Valley Sentinel - 12-23-2020

Spring Green, Wisconsin

Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020 Vol. 1, No. 10 Free, Single-Copy

Vaccines, contact tracing app on horizon

The show must go on — high school musical performed Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief

Photos by Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief EMS Chief Derek Miller, left, hands Kathy Santos a completed COVID-19 swab test Monday at the weekly testing event at the Spring Green Fire Department Emilie Conlon, Editor-in-Chief Over the last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two separate COVID-19 vaccines, with the first doses in Wisconsin being given to healthcare workers at UW Hospital in Madison.

Valley Sentinel asked county health officials in Sauk, Iowa and Richland counties when residents can anticipate vaccine availability in the area. Below are the answers they provided.

Below are answers from Jessie Phalen, Sauk County Public Health Nurse Manager.

Valley Sentinel: When can we expect to see doses of the vaccine in the county?

Jessie Phalen: Unknown, as of today, 12/17/2020, no Sauk County hospitals have gotten COVID-19 vaccine.

We anticipate that they will start to see those doses very soon.

VS: Does your department have a plan on how it might be involved in distributing the vaccines?

JP: We do, fine-tuning this currently.

VS: Who would the vaccine be available to?

JP: The individual states will help determine who is in what phases.

The current Phase, which is Phase1a includes frontline health care workers, EMS, and long-term care staff and residents. Those eligible in later phases are still being determined.

VS: It what ways do you think a vac-

cine will be helpful?

JP: The vaccine will help to prevent COVID-19 infections.

VS: In what ways will it not immediately help?

JP: The mRNA vaccines, which the Pfizer vaccine, which has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) and the Moderna, where EUA is pending FDA approval at this time, both require 2 doses, 3 and 4 weeks apart respectively. Both doses are needed to provide the best protection from COVID-19. So it will take time for widespread immunity to occur, which means we will still need to keep that 6’ physical distance, wear masks, avoid crowds, and wash hands frequently for

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The cast of the River Valley High School musical Urinetown: The Musical performed to a limited audience last weekend while striving to overcome challenges brought on by COVID-19, musical directors say.

The high school’s musical was performed for a limited audience, on Dec. 18-20, and High School Music Director Becky Schinker said the event went incredibly well.

“It went so smoothly,” said Schinker. “We were all just grateful that it happened. It was a really great weekend.”

The musical, “Urinetown” by Greg Kotis, is a 2001 satirical musical comedy, that comments on capitalism and corporate mismanagement. The plot begins at the precipice of a 20 year drought, inducing hefty water shortages, causing the fictional government to ban private toilets, comedizing a physical human need—to pee.

Public restroom facilities are run by Urine Good Company, an evil corporation that charges residents to pee, and if residents relieve themselves in public or refuse to pay fees, they are sent to the infamous Urinetown.

After the main character’s father is sent to Urinetown, never to be heard from again, a revolution against oppression and corruption erupts.

“It’s kind of perfect for the situation we’re in now,” said Schinker. “It’s a funny, quirk, kind of dark but actually kind of perfect for the pandemic. It takes a whole bunch of styles of other musicals, there’s hints of ‘Les Miserables’, there’s hints of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, there’s hints of ‘West Side Story’, so it’s a musical makes haha at other musicals, while being a political piece as well.”

Production of an in-person musical in the face of COVID-19, didn’t come without its challenges, Schinker said directors of the musical worked to keep everyone safe with strict safety protocols which included daily

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Spring Green board raises water utility rates, considers Veterans Memorial Quincy Aston-Lott, Managing Editor The Spring Green village board, in line with a Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) application final decision, voted to increase water utility rates starting in the new year — with the average residential customer’s bill set to rise over 73%.

The PSC held an audio hearing on November 19, 2020 and issued the following statement in their decision, “No customers appeared at the hearing. However, the applicant [Spring Green Water Utility] requested at the hearing that the Commission consider reducing the proposed rate of return

from 4.9 percent to 3.00 percent. The applicant expressed concern that the proposed rates are too high for existing customers due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. At the hearing, the applicant asserted a 3.00 percent rate of return would decrease revenues by $46,000, reduce the proposed rate increase to approximately 54.00 percent, and still maintain adequate cash flow for the utility The applicant waited to submit its request to reduce the rate of return until the hearing rather than during its review and acceptance of Commission staff’s proposed revenue requirement. The Commission appreciates the applicant’s concern in this

matter. However, the Commission finds that the revenue resulting from the authorized rates is necessary to provide for the financial needs of the applicant over the long-term. The Commission further concludes that the rates as proposed by Commission staff would provide a reasonable and nondiscriminatory recovery of the revenue requirement. Accordingly, the Commission approves Commission staff’s proposed rates.”

According to the PSC’s appendices to the order, the average residential customer with a 5/8” meter, using 11,000 gallons of water, with a bill at the old rate of $36.09, would bill at a new

rate of $62.64, a percentage change of 73.57%.

The village decided that Jan. 1, 2021 would be the effective date of the new rates, with the board affirming the order and unanimously approving the rates. The first bill with the new rates will be sent out in April 2021.

The board viewed concept drawings for the proposed Veterans Memorial.

Paul Kardatzke, of project contractor Jewel Associates, presented schematics and mockups of the memorial set to be constructed in North Park.

Discussion ensued regarding the placement of the memorial, the sche-

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Page 2

opinion/editorial

WednesdaY, Dec.23, 2020

EDITORIAL

Ask not what your village can do for you, ask what you can do for our area Doesn’t have quite the same ring we’ll admit, however the sentiment is still important.

When we introduced the River Valley Think Tank and River Valley Resolutions initiatives we certainly viewed them as holistic and able to be approached from several angles and possibly while wearing several hats. We still believe that, however it’s important to note several things.

The River Valley Resolutions questionnaire was sent out to serve as a vehicle for sharing standalone ideas you’ve had strike

you, ideas about events or services or any number of things you think our communities as a whole should provide.

The River Valley Think Tank questionnaire was sent out to village officials across the area. It’s meant to serve as a comprehensive, put on your public servant hat, conversation starter about the issues facing our communities, solutions to those issues, and projects we should be looking forward to.

Similarly, a resident or business owner could put on their respective hats and answer the questions from a very different perspective.

River Valley Think Tank

Valley Sentinel sent out the below short questionnaire to the villages and their elected officials in the River Valley area.

We want to inspire forward-thinking actions and solutions to issues that can be taken to help our area not only survive, but thrive.

We encourage the surrounding municipalities, townships and residents to engage as well.

—What are a few major obstacles/issues facing your community that will need to be acted on in this next year? Next three years? Next five years?

—What actions are needed to resolve them?

—What are a few projects that feasibly could be started, or even completed, in the next year that would better your community?

—Are there areas for cooperation and coordination between our greater community?

—What are some forward-thinking opportunities and initiatives that your community should have on their agenda? What’s the next big endeavor to better your community?

—What are ways community members can get involved?

We want your responses! Let’s start finding solutions, together.

Email us at editor@valleysentinelnews.com or send us a letter: Valley Sentinel, P.O. Box 144, Spring Green, WI 53588 or give us a call at 608-588-6694.

The most constructive responses will be printed in Valley Sentinel before the end of the year.

We want to ensure the understanding of the questions isn’t simply or solely “what services should we get from our municipality?” or “what project should the village undertake next?” Those are good questions, but they can’t be the only questions, especially right now. We want to thank Michael Broh for his thoughtful and insightful responses to our questions, which helped inform this editorial.

Things are hard right now, but we can’t rely on any one organization/entity, private or public, to help build the area and com-

munity we want, it takes all of us. Instead of “how can the village build or redevelop this project right now?” we should ask how different entities can work together, perhaps with the help of the local government, to coordinate and build community together.

This pandemic has squashed many things, lets not let cooperation be one of them.

Our Think Tank questionnaire can be found on our site or directly here: forms.gle/Mcin8YehPzSe27ku6

River Valley Resolutions

Everyone has a great idea or two (or more) to better our greater community. We’ve all looked at a problem or had that moment of inspiration or wished we had a service or opportunity here in our area.

Do you have an idea that you’ve told no one else? An idea or two that’s been bouncing around in your head for awhile? An idea that might seem preposterous, but it just might work if someone knew? An idea you’ve only told your hunting buddies or your bridge club or your dog?

Do you have ideas that could be implemented in 1, 3 or 10 years that would put the River Valley area on the map as a place to live, work and play?

We want your ideas!

Submit your standalone ideas and let’s get the conversations going, let’s start a feedback loop of impulses and ideas that lead to action that betters our community.

Let’s start building community, together.

Email us at editor@valleysentinelnews.com or send us a letter: Valley Sentinel, P.O. Box 144, Spring Green, WI 53588 or give us a call at 608-588-6694.

The best responses will be printed anonymously in Valley Sentinel just after the New Year.

Think tank response: Spring Green Trustee Michael Broh Below are responses to Valley Sentinel’s River Valley Think Tank Initiative from Spring Green Village Boardmember Michael Broh.

Valley Sentinel: What are a few major obstacles/issues facing your community that will need to be acted on in this next year? Next three years? Next five years?

Michael Broh: The biggest issue facing our community right now is the effect of the pandemic on our local economy. As we watch businesses struggle and see increasing numbers of people without work, the risk of a downward spiral is great. We must stay on top of maintaining what we have, so we don’t watch our infrastructure degrade from lack of attention. Outside of our municipality, as we see greater numbers of people working and schooling from home, it is clear that better internet access is critical.

VS: What actions are needed to resolve those major obstacles/issues?

MB: Good fiscal management remains our best tool in staying on top of infrastructure. As people struggle, we want to

avoid further borrowing and tax increases, so we don’t add to their struggles. To increase our resources, then, we need to be able to increase the tax base. We need to encourage growth as best as possible, such as the work we’ve done with Cardinal, and watching for similar opportunities to attract new businesses.

VS: What are a few projects that feasibly could be started, or even completed, in the next year that would better your community?

MB: I don’t think the Village of Spring Green is in a position for new projects. We’ve just completed a new Police Station, and are continuing to work on the new infrastructure in the industrial park. We continue to budget to maintain our existing infrastructure, so that we can replace the great things we have before catastrophes can occur.

VS: What are the areas for cooperation and coordination between our greater community in these projects?

MB: Spring Green has an ongoing opportunity to grow as a tourist community. The Chamber of Commerce has done a nice job creating events that bring more people here,

and show off existing businesses. We should continue to support the chamber, the Spring Board, For Petes’s Sake, the Spring Green Area Arts Coalition, and other partners who want to help draw more people to our community. In the midst of this, it is critical that we be a welcoming community to a diverse world. The Open Minded campaign is a great example of how we can work together to make Spring Green more welcoming.

VS: What are some forward-thinking opportunities and initiatives that your community should have on their agenda? What’s the next big endeavor to better your community?

MB: It is critical that we strike a balance between exciting new ideas and holding on to what we have. Given the state of our local economy, I am not currently proposing any new and exciting spending that might jeopardize our previous investments. For example, we recently looked at expanding the size of the pool, to allow for some larger competitive swimming events. This is absolutely something that would serve our community, but at this time, not something we can afford to build and maintain. Everything we invest

in is a thing we need to protect for as far as we can see. Even generous gifts like the skate park and the tennis court ultimately degrade.

We must make sure we can protect what we have.

VS: What are ways community members can get involved?

MB: I was very excited about the mural brought to Lexington St. The project was approved by local government, but paid for through independent fundraising. These sorts of projects are always exciting, and feel less burdensome to the community. They also give board time to budget for replacement decades down the road.

VS: Please feel free to add any other comments/suggestions to better our communities!

MB: I love Spring Green. This is an amazing community. I continue to be proud to serve here. We know that small town life is not a spectator sport. Spring Green is proof of that. I want to thank everyone who has given back to their community, and those that will come after them.

2020 was a very productive, fruitful year for me as your State Senator. I am proud of closing the 2019-20 legislative session with 20 bills signed into law by Governor Tony Evers. I was honored to work on a wide array of projects to help communities work with state agencies. I continued to work with the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access.

We maintained our pursuit of helping small, local governments to complete the paperwork to receive Federal and State funding for flood damages. My team and I navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and helped secure funds for Farmer Assistance, Broadband, rural communities and more. We assisted more than 500 contacts with unemployment issues. Overall, we fielded and answered 12,599 contacts from constituents since January 1, 2020!

Governor Evers signed 20 bills I authored

into law during the 2019-20 legislative session. I credit these achievements to the great ideas and hard work of the people I serve.

Many of the ideas and initiatives I worked on came directly from people, businesses, community leaders and experiences in the 17th Senate District. For example, Act 43 provided a waiver for teachers who are certified out of Wisconsin so that school districts on the borders can hire highly qualified teachers quickly.

Likewise, Act 100 created a Licensing Compact for Physical Therapists to practice across state borders. Act 91 created an exemption for motorized chairlifts at historical churches so that the Jordan Lutheran Church in Green County could provide access to their parishioners. Act 159 streamlined disaster assistance funding and processes for communities suffering from disasters like the Town of

Glendale in Monroe County. Act 128 created a property tax exemption to incentivize broadband infrastructure investments. Act 174 changed requirements for agricultural truck drivers to better accommodate the reality of harvest seasons.

In addition to active legislation, we also helped several communities and individuals navigate discussions with state agencies. This was especially unique because most state agency staff are working remotely, creating new challenges for communication. Despite the challenges, Rep. Tony Kurtz (R-Wonewoc) and I were able to gather support for additional funding for the repair project for the Elroy-Sparta and 400 Trails, which is beginning. Rep. Travis Tranel (R-Cuba City) and I worked with the City of Lancaster to encourage the Department of Transportation

2020 Year In Review from Sen. Howard Marklein Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green

This has truly been a unique year. Many of us are probably looking back at 2020 with a mixture of feelings. We’re hoping for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re glad the election cycle is over. We’re hoping to connect with family and friends. We’re looking for a return to normalcy.

But what will be “normal” in the future?

The pandemic gave me the chance to spend a lot of time outside. It helped me to deepen my relationships with family and friends.

I slowed down a bit and took time to enjoy things that I had put off because of the usually fast pace of life as your legislator. I am hoping to make some of these refreshing things part of my new normal.

Even with the pandemic, changes to schedules and fewer opportunities to move around the 17th Senate District in person,

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opinion/Letter to the editor

WednesdaY, Dec.23, 2020

Page 3

School tax levy increases continue for coming year Fiscal Facts by Wisconsin Policy Forum

Amid a pandemic and global recession, school districts are increasing property taxes for the coming year by 3.3% — lower than last year’s 4.5% but still the second-highest percentage since 2010. Additional increases in county and technical college taxes suggest that, once municipal levies are in, the overall property tax increase on December bills will also be one of the largest of the past decade, though lower than the 3.7% hike last year.

Property taxes are the single largest tax paid by Wisconsin residents and also the biggest source of local funding for schools, police, fire protection, and roads. While

localities might benefit from more diverse revenue options, this heavy reliance may actually be an advantage in this time of crisis, because property taxes typically are not immediately sensitive to economic downturns, unlike sales or income taxes.

This notion is evidenced by several successful voter referenda, among the key factors driving the school levy increase — including one linked to a $42.5 million levy increase for the Milwaukee Public Schools alone. Also, after four years of tight revenue limits on general school aids and property taxes, the 2019-21 state budget raised the cap by $179 per pupil this year, an increase amounting to roughly

$150 million statewide.

Further, the state also provided an additional $163.5 million in general aids, a 3.4% increase that was the largest since 2005 and more than enough to cover the growth in the revenue limits, curbing the overall growth in property taxes statewide.

However, the impact on each individual district will vary due to state formulas.

Property tax increases may certainly pose hardships for some, given the economic impacts of COVID-19. On the other hand, they also help maintain key services such as public health, education, and public safety at a time when they could be most valued.

The Wisconsin Policy Forum is a statewide nonpartisan, independent policy research organization with offices in Milwaukee and Madison. We provide informed analysis of critical policy issues affecting local governments, school districts, and the state of Wisconsin. Our research and facilitation activities encourage elected officials and community leaders to find effective, data-driven solutions to pressing policy challenges, and promote productive discussion among the public and private sectors.

2020 Year In Review from Sen. Howard Marklein Continued from page 2

to reconsider their request for access for the new hotel project on Hwy 61. I just received word that this effort was successful! We also are working with the Tri-County Airport, several municipalities and individuals who have needed our help to resolve issues with state government agencies.

The Task Force on Broadband Access continued to meet virtually throughout 2020 to discuss broadband policy. I augmented this discussion with spending a day with the Reedsburg Utility Commission Fiber Construction team who were working in Spring Green as a part of my 12 Hire Howard experiences. I learned all about how fiber optic connections are made and the construction process to connect us. It was fascinating.

The most recent Broadband Expansion Grant application process recently closed and 13 projects in the 17th Senate District are un-

der consideration. I have shared my support for several of them with the Public Service Commission (PSC) and will continue to seek ways to expand broadband into unserved and underserved communities. We need to be creative to connect our communities.

My team and I also continued to help small, local governments to complete outstanding paperwork so that they can receive all of the Federal and State funding due to them from flood damage in 2018. There are still at least 15 communities who have not received all of the funding they should have received and we are working with them to complete paperwork, make connections and clear obstacles.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked hard to make sure that rural Wisconsin received the assistance, funding and opportunities we needed to manage the crisis. I met with stakeholders, talked with

hundreds of businesses and organizations on the phone and via zoom and answered questions for constituents from all corners of the 17th Senate District. My team and I have been working for you full-time throughout the pandemic.

I was proud to work with the Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection (DATCP) right away to make sure farmers and the food supply chain was able to continue to function. I also encouraged the Farm Support grant program and helped spread the word and helped people to apply. I also reached out to the Governor to encourage him to direct some of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to rural broadband – and he did.

As you know, the Safer At Home order for the COVID-19 pandemic created massive unemployment in March, April and May.

In response to your editorial on election fraud, I beg to differ.

Please review the article by Dr. Peter Navaro: thenationalpulse.com/news/navarro-report-conclusive-slams-media/

The cases that have failed were on procedural excuses that never allowed the facts to be presented .

There are thousands of witnesses nationwide that have signed affidavits (under penaly

of perjury) of the fraud they witnessed and experienced.

Why not have the truth be heard?

What do the democrats have to hide?

I have added a link to a very short video

My team and I worked with more than 500 contacts who did not receive their unemployment efficiently. There are still people who have not received payment months later and we continue to ask the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to finish these cases. According to an audit released this week, 25.5% of claims filed since March 15, 2020 remain unpaid! We will stay on this.

Overall, I am very proud of my work on your behalf in 2020. It has been a very busy, full and unique year as your State Senator. I look forward to our opportunities in 2021.

As always, please do not hesitate to connect with me to provide input, ideas or to seek assistance. Send an email to sen.marklein@ legis.wisconsin.gov or call 608-266-0703.

Letter to the Editor: response to election fraud legal editor column

Contact us

PO Box 144 Spring Green, Wisconsin 53588 USA (608) 588-6694 editor@valleysentinelnews.com valleysentinelnews.com Editorial Editor-in-Chief Emilie Conlon Creative Director Morgan Marlenga Managing Editor Quincy Aston-Lott Legal Editor Gerry Strang, esq.

from Citizens Free Press as part of Judge Troupe’s testimony in front of a U.S. Senate Committee chaired by Senator Ron Johnson about election fraud: youtu.be/8Gun-glKH8U —John Wilson, Lone Rock, WI

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

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Est. 2020 igne conflatum “Forged in Fire”

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Page 4

Community

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Village board considers memorial, future of recycling dumpster continued from page 1 matics have the memorial roughly 150 feet north of the shelter pavilion by the Spring Green pool parking lot.

“I was under the impression that this was going to be at the far end, by Baker Street,” said Village Trustee Robin Reid, referencing the north east corner of the park. “Because where it is now, it’s right in the middle of our green area.”

Trustee Michael Broh brought up concerns about parking off of Baker and Worcester Streets, if the village were to place the memorial in the north east corner. A sidewalk would also need to be put in if the village chose that location.

“The next thing you know, someone is walking through someone’s property,” said Trustee Norm Miller.

The proposed location north of the pavilion is currently being used for pickup soccer games.

“The whole thing is beautiful and I’m very, very supportive of this, but I just want to make sure that if we are putting this in there that...there’s still multi-use available of that greenspace,” said Reid.

“I really want to consider this greenspace a [pickup soccer] field area as well, and see if we can minimize the encroachment of the walkway, see maybe if we can change the walkway a bit, pull it further over?”

Miller proposed moving the walkway to the memorial west so that it extends from the pavilion. The board agreed with that route and sent the concepts back to committee to be redrawn with those suggestions in mind.

The board heard that Town & Country Sanitation would be newly assessing a charge for appliance disposal for a dumpster at the village burn site. The dumpster has been there for 14 years at no cost to the village and is only for metal and appliances.

Town & Country informed the village that there will now be a charge of $50 for each appliance disposed of in the dumpster. After discussion, the board decided to remove the dumpster entirely from the village’s property and discontinue the service. It was noted that residents can call Town & Country and make arrangements to have their

Renderings of plans for the Veteran’s Memorial at North Park in Spring Green. appliances picked up and they can also take their metal to Gauger’s in Arena.

The board approved engaging firm Johnson Block for the next three years for audits of the financial statements of the general fund, sewer utility, water utility, TIF District #6 and for the preparation of various required reports.

The cost will be $18,900 for audit-year 2020, $19,400 for audit-year 2021 and $19,900 for audit-year 2022.

The board approved replacement of a transducer at the Waste Water Treatment Plant, at a cost of $5242.60. The transducer was last replaced in 1996 and serves to read the sludge level in the storage tank and sends the info to a computer in the lab to prevent tank overfill.

The board entered into a professional service agreement with HydroCorp for CrossConnection Control Services to inspect and document its findings on the potable water distribution system in public, commercial and industrial facilities within the community, including inspections/surveys, program administration, answering telephone call inquires, scheduling of inspections, program compliance review, public education materials, preparation of quarterly management reports and

annual cross connection reports. The agreement was set to cost $4,380.00 for a one year contract.

The board approved the replacement of a mobile data computer for the Police Department, deciding on a Panasonic Toughbook from Baycom Inc. for $3,428.

The board approved the 2021 Plain Police Services Contract, providing law enforcement supervisory and administrative services to the Village of Plain, keeping the same agreement that the villages have used the last several years.

The board also approved the Spring Green Fire Protection District Annual Report. COVID testing will continue to be offered on Mondays at the fire station.

The next regular board meeting is January 13, 2021 — the same day as the spring election caucus to nominate candidates for the spring election ballot. The board decided unanimously to hold the caucus virtually and to continue through January to hold meetings virtually.

The board will meet next on Jan. 6 at a special meeting to “discuss possible restructuring/reorganization of Village operations and staff.”

Graphics via Jewell Associates Engineering

Community

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Page 5

Some healthcare works vaccinated, others expecting doses soon Continue from page 1

the foreseeable future.

VS: Do you foresee a wide adoption of the vaccination in the area? Why or why not?

JP: We are very hopeful that many will accept the COVID-19 vaccine.

Below are answers from Keith Hurlbert, Iowa County Emergency Management director.

Valley Sentinel: When can we expect to see doses of the vaccine in the county?

Keith Hurlbert: We don’t have a definitive date for this. The vaccine (Pfizer) has only started to arrive in the state. The Public Health Department will likely not see vaccine for another two to three weeks.

Upland Hills Health could very likely get vaccine much sooner as they are charged with the duties of vaccinating the front line healthcare workers or those folks who have frequent and prolonged exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals.

VS: Does your department have a plan on how it might be involved in distributing the vaccines?

KH: Yes, but certain aspects of the plan are fluid because we don’t have an idea of how many doses we will receive when It becomes available to our area. Emergency Management assists Public Health with the logistics of a vaccination site. The Public Health Department will manage all aspects of the vaccination process and record keeping. The Hospital has its own plan and the pharmacies such as Walgreens will be doing the vaccinations in the Long Term Care Facilities. Again, they are working with those facilities and developing their plans.

All entities involved in the vaccination process have been involved in the overall planning process for Iowa County and each is aware of their area of responsibility.

VS: Who would the vaccine be available to?

KH: Initially, Frontline Healthcare workers and Long Term Care Facilities.

The availability of the vaccine and the quantities will dictate how quickly we can expand beyond these two initial groups.

The Federal and State Departments of Health have provided some guidance in the prioritization of categories and subcatego-

ries of people based on the vulnerabilities from the likelihood of exposure or their health condition. Because of the nature of the vaccine role out and time it will take to produce enough vaccine to satisfy the total need, those priorities will continually be set and reset as needed based on the number of doses available at any given time.

VS: It what ways do you think a vaccine will be helpful? In what ways will it not immediately help?

KH: The end goal is to create herd immunity to the COVID-19 virus. The vaccine will do that if enough people take it. Once vaccinated you are unlikely to get sick from the virus but could still potentially spread the disease. Therefore the need for all people to get vaccinated is important. This highly contagious and potentially lethal virus would be stopped with the vaccine. Because it will take time to get enough people vaccinated to achieve the herd immunity protection, the need to continue wearing masks, social distancing, not gathering in large crowds and practicing basic hand hygiene will remain to be the primary methods for mitigating the spread of the virus.

VS: Do you foresee a wide adoption of the vaccination in the area?

KH: We believe that Iowa County will be similar to the rest of the state or nation in regard to the percentages of people who will take the vaccine right away, those who will wait a period of time and those who will never take it.

VS: Why or why not?

KH: The education effort on the vaccine got started pretty late in the game. The public needs solid credible information from the season health professionals at the National Level, State Level and Local Level.

There is way too much misinformation out there from folks who have their own agendas. We hope people take the time to do their own research, read and listen to both sides and make an educated decision for themselves. Far too many people are willing to let others think for them and that just isn’t a smart thing to do right now.

The same questions were asked of Rose Kohout, Richland County Public Health Officer. Below is her response.

Rose Kohout: Currently, we are in the planning phase for vaccine implementation. There are many variables which need to be considered. No specifics are available at this time.

Below are answers from Richland County Emergency Management Director, Darin Gudgeon.

VS: When can we expect to see doses of the vaccine in the county?

Darin Gudgeon: The first shipment of the Pfizer vaccine arrived at the Richland Hospital on the 17th VS: Does your department have a plan on how it might be involved in distributing the vaccines?

DG: Richland County Public Health, the Richland Hospital and Richland County Emergency Management are working together on planning and logistics and will distribute the vaccine according to the phases. Agencies with licensed/certified healthcare workers have been surveyed so we have a fairly good idea on the number of doses necessary for phase 1a.

VS: In what ways do you think a vaccine will be helpful? In what ways will it not immediately help?

DG: We are to early in the process for me to answer this question thoroughly. If the vaccine does provide 90%+ effectiveness and does not have numerous significant side effects and gets us to herd immunity quicker, then I would say it would be extremely helpful. It is difficult to speak in terms of how it will immediately or not immediately help when it will take anywhere from 5-6 weeks before anyone that received the vaccine will achieve seroconversion and this is a novel virus and a vaccine that is only being distributed under emergency authorization. Too many unknowns…

VS: Do you foresee a wide adoption of the vaccination in the area? Why or why not?

DG: This is difficult to answer because the like virus itself this has become politicized.

Richland Hospital recieves vaccines

A news release from Richland County Emergency Management on Dec. 22 said Richland Hospital received a shipment of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, and was able to provide the first round of vaccinations to

63 healthcare workers.

The hospital anticipates a secondary shipment of the vaccine this week, and expects to receive weekly shipments of the Pfizer vaccine. The news release states the hospital has not received information on receiving the Moderna vaccine.

The current phased COVID-19 vaccination plan includes: —Phase 1a includes vaccinating frontline health care workers, long-term care facility residents and staff that generally serve people 65 years and older.

—Phase 1b includes vaccinating frontline essential workers.

—Phase 1c includes vaccinating individuals age 65 and older, age 16 to 64 with high-risk conditions, and essential workers not included in Phase 1b.

—Phase 2 includes vaccinating all individuals age 16 and older not included in Phase 1 (general public).

Spring Green EMS Chief Derek Miller said he expects the department will be able to receive vaccinations in the next week for EMTs, and is anticipating administering the vaccine at the Spring Green Fire Station via drive-thru, when it can become available to the general public.

In the last week, Gov. Tony Evers announced the roll-out of a bluetooth smartphone app that would assist state and local health officials in anonymously contact tracing positive COVID-19 exposures and close contacts. Evers announced Dec. 22 the app will be released on Dec. 23, and residents can expect to receive a notification to download the app, although it is unclear what that will look like.

Valley Sentinel asked health officials from Sauk, Iowa and Richland Counties when and if resident can expect usage of the app in their communities. Below are their responses.

VS: Will the app be utilized at the county level?

JP: We haven’t discussed this internally as to how we would incorporate this into our workflow. This is very new to us and we need to learn more about this.

VS: How do you think your department

COVID-19 Testing Information

Sauk County Mondays from 11am to 1pm at Spring Green Fire/EMS 2 Step Online Registration & Appointment REQUIRED: www.springgreenems.com Tuesdays from 8am to 12pm at Reedsburg Ambulance Service Online Registration REQUIRED: www.register.covidconnect.wi.gov *Note: Even if you have previously registered via covidconnect site, you must re-register each time you are tested.*

Wednesday from 4:30pm to 8pm at Merrimac Fire & Rescue Appointments REQUIRED: Call (608) 393-3205 2 Step Online Registration & Appointment REQUIRED: 1. Complete questionnaire at www.register.covidconnect.wi.gov 2. Call (608) 643-7603 to schedule appointment. Call MondayFriday 8am-4pm *Note: Even if you have previously registered via covidconnect site, you must re-register each time you are tested. Enter the car line from Water St to Lincoln Ave, then follow the yellow directional signs to check in station located at 55 Prairie Ave. Vehicles with more than one person in them are welcome but each person MUST have pre-registered and have scheduled an appointment.*

See page 6

Iowa County December 30th from 11am to 1pm at Health and Human Services Center Testing is free and open to anyone (age 5+) who feels they need to be tested. Minors must be accompained by a parent or guardian with consent. Appointments are not required, but it is requested that those who wishto be tested pre-register at www.register. covidconnect.wi.gov.

Richland County Tests will be available on a FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE basis.

January 4th from 9am to 12pm at Richland County Fairgrounds January 7th from 9am to 3pm at Richland County Fairgrounds January 11th from 9am to 12pm at Richland County Fairgrounds

Fridays from 8am to 12pm at Circus World Parking Lot (testing conducted by Baraboo Fire & EMS *No testing on 12/25 & 1/1 Online Registration only. Unable to accept phone calls 2 Step Online Registration & Appointment REQUIRED: www. forms.gle/uXHPPe86hiosRHbN8

January 14th from 9am to 3pm at Richland County Fairgrounds January 18th from 9am to 12pm at Richland County Fairgrounds

Page 6

Arts & Culture/Community

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Despite COVID challenges musical flourishes continued from page 1

temperature checks, health surveys, masks and an attempted social distance of at least three feet between actors. Student actors were unable to hug or hold hands while acting.

To ensure audience safety, each student performing received two tickets per daily performance, which gave directors the opportunity to have a list of audience members prior to the performace, and distribute safety information. All audience members were masked as well.

Another challenge performers faced during production of the musical was projecting their voices for speaking and singing through masks.

To remedy the problem, the drama department was given a grant to purchase 10 new wireless microphones for the musical, from the River Valley School District Endowment Fund.

“If you’ve ever tried to sing or project your sound for a group of people with a mask, it’s hard,” said Schinker. “It made such a difference, we could hear them and they felt like they could be heard.”

While musical directors and performers faced many challenges in this not-so-normal-year, Schinker said she was incredibly impressed with the maturity of all the students involved while they learned not to take any opportunity for granted.

“They took nothing for granted, every day they came to rehearsal you could tell they came with a total sense of gratitude that they got to perform another day, and they got one day closer to their performance,” said Schinker. “I think sometimes when we have these experiences, we just assume its a right, that it’s always going

Photo via Becky Schinker, River Valley High School Music Director A photo of the cast of Urinetown: The Musical, the fall musical performed by students at River Valley High School. The cast and crew include, Nicholas Daniel, Emily Ranum, Ryan Kane, Paige Prem, Natalie Larson, Arie Snow, Lars Anding, Devon Caputo, Kris Langrehr, Natalie Fortney, Anna Deibert, Isaac Daniel, Ryan Klein, Jacob Klein, Samuel Seguin, Emily Kane, Kennedy Kropp, Aaron Christensen, Ava Liegel, Spencer Mack, Claire Eveland, Melissa Ranum, Avery Wilson, Declan Daniel, Gigi Royko Maurer, Kelsey Olson, Leah Deibert, Sophia Rohe and Paula Hollenberger. The play was directed by Sara Young, choreographed by Michael Stanek and musical accompianist was Bob Willoughby. Music was directed by Becky Schinker. to happen, and I think in March, when everything shut down the music kids in particular, learned ‘Oh, i need to take every musical opportunity I can, and get everything out of it I can, because it might be the last one I have,” said Schinker.

“I think there was a sense of gratitude and a sense of just wanting everyone to stay safe. They learned that every moment should not be taken for granted, and that was a big positive with this.”

The live production of the musical was

only offered to a limited number of people, however, the musical was recorded and will be available for purchase at a later date.

More information regarding virtual viewing of the musical will be available soon.

Local officials unsure of contact tracing app usage continued from page 5

can utilize an app like that?

JP: Same as above.

VS: Would having a resource like that be helpful to your department?

JP: We need to learn a bit more about how this application works, but I think it could be useful, especially given that we have not had the capacity since October to reach out to a positive cases contacts.

VS: Does your department have a plan for

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how the app might be used for our area?

JP: Not at this time.

VS: What would you say to residents that have privacy concerns?

JP: I can’t address this question until I know more about the application.

The same questions were given to Hurlbert, below is his response.

KH: Here is what we know about the app.

It is a Bluetooth based technology that requires the phone user to turn it on. The

COVID-19 Positive individual needs to indicate that they are positive within the app. Once that happens, and others download and turn the app on, they could begin getting notifications that they were within 6ft of a COVID-19 positive individual for a length of time that may put them at risk of catching the virus. As we understand how the app works, the Health Departments have no control who downloads the app or turns it on. It is all voluntary. The Health

Departments around the state will likely have to field many phone calls from people who receive these notifications asking questions about what they should do now.

In regard to privacy concerns, since it’s a voluntary use app, this should not be an issue.

Kohout did not respond to these questions.

Sports

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Page 7

Blackhawk Boys face Sauk Prairie — and COVID Mike McDermott, Contributed The River Valley boys basketball team faced Sauk Prairie Dec. 14 with a roster and coaching staff depleted by COVID-19 quarantines. Nonetheless, the hometown squad, with only 8 players dressed for the game, gave Sauk Prairie all they could handle before ultimately falling 58-52.

The difference in the game was an early run by Sauk Prairie, turning a 3-2 lead into a 20-6 advantage midway through the first half. That 14 point margin would hold steady until intermission, with Valley unable to make a serious dent in the lead, trailing 33-19 at the half. The Blackhawks have been a slow starting bunch thus far, trailing Platteville by 11 before getting into gear and putting the Hillmen away after the halftime break, earlier in the season.

RV would need another strong 2nd half to catch the Eagles on this night.

One of the reserves who stepped up to help keep the Blackhawks in the game was Kameran Smith. His nine points and energetic play was just what the doctor ordered on a night when the doctor ordered a number of players to stay home. Zach Gloudeman also did his best to help River Valley climb back into this game, while the stingy Eagles were refusing to give up their double digit lead. Gloudeman’s old-fashioned three point play capped a 7-0 Blackhawk run to cut the lead to 43-35 with 6:30 left in the game, energizing his teammates and the home crowd.

Sauk Prairie responded, as they had done most of the night, scoring the next five points to bounce the lead back to thirteen. Still, the Valley boys were not throwing in the towel. Fueled by long-range

Photos by Mike McDermott, Contributor Blackhawk player Landen Alt, No. 20, jumps up to shoot the ball at the Dec. 14 game against Sauk Prairie. threes from Preston Hying, Landen Alt and Tyler Nachreiner, RV sliced the deficit to 51-48 with 2:00 to go in the game. Unfortunately, that’s as close as the Blackhawks would get, as the visitors went on to close out the 58-52 win.

Head coach Luke Thatcher, who watched the game on RVTV due to quarantine, acknowledged the challenges his team faced this week, “All of the different forms of adversity the team had to face this week with different coaches and different

lineups made things a little difficult. Once everyone settled in and started playing together I thought we moved the ball well, and obviously made a pretty good run at the end of the game. I’m very proud of how everyone fought. I would also like to acknowledge Kevin Billington, Brian Krey, Justin Stanek, and especially Darby Blakley for stepping up into different roles while Steve Stettler and myself were out.

Without their willingness to help out, we would have had to cancel more games than

we did.”

Zach Gloudeman set the pace for River Valley with 16 points and 13 rebounds.

Preston Hying added 13 points, Smith had nine, and Nachreiner tossed in eight for the balanced RV attack.

The Blackhawks won a conference matchup with Dodgeville on Monday, 60-57.

Blackhawk Kameran Smith, No. 25 jumps for up towards the ball at the RV game against Sauk Prairie, Dec. 14. The Blackhawks fell 58-52.

Preston Hying, Blackhawk No. 14 shoots toward the basket Dec. 14 at the home game against Sauk Prairie. The team fought hard with only eight players gameready.

“The good stuff.”

Page 8

Sports/Community

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Wisconsin to offer at-home COVID-19 testing option Wisconsin Department of Health Services

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), today announced a new contract with Vault Medical Services that will add an additional tool to the Wisconsin COVID-19 testing toolbox starting today. At-home COVID 19 saliva collection kits will be available to everyone who lives in Wisconsin, with or without symptoms, at no cost.

“We believe that anyone in Wisconsin who needs to be tested for COVID-19 should have access to a test, and I’m proud of our statewide testing efforts throughout this pandemic,” said Gov. Evers. “We also know that getting to a health care provider or a community testing site isn’t easy for everyone, and that’s why we are excited to offer this new option to make testing even more accessible for folks across our state.”

Wisconsinites can order a collection kit online and have it shipped to their home. The kit will include detailed instructions on how to collect the saliva, which includes a video call with a testing supervisor through Vault Med-

ical Services, and ship it back via UPS dropbox to the lab for processing.

“This is an important tool to provide easy access to COVID-19 testing,” said DHS Secretary designee Andrea Palm.

“As we roll out the COVID-19 vaccine to more Wisconsinites, we need to continue testing, contact tracing, and public health measures such as wearing a mask and social distancing.”

A saliva test is similar to a nasal swab test you might receive from a provider or at a community testing site. Like a nasal swab test, a saliva test determines whether you have an active COVID-19 infection and can spread it to others.

More information can be found on the Wisconsin COVID-19 testing webpage, www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ covid-19/testing.htm For up-to-date information about Wisconsin’s COVID-19 response, visit the DHS COVID-19 webpage. We encourage you to follow @DHSWI on Facebook, Twitter, or dhs.wi on Instagram for more information on COVID-19.

To order an at home testing kit, visit www.learn.vaulthealth.com/ Wisconsin/

School Board Elections

On April 6, 2021, an election will be held for three school board seats, including school district areas number five, seven and eight.

Area No. 5, represents the town of Bear Creek in Sauk County included in the School District and all portion of Richland County included within the School District except the Village of Lone Rock. The Area No. 5 incumbent is Mark Strozinsky, who has filed non-candidacy paperwork and will not run for re-election, according to Paula Wedige, District Administrative Assistant.

Area No. 7, represents the portions of Sauk County included in the School District except the Villages of Plain and Spring Green and except that portion of the Town of Bear Creek in said School District. The Area No. 7 incumbent is Frederic H. Iausly, who has filed paper work to seek re-election.

Area No. 8, being all that portion of the Town of Wyoming included in said School District. The Area No. 8 incumbent is Kiley Cates, who will be running for re-election as the incumbent, said Wedige.

A Campaign Registration Statement and Declaration of Candidacy, must be filed no later than 5 p.m., Tuesday, January 5, 2021, in the office of the school district clerk.

If a primary election is necessary based on number of candidates, the primary will be held on Feb. 16, 2021.

Activities this week

Freshmen Girls Basketball Belmont High School 6 p.m. Dec. 28

JV Girls Basketball Sauk Prairie High School 5:45 p.m. Dec. 29

JV Girls Basketball Barneveld High School 5 p.m. Dec. 28

Varsity Girls Basketball Sauk Prairie High School 7:15 p.m. Dec. 29

Varsity Girls Basketball Barneveld High School 5:30 p.m. Dec. 28

Varsity Wrestling RVHS New Gym 6 p.m. Dec. 30

Freshmen Girls basketball River Valley High School 5 p.m. Dec. 29

Winter Break River Valley School District Dec. 24-Jan. 3

Girls Basketball The Blackhawks struggled on the road last week as they ran into the Blackhawks from Prairie Du Chien Dec. 15. Prairie Du Chien, currently ranked #3 in the state and boasting one of the best backcourts in the state, jumped River Valley from the beginning. Unable to escape constant defensive pressure, the Blackhawks turned the ball over multiple times as Prairie Du Chien cruised to a 78 to 12 victory. Sophomore Charlotte Ferstl led the team in scoring by finishing with nine points.

Looking to rebound, Dec. 17 River Valley traveled to Adams-Friendship for non-conference match-up.

Unfortunately, the Blackhawks had trouble finding their scoring touch and struggled to keep pace with the home team. After taking a brief lead, midway through the first half, the Blackhawks went cold, from the field, as the Green Devils pulled away by a final score of 49 to 29. Sophomore Charlotte Ferstl led the Blackhawks with nine points and Senior Ava Liegel chipped in with seven points.

—Brent Johnson, Head Girls Basketball Coach

Graphic via Wisconsin DHS

Outdoors/recreation

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

Page 9

Winter brings bounty of boreal birds to Wisconsin

species. Every week or two, clean all food and water sources to minimize diseases like salmonellosis to keep birds healthy.

Find more tips for winter backyard bird feeding on DNR’s Birding and Bird Conservation webpage.

Ryan Brady, DNR Conservation Biologist

MADISON, Wis. – With more people spending time at home, birdwatching has become a welcome respite during the pandemic. Heading into 2021, birds continue to brighten the Wisconsin landscape, including some in numbers not seen in years.

Pine siskins, evening grosbeaks and other “winter finches” have descended out of the Canadian boreal forest into the eastern United States, providing birdwatchers welcome excitement that promises to take some of the chill out of this winter season.

“Many of these northern species had banner nesting seasons,” said Ryan Brady, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Conservation Biologist.

“But then poor tree seed and fruit crops across Canada forced the birds south in search of food.”

It’s not uncommon for one or two of these northern species to overwinter in Wisconsin. Still, this season has already seen unusually good numbers in six or seven species, an event dubbed by researchers as a “superflight.”

First came red-breasted nuthatches and purple finches in late summer, then droves of pine siskins in early fall, and soon after both were white-winged and red crossbills. Late October and early November brought more evening grosbeaks than any year in recent history. Pine grosbeaks and Bohemi-

How To Participate In Christmas Bird Count

Photo by Ryan Brady Pine grosbeaks are among the “winter finches” arriving in great numbers in Wisconsin and other parts of the eastern U.S. an waxwings weren’t far behind in the north woods, while redpolls soon spread statewide.

Many of these species are attracted to backyard feeders, especially as winter progresses and local supplies of natural foods are exhausted. The single best seed to offer is black oil sunflower, which has high fat content and attracts

the most species. Small finches like siskins and redpolls, however, prefer nyjer (thistle), while white millet and suet can be great additions for ground-feeders and woodpeckers, respectively.

In addition to food, a heated water dish that is deep enough for birds to drink from but not bathe in is great for attracting winter finches and resident

This year’s superflight should be well documented by participants in the Audubon’s 121st Christmas Bird Count, which runs Dec. 14 - Jan. 5. One of the largest and longest-running citizen science projects in the world, the Christmas Bird Count provides a snapshot of North America’s early winter bird populations and the only provides a snapshot of North America’s early winter bird populations and the only broad-scale assessment of their trends over time.

“The Christmas Bird Count is a great way to make your bird sightings count for conservation,” Brady said. “It’s also easy and safe to participate in your backyard or beyond.”

Each count is conducted on a single day where volunteer bird watchers scour a pre established, 15-mile diameter circle. Wisconsin has over 100 circles across many areas of the state. To view a map of the circles expected to be included in the Christmas Bird Count and details on how to participate, www.audubon.org/conservation/joinchristmas-bird-count

Blue Mound State Park draft master plan available for public review Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public input on the Blue Mound State Park (BMSP) Draft Master Plan, which outlines proposed future public use and management of BMSP. The public may submit comments through a variety of opportunities, including a virtual public meeting.

BMSP is over 1,000 acres set atop the highest point in southern Wisconsin. The state park offers distinct views, opportunities to see and learn about unique geological features, forest and grassland habitat for wildlife and various recreational facilities. The park is a popular year-round recreation destination with over 20 miles of scenic trails, access to the Military Ridge State Trail, bike-in campsites, a family campground, a summer swimming pool and a rustic cabin for people with disabilities.

“The Blue Mound State Park Draft Master Plan reflects the Park’s many public uses and ecological capabilities, as well as the public input the department has received throughout this process,” said Terry Bay, DNR Bureau of Facilities and Lands Director. “We hope all who are interested in the park take the opportunity to learn more about what the draft plan proposes and have their voice heard.”

A master plan, guided by Chapter NR 44, Wisconsin Administrative Code, establishes the level and type of resource management and public use permitted on department-managed properties. The result of this master plan revision process will be a plan that replaces the property’s existing 1984 master plan. Highlights of the BMSP Draft Master Plan include: –A redesigned mountain bike trail

Photo via Wisconsin DNR View of Blue Mound State Park from the top of East Tower. A draft of the park’s master plan is now available for public review and comment online. and posted to the BMSP Master Plan system, anticipated to provide additional information about Blue Mound website for viewing after the event. tional riding opportunities State Park planning and to find input Written comments may be sub–Expansion of the Family Campopportunities, visit www.dnr. mitted through Jan. 10, 2021 using ground, Bike/Hike Campground and wisconsin.gov/topic/fl/Property this interactive public input form, by creation of a small group camp area Planning/BlueMound phone or downloading a hard copy –A snowmobile trail that will conDue to the COVID-19 public health form to be sent via U.S. Mail. Follownect the Military Ridge State Trail to emergency, the DNR will not host an ing the close of the public comment the county trail system north of the in-person public meeting during the period, the department will summapark largely utilizing portions of a comment period. Instead, a virtual rize the comments and adjust the plan former snowmobile trail meeting was held on Dec. 16, 2020. as necessary before proposing the plan –Forest and grassland management The meeting began with a brief for approval to the Wisconsin Natural to benefit the park’s wildlife, including presentation by DNR staff, followed Resources Board. rare species by time for individuals to give comThe public is encouraged to visit the ments. In addition to being streamed BMSP Master Plan webage for addilive online, the meeting was recorded

Community

Page 10 WednesdaY, dec. 23, 2020

Local grocery program for families in need extended to Jan. 18 Over 150 families in the River Valley area are hungry.

That number seems really big to us, almost 10% of our population!

The Community Food Pantry of Spring Green expects that number to increase and we want to provide some relief in what may be some very tough months ahead.

We’ve created a ‘Local Grocery Bag’ ($29 each) filled with foods made by local producers. Already, 158 bags have been purchased for our community by people across the country, but we need help to meet our goal of 200.

Thank you so much for your time and any help you are able to give. We appreciate it very much. Stay safe and well.

Please reach out with any questions.

The deadline has been extended from Dec. 14 to Jan. 18, the day Enos Farms will be donating.

The bags include: —12-pack Yellow Corn Tortillas (Tortilleria Zepeda, Lone Rock, WI) —Black Eclipse Dry Beans (Meadowlark Organics, Ridgeway, WI) —1 lb Raw Honey (Kissed By The Sun, Plain, WI) —Sourdough Sandwich Loaf (ORIGIN Breads, Madison, WI) —Organic Medium Cheddar, (Cedar Grove Cheese, Plain, WI) —1 lb Ground Pastured Pork (Enos Farms, Spring Green, WI) To purchase a bag, visit www.enosfarms.com/shopfood/ local-grocery-bag —Erin and Jeremy Lynch, Enos Farms

State Patrol reminds drivers snowplows require extra room Wisconsin State Patrol

Safety Tips

As another winter travel season approaches, the Wisconsin State Patrol’s December Law of the Month reminds motorists to be extra cautious when driving near snowplows.

Over the last decade in Wisconsin (2010 – 2019), there have been 3,152 snowplow-related crashes resulting in 388 people injured and three fatalities.

“Many crashes between snowplows and other vehicles occur when the snowplow is rear-ended, usually by a driver travelling too fast for conditions,” Wisconsin State Patrol Captain Anne Maxson, with the Southeast Region Post in Waukesha, said.

“For everyone’s safety, drivers should avoid travel during severe winter storms to allow snowplow operators to make their rounds.

When driving in the vicinity of a working snowplow, give it plenty of room.”

State law (346.915) requires drivers to stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow engaged in snow/ice removal upon any highway with a posted speed limit of more than 35 mph.

Violations can result in a $175 fine and assessment of three demerit points.

—Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time, following distance and reduce your speed during wintry travel conditions.

—If you must pass, be careful. Snowplows often create a cloud of snow that can obscure vision. Also, road conditions in front of the plow will likely be worse.

—Motorists and vehicles that become stranded during winter storm events become major hazards that interfere with snow removal efforts. Again, if possible, stay off roads during severe winter weather and wait until conditions improve.

—Under a century-old partnership, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation contracts with all 72 county highway departments to handle winter maintenance duties on the state highway system (all numbered highways).

“Snowplow operators work during challenging weather conditions to help keep roadways as safe as possible for all of us,” Captain Maxson said. “Motorists can help by giving snowplows plenty of room to operate and by staying off the roads during severe winter storms.”

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Graphics and Photos via Enos Farm

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Community

WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020 Page 11

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Technical Valley Sentinel is 4 columns, with a printable area of 10.25” by 16.5”. All single insertions shall be open rate – $8.34 per col. inch. Regular rate – $6.06 per col. inch. Bundled subsequent print display ad placements shall be 50% off when made in the same ad order. Front page bottom banner shall be the only front page ad. Premium placement ads have individual fixed rate.

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Community

Page 12 WednesdaY, Dec. 23, 2020

COVID-19 Dashboard Wisconsin Summary Cases as of 12/22/2020

+15,619 from 12/15

16.7%

461,015 Positive Cases

83.3%

2,303,714 Negative Cases

4,545 Deaths

+43,922 from 12/15

+423 from 12/15

Iowa County

Richland County 1,031 Positive Cases

9,486 Negative Cases

+218 from 12/15

+50 from 11.6% 12/15

1,604 Positive +101 from 12/15 Cases

88.4%

7,841 +34 from Negative 12/15 Cases

Sauk County 12%

31,426 88% Negative Cases

+602 from 12/15

Graphic by Whitney Back

4,282 Positive Cases +231 from 12/15

+0 from 12/15

Total cases since 3/15/2020

13 Deaths +0 from 12/15

5 Deaths

River Valley School District Cases as of 12/18/2020

27 Deaths +5 from 12/15

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

Cases per zip code Cases as of 12/18/2020