Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to welcome everybody back. I hope you had an enjoyable summer. I would have to say mine, like most of you, went very quickly.
Today I would like to recap my summer adventures. Like most of you, I was dealing with constituents' issues. Some were more complex than others. Each session becomes a learning opportunity and a good reference for future challenges people face.
Mr. Speaker, there were a number of babies born in the riding, as well. It was great to see the happiness they bring to the families and communities. I am happy to say my family grew by one this summer. On Aboriginal Day, my newest grandson, Ezra James Whelly, was born. My soccer family also saw a number of new additions, as well.
Late June, the community of Fort Simpson had the opportunity of having Minister Abernethy attend a community meeting. This was a rescheduled meeting and well attended. It also
coincided with the same time the region had experienced a number of tragic deaths. We had a number of great discussions, and I thank the Minister for attending.
A couple of weeks later Minister Schumann and Minister Sebert did a regional tour to all six communities. I believe the trip was very helpful for the Ministers to see first-hand some of the challenges they face, and I thank them for coming.
As in past summers, I had the opportunity to work with youth from across the NWT and Nunavut who were selected to be part of the Northern Youth Aboard experience. It was amazing to witness first-hand the youths' growth. I was lucky to see youth from my riding, Fort Liard, Fort Simpson, and Nahanni Butte, make it through the Canadian and the Next Phase. Later in this session, I will be doing a Member's statement about this organization.
As has been the practice of former Nahendeh MLAs, I hosted the 15th annual Nahendeh Classic. I would like to thank the businesses and organizations from Fort Simpson, Hay River, Yellowknife, and Vancouver for providing the prizes, and the 12 teams that took part. Like other ridings, the communities hosted spiritual gatherings, festivals, and hand game competitions. It was great to see the excitement of all those involved and the willingness of people to come out and volunteer.
Mr. Speaker, there were a number of people who passed away, and I will be doing eulogies on these individuals. It is my common practice to work with the families to share their life with the people when they wish to. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.