Dan's Papers - July 27, 2007

Dear Dan,
You have the poetic touch and know how to tell a story in an interesting way. I've never thought of myself in the unusually flattering terms in which you described me.
Everything I've become I owe to Ted, who introduced me to the stricture of quality and excellence in Northwest coast culture, the poignancy of small Eskimo carvings, born from a harsh world. Windsor chairs, Shaker furniture, the perfect proportions and simplicity of early American architecture, the grace of the American elm. Nearly 35 years ago, Ted and I fell in love with the land and, one by one, with the houses, barns, sheds. There was no grand design. We are rewarded today that our home will be preserved for many to enjoy. Thank you for your unusual tribute.

God bless you for your gift. -DR

Dear Dan,
Police Blotter has always been one of my favorite features in Dan's Papers, but am I wrong in noticing that as of the last couple of years, the reports are followed with a "funny" comment?
I always thought that the truth story was simple and perfect and needed no clever wrap up.
I guess I can always read it up till the last sentence and avert my eyes, but I'd rather not.
What do you say Dan?

We'll reconsider. - DR

Dear Dan,
Our dog Brandy, who should've been named Cognac, is 4 years of age from a rescue. We've had her since she was 6 months old, a stripey dog (brindle--probably a Dutch shepherd) Been there done that - Bathing - 7/11/07
Read and smiled at "Washing Your Dog" in July 6th 2007 issue of Dan's Papers. Our household has lots of experience - as my header says, been there done that - especially the first wet shake!
Usually we pre-plan the "event" and close doors to escape routes such as the bedroom. Then we gather the items to use: Dr. Bonners Eucalyptus and Mint liquid soap (also a good flea deterrent-though not a substitute for frontline or any other product) Mane and Tail Cream conditioner
Both can be found at most drugstores or online. I use a handheld shower attachment. (I also swab my baseboards with the eucalyptus product - not at wash time!)
I have a piece of canvas cut leash length and I fashioned an oversize knotted collar to slip over her head.
The bathroom is set up with the soap and conditioner and a towel is laid in the tub so she won't slip. As we roll into the bathroom I toss a treat into the tub for her to follow.
I use the Shedding Blade, to achieve a kind of wringing out after the shower. I also use the special absorbent towels for pets after bathing. Both items can be found in pet stores or pet catalogs such as JBPET or KVVET. The Shedding Blade is also used on horses. It is curved one piece with a handle. The rougher blade end is good for comb-outs. The smooth side as I said is very useful after bath. Works for me.

Dear Dan,
Come on Dan, who's leg is being pulled here; yours or the readers?
The "Wings" are "I" beams used to lift houses. They are not wings. And the "Motor," well not exactly sure what that is but is sure ain't for thrusting a house into the sky.
I've been arguing with people who actually believe this story.
What's the deal?

I THOUGHT they looked like I - Beams. - DR

Dear Dan,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) for responding to requests to clean up the Montauk train station site.
When I retired and moved to Montauk in January, 2005 the one thing that struck me as unacceptable was the condition of the LIRR Montauk train station parking lot and the railroad ties that were strewn on the side of the train tracks. It is the gateway to our harbor and I believed it should be attractive and welcoming to our visitors and residents.
I'm delighted that due to Mr. "Chip" Duryea and perhaps others, both the station parking lot has been improved and the railroad ties removed. To complete the "cleanup" I urge LIRR to do selective plantings, so that the LIRR will indeed be a part of our "Welcome to Montauk" community.
I am aware there is a new head of LIRR, Helena Williams and if this is part of her efforts to be more community-friendly, I applaud her initiative and wish her much success in ensuring that LIRR becomes the valuable asset it should be. Given the horrendous traffic and environmental concerns here on the East End, improving service on the railroad must be a priority.