Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the community of Taber in my riding for being named a finalist in this year's Kraft Hockeyville competition and for being selected as Alberta's provincial winner, earning $50,000 for arena upgrades, along with a chance to compete for the $250,000 grand prize and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game. This recognition comes at a critical time for Taber. In December of last year, an explosion seriously damaged the town's arena and forced its closure, disrupting the local community, minor hockey and other community events.
Taber has a proud hockey tradition. It is the hometown of former NHL star Devin Setoguchi, and its rink has long hosted youth camps led by Calgary Flames alumnus Kris Versteeg, bringing the next generation of athletes together. Winning Kraft Hockeyville is a testament to community spirit, and Taber has shown exactly that in the face of adversity.
I wish the community of Taber the very best in the finals, along with the community of Tumbler Ridge, and I congratulate it on a truly deserving community-led effort.