Poppin’ good times
From left, Addison Simpson, Morgan Simpson, Rhonda Simpson and Taylor Simpson from Chesterville enjoyed the town’s Meet Me on Main Street event, with popcorn and goody bags from the local firefighters.        Sawyer Helmer photo

Despite the heavy rain showers throughout the day and a quick venue change to the safety of the indoors at the Chesterville Arena, the North Dundas Township’s fourth Meet Me on Main Street was another hit, drawing a large crowd to enjoy the community spirit of the event. Sawyer Helmer photo

Kalynn Sawyer Helmer
Record Staff
CHESTERVILLE – The Chesterville Meet Me on Main Street on Aug. 25, was a new take on the now well known and anticipated event. The Chesterville Arena was packed with residents happy to see the rain and that it did not deter the community celebration.

Music from Jeff and Joe entertained the crowd at the fourth Meet Me on Main Street. The duo played hit tunes from across the generations. Sawyer Helmer photo

“It has been great to see the strong attendance and community support for Meet Me on Main Street this year again. We have received such positive feedback on the craft beer, local food, and the chance to meet up with neighbours and friends,” said Mayor Eric Duncan. “The people of Chesterville always come out to local events to support them and have a good time. We were very happy that between 550-600 people joined us inside at the arena. A little bit of much needed rain did not put a damper on the event at all!”

Three year old Winne Anderson of Chesterville sported a zebra painted mask during the Chesterville Meet Me on Main Street on Wed., July 25. Sawyer Helmer photo

Everything available at the outdoor events was brought inside with enough food and drinks, activities and entertainment for everyone.

“It has been going great with big crowds and more every week. I think it is something we should continue doing,” said deputy mayor Gerry Boyce. He explained the decision was made to move the event indoors after weather forecasts threatened heavy rains on Wednesday. The planning team pulled together to make the necessary arrangements and residents were notified by Tuesday afternoon.

“Chesterville has long been known to enjoy the company of their neighbours. I knew people would come. I’ve been coming to events in Chesterville almost my whole life and they are always well attended and well appreciated,” said councillor Tony Fraser. “This being the fourth of five in the second year, and with the enthusiasm we are seeing I’m proud to say that this is a North Dundas event.”

With both Boyce and Fraser’s attendance at the community events, they have been available for residents to speak with, about issues in the Township. Fraser said he enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people at the events and speak with residents in a less formal atmosphere. Boyce said he was appreciative of people who take the time to speak with him. Boyce has already begun going door to door and said he will be busy all summer talking to the community. Fraser’s door to door campaigning will begin in August and he is eager to hear more from the residents.

Tonight’s party will mark the last of this summer’s Main Street events. With such a positive response from all of the communities it seems a no brainer to bring it back once again.