Dear Editor
I would like to extend my heartfelt thank you to the Battlefords and District Co-op, to all the management and staff that make the Co-op Mall what it really is: a second home for myself, the other independent tenants and the many regulars who come on a daily basis for breakfast, lunch, coffee and suppers. The customers become your friends and people meet, just to be there, because of that family feeling. It is a place where people mean something to each other.
It is with deep disappointment, that I had to close my business prematurely due to unforeseen circumstances that would not allow me to continue to be operational.
Throughout the initial move to the Co-op Mall, during my stay there, and up until my closing, the management and staff have been exemplary in their service and helpfulness to my business. The care and devotion the staff has to their jobs, I have never had the privilege of witnessing before. The Battlefords community as a whole should be made aware of how lucky they are to have such dedicated people who are working hard behind the scenes to make this mall what it is today.
There are individuals who are the face, heart, and soul of this mall. Roy Dussault, property/maintenance manager, always has a smile on his face and a positive attitude that we all could use in our day-to-day lives. Roy makes the Co-op Mall tick. He is without a doubt the nicest individual I have ever had the pleasure of encountering in my entire life. He is a man with a heart of gold.
John Bauer, who does the mall cleaning, does his job with the utmost pride. John is never too busy to give you a hand, and, yes, service with a smile, always.
A special mention of Pat Smith, general manager. As busy and as demanding as his job is on a daily basis, Pat always has time to say hello and check to see how things are progressing. He is a man with a vision that is great for the mall and the community. People like Pat have the fortitude to forge new roads that lead a community to brighter futures. Most importantly he is a good man.
Leanne, Butler, whom I came to know from her days working at the News-Optimist, is a hard working woman. Her job as events co-ordinator has already made a huge and positive impact on the community awareness of the Co-op Mall.
I am writing this letter to inform citizens of the Battlefords about the foundation of the Battlefords and District Co-op - the people who work there. These people are also the citizens of our community and people who keep the human element of business alive. Without that it would just another cold and heartless big box outlet.
Finally I would like to extend appreciation to all my valued customers. Your support through the years was greatly appreciated. The most rewarding aspect of my business was the close personal connections I made with many of my customers. That is one of the greatest gifts I received as a retailer.
I hope that the residents if the Battlefords continue to support the local businesses, as they are a strong thread that weaves support for many fundraising endeavours in this community. Those who are owner-operators are also citizens and members giving back in through donations of product, time or money. Together wondrous things can happen.
Susan Gaughan
Sleeping Beautiful.
