January and February Green Cty Wi Real Estate Market report

I realized today that it has been a while since we did a comparative market report for the Green County, WI area:

• 45 homes sold though the MLS in January and February of 2011,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 102 days,
  
• The average sale price was $116,028,
  
• The median sale price was $109,900,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $363,587,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $10,000.

Let's compare with January and February of 2010:

• 21 homes sold through the MLS in January and February of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 141 days,
• The average sale price was $158,385,
• The median sale price was $129,900,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $333,500,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $57,500.

Our interpretation of these numbers? The average and median home prices have dropped due to the larger number of less expensive foreclosure homes that have been moving. 22 of these 45 homes sold in January and February were under $99,999.

These numbers also mesh very well with what we have been seeing personally in the real estate market so far this year - things are starting to move again. This is not only true for single family homes. When we look at commercial properties, 4 sold through the MLS in January-February of this year, but only 1 in the same time last year. 3 parcels of vacant land sold this year compared to one last year; 3 multi-family properties have sold this year compared to none last year. The only class that sold better last year was condos: 1 this year compared to 4 last year.

Taking a look at the future, there are 17 single family properties currently pending sale in the MLS. That means that all contingencies have been removed and the parties are just waiting for the closing date. 22 single family homes are also listed as having an offer that still has contingencies. We like seeing those kinds of number in Green County again.

Let's keep real estate recovery going here in Cheese Country.

Things to Do Around Monroe

Those of us here in Cheese Country are always game for something to do. Will we see you at any of these events in the upcoming week?

~ The Monroe Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 event will take place at Orchid International this month. Come learn all about the new technologies in development at Orchid. The event goes from 5 until 6:30 tonight, Wednesday.

~ Come down to the Monroe Theatre Guild Community Arts building Downtown on Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm for another Clean Up Night. Can you push a broom or move a chair? You have just the skills needed to help with the ongoing renovations at MTG. Other construction skills are always welcome too! If Thursday doesn't work, how about Saturday from 1o until noon? Come for one or both and have fun while helping out a great cause. Community support at these work days helps MTG to reduce the costs for the renovations, so contribute this way if you can't comfortably give financially to their campaign for an improved building.

~ Lace up your hockey skates! Head down to Freeport any Thursday evening for the rest of winter for a free hockey night. Read Park in Freeport is home to an outdoor ice arena, and Thursdays from 6:30 until 9 are reserved for a pick-up hockey game. There is no cost for this, but you must sign a waiver before playing. Contact the Park Department at 815-233-6114 for a waiver.

~ Homegrown talent is something we have an abundance of here in Green County. Come out to MAC this Friday and Saturday evening to the Showcase of Talent. Showtimes are at 7:30 both evenings, and tickets are $10. Purchase your tickets in advance or at the door. The Showcase of Talent is hosted at the Monroe High School PAC this year. If you can't make it, tune in to Big Radio as they will be broadcasting Saturday's show live on the air.

~ We here in Cheese Country really support each other, so come out to Flannery's Wilhelm Tell Club on Saturday starting at 4 pm for a musical event that is raising money to help the Kleeman family of New Glarus get back on their feet after a devastating fire earlier this month. The Kleemans lost both their home and their business in this fire, so come enjoy some music and camaraderie, bid high on the silent auction items, pick up some raffle ticket and do what you can to help.

~ You know we always are up for a good pancake breakfast. Immanuel Lutheran Church on Pearl City Rd in Freeport is hosting their this week. On the menu are buttermilk pancakes, sausage, applesauce and beverages. Unique to this breakfast is the fact that it also a booksale, so browse the selection before or after eating. Adults $6.50, children $5.

~ Sports, sports and more sports. Yes, the Packers are going to the Superbowl, but don't forget about all our of local youth athletes. Come out and support the home team in any of the upcoming games or matches.

~ Thespians, are you ready for the auditions for Monroe Theatre Guild's upcoming production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown"? Auditions take place on Thursday, February 3 from 5:30 to 7:30 and on Sunday Feb. 6 from 1-3 at the MTG Community Arts Building in Monroe. There are roles for four men and two women over the age of 18 (must be out of high school).

Things to do around Monroe, WI

~ Take a tour of the old world at the annual Amish Quilt Auction. Bid on hundreds of handmade quilts, Amish made furniture, collectibles, and even horse implements. Bake sale and hand made ice cream made with a diesel engine featured. The auction is on Saturday at the Amish Schoolhouse - corner of Hwy. 104 and Atkinson Rd.

~ Turn your trip to the auction into an adventure. Bicycle there by joining the ride sponsored by Bombay Bicycle Club, and the Earth Rider van will bring your purchases back for you. Meet at Earth Rider in Brodhead at 8:00am for the ride. Pace 12-14 mph; Distance: 24 miles; Route: Moderate.

~ Come to New Glarus on Saturday to celebrate the 108th Anniversary of the New Glarus Fire Department. This fundraising event will feature bucket brigades, water fights, children's activities and live music. There will be food stands throughout the day, and there is a steak fry in the evening.

~ If you are experimenting with gardening this year and are curious about how to put up your bounty for winter, consider attending the food preservation workshop sponsored by UW Extension. This one day workshop is from 9 am to 3 pm at Pecatonica High School in Blanchardville. There is a $25 per person charge that includes preservation publications that you will be able to take home. Contact Bridget Mouchon at 328-9440 to register.

~ Fore! Join the YPs of Green County for their annual golf outing this Friday. Registration is required, so get over to their website to print out the form and get it in. $45 per person includes 9 holes at the Monroe County Club, beer on the course, and dinner. Tee time is 5:30.

~ The Green County Entrepreneurs Monday at 6:30 PM at the AmericInn Lodge conference room in Monroe. This month's speakers is Kate Walker from the Center for Advanced Technology and Innovation.

~ The free outdoor movie in Cedarville this Friday evening is "Calamity Jane". The movie starts at dusk, and there will be series of shorts in addition to the main feature.

~ Downtown Freeport will be happening this weekend. Friday evening is Brats, Beer & Blues at the Freeport Art Museum. Saturday, it is Cruise Night. Classic cars will fill the downtown lots. Starting at 7, the drivers can cruise around downtown Freeport as the roads closed to other traffic. Spectators line the street light a parade to enjoy the show. There is also a burnout contest, winners judged by applause and amount of smoke.

~ Don't forget about the great farmers markets happening in the region: Monroe, Monticello, Paoli, Belleville, Orangeville, Lena... Come out, meet your producer and get some great food straight from the source.

June 2010 Green Cty Wi Real Estate Market report

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in June of 2010:

• 29 homes sold in June of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 106 days,
  
• The average sale price was $143,386,
  
• The median sale price was $128,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $322,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $27,000.

Let's compare with June of 2009:

• 32 homes sold in June of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 159 days,
• The average sale price was $148,459,
• The median sale price was $140,957,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $375,900,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $43,000.

Many of the numbers are holding steady against this month last year, but it is great to see that the average days on market is significantly lower again.

Six homes in the over $200,000 price range sold last month. Considering how hard this price range was hit during the last year and a half, it is good to see some signs of life in the higher priced market.

Things to do around Monroe this week

~ Stop by the Historic Cheesemaking Center at 4 pm for the groundbreaking for their newest addition: a farmstead cheese plant that is being restored after sitting dormant for nearly 100 years. This is an exciting addition to the Center, and should be ready to host live demonstrations of cheesemaking in the late 1800 to early 1900s later this year.

~ Bring your picnic dinner and lawn chair to Monroe's Downtown Square on Thursday evening for the Concert on the Square. Spare Time Bluegrass Band is playing this time, with the music starting at 6:30. If you prefer not to pack your own dinner, order a boxed supper from one of the Downtown restaurants. There will be a beer garden raising funds for the Green County Humane Society.

~ This weekend is the Heidi Festival in New Glarus. The festivities get underway on Friday and run through Sunday. Grab a meal at the Lions Club BBQ or the Taste of New Glarus, browse the arts and crafts fair or local merchants, enjoy a wagon ride or listen to (or dance to!) the music at this traditional small town festival. The Dairy Days parade is on Saturday with the crowning of the New Glarus dairy queen.

~ Join local bicycling enthusiasts this Saturday evening for a ride on the Badger State Trail. How does Stewart Tunnel look in the moonlight?? Meet at the Monticello Trail Head at Cty EE along the east edge of the village. Time: 7:30 pm; Pace: 10-12 mph; Distance 10 miles. Co-sponsored by the Bombay Bicycle Club and the Friends of the Badger State Trail.

~ The Friends of the Badger State Trail are also sponsoring a smart cycling class on Sunday. The free class will cover topics like fixing a flat, bicycle safety checks,on-bike skills and crash avoidance techniques. Meet at the Monroe trail head by Twining Park at 9 am. A trail pass is required ($4).

~ It must be a safety focused weekend here in Green County. Monroe Area Skate Enthusiasts are hosting their 3rd Annual Skate Board Clinic on Saturday from 1-4 pm at Honey Creek Skate Park (rain date is July 10). This event is sponsored by Monroe Park & Rec, organized and conducted by MASE. All participants must have a safety helmet and pads to participate in this free camp. Ages 7 and up.

~ Children of all ages! The Zor Shrine Circus is coming to town this Saturday as well. Bring the kids to enjoy the show at the Green County Fairgrounds in Monroe. There are two shows: 4:30 and 7:30 pm. Free tickets for children can be found at many area businesses and public libraries.

~ For next week, don't miss the Pork Producers Pig Out on Wednesday evening. Pick up your dinner, dine in or drive up, at SLICE from 4:30 until 8:30 pm.

~ Also next week, Monroe Theatre Guild's production of Music Man opens on Friday evening. Pick up advance tickets to the show at the box office at the STAGE building or by calling 325-1111.

~ Finally, don't forget about the area Farmers Markets.

• The new market in Monticello kicks off this week on Friday starting at 2:30. The Sugar River Market will take place on Tuesday and Fridays through October from 2:30 to 6:30 across from Lake Montesian.
  
• The Monroe Market on the Square takes place on Wednesdays from 2 to 5:30 pm and Saturdays from 8 until 1 on the north side of the Square.
  
• Belleville's Farmer's Market opened last weekend. It is in the library park on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 and Saturdays from 8 until noon.
• The market in Darlington is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am until 7 pm at the fair grounds.
• The Paoli market opens in June, and takes place in the park on Wednesdays from 3 until 6 and Saturdays from 9 until 1.
  

Things to Do Around Monroe

Memorial Day Weekend is almost upon us. Where has the time gone this year? If you don't have plans yet for the weekend, here are a few options for you:

~ Sky Vu Drive-In is open! Shrek: 4 Ever After and Iron Man 2 are playing this weekend starting at approximately 8:45 pm. This year marks 56 years of continual operation for the local drive in theater.

~ There is a 3-D archery shoot at SLICE this weekend. The qualifying shoots start on Thursday evening, and the final is on Sunday. Call Boog at 817-243-9244 for more information; all ages are welcome.

~ New Glarus host a music festival this weekend. Brianna Hardyman, Swiftkick, Raindogs, 2nd Thought, Super Tuesday, Greenfield Brothers, Amber Skies, The Invaders, The Jimmys, Wildheart, New Glarus High School Jazz Band, Madison College Jazz Band, New Glarus High School Choir, New Glarus Jazz Combo, and the Kinderchor will all take the stage in the main tent. There will also be a 5k run/walk, volleyball tournament, silent auction, and more.

~ Albany comes out to celebrate with Yesteryears Days this weekend as well. Enjoy live music, a carnival, BBQ chicken 5k Reuben's Run, and a parade all in downtown Albany.

~ Come to Breakfast on the Farm! This year's breakfast is at the Devoe Farm, N266 Twin Grove Rd., outside of Monroe. Look for the directional signs from Hwy 11/81 by Juda. Breakfast on the Farm started in Green County 30 years ago, and has grown since. Enjoy ice cream sundaes with a hearty breakfast, enjoy a wagon ride, browse the crafts, enjoy photo ops at the petting zoo and much more on Saturday from 6 am until 10 am.

~ Famous Fossil Winery has a "Paint your own Wine Glass" event on Saturday starting at 3 pm. $10 includes the glass and all your supplies, so let your imagination run wild. Call ahead 815-563-4665 to reserve your seat, and make your reservation for next week's Wine Down and Cookout at the same time.

~ FHN starts their summer movie series at the Lindo Theater in Freeport. Shrek: 4 Ever After shows at 10 am with doors opening at 9:30. $5.50 per person.

~ Remember what this holiday is all about. There are Memorial Day parades in both Brodhead and Monroe on Monday.

Enjoy your holiday weekend!

April 2010 Market Report

We knew that April was shaping up to be a great month for single family home sales here in Green County, but it ended up exceeding our expectations, to be honest!

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in April of 2010:

• 50 homes sold in April of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 116 days,
  
• The average sale price was $131,080,
  
• The median sale price was $120,650,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $302,500,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $5,500.

Let's compare with April of 2009:

• 18 homes sold in April of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 145 days,
• The average sale price was $140,824,
• The median sale price was $125,200,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $340,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $24,235.

Clearly that first time home buyer's tax credit was working here. Sales were way up, and the number of classic first time buyer homes were certainly up too. 37 of those sold properties were priced under $150K. It is nice to see that the higher priced home market is moving a bit more as well. Five homes priced over $250K sold last month, which is a big change from a year ago when only two homes in this range sold. This higher priced range has been hit the hardest locally, with the largest price drops and the highest inventory counts. Seeing these homes starting to change hands with more regularity two months in a row is great.

March 2010 Green County Market Report

Market report time. What happened with the County, Wisconsin real estate market last month?

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in March of 2010:

• 19 homes sold in March of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 110 days,
  
• The average sale price was $128,452,
  
• The median sale price was $110,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $358,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $25,000.

Let's compare with March of 2009:

• 25 homes sold in March of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 112 days,
• The average sale price was $142,654,
• The median sale price was $1118,500,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $513,500,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $25,000.

Days on market has stayed steady, and the the change in median sale price was pretty minimal. Steady is a good thing.

Out of curiosity, I pulled the same statistics from 2003, a time when no one was complaining at all about a real estate market prices.

• 26 homes sold in March of 2002,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 85 days,
• The average sale price was $108,042,
• The median sale price was $109,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $225,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $30,000.

Median sale prices, average sale prices, and highest priced property are all significantly higher in 2010 than eight years ago. This is what happens with regard to pricing throughout history. Seeing that the trend is continuing, even with the difficulties we've had in the real estate market over the last few years, it is good.

Homes are staying on the market longer now, which is a reflection of the fact that we still have a higher inventory of homes for sale. We are still working our way through the extra inventory of homes that did not sell during the winter of 2008-2009.

Peeking ahead at April, 5 homes have already sold this month as of today, only the eighth day of the month. 24 homes are currently pending sale. Let's see how the month keeps going. I personally think that the Home Buyer's Tax Credit has been a helpful thing for real estate in our area after we got through the depths of winter.

April 2010 Green County Market Report

Another month has ended, so it is time for monthly report on the Green County, Wisconsin real estate market.

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in February of 2010:

• Only 5 homes sold in February of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 119 days,
  
• The average sale price was $157,180,
  
• The median sale price was $131,900,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $275,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $57,500.

Let's compare with February of 2009:

• 12 homes sold in February of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 100 days,
• The average sale price was $,191,858
• The median sale price was $128,036,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $525,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $47,000.

There was obviously a difference here, and I think that the weather can account for a good deal of it. No one likes to look at homes when the weather is cold, when there are multiple feet of snow on the ground. The only people who look for homes in these conditions are those who absolutely need to purchase something. Buyers like to be able to see something of the yard and get a look at the foundations of homes. In previous years, we had a late January snow melt, and the phone starts to ring when the snow melts. This year, it was cold and snowy all the way through February.

I took a minute to check pending home sales for Green County. Sure enough, there are already 15 homes pending sale. This means that the home has an accepted offer on it, all contingencies have been met, and the buyer and seller are just waiting for the closing date. 25 homes sold in March of 2009. We are only on the 10th day of the month, yet 2 homes have already sold and another 15 are pending sale.

I do believe that we will be back on track in March.

January 2010 Green County Market Report

Another month has ended, so it is time for monthly report on the Green County, Wisconsin real estate market.

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in January of 2010:

• 15 homes sold in January of 2010,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 126 days,
  
• The average sale price was $153,993,
  
• The median sale price was $122,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $333,500,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $19,500.

Things are still looking better than they did in January of 2009:

• 11 homes sold in January of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 124 days,
• The average sale price was $128,036,
  
• The median sale price was $117,500,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $264,900,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $9,500.

One of the most promising things I see in looking at the homes that sold was they were in a large variety of price ranges. Yes, six of them were under $100K, but many of our homes in the area are in that price range. There were homes that sold in almost every single price bracket in our realtor data base up to $350,000 instead of a bunch of starter homes and just one or two higher end homes. Considering the abundant inventory in higher end homes in the area, it is excellent to see these starting to move again.

Three months in a row of positive numbers. This is great to see!

Business Spotlight

Being passionate supporters of both locally owned businesses and the environmental movement, we have been happy patrons of a New Glarus business for a while now. Recently, we have been hearing more and more people talk about this business, which warms our hearts.

Nikki's Diapers in New Glarus is an internet-based company turned brick and mortar store. We have had the pleasure of spending time with Nikki and her husband, and they are lovely people. They started the company from their home a number of years ago. Nikki wanted to fill the gaps for parents who were searching for quality cloth diapering items. Cloth diapering has come a long way from our grandparents' era, but you would never know it to see some of what is offered at the major national retailers. Niche businesses like Nikki's are helping make cloth diapering easier for parents of all budgets.

A few years ago, Nikki opened a retail space in New Glarus where she proudly offered not only cloth diapers and covers, but many other types of products as well. Now under the Planetwise umbrella, Nikki offers breastfeeding support items, babywearing slings and soft sided carrier, adorable soft baby shoes and legwarmers, wooden toys, reusable swim diapers, and much more. The New Glarus store has been one of our favorite places to stop in for a baby gift or supplies for our own children.

We want to congratulate Nikki because she recently opened a second brick and mortar retail location. There is now a Nikki's Diapers store in Madison as well, in Sauk Point Square on the corner of Old Sauk Rd and High Point for those of you familiar with the area. It is exciting to see a local business grow so well!

For those of you unfamiliar with Nikki's current New Glarus location, it is at 405 2nd St, just down the road from Tofflers and almost across the street from the park with the swimming pool. Hours there are limited to weekdays until 3:30, though the Madison store does have expanded hours. Otherwise, take advantage of her free shipping options and shop from home.

For those of you curious about cloth diapering, it really is easy. The environmental impact does make a big difference, in spite of what the studies commissioned by the disposable diaper companies claim. Go green and support a local business at the same time!

December 2009 Green County Market Report

Time for another monthly report on the Green County, Wisconsin real estate market.

Regarding the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in December of 2009:

• 21 homes sold in December of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 141 days,
  
• The average sale price was $142,750,
  
• The median sale price was $140,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $250,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $49,900.

Volume-wise, this is a huge improvement from December of 2008:

• 12 homes sold in December of 2008,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 95 days,
• The average sale price was $138,585,
  
• The median sale price was $123,200,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $264,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $58,425.

Historically, December is a very slow month for real estate sales, especially single family homes. I had to go back to 2005, the height of the real estate boom, to find a month where more homes sold in a December. so it is very interesting to see this many homes selling last month. Interestingly, the median home price sold in December of 2005 was $141,000, almost the same as last month too.

Coming on the heels of the November home sales holding steady, I am very heartened by the December statistics. I hope that the January sales are in this same vein.

Things to Do Around Monroe

~ Come to Heritage House in Monroe tonight for the Young Professionals of Green County for a Holiday Happy Hour starting at 5:30. There will be Holiday Martini and appetizer specials. The YPs are also adopting a family in need this month, and they will be collecting donations tonight. Donations of food, cash, baby clothing and educational toys are encouraged. See YP website for details.


~ Prost! Baumgartner's in Monroe is having their holiday party this Friday evening from 7 pm until midnight. Enjoy oysters on the half shell, traditional Glugg, cheese and more.

~ Toffler's in New Glarus is hosting a CD release party for area artist Beth Kille. There will be live music and no cover charge for this event which starts at 9 pm on Saturday.

~ There is still time to see Monroe Theatre Guild's annual production of A Christmas Carol. Showtimes are 7:30 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, as well at 2 pm on Sunday.

~ MTG's Stage Right youth program has a workshop on Saturday. Junk Puppets is for kids ages 8 through 12. Children will learn the art of puppet making combined with recycling as they use traditionally recycled and throw-away items to make their art. $18 for members, $21 for non-members, 9 am until noon.

~ Green County Humane Society has a fundraising event this Saturday. Pet Photos with Santa takes place from 10 am until noon at Monroe Auto Sales on the west side of Monroe. Bring your pets to be photographed with the big guy, and while you are there, pick up some treats at the bake sale there at the same time. Donations of baked goods are welcome; please contact Angie at 325-9600 for more information. Remember, the Humane Society is always in need of donations and dog walkers (see their website for a wish list), so chip in to help out the furry friends there this winter!

~ The Monroe Farmer's Market is starting up again! The first market of the season is today ~ Don't miss this weekend's Winter Market! Stock up on root vegetables, jams, jellies, baked goods and more at the farmers market on Monroe's Downtown Square. With a nod to the weather, the market moved indoors for winter, and it will be held in the lower level of Das Baumhaus from 9 am until 2. The next one isn't until January 16, so stock up now.

~ The Bel Canto Singers will perform a concert at 7 pm on Sunday at St Victor's Catholic Church in Monroe. Bel Canto is known for their rich vocals, and they will be teaming up with an organist, trumpeter and saxophonist for this performance. $5 admission.

~ Congratulations are in order for five Brodhead area ballerinas who will be onstage at the Overture Center in Madison this weekend for the annual Nutcracker performance. The girls, all students at the BHF Dance Academy, are Emily Beauchel, Nickole Becker, Carly Benton, Abby Jo Harnack and Rachel Jorgensen. There is still time to purchase tickets for the performances by contacting the Overture Center Box Office. Way to go girls! All that hard work really paid off for you. Break a leg!

November Market Report

First, the number of single family homes that sold in Green County in November of 2009:

• 19 homes sold in November of 2009,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 88 days,
  
• The average sale price was $111,000,
  
• The median sale price was $133,047,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $265,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $59,000.

Things have not changed very much when compared to November of 2008:

• 21 homes sold in November of 2008,
• The homes were on the market for an average of 76 days,
• The average sale price was $136,242,
  
• The median sale price was $121,000,
  
• The highest priced property sold was $450,000,
  
• The lowest priced property sold was $55,000.

It is nice to see the average days on market dropping down from the 95+ days that we saw earlier this spring.

I find it very positive that the November statistics are similar to where they were last November. Given the way that the market slowed down so much in the early spring of this year, it is great to see things holding steady again. The average sale price is lower, which is reflective of both the fact that prices did drop in our area in the last year as well as the fact that the First Time Home Buyer's Tax Credit was a great incentive that encourage a number of former renters to take the leap into home ownership in recent weeks.

December is historically a slower month for real estate sales, so I am curious to see how this year shapes up. Interestingly, one home has already sold in Green County this month, and it is

Things to Do Around Monroe

~ The Monroe Clinic Volunteers have their annual Christmas Festival on Friday in Founder's Hall. On December 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., stop in for a bake sale, lunch stand, Clare’s Closet gift shop items, a silent auction as well as coffee and sweets. All proceeds benefit the scholarship fund.

~ If you are in Shopko this Friday or Saturday, stop by to listen to music provided by students of the Green County Piano Teachers Association. 155 students and 8 teachers are participating in a Piano Play-A-Thon.

~ Did you register for Kookaburra's annual Cookie Contest? If not, there is still time. If you are not a baker, stop in to taste the cookies and fudge entrants between 10am-3pm, and be sure to check out the fun new inventory of culinary goods and gifts while you are there.

~ New Glarus will host the first Tour of the Arts, showcasingworks by emerging and established artists, each one hosted by a different business or retail store. Maps of the artist locations will be available at the New Glarus Chamber (Depot Building on Railroad Street) starting at 10 a.m. There will also be traditional Swiss holiday treats and other sweets at the Swiss Church Cookie Sale, Santa at the Anderson Mall and horse-drawn wagon rides downtown.

~ Tthe Monroe City Band Christmas will have a concert on Sunday, December 6, 3:00 p.m. at the Methodist Church. Admission is free, and there will be cookies after.

~ Juda Fire Departments holds their annual Big Gun Show this Sunday from 8 am until 3:30 pm. Buy, sell or trade at 100 tables of guns and gun related times. $4 admission at the door, will all proceeds helping the Juda Fire Department to purchase life saving equipment.

~ St John's UCC Church hosts Deutscher Weihnachtsgottesdienst this Sunday at 2 pm. This German-language sermon is believed to be one of the few of its kind still conducted in the US. There will be a retelling of the Christmas story using lessons and carols with several native speakers taking part in the reading.
~ The Monroe Theatre Guild’s Youth Choirs have their fall session concert on Sunday, December 6th at 7:00 PM at Monroe Arts Center. Both the Junior and Senior Choirs will be performing traditional and non-traditional Christmas songs. The kids are sure to entertain music lovers of all ages. Doors open at 6:30 and admission is by donation. Come fill the house with supporters of these young singers.

~ Are you ready for TubaChristmas!? Come to Lincoln Mall on W. Galena Avenue in Freeport at 11 am on Saturday for an hour-long concert of your favorite Christmas carols played by local and regional tuba and baritone players.

~ Also in Freeport this Saturday is the annual Luminary Walk at Okadale Nature Preserve. From 6 pm to 9:30 pm, the woods will glow with the light from hundres of luminaries. Enjoy an guided hike through the paths where special guests along the way will share their stories with you. Treats and music await in the Lodge, and the Children's Holiday Giving Store will be open. Admission is $6 for adult, $4 for kids 4 through 11 years for this enchanting event.

~ The Green County Area Entreprenuers and Inventors Club meets this Monday evening from 6:30 until 8:30 at Barb's Kitchen (710 16th Street, Monroe). Barb Newcomer and other Food Entrepreneurs will talk about their businesses and sharing a commercial kitchen. Tours and samples available. Event is open to the public and free.

Things to Do Around Monroe

Happy Thanksgiving! Are you looking for something to do after the traditional dinner is finished?

~ Come to Downtown Monroe on Friday evening for the annual Lighted Holiday Parade. The parade kicks off from the middle school starting at 6 pm. This year's theme is "Frosty and Friends". Many of the entrants will be creative in their use of lighting, and generators are donated for use by PDC.

~ New Glarus lights the Community Holiday Tree this Friday evening at 6:30. Come downtown for all the festivities and join your neighbors to see the magic of the lights.

~ Turner Hall is the setting for the local Christkindlmarkt. This old world holiday shopping event has its roots in the markets dating back to 1432 in Germany. Stop by the Grand Hall between 9 am and 4 pm either Friday or Saturday. There will be a variety of fiber and fabric arts pieces, candles, soaps, floral arrangements, decorations, Scherenschnitte, Kerbschnitte, Holzschnitte (traditional Swiss-German crafts) along with a European cafe and Swiss baked goods.

~ Come to Flannery's William Tell restaurant in New Glarus this Saturday to enjoy live music by Amber Skies starting at 8:30. Amber Skies plays everything from americana to rock. Amber Skies is a popular local band with roots in Belleville.

~ Coffee house night in Freeport! Higher Grounds is hosting a Turkey Jam. Enjoy great music from Aaron Whalen, Nate Yeske and Dustin Hyatt, and Anneliese Schrader. Admission is $5 which includes a $1 coupon. This is our favorite Freeport coffee shop, and a very comfortable place to spend time.

~ Stopy by the Monroe Middle School this Saturday for "Shop for the Cure." Sponsored by the Green County Relay for Life, all proceeds from the day go to the American Cancer Society. There will be more than 40 independent local consultants, vendors and crafters offer a wide variety of gift items, making this a great place to work on your holiday shopping. The day will also include door prizes, raffles, baked goods, and a light lunch.

~ The Family Movie at Lindo Theater in Freeport this Saturday morning will be Planet 51. Bring the kids for a fun movie experience. $5 per person, and the kids will receive a holiday gift.

~ Stop by the Monroe Arts Center to view the items for this year's Silent Auction. This annual event supports all the great programming at MAC. There is usually everything from Dr Najat's honey to framed art pieces, special event dinners in your home to gift cards to local businesses. There is always something for everyone and every price range.

~ The Mighty Richland Players Dinner Theater will present A Christmas Madrigal: Handel and Gretzky" on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This laughter filled show will feature songs and comedy from the Renaissance era. Bring your appetite as dinner will be an English groaning board (roast beef dinner). $40 per person, call 815-819-1310 for ticket information.

~ Pick up your tickets for the upcoming Festival of Trees or performance of A Christmas Carol. The deadline for tickets for Festival of Trees is Monday at 10 am; contact Pam at the Chamber to reserve yours (3257648). A Christmas Carol will be performed by the Monroe Theatre Guild the second and third weekends in December. This year, all children under 12 are free with an adult ticket thanks to the generosity of Scrooge (aka John Bauman).

Things to Do Around Monroe

Boo! Are you looking for something fun for this trick-or-treat filled weekend?

~ Bring the little ghosts and goblins to Monroe's Downtown Square for the annual Halloween Parade. The parade begins and ends at Monroe Middle School. Children of all ages (and parents if they are so inclined) should line up at 3:45 for the 4:00 pm step off. Trick or Treating hours for Monroe begin after the parade and go until 8:00.

~ Wisconsin's Area 51 is celebrating this weekend. The UFO Capitol of the World - aka Belleville - is celebrating UFO Day this weekend. There will be the annual UFO Parade, a Fun Run, a pet costume contest, children's games, a craft fair, a Haunted Forest, pumpkin carving, food fair, and a Monster Costume Ball. Join in the festivities all day Saturday in Belleville.

~ Curious about the new Justice Center for Green County? There will be a dedication ceremony and open house this Saturday. The dedication ceremony will be at 10 am, and there will be building tours until 1 pm.

~ Toffler's in New Glarus is having live blues and classic rock music to go with their costume party this Saturday evening. The Mud Angels take the stage at 9 pm.

~ Monroe Theatre Guild hosts another of their member's only movie nights on Saturday evening with a showing of the classic Psycho. The showtime is 8 pm, and tickets are $5 at the door. Seating is limited, so call to reserve your seats, 325-1111. Concessions will be available, and all the popcorn you can eat is only $1. Not a member? No problem. Individual memberships start at $15, family memberships start at $20. Get your yearlong membership, and you'll be guaranteed reduced ticket prices for all MTG productions and access to movie nights and other members only events.

~ SLICE has their annual Annual Pumpkin Ball and Costume Contest on Saturday evening. $5 per person will get you ice skating, live DJ, dancing, costume contest and more. Rentals are available, and the concession stand will be open.

~ The Green County Entreprenuers and Inventors Club meets this Monday evening starting at 6:30 pm in the New Glarus room of the Monroe Hospital. This month, Dave Babler, Dave Mosher and Dave Smith will speak on entrepreneurs sharing resources to reduce costs and benefit all. Contact Susan at GCDC if you have any questions: 328-9452.

If you are new to the area and wondering about Trick or Treat hours for your community, a good place to contact is your local city clerk: Albany (862-3240), Brodhead (897-4018), Monticello (938-4383), New Glarus (3 pm until 8 pm), Albany (862-3240), Argyle (543-3113) or South Wayne (439-1011).

Things to Do Around Monroe

Our apologies for missing last week's thing to do post. It was vacation week around here.

~ The New Glarus Fire Department celebrates their 107th anniversary this Saturday. Join them for fire truck rides, water fights, music, food and more.

~ Baumgartner's plays host to Bill and Mol playing original pirate ballads and much more. This is a rollicking fun show! Tofflers hosts Rivalry, an emerging melodic rock band that was recently featured a Summerfest.

~ We've mentioned the Piazza concerts before, and there is another this weekend. Reptile Palace Orchestra will play this unique outdoor venue at dusk, and the pre-concert potluck has a food theme of Fish, Fowl and Crustaceans. These are large, private concerts where you can expect to have a hat passed to compensate the musicians. The hosts love to meet new people, so consider yourself invited.

~ The Albany Lions Club is sponsoring their annual Steak Fry. Come on down for a steak with all the trimmings. Serving starts at 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

~ Ever been to the Argyle Mud Volleyball Tournament? This event is good muddy fun. and it benefits the Argyle Volunteer Fire Department. It takes place Sunday at the Legion Park in Argyle.

~ The Green County Entrepreneurs and Inventors Club meets again on Monday from 6:30 until 8:30 in the New Glarus Room of the Monroe Hospital. Meetings are always free, and refreshments are provided. This month's topic is Entrepreneurs in Government.

Music galore is in the region this weekend. Come enjoy any of the concerts listed here or one of the ongoing summer community concerts in Brodhead and Monroe. Bring a picnic or grab a meal at one of our locally owned restaurants before you come. Remember in today's economic climate, our neighbors need our help in supporting their businesses more than ever!

Things to do

It is time to take a look ahead at what is going on in the area in the upcoming week:

~ The Young Professionals of Green County are going mini golfing on Thursday, May 28. Join us at 6:30 pm at Swissland Mini Golf in New Glarus. The cost is only $7.50, and I've been told that YPs can feel free to bring the family. On June 11, the YPs will be having a business showcase featuring Brenda talking about the benefits of working with an EcoBroker and green real estate for everyone while touring a local home. More details on that to follow.

~ The kids from the Shakespeare Project have their show on Thursday evening at Monroe Arts Center. Shakespeare on the Edge is a local non-profit that supports teens making connections to the world through the works of Shakespeare. These teens have been working on their pieces since February; come out and support them in their performance while enjoying some of the great works of theater.

~ Come to Breakfast on the Farm on Saturday morning. The annual event is being held at Bruegger farms N4253 and N4611 Rechsteiner Road between Monroe and Albany off of Hwy FF. Just follow the signs. Breakfast is served from 6 am until 10 am. After you eat, enjoy the petting zoo, craft show, wagon rides, live entertainment and more.

~ Goosechaser Farm is having another culinary workshop on Saturday. This month's class targets cooking with children, particularly those between 4 and 8. Bring the favorite child in your life along for an entertaining, delicious and informative event. Check with Stef to see if space if still available.

~ Did you get the kids signed up for the puppetry classes at Monroe Theatre Guild? Our kids are looking forward to them.

~ Lindo Theater in Freeport is beginning their discount family movie series courtesy of FHN. Tickets are only $3 for the 10 am showing. This week, they are showing "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian".

~ Get outside! Hop on the bike and enjoy a leisurely ride on one of our area bike trails. If you prefer hiking, you can hike on the trails as well, or stop in at New Glarus Woods State Park, the Cadiz/Browntown Recreational Area or the Oakdale Nature Preserve (Freeport) for a hike through the woods or prairie. If you plan on spending time in your own yard gardening, remember that you can get the supplies you need at the independently owned nurseries in the area, and some of the Farmers Market vendors are selling vegetable and flower starts as well.

~ Live music! Enjoy Blue with Jimmy Voegli at Tofflers in New Glarus this Saturday evening. The Monroe City Band begins their summer concert series at Twining Park on Monday eveningat 7:30 pm. Also, make your plans now to attend next weekend's Brooklyn Bluegrass festival.

~ Don't forget to get out to the Farmers Markets locally in Monroe, Belleville and Paoli. The fresh foods taste so good, and it is great to buy local.

Have fun! The weather is supposed to be great, so enjoy your weekend here in Green County!

Things to Do Around Monroe

If you are not going camping for Memorial Day weekend, come out and enjoy our area events!

~ There is still time to enroll the kids into the MTG puppetry classes for next weekend. Kids 8-12 can take Introduction to Puppetry with Suzanne Miller and Kris Ault, using the Monroe Public Library puppets. Kids 6-9 can come in the afternoon for Sock Puppetry, creating their own sock puppet character based upon a story, and there will be a short performance as well.

~ Adults, come to the Stage building either Friday or Saturday evening for MTG Uncorked, the theatre guild's original content content comedy/variety show. Shows are on both evenings at 7 pm, and both are very affordable for an evening's entertainment at only $10 for members, $12 for non-members.

~ Come out of the Farmer's Market! There are new vendors this year in addition to most of the great people from last year. Paoli and Belleville also have their farmers market on Saturday morning.

~ The annual New Glarus community festival is this weekend. Bring the family to this old fashioned festival! Talent show, sports tournaments, kids activities, bands, food stands and more. The festival is on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

~ Albany is having their Yesteryear's Days also this weekend. Come Friday for a street dance. There will also be a tractor pull, chicken barbecue, Memorial Day parade and more throughout the weekend.

~ Train enthusiasts! Come down to Freeport to the Silver Creek Museum on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy rides on the Silvercreek and Stephenson Railroad antique steam train. The 1912 Heisler steam locomotive will pull an antique red caboose reported to be the oldest in the state along with two other cabooses and three passenger flatcars over Yellow Creek and farmlands for a four mile train ride. Come to the museum to purchase tickets for the rides and for the ice cream social. Once there, you can also browse the museum.

~ Catch a movie at the Goetz or Sky-Vu drive-in this weekend. Sky-Vu drive in is showing Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian and Marley and Me. Enjoy a classic Sky-Vu pizza with your movie. Goetz Cinema is showing Terminator Salvation, Star Trek, and Angels and Demons.

Have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend!