Get Ready to Oompah at the New Glarus Oktoberfest

Awareness is Key According to HealthLine.com, Americans over the age of six are aware of breast cancer. They are also aware October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For 40-plus years, individuals, non-profits, and many other businesses have in their own way made their support for those who have been in any way affected by breast cancer abundantly clear, mostly through pink ribbon displays and sponsoring fundraising events for the cause. Susan G. Komen ribbon But even though the number of people who are well aware of breast cancer is staggering, every October the promotions keep coming. Banks, grocery stores, department stores and other retail outlets, etc. are decked out in pink throughout the month. From the White House to the Empire State Building to the Willis/Sears Tower and even the Eiffel Tower are lit up with pink spotlights. But some unique promotions come from fairly unlikely places. Eiffel Tower For instance, in the southern U.S., pizza chain Mellow Mushroom is offering ribbon-shaped pretzel appetizers and their own special pink cocktail to not only raise awareness, but also to show support. A portion of the proceeds from these limited-time offerings go to breast cancer non-profits. In the Midwest, one of the most unlikely places to go all out to display their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a car dealership. Local Tribute Smart Motors in Madison has observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a bold and eye-catching manner every year since 2010. Anyone looking at the city’s west side night sky has witnessed a brilliant display in the form of a powerful rose-tinted glow. That's because Smart Motors sponsors a vivid light show in flowing streams of pink in respectful observation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This eye-popping exhibit is Smart Motors’ way of connecting with the community in a symbolic, entertaining and meaningful fashion for an exceedingly important cause. Smart Motors Toyota | Madison WI. “We are fortunate enough to have a real opportunity to show our support and hopefully inspire others to support the cause,” says General Sales Manager, Justin Jackson. “We know members of our staff and so many of our customers, in some way, have been touched by breast cancer. We want to be part of the cure.” Jackson says the dealership uses the pink gel lights as a reminder for women to take the time to stay informed, be proactive and schedule their recommended screening tests. Early detection improves one's chances for survival. The lights also serve to offer encouragement and support to all affected by breast cancer. From survivors and family members, to researchers, doctors, nurses, and supports teams who fight this battle day in and day out. Smart Motors Used Cars | Madison WI. HealthLine.com says both of these business models are doing what they should be doing. According to their website, “When picking a charity, make sure its focus is on patient support, not awareness. Patient support comes in many forms: from makeup classes, gas cards, and wigs, to exercise classes, and even full payment of treatment. All of these things can help a person with breast cancer through a trying time, both emotionally and physically.” HealthLine.com also suggests both businesses and individuals should reach out to resources in your geographic area, as many local organizations provide direct support to those in need, but don’t have a national presence. A social worker or patient navigator at a hospital or clinic near you can help you identify local resources. Pink Light Process The pink lights display at Smart Motors is believed to be the largest of its kind for an auto dealership in the Midwest. The pink aura will light up the west side throughout the month of October. It takes three days for Smart Motors to install the pink gels in their 149 exterior lights; 85 pink lights at the Toyota showroom and service facility location (5901 Odana Road), and 64 additional lights shining pink at their new preowned facility (Smart Motors Used Cars) across the street at 5710 Odana Road. It's a first-place display! About Smart Motors Smart Motors was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, Wisconsin’s largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume Toyota dealers. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More information about Smart Motors.

Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival In New Glarus Get ready for a day filled with toe-tapping blues music, refreshing craft brews, and mouthwatering culinary delights at the much-awaited Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival in New Glarus, Wisconsin! This fantastic event, taking place on Saturday, June 24th, from 11 am to 8 pm, and promises to be a celebration of the finest flavors and rhythms that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Sponsored by Smart Motors Toyota, this festival is a can't-miss opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Wisconsin. A Melodic Journey Prepare to be serenaded by the soulful sounds of blues music as talented musicians take the stage to entertain festival-goers throughout the day. In fact, Friday night June 23rd at 8pm, as a "pre-party launch". local New Glarus resident Jimmy Voegeli and his band, The Jimmy's, will take to the stage at Tofflers Pub & Grill. Known for their "Chicago-style blues"; get ready for electrifying guitar riffs from Perry Weber, a three-piece horn section (aka The Horn Boys) and of course Jimmy tickling the keyboard & producing the undeniable sound from the Hammond organ. Truly a pre-party you don't want to miss. The official festival kick-off on Saturday will feature the Stephen Hull Experience who will bring you to your feet with rock to blues, and funk to jazz. That afternoon features Tom Holland & the Shuffle Kings, along with Ray Fuller & the Bluesrockers will keep the tunes rolling with their unique style and guitar rhythm. Rounding out the evening will be John Primer & the Real Deal Blues Band at 6pm on the main stage From electric guitar riffs to heartwarming harmonica melodies, these captivating performances will create an atmosphere that transcends time and brings people together in celebration of the blues. Festival Schedule. The Jimmy's Craft Brews Galore What pairs better with blues music than an ice-cold craft brew? At the Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival, you'll have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of craft beers, handcrafted by local breweries. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there will be something to suit every beer lover's palate. Sip on your favorite brew, engage in conversations with passionate brewers, and discover new flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or simply enjoying a refreshing pint, this festival offers a truly delightful experience. Delicious Culinary Adventures - On Wheels In addition to the captivating music and flavorful brews, the festival is a haven for food enthusiasts. A congregation of food trucks and vendors will entice you with an array of culinary creations ranging from traditional favorites to innovative twists. Sample gourmet sliders, mouthwatering barbecue, delectable desserts, and much more. The festival is a celebration of local food culture, showcasing the creativity and culinary expertise of the region. Bring your appetite and indulge in a gastronomic adventure like no other! Smart Motors Toyota: A Sponsor with a Passion The Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival is proud to have the support of Smart Motors Toyota as its sponsor. Known for their commitment to excellence, Smart Motors Toyota shares the festival's passion for community engagement and fostering a vibrant local culture. Through their generous support, they help make this event a reality and contribute to the enrichment of New Glarus and its surroundings. Mark your calendars for the Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival on Saturday, June 24th, in New Glarus, Wisconsin. With a perfect blend of blues music, craft brews, and delectable food, this festival promises a day of pure enjoyment and camaraderie.

Smart Toyota Pink for Breast Cancer Smart Motors Toyota in Madison has observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a bold and eye-catching manner every year since 2010. Anyone looking at the night sky near Odana Road has witnessed a brilliant display in the form of a powerful rose-tinted glow. That's because Smart sponsors a vivid pink light show in respectful observation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This eye-popping exhibit is their way of connecting with the community in a symbolic, entertaining and meaningful fashion for an exceedingly important cause. As most people know, the color pink – especially pink ribbons – has become synonymous with breast cancer. But are you aware of the history behind this iconic symbol? To set the stage, one has to go back to 1979 and the “Iran Hostage Crisis.” This is when the U.S. Embassy in Tehran was overtaken by supporters of the Iranian revolution. The Iranians – who were primarily college students – held 52 United States Diplomats hostage for 444 days. Inspired by a Ribbon Inspired by a 1973 number-one song, the wife of one of the hostages decided to literally “ Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Ole Oak Tree” to make people aware of the touch and go situation her husband and 51 others were in. Suddenly yellow ribbons were tied around every kind of tree as her campaign took off throughout America. The second such statement was during the AIDS crises. Activists opted for the color red, and looped the ribbon so it could be worn as a pin. The red ribbon pin was created to raise consciousness of the disease and also to represent those affected by it. The symbol went viral after it made its national television debut as presenters and nominees donned them at the 1990 Tony Awards. Susan G. Komen for the Cure® has used the color pink in their logo since the non-profit’s inception in 1982. But it wasn’t until 1991 that the breast cancer awareness and fundraising organization began distributing pink ribbons to all breast cancer survivors and participants of the Komen New York City Race for the Cure®. Then in 1992, Alexandra Penney, editor-in-chief of Self magazine, wanted to put the magazine’s second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month issue over the top. She did this by creating a ribbon and enlisting the cosmetics giants to distribute them in New York City stores. And thus, the birth of the pink ribbon! Pink Lights Bring Awareness “With our pink light display, we are fortunate enough to have a real opportunity to increase awareness,” says Robert Jordan, Assistant General Manager at Smart Toyota. “We know that members of our staff and so many of our guests who use our services have been, in some way, touched by breast cancer. We want to be part of the cure.” Assistant General Manager, Robert Jordan According to Komen.com, In 2022, it’s estimated among women in the U.S. there will be: • 287,850 new cases of invasive breast cancer (This includes new cases of primary breast cancer, but not breast cancer recurrences.) • 51,400 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive breast cancer • 43,250 breast cancer deaths Mid-West Largest Display The pink lights display at Smart Motors is believed to be the largest of its kind for an auto dealership in the Midwest. It generally takes three days to install the pink gels in their 149 exterior lights. They will have a total of 85 pink lights at the Toyota showroom and service facility location (5901 Odana Road), and there will be 64 additional lights shining pink at their new preowned facility across the street at 5710 Odana Road. It's a first-place display for one of Wisconsin's largest volume Toyota dealers, and the Midwest's largest hybrid dealership. The pink aura will light up the west side throughout the month of October. Smart Toyota's Pink Lights Smart Motors was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume Toyota dealers. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. Dealership's history.