Meet Kris Kringle! Kris is from up north but spends a lot of time in Kamloops. He is a jolly fellow who loves spreading Christmas cheer!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
Kamloops but I prefer not to discuss the timeline because it may give away my age ;). I have been around long enough to watch a wonderful community blossom into the city it is today (there are more people per capita on the nice list right here Kamloops).
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My lovely wife of course. I couldn't do anything without her in my life.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Well, that's almost impossible to pick but I could narrow it down to the local shops in town who have invested in our community.
Describe yourself in one word.
Jolly.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Right here right now. The key to being jolly all the time is seeing the blessings in my life right now and being happy with where I am.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Kamloops has so many amazing activities to choose from it would be almost impossible to pick one but I have tried pickleball recently and that's a racket.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Well, recently I was at a staff function with all the "workers" and I sat down in a broken chair and slowly fell over dispensing cookies all over the room. Got a little rosey on that one.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Watching the Kamloops community support their town. From the local Rotary clubs to the radio stations with Basics for Babies and Toys for Kids and the local paper with their Christmas cheer fund to events like boogie the bridge and Brennan's Ugly Sweater Run and of course, KamloopsBCNow helping to promote local businesses. You're all on the nice list.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Well, it was some time ago, however, it was probably Christmas morning when I was a child. Christmas was special in my house, almost magical.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I do my best to spread the Christmas spirit wherever I can. It might be the young boy next door that shovels your driveway or the exhausted mother of 3 that gives you a warm smile as she holds the door for you at one of our great local shops. You see I can't do everything but if we share the Christmas spirit in the way we know how it will multiply. I see it every year :).
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Well, I do my best but it would be to eliminate hate. hate comes in all forms and I have found when your heart is full of love there just isn't any room left for hate.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
While I respect those who enjoy the solace of being alone I actually prefer the company of others.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
Well, I always find it tough to find things that we could do better however selfishly I would love to see more of you at the Kamloops Blazers games. I have always found the games much more than just a hockey game but a chance to see friends and spread joy.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The people.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. See everyone in Kamloops on the nice list.
2. Take the sleigh down mount Paul (With all the proper safety gear of course).
3. Enjoy a Christmas play in a new Performing Arts Centre in Kamloops.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I Can't actually see you when you're sleeping, that's just weird.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
@christmasinkamloops.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Christmas In Kamloops.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I followed my passion for helping people.
What is the goal of your business?
The spread Christmas Cheer for all to hear and help support our local economy.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
December 24th is a bit hectic but I must say that's half the fun.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Merry Christmas!"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Forgive someone this Christmas it is the ultimate gift that benefits both parties.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
It would have to be Santa. Yep definitely Santa Claus.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Shopping local stimulates our economy and helps put food on the table for all of our entrepreneurs and their teams and they support our community. Remember Amazon has never supported your kids' sports team.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Hopefully, it hasn't come yet.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Jesus Christ, I heard his birthday is coming up.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
There are some great local businesses promoting gift ideas from their respective companies who would benefit from some love.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I hope everyone finds time to celebrate the Christmas season and spread some Christmas cheer this season.
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. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
