Mr. Speaker, northwestern Ontario has been chosen by the Canadian Forestry Association as the forest capital of Canada for the year 2000.
The northwest's bid, led by Development Thunder Bay and Dryden Economic Development won out over rivals Calgary, Alberta and Haliburton, Ontario.
The Forest Capital Award is especially significant for the year 2000. Not only is it the millennium year but it is also marks the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Forestry Association.
This designation means that the region can go ahead with a series of legacy projects and a calendar year of events celebrating the economic, social and spiritual values of the forest.
Canada has much to celebrate.