We have many reasons to be proud of our city and we can add the events of this past weekend to the ever-growing list.
Not only did the residents of the Energy City show their generosity, they also displayed an incredible volunteer spirit over the past few days that helped two major events - the United Way Telethon and the SJHL Showcase - both become major successes.
The United Way went into their 35th annual telethon with the lofty goal of raising $300,000.35, which was the largest target in its history. There was no real doubt they wouldn't reach the goal, especially after raising just over $350,000 in 2010.
But, much like last year, the United Way didn't just surpass their benchmark, they obliterated it, raising in excess of $370,000 which was yet another new record for the organization.
The success of the United Way continues to be one of Estevan's great ongoing stories. The organization has a dedicated team of members who work year-round to ensure the telethon, which is so crucial to so many important groups in Estevan, is the success it is. Each year the event goes off without a hitch and that is a testament to each and every person involved with the telethon from the UW members, their volunteers and the generous residents and businesses of our community. Each year they step up to make sure the UW surpasses its goal and we owe all of them a huge amount of gratitude.
While the United Way was weaving its magic, a few blocks to the east, the SJHL Showcase was going on at Spectra Place. The event is one of the biggest on the Saskatchewan hockey calendar as it brings all 12 teams to one centre so the players can display their talents to scouts from various Canadian and U.S. colleges and the National Hockey League.
The Estevan Bruins were the hosts of this year's Showcase and were able to put on a first class event that drew raves from the fans, scouts and teams that made their way to our city.
Despite the fact a number of volunteers were concentrating their efforts on the telethon, roughly 200 people stepped up to help the Bruins organization host the event. Every facet of the showcase required some level of volunteer support and when it was all said and done the Bruins actually had to turn away people because so many were willing to help put on an event that also benefited the entire community.
Along with making the event a success, the volunteer support has also put Estevan on the radar for much larger events such as the World Junior A Challenge and the Royal Bank Cup.
Although those two events drew the spotlight, there were other reasons to be proud of our community. The local Wishmaker Walk for Wishes, which raises funds for the Make a Wish Foundation, was also a hit, bringing in $10,000 on Saturday. We also had MNP step up to donate 1,400 pounds of food to the local food bank and Enbridge contribute $15,000 for a new fire engine for Bienfait.
Estevan might have its problems and issues to sort through but that could also be said for any city. What will always set this community apart from others is the incredible level of generosity and support it continues to show day after day.
