Yellowknife (Jan 12/05) - The hamlet of Chesterfield Inlet was in the Christmas sprit this year in a big way.

A total of 10 families received a little help during the holiday season, courtesy of a Christmas hamper drive put on by the local detachment of the RCMP.

Cpl. Ann Hills and Const. Allan Nickerson delivered the food hampers on Dec. 23.

Nickerson said the donations came from the local Co-op, Northern store, Victor Sammurtok school and several individuals.

"Every family received a Christmas turkey, ham, or both, depending on its size, and a box of non-perishable food items," said Nickerson.

"We were met with tears of joy from some families and plenty of smiles from all."

Cpl. Hills said a number of families that received a hamper were quite large and greatly appreciated having a little extra food available during the holidays.

"We had a little input into what families should be helped - which is always a difficult choice - but we left the final decision to the dedicated teachers at the school," said Hills.

"For us, it was nice to be in homes for the right reasons this time around, as opposed to some other times we have to knock on a door."

In addition to the food hampers and the traditional Christmas games and community feast, a Light up the Town contest was sponsored by the hamlet's recreation department.

Rec co-ordinator Greg Tanuyak joined Brad Amirault of Pitsiulak Co-op, Cpl. Hills, Shawn Maxwell of the Northern Store and Kenny Putulik of Calm Air in judging the event.

Tanuyak said there were some intense "conversations" over the great displays residents put up.

The grand prize of a pair of return Calm Air tickets to Winnipeg went to Gordon and Jodie Tanuyak.

Patrick Putulik won a video camera for taking second, while Steven Inukshuk took home $250 for finishing third.

Adam Alogut received a $200 gift certificate for finishing fourth, while Ben Putulik and Nina Maliki won five 12 packs of pop.

Difficult decisions

"Recreation wishes to thank all who participated, the judges for taking the time to make the difficult decisions and all those who made the prize donations," said Tanuyak.