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Letter: Holiday weekend turnout a disappointment in North Bay

'All through the day, the crowd was pretty thin'
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The Civic holiday audiences for musical acts were sparse says an attendee.

To the editor:

I spent most of my past Saturday at "King's Landing" by the lake
It was an adventure that my daughter and I chose to undertake
We both decided that we would see the talent that was performing on this day
We sat through the first three acts and then went on our way

All through the day, the crowd was pretty thin
Perhaps the final act was the one that would really bring them in?
What we saw was entertaining and they all put on a great show
I can't speak for everyone, but not one of these performers did I know

They kept us all amused and gave it with all their hearts
I have to commend them because the crowd was very sparse
I realize this city is trying to get things right
They also offer concerts each and every Wednesday night

They feature local talent for everyone to see
These concerts are available to everyone for free
We saw kids playing while these acts were performing on the stage
My daughter remembered doing the same things when she was their age

I recalled back some years ago when the "Heritage Festival" used to rule the "Bay"
There were lots of attractions to see all night and day
"Lee Park" used to be packed with vendors and booths were everywhere
Friends that you haven't seen in years, soon could be found there

There was such a range of foods out there for you to try
Also quite a variety of merchandise to buy
They had the annual "country music contest" that was at this park too
There were countless things available for everyone to do

This was free to everyone and you could come and go
You could go the whole weekend without spending any "dough"
There were always bands that you waited at the end of the day to see
This part of the festival however wasn't free

You would have to purchase a "wrist band" to see this event
Thirty five dollars for this accessory was the most that I ever spent
Kids under the age of ten still could attend them for free
These are just some of the recollections that came back to me

We would look forward to this long weekend each and every year
We truly were excited when the "Civic Holiday" was getting near
Now for many years, this city hasn't brought in even one big name
All we have are memories, it really is a shame

Chris Reynolds

North Bay