Submitted by Haida Gwaii Skating Rink Society-It may be a bit early for skating, but the Haida Gwaii Skating Rink Society has officially been formed and is now in the process of raising funds to support the planning and construction of a skating facility in Queen Charlotte for use by all island residents.It is hoped that the necessary funds can be raised to construct a facility using synthetic ice that would allow for all types of use including figure skating, hockey, lessons, public skating and any other activity normally reserved for ice rinks. Due to climate and operating costs of an ice plant, an artificial or natural ice surface is not feasible. This is where synthetic ice comes in. Although not real ice, it allows the user to skate as if on actual ice. The one noted difference is that there is less glide on synthetic ice. which will make all of us stronger skaters.Imagine the sounds of kids laughing, their parents cheering as minor hockey becomes a fixture on Haida Gwaii. This dream can become a reality and the first step in that direction is the Haida Gwaii Skating Rink Society's First Annual NHL Playoff Hockey Pool. Over the next week, we will be putting together a playoff hockey pool as a fundraiser. Keep your eye out for more information and start thinking of your picks, bragging rights are on the line.