McMaster students get to know Hamilton at sidewalk sale

This article was originally published in CBC Hamilton, Sept. 6, 2012

Fifty Hamilton vendors and 20,000 McMaster students make for an awesome combination.

Free pizza, free bank accounts, free photos. Life is good on Thursday in the large field right in front of the Burke Science Building.

The sky is perfect for the 17th annual Sidewalk Sale at Mac.

Mukhtar Galan, Assistant Director of Campus Events says the event is intended to connect students with Hamilton businesses.

“We decided to move to the centre [of the campus] to get more students. Last year was a success. Students learn about the businesses and the area,” said Galan.

About 20,000 students travel through the area on the first day of classes and learn about local businesses and what they do in the city.

Local grocery store Fortinos gives away Kraft dinner, chocolate bars and cleaning supplies.

Others like Scotiabank and Royal Bank Canada talk about their services.

“They see businesses from Westdale and the city. It introduces first years and the student market to Hamilton,” said Galan.

Volunteer Alan Rheaume is just happy to help out.

“We get the benefit of seeing what Hamilton has to offer,” said Rheaume, before he ran off to help vendors set up.

“We’re here to promote and be of service to the students’ union, bringing students to them,” said Rheaume.