Following a period of construction which had enhanced the Co-op gas bar in Kamsack, a “grand re-opening” was celebrated on May 18.
“A project like this doesn’t just happen, it takes planning, co-ordination and lots of patience,” said Gene Krepakevich, president of the board of directors of Yorkton Co-operative Ltd.
Krepakevich thanked “several folks” who helped with the project, including P & J Plumbing, IXL Marketing, Jake’s Painting, Wagner’s Flooring and Phil Gemme, the electrician.
“All thse folks were responsible for the finished results you are seeing today,” Krepakevich said, adding that he thanked the staff “for putting up with the dust and the frustrations that come with a renovation.
“You were all truly professionals throughout this process,” he said. Singling out a couple of people who, he said, really deserve much of the credit for getting this project completed: Darcy Napady, the petroleum division manger, and Jacquie McNeil, the site manager.
“I know you both spent long hours to make sure everything went well and we appreciate your efforts,” he said. “Finally, I want to thank our members for supporting us throughout the renovation, putting up with the dust, the lack of some food items while equipment was switched out and the general disarray of the site at times. You should all be very proud of the facility you have here in Kamsack.
“This renovation, along with the new food store that was built a couple years ago, has shown a large commitment into the Kamsack community; in fact, more than $5 million,” he said. “We are very proud to be part of this community.
“Our support extends beyond just facilities as we donated to more than 40 local groups and organizations in the past year. We made a $25,000 contribution to the Kamsack Medical Clinic and when you fill up with gas this week, we’re donating five cents from every litre to the Kamsack Nursing Home auxiliary.
“We live, work and play where you do and we believe it is every business’s responsibility to give back to the community.”
Kamsack Mayor Rod Gardner mentioned the original Co-op grocery that was in the shopping plaza, the new Co-op grocery store and the gas bar as significant developments in the community and thanked the Yorkton Co-op for its investment in Kamsack.
‘It is important that you succeed here,” Gardner said, adding that as a member of council it was a good experience working with representatives of the Co-op.
“We wish you all the success in the world,” he said. “This is a great facility.”
Krepakevich said that during the day food samples were being given away and members of the Kamsack Comprehensive Institute graduating class was on the grounds serving barbecued food in order to make money to help with the graduation ceremony.
People were encouraged to enter their name into a draw box, have their photograph taken with Cooper, the Co-op mascot and see the Dodge Viper, which is to be won by a draw.
Inviting everyone to tour the new Co-op gas bar, Krepakevich officially announced that the facility was completely renovated and open for business.
The Kamsack Co-op gas bar employs a total of 15 persons.
