Local tidbits

Target Corp. is holding their annual meeting here, beginning Thursday. They've apparently realized how much I've spent there over the years, and decided to return a bit of that cash to the local economy.

Paul Tracy has signed to race at Milwaukee this weekend for...AJ Foyt. Let the fireworks begin - Foyt isn't known to be either the soul of tact or particularly reticent, and Tracy has quite the temper. Still, it's good to have Tracy back at the track. I'm pretty certain he's the holder of the 181.2 mph track record, although speeds this weekend won't begin to approach that level.

Isn't college supposed to be a time of bad dining hall food and late night greasy pizza? That isn't good enough for our students, who have started their own Slow Food chapter. I like the idea, but would argue that home cooked food doesn't need to be slow, at least in the preparation. The lingering over dinner and enjoying the chance to catch up is what appeals to me.

I do have to laugh a bit at the students wanting a farmers' market on campus - one of the best in the city is held every Wednesday at Zeidler Union Park, a mile or so from campus.

The Brewers are trying this afternoon to reclaim solo top spot in their division, facing the Cardinals for that honor. Right now, the game is tied 2-2. I anticipate having a difficult time getting home tonight, as unless the game goes into extra innings, the crowds will be leaving at the same time I'm trying to get through the stadium interchange, or going west on National Avenue.

It's all about me, you know?

We cheeseheads know how to enjoy summer, particularly as it doesn't seem to last all that long. We're about a month away from the start of festival season - an opportunity to eat your way through summer weekends by sampling a different ethnic festival each week. Jazz comes to the park, and speaking of parks, our city park system is incredible - green jewels tucked into quiet neighborhoods. There truly is something for everyone. Check out the visitors' center site if you don't believe me.

Best of all, a number of the events have no admission charge, with many featuring live music. All you need is a picnic dinner, a couple of lawn chairs and a can of mosquito repellent for a wonderful summer night out.