Thorunn Howatt
Northern News Services

Cambridge Bay (Nov 11/02) - More than 1,000 people filed past a gala of trade fair booths in Cambridge Bay.

"We had 25 exhibitors and we had 60 people registered," said program organizer Brenda Mercer.

Some of this year's out-of-towners included the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, Canadian Armed Forces, and Akhaliak, a promotions company from Rankin Inlet.

Last year's Kitikmeot Trade Show was marred when it fell close to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and many delegates were grounded. But at this year's Kitikmeot Trade Show, the third annual, festivities were in full swing.

About 80 per cent of the Hamlet of Cambridge Bay enjoyed the exhibition -- more than 1,000 people.

"We had everything in the community hall. That's where we held our show's meet-and-greet social as well as the banquet," said Mercer.

A visiting area, complete with a baked goods concession, was available for elders to visit. And mini-golf was a smash-hit.

But as always, people liked to visit the Kitikmeot Foods booth.

That business is a Cambridge Bay char-packing plant. It promoted its char jerky and new canned product.

Canadian North's Kelly Kaylo was a guest speaker and talked about building business partnerships. Eleven other Canadian North employees joined her.

"It's important for our local people to touch base with our local business people in a happy friendly setting," said Mercer.

Trade fair booths were $300 for an exhibitor and delegates were charged $200. Money-wise, the trade fair just broke even but socially it was rich. School kids filed past the booths asking questions.

"They seemed keen about it and excited to be there," said Mercer.