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New manager on board at IPE

Armstrong’s own IPE has rounded up a new cowgirl to lead the pack, just in time for the 117th annual event
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The Armstrong IPE has hired a new general manager for the Aug. 31 to Sept. 4 fair.

Armstrong’s own IPE has rounded up a new cowgirl to lead the pack, just in time for the 117th annual event.

The Interior Provincial Exhibition (which runs Aug. 31 to Sept. 4) is bringing Yvonne Paulson of Gibsons on board as the new general manager.

“We had 48 applicants,” said Ted Fitchett, president of the board of directors. “Right from the time we started reviewing them she was at the top of the list.”

Paulson comes to the IPE with a wealth of experience within the agricultural fair industry, having spent 20 years with Telus in heading up sponsorship marketing, event planning and implementation. She worked extensively with Spruce Meadows, Calgary Stampede, the World Professional Chuck Wagon Association, National Finals Rodeo and fairs and rodeos around Alberta.

“She knows how to talk the talk and walk the walk,” said Fitchett, adding that she is highly organized and strong in business and budget management.

Paulson, who is currently GM at the Coast Reporter newspaper, is excited to be relocating to the Armstrong area and assume the role of GM at the IPE on Aug. 2.

“It’s a dream job for me, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” said Paulson, a wife and mother of two grown children. “It’s always been very near and dear to my heart.”

While the board is excited to have her, it is an intense time that Paulson is coming on board.

But she is ready to pitch in.

“I have been seen picking up a pitchfork and cleaning out stalls,” she said.

Having visited Armstrong a couple times now, Paulson is getting her bearings on how the IPE operates. And she is falling in love with the city.

“It’s a really welcoming community.”

 



Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
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