Who’s Walking Whom? Dog Walking in the Village

Hello Greendale,

I was pretty sure summer was here to stay. Then, Wisconsin weather fooled me again. I had just put my snow pants away for the year and brought out my string bikini and then, wintery weather returned last week. We should all know by now that most weather reports are less like a forecast and more like a crap-shoot.

You should know that I try very hard to be non-political in my articles, but this issue is just too important too ignore. I was positive that there would be good news from our elected representatives in Madison — they are such hard workers — debating all the serious issues that affect us all. Our divided government in Madison was very close to a vote on a resolution to make the cream puff the official state dessert. At the last moment, a spokesperson for the Democrats raised the issue of the cream puff pastry being “too crusty,” while the Republican leadership felt that the name "cream puff" would send the wrong message. Namely, that Wisconsinites are big sissies. I certainly hope that differences can be ironed out in time for The Wisconsin State Fair in August.

In Greendale news, our Planning Commission has passed on the Wal-Mart plans A final vote on the project should be this month.

On June 25, the first Open Market will be held. Not only homegrown vegetables and fruits, but baked goods, crafts, honey and plants will be for sale. It's always pretty crowded, so plan to get there early. June 25 may seem a long time from now, but time does fly in the summer.

Here’s one I didn’t know. The friendly nurses at the Greendale Health Department can certify your Disabled Parking permit.

I hear that a buyer has been likely been found for the former Leath Furniture store on 76^th Street. The name of the buyer has not yet been made public, but if someone wants to email me name of the business, I will pass it along.

The new Southridge road is now open at Northway. That means, if you time it just right and hit the green light, you can shoot right into the Village center in mere seconds.

I have a great vantage point to watch Village goings on and you should know that I have noticed a new trend. Small dogs being walked by big men. Just yesterday, I saw a miniature grey hound, a teacup poodle and toy fox terrier (two of them were adorned with sparkly pink collars and leashes) being walked by large, burly ham hands. I guess it's some new pet fad. Rest assured, I did check to make sure and all of the fellows had little plastic bags as well.

In a related story, the Village dump, er… Recycling Center is now on a summer schedule with extended hours. I have learned that it is not an option to drop off your vintage, barely working, sparking microwave in a plastic. In fact, no hazardous waste or appliances are accepted.

On July 5, the Greendale Public Library will feature Eric Sorenson in a program called "Around the World in 80 Strings." Mr. Sorenson will play several stringed instruments from various countries. This sounds quite interesting — even without refreshments.

I did promise to tell you how the imitation man-parts that I sent for to help Gump overcome his anti-social behavior worked out. I filled out an order form and circled “large” on the size chart. Sadly, when the “package” came it was instantly clear that they were too small. After exchanging several e-mails (including specific measurements) it was decided that I should select the parts from another list. In fact, they suggested I order from the canine group, possibly the “Great Dane” model or perhaps from the miniature donkey selection. Will keep you updated.

It's never too early to plan for this year's Fourth of July celebration. Festivities will be held from the 2nd to the 4th. So, get out your decorations and red white and blue garb and make it a super holiday.

Will probably have more news next week now that the weather has turned more summer-like and I can walk about the Village poking my nose everywhere.

Until next week.