Heading into August long weekend already - wow, where did that time go? Please drive safe this August long. After Highway 14 near Perdue suffered two fatal accidents within less than 24 hours July 15-16, it is a stark reminder of the importance of driving defensively and safely. Arrive alive, folks.
A trust fund has been set up at Diamond North Credit Union for the children, Novalea, Kayleb and Ocean Pineo who survive their dad, Constable Derek Pineo. The account is in Natasha Pineo's name; please reference this as you make your contribution to this fund, in lieu of flowers to the family. If you are not a member of Diamond North Credit Union, you can visit your local credit union and request a courier deposit to this trust fund. A memorial continues to be added to along Highway 14 where Constable Pineo lost his life in the tragic accident.
Area athletes are competing in this year's Saskatchewan Summer Games in softball, baseball and volleyball. You can check out results for these, and other events, on the website www.riverswestdistrict.ca.
The Unity Cardinals will be in their league playoff and provincial run. The Cards head to Carnduff for their provincial quest. Congratulations to Cardinals pitcher, Cory Wildeman, who was on the list of nominees for the North Saskatchewan River Baseball League top players.
Last Thursday's community picnic was a big success. The weather couldn't have been more perfect for the community to gather for some fun. Other than the delicious barbecue, the proceeds of which went to the Arts and Culture Fund, all activities were offered free of charge for the pure enjoyment of the community.
Professional storyteller, Danica Lorer kept kids and audience members alike enthralled with her story telling. Local entertainment graced the stage keeping folks entertained as they ate their supper or strolled about the beautiful park. The bouncy house kept kids hopping, as did the Summer Fun Centre girls. The dog agility show is always a big hit and had audience members cheering and giggling at the abilities and antics of the performing dogs.
The Summer Games bantam softball team faced off against the Western Canadians bound UK Junior Royals girls' team in an exhibition game. There was not a moment to disappoint so hats off to the Communities in Bloom committee for hosting another wonderful multi-generational event in town.
The pool staff did an awesome job of National Drowning Prevention Week, hosting an activity each day to raise awareness and educate the public on drowning prevention. Each day an event was held to encourage the public to become engaged in education relating to drowning prevention.
The week began with a barbecue Monday to help raise money for the purchase of additional PFDs at the pool. The week wrapped up with a mock drowning rescue as well as a deck dance for all ages of participants. Another way community members, such as our local lifeguards, partner in the community to not only offer fun activities but educate on matters of safety.
There is only a few weeks left in the swimming pool season. It is one of the best places to cool off. The pool is open for public swimming each afternoon and evening, as well as offering weekday aqua-size classes. And watch for the ever-popular moonlight swims which take place after public swimming Wednesdays. As well, call the pool at 228-2133 to see if you can still register for the Bronze Medallion training, the diving clinic or the scuba diving class.
Check with the local golf course on upcoming events such as the Heartland Health autism fundraiser Aug. 11, as well as the annual Fun Day of golf coming in early September, as well as other golf events. The golf course is always ready for your golfing experience. Whether you are a recreational or serious golfer, tee times can be booked through the clubhouse.
This nine-hole oasis today is the home of junior national qualifier Justin Wood and senior golfer JP Boser. Justin left for his national competition in Nova Scotia this past Sunday and as of press time; I had no updates on his statistics so far. Watch next week for updates.
I have sadly and inadvertently left out a major source of entertainment in our community this summer. Don't forget Second Avenue Cinema is an air conditioned theatre with new digital picture and sound. They have been showing all the latest summer blockbusters and for much more economical family prices than big city theatres. They run a movie every night, with shows changing each week Fridays.
Coffee row folks certainly have much to discuss with the 2012 Olympics ongoing. As well, with the Riders now standing at 3-2 following another fourth quarter collapse, Rider fans are certainly concerned as they have watched what started out as an undefeated team lose two games in the last 15 minutes. And grandparents at the table are anxious to tell of their grandkids' adventures at 2012's Summer Games in Meadow Lake. Of course the weather topic is never off the table, especially with all the severe weather warnings and heat wave we have been experiencing ... So you see we keep busy in Unity with activities and wisdom from our friends on coffee row. Until next week ...
