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Meet Yvonne! Yvonne is originally from the Sunshine Coast and has been living here in the beautiful Okanagan for three years now. She enjoys touring the many incredible wineries in the area, shopping at the local shops here in Kelowna, and spending some quality time with her family.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I have lived in Vernon for 3 years came from the Gibsons, BC (Sunshine Coast).
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband and grown kids. Family is so important and they make me happy.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
All of them! I love to shop!
Describe yourself in one word.
Effervescent.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Europe. I dream of going away for a month and visiting Scotland where I was born.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Wine Tours
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Having the opporutnity to work for the IPE and be a spokesperson for agricultural fairs in BC.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Winning my first trophy for public speaking, I was horrible but still won this big trophy. Pretty thrilling and encouraged me to embrace public speaking.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I sit as a volunteer on the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions. This benefits the IPE and BC.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
More face to face communication and less Facebokk rants.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Shopping
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
It's tough to say but I guess to have less traffic.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The lake, wineries and restaurants
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Go to Europe
Have my kids live closer
Lose weight (always on my list)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm really a very private person.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
All of the above you mentioned and texting.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Armstrong Interior Provincial Exhibtion
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have been involved with events for decades and this seemed like a natural progression.
What is the goal of your business?
To bring a safe, friendly and entertaining experience to fairgoers.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Trying to make everyone happy.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Awesome.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Always be open to new ideas and keep communicating."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Michelle Obama
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think it's important to keep the dollars within local businesses and not with the big chains.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Living through the fair each year!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My husband, Brian Paulson. He has supported me in my career and is the perfect partner in life. Respectful, kind and giving.
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