A blossom to Julie of Julie's Bridals in Monroe. >We were looking for a bridal gown for my daughter on Sunday. Julie was more than willing to help us, and her customer service is excellent. We felt like she really cared about us and wanted to accommodate us in every way. Thanks, Julie - Judy>
A blossom to the Juda Jazz Band,> who performed in the Community Showcase of Talent, proving that a small school can produce huge talent. These dedicated students arrive an hour before school to practice. They additionally maintain high grade-point averages. The director, Nino Tarara, along with the musicians continue to exceed expectations. We are very proud of you all! - Juda Staff>
We would like to send a huge bouquet of blossoms to all the people who helped >at our daughter's hit-and-run accident scene Saturday, Jan. 17. First, to the unknown man who stopped, helped the girls out of the car, called 911 and stayed until help came. Second, to Garrett Voegeli, who after witnessing the accident followed the offender until officers could stop them. Then came back to the scene with Chris Rieder to offer support. Third, to Officer Hartwig, for showing extreme professionalism and caring to two frightened and traumatized girls. You do not know how much just taking the time to explain what was happening meant to us. There truly are some special people in this world, and we thank you! - Michael, Dorrene and Kassie Martin>
A blossom to Mrs. Brunner's eighth-grade Middle School social studies class. >I was subbing in her class where we were watching the inauguration and during the class period when the "Star Spangled Banner" was sung, the students voluntarily and spontaneously stood up and faced the flag and silently listened while our national anthem was being sung. I was very moved. It was wonderful to see a great group of students understand and participate in our democracy! Way to go, eighth-graders! - An impressed substitute teacher>
A blossom to Twining Valley Retirement Community. >Employing Randy Boss as resident manager was a decision that put a smile back on the faces of those of us living here at Twining Valley. Randy's manner in dealing with us senior citizens is an open and welcoming one. Not one of a superior called the controller. - A happy resident who loves living here>
A huge and grateful blossom to Gov. James Doyle, Sen. Herb Kohl, Sen. Jon Erpenbach, Sen. Russ Feingold, and Rep. Tammy Baldwin> and their offices. When I ran into trouble with my mortgage service company not wanting to cooperate with me on modifying my mortgage, I looked to our local legislators for suggestions. I was promptly contacted by the above offices, either by phone or by mail with some information and suggestions on places to go for help. I think we are very lucky to have these people representing us and looking out for our best interests. On the same topic a huge barb to Rep. Brett Davis >and his office. I also looked to his office for advice, and what did I receive? Nothing but the sounds of crickets! Silence. No phone calls or no mail received with information on where to turn for help. And I live in his town. I wonder how he treats citizens from other areas in his district? But all was not lost from Rep. Brett Davis. I did receive a free subscription to his e-newsletter! Yeah! Just what I needed ... more junk mail. - Not a fan of Brett Davis>
A blossom to Clarno 4-H. >At our December meeting, we made crafts and assembled gift bags with assorted goodies in them to give to 20 Green County residents. On Dec. 17, several 4-H members visited four houses and the kids gave away all 20 bags. The kids were able to chat with the residents and took pictures with them. This was our second year of giving out gift bags to the residents, it was a positive experience for all involved. - Tiffany Golackson, Clarno 4-H reporter>
This blossom goes out to the community of Juda. >Smith Masonic Lodge No. 31 has held a spaghetti supper scholarship fundraiser for about the past 10 years. The scholarships help in defraying costs as Juda High School recipients pursue their goals in post high school education. We had planned it his year for Friday, Jan. 16, before a home boys' basketball game with Albany. But, as happened with many games scheduled for that day, it was postponed due to the extreme cold. With most of the preparation completed, the question was what to do? So, we decided to have the supper at the Juda cafeteria on Monday, Jan. 19, before the Juda Pep Band concert. We sort of "held our breath" concerning how turnout would be. We should have been worried. Turnout was outstanding - a new record for the number of dinners sold. Thank you to all who came and supported the effort. Thanks to you, we'll be able to hand out a little more in scholarship money for deserving Juda seniors. - Smith Masonic Lodge No. 31 of Monroe>
A big barb to the merchants and the city fathers of Monroe. >Every time a new business wants to come to this city, panic ensues. That is one reason this town does not grow. Also, a barb to the boomerang agenda,> which tries to encourage graduates to return to this town. Many people in that category have pets, particularly dogs, instead of children. Most apartments in this town exclude dogs, and also allow only one cat. Many of those individuals don't come to invest in a home. They prefer a loft or a condo, which sadly are lacking in Monroe. Also most apartments in Monroe are not attractive to young people. They are geared toward the retirees. Shouldn't part of the Main Street initiative be creating downtown housing that is welcoming and available to all age groups and modern lifestyles? And also apartment home communities? Monroe has got to open its doors to the 21st century and put out the welcome mat to all. This is how you recruit the future population of Monroe. - A college graduate of two universities who will pick Dubuque over Monroe>
A barb to Gary Luhman> for the clear-as-mud explanation of the arson charge in the juvenile case. You didn't tell us anything. Is the charge dropped because this juvenile pleaded no contest? Try layman terms. Will this juvenile be charged with something? A man died! - A concerned reader>
