Photo by Maureen Sullivan
GRAFTON – During his final morning as mayor, Sammy sauntered around the Common.
He also had some treats, got some belly rubs, and met a lot of new friends, both two-legged and four-legged.
About 15 minutes before the town’s annual parade on Tuesday, July 4, Sammy pawed over the duties of office to Bruno, a 14-month-old Rottweiler.
Bruno attained the high honor by earning the most votes in a social media poll conducted by the Grafton Cultural Council.
“Bruno will represent Grafton in the best possible way,” said his owner, Mike Corda. “He’s always friendly, always wants to meet other pups…”
“I’m proud of little Bruno,” said Sammy’s owner, Maureen Swier. “I’m happy to see what he can accomplish.”
Although the dog mayor of Grafton has no official duties, and follows no specific schedule, the “canine in chief” may be called upon to represent the community during civic events.
Swier said that Sammy’s biggest achievement was “getting rid of the misconception that bully [pit bull] breeds are dangerous.
“They are sweet, beautiful dogs,” she added. “He’s just all about the love.”
As part of his first day in office, Bruno received a gift bag, and mingled with his constituents before and during the parade.
Unlike last year, neither Sammy nor Bruno walked the parade route from North Street Elementary School to the Common. Instead, they hung around with the parade’s grand marshal, Ruby, a Great Dane.
Together with the crowd around the Common, they saw police and fire vehicles, antique cars, local officials and several civic organizations, including Scout groups and the Lions, make their way toward the Congregational church.
“I was happy with the participation,” said Bob DeToma, one of the parade organizers. “I was a little nervous before the parade – everyone arrived at the last minute. But it went well.”
