At about 2pm on April 14, a crowd gathered at 65 Independence Place in Guelph.
Some carried signs, while others kept both hands tightly secured in their pockets to combat cold winds.
Despite the unpleasant climate, the group was not deterred from its collective goal: see Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
And as the crowd patiently waited, sporting winter hats and rosy cheeks, a convoy of black SUVs and sedans approached the Polycon Industries Building.
After a short period of waving and friendly greetings, the Liberal politician vanished into the depths of the plant.
“How long will the tour take?” and “When will he be coming back out?” was the general wonder of interested supporters.
Trudeau’s secret-service-like security team waited outside in black suits and dark shades. They took phone calls – likely reports from the inside – while making sure everything was running smoothly and safely.
Less than half an hour later, the prime minister reemerged from inside the Guelph factory. He thanked the crowd for its support, replied to some comments from the quaint audience, and then disappeared into a black Cadillac.
The commotion was all over in less than an hour, but seemed very special for those that witnessed the event.
“His hair is even better in person,” one supporter joked.
But not everyone gathered outside the meeting had the same positive opinion of Trudeau. A select few took the opportunity to bring to light some issues they felt were overlooked.
“We’re fine, thanks for asking,” read one sign, referencing the ignorance the government often has towards certain crises. Trudeau took time to respond to some concerns, though his soft voice was barely audible over the excited crowd.
He appeared and then vanished like a flash of lightning. However, the speed of his visit made the event no less remarkable.
Local writer Tyler Desormeaux is a grade 12 student at Centre Wellington District High School in Fergus.
