Thank you Mr. Speaker.

On my first occasion to speak in this honourable chamber, I`d like to take this opportunity to thank the constituents of the great Kenora riding for electing me.

Mr. Speaker: I recently had the honor of presenting Larry Hope with the Northern Ontario Award of Excellence to the Dryden Regional Training and Cultural centre located in the heart of the Kenora riding.

This Centre was designed with the community in mind, recognizing the local paper mill and wood products as the main industry in the region.  It is a state of the art, innovative centre for training and cultural events for the entire region.

I presented the award at the Fednor-sponsored Woodworks Gala in Toronto, which through its successful funding relationship with the  Canadian Wood Council, promotes Canadian wood products through various programs and services focussed on creating market access and demand.

So, Congratulations to the Dryden Regional Training and Cultural Centre for its commitment to excellence in serving the Kenora riding.