It’s been a scorching heat wave all week, but today we finally got some relief with morning rain. Hopefully, it cools down soon. So, wondering what to do on hot summer days in Aurora? You’ve got plenty of options – head to the splash pad at Town Park or Ida Johnson Park, or chill out in the cool air-conditioned comfort of the library.
Last Thursday, it was scorching hot, and I was getting pretty bored sitting at home for the second day in a row. So, we decided to shake things up and head over to the Aurora Public Library. When we arrived, it was the usual library vibe – books everywhere. But a couple of cool displays caught my eye, like the Bicentennial Celebration of the War of 1812 and Doors Open 2012.
I also discovered that the Aurora Public Library is now selling Elizabeth H. Milner’s book, “Aurora 1945-1965: An Ontario Town at a Time of Great Change.” You can also snag a copy at Jonathan’s Restaurant and through the Aurora Historical Society. Pretty neat, right?
Speaking of Elizabeth Milner and the heat, it seems like I’m not the only one bothered by these hot, humid days. Elizabeth may not be complaining like me, but she’s definitely dreaming of cooler weather. She recently emailed me and shared a few things – a poem called “The Ice Man – 1947” and her memories of Mr. Bill Case, Aurora’s ice man.
So, who exactly was Mr. Case?
Well, Mr. Case was in the ice business back in the late forties and early fifties. Kids in town used to eagerly wait for him to come by with his horse and wagon so they could snag a chip of his refreshing ice. Elizabeth can tell you more about what the kids did with the ice. I’ve posted the poem and Milner’s memories of the ice man on the History page of the community FOCUS site.
Oh, how we wish we could have that kind of service again!
During our visit to the library on Thursday, we noticed paw cutouts on the second floor, leading to a live dog. Intrigued by this unique concept, I decided to learn more about Paws 4 Stories. It’s such a great program that connects children with dogs for reading sessions, helping them build reading confidence in a relaxed and friendly environment. What a cool way to encourage kids to read while having fun with a furry friend!
“Paws 4 Stories is a literacy program for beginning and struggling readers who have a unique opportunity to read to a dog and make a friend! Dogs and their owners are trained and generously provided by St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program. […]” Source: Aurora Public Library
Here is a well-written article on “How dogs could make children better readers.” I recently stumbled upon an article that discusses how dogs can also benefit from being read to, although that is not the focus of our discussion today.
COMMENTS
Lynda Lehmann said: July 8, 2012 at 13:58
“And there’s Matthew, having a GREAT time, wearing his characteristic broad smile! I really enjoyed the nostalgic ice man poem, Anna. Nice to know your town has an able chronicler in her book and another one in your blog! Stay cool and enjoy your time!”
Marvin said: July 11, 2012 at 15:30
“Lovely pix as always Anna! I’m sorry I’ve been scarce lately, super buried at work, but I always stop by every time I get a chance. I loved your Canada Day pix especially. You’re so good photographing people. I’m not good at it, but you give me a good model to imitate!”
