This month, we asked our neighbors, business owners, and community leaders one simple question: What in Middleton are you thankful for? Their answers, heartfelt and varied, paint a picture of what makes this such a special place to call home.
One name rose to the top: Harbor Athletic Club. Community members praised both its welcoming atmosphere and wide range of fitness offerings. Local lifestyle physician Dr. Roopa Shah, MD, shared,
“Having been a member ever since we moved here 23 years ago, I see how the entire community comes to Harbor to stay fit and healthy. They have a myriad of fitness classes and wellness offerings, all in a space that is comfortable, inviting, and warm. They always greet you with a smile and say good-bye every time you leave. I love the youth classes they offer and how they encourage entire families to stay healthy together.”
Longtime member Carla Anderson agreed:
“Our family has been members since we moved to Middleton 18 years ago – Harbor is like our community’s own YMCA; there’s something for everyone. My favorites are the yoga, pilates, and sculpt classes, all with amazing instructors.”
Other local businesses also received shoutouts. Andrew Charles, partner of Middleton City Lifestyle and Merrill Lynch financial advisor, brought up a business he recently found:
“I’m thankful for ChiroWay of Madison – owned & operated by Dr. Aaron Zimmerman. Aaron takes a holistic approach to chiropractic care by determining what your body needs and adjusting accordingly. It’s not just about the “crack”, but the “why” behind the adjustment, to ensure your body and mind are properly in sync by addressing your brain's highway - the spine. His knowledge of spinal vertebrae alone is impressive, and his method leaves you feeling cared for as an individual.”
Leo Edelstein, member of the Rotary Club of Madison West Middleton, mentioned a Middleton staple:
“Michelle and her artisan bakers at Clasen's European Bakery. I enjoy their superb breads and their giving nature, helping Middleton Rotary Club raise funds every year.”
Community members expressed gratitude for nonprofits and community resources that make Middleton thrive. The team at Carrington Lawn & Landscape told us,
“We are grateful for WayForward Resources and all the fantastic work they do to support our community. They make it easy for local businesses to connect and give back to the community that supports them.”
Another reader lifted up the Middleton Public Library, sharing,
“It is an amazing resource that provides so many services beyond book lending. It is truly a community gathering place. I also love the helpful and efficient staff.”
Appreciation was shown for the ways the city creates opportunities for kids to stay active and engaged. Rusty Raatz from Proficient Lighting reflected,
“As young parents, one of our yearly challenges was finding activities for our kids during some of their free time. I can't tell you what a find the Middleton Parks and Recreation Department was for our family. Their Rec Guide comes out early and is chock-full of activities for our kids for all seasons. We enjoyed sports in every season, art, martial arts, fishing, and cooking, to name a few. The staff and volunteers were always so helpful and friendly. Do yourself a favor and connect with them, your family won't be disappointed!”
Middleton’s green spaces also received recognition. Rotary Club member Barry Pace pointed to Lakeview Park as a source of gratitude.
As November invites us to reflect and give thanks, one thing rings clear: Middleton is a place where people, organizations, and spaces bring joy and connection. This quote from Rotary member Mary Van Hout encapsulates it perfectly:
“For more than 40 years, I’ve called Middleton home and I’m grateful for the many ways this community has shaped my life. It’s been a great place to educate my children, a place I feel safe, and it’s given me the opportunity to develop friendships with amazing people.”
We’re thankful to share in a community that serves its residents and each other so well.
"They always greet you with a smile and say good-bye every time you leave. I love the youth classes they offer and how they encourage families to stay healthy together."
"For more than 40 years, I’ve called Middleton home and I’m grateful for the ways this community has shaped my life. It’s been a great place to educate my children, and it’s given me the opportunity to develop friendships with amazing people."