Inuvik (Oct 17/03) - The Liquor Licensing Board invited the public to a meeting, Oct. 8, but no one came.

"We're going to advertise a bit differently next time," said John Simpson, the board's acting chair.

The board wanted to hear opinions and ideas on alcohol, licensing and drunkenness in Inuvik after hosting a meeting in Yellowknife and hearing complaints about alcohol-fueled rowdies on the capitol's streets.

"While the problem is not totally within our jurisdiction we have a part to play," said Simpson.

The board advertised the meeting in newspapers, but next time Simpson wants to send invitations to specific organizations, pump out press releases and advertise on the radio as well.

Although no one showed, not all was lost.

The board used the time to discuss broader territorial issues like the responsibilities of the liquor licensing board and the re-vamping the NWT Liquor Act, Simpson said.

The next public meeting is in Yellowknife, at 7 p.m. Oct. 15 in the Yellowknife Inn.

The board will also visit Fort Smith and Hay River in November.

The board probably won't return to Inuvik until sometime next year, said Simpson. Residents can write the Liquor Licensing Board in Hay River or call Wayne Smith, its member in Inuvik.