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*On temporary print hiatus*
Our website will slowly start to be updated with stories as we ramp back up this Spring.
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.
Subscriptions will be credited to future publishing. Refunds may be requested.
To manage your subscription use PayPal or email: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
Please do not dispute charges, shoot us an email and we can issue refunds.
As always, the community calendar is updated and published here. Will be updated soon. Bigger and better.
The June 26 e-edition is available below:
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.
Recent Stories (Updating more often soon! Maybe, if you can help us.)
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.
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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.
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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.
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News, In Brief: June 26 – July 10, 2025
Briefs for the last two weeks of general interest news for the Spring Green, Wisconsin area.
Submit news/briefs to the editor at: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
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Your Right to Know: When transparency is disregarded
In Hazelhurst, a proposed ordinance discussion was postponed due to a typo. Meanwhile, significant violations of public openness occurred in St. Francis and Chippewa County, where media were obstructed from attending meetings and quoting witness testimony. These incidents emphasize the ongoing challenges public officials face in upholding transparency.
Keep readingLetters to the Editor: June 26 – July 10, 2025
Letters submitted for consideration are subject to fact-checking and editing for space and clarity. Submissions must have a compelling, local community interest. Letters to the editor must fit within a 500-word limit, and include name, city and phone number. Phone numbers are for office use only and will not be published. Letters of a political…
Keep readingArts & Culture, In Brief: June 26 – July 10, 2025
Briefs for the last two weeks of arts & culture for the Spring Green, Wisconsin area.
Submit news/briefs to the editor at: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
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WisPolitics: Post-reconciliation bill rhetoric a preview of 2026 campaign themes
President Trump’s new legislation, pivotal for the 2026 House elections, faces scrutiny from Democrats who claim it favors the wealthy. In Wisconsin, they aim to close a 6-2 GOP House margin without redistricting. Disputes over healthcare funding have emerged, with criticism aimed at Rep. Derrick Van Orden’s role in budget decisions.
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Wandering the Driftless: Cactus in Wisconsin?
The Prickly Pear Cactus blooms in Wisconsin offer a unique seasonal experience for nature lovers in Wisconsin. While often overlooked, these flowers thrive in the sandy soils of the Wisconsin River valley. Peak blooming occurs in late June, and the red fruit produced is also edible.
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Sauk County Gardener: Using Degree Days to Implement Integrated Pest Management
The article discusses insect monitoring and management in gardening, focusing on the importance of degree days (DD) to predict insect life cycles, particularly the imported cabbageworm. It outlines Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, including monitoring, prevention, and control. The author encourages community engagement through events by the Sauk County Master Gardeners Association.
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Wellness Warrior: And the Hits Just Keep Coming…
With all the serious discussion and concern these days related to politics, religion, and looming health care changes, I thought it would be fun to resurrect some past humor regarding “shit happens” and let’s see how various religions and ideologies express this deal.
Sherry shares her humorous shit list.
Sponsored ad content.
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Violet Palms release new single, set stage for upcoming sophomore album
Spring Green’s Violet Palms unveil their new single “True Love Counterfeit,” blending nostalgia with matured lyricism ahead of their album launch. The track encapsulates bittersweet love, showcasing tight production and emotional depth. A testament to their evolving artistry, this release promises fans a resonant exploration of heartbreak, memories, and life’s unexpected twists.
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