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AROUND THE NORTH: Navigating the early years

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Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson

For parents, the first five years of their child’s life can be particularly scary: everything is new.

But a new program in Fort Simpson aims to guide parents through that time.

Set to have begun July 5, Active Parenting First Five Years runs every Thursday between 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Sanaeah Prenatal.

“Your child’s first few years are so important! Learn how to make the most of them with this program,” states the bulletin advertising it.

“Parenting is a challenge and we can all use helpful information and support.”

Participants will receive food vouchers, and each week there will be a draw for a food hamper, according to the bulletin.

The program runs for five weeks.

– Erin Steele

 

Art honours elders

Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson

Voices of the Elders – an exhibit honouring elders at the Open Sky Creative Society gallery – opened June 28 with an evening of music and celebration.

“In 2017 Open Sky won a Canada Council grant to commission a dozen Dene and Inuvialuit artists to create works of art in honour of Elders – all born around 1900 – who spoke to Judge (Thomas) Berger between 1975–77,” states a bulletin from Fort Simpson-based Open Sky.

A critical piece of NWT history, Berger travelled across the North to talk to locals about whether or not they wanted a pipeline. He ultimately recommended against it.

The exhibit “gives you the opportunity to hear the stories told by those elders – and to see works of art created by gifted artists from across the North.”

The gallery is open Monday through Wednesday and Fridays between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.

– Erin Steele

 

Adventure time in Fort Providence

Deh Gah Got’ie Koe/Fort Providence

School may be out for the summer in Fort Providence, but there is still plenty of organized fun for local youth to enjoy.

A camp called Adventure Time was set to take place July 2 through 6 between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. at Deh Gah School.

Aimed at children ages five to 13, the camp was expected to include a spectrum of activities including a live band and skits, singing, snacks, crafts and other activities.

“Calling all kids for an exciting adventure ... pirates and the big rescue,” states a bulletin advertising the program.

– Erin Steele

 

Summer camp begins early

Lli Goline/Norman Wells

A children’s summer camp in Norman Wells kicked off on July 3 – a week earlier than expected.

Smart Summer Camp, for children ages 7 and older, will include a variety of activities for children.

Kids can expect to take part in summer crafts, both outdoor and indoor games, sports, swimming, gardening and much more.

Families who haven’t yet signed their children up can register at the Town of Norman Wells office.

The summer camp was originally expected to begin on July 9.

The camp is set to run through Aug. 17.

– Erin Steele

 

Sew, sew fun

Acho Dene Koe/Fort Liard

Girls and women in Fort Liard and beyond are invited to participate in Traditional Sewing Circle Classes.

“Women and girls13 and over are welcome,” states a bulletin advertising the classes, expected to take place every Thursday evening between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at the 9 Plex.

“Mom and daughters, aunts and nieces, grandmas and granddaughters (are invited).”

The class, instructed by Barbara McLeod, is free to band members, with a $20 annual fee for others.

The sewing classes are part of Acho Dene Koe First Nation’s Community Wellness Program, which aims to promote health and wellness in the community.

– Erin Steele

 

Fishing fun all summer long

Deline/Fort Franklin

Those in Deline who love fishing can dive right into a season-long Summer Fishing Derby.

The 10-week long event, was scheduled to kick off June 25 and will run through Friday, Aug. 31.

“Have some summer fun on the water with family and friends!” states a bulletin advertising the event.

Each registered adult may bring somebody 16 or younger along to fish for free.

Youth prizes will be awarded for both trout and grayling.

Interested community members can register and get more information from organizers Bruce Kenny and Verna Firth.

Participants will also be expected to sign a waiver, follow the rules, and pay $100 to be in the competition.

– Erin Steele