Submitted by Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site--The Sandspit Visitor Information Centre, at the airport, is the first stop for many visitors arriving to the islands. As the front line for information about accommodation and things to do, it provides many benefits to visitors and island communities.2010 will see a major change at the Sandspit Visitor Centre. Carol Wagner, who has managed the centre since 1995, is stepping back as a first step towards her retirement. In the 15 years that she has managed the Visitor Centre, Ms Wagner has brought about many changes. She started the retail program which features works by local artists and artisans. She also helped the centre evolve into a welcoming and resource-filled Information Centre for both tourists and residents. She says she has really enjoyed working at the centre especially "meeting visitors, the people that come into the centre". "It is hard to step back, I just love it," she said. Her biggest enjoyment has been "working with the students that went through the centre and seeing where they've gone to now."The question is, what's planned for the Sandspit Visitor Centre now? Gwaii Haanas continues to support the centre by overseeing its programs, operations and Tourism British Columbia membership agreement. Day to day Visitor Centre operations are managed by a contracted manager. Ceitlynn Epners, Visitor Service Coordinator, Gwaii Haanas said "The Gwaii Haanas team thanks Ms Wagner for her hard work and achievements over the years and wishes her well on her future endeavours. We are disappointed to lose Ms Wagner's vast experience and our great working relationship. There is, however, an exciting and rewarding opportunity for another individual or organization to carry the Visitor Centre forward." A request for proposals will be advertised next month and interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit proposals. This is a great opportunity for an individual or organization with a background in tourism services or management to take on this established business opportunity and build the services the centre provides. Contact the Gwaii Haanas office for more info, 559-8818.