Jason Unrau
Northern News Services
Friday, June 29, 2007

YELLOWKNIFE - If you haven't got a campsite reserved for the long weekend, the backyard may be the only place to pitch your tent as Prelude, Reid Lake and Fred Henne territorial parks are booked solid.

As of Wednesday afternoon, just two vacancies remained of the three parks' combined 225 spots.

"We've been booked since Monday," said Fred Henne Park operator Lona Collins.

All territorial parks also report extreme fire conditions and have imposed a complete fire ban until the region receives some rain.

In the city, the Rotary Club's annual Canada Day Parade will kick off at the Yellowknife Community Arena at 11 a.m., head down Franklin before wrapping up at Sir John Franklin high school.

"This is the 140th birthday you don't want to miss," said Rachel Verhaeghe, special events coordinator for the city. "We've got lots planned for everyone."

After the parade, CBC Northbeat host Carol Morin will emcee the big bash at the community arena, which will feature the St. Patrick's Four Leaf Clover Jazz Combo, demonstrations from the Yellowknife Gymnastics Club and Aurora Ukrainian Dancers.

"Somewhere in there we'll cut the cake and the sing Happy Birthday," Verhaeghe added.

Music in the Park will happen at its usual Somba K'e Park location and will feature six bands with tunes starting at 3 p.m.

Local RCMP will be participating in the parade and some members plan to do a torch run beginning at 2 p.m. to raise awareness and hopefully some dollars for Canada's Special Olympics team.

Speaking to public safety for the long weekend, that for many could include travelling on water or highways, Cst. Roxanne Dreilich said the RCMP hopes people will use their common sense.

"While taking part in whatever activity, just be responsible," she said. "If you're out boating wear your life jacket, don't mix alcohol and the operation of any vehicles and in general, stop and think before you head out."