This year, Stoughton's Booming Business party went western.
The event "has been growing steadily since it began three years ago," says Ann Kernalegen, president of the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. "Last year, we had a good turnout from the first year. This year, we're tying it in with the rodeo on Saturday, so we've decided to give it a western theme."
"People can dress western or come as they are. We're also tying in the western theme with some of our other activities. Our live music features local fiddle players and there's a prize for the best-decorated bike using a western theme."
Stoughton's entire main street was blocked off for the festivities, which included a bike parade, a sidewalk sale, fabulous food from Good Fortune Asian Cuisine, face-painting, and even a dog show.
"Last year, we had over 20 dogs. This year, there weren't as many, but it was still a great evening with good attendance and beautiful weather," says Kernalegen, who also owns Stoughton Veterinary Service. "We have an obedience section, but we also have a costume section for the dogs, too. It's a lot of fun."
The businesses that make up the Chamber of Commerce want to give residents a good tour and a good time on their local main street, according to Kernalegen. "We do it to stimulate business, but with the oil activity, we have some new families in town, too. We want to welcome them with a little bit of town spirit with a little bit of town stimulation added."
Hazel Schindel of New Hope Pharmacy agrees. "We're trying to bring awareness to people in the community and the surrounding area. We want to let them know that Stoughton's businesses are open and alive and well."
"This year, with the rodeo and the Chamber of Commerce working together, we're supporting each other."
"We're a member of the chamber and we are happy to support community initiatives like this," says Reine Verbeem of Farrell Agencies. "This year, we're supplying kids' goodie bags with a theme that promotes bike safety and we're also handing out helium balloons."
Nathalie Neal, manager of operations at Stoughton Credit Union says, "It's a thank you to our members and it's something free and fun to do. We're facepainting and handing out tattoos-temporary ones! It's meant for everybody and lots of people do come and get their face painted, from all age groups."
Adds Anne Kernalegen, "Our main message is for everybody to come out and have fun."
