Photo: Baker Lake get up close with big birdies

Baker Lake residents got up close and personal with a pair of brand new Canadian Armed Forces Chinook helicopters Aug. 12 on their way from Petawawa, Ont., to Alert, Nunavut on a test mission. CF members want to make sure the choppers’ GPS systems and other equipment are functioning properly. The Chinooks have a dry weight of 25,000 lbs, can lift up to 54,000 pounds and can fly with a maximum speed of about 180 knots. The big birds attracted lots of attention from Baker Lakemiut so CF members allowed residents to have a peek inside. Here are a few of the curious: Frances Kaluraq, far left, Keasten Avaala, back row, Andre Avaala, middle front, Sarah Avaala, the proud mom, and young Wes Avaala. (PHOTO BY VALTER BOTELHO-RESENDES)