*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
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.
The Timely Review: ‘The Chairs’
American Players Theatre’s “The Chairs” is a surreal descent into absurdity, sparking a blend of horror and sympathy for two isolated characters teetering on insanity. Their bizarre coping mechanisms reveal the raw human need for connection. As they hallucinate an audience, the play urges us to confront our own unvoiced messages and existential regrets—compelling and…
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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.
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‘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.
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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.
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The Timely Review: ‘The Matchmaker’, opening night
The experience of American Players Theatre’s “The Matchmaker” transforms from mere performance to exhilarating proximity, unveiling the raw energy of live theater. Up close, moments blur the line between actor and audience—their gaze locks, and unsettling truths unfold. It’s a vibrant reminder: theater isn’t just to watch; it’s a captivating dance of eyes and emotions.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Wandering the Driftless: Spring Gobblers in the Driftless
The re-introduction of Wild Turkeys in Wisconsin has been successful, leading to a popular spring turkey hunting season. Despite challenges in securing tags and low success rates, enthusiasts enjoy the experience. The author shares memorable hunting moments, emphasizing the thrill of the chase and the beauty of the outdoors in the Driftless Area.
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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.
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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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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.
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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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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.
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Covering Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the surrounding areas in Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties.