Yellowknife (Jan 05/05) - The multiple crowns for her pooch, that's what Jo-Ann Cooper liked best about last year.

Her dog's cumulative trophy titled name is "Canadian American National International Champion Clements Northern Exposure," but you can call it "Dylan." Cooper owns Borealis Kennels and Pet Specialties.

"My show dog won in the veterans class at the Boston Terrier National specialty show," she said proudly of the tail-long moniker.

Thinking ahead to 2005, the businesswoman hopes for continued success and major expansion.

Unsure whether it was a jinx to talk about what the expansion might be, she said: "All my customers know exactly what that means."

In terms of prosperity for the city she calls home, Cooper could think of nothing more important than the completion of the Deh Cho Bridge so Yellowknife retailers don't have to continue to stockpile inventory.

"As a businessperson I am looking so forward to that bridge," she said. "If the bridge was there we can be more at par with the rest of the world."

Rev. Liz Richards' good fortune for the year past were some joyous nuptials.

"My son got married last year," the United Church of Yellowknife minister said of her favourite moment of 2004.

When it comes to 2005, her scope becomes more global.

"I hope that we would learn as a human community to live more peaceably together worldwide," she said.

That wish does encompass Yellowknife, but specifically Richards hopes for improved access to services for community members.

Improved transportation for the disabled and more affordable housing would be nice, but a greater selection of sports, arts or educational activities tops her list.

"Access for children of all economic backgrounds," she said.

2004 was a good year for Ecology North, a volunteer group concerned with environmental issues. The organization worked very hard and received in turn an enthusiastic response to their campaign regarding public space.

"Certainly a highlight this year was getting peoples' awareness up about development around the city," said board member Erica Janes.

When she thinks ahead to the New Year, infrastructure and development are once again of Janes' interest.

"I hope the city will continue to be open to residents' input on the general plan and development going on and there's good communication there," she said.

"I also hope that Yellowknife sees new trails developed and I hope lots of those trails are on Tin Can Hill."