Winkler's community events have a new advocate. Nolan Dueck takes on the role of City Events Coordinator April 1, helping organize and promote activity at the P.W Enns Centennial Concert Hall, upcoming Meridian Exhibition Centre and numerous special events throughout the year.

"The exhibition centre is going to be a whole new ball game," he says, adding Winkler will soon be able to host new, larger events.

The Winkler Harvest Festival remains the city's premier events, though Dueck notes the summer festival may look different this year with two key changes; the construction of the Meridian Exhibition Centre west of the current arena, as well as the move of the Stanley Ag Society. Longtime fans may notice a slightly different site plan and the absence of the rodeo.

Dueck also acknowledged the work of his predecessor Deb Penner.

"Obviously Deb did a fantastic job for a long time and trying to fill her shoes won't be easy, but it's a challenge I'm excited for," he says, adding it's the festivals and special events that build a sense of community.

He says the hard work and stress of event preparation is always worth it. "There will be some long days and sometimes you're working weekends, but seeing the smiling faces and people enjoying themselves is the whole reason why someone would want to do this job."