View of Richmond

February has definitely left folks with a taste of winters from long ago. With snow storms arriving on a weekly basis, leaving mounds of snow which, although lots of fun for kids, leaves us older folks with a lot of shovelling and snow blowing if we want to get out of our yards. But with the heavier snow fall come lots of outdoor activities which visitors as well as locals can enjoy. Snowmobilers and ATV enthusiasts are able to take to the fields and trails for hours of enjoyment after the work day has ended and during the weekends, which in past winters with the less snow fall limited their activity. This is also a perfect winter for folks who enjoy snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing, not to mention those who like to take to the slopes for a day of down hill skiing. February, although a hindersome winter for clean up, has been a Godsend for ski resorts. Ski Ben Eoin and the just recently reopened Cape Smokey Ski Hill must be very happy to see the beautiful natural snow falling to cover the slopes, giving them a white velvet covering for skiers to enjoy.

And for all those who like indoor activities, there are lots to take in around Richmond. On February 26th, as part of Richmond's 22nd Annual Winterfest, there will be a Roast Beef Dinner and Dance held at the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 150) in Isle Madame. The dinner comes with roll and dessert served with tea or coffee, will begin at 6pm. The dance will run from 9pm until 1am with music by Rockin' Country, attendees must be over 19 years of age, tickets are available at Branch 150 or by calling 1-902-226-3089. Canteen and Bar services are available and there will be door prizes awarded. On Sunday February 27th, there will be a Roast Beef Supper held at Our Lady of Assumption Parish Hall in Arichat from 4pm until 6pm. Advance tickets only, for details and tickets contact Doreen at 226- 2819, Carmelia at 226-2623 or Cathy at 226-2211. Also on Sunday, as part of Richmond's 22nd Annual Winter Festival, there will be Free Skating from 3.30pm until 5pm, at the Richmond Arena in Louisdale. For more information you can contact Kenny Walker at 1-902-345-2889.