April 11, 2003
Toonik
Tyme takes off
The
common room at the elder's qammak was packed with eager elders tensely gripping
their bingo markers, hoping to be the next one to yell out "pinguuq!"
(PHOTOS BY CHARLOTTE PETRIE)
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Springtime festivities officially kicked off last Monday to a full house. Spectators
gathered to watch a traditional-dress fashion show and singing and dancing during
the opening ceremonies at Nakasuk School in Iqaluit.
Following Monday's big show, the weather turned warm, drawing children and
elders outside for fun and games. A teen scavenger hunt early in the week came
off with out a hitch and was followed by a night of live entertainment by different
northern bands.
The oh-so-gross fear factor contest was a major highlight for those who take
pleasure in the obscene. And the festival's second northern band night also
turned out a good crowd.
To warm things up prior to the opening ceremonies, several events were planned
for last weekend, but many were canceled due to bad weather. Participants will
have to wait until next year for the seal hunting and skinning contests and
the outdoor softball tournament.
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Participants in the
sealskin fashion show at the opening ceremonies take centre stage one at a time
to wave to the crowd below. (Some of the little one's needed a bit of encouragement.)
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Still to come is tonight's giant bingo and teen dance. Saturday brings the
craft fair for those who prefer to stay inside, and snowmobile races for the
thicker-skinned.
Closing ceremonies take place Sunday night at Nakasuk school.
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