MONROE — Stump speeches by politicians were a feature on stage at the earliest Cheese Days celebrations.
By the time the festival was re-energized with a jump start back in 1965, the focus was all on music. But with a limited budget, the committee often turned to local entertainers to fill in the schedule with those who could be persuaded to sing, yodel, and squeeze out tunes on accordion for free.
As the festival grew, so did the budget — and entertainers both local and “imported” — are now compensated for their time and talent.
Cheese Days officials hope to recognize some of the veteran, retired and longtime locals who have been icons when it comes to entertaining at the festival. Individuals like Martha Bernet (who yodeled for the recording of the Cheese Days Song), Del Heins, Marian Kundert, Henry Blumer and Greg Anderson are all part of these entertainers – along with groups like Swiss Singers (and charter members Gisela and Ernest Halbheer), Yodel Club and Mannerchor — but there are many more. Entertainers involved with Cheese Days in any way (including those who did the “bar hopping” promotions), are encouraged to come forward to be recognized. Calling all alphorn blowers, accordion squeezers, yodelers, singers and musicians — please join us to be recognized.
Meet at the Colony Brands Hospitality Tent Stage just before 4 p.m. Sept. 15. The tent will be on the east side of the Square. There will be chairs near the stage set aside for those who would like to come early to enjoy the music of Kerry Christensen. Hospitality Tent Stage Manager Bekah Stauffacher, or Cheese Days Vice President Judy Meier, will lead a quick recognition along with a few fun stories.
The recognition will then be repeated on the Main Stage at 4:40 p.m. Chairs will again be available for waiting, as well as for those to be seated during the short program. Look for Main Stage Manager Gary Neuenschwander.
Stories and or anecdotes are welcome to share as an entertainer. Future plans include adding a page to the Cheese Days website to showcase our veteran performers. For more information, contact Judy Meier at 608-312-1582.
