Valley Sentinel - 04-14-2021

Inside this edition

Highway 14 in Mazomanie closures coming this summer

Richland County Clerk resigns

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Spring Green, Wisconsin

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Severe Weather Awareness week: Watches vs. Warning

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Wednesday, April 14, 2021 Vol. 2, No. 15 Free, Single-Copy

Freddy Valentine’s location to become Last Leaf Public House with pizzeria focus Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief Freddy Valentine’s Public House in Spring Green is getting a new menu and a new name come May, Last Leaf Public House will take its place downtown.

The restaurant will operate under Dave

Owen, the previous owner of Freddy Valentine’s, which closed in September 2020, and will focus on a scaled back pizza, appetizer and cocktail menu, something Owen said he had been considering since 2019.

“Last Leaf was a concept we kicked

around in 2019, we even put up signs within Freddy’s that we would be turning a new leaf in 2020 and rebranding as Last Leaf Public sometime in 2020,” said Owen. “Freddy’s had always been popular but we thought it was time for a change, to simplify based on kitchen

staff skill sets we were hiring and make it a more sustainable long term concept, then COVID hit that was the end of what we thought would be our future as a

See page 6

Rub’in the Bonez BBQ looking for home, interest in Spring Green Photo by Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief

Rub’in the Bonez Barbecue held a pop-up April 11 in the Post House Garden to gauge interest for a barbecue food truck in the Spring Green area.

Currently, friends Leisa Lessard, Marge McGraw, Briana Barnes and Lessard’s husband, Skip Brown operate Rub’in the Bonez under The Shed, who allows the start-up to use their kitchen and space.

The group started by smoking and barbecuing meat as a hobby, but would like to gauge the area’s interest for the type of cuisine and turn their hobby into an operational food truck, said Lessard.

The pop-up included smoked pulled pork sandwiches, smoked baked beans, potato salad and coleslaw.

School of Architecture dropping Taliesin from name as they navigate future plans Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief The School of Architecture at Taliesin announced recently that it will be dropping the term “Taliesin” from its name and has severed ties with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and will move forward as just the School of

Architecture.

According to a press release, the school will continue forward with its new name while upholding the “learning by doing” principles of architecture Frank Lloyd Wright founded the

Taliesin fellowship program in 1932.

The school has not only left behind a name association with Taliesin, but will also be relocating its program away from the Taliesin campus just outside of Spring Green. The program

will now continue at Corsanti in Paradise Valley and Arcosanti in Mayer, both in Arizona.

“Being in residence at Cosanti and

See page 6

Johnson & Johnson halt holds little effect for local vaccination efforts Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief On April 13, Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended agencies pause the use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccination after six women developed a rare type of blood clot following vaccination.

Six women reportedly developed severe and rare blood clots called

cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) and low platelet levels. The cases reported by women ages 18 to 48 between six to 13 days following receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccination.

Nearly 6.8 million doses of the Janssen vaccine have been administered throughout the US, with only six cases of the blood clotting reported so far.

Some local health officials, such as

the Iowa County Health Department have decided to heed state and federal recommendations, and will be discontinuing its use indefinitely.

Iowa County Health Director Debbie Siegenthaler said that less than 5% of vaccinations given in the state are Johnson & Johnson, with 96% being Pfizer or Moderna.

“This pauses the use of a vaccine so a decrease in inventory will affect the number we can vaccinate. While dis-

appointing, safety is our priority, just as it is for the CDC, FDA and DHS,” said Siegenthaler. “The Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines continue to remain extremely safe vaccines.

The ICHD encourages everyone eligible to get the vaccine to continue with their vaccination, especially in light of variants.”

The Iowa County health department recommends people who have

See page 4

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Community

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

‘s

1ST ANNUAL

THE

BEST of LOWER WISCONSIN

RIVER VALLEY SPRING GREEN AREA

READER POLL Valley Sentinel is excited to announce our 1st Annual Best of the River Valley reader poll! Drawing inspiration from cities like Eau Claire, Madison and Milwaukee, we’re excited to facilitate this reader poll that showcases your voice in sharing the best of what our area has to offer to our community and those who visit it.

With winners announced in June, the Best of the River Valley is designed to maximize engagement with area businesses and attractions heading into the busy summer months. This is especially important with various highway closures in the area, at a time we are still grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Best of the River Valley is not only a complement to existing guides that help community and newcomers alike navigate our area, but also a time to share where you believe the area is headed, what the area needs to focus on, and also a place to brag about your business or your favorite Old Fashioned, with a healthy competitive

spirit.

As voting opens in May, tools will be made available to businesses and those interested to share the poll and get out the word and drum up support for their favorites. But no funny business! Literally. Exchanging free or discounted goods and services for votes is prohibited.

The poll will focus on the goings-on of the past year, from June 2020 to May 2021. It will cover various categories from the staple business services, to outdoor adventures, to arts and culture. Winners will range from businesses to natural areas to artists and specific signature cocktails and burgers.

We want to emphasize this is a soft announcement, details and much more are still being finalized and everything will be ironed out over the next couple weeks. We’ll need your help in the meantime, we want your thoughts and feedback, this is YOUR poll, YOU decide the winners.

If there are categories and questions

you believe we should add, let us know and we will consider them for this year or next.

Best of the River Valley is an extension of our passion to build community and is one of many ideas that we hope will become a part of what makes our community so great. This is a trial run of something new, so please bear with us. In a normal year we might invite the community out to celebrate at the end of voting to announce winners, and while this year is not a normal year it doesn’t mean things come to a standstill. So stay tuned for updates. We’re excited to facilitate this big undertaking and see how it grows and changes year after year.

Timeline April 14: April 28: Open nominations!

This is your time to share all your best choices for each category and question. Share your favorite business or place or thing. Instructions on how are below.

May 5 - May 26: Polls open! This is your time to vote on the nominations

and help decide who or what wins each poll question. We’re working on the possibility of write-in options as well.

June 2: Winners announced! On or around this date winners will be announced. We’re still ironing out the details of what this looks like and what sort of fancy certificates and such businesses get, but feel free to share your ideas!

Right Now: Call for nominations Using the categories and questions below, mail (P.O. Box 144, Spring Green, WI 53588 - feel free to use this page and write your nominations down), email (editor@valleysentinelnews.com), call (608-588-6694), or — our preferred way — visit our website www.valleysentinelnews.com and submit your nominations online.

Online nominations will be live by the end of the week, so keep checking.

Businesses! Don’t be afraid to nominate yourselves, and please reach out if you’re interested in ways to get involved.

CATEGORIES & QUESTIONS • • • • • •

Outdoors & Leisure Best Body of Water for Recreation Best Campground Best Golf Course Best Place to Get Fit Best Sledding Hill Best Trail - Hiking/Biking

• • • • •

Arts & Culture Best Free Entertainment Option Best Holiday/Seasonal Event Best Local Play/Musical Best Music Festival Best Mural Best Local Visual Artist (Illustration/Painting/Sculpture, etc.)

Best Art Gallery Best Local Music Best Local Author Best Music Venue Best Photographer

• • • •

Noms & Nightlife Best Food Event Best Appetizer (location and item) Best Bakery Best Place to Get Coffee

• • • • • •

• • • • • •

• • • •

Best Breakfast/Brunch Spot Best Friday Fish Fry Best Burger (location and item) Best Wings Best Food Truck/Food Pop-up Best Regional Beer (brewery/specific brew) Best New Restaurant Best Restaurant for Outdoor Dining Best Pizza Best Steak Best Place for Dancing Best Bar Best Old Fashioned Best Subs/Sandwiches (Anything between 2 pieces of bread that’s not a burger) Best Restaurant Best Wedding Venue Best Supper Club in the Region Best Regional Winery

• • •

Oot & Aboot Best Day Trip Best Hotel Best Public Park

• • • • • • • •

• • •

Best All-Ages Hangout Best Tourist Attraction Best/Most Beautiful Local Spot

• • • • • • • • • •

Shopping Best Area Bookstore Best Clothing Boutique Best Gas Station (specific location) Best Sporting Goods/Tackle Store Best Place to get Groceries Best Hardware Store Best Place for Jewelry Best Cheese Factory Best Place to Buy Meat Best Shop for Gifts

• • • • • • • •

Services Best Attorney Best Autobody Shop/Automotive Repair Best Bank/Credit Union Best Place to get a Haircut Best Carpentry or Remodeling Company Best Construction Company Best Dental Practice Best Electrician

• • • • • • • • • • •

Best Florist Best Heating & Cooling Company Best Area Hospital/Clinic Best Plumber Best Senior Living Residence Best Tax Service Best Vet Clinic Best Real Estate Agent/Office Best Landscaping/Lawncare Best Local Insurance Agent/Office Best Nail Salon

• •

Best CSA Best Farm

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Agriculture

Extras Favorite Elected Official Most Overrated Thing in the Valley Most Underrated Thing in the Valley Thing the Valley is Best At Thing the Valley is Worst At Biggest Thing We Should Make Happen Soon

opinion

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

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Vaccinations are still important—even after the J&J news Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief

This week is the first time in almost a year and a half that I’m beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel that has been this pandemic.

The reason for that being, myself and our Managing Editor were lucky enough to receive our COVID-19 vaccinations. Of course I am still waiting the two week period before I am considered fully vaccinated, and will continue to wear masks and distance even when I am, it was honestly a breath of fresh air.

When I went late last week for my vaccine, I knew I wanted to share my vaccination story, whether it was as normal or abnormal as possible, I wanted to share my story to either encourage people to get vaccinated or give others a peace of mind that their vaccination wasn’t one in a sea of none.

I was given the Johnson & Johnson/ Janssen vaccine at Alliant Energy Center in Madison, and on Tuesday morning, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced their recommendation to halt the use of that vaccine because of reports of blood clots days or weeks following vaccination. The CDC has said that six women between the ages of 18 and 48 developed a rare blood clotting disorder one to three weeks after receiving the J&J vaccine.

I woke up to about multiple text messages from family members Tuesday morning in panic mode that I’d received this vaccine and was now possibly at risk for this life threatening side effect.

I did have a few lingering side effects from the vaccine. My arm was pretty sore immediately following the vaccine, and that has continued for just under a week, I now have a small, raised bruise at the injection site. The first evening after my vaccine I felt pretty okay, only a little fatigued.

The second day post vaccination I was tired, nauseous and had very little appetite, which then turned into a slight fever and chills later that night just before bed. Luckily I was able to head to sleep and break the low grade fever overnight. Since then, I’ve definitely noticed that I’m more fatigued, but following the fever, nothing has been unbearable. After Tuesday’s news, I feel lucky that this is all that I’ve experienced so far. I’m also guessing these side effects are nothing compared to the struggle COVID-19 and its effects are.

However, that time period where doctors have discovered these blood clots hasn’t passed for me, and I’ll admit I am a bit scared. My fears aside, I’m incredibly happy that federal, state and even local agencies have made the choice to do their due diligence and pause administering this specific vaccine (and grateful there are two other options to continue vaccination efforts) and that they’ve made people aware of the symptoms so they can self-monitor before the number of people threatened goes beyond six in a few million.

I’m incredibly happy they are focusing on raising awareness of the serious side effects, because for me personally, if I experienced some of them, I may have ignored them or not seen them for what they are. I’m someone who struggles with migraines, so an excruciating headache that is accompanied by body pains is nothing out of the ordinary for me, and not something I tend to seek medical attention for, as they happen often.

However, now I will likely monitor any migraines or pains in specific places a bit more for the next few weeks, and be sure to seek medical attention if I feel off.

Again, the thought of having these terrible side effects is scary, but I

know that I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I would still get vaccinated and I implore everyone else to as well.

While I feel for these six women who have experienced these effects, many agencies are no longer administering that specific vaccine while the cause is reviewed and we still have viable vaccination options.

The light that I see at the end of the tunnel is only there because of these vaccinations, and we need everyone possible vaccinated to safely return to the normal we all want so badly.

We’re in a very precarious position right now, where if our vaccination numbers go up, herd immunity could be possible and this pandemic could be controlled—We’ll all get to enjoy our freedom, see our loved ones and live our lives again. On the other hand, if not everyone does their part to get vaccinated, or ignores masking and distancing guidelines, we could end up back at square one, in quarantine, with virus spikes, but this time those spikes will be due to even more contagious and deadly variants.

I know the news about this vaccine is scary, but please don’t let it stop you from getting a vaccination, it’s so, so important. To the people who say their chances of catching COVID are slim, or they don’t believe they’ll get the virus or any of the regular anti-COVID or anti-vax rhetoric, I say this: You’re never quite sure when you’ll get into a car accident or when you’ll break your arm and need medical attention, but you still carry car and medical insurance just in case those things happen. You’re terrified to be without insurance because of the monetary expense those unexpected things could incur.

Well, COVID-19 is a car accident or a broken arm and you’re never sure when or if it will happen, and the vaccine is your insurance—it’s your “just in case”.

Contact us

PO Box 144 Spring Green, Wisconsin 53588 USA (608) 588-6694 editor@valleysentinelnews.com valleysentinelnews.com Editorial Editor-in-Chief Nicole Aimone Managing Editor Taylor Scott Legal Editor Gary Ernest Grass, esq.

Interns Graphic Design/Pagination

Photo via Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief A photo of Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief, posing for an obligatory selfie following her Johnson & Johnson vaccination at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison.

Deadlines: The display and classified

Valley Sentinel is published in Spring Green, Wisconsin every Wednesday by Lower Wisconsin River Valley Sentinel, LLC. ISSN 2694-541X (print) — ISSN 2694-5401 (online) Anna Stocks-Hess Graphic Design/Infographics Whitney Back Editorial Adeline Holte Graphic Design/Editorial Nicole Hansen Editorial Matthew L. Beyer

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advertising deadline is Monday at noon for that week. If you would like our design team to design the ad then please allow extra time for the creative process and proofing.

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Our team will be growing and changing as we settle into publishing regularly, please stay in touch. Thank you to all of our contributors, by name and by pen, for believing in our community.

Editorial Policy

On certain topics in areas of great community interest, the editors of the Valley Sentinel may take positions they believe best represent and serve the interests of the community. Any opinions or positions taken by the editorial board are separate and distinct in labeling and substance from the community journalism that appears in the rest of the publication and does not affect the integrity

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Letters submitted for consideration are subject to fact-checking and editing for space and clarity.

Submissions must have a compelling local community interest. Letters to the editor must fit within a 500-word limit, and include name, city and phone number. Phone numbers are for office use only and will not be published. Letters of a political nature, without chance of rebuttal, will not be published the week before an election.

and impartiality of our reporting.

Est. 2020 igne conflatum “Forged in Fire”

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Covering Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the surrounding areas.

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Editors may feature opinion columns written by public figures, members of the public or other publication staff. Columns reflect the opinions of the individual contributors and do not represent positions of the publication. Guest columns of an anticipated length more than 500 words should seek prior editor authorization.

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From time to time the editorial board may select letters to the editor of a particular compelling community interest where a public figure or accountable public action is the recipient of criticism and allow, in the same issue, the subject of the criticism chance for rebuttal, with expounded independent input. The format shall be point, counterpoint and expert analysis. This community discussion shall serve as a moderated dialogue that presents multiple views of important community topics.

Page 4

Community

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Three-week closure of US 14 in June for culvert work, early work set for April Wisconsin Department of Transportation Construction is expected to begin Monday, April 19 on US 14/Commercial Street, between Walter Road and County KP, in Mazomanie. The project will address deteriorating pavement conditions and substandard pedestrian accommodations.

Additional improvements include storm sewer, grading, aggregate, curb and gutter, asphalt pavement, street lighting, sidewalk, and traffic signals at the US 14 and Brodhead Street intersection.

US 14 will remain open to traffic with access maintained to businesses and residential driveways.

In June, US 14 will be closed for three weeks as crews install storm sewer pipes under the highway near County KP. During that closure, all traffic will be detoured via WIS 60, US 12 and WIS 78. Pedestrian access will be maintained at the US 14 and Brodhead Street intersection during construction.

Motorists are urged to slow down, eliminate distractions and watch for crews and equipment working near

the travel lanes. The $3.2 million project is scheduled to be completed in late September 2021.

Information on the US 14 reconstruction project in Mazomanie can be found at projects.511wi.gov/ us14/. Follow Southwest Region construction projects on Twitter at @WisDOTsouthwest.

be shifted into thewestbound lanes of US 14 as crews reconstruct eastbound US 14. Although the highway willremain open to traffic, we urge drivers to slow down and watch the road ahead. We alsorecommend drivers plan ahead and allow extra time if traveling through Mazomanie.

Valley Sentinel reached out to Steven Theisen, the WisDOT regional communicaations manager about what to expect during construction, and alternate routes to take during the closures. Below are his answers.

VS: For residents that live in the Arena area and commute east on HWY 14, will they be able to take a local traffic route through Mazomanie on Walter to Hudson to HWY 78? Or will they need to reroute through Spring Green and have to take HWY 60?

ST: We are required to detour through traffic on similar highways to accommodate the type of vehicles (i.e., semi trucks). Therefore, we list the official detour as WIS 78 to Sauk City and WIS 60 back to Spring Green. We recognize that drivers familiar with the area will use local roadways during the three-week closure.

Valley Sentinel: You stated that full traffic closures won’t be happening until June, but what should commuters expect come April 19?

Steven Theisen: Starting next week, motorists can expect flagging operations on US 14 during the non-peakhours (between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.) as crews pave temporary asphalt in preparations for theupcoming traffic switch in late April/ early May. At that time, traffic will

Photo via WisDOT The orange highlight line shows the portion of Highway 14 through Mazomanie that will be under construction starting April 19.

Johnson & Johnson vaccine represents little of state vaccine precentage continued from page 1

Photo via WisDOT The red highlighted line shows the detour route for Highway 14 through Mazomanie that will begin in June.

received a COVID-19 vaccination use V-Safe, a post vaccination symptom tracker that reports vaccine and side effect data to the CDC. In Richland County, there have been zero doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccination administered, with the health department only receiving doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, according to Angie

Rizner, the county’s public information officer.

Similarly, Sauk Prairie Healthcare in Prairie du Sac has only administered doses of the Moderna vaccine, and zero doses of both Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.

Officials from Sauk County, Upland Hills Health and the Richland Hospital did not respond with comment by press time. If they respond, this story will be updated at www.valleysentinelnews.com

COmmunitycalendar Rummage Sale: Christ Lutheran Church

Youth Photography Workshops

237 Daley Street, Spring Green, WI Thursday - Friday - Saturday May 6-7-8th.

7:30am-2:30pm Good quality Items. Fellowship Hall tables filled to overflowing. Something for Everyone.

All are welcome!

Registration is now open for the Driftless Area Land Conservancy’s upcoming Youth Photography Workshops on April 17 & 24, 1:30-3 p.m. for 4th-8th graders. Adults must accompany their children and masks must be worn.

To register for the free event visit https://www.driftlessconservancy.org/general-field-events

Community Calendar

We care about the community and want to showcase your events, especially in times like these! Our goal is to keep the community in touch with events, people, life and businesses of the River Valley.

Email us to submit your local events, editor@valleysentinelnews.com

Community

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Page 5

Richland County Clerk resigns, county seeks to fill spot at April 20 meeting

Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief Richland County Clerk Victor Vlasak will be resigning from his position at the end of the month, leaving a vacancy in the county’s administration.

On April 12, Richland County Administrator, Clinton Langreck, announced Vlasak’s resignation, effective 4:30 p.m. April 30. As of May 1, the county clerk position will be vacant, which the county is seeking to fill at the April 20 regular board meeting.

Langreck said no reason for resigna-

tion was given.

The position is responsible for fulfilling responsibilities laid out in state statute that include serving as the department head from the county clerk’s office, supervision of the deputy clerk and accounts payable specialists, supervising elections and providing support to the county board and committees.

While Vlasak was elected to his current term, under statute, the county board is able to appoint a qualified

individual to fulfill the remainder of the unexpired term.

Vlasak served as the county clerk in the county for 33 years, and held the role of Administrative Coordinator from 1988 to 2020.

“Clerk Vlasak’s dedication to duty and commitment to the people of Richland County are most commendable,” said Langreck in the resignation announcement. “Under Clerk Vlasak’s leadership, many capital improvement projects

were undertaken, many building repairs were coordinated, and Clerk Vlasak led the county through dozens and dozens of successful elections.”

Vlasak declined to comment on his resignation.

The county is accepting letters of interest and resumes until noon April 19, which can be sent to Angie Rizner via email at angie.rizner@co.richland. wi.us, or via mail to 221 W Seminary St, Richland Center WI, 53581.

Gov. Evers reaches deal with USDA, preserves more than $70 million in monthly food assistance Office of Tony Evers, Governor MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced his administration has reached a deal with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to ensure the state will continue receiving more than $70 million in food assistance benefits for more than 400,000 Wisconsin households.

“More than $70 million a month means we can get support to a lot of folks across our state who are still struggling in the midst of a pandemic and need help putting food on the table,” said Gov. Evers. “I’m proud we were able to work with our federal partners to come to an agreement that will ensure we can keep providing these critical resources to Wisconsinites across our state.”

Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020, the USDA may provide additional emergency food assistance allotments to requesting states for which an emergency or disaster declaration has been issued due to an outbreak of COVID-19. In Wisconsin, these emergency allotment benefits, which are entirely federally funded, now total more than $70 million per month.

In its decision in Fabick v. Evers, the Supreme Court of Wisconsin struck down Gov. Evers’ public health emergency and effectively barred the governor from declaring a new public health emergency relating to the coronavirus pandemic, leaving Wisconsin under no emergency or disaster declaration and rendering the state ineligible to receive these additional funds under the federal requirements.

After the Court’s decision in Fabick, Gov. Evers and members of the Evers Administration worked with the USDA/ FNS to reach an agreement ensuring Wisconsin will continue to receive the funds in the absence of the governor being able to declare a public health

emergency. Today, the USDA/FNS agreed to accept an Evers Administration declaration that will preserve these critical benefits.

“We have been working tirelessly with the federal government to make sure Wisconsin families don’t lose out on needed benefits due to the global pandemic,” said Department of Health Services Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “This action will not only benefit thousands of Wisconsin families with needed money for food but also all Wisconsin communities from grocery stores to farmers to truckers, this money will benefit Wisconsin businesses and communities.”

In January, as Republicans in the Wisconsin State Legislature were set to pass a legislative resolution ending the governor’s public health emergency, the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau published a memo stating, “Without a state emergency or disaster declaration FoodShare recipients are not eligible for these additional benefits.” Days later, Republicans in the Legislature voted to end the governor’s public health emergency and jeopardizing these critical supports even as the coronavirus pandemic continued. Gov. Evers responded shortly after, declaring a new public health emergency, Executive Order #105, to ensure the state would continue to receive more than $50 million in funding to help provide food security to an estimated more than 240,000 Wisconsin households.

The Evers Administration has been working with the USDA/FNS to navigate a path to ongoing FoodShare emergency allotments as the state awaited resolution in the Fabick case. In addition to exploring approaches to change federal law removing the statewide public health emergency declaration requirement to receive these benefits, the DHS came to agreement with USDA/ FNS who agreed to allow states to gain approval for two months, rather than

a single month, of emergency SNAP allotments.

On March 31, 2021, the Supreme Court of Wisconsin issued a decision in Fabick v. Evers, striking down Executive Order #105 immediately and effectively barring the governor from issuing future orders relating to the coronavirus pandemic and in so doing jeopardized the now more than $70 million a month in federal emergency food assistance only available to states with COVID-19 emergencies or disaster declarations in effect.

Following the Fabick decision, the Evers Administration worked directly with the USDA’s Office of General Counsel, which is responsible for interpreting federal law for the agency, and FNS to identify a different path to meet the statewide declaration of emergency requirement. The Evers Administration worked to develop an agreement with the USDA/FNS, which has determined it will accept a declaration by DHS Secretary-designee Timberlake to obtain federal approval and secure these continued benefits.

Under Gov. Evers’ previous public health emergencies, Wisconsin received $57.5 million in increased benefits for approximately 255,000 households each month. This means that since the start of the COVID 19 pandemic in March 2020, these benefits have brought well over $500 million into the state, supporting nutrition for Wisconsin’s hardest hit families.

The Evers Administration’s agreement with the USDA/FNS ensures the state will continue receiving these funds, benefiting grocers, farmers, and truckers who work in the food industry. Without this agreement, the effects would have been immediate and devastating for individuals, families, and entire communities, especially as the UDSA recently announced even more funding for this emergency food program, increasing the loss that Wisconsin families are experi-

encing in terms of healthy food.

Benefits of FoodShare FoodShare is Wisconsin’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (known as SNAP in other states), providing nutrition support for working families, low-income seniors and people with disabilities living on fixed incomes, and other people and households with low incomes. In Wisconsin, 400,000+ households— more than 770,000 people—receive nutrition support through FoodShare.

34.5% of participating households have kids in them, almost 43% of households include seniors or people with disabilities.

Currently, our FoodShare households spend their benefits at more than 5,000 retailers across the state. Many of our businesses count on that revenue: not only local grocery stores, but also farms and companies that supply, transport, and market the food purchased.

The federal government estimates that every dollar of FoodShare benefits spent generates up to $1.5 in additional economic activity and increases jobs.

And research shows that this money is spent quickly, meaning that our local businesses – grocers, farmers, and truckers – will also feel the impact to any change, both positive or negative, quickly.

FoodShare during the Pandemic The number of people and families receiving FoodShare benefits in Wisconsin has been increasingly rapidly over the past year in response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with an increase of 140,000 people enrolled in the program over the past year.

In December 2019, FoodShare households spent an average of $2 million each day on food in Wisconsin over approximately 80,000 transactions. A year later, that figure increased 220%, with households spending $4.5 million at their local retailers across more than 153,000 transactions.

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We strive to serve specialty coffee and baked goods created with ingredients that are locally sourced, all natural and sustainable.

Our schedule is posted each week on social media.

Get in touch with us today! www.butternutroadcoffee.com butternutroadcoffeetruck@gmail.com 608-459-5016 Butternut Road Coffee Truck butternutroad_coffeetruck Butternut_Road

Coffee & News A collaboration by Valley Sentinel & Butternut Road Coffee.

Stop by the coffee truck starting mid-week to pick up a copy of Valley Sentinel with your coffee, while supplies last.

Page 6

Community

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

New leaf in 2021 for Freddy Valentine’s owner with new branding, food menu continued from page 1 restaurant in Spring Green.”

Following the closure of Freddy Valentine’s in September, the historic State Bank of Spring Green building the restaurant called home went up for sale. According to a Facebook post from the Freddy Valentine’s page on April 5, Owen struck a deal with a restaurant group out of Madison to purchase Freddy’s and the building, however, in December the deal fell through. Own has retained ownership of the building and will continue operating Last Leaf while the building remains up for sale.

“The building is still up for sale, but now that I have jumped into this new venture I am committed long term, I want to make this into a success but not knowing what the future holds I will proceed cautiously optimistic,” said Owen.

Owen said Last Leaf will be open at least five days a week and offer completely made-from-scratch pizza that uses locally sourced ingredients. The new restaurant will also focus on craft cocktails and provide a selection of wine and craft beer.

The restaurant will also work towards working on delivery in the Spring Green area after it is operating smoothly said Owen.

The name Last Leaf is a reference to a Tom Waits song.

“The Owen family are big Tom Waits fans, a talented, bright eccentric, the lyrics are about a defiant, resilient, hopeful

Photo by Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief A for sale sign remains outside of Freddy Valentine’s Public House as the building will remain on the market as the current owner transitions the restaurant into a pizzeria, Last Leaf Public House, which is expected to open in late May. leaf that is not going to let the fall wind get the best of him. It’s also a metaphor for Waits, a unique artist who is in the twilight of his career. I wouldn’t say I am a unique artist, otherwise the metaphor fits me very well. Additionally, the wind is the pandemic, we all are the leaf,

Taliesin graduate program cuts ties with name, Foundation continued from page 1 Arcosanti will allow the school to continue its tradition of hands-on experimental architecture and to focus, as both Soleri and Wright did, on the relationship between the natural world and the human-made environment, the role of craft and “making” in architecture, and the use of experimental materials and technologies. Our students are encouraged to respect and work within the landscapes around them while developing their own innovative concepts and projects,” said Chris Lasch, president of The School of Architecture.

Crosanti and Arcosanti are maintained by the Cosanti Foundation, which honors Paolo Soleri, an apprentice of Wright.

“Our collaboration with the school is a welcome link between our shared past and a bonded future. Paolo Soleri, Wright’s one-time apprentice, possessed a similar passion for exploratory architecture that we now have the opportunity to bring to like in the form of a graduate degree program offered by—The School of Architecture,” said John Walsh, a former board chairman of the Cosanti Foundation, in a press release.

The program’s students have traditionally spent winters in Arizona,

and summers in Spring Green, which Elaine McEwen, the School of Architecture’s Academic Coordinator, said students will continue doing throughout summer 2021.

“This summer, the school will convene an intensive summer studio that will investigate iconic architecture in and around Chicago and Wisconsin, with a focus on Frank Lloyd Wright’s seminal mid-western work,” said McEwen.

The program will include a weeklong education of Wright’s Wisconsin sites, which will be conducted at the Wyoming Valley School, the program’s home base.

In addition to an intensive education of Wright’s work throughout the state, students will also attend the official opening of the Mazomanie Pavilion, an outdoor performance structure and bandshell designed by School of Architecture students in 2019.

“The school is looking forward to getting back to its midwestern roots this summer, if only for a time, while it continues to look for a new permanent Wisconsin-based location,” said McEwen.

McEwen did not indicate when the school plans to have a Wisconsin based location, or if the school would continue its traditional journey back to the area each summer, following 2021.

defiant, resilient, hopeful individuals, families and communities like Spring Green during this unprecedented difficult time. I think it’s the perfect name for this imperfect time,” said Owen.

The restaurant is expected to be open by late May.

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“I know people will miss Freddy’s, Last Leaf won’t be FV’s, but I think we can make it in to a great restaurant that I can be proud of, that the community will support, be proud of and enjoy as they did with Freddy’s, maybe even attract a broader customer base that love pizza.”

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Arts & Culture

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Page 7

If you want to watch a boy steal the show from Justin Timberlake: Palmer Bill Gordon, Contributor

Palmer

Based on the previews and trailers, I had moderate hopes for this movie and it’s always a nice surprise when a film exceeds expectations. Palmer is one of those films. It’s not perfect, but performances by Timberlake, as Eddie Palmer, a recency released convict, Ryder Allen as Sam, a seven-year boy who enthusiastically identifies as a girl, and Alisha Wainwright as Maggie, Sam’s grade school teacher, give this movie legs. Allen, eight-years old in real life, is a joy to watch in his movie debut. Sam is unexpectedly thrust upon Palmer who is already facing challenges reintegrating into society and must decide what is best for the boy. Juno Temple (Sam’s wayward and absent mother, Shelly) and June Squibb (Vivian, Palmer’s kind grandmother) also deliver outstanding performances. Directed by Fisher Stevens.

4/5 stars

Viewing information How to view: AppleTV+ Release date: 2021 Duration: 110 Minutes Genre: Drama Rating: R

Photo via The New York Times

Art from around the Valley: Norman, the French Talouse Greeting Goose of Sauk City

A few years ago a friend and I were sitting at a picnic table near the riverwalk in Sauk City and noticed a French Talouse goose among a huge flock of Canadian geese.

A woman sitting nearby gave us the lowdown: “That’s Norman, he gets along with everyone. He was dropped off here by, presumably his owner.” How sad.

I visit Norman whenever I get to Sauk City. I’m always hopeful that he makes it through our harsh Wisconsin winters along with his off-spring, Cliff and Canadian lady, Olivia. He usually waddles up the incline from the river to greet me and then, politely waits for his cohorts to get their fill of bread that I bring for them. Only then does he take the bread offered to him. Who’s a good boy!?! He always makes my day.

The image of Norman is a mixed media painting/drawing with oils, Prismacolor pastels and pencil.

—Jen Salt, Contributor Jen Salt is an artist who lives in a place she calls “Crow’s Lair Cottage”-just outside of Spring Green where she’s lived for five and a half years. “The Wisconsin River was the draw to move here and I’ve never looked back, coming from a big city. This is home.”

Painting via Jen Salt

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Outdoors/recreation

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Wisconsin’s Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week is April 12-16 READY Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers has declared April 12-16 Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin, and ReadyWisconsin wants everyone to take time to talk about weather safety with their families. ReadyWisconsin, the National Weather Service (NWS), Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, and Wisconsin Emergency Alert System Committee also encourage everyone in the state to participate in statewide tornado drills on April 15.

“Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms are a frequent weather threat across the state each year, and it’s important that people know what to do when the skies darken and warnings are issued,” said Dr. Darrell L. Williams, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “During the statewide tornado drill, we ask everyone to practice their plan by going to their emergency shelter location.”

Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes annually. During the 2020 season, the NWS confirmed 20 tornadoes touched down in the state. While spring and summer are the most active time of the year for tornadoes, they can happen in any month.

To stay safe from severe weather, ReadyWisconsin encourages people to do the following: •Create an emergency plan and practice it. Know where designated shelters are located at home, work, and school, and be ready to go there when a tornado warning is issued.

•Have multiple ways to receive alerts about approaching severe weather. Outdoor warning sirens, a NOAA Weather Radio, local media, and smart phone apps are all important tools. Don’t rely on any single source for important life-saving alerts.

•If you have a mobile device, make sure it is enabled to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts. On many devices, that option is available in the settings menu.

•Keep up to date on the daily forecast for your area. It can help ensure you are ready for potential severe weather threats.

•Create an emergency kit for your home, with supplies such as food, water, a flashlight,and first aid kit. Find tips for building a kit at https://readywisconsin.wi.gov

On April 15, Wisconsin will once again conduct its annual statewide tornado drill.

At 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m., everyone is encouraged to pause what they are doing and practice going to their designated shelter location. If there is severe weather expected anywhere in the state on April 15, the drill would be postponed to April 16. If you are unable to participate at those times or need to stagger practices due to concerns about COVID-19, ReadyWisconsin encourages everyone to make time on the date of the drill to practice your plan.

“While the statewide drills provide a coordinated time to practice what they should do during a tornado, the most important thing people can do is exercise their plan when they can safely do so,” said Dr. Williams. “Even if you have to participate in a drill earlier or later in the day, we want everyone to spend a few minutes going over what they should be doing in the event a tornado warning is issued for their area.”

One change people may notice this year is the drill will not include a mock tornado warning issued as a live code test of the Emergency Alert System. As a result, there will be no test alerts sounded on NOAA Weather Radios. While some television and radio stations may break into coverage or display information on screen during the drill times, many may choose to address the drill during their regular local news programming instead.

Some communities may still choose to test their outdoor warning sirens during the drill times. However, it is expected many will instead rely on their regular testing schedules to ensure those devices are working properly.

In place of those alerts, you can expect to see messages from ReadyWisconsin and its partners across social media at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. that encourage everyone to participate in the drill. ReadyWisconsin also encourages people to add the drill times to their calendar to remind them to practice their plans on April 15.

Share how you’re participating by using the hashtag #TornadoDrillWI on social media.

“While many of the alarms people are used to hearing during the statewide drill may not sound this year, everyone can rest

Flooding Safety Tips Flooding is one of Wisconsin’s most common natural disasters, causing millions of dollars in property damage each year. Know the facts and keep yourself safe when floodwaters rise!

Wisconsin had one fatality in 2020 that was due to flooding.

Many floods occur along streams and rivers. You can determine your risk by knowing your proximity to the water and looking at flood plain maps.

Urban areas have a risk for flash floods due to increased runoff from buildings, roads, and parking lots. Low spots, such as underpasses and basements, can be extremely dangerous.

When camping or hiking near a stream or river, listen to the latest weather forecasts and keep away from the water if thunderstorms are expected. If a warning is issued or flooding is observed, move to higher ground.

Beware of flooding potential along the Lake Michigan shoreline in the wake of a line of strong thunderstorms with high winds that move across the lake. The winds push water to the east shoreline, which then rebounds to the west shore as a flood wave called a “seiche.”

Dam failures have played a deadly role in the history of flash flooding. Be aware of dams upstream from your location. Earthen dams and associated embankments are more easily compromised by heavy rainfall.

Do not attempt to walk or drive through a flooded roadway or intersection. Damage to the roadway may not be visible. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock an adult off their feet. Most small vehicles can be moved by just 12 inches of water and 18-24 inches can float larger SUVs, vans, and trucks. Turn around, don’t drown!

During times of heavy rain, those near areas with steep terrain should watch for rock or mudslides.

Valley Sentinel graphics by Whitney Back

Graphic via National Weather Service assured that those systems are still being regularly tested in other ways throughout the year,” Williams said. “They can have confidence that they will be ready to notify people about danger when they are needed.”

Gov. Evers’ Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week proclamation is available here.

For more tips on severe weather preparedness and advice on creating your own emergency plan, visit https://readywisconsin.wi.gov. You can also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook (https:// facebook.com/ReadyWisconsin) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/ReadyWisconsin) for tips on emergency preparedness throughout the year.

SEVERE WEATHER WATCHES AND WARNINGS Watches and Warnings are relayed to local radio and television stations and are broadcast on NOAA Weather Radios. Public safety officials also receive warnings and can activate local warning systems, like outdoor sirens, to alert communities. You may also receive warning information on mobile devices.

When conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop, the National Weather Service (NWS) will issue a WATCH. When a Watch is issued, make sure you have a source of weather information in the event storms begin to form.

Tornado Watch: Severe thunderstorms with tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms. Be prepared to move to safety if a warning is issued. Know what counties are in the watch area by listening to NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards or local radio/television stations.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Thunderstorms with large hail and damaging winds are possible. Be prepared to move to safety if a warning is issued.

When severe weather has formed, NWS meteorologists will issue a WARNING to immediately alert the public and to advise them to seek appropriate shelter. A warning indicates there is an imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

Move to a place of safety now.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A thunderstorm with large hail or damaging winds has been reported or indicated by weather radar.

Outdoors/recreation

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Page 9

Riverway board approves battle site restoration project Via Lower Wisconsin Riverway Board MUSCODA—A somber tone was set as the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board (LWSRB) acknowledged the recent death of Crawford County representative James Czajkowski. Czajowski, a former attorney and Crawford County Circuit Court Judge, died on April 2nd. A moment of silence was observed. Mark Cupp, Executive Director, said the process of finding a replacement for Czajkowski was underway.

Cupp said he also is seeking a new Dane County representative and someone to fill an “at-large” slot to represent recreational users. The county representatives must be a resident of a local unit of government with lands within the Riverway or that abuts the Riverway or an elected

official representing lands within the project area.

The board approved issuance of a management permit to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for removal of woody vegetation and trees at the site of the Battle of Wisconsin Heights from the Black Hawk War of 1832. The property is part of the Riverway’s Black Hawk Unit located in the Town of Mazomanie, Dane County. Plans call for restoration of the native plant community from the 1832 time period, which was largely prairie and oak savanna. The restoration work will be done by the DNR’s Natural Areas crew and Riverway staff. The site is an important historical and archaeological location. Native American earthworks are found at the parcel as well as the battle site where Black Hawk and a small band

Wisconsin State Park System Spring Operations Update Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Spring has sprung. And with 49 state parks, more than 500 boat launches, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, over 5,000 campsites, and much more – your adventure awaits.

As we usher in a new season, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced several State Park System operations updates outlined below.

Starting April 30, the following changes will be implemented: Observation towers and playgrounds will be open Volunteer group sizes will be increased to 50 people Capacity for open-air shelters, amphitheaters and outdoor group campgrounds will be increased to 100 people Non-department led special event capacity will increase from 50 to 100.

Special event permit applicants may work with property staff to phase larger events with capacities over 100.

Stand-alone concession facilities will open to the public at 50% capacity including staff In addition to the operations updates, the following amenities continue to be available to state park visitors: Family camping (100% reservable with auto check-in) Outdoor group camping, maximum capacity of 100 people (100% reservable with auto check-in) Bathroom and dump station facilities

Accessible cabins

Rock Island will remain closed to all visitors through Thursday, May 27 to allow for repairs to the dock including dredging of the dock area. Camping reservation holders will be contacted directly and those scheduled to arrive on Wednesday, May 26 or Thursday, May 27, will be given the opportunity to shorten their stay to arrive on Friday, May 28.

Indoor group campgrounds and indoor shelters, including the Flambeau River State Forest yurt, will also remain closed through June 1. Wisconsin state park and property visitor capacity closures will remain in place to help manage overcrowding and promote social distancing.

The following State Natural Areas are now open: • Pewits Nest • Parfrey’s Glen

added benefit would be to alleviate some of the burden from emergency responders in instances where a local volunteer can assist. Zumm said a recent virtual meeting with fire department and rescue squad personnel to discuss the concept was well attended and the idea well received.

More details on the Lower Wisconsin Riverway Safety Coalition will be forthcoming.

The next Riverway Board meeting is slated for May 13, 2021, and again will be conducted via Zoom. The link to join the meeting will be posted on the LWSRB website.

For further information, contact Mark E. Cupp, LWSRB Executive Director, at (608) 739-3188, by cell phone at (608) 739-2179 or by e-mail at mark.cupp@wisconsin.gov.

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Rain coupled with an increase in use can sometimes be damaging to public spaces and natural resources. While DNR staff try to provide signage and condition updates whenever possible, please be sure to stay on trails and seek dry trail alternatives if you find muddy conditions.

Visitors are encouraged to practice social distancing and to wear a face covering when a distance of 6 feet or greater cannot be achieved.

State park visitors can purchase annual admission passes online, over the phone by calling local properties directly or in-person at self-registration stations at individual properties.

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of warriors fought a delaying action against American troops and militia.

The delaying action allowed elderly, women, and children of the Sauk-Fox followers of Black Hawk to cross the Wisconsin River in an effort to peacefully return to Iowa. The Black Hawk War ended with the “Massacre at Bad Axe” on the Mississippi River and with the surrender of Black Hawk at Prairie du Chien.

Cupp also reported he is working with DNR Conservation Warden Al Erickson and Friends of the Lower Wisconsin Riverway (FLOW) President Timm Zumm to enhance responses to recreational user requests for assistance. GPS technology would be used to pinpoint the location of someone needing help. In addition to greater efficiency and shorter response times for emergency responders, an

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Outdoors/recreation

Page 10 WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

Birding Report: Mild weather brings diversity of waterfowl & sparrows to south, new birds to the north Ryan Brady, DNR Natural Heritage Conservation Program Biologist

Spring Cleaning: Gear Edition!

Winter has released its icy grip on Wisconsin’s lakes and streams and now it’s time to make plans for the open-water fishing season.

Get ready for the season by tuning up your gear, beginning with the reel. Here are some tips for untangling a mess inside a typical spincasting reel: 1. Remove the outer cap of the reel: You should see an inner cap. A pull-and-turn motion is the best method for this. They can be really tight when new.

2. Grasp the reel handle securely and turn the inner cap of the reel counterclockwise until the inner cap is removed.

3. You should now be staring at the tangle. Untangle the line. You may need to strip off several feet to get past the trouble spot.

4. Leave a few inches of line free and replace the inner cap of the reel by holding the reel handle securely as you turn the inner cap clockwise.

5. Thread the untangled line through the top of the outer cap.

6. Replace the outer cap of the reel. Test your repair efforts. Take some time to clean up your spinning reel, too. Remove the top and wipe down the inside. Grease the inside of the reel and the stem of the handle, and oil inside the reel from the handle access point. A degreaser like WD-40 is good to clean the outside of a reel but it will eat monofilament line, so be sure to wash it off. Clean grit from the reel by holding it under a faucet and allowing water to gently wash over the reel.

Wipe down the rod with a damp cloth.

Hook It Up! Secure your hook on the hook keeper near where the reel attaches to the rod. If your rod doesn’t have a hook keeper, secure the hook to the leg of the guide rather than the eye. Nicking the eye is rough on line.

Get Outside: Good Spots For Catfish After your spring cleaning is done, it’s time to scope out your hot spot for landing your first fish of spring. How about catfish?

Yellowstone and Wyalusing state parks, Big Green Lake and any place along the Mississippi River are just a few of the many places to try for catfish. Find more options on where to wet a line for catfish: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/anglereducation/wheretofish. Tip: Catfish hang out near the bottom of the water over woody cover or weed beds.

Gear and Bait You’ll need a sturdy (medium to heavy) rod and reel, 14-pound line and a big landing net.

Add a float on a weight above a slip-sinker and bait a jig head with worms, minnows or “stink

bait.” Whip up a tasty stink bait to tickle their scent-seeking whiskers. Ideas for stink bait include a paste of any of the following: cornmeal, chicken liver, garlic, cheddar cheese, oatmeal or tuna.

Today’s Special: Alfredo Catfish Did you make a haul this winter fishing for catfish? Then it’s time to fish the freezer to make room for the open water season’s catch.

This recipe was submitted by James Bobb of Cornell, Wisconsin for the DNR’s cookbook, Healthy Dishes With Wisconsin Fishes. Mr. Bobb used fresh-caught fish, but you can use those filets you put away in your freezer. Just let them thaw in your fridge before you get started.

Serves: 3-4 Ingredients: • 3 skinned catfish fillets, preferably channel catfish (18-25”) • Milk • Lemon pepper • 1 yellow onion, sliced • 1 green pepper, sliced • 4 tablespoons butter • 4 cups of your favorite Alfredo sauce (or use the recipe that follows the catfish cooking steps) • Salt and pepper to taste Steps: Fillet catfish and remove blood line.

Marinate fillets in milk for 8-10 hours.

Remove fillets from milk but leave moist and shake on lemon pepper. Put onions and pepper into a saucepan with butter and cook for 20 minutes.

Add fillets to onion and peppers and cook on medium for 15-20 minutes (will vary according to thickness of fillet).

Add Alfredo sauce and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes (until sauce is hot). Salt and pepper to taste.

Recommended side dishes: Creamy coleslaw, baked beans Alfredo Sauce Warm in a frying pan: ½ cup butter (1 stick) 1½ cups heavy cream Add the following and whisk for 1 minute: • 2 cloves garlic, minced • ½ teaspoon dried oregano • ½ teaspoon dried basil • ½ teaspoon salt Whisk in: • 2 cups grated Parmesan Add: • ¼ cup fresh parsley

Mild and dry weather allowed migration to advance steadily this week. The south continues to see excellent abundance and diversity of waterfowl, but with smaller numbers of swans and geese now. Shallow wetlands, ponds in open habitats and flooded fields have been hotspots, hosting various ducks, some greater white-fronted geese, good numbers of Bonaparte’s gulls, American white pelicans and growing numbers of shorebirds, including greater and lesser yellowlegs, pectoral sandpipers, Wilson’s snipes, and the first black-necked stilts. Tree swallows have become more prevalent, and the first purple martins and barn swallows have returned as well. Other water-associated species to look for now include ospreys, belted kingfishers and yellow-headed blackbirds.

Sparrow diversity continues to increase in the south, bringing more chipping, white-throated, field, vesper and swamp sparrows, to name a few. The first brown thrashers, eastern towhees and hermit thrushes were also reported. Can you believe warbler season is underway? Yellow-rumped warblers are most widespread, but the first pine warblers and Louisiana waterthrushes have also arrived. The bulk of warbler activity is still nearly a month away, however, and we don’t expect orioles and hummingbirds there until around May 1. Bluebirds, however, have already returned in earnest, their populations thriving today thanks to nest box programs and other conservation efforts.

The north woods also saw new birds arrive throughout the weekend and especially into Monday. Dark-eyed juncos appeared by the hundreds, along with some song, fox and American tree sparrows. Joining them were the first yellow-bellied sapsuckers, northern flickers, eastern phoebes, yellow-rumped warblers, winter wrens, tree swallows and ruby-crowned kinglets, all in small numbers yet.

Golden-crowned kinglets, brown creepers, purple finches and eastern meadowlarks were also found, as were a variety of blackbirds such as red-winged blackbird, common grackle and brown-headed cowbird. Raptors on the move

included red-tailed, rough-legged and sharpshinned hawks, turkey vultures, northern harriers, bald eagles, American kestrels and others. Feeder watchers noted some big flocks of common redpolls as well as a few lingering evening grosbeaks. Elsewhere, the last of the snowy owls and northern shrikes are now making their way out of Wisconsin to Canadian breeding grounds.

Also in the north, the first common loons were reported this week. Tundra swans showed well near Lake Superior as hundreds stopped on Chequamegon Bay near Ashland or were seen winging their way west to the prairies.

Other waterfowl found, some at well-known northern locales such as Crex Meadows and Powell Marsh, were good numbers of mallards, northern pintails, and ring-necked ducks, as well as wood ducks, hooded mergansers, common mergansers and others. Over 10,000 scaup and hundreds of redheads were reported on lower Green Bay, in addition to over 2,000 long-tailed ducks in Door. For both waterbirds and landbirds in the weeks ahead, birds may be more widely dispersed than some spring seasons given the lack of snow and ice in the region.

A few of the rare birds spotted recently included a mew gull in Columbia County, cinnamon teal in Sauk County, Eurasian wigeons in Columbia and Dodge, great gray owl and slaty-backed gull in Ashland, eared grebes in Grant and Green, and a very early great egret in Bayfield. Migration conditions do not look ideal over the next seven-10 days given persistent rain this week and cooler northerly winds next week, but it’s spring and birds will press on, so expect new birds to arrive throughout the period. Poor weather can also make for great birding as birds forage lower to the ground, visit feeders more often, or get forced into sub-optimal habitats. Get out there to see what you can find, and then help us track the migration by reporting your observations to www. ebird.org/wi.

Good birding!

Photo Credit: Robert Bergen, via the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources One of Wisconsin’s most iconic species, common loons can now be found on larger lakes throughout the state.

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Outdoors/recreation

WednesdaY, April 14, 2021 Page 11

An Outdoorsman’s Journal

Mark Walters, Contributor

Crappie on the Delta

Hello friends, This week and next I will be writing to you about a very interesting fishing trip that I just took with my brother Mike Walters to my brother Tom Walters lake home on Lake Washington in west central Mississippi.

Thursday, April 1st High 52, Low 33

This trip was non stop interesting so enjoy what you are about to read.

Add another 2000 miles to my 2006 Chevy pickup, no problems. Three brothers age 59, 61 and 63, we have literally been on hundreds of outdoor adventures together since birth, this would be the first where it would just be the three of us.

A major cold spell that started two days before we arrived would last for the first four days of this trip along with three inches of rain and a solid north wind. These weather conditions would create an almost zero crappie bite the first half of the trip.

My brother Tom’s neighbor is a crappie fishing guide and canceled his trips, two of the first three days that we were there and the one day he went, his client caught one legal crappie.

Lake Washington covers 5000 acres and is rated in the top 10 for crappie lakes in the country, crappie must be 11-inches to be kept and the styles of fishing vary in a way that is

simply incredible.

In Mississippi you can use 100 hooks per man to fish. Many fishermen troll as does my brother Tom but their method of trolling is very unique. Tom has eight rod holders on the rear of his 22-foot center counsel “Avenger” which is powered with a 130 hsp Yamaha.

His rod set up goes in two halves, one side has a 14 foot spinning reel combo on the outside and then two 10-footers and on the inside an 8-footer, this is duplicated on the other side of the boat.

What Tom uses for bait is 1/16 ounce jigs with spinners, tipped with plastic tails and a scented baited.

The trolling is done with an electric motor and Tom likes to move along at just under one mile an hour. As I said the fishing catching was incredibly slow the first three days but to put things into perspective, our first crappie which Mike caught was 13-inches.

So you are moving along with two guys sitting in the rear and the other working the trolling motor and a “goo” hits one of the jigs. Goo are the south’s version of sheephead and we caught lots of them.

If you are not on top of your game the goo has you in two to three lines and your life is now not so much fun.

I love the south and find it incredibly interesting, when you are on the water or in a local store, everyone talks to each other and as I have written in the past, per capita, for the USA, I believe these are toughest people that I see anywhere that I travel.

Photo by Mark Walters, Contributor Tom and Mike Walters fishing in cypress trees on Lake Washington.

Photo by Mark Walters, Contributor The trolling set up for one half of the Tom Walters boat.

Photo by Mark Walters, Contributor Mike Walters with the first crappie of the trip.

Another very interesting way to fish is in the cypress trees, which are trees that actually grow in the water and are non stop crappie habitat. There are two methods, one is where fishermen slowly work their way through the forest/flooded timber with their trolling motors and either drag minnows on bobbers, or sit in the front of their flat bottom boats and jig from tree to tree, or they simply anchor and watch bobbers with minnows on them.

We did this method as well and it was really cool to see fishermen from all over the country cruising through this world class fishery. The forest is so thick that you hear them talking to fishermen in other boats long before you see them.

In all honesty this style of fishing was where my heart was and I kept thinking I need to come back here and live in the swamp with my canoe.

This trip certainly was not all about fishing. We cooked great meals and had a blast both at camp until we went to bed rather late each night, and once the

weather became warmer we started fishing after dark from Tom’s pier which is a whole other story.

Here are a couple of cool things to think about. In Mississippi, if you are a resident, at the age of 65 you can buy a Senior Lifetime Exempt license for $5.00. This includes basically all of your licenses but your Federal duck stamp and salt water license, add another $5.00 and you get the salt water license.

In closing, the world record white crappie comes from Mississippi and it came in at a whopping 5 lbs 3 oz.

Next year I am going to try and beat that record!

—Sunset

Want to read more?

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

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Community

Page 12 WednesdaY, April 14, 2021

COVID-19 Dashboard Wisconsin Summary

586,632 Positive Cases

Cases as of 4/13/2021

+5,562 from 4/6

2,778,854 Negative Test Results +26,918 from 4/6

6,690 Deaths +42 from 4/6

Vaccine Summary Statistics Updated: 4/13/2021

3,669,405

3,572,358

Allocated

1,856,771

Administered

1,555,212

Pfizer doses administered

Moderna doses administered

160,080

Johnson & Johnson doses administered

Vaccine Data Updated: 4/13/2021

These two core measures are all measures of herd immunity in Richland, Sauk and Iowa County. We do not yet know what level of vaccination leads to herd immunity for COVID-19, or how current or future variants might affect herd immunity. We know based on other diseases that herd immunity is likely at least 60%, and if more transmissible variants become more common, that threshold may become higher, so our current target range is 60-90%.

-Madison Public Health and Dane County

Richland County

1,286 Positive Cases +11 from 4/6 8,140 Negative Tests +52 from 4/6 15 Deaths +0 from 4/6

Richland

Target Range

38%

Iowa County

1,976 Positive Cases +16 from 4/6 11,309 Negative Tests +100 from 4/6 10 Deaths +0 from 4/6

Sauk County

5,604 Positive Cases +82 from 4/6 35,191 Negative Tests +264 from 4/6 46 Deaths +2 from 4/6

Sauk

Target Range

37.5%

Percent with at least one vaccine dose

Percent with at least one vaccine dose

26.5%

27.7%

Percent fully vaccinated

Iowa

Percent fully vaccinated Target Range

42.7%

Percent with at least one vaccine dose

29.6%

Percent fully vaccinated

Cumulative total confirmed COVID-19 cases by date in Wisconsin Cases as of 4/13/2021

Editor’s Note: The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is updating the datasets, dashboards and graphs on their site.

Many of the datasets of local interest that Valley Sentinel usually features here are unavailable this week.

We are are committed to featuring data that anyone can access through our publication that can be used to make informed decisions of local interest and personal health.

We will be assessing the updates that are made by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and updating our data here accordingly.

If there are certain graphs/datasets you would like to see or you believe are of the most benefit to the community, let us know at: editor@valleysentinelnews.com or 608-588-6694.

Graphic by Whitney Back

Data From: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/index.htm