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*On temporary print hiatus*
Our website will slowly start to be updated with stories as we ramp back up.

The next print edition is not scheduled at this time, in order to tackle build-out and admin. Shortly, we will publish online as stories are ready and we will publish bi-weekly email newsletter editions.

We owe an apology to our community and to our readers, we needed time to take care of ourselves and our staff, and we haven’t communicated that well and we are truly sorry.

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Recent Stories

Children pick up candy during the Plain Fire & EMS 3-Day Celebration Parade on Main Street/CTH-B in Plain on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Photos and videos by Bonnie Stickel, Administrative & Calendar Coordinator & Taylor Scott, Managing Editor. Submit your photos, art and illustrations to be considered for our cover photos to editor@valleysentinelnews.com.
Community

GALLERY: Plain Fire & EMS 3-Day Celebration Parade, Carnival

The Plain community celebrated its annual Fire & EMS 3-Day Celebration on July 24-26, 2026, featuring a vibrant parade with floats and local organizations. Afterward, attendees enjoyed Chicken BBQ at Plain Community Park, along with children’s activities and live music, marking a successful conclusion to the weekend’s festivities.

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by Valley Sentinel
Kenny Amble smiles at the camera as he joins other members of Ewing-Olson VFW Post 9336-Arena marching down Sharon Street in Arena to start off the annual Arena Yolanda Peterson & Mary Jones Memorial Celebration Parade on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Photos and videos by Bonnie Stickel, Administrative & Calendar Coordinator & Taylor Scott, Managing Editor.
Community

GALLERY: Arena Yolanda Peterson & Mary Jones Memorial Celebration Parade, Fireworks

On July 18, 2026, the Arena community celebrated the annual Yolanda Peterson and Mary Jones Memorial Parade, featuring a parade along Sharon Street and a vibrant evening at Arena Community Park. Festivities included face painting, a BBQ, and a baseball game, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display, despite wildfire smoke.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
Shawn Eichorst, a Lone Rock native and River Valley High School graduate, was named University of Wisconsin–Madison director of athletics on July 1, 2026. (Photo courtesy of UW Athletics)
Community

‘The coldest place with the warmest heart’: River Valley grad Shawn Eichorst comes home to lead Wisconsin Badgers

Shawn Eichorst, a Lone Rock native and River Valley High School Class of 1986 alumnus, was named the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s director of athletics on July 1, 2026. After extensive experience in college sports administration, he emphasized the importance of relationships and his commitment to education at his introduction on July 7.

Keep reading
by Taylor Scott
Community members line Highway 130/Oak Street during the annual Lone Rock 4th of July Celebration Parade on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Despite a brief sprinkle during the morning, spectators stayed along the route to celebrate Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary. Photos by Bonnie Stickel, Administrative & Calendar Coordinator. Submit your photos, art and illustrations to be considered for our cover photos to editor@valleysentinelnews.com.
Community

GALLERY: Lone Rock 4th of July Celebration Parade, Fireworks

The Lone Rock 4th of July Celebration Parade on July 4, 2026, attracted many spectators despite brief morning rain, as families celebrated Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary. The festivities included a parade, food, live music, and a fireworks display at Fireman’s Park, culminating in a vibrant evening celebration.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
As You Like It, 2026. Photo by Michael Brosilow.
Arts & Culture

The Timely Review: ‘As You Like It’, opening night

In a small town, a Tony Award showcases community excellence at American Players Theatre. The production of “As You Like It” shines with vibrant performances and stunning direction. Amidst quirky talent and lively music, the ghosts of Shakespeare blend with present artistry. Can a town of weirdos truly secure such acclaim? Absolutely.

Keep reading
by Patrick Michaels
A screen cap of the March River Valley School Board meeting at the Intermediate School. Image via the River Valley School District on YouTube.
Government

River Valley School Board approved staff raises twice in motions the record never squared, plans a June fix

The River Valley School District Board of Education approved a 3% wage increase for staff in March and April meetings. However, minutes record overlapping motions suggesting potential raises exceeding this. The district plans to clarify the discrepancies at their June 11 meeting, highlighting concerns over record accuracy and compliance with state law.

Keep reading
by Luukas Palm-Leis
River Valley School District Office
Opinion

EDITORIAL: River Valley School District should put its pay, budget into the rulebook

The River Valley School Board may have intended to grant fair raises, but its execution is a bureaucratic nightmare. Vague motions and hidden spreadsheets create confusion, leaving taxpayers in the dark. To restore trust, the board must codify compensation in clear policies, ensuring transparency in public finance.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
Near historic flooding inundates the areas around the Wisconsin River. Pictured is the entrance and boat landing of Helena Lake between Arena and Spring Green underwater April 16. Photo by Bonnie Stickel, Administrative & Calendar Coordinator. Submit your photos, art and illustrations to be considered for our cover photos to editor@valleysentinelnews.com.
Opinion

On the Cover: Underwater

Like the Helena Lake sign, we have been underwater. The newspaper has been quiet due to health and operational challenges, but plans to re-tool and engage the community. Ongoing updates will be provided online, with hopes to resume print editions and newsletters as efforts progress. Community support remains crucial.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
A view of the newly opened Spring Green Kwik Trip on April 16, shortly before opening. Photo by Bonnie Stickel, Administrative & Calendar Coordinator.
Business

A line before dawn: Spring Green welcomes Kwik Trip on Highway 14

On April 16, the new Kwik Trip in Spring Green attracted a crowd of around 40 patrons before its opening. Store leader Monica Wheaton expressed surprise at the enthusiastic turnout. The store’s design preserves its historic 1990s architecture designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice. A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for April 22.

Keep reading
by Taylor Scott
A sample of the April 1, 2025 Spring Election ballot in question for the Village of Arena. The Wisconsin Election Commission ruled recently that the ballot order for village trustee was unlawful. Document via WEC.
Government

Elections Commission rules Arena 2025 Spring Election was conducted with unlawful ballot order for village trustees

The Wisconsin Election Commission ruled that the Village of Arena’s April 1, 2025, trustee ballot was unlawfully arranged due to former Clerk DaNean Naeger’s failure to conduct a required second drawing after the primary. The ruling followed election complaints and resolved one of several similar cases against Naeger, who resigned amidst the controversy.

Keep reading
by Taylor Scott
The author, son-in-law Shawn and grandson Reif with Green Bay perch and pike caught this winter. Photo contributed by John Cler.
Opinion

Wandering the Driftless: In Pursuit of Perch

The author shares experiences fishing for perch in Wisconsin, highlighting the species’ decline in Lake Michigan and popular fishing spots like Green Bay. Despite challenges, the author finds joy in catching perch with family. A memorable encounter results in a trophy-sized perch, demonstrating Wisconsin’s quality fishing opportunities and community spirit.

Keep reading
by John Cler
The editorials that won Valley Sentinel first place in Editorial Awards.
Business

Despite abbreviated publishing year, Valley Sentinel earns awards from Wisconsin Newspaper Association

At the 2025 Better Newspaper Contest Awards, held by the Wisconsin Newspaper Association, Valley Sentinel garnered four awards despite a brief publication halt. Recognized editors and contributors showcased remarkable journalism in various categories, including editorial, general news, and advertising. The event highlighted local journalism’s crucial role in democracy and community engagement.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
A screen cap of the January River Valley School Board meeting at the Intermediate School. Image via the River Valley School District on YouTube.
Government

River Valley School District considers reduced tax levy increase pending state-level inaction, cell phones banned in school

The River Valley School District Board has addressed various policy updates regarding cell phone usage and new course offerings during meetings in January and February. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin State Assembly adjourned without enacting necessary education funding reforms, leading to concerns about rising property taxes and budget pressures on local schools.

Keep reading
by Luukas Palm-Leis
Nicole Aimone, editor-in-chief, Valley Sentinel.
Opinion

Valley Sentinel editor-in-chief asked to write column for alma mater: Journalistic adventures after Royal Purple

Nicole Aimone, co-owner and editor-in-chief of Valley Sentinel, reflects on her journalism journey that began at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Royal Purple. She credits her extensive experience there for shaping her path, leading her to launch her own newspaper and mentor future journalists, emphasizing the importance of local journalism.

Keep reading
by Nicole Aimone
Our editors attend the Association of Alternative Newsmedia Publishers (AAN) convention in Madison in July 2025.
Opinion

READ THE INTERVIEWS: Valley Sentinel editors earn awards from Tiffany Shackelford Foundation, attend Association of Alternative News Publishers convention

In July 2025, Valley Sentinel editors Nicole Aimone and Taylor Scott received Shackelford Shines awards, enabling them to attend the Association of Alternative Newsmedia Publishers convention. They gained valuable insights on community engagement and digital strategies, prompting a strategic shift toward a more audience-centric model, enhancing their publication’s sustainability and impact.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
More Stories
Logo featuring 'VS COMMUNITY CALENDAR' with a stylized 'VS' in black and white and 'COMMUNITY CALENDAR' in bold red and black.

Events

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

  • Native Art Marketplace

    Native Art Marketplace
    Hillside School - Taliesin 6604 Highway 23 Trunk, Spring Green, WI, United States

    Join us for a free two-day celebration of the art and culture of Wisconsin’s First People, as part of an ongoing partnership between Little Eagle Arts Foundation (LEAF) of Wisconsin Dells and Taliesin Preservation. The Native Art Marketplace will fill the iconic Hillside School with LEAF roster artists demonstrating and describing their creative process across a wide range of traditional and contemporary artforms, including paintings, jewelry, black ash baskets, sculpture, and quill and beadwork. An abundance of Native arts and crafts will be available for sale! Performances and storytelling highlighting the traditions of Wisconsin’s First People will be on display throughout the day in the historic Hillside Theater. Participants can also try their hand at making a free bead and quill friendship bracelet.

    Free

  • Family Bunco Competition

    Kraemer Library and Community Center 910 Main St., Plain, WI, United States

    Never played Bunco? Now is your chance! Join the library for this fast-paced, easy-to-learn dice game where you match and count rolls in a group setting. Perfect for ages 8 and up, and younger kids are welcome when teamed up with an adult. Come ready to compete, because winners take home bragging rights and a sweet prize! Sign-up is required for teams of four, so contact the front desk or call 608-546-4201 to register.

    Free

  • Rock Painting

    Spring Green Community Library 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Join Angel Dreams Studios, Billie Jo Scharfenberg, and the Spring Green Community Library for a special "Rock Painting" event! Inspired by this year's summer reading theme, "Unearth a Story," this all-ages activity explores how people shared their stories through art on stone long before books filled library shelves. Create your own painted rock and discover how art, like stories and fossils, can preserve memories, ideas, and moments for generations to come.

    Free

  • Back-Alley Blues Band Live on the River Stage

    Wisconsin Riverside Resort S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon with live outdoor music on the River Stage. Sit back with a drink, enjoy something delicious, and take in the river view.

  • Southwest Meets Midwest with Delbert Anderson, Wade Fernandez & Felix Sainz

    Hillside Theater - Taliesin 6604 Hwy 23, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    A special addition to this year's Native Art Marketplace! Jazz trumpeter Delbert Anderson joins guitarist and cedar flutist Wade Fernandez and bassist Felix Sainz, Jr. for a unique and exciting musical experience that celebrates the connections between the American Midwest and Southwest. Presented by Little Eagle Arts Foundation (LEAF) and Taliesin Preservation, this concert reflects both Frank Lloyd Wright’s ties to Wisconsin and Arizona and LEAF’s representation of Native artists from the Great Lakes area and beyond. Experience a one-night-only convergence of these three accomplished musicians on the historic Hillside Theater stage.

    $45

  • Unity Chapel Summer Sundays: Legacy and Longing

    Sundays in July
    Unity Chapel 6596 County Hwy T, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    All are welcome to Unity Chapel's Summer Sundays—casual, welcoming worship and speaking events with reflections on values, belonging, history, and spaces featuring reflective silence and shared singing.

    Free

  • Native Art Marketplace

    Native Art Marketplace
    Hillside School - Taliesin 6604 Highway 23 Trunk, Spring Green, WI, United States

    Join us for a free two-day celebration of the art and culture of Wisconsin’s First People, as part of an ongoing partnership between Little Eagle Arts Foundation (LEAF) of Wisconsin Dells and Taliesin Preservation. The Native Art Marketplace will fill the iconic Hillside School with LEAF roster artists demonstrating and describing their creative process across a wide range of traditional and contemporary artforms, including paintings, jewelry, black ash baskets, sculpture, and quill and beadwork. An abundance of Native arts and crafts will be available for sale! Performances and storytelling highlighting the traditions of Wisconsin’s First People will be on display throughout the day in the historic Hillside Theater. Participants can also try their hand at making a free bead and quill friendship bracelet.

    Free

  • Tarot Card Readings with Gwyn Padden

    North Earth Crystals & Gifts 124 W Jefferson St, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Join Gwyn Padden-Lechten, a Nature-centered Psychic Medium and Dreamwalker, for an insightful day of tarot and oracle card readings. Gwyn uses these cards as a tool for inner guidance and self-exploration. During her readings, be open to messages from beyond the veil, as she never can tell who may come forth to offer supporting energy.

    $30

  • Lego Builders Club

    Lego Builders Club
    Kraemer Library and Community Center 910 Main St., Plain, WI, United States

    Join us for LEGO Builders Club! Come build to your heart's content — choose from themed builds like dinos and creatures, or let your imagination run wild with free building. Everyone is welcome.

    Free

We care more.

Valley Sentinel is your independent, local news source covering arts & culture, outdoors & recreation, local meetings, events in our larger Lower Wisconsin River community.

In times like these, our community needs to come together.
So, let’s build community together.

Covering Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the surrounding areas in Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties.

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