Rankin Inlet (Dec 03/03) - Randy Miller took a laid back approach to celebrating Canadian North's 10th anniversary in Rankin Inlet this past month. That's his style.

A native B.C.'s Okanagan Valley, , Miller will celebrate his eight-year anniversary in Rankin next month.

A long stint in one Northern location is nothing new for the regional manager, who spent 10 years in Nanisivik before coming to Rankin in 1996.

"When the office closed in Nanisivik, we didn't have anybody in Rankin," says Miller.

"The company wanted a representative here, so I was offered the opportunity."

Miller cites an increase in the number of flights per week to Ottawa and more passenger traffic as the biggest changes to the operation during his eight years in Rankin.

"Another good development is that we're now computerized in cargo.

"We'll also be getting new computer equipment over the next little bit that will upgrade our technology and be more user friendly."

Time to adjust

Miller says his time in Nanisivik made the move to Rankin easier, but there was still some adapting to be done.

"Nanisivik is much smaller than Rankin and it felt strange coming to a community where I didn't know anybody.

"I started to feel like part of the community in about six months.

"Even though I'm the lone Canadian North employee, I get a lot of help from the people at Calm Air. Everybody does their share to help out."

Miller is well known for his photography skills in Rankin.

He says while he did take photos in Nanisivik, Rankin has provided him with more opportunities through its larger population.

"More people here ask me to take wedding photos or submit photos for various projects, those types of things.

"My interest in photography was always there.

"Being in the North stimulates you to take photographs, but there was more opportunity for people to see my work in Rankin."

Home sweet home

Miller has no plans to leave Rankin anytime soon and says the hamlet has become very dear to his heart.

"I feel a part of the community and that's very important. I really enjoy what Rankin offers in outdoor activities.

"Just spending time outdoors is something that has really grown on me during my time in the North."