Meet Logan Houde. He was born in Estevan, Saskatchewan and moved to Kelowna in 1996.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
I love spending time with my girlfriend, Audrey. That being said, I'll never turn down the chance to hang out with my nieces, they are the cutest kids.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
There are a few I really like but World Beat Driving Range is always a good time. The owner, Robin, is always a blast to talk to. It's a relaxing way to spend an hour after work.
Describe yourself in one word.
Loyal.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
At this very moment? I would love to be somewhere a little quieter. And warm. And maybe a drink in my hand.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
It's a toss-up depending on my mood. It's probably a Rockets game or going hunting.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
The first time I ever placed stamped concrete I got myself stuck in the middle of the slab. I still hear about it years later.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I went on a missions trip to Haiti a couple years ago to help build a senior's home. Seeing third world poverty up close and personal. The lack of pretty much any comfort we have. That being said, I've never seen love like they showed everyone.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
It has to be racing home after school so I could go skateboard or play hockey with my friends. Pretty much did that every single day growing up.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I'm a member of the Volunteer Fire Department in Glenmore so along with the standard calls, we do a number of different things during the year to give back.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
People simply need to love each other and show grace to others. We start there, start small, things would be that much better. In Haiti, every person you pass walking down the road smiles and says 'Hi', regardless if you know them or not. I think if you did that in North America, people would think you are weird. That should change. Put down the phones, ask a random person how their day is.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
In the summertime, you'll find me running Knox Mountain for some alone time. In the winter, I'll be in my hunting blind in the woods to clear my head.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
The obvious answer is the traffic, it gets pretty bad. I definitely do not know what the solution is though.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The fact is people save money to vacation here. You can do everything. Great coffee, great restaurants, nightlife, beaches and parks, the best wineries, the mountain trails, and 20 minutes any direction puts you in the woods. There is something for everyone.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Learn how to play the drums
2. Spend a month in Europe
3. Learn French, so I visit my girlfriend's hometown in Quebec!
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I have a secret dream of being a stand-up comedian.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.
What is the name of your business/organization?
SK Form & Finish.
Why did you get into/start this business?
SK hired me five years ago to work up in Fort McMurray as an apprentice carpenter. Now I'm the Lead Estimator and I get the best of both worlds, office and on the tools.
What is the goal of your business?
Everyone at SK strives to give the best product we can. What really separates SK apart is how the owners, Steve and Angie, really believe in and live the values of the company. It starts at the top and all the guys really believe in them.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or life?
Probably just balancing my work life and personal life. Sometimes I find myself thinking about work when I'm not there and I should be enjoying whatever I'm doing at that moment.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't change anything. I'm really happy with the people in my life, the man I am and I wouldn't feel this way if I didn't trust in what God has planned out.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Pretty much daily I find myself defending my skinny jeans. Not a popular item of clothing in the construction industry.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
There comes a point in life when you stop being afraid of anything that gets in the way of growth.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I'd have to say, Conor McGregor. What he has accomplished with the power of visualization is unparalleled. Staying focused on the right things, even in times of struggle is when you’ll most benefit from the law of attraction. I'd love to talk to the man, take in what I can. Plus riding in his Bentley would be pretty slick.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local businesses, their owners and their employees usually are the heart of any city. I think that's the reason the Wholesale Sports and Targets didn't last here. Some of the best customer services are found at local stores.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
I really try to keep my pride in check but the trip to Haiti did bring a sense of accomplishment simply by working with the locals in the home.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I have to give a shout out to my Project Managers and foremen. I'm a student of the game and Tyson Hulme, Kris Courtoreille, and Reid Campbell have taught me so much.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
My boy, Tyson Irmen, Store Manager at Fountain Tire.
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.
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.
