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Letters to the editor Acton `a desirable place to live'-- EDO Re: July 20 letter (Acton resident questions move). In response to Mr. Kelley's letter about the closing of Achilles Mazda in Acton I felt that I should respond. Both Brampton and Milton, which are two of the fastest-growing areas in Canada, lost one of their GM stores due to the downturn in the car industry, demonstrating that even high growth areas are affected. While it is true that Acton is surrounded by the greenbelt, which will restrict future growth, it remains a very desirable place to live and raise a family. Real estate values have remained very strong in Acton gaining almost 27 per cent in the last five years. The amount of investment, literally in the millions of dollars in the community, both public and private in the last decade, certainly does not support the `ghost town" sentiments as expressed in the letter. We are fortunate that many of the car dealerships in Georgetown have expanded and remodeled their stores in the last few years and are wellequipped to look after the automotive needs of all Halton Hills residents. The Town of Halton Hills is justifiably proud of its business community and strives to encourage new businesses to locate here and for existing businesses to expand. Doug Penrice, Economic Development Officer Town of Halton Hills 7 Independent & Free Press, Thursday, August 5, 2010 Happy 1st Birthday Reilly LOVE - YOUR FAMILY presents 2-FOR-1 CRUISE FARE, UP TO 2-FOR-1 AIR plus Complimentary Wine on 2011 River Cruises 328 Guelph St. Georgetown, ON Ont Ref #50015325 Shanghai to Beijing Twelve Days, Twelve Guided Tours ... One Country New ship "Viking Emerald" Every stateroom has river view balconies with sliding doors! Local dance teachers were an inspiration Dear editor, As a new flock of high school graduates prepares to move out of town, I am left thinking of the influence of the community and the gratitude owed towards to our countless teachers and role models. Other groups should be thanked as well, such as Center Stage and their recent efforts towards the community this year. I praise owners Kelly Paddle and Claudia Caicedo for their creation of a new branch of the dance studio called "Beyond The Stage". Their teamwork with the organization, Kidsfest, provides lower-income children with an opportunity to dance. Kelly Paddle said, "It's not just about dance, it's about learning life lessons through dance. We want to build character first, dance second." Listening to the teachers helped me realize how individuals in our community are making a difference. Not only is "Beyond the Stage" able to positively affect children in need, but the kids-helping-kids philosophy inspires young Center Stage participants, while also introducing the experience of volunteerism. Claudia Caicedo elaborated on the hands-on approach, saying, "Hopefully we just planted a little seed in their hearts to keep doing this." In addition, she had advice for the new generation of graduates, saying, "Giving of yourself is very rewarding, and you won't know how rewarding it is until you try." Countless people owe their present accomplishments to the support and environment of the community, of which people like the Center Stage owners and our teachers play a role. Considering this, I am proud to name Georgetown as the foundation for my life. Katherine Wright, Georgetown April 5, 12, 15,22, 25 Cat E $2992 USD pp plus Special Air Pricing 905-873-2000 Open Saturdays 10am - 3pm w w w. v i s i o n 2 0 0 0 t r a v e l . c o m Georgetown Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, valid through 8/31/10, not combinable with other offers, capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice and do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. 2-for-1 fares are based upon published full brochure fares. Ont Reg #50010278