by Andrew Alonzo and Peter Weinberger | aalonzo@claremont-courier.com, pweinberger@claremont-courier.com

It’s been a while since families and neighbors have been able to congregate at city parks for anything, let alone an outdoor concert. But this week about 400 residents came out to enjoy music and food once again as Monday Night Concerts returned to Memorial Park after their two-year absence.

Either singing along with the band, or dancing near the stage, residents found their own way to celebrate.

Claremont residents Nancy and Steve Farrow were ecstatic to be back in the park for a concert, saying they’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time.

“Every Monday night we’re here,” they said in unison.

“However long they’ve had it, we’ve been coming.” Ms. Farrow said.

The couple admitted they were concerned about the Delta variant but they are both fully vaccinated and had brought their masks for protection. “You know, we’re concerned, but it’s not stopping us from doing this,” Mr. Farrow said.

Headlining the first week of the Monday Night Concert series was Cold Duck which specializes in Top 40 hits from the 1970s.

The band got the crowd up off their feet with hits like “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears and “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.

Acknowledging concerns over the new variant, event organizers emphasized mask-wearing and social distancing when possible. The Kiwanis Club will be handling all food preparation.

Monday Night Concerts continues throughout August, and tor more information, see the COURIER’s Our Town or call the city at 909-399-5490.