Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It gives me great pleasure today to wish one of the most respected elders in the Mackenzie Delta a very happy 99th birthday.
Gwich’in elder Mrs. Mary Kendi, from Aklavik, is to be commended for reaching a milestone on living a healthy lifestyle. Mary has singlehandedly raised her children and provided a safe home for them.
Mary, in her life, has hunted, trapped and even owned her own dog team. In her 99 years of living, I wish to acknowledge Mary for promoting the Gwich’in culture and for speaking the Gwich’in language to many of us who know her.
Mary Kendi has a huge extended family who is celebrating with her today. Friends and family are gathering in Inuvik to have dinner and wish her well. Mrs. Kendi’s livelihood, act of living and positive outlook on life and family has given her the opportunity today to spend precious time with her family at 99 years young.
Mr. Speaker and Members of the Assembly, please join me in celebrating Mrs. Mary Kendi on her birthday today. I will also be celebrating on Saturday with the community as well. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Blake. Best wishes go out to the Kendi family and Mary on her birthday.
