As temperatures climb and greenhouses and nurseries are in full swing, many communities look for ways to beautify their streets and parks, in participation of the "Communities in Bloom" program.

Killarney Mayor, Rick Pauls, says the town has a very active "Communities in Bloom" organization within the Community.

"We have won awards on a provincial level, and on a Canadian level and this year we will be competing on an international level again, and we hope to be very successful to win an international communities in bloom award."

Mayor Pauls says the "Communities in Bloom" program is not just about beautifying the town, as it takes into consideration many different aspects of a town`s natural features, community supports and development.

Pauls shares that there are a few projects instigated that will enhance the town, the most significant will be the building of a new park at the corner of South Railway and Broadway, to commemorate a significant resident of the town, who has been instrumental in the town`s development and expansion for over 35 years.

The Killarney Foundation was founded by Mr. Keith Hemming in 1979, and awards grants and scholarships to support needs and interests, both locally and across the country, funding community programs and activities of a wide variety. The new park, Keith`s Corner, will be located at the corner of south Railway and Broadway, and should be completed by the end of June.

"Communities in Bloom" is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification with a focus on green spaces. Manitoba ``Communities in Bloom`` is the provincial edition.

Communities that are participating in the program are evaluated on their accomplishments in 6 judging criteria which focus on creating a vibrant community, a great place to live, visit and conduct business. These categories are: Tidiness, Environmental Action, Heritage conservation, Urban forestry, Landscaped areas and Floral displays with involvement by all sectors of the community being a component in all categories.

Mayor Pauls adds the town will begin construction on the new park, Keith`s Corner, very shortly and it should be complete by the end of June.