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.
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.
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.
Nicole Aimone, co-owner and editor-in-chief of Valley Sentinel, reflects on her journalism journey that began at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Royal Purple. She credits her extensive experience there for shaping her path, leading her to launch her own newspaper and mentor future journalists, emphasizing the importance of local journalism.
In July 2025, Valley Sentinel editors Nicole Aimone and Taylor Scott received Shackelford Shines awards, enabling them to attend the Association of Alternative Newsmedia Publishers convention. They gained valuable insights on community engagement and digital strategies, prompting a strategic shift toward a more audience-centric model, enhancing their publication’s sustainability and impact.
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 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 Phone numbers are for office use only and will not be published.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 nature, without chance of rebuttal, will not be published the week before an election.
Submit letters to the editor to: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
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.
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.
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.
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