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
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.
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 Phone numbers are for office use only and will not be published.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…
Arts & 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
EDITORIAL: Our View — We’re endorsing a better future for the Village of Arena
This election, we’d be voting for Paul Pustina for Arena village president and Steve Wilkinson, Joseph Hipsky and Don Helt for village trustees. We encourage you to do the same. We always wanted our first endorsements as an editorial board to be founded upon a well-thought out rubric that was replicable and transparent. We have…
Valley Sentinel’s Chess Puzzle — February 20, 2025
The content discusses a chess puzzle featuring a position where White can achieve checkmate in two moves. It includes insights into chess notation and encourages readers to explore more puzzles on Lichess and Chess.com, drawing inspiration from American Chess Magazine.
River Valley School Board sets referendum, approves cost reductions and grade reconfiguration
The River Valley School Board voted to reduce its workforce, cutting ten positions, including teachers and secretarial roles, due to financial constraints from closing the Early Learning Center. The total annual savings from these cuts amount to over $1 million. The board will also hold a referendum to exceed revenue limits for additional funding.
River Valley School Board votes to close Early Learning Center, eyes ‘$1M’ in savings
The River Valley School District Board plans to close the River Valley Early Learning Center due to declining enrollment and costs, saving about $1 million annually. A special meeting scheduled for Jan. 20 will address staff reductions and employment considerations related to this closure. The board is set to finalize an operational referendum at their…
LISTEN HERE: Our editors on WORT FM to discuss community journalism, Arena public safety series
On December 16, WORT’s A Public Affair featured editors Nicole and Taylor discussing community journalism and the Valley Sentinel’s Arena public safety series. The show recap highlights major stories from local papers, including floods affecting Crawford County and animal abuse allegations at Ridgeland Farms, alongside public safety challenges in Arena.
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: First Teal
After this past weekend and many decades of doing it, I have figured out that my favorite way to spend time is helping to introduce kids to new outdoor activities. I helped start KAMO in 2007, helped start NOAC in 2023 and though both overload my schedule, I do not seem to be backing off.
…
River Valley School Fair brings community together for 61 years
The River Valley School Fair, created 61 years ago by Lawrence Eberle, continues to thrive, set for September 27 in Spring Green, Wisconsin. Initially aimed at unifying the community post-school consolidation, the fair has expanded significantly, promoting agriculture education and showcasing student talents, while preserving its pioneering spirit and tradition.
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Rocky Mountain Adventure
This week’s column has good news and is loaded with adventure. As you may know, my 23-year-old daughter Selina Walters has been hired by the USFWS as a biologist in Montana. Selina graduated from UW Stevens point last December and I helped her to move to Missoula in January. Selina and I communicate almost daily,…
Village, Town of Arena hold special meetings to extend Fire and EMS agreement amid ongoing contract discussions
The joint fire and EMS agreement between the Village and Town of Arena experienced a 17-hour lapse due to negotiations over a new contract extension. After separate meetings, both parties agreed to extend the current terms until November 8, 2024, amid concerns regarding funding discrepancies and fire service obligations.
Village of Arena Board meets to discuss new EMS and fire agreements
The Village of Arena Board of Trustees held a special meeting to discuss separate fire and EMS agreements with the Town of Arena. Concerns were raised about the impact on morale and the absence of mutual aid in the EMS agreement. The board resolved formatting and grammatical issues, and the edited agreements will be reviewed…
Arena Village Board votes to extend Iowa County Sheriff’s Office policing agreement, liquidate police equipment
The Village of Arena Board extended its policing agreement with Iowa County Sheriff’s office through 2025 and discussed liquidating surplus police equipment. The board also addressed emergency services issues, water services rebate, and public works matters. Additionally, they approved maintenance for the water tower, a payment for the new wellhouse project, and extended the sewer…
Arena appoints village president as Sheriff’s office liaison, board member share concerns about policing hours, survey
The Village of Arena Board of Trustees discussed the results of a police survey, appointed a liaison to the Iowa County Sheriff’s office, and made appointments to the restructured Public Safety Committee. They also debated lawn height ordinance changes and empowered the clerk to apply for a water rate increase. Other topics included No Mow…
Spring Green experiences emergency siren outage during major storm, one of two sirens sound during Tornado Warning
Sauk County Emergency Management was alerted to the malfunction of Spring Green’s emergency sirens by media. The storm on May 21 led to wind gusts and a tornado warning, but the sirens were not functioning. Repairs were made, and neighboring villages shared information about their storm shelters. Residents in the area can sign up for…
Valley Sentinel’s Last Edition in Words — May 16, 2024 Crossword
The Valley Sentinel has introduced its first crossword puzzle, inspired by the suggestion that all reputable newspapers feature one. Feedback is requested from readers to improve this endeavor, as the creator acknowledges the challenges involved. The crossword will be published in the May 30, 2024 edition, using words from the May 16 edition.
Arena Village Board deals with on-going public safety issues, debates unilateral powers of village president
The board accepted the resignations of the entire Arena Police Department and debated the future of public safety services. They ultimately approved temporary agreements with the Iowa County Sheriff’s Department to provide police services. The board also accepted a resignation and the village president nominated a replacement, causing controversy over the president’s authority. The board…
Arena police department resigns completely, Village of Arena Board terminates fire/EMS agreement with Town of Arena
Trustee resigns amid arrest, village president seeks to fill vacancy with handpicked appointment as public safety concerns loom. Resignations of police officers and termination of Fire Protection and EMS Services Agreement raise concerns. New appointments and negotiations are pending. Lack of communication and resources hinders informed decision-making. Legal advisor addresses notice requirements and mutual aid…
Village of Arena Board throws out police automatic aid agreement, replaces resident Public Safety Committee with majority board member committee
The Village of Arena Board of Trustees ended their automatic aid agreement with the Town of Arena, formed a new Public Safety Committee with mostly board members, and finalized a survey for residents to guide future decisions about police employment and budgeting. Trustee Melissa Bandell proposed rescinding the agreement based on Wisconsin Statute §66.0513. The…
Sauk Prairie Healthcare no longer in-network for some area patients as system, Anthem are at odds over costs, reimbursements
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance holders at Sauk Prairie Healthcare Hospitals and Clinics will no longer receive in-network treatment as of April 1. Both parties blame the other for the contract termination, affecting 2,700 patients. Sauk Prairie urges patients to call their insurance company and offers options for continuity of care. Patients can still…
Arena Village Board reveals hours police have worked, debate rages over police budget, services
The Arena Village Board of Trustees held a special meeting on March 27 to discuss the future of the police force, including compensation and work performance. Officers resigned from full-time positions last fall, leading to debates on policing hours, administrative duties, and community support. The meeting also highlighted concerns about police services and the use…
Lone Rock resident’s motorcycle national land speed record stands for an impressive ten years
Lone Rock resident Gary Ilminen set an AMA National Motorcycle Land Speed Record at the 2014 Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials, riding a 1974 Honda CB350F at 80.102 mph, which still stands a decade later. He attributes his passion for motorcycle racing to childhood idols like Burt Munro, and hopes to attempt another record in the…
Valley Sentinel brings home awards from Wisconsin Newspaper Association banquet
Valley Sentinel shines at the 2023 Wisconsin Newspaper Association’s awards, taking home 17 awards. The publication’s exceptional work in editorial and advertising garnered recognition, with specific accolades for its front page, artistic photos, and newspaper promotions. Co-owner/publisher/editor-in-chief Nicole Aimone expressed gratitude to contributors and the community for their support.
Public safety debate continues as Arena holds special meeting to ‘discuss continued employment of current police officers’
The Village of Arena Board of Trustees held a special meeting to discuss the employment of the police officers, sparking concerns and confusion among residents. The closed session meeting raised questions about the board’s control, authority and communication. Past legal disputes over police department funding further complicated the situation. Residents and the village attorney called…
The (not so) Plain and Simple Correspondent: Alexander the Great
Arena native Alex Harrington, raised in a family deeply rooted in the River Valley, has been appointed WISC-TV Channel 3000’s chief meteorologist. Harrington’s passion for meteorology began at a young age, and after years of diverse experiences and hard work, he has achieved his dream job. He aims to inspire others to pursue their own…
Two Crows Theatre Company—seeking to bring joy—heralds a return to the Spring Green community, announces play
Rob Doyle and Marcus Truschinski, co-artistic directors of Two Crows Theatre Company, celebrate the re-commissioning of the theater after the pandemic-induced closure. Their decade-long friendship and passion for storytelling have set the stage for intimate performances in Spring Green’s Touchstone Theatre. The company aims to provide a platform for emerging playwrights through The New Play…
Citing ‘low morale’ due to village board Arena PD moves to part-time immediately after Arena police officer, DNR warden receive Life Saving Awards
The Village of Arena Police Department’s officers are transitioning to part-time positions due to low morale and conflicts with the Village Board of Trustees. Chief of Police Nicholas Stroik announced the shift, citing unjustified interference and non-supportive comments from board members. Despite the reduced hours, the department pledge to maintain the community’s safety, while acknowledging…
EDITORIAL: It’s a matter of health and safety now — It’s time to take Arena’s issues seriously
The Village of Arena Police Department announced its shift to part-time service, citing “low morale” due to issues with the village board. This change sparked concerns among residents about potential increase in emergency response times. Village President Kate Reimann’s response to these concerns — “No records were requested so no answer is given” — is…
Palestine needs the warmth of our collective action
I write to you kindled by the love of our community and the Palestinian people.
I am tired of all the caveats, the conditional statements, the analogies. I believe we are suffering from a crisis of imagination in a situation that actually does not require much. It may sound counterintuitive amidst a discourse that encourages…
Savanna Institute promises (agroforestry and silvopasture) fun, profit and—perhaps—to save the planet
The Savanna Institute, a non-profit based in Wisconsin and Illinois, promotes agroforestry for sustainable agriculture, recently held an open house at their Spring Green Campus. The Institute aims to integrate tree crops into farms, helping farmers increase profitability and ecosystem benefits. Through open events, research, and technical assistance, the institute supports farmers in adopting agroforestry…
Alys and the Ark captivates opening as Violet Palms album release electrifies the Slowpoke Lounge
On the stroke of midnight on Sept. 11, the electrifying sound waves from the band, Violet Palms, was released into the world. Twelve songs from the band’s debut album, “Compassion Fatigue”, were celebrated on the renowned stage at Slowpoke Lounge and Cabaret in downtown Spring Green, in preparation for the marked, midnight release. Opening for…
REVIEW: Spring Green band Violet Palms announces release show for debut album ‘Compassion Fatigue’
Spring Green-based alt-rock band Violet Palms will be launching their new album Compassion Fatigue during a special performance starting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11 at the Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret (137 W Jefferson St, Spring Green). The event will be opened by music from Alys and the Ark. Slowpoke suggests that attendees donate $5-10…
Meeting Our Needs: Dairy Breakfasts — Eggs and Pancakes and Sausage – Oh Yeah!
…and don’t forget the milk, yogurt, and cheese! Dairy Breakfast time in Wisconsin is right around the corner, check the dates, set your alarm, make sure your GPS is working, and get your “fat pants” out. Good times, and good food are coming.
LISTEN HERE: Our editors on community journalism, the future of journalism and just doing the news well
Our editors were on WXRW this weekend to discuss community journalism, the future of journalism and just doing the news well.
Valley Sentinel wins Best in Division E at Wisconsin Newspaper Association awards banquet
The Wisconsin Newspaper Association recently recognized the state’s newspapers for their exceptional work during its 2022 Better Newspaper Contest Awards Banquet. The event took place on March 24, at The Madison Concourse Hotel in downtown Madison. Among the winners, Valley Sentinel was awarded as the Best in Division E.
Editor-in-Chief’s Column: How our 2023 has gone so far, on just deciding to do the news well
I don’t say this to be dramatic, but 2023 has been the SICKEST season of my life ever. To be clear, I don’t mean that in the “that’s sick, bro” way, I mean that in the cold and flu season way and in the bronchitis/COVID-19/constant earache way. On a slightly more uplifting and inspirational note,…
EDITORIAL: Open government report card — Arena improves, Lone Rock sued, other local public bodies receive letters
Sunshine Week is a time to celebrate government transparency and public service, as well as a time to address lapses in the same. In October 2020, shortly after incorporating and shortly before our first edition, we sent out a Wis. Stat. 19.84(1)(b) written request by email from news media to our local governmental bodies asking…
Legal Editor’s Column: Lone Rock Lawsuit, open meetings update
A couple months back, I wrote here that the Valley Sentinel was suing the Village of Lone Rock. It feels like time for an update, and I wanted to talk about our two cases — one not yet filed and one possibly almost done, and why they are so different.
Arena board hears tenure of current Arena clerk audited in Monticello, discrepancies found in water bills
Audit reached no conclusions, but shows potentially large errors in water bills.
During public comment at last month’s regular meeting of the Village of Arena Board of Trustees on March 7, board members were handed papers by former Village President Paul Pustina. Those papers contained an “Independent Accountant’s Report” covering current Arena Village Clerk/Treasurer DaNean…
The (not so) Plain and Simple Correspondent: Minerva, Goddess of Wisdom
In the Roman pantheon, Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, justice, law, victory, and the sponsor of arts, trade and strategy. Gracious! It boggles the mind that even a goddess could possibly incorporate so many sterling qualities. As it happens, there is a human being who comes close. She lives at Taliesin – “Shining Brow”,…
LISTEN HERE: Our editors on community journalism, 5th grade civics and THAT UW-Richland editorial
Listen to Valley Sentinel’s interview this morning on The Todd Allbaugh Show | Civic Media | Locally: WRCE 107.7 FM • 1450 AM
We talk Valley Sentinel, 5th grade civics, journalism, local media, and a UW-Richland editorial that Todd says “takes no prisoners”.
UW-Richland information session and town hall meeting to be held
Community is invited to share ideas about how to save campus.
An information session and town hall meeting will be held on Thursday, January 26 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. on the UW-Richland campus in the Pippin Conference Center of Melvill Hall.
Legal Editor’s Column: We’re suing Lone Rock over public records, here’s why
Last Halloween, the Village of Lone Rock held a public meeting and did not notify the Valley Sentinel. The next night they held public hearings on their annual budget and a village board meeting. The Valley Sentinel was sent an e-mail notice less than an hour before the meeting started. We asked for various public…
EDITORIAL: UW-Richland will not be saved outside the courtroom, action is needed now
Richland County and the greater community were disheartened just over a month ago when a unilateral directive from University of Wisconsin System President Jay Rothman directed the administration of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Richland campus in Richland Center to start winding down operations and to plan to discontinue in-person instruction starting fall 2023, with the…
Area blood drives scheduled in January, February
Blood drives are scheduled for Friday, January 6, 2023, in Spring Green and Arena, and Tuesday, February 7, 2023, in Lone Rock.
Area hospitals announce top baby names of 2022
The top baby names for boys and girls born in 2022 have been announced by hospitals in the area.
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Mississippi Duck Hunt/The Best of Times
“Fifty-one opening days of duck hunting ago I was a very young boy in a very low income, single parent family, and my dad was raising my brothers Mike, Tom, myself, my sister Lynn and sometimes my brother Bob. We lived kind of like I do now, which is a very busy life that is…
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Success on the Bear Hunt
“This week’s column is about a successful conclusion to my 2022 bear hunting season that has absorbed large parts of my time, thoughts, and pocket book since I began running baits in northern Juneau County as well as southern Jackson on April 15th.”
Follow along each week on the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated…
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Ten Sunsets on a Bear Stand
“This week’s column is a short summary of the first ten days of my bear hunting situation in which I did not miss a day sitting in a tree.”
Follow along each week on the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated outdoor adventure columnist who lives in Necedah, Wisconsin. He began writing his column, An…
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Operation Musky 2022
Follow along each week on the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated outdoor adventure columnist who lives in Necedah, Wisconsin. He began writing his column, An Outdoorsman’s Journal, in 1989. It includes hunting, fishing, lots of canoeing and backpacking. He currently writes for around 60 newspapers on a weekly basis. He hopes you enjoy reading…
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Independent Living 101
Follow along each week on the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated outdoor adventure columnist who lives in Necedah, Wisconsin. He began writing his column, An Outdoorsman’s Journal, in 1989. It includes hunting, fishing, lots of canoeing and backpacking. He currently writes for around 60 newspapers on a weekly basis. He hopes you enjoy reading…
Shitty Barn session preview: With phenomenal ‘Carving Canyons’ indie-folk artist Lissie brings heartbreak, rebirth to forefront
“It’s allowed to hurt; I’m allowed to burn.” Midwestern Folk artist Lissie sings gently on her recent single: “Flowers.” With a soft yet melancholy tone, Lissie allows her strong, smoky voice to carry listeners to another world almost: a world of heartbreak and rebirth.
Local EMS directors respond to Marklein’s rural EMS bill as Evers issues a veto, expert weighs in
On March 31, Gov. Tony Evers announced that he had vetoed recently passed Senate Bill 89. The bill, introduced by Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, would have made the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam optional for emergency medical responders. Marklein argued the bill would improve recruitment and retention for rural emergency medical services.…
Local musician Jake’O competes in national televised song contest representing Wisconsin
‘There’s music everywhere but the Driftless is definitely magical for me’
A local artist from our very own River Valley area recently returned home after representing Wisconsin on the national stage as part of NBC’s “American Song Contest”. Jake’O performed an original song on the show last month and shared his inspiration and thoughts with…
Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation announces creation of Taliesin Institute, sparks conversations about educational legacy
The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation recently announced the creation of the Taliesin Institute, a new collection of programs that seek to advance the principles of organic architecture, seen as the core of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. However, other stalwarts of Wright’s legacy debate the need for such an initiative following the Foundation’s final split…
Legal Column: Complaints filed with DA against Arena officials, open meetings law violated – analysis
On Tuesday, February 22, at 8 a.m. the Village of Arena Personnel Committee met, made a recommendation to accept the resignation of Arena’s superintendent of public works effective March 31, and started right in working on interviewing for a replacement. If nothing else, the committee moved with laudable speed to fill a hole that was…
Arena Public Works superintendent resigns, rush to fill position internally leads to open meetings law complaints
On Feb. 15, Village of Arena’s Public Works Superintendent Michael Schmidt submitted his resignation, with a month and a half notice. By the next week, the village was already holding a meeting to interview internal candidates. That rush to hold an interview resulted in several village officials having open meetings law complaints filed against them.
An Outdoorsman’s Journal: Volunteers
Follow along each week on the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated outdoor adventure columnist who lives in Necedah, Wisconsin. He began writing his column, An Outdoorsman’s Journal, in 1989. It includes hunting, fishing, lots of canoeing and backpacking. He currently writes for around 60 newspapers on a weekly basis. He hopes you enjoy reading…
Valley Sentinel moves to a bi-weekly model to offer more in-depth content, better serve and build community
We’ve shared many times some of the quotes that grace the wall of our newsroom. We’ve definitely focused on the first, making things work and then making them work better. We’ve definitely focused on the second quote and we’ve called people and powers-that-be out where necessary. The third quote we haven’t covered enough because —…
Review: Lake Louie offers a taste of summer with hard kombucha
Local favorite Lake Louie Brewing, formerly of Arena and now part of Wisconsin Brewing Company in Verona, recently sent over a couple cases of their newest product — hard kombucha!
Valley Sentinel launches Impulse Initiative
Valley Sentinel lends platform in print and online to foster community ideas
We are pleased to announce the (soft) launch of Valley Sentinel’s Impulse Initiative. It has always been our goal to build community and over the past year plus we’ve been talking to area residents every day about their wants, hopes and dreams for…
Governor Evers visits Spring Green businesses that received ‘We’re All In’ grants
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers visited Spring Green Tuesday to tour two businesses that received “We’re All In” grants, in the midst of a proposal that would seek to change how federal moneys, including those that fund grants like these, are allocated and by whom.
Review: Roarin 20s offers inspired 2020s options surrounded by 1920s flair
We finally had the chance to Waltz by and try out the newest dining and social club in the Valley. Pairing veteran businessman Mike Haight as owner and general manager with classically trained executive chef David Moreno, Roarin 20s Dining and Social Club (1170 Main Street, Plain) adds art deco charm to downtown Plain. In…
Review, Q&A as Rocket Man Pizza lifts off, bringing hand tossed pizza to Plain
We recently had the chance to stop by and try out the newest pizza place in the Valley. With veteran pizzaman and restaurateur Rich Peterson at the helm, Rocket Man Pizza (1150 Main Street, Plain) is a gem in downtown Plain that will delight. (Disclosure: They even sent us home with some more options to…
River Valley School Board recommends masks, implements new plan that outlines when masking would be mandatory
On August 12 the River Valley School Board met, in its last meeting before the school year starts, to discuss masking, new COVID-19 protocols and more, before ultimately stopping short of requiring students and staff to wear masks to start the year.
The School of Architecture founded by Frank Lloyd Wright back in Spring Green for summer immersive design program
The School of Architecture, founded by Frank Lloyd Wright as the Taliesin Fellowship in 1932,was back in Spring Green July 11-17 for a “Summer Design Discovery 2021” immersive design program. The visit comes months after the School dropped ‘Taliesin’ from its name following a split from the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, settling into a new…
Rehabilitation complete on Frank Lloyd Wright’s Wyoming Valley School, new era of cultural arts begins for the space
Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Wyoming Valley School just wrapped up on a four month renovation to get the building back in the best shape—and back to some of its original design.
Gov. Evers, DHS Announce Gender-Neutral Language Options to be Added to Wisconsin Birth Certificates
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers June 28 with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced that beginning Thurs., July 1, 2021, Wisconsin parents will have a new, gender-neutral option for identifying the parents of a child. Birth forms used to generate birth certificates will be updated to include an option for “parent-parent,” in addition…
Local gymnastics student raises money for gym with lemonade stand
A student from Hard Core Gymnastics in Arena held a lemonade stand fundraiser July 2 at the corner of Sharon Street and Village Edge Road in Arena.
From The Plain and Simple Correspondent…Them and Us: Transcending Gender Differences 2
Humans have been debating the definition of “normal” as regards sexuality ever since we climbed dripping wet out of the swamps and looked around in search of intimacy. In between conducting sieges, banging vengefully on each other, and finding other fun ways to be hurtful, our ancestors have loved and lived in a bewildering variety…
VIDEO: Committee finds no wrongdoing in complaint against Arena Police Chief
The Arena Police Committee did not take any disciplinary action against Arena Police Chief Nicholas Stroik following a complaint from an area resident who said she felt harassed and targeted by the chief.
Representative Dave Considine— Personal Property Tax Bill
On June 29th the Wisconsin State Assembly voted on Assembly Bill 117 relating to eliminating the personal property tax. I have been an advocate of repealing the personal property tax since I was elected. The personal property tax is unfair to small businesses. It taxes the tools they own which are necessary to conduct their…
Driftless Grace— Something (or nothing) happens
My mind inevitably goes blank when someone asks me what I did yesterday (or over the weekend, or on Tuesday — wait, isn’t today Tuesday?!). Lately, though, that response has been close to the truth of what I’ve been doing: nothing. At least, nothing that strikes me as worth talking about.
Column: Republican Budget Falls Short—Wisconsinites Pandemic Recovery Disregarded by GOP
MADISON – Despite overwhelming public support for Governor Tony Evers’ state budget proposal that prioritized a successful economic recovery for the state, Republican politicians settled for less. Senate Democrats introduced an amendment to enact key proposals from the Governor’s Bounceback Budget, including investing in schools, increasing access to affordable health care, securing federal funding for…
Sen. Howard Marklein: State Budget Passes the Legislature
MADISON, WI – Sen. Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) made the following statement June 30 following the final Senate’s passage of the State Budget bill: “I am very proud of the legislature’s state budget. We made strategic investments to support the priorities of the people of Wisconsin while respecting the hard-working taxpayers we serve.
PSC reconsidering permit for Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission lines after potential conflict of interest surfaces
The Public Service Commission (PSC) voted to reconsider the controversial Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission line project July 1, following secret messages between a former regulator and employees of the utilities involved in the projects came to light.
Community comes together following tragic Wisconsin River accident that leaves a local man missing
“One of the most dangerous things about the Lower Wisconsin River is that it doesn’t look dangerous.”
Timm Zumm, president of Friends of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway (FLOW), shared those words of warning and wisdom this week during a brief break in the search for 22-year-old Parker Kruse, of Arena, who was knocked overboard in…
River Valley celebrates 4th of July with parade, fireworks in Lone Rock
The Valley came out in full force to celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July, congregating in Lone Rock to enjoy everything from a parade, to a chicken BBQ, a lawn tractor pull, fireworks and more.
The Sauk County Gardener— Help Your Garden Feed You
This past week I was checking out our basswood tree that finally started blooming, trying to see what bees and other pollinators were visiting it. As I moved the branches around, a whole kaleidoscope of moths just flew out of the tree. Although it was actually quite pretty to see, I knew my broccoli, Brussels…
Art from around the Valley: Jen Salt’s “Prickly Pear Cactus”
The Prickly Pear Cactus is native to Wisconsin and one of the best places to view these beautiful yellow treasures is at the Spring Green Preserve Natural Area.
4PeteSake announces date for day in the park and golf outing, new recipients
Spring Green, WI – After a year hiatus, 4PeteSake’s Day In The Park returns to Spring Green’s North Park on Sunday, August 15th. What began in 2005 as an impassioned eff ort to help a 20-year-old cancer survivor has become a summer tradition and a symbol of the River Valley’s commitment to helping neighbors in…
Local kids jam in Downtown Spring Green
On recent hot summer days you may have seen Eli Saperstein and Dylan Perry sitting on the corner of Lexington and Jefferson Streets in Spring Green — or, rather, you may have heard them first. Equipped with five gallon buckets and drumsticks, both describe themselves as long time drummers.
Community column: Katie Green’s ‘Along the Milky Way’
My maternal grandmother in Iowa loved her milk cows. Born in 1878, she and millions of others like her in the 19th Century nourished a tender relationship with their farm animals. In the first Federal Census in 1790, 90-some percent of the people enumerated in this country were engaged in farming of one kind of…
Finding your gender and sexuality in a rural small town
Discovering yourself in any space can pose challenges for someone. Whether it be your career choice or becoming the person you were born to be, figuring yourself out is a long journey. This is also a journey that never ends. Don’t expect to wake up one day, and suddenly be your completed self. You should…
Editorial: Love is love—it’s not just a logo change for a month each year
We hope for a day when this is a given in our society, but put simply, it is the editorial policy of Valley Sentinel that love is love. Period.
Spring Green finds new location for StoryWalks, looks to revisit signage ordinance
The village of Spring Green met for its bi-weekly meeting June 23, where the board discussed the continued, temporary placement of village library StoryWalk signs in North Park.
Weather won’t stop Pride Paddle to bring together, support LGBTQ+ community
Despite inclement weather cancelling the official Pride Paddle, organizers of the event stuck it out and went out on the Wisconsin River with Pride gear and decorated boats to paddle from the Highway 14 boat landing to Pecks Landing June 26.
Business Spotlight: Inspired Nutrition
Tell us a bit about Inspired Nutrition and your mission Inspired Nutrition started after my cousin opened her Nutrition club in Muscoda. We started these nutrition clubs because we were seeing great results with the Herbalife product. Our mission is to get our products into households to help people live a more healthy active lifestyle.
River Valley competes in WIAA Division 2 Track & Field Sectionals, sends athletes to state
Senior Kalen Scott, throws a personal record (PR) of 43 feet, 2.5 inches at WIAA Division 2 Sectionals in Whitewater June 17. Scott placed 12th.
2021 River Valley Spring All-Southwest Conference Student-Athletes
2021 River Valley Spring All-Southwest Conference Student-Athletes