Rankin Inlet (May 11/05) - Hundreds of friends and family members turned out for the 2005 Historica Fair put on by Grade 5 and 6 students at Simon Ford school in Rankin Inlet this past week.

Kelli Hickes of Rankin Inlet displays some of her project on NHL star Jordin Tootoo at the 2005 Historica Fair at Simon Ford school in Rankin Inlet this past week.

Grade 6 student Clarissa Ussak had her project set up in the foyer so visitors were greeted by a drum dancing demonstration as soon as they entered the school.

Once inside the gymnasium, viewers were met with a dazzling display of projects illustrating the proud heritage and history of Inuit culture.

From the earliest Inuit tools to the accomplishments of Jordin Tootoo - the first Inuk to play in the NHL - the gym was alive with the sights and sounds of history brought to life for one invigorating afternoon.

Grade 5 students Kelli Hickes and Priscilla Nirlungayuk teamed up to do their display on Tootoo.

Hickes, who spent most of her life being raised by Jordin's parents, Rose and Barney (who she still affectionately refers to as Mom and Dad), describes herself as the world's biggest Jordin Tootoo fan.

Dressed in a Team Canada jersey, wearing a Milwaukie Admirals hat and clutching her Brandon Wheat Kings Tootoo bobblehead doll, Hickes had most of Tootoo's career stops covered.

"It was a lot of fun putting the project together because I'm such a big fan of Jordin's," said Hickes.

"I already knew just about everything about his career, but it's always fun looking at pictures of him playing and stuff."

Luther Siksik did his project on Inuit tools and had an impressive display at his station. "My dad found this big spear while out hunting on the land," said Siksik, proudly drawing attention to the rugged artifact. "It was fun to do my project on something I really wanted to learn more about."

Simon Ford teacher Bev Hill said it was nice to see so many parents come out to view the projects.

"The students worked very hard on their projects and it was nice to see the support they received from the community for their efforts," said Hill.