Donald Teuma-Castelletti
THORNE Feb. 3, 2018
A local council held a community gathering on Saturday night, encouraging members of their municipality to join them for a night to meet their councillors, take in some music and have a drink or two with neighbours.
Put on through a collaboration between the municipality of Thorne and the Thorne Community Recreation Association (TCRA), the council wanted to host their constituents to demonstrate their commitment to openness and communication.
“This gives people a chance to meet the new councillors, all five of them, and see how everyone is working together,” said Thorne Mayor Karen Kelly.

While some confusion with the start time had people arriving a bit early, folks wasted no time before mingling, chatting up members of the town and TCRA.
Meanwhile, councillor Robert Wills could be seen working away with a member of the live entertainment onstage, running around to set up all the instruments and audio equipment.
Wills excitedly shared that the night’s entertainment was Joe McDonald & The Walkin’ Hawks, an upbeat blues band from Ottawa.
Elsewhere at the TCRA Hall, members of the recreation association played the responsible roles, slinging drinks for all their thirsty customers. The president of the TCRA was seen to be making some Caesars, which were proving popular amongst the guests.
Beyond manning the bar, the TCRA also decorated the hall in a Valentine’s theme, with hearts and crafts adorning the walls and tables, plus an arrangement hanging from the ceiling in the centre of the room.
“This is brand new, to prove to everyone that everything is in harmony,” said Kelly. “The TCRA’s decorating shows off everyone getting together.”
Kelly said that though this party was a one-off event, they’re looking to plan more events where they can have locals speak directly to their councillors.
“Eventually, we’re looking to do a town hall meeting once or twice a year,” said Kelly. “We’re hoping to provide an open concept, giving people a chance to stay in the loop.”
Up next for the area is a Family Fun Day scheduled for Feb. 17 at the TCRA Hall, featuring a chili contest, sleigh rides and lots more.