Valley Sentinel - 02-22-2024 by Valley Sentinel

Spring Green, Wisconsin

Thursday, February 22, 2024 | Vol. 5, No. 4 FREE, Single-Copy

Inside this edition

Valley Sentinel announces literary journal initiative

Dreamwalker: Prose series by Michael Broh

River Valley Players announces cast

Pages 8, 9

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Taliesin Preservation announces 'Spring Green Restaurant' listed on the National Register of Historic Places Susan Kennedy & Kendall Poltzer, Contributed The Wisconsin Historical Society announces the listing of the Spring Green Restaurant at Riverview Terrace (Iowa County), an integral part of Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy, on the National Register of Historic Places. The property was added to the National Register on February 8, 2024, and was listed on the State Register of Historic Places in November 2023. Executive Director of Taliesin Preservation Carrie Rodamaker stated, “This building has such a fascinating history. The driving force behind it was for Wright to give back to the community and valley where he lived for the majority of his life. We are thrilled about its recognition at the state level—and now nationally.” Frank Lloyd Wright purchased the land overlooking the Wisconsin River at the intersection of State Highway 23 and County Road C with the intention of building a restaurant as a gateway to Taliesin. In 1953, he designed a seasonal restaurant called “Riverview Terrace.” By 1954, his concept changed to a yearround restaurant, and he continued to work on the design until 1957, when construction commenced. At that time, Frank Lloyd Wright was at the height of his career and as a result, the building progressed slowly, as he focused on large-scale projects that demanded his attention away from Taliesin. In 1959, at the age of 92, Wright passed

Photo by Nathan Rist, courtesy of the Taliesin Preservation Pictured is the main level of the Riverview Terrace, recently added to the National register of Historic Places. away, and construction halted until 1966 when the building was purchased by the Wisconsin River Land Development Corporation. Taliesin Associate Architects (TAA) was hired to complete the building with slight modiﬁcations to Wright’s original design. TAA was established after Wright’s death by his former associates and led by William Wesley Peters who was also Wright’s son-in-law.

The building was completed and opened in 1967 as the Spring Green Restaurant. The oﬃcial opening featured a gala that coincided with ﬁrst lady “Lady Bird” Johnson’s visit to Taliesin to meet with Wright’s widow Olgivanna Lloyd Wright. The Spring Green Restaurant operated independently for 25 years, from 1967 to 1992, until Taliesin Preservation acquired it in 1993. It now serves as the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center.

The midsection of the building connects two hills to form a bridge-like structure. The metal truss that spans the length of the building was salvaged from the collapsed Highway 23 bridge that connected the Wyoming Valley to Spring Green. It overlooks County Road C and the Wisconsin River, blending harmoniously into the landscape as Wright intended. The interior boasts a vaulted ceiling, expansive windows, red oak paneling, and a ﬁreplace. Olgivanna was responsible for selecting the furnishings and various elements of the décor. Frank Lloyd Wright wanted Riverview Terrace to serve as a gateway to Taliesin, and by creating a restaurant at this location, he was also making a gift to his beloved Wyoming Valley and Spring Green neighbors. Today, the building serves as the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center and administrative oﬃces for Taliesin Preservation. The upcoming 2024 season includes tours, gift shop, and café beginning Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in April (and November) and daily May through October. It is located at 5607 County Road C, Spring Green, Wisconsin. Additional information for the Spring Green Restaurant is available at www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/ NationalRegister/NR2769 To learn more about the State and National Register programs in Wisconsin, visit www.wisconsinhistory.org.

Gov. Evers signs a GOP bill containing his legislative maps, signiﬁcant changes to local districts WisPolitics.com Most analysts a month ago considered it a longshot that Democratic Gov. Tony Evers would sign a GOP bill containing his legislative maps. But that's what happened on Feb. 19,

after majority GOP lawmakers decided the Evers maps might not be so bad considering what might come from the newly liberal Wisconsin Supreme Court. Evers had pressure from those inside his own party who feared the signing

of the bill would spur a conservative attempt to challenge his maps in the federal courts. Most Democrats in the Legislature voted against the GOP bill when it passed in mid-February. But in signing the bill, Evers called it

a "beautiful day for democracy" and pledged to ﬁght for way to have fair maps after each federal census -- making it less political and subject to legal wrangling.

continued on page 4

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Thursday, February 22, 2024

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Commentary/Opinion

The Art of Learning to See: An Interview with Karin McDonald Elizabeth Maske, Contributed

builder, too. That’s part of plein air Karin McDonald joins me for a virtual painting, developing confidence.” The intimate group size and exclusive interview from her home studio, where access to the inner workings of Taliesin vivid memories of Taliesin linger on left a lasting impression: “When freshly painted canvases. For Karin, [the instructor Jan] said we could go the combination of painting and the anywhere to paint, I thought that was architectural marvels of Taliesin was the a treat.” Behind-the-scenes tours and compelling draw to this year’s plein air workshop: “It was the feeling that Frank the meticulous care of the gardens Lloyd Wright immersed himself in this furthered Karin’s appreciation for landscape and the way he captured his the effort involved in preserving this artistic slant with the buildings, how he historical site. While staying at Tan-y-Deri, Karin laid it all out. As an artist, to come in, and just have that feeling that he was relished the breathtaking view of right here in this place, and to consider the valley featuring Taliesin in the how he developed the whole concept, distance. The tour of Taliesin provided an alternate and equally beautiful that’s really what drew me in.” Connecting the workshop to one perspective. The farm below Tan-y-Deri and the she had experienced before, Karin reminisced, “About 30 years ago, I Romeo and Juliet Windmill became Photo contributed by the Taliesin Preservation studied abroad in Aix-en-Provence, subjects of her art, each revealing their Karin painting near the Taliesin hill crown. France, at The Leo Marchutz School, unique charms. “I didn’t know what where Paul Cézanne lived and worked.” to expect, but staying right there was and insights into her creative process, The experience laid a foundation for lovely. I enjoyed all the farmland and the instructor’s teaching style enriched her appreciation of immersing in the buildings around us, too. Those were Karin’s learning experience. Witnessing environment that shaped a profound special because that’s where I was fellow artists’ interpretations reinforced the idea that there are countless paths artistic journey. She describes, “It staying.” Favorable weather allowed the to artistic expression. “For this, I wasn’t was putting myself in a place where a master studied, where he grew up, outdoors to become her studio, though a true beginner. I had some experience, immersing myself in the landscape Hillside, Karin observed with the keen so I was building on it by working with with his paintings and subjects, which eye of a true plein air painter, would Jan. She was the artist in charge, and I I feel was similar to Frank, in the way offer shelter in inclement conditions. appreciated her guidance. She shared he immersed in landscapes with his Knowing the timeframe for the weekend some reference books and tools of the in advance helped her ensure she was trade, and she shared her mindset when designs. I liked that correlation.” Over the course of the weekend, Karin intentional with her time. “I woke up she’s getting ready to engage. I feel found herself warmly embraced: “I was early to see the sunrise and started on when you engage with an artist, you drawn to the combination of practicing the second morning, painting before learn something new. There is no one plein air painting on location at Taliesin, breakfast. I would have liked to fit in a way to do something. Another thing with some instruction, but also the twilight, end-of-the-day painting, but was the other artists there. I love to see ability to have a tour, to roam around. didn’t get that figured out. Sometimes, how that transpires. No one looks at the same thing identically.” I definitely felt really important while you have to take a break, too.” Along with sharing reference materials For Karin, the weekend at Taliesin I was there. And that’s a confidence was a reminder that painting serves as a means of deeper observation. The concept of ‘learning to see,’ which she first encountered in Provence, has become a guiding principle in her work. “When I was circling back to what I was learning in Provence, that’s what they try to teach you. The art of seeing through your eyes what’s right there in front of you. It was such a strong influence, though in a short amount of time. That’s what I’ll be seeking out moving forward.” As Karin looks ahead, she’s eager to continue her artistic journey. She expressed a desire to travel to new locations, emphasizing the importance of taking the time to truly observe and connect with the natural world. “I just want to have fun with it, witness more places within the US and abroad. Photo contributed by the Taliesin Preservation Painting helps you focus and look at A photo of the view from Taliesin of Tan-y-Deri and the Romeo & Juliet Windmill. something longer. A regular tourist is

On the cover

“View from Taliesin of Tan-y-Deri and the Romeo & Juliet Windmill” (2023) Oil on canvas, painting by Karin McDonald

The view from Taliesin of Tan-y-Deri and the Romeo & Juliet Windmill in Spring Green. Painter Karin McDonald does plein air painting and is interviewed by the Taliesin Preservation's Elizabeth Manske in this edition. Submit your artwork or photography for cover consideration: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

taking photos and looking from one thing to the next. But when you really sit down and observe the nature around you, it’s taking that time. And you can do that in a number of ways: poetry, sketching, photography. Just to be there and be quiet and experience what’s right there before you.” Karin reminds us of the boundless parallels between past and present, the inspiration gleaned from standing in the same locations as icons, and the importance of surrounding oneself with people who see the world in their own unique way. She shows the beauty of slowing down and making a conscious eﬀort to truly take in all that surrounds us.

Photo contributed by the Taliesin Preservation Karin painting en plein air.

Commentary/OpInIon

Thursday, February 22, 2024 Page 3

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Public Education — Part 11: The Tests and the Teachers Beverly Pestel, Columnist

saying that they will not tolerate failure. But it represents a hollow promise. Far from improving education, high-stakes testing marks a major retreat from fairness, from accuracy, from quality, and from equity." – Sen. Paul Wellstone In the last column I cautioned folks about taking the dire prediction from A Nation at Risk (1983) too seriously. Then I started reading Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America’s Schools (2013) by Diane Ravitch. I came across it while wandering through the stacks at our local public library. Chapter 7 begins this way: “Claim: We are falling behind other nations, putting our economy and our national security at risk. Reality: An old lament, not true then, not true now. Critics say that the nation is more at risk than ever because American students are getting mediocre scores on international tests and falling behind other nations. If we don’t have top scores soon, our Beverly Pestel nation will suffer grievously, When I hear the term “standardized our national security will falter, testing” the name that immediately our economy will founder, comes to mind is Alfie Kohn. Professor and our future will be in Kohn was the first person I remember, jeopardy...Today, critics use over 25 years ago, who was making the data from international point that the only thing that a student’s assessments to generate standardized test score correlates a crisis mentality, not to with is the socioeconomic status of the improve public schools parents. I haven’t uncovered any recent but to undermine public research that disputes that finding. But confidence in them. (pg. 63) that seems to be little more than one …thirty years after [the Nation inconvenient fact among many when it at Risk] warning was issued, comes to standardized testing. the American economy was I have a bumper stick on my car the largest in the world, and that reads “Everyone does better the nation did not seem to be when everyone does better.” It is a in danger of losing its identity favorite quote of mine by former Sen. or its standing in the world.” Paul Wellstone. As it turns out, Sen. (pg.68) Wellstone also had something to say Ravitch’s book is 378 pages filled with about standardized testing. Prof. Kohn data and twenty-two pages of notes quotes him in a manuscript published documenting the data supporting in Education Week in 2000 titled her conclusions. It is the degree of Standardized Testing and Its Victims. documentation that I check on first publication with an accessible, hybrid model that allows anyone It reads: I tobother to toread a book onnotany Recently we received word from our press that costs for materials before that wants read local news have access to it. We do believe have risen over 19% in the past fewaccountable months and that our printing controversial "Making students topic andto for this, Ravitch financial ability should be a barrier reading local news. cost will go upscores accordingly.works well on a may“A”. be a free paper, but unfortunately it’s not free to print for test getsWean If we charged $1 for each copy of Valley Sentinel, just half of papers. bumper and allows recounts conversations the copies that sticker, are picked up each weekitwould entirely cover our Ravitch Valley Sentinel will stay a free and truly independent and many politicians good by a free with multiple printing costs — however, wetoarelook committed to remaining accessible paper. Pleaseeducation frequent our localexperts businesses andfrom let them The right to an education at the government’s expense may be one of the most important rights given to us by the Founding Fathers. It was a while in coming and, arguably, it has never lived up to their aspirations. Following the progression and development of public education, however, allows us to understand where we’ve been, and where we may be going. More importantly, analyzing it carefully may be critical to ensuring a prosperous future for all of us. So, here we go...

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other nations. While many critics of and trying to come up with a different American public schools look longingly way of interacting with students whose at other countries whose students score attention was drifting away. I would go higher on these test, many of these back to my office, pour myself a cup of multinational experts look to us and try coffee, close my door, and just breathe to figure out how to make their schools for an hour. more like ours - or ours as they used to Elementary teachers experience these be before the testing craze. demands - and more - all day, every Yong Zhao, Distinguished Professor of day, with virtually no break, no cup of Education at the University of Kansas coffee, no office to retreat to that allows (highlighted in The Washington Post, them to prepare for the next round. I Jan. 9, 2023) told Ravitch, “American honestly don’t know how they do it. Yet education has many problems, but to they do, and many would not change it paraphrase Sir Winston Churchill, it for the world. Many do it because even is the worst form of education except though it is exhausting, there are few for all others that have been tried… things more rewarding than watching a innovative people cannot come from student’s eyes light up when what was schools that force students to memorize a mystery to them becomes clear, when correct answers on standardized test they end up succeeding at what they and reward students who excel at thought was impossible, when someone regurgitating spoon-fed answers…” lets them realize that they are smart and The fear is that in our desire to achieve capable and maybe nothing is beyond higher test scores “we may sacrifice the their grasp. Tell me, if you can, if there qualities of individualism and creativity is anything more important than that. that have been the source of our nation’s The professionals who serve in public economic, social, and technological education, and thereby serve us, are success.” (pg.69) the bedrock of our democracy and our Our most dedicated teachers know communities. Public education is the this – and now it is time to recognize all gift our country has given us to ensure teachers for the work they do because… our future and our prosperity. Feb. 26 – March 1 is Public Thank a teacher this week, and then Schools Week commit yourself to doing everything in The most remarkable experiences of your power to support them and fight to my career were those working with get them all the resources they need to elementary teachers. do the essential work that many of the I had the privilege of providing rest of us could never do. workshops for elementary teachers for a number of years. The one frustration Beverly is a retired professor. She lives they voiced over and over again was in a remodeled farmhouse and tends 40 their inability to actually teach their acres of woodland in Richland County. students because of the intense pressure When not in the woods she spends her to prep their students for these tests. The time reading, writing and enjoying the very skills we need and admire most; beauty of the Driftless Area. Beverly creativity, innovation, critical thinking, may be contacted at bpestel@msn.com. are the things they felt required to sacrifice in order to prep their students for mostly meaningless test scores. Yet, most persisted to try to serve their students. What is wrong with us? Why publication wit are we doing this to our students and Recently we received word from our press that costs for materials that wants to re our teachers? If you this week’s edition, please financial ability have risenare overable 19% and in theenjoyed past few months and that our printing know you read Valley Sentinel each week. consider donating $1 today. We may be a IWhat taught college were does independent newsand mean tothere us? It means NOT days cost will go up accordingly. If we charged $1 for each copy of Valley Sentinel, just half of papers. when out of a corporate 90-minute influencedIbywould corporationswalk or government, NO big the copies that are picked up each week would entirely cover our Valley Sentine backers, NO corporate umbrella organizations, NO big money class utterly exhausted. The constant BETTER printing costs — however, we are committed to remaining a free NEWSPAPE accessible pape investors. 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REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS EDITION EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Graphic Design Literary Contributor Agriculture Columnist Nicole Aimone Julianna Williams Amanda Thomas Barb Garvoille Managing Editor Taylor Scott Democracy, Society & Edu. Columnist Literary Contributor Editorial & Lit Intern Legal Editor Beverly Pestel Michael Broh Alex Prochaska Gary Ernest Grass, esq. Have graphic design experience or interested in meetings, events or writing and becoming a community contributor? Let us know. Thank you to all of our contributors for believing in our community.

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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 and impartiality of our reporting. .

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Letters submitted for consideration are subject to fact-checking and Editors may feature opinion columns written by public figures, editing for space and clarity. Submissions must have a compelling members of the public or other publication staff. Columns local community interest. Letters to the editor must fit within a reflect the opinions of the individual contributors and do not 500-word limit, and include name, city and phone number. Phone represent positions of the publication. Guest columns of an numbers are for office use only and will not be published. Letters of anticipated length more than 500 words should seek prior a political nature, without chance of rebuttal, will not be published editor authorization. the week before an election. Full and up-to-date policies available at: www.valleysentinelnews.com Valley Sentinel is an independent, editor-owned, all-volunteer, free bi-weekly news publication, available on newsstands in the area. Covering Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the surrounding areas in Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties.

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Commentary/OpInIon

Thursday, February 22, 2024

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Are You OK with a One-Man, $5 Billion Spending Spree? Sen. Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) The Senate will soon be voting to ask you a question that will be on your ballot in November. We want you, the voters, to decide if one person in our government should be allowed to spend your tax dollars without any sort of oversight. What do you think? The exact questions are: QUESTION 1: “Delegation of appropriation power. Shall section 35 (1) of article IV of the constitution be created to provide that the legislature may not delegate its sole power to determine how moneys shall be appropriated?" QUESTION 2: “Allocation of federal moneys. Shall section 35 (2) of article IV of the constitution be created to prohibit the governor from allocating any federal moneys the governor accepts on behalf of the state without the approval of the legislature by joint resolution or as provided by legislative rule?” Again, we want voters to decide if the legislature, which is elected by the people and represents the people, should have a role in deciding how to spend the people’s money. It’s that simple.

This is not – and should not – be a political question. It has nothing to do with parties or politics. It has everything to do with whether your elected representatives should have a role in

Senator Howard Marklein spending tax dollars – or if one person should have ultimate say over spending your tax dollars. For much of Wisconsin's early history, lawmakers had the ﬁnal say

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, In Senator Marklein’s recent newsletter, he cites two questions that will be on the November ballot. QUESTION 1: “Delegation of appropriation power. Shall section 35 (1) of article IV of the constitution be created to provide that the legislature may not delegate its sole power to determine how moneys shall be appropriated?"

QUESTION 2: “Allocation of federal moneys. Shall section 35 (2) of article IV of the constitution be created to prohibit the governor from allocating any federal moneys the governor accepts on behalf of the state without the approval of the legislature by joint resolution or as provided by legislative rule? The Joint Finance Committee, of which Senator Marklein is Co-Chair, cut many

over the spending of all funds in the state treasury, no matter their source. However, legislators abandoned that important responsibility during the 1930s and 1940s as federal dollars began to compose a much larger share of state spending. During that time, most authority over that growing pool of funds was given to the executive branch as past legislatures transferred to the governor unilateral authority to allocate funds received from the federal government through the enactment of several laws during and after the Great Depression era. As a result, the Governor has been on a one-man, $5 billion spending spree. He has had unilateral authority to spend all of the Federal tax dollars Wisconsin received to respond to the pandemic without any input or oversight from the legislature, who represents you. While I appreciate that some of this spending has been on the emergency response, the vast majority of these funds have been spent on the Governor’s hand-picked projects and priorities.

You, as taxpayers, do not have a voice in how your tax dollars are being spent. In fact, the Governor’s administration has taken this authority beyond the bounds of imagination. In a recent audit of how pandemic funds are being spent, we discovered that they are now hoarding $109 million in interest earned on the money that is not yet spent. By law, these dollars must go into General Purpose Revenue (GPR) to fund the needs of our state. They are not meant to add to the Governor’s slush fund. They are breaking our own laws. So, while the wording of the question may seem complicated, the actual question is very simple: Should one person be allowed to spend your tax dollars without any sort of oversight? Or do you think your elected representatives should have a role in this discussion? This is the question. 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. I want to hear from you.

of the governor’s proposals on “how to spend the people’s money.” Proposals that would have brought resources into our community. Now wants to cut the governor out of spending Federal dollars that can be spent on what the People want. Referring to your question “Do you think your elected representatives should have a role in this discussion?” My represen-

tatives, yes, but that is not you. You and your Republican cronies only represent your rich donors, not your constituents. I expressed how I would like my tax dollars to be spent by helping to elect our governor. In November I will deﬁnitely vote against your proposals. William Cary Rockbridge, Wisconsin

Gov. Evers signs a GOP bill containing his legislative maps, significant changes to local districts continued from page 1 “I—and we—are going to continue our fight for a fair, independent, and nonpartisan redistricting process for Wisconsin,” Evers declared. “If the people of Wisconsin vote to send Democratic majorities to Madison this November, I’ll tell you right now: one of the first orders of business in our first 100 days together will be enacting a fair, independent, and nonpartisan redistricting system in Wisconsin.” Evers hinted at this during a WisPolitics luncheon in Madison in late January. He said at the time he supported Iowastyled redistricting but had concerns a GOP proposal to implement the practice in Wisconsin wouldn’t guarantee a nonpartisan process. “The thing that concerns me about it now after being governor is the idea that the Legislative Reference Bureau is nonpartisan,” Evers said referencing that GOP measure would task the LRB with drawing new lines. “Why would anybody believe that when everything that's been done by this legislature is just the opposite?” Assembly Republicans introduced a version of the Iowa-styled remap commission in September ahead of the state Supreme Court finding the current legislative maps, which favor Republicans, are unconstitutional. Most Democrats at the time blasted the proposal as a ploy to distract from threats to impeach liberal Justice Janet Protasiewcz over her comments calling the maps “rigged.” Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu and Assembly Speaker

Robin Vos vowed Republicans would still win majorities in the Legislature under Evers’ maps. “These maps are not perfect. They are gerrymandered to beneﬁt Democrats. But these maps have the most competitive districts of the remaining maps the court was considering,'' LeMahieu said. “Senate Republicans have won competitive races for twenty years. We don’t plan on stopping now.” Added Vos: “This fall Republicans will prove that we can win on any maps because we have the better policy ideas for the State of Wisconsin.'' The signing followed Evers’ promise to back his maps if Republicans sent them to him without any changes, and it likely ends the possibility the state Supreme Court will draw lines this fall. It also put in place lines that will trigger a series of decisions for incumbent lawmakers, including what to do now that they’ve been drawn out of their seats or paired with other incumbents. Some Democrats have also raised concerns that a challenge to the maps could be ﬁled in federal courts, particularly over the majority minority districts in the Assembly and Senate are constitutional. But Evers downplayed that possibility. “I’m thinking that’s a small risk, but if it is, we’ll take it on and win,” Evers told reporters. Those expecting a federal lawsuit believe some GOP voter could go to federal court to challenge the maps. Some note the majority minority districts that Republicans drew may have been embraced by the state

Supreme Court, but there’s never been a federal case over whether they meet constitutional muster. The conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled what Evers did two years ago was inappropriate when it comes to considering race in drawing lines. It also nixed congressional maps in Alabama and refused to hear a cap involving Louisiana’s lines because Republicans there inappropriately diluted the power of Black voters. But insiders note there’s not a clear marker of where the bright line is. And Democrats worried about a challenge fear 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Chief Judge Diane Sykes, a former Wisconsin justice, would have the power to pick a conservativedominated three-judge panel that would hear such a suit. All it would take is for that panel to issue an injunction barring the new maps from being used in 2024 to upend everything, some Democrats warn. But others counter that there's simply not enough time for that to play out and that a bipartisan political agreement would deter a court from getting involved. The Wisconsin Elections Commission has asked that any new maps be in place by March 15 so it can begin implementing them by April 15, when nomination papers can be circulated. And those papers are due back by June 3 since June 1 is a Saturday this year. Even if a legal challenge was ﬁled within days of the signing, some are skeptical there’d be enough time for a three-judge panel to be appointed, to entertain a request to block use of the new map this

Editorial Note Regarding Upcoming Election:

fall and to issue an injunction. Every day that the case gets closer to nomination papers going out, the harder it would be to see a federal court step in and switch lines, some argue. While the Evers map would make wholesale changes to most districts, it would leave the GOP-drawn lines for Assembly Districts 8-12 and 16-18. The same goes for Senate districts 6 and 8. All but one are now represented by Black or Hispanic lawmakers. The state Supreme Court in 2022 originally picked a map Evers drew, but the U.S. Supreme Court overruled that decision, ﬁnding Evers had improperly taken race into account when sought to add a seventh majority-Black district in Milwaukee. Evers earlier had said he wasn’t worried that the U.S. Supreme Court would have an issue with his maps because “we’re taking care of the Voting Rights issue.” The state Department of Justice in a brief submitted in support of Evers’ maps noted there were no changes to those Milwaukee districts and argued, thus, “the proposed maps raise no equal protection issue or other federal issue.” For more go to www.wispolitics.com The Capitol Report is written by editorial staﬀ at WisPolitics.com, a nonpartisan, Madison-based news service that specializes in coverage of government and politics and is distributed for publication by members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. Copyright © WisPolitics.com

March 7 is the last edition for which Valley Sentinel will accept letters to the editor of a political nature regarding the April 2, 2024 Spring & Presidential Preference Election that would require rebuttal. The deadline to have those letters included shall be March 4. After that date, letters which need no obvious rebuttal (such as stating why you’re voting for a particular candidate and why, but not impugning opposing candidates) shall be accepted for the March 21 edition before the election, until March 18. For more information regarding the April 2, 2024 Spring & Presidential Preference Election, visit elections.wi.gov. For more information regarding your polling location and what will appear on your ballot, visit myvote.wi.gov.

Commentary/ Outdoors

Thursday, February 22, 2024 Page 5

CHRIS HARDIE'S 'BACK HOME' COLUMN

Explaining a strange winter Chris Hardie, Columnist

A long, long time ago when I worked in newsrooms far, far away, I liked to tell aspiring journalists my deﬁnition of news: it’s what people are talking

Chris Hardie about. It was justiﬁcation and rationalization for my penchant of either personally writing or later assigning weather stories. While it was the bane of some reporter’s existence, it was also the delight of a few fellow odd ducks like me who enjoyed the challenge of explaining the whens, whys and hows of our atmospheric condition and what and who it impacted. While I admit that sometimes my weather stories were the direct result of a slower news cycle, there is no question that one of the biggest stories of this winter is that we haven’t really had one so far. At this point I could insert the statistical information like recent temperature averages between the high and low coming in at 20 degrees warmer or more than average or the

lack of snow cover and precipitation. But you all know that – based simply on being able to go outside without your winter coat. And a glance out the window confirms that there is no snow. The reason for this wacky winter weather is that we are coming out of a strong El Niño pattern -- a warming of the equatorial eastern Pacific Ocean -- that followed three years of La Niño, which is unusually long. The “little boy” emerged quickly a year ago and led to a turbulent weather year. The recent warmup was enough to start the maple sap flowing, which is extremely early. I could see the drips flowing down the bark of the old silver maples that stand in our yard. Theresa Baroun, executive director of the Wisconsin Maple Syrup Producers Association, told Wisconsin Public Radio last week that she has heard from many other producers throughout the state who have started tapping. My days of tapping maples are over, but there are other implications to this early warm-up. Road weight limit bans – normally reserved for spring when the frost comes out of the ground – are already in place on many roads which can be damaged by heavy vehicles. The warm spell may also impact alfalfa fields. Alfalfa goes into dormancy in the winter but if soil temperatures top 41 degrees, it will begin to wake up. We have a lot of winter left and extreme cold or icy weather could harm the plants. Perhaps the biggest impact has been on the winter recreation enthusiasts who enjoy snowmobiling, ice fishing or

WE'RE LOOKING FOR INTERNS AND COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTORS

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY Looking for a challenge? We are looking for interns/volunteers who want to be in the unique position to learn the nuts and bolts of a news media publication that started from the ground up. You will have the chance to make an impact at the ground level of a startup and see the effect of your work and ideas carried out with a lot of flexibility, in an environment and creative culture you can help influence and create.

Available subject areas: EDITORIAL/JOURNALISM SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTISING/MARKETING

GRAPHIC DESIGN/PAGE DESIGN/LAYOUT DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION/CRM MNGMT PODCASTING/AUDIO PRODUCTION

AND MORE!

We are a new, all volunteer local news source that holds a strong belief that by working to keep our communities informed and engaged on a variety of topics including arts & culture, events, community news and serving as a watchdog for our local governmental bodies, we can help create a strong identity for our community and ignite positive growth and change throughout the area. Interested? Send us your area(s) of interest and a resume to: editor@valleysentinelnews.com Internship will be unpaid, interns will be required to sign a FSLA-compliant internship agreement. If credit is available from intern’s educational institution for participation in an internship, we are glad to work with you to meet any requirements for receiving credit.

Want to help build community? Know a college Areas in most need: student that’s looking for a summer or fall internship • Graphic design (publication layout, visual story for academic credit or to gain experience? Already design, infographics) attending village board or school board meetings and • Sports reporting want to record or report on them? Want to engage • Municipal meeting recorders/reporters with arts & culture, ag, businesses and other topics • School board reporters important to our community? Want to take scenic • Social media posting/creation walks or drives delivering papers to subscribers and • E-newsletter businesses? • Website posting We have so many ideas to grow and do more for our • Agriculture reporter/columnist (current events) community, but we need help, we CAN’T do it alone. • Calendar/events coordinator/editor If you want to be a part of something bigger please • Music contributor/editor email us and let us know what your interests are: • Theater contributor/editor editor@valleysentinelnews.com AND MORE We have the infrastructure set up for most of these areas, we're just in need of manpower from passionate community members. We offer a private collaborative office and bi-weekly staff meetings to guide you. There are so many more things we want to do and are always up for new ideas. We can be and do so much more with your support. This is YOUR paper, we are what the community makes us.

WE TRULY CAN'T DO THIS WITHOUT YOU AND THE SUPPORT OF OUR COMMUNITY. THANK YOU!

Photo contributed by Chris Hardie A maple tree bud looks like it's ready to open in early February on Chris Hardie's farm. skiing. The 101st annual Snowflake Ski Jumping tournament in Westby did take place in early February, but I was struck by a social media photo that showed attendees playing volleyball on a green field with the ski jump in the background. The lack of snow has decimated the northern Wisconsin tourism industry. Last winter several feet of snow was on the ground there well into March compared to little to nothing this year. On the positive side, I have certainly welcomed the break from removing snow and the relief of more frequent propane tank fills. I’ve had my fill of enough double-digit below zero days for the rest of my life. So what’s next? Officially, El Niño

has peaked and will likely end in late spring or early summer, with La Niño returning by the fall. What that means for our weather remains to be seen. The oldtimer in me must put a big caveat on all this discussion. Winter is not over and a few years ago we had several big snowstorms well into April. That won’t rescue the tourism business, but don’t put away that snow shovel just yet. Chris Hardie spent more than 30 years as a reporter, editor and publisher. He was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and won dozens of state and national journalism awards. He is a former president of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. Contact him at chardie1963@gmail.com.

BUSINESS INSIDER MARKETING | ADVERTISING | PARTNERSHIP CONTENT

UPCOMING SPECIAL SECTIONS/EDITORIAL NOTES: May 16: TBA Wedding special section Presented by the Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center Timed to be on newsstands during Memorial Day for tourists/visitors. Just ahead of June, the most popular wedding month, and perfectly timed with the average wedding taking just under a year to plan. The Spring Green area has so many wonderful sights, venues and food options that it is truly becoming a wedding destination. This section will cover what the area has to offer as well as include listings and sponsored article opportunities. Ad reservations due EOD May 6. Ad copy due EOD May 8. OPPORTUNITIES IN ALL SPECIAL SECTIONS Presenting Sponsor of the section — $400 (1 available each special section) A presenting sponsorship grants your logo and business name on the section itself. A sponsorship also includes a banner ad to be run within the section. Sponsor will also receive half off any sponsored article content within the special section. Supporting Sponsor — Supporting sponsorships of special sections may be available at $200 for all benefits above, excluding banner (limited availability), but including 50% off ads in the section. Presenting and supporting sponsors are included on any promotional materials and spots are limited, so reserve spots ASAP. Featured Business/Sponsored Articles — $200 for 1/2 page promotional article with 1-2 pictures ($100 if a sponsor for the section). Editorial freedom to decide what is featured - Limited availability. Runs online as well. All special sections subject to change and participation. The more support and engagement we get, the more we can offer the community together. — Advertising Spots — $400 full page, $200 half page, $100 quarter page, $50 eighth page, $25 sixteenth page – Limited availability. Inquire about sponsorships, article/partner content and online & social ad opportunities. More information: valleysentinelnews.com/advertising-businesses or email: editor@valleysentinelnews.com or see our latest Business Insider newsletter for more.

Page 6

Community

Thursday, February 22, 2024

COmmunitycalendar

The Community Calendar is curated and designed by Julianna Williams. Events are subject to change, always check ahead for up-to-date information on any events you are interested in.

Events for February 22 - March 3 Thursday, February 22 Yoga with Rural Remedy 8:15 AM - 9:30 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 WI-23 Trunk, Spring Green . ruralremedy.com . Make some space to move, breathe and grow a little. All are welcome. Classes will be adapted for the group that attends. More info and registration details online. Storytime 10:30 AM . Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock . lonerocklibrary.wordpress.com . Join us every Thursday for storytime! SESSION FULL: WORKSHOP — Explore the World of Watercolor 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Watercolor classes designed for beginner and advanced beginner artists wishing to explore and improve their watercolor painting techniques. This class is full. Stitch and Bitch 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St. Spring Green . springgreengeneralstore.com . The Spring Green General Store’s Stitch and Bitch handwork group meets Thursday afternoons weekly. All are welcome. Tech Help 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM . Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock . lonerocklibrary.wordpress.com . rvbroadband.org/techhelp . Come on in with any devices or technology you need help with! No appoiontment necessary. Knit Night at Nina’s 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Nina’s Department Store, 143 E. Jeﬀerson St. Spring Green . ninasdepartmentstore.com . Every Thursday from 6 to 8 pm. All knitters and crocheters are welcome. Store closed after 5:30 pm. Bingo at Arthur’s Supper Club 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 US-14, Spring Green . arthurssupperclub.com . FREE . 18+ . Every Thursday evening until May Arthur’s plays 7 games of Bingo. Bingo is FREE, food and beverages available. Prizes for the winner of each game, donated by area businesses.

Tuesday, February 27 cont. Winter Afternoon Storytime 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM . Plain Kraemer Library, 910 Main St., Plain . kraemerlibrary.org . Story time includes stories and songs followed by a fun themed craft and activity. Yoga with Rural Remedy 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 WI-23 Trunk, Spring Green . ruralremedy.com . Make some space to move, breathe and grow a little. All are welcome. Classes will be adapted for the group that attends. More info and registration details online.

Wednesday, February 28 All Ages Storytime 10:30 AM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Throughout February we'll be sharing books, songs and activities that highlight the theme: "Love Makes the World Go Around". Book Discussion 2:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Every Fourth Wednesday, join us for a cup of coﬀee, snack, and a chat about this month's selection. The book is available at the Library a month before the discussion. This book: "My Murder" by Katie Williams. Kids and Teen Art & Craft Club 3:30 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Kids and teens ages 10 and up can come explore a variety of art and craft projects. We provide the supplies, you bring the creativity!

Thursday, February 29

Yoga with Rural Remedy 8:15 AM - 9:30 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 WI-23 Trunk, Spring Green . ruralremedy.com . Make some space to move, breathe and grow a little. All are welcome. Classes will be adapted for the group Friday, February 23 that attends. More info and registration details online. SESSION FULL: WORKSHOP — Explore the World of Watercolor 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . Join us the fourth Friday of every month for a night of Karaoke at . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Watercolor classes designed for beginner and advanced beginner artists Slowpoke. Janna Johnson hosts this night for the community to come together in song. wishing to explore and improve their watercolor painting techniques. The classes will Take a chance and come up on stage, or just cheer on your friends. We’ll get star ted be held Thursdays, February 15-April 4 from 1-4pm. This class is full. around 8:00, and go until last call. That could be as early as 10:00 or as late as 2:00am. Stitch and Bitch 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St. It all depends on you! No cover, but tips for our host are always welcome. Spring Green . springgreengeneralstore.com . The Spring Green General Store’s Stitch Saturday, February 24 and Bitch handwork group meets Thursday afternoons weekly. All are welcome. Spring Green Winter Farmers Market 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM . S230 E. Monroe St., Family Fun Night! 5:00 PM . Plain Kraemer Library, 910 Main St., Plain . kraemerliSpring Green . Spring Green Farmers Market Is a year-round outdoor market offering brary.org . Join us for Family Fun Nights at the Library! Each month we will have a fun seasonal produce, local meats, baked goods and many other wonderful items. Held themed activity for families to drop in to do. Join us for pizza and a movie! Families can outside the Spring Green Community Public Library every Saturday morning. sign up at the front desk or call 608-546-4201. Kids under 6 must be with an adult. SESSION FULL: Introduction to Knitting 1:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, Bingo at Arthur’s Supper Club 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . The three sessions are US-14, Spring Green . arthurssupperclub.com . FREE . 18+ . Every Thursday evening February 10, 17, and 24. Join us to experience the fun of social knitting! Learn or brush until May Arthur’s plays 7 games of Bingo. Bingo is FREE, food and beverages available. up on the basic knitting techniques in a friendly, fun, and supportive setting. Materials Prizes for the winner of each game, donated by area businesses. for practicing the techniques and for a small project will be supplied. Space is limited; Knit Night at Nina’s 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Nina’s Department Store, 143 E. Jefferson St. don’t miss out. This series is geared toward those 15 years old and up. Spring Green . ninasdepartmentstore.com . Every Thursday from 6 to 8 pm. All knitters LIVE MUSIC: Acoustic River Band 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, and crocheters are welcome. Store closed after 5:30 pm. 137 S. Albany St., Spring Green . 608-5880-707 . Acoustic River is a group of musicians, Friday, March 1 Ned Hodgson, STS, and Mike Anstett. We do acoustic versions of songs from the 60’s to the present! And original songs! We blend finger style with rhythm and lead work on Fish Fry 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM . St. Luke Catholic Church,1240 Nachreiner Avenue, Plain . both six and twelve string Acoustic guitars. stlukecatholicchurchplain.com . Serving from 5-8 p.m. $17/meal. Come enjoy the fry! Open Euchre 5:00 PM . Arena VFW Hall 514 Willow Street, Arena . For more info look up Arena VFW on Facebook . $5 . BBQ, Chips and Pork & Beans available for purchase. Saturday, March 2 No partner needed. LIVE MUSIC: The Honey Pies 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson Spring Green Winter Farmers Market 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM . S230 E. Monroe St., St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . Tickets $10 in advance /$15 at the door . Spring Green . Spring Green Farmers Market Is a year-round outdoor market offering Displaying a formidable range of musical backgrounds and notable depth of experiseasonal produce, local meats, baked goods and many other wonderful items. Held ence, The Honey Pies apply crystal vocal harmonies and virtuoso instrumental skills to outside the Spring Green Community Public Library every Saturday morning. the best of traditional, contemporary, and original Americana music. Cabin Fever Dance 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM . Lone Rock Community Building, 214 Broadway St., Lone Rock . vetsroll.org . Fundraiser to send WWII and Vietnam era Sunday, February 25 Veterans to D.C. on May 19-22. Food, music, auctions, & raffles, fun for the whole River Valley Film Club Presents... 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W family! Bingo, Lunch, Live music Live auction 1-3. Raffles 11-3. Meat paddles starting at Jefferson St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . Join us one Sunday per month as we Noon. For more info contact Lisa Bowen 608-929-4690. screen a movie selected by the River Valley Film Club. We’ll get started at 6:00, so come SESSION FULL: Introduction to Knitting 1:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, early for a drink and stay after to talk about the film. 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . The three sessions are February 10, 17, and 24. Join us to experience the fun of social knitting! Learn or brush Monday, February 26 up on the basic knitting techniques in a friendly, fun, and supportive setting. Materials Family Game Day 5:30 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., for practicing the techniques and for a small project will be supplied. Space is limited; Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . We'll provide a wide range of games for all don’t miss out. This series is geared toward those 15 years old and up. ages: From classic board games to blindfolded Twister, or feel free to add your own to LIVE MUSIC: Don Greenwood 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. the evening's mix. Bring the whole family for a fun chance to beat the Winter Blues! Albany St., Spring Green . 608-5880-707 . Classic Dylan, country, blues, and originals. Open Mic 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . And perhaps a guest?! slowpokelounge.com . Join us the fourth Monday of every month for an Open Mic, Winter Afternoon Storytime 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM . Plain Kraemer Library, 910 Main hosted by Dylan Harris. We’ve got the mics, the plug-ins, the piano - you bring the St., Plain . kraemerlibrary.org . Story time includes stories and songs followed by a fun music! Come on out and show your stuff, or just support the folks on stage. No cover, themed craft and activity. but tips for our host are always welcome! LIVE MUSIC: We Are The Willows 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Tuesday, February 27 Jefferson St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . $10 in advance / $15 at the door . In the summer of 2020, the band released their third full length record: Who We Are & Movies, Munchies and More — Leave the World Behind 1:00 PM . Spring Green Where We Are Now. This album finds the band with more clarity, consideration, and Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Come to sense of self. These songs are about processing depression, anxiety, the nature of love, the library to enjoy a movie and a treat. In this apocalyptic thriller, a woman and her and identity. This album is a testament to getting better for the people and things you husband rent a luxurious home for the weekend with their kids. Their vacation is soon love. It’s an acceptance that there is no arrival point, there’s only who we are & where upended when two strangers arrive in the night, bearing news of a mysterious cyberatwe are now. tack and seeking refuge in the house they claim is theirs. The two families reckon with a looming disaster that grows more terrifying by the minute, forcing everyone to come to Sunday, March 3 terms with their places in a collapsing world. (R, 2hr 20 min, 2023). Rural Musicians' Forum presents: Pecatonica 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM . Slowpoke SESSION FULL: Moving Senior Bodies 4:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . Rural Musicians’s 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Join Upland Hills Health Forum is presenting this special free event with Pecatonica String Quartet. These professionals Rosie Morrey, APNP, and Jennifer Day, COTA, for weekly classes focusing Madison based musicians will show their chops with the classics, then break out with on balance and strength training to promote healthy aging.This session is full. We are pop cover tunes. No charge, but donations are always welcome. planning on doing more sessions, so please check back after the summer.

very (maybe?) V

Community

Thursday, February 22, 2024

Events for February 22 - March 7 Monday, March 4 Trivia Night 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM . Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jeﬀerson St., Spring Green . slowpokelounge.com . Join us for a night of Trivia! Kyle Adams will host as we put teams together for a contest of trivia. Come for the prizes, stay for the fun! First Question at 7:00 - and it should last about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. RVHS Pops Concert 7:00 PM . River Valley High School - Old Gym, 660 Varsity Blvd, Spring Green . rvschools.org . Doors open at 6:30, concert starts at 7. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Featuring RVHS Choir, house band, and guests!

Tuesday, March 5 Planter Shop Talk 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM . Bindl Farm, S10620 Weidner Rd, Spring Green . sswig.org . Join SSWIG for a Spring Planting Shop Talk. To register, please visit sswig.org/events and register online or contact Justine Bula at (608) 355 - 4842 or email justine.bula@saukcountywi.gov SESSION FULL: Moving Senior Bodies 4:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Join Upland Hills Health professionals Rosie Morrey, APNP, and Jennifer Day, COTA, for weekly classes focusing on balance and strength training to promote healthy aging.This session is full. We are planning on doing more sessions, so please check back after the summer. Winter Afternoon Storytime 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM . Plain Kraemer Library, 910 Main St., Plain . kraemerlibrary.org . Story time includes stories and songs followed by a fun themed craft and activity. Spring Green Lions Club Annual Spaghetti Dinner 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM . Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 US-14, Spring Green . For more information or to purchase tickets contact Emily Whitemore at 208-312-5887 . Dine in and Drive thru. Adults $10 in advance or $11 at the door. Children (K-8) $6 in advance or $7 at the door. Spaghetti and meat sauce with vegetarian option. French bread and coleslaw. Dine-in: beverages included. Yoga with Rural Remedy 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 WI-23 Trunk, Spring Green . ruralremedy.com . Make some space to move, breathe and grow a little. All are welcome. Classes will be adapted for the group that attends. More info and registration details online.

Thursday, March 7 Yoga with Rural Remedy 8:15 AM - 9:30 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 WI-23 Trunk, Spring Green . ruralremedy.com . Make some space to move, breathe and grow a little. All are welcome. Classes will be adapted for the group that attends. More info and registration details online. Storytime 10:30 AM . Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock . lonerocklibrary.wordpress.com . Join us every Thursday for storytime! SESSION FULL: WORKSHOP — Explore the World of Watercolor 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.com . Watercolor classes designed for beginner and advanced beginner artists wishing to explore and improve their watercolor painting techniques. This class is full. Stitch and Bitch 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St. Spring Green . springgreengeneralstore.com . The Spring Green General Store’s Stitch and Bitch handwork group meets Thursday afternoons weekly. All are welcome. Tech Drop-In 2:00 PM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.org . Whether you're grappling with setting up email accounts, navigating social media platforms, or troubleshooting software issues, knowledgeable volunteers or library staﬀ will be on hand to lend a helping hand. Bingo at Arthur’s Supper Club 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 US-14, Spring Green . arthurssupperclub.com . FREE . 18+ . Every Thursday evening until May Arthur’s plays 7 games of Bingo. Bingo is FREE, food and beverages available. Prizes for the winner of each game, donated by area businesses. Knit Night at Nina’s 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Nina’s Department Store, 143 E. Jeﬀerson St. Spring Green . ninasdepartmentstore.com . Every Thursday from 6 to 8 pm. All knitters and crocheters are welcome. Store closed after 5:30 pm.

sunday, February 25

featured event:

drag brunch fundraiser

RIVER VALLEY ARTS 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM . Reunion, 134 W. Jeﬀerson Street, Spring Green . rivervalleyarts.org or contact@rivervalleyArts.org . . 18+ . $30 / Ticket . Raise money for River Valley ARTS while enjoying Reunion's delicious brunch menu. Hosted by Diva Beverly Hillz. Tickets available online. Doors open at 10:30 AM!

Page 7

CIVICS CIVICS & & SERVICES

C A L E N DA R

This calendar is a place listing (for free) the typical meeting dates for area governmental bodies,

Please email us with these meetings, or use the form on our Community Calendar page — and let's build community together: editor@valleysentinelnews.com February 22: Farmland Preservation Listening Session 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM . Kraemer Library & Community Center, 910 Main St., Plain . co.sauk.wi.us . Sauk County is launching a planning process for the update of the Sauk County Farmland Preservation Plan which outlines strategies and policies which designate how the County participates in the Farmland Preservation Program. The Wisconsin Farmland Preservation Program (FPP) is designed to help local governments and landowners preserve agricultural land, minimize conflicting land uses, and promote soil and water conservation. Owners of farmland who participate in the program receive an income tax credit incentive. The County will be hosting listening sessions to collect input that will be utilized in the preparation of the Sauk County Farmland Preservation Plan. Attendees will have the opportunity to comment on topics related to the future of agriculture in Sauk County including farm succession, the Farmland Preservation Program, rural development, and programs and services needed to support and protect productive and profitable farms and communities. Please contact Brain Simmert at 608-355-4834 or email brian.simmert@saukcountywi.gov with any questions on the field day. February 24: FLOW Annual Membership Meeting 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM . Grandma Mary's Café, 175 US Highway 14, Arena . wisconsinriverfriends.org . Presentations, awards, eat, and socialize! Please RSVP and confirm how many will be in your party. This will help Mary plan how much food to prepare. $10 suggested donation to help offset event expense. February 26: Village of Lone Rock Community Planning Meeting — 4th of July Celebration 6:00 PM . villageoflonerock.com . Village Hall, 314 E Forest St, Lone Rock . Setting the schedule for this years ONE DAY event! Plain Village Library Board Meeting 6:30 PM . 510 Main Street, Plain . villageofplain.com . February 27: Village of Arena Resident Community Meeting 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM . Arena VFW, 514 Willow St, Arena . Share your thoughts, concerns and hopes. Connect with other residents. Help shape the future of our community. Community Information Presentations Regarding April 2 River Valley School District Referendums 5:00 PM . River Valley High School - Cafeteria Area, 660 Varsity Blvd, Spring Green . rvschools.org.org/district/referendum-2024.cfm . February 28: Village of Spring Green Board Meeting 7:00 PM . In person and virtual event . 154 N. Lexington Street, Spring Green . vi.springgreen.wi.gov March 3: Friends of the Library Book Collection 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM . Commmunity Room, Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St. Spring Green . springgreenlibrary.org . The Friends of the Spring Green Community Library will accept donations of gently used books, DVDs, and CDs for resale. Donations of no more than four boxes are preferred. Proceeds from book sales help support library programs and other amenities. Damaged books, encyclopedias, textbooks, and instruction manuals are not accepted, and the Friends reserve the right to limit the quantity of items accepted and/or refuse donations that do not meet library needs. March 4: Community Information Presentations Regarding April 2 River Valley School District Referendums 6:00 PM . River Valley High School - Cafeteria Area, 660 Varsity Blvd, Spring Green . rvschools.org.org/district/referendum-2024.cfm . March 5: Village of Arena Board Meeting 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM . Village Hall, 345 West Street, Arena . villageofarena.net . Arena typically holds board meetings the first Tuesday of the month. Plain LIONS Meeting 7:00 PM . 510 Main Street, Plain . villageofplain.com .

WHAT’S HANGINg ? ongoing art exhibitions

Spring Green Community Library Art Exhibitions . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green . Throughout February. Monday-Thursday: 10 AM - 7 PM . Friday: 10 AM - 5 PM . Saturday: 9 AM - 1 PM February exhibits feature art work from River Valley High School students. The Community Room Gallery is an exhibition featuring works in photography, graphite, acrylic, watercolor, colored pencil, collage, and multimedia by graduating seniors from the River Valley Class of 2024. The artists in this year’s graduating class explore a variety of art media and are enrolled in both entry level and advanced level visual arts courses. The collection of work provides a peek into what each has learned during their time at River Valley. We wish them all the best of luck as they ﬁnish the last semester of their high school careers.This exhibit can be viewed at anytime during regular library hours when the Community Room is not already in use. Please ask for the room key at the circulation desk. The collection in the Glass Case Gallery is a variety of 3D artwork from artists in 9-12th grade. This work has been completed in 3D studio Arts and Ceramics Arts courses. Students in these classes explore a variety of three dimensional media and themes that correlate with the WI state standards for Visuals Arts Education This display is available for viewing during regular library hours.

The Community Calendar is curated and designed by Julianna Williams. Events are subject to change, always check ahead for up-to-date information on any events you are interested in.

“The good stuﬀ.”

Page 8

Community/arts & cULtUre

Thursday, February 22, 2024

What is Lexington & Jeﬀerson? Some time ago, we announced the soft launch of a semi-regular to regular literary section we've been inspired by other literary compilations to call Lexington & Jeﬀerson. As the pivotal intersection of our community, we envision this as a place that celebrates the cross-section of arts in our greater community. We envision it as a place of curated and submitted prose, poetry and more that showcase the talents of our community.

Each edition we receive submissions of artwork, poetry, prose and other musings that we have trouble placing in the paper on their own and often have to simply hold or regrettably turn down. We hope this becomes a welcome place for them. This space will grow and change, as all things do, and we welcome talented individuals, organizations, authors, experts and artists to help curate this section. We are beginning to actively seek to publish an

Lexington & Jefferson one might use them later to aid in memory. The words of a jour-

nal should beof familiar to the journalist. Familiar enough to Vanity Page: A Selection Prose nudge additional memories.

annual literary journal. If interested, please reach out. We may also use this space for arts & culture news and submitted musings that don't quite ﬁt within the bounds of a traditional column, proﬁle or letter to the editor. Get involved: If you're interested in submitting, curating or have ideas, please do not hesitate at all to submit them to us at: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

LITERARY + ARTS & CULTURE SECTION

Poetic Wonderer

Life is a dream. This much we know. Like the memories of old friends, there should be some small Epimetheus Halfstep, dreamwalker, life therapist, met himself in a dream. When he returned home, nothing was quite the same. recognition of their inception. Perhaps no more than I don't reEach day a new dream. Each day a new waking life. He had hopes, he ithad wishes, plan. Hebeing should have. member exactly that but way,hebuthad I dono remember there. At minimum, the journal should be written by the journalist. — Michael aBroh

Dreamwalker By Michael Broh

Part 1 1

Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because the words were unfamiliar. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because, although it sounded like him, he could not remember writing it. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because it was written by a madman. Stubbornly, the journal remained.

From a journal of Epimetheus Halfstep

Life is a dream. This much we know. Epimetheus Halfstep hardly needed to teach me that. What he did teach me, well, perhaps we get ahead of ourselves.

2 The story is true. All of it. Most of it. Most of the story is true. Was true. Maybe all of it was. Or he was mad. Perhaps we both were. Are. He told me the story yesterday. A lifetime ago. My father, Epimetheus Halfstep. A man who never lived. I have seen the evidence, buried in a dream. Heard the evidence. Known the evidence. Evidence swirling about an empty room, buried inside a dream. In a second floor apartment, buried inside a dream. For sixty years I poured over it. For a lifetime. Dedicated a life to the study of evidence which never existed. That was last night. Today, he never lived.

3 Epimetheus Halfstep kept a journal. Sometimes. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep kept a journal. Sometimes he buried that journal in a dream. Sometimes he burned it. He burned it because a journal should be static. The words set down in a journal should remain as they were written, etched in permanence that one might use them later to aid in memory. The words of a journal should be familiar to the journalist. Familiar enough to nudge additional memories. 4 3

Like the memories of old friends, there should be some small recognition of their inception. Perhaps no more than I don't remember it exactly that way, but I do remember being there. At a minimum, the journal should be written by the journalist. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because the words were unfamiliar. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because, although it sounded like him, he could not remember writing it. Sometimes Epimetheus Halfstep burned his journal because it was written by a madman. Stubbornly, the journal remained.

The job is definitely turning out more pleasant than I expected. The conditions here are reasonable, and the experience feels extraordinarily real. It is almost as if I am living in a real place, with real people, but without any of the struggles and challenges that the rest of them are subject to. I dare say, I almost feel godlike. Of course, the pressure is high. There are times when I feel The Company lays the full burden of productivity upon us. It is a burden I welcome, of course. All of us do. Still, there is only so much we can do as life therapists. There are times when I feel they expect too much of us.

There are just so many variables. It's not that I haven't been able to meet expectations. Over the course of a dreamwalk, I am always able to get the jobs done.5But there is so much clean up. I keep losing sight of how much impact even the smallest variable can have. On the one hand, I really enjoy playing around with the detailed stuff, trying to see where tiniest interference can bring about the longest impact. On the other, as soon as I succeed with some detail, I see the billions of details that I have not interfered with and become overwhelmed with the impossibility of it all. Or worse, make some tiny change that I can't imagine would have an impact anywhere, and it has such a huge effect that I spend years cleaning it up. Still, there seems to be a sort of inertia that drives all these details together. When I am able to just relax and watch the rivers flow, I'm usually filled with confidence. Confidence that there is a greater force at work. The problem comes when I catch myself worrying about the effect of each electron in each droplet of water upon the flow of one of these rivers. Still, I am learning to relax. See the forest for the trees, so to speak. The number of electrons may be overwhelming, but it is the mass of them, the patterns, that matter. I do feel I am getting better at this.

The job is definitely turning out more pleasant than I expected. The are reasonable, and the experience feels exLetconditions it behereknown: the stereotype of traordinarily real. It is almost as if I am living in a real place, gardeners over catalogs in with real people,fawning but without any of theseed struggles and challenges that the rest ofof themwinter are subjectisto.entirely I dare say, I almost godthe dead true.feelThis like.

year, I broke some kind of record by Of course, the is high. There are times when I feel The putting inpressure my order before Christmas. Company lays the full burden of productivity upon us. It is a My previous gardening endeavors have burden I welcome, of course. All of us do. Still, there is only so been corner my dad’s much weacan do as life of therapists. There are community times when I feel they expect tooplot, much of us. garden half of a generous neighbor’s raised bed, and a neglected area by my apartment’s front door. See a 5 pattern here? 2024 will be the ﬁrst year I’ve had a relatively large, clear patch of dirt to dedicate to a vegetable garden. Naturally, I’m going a bit overboard. Before I announce the publication

Grace Vosen of “Grace’s Guaranteed Great Garden Guide”, I’d better wait at least until

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forever, kept locked in - between these walls of some mind absent without a map

as the Spring birds arriving each year every year

I wonder how it is that you navigate

I wondered how long ago it was

these places these spaces these traces

at the end of the road Autumn's leaves gathering

of what once came before the steady oak's limb in late Summer that ﬁnally broke in Winter's storm

years, I suppose and sometimes a season

a.thomas 18February2024

My father’s early journal entries are fairly consistent. The entries written before my own story began. Before what he called the anomaly. Later, the journal is all over the place and missing

Driftless Grace: Growing Excitement From a journal of Epimetheus Halfstep Grace Vosen, Contributor

fragments I wonder how it is that no one had remembered you

the growing season starts. But the knowledge is already accumulating. I’m learning what works and what doesn’t for germinating seeds and building garden systems. It’s not always a question of hard labor, but of quality supplies (hence the catalogs). I also realized why I’ve never been interested in growing flowers or house plants. Between the time spent, the financial cost, and the wondering what I’m doing wrong, the reward just isn’t worth all the fuss. I can’t eat house plants, and cultivated flowers don't fit with my conservation worldview. The cost-benefit equation feels off. know you read Valley Sentinel each week. What does independent news mean to us? It means NOT influenced by corporations or government, NO big corporate backers, NO corporate umbrella organizations, NO big money investors. Just a handful of people with a dream to build community. Valley Sentinel is all-volunteer, independently owned and operated by its editors and is a majority woman-owned business. Community fueled and community focused. We only succeed if the community succeeds. For more about Valley Sentinel and our model, visit us at valleysentinelnews.com/about

A vegetable garden, on the other hand, carries the promise of fresh food (or at least snacks) come summer. Maybe I should place more value on aesthetics, but the time I have to spend on gardening is limited. And this patch of dirt – at least on a superﬁcial level – is my patch of dirt. Only I get to select what ends up not growing there due to forces beyond my control. Grace Vosen is a writer and conservation educator living in Spring Green. She blogs about both the human and nonhuman communities of our region at DriftlessGrace.com.

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Community/arts & cULtUre

Thursday, February 22, 2024 Page 9

In Brief

Valley Sentinel announces annual literary journal initiative, secures ﬁrst grant for project Valley Sentinel, an independent community bi-weekly publication covering Sauk, Iowa, and Richland counties, is thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of a grant to initiate its inaugural literary journal project. The grant, awarded by the Food, Faith and Farming Network, provides $750 in seed money, marking a signiﬁcant step toward realizing the publication's vision of fostering and celebrating local literary talent in Southwest Wisconsin.

River Valley Players Announce Cast for 'A Year with Frog and Toad'

The grant, titled "Strengthening Connections in Rural Southwest Wisconsin," was awarded to Valley Sentinel for its proposal to launch the "Lexington & Jefferson Literary Journal." This annual publication aims to showcase poetry and prose submitted by residents of Southwest Wisconsin, with a focus on the communities of Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties. "At Valley Sentinel, we believe in the power of storytelling in all its forms to connect communities," said Nicole Aimone, editor-in-chief of Valley Sentinel. "The Lexington & Jefferson Literary Journal will serve as a platform for writers to express their experiences and perspectives, while also capturing the essence of life in our region." The journal's name, inspired by the intersection of Lexington and Jefferson Streets in Spring Green, symbolizes the heart of community connections in the area. It will feature curated submissions from local writers, highlighting the rich tapestry of life in the Driftless region. "We envision the Lexington & Jefferson Literary Journal as a space that celebrates the intersection of arts and life in our community," said Valley Sentinel's Editorial & Literary Intern Alex Prochaska, the project lead for the initiative. "Through this publication, we aim to immortalize the spirit of Southwest Wisconsin, while fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared community." While the literary journal is still in its early stages, Valley Sentinel is actively seeking support from interested individuals and organizations to bring the project to fruition. Opportunities for involvement include joining the workgroup responsible for assembling the journal, providing financial donations to support its production, and expressing interest in submitting work for consideration. Valley Sentinel plans to use the grant funding to cover publication and printing costs. The project will be seeking more grants necessary to get the journal off the ground, with a timeline of nine to twelve months. Ideas currently include readings of local poetry and prose from the journal in the community and at events, as well as working with local businesses to collaborate on poetry and prose readings and more. "We're excited to embark on this journey and invite members of the community to join us in shaping the literary landscape of Southwest Wisconsin," said Prochaska. "We encourage aspiring writers, local organizations, and supporters of the arts to reach out and get involved." While formal submissions are not yet open, those interested are encouraged to reach out. Interested individuals can contact Alex Prochaska at alexprochaska. writer@gmail.com or Valley Sentinel at editor@valleysentinelnews.com for more information on how to contribute to the Lexington & Jefferson Literary Journal project. APT welcomes four new members to its Core Company American Players Theatre (APT) recently announced the latest additions to its esteemed Core Acting Company. Laura Rook, Phoebe González, Samantha Newcomb, and Josh Krause join APT's ranks, bringing with them a wealth of talent and experience. In a statement, Managing Director Sara Young reflected on the significance of the Core Company, tracing its origins and highlighting its evolution over the years. She emphasized the vital role played by these actors in shaping APT's identity and fostering deep connections with audiences. "Personally, I’d like to thank the Core Company for all they bring to APT year after year – all 17 of them extraordinary actors and humans," said Young. "You’ll be hearing more about and from them as the season approaches, but in the meantime, please join us in welcoming Phoebe, Josh, Samantha and Laura to the Core Company."

Photo contributed by Patrick Hagen Pictured is the cast of River Valley Players' production of 'A Year with Frog and Toad'. Patrick Hagen, Contributed River Valley Players is thrilled to announce the cast for the musical A Year with Frog and Toad, based on Arnold Lobel’s stories of beloved best friends. Frog and Toad will be played by Erin Milleville (Frog) and Bob Willoughby (Toad). This will be Milleville’s ﬁrst production with RVP. Willoughby has performed in many RVP productions over the years. Milleville and Willoughby bring great energy to these characters. The cast of Frog and Toad includes a menagerie of creatures, including a quartet of birds, a mouse, a snail, a turtle, a lizard, a chorus of moles, and other friends along the way. Members of the ensemble are as follows: Ryan Wittmann, Jazmine Gauger, Susanna Van Hallgren, Melinda Van Slyke, Hildy Van Hallgren, Caitlin Opatik, Dave Van Hallgren, Allison Lundin, Amanda Lundin, Leo Muhr, and Shelina Legiuzamon. RVP President John Christensen expressed his happiness with the group. “This cast brings together community members and students from the elementary school, the middle school, and the high school. Our production represents community theater at its best.” Director Hannah Jo Anderson has loved bringing this group together to tell this charming tale of friendship. Anderson said, “I cannot think of a better

musical to bring to the River Valley this year. Starting off in spring, Frog and Toad mosey their way through a year of gardening, swimming, baking cookies, and other hysterical hijinks set to a jazzy backdrop of music by Robert Reale and book and lyrics by Willie Reale. A Year with Frog and Toad is a testament to the power of friendship, the importance of community, and the simple pleasures of life. Whether you are experiencing Frog and Toad for the first time, or are revisiting your own childhood,Frog and Toad will warm your heart, no matter the weather.” Tickets for A Year with Frog and Toad will go on sale soon. They can be purchased at the Century 21 office here in Spring Green and online. Watch for posters, advertisements in local newspapers, and on the RVP Facebook page. Tickets are $15 (12 and over) and $10 (children). Performance dates are as follows: Saturday, March 16th, 2 p.m. matinee and 7 p.m. evening show. Sunday, March 17th, a 2 p.m. matinee; Friday, March 22nd a 7 p.m. show; Saturday, March 23rd, 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 24th a 2 p.m. matinee. The show's sponsor is Robert Glebs of Spring Green. Producer Patrick Hagen said of Glebs, “Bob Glebs has attended our shows and believes in our commitment to community theater. We are thankful for his financial support and the trust he puts in us.”

4PeteSake

4PeteSake is accepting applications for potential 2024 Spring Funding recipients Visit 4petesake.com for more information or to download an application.

Applications may also be obtained by writing to P.O. Box 577, Spring Green, WI 53588

Applications must be received by March 8, 2024

Page 10 Thursday, February 22, 2024

Commentary/AGrIcuLture

Reﬂections from Lost Horizon Farm — The Iterations of the Chicken House and David's Boots in the Corner & more Barb Garvoille, Columnist Each edition, retired dairy farmer Barb Garvoille brings her musings on dairy farm life from her own years of experience on Lost Horizon Farm with her late husband Vince “Mr. Farmer” Garvoille. This mooving memoir focuses on 1980-2000, join Barb as she rises with the herd.

Wandering fowl were no longer allowed; the chicken house had to be emptied so as not to jeopardize the farm's Grade A status. Prior to the construction of the heifer building in 1982, calves that had graduated from housing in calf hutches

The Iterations of the Chicken House and David's Boots in the Corner

When someone designs a farm building for livestock, the person should always include in the thought process, how to clean that building. It is a heck of a lot easier and much more efficient to clean a time span's worth of manure, urine, and bedding with a machine than it is to attempt such a job totally by hand with a pitchfork . (Please notice I used the words time span’s rather than season’s. The end of one season and beginning of the next is, on a farm, by definition always jam packed with an overload of things that need to be done. Sometimes one’s best intentions for cleaning pens today might morph into a postponement by several other days,weeks or (tempus fugit!) months. Whether or not animals had recently been in the building slated to be cleaned made a huge difference. If one had just moved cattle out of a facility in order to clean it, you would find a bedding pack that would be slippery, pliant, matted, smelly, and always heavy to fork. If the area had some time between when the cattle were moved and the person "got around" to the job, the bedding pack might have a nice, drier crust on the top (easily forked) followed by a gushier, heavier, matted layer. Cattle manure had different smells too. Mature manure from adult animals had a softer kind of smell, not too noxious; the sort of odor one associates with the "dairy air" of a farm. Calf manure was an entirely different matter. It was very sticky, with an almost glue-like consistency, varied in color from the normal brown to yellow, and had an unmistakable odor that was acrid, powerful and well known for permeating all that it touched: boots, clothing, and skin. Our old, red chicken house, at one time, held the birds of its title. With the passage of time, the state and federal milk inspectors became very picky about creatures other than dairy cows in the dairy barn.

Barb Garvoille needed a kind of growing- up facility; the chicken house was perfect for that purpose. Unfortunately, because its use had been altered and its confines were too narrow for using mechanical equipment, it became one of those buildings we had to clean by hand. Two people could fork most of the bedding pack into the manure spreader and take load after load onto the corn ground in a day's time if their backs held out, and if there were no mechanical breakdowns. On one memorable occasion, the chicken house saw service as a makeshift avian rehabilitation site. At lunchtime, we had heard a sound one would associate with an impact on glass. Investigation of the sound’s origin led us to the bow window in the living room. A circle of gray feathers, stuck to one of the window panels, confirmed a bird strike. Spreadeagle on the snow below that window was an adult Sharp-shinned Hawk. At the time, the chicken house was empty, so we stacked four square bales in its doorway and set the stunned bird of prey on the top bale. After a short time, the bird had righted itself; on the next inspection, it had opened its eyes but had remained perched. The last time we approached to check in on the bird, the raptor took one look at us and flew off. It had escaped the notice of the farm cats during its recovery, and its flight pattern seemed normal. We named this bird of prey:“Lucky,” and wondered when we saw a Sharpie in pursuit of small birds amid the branches of nearby trees or our Trumpet Vine whether it was the same

Photo contributed by Barb Garvoille The old Chicken House at Lost Horizon Farm as it appeared in 1968. The building had many iterations from its intended purpose, including calf housing and a temporary hospital for a traumatized Cooper’s Hawk. bird. Lined up in our tool room were a collection of knee-high rubber boots. Sizes were marked on the backs of each set with a waterproof cow paint stick for visitors to the farm and/or especially generous souls who might offer to help us. Mr. Farmer’s older brother, David, came to the farm one day and pulled on a pair of these loaner boots to help us clean the chicken house. After a day made much more productive with additional help, (David knew from childhood how to expertly wield a 4-tine fork!) Vince's brother came into the house, took his boots off, and joined us for supper. Several days later, the most disgusting smell greeted us when we entered the house. Olfactory adaptation occurs when a person lives on a farm; one ceases to notice the everyday smells, but this smell was so bad, it was impossible to ignore. Drawers, cupboards and shelves were scoured to discover the source of this foul odor (The initial thought was that maybe a rodent had met its demise. However, this was definitely not the smell one associated with a decaying rodent. It was worse!) Then, one of us remembered: David's boots thrown in a corner! The boot pair’s mantle of seasoned and absorbed calf manure was the source of that terribly offensive odor.

A Farm Feeling to the House

Photo contributed by Barb Garvoille Accipiter striatus, the Sharp-shinned Hawk, consuming an avian prey item.

There are occasions on a farm when it is very handy to have fresh clothes close to the front door of the house. After fixing a piece of machinery, like a manure spreader or the silo unloader, a person's clothing was apt to carry both the fragrance of the project and evidence of it. Assisting with a calving was always a guarantee of clothing bearing remnants of the sticky amniotic sac, fluid and blood. Just being around cows meant clothing that not only carried a distinctive fragrance but also cow hair and flecks of manure. If a person got too close to the barn wall or had to slide between implements parked in the machine shed, there was a good chance of collecting strands of spider webbing on top of everything else. The utility room was Lost Horizon Farm's foyer. It had an easily swept or washed cement floor with a drain. The washer and dryer were inches away from the front door so if a person was really dirty or really soaked, one could strip and pop one's clothes in the washing machine in just a few steps. Clean clothes were stacked on a shelf in the nearby tool room.. The tool room was a western annex to the utility room. It provided a space for storage of smaller hand tools and hardware. Repairs usually meant a

trip to the tool room. Oftentimes, for reasons much debated (sometimes quite heatedly!) but never resolved, the sought object was not where it was supposed to be. The search would be broadened and conducted through the machine sheds, on to the latest repair project site, sometimes up in the hay mow or in the milk house, and as a last resort, in each tractor’s mounted toolbox! Welding rods, electrical and plumbing supplies, shop light bulbs, extension cords, replacement v-belts, o-rings, hose ends, bearings and collars, etc. were also kept in the tool room. Labeled tin coffee cans were useful for storing smaller items on the tool room's many shelves. Hooks were plentiful and handy for hanging things like v-belts, electrical wire, and ropes. A look at the tool room floor and into the designated farm laundry basket would present an accurate summary of the day's activities. If jeans had cuffs, they would hold an astonishing amount of hay, chaff, and grain. These same items stuck in the fibers of socks too. If a person forgot to empty cuffs or pull barn socks off, he (mostly he but sometimes she) would leave a trail of feed particles on the carpets in the house. Mrs. Farmer was then apt to comment that there must have been a cow walking around in the house! Two necessities on the farm were a heavy duty washer/dryer set and vacuum cleaner. Their innards were insulted daily by things like strands of hay, corn kernels, wads of silage, bits of twine (plastic and sisal), small stones, chips of wood, iron filings, half links of chain, small pieces of wire, fencing staples, broken shear bolts, etc. On occasion, the washing machine would just quit. One time the cause was a small, unnoticed screwdriver that had worked its way out of a jeans' pocket and wedged itself in the agitator. Sometimes, something, like a pocket knife, would wash in place nicely; a person would only become aware of it when it began to bang around as the wash load tumbled around in the dryer. Score marks on the wooden seats of chairs at the kitchen table could be attributed to small tools like vice grips that were left shoved into rear pant’s pockets. When Rebecca was young, much to Mrs. Farmer’s chagrin, she told the neighbor: "My Mom never dusts." In the summertime and during fall harvest when the kitchen windows were open, it was a fruitless task. Just one pass of the tractor on the farm road would send up a cloud of dust from the dry farm road. Dust particles would come through the screens of open windows and create a layer of dust on everything inside. During the wintertime,

continued on page 11

Outdoors & Recreation

Thursday, February 22, 2024 Page 11

The Sauk County Gardener Chilling Hours

Jeannie Manis, Wisconsin Certified Master Gardener “The crocus reminds us that no matter how harsh the winter, spring always returns.” — Katrina Mayer Recently I attended the PBS Garden & Landscape Expo in Madison. While I was there, I heard many gardeners express their concern about our current warm spell and its impact on their spring bulbs and flowering trees. Many are concerned this warm weather is going to bring their flowering and fruiting trees out of dormancy and their spring-blooming bulbs won’t survive early sprouting when we get our next cold spell. Although this warm weather is definitely early, it’s important to understand that a short stint of warm weather isn’t necessarily going to break dormancy in our trees and shrubs. Many of our trees and shrubs require a certain amount of “chilling hours” during which the plant must be

exposed to cold weather (typically < 45 degrees Fahrenheit) to bring the plant out of dormancy. The same goes for many of our perennials - they require stratification which is also a chilling requirement. During stratification, their seeds are exposed to cold weather and wet soil which helps their seed coats break down so germination can occur. For many of our flowering and fruiting trees and shrubs, you want them to stay in dormancy as long as possible, so their buds don’t freeze if we get a late frost or cold spell. If they freeze, our flowers or fruit crops can be greatly reduced or completely eliminated for the year. Most of our fruit crops have met their required chilling hours as we have already received 800-1,000 chilling hours since October 1, 2023. For example, apples need 800 – 1750 chilling hours, raspberries 800 – 1,700, pears 600 – 1,500, apricots 300 – 1,000, blackberries 350 – 600, grapes 400 – 1,650 and strawberries 50 – to 300. There is a good chance that if our

trees start to have emerging flower and leaf buds, they will be killed by any cold weather we still have in store for us this winter season. Luckily, most of these trees should survive; you just might not have a fabulous fruit year. (Visit mrcc. purdue.edu/VIP/indexChillHours2 to learn more about chilling hours.) As for those early-spring flowering bulbs that are emerging now, they should be okay as well. Flowering crocus, glory-of-the-snow, and squills can handle colder weather when the temps drop back down. You might lose the flowers from your early-blooming daffodils and tulips if the flower buds have already emerged from the ground. Even if you lose the flowers, the bulbs should still survive. Then come next fall, apply winter mulch in the form of straw or evergreen boughs. This will help limit the early exposure of the bulbs’ foliage and keep the soil cold, minimizing early sprouting. Another helpful tip is to not plant your bulbs next to your home’s foundation, near your dryer vent, or

other areas around your home that receive warmer temps throughout the winter. Make plans to attend another great event – this time presented by the Master Gardeners Volunteers of Columbia County. They will be having their 15th annual “Let’s Get Green & Growing” Spring workshop on Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Rio, Wisconsin. There are 24 interactive morning & afternoon breakout sessions to choose from and it’s only $20 to attend. The keynote speaker’s topic is “Native Plant Gardening: resilience to Climate Change.” Visit http://tinyurl.com/ LGGG-Register to register. This week’s article is written by Jeannie Manis, a Wisconsin Certiﬁed Sauk County Master Gardener Volunteer. If you have any gardening questions, please contact the Extension Sauk County by emailing to trripp@wisc.edu or calling the University of Wisconsin Madison Division of Extension Sauk County oﬃce at 608-355-3250.

Reﬂections from Lost Horizon Farm — The Iterations of the Chicken House and David's Boots in the Corner & more continued from page 10

when the temperatures hovered around the freezing mark, the wood stove would draw less eﬃciently and sometimes belch a puﬀ of smoke into the house. This would blanket everything with a light coating of ash. When a person did dust, one had to admire the result quickly because the clean state of things would not last long! Probably the funniest scene relating to domestic chores retained in my mind's eye was the time I was walking to the house with a large scoop shovel in hand. The milkman happened to see me and hollered: "Going to clean house?!"

Sickness

The ingredients for a successful dairy farm included consistency, a balanced feed ration tailored for each cow, attention to bovine health and behavior, excellent sanitation in the barn and also through every aspect of the milking process, and machinery know-how. The plethora of “little things:” the day to day details needing to be attended to, have a huge impact on a dairy’s viability and the livelihood it provides. Every dairyman’s fervent hope was that the person be spared from sickness or injury. Wishful thinking aside, a farm life with its hazards, includes disease. Unlike some other occupations, it is an unnervingly diﬃcult task to secure

temporary help when a health challenge fells a farmer. Competent and reliable substitute milkers and/or chorepersons are neither numerous nor readily found. This sort of exceedingly necessary but temporary help was best secured through farmer-to-farmer calls— someone knew of someone, or because of the grace of another farmer who was willing to part with his own hired man for a short period of time. Thankfully for us, there were just a few times (post-pregnancy complications for me and a fractured femur and back trouble for Mr. Farmer) when outside help was needed. One of us could complete most of the tasks required while the other could be enlisted to power through whatever was left to complete. Sickness meant creative adaptations to daily routine and an extended and heavier workload. When wellness was achieved, it generated palpable feelings of relief and immense gratitude for a Lost Horizon Farm team that was back to normal! Barb has called Lost Horizon Farm, just north of Spring Green, her home for the past 44 years. She is fond of all creatures (including snakes). Her joy stems from being able to be outdoors every day observing and treasuring the plant and animal life on her small piece of this planet. She loved milking cows and is proud to have been a dairy farmer.

Photo contributed by Barb Garvoille Mr. Farmer’s repairs to the silo unloader: silage, grease, dust and dirt combined for a washer workout!

CLASSIFIEDS Interested in regenerative agriculture? Savanna Institute is hiring two full-time positions at our Spring Green Campus: Farm Administration and Business Development Coordinator – $48-52k/yr + beneﬁts Equipment Operations and Maintenance Specialist – $48-52k/yr + beneﬁts To learn more and apply visit www.savannainstitute.org/jobs Deadline: March 18th

Business/Professional