Skidegate Socialite for August 11

And here we are, up to date yet again. Let's see if I can keep this up now that summer is winding down and the company will be all finished for the season (SAD but true...)

I’m exhausted as I write my column this week, as most people on-island are, I’m sure. The Edge of the World Music Festival has wrapped up for another year. I had full intentions of this being the year I went, and yet, the road just did not take me there. Taylor and I picked up some nice German people and instead of dropping them off in Skidegate (where we were headed Friday), we took them to Tlell so they would get to the festival earlier. Saturday we packed up a picnic lunch and headed up coast, only to decide last minute it was a perfect day to explore Tow Hill and North Beach. Sunday we went to church and then got sun-happy and spent the entire afternoon/early evening at Jungle Beach. I hope everyone who did make it to the festival had a great time. It seemed like a happenin’ place and the line-up was fantastic!
Last week I raved about a new place we ate at, Hidden RV. Well, I took Taylor there to experience the deep-fried Mars bars. They were sold-out. No! Well, as any East Coaster would do, we went to find our own and brought them back to the restaurant! They were super tasty. The new place I discovered this week was Moon Over Naikoon Bakery on Tow Hill Road. I’ve passed by the sign before but never went in to explore. Well, I was missing out on delicious bread and soup! We picked up some corn chowder to go, fresh loaf of bread, and some delicious goodies and off we went to our picnic on North Beach. Wow. Well worth the stop, as most of you probably already know. It’s just so fun to explore, especially when you have the excuse of an out-of-towner to show around.
We had the first service of the summer at Skidegate United Church this week as well. It was nice to see some familiar faces. Our Faith Adventure Camp was cancelled for this year but there are already plans to have it next year! Nancy and I are off to Prince Rupert for the National Aboriginal Spiritual Gathering August 19-21. It will be my first time away from Noora. I’m excited and nervous but I’m sure she and Dad will have lots of fun without me.
After a busy week of festivals and memorials, I hope everyone has a chance to relax. For those families who are mourning the loss of loved ones, I wish you peace and comfort. I, too, will be looking for some relaxation but I doubt I will find it this week. There is so much to do, so many things to show my friend, and an eighteen-month energy ball to run after. Ah, such is life. I’m excited to try out the Book and Bite travelling bookshelf, so maybe we’ll grab a burger at Island Burger House in Charlotte or go for a coffee at Jags Beanstalk!
For any of you who need a positive push to realize your dreams, Community Futures is putting on a workshop featuring the motivational tools of Walt Disney: The Dreamer, The Realist and The Critic. It takes place at the Skidegate Office, 191 Third Ave by the Firehall, on August 18 & 19 from 1:30 – 4:30pm. Show up and get some great information to help make some positive changes in your life!
And last but not least, happy belated birthday to Lisa Dignard who celebrated this past week, and Happy Birthday to Uncle Dwight Russ on August 15th.

Skidegate Socialite for August 4

Happy Fall, everyone! Confused? Well, so was I when I arrived in Tlell on Sunday, July 31. The Tlell Fall was in full swing when we arrived with Noora that afternoon. First things first, we went to inspect the farm animals and it took forever to see anything else; Noora was obsessed with the horse and the bunnies! Hmm, do I see a hobby farm in my future? I think so! It was my first time there and it was a wonderful experience. The entertainment was wonderful, food was tasty, and so many people braved the sporadic downpours and danced away to the music. I also was pleased to see the wide variety of fresh produce on display (Peter Rabbit would have loved the giant cabbage).
After the fair, we headed up to Masset to wish Chinni Reynold Russ a belated Happy 81st birthday (July 30). It’s always a fun time to go up the coast and we always have some type of adventure while there. This time, after a cruise up to North Beach while Willie, Noora and Nova snoozed in the car, we decided to follow our tummies to a new destination: Hidden Island RV Resort. The fish and chips were amazing and for dessert, I went out on a limb and tried the deep-fried Mars bar. Let’s just say, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried one. I’m always excited to find new places to see on-island. Who needs the fancy attractions of the main land?
This is going to be a busy week for me. As this goes to print, I will finally be in possession of my bestest friend, Taylor. Also, we’ll be welcoming back Nancy O’Higgins after her time away for studying. It’ll be nice to have her back but I just hope I find the time to clean the manse before she arrives. As the summer begins to wrap up, many visitors and loved ones will be returning to their homes away from the island, and I wish all of you a safe journey.
I would also like to reach out again for volunteers for Skidegate’s Fire Department. If you love your community and its’ people, don’t mind having a good time once a week (Tuesdays) and want to make this place safer, please sign up. The long-time members need a break! Not only are they busy training and responding to emergencies, they are out there cleaning up our community when no one else shows up (Hawa’a guys for cleaning up those cars before Skidegate Days!).  
Hawa’a also to the Skidegate Health Center who put on the wonderful fitness workshop July 28 & 29. Those of us who participated learned so much from Dr. Rosalin Miles and I hope we can get some fun new programs running in the fall. If anyone has any ideas, give the Health Center a call or email me (whiteravenreturns@gmail.com).
Also, I’d like to thank our handsome RCMP men for keeping this community safe. In the last few weeks there have been some arrests made for drug trafficking, and I hope there will be more. This community has too many beautiful children in it and I do not want to see their lives wasted with something as stupid as drugs. We need to stay positive and send a message that we’ve had enough. (Regardless, it’s not a bad thing to have handsome uniformed men around for any reason!)
And last, but not least, I have some birthdays to celebrate. Happy belated birthday to fellow July babies, Abby (7 years) and Reannah (6 years) who celebrated July 27th. Happy birthday also to Nadine Jones (Aug. 4th), Doreen Ridley (August 7th) and Mare Levesque (Aug. 7th).

Skidegate Socialite for July 28

Happy Birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday to...oh, sorry, I guess I got a bit too excited there because it’s my birthday! Not that I’m entirely pleased with this fact; what woman wants to get older? But if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! So, let’s shake it up this week and celebrate the birthdays first! I’m sharing my birthday week with a very sexy new member of Skidegate. His name is Iron Hide (no, ladies, he isn’t available. He belongs to Goox and Leah). And as with all Leos, he is beautiful, loud and just a bit too much! Happy 1st birthday and I wish you many more to come. Also, wishing a Happy Birthday to Gary Russ and Natalie Fournier this week.
If you’re looking for last minute birthday gifts, or perhaps are in need of a ticket out of the doghouse, Tanya Alton has just made room for some great new Avon products so give her a shout on Facebook, or give her a call!
I was going to go without ranting this week, but I just have a teeny tiny one so bear with me. Just after I wrote my column last week, I found out that Dave’s In the Village suffered some vandalism after the Skidegate Days dance. I find this sad not only because it is part of Nuni Pat’s (Gellerman) property, but because it is disrespectful. A few months back you may remember a series of break-ins. I know no community can be crime-free but really! I’m hoping once the Youth Center is up and running kids will have some more things to do to keep things like this from happening. Hawa’a to all those who are working their butts off to get ‘er done!
Be sure to check out the book launch for That Which Makes Us Haida-the Haida Language on Friday evening, July 29, 7pm at the Kaay Center. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the beautiful photos by Farah Nosh! The 240-page book and CD set include Jusquan Amanda Bedard, Lucy Bell, Nika Collison, Dr. Marianne Ignace, Dr. Jordan Lachler, Barbara J. Wilson and others. It’ll be an evening of celebration you won’t want to miss!
Also coming up is the Faith Adventure Camp at Skidegate United Church on August 8-12. It’ll be a great chance for kids ages 6-13 to get together to share in craft-making, song-singing, acting and snacks! Please call Mavis (559-4209) or Sandi (559-8797) or send an email to mavismark@hotmail.com to register. I’ll be helping out when I can and can’t wait to see what kind of fun these ladies have planned.
I hope Royal Warner enjoyed his party at the Kaay on Sunday July 24th. I had planned to go but ended up asleep with Noora instead. All this working out at the gym has made me sleepy! Haha. William Russ, aka Tycoon, had a very successful Loonie Auction this past week as well and will be off to Washington, DC to promote his music and his community at the end of August! See “Personal Notices” for his big Hawa’a! And WELCOME HOME Dena and Ed Russ. We’ve missed you! It’s good to know you’re back with friends and family in time to enjoy this burst of sunshine on Haida Gwaii. And last, but not least, this week I would like to wish Norm and Kristen Moraes a very happy 2nd anniversary on July 30th. Congrats!
Looking forward to the upcoming weeks, my best friend is coming to visit all the way from Newfoundland! I’m so excited. I can’t wait to introduce her to the wonderful Edge of the World music festival taking place August 5, 6, and 7th!

Skidegate Socialite for July 21

I still have a bit of excitement buzzing in my ears leftover from Skidegate Days. It was my first time at the event, and honestly, I can’t say I know much more about it than before I went. The reason? I was trying to co-ordinate the mass amount of pies and desserts that were donated for the Pie & Coffee Booth. Hawa’a to everyone who baked up a storm, and hawa’a to those who couldn’t bake for us (no really, THANK YOU! We had far too many things to sell in the end). We had a tremendous turnout, and though I was exhausted by the end, I was glad to have helped out. I was a bit nervous to have taken on such a venture, but with the help of Pearle, Liz, Ivy, Mavis, Gwen, Olga, Ron and Thelma, we made it work!
I did manage to sneak in a break during the Canoe Races. I was very proud of the Girl Power team, and sister-in-law Carla Russ, who had an amazing time of 5:37 minutes. Not bad for a girl’s team remarked Willie. I jabbed him and asked what on earth that meant. I think it was mere sibling rivalry more than male chauvinism because his team was up next. They also did well coming in at 5:14 (I think, please correct me if I’m wrong). Skidegate Days was definitely a showcase of athletic talent, including Bruce Haralson won the Totem to Totem Marathon and many other worthy participants who crossed the finish line shortly after.
Don’t think for a moment things will get dull now that the big event of the summer is over. If you didn’t have a chance to make it to Willie Russ’ Loonie/Toonie Auction and Dinner on Wednesday evening but would still like to make a donation toward his trip to the SCMC music conference he will now be attending in Washington, D.C on August 29th, email him at carvingshedstudios@gmail.com. We had a great turnout and hawa’a again to everyone who donated auction items and their time to help get him one step closer to realizing his dreams!
There will be a baby shower for Royal Warner Funk on July 24th at the Kaay from 2-4pm. And more excitement at the Kaay, on July 29th for the launch of That Which Makes Us Haida-The Haida Language book will take place at 7pm. The book features beautiful portraits of fluent Haida speakers by noted photographer Farah Nosh. There will also be a screening of Sinxii Gangu-Sound Gambling Sticks. Come and be inspired!
Also, now is the time to get your tickets for the Edge of the World Music Festival! The early bird gets the worm and in this case, pays less. Check out the QC Visitor’s Centre, the Crow’s Nest, Bayview Grocery and Masset Grocery for advance tickets. Check out edgefestival.com/information for ticket prices and more. Featured artists this year include The Odds, Jaffa Road¸Wayne Lavallee, Doug Koyama, The Sweet Lowdown, Hilary Grist, and more. Another event I haven’t been to, so maybe you’ll see me there! They are still looking for volunteers, so please check out the site for that info as well.
And last but not least I’d like to send birthday wishes to Randy Tennant who celebrates this week, along with Calida Erickson who will celebrate on July 24th. July Babies rock! And so ends a very action-packed week, and I hope everyone has fully recovered from the Skidegate Days Dance. While some people were nursing hangovers the day after, someone was missing their smile – thanks to the good people at Taaw Naay for displaying them in hopes of finding their owner!

Skidegate Socialite for July 14

I’m having a bit of trouble writing my column today. While making turkey pies to sell at our Pie Booth for Skidegate United Church, I sliced my index finger instead of a potato. Don’t worry, there’s no blood in the pies! They are delicious enough without it, haha. They will be frozen and for sale at $4 a pie and we will have lots more goodies available, so please stop by and bring your appetite! Hawa’a to everyone who will be donating a pie or two, and if anyone else would like to drop something off, we’ll be in our usual place by CHN. It will be a cash only booth as well.
So yes, Skidegate Days is upon us. I’m excited as it is my first chance to see what all of the fuss is about. There are so many events to take part in, I hope I don’t miss any. I’m not sure I’ll be taking part in the Coke guzzling contest, but it does sound intriguing! I’ll be interested to see the canoe races, though. Noora will most likely be most excited about the dancing. She is the newest (and youngest) member of the talented dance group, Hlt’aaxuulang Guud ad K’aajuu. I only caught the end of their rehearsal last week, but she is pretty darn good at the Chief’s Dance already! Such a proud Mom am I.
If you’re up for more excitement after Skidegate Days, there will a Loonie/Toonie auction for William Russ in the next week (keep your eyes out for more information). As you may remember, I had a little write-up about his music in a past column. Well, he has been selected to attend the SCMC Music Conference in Greensboro, South Carolina on July 29th. There will be lots of goodies to bid on and some performances by local talent. It should be a great night, but will be soon as he’ll be leaving before the end of the month. Check out his stuff at reverbnation.com/bigtybeatdowns.
And if you’re up for even more excitement, join us to celebrate the launching of That Which Makes Us Haida-The Haida Language book that features beautiful portraits of fluent Haida speakers by noted photographer Farah Nosh (www.farahnosh.com). Opening ceremonies/book launch will begin at 7pm on Friday July 29th at the Kaay, followed by a DVD screening of Sinxii Gangu- Sound Gambling Sticks. It should be a very proud evening for all those who took part, and for everyone in this community. I hope it stirs some people to begin language lessons at S.H.I.P in the fall! The only way to learn is from the elders.  
Just a quick note while on the subject of language; when I was at Saint Mary’s University I took part in a small class of students wanting to learn Gaidhlig (Scottish Gaelic). Our teacher was a mostly-fluent speaker (there are very few left, most in Cape Breton, NS) and he used the TIP method (Total Immersion Plus). In class, we would try only to speak Gaidhlig, covered basic everyday things, and used LOTS of repetition. They also have weekend-intensive courses. Much like the Haida language, it is struggling to survive but it is making a comeback with the youth. Anyone interested in Gaidhlig should take a look at this project www.cainntmomhathar.com. It’d be a great project for S.H.I.P to work on next!
Alright, and last but not least, the birthdays of the week! Sending wishes to Ashley Knapton who celebrated on July 7th and to Deedee Crosby on July 8th. Also to Aria Price who turned 4 on July 9th, and to Ryan Goetzinger who celebrated on July 10th.

Skidegate Socialite for July 7

I hope everyone enjoyed their Canada Day in spite of the rain. We did not get to Port for the festivities, but instead had our picnic and adventure on Saturday instead. We stopped at Bayview Store to get supplies, and ate on the back of the truck at the Golden Spruce Trail. We then continued on to Masset to visit relatives, and Noora got to visit with her cousin, Addison. Nova forgot we were even there because she was having so much fun with a beautiful husky. When I inquired who he belonged to, they said no one. He had been abandoned because he had outgrown the “cute puppy” stage, and hadn’t had a home in a long time. I was furious, to say the least. We were then told the dogcatcher would be coming round on Monday to “dispose” of all the stray dogs in the village. WHAT? No way, this dog was not going out like that, and so, here he sits by my feet. It’s Monday morning and he’s no longer homeless. Harlan (or Harley, for short) is the newest addition to our family; Noora and Nova simply adore their new brother.
It makes me sick to think of how irresponsible people are in Masset, and in Skidegate, as well. A dog is a responsibility, much like a child is. You must give it, at the very least, the basic necessities of life: food, water and shelter. Why not go further and show it love. I’m not saying that everyone must turn into Caesar Milan and ride around on roller blades with your pup a few times a day, but please, do not get a dog (or any other animal) just to leave it chained up, or worse, abandoned on the road.
While in Ranch Feeds buying Harley’s collar and leash, I met a wonderful couple from Skidegate, Tommy Greene and Laura Dutheil. They were buying treats and food for their dogs. However, it turns out “their dogs” are really some of the stray village dogs. I was so happy to find out they take care of Nova’s friend, Chief, even giving him special extras to help with his arthritis. If only all strays had angels like this to care for them. There are plenty of options for your pets if you cannot take care of them; obedience training is available in Lawn Hill at the SPCA for $25 a session, or you can surrender your dog there and it will find a good home. Please, help control the population of strays humanely; prevent the problem.
Sigh. Now, my rant is over, on with other news! There will be a headstone raising for Wesley & Bubby Pearson on July 30th, 1 pm at the Skidegate Cemetery with tea to follow in the small hall, after.
Chad Dignard graduated from high school, on the honour roll, and Nuni and Chinni want to wish him good luck as he heads off to the mid-West for training in the Armed Forces this week.
Skidegate Days is just around the corner, July 16th, so please come by the church’s booth to get some coffee and yummy pie or cake! I can’t wait to see what goes on there!
And for all new moms, there will be a breastfeeding network meeting at the QC Clinic Lounge on July 12, at 10:30am. Call Sandi at 559-8910 to register!
And the birthdays of the week: Happy Belated Birthday to Noni June Russ who celebrated her 80th on June 1. Madison Williams celebrated her 9th on June 27th. Alexis Buxton celebrates her 11th on July 6th and Nuni Kathleen (Golie) Hans celebrates on July 13th.

Skidegate Socialite for June 30

Another long weekend? Whatever will I do with myself! Oh yah, I’ll be up to my ears in things to do, as usual! Willie and I celebrated Aboriginal Day on the beach, in front of S.H.I.P, with Pete, Sue and Jenny. The fire ceremony was beautiful. If you missed it, too bad! Haha, well actually, there are plans to build a permanent Fire House in that location in which to hold ceremonies on a regular basis. I saw the miniature version on display at the Skidegate Health Center. It’s going to be expensive to build (isn’t everything?) but it will be worth it. I haven’t heard of any fundraising events yet, but if you have ideas, I’m sure they’d love to hear them or, even better, if you have a donation, contact them.
This past week, I also had the privilege of attending cousin Levi Burton’s graduation from Corrine’s pre-school here in Skidegate. The small hall was packed with parents, friends and relatives to witness the button blanket ceremony; so many beautiful blankets! I especially enjoyed Dustin Cross Jr.’s Mario-inspired one. The food, like always, was amazing. Hawa’a.
Also this week, I attended Gud Ad Tl’ldaal, the multicultural event hosted by the Island Women’s Society. There was an amazing turnout, and of course wonderful food, followed by great entertainment. We were transported to Montreal, the Czech Republic, China & Singapore, Ireland, Turkey and back to Haida Gwaii. Noora loved the music. I didn’t have time to prepare the Nova Scotia/Scottish Gàidhlig information, or find something to share, but I’ll be prepared for next year!
Looking at my calendar, I’m reminded that I have been appointed to run the Skidegate United Church pie & coffee booth at Skidegate Days. This means, I will be the one hounding you all for pie donations! Yup, if you’re a baker, I’d like to ask for your help. Give me a call (4473). I had a suggestion that we also have cakes available for those who cannot make pies, and those who would rather not eat them. Skidegate Days will be held on Saturday July 16th, so bring your appetites and stop by our booth. Also, while we’re talking about church, there will be another Faith Adventure Camp happening in August. It sounded like a lot of fun last year, so email me if you’d like to participate or need more information!
Now, this next part is very important. I said before how I am all for promoting local businesses, etc, to make our community stronger. Well, the Skidegate Volunteer Fire Department is in desperate need of members, male or female. I was told there are only a few active training members, along with the regular stand-bys, and that doesn’t quite cut it. If you’re too young to join the regular department, a junior department could be put into the works (future project?). We have both in my home community in NS, and it’s wonderful. Also, there is a large Women’s Auxiliary who put on fundraising events for the Fire Department. Come on, folks, let’s get our department up to code, and who knows, this time next year we could have some friendly competition (bucket runs?) between island Departments at Skidegate or Hospital Days! Training is on Tuesday nights, 7 pm, at the Fire Hall.
Now for the birthdays! Brendon Collinson celebrated his 20th birthday on June 23rd. Khataya Brown celebrated her birthday on June 24th. And a big Happy First Birthday to David Thompson, who celebrated on June 26th.
And a Happy Canada Day to everyone this weekend! Mudbogs, anyone? See you in Port!

Skidegate Socialite for June 23

I hope all of the Dads and Chinnis had a wonderful Father’s Day, complete with breakfast-in-bed, foot massages, bubble baths, sparkling champagne, chocolates. Wait – that’s what I want for Mother’s Day next year. Oops! Okay, let’s try that again. I hope you all had a wonderful day full of bacon, eggs, meat and potatoes, dirt, tools, fishing and/or golf. Better? Haha. However you spent it, I’m sure it was great. Willie survived another year as a Dad, and therefore earned his second Father’s Day. I couldn’t use Noora as a present again this year, so I upped the game with a yummy pancake breakfast with old-fashioned brown sugar syrup (yes, I know...not the best choice for healthy eating, but it’s what he wanted). A delicious lunch at the Crow’s Nest followed the church service led by yours truly (Nancy O’Higgins must have had faith I could do it...get it, faith? Ha). Jenny Cross brought her drum and helped us welcome the day, so I’m sending her a big Hawa’a (gotta love those who make you look good!).
So back to the healthy eating thing, I’m sure Robyn and Donna won’t be too pleased as they spent a lot of time on Friday schooling me in the art of healthy eating for diabetics. I went merely for information sake, and I learned a lot. We had a good group for the Diabetes Discussion Map, but new people are welcome! We will be covering healthy eating and lifestyle changes to help manage diabetes this Friday, June 24th at 1:30pm in the Charlotte Medical Clinic lounge. There is a dietician, as well as the two lovely nurses, so bring your questions, even if off-topic, and leave armed with knowledge. Call  559-8477 to register.
So, what can you look forward to this week in Skidegate? Well, as usual, the Kaay Center has lots of events coming up. What would we do without it? On June 24th, at 7:30pm, you can find out how Gwaii Haanas inspires artists with featured speakers.  To wrap up your weekend, stop by on Sunday June 26th at 2pm and take part in a multicultural bonanza that will showcase the rich diversity here on Haida Gwaii. It is a potluck event, so whip up your favourite cultural dish (it doesn’t have to be your own culture) and bring your dishes! Call 559-4100 for more information.
And if that weren’t enough excitement in one place, Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson will be releasing a new cd at the Kaay, Tuesday June 28, from 7-10pm. There will be show-stopping performances by both she and the Rainbow Creek Dancers. There will be a reception, and plenty of time to make a purchase! Don’t miss it. For more information, email info@ravencallingproductions.ca.
I am looking forward to Skidegate Days this year. It will be my first time there, as it was with Hospital Days, and will be with the Music Festival (fingers crossed), and I’m very excited. I will keep you posted on those events as they come closer. If you have any events you would like listed, please do not hesitate to email me at whiteravenreturns@gmail.com or stop me in the street, I usually have a pen and paper in my pocket (just like a real journalist)!
And last, but never least, the birthdays; I want to wish Nancy Wesley a very happy but horridly late birthday (June 10th). Mavis Mark celebrated her sweet sixteen, well almost, on June 19th.
Happy Aboriginal Day, everyone, and I hope many of you made it to the fire ceremony in front of S.H.I.P Tuesday afternoon!

Skidegate Socialite for June 16

Do you ever feel as if you just put your feet up to relax after a busy week and BOOM! It’s Monday again. It’s happening alot lately. I’m pretty sure I promised myself this weekend I would not do a thing, but instead, I cleaned, cooked, and mastered Swiss Meringue Buttercream icing. How did it taste? Well, ask anyone who attended the anniversary service at Skidegate United Church this past Sunday! The cake, also an experiment, was a hit and I’m sure I’ll be getting more requests in the future.
Just a head’s up, next Sunday Willie & I will be tackling the church service as Nancy O’Higgins will be up to her eyeballs in textbooks at AST in Halifax. Oh, the joys of being a student (although I am a bit jealous, I secretly loved doing research papers!). The last Sunday in June, we’ll be meeting at the Crow’s Nest for lunch, and then no services for the month of July! Hmm, now what will I do to fill my Sundays? I’m sure I’ll find something. Sleep, maybe? Ha!
No one better complain of boredom this week/weekend. On Friday, June 17th there will be a Diabetes Discussion Group meeting at the Medical Clinic in Charlotte. Please call Donna Duffy at 559-8477 for registration and more information. Also, Friday evening, Tracy Hageman will be holding a Sidewalk Sale in front of her consignment shop in Skidegate where there will be lots of great deals for men, women and kids!  You’ll have lots of time to browse, from 6-9pm, but get there early or you’ll miss all of the good stuff! Maybe you’ll even find something to wear to the Hospital Day Dance!
Hospital Day is happening the next day, June 18th, kicking off at 8am at the QC Hall with a delicious breakfast served up by the QC Fire Department. The parade will start at 10am from the hospital and lead the masses straight to all of the fun, including BBQ’d goodies, cotton candy, popcorn, lunch and dinner in the hall, games for all and live entertainment. Come and celebrate 103 years of Hospital Days. The dance, which I’m told is the dance to attend, will follow in the evening!
Just as some things are starting up for the summer season, some are winding down. Mother Goose will finish at the Skidegate Health Center on June 22nd, 1-2:30pm. Haida Grad happened on June 9th, and by what I’ve heard, it was a beautiful evening. And Strengthening Families will be wrapping up with a graduation evening, Monday June 27th (same place and time, now that the Canucks are done!).  Hawa’a to everyone who attended and made our first SFP a success, and to all who have helped out in any way. We hope to do another session soon!
Oh, and please mark your calendars for the Two Brothers Pole Farewell celebration in New Town, Massett on June 21st (National Aboriginal Day). This pole has been 80% carved by Gwaii and Jaalen Edenshaw, and will be sent to Jasper National Park to be completed by a carver-in-residence this summer. Once finished, there will be a pole raising ceremony July 16th in Jasper.  There will be pole interpretations, storytelling, and the launch of “The Two Brothers: A Haida Story”, featuring illustrations by Gwaii Edenshaw. The story was told to Gwaii and Jaalen by Diane Brown, who was told by Hazel Stevens. Come check it out from 3-6pm.
And last but not least, Happy Birthday to Lila Ridley (June 11th), to Kayden Collinson who turned 4 on June 12th and to Roy Jones Jr (June 12th).

Skidegate Socialite for June 9

One of the best things about having my column is that I get to share information about all of the local businesses/entrepreneurs in our community, of which there is certainly no shortage! I do not mind putting in a plug here and there for these kinds of things because they’re important. This is a beautiful, but remote island, and we need to be self-sufficient (as much as possible). So please, if you would like me to write a little blurb about what you have to offer (no personal ads though, although I could look into doing another column!), email me at whiteravenreturns@gmail.com.
This week I would like to rave about a hidden star in the community. Hip-hop producer, Tycoon (known to most as William Russ) has perfected a new album of beats and from what I’ve heard, they’re a hit! If you haven’t heard them at Morgan’s Clothing Store in Charlotte or at Haala Ga Taa restaurant at the Kaay Centre, then maybe you should look them up online at myspace.com/bigtybeatdowns. If you’re an artist looking to lay down some rhymes, email him and who knows, maybe a collaboration will be born.
If you’re a lover of books, like I am, you should head over to the Kuugin King Naay library and borrow some. What’s in it for you, you ask? Well, other than the wonderful experience of reading a book, you may win one to keep. Yes, every time you return a book, your name will be entered into a draw. I didn’t know of this until I won the draw for May! The library will be open June 9th, 9am – 4pm, June 14th (same hours), and June 16th, 9am – 12pm. Hurry and get your books, though, because it will be closed from June 17th – 27th. The QCSS Hangout Prize Draw will take place on June 29th because SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER! Woohoo!
I bet everyone’s schedules are booked up already for the summer months, but I hope you can make lots of time for the beach. Bring your own chairs if you head to Jungle Beach, though. The picnic benches were reported vandalized (smashed) this past week. I hope incidents like this do not repeat themselves over the next few months. The volunteers there work hard to make it a beautiful place for everyone, local or not, to hang out. Please respect our beaches, clean up after yourselves, and put out all campfires. Hawa’a.
I’m sure most people have a spot on their calendars for the music festival, as well. I still have not been to it but maybe I’ll get lucky this year! There will be a workshop on June 11 & 12th at the Fire Hall in Tlell to make paper lanterns. I was told these lanterns would be used to decorate the festival so I really hope I get to see it. The cost is $15 and begins at 9:30am.
Everyone is welcome to celebrate the 37th anniversary of Skidegate United Church on June 12th, service at 11am with potluck lunch to follow. There will be old friends, familiar faces, and lots of great music.
Congrats to all of the soccer players who took part in the big tournament in Tlell this past weekend. My nephew’s team won 3rd place! Yay! The weather was mostly agreeable and the Kettle Corn was amazing! (Skidegate Days is coming up – someone should book them!)
And last but not least, the birthdays: Happy Birthday to Cole Sankey who celebrated on June 2nd, and best wishes to Lila Ridley who celebrates on June 11th. And a long distance birthday wish to Anne Goulet, celebrating on June 8th,  who is away from our islands but still very much in our hearts (come back soon!).

Skidegate Socialite for June 2

Holy crap! We’re into June, already! I think time must go by much faster when you’re a new mother, because I swear we just celebrated Noora’s birthday. Valentine’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day. Easter.  Mother’s Day. Hmm, well that does account for the missing time, but still; time flies when you’re having fun, I guess.
I have had a lonely week with my mother and sister safely back in Nova Scotia. They did leave the dog, who is keeping me from my goal of “watching my mouth” due to little ears. If anything, I could easily make a sailor blush on a daily basis. I hope this potty-training/I-can’t-hear-you phase is done SOON. Otherwise, Noora will have quite the vocabulary for a toddler. Ha, and once the dog is fully trained, it’ll be Noora’s turn to push my buttons. Oh boy, what was I thinking? Good thing they’re cute, hey!
Before I get into any news, I’d like to challenge everyone reading this to be a tourist for a day. It’s amazing what you will find and see. When my family was here, I finally made it to Tow Hill/North Beach, and Agate Beach. I’ve been here over two and a half years and there are so many things I have yet to see. We have had such great weather lately, too, so there’s no excuse not to pack up for a weekend excursion. Let the kids pick, or if you’re brave, let your partner (unless they have a lame sense of adventure, then it’s perfectly fine to choose for them – it’s for their own good). Be spontaneous. Leave home hungry and find a new spot to eat. I recently happened upon a vegetarian restaurant/health food store in Masset and had the best chickpea curry ever. If you happen to head to the Trout House and find it’s closed (as I also did recently), find an old favourite and pick a new dish. There are plenty of ways to have a good time here. Now, if only someone would start up a drive-in movie theatre like we have at home. Might look good up where Striker’s used to be, any takers?
On a more serious note, I wish to send my condolences to the family of Ronald “Wow” Williams who passed away this past week. A celebration of his life was held in Skidegate on Monday May 3. Hawa’a to everyone who showed their support. I did not know him, but from what I’ve heard, he touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.
I thought I would mention again some of the various ways you can be lazy and have someone cook for you – hey, summer is coming and there’s a lot to be done. New to Skidegate is the fabulous hot dog stand being run by Sera Russ. Keep your eye on Facebook to see where she’ll be next. If you need bread, give Gail Russ a call (559-4519). She has white or 7-grain bread available on weekends for $5/loaf. Nancy O’Higgins still has turkey pies for sale at $4/each, proceeds going to Skidegate United Church, and boy, are they yummy (559-4559).
And last but not least, the birthdays: Denise Olsson would like to wish a Happy 3rd Birthday to her son, Lebron, who celebrated on May 28th. More belated wishes go out to Robert (Bobby) Williams (May 9th), Kathy Williams (May 10th), Harvey Williams (May 13th) and Georgia Williams (May 27th). And wishing a Happy Birthday to Kim Goetzinger and Kirby Jones who both celebrate on June 1st.
Oh, and check out toolgirl.com for all your weekend DIY projects. It’s my favourite. Happy June, everyone.

Skidegate Socialite for May 26

I’m writing to you today within the last hours before the print deadline. Yes, I have suffered my first severe case of writer’s block. Funny enough, I didn’t stress about it. I slept on it.  Well, I’ve done just that: rested, showered, and fed, I feel the wheels churning in my head. I should also mention I’ve been under a lot of stress (but not half as much as my mom) due to the impending arrival of Nova, our Border Collie/Maremma Sheepdog pup, all the way from Nova Scotia. Flying a dog across country is a piece of cake – that is, unless you live in the middle of nowhere with only one flight in/out per day. HA! My mother, being as awesome as she is, has agreed to bring her anyway (even though it’s going to mean staying in Vancouver overnight with puppy in tow) but she’s not going to be happy about it. I have this in print now, so she OR Noora can refer to it for blackmail in the future.

So, how can I make it better? Well, a big pot of jum and a chilled bottle of white wine upon arrival should do the trick. Maybe I’ll even throw in some hot biscuits. Now, just to find some halibut; there were quite a few people out in their boats this weekend, so I’m sure fresh fish isn’t too hard to find.

This brings me to very disturbing news, however. Copper Bay season is just around the corner, if it opens. Yes, there is talk around the village that the numbers may not be large enough for Copper to open for food fishing. What’s the reason? Well, it could be nature. Things do run in cycles. But I think a bigger reason is the people who have gone to Copper Bay early and are poaching for profit. Yup, greed is threatening the supply of fish. Surprise, surprise. Some people are stupid enough to think the world revolves around them and it won’t affect them in the future. WRONG! If the salmon don’t get a chance to spawn, guess what? No baby salmon. No baby salmon means less salmon next year. More poaching next year will shrink the dwindling number even more, and well, you can figure out the rest. Please, if you see anyone selling fresh salmon in Sandspit, or Skidegate, or wherever, please please please do not buy it. You are helping fund illegal poachers. What’s done is done, but someone must put a stop to this. Many people are angry about the situation, but who will stand up and make a difference. I’ve done my job by informing you, although I won’t name names (even if I want to!). It’s up to you. Hopefully Copper Bay will open for the rest of us to feed our families but if it does, please respect the fish and take only what you need. We are so blessed on this island. Please don’t ruin it for our kids.

On a lighter note, if you’re not in the mood for fish now, Nancy O’Higgins is selling turkey pies and they are yummy! Please call 250-559-4559 to place your order or email me at whiteravenreturns@gmail.com. Pies are $4 and are 6”.

There are lots of events coming up this weekend. See last week’s column for a list. Lots of creative opportunities happening at the Kaay for artists and writers! Also, see flyers posted by Literacy Haida Gwaii. Don’t forget the Senbazuru of Hope garage sale and activity day May 14th!

Lastly, a very happy birthday to Mom and Uncle Lonnie Young who celebrate their birthdays on May 15th!

Skidegate Socialite for May 19

I’m writing to you today within the last hours before the print deadline. Yes, I have suffered my first severe case of writer’s block. Funny enough, I didn’t stress about it. I slept on it.  Well, I’ve done just that: rested, showered, and fed, I feel the wheels churning in my head. I should also mention I’ve been under a lot of stress (but not half as much as my mom) due to the impending arrival of Nova, our Border Collie/Maremma Sheepdog pup, all the way from Nova Scotia. Flying a dog across country is a piece of cake – that is, unless you live in the middle of nowhere with only one flight in/out per day. HA! My mother, being as awesome as she is, has agreed to bring her anyway (even though it’s going to mean staying in Vancouver overnight with puppy in tow) but she’s not going to be happy about it. I have this in print now, so she OR Noora can refer to it for blackmail in the future.
So, how can I make it better? Well, a big pot of jum and a chilled bottle of white wine upon arrival should do the trick. Maybe I’ll even throw in some hot biscuits. Now, just to find some halibut; there were quite a few people out in their boats this weekend, so I’m sure fresh fish isn’t too hard to find.
This brings me to very disturbing news, however. Copper Bay season is just around the corner, if it opens. Yes, there is talk around the village that the numbers may not be large enough for Copper to open for food fishing. What’s the reason? Well, it could be nature. Things do run in cycles. But I think a bigger reason is the people who have gone to Copper Bay early and are poaching for profit. Yup, greed is threatening the supply of fish. Surprise, surprise. Some people are stupid enough to think the world revolves around them and it won’t affect them in the future. WRONG! If the salmon don’t get a chance to spawn, guess what? No baby salmon. No baby salmon means less salmon next year. More poaching next year will shrink the dwindling number even more, and well, you can figure out the rest. Please, if you see anyone selling fresh salmon in Sandspit, or Skidegate, or wherever, please please please do not buy it. You are helping fund illegal poachers. What’s done is done, but someone must put a stop to this. Many people are angry about the situation, but who will stand up and make a difference. I’ve done my job by informing you, although I won’t name names (even if I want to!). It’s up to you. Hopefully Copper Bay will open for the rest of us to feed our families but if it does, please respect the fish and take only what you need. We are so blessed on this island. Please don’t ruin it for our kids.
On a lighter note, if you’re not in the mood for fish now, Nancy O’Higgins is selling turkey pies and they are yummy! Please call 250-559-4559 to place your order or email me at whiteravenreturns@gmail.com. Pies are $4 and are 6”.
There are lots of events coming up this weekend. See last week’s column for a list. Lots of creative opportunities happening at the Kaay for artists and writers! Also, see flyers posted by Literacy Haida Gwaii. Don’t forget the Senbazuru of Hope garage sale and activity day May 14th!
Lastly, a very happy birthday to Mom and Uncle Lonnie Young who celebrate their birthdays on May 15th!