We were among greatness last evening. That's the only way to describe the Dog & Pony Show, a fundraising event sponsored by Capital K9s & Friends of the Madison Mounted Patrol. If anyone reading this helped coordinate this event, you're a rock star. Steve and I, and a couple friends from the Midvale Heights Neighborhood Watch group were honored to be guests. We're still raving about it. Everything was perfect - the gorgeous venue, the food, the music, the speakers, the demonstrations, the people (both police & civilian), and the animals. The Madison PD serve this city with professionalism, dignity, and grace. In itself this is a phenomenal thing, but they're also doing their jobs in a hostile, anti-police environment - one not seen since the 1970s. It takes a certain strength of character to do what they do. The dogs and horses that the officers work with are obviously loved and cared for. Steve and I are big-time animals lovers - so this is a joy to see. Before I had even met a Madison K9, I had this image of a stereotypical service dog, sitting at attention, not to be touched. I couldn't have been more wrong. The dogs act like regular dogs, full of energy and love. The horses are impeccably groomed, with bright eyes and shiny, healthy coats. The board members and volunteers told their stories about why they choose to give their time to these organizations . . .you inspired me. So did the friendly volunteers, who give their time to help the community. The planet is more inhabitable because of the people we met last evening. We were surrounded by greatness. All the best, --Paula Fitzsimmons