Spring Green, Wisconsin
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2020 Vol. 1, No. 3 Free, Single-Copy
Voters cast their ballots Tuesday, as a pandemic surges
Photo by Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief Top: Voters, while wearing masks, wait at least six feet apart outside the Arena town hall. Voters are waiting to cast their vote in the Nov. 3 presidential election. A sign indicated the village of Spring Green polling location at the community library, where voters could cast ballots for their pick of president as well as state and local officials.
See page 9 for more election photos and information!
Photo by Adeline Holte, Intern
Dodgeville hospital prepping for possible COVID cases Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-chief As COVID-19 cases continue to rise, area hospitals are at risk of becoming over capacity while treating positive cases of the virus, and continue to plan to handle a possible influx. At Upland Hills Hospital in Dodgeville, the hospital is currently at 75% capacity, as a 25 bed critical care facility. Nine rooms on the medical floor of the hospital are designated for coronavirus patients, with three of those rooms specifically designated for intensive care unit needs, said Tina White, Director of Marketing and Community Relations at the hospital. While cases continue to rise, White
said knowing a concrete timeframe for when the hospital might reach capacity is impossible to know. “There are several factors that make a timeframe hard to predict. COVID cases, hospitalization of COVID cases, hospitalizations of other diagnoses, recovery rate of those currently hospitalized, staffing, capacity at nearby and tertiary referral hospitals,” said White. White said the hospital is working to ensure staff and patients are safe through providing personal protective equipment and the implementation of a new UV decontamination device. Should the hospital reach capacity, White said there is a plan to make
available additional beds to maximize existing space within the facility. “The UHH incident command team is in communication with Iowa County Emergency Management and tertiary referral hospitals daily to monitor positive cases and essential resources,” said White.
For COVID-19 case numbers and statistics visit page 10
APT teams up with PBS—a preview As announced last week, American Players Theater has once again partnered with PBS Wisconsin to bring the second installment of their “Out of the Woods” series of play readings to a small screen near you. This series focuses on plays written by playwrights of color, and the readings include collaborations with artists and directors of color. Visit the PBS Wisconsin Facebook page or pbswisconsin.org/apt at 7 p.m. each Friday from Nov. 6 to Nov. 20 to hear APT actors read a selection of plays. Play readings are free to view online and on the free PBS app on your phone, tablet, other digital TV devices and smart TVs through Dec. 31. Three Valley Sentinel interns were given the opportunity to preview “The Sins of Sor Juana.” Their reviews, lightly edited, are below — The first release of this series explores faith and feminism as APT does their rendition of Karen Zacarías’ classic 1998 play, “The Sins of Sor Juana.” Based on the real life poet and philosopher, who is often credited as being the first feminist writer of the Americas, Sor Juanna is a sharp-witted, proud woman who is not afraid to cause turbulence in the world around her. She challenges those trying to control her by writing about love, feminism, religion, and other topics not deemed “appropriate” for women of the 1600s. Her story is told through the traditionally Latin-American style of magical realism, as her life seamlessly transitions from her past in the court, to her present in the convent, throughout the play. Done completely through Zoom, this play utilizes its medium very uniquely. While not being in the same room, the actors are still able to perform very subtle character interactions that give the play a very real feel. —Adam Meyer There is a price for being an intellectual woman. Why is it so hard to accept? What are the reasons behind a woman of intelligence being so terrifying? Juana Inès de la Cruz, portrayed beautifully by Melisa Pereyra, is a poet, daring to contrast the beliefs of the Mexican Viceroy’s Court. Juana is an intellectual woman, a thinker, someone who dares to step out of the cage women are forced to endure. This makes her controversial, and therefore impossible to accept.
See page 8
Page 2
opinion/editorial
WednesdaY, Nov.4, 2020
EDITORIAL
The president wasn’t ‘elected’ Tuesday, let’s respect the process as the votes are counted Occasionally we are tasked with writing an editorial that is dangerous perhaps more in timing and presumption, rather than content. This is a week where we take that risk. To be frank and open, this column was written before the polls were officially closed, with a press time thick in the middle of the evening of voting. This editorial may print and we find ourselves waking up Wednesday morning with a clear result. More likely than not, we will find ourselves waking up to a result that is and will not be clear for weeks, or months. This editorial is in response to that likely outcome. We are lucky insofar as we reside in a rural area where it is likely we will be able to see our unofficial votes tabulated on election night. Much of the country isn’t this lucky and resides in urban areas where there are an overwhelming number of absentee ballots and a patchwork of laws allowing or forbidding election workers from counting ballots ahead of election day. Clerks from across the area are reporting record numbers of absentee ballots, and most—luckily—have the poll workers needed to ensure a quick and precise unofficial count on election night. We are reminded of these words, “Due to the pandemic and the high number of absentee ballots, it will likely be Wednesday before all the unofficial results are in [for Wisconsin],” says Meagan Wolfe, Wisconsin’s chief election official. “It doesn’t mean there’s a problem — just that election officials are doing their jobs
to make sure every legitimate ballot is counted accurately.” As we watch the results pour in, on election night, on Wednesday morning and likely for days after, we need to be reminded that these results are unofficial for several reasons.
Certification
We’ll let the Wisconsin Election Commission (WEC) describe the next steps: the second step of the certification process is at the county level. Each county has a board of canvassers which must start meeting by 9 a.m. on Tuesday, November 10 to begin certifying official results. These are also public meetings. The county board of canvassers is made up of the county clerk and two other people. County clerks are elected on a partisan basis, so one of the other two members must be from the opposite party of the county clerk. The deadline for counties to certify is November 17. If the election is close, meaning within 1% of the winner’s total vote, the second-place candidate has the right to request a recount. Wisconsin does not have automatic recounts, even if the unofficial results are extremely close. There is no cost to the losing candidate if the difference between the leading candidate is 0.25% or less. If the difference is more than 0.25%, the WEC will estimate the cost, which must be paid before the recount begins After a recount, or if there is no recount, the third step of the certification process begins. The WEC staff receives results from the counties, rechecks all the counties’ numbers and combines them to arrive at totals for legislative, congressional and statewide races. The third step also includes random
audits of 5% of the voting equipment used to tally votes. The day after the election, the WEC will randomly select more than 180 wards or reporting units for audits. The municipal clerks in these jurisdictions must then hand count all the paper ballots twice to make sure the total matches the results from the voting equipment. These audits are also public. In 2018, the WEC voted unanimously not to certify the results of the election until all the audits have been successfully completed. The statutory deadline for the Chair of the WEC to certify statewide results is December 1. The WEC is having a regular meeting that day, and certification will happen during that public meeting.
Electoral College
After certification by the Chair of the WEC, the official results are provided to the Governor’s Office, which prepares a “certificate of ascertainment” for president, vice president and presidential electors for the election. The certificate lists each presidential and vice-presidential candidate, their electors, and the total number of votes each received. This certificate is signed by the Governor who also affixes the Great Seal of the State of Wisconsin to the certificate. It is then sent to the U.S. General Services Administrator. This is done on or before the first Monday after the second Wednesday in December, which is Dec. 14 this year. In Wisconsin, the state legislature plays no role in certifying or deciding which slate of electors vote in the Electoral College. At noon that same day, electors for president and vice president meet at the state capitol. At that meeting, the
electors vote for president and vice president. They must vote for the candidates of the party that nominated them. — We’re a republic and, for better or worse, the president is elected by the Electoral College, casting ballots on Dec. 14, not directly by the people on Election Day. Dec. 14 is some time away, and the electoral ballots are not even counted by Congress until Jan. 6, 2021. So let’s take a deep breath. The fears of potential civil (or less than civil) unrest from either or both sides is a legitimate fear when people rush to judgement. That concern hits close to home, Valley Sentinel staff have family members in the National Guard that have been called up in preparation for the uncertainty we’ll all likely face in the coming days. More likely than not, members of our community are in the same boat. Unless the result is clear and convincing, and perhaps still if it is, we must resist the jump to judgement following any attempt by either presidential candidate to prematurely declare victory. This is not to say that any attempt to invalidate or undermine the results by either candidate shouldn’t be resisted. Rather, it is a caution that there is potential we face murky days ahead and that we need to respect the process, while ensuring all of the votes are counted.
Sen. Ron Johnson statement on Economic Development Administration grants Ron Johnson, R-Wisconsin WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said the following afer the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration awarded two grants to help reduce flooding impact in southwestern Wisconsin. “I want to thank the Trump Admin-
istration for its continued attentiveness to southwestern Wisconsin’s needs. These grants will help southwestern Wisconsin be more prepared to deal with flooding and its economic impacts.” The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.4 million grant to the city of Prairie du Chien to make storm water infrastructure
Letters to the Editor Dear editor, I enjoyed and appreciated your editorial in last week’s Valley Sentinel. I had a very similar approach when I was an editor. Give people accurate information. Be fair. Be truthful. And assume most readers are intelligent enough to connect the dots and make up their own minds. As you know already, community journalism is time-consuming, at times agonizing and at other times rewarding. And as soon as you put one week’s edition to bed, the next week begins. People used to say to me: “I don’t know how you can go to meetings night after night and then cover community
events on weekends, and then write about and photograph everything.” My usual response was, “I understand what you are saying. If I didn’t love this job, I would probably hate it.” I hope you continue to love your work. Congratulations on the successful launch of the Valley Sentinel. I look forward to seeing the paper develop further with each new edition. I was also glad to read that you had a cold, not Covid. Stay well. Peace and truth, Don Greenwood Spring Green
improvements at the North Gateway Business Park. The EDA grant, to be located in a Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Opportunity Zone, will be matched with $357,269 in local funds and is expected to create more than 50 jobs, retain 241 jobs, and generate $3.1 million in private investment. In addition, the EDA is awarding a $328,972 grant to the county of Rich-
land and the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission to develop an economic resiliency plan that will diversify economic opportunities and reduce future flood impacts on Richland County’s economic base. The EDA grant will be matched with $82,243 in local funds.
Valley Sentinel wants to see your No-Shave November pictures! This month is No-Shave November and Movember — to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as men’s suicide, prostate and testicular cancer. Share your before and after pics of growing a beard! Or show off your styled beard! The best pictures could be featured in Valley Sentinel! If we get enough submissions, we’ll do a contest! • Make a pledge to not shave for the month of November (trimming is ok!)
Make the Pledge
• Already have a beard? Start from scratch or grow it out and style it! • Ask your friends and family to pledge $1 (or more) for every day that you don’t shave.
Send your submissions to: editor@valleysentinelnews.com Please visit no-shave.org & movember.com for more information on how to get involved.
opinion/editorial
WednesdaY, Nov.4, 2020
Page 3
Record attendance at state parks amid pandemic Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green This summer, 1,800,000 more people visited our State Parks than last year! The COVID-19 Pandemic certainly encouraged this attendance as families took time to enjoy the outdoors. But I think visitors are also encouraged by new facilities, updated technology and enhanced experiences in our parks. In March, 942,926 people visited the parks while admission was free. But even in May, when we began charging entrance fees again, 1,697,963 people visited our parks. June was even busier with more than 500,000 new visitors than last year! In total, 6.4 million people visited our State Parks through August 30, 2020. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that 73% of campsites, system-wide, were reserved in July, compared to 62% in July 2019. With the great weather we have been enjoying, I’m sure the numbers for September and October will be just as impressive. If you have been following my work on your behalf over the last several years, you know that the state parks have been one of my special projects. I have worked hard to help the parks to be financially solvent and to use surpluses in park funds for necessary improvements, updates and maintenance. I have supported policy initiatives to give the park system flexibility to manage resources and reservations to capitalize on all of our assets. Several years ago, during the 2015-16 State Budget, I led an effort to reform the way revenue is generated for the
Wisconsin State Park System using private-sector strategies. My colleagues and I wanted to give the parks the freedom to manage their resources, capitalize on their high-demand properties and find ways to generate income in order to become self-sufficient. With self-sufficiency, the parks are able to make improvements faster, respond to market demands and promote our parks effectively. In the 2017-18 state budget, I authored anothMarklein er motion to provide additional tools and flexibility for the DNR to continue moving toward self-sustainability for the state park system. These tools included allowing the DNR the option to invest $1 million each year of the biennium from the State Parks Account for maintenance and improvement projects such as repairing facilities, replacing signage, replacing drinking fountains and upgrading non-electric sites to electricity; lifting the state-wide cap for electrical sites from 30% to 35% of campsites statewide; increasing the park sticker fee by $5 for residents and non-residents; creating a $5 surcharge for electrical sites at popular parks; and increasing the range up to $10 for nightly camping fees at the Secretary’s discretion. Prior to these reforms, Wisconsin taxpayers were subsidizing campers
from out-of-state. Visitors were only charged $2 more than a Wisconsin resident for a campsite. Increasing camping fees have not negatively impacted camping reservations. In fact, camping reservations continue to increase every year. In April 2018, the Joint Finance Committee (JFC), of which I am a member, allocated an additional $2.2 million on top of the $2 million allocated in the state budget to the state parks. These funds, which come from the State Parks Fund, were used for additional improvements and remodeling this summer. This investment is leveraged with funding from local park Friends groups, stewardship funding and other project-based funding. Then, the State Building Commission authorized the renovation and construction of 200 additional electrical campsites system-wide. Park visitors tell us that they want more electric sites and the reforms we have made, as well as the flexibility for investments, are enabling the State Parks to respond quickly to this demand, which will generate additional revenues in turn. In the 2019-20 State Budget, we provided an additional $1 million to the operational budget for the park system for staff salaries, materials and other needs. We also provided funding to finish the new site electrification project. I have been consistently monitoring the outcomes of these reforms. Overall, our state park system is flourishing, improving and offering our state’s citizens and visitors world class outdoor opportunities! Each year, my family camps in Peninsula State Park in Door County.
Contact us
PO Box 144 Spring Green, Wisconsin 53588 USA (608) 588-6694 editor@valleysentinelnews.com valleysentinelnews.com Editorial Editor-in-Chief Emilie Conlon Creative Director/ Editor Morgan Marlenga Managing Editor Quincy Aston-Lott
We have been camping there together for many years. This summer, I was impressed to observe the new bath houses, significant improvements to existing campsites and new electrical sites available to visitors. They are also working on the Eagle Tower suite, South Nicolet Campground, the Nature Center and Northern Sky Theater. There is a lot of investment and renewal going on at this park. But it is not the only one. The State Building Commission approved nearly $18 million for improvements at State Parks this year. The lists of projects includes $1,046,000 to replace the shower building at Yellowstone State Park in Blanchardville, right here in the 17th Senate District. As we continue to enjoy a very beautiful autumn and seek ways to get outside with our families, I hope you will take time to visit one of our State Parks. I am very proud of my work on the state parks and will continue to seek ways to support them in the future. As always, please do not hesitate to connect with me to provide input, ideas or to seek assistance. Send an email to sen.marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov or call 608-266-0703.
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On certain topics in areas of great community interest, the editors of the Valley Sentinel may take positions they believe best represent and serve the interests of the community. Any opinions or positions taken by the editorial board are separate and distinct in labeling and substance from the community journalism that appears in the rest of the publication and does not affect the integrity
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and impartiality of our reporting.
Est. 2020 igne conflatum “Forged in Fire”
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Editors may feature opinion columns written by public figures, members of the public or other publication staff. Columns reflect the opinions of the individual contributors and do not represent positions of the publication. Guest columns of an anticipated length more than 500 words should seek prior editor authorization.
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WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Community
River Valley students honor veterans with drawings, letters Photos contributed by River Valley School District Due to COVID-19, River Valley schools are not able to hold its usual Veteran’s Day memorial events this year. The events normally include holding two events where veterans can speak with students. This year, students are writing letters and creating art for area veterans that will be dropped off on Nov. 11. In the High School, students will hear a brief history of Vertan’s Day during morning announcements. The following photos are letters and art work students at the River Valley Elementray school created.
Continued on page 5
Community
WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Page 5
Continued on page 6
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WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Community
Kindergarden students from Michelle Wiess’ class at the Early Learning Center pose with American flag hearts they created in honor of Veteran’s Day.
Continued on page 7
Thank you for your service.
Community
WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Page 7
Students in Rhonda Licht’s 4K class pose with their Veteran’s Day art work.
Continued on page 8
THANK
A VETERAN
TODAY
“The good stuff.”
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Community
WednesdaY, Nov. 4,, 2020
Left: 4K students in Rhonda Licht’s class pose with their art project to honor Veterans. Right: Students from Michelle Radliner’s elementary class pose with letters and art work, featured on pages 4 and 5, for Veteran’s Day.
In other news Pamela’s Fine Jewelry no longer offering dry cleaning services Due to Baraboo and Portage Cleaners closing at the end of the month, Pamela’s Fine Jewelry will be discontinuing dry cleaning services in the area. The store can collect dry cleaning items such as coats, sweaters and suits until Nov. 15. The final day for pick up will be Nov. 25, the last day of operation for Baraboo and Portage Cleaners. The Portage Cleaners decided to close its doors after 80 years serving the community due to COVID-19 and on-going construction in Portage, making it hard to access the business.
Love Light fundraiser
Friends of Sauk Prairie Healthcare will be holding its annual Love Light fundraiser, which sets up holiday lights to honor friends and family. This year, the fundraiser will also offer red, white and blue lights to honor military members. Light bulbs are $5 each, and will be displayed in the Sauk Praire Healthcare lobby throughout the holiday season. Money can be sent to 260 26th St, Prairie du Sac, with the name of the honored person, the donors name, email and phone number. Order forms can be at www.saukprairiehealthcare.org/love-lights and should be recieved by Nov. 23. Due to COVID-19, the traditional cememoration ceremony will not be held in person, but will be a virtual event streamed on Dec. 7.
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Valley Sentinel wants to see your No-Shave November pictures! This month is No-Shave November and Movember — to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as men’s suicide, prostate and testicular cancer. Share your before and after pics of growing a beard! Or show off your styled beard! The best pictures could be featured in Valley Sentinel! If we get enough submissions, we’ll do a contest! • Make a pledge to not shave for the month of November (trimming is ok!)
Make the Pledge
• Already have a beard? Start from scratch or grow it out and style it!
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
• Ask your friends and family to pledge $1 (or more) for every day that you don’t shave. Send your submissions to: editor@valleysentinelnews.com Please visit no-shave.org & movember.com for more information on how to get involved.
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Community
Wednesday, Nov. 4,2020
Page 9
Ballots cast around the Valley amid pandemic Continued from page 1 Residents across the Valley cast ballots in the Nov. 3 Presidential Election, some in-person, some months prior as absentee ballots and others just a week before with in-person absentee voting.
Village of Lone Rock: Clerk Tammy Christianson said the village had 150 requested absentee ballots, with 126 of them returned, compared to the 2016 19 returned.
As of press time on Nov. 3, polling locations have not closed and the election has called. The following numbers detail the number of absentee ballots submitted prior to Tuesday’s election in the village of Spring Green, the Village of Plain, the Village of Lone Rock and the Village of Arena. Village of Arena: Clerk DaNean Naeger reported that 179 of the 212 requested absentee ballots had been returned prior to Election Day. In the 2016 Presidential Election, the village had 36 requested absentee ballots.
Village of Plain: Clerk Sheila Carver reported 216 absentee ballots were requested with 200 returned. Of those 200 returned, 26 were in-person absentee voters. In 2016, the village had 44 absentee ballots requested and returned. Village of Spring Green: Clerk Wendy Crary said the village had a total of 632 absentee ballots requested, with 602 returned. —Emilie Conlon contributed to this report
Photos by Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief Top: A bottle of hand sanitizer and disinfecting spray are seen next to a pop-up voting booth at the Plain Village Hall on Election Day. Bottom: Lone Rock Treasurer, Esther Marshall, opens and sorts absentee ballots at the village hall on Nov. 3, during polling hours
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Community
Page 10 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
COVID-19 Dashboard Wisconsin Summary Cases as of 11/2/2020
11.2%
+31,247 from 10/26
10/26 10/27 10/28
232,296 Positive Cases
88.8%
Day-to-day case totals over 7 days
10/29 10/30 10/31
1,846,618 Negative Cases
11/1
+68,726 from 10/26
0
10,000
Positive Cases
+70 from 10/26
30,000
Negative Cases
Iowa County
Richland County 519 Positive Cases
20,000
7,321 Negative Cases
+319 from 10/26
6.9%
93.1% +145 from 10/26
9 Deaths
+1 from 10/26
7,001 Negative Cases
584 Positive +126 from 10/26 Cases
2 Deaths
+1 from 10/26
Sauk County 1,991 7.2% Positive Cases 25,479 92.8% Negative Cases
+348 from 10/26
+830 from 10/26
Graphic by Whitney Back
8 Deaths +1 from 10/26
Data From: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/index.htm
Arts & Culture
WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Page 11
Review: APT thrills with spooky adaptation of Turn of the Screw Quincy Aston-Lott, Managing Editor On a spooky evening prior to Halloween last week, we lit a candle and settled in to watch American Players Theatre’s (APT) pop-up play reading of The Turn of the Screw, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the story by Henry James. Adding to the mystique, it was a limited event available for only 24 hours and 350 viewers. Unlimited was the spooky thrill of what ensued. Directed by James DeVita, as a play reading it’s a marked departure from recent adaptations, such as The Haunting of Bly Manor that’s trending now on Netflix. However, APT core group members James Ridge and Kelsey Brennan were in their element as they created an unparalleled immersive experience that perhaps only APT can pull off. APT describes the plot as: “The
quiet life of a governess is turned upside-down in this adaptation of Henry James’ chilling classic. After Miles and Flora lost their parents, they were sent off to be cared for by their uncle, who has no apparent interest in raising them. Instead, he hires a governess to come to his country estate to mind the children, with strict instructions not to be bothered about their day-to-day lives. Before long, the governess begins seeing figures wandering the grounds that no one else seems to see, and realizes she’ll have to fight for her sanity, and perhaps even their lives.” Ridge’s mannerisms, expressions and voice create distinct characters that come to life, helping us forget that we are in-effect in a one-sided Zoom call with two people on the screen. Ridge’s range jumps from a wealthy bachelor in his prime, to over-the-hill housekeeper, to a young set of siblings, all while pro-
viding background sound effects that feel natural and in-tune with the play reading. Brennan plays the children’s governess so convincingly that we start to identify with her hopes, dreams and are drawn in as she slowly unravels, clutching the locket that serves as virtually the only prop seen on-screen. The reading is told from the view in retrospect by the governess, and she makes a valiant effort throughout to convince us of her heroism and duty. Fighting for the innocence of the children while we slowly watch her descend in madness in a way we first dismiss, but then becomes glaringly obvious to her audience. Her pursuit of her goal and her conviction of belief in what she sees affects those in her care as it unravels her sanity. Much is left purposefully vague in the play, but one thing is certain in the end, she has become the antagonist of her own story.
The two squares of the screen truly acted as windows into the reading, using lighting effects and distance to tell a story. The close eagerness and then insanity of Brennan’s governess felt palpable, especially when paired with Ridge’s choice to either emphasize his presence on the screen or to step back and allow Brennan’s character to speak directly with her audience. Stage Manager Jacqueline Singleton deserves credit where credit is due. This was an immersive adaptation that kept you engaged, despite the medium. The reading felt traditional and true to a play that we expect from APT, creating a pervasive ambiance that felt perhaps less like you were up-the-hill and more akin to the intimacy of the Touchstone. As the play repeatedly stated: the best stories may begin in the garden — but they’re best told by APT.
Photo via APT James Ridge, left and Kelsey Brennan depict characters from “Turn of the Screw” in an APT virtual play reading.
Preview: APT ponders the price of being an intellectual woman in ‘The Sins of Sor Juana’ Continue from page 1 In the 1600s, the content of Juana’s poems are absolutely unacceptable for women to read. Her poems are full of feminism, religion, love and free-thought. And so, that makes them despicable. However, the Vicereine, played by Cher Àlvarez, is strongly taken by Juana’s boldness to create such controversial pushback in the form of her poems, much to the disgust of the Viceroy, played by Triney Sandoval. The Vicereine arranges for Juana to stay on the Court, so, the Viceroy must plot. How dare a woman hold so much power? Full of in-depth characters, a thick, thoughtfully woven plot and beautiful dialogue that engulfs the viewer, “The Sins of Sor Juana” touches the heart and soul in a starkly relevant way. The style of the play is capturing and real, the premise full of engaging visuals. The scenes are
compelling, mixing a dark topic with some faint lightheartedness, making it feel all the more relevant. Told through the view of the court and the convent, we are able to see the struggle Juana must face – the struggles many women have faced. —Adeline Holte This past week, I was provided the opportunity to watch APT’s performance of Karen Zacarías’ play “The Sins of Sor Juana”. Mediated through Zoom, Zacaría’s characters jump through the screen, portrayed by the incredible all-Latinx cast, many portraying multiple roles to bring this work to life. The story follows a pieced-together biography of one of the first American feminists, Juana Inés de la Cruz. As a woman in the late 17th century in the recently colonized Mexíco, Juana had to fight both tradition and religious pressure in order to pursue her life’s passion—poetry.
While this is undoubtedly a new format for these performers, the cast expertly handled the new challenge. Filling Zoom windows instead of a stage, they are still able to bring the lively energy that so many of us have been yearning for over these past months of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time of great personal dissociation, the actors provide us with an opportunity to not only connect with them, but also with the characters they portray. While most of the cast afterwards state they were unfamiliar with the work of de la Cruz prior to this play, the Q&A following the performance showed that they had all been touched by her work and her story. The actresses in particular spoke to how they, as female artists, were inspired by her perseverance and strength, even when it seemed as though she had no allies. Through the process of pondering just what exactly makes “a classic”, APT is
turning their focus specifically on voices of Black, Indigenous, or people of color for this series, through both the playwright and performers. —Nicole Hansen American Players Theatre’s rendition of “The Sins of Sor Juana” will be made available for viewing online and on TV to the general public on Friday, Nov. 6, 7:00 pm CT. This performance will be followed by Nathan Alan Davis’ “Nat Turner in Jerusalem” and Lydia R. Diamond’s “Smart People” on November 13th and 20th respectively, all performances will be available to stream for free at pbswisconsin.org/apt. Look for our full review of “The Sins of Sor Juana” in next week’s Valley Sentinel, as well as a preview of “Nat Turner in Jerusalem.”
Outdoors/recreation
Page 12 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
DNR Encourages Hunters To Test For CWD Jess Carstens, DNR area wildlife supervisor EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – In cooperation with local businesses, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff will collect deer heads for chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing during the 2020 deer hunting seasons. Managing CWD begins with knowing where the disease exists on the landscape, and having this knowledge is only possible with robust sample numbers provided by hunters. Hunters who harvest an adult deer in Buffalo, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin and Trempealeau counties are strongly encouraged to have their deer tested for CWD. The DNR is also offering property-specific CWD surveillance permits on private land within the Chippewa Valley and Dunn County surveillance areas. Those interested in applying for a CWD surveillance permit should contact Terry Shaurette at 608- 386-2368. Since 2017, six wild deer have tested positive for CWD in the Eau Claire area. In 2019, the first wild CWD positive deer was found in Dunn County. CWD sampling will continue to be a priority in the intensive surveillance areas surrounding these detections. CWD testing is free of charge. A sample consists of the deer head with 3-5 inches of neck attached. Hunters will also need to have their harvest authorization number, harvest location and contact information when submitting a sample. New this year, hunters may submit this information online rather than using a paper form. Hunters can find a link to the new digital form in their registration confirmation email and in their harvest history in Go Wild. During an average year, results are typically available 10-14 days after the deer is brought to a sampling station. This year, hunters will likely experience delays due to complications from COVID-19. To protect the health of department staff, the DNR has reduced the number of staff per shift at our sample processing center. Despite adding
hours of operation. For an interactive map with sampling locations available in your area, visit the DNR website. There is also a searchable database available as an alternative to the map view. Lastly, there is also a link available on the menu in the Hunt Wild app.
Deer Carcass Disposal
Photo via Wisconsin DNR Make a plan to visit a sampling station to have your deer tested for CWD shifts, the daily volume of processed samples will be reduced from previous years. “We estimate that results will be available 2-3 weeks after the deer head or tissue sample is received unless unforeseen circumstances cause further delay in either our field operations or at the CWD processing center,” said Tami Ryan, DNR wildlife health section chief. “We thank hunters for their patience as we seek to provide our services during these unprecedented times.” To view CWD results for a harvested deer, visit the DNR’s website. Hunters will need to enter a customer ID or CWD sample bar code number to view test results. If test results come back positive for CWD, advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wisconsin’s Department of Health Services (DHS) and the World Health Organization is for hunters not to consume venison from that deer. World Health Organization is for hunters not to consume venison from
Deer Hunters Encouraged To Help Families In Need through deer donation program Sarah Wyrick, DNR wildlife damage program assistant MADISON, Wis. – Each year, hunters, meat processors and food pantries help families in need by working closely with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its partners to donate thousands of pounds of venison to Wisconsin food pantries. “Whether it is harvesting an extra deer or donating the only deer they shoot, Wisconsin hunters have historically shown their willingness to help others by donating deer to the Deer Donation Program,” said Sarah Wyrick, DNR wildlife damage program assistant. “As deer hunters begin preparations for this hunting season, we encourage them to consider the Deer Donation Program.” Since Wisconsin’s Deer Donation Program first began in 2000, more than 92,000 deer have been donated, totaling more than 3.7 million pounds of venison distributed to food pantries across the state.
Hunters are encouraged to dispose of deer carcass waste in a licensed landfill or transfer station that accepts this waste or in a dumpster designated for deer carcass waste. If a municipality allows deer disposal curbside or at a transfer station, the carcass should be double bagged. If these options are not available and the deer was harvested on private land, burying the deer carcass waste or returning it to the location of kill are the next best options. Hunters can find a map with the CWD sampling locations and deer carcass disposal locations on the DNR website as well as in the Hunt Wild app.
“There are a couple of ways hunters can help,” said Wyrick. “Hunters can donate a deer at one of the participating meat processors, or when they purchase a hunting license, they can make a monetary donation to help cover venison processing costs.” Hunters are advised to plan for their donation by locating a participating processor and having their deer tested for CWD. Hunters should also call the participating processor before dropping off deer to make sure the processor is prepared to accept the deer. The DNR thanks all deer hunters and meat processors that have participated in the deer donation program throughout the years. Visit the DNR website to learn about the DNR’s deer donation program and how to help, as well as find a list of participating meat processors and CWD sampling requirements.
that deer. “We’re grateful for hunters making that extra effort to have their deer sampled for CWD, and to support them, we continue to make access to sampling options easier each year,” Ryan said. “Each deer sample is important because it contributes to an overall understanding of the health of Wisconsin’s deer herd and the distribution of CWD across the state.”
CWD Sampling Locations
Hunters have several options available to have their deer sampled for CWD, and all locations can be found on the DNR website. Details about locations may be modified throughout the season, so make sure to check the location nearest you before your hunt. In addition to a network of 24/7 self-service sampling stations around the state, many meat processors and businesses offer in-person sampling assistance. Hunters should contact in-person sampling stations in advance to verify
Baiting and Feeding
Hunters are reminded that baiting and feeding are prohibited in some counties. Check the DNR’s baiting and feeding webpage for updates. No counties in the state will be removed from the ban during the 2020 deer hunting seasons.
Prevent the Spread of CWD
Voluntarily following recommended practices can reduce and prevent the spread of CWD. Those include proper carcass transportation, handling and disposal, reporting sick deer, following baiting and feeding regulations, cleaning and disinfecting equipment and following urine-based scent recommendations.
Sick Deer Reports
DNR staff members are interested in reports of sick deer. To report a sick deer, contact local wildlife staff or call DNR Customer Service at 1-888-9367463. More information on CWD is available on the DNR website.
Valley Sentinel wants to see your deer hunting pictures! Submit photos or videos with brief description, the hunter’s name (and the names of anyone else in the picture - including the age of a youth hunter) along with the location to enter for a chance to win! You can include the deer’s weight, antlers and spread, if you choose. Pictures must be received by Nov. 30, additional sponsors/prizes may be added. Submissions: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
PRIZES Biggest Buck 1st Place: Vortex Crossfire 10x42 Binoculars, Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $100 Straka Meats gift card 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Biggest Doe 1st Place: Vortex Crossfire 10x42 Binoculars, Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $50
Straka Meats gift card, 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Best Youth Harvest 1st Place: Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $25 Straka Meats gift card, 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Best View Out in the Field 1st Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, $25 Straka Meats gift card, Vortex hat 2nd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat, Vortex Nalgene water bottle 3rd Place: $10 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Thank you to our sponsors!
Page 13 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Outdoors/recreation
DNR & Dane County Sheriff’s Office Expand November Public Hours at range Brenda Von Rueden, DNR target range manager MADISON, Wis. – Thanks to the continuing project agreement between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Dane County Sheriff's Office, the public again will have November access to the Dane County Law Enforcement Training Center Range for hunter firearm sight-in. November hours were first announced in June, when weekend hours at the range were announced. Between Nov. 7 – 20, the public will have access from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day for hunter sight-in. There is a $10 fee for the first gun and $5 for each additional gun. The program allows hunters to sightin their shotguns, rifles and pistols in a safe environment. No appointment is necessary. Citizens may only bring firearms that are legal deer hunting in Wisconsin.
Experienced instructors will be on hand to aid in the sighting and adjusting of Experienced instructors will be on hand to aid in the sighting and adjusting of firearms. Hearing and eye protection is mandatory and is provided, or you may use your own. Hunters will also be able to receive information on hunting laws, regulations and gun safety.
Facility Specifics
During this public access period, one 100-yard rifle range and one 25-yard pistol range will be open to the public for shooting and target practice. Shooters will not be limited in the time they spend on the range unless there are no open firing positions and others are waiting. Target stands are available at the range. Shooters should bring ear and eye protection, paper targets and their own ammunition.
Fees: $10 per person, per day. Fees must be paid with cash or personal check. Credit cards are not accepted. Minors: A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors. A minor must be at least 12 years old and present proof of enrollment or completion of the DNR Hunter Safety Program to shoot at the range.
COVID-19 and Social Distancing
The following steps must be taken by those participating in the weekend open range shoot: All individuals entering the Dane County Law Enforcement Training Center must wear a mask or else entry will be denied. No exceptions. Individuals may opt to wear a mask while outdoors or on the range. When entering the facility, individuals will be required to stay at least 6 feet away from the next person in line unless they are a family member or a member of the same household. Mea-
surements will be masked on the floor. Shooting lanes on the range will be restricted to the use of every other lane providing a 10-foot distance between each shooter. Disinfectant/hand sanitizer will be available upon entry to the building and on the range. Extra cleaning/disinfecting will occur for multiple-use items. Length of time to spend at the range will be at the discretion of staff based on Length of time to spend at the range will be at the discretion of staff based on the number of individuals waiting their turn. The Dane County Law Enforcement Training Center is located at 5184 Highway 19 in the Town of Westport, one mile east of the intersection of Highway 113 and County Trunk I. Find a range near you here.
Wisconsin Walleye Management Plan Virtual Meeting Nov. 17 Max Wolter, DNR walleye team co-lead
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will host a regional public meeting to discuss updating the Wisconsin Walleye Management Plan. This virtual meeting will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m. for Crawford, Richland, Grant, Sauk, Iowa and Lafayette counties. Individuals from those counties with an
interest in walleye management should contact Max Wolter. Pre-registration is required. The current plan serves as a guide for one of the most sought-after fish species in Wisconsin and outlines seven goals and strategies for walleye management. The updating process will include a review of the existing plan, an analysis of available data and trends and public input on angling and management preferences.
The DNR is seeking public input on stocking priorities, regulation acceptance and agency resource allocation among other things. Public input on the planning process will be gathered through: Comments from the public on walleye management preferences and issues via this public input form; Detailed random mail/online surveys of fishing license holders (both resident and non-resident) to scientifically
gauge angler attitudes about management options; and Regional virtual meetings with stakeholder groups and individuals to discuss local management issues and partnership opportunities.
Highway 23 bridge closed for construction until 2021
Photos by Quincy Aston-Lott As of Oct. 26, the Highway 23 bridge joining Sauk and Iowa counties is closed for construction. During construction, concrete on the birdge will be replaced, gaurd rails will be updated and the steel support beams will be painted. The bridge is expected to be open to onelane traffic in June 2021 and is expected to be completed by September 2021. For boaters in the Wisconsin River that flows beneath the bridge, guiding bouys have been placed for naviagtion, and the area is a slow no wake zone. For more photos of the construction, visit www.valleysentinelnews.com later this week
Page 14 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Sports
Frigid Friday as the Blackhawks fall to Mineral Point, 19-28
Photos by Quincy Aston-Lott The River Valley Blackhaws fell to the Mineral Point Pointers on a chilly Friday night game on Oct. 30. The final score was 19-28. Top Right: Blackawks and couches meet on field following Friday’s loss. Top left: The medical table used by athletic trainers is seen with the imprint of a player on the icy frost that formed during Friday’s game. Bottom left: Blackhawks players, visitors and spectators leave the stadium following a loss to Mineral Point. Bottom Right: A referee stops a play to call one of many penalties on Friday night.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR We care about the community and want to showcase your events, especially in times like these! Our goal is to keep the community in touch with events, people, life and businesses of the Lower Wisconsin River Valley.
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Sports
Page 15 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020 Activities News Blackhawks game against Dodgville cancelled
The Nov. 6 home varstiy football game against Dodgeville has been cancelled due to Dodgeville ending its fall sports season early. The game was scheduled to be the last regular game of the season. The JV football game scheduled for Nov. 10 against Dodgeville is also cancelled, the Nov. 2 game against Mineral Point served as the final JV football game of the season. Acitivies Director Jaime Hegland is currently working to reschedule the Varisty football game, potentially to take place Nov. 13, and said information will be shared as it becomes available. Follow Valley Sentinel on social media for more updates.
FFA awards The River Valley FFA chapter was recently awarded a 3-star National Chapter award.
Upcoming events Girls Varsity Swimming Sectionals 11:30 a.m. Nov. 7 Whitewater High School
Businesses! We have advertising solutions to help your business reach and engage with our community. We are offering sponsorships and premium placement opportunities, online and in print. Guaranteed 1,000 copy print distribution with an online engagement.
Contact our ad team at: ads@valleysentinelnews.com Let’s build community together.
Valley Sentinel wants to see your deer hunting pictures! Submit photos or videos with brief description, the hunter’s name (and the names of anyone else in the picture - including the age of a youth hunter) along with the location to enter for a chance to win! You can include the deer’s weight, antlers and spread, if you choose. Pictures must be received by Nov. 30, additional sponsors/prizes may be added. Submissions: editor@valleysentinelnews.com
PRIZES Biggest Buck 1st Place: Vortex Crossfire 10x42 Binoculars, Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $100 Straka Meats gift card 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Biggest Doe 1st Place: Vortex Crossfire 10x42 Binoculars, Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $50
Straka Meats gift card, 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Best Youth Harvest 1st Place: Free Deer Processing at Prem Meats ($120 value), $25 Straka Meats gift card, 2nd Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat 3rd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Best View Out in the Field 1st Place: $50 Prem Meats gift card, $25 Straka Meats gift card, Vortex hat 2nd Place: $25 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex hat, Vortex Nalgene water bottle 3rd Place: $10 Prem Meats gift card, Vortex Nalgene water bottle
Thank you to our sponsors!
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
We care about the community and want to showcase your events, especially in times like these! Our goal is to keep the community in touch with events, people, life and businesses of the Lower Wisconsin River Valley. Email us to submit your local events. ads@valleysentinelnews.com
Let’s build community together.
Page 16 WednesdaY, Nov. 4, 2020
Community
Halloween treats around the Valley Photos by Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief
Jaxson Strook, and parents Jaque and Justin Strook, go trick-or-treating at the Arena Fire Station on Oct. 31. Arena Fire Fighters and EMS handed out pre-packaged candy bags while wearing masks and gloves to provide a safe Halloween during COVID-19.
Adults and kids dressed in costumes visit a Halloween pop-up event that featured the Butternut Road Coffee Truck and debuted the new Sidney Bakes bakery location, located at 176 S. Washington St in Spring Green. Samantha Sveum said of the event, “This event was our way of getting creative to keep people healthy and safe, while still allowing people to have a means to get out and enjoy the holiday, and we are very happy with the turnout.” Find Sidney Bakes online at www.sidneybakes.com Find Butternut Road Coffee Truck at www.butternutroadcoffee.com
DJ Robbie Rob drives through Arena with music playing on speakers from the bed of his truck on Oct. 31. Rob, a wedding and special events DJ said he drives around Mazomanie and Arena at different times playing music. On Saturday, Rob and his wife drove around handing out candy, and said their goal was to spread cheer during COVID-19 and on Halloween when not everyone was able to trick-or-treat. DJ Robbie Rob can be found at www.djrobbierob1027.com