Jan. 15 seems to be the magic date to learn how arena activities are able to proceed for the remainder of the season. Unity’s arena has included a number of time slots for eight-person hockey practices and reduced numbers for public skating. The Unity Skating Club has proceeded in the same manner.
A big thank you to those who supported the museum fundraiser, as it helped add more than $4,000 to the museum’s budget. Those delightful gnomes were a big hit all over town.
The annual Ducks Unlimited banquet was another COVID-19 casualty, as organizers announced they are unable to proceed under current restrictions, but are hopeful for a return in 2022.
There likely will be a number of other events that normally take place in the first quarter of a new year that will be affected. Don’t be discouraged, as its all part of the process and these events will be back.
A year-end review from Unity Parks and Recreation Department holds many highlights. Even though recreation underwent multiple changes and guidelines to adjust to, this team worked to benefit as many as possible. Additional free time was used to build new indoor bleachers as well as some overdue repairs and maintenance at the arena. Painting in the arena included hallway lockers, lobby tables, outdoor bleachers and dressing rooms. The officials’ dressing room had a new washroom completed as well as a much needed facelift.
Parks cleanup included pruning, trimming and raking. Summer students were able to help with park equipment painting and other jobs. New bleachers were built at the ball diamonds.
The regional park campground had campsites enlarged and a new self-pay station installed with plans to upgrade fire pits next summer. Pleasant View Cemetery also saw some trimming and clean up, replacement of section markers, garage re-sided and additional cement runners poured. Fundraising is still underway for the replacement of new welcome and map signs.
The most exciting recreation news is seeing the exterior community centre renovations underway. Residents can expect to see a modern-look facility with grey metal siding, new entrance and a new roof.
Unity’s Economic Development Director also provided encouraging news from 2020 and heading into this new year. Several new businesses opened along with upgrades and renovation in some existing businesses.
Homeowners, with the combined help of extra time on their hands and a government tax credit, have been upgrading interiors and exteriors of homes and properties. The resident physician program has been well received and will continue into 2021. North West Terminal has said that previously announced expansions plans are being evaluated for this year.
Overall hope and optimism seem to be the theme for 2021.
Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...
