Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This week people have been getting together in Fort Simpson for the Beavertail Jamboree. Celebrations kicked off last weekend and today is a big day with a community feast, official opening ceremonies, and tonight there will be fireworks. Our hardworking organizers have arranged a mix of events to get people outside in the fresh air. It’s time to enjoy the longer days of sunshine.

People will be coming into Fort Simpson from all over the Deh Cho, and Tulita, Fort Providence, Yellowknife, and even northern Alberta. The tradition of the Beavertail Jamboree began 32 years

ago and the festival is as lively as ever. This may be one of the longest continuous ones in the North.

There are activities for the youngsters and folks of all ages. Events have changed over the years, but this year some of the old favourites are back. One of these is a beard growing contest and another, for the more active, is dog team racing that starts tomorrow. There’s a free lunch followed by youth games, the corporate challenge, and the youth talent show -- and that’s just Friday. Saturday there’s another dog team race, snowmobile and snow cross events, and save some energy for one of the main events: the adult talent show. The talent show is my favourite event. I often enter the jigging contest with my daughter Diedra Villeneuve.

---Applause

Thanks to all the many volunteers and organizations that have contributed to the festival. In particular I’d like to thank Ms. Cindy Browning, president of the Beavertail Jamboree Committee. She has helped with the jamboree for the last nine years. Also I would like to thank the Members of the jamboree committee: Ms. Connie Villeneuve, Troy Bradbury, Ms. Darleen Sibbeston, and apologies to those that I missed. Corporate sponsors and the many volunteers deserve a very honourable mention.

I encourage everyone in Fort Simpson to come out and kick up their heels. I hope that the weather is great and everyone has a happy and safe weekend. Good luck to all. Mahsi cho.