NWT
Northwest Territories artist Godson is running a music contest for youth this summer.
‘X’it asks youth to write a short essay, poem, spoken word or rap by midnight, July 15 in any of the territory’s official languages.
Prizes include winning a new phone or writing, recording, and producing a video with Godson in Yellowknife.
“Your entry … should amplify the voice of young people and encourage them to vote!” states a bulletin advertising the contest, which is supported in part by Elections NWT.
The contest is open to youth between the ages of 16 and 24.
Entries can be written or on video, with the latter being the preferred option.
– Erin Steele
Drumming practice ramps up
Acho Dene Koe/Fort Liard
A Dene drummer was scheduled to be in Fort Liard June 15 to 21 to share his skills and love for drumming.
Brent Betsina is running a drumming practice in the community for everyone who is interested.
“Come join in if you would like to learn how to drum or get some practice in,” states the bulletin advertising the workshop.
Betsina will be working with youth ages 12 to 16 between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., and everybody else between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
It all takes place at the arbour.
The workshops take place ahead of the community drum dance on Aboriginal Day, June 21, also at the arbour.
– Erin Steele
Fort Simpson abuzz for annual gathering
Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson
A jam-packed weekend was planned for Fort Simpson June 15 to 17, for the Liidlii Kue First Nation 6th Annual Traditional Gathering.
From the Friday morning fire feeding ceremony, to the feast and drum dance on Sunday evening, there was no shortage of activities.
Most events were set to take place at the arbour, unless it rained, in which case things would be moved into the rec centre.
Aside from barbecues and community breakfasts, the weekend was scheduled to include traditional games, talent shows, radio bingo, a hoop dancer, plus plenty of singing and drumming.
The barbecues and feasts were considered “green events”, so community members were asked to bring their own plates, cups and utensils.
– Erin Steele
Learning healthy habits
Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson
An information session about a program meant to motivate its participants into a new way of living was scheduled to take place June 12 at the rec centre in Fort Simpson.
The information session related to a possibly upcoming 8 Week Healthy Eating and Exercise Program open to women, men and students 16 and older, with parental permission.
“It doesn’t matter how ‘out of shape’ you are, this program will motivate and teach you new ways to work out and eat,” states a bulletin advertising the information session.
“This is not a ‘diet’ but a self- directed healthy eating and exercise plan that you can follow throughout your life.”
It was unclear by press time when the eight-week program may start.
– Erin Steele