Western Nations Gas Bar Grand Opening

The Tŝilhqot'in Region is set to celebrate a proud community milestone on June 10, 2026, as the Western Nations Gas Bar officially opens its doors in Toosey / Risk Creek, British Columbia. Hosted in partnership with Tl'esqox / Toosey First Nation and Four Rivers Co-op, the grand opening is a moment years in the making - one that speaks to the power of community, cooperation, and cultural pride.

The day begins at 11:00 a.m. with a community BBQ, where guests, Elders, leadership, partners, and community members are invited to gather over hamburgers and hot dogs prepared by Four Rivers Co-op staff. It's an open, welcoming start - a chance to visit, reconnect, and share in the excitement before the formal ceremony gets underway.

At 12:30 p.m., MC Joey will invite guests to make their way toward the ceremony area, offering a warm welcome and a few housekeeping notes before the program begins. What follows is a ceremony shaped by Tl'esqox / Toosey First Nation from the ground up - beginning with a welcome prayer offered by Chief Francis Laceese or an Elder or designated representative of the Nation, and followed by drumming that fills the occasion with cultural meaning and celebration.

Remarks will then be shared by Chief Francis Laceese or a designated band member, speaking on behalf of Tl'esqox / Toosey First Nation, followed by Four Rivers Co-op CEO Allan Bieganski, and Federated Co-operatives Limited representatives Scott Pauptit and Colleen Lewis. These words will reflect not just the opening of a business, but the strength of the relationship that made it possible.

Before the ribbon is cut, Allan Bieganski will present five Western Nations beaded medallions to Chief Francis Laceese and the four Council members - a meaningful gesture of gratitude and respect. A gift basket, including ceremonial tobacco, will also be presented to Chief Laceese and any participating Elder, offered in recognition of the honour of working together.

At 1:00 p.m., the official ribbon cutting takes place, with Chief, Council, Four Rivers Co-op, and FCL representatives standing together for the moment that makes it all official. From there, guests are invited to continue celebrating - through photos, drumming, cultural activities, and more time around the BBQ - as the community gathers to mark this important milestone together.

The Western Nations Gas Bar represents something larger than a new fuel station in Risk Creek. It is a tangible example of what becomes possible when an Indigenous Nation and a cooperative business come together with shared values and genuine respect. For Tl'esqox / Toosey First Nation, it is a step forward in economic self-determination and community investment. For Four Rivers Co-op, it is a reflection of its commitment to the people and communities it serves. For the Tŝilhqot'in Region, it is a reason to celebrate.