Unity Celebrates 105-Year Pharmacy, 4 New Businesses

Unity, Saskatchewan just proved that small town business is alive and thriving. The town's Chamber of Commerce gathered residents to celebrate milestone anniversaries and welcome new entrepreneurs who chose to build their futures in this tight-knit community.

The night's star was Our Drug Store, marking an incredible 105 years of service. Owner Shannon Ireland represents the fourth generation keeping the doors open since before 1920, working alongside her mom Bev Simpson and 10 other staff members.

Shannon's journey mirrors countless small-town success stories. She worked summers at the pharmacy during university, graduated with her pharmacy degree in 1995, and bought the business just one year later from Jim Housen, whose father Harvey had purchased it in 1945.

Two other businesses hit the 30-year mark. Dale and Shirley Reiter of Image Glass & Mirror have been serving Unity since 1995, handling everything from vehicle windshields to memorial stones. Mark Mauthe's Maverick Tannery connects with clients worldwide while honoring Indigenous leather crafting traditions.

But the real energy came from Unity's newest residents. Kirby Heitt opened New Heitts Powerhouse after a beloved spin studio closed, creating a space where riders lift each other up. Dr. James and Koreen Lawrence bought the local optometrist office and a home in town, splitting their time between Unity and North Battleford.

Kyler Markowski and Jane Rusbridge transformed a dormant motel into REMO Stays, offering modern rural accommodations. Bryce Barbeau brought Wheatland Accounting to town after the previous accountant retired, ensuring farmers and small businesses keep getting expert help.

The Ripple Effect

These stories matter beyond Unity's borders. Every time an entrepreneur chooses a small town over a city, they're voting with their future for community over convenience. When a 105-year-old pharmacy stays family-owned instead of becoming a chain, it preserves the kind of personal service that knows your name and remembers your grandmother.

The new businesses fill gaps left by retirements, proving that rural economies can regenerate when people see opportunity. Dr. Lawrence and Koreen didn't just buy a practice. They bought a home, signaling they're invested for the long haul.

Unity's celebration shows a town refusing to fade. While headlines often focus on rural decline, this Saskatchewan community is writing a different story with welcoming arms for newcomers and gratitude for those who've served for decades.

Small towns survive when people choose them, and Unity is making that choice easier every day.