Daron Letts
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Aug 05/05) - After 30 years working at the Gold Range, owner Sam Yurkiw never got the send-off he deserved. Alzheimer's pulled him away from work one weekend two years ago and he hasn't been back since.

Some of his friends think it's time to pay him a tribute.

"The work he put in at this bar should be recognized," Gold Range manager Nadene McMenemy said. "Sam and the Gold Range are synonymous. Travellers coming in still ask about him."

McMenemy is co-ordinating a DVD memory project for her friend and former boss. Mary-Lee Fraser-Crozier was the first to volunteer.

"We're looking for musicians who played the Gold Range, Sam's friends, former staff and anyone who knew Sam and has stories to share," McMenemy said. Volunteers are needed to help with editing and co-ordination. Creative suggestions are welcome, she said.

The DVD will be released for sale during a Sunday party at the Gold Range in November. All proceeds from the DVD will be donated to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.