The First Responders Night got rained out last month, so they rescheduled on a Sunday afternoon. The firemen from all around invite the kids to play at putting out 'fires', while the police, highway patrol, and military usually put up informational booths and give out freebies. There is face-painting and bubble-blowing and snack food, and a good time is had.

Since the church is on Main Street, where the festivities take place, the members open their doors so people can use the facilities. They also supply 'bubble stuff' and inflate the bouncy castle. Nobody sells anything and I didn't see any dinosaurs.

This photo will show you where the church is: on the left is a print shop, built in 1876, about the same time as the church. The local historians point out, 'Segmental-arched windows, stone corner quoins, and an elaborate cornice and parapet at the gable end facing the street distinguish this building.' There's always been a printing company or a newspaper office there, but I believe the people who take the school pictures use it now.

Next comes the church, same vintage. Then a side street, behind the bouncy castle, which isn't usually there. On the other corner is a tastefully-designed McDonalds, complete with drive-thru. It doesn't clash with the general ambience of the town. Behind the golden arches you may glimpse the roof of what appears to be Sydney Opera House. Immaculate Conception parish built their original church at about the same time as First Baptist. Unfortunately (one might say, 'sadly'), in 1977 they tore down their period building and replaced it with this architectural fancy. De gustibus non est disputandum, and they are otherwise lovely people over there.

All were grateful to the weather for cooperating this time around. It's already turning into fall, and we still have the Autumn Leaf Festival to get through. Once again, everybody's traffic alert will announce: 'Road blockage on Route 322.' Yeah, duh, it's Main Street. . .

Dmitri Gheorgheni

07.10.24 Front Page

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