Kent Driscoll
Northern News Services

Arctic Bay (Oct 24/05) - Thanksgiving Day was a feast for young and old in Arctic Bay. The 3045 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps threw a feast for the elders of the community, and everyone had their fill.

In the past, there was a feast for elders called the high school cafe, but it died out over the years. The cadets thought that Thanksgiving was the perfect chance to revive the tradition.

The menu was varied, ranging from traditional Inuit food to Thanksgiving standards. Muktuk stew, boiled polar bear, pizza, turkey and a wide range of desserts were all on the menu.

Cadets organized and ran the feast as a part of their citizenship requirement. Commanding officer Ron Elliott is proud of the way his corps performed.

"I continue to be amazed. There is a group of about 15 young people that is involved in a lot of positive things here. It keeps them from getting bored," said Elliott.

With 38 cadets joining in - in a community of 650 people - the elders enjoyed a happy Thanksgiving.

Weeks before, the cadets used their military minds to make a plan of attack. What do we need? Who will make what? How do we transport the elders?

Parents and cadets worked on dishes together and some of the older cadets handled transportation. Between a few four-wheelers and one truck, the elders were all picked up.

"We are trying to get the parents involved. Since it is based on the military, people often don't understand what we do. We encouraged parents and kids to work on a dish together and they did," said Elliott.

A few elders weren't able to leave home, but no one was left out. Hot plates were delivered to the homes of those who couldn't attend.

When it comes to putting food on the table, ask a hunter. One of the hunters learned of the feast and set out to get them a seal. He was unsuccessful, but he did return to Arctic Bay with two ducks.

The cadets had such a good time they have decided to try the Thanksgiving feast again next year. They will also be volunteering at the annual Christmas feast.