Queen Charlotte - Thursday

It was a beautiful morning when I got up today in Queen Charlotte. My first point of business was to meet with Bernie Howlett of the Queen Charlotte Seniors Housing Society. The Real Estate Foundation provided a grant to the society in 2005 as seed funding for an assisted living complex. Today I was able to get a tour of the facility and have to say I was very impressed with what they have done.

Martin Manor Assisted Living is home for four residents requiring supportive care services. And when I say ‘a home’ I mean it really feels that way. Martin Manor provides private one bedroom apartments for each resident but with shared common areas - a dining room, living room, gardens – and 24 hour staff available for their needs.

Assisted living can sometimes feel like a medical facility – but not Martin Manor. This facility has enabled the residents to remain in the community with a fair level of independence. Otherwise, they may be in hospital or moved out of the community for care. The Real Estate Foundation is proud of its contribution to this project.

I’d like to thank Bernie for touring me around Queen Charlotte and its neighbouring Skidegate today and sharing the stories of the people and the communities. I discovered through our time together that Bernie is the epitome of an entrepreneur. Like me, he originally hails from Toronto. But when he came here 25 years ago (rough estimate!), he decided to stay. Outside of his very important role with the Housing Society he owns the local pub and the nice bistro I ate in last night for dinner. He asked what I ordered and was informed that he had also cooked my dinner (I always order some strange vegetarian combination so it was easy to spot). On top of that, he is the local house painting contractor. I have a feeling there may be one of two more businesses in addition but I was afraid to ask. In a community of 1100 people you must wear many hats.

After I left Bernie and quickly dropped by the Misty Isles Economic Development Society, the rain began to pour and the wind was blowing up. This was the case for most of the rest of my day while I explored from Skidegate to Tlell to Port Clements to Masset. Aside from a distinct lack of restaurants – which is also part of Haida Gwaii’s charm - it’s a very nice drive with many parks and beaches to stop at along the way.

I spent two hours at the Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay (between Queen Charlotte and Skidegate). This is an award-winning Aboriginal cultural centre located in a magnificent 53,000 square foot cedar multi-complex of five contemporary monumental timber longhouses. It contains many of the Haida cultural items which have been repatriated over the years from other parts of Canada and internationally. I found it quite interesting and packed full of history which I think all Canadian’s should be aware of. Although I wasn’t there for a performance today, here is a peak at traditional Haida dance at the centre.

I think I will head off to Bernie’s again for dinner.

Karin