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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.

Subscriptions will be credited to future publishing. Refunds may be requested.

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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:
Promotional graphic for the 2025 Reader Poll titled 'Best of the Lower Wisconsin River Valley' presented by Valley Sentinel, featuring a bold typography design.
THE 2025 BEST OF THE RIVER VALLEY – SPRING GREEN AREA READER POLL IS NOW OUT!
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Covering Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the surrounding areas in Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties.

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Recent Stories (Updating more often soon! Maybe, if you can help us.)

Bill Lueders, president, Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council
Government

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 reading
by Bill Lueders
Opinion

Letters 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 Phone numbers are for office use only and will not be published.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 reading
by Valley Sentinel
Prickly Pear Cactus flowers located just off of Hwy 14 in Richland County. Photo contributed by John Cler.
Opinion

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.

Keep reading
by John Cler
Jeannie Manis, Wisconsin Certified Sauk County Master Gardener
Opinion

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.

Keep reading
by Jeannie Manis
Sherry Hilleshiem, RN
Opinion

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.

Keep reading
by Sherry Hillesheim
Spring Green band Violet Palms pictured at the Sh*tty Barn in Spring Green. Pictured, from left, guitarist Craig Benzine, bassist Tim Gittings, lead singer Marcus Truschinski, guitarist Ben Feiner and drummer Michael Mertens. Photo contributed by Violet Palms.
Arts & Culture

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.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel and Taylor Scott
From the photographer: “The Oak Road oak, located at the end of Oak Road in the town of Arena. It’s been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I admired it from the bus on my way to the now-closed Arena elementary school. Nowadays when I am out for a run, the “Stop Ahead” sign is at times a reminder to me….stop and admire the majestic oak tree that’s witnessed so much; it was there when the roads weren’t paved, when busses didn’t run, when women couldn’t vote and segregation was legal. That tree was there when the family farm was a path to the middle class, when dairy cows ate grass all day, when the President of the U.S. of A was the most respected person in the world. This tree has weathered some great storms, and so too can we.” Photo by Ben Gruber.
Opinion

Editors’ Column: Stop Ahead — Taking a pause to regroup

It’s incredibly fitting that our cover this edition in print included a sign that reads: stop ahead. It’s important to note you don’t stop at a stop sign forever, it’s a momentary pause. Whether to think or to ensure your safety and sustainability, it’s a pause before you continue going down the road you were…

Keep reading
by Taylor Scott and Nicole Aimone
The new Village of Arena Board meets April 15 for a special emergency board meeting. From left: Don Helt, Steve Wilkinson, Becca Raven Uminowicz and Joe Hipsky. Absent from the meeting was trustee Matthew Schroeder. Photo by Taylor Scott, Managing Editor
Government

Village of Arena left without president, new board cleaning up election fallout

Following recent elections, the Village of Arena has experienced significant resignations, leaving it without a president, trustee, and clerk/treasurer. Complaints, including procedural violations and election irregularities, have been filed against officials. An emergency board meeting was convened to secure village operations and oversee financial audits, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

Keep reading
by Luukas Palm-Leis
The Arena Village Hall, pictured in April. Photo by Taylor Scott, Managing Editor
Government

Arena trustee questions clerk/treasurer report at village regular April meeting

At the April 8 Board meeting, Arena Trustees addressed a clerical discrepancy regarding a candidate forum not listed in official reports, prompting questions from Trustee Uminowicz. The board also approved purchasing a new truck, discussed sewer maintenance issues, and voted on an ordinance for short-term rentals, including Airbnb.

Keep reading
by Luukas Palm-Leis

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