National applause for Hockeyville win

Hockeyville members Heath Marson, Chris Dawson and Debbie Marson with trophy in hand visit Council Chambers Monday Night.

Thrilled with the outcome of Saturday night’s results, Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota rose in the House this afternoon to congratulate the community for being named Hockeyville 2007.

Rota highlighted the committee’s efforts with the bid stating "On behalf of all Honourable Members I wish to thank Chris Dawson and the committee who organized North Bay’s entry, as well as the countless people who endorsed the bid."

The complete statement is below.

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Mr. Speaker,

I rise today to congratulate North Bay on being chosen as Hockeyville 2007. North Bay was one of five finalists vying for the coveted title, which was announced during the CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada broadcast on Saturday evening.

North Bay’s entry in the competition was spearheaded by Chris Dawson, and showcased the Canadian Pond Hockey Face Off and Tom Hedican’s ‘Coach for Food’ program. People from throughout Nipissing-Timiskaming and across Canada demonstrated overwhelming support for the North Bay entry, and it was thanks to their on-line votes that the community was crowned Hockeyville 2007.

The award is more than just a title; North Bay will play host to an NHL exhibition game, the community will be featured in a CBC television Hockeyville special in the fall, and the Memorial Gardens in North Bay will received $50,000 in arena upgrades.

On behalf of all Honourable Members I wish to thank Chris Dawson and the committee who organized North Bay’s entry, as well as the countless people who endorsed the bid. Congratulations North Bay – You truly are Canada’s Hockeyville!

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