Iglulik (Feb 14/05) - Tanya-Rose Qrunnut, 12, is proud of her grandmother, Theresa Ijjangiaq, 82.

Ijjangiaq was one of 12 people who received commissioner's awards from Peter Irniq during a ceremony on Feb. 7 in the gymnasium of Ataguttaaluk school.

"Theresa is known in the community as someone who never hesitates to assist anyone with medical ailments," the commissioner told the crowd of more than 200 people as the elder received an award for acquisition of special skills.

"She has comforted numerous individuals when members of their family were in their last days," Irniq continued. "She has also been a midwife to numerous children."

After the awards, Irniq said he was particularly moved by Rachel Uyarasuk, 91, who was recognized with an award for acquisition of special skills (or Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, IQ) for her work over the years offering support and counselling to couples who are having marital difficulties.

"The awards can be quite emotional for me," said Irniq. "But people in the communities love the awards, big time."

Other recipients were Martin Hanniliaq, David Angutirjuak, Isa Angutirjuak, Joe Iyerak, Isaac Ungalak, Guy M Arnatsiaq (deceased) and Damaris Aqiaruq for bravery, Natalino Piugattuk for acquisition of special skills (or Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, IQ), and Caroline MacDonald and Dennis Malliki for volunteering.

Before the awards there was a feast of country foods including frozen fish and fermented walrus.