During the monthly review of sales in Weyburn and area business people are reporting average to slow sales, but at the same time, are optimistic for an good end to the year with the Christmas rush approaching.

At Silver Rose, manager Kaye Baudria says business is a little slower than what it usually is, but overall it's pretty well on track. "Usually December gets a little busier and November is little slower," said Baudria.

Hair Villa's independent stylist Tammy Lawrence, says November was quite slow for the hair-styling crew.

"I think it's just the economy because of farmers not knowing whether they have money or not, and with people not knowing whether they have money or not." Lawrence says there is a possibility it will pick up with the Christmas season.

Barber Motors business manager Greg Erixon says last month's sales went a lot better than expected.

"I'd say it's a little down from last year but the way the economy is, we're very happy with the way the month went. We still have a lot of optimism with ending off the year on a positive note."

At Great Plains Ford (1978) Ltd. owner Al Tosczak says November was an average month. Compared to last year, it was "maybe a little less, but last November was pretty strong." Tosczak says he expects the year to be slightly above average for the year overall.

"I think Weyburn is fortunate to be in a good location where the economy is fairly-well diversified between farming, oil and ranching, and the retired folks help out as well," said Tosczak.

Topknots and Tails owner Dellie Montreuil said November was slow.

"For me it always gets slow in November, everyone is waiting to get the dog groomed as close to Christmas as possible, so for me that's normal." Montreuil says November of 1999 was about the same as November of 1998. "It seems to be on an even keel here, I'm certainly optimistic about December."