Valley Sentinel 05-18-2023

Riverway Board issues structure and timber harvest permits, announces canoe trip opportunities

The Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board (LWSRB) met in Muscoda on May 11th to conduct a regular monthly business meeting. The board approved issuance of a timber harvest permit to Jeffrey Jahns and Jill Metcoff for a timber harvest visible from the Wisconsin River in the Town of Troy, Sauk County. The harvest will be conducted pursuant to a Managed Forest Law plan and will occur on a bluff overlooking the river in the Troy Village area. Mark Cupp, Executive Director, reported there will be some small clear cuts for the purposes of oak and aspen regeneration as well as selective harvesting of merchantable hardwoods in other areas. He said the harvest will comply with the applicable performance standards for the Riverway.

The board also approved a permit for a new shed for Teddy Beinborn on a site visible from the river in the Town of Marietta, Crawford County. The new shed will comply with the performance standards for height, colorization, glass limitation and screening vegetation.

Mr. Beinborn previously has received permits from the board for other structures on his property. The new shed will match the other structures and will harmonize with the natural surroundings during leaf-on conditions.

Cupp reported he had issued a general permit for a new house to Eric O’Keefe and Leslie Graves for a parcel in the Town of Wyoming, Iowa County. The structure will not be visible from the river during leaf-on conditions. A general permit for a timber harvest on lands not visible from the river in the bottomlands east of Wauzeka in Crawford County was issued to Ron Stadler. The harvest will occur when ground conditions are frozen or dry. Cupp also issued a permit

to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for a timber stand improvement project in the Town of Millville, Grant County. The project will take place at the Millville Bridle Trail site near the intersection of CTH C and Barker Hollow Road and will involve invasive species control and removal of undesirable small trees and woody vegetation such as ironwood and elm.

In conjunction with the board’s efforts to add more field trips in 2023, the group toured The Nature Conservancy’s Spring Green Preserve prior to the meeting.

Hannah Spaul and Ann Calhoun led the tour of the dry prairie restoration effort. The site is known as the “Wisconsin Desert” and is home to many endangered or threatened plant and animal species.

The Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board will sponsor a series of canoe outings on the Wisconsin River in June and July. The large voyageur replica canoes commissioned by the State of Wisconsin in conjunction with the sesquicentennial in 1998 will be used for the trips that will explore different segments of the river. Seating is limited to 14 persons for each excursion and reservations are required. A waiting list will be developed in case of cancellations. The excursions will

be led by Mark Cupp, Riverway Board Executive Director. Water levels and weather permitting, a sandbar stop will be included in each trip. Participants should bring their own beverages, food, sunscreen, and bug spray. No glass containers are allowed. Lifejackets and paddles will be provided but participants are welcome to bring their own personal flotation device. Small groups may sign up for the trips but should do so early to ensure adequate space is available. Additional information may be found on the Riverway Board website or Facebook page.

2023 also marks the 350th anniversary of the famous expedition of Father Jacque Marquette and Louis Joliette from Green Bay up the Fox River to Portage and down the Wisconsin River to the Mississippi River in June of that year. The first written record of what the Wisconsin River looked like is from the journal of Father Marquette who wrote, “The Wisconsin River is very broad with a sandy bottom that forms numerous shoals which renders navigation difficult.” A description that still applies to the lower Wisconsin River today. He also wrote, “On the 17th of June, we entered the Father of Waters with a joy which I cannot express.” Cupp will provide historical context

of the Marquette-Joliette expedition and the profound impact it had on the indigenous peoples of the river valley and Upper Midwest.

To make a reservation or to ask questions about the canoe trips, contact the Riverway Board office Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at (608) 739-3188 or 1-800-221-3792 or by emailing marsha.curtis@wi.gov.

The schedule for the canoe trips is as follows:

Wednesday, June 14th

12:00pm to 4:00pm

Gotham to Muscoda

Thursday, June 15th

1:00pm to 5:00pm

Muscoda to Port Andrew

Friday, June 16th

1:00pm to 5:00pm

Muscoda to Port Andrew

Tuesday, June 20th

10:00am to 3:00pm Spring Green to Lone Rock

Wednesday, June 21st

10:00am to 3:00pm Spring Green to Lone Rock

Thursday, June 29th

9:00am to 1:00pm

Gotham to Muscoda

Friday, June 30th

9:00am to 1:00pm

Muscoda to Port Andrew

Tuesday, July 11th

10:00am to 3:00pm

Spring Green to Lone Rock

Thursday, July 13th

12:00pm to 4:00pm

Gotham to Muscoda

YRTK: Bill to fix records problem deserves support

BEST OF THE RIVER VALLEY POLL OPEN THRU JUNE 1 VS.

Mark Cupp, Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board

Photo contributed by the LWSRB The voyageur replica canoes are a unique and fun way to enjoy the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway.

Your Right To Know: Bill to fix records problem deserves support

Beth Bennett, Wisconsin Newspaper Association

A unanimous voice vote by the Wisconsin Senate on a piece of legislation is a rare occurrence. But that’s what happened on April 19, when state senators approved a bill to undo a decision by the Wisconsin Supreme Court regarding public records.

Senate Bill 117, sponsored by Sen. Duey Stroebel (R-Saukville) and Rep. Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville), would allow a judge to decide whether a records requester is entitled to attorney fees regardless of when a stalled request for public documents is finally fulfilled.

In an opinion issued last July in a case called Friends of Frame Park v. the City of Waukesha, the state Supreme Court held that if a governmental entity releases records after a suit has been filed but before a court has acted on the case, the requester is not entitled to recover attorney fees and costs.

The court based its decision on a narrow interpretation of the word “prevail” in the public records statute. It ruled that a judge must affirmatively order a unit of government to turn over public

records for a requester to prevail. This effectively allows government actors to hold onto records until a requester files a lawsuit, knowing they face no penalty if they turn over the records before a judge has a chance to act.

factor in securing the records’ release. By codifying the previously used broader definition of “prevail” in Wisconsin statutes, SB 117 will remove the perverse incentive for governments to hold on to records until a lawsuit is filed.

The Wisconsin Newspaper Association believes that transparency in government is essential to a democratic society. It helps ensure that government business is being conducted fairly and ethically. The new standard created by Friends of Frame Park threatens the ability of the public, including the media, to access information about the workings of government.

Newspapers are the eyes and the ears of the communities they serve and accessing public records is an integral part of the reporting process. In most instances, public records are readily available. But, in those cases when access is denied, newspapers often turn to the courts.

chilling effect on the media and the public's ability to pursue public documents. If left to stand, this decision will make it financially difficult to keep government agencies accountable.

SB 117 now heads to the state Assembly, where it will be assigned to a committee for consideration. Citizens who support the public’s right to access government information should urge their state representatives to support this bill. While they’re at it, they should also thank their state Senators for helping ensure that Wisconsin’s rich history of transparency in government is upheld.

Prior to the decision, a broader definition of “prevail” was used, allowing for fee recovery in cases where the filing of a lawsuit was deemed a substantial

Litigation over wrongfully denied records can be expensive. Raising the bar on when requesters can recover attorney fees will have a tremendous

Know Your Legal Rights: Who can carry a firearm in Wisconsin?

Know Your Legal Rights is a regular column distributed by the State Bar of Wisconsin. It is written by members of the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS), which connects Wisconsin residents with lawyers throughout the state. To find an attorney in your area, visit wislaw.org.

The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right of individuals to keep and bear arms. Wisconsin's state constitution also affirms the right to bear arms for selfdefense, defense of the state, hunting, and sport shooting.

Wisconsin law allows individuals who are 18 years of age or older to own a firearm if they are not prohibited from possessing one under state or federal law. Minors may also possess firearms with the consent of a parent or guardian and while under their supervision.

Firearm sales

In Wisconsin, all firearm sales from licensed dealers require a background check. Private sales and transfers of

On the cover

firearms do not require a background check, but it is illegal to sell or transfer a firearm to someone who is prohibited from possessing one.

Wisconsin has no specific laws regarding the possession or use of assault weapons.

Open Carry law

Individuals not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law can openly carry firearms without a permit in most public places, including parks, streets, and non-restricted areas of buildings.

However, there are some restrictions to open carry in Wisconsin. For example, it is illegal to openly carry a firearm in certain places such as police stations, schools, and government buildings. In addition, private property owners have the right to prohibit open carry on their property, and local governments can also restrict open carry in certain areas.

Conceal Carry law

Carrying a concealed firearm requires

a permit. If an individual meets certain qualifications, such as passing a training course and background check, they must be issued a permit upon application.

Furthermore, anyone carrying a firearm in Wisconsin must be at least 18 years old and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law.

What are the criminal charges arising from gun ownership?

In Wisconsin, there are criminal gun laws in place that regulate the use, possession, and sale of firearms. Some of those charges and penalties include:

Carrying a concealed weapon: It is illegal to carry a concealed weapon without a valid concealed carry permit. If caught carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, a person can face a Class A misdemeanor charge, which carries a maximum penalty of up to nine months in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Possession by a prohibited person: It is illegal for certain individuals, including convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence restraining orders, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution, to possess firearms. If caught in possession of a firearm while prohibited, a person can face felony charges, which can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $25,000.

Reckless use of firearms: It is illegal to recklessly handle or discharge a firearm in a manner that endangers the safety of another person.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

I am awestruck at the continued audacity of the Wisconsin Senate Republicans. They have cried loud and hard at how they are working so hard to keep our elections safe and honest. They obviously supported, and didn’t say a word when Gableman was searching for any wrongdoing on elections. They claim they are working to support the integrity of our elections. They are trying to make it more difficult for people to vote, especially college students (who, ahem,

voted mostly Democrat the last election!)

They already have gerrymandered maps in their favor….now working on eliminating college voters who obviously use their brains….Ironically, they may be shooting themselves in the foot…. because, Republican voters overwhelmingly increased in number who use mail-in voting

And what are they doing now? Supporting the appointment of Sen. Knodl to the Election Committee. (There is a

Your Right to Know is a monthly column distributed by the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council (wisfoic.org), a group dedicated to open government. Beth Bennett, a Council member, is the executive director of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. which advocates on behalf of the newspaper industry, promotes government transparency and defends the constitutional rights of a free and independent press.

Depending on the circumstances, this can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the specific facts, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

Straw purchases: It is illegal to purchase a firearm on behalf of someone who is prohibited from owning one. This is known as a "straw purchase," and both the purchaser and the person for whom the firearm was purchased can face criminal charges. Illegal sales: It is illegal to sell firearms without a license, or to sell firearms to someone who is prohibited from owning them. Violations of these laws can result in criminal charges and penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

These are just some of the criminal gun laws in Wisconsin. It's important to remember that firearm laws can be complex and vary by jurisdiction, so it's always a good idea to consult legal experts to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

David Patton of Patton Law Office, S.C., Racine, specializes in estate planning, small business legal support, criminal, family law, and civil rights cases. He is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral and Information Service, which connects Wisconsin residents with lawyers throughout the state. Learn more at wislaw.org.

new name for the committee now, but ….we all know what this committee is for). Sen. Knodl signed the letter requesting Vice-President Pence not certify the election of Biden winning Isn’t this called having the fox guard the henhouse? And, FYI, our own Sen. Marklein voted yes….of course. And, of course, they are against any gun control, and against women’s rights.

Barbara Voyce Lone Rock, Wisconsin

Beth Bennett

Atty. David Patton

Atty. David Patton, Wisconsin Bar Association

y/OpInIon

Meeting Our Needs — Part 8: Have Gun – Will…?

“Meeting Our Needs” is a series that acknowledges the organizations and individuals who work to make our communities better, stronger, healthier and more inclusive. We know we face challenges and divisions among us, but we miss and underestimate the essential goodness of rural Wisconsinites when we fail to celebrate those who are lifting us up in so many ways. Let us hear your stories, contact bpestel@msn.com to be included in this series.

are not proving to protect us from the bad guys, instead too many are killing innocent people. Within just a couple of days we had news reports of a teenage boy shot because he rang the wrong doorbell, a young woman shot because she made the mistake of getting into the wrong car, another young woman shot when the car she was in mistakenly pulled into the wrong driveway, and a 6-year-old girl and her parent shot when a basketball strayed into a man’s yard. Can we honestly say that guns are not getting into the hands of people who should not have them? Can we honestly say that our current gun laws are meeting our needs?

There are those who believe that instances like these can’t happen here, and they will continue to believe that they can’t happen here – until they do. And given the occurrences of gun violence across the country, it is almost certain to eventually happen here. Wisconsin does have a gun violence rate slightly below the national average, but that is not very reassuring.

become a law, the committee chair must schedule a public hearing. However, if the committee chair chooses not to hold a hearing on the bill it is “killed” in committee. The Chair of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee was Rep. John Spiros (R-Marshfield), he continues to be the Chair in 2023. Rep. Todd Novak (R-Dodgeville) is also on that committee. In the 2023 Items in Committee, I saw no pending bills regarding either gun background checks or red flag laws.

bear that out. According to a report from U.S. News in January 2023, in 2017 U.S. civilians held an average of 120.5 firearms per 100 people, the highest rate in the world by a factor of more than two. Yet, recent reports have shown the U.S. to have among the world’s highest rates of gun-related deaths through interpersonal violence, self-harm, and unintentional injuries.

I am still waiting for your stories of community volunteer efforts that meet our needs, until then I’ll keep exploring other avenues of meeting our needs…. and this one can’t wait.

The United States unquestionably has a fascination with guns, but even Paladin of the “Have Gun - Will Travel” vintage TV show preferred to settle difficulties without using his Army revolver. Also, a lot of the sheriffs in the old TV westerns made the cowhands and gunslingers leave their guns at the sheriff’s office while in town – and much of that is true – look up the story of the O.K. Corral (Gun Control Is as Old as the Old West | History| Smithsonian Magazine.) So how have we gotten to where we are now, and are our current standards regarding the possession and carrying of guns meeting our needs?

First, let’s be honest about the “good guys” with guns. These “good guys”

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EDITORIAL

Wisconsin, as well as the rest of the nation, does have a majority of citizens who think that facts matter, and think that common sense matters, and think that innocent life holds more value than virtually unrestricted gun access. According to a Marquette University Law School poll in 2022, 56% of Wisconsinites are very concerned about gun violence, 81% think Wisconsin should have red flag laws, and 79% support mandatory background checks. We need to seriously come to grips with the competing issues of gun access rights and meeting our needs of freedom from the fear of gun violence reaching our communities. So, what has been happening in the Wisconsin Legislature to address the will of the majority of Wisconsinites regarding access to guns?

In October 2021, Assembly Bill 637 and Senate Bill 624 required background checks on all gun sales. These bills never had a public hearing. At the same time, Assembly Bill 638, which was a red flag law, also never had a public hearing. To move out of committee and eventually

Wisconsin ranks 23rd in the country for gun law strength according to Everytown for Gun Safety. Things that Wisconsin does not have that could help meet our needs in keeping us safer are a requirement that handguns have a childproofing feature, a regulation on ghost guns, restrictions on high-capacity magazines, no carry after a violent offense, and relinquishment of guns for convicted domestic abusers. A lot of folks would like the restrictions to go much further, specifically the banning of assault weapons, but even these regulations could make us safer without coming anywhere near a curtailment of legitimate 2nd Amendment rights. We probably cannot change those who believe that guns are not the problem. But the majority of those who think that sensible gun reform is necessary to meet our needs of saving lives can prevail. That only happens, however, if we insist that our legislators work to meet our needs by passing bills that help keep us safe from gun violence.

It should be the obligation of the legislature to address the obvious preferences of the majority of Wisconsin residents, yet, they are not. Instead, in April of 2022, after the Uvalde school shooting, Gov. Evers was compelled to veto three Republican bills that would have expanded the ability to carry concealed weapons, including one that would have let people with concealed carry permits bring guns onto school grounds in their cars.

Then, of course, there are those who contend that more guns in more places would make us safer, but the facts don’t

know you read Valley Sentinel each week.

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Gary Ernest Grass, esq.

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We can fix this, we can meet our need of reducing gun-related violence, but we need laws to get us there. We need legislators who respect the will of the people and meet our needs by giving us laws to make us all safer. The mindboggling thing is that many of the voters who say we need sensible gun reform will go into the voting booth at the next election and cast a vote for those who we know will never allow these gun reform measures to become law. No more “thoughts,” no more “prayers,” and no more empty rhetoric about mental health. If our current Representatives won’t meet our needs for gun reform - vote them out, we can’t afford to simply wait until the unthinkable happens here.

It has been reported that Sen. Marklein indicated that the Republicans plan to remove several gun violence prevention measures from Gov. Ever’s proposed 2023-2025 budget. Legitimate question –does this issue really belong in a budget bill? Actually, yes, according to Everytown for Gun Safety, gun violence costs every Wisconsin resident $1448 per year. Sen. Marklein, however, says these should be standalone bills – hmmm, we saw how well that turned out in 2021 didn’t we. Enough. For God’s sake, enough.

How many other ways to meet our needs may have escaped our notice and deserve our support? Let me know at bpestel@msn.com.

Beverly is a retired professor. She lives in a remodeled farmhouse and tends 40 acres of woodland in Richland County. When not in the woods she spends her time reading, writing and enjoying the beauty of the Driftless Area.

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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 May 18 - June 1

Thursday, May 18

Storytime 10:30 AM Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock Join us every Thursday for storytime!

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.

Wine & Yoga 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr, Muscoda wildhillswinery.com Join certified Yoga Instructor for Wine & Yoga every Thursday evening in summer! Lara offers a fun and relaxing yoga session in the beauty of our vineyard. Please bring a mat and water. $12 per person.

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.

Free Line Dancing Classes 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Keg & Kettle Bar, 104 S Oak St, Lone Rock For info search Keg and Kettle on Facebook Free beginner line dancing classes!

Bingo at Arthur’s Supper Club 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 US-14, Spring Green arthurssupperclub.com Every Thursday evening we play 7 games of Bingo. Bingo is FREE, we just ask that people order beverages and/or food. We do ask that Bingo goers are at least 18 years of age to play. We have prizes for the winner of each game...some are cash, gift cards, and other fun stuff that is donated from time to time by businesses.

Spring Yoga 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Wyoming Valley School, 6306 State Road 23, Spring Green ruralremedy.com $150 for 9 classes Contact Emily for pricing at emily@ruralremedy.com Springtime and all the frenzy has arrived! There is no better time than now to join some group yoga to stay grounded, move mindfully, and be in community.

Evenings Afield: Driftless Groundwater 101 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Cates Family Farm, 5992 County Hwy T, Spring Green driftlessconservancy.org Rock layers deep underground have a big impact on water - both what we drink and what we see on the landscape. Learn the basics of Driftless Area geology and its relationship to springs and drinking water. This event will be led by Maureen Muldoon and Katie Abbott.

Friday, May 19

SOLD OUT – LIVE MUSIC: Shitty Barn Session 281: Adam Greuel & the Space Burritos 7:00 PM . 506 E Madison St, Spring Green shittybarnsessions.com Doors open at 6 Advance tickets sold out. That sald, tickets often come up that people can't use, so check out SH*TTY TICKET SWAP, which helps to connect ticket buyers and sellers Since his musical journey began, Adam Greuel has traveled across the country and beyond sharing his unique sense of musical exploration with anyone and everyone. In 2010, Adam joined forces with four other young acoustic instrumentalists and created the band Horseshoes & Hand Grenades.

Muscoda Morel Mushroom Festival 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Various locations downtown Muscoda muscoda.com 2nd Annual Car Cruise-In. All modes of transportation are welcome. Jose’s Mexican Food Truck and Udder Brothers Ice Cream at Riverdale Bus Garage. Little League Baseball Tournament at Jaycee Ballpark. Thunder Showers Bounce Houses at Pickering Park. American Legion Burger & Beverage Stand at Mushroom Headquarters

Wine Down Fridays 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr, Muscoda wildhillswinery.com Come enjoy live music and wood fire pizzas from our food truck. There is no cover, but we ask that folks support free live music by not bringing in outside food or drink. Family friendly! You may want to bring lawn chairs and blankets for extra seating. Handmade and hand tossed wood fire pizzas for sale made from scratch by the Halverson family! Please expect a wait during peak serving times. Relax, enjoy the music, take in the fresh air, have a glass of wine, and enjoy some delicious snacks from our tasting room while you wait. It will be worth it!

Saturday, May 20

Birding Hike: Weaver Road Trail 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM . Weaver Road Trail, Weaver Rd, Dodgeville driftlessconservancy.org Explore this beautiful segment of the Driftless Trail with birding experts! Hike through field, forest, and pine relict on this mile-long trail to find veeries, ovenbirds, cuckoos, and more. All levels of birding skills are welcome. This trip will be led by Barb and Jeb Barzen.

Muscoda Morel Mushroom Festival 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Various locations downtown Muscoda muscoda.com Join us and enjoy the various different food, beverage, music, and other entertainment options!

VOLUNTEER: Deck Build 8:00 AM Miracles on Hoof, S10629 Wilson Creek Road, Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com . With your help we have raised enough money to purchase supplies to build our viewing deck. Email kbear4228@gmail.com or text at  505-205-2411 to sign up.

Rumble on the Ridge 2023 8:00 AM 5749 CR-H, Arena, WI For more information look up Driftless Endurance on Facebook Rumble on the Ridge is a take on the traditional Backyard Ultra Last Person Standing. Participants will compete on a 1ish mile looped course, dubbed "The Driftless Mile", completing a loop every 20 minutes. Sounds easy enough right?....Last year we saw the winner going 20 hours, 60 laps, 64.8 miles, and climbing 15,600 feet of total elevation gain. We saw 2 people go their first 100K distance and 4 people go their first ultra distance. It doesn't matter how far you plan to go, this event is great for anyone looking to push themselves or try something new. Push for that extra lap. After all, its just one more mile!! More info can be found at the link in the event description on facebook.

Spring Green Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM S230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green Spring Green Farmers Market Is a year-round outdoor market offering seasonal produce, local meats, baked goods and many other wonderful items. Held outside the Spring Green Community Public Library every Saturday morning. Preorders are recommended. Visit our Facebook or Instagram page or email SGFarmersMarket@gmail.com for a list of participating vendors and their contact into.

Wilson Creek Pottery Yard Sale 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Wander Provisions, 136 Albany St, Spring Green For more information look up Wander Provisionson Facebook Wander and The Frozen Local will be fully stocked and ready with bagels, sandwiches, ice cream, local groceries, NA bevies and our world famous dance floor! Cash Only!

Saturday, May 20 cont.

Mindfulness: Discussion and Practice (Zoom Only) 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM Virtual Event springgreenlibrary.com Our meetings will include discussions and short mindfulness exercises/practices. We will explore sitting, standing, lying down and moving mindfulness experiences. Find the zoom link online.

Wild Hills Winery Spring Open House 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM . Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr, Muscoda wildhillswinery.com We will have free samples, giveaways, and a free vineyard tour! Wood fire pizzas for sale and live music by The Sapsuckers! As well as a free tour of the vineyard at 4 PM!

LIVE MUSIC: Dark of the Moon Contra Band 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St. Spring Green springgreengeneralstore.com . Dark of the Moon, a women's band based in Madison, Wisconsin, plays traditional music from the British Isles, America, Scandinavia, and other countries for dancing and listening. We specialize in music for contradancing, such as jigs and reels, and also play waltzes, polkas, schottisches, folk songs, Cajun, bluegrass, Klezmer, Mexican, and other traditional music.

LIVE MUSIC: Jambidextrous 7:30 PM- 10:00 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Jambidextrous is a 5 piece jazz group of recent vintage, but comprised of 5 veteran musicians from the Spring Green area. A history of jazz is presented from the original masters of Count Basie, Miles, Monk, Coltrane... through the progressive jazz, funk, and rock era of Herbie Hancock, Traffic and Santana. No cover, but tips for the performers are welcome and encouraged

Sunday, May 21

Cowboy Church 9:30 AM Presbyterian Church 402 N 2nd St, Muscoda muscoda.com Non-denominational Cowboy Church featuring Monty Berger Brown Church Spring Service 10:30 AM Brown Church, 29864 Brown Church Dr., Lone Rock 608-356-8421 The Friends of the Little Brown Church is hosting a Spring Service with Pastor John Sumwalt will delivering the message. Light refreshments will be served after the service. The Brown Church is an Ecumenical church and is open to all.

Bingo at Baron Brook's 1:00 PM Baron Brook’s,122 E Jefferson St, Spring Green, Look up Baron Brook’s on Facebook for more info Free to play, lots of prizes to win!

SOLD OUT: Making Wood-Fired Pizza 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM . Homecoming, 242 N. Lexington Street, Spring Green savortherivervalley.org Join Meadowlark Mill’s Miller Wes Gardner for a class in making wood-fired pizza. Use Meadowlark flour to mix and shape pizza dough. Each participant will create their own pizza to be baked in Homecoming's wood-fired oven, in addition to a dough ball to take and bake at home (can be frozen for another day!). Learn about toppings, baking in a wood-fired oven and how to adapt the recipes to make in your home oven. There will be plenty of pizza to sample and wine for sale. Meadowlark products will also be available to purchase. $55 per participant. Minimum class is 12; maximum is 20. Register online.

LIVE MUSIC: Slowpoke Fourth Anniversary Bash 7:30 PM- 10:00 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Join us for a night of celebration with performances from Sugar Mama & The Rent Check and Violet Palms. No admission for the show but donations and tips for the bands are welcome and encouraged. We’ll get started around 7:30 with a set from Sugar Mama & The Rent Check, take a short break, and come back with Violet Palms.

Monday, May 22

Lone Rock Market 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Under the Lone Rock Water Tower, 358 S Oak Street, Lone Rock For more information, look up Lone Rock Market on Facebook . We will be hosting a variety of Farmer's Market and Craft Vendors at our Weekly CommunityMarket Mid-May Through Mid-October. Any items you would like to see at future markets or if you are a Vendor that would like to participate in our future market please message or contact for more information 608-604-3537.

Open Mic 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Join us the fourth Monday of every month for an Open Mic, hosted by Dylan Harris. We’ve got the mics, the plug-ins, the piano - you bring the music! Whether you want to play solo, sing to a back up, or get the band together, this is the place. So come on out and show your stuff, or just support the folks on stage. Either way, we’re making music together! No cover, but tips for our host are always welcome!

Tuesday, May 23

Movies, Munchies and More: Dementia Friendly Presentation for Caregivers and Community 1:00 PM Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Come enjoy the presentation "Dementia Friendly Presentation for Caregivers and Community." The ADRC’s Dementia Care Specialist will present information about brain health as well as helpful information for caregivers such as discussion of behaviors and approaches. It will be a helpful and informative conversation with an opportunity to ask questions at the end.

Zoom Viewing: Let’s Talk About Anxiety and Depression 6:00 PM Virtual Event springgreenlibrary.com May is Mental Health Awareness Month; join us, as Roger talks about the many different kinds of anxiety and depression. He will share some personal stories about living with these mental health struggles. There will be plenty of time for your questions. To attend: Feel free to come to the Spring Green Library Community room. Or, you may attend by video. If you attend by video, you will need to be on camera for the comfort of all attendees. Find the zoom link online.

Wednesday, May 24

All Ages Storytime 10:30 AM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Bring the whole family to the library for a morning of song, stories, movement, and fun!

Introduction to Mahjongg 7:00 PM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Learn Mahjongg, not the online tile matching game, but the American version that took the states by storm inthe 1920s, from the group you have seen playing around town at either the General Store or Arcadia. The group will share equipment and information, so nothing is needed to get started. New players are welcome! Registration is required for this event, find information online.

Community

Events for May 24 - June 1

Wednesday, May 24 cont.

Book Discussion: The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi 2:00 PM . 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Raised by a distant father and an understanding but overprotective mother, Vivek suffers disorienting blackouts, moments of disconnection between self and surroundings. Vivek’s closest bond is with Osita, the worldly, high-spirited cousin whose teasing confidence masks a guarded private life. As their relationship deepens—and Osita struggles to understand Vivek’s escalating crisis—the mystery gives way to a heart-stopping act of violence in a moment of exhilarating freedom.

Sunday, May 28 cont.

LIVE MUSIC: 26th Annual Bob Fest 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St., Spring Green springgreengeneralstore.com BobFest 2023, the 26th annual celebration of the music of Bob Dylan, will include seventeen sets of music featuring solo performers, duos and bands like Troye Shanks and the Back Pages, Ian Seaholm and the Night Thieves, and Hoot n’ Annie String Band will perform live. Zimmerman’s Deli, our special festival menu, will be served starting food.

LIVE MUSIC: Retro Bus 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Traders Bar & Grill, 6147 US Highway 14, Spring Green wisconsincanoe.com Come Rock with Retro bus to some Pat Benetar, Blondie, ACDC, and Janice Joplin and much more!

Monday, May 29

Paper Airplane Airshow 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Fold your way to the top in this special Teen DIY & Crafting Program. We will find out whose will fly and whose will dive, get ready to let loose for a National Paper Airplane Day Airshow.

Hike With Mike & Grace – Prescribed Fires In The Spring 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Taliesin entrance near 5481 County Rd C, Spring Green taliesinpreservation.org Join us for a series of naturalist-led hikes on the landscape that inspired Frank Lloyd Wright. These hikes will highlight southwestern Wisconsin’s geology, flora, and fauna as you take in the fresh air and scenic views. As Mike and Grace guide folks through the trail system developed on the estate, come along with us and learn why these are such an important piece of the estate and public access. We work in concert with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation—to turn back the hands of time so the woodlands, oak savannas, and prairies can once again thrive. Please wear hiking and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a water bottle and bug spray. The hike will go out rain or shine.

YOGA - Slow Flow Yoga 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM S7163 County Road G, Hill Point 608.250.0966, lark@radiantspiritretreats.com . Cost varies Adults only Slow Flow yoga is a gentle to mid-tempo paced yoga class perfect for both beginners and intermediate yogis. This class will help you reduce stress, increase flexibility, improve posture, relax and rejuvenate.

SOLD OUT – LIVE MUSIC: Shitty Barn Session Session 282: An Intimate Evening

with Cribshitter 7:00 PM 506 E Madison St, Spring Green shittybarnsessions.com

Doors open at 6 Advance tickets sold out. That sald, tickets often come up that people can't use, so check out SH*TTY TICKET SWAP, which helps to connect ticket buyers and sellers “Conflicting tendencies toward satire, honesty, irony, and a host of stylistically varying influences all coalesce in surprisingly intoxicating ways across the record...” -

Tone Madison

Thursday, May 25

Storytime 10:30 AM Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock Join us every Thursday for storytime!

River Valley Broadband Invitation for Discussion 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Grandma Marys Cafe, 175 US-14, Arena You are invited to participate in a conversation about technology. The River Valley Broadband Coalition is collecting information about experiences with technology from those 60 and older — what they do now, what they would like to do, and what barriers they face. They will use the information to develop ways to help. Participants will receive $50 for their time.

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.

Wine & Yoga 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr, Muscoda wildhillswinery.com Join certified Yoga Instructor for Wine & Yoga every Thursday evening in summer! Lara offers a fun and relaxing yoga session in the beauty of our vineyard. Please bring a mat and water. $12 per person.

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.

Tech Drop-in 6:00 PM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com

Stop by the Library with whatever piece of technology is causing you grief. Together, we will figure out the answers.

Free Line Dancing Classes 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Keg & Kettle Bar, 104 S Oak St, Lone Rock For info search 3 Souls on Facebook Free beginner line dancing classes!

Friday, May 26

Wine Down Fridays 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr, Muscoda wildhillswinery.com Come enjoy live music and wood fire pizzas from our food truck. There is no cover, but we ask that folks support free live music by not bringing in outside food or drink. Family friendly! You may want to bring lawn chairs and blankets for extra seating. Handmade and hand tossed wood fire pizzas for sale made from scratch by the Halverson family! Please expect a wait during peak serving times. Relax, enjoy the music, take in the fresh air, have a glass of wine, and enjoy some delicious snacks from our tasting room while you wait. It will be worth it!

LIVE MUSIC: Karaoke 7:30 PM- 10:00 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Join us the four th Friday of ever y month for a night of Karaoke at Slowpoke. Janna Johnson hosts this night for the community to come together in song. Take a chance and come up on stage, or just cheer on your friends.

Saturday, May 27

All Ages Storytime 10:30 AM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Bring the whole family to the library for a morning of song, stories, movement, and fun!

Spring Green Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM S230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green Spring Green Farmers Market Is a year-round outdoor market offering seasonal produce, local meats, baked goods and many other wonderful items. Held outside the Spring Green Community Public Library every Saturday morning. Preorders are recommended. Visit our Facebook or Instagram page or email SGFarmersMarket@gmail.com for a list of participating vendors and their contact into.

Gaines & Wagoner 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Tickets $10 in advance/$15 at the door Let’s just say you happen to walk into a music venue and see a duo playing cello and violin. You’d most likely expect to hear either classical or folk music of some kind, right? But just as you spy the lineup of crazy acoustic and electric stringed instruments of all varieties the duo tears into a tune that combines funky electric fuzz-wah fiddle with thumping pizzicato cello.

Universe in the Park 9:00 PM - 9:30 PM Governor Dodge State Park, 4175 WI-23, Dodgeville dnr.wisconsin.gov scott.johnson3@wisconsin.gov Join Jim Lattis for a 30-40 minute presentation about astronomy and the wonders of the night sky. After the presentation, weather permitting, attendees will be able to enjoy the astronomical view through a telescope.

Sunday, May 28

Spring Yoga 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM Radiant Spirit Yoga, S7163 County Rd. G, Hillpoint ruralremedy.com $150 for 9 classes Contact Emily for pricing at emily@ruralremedy.com Springtime and all the frenzy has arrived! There is no better time than now to join some group yoga to stay grounded, move mindfully, and be in community.

LIVE MUSIC: 3 SOULS 4:00 PM Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shifflet Road, Spring Green www.wiriversideresort.com Join us for live music outside on the river stage! Let’s welcome in the summer!

Lone Rock Market 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Under the Lone Rock Water Tower, 358 S Oak Street, Lone Rock For more information, look up Lone Rock Market on Facebook We will be hosting a variety of Farmer's Market and Craft Vendors at our Weekly CommunityMarket Mid-May Through Mid-October. Any items you would like to see at future markets or if you are a Vendor that would like to participate in our future market please message or contact for more information 608-604-3537.

Memorial Day Party 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Homecoming, 242 N Lexington St, Spring Green For more information, look up Homecoming, Spring Green on Facebook

Together will be bring you 'the backyard party' of your dreams! This is a ticketed event, $55 for 5 courses, and $30 for all you can drink wine. The grill will the hot, the beers will be cold, and perhaps by some miracle all the mosquitoes will be dead!

Gloria Swansong 7:30 PM- 9:30 PM Slowpoke Lounge, 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green slowpokelounge.com Gloria Swansong resurrects the great Dames of Broadway and Old Hollywood! From being NYC's premiere Judy Garland, to recreating your favorite iconic Hollywood costumes, to delivering show-stopping Broadway numbersshe'll always leave you wanting more. Never one to be left in the dust, Gloria Swansong is also a political SLAM poet and gives lectures on the history of queer fashion demolishing the gender binary. She speaks openly about her experience as a trans non-binary individual and happily educates audiences on gender theory and the modern trans rights movement. Tickets $15 in advance/$20 at the door.

Tuesday, May 30

Movies, Munchies and More: Sunset Boulevard 1:00 PM Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Come to the library for a cup of coffee, a sweet treat, and either a movie or a presentation! Synopsis: A screenwriter develops a dangerous relationship with a faded film star determined to make a triumphant return (1950, Rating: PG, 1hr 50min).

River Valley Broadband Invitation for Discussion 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock You are invited to participate in a conversation about technology. The River Valley Broadband Coalition is collecting information about experiences with technology from those 60 and older — what they do now, what they would like to do, and what barriers they face. They will use the information to develop ways to help. Participants will receive $50 for their time.

Zoom Viewing: Let’s Talk About Civilian Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com May is Mental Health Awareness Month; join us, Roger will talk about the different causes of PTSD, different kinds of PTSD, plus different treatment options. Roger will share some personal stories about the causes of his C-PTSD, symptoms and treatments. There will be plenty of time for your questions. To attend: Feel free to come to the Spring Green Library Community room. Or, you may attend by video, but you will need to be on camera for the comfort of all attendees.

Wednesday, May 31

All Ages Storytime 10:30 AM Children's Area, Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Bring the whole family to the library for a morning of song, stories, movement, and fun!

River Valley Broadband Invitation for Discussion 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM . Kraemer Library and Community Center, 910 Main St, Plain You are invited to participate in a conversation about technology. The River Valley Broadband Coalition is collecting information about experiences with technology from those 60 and older — what they do now, what they would like to do, and what barriers they face. They will use the information to develop ways to help. Participants will receive $50 for their time.

YOGA - Slow Flow Yoga 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM S7163 County Road G, Hill Point 608.250.0966, lark@radiantspiritretreats.com . Cost varies Adults only Slow Flow yoga is a gentle to mid-tempo paced yoga class perfect for both beginners and intermediate yogis. This class will help you reduce stress, increase flexibility, improve posture, relax and rejuvenate.

Introduction to Mahjongg 7:00 PM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Learn Mahjongg, not the online tile matching game, but the American version that took the states by storm inthe 1920s, from the group you have seen playing around town at either the General Store or Arcadia. The group will share equipment and information, so nothing is needed to get started. New players are welcome! Registration is required for this event, find information online.

Thursday, June 1

Storytime 10:30 AM Lone Rock Community Library, 234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock Join us every Thursday for storytime!

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.

The Crooner Strikes Back! @ Local Night 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM The Shed, 123 N. Lexington St., Spring Green springgreengeneralstore.com The Crooner opens up the official 2023 Summer Local Night Series outdoors at the lovely Shed/Post House Beer Garden with dulcet Sinatra-esque tones applied to tunes both vintage and new, covers and originals, all executed in that highly peccable lounge jacketing. Grills fired, drink and food specials. Attend if so inclined, but be warned: A good time = highly likely.

Free Line Dancing Classes 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Keg & Kettle Bar, 104 S Oak St, Lone Rock For info search Keg and Kettle on Facebook Free beginner line dancing classes!

Classics Conquered 6:00 PM 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green springgreenlibrary.com Join us for a conversation about a classic work or author you have always meant to read. Don't let the reputation scare you; we will get through the book together. For 2023, we are going to focus on Toni Morrison. Together we will read four of her novels, and some of her essays, this month: Beloved.

Spring Yoga 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Wyoming Valley School, 6306 State Road 23, Spring Green ruralremedy.com $150 for 9 classes Contact Emily for pricing at emily@ruralremedy.com Springtime frenzy has arrived! There is no better time than now to join some group yoga to stay grounded, move mindfully, and be in community.

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 . Every Thursday evening we play 7 games of Bingo. Bingo is FREE, we just ask that people order beverages and/or food. We do ask that Bingo goers are at least 18 years of age to play. We have prizes for the winner of each game...some are cash, gift cards, and other fun stuff that is donated from time to time by businesses.

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.

Community Friday: 10

The Jegerlehner’s particuplaced sometimes next to the from the past library

Signocolored ancient verdant back to decoratto visit documentation of a few to pose. is not in

bodies, — Plain virtual West

Spring Green Community Library Art Exhibitions . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green Monday-Thursday: 10 AM - 7 PM Friday: 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 1 PM

Backyard Birds—photos by Peggy Jegerlehner In the Glass Case Gallery. The display features a selection of birds that are common to Arena resident Jegerlehner’s backyard feeders. She is also a life-long lover of everything outdoors, but has a particular love for birds. In order to capture photos of her elusive subjects, Peggy has placed picturesque feeders and a birdbath within shooting range of her window, sometimes tying branches onto poles for a natural perch. She keeps her camera handy next to the couch, and will often dress in camp hat and jacket and sit outdoors 30 feet from the feeders just before dusk, when birds drop in for one last snack or bath. For the past several years, she has been a top contributor to the River Valley Birders group Facebook page. Jegerlehner’s photos are available for viewing during regular library hours.

The Elect and the Damned Inspired by the Renaissance-era frescoes of Luca Signorelli, she’s currently continuing a portraiture series, combining watercolor, colored pencil, acrylic gouache, and wax crayon. Of her project, she says, “Orvieto is an ancient city located in Umbria, Italy, whose roots are Etruscan. Perched high above a verdant plain on a butte of volcanic stone, the city features a sizeable cathedral dating back to the end of the 13th cen-tury. Inside, one of the transept chapels is thoroughly decorated with frescoes planned and painted by Luca Signorelli and his crew. I‘ve been to visit them a few times. I invited friends and family to review photographic documentation of these two Signorelli fresco panels, and select a character they would inhabit for a few minutes while I took pho-tos. I’m grateful to all of my subjects for being willing to pose. Carole’s art is available during regular library hours when the community room is not in use. Please ask for the key at the circulation desk.

WHAT’S HANGINg ? ongoing art exhibitions CIVICS & SERVICES CALENDAR

This calendar is a place listing (for free) the typical meeting dates for area governmental bodies, and Please email us with these meetings, or use the form on our Community Calendar page — let's build community together: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

May 22:

A recent review of our website stats for valleysentinelnews.com showed that our top click over at least the past quarter was our public notices tab on the main menu. Which surprised us.

Previously, that clicked through to the Wisconsin Newspaper Association’s public notice page that only included public and legal notices published in area papers, for things like bids and foreclosures, etc.

It was clear to us that the community was looking for an accessible one-stopshop for actual meeting notices, agendas of local government meetings.

In continuance of our mission to foster civic engagement and information, we put together a comprehensive, dynamic page that puts them all in one place. Not only is it our top click, but we know how important it is for businesses to know what decisions are going to be made at the local level that affect them.

We also wanted to offer a unique promotional opportunity as well, for a business that cares as much as we do about open government.

the notice — usually in the form of the agenda — is reasonably likely to apprise members of the public and the news media of what action the public body will be taking.

Valley Sentinel has submitted a Wis. Stat. § 19.84(1)(b) news media request for notice of all meetings of area governmental bodies and their subunits. This notice to Valley Sentinel as news media that has requested is required for meetings to be considered properly noticed. When news media request notice under Wis. Stat. 19.84(1) (b) it is separate from the notice given to the public, but equally as necessary. Further, Wis. Stats. § 19.96 & 19.97 prescribe the forfeitures possible when notice isn’t proper and state any action taken at a meeting of a governmental body held in violation is potentially voidable.

MEETING: Plain Village Library Board Meeting 6:30 PM

510 Main Street, Plain villageofplain.com

May 24:

MEETING: Village of Spring Green Board Meeting 7:00 PM In person and virtual event 154 N. Lexington Street, Spring Green vi.springgreen.wi.gov

May 30:

MEETING: Arena Village Board Meeting 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Village Hall, 345 West Street, Arena villageofarena.net

BEST OF THE RIVER VALLEY READER POLL

The page is reminiscent of a community cork board — something we'd still like to erect in a future downtown Spring Green office — except it comprehensively lists the governmental meetings of our entire area. The board will endeavor to contain the most recent prior or upcoming meeting of each area board (with links to click through to the governments' pages if the update isn't timely or is short notice). Clerks or chief presiding officers usually send out the notices on average between one week and 24 hours before the meetings — obviously the more notice the better. The page will not contain notices for committees and subunits, or minutes — however, again, links to governmental body websites where many of those can be found are included. Many items are discussed in committees and those meetings are often the best time to provide public input. Some items on subunits’ agendas — like a plan commission or public safety committee — may not need approval by a village or town board, so it’s important to check governmental websites regularly. Legal notices will also not appear on the board individually, but a link to those on the Wisconsin Newspaper Association's website is included on the board.

What is public notice? What is news media notice? Wis. Stat. 19.84 outlines the various ways a public body — such as a village or town board — needs to provide proper notice of its meetings.

Best practice is to post those notices in a mix of ways most likely to apprise residents and those interested, including posting in designated places or online. But this does not discharge the independent duty to inform the media that has requested notice, something even seasoned clerks sometimes aren't aware of.

Other requirements include at least 24 hours notice, generally, and requirements that the subject matter of

Public notice is often confused with paid legal notices, which are required by statute for certain meetings and hearings, foreclosures, bids and other notices. You can find a link to those above in local newspapers at the bottom of the cork board. What Valley Sentinel has requested are emails from the clerks of local public bodies with notice of upcoming meetings and their agenda items. These meetings may additionally need legal notice, but that’s a sidebar. Why is this important? The legislature thought that informing the press was independently important because the press can play a vital role, not just transmitting the notice to the people, but also looking deeper, investigating, commenting, bringing out different perspectives and connections. We believe that as well. This is important to us because if we’re not getting notice as a newspaper it’s likely you’re not getting notice either.

Recent studies have shown civic engagement and strong local journalism directly correlate to a number of local government metrics like local government bond rates, including rates to fund government infrastructure projects. For example, where robust local journalism disappears or is lax, local government borrowing costs increase because less information is publicly available, and local officials are no longer monitored as closely, reducing the quality of governance. Simply put, the financial sector views an area with low civic engagement and lax or nonexistent local journalistic oversight as a risky investment. Without open government it becomes increasingly hard for us to do our public service for the community as the fourth estate.

In the same vein, we're always looking for community contributors to record or cover area governmental meetings. Coverage can be topically or comprehensive, but we can't do it alone.

The page can be found within the menu on our homepage or at: valleysentinelnews.com/publicmeeting-notices/

The Sauk County Gardener

Effective Crop Rotation in the Vegetable Garden

Jeannie Manis, Wisconsin Certified Master Gardener

“There is nothing that is comparable to it, as satisfactory or as thrilling, as gathering the vegetables one has grown.”

— Alice B. Toklas

I was finally able to plant in my vegetable garden this past weekend. Even though it’s just my husband and I, we plant a relatively large vegetable garden. I’m fortunate as he built eight 4’ x 8’ raised garden beds plus we have four medium-sized galvanized tanks filled with soil as well to plant surplus crops. Even with all of that space, it’s important to pay attention to crop rotation.

Crop rotation helps improve soil fertility and nutrient availability to your vegetables. It can also help with insect pest management and disease. Studies have shown that when crops are not rotated, crop production numbers eventually decline, primarily because of soilborne diseases and various insect pests.

To effectively implement crop rotation, start

Selecting the Right Tomato

“There is nothing better than picking up sun-warmed tomatoes and smelling them, feeling them and scrutinizing their shiny skins for imperfections, dreaming of ways to serve them.”

Andres

My husband and I just finished repotting our tomato plants for the Sauk County Master Gardeners Association’s annual tomato plant sale. Our event coordinator asked everyone donating plants to not only include the plant name, but also note whether it was determinate or indeterminate and if it was a hybrid or an heirloom. Until I became a master gardener, I never really paid much attention to that information. I was just looking for a delicious

by identifying the “groups” your crops are in – legume, leaf, fruit, or root. I’m using those terms loosely, but you’ll get the gist in a minute. Legumes fix nitrogen in the soils – think beans, peans, and lima beans. If you grow potatoes, you can plant them with the legume group instead of with the roots. Potatoes have the same issues as other nightshade plants (tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants) and could benefit from a year break in the typical rotation schedule. Leaf crops need nitrogen – think greens, lettuce, spinach, brassicas – broccoli and Brussels sprouts, and herbs. If you plant corn, put it in with the leaf crops due to it being a heavy nitrogen feeder. Fruit crops are ones that need more phosphorus: tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplant, squash, and melons. Finally, root crops are ones that require potassium. This group consists of vegetables such as beets, carrots, radishes, onions, garlic, and turnips. For my garden, my top crops are tomatoes (fruit group), broccoli and Brussels sprouts (leaf group), beans (legume

tomato. Knowing some of this information will help you not only select a delicious tomato but can also help you select the right tomato for your garden space and desired way of using tomatoes.

The first thing to consider is whether the tomato is determinate or indeterminate. A determinate tomato will have the majority of its fruit ripen about the same time. They tend to be bushier and shorter overall, making them ideal for smaller gardens. They produce most of their fruit at the terminal end and will stop shoot production once flowers have formed on the ends. They also tend to ripen earlier. If you are looking to can tomatoes, make salsa, or sauce, having most of your tomatoes ripen around the same time can be very helpful. Indeterminate tomatoes have a longer growing

Accepting New Patients at Spring Green Medical Center

Tanya Neumaier, APNP

group), onions and garlic (root group). I plant other vegetables, but these crops are guaranteed the most real estate in my garden.

Next divide your garden into four equal sections. The goal is to create a four-year rotation based on each groups’ nutritional needs. The sections should be the same size and should be as large as your largest crop. For example, I plant lots of tomatoes, so I dedicate two of the eight raised beds primarily to tomatoes. I don’t plant as many onions or garlic, but when it’s time for my tomatoes to rotate into the next area, it is always large enough to hold them.

This is how the rotation works. The legume group put nitrogen into the soil and follows the root group. The leaf group is a heavy nitrogen feeder so it follows the legume group so it can use the nitrogen put into the soil from the previous year’s legumes. The fruit group needs phosphorus but can’t handle a lot of nitrogen in the soil or it won’t set fruit, so it follows the leaf group. The root group needs potassium and even

season, producing fruit up until it frosts, or the plant dies from disease. They tend to be bigger with longer stem growth, requiring staking to keep the fruit off the ground. They will set flowers alongside the shoots and will continue to grow until it gets too cold. This is the type that many people decide to prune to increase air flow and also promote new flower buds. If you want to enjoy tomatoes the entire growing season, an indeterminate tomato is the way to go. Sidenote: there are also some tomatoes that are semi-determinate and their growth and fruiting fall between these two types. Another thing to consider when selecting tomatoes, is whether they are heirloom or hybrid. Heirloom tomatoes are open pollinated by wind or insects. Many have come from seeds that have been saved over generations and hand-selected by gardeners for a particular trait. To be considered an heirloom, the tomato must be able to reproduce itself from seed, be at least 50 years old, and have its own history. They tend to be more prone to tomato disease, don’t produce as much as hybrids, do not travel well as they usually have thinner skins. So why

less nitrogen, so it follows the fruit group. Each year, just simply rotate to the next appropriate section.

Fit your other crops into their appropriate sections as best you can. Utilize companion planting for those that don’t fit into their assigned sections, so they can benefit from another nearby crop. I plant lettuce (leaf group) between my onions, carrots, and beets (root group) as onions help deter pests such as aphids and supposedly rabbits. They also have different root depths, so they don’t compete for the same soil space. I just make sure to rotate my major crops as noted before and everything else gets fit in, just not in the same location as the previous year.

Crop rotation has its place, even in small gardens. Take some time to group your vegetables into these four main groups and start a rotation. You’ll be happy when you have fewer insect pests and soil-borne diseases, and better soil nutrient management.

grow them? Heirlooms are generally considered to be better tasting and come in lots of different colors, shapes, and sizes.

Hybrids are created when plant breeders cross pollinate two varieties to create a plant that has the best traits from both parents. This could be crossing a plant that produces larger fruit with one that is particularly resistant to disease. You will not get the same plant if you save the seeds from the fruit. Hybrids offer benefits such as easier care, early maturity, better yields, and disease resistance. Some have successfully improved flavor as well.

Most of this information should be on the tomato plant’s tag or on the seed packet. Determinate versus indeterminate or hybrid versus heirloom – there is no wrong answer. In our garden, we tend to plant a selection of all of them. We love having tomatoes all season long, in a variety of colors, sizes, and flavors. However, I appreciate having big batches of tomatoes ripen at the same time when it comes to making salsa or spaghetti sauce. Keep this information in mind when you select tomatoes for your own garden. Happy gardening!

Healthcare Employment Opportunities

*Occupational Therapist – full-time position

*Physical Therapist & Physical Therapy Assistant – full or part time opportunities

*Dietitian – .5 FTE Day shift position

*Operating Room Technician – .8 FTE day shift position. $3,000 Employment Bonus eligible!

*Director of Marketing – full-time management position

*Director of Health Information Management – full-time management position

*Human Resources Recruitment Assistant – full-time day shift position

*OB RN – .9 FTE evening/night shift position. Employment Bonus Eligible!

*RN Emergency Department – .6 to a .9 FTE p.m./night shift position. Employment Bonus Eligible!

*RN Float & House Supervisor positions – .75 FTE evening/night shift position! Employment Bonus Eligible!

*RN – .5 FTE p.m. shift position in our Nursing & Rehab Center

*Certified Nursing Assistants – part-time positions available in our Nursing & Rehab Center day, evening and night shifts available, $3,000 Employment Bonus included!

*Imaging/Lab Technologist (Clinics) – full-time day shift position working 4 -10 hour day shifts

*Respiratory Therapist – .5 to .6 FTE day shift position

*Med Tech/MLT or CLS – .6 FTE Premium Pay Weekender Day shift position

*Certified Nursing Assistants – 5 FTE day shift & .6 FTE p.m. shift on our Med/Surg unit.

*MRI Imaging Technologist – .5 to a 1.0 FTE day shift position. Up to a $5,000 Employment Bonus, prorated based on FTE!

*Imaging Technologist – full-time night shift position. Up to a $5,000 Employment Bonus, prorated based on FTE!

*Patient Access Specialist – .6 FTE night shift position

*Clinic Registration Specialist – full time positions in our Spring Green Clinic and our Therapy Center in Dodgeville.

*Clinic CMA or LPN – part time day shift position in our Family Practice & Specialty Clinics

*Maintenance Technician – full time position with on-call responsibilities

Let us assist you with making an appointment today.

*Environmental Services – full and part-time day and p.m. shift positions. $1,000 Employment Bonus!

*Culinary Aide – .8 and .5 FTE day shift positions available.

To find out more detailed information about all open positions and to apply, go to our website at www.uplandhillshealth.org

Upland Hills Health

800 Compassion Way Dodgeville, WI 53533

Jeannie Manis, Wisconsin Certified Master Gardener

An Outdoorsman’s Journal

Mark Walters, Columnist

Thirty-Four Years an Outdoor

Hello friends, Thirty-four years ago this week

I hand wrote my first column for The Poynette Press. I was the camp manager at Chimo Lodge and Outposts which is a fly in camp 55-airmiles out of Red Lake, Ontario, Canada. I called this column North of the Border and hand wrote it every Friday from an active bear stand. This week I am writing about 3 big parts of my life, and I have to tell you, I am so busy, it is hard to find time to sweep the floor.

On April 17 the state of Montana held its drawing for out of state General Big Game Combo elk and deer licenses. Just like last year I received one and I will be heading west on the 17th of October, by myself to live in the mountains and make some meat. The hunt and experience that I had last year was one of my coolest ever. Extremely physical, horrible weather conditions that started on opening day, harvesting a beautiful 6x6 bull elk, and falling down the mountain in deep snow many, many times getting the bull elk to my base camp.

I was either sweating, freezing, or falling and I did not care, I had a bull elk. This fall I would be very happy with a cow or a smaller bull. Selina had my bull aged and it was 6.5 years old and a bit on the chewy side “can you say slow cooker?”

So last year was the worst year of my 61-years on this planet, my soulmate, Michelle Chiaro died unexpectedly and part of me passed with her. I love raising cattle and so did Michelle, in the fall I move them into my garden, and they do all the fertilizer spreading that I need. In turn, I have gardens that yield extremely well. With Michelle’s passing I was going to have to get out of the cattle business because I no longer had her to feed them when I travel. I did not want to be out of the cattle business and two sets of neighbors are going to back me up and this coming Tuesday I am going to be buying some calves.

No one can understand what happens when you lose a soulmate, unless they have lost a soulmate! Here is the final subject and you will now realize that I am officially nuts. With Michelle’s passing I have had only one potential cure and that is to keep very busy, that cure does not work in the evening for me, and I have been kind of depressed. In my front yard there has been a swimming pool since the year 2000. That pool fell a part about a month ago. It took me about 24 hours to have this brainstorm to cure my depression, folks as of 4 days ago I no longer have a front yard. I have a very large hole, that over the course of the summer will become a pond. I am going to ice skate, swim, look at, and manage my large aquarium and maybe that will help me to find my “happy” again.

I am totally addicted to water, I soak in the tub every night I am home and I love going to the bottom of a lake when I swim and seeing how long I can hold my breath.

Smile lots!

Sunset

Follow along the adventures of Mark Walters, a syndicated outdoor adventure columnist who lives in Necedah, Wisconsin. He began writing his column, An Outdoorsman’s Journal, in 1989. It includes hunting, fishing, lots of canoeing and backpacking. He currently writes for around 60 newspapers. He hopes you enjoy reading about his adventures!

Want to read more?

Check out previous weeks’ columns at www.outdoorsmansjournal.com

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Photo contributed by Mark Walters These steers were in the garden from October until February and they created some excellent fertilizer.

Photo contributed by Mark Walters No turning back now, Walters is putting a pond 25-feet outside of his front door.

Photo contributed by Mark Walters Mark Walters will be returning to the Rocky Mountains in Montana this fall for another major elk hunting adventure.

Mark Walters