Memorial Day is right around the corner, and for many in New Glarus, it brings back memories of Community Fest, which was once the unofficial start to summer and the beginning of beer tent season across southern Wisconsin. It was more than just an event. It felt like a homecoming, with families returning for graduation parties, reconnecting with old friends and settling into a rhythm that defined the season.
It’s not uncommon to hear people reflect on what was lost when Community Fest faded away. At the same time, there’s an understanding that putting on something like that takes a tremendous amount of effort. The reality today is that volunteer support isn’t what it once was, and organizing large-scale events has become more complicated than it used to be.
Still, with the USA marking its 250th anniversary this year, it’s hard not to wonder if there’s an opportunity for something smaller, simpler and closer to the spirit of earlier days in New Glarus. Maybe not a full-blown festival—but something like the old street dances. Something for just the people in the community. A local band using a lowboy trailer as its stage, a crowd gathered somewhere downtown, a few taps of Spotted Cow, and not much else. It didn’t take much back then to bring people together. Maybe it wouldn’t take much now, either.
What We’re Working On
A guide to the best scenic drives around New Glarus and Green County is in the works, with routes, photo stops and a few hidden gems for spring and summer road trips.
New Glarus native Dr. John Albert Schindler, a founder of the Monroe Clinic and author of How to Live 365 Days a Year, left a legacy that reached far beyond southern Wisconsin.
A story for International Firefighters’ Day that will recognize the local firefighters who serve the area and the work they do for the community.
The growing popularity of eBikes in New Glarus and along the Sugar River Trail raises questions about recreation, tourism, safety and access.
Plans to replace the Public Works shop roof will get a closer look, including costs, timing and why the project is needed.
The tradition of American Legion Auxiliary 141 pancake breakfasts is a community story built around service, fellowship and a familiar local gathering.
A guide to New Glarus vacation rentals will look at where visitors stay, what’s available and how short-term rentals fit into the local tourism picture.
The latest New Glarus Fire Department monthly numbers will offer a snapshot of calls, activity and trends from the past month.
Photos from Arbor Day tree plantings around the village will help show how New Glarus continues to invest in its public spaces.
A look at 360-degree photos on Google Maps will explain how local businesses can improve online visibility and attract more visitors.
A roundup of summer volunteer opportunities will highlight ways for residents of all ages to get involved and help local organizations.
Some of New Glarus’s oldest houses have stories worth telling, from their architecture to the families and history connected to them.
A Mother’s Day dining guide will help readers find local options, specials and reservation details in New Glarus.
The latest on the Green County Jail and Law Enforcement Center project will cover construction progress, timing and what comes next.
The Madison Mallards and World Euchre Federation are teaming up for an attempt to break the world record for the largest Euchre game.
Photo of the Week
What You May Have Missed
Todd Klassy
Todd Klassy
Todd Klassy
Todd Klassy
Todd Klassy
Todd Klassy
Something We Noticed
There’s not a week that goes by without something new happening at the New Glarus Home that makes you stop and take notice. From live music to themed events, the level of programming and effort being put into enriching residents’ lives feels noticeably different than it once did. For those who remember visiting years ago, the change is striking. What was once a quieter, more subdued place now seems filled with energy, activity and genuine moments of joy—and the fact that these moments are shared with the broader community makes it even more meaningful.
Credit is due to the people leading that shift, including Matt Streiff, President and CFO, Ryan Carroll, Director of Wellness and Life Enrichment, and the staff who bring these ideas to life. Their work has helped reshape what life can look like in a senior living setting, not just for residents but for families and the community watching from the outside. Seeing an Elvis impersonator perform there this week, captured and shared online, was a reminder of how far things have come—and how much thought is going into making each day memorable.
It also raises an interesting question about the future. If today’s residents are enjoying Elvis, what might tomorrow bring? Will future generations see tribute acts for Madonna, Eminem or Linkin Park? Could game nights include Grand Theft Auto tournaments, or menus feature cold brew coffee, avocado toast or something entirely unexpected? It’s a lighthearted thought, but it speaks to something bigger: expectations are changing, and places like the New Glarus Home are evolving right along with them.
Past Issues
Need to reference a past issue of Community Update? No problem. We’ve got you covered. Previous editions are easy to find, so whether you want to revisit a local story, catch up on something you missed, or go back and check a link, the archive is there when you need it.
How to Reach Us
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Thanks for supporting local journalism and for helping us tell the story of New Glarus and the people who make this community what it is.
Todd Klassy
New Glarus 360
