4.30.11

When I read this headline last night on Patch, I was pleased, and it is the right thing to do. Then I read the whole thing on this:

The Sequencing book reading will not be required for Directors meetings. As an alternative, I would like to suggest the directors come up with a book to read that would assist us in communication, teamwork, creativity and meeting our goal of $1.5 million in cost savings.

It is in the Freeman this morning with City Administrator's show of support for the police chief:

The staff and I have a great deal of work to do managing the day to day operations of the organization. It is extraordinarily difficult when we are consistently distracted by these kinds of conflicts. Please help us move forward by recognizing the expertise that we collectively have to offer and by treating us professionally.

How about a guest opinion and a columnist who really should not be anywhere near another police chief... Someone even took another shot at WiggySha in the SOUND OFF. (As requested, Wiggy.)

Mayor Scrima said it in his own words:

The citizens are tired of this drama.

My suggestion of a book is

Let's all protect this tiny city of WackySha...

Riverwalk story. Team WTC, the shirts are in! Come and get it!

From Landmark commission.

History lesson 10 of 10.

POLICE BLOTTER

Tons of music at the West End tonight, Bodway's, Magellan 2 gonna have bands going. Big 80's benefit for the museum is also happening at the airport hanger. I will be at the wedding reception watching fire dancers and eat sushi. I am still wondering if the coconut bras and grass skirt dress code is for real...

4.29.11

Leaving Austin was interesting... Since I had the "economy" car, I was picking up the wedding party for the airport. In the morning traffic, I might have just crossed the physical barrier again but this time the police was in front of me. When we finally arrived at the airport, my rental car agent informed me the car was never checked out, that I basically stole a car from them for the duration... Thank goodness all is fixed now that I did not face the lethal injection.

I stopped at D Mo's Pita and Pan and they are preparing for the soft opening. The goal is to start serving the public on Monday. Galleria Edge will have some show space in there but it is a working progress so you know...

Chef Tony also served up Oyster Rockefeller last night for a selected few. Very different with fresh baby spinach and the oyster was not over cooked. I would say everyone was quite happy with them and pretty darn impressed. No comedy this weekend at D Mo's and next, then a new booking agent with local talents... I was told.

WackySha had another section started and is looking to a possible consolidated cyber-store front with every more product options INCLUDING buttons and more options for customization. Stay tuned. There is even something for the HBR I see... ;) Shall Make Waukesha Wacky be the next big underground movement? You never know, tons of people are DOING it for real everyday... Here are more coupon codes...

By the way, I read from Eat on twitter that there will be a new blog called Hotel Waukesha, I hope Eat or Huck is coming back to take over the more serious forum for Waukesha, I am really not cut out for the duty. I felt terrible when I had to delete angry comments...

WiggySha is under attack in the SOUND OFF but some support here. (More materials for my wacky mind...)

POLICE BLOTTER: Cats Rescue in progress...

Mother Nature gives us a B*TCH slap sometimes and it really sucks. Prayers go out to HBR's family and friends.

History lesson 9 of 10

Recount for 8 votes? This is going too far.

This building barely hit the market...

4.28.11

I went back to Pappadeaux last night because it was much easier for me to drive to. I sat at the bar and the service was really great. The bartender was doing 10 things at a time but never forget to attend to me. I had a bowl of gumbo and the seafood platter. The gumbo was just as good as few nights ago, the seafood platter was hit and miss. The blue crab cake was nice, other fried items are so so, the catfish was very disappointing. I guess I am spoiled by Pat's Rib Place and they are truly a Waukesha gem.

More WackySha and Make Waukesha Wacky designs are online! Wear these shirts with pride while you count votes... Drink your water... or just being yourself.

Plan Commission

History lesson 8 of 10

WiggySha takes on Mayor Scrima AGAIN!

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

Souvenir from Austin

I had a bad feeling when I received a rental car with FL plate and the last time I drove a rental with out of state plates I received a ticket.

This time is no different... I was navigating the nightmare of a highway system with my out of date GPS, and I suddenly realized the way to go is on far left lane and I had ran out of room. I crossed into the zebra strip area and my luck would have it, Austin's finest was right behind me.

There is my souvenir from Austin...


Oh, well, I did the crime and I will pay, plus I have heard death sentence is handed out a lot around here for unpaid citations...

4.27.11

The wedding ceremony was at the top of Mount Bonnell, I would have photos but somehow I have the camera but not the battery... I think I did okay and the beautiful couple had a beautiful moment.

The dinner was at Perry's Steakhouse, I was way under-dressed but the vault room was reserved. It was not the first time I wore shorts into a fancy place and was put in a private room and out of general area. By hanging with Flux Design and Chef Tony, I certainly paid more attention to every detail. The painting technique in the room was similar to our counter top, and their famous prime beef carpaccio was served with a hint of sea salt and a large portion of arugula. The whole meal from pork sausage to prime rib eye to dessert trio was wonderful but once again, I apologize for no photos.

Historical lesson 7 of 10.

Plan Commission on GE.

I LUV the 80's (but I do have a wedding reception to go to.) Monica from Sprizzo's and Chef Tony from D Mo's are gonna help with the food.

It is that time of the year again.

Darryl is back with a bark.

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

By the way, should I just stay here or go back to the insanity? (Hey, they said if you can't fight them, join them, right?)

Want a Make Waukesha Wacky item but the price is out of your range? How is 50% off sound? You are in luck today and JUST today! Buy! Buy! Buy! You don't want to miss the chance of the lifetime, buddy? Do you? It is a sweeeeeet deal and we made it just for you today, JUST YOU and JUST TODAY!


Here's Wiggy's version. Thanks for joining in on the WackySha civil disobedience.

So you know...

I was informed that a mob of Waukesha citizens had gathered outside the shop with torches to protest the Make Waukesha Wacky slogan and how dare I called our beloved city WackySha!?

I just want to say that it is my tongue in cheek way of saying that things are so wacked that we might as well embrace it. So what if our mayor is fighting everyone in the city hall, so what if our downtown is being hold to their ideal by a few and people want all the credit but none of the blame, we are still all here, drinking the same radium enriched water and suffer through any teasing by our Milwaukee counterparts. Our mayor is still our mayor, our neighbors are still our neighbors, we the merchants still need to open the shop tomorrow, roll up the sleeves, put on a happy face and make the best out of it.

Thanks for let me vent.

Austin scouting report

This morning I ventured out to see the food trucks, but I did not know they do not open until 11 am. I headed to Spider House instead.



I had a couple of tacos with wild boar sausage, brisket and eggs, and they were as good as advertised. I love the atmosphere and I can see myself there all afternoon nursing a beer or two.



I then just drove around aimlessly in Austin. I think I finally figure out I am in trouble when I could not go straight any more but a highway. I wonder how many natives were cursing at me from their cars as I drove slowly in my boat checking everything out. I saw Willie Nelson Drive, several pockets of food trucks gatherings, the University of Texas at Austin, and there were a lot of unique houses, funky shops, and retro buildings.


Finally I turned on my GPS again to go back to Might Cone. I suppose eating fried food in 100 degree weather was a mistake. The fried shrimp and fried avocado taco in a cone did not sit well with me all day.

I walked through quite a few shops near by. I looked at $1000 boots and $250 British antique dressers, I even was looking at another Elvis outfit, but in the end I walked away with one free bumper sticker, that is all.


South Congress avenue is an unique section of town in Austin: 4 lane road with shops, art galleries, coffee shops, bars, food trucks and lots of residences seem to all co-exist in harmony: The residents appreciate all the easy access and the merchants appreciate the patronage. It is a win-win formula. There were lots of simple bike racks and even a bike lane at some roads...

When one look at the two similar models, one does see downtown Waukesha and the idea of Art City (art/food/music) are being hold back by conflicting interests... ( I do hope the Common Council, the Mayor and the Police will work together to issue a clear, well stated policy on several issues in downtown Waukesha to avoid a standoff between some residents, the bars and merchants. The chaos in the city hall will only echo more chaos on the street. Who is going to restore some sanity? Forget Rockesha or Talkasha, we really don't want to be known as WackySha or do we? Keep Austin Weird and Make Waukesha Wacky? I see retirement $$$! I am totally gonna market the crap out of it! Ha Ha Ha)

4.26.11

You think I will sleep in without my hungry cats alarm clock, it is birds out here by the motel. There were so many birds in trees, some whole section of the asphalt parking lot were white... (Sis would not like that here.)

It is gonna be high 90's today, at least it is dry heat. The biggest issue for me is actually how to drive the rental boat. I had a very difficult time parking last night going from driving a Yaris to this.


Mayor's book club is not going well. However, it is GREAT for book selling!

Historical lesson 6 of 10

Tragedy by the train tracks... Why does that name look familiar?

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

Time for me to get some coffee and work on what is left of the Texas sized Round Rock donuts... They are delicious!

Pre-Ceremony dinner

I am missing D Mo's Oyster Rockefeller special tonight but I am not worried... I was treated to Pappadeaux.

I have not had Crayfish like this since New Orleans ( sitting at Sea Port with Bill), and the gumbo was pretty good too. Not Three Sisters good but pretty good. It sure beats the gumbo flavored rice at Miller Park I had on Sunday.


I was gonna try to find a sports bar to watch the Brewers-Reds game, but the only one around is this. Who needs those when I have the twins... ;) ( I was given 2 sets of twins but really, I am only human...)


If I am not in a permanent donuts coma, I will be hitting the food trucks of Austin tomorrow to try out new and bold flavors...

Blog from the road

I made it to Austin, Texas! This is the first time I have ever been to the Long Star State, and my childhood dream of being JR is coming true! The rental car agent gave me a boat of a Mercury Grand Marquis, but I ordered an economy size car! ( That IS the economy size car, he said.) I was so tempted to go get a ton gallon hat just to pose in front of it. The backseat is so big that I might just cancel the motel room and sleep in there!

This cheap motel is pretty hard to find and I was lost in the high way system. My trusted GPS asked me to make an U-Turn in the middle of interstate. I am going to fire my travel agent for sure when I get home! The motel room reminds me of the room in No Country for Old Men, I did check behind the door just to make sure...


I will be meeting up with the bride and groom to be tonight to go over the ceremony. Wish me luck... By the way, it is warm and sunny here, but my view is back of a Denny's... I think anything will be an improvement from here on... :)

This is what I have found at the home front...

Mayor Scrima vs. the World. I think I will keep an eye on this one just in case there is a need of a Buddhist book or a Taoist councilor.

I am all buzzed up on Fruit Snacks, time to go raise some hell at Denny's...

Sunday extra

Mayor Scrima has a secret fan, but he must've not known the two weeks appointment rule. Come on, buddy, get in line!

I have heard some rather good rumors but I will keep it to myself this time because they were THAT good.

I looooove noodles.

Nice...

Romantic...

Have a seat.

Go wash up before dinner...

I have no idea what this is but it does remind me of a few high energy people I know..

OOPS!

Just in case you do not know...

Have a Happy Easter anyway...

4.23.11

I woke up a few times during the night, and it felt like I am pregnant with a nuclear reactor in my belly with fear of a meltdown and loss of containment. My heart rate was still up and this is like a stress test from Chef Tony. Of course I had been given him grief for not able to make spicy food for months, that was his answer. When you watch Man vs. Food and the host was sweating while eating super spicy stuff with dizziness, it is really how it is.

Here is the Happy City speech again. There is some news over a book?

What is to come next week. I will be out of town, twitter message me if there is something interesting to report.

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

What!?

Bruce Lee is changing the world still...

So sweet. I hope they had found a home already.

Interesting places to eat in Tokyo.

Okay, the next daily report will be from Austin, TX. I am getting out of this wet and wild weather for a while!

Man vs. Food

I was hanging out at D Mo's waiting for the comedy show, I figured I might as well have some dinner. I had not tried the bass yet so I asked Chef Tony to make some. He left the task to Chef Nate, whom used to work at Piano Blue. It was chopped chorizo with shrimps over bass on a bed of zucchini. What I was not told was the 15 ghost pepper put in the chorizo topping just for me, as instructed by Chef Tony.

Yup, it was hot, and I had to stop about half way point and drank two glasses of water, but I did finish the whole meal. I thought I was having a mild heart attack but I did it. I told Chef Tony it was the second hottest thing I ever had, the first being the level 3 out of 5 hot pot in Taiwan, that one I had to wash everything in soup and it was still too hot.

I thought I won a $5000 bet but I did not get a check...

Well, tonight man won the challenge, I don't know about tomorrow...

4.22.11

Thanks to the ladies of Moxie's Beauty Lounge, the Ladies Night at J Lotti's ended with a full bar. When I left, the ladies were still busy putting feather hair extensions on gals. Thanks to J Lotti's for the chance for cross-promotion and really, Moxie's was carrying us last night.

Chef Tony informed me that Pita & Pan should be opening soon but a soft opening. We had reached a tentative agreement for gallery space in all the D Mo's and even another possible tree mural. Stay tuned.

Tony from Bodway's also informed me that their billboard will go up soon on Hwy F, the same location where ours were. I think once you see it, you will know the burger war is on! We are just waiting for People's to open again. They are also in the news today thanks to Hot Blonde Reporter.

The well is not repaired yet? What?! I had been drinking a lot of Waukesha's Finest.

Here comes trouble...

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

By the way, I had been trying not get into the political news, the Main street politics is kicking my a$$ as is already.

SOUND OFF

I evoked some strong reactions from certain readers, and here are two email chains and I will block out the names as usual.

Email chain 1

George,

As you know, false rumors can be destructive.

Unfortunately there are a couple people in the downtown that deny starting these rumors and then seem to enjoy watching us trying to defend ourselves.

For the record, here are a few facts regarding our positions ( Just in case you hear otherwise)

- We own 3 properties in downtown

@@@ West Main Street

@@@ West Main Street

@@@ West Main Street

- We pay BID taxes on ALL 3 properties

- We live local - We shop local

- We support the bars & restaurants

- We support the artists and Art Crawls

- We support Peoples Park renovation & expansion

- We support Peoples Park rooftop seating

- We support outdoor dining ( as long as the ordinance is followed & enforced)

- We support Friday Night Live

YES, it is TRUE:

- We OPPOSE street closing for events ( i.e FNL, Art Crawls, ArtFest, pottery demonstrations, bar anniversary parties etc. )

- We OPPOSE loud noise/ music ( per City Ordinance)

- We OPPOSE rowdy/ disorderly conduct ( per City Ordinance)

- We OPPOSE open intoxicants on the streets ( per City Ordinance)

George, like you, @@@@@ & I are heavily invested in the downtown.

Unlike many businesses that have short term leases, we are committed to the long term sustainability of the downtown. As you know, we work diligently to make downtown Waukesha a better place to live , work shop and grow a business.

Therefore, I would appreciate a contact before you continue to help spread innuendos and false rumors about us.

Thank you for your support.

@@@

My reply:

Would you like me to put both emails on my blog and put everything to rest once for all? I apologize if my choice of words offended you, but it is intended for humor. Thanks. George

Then:

no need to post my emails on your blog.

However in the future we'd apprecaite the opportuntity to substantiate any rumors before going public... to protect our reputation.

As I told@@@@ @@@@@@, @@@ @@@@@@ and @@@@@ @@@@@@; once a rumor is started, "It's hard to put the genie back in the bottle!"

Thanks for understanding.

@@@

I replied

I do think if you feel strongly enough about what I said, I should give you a forum for it. I will take your names out when I post them.

Then the final email:

Thanks for your offer

@@@@@ and I are considering writing a letter to the editor of the FREEMAN to protect our reputation against the lies, innuendos and rumors being spread downtown.

A lawsuit for slander will be next if they continue.

This is what I had on my blog.

4.12.11: There is also a rumor of an organized opposition to People's rooftop plan tomorrow night, I suspected it. If it does happen, you can say you read it here first.

4.13.11: The meeting update. It was a love fest for People's Park, the only thing negative was an email support the project while raise concern on noise and safety of the roof. The source or content of the email was not released. It could be the root of the rumor since I was told it was an email going around. By the way, any noise issue is not really in question here, it was only an architectural review and People's Park is not on any conditional permit. Alright, Valley burger on the roof!

I did not mention any names, I just report what I have heard. Don't kill the messenger.

Email Chain 2

George,

After reading your blog about the Courie mural proposal, I feel a need to clarify what happened.

As you know, last fall, @@@@@ & I met with the Couries to promote the "Tree theme" along the West End.

We proposed 3 options:

- A metal tree sculpture similar to the one @@@@@ & I created for our @@@ W. Main St. building

- A B&W sketch of a mural by Stephanie Vincent ( @@@@@'s cousin) and artist for mural at Discount Liquor

- A proposal from George Wang to be submitted soon

So that you understand, there was NO "sales pitch" for Ms. Vincent.

If anything, we would have preferred that the Couries had chosen our metal tree sculpture proposal.

Once again, there was NO "sales pitch"!

The choice was theirs and I respect their decision.

Thanks for letting me dispel your perception that we somehow influenced their decision.

Regards,

@@@

I replied

Sales pitch as a pitch to sell the idea of a mural.

Then:

We did not give "a sales pitch for Chris."

I would agree with "a proposal to pitch the idea of tree themed art" vs "a sales pitch for Chris" .

NOTE: I would not characterize our proposed metal tree sculpture as a "mural".

Thanks George

No hard feelings...just want to set the record straight

@@@

Then:

OK. I will set it straight.

Reply:

Thank you my friend!

@

This is what I wrote:

4..20.11

There is also a rumor that Couri Insurance had made it official to use Chris Vincent for their mural, the same artist who did the Discount Liquor mural. I had offered up a couple of other mural artists last minute when I had heard the sales pitch for Chris were being made to them. My main concern is if her folk art artistic style is appropriate for the proposed design but that can be a question of (my exquisite and elitist ) taste. Hey, it is out of my hands and into Public Art Committee's if the rumor is true.

I did incorrectly say it was a Sales Pitch for Chris, for that I like to publicly apologize to @@@. However, I was shut out of the presentation process, I had an appointment but was cancelled but promised a Spring appointment that never came. As I said, it is out of my hands.

Now it is out in the open and I wash my hands clean.

P.S. I also need to say that I can not verify a rumor when I do not know who is the one referred to in the rumor for sure. The rumor did not come with names which I had stated once to the person of interest whom approached me.

4.21.11

This is gonna be a busy weekend and then I am going out of town. Likely I should be able to blog on the road with free WiFi in the room... but if you do not hear from me, I must be enjoying the vacation too much...

Tonight is Ladies' Night at J Lotti's. Tomorrow and Saturday night at 9pm is the D Mo's Comedy Night, Dobie has gracefully bowed out but the show is gaining momentum from week to week. Sunday is the special Easter Brunch at D Mo's, Chef Tony has a special whole salmon presentation planned. I hope you are one of the 600 whom bought the Groupon!

It was apparent last night that people are noticing, D Mo's had the volume of business on a Wednesday night like weekend nights. Yes, you might start to think I entertain my clients a lot in downtown establishments and I sure do. It is always a good feeling when they are pleasantly surprised that they can come to downtown Waukesha other than just to get a tattoo. Please don't ask about the diet however...

Here is the newest BID director and I hope she'll come by and say hi!

Professor Byler and company were at D Mo's last night too, so you know... There MIGHT be something in the works to bring even more Carroll art to downtown Waukesha!

Wiggy, you lost me at Palin... ;)

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

This is pretty kool.

I counted Zero too, Brien...

I've noticed M2 is turning into Pizza Magellan, I have to ask Danny about that.

Still can't talk about the West End deal but it is not looking good right now.

4.20.11

I missed it. I was watching the Brewers instead. My client Michael wanted another taste of Bodway's burger so we were there. I also missed the West End Artist meeting... Oops. (Thanks to Patch.com, here is the Happy City speech.)

Here is a little hint of the newest gallery at the West End.

There is also a rumor that Couri Insurance had made it official to use Chris Vincent for their mural, the same artist who did the Discount Liquor mural. I had offered up a couple of other mural artists last minute when I had heard the sales pitch for Chris were being made to them. My main concern is if her folk art artistic style is appropriate for the proposed design but that can be a question of (my exquisite and elitist ) taste. Hey, it is out of my hands and into Public Art Committee's if the rumor is true.

It is good to have you still with us, Darryl!

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

Oh, the Jedi Council is still gonna be under the same leadership and here is the new BID director!

4.19.11

This is going to be a big news. Freeman and Patch covered it differently.

Little birds told me there were some drama at the hospitality group meeting and yet there were some unity of all the bars and restaurant owners.

Darryl E. has been under the weather lately, please send him some well wishes.

I had a breakfast burger at Bodway's, and I think the fight for Best Burger in downtown Waukesha is heating up. We are just waiting for People's to open up again and it will be war!

Hot Blonde Reporter is single no more, and as far as I know, she did not marry our "vigorous mayor". See SOUND OFF.

At least he was not called "Our Glorious Leader" yet. Sometime his super-supporters really do not do him justice with goofy PR statements.

POLICE BLOTTER

Don't forget we'll be co-sponsoring Ladies Night at J Lotti's 8pm-midnight along with Moxie Beauty Lounge this Thursday. We are giving out shirts and gift chips every hour for the last three hours. Come and join us.

4.16.11

I drove by D Mo's Pita and Pan last night after hours to see the progress. Jonathan and Oscar are both working hard to get the place ready. I will let everyone know when the soft opening is. The word is that Chef Tony might be giving out some free gyros for people to try.

Here is the review of D Mo's in the paper. I am just thankful for Chef Tony to turn the space around instead of a black hole in the middle of downtown. The people bashing D Mo's over Restaurant.com coupon are out there. However, the sign was posted on the door and they just can't continue to give out food for free. As far as I understand, they had long discontinued their association with that .com but the certificates continued to be sold with nothing goes to the establishment.

M. was in last night with his son and we talked about how he will go meet with the most beautiful woman Jennifer Lopez soon again. Watch for it, the new Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony collections coming to Kohl's near you and I was told she is very hands-on with this collection.

This has to be the Smart in Smart Realty, right? Thank you for your service to Waukesha.

Oh, what is the chance... 420 dime bags for $4200. There is a joke in there somewhere. (Dude, where is my car!? Answer: At Home Depot.)

Who is going to head the next Jedi Council?

Is this suppose to be funny?

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

4.15.11

Two big events are coming up for WTC@GE: one is Ladies Night at J Lotti's on 4-21. It starts at 8pm and goes to midnight. Live DJ, drink special and Moxie Beauty Lounge is co-sponsoring with us and there will be 3 giveaways on the last three hours from both establishments. Come and hang out! (Barry is going to show his Naked Peter.)

May 7th is a huge day. We will have Riverwalk cancer walk at 10 am. Our team of 32 will likely meet early at the shop at 9am for donuts and walk down. We will start tattooing at 11am by appointment and we will only do cancer ribbon related tattoos while donate 100% of the proceeds to Waukesha Memorial. Clinton Gallery's Shay Armstrong will be doing face painting all day, Chelsea will be offering chair massage and Carroll U's Amelia will do book signing later in the day. Then there is Art Crawl and Renee Bach's art show opening at 7pm. The plan is to have the new D Mo's Pita and Pans catering the event...

Speaking of D Mo's, I think there is a female comic flew in from L.A. for D Mo's comedy night tonight and tomorrow night, the room setup was also changed last evening. I am working late but hope to catch the show tomorrow. Rich and I have a couple came up yesterday from Chicago, they are staying at the Clarke Hotel. Rich tattooed the husband all day yesterday and likely all day today and I will be working on the wife most of the day while my later client is coming from Dallas. Isn't it nice to have a hotel in walking distance? The vision is there, folks, and slowly people are understanding the components of what makes downtown Waukesha unique. We just need to all work together as a team and get the max effect out of everyone through networking and cross promoting.

Here is the detail on the Pedicab.

Not much in the news today, Palin is coming to Wisconsin but that is Wiggy territory. I am more upset about this...

Road blocks for Mayor Scrima's water plan set by the town.

Go horse around in the library!

POLICE BLOTTER

4.14.11

I was told to say it again in clear letters that I am NEUTRAL on the politics of Main Street closing. I saw pros and cons on both sides but I do want the majority to at least be tolerant of the minority views. Not everyone runs the same kind of business and one's gain can cause hardship to another, and that is the reality. A few business owners opt out of the raging debate for good reasons.

People's Park gets a green light. My other secret plan for the West End is coming together nicely! ( I am going to be a rich man! )

The mayor AND the county exec, wow, how do they rate!? So jealous...

Good stuff!

Wiggy said it is okay to be angry.

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

Talk-a-sha update

The rumor of an organized opposition against People's Park rooftop plan might be just a rumor, I had just spoken some people of interest whom denied any opposition. We shall see if there indeed of ANY hint of anything negative at tonight's planning commission meeting.

Stay tuned.

*** The meeting update. It was a love fest for People's Park, the only thing negative was an email support the project while raise concern on noise and safety of the roof. The source or content of the email was not released. It could be the root of the rumor since I was told it was an email going around. By the way, any noise issue is not really in question here, it was only an architectural review and People's Park is not on any conditional permit. Alright, Valley burger on the roof!

By the way, thanks for the shout out, Commissioner Roeker!

Okay, I have to go order something from Magellan's and have the newest TV star Rebecca sign it.

Just a few more weeks, I'll be there...

Oh, there goes the diet...

The secret rooftop plan

Okay, this is what I really want on my rooftop...

4.13.11

I did my share of reporting/spreading rumors last night. I have nothing this morning...

She is staying.

Good stuff.

red light patrol?

More on the new gallery in the West End.

Is there gonna be a showdown or not? I will be tuning in.

Welcome the the Sha!

Anyone can fly!? (Note to self: add anti-aircraft guns to rooftop machine gun nests...)

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

Light/Dust/Space, A study by R. M. Bach is up in our gallery, come and take a sneak peek!

LIVE! from Talk-a-sha

I saw Kerry from Steaming Cup tonight, I am pretty sure he is alive and well unless he is a very nice looking zombie. Not sure if there was even an robbery, likely a false rumor. It is confirmed that Marty from the benefit was at the short end of a very bad prank call, and likely the police will get to the bottom of it.

There is also a rumor of an organized opposition to People's rooftop plan tomorrow night, I suspected it. If it does happen, you can say you read it here first. ( I always wanted something on our rooftop as well, like a machine gun nest or two. Does that have to go through planning commission or can I just claim self-defense? ) You won't see me at the meeting but I will have that TV on...

What is not a rumor is that the search for the next BID director is down to four people... Can't wait to see who is gonna jump into the fire. Two new galleries will open soon, one next to Bodway's and one in Leather Restoration. The benefit for Waukesha County Museum is also taking RSVPs, call 262-521-2859 ext. 221 for more info.

I have also heard whispers of many conversations in meetings regarding street closing and Friday Night Live. Let's just say I am sitting on a very pointy fence. It is very tough to get a group to agree on everything and that is just the reality.

Hey, I just report them, don't kill the messenger!

Coming soon to the West End

Due to minor noise complaint, the machine gun nests are replaced with ninjas.

4.12.11

(Rumor Mill edition)

Okay, this is just un-confirmed rumor I have heard and here is the news.

The rumor has it that certain coffee shop by bus depot (Not Steaming Cup) was hit by an armed robber and he got away with $40, but in the same time, the huge benefit (which we donated) was going on at Hannon's, someone called in and said the person whom the benefit was for has a gun and was gonna kill himself there. SWAT team was called and all 300+ people were lined up outside around the block to be checked. The poor guy was cuffed and put in the back of the police car. I guess no gun was found. Just a rumor, perhaps some will comment with some real facts. Kerry is okay by the way, he looks remarkably well for a rumored dead man.

There were another benefit for Japanese disaster relief that night at Rooters which Barry and I attended. I was there to see Prince Experience, and boy, was it fun! If we ever have an expanded Friday Night Live, I would love to see them perform. I was late getting there and missed other bands except KIC, and they were really really good. Barry said all the bands were great including his former band Bellevue Suite and I missed the Stevie Wonder tribute band. Really, we can use some bigger productions to live up to the name Rockesha! (Do I need to pay Tony B for mentioning that or should he pay me for helping his branding?) The lead singer from Prince Experience had performed solo at D Mo's and should be back in a week or two again.

Here is the rest of the news...

All press is good press?

Good stuff.

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER

We had our own great rooster robbery before so now we are on edge, time to re-arm the shop and forget the little pop guns...

He will be around for Friday Night Live and Farmers' Market!

Free ride so don't forget to tip!!!

West End Update

A small protesting crowd is forming at the West End.

We suspect the word is out that Mr. Nipple Gate has a habit of coming down here for donuts on Saturday mornings.

4.9.11

Barry and I went to see the 9pm comedy show at D Mo's. The two drinks minimum and the special food menu worked just fine. The comedy was actually top notch with national touring comedians, except some old lady was offended by a Catholic joke and was sitting out in the lobby telling people to stay away. I certainly did not think the show was anywhere near offensive or even dirty, it was just funny. I guess if you like to judge it for yourself, the shows are at 7pm and 9pm, and don't forget the try the shrimp and lobster quesadilla or the red snapper fish and chips.

Chef Tony also had top notch musicians at the bar area. The lead singer of the Prince Experience was great! I think I will be going to Rooters this Sunday to see the full band headlining. One of Barry's former bands will be playing as well. (Shugar? It is Prince...)

The night ended at Bodway's, I was reluctant to try more of Tony B's pull tabs that promised 80% pay out and I kissed a whole $10 goodbye once. I spent one dollar, nothing; then another... $50! I think there was some tear in Tony B's eyes.

During the day, I also had a visit from BID board member Jeff to discuss my view on street closing for Friday Night Live. My position is the same as what I had been blogging. I understand street closing is a reality for safety reason, but if you really gonna do it, then USE the street as a bigger venue. We should either go big or not close the street at all, use the side streets and parking lots. If the stages do not really generate more $ being placed in front of the sponsoring businesses, then why not move them to more logical and safer locations? Not everyone will be happy with the decisions, that is also a reality in downtown Waukesha.

Speaking of Waukesha and the police.

Is there even gonna be any opposition at all or even a hint of it? I curiously wonder.

Only paint the face? How about a tattoo of it...

Good stuff.

SOUND OFF

POLICE BLOTTER-Lorena Bobbit was in Waukesha!?

4.8.11

Crazy busy day for me planned today. Three crews at the new house, full day of work and a night of comedy at D Mo's. I'll be there for the 9pm showing and for the red snapper fish and chip!

There is also a proposal for the next foodie dinner to be on May 12th at D Mo's, any thoughts from fellow foodies? Chef Tony will also start a new fun thing like a blend between Iron Chef and his old boss Bobby Flay's Throw Down, and I get to be the "chairman" and decide the secret ingredients for him and the chef or chef-wanna-be. Three hours to prep and cook... Perhaps we can get a panel of judges to form and some reporters to cover the story. Any chef out there want to challenge him?

I also attended the first Ladies Night at J Lotti's, Waukesha Civic Theatre was the sponsor of the week. We are scheduled to do so on 4-21, and we are still working it out with Moxie's to be the co-sponsor. Mark your calender...

Today at 1 pm, Milwaukee Journal is doing an interview and photo shoot on Chef Tony and D Mo's, please do come and show the world how we support downtown Waukesha businesses. I think the review is coming out soon.

I also gained permission to report that the West End deal is pushed back to two weeks.

On a separate note, I have heard hints of something big from the outside looking to come to the West End. There is another property up for sale at where River's Edge Gallery is now. I have yet to check my Powerball ticket yet, but if I win the jackpot, I owe Rebecca from Magellan's a chaise lounge.

Also, so you know, the rumor is true, the cost of the Waukesha Tattoo mural is the same as the Discount Liquor mural. I do not regret a penny of it, Adam Nilson did an awesome job and it is a piece of artwork and a welcome sign when you come in to downtown from the west. We can't get to be Art City without investment from private businesses. I also like to announce that Adam will be the feature artist at Galleria Edge for the December Art Crawl of 2012, the end of the world show... (We are booked solid till then with artists, now booking 2013 if there is 2013....)

( Live blogging from Sprizzo's)

Yummy ham and bacon quiche..

Fishy or an honest mistake? You make the call.

Princess Lori and the Jedi Council are a-okay... Any reaction from the Emperor?

We pitched in too.

SOUND OFF-The noise police is going after big TVs now, how big is big?

POLICE BLOTTER-Mr. policeman, I was just doing some remodeling, the body cavity search was totally unnecessary!

4.7.11

Two big big news hit downtown Waukesha this morning.

People's Park changed its mind yet again to go big and up as it was originally planned when they first bought the building. Does it mean all the other places in the West End have to expand or offer similar outdoor/rooftop venue just to survive? If West End stays quiet and complacent, it will just turn into the parking lot for People's... (Will police be called on the Taylors for noise?)

Friday Night Live will continue to have street closing all the way to Maple. Only one stage on the West End and that is Magellan's. I am guessing Danny goes big too so he can compete with the rest of the seven if the street is going to be closed anyway. People's Park is taking it to the next level (Literally) and I think Friday Night Live will eventually have to too. The undercurrent of residents versus bars will come to a head this summer for sure.

(To live and/or work in downtown Waukesha is like hand to hand combat sometimes.)

(There were also some more development on the West End deal reported but I have to confirm it first and seek permission to speak on it. )

From what SOUND OFF and Wiggy's column hinted, there is hand to hand combat at the city hall as well... Oh, it will be an interesting summer.

Tagger who can't spell.

POLICE BLOTTER.

Oh, I also need to give a shout out to my reader C. currently vacationing in Colorado... ;)

4.6.11

I triple checked that it is okay for me to report that the West End deal is being accelerated with new terms, upon all details being agreed in seven days with the six month time limit still in place. That is all I am allowed to say. Once again, don't kill the messenger.

I had been busy getting the new house fixed up, and be ready for May. I have a dilemma with the windows. I like the look of the old but it is just not energy efficient at all. There is just no way to have the cake and eat it too... Apparently there is a new neighbor for us as well. Chef Tony and Jody have moved to the West End, I will be seeing them walking by a lot now. The comedy shows at D Mo's on Fri and Sat is two drinks min. and he will only serve the red snapper fish and chip with horseradish tarter sauce for the comedy club.

There is another building for sale too at 439 W. Main of the West End! When can I get a tour? Powerball drawing is tonight, I'll let you know if I am gonna buy the whole West End and turn it into a mini Las Vegas so I can open that Little Chapel of Eternal Love and perform marriages as Elvis.

( Please don't call me today again haunting me for "information", Missy Hot Blonde reporter, you nearly gave me a panic attack... ) By the way, if you have not gotten the memo, she is NOT marrying Mayor Scrima, even though the rumor has it....

Too Close to call.

Another close one .

Hey, now I kinda know another mayor!

Silly Darryl, those are not potholes, those are prep works for underground tunnels.

SOUND OFF

Told you so.