Yellowknife (Sep 19/03) - There is just no stopping him.

Dwight Hickey, owner of a number of businesses in Yellowknife, including The Airporter and Grandma Lee's, has just recently taken on a few more responsibilities.

L'Atitudes Restaurant and Bistro and the Mackenzie Lounge, both located in Centre Square Mall, are now under his ownership.

"It has been a dream of mine," said Hickey.

The decision to take over both establishments was not a hard one for Hickey, since his history with the Yellowknife Inn stems back years.

As a former executive chef, his passion for food has always been a part of his life. While both places undergo complete facelifts, Hickey explained his vision for the establishments.

"They are being totally cleaned up," said Hickey. "There will be an emphasis on a well-cleaned and functioning kitchen," he added.

"I think people will appreciate that the cleanliness of the place will be kept up."

Jenni Legge, assistant general manager of Centre Square Mall, has known Hickey for years and feels very confident that under Hickey's ownership, the place will evolve.

"I think it will return to the hottest restaurant in town," she said.

Walter Bradley, general manger of Centre Square Mall, agreed.

"Knowing his history, it is going to be a really good thing to have around here."

As for Hickey, finding time to run the businesses has yet to affect his personal life.

"It's not impossible," he said. "It's just about being organized. I'm not exhausted or run off my feet yet."