Inuvik (Feb 25/04) - It's the beginning of the road for Inuvik's End of the Road Music Festival.

Planning is at ground zero for the end of August event, said tourism and events co-ordinator Colleen Mitchell.

Kimberly Bitensky, newly-hired special events assistant for the town, says she's ready to plan the first End of the Road Music Festival. - Jason Unrau/NNSL photo

"So far, we're starting from scratch in terms of funding and sponsorship," she said at last Thursday's committee planning meeting.

More than 15 interested people from the community were in attendance to share ideas about how they envision the look and feel of the upcoming festival.

Mayor Peter Clarkson hopes it will become an annual event.

"I'm very impressed with the turnout," he said.

While sponsorship and festival funding are the primary concerns at the moment, those at the meeting also made suggestions about the possible format of the festival.

Items discussed included the number of venues, the number of performers to be invited and how to attract the artists to play in Inuvik.

"I think we need to start small to be successful and then build on that success," said Carrie Young.

Her sentiments were echoed by several people who thought that going with local talent first was the key to building the festival's foundation.

"As with many festivals, I think we need to nurture the musical talent in the region and incorporate the youth from different communities," said the mayor.

As for venues, there were some who thought the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex was an ideal location, while others wanted to see the main venue at Jim Koe Park, perhaps under a tent in case of inclement weather.

Newly-hired special events assistant Kimberly Bitensky says she was encouraged by the interest in the community and looks forward to planning the festival.

"I'm excited to be here," said the former Vancouverite. "And I'm anxious to work with the community to make this an exceptional event."

Currently, volunteers are being sought to work on a variety of committees, including fundraising and sponsorships, musicians and performers, logistics, sound and facilities, kids stage and workshops committee.