Arthur Milnes
Northern News Services

FORT SIMPSON (Jun 12/98) - Once summer hits, there is one thing that all former urban dwellers start missing when living in the Deh Cho -- restaurant patios.

They will longingly tell you of long afternoons on a patio where you simply enjoy a meal, drinks and watch the world go by.

It's tough to beat.

Well, Wayne and Lynn McKay of Checkpoint are about to do something about that.

Their area restaurant, motel and gas station has been a beehive of activity in recent weeks and visitors are about to see why. This weekend, the official opening of the region's first -- and perhaps only -- patio will take place.

And celebrate folks will.

Barbecued T-bone steaks and chicken breasts with all the fixings will be the order of the day during a special dinner to be held Saturday evening. The kids can enjoy free hotdogs.

And, visitors from Friday through Sunday will be able to receive free fill-ups for their portable propane tanks and a free load of bug-resistance windshield wash.

"It's a family thing," says Lynn McKay. "Bring the kids as there will be fun for all ages."

"You need some place to come out, enjoy yourself and not be eaten by the bugs."

The licensed patio, seats 12 for dinner with stools for a further eight. And, people who have already stopped by can attest to the almost completely bug-free atmosphere.

Besides the patio, the pair of entrepreneurs have also changed the menu, done extensive landscaping and other renovations since they took over the Deh Cho landmark last fall.

Reservations are recommended for Saturday's barbecue feast which will also feature live entertainment.

See you at Checkpoint, folks.