It is a small committee of eight that plans an evening to recognize those in the community who help make it shine.
There are no fancy "Oscars" to hand out, but guests are treated to a fabulous meal, a program outlining the stories of all the honourees and the fabulous entertainment group, Hoja, in an evening to celebrate Unity.
Con Alexander Trucking was recognized for celebrating their 30th anniversary in business. The business has evolved from a one-truck operation to a company that employs 19 full-time drivers in addition to five office staff, as well as the eight full-time employees who work on their gravel crushing unit.
Unity Photos, operated by Nick and Lil Seneshen, was recognized for a milestone of 60 years in business in Unity that started out on Second Avenue. They developed their first film for 40 cents. The Seneshens have been part of more than 12 different community organizations.
New businesses recognized included Cross Fit Lair, Envious Nail Design, Healthy Glow Massage, Rustic Imprints, Savage Services, Special Event Rentals, Unity Design and Drafting and Unity Family Foods.
New managers recognized included Loretta Bergen from Fields, Sharon Del Frari from Parkview Place and Todd and Kelly Worthington, who now operate Polar Pure Water.
The UK Royals Junior B Ladies' Provincial Ball Committee, the Pee Wee Boys Provincial Baseball Committee and the Sask. Registered Music Teachers Association were recognized as groups and committees who hosted large scale events in Unity.
In the exemplary service category, the Unity Food Bank was recognized along with Lois Gilbert for her initial start-up of the Secret Santa program and her long-time commitment to see this project continue.
Freda McCallum, at 101 years of age, was honoured as curator of the Unity and District museum. To be a curator, one must attend six workshops and pass written exams on each workshop including a workshop that is about the aims and aspirations of the museum. It is an all-encompassing job that includes helping with fundraising, applying for grants and supervising storage and care of artifacts. Freda was first to acknowledge the commitment of long-time volunteers at the museum to keep it in tiptop condition. A rousing standing ovation was given to Freda for her years of dedication to this part of Unity's community culture.
Lorne Fell did a terrific job of auctioning off the services that were donated from various people and businesses. The 50/50 pot was won by Michael Wismer who in turn handed over his share of the winnings to the Unity and District Food Bank.
MC Gerald Hauta, was running the program up to that point, but Geraldine Barrett stepped in to recognize Gerald for his enthusiasm and rejuvenation of the Chamber of Commerce once former president Norm Tarasoff left. Geraldine informed the audience Gerald is committed to a number of different things in his community and he still chose to stay on as chamber president. The Celebrate Unity event was just one of the new ideas that Gerald spearheaded. His sense of humor at a microphone has been enjoyed by many and even though his tenure as Chamber President is over, his commitment to Unity continues on in many other facets.
