Inside this edition
Community Calendar: Theater, live music and more! Pages 4-5
Review: Last Leaf Public House shines in place of Freddy Valentines
Spring Green, Wisconsin
Page 6
The importance of wearing a life jacket and an update on the search for Parker Kruse
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Wednesday, August 4, 2021 Vol. 2, No. 31 FREE, Single-Copy
Spring Green moves to change North Park name, again postpones decision on Kane lawsuit Taylor Scott, Managing Editor The Village of Spring Green Board met July 28 to consider a memorandum of understanding that would change the name of North Park and outline the maintenance of the upcoming Veterans Memorial. The board also declined to take action, again, on whether or not to appeal a court decision regarding the Kane lawsuit. Memorandum of Understanding The board took up a memorandum of understanding between the Village of Spring Green and the American Legion Post 253 that outlines ongoing operations and maintenance of the new Veterans Memorial that is due to be constructed inNorth Park. One of the provisions includes changing the name of North Park. As part of the agreement the Village will provide the area in the north end of North
Park for the construction of a Veterans Memorial and a constructed walkway from the park shelter. The Legion will be responsible for the construction of the proposed Veterans Memorial and the walkway from the park shelter. Access to the Veterans Memorial will be provided by the road into the park and constructed walkway from the park shelter to the Veterans Memorial. The Village will maintain the constructed walkway, and the park’s existing lawn areas adjacent to the Veterans Memorial. The Village will rename the park to “Spring Green Veterans Park” and place bronze signage at the existing masonry wall of the park entrance. The Legion will provide a trust fund for the Village to use for the maintenance of the constructed Veterans Memorial including the electrical infrastructure to light the flag and
replacement of flags as needed. Village Clerk/Administrator Wendy Crary stated after the meeting that the decision to change the name of the park was made during meetings early in the planning process between the American Legion and Village Board, around two years ago. Crary doesn’t anticipate that ordinances will require amendment as she believes none reference parks by specific names. Crary said the groundbreaking on the memorial is anticipated to start in late August with completion due in the spring of 2022, depending on various factors. Kane Lawsuit The board spent nearly an hour and a half in closed session to confer with legal counsel regarding the long-contested dog breeding for research facility proposed by Clinton and Jill Kane in the Town of Spring Green.
This was the second meeting in a row that included a closed session on the topic to discuss whether to appeal the decision of the lawsuit Kane v. Village of Spring Green Plan Commission et al. The Kanes filed a lawsuit in November 2019 against the Spring Green Plan Commission and Village of Spring Green Board of Zoning Appeals over the denial of a conditional use permit to operate the facility. Sauk County Judge Michael Screnock in January decided in favor of the Kanes. The board returned to open session nearly an hour and a half later, around 9:00pm, with the consensus of the board to again not take action regarding any appeal of the decision at this meeting and to take the next two weeks to gather information. The board will include another closed session on the next board agenda at its Aug. 11 meeting.
Sh*tty Barn music sessions return for first show since 2019 due to COVID-19 Photo by Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief
Music filled the walls of the Sh*tty Barn in Spring Green for the start of its first session since 2019, kicking off with artists Raine Stern, a recent “The Voice” contestant, and Buffalo Nichols July 28. The music venue announced nine more shows in its lineup for the season, many of which have sold out. For more information on the lineup or to purchase remaining tickets, visit www.shittybarnsessions.com. For more information on the artists for the first session, they can be found on Instagram @rainestern and @buffalonicholsmusic
Growing case activity, circulation of Delta Variant prompt updated COVID-19 guidance Iowa County Health Department Iowa County – The Iowa County Health Department and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s recommendations issued on July 27, 2021. The new recommendations are based on the most up-to-date information about the Delta variant of COVID-19. The Delta variant is highly infectious and is spreading more quickly than any other strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant is to get vaccinated. From January 1, 2021 through July 22, 2021, over 98 percent of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin occurred among people who were not fully vaccinated. The Iowa County Health Department wishes to highlight key points from the latest CDC’s recommendations: • Everyone, including fully vaccinated people, should wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission. • Iowa County is currently at moderate transmission. We have seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in the last week. The Health Department reports the total number of cases is 2086, with 10 new cases reported Aug. 3. Last week there was an increase of 8 cases, compared to the previous week’s increase of 3 and an increase of two cases the week prior. The number of active
cases is sixteen (8/3/21). Everyone, including fully vaccinated people, may choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they are immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease from COVID-19, or if they have someone in their household who is immunocompromised, at increased risk of severe disease or not fully vaccinated. • Fully vaccinated people who have a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be tested 3-5 days after exposure, and should wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status. Why the change? The latest science shows that we need to change behavior to respond to the Delta variant. The Delta variant is more contagious than previously known variants and can be spread despite vaccine status. This new knowledge requires the change in recommendations. It is important to remember that vaccinated individuals make up a very small percentage of transmission. Data also shows that the highest spread of cases and severe outcomes is happening in places with low vaccination rates and among unvaccinated people. Some vaccinated people can get the Delta variant in a breakthrough infection and may be contagious. •
Even so, vaccinated individuals represent a very small amount of transmission occurring around the country. Virtually all hospitalizations and deaths continue to be among the unvaccinated. So if people who are vaccinated are encouraged to wear masks, why should people continue to be vaccinated? High vaccination coverage still reduces the spread of the virus and also helps prevent new, and possibly more concerning, variants from emerging. “Vaccination is the best way to protect you, your family, and our community”, urges Debbie Siegenthaler, Director/Health Officer, Iowa County Health Department. “With the Delta variant, vaccination is more urgent than ever”, adds Siegenthaler. “We are very proud of Iowa County residents who have been vaccinated, helping Iowa County achieve vaccination rates that place us as the 4th highest county in Wisconsin, behind Dane, Door and Bayfield counties. We need this trend to continue so we can put this pandemic behind us”, explained Siegenthaler. If you have questions about getting the vaccine, the Health Department recommends talking to your health care provider for more information. See below vaccination rates (8/3/2021) Percent of residents with at least one dose: 59.8% (14,153) Percent of residents who have completed the vaccine series: 57.6% (13,628) Percent of adults (18+) with at least one dose: 72.2% (13,278) Percent of adults (18+) who have completed the vaccine series: 69.9% (12,861 “We all want to be done with this pandemic, and we
will get through it by protecting ourselves and others with vaccination, masking up, avoiding crowds, and washing our hands. Protecting the vulnerable is our collective responsibility”, adds Siegenthaler. For more information visit: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/news/releases/072821.htm https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html COVID-19 Vaccine Administration The Iowa County Health Department continues offering vaccine clinics each Wednesday afternoon from 2-4:30pm at the Health and Human Services Building in Dodgeville. No appointment is required. All clinics will have Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines (you have the choice upon arrival). The Johnson and Johnson vaccine quantity is limited so if you are interested in receiving this vaccine, call the Health Department at 608.930.9870 to ensure availability. If you desire the Pfizer vaccine, please also call the Health Department. This “heads up” assists in inventory management If you have an adolescent who would like to get vaccinated, please understand that persons under 18 must have a parent signature on the consent form and an adult (age 18 or older) must accompany them to the clinic. For more info and a complete vaccine clinic schedule, visit https://www.iowacounty.org/departments/ COVID-19/VaccineInformation
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opinion
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
Sen. Marklein — Celebrating the Return of County Fairs Howard Marklein, WI State Senator
County fairs are more than just lemonade stands, cheese curds, and midways. They are community traditions that showcase the pride of our Wisconsin agricultural production and an opportunity to celebrate our local communities. I am so grateful to see that these staple summer events of rural Wisconsin are back in full swing for our families to enjoy. There is something special about fair season. It stands out to me as a joyous tribute to Wisconsin’s ag production and all rural Wisconsin does to represent our title as American’s Dairyland. I know so many of us have looked forward to being together in this way and I’m proud to see many residents already attending County fairs throughout the 17th Senate district. County fairs also give us the unique opportunity to share the joy of farming with our younger generations and help build the future of Wisconsin’s
ag industry. It’s amazing to see a teenager take care of their first animal and participate in their first livestock auction. While these experiences of raising an animal provide skills to our future farmers, it also teaches life lessons that will go much farther than the farm. Many of our young adults spend years raising livestock and they rely on fair auctions to sell an animal to financially provide for their future. The importance of helping our younger generations purchase their first farm, attend college, buy a vehicle, or learn a trade cannot be overstated. This is vital for their personal future and the future of Wisconsin’s ag economy. Recently, I attended the Lafayette County and Sauk County Fairs. It was a great time seeing neighbors in-person while being outside during our beautiful summer months in the Driftless Region! At the Sauk County Fair, I served cheese curds and burgers at the Sauk County Farm Bureau food booth. I am encouraged to see
so many food booths at the fair used to raise money for local service clubs. The simple purchase of a Wisconsin brat with french fries becomes a great investment in our community! I want to thank all the wonderful County fair staff and volunteers who give their personal time to make sure these events happen flawlessly each year. To the event set-up staff, the contest judges, the food workers, the EMS support team, and the many others – thank you for believing in what the County fair is all about and understanding the value it brings to our region. Our community would not have these events without your service. When many fairs were canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions, rural communities lost out on the opportunity to celebrate our agricultural achievements together in 2020. Because of this, I am even more grateful to have them back in full swing this summer. I love to see our region showcase our agricultural
accomplishments and share with others how important this industry is for our state. So if you haven’t planned your family outing to a fair yet, I encourage you to go and experience the beauty of Wisconsin agriculture. And don’t forget to try the cheese curds.
Upcoming County Fairs:
Wisconsin State Fair: August 5th – 15th Juneau County Fair: August 15th – 22nd Grant County Fair: August 18th – 22nd Iowa County Fair: September 2nd – 6th Richland County Fair: September 9th13th Vernon County Fair: September 15th – 19th As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if I can provide information or assistance on any state related matter. Please call 608-266-0703, email Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin. gov or write to me at PO Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707.
This week’s Plain and Simple Correspondent—Birds of Prey Katie Green, Contributor
It is the end of a very hot day, the bloodred sun descends in the west, smoke from distant fires fills the air and makes the surrounding hills a vague bluish apparition. My husband and I are walking up into the woods when we become aware of a hysterical cacophony of sound in the trees ahead – a mob of birds and squirrels, in uproarious panic, protesting with everything they’ve got. As we approach closer, a huge brown form rises from a tree and flaps silently away, taking with it sharp beak, deadly talons, and an implacable hunger. Of course. An owl. Afterward I reflect upon the scene we have just witnessed. There are quite similar analogies in the human world, aren’t there? The vulnerable little guys being terrorized, squeezed, harassed as they go about their daily life by more powerful adversaries and the only tactics at hand are to fly at the predator and make as much noise as is possible... also pray for deliverance.... and consolidate in defense. In Wisconsin we are supposedly not powerless. We make majority decisions by the power of the vote, but the vote is easily subverted, as is abundantly clear. Gerrymandered voting districts, laws making it harder to vote, elected officials who are available to wealthy donors and won’t answer to the hoi polloi, huge sums of money dumped into lobbying and election campaigns, refusal to accept the results of fair and free elections. (Any of the towns and villages in this district could have made much better use of the thousands spent frivolously challenging the results of the last election.) In my heat-muddled, suspicious old mind, such actions spell corrupt self-dealing and are unhealthy for the short and longterm success of the state. They are not without precedent, since vote-rigging has bedeviled this republic since the beginning. That does not mean we need to accept it. Some of the crusades by power brokers are comical, seen in strong light. For instance, the charge led by our own State senator to “protect the Wisconsin dairy industry” by outlawing the use of the terminology “milk” as applied to alternative beverages. Supposedly this law is in the public
interest, the claim being that many people who buy such products are bamboozled and don’t realize they are purchasing non-dairy items. Really? Customers for alternatives choose them intentionally, either for health reasons (being lactose intolerant or declining to drink a product from non-pastured, hormonally-doctored, conventionally-raised animals) or on principle because they have chosen to be vegetarians. Or maybe they just like the taste of oat, hemp, rice, almond, cashew, or soy milk better on their Wheaties. Who knows. All the new law does is force the producers of such alternatives to go to the expense and bother of changing their labels for Wisconsin consumption – as far as I know, the companies can go on using their old packaging in other states, so you just need to step across the line to MN, IA, MI, or IL to snare your preferred “milk” in its original carton. The law won’t convince more people to drink dairy and merely calls into question the wits and fealties of their elected officials. Don’t they have better matters to attend to? Furthermore, I’m wondering if it is now illegal to describe someone as having “the milk of human kindness” in their veins... and must we rename the “milkweed” plant? I guess I’ve milked this topic enough, but it reminds me of the case of the company that patented the “Happy Birthday” song. It’s true. Considered the most recognized song in the English language, until the patent was invalidated in 2015, anyone was supposed to pay the company a royalty each time anyone sang the birthday song in public or made a card with the phrase on it, maybe even in the privacy of our own homes. I remember when the patent was announced, and thinking it was pointless to try to understand the nonsensical ways of “adults”. Meanwhile, Warner Chappell Music collected 14 million dollars in licensing fees which they later had to return. The important questions remain and they’re not trivial. As we fry in the heat, watching our fields and gardens dry up, dreading the coming months with forecasts of hotter-thanaverage temperatures ahead, how do we galvanize overburdened families, friends, and neighbors to pressure
Photo contributed by Katie Green the decision-makers to take global warming seriously? Polluted water seriously? Expansion of Medicare seriously? Hungry and evicted people (who are giving up hope for a better tomorrow) seriously? The education of our children seriously? Gun safety seriously? Conservation of forests, swamps, and open lands seriously? Public transportation seriously? Equal rights and opportunities for all seriously? A living minimum wage seriously? Protection of endangered species (of which we are increasingly one) seriously? These are tall orders, admittedly, even with everyone pulling together in the traces, but almost impossible with one unnamed (by me) political party more interested in socking away even more State money in a Rainy Day Fund than expending every effort to help and heal. Pardon the rant. The sense of urgency that propels me is summed up in a trenchant version of an old song by Phil Ochs. The lyrics include the lines: I won’t see the golden of the sun when I’m gone All the evenings and the mornings will be one when I’m gone
Cant be singing louder than the guns when I’m gone So I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here All my days wont be dances of delight when I’m gone And the sands will be shifting from my sight when I’m gone Cant add my name into the fight when I’m gone So I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here I wont be laughing at the lies when I’m gone And I cant question how or when or why when I’m gone I can’t live proud enough to die when I’m gone So I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here There’s no place in this world where I’ll belong when I’m gone And I won’t know the right from the wrong when I’m gone You won’t find me singing on this song when I’m gone So I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021 Page 3 opinion/Community Driftless Grace—Walking Mediation and the importance of an active body and mind Grace Vosen, Contributer I’ve had a lot to reflect on lately and find I need to be as active in body as I am in mind. My daily walks give me time to think, with the added benefit of wearing my worries away. Because of this need, my walks have continued apace despite the sometimes oppressive heat. Most of the time, I walk the same path. I cross the same intersections in the same way, as if following a scent trail. If it were wintertime, I’d be able to literally follow in my own footsteps. By the end of the trip, I’m energized and ready for the next thing — be it
work or a nap. And it feels like my home is welcoming me back inside. With a daily route come daily traditions. I know where I’m likely to encounter cars, cyclists, nice dogs, less nice dogs, and other walkers. I know where the best shady spots are and was even treated to some black-cap raspberries earlier in the season. As I complete the first half of my loop, I almost always think back to past walks. When you visit the same place almost every day for months, during a global pandemic to boot, that place tends to build up memories. But there’s always a change as I turn to start the last leg of my journey. Heading towards home, I inevitably start to
Grace Vosen
think about what else lies ahead. It’s as if I left my emotions on the sidewalk and am emerging into a new day. I can’t say that these walks have taught me much of use. But I have learned about myself and my own (figurative) path. There’s enough novelty on each walk to keep me interested, but enough stays the same so that I’m able to think more deeply. I hope you can all get outside safely and find your path. Just be sure to bring a hat. Grace Vosen is a writer and conservation educator living in Spring Green. She blogs about both the human and nonhuman communities of our region at DriftlessGrace.com.
In other news Highway 133 Bridge in Lone Rock to reopen The State Highway 133 Bridge from Lone Rock to Muscoda has been under construction since early July, with road closures to complete the project. Iowa County Highway Commissioner, Craig Hardy announced Aug. 3 the project is wrapping up and should be completed and opened for traffic by the end of this week, Aug. 6. Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board to meet in Boscobel The Lower Wisconsin State Riverway Board will conduct a regular monthly business meeting in Boscobel on Thursday, Aug. 12 The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 1006 Wisconsin Avenue, beginning at 5 p.m. The board will hear an update on the Wisconsin River Trail Project. The presentation will be given at the start of the meeting. In addition, a portion of the meeting is reserved for public comment and, as always, the public is cordially invited to attend. For further information regarding the Au. 12 meeting of the Riverway Board, contact Mark Cupp at (608) 739-3188. ARTS for All comes to Spring Green Community Library The statewide, traveling art exhibit, ARTS for All Wisconsin is featuring it’s Creative Power exhibit at the Spring Green Community Library this month, which features 30 artworks and four poems. The exhibit can be viewed in the newly, re-opened community room Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Richland County HHS encouraging COVID vaccine before school starts, hosting vaccine clinics Richland County HHS Director, Rose Kohout, is recommending vaccinate for children 12 years old and up prior to school starting in the fall. Locations to receive a vaccine in Richland County include: The Richland Hospital and Clinics offers COVID-19 vaccinations during normal business hours. Currently eligible populations will be offered a vaccine during hospital or clinic appointments. Walk–in requests are accepted. To schedule an appointment, please call 608-647-1820. Richland County Health & Human Services and Richland County Emergency Management offers FREE COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics at the Richland Center High School weekly on Wednesdays from 8:30am-4:30pm and walk–ins will be accepted. To schedule an appointment, please call 608-647-8821. Center Pharmacy welcomes walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations at their new location on Orange Street Monday through Fridays from 9:00am-5:00pm. No appointment is necessary.
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Community
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
COmmunitycalendar Events for August 5 - August 18 Thursday, August 5 Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Local Night: Tobie & Kendall 5:30 PM - 8:00PM . The Shed/Post House Garden, 123 N Lexington Street, 119 E Jefferson Street Spring Green . Come out and spend your Thursday evenings with some local music and local food. The food cooked on the grill on the patio is from our many local vendors in Spring Green and surrounding towns, and the musicians are from the River Valley area. Wine & Yoga 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM . Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr. Muscoda . $10 cash only . www.wildhillswinery.com. Wine & Yoga every Thursday in the Vineyard with certified Yoga Instructor Lara Carpenter. David Huckfelt (Of The Pines) W/ Michael Rossetto 6:00 PM . Sh*tty Barn, 506 E Madison St, Spring Green . www.shittybarnsessions.com.The Pines frontman returns in support of his new solo album "Room Enough, Time Enough". Joining him is Jeremy Ylvisaker and Michael Rossetto. Advance tickets sold out. That said, tickets often come up that people can't use. Check website or socials for the latest details about ticket availability. Evenings Afield - Regenerative Fruit Growing in the Driftless Region 6:00 PM 8:00 PM . Future Fruit Farm, 5363 Knobs Rd, Ridgeway . Free . www.driftlessconservancy.org/lowery-creek-watershed. See organic orcharding in action where heirloom apples, pears, grapes, and other fruits are grown. Leaders: Selena and Ellen Warsaw-Lane. Donations encouraged. Driftless Songwriters Round 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM . SlowPoke Lounge 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.slowpokelounge.com. Tina King, Kris Sheehan, and Tim Eddy gather at the Slowpoke Lounge for an evening of songs born from hearts tuned to the Driftless Region.
Friday, August 6 Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Spring Green Community Blood Drive 11:30 AM - 5:30 PM . Christ Lutheran Church, 237 East Daley, Spring Green . www.redcrossblood.org/RapidPass. Appointments preferred: walk-ins welcome! For an appointment call 1-800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org and enter Sponsor Code: Spring Green. Beginner Photography with Andrew Pielage 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM . Taliesin Preservation: Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center 5607 County Rd C, Spring Green . $295 . www.taliesinpreservation.org. Come join professional photographer Andrew Pielage for his Introduction to Photography Workshop. Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece Taliesin and the surrounding estate will be the backdrop for the weekend photographic journey. Wine Down Fridays: Scott Wilcox 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr. Muscoda . Free . www.wildhillswinery.com. Wine down and chill at Wild Hills Winery! Live music every Friday! Enjoy the sounds of local musicians and singer-songwriters outdoors on the patio. Food and drink specials. Pam Houston live at Arcadia Books! 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM . Arcadia Books, 102 E. Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.readinutopia.com. We are thrilled to welcome Pam Houston back to Arcadia Books. Throughout the pandemic, Pam continued to write and lead writing workshops.In addition to discussing Air Mail, Pam will share her thoughts on events that occured after the publication and will reveal her five favorite books read in 2020. APT: Spring Green Night 8:00 PM . American Players Theatre, 5950 Golf Course Road, Spring Green . $25 . www.americanplayers.org. Join us for our Spring Green night for Rough Crossing. River Valley School district residents only. Use promo code SG21 at checkout. Sunshine Daydrink 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM . SlowPoke Lounge 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.slowpokelounge.com. Don’t tell me this town ain’t got no heart. You just gotta poke around. Come on down for a night of music and dancing. Join us as we welcome Sunshine Daydrink, a wonderful band from Madison, Wisconsin with a focus on acoustic Grateful Dead Music. No cover (but tips for the band are welcome).
Saturday, August 7 Spring Green Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM . S230 E. Monroe St Spring Green . www.facebook.com/SGFMarket. Local farm fresh produce, coffee, fresh baked goods, honey, soaps & lotions, bedding plants, cut flowers, maple syrup and more. Meet the Artist - Marialoli at Arts Lab! 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM . Spring Green Arts Lab, 143 S. Washington St., Spring Green . www.artslabspringgreen.org. Visiting Artist Marialoli (Maria DoloresTorres Pérez) brings the energy and vibrant colors of her native Mexico to the Arts Lab in a Guest Exhibition. Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Myles Talbott Dyad 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM . Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shifflet Road Spring Green . www.wiriverside.com/entertainment. Summer music continues on the River Stage! AKA Ali Kauss Adornment Grand (re) Opening 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM . Ali Kauss Adornment, 101 East Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.alikaussadornment.com. Join in an evening of fun and celebration of our new location and new collection release! Collection Release: Healing Tonics. Dale Eric Glaudell 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St., Spring Green . www.springgreengeneralstore.com. A solid musical performer in Wisconsin and the Midwest with over 40 years of show business under his guitar strap, Dale plays a mixture of hit songs, originals, old-time favorites, country and rock classics, with a little humor mixed in.
Driftless Landscape Tour 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM . Taliesin Preservation Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, 5607 County Road C Spring Green . $6 – $25 . www.taliesinpreservation.org. Join Taliesin for a conversation about the interconnectedness of land and culture while enjoying an approximately 1-mile walk across the Taliesin estate. This completely outdoor tour will speak to the natural history of the estate, using Frank Lloyd Wright as the connecting theme between topics.
Sunday, August 8 Christina Clancy, "Shoulder Season" reading and signing at The Slowpoke 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM . SlowPoke Lounge 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.slowpokelounge.com. We couldn't think of a better place to have a book event with Christi Clancy than The Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret. While we can't promise that drinks will be served via the Bunny Dip method, we can promise that this will be a fun and wonderful event. Jukebillies 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM . Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shifflet Road Spring Green . www.wiriverside.com/entertainment. Summer music continues on the River Stage!
Monday, August 9 Take and Make: Bleeding Tissue Paper Postcards 10:00 AM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St Spring Green . www.springgreenlibrary.org. Drop by the library to grab a Take and Make: Bleeding Tissue Paper Postcard craft kit! These kits are created with adults in mind (all are welcome to them!) and contain materials needed to complete the project featured below. Kits are available first come, first served, while supplies last. Spring Green Community Group for Racial Justice 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM . Daley St and Park Rd Spring Green . Contact sgcommunitygroup@gmail.com. The Community Group for Racial Justice is a discussion and action group that meets the second Monday of each month. Rural Musicians Forum: Mosaic Chamber Players 7:30 PM . Mazomaine Outdoor Pavillion, Mazo. Experience the intimacy and diversity of chamber music.
Tuesday, August 10 Potluck Lunch 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM . Spring Green Community Center, 117 S Washington St, Spring Green . www.facebook.com/SGCommunityCenter/. Back by popular demand, the Spring Green Community Center is hosting a community-wide potluck lunch on the second Tuesday of each month. Come meet up with friends, old and new! Suggested donation $3-5/person. Tails & Tales Outdoor Storytime 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM . Plain Kraemer Library and Community Center, 910 Main St, Plain . www.kraemerlibrary.org. Storytime lasts between 30 minutes and aimed for ages 0-6 with themed songs and stories. Pizza on 14 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM . The Shoppe, 7352 Hwy 14, Arena . Pizza from our wood-fired oven and live music every Tuesday. Lake Marion Tuesday Concerts 6:00 PM . Lake Marion Park, HWY. KP, Mazo . Concerts held every Tuesday, Aug 3-24. Sponsored by Mazomanie Music Conservancy. Take & Make Craft Kits Kraemer Library and Community Center, 910 Main St. Plain . www.kraemerlibrary.org. Kids 0-12 can drop in for fun filled Take and Make Kit they can do from home. Each kit includes supplies and instructions. Limited to 1 per child. While supplies last.
Wednesday, August 11 Virtual Story Time 10:00 AM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St Spring Green . www.springgreenlibrary.org. Join Ms. Christi for this live Facebook event! While we need to keep our social distance, we can still get together online for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun. All are welcome!
Thursday, August 12 Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Wildlife Tails &Tales with David Stokes 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM . Plain Community Park, Plain . www.kraemerlibrary.org. Join David Stokes, Educator/Entertainer/Naturalist for fun using sign-language, humor, puppets, and LIVE creatures! This Summer Library Program Performer is a LIMITED TICKET EVENT held at the Plain Community Park Pavilion. Wine & Yoga 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM . Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr. Muscoda . $10 cash only . www.wildhillswinery.com. Wine & Yoga every Thursday in the Vineyard with certified Yoga Instructor Lara Carpenter. Local Night: Randy & Florence - Stars Entertainment 5:30 PM - 8:00PM . The Shed/Post House Garden, 123 N Lexington Street, 119 E Jefferson Street Spring Green . Come out and spend your Thursday evenings with some local music and local food. The food cooked on the grill on the patio is from our many local vendors in Spring Green and surrounding towns, and the musicians are from the River Valley area. APT: Cymbeline - Opening Night 8:00 PM . American Players Theatre, 5950 Golf Course Road, Spring Green . Prices Vary . www.americanplayers.org. Like many in Shakespeare’s comedy quiver, this one kicks off with a young couple in love. But Cymbeline is not your average Shakespeare comedy, and things go rapidly off the rails, driven by wicked stepmothers, spoiled princes and a villain with no clear motive looking to flip a hero to the dark side.
Friday, August 13 Ridgeway Pine Relict Workday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM . Ridgeway, WI . www.dnr.wisconsin.gov. Ridgeway is known for its pine relicts that have northern plant species. We will be collecting seeds this month. If you have any questions, please call Mary Kay Baum, at 608-935-5834. Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
Community Wine Down Fridays 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM . Wild Hills Winery, 30940 Oakridge Dr. Muscoda . Free . www.wildhillswinery.com. Wine down and chill at Wild Hills Winery! Live music every Friday! Enjoy the sounds of local musicians and singer-songwriters outdoors on the patio. Food and drink specials. White Oak: Folk Fest White Oak Savanna, 4352 WI-23, Dodgeville . www.whiteoakfolkfest.com. White Oak Folk Fest is a truly special opportunity to get away from the grind and enjoy some quality time in the country. Live music and events all day long.
Saturday, August 14
Page 5
Jambidextrous 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM . SlowPoke Lounge 137 W Jefferson St., Spring Green . www.slowpokelounge.com. Come on down for a tour through the jazz archives with standards from the 50s, progressive jazz from the 60s, to funk and fusion of the 70s featuring local favorites Rob Steffen, Erik Johnson, Dave Saperstein, and Ted Frank. No admission cost, but donations for musicians are always welcome. White Oak: Folk Fest White Oak Savanna, 4352 WI-23, Dodgeville . www.whiteoakfolkfest.com. White Oak Folk Fest is a truly special opportunity to get away from the grind and enjoy some quality time in the country. Live music and events all day long.
Sunday, August 15
Spring Green Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM . S230 E. Monroe St Spring Green . www.facebook.com/SGFMarket. Local farm fresh produce, coffee, fresh baked goods, honey, soaps & lotions, bedding plants, cut flowers, maple syrup and more. Driftless Landscape Tour 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM . Taliesin Preservation Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, 5607 County Road C Spring Green . $6 – $25 . www.taliesinpreservation.org. Join Taliesin for a conversation about the interconnectedness of land and culture while enjoying an approximately 1-mile walk across the Taliesin estate. This completely outdoor tour will speak to the natural history of the estate, using Frank Lloyd Wright as the connecting theme between topics. Wyoming Valley School Tour 11:00 AM . Wyoming Valley School Cultural Arts Center, 6306 State Road 23 Spring Green . Free . www.wyomingvalleyschool.org. Tour times are 11am, 1pm, and 2pm. Our tours are free to the public and casual. The rehabilitated historic project is finally complete. Come visit the only public elementary designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Ice Wolves Youth Hockey Golf Outing 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM . Dodge Point Country Club, 1771 County Road YD, Mineral Point . $60 per golfer . www.icewolveshockey.org. 4 person scramble includes 18 holes with cart, food, and hole prizes. A raffle, silent auction, and other events will benefit the Ice Wolves Youth Hockey Association. 2021 Member Appreciation Party 1:00 PM . Trader's Island Campground, 6708 Wittwer Road, Arena . www.facebook.com/WFACLUB/. Join us on Saturday, August 14th, 2021 for Wildlife Forever ATV Club's 4th Annual Member Appreciation Summer Party! 100% of the proceeds made will go back to the club for signage and other club events. Enjoy the food and live music! Hard Tellin 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM . Wisconsin Riverside Resort, S13220 Shifflet Road Spring Green . www.wiriverside.com/entertainment. Summer music continues on the River Stage! Bluegrass Jam 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM . Spring Green General Store, 137 S. Albany St., Spring Green . www.springgreengeneralstore.com. These musicians have been meeting at the General Store for decades. Recently reunited as life begins to return to normal, they would love you to join them as audience or participant. Pork or Chicken Drive Thru 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM . St. John’s Church Parking Lot, 129 West Daley, Spring Green . $20/Meal . www.sjhomeandschool.square.site. Buy Funfest raffle tickets, over $12,500 in prizes! Benefiting St. John’s Hone and School Association and their students. Meals include: Main entree, potato, coleslaw and dinner roll.
White Oak: Folk Fest White Oak Savanna, 4352 WI-23, Dodgeville . www.whiteoakfolkfest.com. White Oak Folk Fest is a truly special opportunity to get away from the grind and enjoy some quality time in the country. Live music and events all day long. 4PETESAKE: Day in the Park 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM . North Park, Daley St & Park Rd . www.4petesake.com. 4PeteSake provides relief to River Valley residents who face financial needs and who are unable, through no fault of their own, to provide for themselves. Fun run/walk, bike ride, music from local bands, food and drink from local vendors, kid’s activities and a silent auction, it will be another memorable day raising money for a great cause.
Monday, August 16 Circus Show 3:00 PM . Downtown Mazo . Come join us for the Circus in Downtown Mazo! Hosted by Wild Rumpus Circus. Rural Musicians Forum: The Twa Dogs 7:30 PM . Mazomaine Outdoor Pavillion, Mazo. Traditional folk music from Celtic regions. August Morrill Lecture at the Octagon Barn 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM . The Octagon Barn, E4350 Horseshoe Road, Spring Green . Contact: stef@rivervalleycommons.org. The Power of Our Sibling Relationships Throughout Life presented by Dr. Mandy Morrill, program director, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Valparaiso University. Pre-order dinner available at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 17 Tails & Tales Outdoor Storytime 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM . Plain Kraemer Library and Community Center, 910 Main St, Plain . www.kraemerlibrary.org. Storytime lasts between 30 minutes and aimed for ages 0-6 with themed songs and stories. Pizza on 14 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM . The Shoppe, 7352 Hwy 14, Arena . Pizza from our wood -fired oven and live music every Tuesday.
Wednesday, August 18 Virtual Story Time 10:00 AM . Spring Green Community Library, 230 E Monroe St Spring Green . www.springgreenlibrary.org. Join Ms. Christi for this live Facebook event! While we need to keep our social distance, we can still get together online for stories, songs, rhymes, and fun. All are welcome! Arcadia Book Club: "Shoulder Season" by Christi Clancy 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM . Online . www.readinutopia.com. Author Christi Clancy will join the Arcadia Book Club to discuss her second novel, Shoulder Season. This is a virtual Zoom event. Community Calendar curated by Whitney Back, from events submitted by the community
Mark Scoles retires after 44 years Lost Highlander assists in clean-up, finds its way back home
Photo contributed by Tom and Tina Gorman Mark Scoles recently retired after 44 years as Administrator of Greenway Manor and Greenway Terrace. Scoles began his Greenway career in May of 1977. He has overseen 3 major expansions and numerous upgrades to the facilities. Scoles has been instrumental in Greenway’s long term success. Scoles has been an active member of the community, serving in leadership positions in both civic and church organizations. Scoles is pictured here with his successor and new Administrator, Brian Gorman.
Photo contributed by Deanna Brennum, Town of Clyde Clerk At a recent cemetery clean-up in Clyde, a group of volunteers came across a Highland Cow mingling with neighboring cattle. The Highland cow had escaped from its farm and wandered to the cemetery. Volunteers were able to find the cows owner and return it to the correct farm, along with removing shrubbery and doing various cleanup efforts at Gile Cemetery.
Employment opportunities NOW HIRING FOR FALL AVAILABILITY JOIN OUR TEAM! PIZZA MAKERS PREP WORKERS BARTENDERS SERVERS DISHWASHERS CALL 608.588.0041 FOR CURRENT OPENINGS
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Requirements: Degree in Marketing, Journalism or Media required or 5 years of related experience. Proficiency with Mac & PC based design software, strong organizational skills, writing, and communication skills are recommended. Related experience in the construction industry is preferred but not required. Responsible for creating, coordinating, planning and implementing various materials including digital project proposals, website enhancements, project photos and videos, promotional material and social media communications. Please forward your confidential resume to: Kraemer Brothers, LLC • 925 Park Ave. Plain, WI 53577 608-546-2411 • jobs@kraemerbrothers.com
Page 6
Community/Sports
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
Review: Last Leaf fills hole left by Freddy’s, delights with pizzeria concept with smoked BBQ options Nicole Aimone, Editor-in-Chief I’ve been excited to try out Last Leaf Public House for some time since owner David Owen announced it was going to take the spot of Freddy Valentines. Owen was the owner of Freddy Valentines as well — and Last Leaf recently launched with a refocused menu that offers some of the smoked BBQ meats and craft cocktails that we loved at Freddy’s and puts emphasis on upscale flatbread pizza and apps in a re-imagined cozy environment. I finally got a chance to try Last Leaf over the weekend, having had some family come into town for a visit and thought it was a great excuse to try it out! I had the house-smoked barbecue pork sandwich, which came on really great, not too crunchy but optimally crusty sourdough bread. For sides there were french fries and homemade coleslaw that were perfectly tangy, salty and sweet, which added a nice lightness to barbecue and fries, which can get heavy at times. The meat itself has a good, smokey flavor which was complemented nicely by a smokey sauce. The traditional barbecue sauce had a little bit of kick to it and a sweetness, but nothing too overpowering like I had just eaten a handful of brown sugar or anything. Most pieces of the meat were a perfect combo of meat to fat to juiciness, but a few were a tad dry. The sauce did a
good job of salvaging the drier pieces. This wasn’t a detraction from the meal at all and is to be expected with smoked meats and ironing out the kinks to a new restaurant. Four other people in my group got some variation of the smoked barbecue, whether it was smoked chicken or brisket, and did encounter some similar inconsistencies with drier pieces of meat, but it didn’t inhibit our dining experience much at all, we all left happy and full. While the entree and coleslaw were great, I personally think the main event was the fries and ranch. I am a true lover of the fries and ranch combo, no joke it is one of my favorite foods, and these did not disappoint. The ranch is a house-made dip (which is always the best way to do it and I will absolutely, without shame judge a restaurant that doesn’t make their own), it had a good, runny but not watery consistency with a good garlicky, dill and onion flavor. I think my favorite part was the chunks of green onion that gave a burst of flavor as you crunched your fries. It paired unbelievingly well with both the regular potato fries and the sweet potato fries. The garlic aioli was a good pairing with the sweet potato fries. My only gripe is that it was a little thick, but I’d prefer that over runny. The fries were crunchy and crispy on the outside, but light and fluffy on the inside,
basically your perfect fry. Compliments to the chef. A large focus for Last Leaf is craft cocktails, which they had a great selection of and a large selection of beer, wine and liquor as well. I tried the Kayla-Rita which is your traditional lime margarita and it was great. It wasn’t too strong, but not too weak and hit the spot for a classic marg (also one of my favorites). The drinks were well-priced, I got the margarita for less than $10 and it came in a large glass. Overall, I left happy, full and totally happy to return. I think there were a few inconsistencies with the food and the service (we had a couple items missing from our initial order, or that got forgotten about and we had to ask after) but I have no doubt those will even out as the staffing becomes more full and confident in their roles. We didn’t realize until we sat down to write this review that no one in our group had ordered the flatbread pizza, Last Leaf’s signature as a budding pizzeria. This speaks both to the strength of the woodfire smoked meats on the menu and the difficulty Owen faces in shaking off the shadow of Freddy’s and spreading his branches into Last Leaf. I’m still kicking myself for that, however based on the things we did try though, I have no doubt that the flatbread pizzas would be amazing and I totally plan to
go back to try one and some more of the cocktails. I guess that just ensures we have to make a follow up trip to Last Leaf for the flatbread pizza. We’re not complaining. Taylor Scott, Managing Editor, contributed to this review. Reflections from Last Leaf owner David Owen
Well, so far so good. I mean, especially since we pivoted from trying to be a full fledged pizzeria at this time, and brought back the barbecue dishes that people used to love at Freddy’s. It was kind of a simple solution to creating dishes that are easy to plate for staff, but it’s still the same quality that we used to have at Freddy’s and the flatbread is going over fantastic. Also, people really like that there’s an option, another option for pizza in Spring Green, that offers something different. I mean, the styles of pizza that we’re putting out are something you can’t find elsewhere. They can be as exotic or as simple as you want, we have both options. And it’s been very successful so far. I think, just like Freddy’s, when we opened, we evolved almost every single year, we looked at what worked and what didn’t work, what was resonating with customers, what we needed to add to our menu, or delete from a menu, you know, we constantly are looking for ways to improve. Right now we’re keeping our menu simple, but made from scratch and high quality. And then as things improve employment-wise, we’ll begin to start to change and add things, start doing specials and things like that. We keep telling everybody, “we’re a scalable restaurant, we’ll be as big or as small as our staff.” But we’re really excited about the fact that people have really reacted very positively to the menu and what we’re doing. Condensed and lightly edited for space and clarity.
Plain A’s finish season with a loss to Cross Plains, 3-8 for overall season Pat Mahoney, Contributor
The Plain A’s finished up their season on August 1st with a tough loss to Cross Plains 5-4. Even though they finished 3-8 on the season they competed right to end of every game. Four of those losses were by 2 runs or less. Cole Mahoney led the team in batting this year with a .458 average with 3 Home Runs. Will Jewell was next with .375, Brock Mahoney with .341, and Zach Cady with .324. Brock Mahoney led the team with 6 Home Runs on the season. Which also led the league according to the Home Talent website. The Plain A’s would like to thank all the sponsors who helped make this season possible. Along with all the players. We couldn’t do it without you. We are very excited about how much we improved from the 2019 season and are very much looking forward to 2022.
Photo contributed by Pat Mahoney Front Row from left to right: Dayne McElwee, Justin Yanke, Ryan Nonn, Jack Meixelsperger, Cole Mahoney Second Row from Left to Right: General Manager Pat Mahoney, Derek Bodendein, Zach Cady, Brock Mahoney, Will Jewell, Zach Paulus, Manager Bob Jewell. Not Pictured: Ryan Klein, Jordan Slaney, Tyler White, Brandon Blackwood, and Joe Ryan.
Business/Professional
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Community
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
COVID-19 Dashboard
Page 7
Wisconsin Summary
624,213 Positive Cases
Cases as of 8/3/2021
+5,915 from 7/27
3,038,217 Negative Test Results +20,316 from 7/27
7,447 Deaths +107 from 7/27
Vaccine Summary Statistics Updated: 8/3/2021
5,843,610 Administered
3,229,123
2,372,343
Pfizer doses administered
242,144
Moderna doses administered
Johnson & Johnson doses administered
Vaccine Data
These two core measures are all measures of herd immunity in Richland, Sauk and Iowa County. We do not yet know what level of vaccination leads to herd immunity for COVID-19, or how current or future variants might affect herd immunity. We know based on other diseases that herd immunity is likely at least 60%, and if more transmissible variants become more common, that threshold may become higher, so our current target range is 60-90%. -Madison Public Health and Dane County
Richland County
1,356 Positive Cases +9 from 7/27 8,296 Negative Tests +35 from 7/27 16 Death +0 from 7/27
Richland
Sauk
Target Range
50.4%
Iowa County
2,089 Positive Cases +14 from 7/27 12,137 Negative Tests +53 from 7/27 13 Deaths +0 from 7/27 Sauk County 6,108 Positive Cases +64 from 7/27 37,147 Negative Tests +219 from 7/27 52 Deaths +0 from 7/27
53.8%
Percent with at least one vaccine dose
Percent with at least one vaccine dose
50.8%
47.8%
Percent fully vaccinated
Target Range
Percent fully vaccinated
Iowa
Target Range
59.8%
Percent with at least one vaccine dose
57.6%
Percent fully vaccinated
Percent of Wisconsin residents ages 12-15 who have received at least one dose by county
Cases per zip code Cases as of 8/3/2021
Updated: 8/3/2021
Lower %
Higher %
Richland County Ages 12-15
31.3%
Iowa County Ages 12-15
Percent of Wisconsin residents who have received at least one dose
44%
Sauk County Ages 12-15
Ages
12-15
34%
16-17
18-24
Dane County
Ages 12-15 68.9%
Graphic by Whitney Back
25-34
Updated: 8/3/2021 34.5%
43.2% 44.9%
49.3%
35-44
57.2%
55-64 65+
83.9%
45-54
Data From: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/index.htm
59.4%
69.6%
“The good stuff.”
Page 8
outdoors & recreation
WednesdaY, august 4, 2021
Birding report—young birds, hummingbirds and rare birds the highlight as July winds down Ryan Brady, DNR Natural Heritage Conservation Program Biologist Breeding season is starting to wind down for many species. Young birds are common on the landscape, some still following parents and others now on their own. If not obviously begging from parents, these immature birds can often be identified by remnant down on the head, brighter gape, pale-tipped feather edges and/or fresh, clean plumage this time of year. Meanwhile, adult birds generally sport older, worn feathers or are now in active molt, which leads to missing head, wing or tail feathers and a disheveled appearance. As summer progresses, flocks of birds are becoming more common again in species such as sandhill cranes, blackbirds, swallows, loons and waterfowl. Hummingbird lovers have been pleased to see
increased activity now as newly fledged birds begin to frequent gardens and feeders. Shorebird migration continues full steam ahead wherever suitable habitat is present. In areas of heavy rain, check flooded fields that provide temporary stopover habitat for these long-distance migrants. Landbird migration has also begun, including the first Tennessee warblers, Swainson’s thrushes, yellow-bellied flycatchers and others. Notable up north have been small numbers of white-winged crossbills. The illness leading to bird mortalities in the eastern United States continues to be investigated. If you observe birds with crusty or swollen eyes or that are having seizures or are uncoordinated, please contact your local nongame ecologist or wildlife biologist. Learn more in the following
news release: DNR Following Multi-state Reports Of Sick Songbirds. Rarities spotted since our last report include a wood stork in Rusk County (the state’s first in over 40 years), snowy plover in Milwaukee, neotropical cormorant in Brown, adult male rufous hummingbird in Buffalo, continuing whitetailed kite in Burnett, yellow-crowned night-heron in Dane, yellow-breasted chats in Waukesha and Racine, blue grosbeaks in Ozaukee, Sauk, and Dane, snowy egrets in Brown and Fond du Lac and a harlequin duck that has unusually spent the summer in Sheboygan. The week ahead has several days with north winds, which will favor additional migration of shorebirds and some landbirds. Now is a great time to check wetlands, woodland edges, shrubby or early
Photo by Jeremy Meyer This snowy plover, only the state’s second record in nearly 30 years, thrilled Milwaukee birders on July 22-23. successional forests and any fruit sources in your area. Help us track the migration by reporting your finds to www.ebird.org/ wi. Good birding!
The Sauk County Gardener — managing aster yellows Jeanie Manis, Sauk County “Plant diseases are shifty enemies.” - E.C. Stakman A couple weeks ago, as I as working in my garden, I noticed an unusual looking coneflower. I suspected it might be aster yellows, but I didn’t have time to deal with it at the time, as was it right before we were heading to Missouri for a family reunion. After I returned and was working in my flower gardens to prepare the yard for our daughter’s bridal shower, I became very concerned as I found a couple more deformed coneflowers on some other plants in my garden. I also discovered some of my tall garden phlox had powdery mildew. These are just a couple of the diseases that can affect your summer plants and distract from the beauty of your garden. Powdery mildew is primarily a cosmetic problem that can be managed, but aster yellows is a much more serious problem. Aster yellows is a viral-like disease caused by a phytoplasma (a bacterial parasite) that is passed from plant to plant by insects, such as the aster leafhopper when it sucks the sap from an infected plant and then passes it to a healthy plant. It can affect a large variety of vegetables, annuals, and perennials - over 300 plant
species. Some vegetables that can be affected include carrots, lettuce, celery, and tomatoes. Annuals include common favorites - zinnia, petunias, marigolds, and snapdragons. Some perennials that can be affected are asters, chrysanthemums, black-eyed Susan, and coneflowers. To make matters worse, common weeds like plantain and dandelion can serve as host plants and who doesn’t have those weeds in their garden? Now for the really bad news - once a plant gets aster yellows, there is no cure for it. The plant needs to be removed and disposed of in your trash, burned, or buried deep in your compost so that insects can’t feed on the infected plants. Aster yellows presents itself in a variety of ways depending on the plant species. The major symptom of aster yellows is chlorosis or the yellowing of the leaves while the veins remain green. Plant foliage may become curled. Flowers can be deformed and have unusual or deformed turfs of leaves from inside the center of the flower. They may also be small, remain green and not develop color on their petals. The flowers may fail to produce seeds as well. You may also see many thin, spindly stems growing closely together to form what looks like a witches’ broom.
To manage aster yellows, it’s important to completely remove the infected plants since there is no cure. Early removal can help prevent aster yellows from spreading throughout your garden. Remove weeds that can be hosts for this disease, so it doesn’t survive from one season to the next. Light colored or reflective mulch can disorient insects and minimize feeding on plants. In the vegetable garden, you can use floating row covers to help prevent leafhoppers from feeding on your carrots, potatoes, and other plants. Also consider planting less susceptible plants such as verbena, geranium, and impatiens. Aster yellows on coneflowers can also resemble the damage caused by eriophyid mites. In the case of the eriophyid mites, the damage can sometimes just be cosmetic and do little damage to the health of plant. I also know that the spread of aster yellows is worse when we have a cool, wet summer and I don’t feel we’ve had that kind of weather. Finally, my coneflowers are not showing any signs of chlorosis. With these things in mind, I’m not able to make an accurate diagnosis, so I’m going to send a sample into the University of Wisconsin-Madison/ Extension Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC). In some cases, the PDDC can make a diagnosis based on a picture.
As the damage from aster yellows and eriophyid mites looks very similar on coneflowers, I’m going to send an actual plant sample as one diagnosis means. Depending on the diagnosis, I will have to remove and destroy a lot of plants and the other diagnosis means I might be able to control the mites with a miticide. If you have a plant that you can not diagnosis what the problem is, first consult your local Extension office horticulture expert. Your local rep may be able to diagnosis it after talking with you and/or by looking at a picture or plant sample. If they are unable to diagnosis the problem, they may direct you to submit a sample to the PDDC. Visit https://pddc.wisc.edu/ sample-collection-and-submission/ for complete list of fees and instructions on how to prepare and submit a plant sample. It may mean the difference between living with a cosmetic problem or tearing out a large number of beautiful plants. This week’s article is written by Jeannie Manis, a Wisconsin Certified Sauk County Master Gardener Volunteer. If you have any gardening questions, please contact the Extension Sauk County by emailing to tim.ripp@saukcountywi.gov or calling the University of Wisconsin Madison Division of Extension Sauk County office at 608-355-3250.
Wearing a life jacket saves lives DNR Office of Communications MADISON, Wis. – It’s peak boating season, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds boaters that wearing a life jacket could save your life. To date, 19 people have died in boating incidents so far this year in Wisconsin. Operator inexperience, inattention, recklessness and speeding are the four leading causes of tragic watercraft crashes, and the leading cause of death is drowning. The majority of people who drown in boating accidents know how to swim but become incapacitated in the water such as being injured or unconscious, exhausted or weighed down by clothing. “Wearing a life jacket is the easiest thing you can do to make sure that your next boating trip won’t be your last,” said Lt. Darren Kuhn, DNR Boating Law Administrator. “Make sure you and all other passengers are wearing it with the buckles fastened before you cast off.” The department does not track all drownings – only those fatalities linked to the use of a recreational activity item, such as a boat, kayak or canoe. Boating incident reports to date for 2021 and previous years are available online here. Statistics show boaters who wear life jackets and take boater safety courses are most likely to stay safe on Wisconsin waters. Always follow the basic safety tips below and enjoy Wisconsin’s great lakes and rivers with family and friends.
WATER SAFETY TIPS
•Sign up now to take an online boater education course. •Always wear a properly fitted life jacket that has a snug fit and is fastened when you’re on or near the water. •Enjoy the waters sober and know your limits. Alcohol blurs a person’s judgment, reaction time and abilities. •River shorelines and sandbars pose unseen dangers. Higher, fast-moving water can tax an individual’s boating, paddling and swimming skills. Be ready for the unexpected and always wear your life jacket. More boating safety tips are available on the DNR website.
Update on Parker Kruse As of press time, area resident Parker Kruse, 22, has yet to be found after he fell into the Wisconsin River on July 3 after going to the aid of a distressed boater near the Wisconsin Riverside Resort in Spring Green.
LAST LEAF PUBLIC HOUSE FORMERLY FREDDY VALENTINES
SERVING: FLATBREAD PIZZAS HOUSE SMOKED ENTREES CRAFT COCKTAILS & WHISKEY SHAREABLE APPS
HOURS: 4 PM TO 9 PM TUESDAYS - SATURDAYS CLOSED ON SUNDAY & MONDAY
Updates and ways to help are being shared by the family on the Facebook page ‘Promise Parker’: www.facebook. com/Promise-Parker-107645114936010
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608-588-0041
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