Despite severe weather earlier in the day that resulted in the Meet Me on Main St. event being moved into the arena, people still came out in droves and were prepared to have a party. Tinkess Photo

Severe weather earlier in the day led to a change of venue, but it didn’t prevent Meet Me on Main St. Russell 2023 from being a resounding success.

As a result of severe storms earlier in the day, including two confirmed tornados that touched down in the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven, the decision was made to move activities into the arena. By 5:00 p.m. when the event began the sun was shining but being inside didn’t seem to bother anyone.

“Really, it just gives everyone a bit of certainty,” said Tim McDonald, who made the short trip from Metcalfe to see what was happening. “With the kind of weather we’ve been having lately, being inside just means they don’t end up cancelling at the last minute.”

It seems like most people agreed, as crowds began to gather shortly after the vendors were set up and the doors opened. Every door that could be opened was opened, providing good air circulation, so that the indoor temperature remained comfortable. This was a good thing because the band, Green Martini was playing it hot and had more than a few people up and dancing.

While all the Meet Me on Main Street events in the area so far have been successful, there was a particular sense of community in Russell, which this year is celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Police Village. Events are scheduled throughout the year and this one just added to the celebration.

With admission being free, it was difficult to find a reason to stay away, and those who took a couple hours out of their day to meet their neighbours and learn a bit more about the place they call home seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. The township had an information booth, as did the Russell Historical Society, the library, the emergency service providers, and the Lion’s Club, to name just a few. There were craft brewers, local wineries, coffee roasters and several local eateries, all doing their best to keep up with all the hungry and thirsty people who were there.

 Russell Mayor Pierre Leroux was in attendance and spent most of his evening chatting with residents. When asked why events like this were important to the people of Russell, he answered with no hesitation: Connection.

“You know, honestly, if you want, you can have a bunch of homes or you can have a community,” said Leroux.  “And the difference is the connection with your neighbours. That’s what is fantastic about these kinds of events, especially with the growth we’re seeing in Russell Township. This gives an opportunity for people to meet neighbours, connect, you know, and get to know other people with the same interests, to know what groups are out there, what businesses are available. It’s connection, 100 per cent.”