Valley Sentinel - 05-15-2025 by Valley Sentinel

Spring Green, Wisconsin

The Village of Arena selects a new president

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REVIEW: Wisconsin’s Justin Vernon/Bon Iver’s new album

Best of the River Valley: 2025 nominations open!

Village of Arena Board elects Paul Pustina as Village President, continues post election clean-up

Board continuing with forensic audits while increasing village transparency, tables ordinance that would include residents on committees

The Village of Arena recently held two meetings — a special meeting on April 28, where the board hired temporary clerks and reopened the village hall to the public, and one regular meeting on May 6 where the board elected a new village president and trustee to fill vacant seats.

April 28 meeting

Temporary clerk/treasurers

President pro tempore and Acting Village

President Steve Wilkinson introduced Robin Meyer, who is a licenced CPA and offers consulting for municipalities, and Susan Strang, who has 30 years experience and has experience with payroll systems, as two candidates to offer temporary clerk services

to the village — following the resignation of former clerk in April.

Wilkinson motioned for the village to hire

Meyer and Strang for $35 an hour for 12 hours per week individually, contingent on passing a background check. The motion

passed with Trustees Matthew Schroeder and Joe Hipsky voting against.

Trustee BeccaRaven Uminowicz, who had been delegated to contract for external accounting service, told the board that she had been in contact with Clifton Larson Allen for temporary accounting and bookkeeping services. Uminowicz reported that the firm would charge the village $115 per hour plus a 5% support fee and work for 1620 hours per week for the village. The board did not have to take action as this spending had been authorized at the April 15 special meeting.

Forensic audit and office security

Uminowicz reported an update on the forensic audit from Digital Forensics. The updated cost from the company was $8,000 total for both audits. Wilkinson noted the paperwork was ready to be signed and payment would be transferred to begin the pro-

continued on page 5

River Valley School Board approves maintenance projects, suspends anti-discrimination policy amid Title IX changes

At the April 10 regular meeting of the River Valley School District Board of Education, the board accepted the resignation and retirement of three teachers, approved summer maintenance projects and suspended a harassment and discrimination policy.

Suspension of Policy 413 Gender-Based Harassment and Discrimination

The board discussed and approved the suspension of district policy 413 Gender-Based Harassment and Discrimination. This policy provides protections for students who identify as LGBTQ+. It also acts to prohibit affected students from harassment, bullying or unlawful discrimination.

According to Superintendent Loren Glasbrenner, the federal Department of Education made a certification of compliance directive through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for new Title IX leg-

islation. The compliance directive requires every district to sign and certify the new federal administration’s interpretation of Title IX or risk losing all federal funding to the district, and is the reason the school board discussed suspension of its related policy.

Title IX acts to prohibit any type of sexbased discrimination in educational facilities or programs that receive funding from the federal government.

Board President Kathy Jennings noted that the suspension of this policy was informed by the district’s legal counsel and was being made to ensure compliance with directives from the Department of Education.

“I don’t think there’s anyone on this board that really loves that we are making these decisions because of the reason that we have to. I am thinking of all of the families that this is going to impact,” Kiley Cates,

school board member, said. “I also want to recognize the emotional and psychological aspect to this, to our kids and our families. I just want to say as a school board member I personally see you guys and feel you guys, and I am really sorry that this is where we are today, because this isn’t what we are as school board members.”

Board member Sara Carstensen added, “Our district is not changing how we handle any of these students or families. This is strictly suspending a policy to be in-line with federal requirements. None of our operations are going to change, we assure you that.”

The board approved suspending the policy, with all members in favor, except Sara Young, who opposed.

Election results

The results of the April 1 election were reviewed by the board. Running unopposed,

in Area 3, Jeff Maier won with 3,330 votes, and in Area 9 John Bettinger won with 3,332 votes. In Area 6, Emily Beck won her election with 2,117 votes against opponent Jess Heisl, who had 1,467 votes. The District’s operational referendum passed, with 2,275 votes for yes and 2,238 votes for no. Summer maintenance projects

The board discussed the upcoming summer maintenance and project list for the district’s buildings. Brian Krey, business manager, reported from the Buildings and Grounds Committee to the board on these projects.

Many of these projects are related to the district’s reconfiguration due to the Early Learning Center closure and also include numerous mechanical, plumbing, electrical and communications systems upgrades.

Luukas Palm-Leis, Reporter

The fully-constituted new Village of Arena Board of Trustee sat on May 6. Trustees, from left, Ted Strang, Joe Hipsky, Don Helt, Steve Wilkinson, Temporary Clerk Robin Meyer, Village President Paul Pustina, Trustees BeccaRaven Uminowicz and Matthew Schroeder.

Luukas Palm-Leis, Reporter

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Budget-busting voucher

Ruth Coniff, Wisconsin Examiner

expansion could bankrupt Wisconsin public schools

The top issue Wisconsinites brought to legislators’ attention at budget hearings around the state last month was the need to adequately fund public schools.

But now, as the Legislature’s powerful budget committee is beginning to work on the budget in earnest, a low-profile plan that never came up in those public hearings aims to turn school vouchers into a statewide entitlement, sucking up all the resources that might otherwise go to public schools and putting Wisconsin on a path to a full–blown budget crisis.

The plan, contained in two bills that failed in the last legislative session, would stop funding school vouchers through the same mix of state and local funding that supports regular public schools, and instead pay for school vouchers just out of the state’s general fund.

“It’s certainly something that I personally support. … I’m sure it will be part of the discussion,” Rep. Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam), co-chair of the powerful Joint Finance Committee, told Lisa Pugh on Wisconsin Eye when she asked about “decoupling” Wisconsin voucher school funding from the rest of the school finance system. “Decoupling” would pave the way for a big expansion in taxpayer subsidies for private school tuition. While jettisoning the caps on available funds and enrollment in the current school formula, voucher payments would become an entitlement. The state would be obligated to pay for every eligible student to attend private school. It’s worth noting that most participants in Wisconsin’s voucher programs never attended public school, so what we are talking about is setting up a massive private school system with separate funding alongside the public K-12 school system. That’s more than Wisconsin can afford.

Anne Chapman, research director for the Wisconsin Association of School Business Officials (WASBO), has followed the issue closely. “It could come up last-minute, on very short notice,” she warns.

She worries that Wisconsin is following the same path as other states that have steadily expanded public funding for private schools without accurately assessing what the expansion would cost. In a recent WASBO paper, “The price of parallel systems,” Chapman writes that Wisconsin already ranks third among states with the highest proportion of state education

On the cover

It's that time of year!

No, not just spring, it's Morel mushroom season (and oyster mushroom season if the reports and farmers markets are to be believed!).

Whether you fry them up in flour and butter, add them to pasta or dry them to be added to a cozy soup this winter (or more, they're a very veratile fungus), Morel mushroom season is always special.

(Did you know Morels aren't actually "standard" mushrooms in the technical sense? Look it up!)

Don't forget to check out the Muscoda Morel Mushroom Festival!

Pictured is a Morel in Richland County.

Submit your artwork or photography for cover consideration: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

dollars used in private schooling options (9%). The top two states, Florida (22%) and Arizona (12%), she writes, are “cautionary examples.”

Florida’s universal voucher program will cost the state $3.9 billion this year. The state, which until now has been running budget surpluses, is projecting a $6.9 billion deficit by 2027-28, fueled by the voucher expansion along with tax cuts. Arizona is also facing much bigger than expected costs for its universal voucher program. After projecting it would cost $64 million in 2023-24, the state found that it underestimated the cost of vouchers by more than 650%. The real cost of universal vouchers in Arizona in 2023-24 was $738 million. The result: a huge budget deficit and significant cuts to public schools.

Wisconsin, which launched the first school voucher program in the nation in Milwaukee 35 ago, has steadily increased both the size and per-pupil expenditures of its system of voucher schools. That’s despite a research consensus that school vouchers have not improved academic outcomes for students and, in fact, have done significant harm.

Testifying recently against a school voucher bill in Texas, University of Michigan professor and school voucher expert Josh Cowen described the “catastrophic” results of vouchers on educational outcomes across the country over the last decade.

‘Horrific’ voucher results Cowen has been evaluating school vouchers since the 1990s, when the first pilot program in Milwaukee had a measurable, positive impact on the 400 low-income kids who used vouchers to attend traditional private schools. As school vouchers expanded to serve tens of thousands of students and “subprime” operators moved in to take advantage of taxpayer dollars, however, the results took a dramatic downturn. Cowen described the “horrific learning loss” he and other researchers have recorded over the last decade among kids who started in public school and then moved to private school using vouchers. He was used to seeing trends in education that simply didn’t work to improve outcomes, he told the Texas legislators, but “it’s very rare to see something that harmed kids academically.” The worst drops in test scores, he said, came in 2014-15 — the same year that states began taking the programs statewide. He concluded that the smaller

programs that had paid close attention to students and offered them a lot of support became something entirely different when vouchers were scaled up. Yet despite the abysmal results, more and more states are moving toward universal voucher systems.

Imagine, Cowen told the Texas legislators, if “30 years ago a vaccine showed some positive effects in clinical trials for a few hundred kids.” Then, when the vaccine was approved and used on thousands of children, “the health effects became negative, even atrocious.”

“No one would say, ‘let’s just hang our hat on the pilot and focus on results from 30 years ago,” Cowen said. But that’s exactly what’s happening with school vouchers. The kids vouchers were originally supposed to help — low-income children in underresourced schools — have suffered the most.

Studies from research teams in Louisiana, Indiana, Ohio and Washington, D.C., show learning losses for kids who left public school to attend voucher programs that surpassed the learning loss experienced by students in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina or by children across the country from the COVID-19 pandemic, Cowen said. Instead of helping those struggling students, who often attend the “subprime” schools Cowen discussed, the voucher programs in Wisconsin and other states mostly provide a taxpayer-financed benefit to private school families — 70% of whom have never put their kids in public school.

Anti-government ideologues and school choice lobbyists are selling a faulty product with the rapid expansion of school vouchers.

Part of the scam is the effort to hide the true costs from taxpayers. That’s the part Chapman, the school business expert, is worried about. As school districts struggle with lean budgets, under the current system, at least local taxpayers can see how much they are paying to support the voucher schools in their districts. If the Legislature succeeds in moving the cost of school vouchers into the general statewide budget, that transparency will be lost. And, at the same time, the state will open the door to unlimited spending on vouchers, no matter how expensive the program becomes.

School choice advocates in Wisconsin have long pushed for “a voucher in every backpack” — or universal eligibility for the

private school voucher program.

“Eligibility” doesn’t mean the same thing as “access,” however: In Wisconsin voucher schools have a track record of kicking out students who are disabled, challenging to educate, LGBTQ or for any other reason they deem them a bad fit.

Those students go back to the public schools, whose mission is to serve all students. In contrast, private schools in the voucher system can and do discriminate. Yet, Chapman reports, we are now spending about $629 million for Wisconsin’s four voucher programs, which serve 58,623 students. That’s $54 million more than the $574.8 million we are spending on all 126,830 students with disabilities in Wisconsin, as school districts struggle with the cost of special education.

Federal tax deduction windfall for voucher schools

As if that weren’t enough, at the federal level, the Educational Choice for Children Act of 2025 (ECCA), currently being considered by Congress, would give a 100% tax deduction on donations to nonprofits known as Scholarship Granting Organizations, which give out private K-12 school vouchers.

Normally, donors to nonprofits can expect a tax deduction of 37 cents on the dollar at most. The 100% tax deduction means financial advisers across the country will push clients, whether they are school choice advocates or not, to give money to voucher schools. Under the bill, contributors would also be allowed to give corporate stock and avoid capital gains tax. “This would allow wealthy ‘donors’ to turn a profit, at taxpayer expense, by acting as middlemen in steering federal funding into private K-12 schools,” the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy reports. ITEP estimates that the ECCA would cost the federal government $134 billion in foregone revenue over the next 10 years and would cost states an additional $2.3 billion.

The very least we can do as citizens is to demand accountability and transparency in the state budget process, before we blow all of our money on tax breaks and tuition vouchers for people who don’t need them.

Ruth Conniff is Editor-in-chief of the Wisconsin Examiner. She formerly served as Editor-in-chief of The Progressive Magazine where she worked for many years from both Madison and Washington, DC.

“Mushroom Hunting” (2025) Photo, by Taylor Scott, Managing Editor

OPINION/EDITORIAL

The Tools of Conversation — Part 10: A Wise and Compassionate Voice

Beverly Pestel, Columnist

This series explores how our tools of conversation—from speech and print to television and social media—have shaped the way we think, learn and interact, often steering us into a state of fragmented discourse and misinformation. By examining seminal works on information networks, critical thinking and media influence, each column digs deeper into why our collective capacity for thoughtful conversation and civic engagement appears at risk. As we navigate new technologies and grapple with the merging of entertainment and news, we confront a crucial question: can we harness our evolving tools of communication to foster truth, community and meaningful dialogue, or will we be “amused into indifference”? Join me on this journey through reading, reflection, and inquiry, as we seek practical insight into building a more informed, empathetic and civically engaged society.

I keep popping into Facebook to see I have now been banned from the MAGA Facebook site I had been engaged in for months. It was a difficult stay, often a toxic environment that was painful, but one I stayed in for multiple reasons. I was demeaned in multiple ways, and some have expressed wonder at why I would subject myself to that.

I am rereading Healing the Heart of Democracy (2011) by Parker J. Palmer. I felt in need of his gentle compassion and wisdom as an advocate for inclusive, healthy communities. He gave me the words for why I stayed in that MAGA community for so long (and would still be there had they not banned me). Palmer states, “…democracy demands that we become engaged with “the other” as well as with “our own kind,” with the stranger whose viewpoint, needs, and interests are likely to be different from our own. (pg.38) A legitimate movement works hard to keep its critics in the conversation, and there is no better example of this than the movement called American democracy.” (pg. 188)

The political events of the last sever-

Contact us PO Box 144 Spring Green, Wisconsin 53588 USA (608) 588-6694 editor@valleysentinelnews.com valleysentinelnews.com

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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 and impartiality of our reporting.

al months have left some of us bereft and mystified by those who do not see the threat to our democracy that we do. Palmer puts it this way, “There are times when the heart, like the canary in the coal mine, breathes in the world’s toxicity and begins to die.” (pg.3) Dealing with that leaves some angry, despondent, and withdraw in an effort to protect themselves. Some engage in the work of finding solutions. Palmer puts these two responses into context:

“If you hold your knowledge of self and world wholeheartedly, your heart will at times get broken by loss, failure, defeat, betrayal, or death. What happens next in you and the world around you depends on how your heart breaks. If it breaks apart into a thousand pieces, the result may be anger, depression, and disengagement. If it breaks open into greater capacity to hold the complexities and contradictions of human experience, the result may be new life…Politics in the hands of those whose heart has been broken open, not apart, helps us hold our differences creatively and use our power courageously for the sake of a more equitable, just, and compassionate world. (pg. 18)

How are our conversations influenced by the condition of our broken heart? Palmer addresses this, and I give him the remainder of this column to explain it “Talking about “those people” instead of talking with each other is a poor excuse for genuine political discourse. It is also a path to political disempowerment,

a way to make sure that “We the People” will have little or no leverage on the social and economic problems that concern us, and no way to discern and give voice to the common good…History has always been made by individuals doing their small parts in ways that have the potential to add up to something big. But these days, “We the People” have a great deal of trouble talking across our lines of difference about the common good –so much trouble that many of us doubt the very concept of a “common good… Deformed by a divisive political culture, we’re less inclined to differ with each other honestly than to demonize each other mercilessly.” (pgs. xviii – xix)

“…America’s founders – despite the bigotry that limited their conception of who “We the People” were – had the genius to establish the first form of government in which differences, conflict, and tension were understood not as the enemies of a good social order but as the engines of a better social order. As “We the People” retreat from the public square and resort to private gripe sessions with those who think like us, we create a vacuum at the center of America’s public life. Politics abhors a vacuum as much as nature does, so nondemocratic powers rush in to fill the voice – especially the power called “big money.” (pg. xx - xxi)

Palmer also refers to the same fundamental issue as Lilla does in his book Ignorance and Bliss (Part 6):

“We willingly give up a shot to acquire true beliefs about the world out of fear that truths about ourselves will be exposed in the process, especially our insufficient courage for self-examination…” (pg. 50)

almer puts that sentiment this way: “…a way that opens our heart to each other, no matter how deep our differences. That way begins “in here” as we work on reconciling whatever divides us from ourselves – and then moves out with healing power into a world of many divides, drawing light out of darkness, community out of chaos, and life out of death…When we share the sources of our pain with each other instead of hurling our convictions like rocks at “enemies

Letter to the Editor Policy

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.

” we have a chance to open our hearts and connect across some of our great divides.” (pg. 4,6)

“When all of our talk about politics is either technical or strategic, to say nothing of partisan and polarizing, we loosen or sever the human connections on which empathy, accountability, and democracy itself depend. If we cannot talk about politics in the language of the heart – if we cannot be publicly heartbroken, for example, that the wealthiest nation on earth is unable to summon the political will to end childhood hunger at home –how can we create a politics worthy of the human spirit, one that has a chance to serve the common good?” (pg. 6)

“Looking at politics through the eye of the heart can liberate us from seeing it as a chess game of moves and countermoves or a shell game for seizing power or a blame game of Whack-A-Mole. Rightly understood, politics is no game at all. It is the ancient and honorable human endeavor of creating a community in which the weak as well as the strong can flourish, love and power can collaborate, and justice and mercy can have their day. “We the People” must build a political life rooted in the commonwealth of compassion and creativity still found among us, becoming a civic community sufficiently united to know our own will and hold those who govern accountable to it.” (pg. 8)

“We must be able to say, in unison: It is in the common good to hold our political differences and the conflicts they create in a way that does not unravel the civic community on which democracy depends.” (pg. xxvii)

“The democratic experiment is endless, unless we blow up the lab, and the explosives to do the job are found within us.” (pg. 9)

Thank you, Parker, and may we heed your advice and your warning.

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. Beverly may be contacted at bpestel@msn.com.

Deadlines: The display and classified 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.

Column Policy

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.

Community Discussion Policy

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.

Beverly Pestel

Valley Sentinel announces the 2025 Best of the River Valley reader poll, nominations open May 16 Valley Sentinel is excited to announce our 5th Annual Best of the River Valley reader poll! Again, 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.

As always, 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.

The poll results will be on stands during the Spring Green Arts & Crafts Fair and when the start of the season for American Players Theatre is in full swing.

The Best of the River Valley is not only a complement to existing guides that help community and newcomers alike navigate our area, but also — especially now more than ever — 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 the beginning of June, 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 2024 to May 2025. Nominations will generally be limited to 15 miles around the Spring Green area — Arena, Lone Rock, Plain and Spring Green — unless stated as regional. The poll 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.

As always, 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.

We're looking for cover art for the section as well as a theme — what has this last year meant to you? Has there been a word or phrase that stuck with you that you believe represents the area the past year? Let us know.

This year we will showcase our "three-peat", "four-peat" and "fivepeat" winners who have won three, four, and five years of the poll. If there are categories and questions you believe we should add, let us know and we will consider them for next year.

The Best of the River Valley is an exten sion of our passion to build community and, in its fifth year running, is one of many ideas that we hope will become a part of what makes our community so great.

We’re excited to again facilitate this big undertaking and see how it grows and changes year after year.

Timeline

May 16 - May 29: Open nominations! This is your time to share all your best choices for each category and question to create a list to vote on. Share your favorite business or place or thing. Instructions on how are below.

June 1 - June 15: Polls open! This is your time to vote on the nominations and help decide who or what wins each poll question. Popular write-in options will be added to the poll as well.

June 26: Winners announced! On or around this date winners will be announced in Valley Sentinel, followed shortly by an online announcement. For this year again we'll probably still limit awards and such to some fancy certificates for public posting, but in future years perhaps a recognition banquet or mixer can be in the works?

Call for nominations

Visit our website valleysentinelnews.com/best-of/ and submit your nominations online. Website will be updated soon.

Businesses! Don’t be afraid to nominate yourselves, and please reach out if you’re interested in ways to get involved or for ads. If you are looking for previous years' winning certificates please let us know!

Puzzle created by Nick Zaborek, edited by Jen Zaborek

Bengt Giobel

Bi-Weekly Sword Tip

The Gift of White Smoke

As the world watched, the century-old process began to unfold at the Vatican in Rome to select the next Pope of the Catholic Church after Pope Francis’ death. And then, on the second day it was announced that The Conclave had elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome.

"Peace be with all of you!" - were the first words of Pope Leo XIV. He went on to say to the huge crowd “We can be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges, that is always open to receive everyone—just like in this square, to welcome everyone, in charity, dialogue and love.”

Village of Arena Board elects Paul Pustina as Village President, continues post election clean-up

continued from page 1

cess immediately.

The scope of the audits include a random subset of water-sewer bills during the tenure of the previous clerk and a full forensic audit from March 1 through the middle of April.

The board discussed opening the clerk’s office as it had been subject to a lockdown imposed by the board at its April 15 meeting, to allow for forensic audits to take place.

Wilkinson noted the sheriff’s office had no objections to re-opening the office, as they would not require any evidence from the office. Hipsky relayed the village’s attorney advised similarly.

the Fire/EMS District Commission was taken, as the board would be discussing an ordinance change that, if implemented, would restructure who would be appointed as a representative.

Trustees then discussed setting a date for the Village’s organizational meeting and initial committee meetings. The board voted unanimously to set the organizational meeting on May 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Pope Leo XIV went on to say: “To all who sent prayers, love and hope as I begin this sacred journey–thank you! I accept this role not as a throne, but as a vow: to serve the forgotten; to uplift the broken, to speak plainly where others stay silent. To be called “woke” in a world that sleeps through suffering is no insult–it is Gospel. Woke means awakened by compassion. Guided by truth. Humbled by grace. Committed to justice–not just for some, but for all. So let them mock. Let them sneer. We will still build the Kingdom–not with walls, but with love. Be awake,be loving, be woke.”

Wow…be still my heart and soul!

Once I read these words (even referring to our current “woke” environment), I was SO touched and impressed with his encompassing compassion and humility similar to his predecessor, Pope Francis. In addition, Pope Leo XIV is more progressive when it comes to social issues and champions the poor and migrants. Leo has also forcefully supported efforts to manage the impacts of climate change..all giving rise for hope and courage to keep our lights shining at this seemingly dark and challenging time.

All of this, personally, was reminiscent of when our Episcopal Church announced many years ago, they had elected the first gay Bishop. The Pastor of our Church in Colorado Springs, announced to our congregation that “we are about anyone needing us/our church is welcome as Jesus preached”. Again, a wow moment for us all…we went on to market to the local Gay Pride Community. Born in Chicago, Illinois and raised in a town near the city's South Side, Prevost became a friar of the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. His service has included extensive missionary work in Peru from 1985 to 1986 and from 1988 to 1998, where he served as a parish pastor, diocesan official, seminary teacher, and administrator. Pope Leo, who has a rich cultural

Sherry Hillesheim, R.N.

and immigrant background, has not spoken openly about his roots, in fact, may have an ancestral connection to Haiti. Eventually both sets of his great- grandparents had lived in Louisiana since at least the 1850s and reflected the unique cultural tapestry of Southern Louisiana.

A United States citizen and a naturalized citizen of Peru, Leo XIV is the first pope from North America, the first from Peru, and the second from the Americas after Francis. He is the first pope from the Order of Saint Augustine. His papal name was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, who developed Catholic social teachings. His experience and travels served him well. In addition to his native English, Leo speaks Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, along with some German. He can also read Latin.

The bonds between Leo and Francis ran much deeper than their South American geographic roots. In January 2023, Francis called Prevost to the Vatican to serve as leader of the Dicastery for Bishops, the office that selects bishops around the world. According to PBS, Prevost presided over one of Pope Francis’ most notable reforms that added three women to the voting base that decides which bishop nominations are forwarded to the pope.

The selection of this/our new Pope…no matter our religious or spiritual affiliation, provides hope for a kinder, more compassionate world…what a boost to our holistic wellness. Stay woke Wellness Warriors!

Spiritual Meditation: Like raindrops on a pond rippling out, our prayers and acts of kindness ripple directly to the center of the universe. - Daily Medicine

Political Humor: Ikea makes better cabinets than the current Administration.

My blog and contact information: www.holisticseekers.com; 719-2139963

The board voted to open the clerk’s office during the hours the temporary clerks are present, with Trustees Don Helt, Uminowicz and Hipsky in favor, and Schroeder and Wilkinson opposed.

The board also voted to reopen the clerk’s office to the public no later than May 5, with all members in favor.

May 6 meeting

The board elected two new members to fill the vacant positions of village president and trustee. Three members of the public expressed interest in the position of trustee, Paul Pustina, Nathan Pinkham and Ted Strang.

The board began by electing one person to the trustee seat formerly filled by Melissa Bandell for a one year term. Current trustees cast ballots and in the first election, Paul Pustina received three votes, securing the seat, and Ted Strang received two votes. Pustina was immediately given a verified oath of office.

Then, as all six regular trustee seats were full, the board voted for village president, which is a two year term that had formerly been filled by Kathy Stoltz and can only be filled from within the trustees. Stoltz resigned on April 15, less than 8 hours after being seated as village president.

Pustina was nominated by Trustee BeccaRaven Uminowicz, and Trustee Matthew Schroeder was nominated by President pro tempore Steve Wilkinson. Pustina received four votes, securing the election, and Schroeder received two votes.

Pustina was immediately sworn into office and assumed the position of village president for the meeting.

The board then voted to fill the one year term seat which had been occupied by Pustina. Strang received five votes and secured the seat, and Pinkham received one vote. Strang was immediately sworn into office and participated in the remainder of the meetin

Meeting streaming

Trustee Joe Hipsky reported on the board’s consideration to purchase a Meeting Owl to stream the village’s board meetings online to the public. The motion to purchase a Meeting Owl passed, with Schroeder and Pustina voting against. The streaming platform which the meetings will be broadcast to was not decided, however, the village does utilize Microsoft suite software for business needs and the board discussed utilizing Teams or Zoom to stream meetings.

Board organization and committee appointments

The board discussed several items regarding board organization and committee representatives. For the Village’s Board of Review, Pustina, Uminowicz, Schroeder, Strang and Wilkinson were selected as members, with Trustees Don Helt and Hipsky selected as alternate trustees.

Pustina was nominated and voted to be the board’s representative to the Dane-Iowa Wastewater Commission. The board voted to appoint Ray Porter as the citizen member representative for the month of May while a new citizen representative could be found to take his place.

No action to appoint a representative to

Ordinance change proposal

An ordinance change was proposed by Uminowicz to the board to amend sections 2.10.020 and 2.10.090, and repeal and replace section 2.10.040 and chapter 2.325 of the municipal code. These changes would introduce greater civic involvement by allowing appointment of village residents to standing committees. It would also change who the Village appoints to certain roles in committees.

The ordinance change introduces new definitions to each standing committee and adds a new ordinance committee to the list of standing committees. Also added was the provision for two appointed, voting and quorum contributing residents of the village to stand on each committee.

The proposed ordinance also removed the Public Safety Committee from the board’s standing committees and re-constituted it as a statutory body composed of five residents that would act as a Board of Police Commissioners, who could then study and advise the board on re-starting a village police department.

Under this structure, the future police department would be independent from the board and would be supervised by this five citizen body and separated from the politics of the board. An analysis by Valley Sentinel showed that this proposal would create one of the most independent police department governance structures of any village in the state of Wisconsin.

Schroeder stated his view to the board the proposed ordinance, as presented, was not compatible with current village procedure for implementing ordinance changes. However, Uminowicz and Helt extended support for the ordinance change and called for it to be workshopped by the board.

“We’ve got to have the community involved, and we do not shut that door even a little bit,” Helt said. “I want this village totally involved, and when they’re on committees with us board members, their say should have some weight to it.”

Pustina appointed the entire village board to an ad hoc committee to work through the proposed ordinance. The board voted to send the proposed ordinance to the Village’s attorney with all members in favor except Schroeder, who opposed.

Food Pantry

The board discussed a request from the Arena Food Pantry coordinator to utilize space in the Arena Village Hall to store refrigerators and supplies, as the ACES apartment block is no longer interested in hosting the food bank. The food pantry must move out of the space after June distribution.

Ray Porter, the current organizer for the Arena Food Pantry, also notified the board that he is looking for people to take over the food pantry, as he is stepping down from organizing in July.

On top of normal food distribution operations, the food pantry has also provided local children with backpacks of food to take home during the school year.

No action regarding the food pantry was taken, as the trustees decided to inquire about the needs of the food pantry and if the Village Hall would be able to take on future operations if a new organizer could be found, not just storage of equipment.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering to take over Arena Food Pantry operations in the future, please contact Kristy and Ray Porter at 608-753-2169.

Eventsfor May 15 - May 29

Thursday, May 15

COmmunitycalendar

Events are subject to change, always check ahead for up-to-date information on any events you are interested in.

Monday, May 19

CLASS: Line Dancing 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/line-dancing • All ages • Beginners welcome for this lively session featuring classic and contemporary line dances. No experience necessary—take it one step at a time and enjoy the fun!

Tech Drop-in 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM • Arena Village Hall, 345 West St., Arena • rvbroadband.org/techhelp • Free drop-in help with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop—no appointment needed. Knowledgeable volunteers or staﬀ assist with email setup, social media, software issues, and more. Part of a rotating weekly series across River Valley libraries.

Lone Rock Farmers Market 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM • Center Park, 326 E Liberty St., Lone Rock • For more information, look up Lone Rock Farmers Market on Facebook • All ages • Shop local produce, baked goods, and handmade items. Held every Thursday through the growing season.

Spring Green Recreational Soccer 5:30 PM • Spring Green North Park, behind the pool • For more information, look up "Spring Green Recreational Soccer" on Facebook • Ages 12+ • Tuesday and Thursday evenings (weather permitting). Casual and fun community play for teens and adults.

Friday, May 16

SOLD OUT: Adam Greuel & the Space Burritos 7:00 PM (Doors 6:00 PM) • Sh*tty Barn, 506 E Madison St, Spring Green • shittybarnsessions.com • 21+ • Advance tickets sold out. That said, tickets often come up that people can't use, so check out SH*TTY TICKET SWAP, which helps to connect ticket buyers and sellers • A genre-bending ride through country, bluegrass, swamp rock, and good-time mischief with Adam Greuel (Horseshoes & Hand Grenades) and a rotating crew of Midwest music greats.

Saturday, May 17

FESTIVAL: Muscoda Morel Festival 7:00 AM – Dusk • Downtown Muscoda • muscoda.com • All ages • Celebrate Wisconsin’s “Morel Mushroom Capital” with food, vendors, kids’ activities, and more. Highlights include the “Foraging for FUN-gi” parade at 3 PM and ﬁreworks along the Wisconsin River at dusk. Full schedule online.

Spring Green Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM • Downtown Spring Green, Corner of Jefferson and Worcester Streets • For more information look up Spring Green Farmers Market on Facebook • Shop fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and crafts as the Spring Green Farmers Market kicks off its summer season. Open every Saturday through October, rain or shine.

LIVE MUSIC: Acoustic River Band 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Spring Green General Store, 137 S Albany St, Spring Green • springgreengeneralstore.com • All ages • No cover; donations welcome • Acoustic River Band blends ﬁngerstyle and rhythm guitar across original songs and classics from the '60s to today. Enjoy an afternoon of laid-back live music in the store’s welcoming space.

Grandma Mary’s Retirement Celebration 2:00 PM - Grandma Mary shuts oﬀ the lights! • Grandma Mary’s Café, 175 U.S. Highway 14, Arena • Celebrate Grandma Mary’s retirement with food, refreshments, and memories. Live music by Doug Wallin from 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Come share stories and wish her the best in her next chapter!

LIVE MUSIC: Ancora String Quartet – “Schubertiad!” 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM • Hillside Theater at Taliesin, 6604 Hwy 23 Trunk, Spring Green • taliesinpreservation.org• $25 • Enjoy Schubert’s Death and the Maiden and the C Major Quintet, performed by the Ancora String Quartet with guest cellist Trace Johnson. Advance ticket purchase required; seating is ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served.

LIVE MUSIC: Cribshitter // Free Dirt 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM • Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, 137 W Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • slowpokelounge.com • 21+ • $12 advance / $15 at the door • Madison’s fog-machine-forward soft rockers Cribshitter bring irreverent genre-hopping energy. Openers Free Dirt deconstruct their alt-folk tunes into something both familiar and surreal. Expect the unexpected.

LIVE MUSIC: Dylan Harris 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM • MH Friends Bar & Grill, 234 S Oak St, Lone Rock • Enjoy a night of toetappers and tearjerkers—country, rock, classics, and originals—with Dylan Harris. Bring a friend and make it a night to remember!

Sunday, May 18

50 Bird Shoot – Spring Green Rod and Gun Club 10:00 AM • E5193 N Woodman Road, Spring Green • Hosted by RVTC- Shooting begins at 10:00 AM. Participants should bring their own gear.

CLASS: Grow and Gather – Spring Foraging 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM • Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, 5607 County Road C, Spring Green • taliesinpreservation.org/events • Ages 8+ • $45 • Learn how to responsibly identify and gather spring wild edibles on a guided hike through the Welsh Hills Trail with Taliesin’s Kitchen Gardener, Abbie Lehman. Discussion of Frank Lloyd Wright’s connection to the Driftless landscape is included. Hike participation optional; core content covered in the opening session.

AUTHOR TALK: Tamara Dean & Curt Meine 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM • Arcadia Books, 102 E Jeﬀerson St., Spring Green • readinutopia.com/events • Please RSVP • Tamara Dean and Curt Meine discuss Shelter and Storm and regional conservation. Dean’s essays highlight the Driftless area’s beauty, while Meine, a conservation biologist, brings a broader ecological perspective.

LIVE MUSIC: UW-Platteville at Baraboo/Sauk County Campus and Community Choir 3:30 PM • St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 1240 Nachreiner Ave, Plain • All ages • $10 adults / $5 students • The 63-member choir, directed by Dan Krunnfusz, presents Vivaldi’s Gloria with orchestra, followed by a selection of sacred works ranging from Rachmaninov to spirituals. Tickets available at the door.

Homeschool Hangout 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/homeschool-hangout-14 • Kids and family • Connect with other area homeschoolers over snacks and activities in the Library Community Room. This is the ﬁnal session before summer break—returns in September.

55 Years of Earth Day with Tia Nelson 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM • Hillside Theater at Taliesin, 6604 Hwy 23 Trunk, Spring Green • taliesinpreservation.org• Free; $10 suggested donation • Conservationist Tia Nelson reﬂects on the history and ongoing relevance of Earth Day and screens "When the Earth Moves"- a short ﬁlm about the movement’s bipartisan roots. Local environmental groups will be on hand before and after the event.

Snack n’ Study After school 6:30 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/snack-n-study • Middle–High School • Drop in to the Teen Zone for a ﬁnals-week study break with snacks, quiet space, comfy seating, and collaborative areas. Bring your homework (and your appetite).

MEETING: Arena Historians Meeting with Guest Speaker Kurt Sampson 6:30 PM • Grandma Mary's (Brisbane Room), 175 US Hwy 14, Arena • us02web.zoom.us/j/89909239523 • Free • Guest speaker Kurt Sampson will discuss Native American artifacts and eﬃgy mounds. The evening will also feature Arena native and All-American Ryan Tremelling and a follow-up on bachelor/bachelorette farmers. Open to the public.

A Night of Words 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM • Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, 137 W Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • slowpokelounge.com • 21+ • An open mic for readers, writers, and listeners alike. Share a favorite passage, an original poem, or just sit back and take it all in. Poetry, stories, spoken word—anything goes in this warm and welcoming literary space.

Tuesday, May 20

Yarn Rocks! 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St., Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/yarn-rocks-1 • Meet fellow knitters, get beginner to mid-level knitting help, learn new skills, and enjoy the social and health beneﬁts of craft work. Drop in anytime; no registration required.

Spring Green Recreational Soccer 5:30 PM • Spring Green North Park, behind the pool • For more information look up "Spring Green Recreational Soccer" on Facebook • Ages 12+ • Tuesday and Thursday evenings (weather permitting) Casual and fun community play for teens and adults.

Library Trivia 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/library-trivia-0 • Teens & Adults • Bring a team of up to four—or go solo—and compete in themed trivia rounds for bragging rights. Questions change each session.

Wednesday, May 21

All Ages Storytime 10:30 AM - 11:30AM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org • All ages • FREE • Stories, songs, crafts, and playtime with Ms. Kate—perfect for young children and their caregivers. Wiggles welcome!

Yoga with Rural Remedy 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM • Wyoming Valley School, 6306 State Road 23, Spring Green • ruralremedy.com • $17 • Tentative—check with instructor Emily to conﬁrm. Yoga series designed for all levels. Visit online to choose the sessions that suit your schedule.

SOLD OUT: Deb Talan (of The Weepies) // Caley Conway 7:00 PM (Doors 6:00 PM) • Sh*tty Barn, 506 E Madison St, Spring Green • shittybarnsessions.com • 21+ • Advance tickets sold out. That said, tickets often come up that people can't use, so check out SH*TTY TICKET SWAP, which helps to connect ticket buyers and sellers • Beloved folk-pop songwriter Deb Talan (The Weepies) shares deeply personal new material. Milwaukee's Caley Conway opens with dreamy, genre-defying indie folk.

Thursday, May 22

CLASS: Community Art Class – Pinch Pot Monsters (Part 1) 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM • Angel Dreams Studios, E2516 Brace Road, Lone Rock • angeldreamsstudios.com • All ages • Get your hands dirty and learn to create a pinch pot monster in this fun, hands-on clay class using basic hand-building techniques. All supplies included. $20 per participant. Part two will be on May 29th at 9:00 AM. Please remember to bring a snack and a water bottle to stay energized!

Storytime 10:30 AM • Lone Rock Community Library, 234 North Broadway St, Lone Rock • lonerocklibrary.wordpress.com • All ages • FREE • Families are invited to enjoy stories and activity time!

RVMS Shakespeare Project – A Midsummer Night’s Dream 1:30 PM & 7:00 PM • Gard Theater, 111 E Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • All ages • Students from River Valley Middle School bring Shakespeare’s enchanted forest to life in this community performance of the beloved comedy.

Stitch and Bitch 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM • Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St, Spring Green • springgreengeneralstore.com • FREE • The Spring Green General Store’s Stitch and Bitch handwork group meets Thursday afternoons weekly. All are welcome. Tech Drop-in 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM • Kraemer Library and Community Center, 910 Main St, Plain • rvbroadband.org/techhelp • Free drop-in help with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop—no appointment needed. Knowledgeable volunteers or staﬀ assist with email setup, social media, software issues, and more. Part of a rotating weekly series across River Valley libraries.

CLASS: Line Dancing 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/line-dancing • Beginners welcome for this lively session featuring classic and contemporary line dances. No experience necessary—take it one step at a time and enjoy the fun!

The Community Calendar is curated by Bonnie Ostrander and designed by Julianna Williams.

Eventsfor May 15 - May 29

Thursday, May 22

Lone Rock Farmers Market 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM • Center Park, 326 E Liberty St., Lone Rock • For more information look up Lone Rock Farmers Market on Facebook • All ages • Shop local produce, baked goods, and handmade items as the Lone Rock Farmers Market kicks oﬀ its 2025 season. Held every Thursday through the growing season.

Lego Builders Club 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM • Kraemer Library & Community Center, 910 Main St, Plain • kraemerlibrary.org • We supply the Legos, you supply the creativity. Kids of all ages are invited to free build or take on weekly Lego challenges in the Community Room.

Silent Book Club at Brisbane House 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM • Brisbane House, 7050 Reimann Road, Arena • brisbanehouse.net • All ages • Bring your own book and settle in for quiet reading time and literary camaraderie at this historic stone house. Hosted in partnership with Arcadia Books. Open to all readers—no required titles, no pressure.

LOCAL NIGHT: John Haarbauer 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM • Post House Garden, 119 East Jeﬀerson Street, Spring Green • Enjoy an evening of live music in the garden with John Haarbauer.

Evenings Aﬁeld – Restoring and Protecting Aldebaran Farm 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Aldebaran Farm, 6557 County Hwy TZ, Spring Green • driftlessconservancy.org • Free • Learn about the rich history and ecological restoration of Aldebaran Farm, once home to Frank Lloyd Wright and Svetlana Stalin, and now protected by a conservation easement. Hosted by Driftless Area Land Conservancy as part of the Lowery Creek Watershed Initiative.

Adventures Photographing Birds on the Wisconsin Riverway 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E. Monroe St • springgreenlibrary.org • All ages • Free • Area resident Don Greenwood, known for his striking bird photography, shares stories and images from his time photographing birds along the Lower Wisconsin Riverway. Expect an informal, lively talk full of personal insights into local avian life.

SOLD OUT: Glitterfox // Kat and the Hurricane 7:30 PM (Doors 6:00 PM) • Sh*tty Barn, 506 E Madison St, Spring Green • shittybarnsessions.com • 21+ • Advance tickets sold out. That said, tickets often come up that people can't use, so check out SH*TTY TICKET SWAP, which helps to connect ticket buyers and sellers • Portland’s Glitterfox blends nostalgic indie rock with Southern storytelling, while Madison’s synth-rock trio Kat and the Hurricane brings genre-bending energy and unapologetic presence to the stage.

Karaoke at Slowpoke 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM (or later) • Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, 137 W Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • slowpokelounge.com • 21+ • No cover; tips for the host encouraged • Hosted by Charles Bohème, this monthly community karaoke night invites singers and spectators alike to gather, perform, and cheer one another on. End time varies—sing until last call.

LIVE MUSIC: Rare Element 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM • Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, 137 W Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • slowpokelounge.com • 21+ • $15 advance / $20 at the door • Madison funk powerhouse Rare Element brings massive brass, deep grooves, and high-octane energy to the stage. Featuring a seven-piece band with roots in Wisconsin's best funk, blues, and jazz acts.

LIVE MUSIC: BobFest at the General Store 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM • Spring Green General Store, 137 S Albany St, Spring Green • springgreengeneralstore.com • All ages • Free (no carry-ins) • Celebrate Dylan’s birthday with an all-day backyard festival featuring 15 local and regional acts playing Bob Dylan tunes. Enjoy a special menu, Lake Louie beer, and Cider Farm cider. Bring a chair and settle in.

LIVE MUSIC: Just Merl and A Girl 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM • Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shiﬄet Rd, Spring Green • For more information look up Just Merl and A Girl on Facebook • All ages • Enjoy a laid-back afternoon of music, food, and riverfront fun. This dynamic duo delivers entertaining live sets perfect for a day of swimming, tubing, and relaxing by the river.

LIVE MUSIC: Chellanie 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM • Post House Garden, 119 East Jeﬀerson Street, Spring Green • Enjoy an afternoon of live music in the garden with Chellanie.

LIVE MUSIC: 3 SOULS 4:00 PM • Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shiﬄet Rd, Spring Green • For more information look up 3 SOULS on Facebook • All ages • Classic rock on the river with longtime local trio 3 SOULS. Enjoy a late afternoon of music, sun, and riverside relaxation at the outdoor stage.

Memorial Day Festival at Sugarland 2:00 PM • Sugarland Barn, 8637 Linley Rd, Arena • eventbrite.com/e/1310595379059 • All ages • Free • Celebrate our nation’s heroes with a lively Veterans Euchre Tournament, live bluegrass music, food vendors, beer tents, and a family-friendly Fun Zone featuring a bounce house and face painting. A full afternoon of music, games, and gratitude in a picturesque rural setting. A Memorial Day program will also be held at the Arena Cemetery at 11 AM.

Open Mic with Dylan Harris 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM • Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret, 137 W Jeﬀerson St, Spring Green • slowpokelounge.com • 21+ • No cover; tips for host encouraged • Fourth Monday open mic hosted by Dylan Harris. Whether solo or with a band, bring your voice and your tunes—or just come to support the performers. Piano, mics, and plug-ins provided.

Book Discussion: Swift River by Essie Chambers 2:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • springgreenlibrary.org/book-discussion-12 • Adult • Enjoy coﬀee, snacks, and a thoughtful discussion of Swift River. Copies are available for checkout at the library one month in advance.

Yoga with Rural Remedy 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM • Wyoming Valley School, 6306 State Road 23, Spring Green • $17 • ruralremedy.com • Join this ﬂexible, community-focused class where you build your own series and optionally support others by paying it forward. Visit online to choose the sessions that suit your schedule. Suitable for all levels.

CLASS: Community Art Class – Pinch Pot Monsters (Part 2) 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM • Angel Dreams Studios, E2516 Brace Road, Lone Rock • angeldreamsstudios.com • All ages • Part two of this two-day clay project focuses on painting your dried pinch pot monster. Not to worry if you’ve missed part one, you can still make a monster. $20 per participant. Please remember to bring a snack and a water bottle!

LOCAL NIGHT: Janna and the Junkyard Dawgs 5:30 PM • Post House Garden, 119 East Jeﬀerson Street, Spring Green • No cover • Blues, rock, and soul from JJYD at Spring Green’s Local Night. Expect crowd favorites, fresh new tunes, and high-energy Dawg vibes on a Thursday evening ﬁlled with music, food, and fun.

WHAT’S HANGINg ? ongoing art exhibitions

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 •

Vicky Lilla is the featured artist in the Community Room Gallery. She is a working artist with a studio in southwest Wisconsin. While living in Wisconsin Vicky became fascinated with the local landscape, rural buildings and regional wildlife especially the native sandhill cranes and the endangered whooping cranes. Her work is included in private and corporate collections throughout the United States. Her current work is an exploration of reﬂection and transparency, color and contrast. My goal is to recreate and share with the viewer a venue or impression indicative of the Midwest experience. The exhibit is available for viewing in the Community Room Gallery during regular library hours. Please ask for the key to the Community Room at the circulation desk.

Don Greenwood’s photography exhibit is in the Glass Case Gallery and is sponsored by River Valley Birders. Greenwood‘s adventures in photography began more than 60 years ago when he received a Kodak Brownie Hawkeye camera as a birthday present. Since that time he has been a photojournalist, a camera store manager, and, in retirement, a wildlife photographer. He especially enjoys spending time observing and photographing the incredible spectrum of species found in the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway and the surrounding Driftless Area. The photo display is viewable during regular library hours.

Some time ago, we announced the soft launch of a semi-regular to regular literary section we've been inspired by other literary compilations to call Lexington & Jefferson

As the pivotal intersection of our community, we envision this as a place that celebrates the cross-section of arts in our greater community.

We envision it as a place of curated and submitted prose, poetry and more that showcase the talents of our community.

What is Lexington & Jefferson?

Each edition we receive submissions of artwork, poetry, prose and other musings that we have trouble placing in the paper on their own and often have to simply hold or regrettably turn down.

We hope this becomes a welcome place for them.

This space will grow and change, as all things do, and we welcome talented individuals, organizations, authors, experts and artists to help curate this section. We are beginning to actively seek to publish an

Lexington & Jefferson

annual literary journal. If interested, please reach out on ways to help.

We may also use this space for arts & culture news and submitted musings that don't quite fit within the bounds of a traditional column, profile or letter to the editor.

Get involved: If you're interested in submitting, curating or have ideas, please do not hesitate at all to submit them to us at: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

LITERARY + ARTS & CULTURE SECTION

‘For once, we’re having fun over here’: Justin Vernon on the joy in Bon Iver’s new album ‘SABLE, fABLE’

Wisconsin’s Justin Vernon is one of the biggest musical artists to come out of the state in the past 20 years. For most of his career, most notably with Bon Iver, he has shied away from the media and chosen to quietly work out of his April Base home studio in Fall Creek. But on his new record, “SABLE, fABLE,” it’s clear a lot has changed.

In a rare interview, Vernon talked with Wisconsin music reporter Justin Barney about the new record, which was released April 11.

“I think sadness is one of the easier

emotions to access,” said Justin Vernon, also known as Bon Iver, whose uncharacteristically happy album, “SABLE, fABLE” just came out. “I just feel a lot of feelings. I’ve got my feels, right?”

As a young man with a lot of emotions growing up in northern Wisconsin, Vernon sought connection. He went to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire where he majored in Religious Studies.

“When I studied religion, I was always curious as to what made people connect. What made them feel connected to the spiritual, to the sacred things in being a human being?” Vernon said. “I think anguish and sadness was one of those

VALLEY SENTINEL'S LITERARY JOURNAL SUBMISSIONS OPEN

Works can be submitted at: valleysentinelnews.com/literary-journal/. Questions about submissions can be directed to: editor@valleysentinelnews.com

Submissions will remain open until enough journal-quality submissions are received.

Want to get involved in other community-powered initiatives? Go to: valleysentinelnews.com/impulse-initiative

Eventsfor May 15 - May 29

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 16:

VOLUNTEER: Driftless Trail Diggers 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM • Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, County Road C, Spring Green • driftlessconservancy.org/event-details/driftless-trail-diggers-2025-05-16-09-00 • Help build a new segment of the Driftless Trail on Taliesin property, including a ridge hike with scenic views. No experience necessary—tools and training provided.

May 19:

Celebrate EMS Week – Plain EMS Open House 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM • Plain Fire Station, Plain • All ages • Explore emergency medical equipment, tour the ambulance, and get your vitals checked. EMS swag and drinks provided as part of this appreciation event for National EMS Week

MEETING: Village of Plain Library Board Meeting 6:30 PM • Plain Public Library, 917 Cedar St, Plain • villageofplain.com • The Village of Plain Library Board will hold its regular monthly meeting. Open to the public.

May 20:

MEETING: Iowa County Board Meeting 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM • Health & Human Services Center, Community Room, 303 W Chapel St, Dodgeville • Zoom: Meeting ID 879 2978 6043 • Phone-in: 1-312-626-6799 • Open to the public.

MEETING: Richland County Board Meeting 7:00 PM • County Board Room, 181 W Seminary St, Richland Center • WebEx: Meeting Code 2555 688 8077, Password: Richland • Phone-in: 1-650-479-3208 • administrator.co.richland.wi.us • Open to the public.

May 21: SUPPORT MEETING: Dementia Caregiver Support Meeting 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM • Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St, Spring Green • facebook.com/adrcsauk • Monthly support meeting for those caring for someone with dementia, led by ADRC Dementia Care Specialist Kurt Goeckermann. Held the third Monday of each month. For questions, contact Kurt at (608) 355-3289.

MEETING: Plain Fire Department Meeting 7:00 PM • Plain Fire Department, 1045 Cedar St, Plain • villageofplain.com • Open to the public.

May 26: Kraemer Library Board Meeting 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM • Kraemer Library & Community Center, 910 Main St., Plain • kraemerlibrary.org

May 27:

SERVICE: Lone Rock Community Blood Drive 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM • Lone Rock Community Building (Gym), 214 Broadway St, Lone Rock • redcrossblood.org • Donate blood and help save lives. Appointments required—use Sponsor Code: LoneRockWI online or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

MEETING: Village of Plain EMS Meeting 7:00 PM • Plain EMS Station, 1045 Cedar St, Plain • villageofplain.com • Open to the public.

May 28:

MEETING: Spring Green Village Board Meeting 7:00 PM • Spring Green Village Oﬃce, 154 N Lexington St, Spring Green • vi.springgreen.wi.gov

• Open to the public, with in-person and virtual attendance options available.

things that connected people.”

In the winter months of 2006, he went to a remote cabin in the woods. Isolated, he chopped wood, hunted deer and wrote a masterpiece of an album: “For Emma, Forever Ago.” People really connected to his sadness. The cabin had lore and created an entire mythology. Vernon went from relatively unknown to indie music’s folk icon in a matter of months. It was a connection far greater than he intended.

“My dream growing up was like, I’ll just tour the Midwest and sell CDs out of the trunk of my Chevy Blazer and I’ll be happy. I’ll have a wife and kids … And

it just exploded to such a weird degree that is still very surprising to me sometimes,” Vernon said.

“I don’t think I’m not talented or worthy or something, but I generally was just sort of laughing about it,” he added. “The second record was just me being like, ‘Whatever, I’m free, playing with house money.'”

And that money hit.

That second album, “Bon Iver, Bon Iver,” helped him win two Grammy Awards in 2012 and solidified Vernon as indie rock’s favorite sad boy.

continued on page 9

REVIEW: Bon Iver heals in new album, 'SABLE, fABLE'

Bon Iver has once again blessed the ears of fans with an emotional two-part story titled SABLE, fABLE. The highly anticipated album is the first to be released by Bon Iver in almost six years. After releasing bits and pieces over the last several months, it is now available to enjoy in its entirety.

Primarily written and produced by frontman and Wisconsin-treasure Justin Vernon, SABLE, fABLE is a vulnerable glimpse into Vernon’s personal life.

In an interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Vernon revealed more about the meaning behind the album’s two parts, SABLE and fABLE

“(SABLE) is the darkest black on Earth,” he explained. “It’s a little, sad and hard to get through, and kind of drudgy and a look at the past… it’s kind of like this kind of cabin man in a cabin narrative that I’ve been kind of absorbing over these years… accepting it in a way, but also like the rest of the record is sort of me kind of doing whatever I needed to do right now to be happy for once.”

In an interview with Popcast, Vernon described fABLE as, “Windows down, sunshine, like ‘Everything is Peaceful Love,’ I love you.”

“There was a good ten years where it felt like somebody had a boot on my chest, from before I woke up, until after I fell asleep,” Vernon shared. “This record really felt, in a lot of ways the most

personal record I’ve made, in the sense that it really was for me. Like I needed this record.”

SABLE

Vernon sets the tone of the album's first chapter, SABLE with a twelve-second high pitch sound, simply titled “...” The unpleasant and alarming sound seems to be symbolic of his overwhelming discomfort, as he struggles with anxiety and his mental health. When it abruptly cuts off, listeners are transitioned into the soft, palpitating beat of THINGS BEHIND THINGS BEHIND THINGS. Throughout the song, Vernon’s guitar scales down a gentle riff that’s accompanied by the longing sounds of a pedal steel guitar. The vulnerable lyrics appear to be a confession of the intense pain inflicted by a long-lasting state of depression, as well as the anxiety that comes with it. Vernon continues to confront his troubled feelings in S P E Y S I D E. With the powerful strumming of his acoustic guitar and the gentle sadness of the viola, a portrait of guilt and heartbreak is painted. He reflects on the hurt that he’s caused a former lover and seeks redemption for his behavior.

Following S P E Y S I D E, Vernon concludes SABLE with AWARD SEASON Paired with an ambient synth, he begins in mostly A cappella to perhaps symbolize the sheer vulnerability of his difficult journey through self reflection. A calm

continued on page 9

Bonnie Ostrander, Admin Contributor

SABLE, fABLE Bon Iver

Justin Barney, Wisconsin Life

‘For once, we’re having fun over here’: Justin Vernon on the joy in Bon Iver’s new album ‘SABLE, fABLE’

continued from page 8

“After a while, this thing that sort of happens is you’re expected … it becomes part of your identity. Then it becomes your entire identity. Then it’s really hard to shed it,” Vernon said.

‘AWARDS SEASON’

That’s where this new album, “SABLE fABLE” begins. In late 2024, Bon Iver released the first part of the album as an EP called “SABLE,” that ends with the song, “AWARDS SEASON.”

Though often cryptic in his lyrics, Vernon clarifies the metaphors, starting with the figure of “the Spaniard”:

“I can handle Way more than I can handle

So I keep reaching for the handle

To flood my heart

And the Spaniard In song that I have pandered to Is always handing me the anvil Saying, ‘That’s for you'” – Bon Iver, “AWARDS SEASON”

“The Spaniard — to me — it’s the sad guy from ‘Boots of Spanish Leather’ by Bob Dylan, the saddest song of all time. He’s just sitting across from me saying, ‘Here. Keep being sad, homie, it will turn out good,'” Vernon said.

In the song, the Spaniard hands him the anvil, Vernon’s axe on which to grind.

“It’s the weight. The weight of being the guy from Bon Iver for all these years,” said Vernon. “Maybe I got stuck on that sadness thing a little much. Or I just needed to work through a lot of it to find the next step which is to really self love and to look up. I think I was Bon Iver for too long.”

“SABLE, fABLE,” starts with this bit of self-awareness. And “AWARDS SEASON” is the preamble to a changed man.

“It’s nice to feel like I’m Justin and that I can observe Bon Iver from my vantage point and sort of see it for what it is,” said Vernon.

‘Everything is Peaceful Love’ Until this point, Vernon struggled with fame and retreated to his studio in the Northwoods, which only intensified his mysterious sadness.

REVIEW: Bon Iver

continued from page 8

and peaceful collaboration of piano, organ, and pedal steel guitar builds into an emotional sax-solo. The solo is an unexpected, yet fitting addition to the song, and further showcases the wide range of musical creativity that Justin Vernon carries fABLE

Listeners are transitioned into the second chapter of the album, fABLE, with Short Story. It begins by briefly mirroring AWARD SEASON, and then erupts into a powerful number all its own. Vernon’s vocals change back into the beautiful falsetto that he’s so well known for, and sets a new theme of rebirth, healing, and better times ahead.

But this new album, it’s downright joyous.

“For once, we’re having fun over here,” Vernon said.

The difference is simple. Vernon fell in love.

“A person came into my life and it changed everything,” he said. New love provided perspective for Vernon.

“You see yourself in new light,” he said. “They see you in a way that your old friends and family don’t see you and it gives you a new chance. There is a new chance in that renewal. You can live again. You can be remade.”

One person that came into his life on this album is Danielle Haim, part of the indie pop trio HAIM. Though, the musicians have known each other a long time.

Vernon said he met Danielle when she was 19 touring with Bon Iver as part of Jenn Wasner‘s band.

“We played a show with Jenny and young Ethan Gruska was the merch guy and he lost all the money that night,” Vernon said, laughing. “I don’t know if I am supposed to tell anyone that story but it’s hilarious. So I have known Danielle for 16 years, technically.”

A few years ago, Haim was working with Bon Iver collaborator Jim-E Stack and he asked if Vernon would ever want to collaborate with Haim on a recording.

“I was like, ‘Yeah, Right now. When can you guys come?'” Vernon said. She made it out to Eau Claire on Feb. 2, 2022. Being Wisconsin in February, they got snowed in. For four days, they couldn’t leave Vernon’s home studio, so they started making this album. Vernon describes their dynamic as complementary.

“Her musicality, her drum feel, it’s everything I don’t have,” he said. “She grew up listening to The Police and Earth, Wind & Fire. I could never play any of that stuff. I wasn’t funky enough. I’ve got a soul thing and an introspection thing going on, but that’s what hit me so hard about her music and why it was a successful collaboration in so many ways.”

‘Day One (feat. Dijon and Flock of Dimes)’

SABLE, fABLE is shifted from an indie folk album to a fresh, 80’s-inspired, soft pop sound with components of soul and R&B. Though unconventional, the change feels appropriate to the evolution of the tale being told.

A love story is introduced with the dreamy lightness of Everything Is Peaceful Love, and melts into a steamy confession of desire for an intimate connection in Walk Home

However, as with all love stories, nothing is perfect forever. Day One (feat. Dijon & Flock Of Dimes) seems to tell the listeners that time has passed and there has been some turbulence in the relationship. Vernon describes the attempt to patch up rough spots in From, by offering patience, warmth, and understanding to the lover. I’ll Be There follows and appears to show a more assertive and passionate approach, by instructing the lover to “Keep the sad sh*t off the phone/ And get your fine ass on the road.”

In the duet If Only I Could Wait (feat. Danielle Haim), the relationship has come to a crossroads, as the lovers come to terms with the reality of their situation and question if they should continue to hold on.

There’s A Rhythmn (typo intended) floats in as gently as its title. With its relaxing melody that slightly resembles that of Walk Home, Vernon completes the second part of the story. The similar

Even though Vernon has the manalone-in-the-woods mythology, he has long embraced collaboration as a source of connection.

On “SABLE, fABLE,” he has become a mentor to fellow reclusive musician Dijon, whose 2021 album “Absolutely” blew up. The artist signed a record deal and has been silent since then.

“Dijon and I have become really good friends,” Vernon said. “The stuff that I was struggling with early in my career, it’s some stuff that he has talked to me about. Getting attention can be a distraction. I understand why he doesn’t want to overexpose. He wants to cook the right song up. He’s being conservative. I was like that, too. I didn’t talk to people for a long time. I’m just a little more accepting, a little older now.”

They come together on the song “Day One”

“I wanted Dijon’s timbre,” Vernon said. “I’m not gonna lie, I just wanted to get Dijon on my record any way possible. He’s my favorite artist in the world.”

In addition to welcoming in new artists, Bon Iver also shows respect to artists he’s always loved. On “Day One,” he breaks out the slide guitar.

“I love playing slide,” he said. “I think Bonnie Raitt is the most underrated guitar player, my favorite guitar player. I just try to sound like her. I’m just trying to be in whatever emotional space that she creates with her voice and her guitar playing. I’m just trying to copy it. Straight up.”

‘There’s A Rhythmn’

Though he’s one of the biggest indie artists in the world and could live anywhere, Vernon has proudly remained in his hometown of Eau Claire his whole life. But with this record and these changes, he spent a lot of time in Los Angeles. He writes about it in the penultimate song on the record, called “There’s A Rhythmn.”

“‘There’s a Rhythmn’ is my favorite song I’ve ever written. It just tells the whole story of where I’ve been and where I’m headed,” said Vernon.

“From when I was a kid I was like, ‘I love Eau Claire. I love it here. I never want to leave. This is who I am,'” he said,

tonality between the two songs seems to suggest the ebb and flow of love and loss. The lyrics take listeners through the growth and acceptance of change, and the rhythmic beauty of beginning and end. Au Revoir finishes the album on a far more peaceful note than it started, with an array of soothing sounds that resemble windchimes.

From a seemingly endless winter to the warm rebirth of spring, SABLE, fABLE paints a perfect portrait of a broken man on a healing journey. It is truly a work of art.

(Also, you might notice that most of the promotional photos for the album have a salmon, and the color theme is salmon. When asked if there was a meaning behind it, Vernon simply said, “… It’s just salmon.” �� He apparently just really likes that color.)

SABLE, fABLE is available to stream now on all major streaming platforms.

Bonnie is Valley Sentinel's administrative coordinator. She has recently taken over curating the community calendar, so far not begrudgingly.

adding that over time he felt stagnant.

“I couldn’t experience the town like my friends, or it was hard to make new friends without anybody knowing who I was. So going to Los Angeles and kind of being kind of more anonymous out there — you know it’s not like I’m a household name — it’s been good because it’s gotten me to disconnect with the identity,” he said.

“You don’t have to hang around Wisconsin. Just because you love it doesn’t mean you owe it something or you should stay somewhere and not grow or try new things … It’s about taking a chance and stepping outside your comfort zone,” Vernon added. “So it’s made me deeply fall in love with Eau Claire again. I am extremely privileged to be able to go between this beautiful city of Los Angeles and then come back to my home.”

“I think the most I’ve ever loved Eau Claire, is right now,” he concluded. “This is home.”

Justin Barney is an audio journalist and radio host who has worked at 88Nine Radio Milwaukee and Nashville Public Radio. He occasionally writes for NPR and his podcast work has been lauded by “The New York Times. Listen to the interview at wisconsinlife.org

Photo by Graham Tolbert Justin Vernon of Bon Iver holds a salmon.

Bonnie Ostrander

Photo by Graham Tolbert

Justin Vernon of Bon Iver with another salmon.

Wandering the Driftless

Conservation Congress Meets To Suggest Changes In Outdoor Activities

John Cler, Columnist

Outdoor enthusiasts across the State of Wisconsin gathered in mid-April, in each county, to participate in shaping the future of outdoor activities. The annual Wisconsin Conservation Congress (WCC) Spring Hearings found attendees casting ballots to elect county delegates and vote on a list of 74 proposed changes to rules governing a number of outdoor activities. Citizen resolutions are also submitted for possible approval at the hearings. Rule changes could also be voted on remotely, for those unable to attend the in-person events. Results from across the state were submitted and tabulated in anticipation of the next step, the annual WCC Convention.

The WCC Convention brings the five delegates from each of Wisconsin’s 72 counties together for final approval, or denial, of these proposed changes. Those that are approved are sent to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Natural Resources Board (NRB) for their approval and potential implementation. Citizen resolutions approved at the county level are referred to a WCC Committee for evaluation, prior to showing up on the following years state-wide list of questions.

The 91st Annual WCC Convention was held recently in Oshkosh. The convention included the 360 county delegates along with people from the DNR and

NRB. The newly appointed DNR Secretary, Dr. Karen Hyun, was introduced to those in attendance and spoke about her background and her outdoor experiences in Wisconsin. Delegates also heard from the NRB chair and DNR Wildlife, Fisheries and Law Enforcement Directors. The wildlife scientist that directed the Southwest Wisconsin CWD Study also presented a brief overview of the results of that study. Delegates were given the opportunity to ask questions of each of the speakers.

The “meat” of the gathering was votes taken on all of the various questions forwarded to the Congress via the county hearings from April. The WCC Chair, Rob Bohmann, read each question, announced the tally of for and against votes from the April hearings and asked for a motion and second to approve or reject the proposal. Delegates were allowed to speak in favor or against each of these. Voice votes were taken on each issue. If the voice vote was difficult to call, each county was allowed one vote, cast by raising a puddle with the county name on it.

Many of the questions had implications for all of the Badger State, while others were aimed at a small portion of the state or perhaps a single body of water or wildlife area. Those that apply to the Driftless Area are as follows:

1. A catch and release season for Lake Sturgeon was approved. This

will potentially include waters of the Lower Wisconsin River.

2. A closure of the Shovelnose Sturgeon season during their spawning period on the Lower Wisconsin River was approved.

3. A change in the daily bag limit of 5 trout under 12 inches to a daily bag limit o 5 trout, but only one over 12 inches on Gordon Creek (Iowa County), Willow Creek, Camp Creek, Knapp Creek, Mill Creek (Richland County), Elk Creek (Vernon and Richland Counties), Big Green River, Borah Creek, Little Grant River, Crooked Creek (Grant County), Mount Vernon Creek (Dane County) was also approved.

These changes will all be forwarded to

the DNR and NRB for approval and implementation in the near future.

Wisconsin is the only state that allows for this level of citizen input on outdoor regulations. It is vitally important that those that care deeply about our natural resources take advantage of the freedoms that our state offers us in shaping the future. As is said about ANY opportuning to cast a vote – if you don’t vote, you have no right to complain.

John Cler is a retired high school science teacher and principal residing in Richland Center. He is an avid hunter, trapper, fisher and nature nut. He currently chairs the Richland County Deer Advisory Council and the Richland County Delegation of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress.

River Valley School Board approves maintenance projects, suspends anti-discrimination policy amid Title IX changes

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“It's just upkeep, we keep picking away at it… We’re going to be doing what we can within the budget and go from there,” Fred Iausly, board member, said.

Included on list is new telephones, key fobs and clock, bell and PA systems district wide, video camera upgrades in the elementary and middle schools, moving the wood shop to the high school as well as wood shop equipment upgrades, high school classroom and bathroom renovations, IT office upgrades, movement and installation of playground equipment at the elementary and middle school and the movement of the middle school office for security purposes.

Projected costs for all building and maintenance projects totals $1,601,786.

“For years we’ve been talking about all

At its April 10 meeting, the River Valley School District Board of Education adjourned into closed session “to discuss requests from students to opt out of state testing.” The quoted language was included in the meeting notice along with the entire text of state statute 19.85(1)(f), which provides an exemption from the general requirement that all state business be conducted in open session.

The Board spent six minutes in closed session, then reconvened and voted in open session to approve seven students—three 3rd graders and four 7th graders—for opt-outs from state testing. One member dissented. So did that violate Open Meetings Law? I think it did, I also think the violation is pretty technical and harmless, but it’s interesting, and the decision to violate the law is something I still think is worth criticizing.

The Violation

I have discussed in this space before what the law requires. Wisconsin's Open Meetings Law demands that a proper exemption exist and that the public notice show why closing a meeting is necessary, The level of specificity required depends on the circumstances, but must always meet a certain baseline, and that itself means more than just the quotation of a statute. At very least it must be enough to show that the exemption actually applies to the particular portion of the meeting that the body seeks to keep closed from the public. We can start with whether an exemption actually exists. The statute cited, § 19.85(1)(f), allows a closed session only where the body has a strong basis to believe that reputationally harmful or sensitive personal information will be discussed pertaining to one or more specific persons, and

these things that have been adding up, and then we went to a capital referendum where we thought we could do a lot of work really quickly, that didn’t work so we’re working on a little at a time,” Glasbrenner said.

The district also has a list of deferred maintenance projects that are currently awaiting approval in the future. This list includes high school music rooms renovations, east gym locker room updates, west gym bleacher replacement and middle school flooring replacement. Projected maintenance costs for these deferred items total $2,117,380.

The board unanimously voted to approve the maintenance plan, with the exception of the IT office upgrade, which was tabled.

Resignations and retirements

The board discussed the resignation of two teachers, high school band director and music teacher Matt Snow and middle school

that disclosure of the information would likely result in substantial adverse effects upon those persons’ public reputations. That information can be financial, medical, social or disciplinary, employment-related or quasi-criminal. There is no general exception for educational data.

So the first question is whether a request to opt out of state testing is covered by that exemption. That may be the case, but not obviously so. Under Wis. Stat. § 118.30(2)(b)3 this kind of opt-out does not require a reason.

Another legal consideration is that for students in these specified grades, the statute says the board must excuse the student if the parent requests it. No exemption, justification, or evidence is required. So the only thing the board has to discuss is the existence of a request.

That means there is no obvious stigma attached to the request that would imply harm to a reputation, and no other material before the Board that could be stigmatizing. There could in theory still be some negative public perception of students seeking to utilize this legal mechanism, but I don’t see why there would be. If there is, then that would need to be made clear in the notice. It wasn’t.

Unless one or more of the students included a medical, social, or disciplinary explanation so sensitive that public disclosure would truly cause reputational harm, then this wasn’t a proper use of § 19.85(1)(f). And if such information did exist, the Board had no reason to see it in the first place. It should have been redacted before even reaching the board.

There is one final piece here, which is the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, which may not be familiar to

music and choir teacher Jennifer Snow.

“He’s an amazing teacher,” High School Principal Darby Blakely said regarding Matt Snow. “He motivates kids, he’s special at what he does.”

“When I see Jen Snow stand up in front of our students and engage with them and they sing and they smile, they share what she’s taught them, it’s really a wonderful thing,” Middle School Principal James Radke said.

The board also discussed the retirement of district English language learner teacher Laura Seybold.

“Such a pleasant person to work with and such a huge advocate for our kids,” Pupil Services Director Claire Knoll said of Seybold.

The board unanimously accepted the resignations and retirements.

everyone, but it is a fixture of the educational landscape. Boards of Education all over America know about FERPA. I think many administrators think that because FERPA is federal law, it overrides state statutes, but I have always argued in court that this is wrong. FERPA is intended to promote student privacy, but for reasons we do not need to discuss right now, its force over states is really quite limited when there are public transparency issues at stake.

The state statute does not actually include any exception for FERPA. There have been cases where this could generate issues, but not here. There was an easy way to satisfy both the state statutes and FERPA by simply de-identifying the student requests. The district administrator could have simply anonymized the requests by replacing the student names with other identifiers, say"Student #1, Grade 3," and the board could have then considered them in open session. The board could easily vote on each request without discussing identifying details, thus respecting FERPA and sidestepping the Open Meetings trap.That way, transparency would have been preserved while causing no injury to student privacy.

That precise solution was emailed to the district administrator more than 24 hours before the meeting by Valley Sentinel staff. The board then proceeded to amend the agenda the day of the meeting, but not the closed session item.

The Significance

In this case, the injury to the public interest was minimal, probably entirely theoretical. The state statute in these circumstances appears to make the board vote a mere formality. The board had no real discretion, and no need for

Closed session

The board discussed entering closed session. The agenda states that the closed session would be called under Wisconsin statute 19.85(1)(f), which is used to discuss and take action when considering personal information or other data if discussed in public would cause a substantial adverse effect on the reputation of the discussed parties. The agenda also noted that this would be used specifically to discuss requests from students to opt out of state required testing. The board unanimously voted to enter into closed session.

Upon reconvening in open session, the board voted to approve three 3rd grade students, two of which used Rural Virtual Academy, and four 7th grade students to opt out of state testing with all members in favor except Iausly, who opposed.

sensitive information. The public was not seemingly denied any information that they needed to understand what the board was up to.

So any significance of this violation does not arise from real-world consequence to that public interest. Democratic transparency hasn’t been preserved, exactly, but it hasn’t been marred either. The actual action of the board was kind of a nothing sandwich from an open government perspective.

But the system also assumes some self-policing, some humility. When a mistake is pointed out, the best thing a board can do is thank whoever caught it and do better next time. Even if the stakes for openness are vanishingly small, the violation here is symbolic: it would have been pretty easy to follow the law, and the board decided to break it. That does not send a good message,

It just so happens that we are at a point in our nation’s history where the rule of law is under threat. The arrest of Judge Hanna Dugan in Milwaukee last month, with the approval of charges against her that should not have stood as a matter of law, is one example. The spiriting of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador despite a court order prohibiting that very act is another.

This is a time to be standing up for the letter of the law. Not playing games with it.

I’m an attorney, I’m not your attorney. This is not legal advice.

Photo contributed by John Cler

The Wisconsin Conservation Congress in action during the 91st Annual Convention in Oshkosh.

—Gary Ernest Grass, esq., Legal Editor

The Sauk County Gardener

Three Early, Look-a-Like, Nuisance Plants

“A good garden may have some weeds.” — Proverb

At this time of year, I have a weed growing in my grass and in my flower beds that I have for years called Creeping Charlie. A couple weeks ago, I was in Missouri visiting my in-laws and my mother-in-law was lamenting about all of the Henbit in her yard and flower beds. I took a closer look at it and discovered it was nearly identical to Creeping Charlie. So much so that it made me wonder if they were one and the same. Upon further research, I discovered that there is another plant that looks very similar to these two plants and that is Dead Nettle. These three plants all bloom in early spring and late fall, have similar-looking flowers, leaves, and height. All three are best managed in late summer or fall rather than in the spring, when we tend to like to clean up our landscape. It’s important to properly identify which plant you have as the management techniques differ from plant to plant.

The first one to consider is Creeping Charlie, also known as Ground ivy (Glechoma Hederacea). As it is a member of the mint family, I find it to be a little easier to identify because it has a strong mint scent. The stems are square. It has round green, mostly palmate, hairy leaves with scalloped edges and very noticeable veins. The leaves grow opposite each other on the stem. Its stems are low to the ground as it sprawls across yards and flowerbeds, sending out runners, just like ivy does. It has blue-purple tubular flowers with upper and lower petal lips that grow in clusters and bloom in April and May and then again in the fall. It is shade to prefer shady areas that are moist, and fertile, it will also grow in sunny and drier locations. You can manage it in your turf by keeping it mowed and with the proper use of herbicides in the fall that are for Creeping Charlie management. I don’t mind it in my turf as the bees and other pollinators love it. In flower beds, management is best done by hand-pulling in the fall, making sure to remove as much of the stems and roots

as possible. A well-mulched bed makes it easier to see and manage this plant. Next one up is Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule). It too has a square stem as it is in the mint family and as a mild mint scent. The stem is a nice deep red color that is visible between the sets of leaves. The leaves are deeply scalloped along the edges and are attached around the stem in whorls. Unlike Creeping Charlie, the leaves are not hairy and look more glossy. The flowers are bluepurple, arranged in whorls around the stem, but have a longer tubular portion to their flowers compared to Creeping Charlie or Dead Nettle.

Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum) has a variety of herbal uses so proper identification is key. It has hairy leaves, making it commonly mistaken for Creeping Charlie. It has a short square stem, with hairy, heart-shaped scalloped leaves. The leaves change color from green to purple that grow opposite each other on the stem. The flower color is the same as these other two plants, but Dead Nettle has a very distinctive lower flower lip that is different from Creeping

Ask Your Gardening Question: LIVE with UW-Madison plant health experts

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension invites home gardeners and plant enthusiasts to join the Horticulture Program’s monthly webinar series, Ask Your Gardening Question: LIVE, throughout 2025. These online Q&A sessions, held Mondays at 1:30 p.m., offer a unique opportunity to connect with plant health experts and get answers to all your plant-related questions.

Each hour-long session provides participants with expert advice on a wide range of topics, including tree and shrub care, flowers, homegrown fruits and vegetables, indoor plants, lawns, pests, and more. Whether you need guidance on plant diseases, managing pesky insects, or general plant care, Extension’s team of experienced specialists is here to help.

The sessions are free and open to the public. During a session, participants submit questions to a team of moderators who then ask the panel of experts. However, you don’t need a question to participate! Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, you are welcome to join and enhance your understanding of plants.

The next session will take place Monday,

Update from the (Taliesin) Kitchen Garden: An Introduction to the Season

The air is filled with the fragrant aroma of ground ivy, released more with each pass of the wheel barrow. It’s a troublesome invasive weed that luckily makes the most delicious tea! I dream of my first cup of the season. The eastern meadowlark and sandhill cranes serenade my labor. As the sun rises, I watch the shadows turn to light along the Welsh Hills, illuminating the spring ephemerals. And as it sets, Romeo & Juliet beam in the last western light. Indeed, the Riverview Terrace Kitchen Garden is a magical place in a very special valley. The garden serves to teach and honor the legacy of local food production and communal labor and learning, integral components of the early Hillside School, as well as the Wright Fellowship. This year I am honored to be leading a special Grow & Gather series at the Taliesin estate! Learn about companion planting, prop-

agation, and edible weeds right at the Kitchen Garden! Or come discover the magic and basics of foraging with me on the beautiful Welsh Hills or at the iconic Phoebe Point! Check out our Events page for all the info and to register. It’s going to be such a fun season. So come “grow & gather” with me!

In addition to being a beautiful and historic space to teach, the kitchen garden doubles as a provider of seasonal produce for the Riverview Terrace Cafe! This for me is the critical componentbeing able to bring the food directly from our land to the plate, as it used to be during the prime days of the Fellowship and School of Architecture. So come dine with us and watch for our garden goodies on your plate this season!

Speaking of all that good produce, we will need lots of hands to tend and harvest this year. And of course there will always be weeding! So if you or anyone

Always look for the helpers: Spring Green Food Pantry

“Always look for the helpers. There will always be helpers.” — Fred Rogers

Mr. Rogers’ famous quote came when speaking to children overwhelmed by the bad and scary things happening in the world. I remember his wonderful advice from when I was a child. Now, as an adult? Absolutely, look for the helpers, but if you can, be a helper. Working as a volunteer for the food pantry means being surrounded by those very people who step up to make our community such a wonderful, caring, inclusive place to live. The Spring Green Food Pantry Volunteer Force has many facets, from stocking shelves and distribution to clients, to board members and fundraisers. These people give of themselves to make our community

(and world) a better place. Volunteers on distribution day sort, pack and deliver food to clients. Years of service range from several months (I am a newbie of eight months) all the way up to veterans Maya Madden (20 years), Wayne Farra (23 years), and Jim Post (23 years)—all still going strong to support our Community Food Pantry. So why volunteer and why so long? Meet new people and soak up a positive atmosphere. Diane Thering (1 year), Patty Yentz (15 years), and Jeanie Sadlon (8 years) all say they love the camaraderie and connecting— getting to know the other volunteers and our clients. Volunteers are from all types of backgrounds and all work toward making the River Valley a better place. Carol Wells, (10 years) describes the atmosphere on distribution day perfectly: “Caring souls all working

Charlie.

Both Henbit and Dead Nettle are winter annuals that germinate in the autumn. You can use a pre-emergent or corn gluten meal in early or mid-September to prevent their seeds from germinating. If you miss the window to apply preemergent in the fall, you need to use a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide in November. In flower beds, hoeing or hand-pulling works but you need to make sure you remove the whole plant including the roots. No matter what plant you have, management of them is a personal choice. Proper identification will help ensure your management techniques are effective.

Mark your calendar for the Sauk County Master Gardeners Association’s annual Tomato Plant Sale and Class this Saturday, May 17th from 10 am to noon at the Baraboo Civic Center, 124 2nd Street, Room 14, Baraboo. Bring a friend, attend the tomato planting class, and then purchase your heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, and miscellaneous vegetables and herbs raised by Sauk County Master Gardeners.

May 19 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Register for free at go.wisc.edu/AYGQLive. The series will continue monthly on Mondays, June 23, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 17, and December 15, 2025. These online programs are hosted by the UW-Madison Extension Horticulture Program. To find more upcoming events and learning opportunities, visit hort. extension.wisc.edu/events.

you know are interested in helping in the kitchen garden, please email me (alehman@taliesinpreservation.org) for more information and to apply! We welcome all skill levels and time commitments.

And now for my first garden update! Chives and hardier herbs are

very hard together to make a difference in lives.” Andy Sgrignoli (1st year) appreciates the positive atmosphere. “I enjoy the opportunity to connect with others in the community.” The camaraderie and teamwork is led by Heather Chastain, who, “makes it so much fun!” (Sandra Kay Bindl—8 years). We all take Heather’s lead, and work with passion and heart to give back and help neighbors and families in our community.

Really make a difference in people’s lives and help our community. Marlon Tafs (7-years) enjoys “the volunteers I work with and the people we are able to help.” When asked, many of our volunteers (like Laurie Derse—10+ years and Rose Ellen Schneider—12 years) say they are inspired to be part of something positive and contribute to the community. Jan Spredemann

the season.

coming back nicely in the garden. Luckily, weeds have not crept in much due to heavy mulching last fall. Many seedlings started indoors are getting bigger and will be hardened off for transplant soon. And our first direct sow of early spring crops will begin in the coming week!

(14 years) says “knowing that some families have something for dinner tonight makes me feel good.” Paula Washow (8 years) sums it all up: “We are a community.”

You see the immediate difference you make. The experience is rewarding in many ways. Barbara Mott (2-1/2 years) says “the need is so real and the appreciation is real,” and sees firsthand the importance of what we do as we put much-needed food in the hands of those in our community.

Giving money and/or volunteering time is what keeps our Community Food Pantry enabled to help our neighbors!

You can find out more and donate or join up right on the website! https://www. communityfoodpantryofspringgreen. org/

Jeannie Manis, Wisconsin Certified Master Gardener

Abbie Lehman, Taliesin Preservation

Photo contributed by Taliesin Preservation The garden at Taliesin prepped and ready for planting ahead of

Kathy Steffan, Contributed

An Outdoorsman’s Journal

Mark Walters, Columnist

Hello friends,

Last May, I headed down to Columbia County, put my canoe into the Wisconsin River and did a physical and at times dangerous journey for 90 minutes to a stream. Up that stream I fished trout and slept on the shoreline. I only had three bites in 24 hours, but I landed two 17-inch and a 22-inch brown trout. It was pretty much impossible for me to not return this May.

Saturday, May 3rd

High 73°, Low 35°

This trip would have me back in my home area as far as where I grew up and naturally, I had my 3 year old pup Red along. Just to fill you in, this is in a way, a fairly dangerous canoe journey. The reason is, because before I get to the creek I paddle up for almost 2 miles, and have to paddle through about 600-yards of water just deep enough to float a canoe through muck.

When I was a kid, the ice fishing was pretty good here and while my brothers and I watched tip ups, we would often skate and play hockey.

Ten years ago I could use my 40hsp Mercury and 16 foot boat to travel these waters. Wild rice and dying plants each fall combined with sediment flowing down the stream have literally blocked everything and if a person were to fall out of their canoe and could not get back in it, they would die. Simply put there is no bottom.

Large trout and ZERO fishermen besides myself pull me here.

After getting through the muck

field, there is about a 60-minute paddle upstream and this year it was pretty physical as there was a lot of current.

Another “situation” is deadfalls, they block my path and create labor.

When I arrived at my hole which is probably 100-feet long, elbow shaped and 3 to 7 feet deep I was in excellent spirits, as I would be here 2 nights.

There was no dry land for a tent, everything was flooded so I pulled up literally a half a truck load of last year’s dead grass that was on the top of fallen trees and made a tall pile for my tent. This worked flawlessly, other choice would have been sleeping in my canoe and I have done it here.

So I am in a swamp, there is more waterfowl here than you can even imagine, I am fishing, doing as little as possible and loving it. Towards dark it actually became dam old between heavy moisture in the air and probably not bringing enough clothes. I caught 3 suckers and one, 11-inch brown trout. Retiring to my sleeping bag was good

and bad, Red likes to snuggle like a tick but she was soaked and muddy which would have made me colder, I kept her a foot away and slept well.

Sunday, May 4th

High 72°, Low 27°

I was up at first light and it was cold out, everything outside of my tent was froze and I had trout to catch. The suckers were hungry, the waterfowl were overhead by the hundreds as were the sandhill cranes. I had one group of cranes fly directly over me and one of them had a leg just hanging. Imagine living much of your life in shallow water, not being able to swim and only having one leg!

Today I caught my biggest trout of the trip, it was a 16-inch brown. My goal was to crack 15, so I was happy with that. Last year I was here a week later, there were leaves on the trees and the current was much lower. Over three days of fishing I only caught 3 trout and 11 suckers. Last year I was well aware that I was on a dream trip when I

landed the big sumos.

For myself the 100-percent getaway, the huge trout last year and other years are the reason I come here. Most importantly, it’s the nonstop wildlife show and the cold reality that my years of reaching this type of hard to get to spots are definitely numbered.

I still love my job!

Sunset

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Photo contributed by Mark Walters This was a no man’s land type of a trip.

A Remote Trout Fishing Trip

Photo contributed by Mark Walters Red loved sitting and looking into the water at this spot.

Photo contributed by Mark Walters

A unique sunrise with a hard frost.