by Glenn Taylor
Northern News Services

INUVIK (Sep 19/97) - Not everybody has been scared off from investing in new businesses in Inuvik.

Take Ray Macleod-Crosten, for example. With ample faith in Inuvik's economic future, he opened a new restaurant, the Dempster Cafe, Sept. 8. Naysayers need say no more. The business has been a resounding success, according to Ray.

"Even now, compared to southern towns, Inuvik still has an awful of money. I think there's still a lot of potential for business here."

Ray has been a chef for 22 years, and has spent the last four years cooking in Inuvik for a local hotel.

"I'll be 40 next month, and I decided that with my experience and background, it was time I do something for myself before I get too much older," he said. Owning his own business "has always been a dream I've had."

The Dempster Cafe is next door to a local watering hole, but Ray decided he wanted his business to be "geared to families. That's why I don't serve alcohol here."

Ray might be considered a perfectionist to someone who doesn't know him. That's why he has no complaints about working 16-hour days.

"I have too much drive, and this is too important to me to relax now," he said. "This is something that I have to prove to myself."

With relentless competition from other restaurants, he is determined that his business succeed.

Ray had expected to hire about five people when the business started, but business has been so good he's had to hire nine people. "I never dreamed we'd be this busy," he said.

Ray's crowning achievement is the Dempster Burger, a fully appointed burger that is proving to be a hit with customers.

His wildly colorful plates and cups (ranging from canary yellow to ocean blue) have also been popular. He's also added exotic dishes to the menu, like the Newfoundland-inspired "Fries, dressing and gravy," which is a peculiar mix of stuffing, fries and gravy. His Newfoundlander accountant suggested the menu item, and "it's been a huge hit," said Ray.

For his 40th birthday next month, Ray plans to celebrate in his new business, and will put up balloons and party fare to celebrate the occasion with his new customers. "I practically live here anyway, so I might as well celebrate with my customers," he laughed.

Ray and his wife Effie came to Canada from the U.K. 14 years ago, and worked for 10 years in Nova Scotia before heading North.