In Focus | Craig Richard

Meet Craig Richard. Craig is from Red Deer, Alberta, but has lived in Kelowna for nine years. He is a determined man who loves to take part in activities like snowboarding and wake surfing.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Im grew up in Red Deer Alberta and have lived in Kelowna for 9 years.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
I have no absolute favourites but I am lucky enough to have an amazing circle of family and friends.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Central Kitchen and Bar on Ellis, a great little spot with great food and drink with a super inviting and friendly staff.

Describe yourself in one word.
Determined.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would love to go to Melbourne Australia. I've heard amazing stories from friends that have had once in a lifetime adventures, plus its a springboard to the other side of the world.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Snowboarding at Big White in the winter, Wake Surfing in the Summer.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I've been on a few dates recently and the other day I got a "Good Morning Handsome" text followed by an "Oh Sorry, that wasn't meant for you" text. That was a good one that I had to laugh about, at least she had the integrity to tell me the truth.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
The support of my friends and family had pulled me through some tough times. A couple of years ago there was a combination of negatives that really tested my resolve and I have to say thank you to all my loved ones that supported me. They helped me to get through the tough times and start the journey of where I am today. I am forever grateful for their help and will always owe a debt of gratitude. You know who you are and I thank you!

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Enjoying family vacations with my Mom, Dad and brother. My Dad worked really hard and had to put in overtime to give us the little extras. It makes the memories all the sweeter being older and understanding the sacrifices that he made to provide us with some great adventures.

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Unfortunately, my schedule doesn't allow me to volunteer in the traditional sense, but I love to help out random people with the unexpected. I feel that you can leave an impression with a stranger buy giving them the smallest kindness or gesture. You don't have to donate a million dollars to make a difference in someone's life, sometimes all they need is a smile.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Government.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I like to hike Knox and reflect in the vista, we live in a beautiful place and I try not to take it for granted.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I believe that more can be done for our cities homeless and vulnerable. Its so easy to judge people and be dismissive of their situation but if given the right guidance, you'd be surprised what people are capable of. Sometimes you just need to listen to make a difference in someone's life.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The culture, its unique and something to be proud of.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Solo Skydiving Certification.
Tour of World War II battle sites in Europe.
Learn to ride switch on my snowboard.

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was a 5 pin bowling champion at the age of 5.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Instagram @moustachechronicles or @canadiancraigers.

What is the name of your business/organization?
Wine Country Maintenance & Reliability.

Why did you get into/start this business?
I kind of fell into it and became very proficient through experience, I really enjoy contributing to a positive culture change in a working environment.

What is the goal of your business?
The goal of WCMR is to have businesses realize savings and efficiencies while making it a more transparent and enjoyable place to work. For every function there's a process, most just aren’t documented.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Maintaining your integrity and sticking to your beliefs, you will always be challenged in work and life and maintaining your character can be at times, more than a little difficult.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
No Regrets!

What do you always find yourself saying?
"Sweet baby Jesus."

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Stick to your word, in the end, that's all you have and it's worth more than gold.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Joe Rogan, that guy is my spirit animal!

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Shopping local helps the local economy, easy win. Why give Mr. Walmart your money when Ms. Localshop has the same product and her child goes to school down the street? I feel bad if I don't shop locally!

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Making Mom and Dad proud, I owe those people everything.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Paul Young, he is one solid dude that knows the meaning of a favor.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Carey Missler.

Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thanks for the opportunity to highlight myself and my business, I appreciate it!

We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.