It's a great start to the year. That's from Portage and District Chamber of Commerce past-president Dave Omichinski as he recounts several events that transpired in 2017 thus far.

"A lot of good news, starting with Roquette," says Omichinski. "That caused an awful lot of excitement. I know that the inquiries that the City, PRED, etc., are getting -- that's really exciting. The economic impact's going to be fantastic."

He says he felt the Viterra Men's Curling Championship was the best curling in the world, and understands that Jeff Stoughton and Curl Manitoba encouraged the organizing committee to consider bidding Stride Place for the Ladies World and Junior World Championships.

Omichinski notes Louis Riel Day's warm weather also generated a huge turnout, with an amazing ice racing event. He adds the only downside was pond hockey had to be relocated inside due to the outdoor melting rinks.