll find no Band-Aids in here.

Some people lump their survival gear into this system. I keep them separate. I carry two tourniquets: one on my body and one in my survival kit. I also carry compressed gauze, hemostatic gauze, an emergency pressure bandage, two non-adhesive pads, a set of vented chest seals, antiseptic wipes,

There are many tents, tarps and tipis to choose from. Don’t overthink it. Pick something lightweight with high-quality materials and a decent waterproof rating. Some shelters only require a hiking pole to set up. Consider your style of hunting and method of travel. These models can be a headache if you don’t plan to pick up camp daily. You’ll also need a sleeping pad and a sleeping bag. Again, these are highly variable and there are lots of options. I opt for a compact air pad, a closed foam pad that is cut in half (doubles as my glassing seat) and a lightweight synthetic sleeping bag. For a pillow, you can find some inflatable camp pillows that only weigh a couple of ounces, or roll up an extra piece of clothing.

◗ Food and Water

This system may take some tinkering to figure out. I eat dry snacks and dehydrated meals when mountain hunting. I pack a Jetboil, an extra fuel cell, a long

spoon and meals that I can just add hot water to. I find it works well and cuts significant weight. For drinking water, I pack two fourlitre bladders and a one-litre Nalgene. The bladders can be rolled up and tucked away when I’m not hauling water. That allows me to carry enough water for at least a few days if I’m hiking into an area without water. Having a Nalgene provides insurance if you puncture a bladder. It also works well for hot drinks or for tossing a hot water bottle into the bottom of your sleeping bag on frigid nights. I use a water filter that attaches to the bladders to treat all water sources, even if it’s flowing water. I’ve had giardia a couple of times, and let me tell ya—you don’t want it. Filter all your water.

◗ Hunting

Finally, your hunting system. This includes a rifle or a bow, a shooting rest, optics and a field-dressing kit. Your choice of firearm or projectile is another article unto itself. Knowing your firearm well and practicing regularly is almost more important than what calibre you choose. Having a steady rest is vital for rifle hunting. You can use your backpack or a spare article of clothing if you don’t own a bipod. If you plan to shoot off your pack, that’s fine. Just practice that way. The same goes for using a bipod. Understand how these setups may influence your point of impact downrange.

For optics, I use 10x42 binoculars and a 20-60x65 spotting scope. Spotting scopes aren’t essential unless you’re sheep hunting. But they open a lot of country, and they are often the tool that turns up the most animals. If you bring a spotter, get a decent

tripod. Make sure it works with your optics before you head out.

A field-dressing kit is best kept simple. You don’t need every tool under the sun to field dress an animal. A good-quality knife, a small sharpening stone, gloves, a tarp for laying meat on while you work, some paracord and some game bags, are all you need. Some hunters use interchangeable blade knives, and some prefer fixed blades. I carry a lightweight version of each. Replaceable scalpel blades are incredibly sharp but can lead to mistakes and injury if you aren’t careful. Familiarize yourself with the tools you bring. If you’ve never broken down an animal, I suggest watching some videos on YouTube beforehand.

All this gear talk and no mention of a backpack?! Again, this is a whole other can of worms. However, I can recommend a couple of things to consider. First, ensure that it can fit your gear plus a load of meat, should you harvest an animal. Next, look for a pack with a good internal frame designed to carry heavy loads. Externalframe packs are still made but have been outpaced by offerings in the hunting and mountaineering markets. Make sure it is fitted properly to your body. YouTube also has some great resources if you’re unsure about sizing a pack.

If you have doubts about carrying something on your next mountain hunt, ask yourself whether you will use it daily. If the answer is no, leave it at home—unless it’s emergency gear. Remember the adage: “Ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain.”

Cut your toothbrush in half, ditch the deodorant, and we will see you in the alpine! n

Soyou’renotstuck waitingforaride. DON’TDRIVE IMPAIRED.

PHOTO: Steve Hossack

Suitable clothing is paramount for a successful hunt

2023 FARO GOLF TOURNAMENT DONORS

Acera Insurance

Alkan Air

Betty Boop’s Guest House

Bonanza Market

Builders Supplyland

Castle Rock Enterprises

Chieftan Energy

Cinder Wood

Cobalt Construction

Craig (Strawman) McKinnon

Discovery Store/Faro Hardware

EMCO

G-P Distributing

Jacobs Engineering

Kareway Homes

Klondike Rib & Salmon

Lotteries Yukon

Mac’s Fireweed Books

Midnight Sun Drilling

Northerm

North 60 Petroleum

Pelly Construction

Red Fox Heavy Duty

Shoppers Drug Mart

Air North

Archer Cathro & Associates

Bobcat of Whitehorse

Boreal Engineering

Canadian Tire

Checkered Flag Recreation

Cimco Refrigeration

Coal Mine Campground

Core Geosciences Services Inc.

Dave’s Trophy Express

EDI Environmental Dynamics

Faro Guest House Rentals

Home Hardware

Jackie Dowell-Irvine

Kilrich Industries

Kobayashi & Zedda

Lumel Studios

Metro Chrysler

Norcope Construction

Northern Lights Optometry

Overland West Freight Lines/ A1

Parsons

PR Services

Save On Foods

Taku Sports Group

The View

VanGorda Enterprises

Whitehorse Motors

Yukon Brewing Company Ltd.

Yukon Gardens

Yukon, North of Ordinary/ Wayne Crowe

Vainio Construction

What’s Up Yukon

Whitehorse Subaru

Yukon Energy Corporation

Yukon Nissan

Yukon Yamaha

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL TEAMS!

The Good, the Bad, the Real Bad

Most honest team

The Trophy Wives

THANK YOU to everyone who supported the FARO Golf Club’s 24th Annual Tournament, whether by playing in the tournament, attending the dinner or concession or by providing donations. A special THANK YOU to the businesses who sponsored the special holes and the Town of Faro staff who did a great job of setting up and supported us in so many ways.

The biggest THANK YOU to our  fabulous volunteers –without you we would not have been able to put on this fabulous tournament that everyone has said was the best ever.

HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE AGAIN IN 2024, FOR OUR 25TH ANNUAL FARO GOLF TOURNAMENT.

First prize winners

COMMUNITY

J.V. Clark School Attendance Award and Grade 11 Class Site Visit

On June 9, Victoria Gold’s Tim Fisch, Vice President and General Manager,

Community Liaison were pleased to present the Village of Mayo’s

the Victoria Gold Corp Award for Elementary Attendance.

Established and first awarded in the 2012/2013 school year, the Victoria Gold Corp Award for Elementary Attendance goes to a J.V. Clark School Student who has no – or very few – absences or days late. Penny also received a bookstore gift card for her attendance achievement. The award ceremony was followed by a BBQ for the entire school community.

“The Victoria Gold team extends its sincere congratulations to Penny for her excellent attendance this year,” says Victoria Gold President & CEO John McConnell. “We hope all Yukon students had a very happy summer and wish them every success in the coming school year.”

In May, Victoria Gold hosted Andy Preto’s Grade 11 Experiential Sciences class from Whitehorse at the Eagle Gold Mine. This is the third cohort from the program to visit the mine site.

The class participated in a tour of the mine which included the truck shop and the newly-constructed and operational Water Treatment Plant. The students were eager to learn about Victoria Gold’s environmental program and environmental monitoring and sampling partnership with the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun.

“We are always pleased to host Yukon students at the Eagle Gold Mine and share our commitment to the environment and the mine’s many opportunities for young Yukoners,” adds McConnell.

The Eagle Gold Mine is situated within Victoria Gold’s 100 per cent-owned Dublin Gulch Property located approximately 375 kilometres north of Whitehorse and 85 kilometres north, northeast of the Village of Mayo, within the traditional territory of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun (FNNND). The company employs over 500 workers and contractors; half of which are Yukoners At Work and many are FNNND citizens. If

Gold encourages you to

a

Andy Preto’s Grade 11 Experiential Sciences Class from Whitehorse at the Eagle Gold Mine in May with Ryan Hogue, General Foreman, Mine Operations and Robert Kokesch, General Foreman, Mobile Maintenance.

Eagle Gold Mine, and Michelle Dawson-Beattie,

J.V. Clark School student Penny Gripton-Spence with

On June 9, Victoria Gold’s Tim Fisch, Vice President and General Manager, Eagle Gold Mine, presented J.V. Clark School student Penny Gripton-Spence with the Victoria Gold Corp Award for Elementary Attendance.