In the game of life, TJ (Terri-Jo) Bratt is not a bystander. Born in Edmonton and raised in St. Albert, she later migrated to Osoyoos. In 1991 she attended the Hedley Blast, a high calibre country and western music festival. Sitting at the round table in our sun room she said, “I quickly fell in love with Hedley, When I noticed that the small confectionery in the heart of the community was for sale, I saw potential.”
The single story structure that piqued her interest had limited space, but it was the only local source for staples like eggs, milk, bread and potatoes.
“My offer was accepted and the paperwork was signed,” she said. “Then there was an unanticipated wrinkle. The day I signed the papers I was told the building directly across the street had also been sold and the buyer planned to operate a corner type of grocery store. This building was considerably larger and would undoubtedly be a significant threat to my little venture.” Astonished and deeply chagrined at this unwelcome development, she was momentarily shaken. “I asked myself, what was I thinking?”
Fortunately TJ and her siblings had been shown an example of fortitude and resilience by their parents. “Mom was very active in the community,” TJ said. “She took us along to her curling club, softball games, and to whatever she had planned. Even with five children, she always forged ahead. Dad owned a lumberyard and he many times told us we could accomplish anything we set our minds to.”
TJ was an apt observer and gladly absorbed the lessons of her parents’ example. From them she learned to think clearly and resolutely in trying circumstances, traits that have enabled her to survive ups and downs in her personal life and also her business ventures.
An action person, she began developing her potential early. In grade 4 she won a public speaking award. She also tap danced, highland danced, did babysitting and became a high school cheerleader. In her later teens, she did her work experience at Scotia Bank. Upon graduating, she was given the Chamber of Commerce award based on the question, “Who would be a good representative for your community?” The bank management recognized her giftings and offered her full time employment. At age 19, she was appointed to the position of branch Loans Manager.
In her early twenties a terrifying incident tested her fortitude and quick wittedness. While driving her friend’s car late one evening, the vehicle suddenly became airborne and plunged into the rushing North Saskatchewan River. Fighting fear and panic, she managed to manually roll down the driver side window, extricate herself, and swim to the shore. Because the car had hurtled over the trees along the river bank, there was no indication of an accident and the police didn’t believe her story until the vehicle was discovered in the river several weeks later.
When TJ took over her store here, fierce competition from across the street compelled her to rely on her innate ingenuity, explosive energy, and the lessons of her parents. She quickly applied for licensing to sell lotto tickets and also liquor.
Wanting to make a positive difference, she joined the Hedley Community Club. Here she met Doug Bratt and they soon realized they were equally committed to making Hedley an exciting, safe community. They began investing time, money, and energy in club ventures, including the ball park and outdoor skating rink.
Working closely on various projects, they soon realized they were kindred spirits. “In 1996 we eloped to Nelson and got married,” TJ said smiling. “Some years later when our competition was put up for sale, the numbers made sense and we bought it.”
Over the ensuing years they built a thriving enterprise. Their son Jake and also Doug’s two daughters put in time at the cash register.
This year has been a time of transition, with Viktorya and her husband Mike taking over the business, thereby freeing TJ and Doug to pursue other interests and commitments. I often see TJ’s car at the home of Natalie, a single lady up in age. “I bring her meals three times a week,” TJ said. “Natalie is very talented and often we sit at her kitchen table and write poetry together. Until Roland and Ena moved to Penticton, Doug brought meals to them.”
Although they are now technically in retirement, we shouldn’t expect to see them reclining in easy chairs for some time.