This year was a good one, made even better by the number of alcohol-free community events.

During the annual holiday games last December and the Omingmak Frolics this spring, the hamlet council restricted access to alcohol.

That same resolution passed again during the hamlet's regular council meeting on Dec. 2. Squeaking by on a vote of 3-2, council agreed to restrict the import of alcohol from Dec. 23-30.

While the resolution is voluntary and has no legal standing, the airlines and the liquor stores in Yellowknife will be asked to observe the motion by not sending booze to Cambridge Bay customers during the restricted period.

"It's a good idea," said Kaosoni.

"The kids need their parents to be there with them and celebrate in good spirits and be sober," she said.

Sgt. Gary Peck agreed.

He said the absence of alcohol in Cambridge Bay is a good thing because crime significantly decreases.

"It affects us in an extremely positive way.

"It cuts down on the amount of spousal abuse, alcohol abuse and child abuse," said Peck.

"It allows people to live in safe communities and safe homes over the Christmas holidays," he said.

Mayor Keith Peterson did not vote in favour of the ban, however. Coming on the heels of a presentation by local police officers, Peterson said he felt it unfair to penalize the majority of citizens for the actions of a few.

"Fifteen percent of the population are causing 85 per cent of the problems in the community related to alcohol. Why should the other 85 per cent be penalized?" asked Peterson.