A barb to the person/persons who started the rumor> that The Wangfest '08 event that took place June 28 was going to be serving alcohol to minors. This event (high school rock bands) was totaled chaperoned by parents and at no time did we have any trouble with the kids even trying to bring alcohol in with them. I feel bad for the kids that were not able to attend and ashamed of the parents who thought this was going to happen. I had only one call from one parent asking before her daughter was able to attend. Our posters were all over town; you knew where we lived. All you had to do is come with your child and see if this was happening. You never know, you have enjoyed yourself. - Karci Wenger>
A huge blossom to Rick and Karci Wenger >for hosting Wangfest '08. A lot of planning and work went into this event. Despite the wind, hail and rain, the event was a big success. There are always complaints that there isn't enough things in Monroe for the teenagers to do; these parents stepped up! Thank you, and we look forward to the next event! - Lisa >
I would like to submit an entire bouquet, not just a blossom, to the staff at Monroe Clinic and hospital. >I am very proud to say I am Elizabeth Minkie's aunt. The care she was given immediately after her accident was amazing. To Dr. Rikkers, we cannot thank you enough for the level of care you gave her. If not for you, she may not be here. Dr. Sathoff, you calmed her fears when she was afraid of losing her leg. To the paramedics, nurses, surgical staff and even your receptionists, you all treated Liz as if she were YOUR family. Liz has a very long, uphill road to reach full recovery. Thank god her journey began with your staff. Liz's dream of becoming a nurse will happen. It may take her a bit longer than planned. But in the end, I know she will be caring and compassionate to others, just as you all were to her. Our family thanks you from the bottom of our hearts! - Shelley Schmid>
A blossom for The Monroe Times editorial >of July 15 entitled "Further evidence of the need for reform." Congratulations to Rep. Hilgenberg for pressing the issue on campaign finance reform. The one with the most money shouldn't be considered better than the one with the better idea. What is taking place with the Wisconsin Supreme Court pretty well signifies what the problem is. Now that the State of Wisconsin is going to have to come up with $265 million due to a Wisconsin Supreme Court decision, then the second most important problem would be in closing the Las Vegas Loophole because, according to Rep. Spenser Black, we're losing $260 million a year through corporate loopholes. I just hope the candidates have enough wisdom to address the issue. - La Vern F. Isely, Monroe>
Huge blossoms to all those who work so hard to keep the bike trails >in such great condition, and those who support and ride the bike trails of silent beauty and relaxation and truly enjoy family outdoor discovery. What a fantastic and unique gift Monroe has in the bike trails. Get out on the bike trails during these warm sunny summer days. What a wonderful summer to go on the well-kept and maintained trails with family. Your heart will thank you for it. Have YOU checked out the trail from Monroe to Monticello, Monticello to New Glarus, Monticello to Belleville? ... the TUNNEL! Or take the trail south from Monroe. Yes, you can go over the state line and discover the Jane Addams Trail. ... Hey if I can do 20 miles, you can and more. But don't forget, Monroe "Will bring you back." Enjoy. - Laurie>
A blossom to the late Albert Deppeler. >The Historic Cheesemaking Center lost a true friend this week with his passing. A cheesemaker at heart, Albert found many ways to assist and further the goals of the center. When the Milwaukee Road Depot was being restored, Albert came to the rescue and donated enough black walnut to completely replace the rotted floor in the depot's center room. Albert also donated the 3,500-pound-capacity copper kettle located in the museum proper and built a hanging arm for a small Marty kettle, which was donated by his wife Marion. Over the years he donated hundreds, perhaps thousands, of hardwood cheeseboards in the shape of Wisconsin and Illinois, for sale at the Center's gift shop, thus providing needed funds for the Center's operation. When the grounds needed sprucing up, a call to Albert quickly brought a truckload or two of wood chips to place around the trees, bushes and flower beds at the depot grounds. He and his wife also were volunteers at the Center for many years. His interest in the heritage of cheesemaking in this area will long be remembered because of his devotion to the Center and its goals. We sincerely appreciate this unswerving loyalty. - Members of Historic Cheesemaking Center >
A blossom to local families who have found generous and creative ways to help the Green County Humane Society. >Recently we've been fortunate to have several donations from individuals choosing to help the humane society instead of giving a gift for friends' wedding anniversary. Another family chose the humane society as the recipient of memorials in the name of a loved one who had passed away. And another family raised money by raffling a beautiful handmade quilt at a family reunion. There was even a group of Monroe Clinic employees who chose to donate to GCHS in lieu of receiving a Christmas gift. We deeply appreciate the friends and families who have come together and offered their support. On behalf of all the animals at the shelter, we thank you. - Green County Humane Society Board of Directors>
A blossom to all of the volunteers> who help organize the Green County Fair. I would especially like to recognize the gate people and parking people. They probably take more grief then any other position out there and still manage to keep a smile on their faces. And why wouldn't they? ... They get to tell me where to go.
A blossom to all the Dairy Queens> for handing out ribbons during the shows and for representing not only the dairy industry and their communities well, but also themselves. What an amazing bunch of young ladies!
A blossom to all the exhibitors >this year, who, even if they placed last, still had enough class to compliment and congratulate the winners in their respective classes. Also to all the older 4H and FFA youth who are helping the new youth out - great job, kids!
A barb to all the people who try and sneak into the fair >or use the lamest excuses around. It is a county fair ... pay your way and then go have fun.
A blossom to all the people in the fair office >who help get the fair organized. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.
A blossom to all the buyers >at the Meat Animal Auction and the Dairy Recognition Auction. You all do a VERY good job of supporting our area youth! And finally, a blossom to the Extension office staff ... well done on another year at the Green County Fair! - Jeff Ditzenberger, Monticello>
