Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as part of the Assembly's vision document, Towards a Better Tomorrow, we are looking to help foster self-reliant, healthy individuals, families and communities who are doing their part to improve the quality of their own lives and others as well.

As people make lifestyle choices, Mr. Speaker, more and more are making the choices for a healthier and more satisfying lifestyle. Last Monday evening, I met some of the ten Yellowknifers who are on their way back from the Calgary Marathon. Eight participated and completed the full 26 mile marathon and two more did the ten kilometre run. On the hottest day of the year so far in Calgary, all of the Yellowknife participants completed their race.

Of about 3,000 participants, the northern representatives made a good showing. I would like to compliment Francis Chang, Sheila Devine, Dan Daniels, Bernie Hughes, Sonya Zimmerman, Terry Chang, Starr Stinson, Michael Neary, Kyle Kelly and Kathryn Schenher on achieving their personal goals and completing this event.

I would also like to acknowledge the running and exercise programs of my constituents at Body Works Training and Rehab Centre on the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Through their learn to run programs, many citizens of Yellowknife have joined in this wholesome activity in their search for healthier lifestyle choices.

We also have events in Yellowknife such as the Terry Fox Run, the Run for the Cure, and the Young and Old in Step, an annual family walk sponsored by the seniors. They raise money, increase awareness and also exemplify the volunteer culture here in the North, whether it is holding a stopwatch at the finish line or passing out juice to the many walkers and runners.

The premiere event on the local calendar for runners is at the end of August, when the Yellowknife marathon and half-marathon are held. A large number of territorial athletes will compete and it will also attract a number of runners from across North America. It is just one example of how a few determined people, when they get together, can create another special event.

We have been challenged to enter a team, Mr. Speaker. They have already named us "You can run but you cannot hide." Perhaps we can ask our Clerk, the guy who sets the pace here, Mr. Hamilton, and Mr. Handley, the guy with the spiffy new finance footwear, to help lead our delegation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause