Meet Greg Klohn. Greg is all about helping local business in the city he was born and raised. Greg loves to spend time with his partner Maddy as well as check out the local wineries.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I was born here in Kamloops and grew up in Westsyde.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
That's easy: my partner, Maddy. She keeps me sane and keeps me moving forward.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
There are so many to choose from! Scoopz, Terra, Red Collar Brewing, Jardines, Far & Wide, Brownstone, Jacob’s Noodle and Cutlet. All of them are run by the best people and supply our city with coolness!
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Tokyo - new technology, fun food, and tall buildings.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
I love heading to our local wineries to do tastings. I also love to head to Sun Peaks to ski when I have time.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
There are a lot of things...I'm really bad with names and am always trying to keep everyone's straight.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I don't have one single significantly inspiring moment. I have many moments that happen all the time. I always inspired by other business' work, the people I work with, and my friends and family. It's hard to pick just one!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I spent a lot of time with my dad in his shop, and many of the skills I have today came from him. My favorite memory is building lighting controllers with him.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am lucky that GK Sound is able to give back to the community in many ways. We sponsor different events throughout the city, donate rentals to non-profits, and give time to local organizations. Just today our team made a donation to City of Kamloops’ “Stuff The Bus” Initiative, supporting the Kamloops Food Bank. Something I’m really excited about is that this year, GK Sound is donating a bursary to the Westsyde Secondary Theatre Program - it means a lot to be able to give back to a place that really helped shape who I am.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Probably for people to get along. Also for dogs to live forever.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Red Beard for a nice cider and a picnic board.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I think it would be great for Kamloops to put on more city-wide events. The turnout is there, and it brings more culture, morale, and uniqueness to our city.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The landscape and the seasons - hot summers and snowy winters (except for maybe this year?). Also the people - we are lucky that Kamloops is filled with so many individuals who want to make the city better.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Build a cabin, get my pilots license, and buy a OneWheel.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I love science and space. You know those cheezie Netflix shows that are from the 90s that are all about the galaxy?
I might be the only viewer, but they are awesome.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Instagram for sure! I have a personal account (@gklohn) and an account for the company (@gk_sound) . Our dog also has an account, and – I’m not going to lie – it’s pretty impressive (@chancethelittlebrowndog).
What is the name of your business/organization?
GK Sound.
Why did you get into/start this business?
To be able to create and execute my own vision for events.
What is the goal of your business?
Our biggest goal is to provide quality AV services, no matter the event. We’re committed to top-notch event production, customer service, and a great experience.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I'm always on top of keeping up our inventory to reflect the newest and best technology, and sometimes it's exhausting! But we love being able to have what we need to bring what we want to life.
What do you always find yourself saying?
10/10! Can describe (but is not limited to): dog tricks, a good beer, buying a new tool.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Pay attention.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I recently went to Disneyland and spent the majority of the trip dragging Maddy around the park to look at speakers, lights and projectors. It would be awesome to hang out with the technical directors of the big shows, parades, and firework displays. Their job encompasses so much amazing technology! Plus they probably eat churros all day. My dream job for sure.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
As a local business ourselves, we understand the good it does to keep local businesses thriving. When you shop local, you are supporting a business owner, their family, their outlook on life, and the city.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Growing GK Sound.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Tyson Andrykew.
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!
