Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services
It took only five hours to sell the kids' tickets for the event, reported community economic development officer Cindy Schmegelsky.
Local businesses bought up all the tickets. They will be donating them to the 158 students in the community when the school year ends.
One of the grandest events ever to be hosted by the community is now in the works.
Set for next June 14-23, Reunion 2002 will be nine days of rekindling old times for those who have passed through the community since it was little more than a camp.
It will also be a time for Northern neighbours to join in the fun and for those who have never been North to get a concentrated taste of it.
"I believe the Northwest Territories is one of those places people have to see at least one time in their lives," said Frank Pope, chair of the organizing committee.
Though no contracts have been signed, organizers are courting entertainers Blue Rodeo, as well as Sharon, Bram and Friends.
The event is a co-operative effort headed up by the Town of Norman Wells, Ernie MacDonald Land Corporation and Norman Wells and District Chamber of Commerce.
"We should've started two years sooner," said Pope of the organizing effort. "But the team we have in place, with their enthusiasm, we're going to make it work."
Though fundraising only began four weeks ago, the community is rallying behind the event.
A hotel in town has donated 25 rooms for the entertainers. The Royal Canadian Legion has given its hall for the entire event and agreed to organize volunteers.
Another business is paying all expenses associated with flying in a magician for the week.
