The Haida Heritage Centre is a fantastic facility and Skidegate did an incredible job of introducing it to the world during last month's Skidegate Days festivities, says North Coast MLA Gary Coons. "It's an awesome learning centre," Mr. Coons said following a five-day visit to the islands in July. "The key thing is not only is it a powerful emotional walk through the past, it's the present and more importantly, the future." The MLA said he and his wife, Lois Elliot, really enjoyed the Skidegate Days welcoming feast, with its great food and dancing. After spending a couple of days in Skidegate, Mr. Coons and Ms Elliot biked to Tlell, where Mr. Coons held a meet and greet at the Rising Tide Bakery. Many constituents came to speak to him about issues ranging from the bear hunt, to support for women on the islands, to the proposed land use plan. As far as the land use plan goes, Mr. Coon said he would like to see some more information from the government about programs to help out communities affected by lower cut levels. "The question I have is the government prepared to stand up for island communities? Where's the programs, the strategies, the iniatitives?" he asked. "Communities need something right now." Mr. Coons said he ran into about six cabinet ministers on the islands while he was here, and said it's great that they're getting familiar with Haida Gwaii and its issues. He also spent time in Port Clements, Masset and Old Massett before returning to Prince Rupert.