Even though we had such a beautiful summer and nice, long fall, I still found the cold winds that blew this week seeming like it was too early for frigid temperatures like this. And a first winter storm is always a stark reminder of what Mother Nature is capable of this time of year.
Friday the inaugural Unity "Battle of the Blades" hits the ice. Closed practices have been underway for six weeks and competitors will skate to earn the coveted title. There is just no way any spectator will be disappointed with this unique entertainment. Cost to get in is only $5. The program starts at 7 p.m., but I guarantee you will want to get there early because it is rush seating and I am certain there will be a good crowd.
There is always room in the curling rink for spectators, or to join your favourite team in their spacious lounge, watching the big screen TV, following league draws Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Get your curling fix by watching some of our local teams compete.
The Miners are into their season. Most games are on the weekends and posters are up around town letting fans know of upcoming games. Why don't you check out some great senior hockey action this weekend?
Saturday, Ladies' Night Out will take place upstairs in the community centre. There are 22 vendors this year and the event will run from 6 to 10 p.m.. There is a $4 admission fee, and a portion will be donated to the Cam Cooper's children's trust fund.
Sunday pancake brunches have begun at the museum for the winter months. This is the museum's main winter fundraiser so come join them every Sunday until April from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Adanac Hall on the museum grounds.
The Lions club is hoping to have their Christmas trees in by next week so they can set up their Christmas tree lot. Residents can head to North American Lumber as Lions club members are braving the elements to help you choose your family's Christmas tree.
UCHS has been working hard on their two plays. Students and drama teachers have been working since September on their production set to present to the public Dec. 13 and 14.
Monday, Dec. 5, St. Peter's Church hosts a Christmas Service of remembrance for those who lost loved ones over the year. This service gives them an opportunity to mark their loss and hear comforting words to help them through the season.
Unity Chamber of Commerce is again offering the "Grand in your Hand" promotion. Shoppers at participating businesses are eligible for entry into this draw that will see three winners of $1,000 in Chamber Bucks to be spent in the community.
Another chamber event, sponsored by local businesses, is Santa Days at 2nd Avenue Cinema. Children can come for a free movie, Kung Fu Panda 2, at either a morning or afternoon show time. Santa visits the theatre and children can either have their photo taken with him, or just let him know what is on the list. Treat bags are also handed out for each child in attendance.
Unity United Church presents their annual Cantata in December. This year, they are performing a portion each Sunday of Advent, starting this Sunday.
The annual Secret Santa campaign is under way. Drop off points so far are the Co-op, Family Foods, Riou Law office and Sears. This campaign, in conjunction with the local food bank, aimed to make Christmas a little brighter for those in our community who can't afford the many things many of us take for granted. This fine group of ladies have been doing this project for more than 25 years. If you need any help in getting yourself out of Scrooge mode, this is one worthy project to donate your time to.
It is rewarding to see several local businesses being named in the top 100 companies in Saskatchewan. Congratulations to the JayDee Ag Tech who placed 34th, Northwest Terminal who came in at number 52nd, Delta Coop came in at number 94 and Viterra, which also has an office and terminal in Unity, earned top honours.
Coffee row folk have been discussing the theory that the universe has sped up and we can't possibly be heading to the Christmas season so soon. So again you can see we keep busy in Unity with activities and wisdom from our friends on coffee row. Until next week