The Referendum Passes. Is Peace in Our Time at Hand?

Well, nothing is over until Garrett Park says it's over, but the 18 percent lot ordinance passed yesterday by a vote of 261 to 222.

Now, we know there have been plenty of debates about the collateral effects of this ordinance, and I can now reveal that there are several. Because of your vote to support this ordinance:

• The mayor of Garrett Park must legally change his or her first name to Bubba.

• The town council must have a membership evenly split between men and women. Given that there are five councilmembers, some negotiation may be ahead -- or, at the least, Jack Mandel may be in for a makeover.

• The tulip poplar is now a protected species.

• Any band playing for the town's July 4 festivities must do at least one Jonas Brothers song.

• The dog swim at the pool will take place on Memorial Day weekend. Given the thorough cleaning necessary afterwards, the pool will reopen Aug. 25.

• The town speed limit is now 18 miles per hour.