THORNTON NEWS
by Cathie Miller

This past Friday, I attended the funeral of David Virgoe, the trucker killed on the 400 by the unthinking actions of several young men, everyone has heard about it. I was there and saw the grieving family, friends and community; there wasn't a dry eye in the packed funeral home. It angered me later to see one of the young men's lawyers on TV saying that they were just young men who should be finishing their high school exams not sitting in jail being made scapegoats for society's anger. Well what about David's family? They were just about to move into their very first home they had purchased, it was an exciting time for them, and now this time has become their worst nightmare. If just one person slows down, doesn't take that risk, drives responsibly because of what happened to David on Monday, then maybe his death won't have been in vain. No body knows better then a trucker about the irresponsible and inconsiderate drivers out there, no one knows this better than David and his family.

There were tears, there was laughter, and there were proud parents, family members and friends at the 11th Annual Year End Recital held by the Positive Step Dance Academy. "We've Got Happy Feet" was held Sunday afternoon at the Terra Theatre at Base Borden. Every dancer looked poised and beautiful ready for their performances. The show opened with a lively number called "Baby, I'm a Star" featuring all of the competitive dancers and set the mood for the day. It was followed by 29 more numbers showcasing the many types of dance the girls had learned and included the dances performed by the competitive team at recent competitions. There were dances that touched your heart, a mom and daughter dancing together, or the ballerinas dancing so gracefully. There was a visit from "The Witch Doctor" and there were dancing Dad's trying their best. It is hard to say which dance was best, each dance was different and every dancer was truly a star. Well done dancers and Miss Kim, it was your best show yet.

Have you noticed the new banners hanging along Barrie and Robert Streets? Half the banners are announcing the 50th Anniversary of the Thornton Fire Fighters which will be celebrated later this year.

If you should meet one of our past or present firefighters, say thank you and tell them that you appreciate what they do for our community. Not many of us are willing to rush out at any time, in any weather to come to the aid of strangers or friends. Thank you Thornton Fire Fighters for being there for us and congratulations on reaching this milestone.

When visiting the Thornton Library it is asked that if you are attending a meeting or Storytime and are going to be there for a while that you use the parking lot at the back of the library. The fire department needs quick access to the fire hall during an emergency and precious minutes would be wasted by having to drive around to the back to park. Also a firefighter rushing down a quiet residential street to get to the back lot could also present a danger to the residents of that street especially the children.

Registration has begun for the TD Summer Reading Club "Lost Worlds" at the Library. The free club runs in July & August and includes club meetings, reading encouragement, games, prizes and more. Also returning this summer is the "Reach for the Stars" reading program.

This reading program is designed for children who are reluctant readers and with the help of reading coaches, Stacey & Dawn, they will receive one-on-one reading encouragement. This program fills up fast so book your appointments soon.

During the hot summer days, both the libraries in Thornton and Angus are designated Township of Essa Cooling Places. During their regular operating hours you are welcome to come and cool off and enjoy the air conditioned comfort and escape the heat and humidity. Look through the great selection of magazines and books, browse the internet or just sit awhile to cool off and escape the heat.

As always, if you have any news, meetings, anniversaries or special occasions, I'd be happy to write about them. You can email me at thorntonnews @rogers.com or call me at (705) 458-0869 or drop it off at 25 Robert Street.

Bye for now…..