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*On temporary print hiatus*
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Recent Stories

Staghorn Sumac, a familiar plant and source of a great summer treat. Photo contributed by John Cler.
Opinion

Wandering the Driftless: Locally Sourced Lemonade

Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) thrives in the Driftless Area, known for its clusters and summer treat potential. Early settlers used its hollow stems for collecting maple sap. The plant’s seeds signal the making of “sumac lemonade,” a delightful drink rich in malic acid. Caution is advised for those allergic to cashews.

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Keep reading
by John Cler
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.

Keep reading
by Valley Sentinel
James Ridge & Colleen Madden, The Chairs, 2026. Photo by Michael Brosilow.
Arts & Culture

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…

Keep reading
by Patrick Michaels
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
Phoebe González, Triney Sandoval & Tracy Michelle Arnold, The Matchmaker, 2026. Photo by Hannah Jo Anderson.
Arts & Culture

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.

Keep reading
by Patrick Michaels
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
A foggy morning proved to be successful, with a bird that came in behind the author. Photo contributed by John Cler.
Opinion

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.

Keep reading
by John Cler
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
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

  • 10th Annual Hill & Valley Exploration Tour

    10th Annual Hill & Valley Exploration Tour

    The 10th Annual Hill & Valley Exploration Tour is a two-weekend event highlighting rural living and agriculture across Sauk, Richland, and Juneau Counties. Participating locations include local farms, historic sites, artist studios, and rural businesses that open to the public for hands-on education and direct sales. Attendees can travel between various sites to learn about the small farm community, view local art, and purchase farm-fresh food and rural products. The tour takes place rain or shine, so participants are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and bring a cooler for perishable goods.

  • Holy Angels Parish Fall Festival

    St. Patrick Catholic Church S8280 County Road G, Plain, Wisconsin, United States

    Holy Angels Parish is hosting its Fall Festival, featuring an open-pit barbequed beef meal available buffet-style or via drive-through. The day kicks off with a morning Mass and includes refreshments, entertainment, a silent auction, and family fun activities.

    Free

  • Monthly Acoustic Jam

    Monthly Acoustic Jam
    Spring Green General Store 137 S. Albany Street, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Bring your instruments or just your ears to the Monthly Acoustic Jam at the Spring Green General Store! Everyone is welcome to join in to play, sing, learn, or simply listen to live acoustic music. This community gathering takes place the third Sunday of every month. If you plan on grabbing a bite to eat while you enjoy the music, please note that the store's kitchen closes at 2:00 PM, and the store closes at 3:00 PM.

    Free

  • Buena Vista Lions Club Car & Motorbike Cruise

    Buena Vista Lions Club Car and Motorbike Cruise
    Buena Vista Bicentennial Park 33000 Fulton St, Gotham, Wisconsin, United States

    Cruise into summer with the Buena Vista Lions Club! Whether you are a car enthusiast ready to show off your ride or just want to admire a variety of classic, custom, and cool vehicles, there is something for everyone. This family-friendly event is open to all vehicle types. A concession stand will be on-site serving food and drinks throughout the cruise (cash only).

  • Classic Movie: Citizen Kane

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

    Alone at his fantastic estate known as Xanadu, 70-year-old Charles Foster Kane dies, uttering only the single word Rosebud. So ends the odyssey of a life ... and begins a fabulous tale of the rise to wealth and power—and ultimate fall—of a complex man: A boy abandoned by his parents inherits a fortune, builds a global newspaper empire and aspires to become President of the United States, but he loses everything over an affair with an untalented nightclub singer. This fascinating story unfolds through the eyes of the people important to the tycoon—each showing a different aspect of Citizen Kane. Frequently regarded as the best American film ever made; winner of an Academy Award for Best Writing, Original Screenplay; and nominated for an additional eight Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor.

    $10

  • Arena Historians Monthly Meeting

    Arena Diner 175 US Hwy 14, Arena, Wisconsin, United States
    Hybrid Event

    Join the Arena Historians for a presentation by guest speaker John Helmenstine, who will discuss the Civil War and the specific role of the 49th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment. Helmenstine is a current board member and past president of the Iowa County Historical Society. The meeting is available to attend in person or to watch virtually via a Zoom live stream.

  • Evening Book Discussion: The Hummingbird’s Daughter

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

    Join the Spring Green Community Library for an evening chat about this month's selection, "The Hummingbird's Daughter" by Luis Alberto Urrea. Copies of the book are available at the library a month before the discussion.

    Free

  • A Night of Words

    Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret 137 W Jefferson Street, Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    An open mic night of friends sharing words. Whether you have a favorite poem, a passage from a book, an original piece you are ready to share, or a personal story to tell, all are welcome. If you prefer to just sit back, watch, and listen, that is entirely fine too. Come hang out and enjoy poetry, stories, old favorites, and original work together.

    Free

  • Kids Sew!

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

    Visit the Spring Green Community Library to practice your sewing skills or learn some new tricks! There is no experience necessary, and basic materials will be provided, including a couple of sewing machines, hand sewing tools, various fabrics, and a few simple patterns to follow. Bring home a cute fruit plushy, or even a whole fruit basket!

    Free

  • Movies, Munchies, and More

    Movies, Munchies, and More
    Spring Green Community Library 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Join the Spring Green Community Library every Tuesday at 1pm for a cup of coffee, a sweet treat, and a movie or presentation. Be sure to check out their website for details on each week's showing.

    Free

  • The Creative Container

    The Creative Container
    Rosey Creative Studio 133 N Lexington St., Spring Green, WI, United States

    The Creative Container is a fun, safe space where community, creativity, and self-expression interweave through drawing, painting, textiles, sewing, and beading. If you need a group of like-minded individuals to commune with and hold you accountable to start, continue, or finish a creative project, this is the place for you. Each session gathers with the intention to connect with others and heal your nervous system through the creative process. Bring your own project or use the provided materials to deepen your practice of active meditation.

    $20

  • SG Library Presents: Trivia Night

    SG Library Presents: Trivia Night
    Spring Green Community Library 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green, Wisconsin, United States

    Are you up for the challenge? Come by yourself or bring a team of up to 4 teens or adults to see if you can beat the Spring Green Community Library's Trivia! Themes will change with each session, and bragging rights will go to the winners.

    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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