Christine Kay
Northern News Services

Pelly Bay (Sep 09/02) - Nancy Uquqtuq is managing and training the staff at the Inukshuk Inn in Kugaaruk. She started on June 16.

Uquqtuq said it was as simple as seeing the ad and applying.

"I've been working in a kitchen since 1987. I got the hang of it and here I am," said Uquqtuq.

For this manager, the biggest challenge is getting the supplies needed to keep the inn running. Uquqtuq said there is no plane that comes in everyday so it takes a while for her to get what she needs. When it comes to food, Uquqtuq said she sometimes runs over to the store to see what can be used. The job, especially in the kitchen, means a lot of improvising for Uquqtuq.

The Inn is relatively busy with construction and DEW Line workers taking up most of the rooms.

"I like meeting people. There's always different faces for me to see and to work with. I've never worked with someone I didn't like and I love the community," she said.

Uquqtuq moved to Kugaaruk from Taloyoak. She said even though it's not far, she finds it different. She likes that the river is close by and the fact that there was no ice on the bay in July.

The one thing she misses is her family. Uquqtuq works such long hours that when she gets home, her 16 month old child jumps on her and won't let her go.

"If I don't have any family here, I get home sick," she said.

She went to Kugluktuk for high school and felt too far away from home. Uquqtuq has never been away at Christmas time and she said she plans to keep it that way.

Uquqtuq's mother was in Kugaaruk, helping her with childcare for a while. When her mother returns to Taloyoak, Uquqtuq said she take the children home with her. Uquqtuq said she has lots of friends though and a cousin so she'll be okay.

Her specialty in the kitchen is stir fry with sweet and sour ribs.

"The cost of food is so expensive even compared to Taloyoak," said Uquqtuq.

She said the cooking at Inukshuk Inn gets a lot of compliments. There hasn't been a complaint since she started. Uquqtuq's time at the inn will end on Dec. 16. She said she wouldn't mind staying on longer if she could go home for the holidays. For now, Uquqtuq said she'll keep the inn going and hopes keep the guests happy.