Celebrating Roots & New Beginnings at Food Grand Re-Opening

On Wednesday May 21, Dawson Co-op proudly welcomed members, staff, and community partners to a special celebration marking the Grand Re-Opening of our Food Store and our inaugural annual Founders’ Day Ice Cream Social.

The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together community leaders, members, and special guests in celebration of this exciting milestone. The program featured remarks from MLA Larry Neufeld, who congratulated the Co-op on its legacy and investment in the local economy while noting his own roots with Saskatchewan co-operatives; Mayor Darcy Dober, who emphasized the Co-op’s long-standing role as a cornerstone of Dawson Creek; and CEO Rod Hillary, who shared details about the $6 million renovation and thanked staff, members, and contractors for their support.

MLA Larry Neufeld

Dawson Co-op CEO Rod Hillary, Dawson Creek Mayor Darcy Dober, and MLA Larry Neufeld

Guests and staff

Board President Darren Shankel wrapped up the ceremony with warm words of appreciation for the entire Dawson Co-op community, noting the significance of Founders’ Day and the cooperative values that continue to guide our organization. Following his remarks, the ribbon was officially cut—marking the grand re-opening of our beautifully updated Food Store.

We were thrilled to be joined by many distinguished guests, including City Councillors Mike Sudnik, Kyle MacDonald, and Gregg Appolonio, representatives from WL Construction, FCL and some of our vendors, Lake View Credit Union Co-CEO Justin Lajeunesse, former MLA Mike Bernier, and well-known business leaders Judy Kucharuk (Director of Marketing at Ovintiv Events Centre), Sue Kenney (former Executive Director of Community Futures), Daneka Hussey-Hughes (Dawson Creek and District Chamber of Commerce Executive Director), Mike Zygun (Principal, Force Engineering) and Chef Regan King from Northern Lights College. Their support helped make the day even more meaningful.

Inside, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as members explored the refreshed store and enjoyed delicious food tastings throughout the aisles—from fresh bakery treats and deli samples to new local and Co-op brand favourites. Our Food Store managers and staff looked extra sharp in their Co-op scarves and ties, proudly welcoming everyone and sharing the story behind the store’s transformation.

Peter Lavandier, Food Store Manager

Janelle Letendre, Food Store Assistant Manager, and Crystal Robar, Supervisor

Suzette Johnson, Meat Department Manager

Tyson Pohl, Produce Department Manager

The celebration included five exciting prize draws, capped off with the grand prize—a 60-second shopping spree—won by the very lucky Dave B! His speedy dash through the store brought cheers and plenty of excitement.

Prize Draw items

Robyn Larden, Marketing Co-ordinator

In the Co-op Mall, the Founders’ Day Ice Cream Social offered a sweet treat for all. Dawson Co-op board members happily served up Island Farms ice cream, while families gathered around the Kids’ Club table to spin the wheel for fun prizes and take part in the festivities.

Board Directors Wayne Ezeard, Judy Clavier, and President Darren Shankel

Robyn Larden and Charlaine Tingson, Summer Marketing Intern

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate with us. Your support makes moments like this possible. Here’s to our shared roots, renewed spaces, and a bright Co-operative future ahead!

→ (all images taken by the incredibly talented Jessica Kimble Photography)