September 24, 2024
Arts
CHON-FM celebrates 40th anniversary with a massive concert at Rotary Park - CHON-FM
CHON-FM celebrated its 40th anniversary with a sold-out concert at Rotary Park, featuring Yukon artists and headline acts like Boogey the Beat and the C-Weed Band for an audience of 300. Emcees invited speakers to share memories, and a lifetime achievement award was presented to Ben Charlie for his contributions. CHON-FM expressed gratitude to supporters and looks forward to the future of Indigenous radio in the Yukon.
Business
Forge Resources Corp. Commissions Detailed Structural Study At the Alotta Gold-Copper- Molybdenum Porphyry Project, Yukon (MarketScreener)
Forge Resources Corp. has commissioned a detailed structural analysis study at the Alotta Gold-Copper-Molybdenum project to identify structural relationships that favor higher grade gold mineralization. The study aims to determine optimal drill orientations for future testing and includes re-evaluation of geophysical data related to gold mineralization.
GT Resources Intersects 2.12% Nickel Over 20 meters at the Canalask Nickel-Copper Project (Junior Mining Network)
GT Resources Inc. announced promising initial drill results from the Canalask Nickel-Copper Project, intersecting 2.12% nickel over 19.9 meters, including high-grade intervals. The project has expanded its claims to explore further mineralization potential. The drilling campaign faced challenges in the ultramafic Feeder Dyke but suggests significant nickel-copper sulphide presence, warranting future exploration efforts.
Community
Yukon's CHON-FM celebrates 40 years of connecting the people (CBC)
CHON-FM celebrated its 40th anniversary as the radio voice of Yukon First Nations with a concert in Whitehorse, highlighting its mission to provide Indigenous representation in broadcasting. Founders George Henry and Jan Staples laid the groundwork for the station in the early 1980s, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in Indigenous culture. The station continues to connect with communities along the Yukon River, with long-time host Ben Charlie still actively engaging with listeners. Honorees included Henry, Staples, and the late Chief Bob Charlie for their contributions to the station and Indigenous broadcasting.
Unidentified object: Image of item shot down over Yukon (CTV News)
CTV News has obtained a grainy image of an unidentified object shot down over Yukon in February 2023, described as a "suspected balloon" with a cylindrical shape. The image was initially approved for public release but was ultimately withheld due to concerns it might create confusion. The object was shot down by a U.S. F-22 fighter jet, and despite various internal discussions about releasing the image, it was never made public. The incident has raised questions about the ability of U.S. and Canadian defense systems to identify aerial objects, contributing to ongoing mystery and speculation surrounding the event.
YMP celebrates 2024 Eira Thomas and Peter Munk award winners (The Northern Miner)
Scott Berdahl and Ella Cullen were honored at the Young Mining Professionals' awards in Toronto for their contributions to the mining industry. Berdahl, CEO of Snowline Gold, was recognized for his leadership in exploring the Valley target in Yukon, while Cullen, co-founder of Minespider, was celebrated for her work in ensuring transparency in mineral supply chains. Both emphasized the importance of teamwork and support from their respective communities and families in achieving their successes.
Two men in custody following Whitehorse RCMP action on 4th Avenue (96.1 The Rush)
Two unnamed men were arrested by the Whitehorse RCMP following an operation on 4th Avenue on September 23rd. The police had increased their presence in the area due to a prior incident but confirmed there was no immediate risk to the public. The details of the incident leading to the arrests have not been disclosed.
Economy
Canada Invests $60 Million in Critical Minerals for Northern British Columbia and Yukon (the deep dive)
Canada is investing up to $60 million in critical minerals infrastructure in northern British Columbia and the Yukon, focusing on two key projects: a 43-kilometre access road for the Galore Creek copper mine and a pre-feasibility study for a high-voltage transmission line connecting the Yukon and B.C. grids. These initiatives aim to enhance mining operations, support clean energy, and position Canada as a leader in the global energy transition.
Education
Yukon Education Department didn't test school water for lead over the summer as promised (CBC News)
The Yukon Education Department failed to test school water for lead over the summer as promised, with a new deadline set for the end of December. This delay was attributed to underestimating the complexity of the project. While all schools have at least one compliant drinking water source, some schools are currently using bottled water. The situation has drawn criticism from school councils and opposition parties for the lack of communication and urgency regarding the health and safety of students.
Environment
New report on the widespread decline of salmon in B.C. and Yukon (APTN News)
A report by the Pacific Salmon Foundation indicates a widespread decline in salmon populations across British Columbia and Yukon, with chum and steelhead species most affected. Factors such as warming temperatures and ocean conditions are impacting salmon survival. Key strategies for protection include preserving habitats, minimizing fishing impacts, and implementing selective fisheries. Despite challenges, there are signs of recovery in certain populations, highlighting the need for comprehensive and enforceable conservation measures.
Government
Canada-U.S. will negotiate Beaufort Sea boundary (CTV News)
Canada and the United States have established a task force to negotiate a boundary dispute in the Beaufort Sea, stemming from a treaty dating back to 1825. The task force aims to resolve overlapping claims and will engage with state, territorial, and Indigenous partners, focusing on sustainable use of Arctic resources. Negotiations are set to begin this fall.
Health
New Health and Wellness Centre opens in Old Crow (Government of Yukon)
The Government of Yukon and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation have opened the new Old Crow Health and Wellness Centre, providing comprehensive healthcare and social services. This facility replaces a 1970s healthcare center and operates under a collaborative care model, offering services such as primary healthcare and mental health support. The centre is part of a broader development plan that includes new housing and aims to address healthcare gaps in the community. The project, costing $55 million, is expected to generate significant economic benefits for local residents.
Whooping cough on the rise as Yukon hits seven cases in two months (96.1 The Rush)
Yukon has reported seven cases of whooping cough in two months, with some cases indicating community transmission. The Chief Medical Officer urges residents to ensure vaccinations are up-to-date, especially for children and pregnant individuals, as pertussis poses significant risks to infants. Good hygiene practices are also recommended to prevent the spread of the infection.
Infrastructure
Planned Yukon-wide telecom outage set for overnight may impact 911 (Yukon News)
A planned telecommunications outage by Northwestel is set for overnight from midnight to 6 a.m. on September 25, 2024, which may disrupt 911 services for up to four hours. Residents are advised to use landlines to call 911 if possible, and if unable to reach emergency services, they should report emergencies in person at designated locations or contact local RCMP detachments. During the outage, ambulances will be stationed at various locations in Whitehorse for assistance.
Services At The City's Recycling Depot (City of Whitehorse)
The City of Whitehorse has opened a Recycling Depot where non-refundable materials can be dropped off for a fee. However, there has been an increase in verbal harassment of staff, prompting a reminder that aggressive behavior will not be tolerated. The city emphasizes the importance of treating all staff and fellow residents with respect during the transition period for recycling services.
Statement from Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Streicker on work to connect the Yukon and British Columbia’s electricity grids (Government of Yukon)
Minister John Streicker announced plans to connect Yukon’s electricity grid to British Columbia's via a 750-kilometre transmission line to reduce carbon emissions and support clean energy supply. This project aims to facilitate the electrification of major emission sources, support mining of critical minerals, and engage First Nations as partners. The Yukon government will assess the project's feasibility while continuing to develop local renewable energy projects, ensuring reliable and sustainable electricity for the territory.
