INUVIK - Clutching his upcoming swimming schedule, Michael Reonal could barely contain his smile after signing up for swimming lessons at Friday's community registration night.

"I love swimming," said the Grade 2 student. "I like the water and being with my friends."

Arlene Hansen and Lynda Smith show just a tiny selection of quilt samples that residents can learn to make if they join the Inuvik Quilting Guild. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photos

Michael was among residents of all ages who showed up to the evening event to sign up for their favourite winter hobby at the community hall.

There was plenty to choose from among the 20 booths representing groups such as minor hockey, the Inuvik Ski Club, speed skating and even highland dancing. No need to worry, there's still time to sign up for your favourite activity.

River Ross, 10, signed up for several different clubs, his favourite being hockey. After going to hockey school over the summer, the centreman is eager to put his skills to the test this season, hoping to pile up a few hat tricks.

"I'm excited and I'm really hoping more people will join up this year," he said.

Les Skinner, president of Inuvik Minor Hockey, was manning the group's booth with a few others. He said he was pleased by how many arrived to sign up, but expected the numbers to increase before the start of the season on Oct.1. The registration cut-off date is Dec. 15.

Skinner said ice time schedules among skating groups still have to be finalized. But he said he expects another exciting year with teams from every level, except novice one, travelling to a tournament.

The rink will also host a hockey school from Nov. 11 to 15 as well as Arctic Winter Games tryouts for bantams and midgets.

Skinner said he's hoping to get some Inuvik businesses to donate money to buy several sets of equipment for young players who need the help.

"That's something we're really hoping to accomplish, to give little kids a chance to join who otherwise wouldn't be able to," he said. "That's really important."

Arlene Hansen of the Inuvik Quilting Guild set up shop at the event and was pleased by the interest shown in the group. The clique of quilt lovers meet 7 to 9 p.m. every Monday at Aurora College to work their magic and share tricks of the trade with each other.

Yellowknife quilters Hazel Wainwright and Donna MacDonald are scheduled to pay the group a visit from Oct. 16 to 18 to demonstrate how to make the Canadian North quilting patterns and various thread work styles.

Through an NWT Arts Council grant and some fundraising, the group was able to purchase a mid-arm quilting machine, which is designed to make larger quilts, and members are allowed to take it home periodically.

Hansen said being involved in the guild is just another way to keep her active in the community.

"I enjoy the camaraderie of going out on Monday nights, and meeting with other members and learning new techniques and sharing an interest of mine with my fellow residents," she said.