The month of May is a special month for many reasons. For nature, it is a time of rebirth and growth in what has been dead and dormant over the past wintry months.

For us, it is a time of renewed energy as the air warms and the trees, flowers and grass all begin to bloom around us. The month of May becomes the reward for all that we have endured over the past six months. Although we may begrudge our winters, we must always remind ourselves that without them, we would lack the appreciation for what we are experiencing now. In the end, you can’t fully appreciate glory and beauty without having endured pain and struggle.

Coincidentally, May is also designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, which is fitting, as the strains of inconsistent weather patterns, along with the remnants of the winter blues, can have a negative impact on just about anyone’s mental state.

This leads me to my topic today, which is a philosophy I have been drawn to for the better part of my adult life without even knowing it. The philosophy is Stoicism and the strength that can be drawn by implementing its theories. Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that focuses on cardinal virtues as a way to overcome negative and even damaging emotions. One of the teachings of Stoicism is that the suffering we endure is not necessarily due to the event that caused the suffering, but rather to our judgments and reactions to it. We can observe two different people enduring similar suffering, in which one succumbs to it and the other thrives in it. The event is the same, but the mindset is quite different.

Another of the Stoic teachings is how we approach our suffering. Stoicism teaches that our struggles make us stronger, so long as our focus remains on what lies within our control. So much of our pain and struggles today are due to our focus, and even, in some cases, fixation on the things in our community, state, country and world that we have zero control over. Our energies and efforts would be better spent refocusing our attention on those things and people that we can influence in a positive way, rather than attempting to control.

An aspect of Stoicism that I see play out every day here in our community is the connection between Stoic duties and virtue. The Stoic believes that it is their duty to make the world a better place through the sharing of their gifts and talents for the common good. We can find examples of this when a business uses its resources to support a fundraiser for a family going through a medical struggle, or when sponsorships are provided for area youth athletic teams. Something as fun-filled as Hooray for Hollywood takes on a Stoic aspect as it takes the proceeds of its event and, in turn, supports area organizations that make our community a better place to live.

As parents, we have an opportunity to give our children an example of Stoicism in our lives by modeling a life of virtue. We can arm them with the mindset to counter the toxic and negative environments they will no doubt be subjected to at some points in their lives by incorporating Stoicism as a skill set that they can apply both inwardly and outwardly.

In all circumstances, choose calm over chaos, joy over anxiety and peace over rage. Choose those paths not because they are easy, but because they are hard. There are many things that stand in the way of a life of virtue. Those impediments should be looked upon as a gift. When you face a struggle, find that quiet inner strength. As Marcus Aurelius stated, “Impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”

Door County residents have a new tool to help navigate local transportation options, as community partners roll out a resource aimed at improving access to essential services and supporting healthy aging.

Do Good Door County, in collaboration with the Aging Coalition, introduced a transportation guide that allows residents to compare services available throughout the county. The guide highlights options for getting to medical appointments, grocery stores, workplaces and social activities, all key components of maintaining independence and overall well-being.

The resource was developed with contributions from Door County Public Health, Door County Connect and Door-Tran.

“Shauna Blackledge from Public Health created an incredible resource guide,” said Nikki Voight, executive director of Door-Tran. “The QR code goes right to the resource page, which is a quick and easy way to find out about Door-Tran, local transportation services, and how to get from here to there.”

Voight says the guide is designed to be shared widely, helping residents and their families better understand transportation choices across the peninsula.

The guide's release also comes ahead of a community fundraiser Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. The event is being held at the Door County GALA in Sturgeon Bay, bringing residents together for an evening of entertainment in support of local services.

Voight is also encouraging attendees to use local transportation resources to travel safely.

For more information, please visit the Door-Tran, Do Good Door County or the Aging Coalition websites.

Community members and race fans alike are invited to gather Saturday, May 2, for a Kentucky Derby-themed benefit at Fernwood Gardens in Jacksonport to support Lucia Ramirez as she undergoes treatment for leukemia.

The event will run from 3 to 7 p.m. and will feature Derby-inspired activities, food and beverages, raffle buckets and a silent auction, all aimed at raising funds for Ramirez and her family during her cancer battle.

Admission is $20 at the door, with children 12 and under admitted free. Organizers said admission includes complimentary food and non-alcoholic beverages for attendees.

The benefit is being held to help offset medical costs and related expenses as Ramirez continues chemotherapy treatment. Community members say the event is also intended to show support and solidarity for the family during a difficult time.

For those unable to attend, donations can still be made to the Lucia Ramirez Benefit Fund at local Nicolet Bank branches or through Ramirez’s GoFundMe page.

Hours after state Sen. Andre Jacque announced he would not seek reelection to represent Wisconsin’s 1st Senate District, a new candidate is stepping forward.

Outagamie County Veterans Service Officer and small-business owner Kell Bales entered the race Thursday afternoon, announcing his candidacy for the seat being vacated by Jacque.

In his initial announcement, Bales praised Jacque for his 15 years of service in Madison, specifically citing his work on veterans issues. Bales also previously served on the Kimberly School District Board and the Board of Control for CESA (Cooperative Educational Service Agency).

Bales said he had been considering a run for state office for some time, but phone calls from Jacque and others inspired him to enter the race. He says his campaign will be rooted in faith and will be built on family to strengthen the community.

Bales will run as a Republican, setting up a potential primary with DC Farm for Vets founder Jacob VandenPlas, barring additional candidates entering the race. Former Brown County Republican Party Chair Mark Becker is running as an independent.

Picture courtesy of Kell Bales

A new program focused on strengthening mental and emotional well-being is coming to northern Door County this spring, offering residents additional tools to manage stress and build resilience.

WeCOPE, short for “Connecting with Our Positive Emotions,” will be held at the NWTC Learning and Innovation Center in Sister Bay as a seven week course designed to support adults in navigating life’s challenges using research-based strategies.

“The WeCOPE program is a great opportunity to provide mental health options in northern Door County,” said Paul Salm, Human Development & Relationships Door County, University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension.

The program aims to address issues commonly faced in rural communities, including social isolation and limited access to mental health resources. Salm says those challenges can contribute to increased stress, anxiety and other concerns.

Classes will take place Mondays at 1 p.m. from May 4 through June 15, with sessions also recorded for those unable to attend in person.

According to Salm, the course offers a wide range of practical tools. “The curriculum has 11 different coping mechanisms involved to maintain a positive emotional affect in your life,” he said.

Each session will focus on developing skills such as emotional awareness, mindfulness, gratitude, self-compassion and identifying personal strengths and goals. The program also emphasizes connection as a key component of well-being.

“WeCOPE focuses on understanding our emotions and creating a social connection that helps us get through trying times,” Salm said.

Research behind the program shows participants often experience reduced stress and depression while reporting improved overall health habits and increased positive emotions.

The program is open to the public. Those interested in participating can register by contacting Holly Herzog with UW-Madison Extension in Door County at 920-746-2260 or by email at holly.herzog@wisc.edu

For more information about WeCope, please visit the University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Health and Well Being Institute website.

Years after introducing its water bottle filling station initiative aimed at diverting thousands of pounds of plastic from area landfills, Destination Door County is targeting another popular drink for its next sustainability pilot program.

The tourism organization showcased its regenerative coffee cup campaign at last week’s Every Day Is Earth Day event in Egg Harbor. The NoTree paper cups can handle hot beverages but are made from bamboo paper and lined with a corn-based product that makes the cups 100% compostable.

Destination Door County Director of Community Partnerships Sue Schwartz says the success of the water bottle filling station initiative inspired the organization to take its sustainability efforts to the next level and bring them to partners in the community.

Schwartz says the pilot program will begin at Kick Ash Coffee in Ellison Bay before being evaluated for future expansion. Destination Door County launched its sustainability efforts in 2019 with a partnership with the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and expanded them through its Community Investment Fund and other initiatives.

While you may be dreaming of summer,  area’s orchard owners are focused on what spring could mean for their trees.

Much of northeast Wisconsin was under a frost advisory Friday morning and will be under a freeze warning Saturday morning. Temperatures below 30 degrees are expected in some parts of the area.

For gardeners, this means covering some plants that are already in the ground and moving others inside if they are still in pots. While that is feasible for people with small gardens, it is not easy to do the same for the area’s fruit trees, which will be blossoming in the coming weeks.

Soren’s Valhalla Orchards owner Terry Sorenson has been watching the temperatures for the past three weeks, ever since the buds on his cherry trees started to swell. If weather conditions do not cooperate, Sorenson believes his crop of tart cherries could be limited, as others could be, because of the tough winter.

The forecast is a little brighter for apple growers, which usually see blossoms shortly after cherry trees show their color. Hillside Apples owner Bill Roethle says while his apple trees are starting to show some of fall’s promise, the cool start to spring has helped keep their blossoms under wraps for now.

Warmer temperatures in the coming days should allow orchard owners and gardeners alike to breathe a sigh of relief, though temperatures could return to the 30s late next week.

The United Way of Door County brought together community members, partners and supporters Wednesday night for its annual meeting and community celebration at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club, highlighting a year of impact and recognizing those who contribute to the organization’s mission.

The event featured a social hour followed by a program recapping accomplishments from 2025, including initiatives focused on child care, mental health services, volunteerism and community wellness. Leaders outlined ongoing efforts such as the Partnership for Children & Families, STRIDE school-based mental health programming and Volunteer Connections, all aimed at strengthening support systems across Door County.

Executive Director Amy Kohnle reflected on the turnout and community support.

“The evening was incredible,” Kohnle said. “It is always great to have over 100 community members, non-profit partners, volunteers, donors, friends and new folks all in one place.”

Financial highlights presented during the meeting showed total 2025 income, underscoring continued investment in local programs and partnerships. The organization also recognized major donors, including members of its Tocqueville Society and several “Diamond” level business contributors.

Board leadership updates were also announced, with Michelle Lawrie, board president, and Caleb Nelson, vice president, each elected to additional three-year terms. Nancy Daoust and Samantha (Sam) Catanzaro were also elected to new three-year terms on the board. Outgoing board members were also recognized for their years of service.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Bob Stiefvater “Magnificent” Volunteer Award, which honors exceptional commitment to community service. This year’s award was given to Todd and Holly Butenhoff of The Thirsty Cow Taphouse.

Organizers said the annual event serves not only as a recap of the past year, but also as a reminder of the collective effort required meeting the county’s evolving needs.

The National Weather Service in Green Bay has issued a Frost Advisory for much of northeast Wisconsin, including Door and Kewaunee counties.

The advisory is in effect from midnight tonight until 8 a.m. Friday. Forecasters say temperatures could fall as low as 31 degrees, leading to widespread frost formation.

Officials warn the frost could damage or kill sensitive outdoor vegetation if plants are left uncovered.

You are urged to take precautions by covering or bringing in tender plants ahead of the cold overnight temperatures.

The National Weather Service says additional frost or freeze headlines may be needed again Friday night as cold conditions persist across the region.

Minor flooding also continues across northeast Wisconsin, and forecasters note a small chance of thunderstorms possible Sunday.

While the ongoing conflict in Iran is contributing to pain at the pump, an issue closer to home is a key reason drivers are paying more than $4 a gallon for the first time in four years.

The average price for a gallon of gas in Green Bay jumped from $3.69 last week to $4.22 this week. While still well below the record high of $4.85 in 2022, it is more than a dollar higher than this time last year, when the average price was $2.98.

Drivers were beginning to see some relief as tensions in Iran eased, but an outage at BP’s refinery in Whiting, Indiana, combined with an ongoing labor dispute, is driving a sudden increase in gas prices across the Midwest.

It has been even worse for diesel users, who are now paying $5.03 a gallon, up from $4.86 a week ago and $3.20 a year ago.

Bluewater Services owner John Mastalir said that while his industrial waste accounts are subject to a fuel surcharge based on market prices, the same is not true for his commercial waste accounts. Until the conflict in Iran and issues at the refinery are resolved, higher fuel costs are something his business will have to absorb.

While the savings may amount to only a dollar or two per fill-up, avoiding rapid acceleration and braking, maintaining proper tire pressure, using cruise control on highways and removing excess weight are all ways to reduce fuel costs. AARP also recommends joining fuel loyalty programs, using apps to find more efficient routes and lower prices, and keeping your tank at least one-quarter full.

The race for Door County sheriff this fall now includes the incumbent after Tammy Sternard announced her bid for a third term Thursday.

Sternard has served as Door County sheriff since 2018, when she defeated former Door County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Pat McCarty to replace retiring Sheriff Steve Delarwelle. Before becoming sheriff, she served in the department for 25 years, including 10 as an administrator.

Sternard said she began considering her future after others entered the race, following more than 30 years in law enforcement. With several key personnel within the department retiring or nearing retirement, she cited the transition to newer staff across all areas of operations as a reason to seek another term, aiming to provide stability and mentorship.

Sternard is the fourth candidate to enter the race, joining Door County Sheriff’s Deputy Curt Vandertie, Door County Sheriff’s Department Professional Standards Capt. Carl Waterstreet, and former Denver police officer Randy Wagner.

Candidates have until June 1 to file the necessary paperwork ahead of the Aug. 11 partisan primary and the Nov. 3 general election.

After 15 years serving in Madison, state Sen. Andre Jacque has decided not to be on the ballot this fall. The New Franken Republican announced his decision Thursday, opting to stay closer to home to make a difference in the community.

“I could not make a positive difference to the same extent I have without the love and sacrifice, first and foremost, of my wife, Renée, and our seven kids, my parents and in-laws, extremely talented and dedicated staff, colleagues, constituents, and the efforts and friendship of so many that God has placed on my path along the way,” Jacque said in a statement. “I will be forever grateful for their incredible support to be able to live my dreams.”

It was a productive final session for Jacque, who saw several of his pieces of legislation signed into law earlier this month, including the expansion of educational options for military families, protections for disabled workers and their health care, and tax credits for stillbirths. He said he is proud the bills addressed real concerns in the community and were met with bipartisan support.

He gave a special shoutout to area law enforcement “who have played an integral role in our success in writing laws that protect child victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking, and crack down on drug trafficking, internet crimes against children, gang violence and retail theft.”

Jacque added he is not going anywhere anytime soon. He plans on finishing his term strong and looks forward to working with several area nonprofits, including Green Bay Area Crime Stoppers, the Paul Van Handel Memorial Foundation for families of children with special needs, and Friends of PALS, Youth and Families for Brown County’s at-risk youth, as a board member.

Two people had already declared their candidacy before Jacque’s announcement. In March, DC Farm for Vets founder and 13-year Wisconsin National Guard veteran Jacob VandenPlas announced his candidacy, while small-business owner and former Brown County Republican Party chair Mark Becker made his own announcement in mid-April.

Community members turned out in force Tuesday, for the inaugural Jim Benesh fundraiser softball game, an event that combined competition on the field with an outpouring of local support.

Sturgeon Bay's baseball and softball teams hosted Southern Door for a pair of doubleheaders. Between innings, fans participated in fundraising efforts such as raffles, concessions, and t-shirt sales to honor the legacy of longtime coach Jim Benesh.

The fundraiser was organized by Sturgeon Bay softball head coach Haley Benesh, Jim Benesh’s daughter, as a way to continue her father’s legacy and impact on both the program and the community. Proceeds from the event are split, with 95% benefiting Door CANcer and 5% supporting the Clippers softball program.

“My dad was everything to me. I cannot even put into words how much this meant to me, my team and family,” Coach Hailey Benesh said. “It is so great to feel that love and support for the community. Looking at all the people that came, from the field was really great.”

Coach Benesh said approximately 300 people attended and praised the energy surrounding the event while over $1600 was raised to support DoorCANcer.

“This is our first of many to come,” Athletic Director John Dupuis said. “It is wonderful and exciting to see all of these community members come out and not only support the Clippers, but to help Door CANcer and the Benesh family.”

With packed stands and strong participation throughout the day, Coach Benesh said the fundraiser could become a lasting tradition in Sturgeon Bay, bringing together athletics and community support for years to come.

Miller Art Museum announced award winners for its 52nd Annual Salon of Door County High School Art, recognizing student artists from across the peninsula during a public reception earlier this month.

The exhibition features work from 105 students in grades 9-12 representing Gibraltar, Sevastopol, Southern Door, Sturgeon Bay and Washington Island high schools. Top honors were presented during an awards ceremony at the April 6 opening.

Awards of Excellence were given to Abigail DeMeuse of Gibraltar, Lilian Saltou of Sevastopol, Audrie Schley of Southern Door, Rowan Ploor of Sturgeon Bay and Thomas Pratt of Washington Island.

Honorable Mention recipients included Molly Virlee of Gibraltar, Lola Georgenson of Sevastopol, Angelina LeCloux Herrera of Southern Door, Ryan Felhofer of Sturgeon Bay and Teagan McGrane of Washington Island.

The Jim Rericha Legacy Award was presented to Sevastopol senior Gianna Roman for her piece, “Jalapeno Popper aka JP.” The $100 award honors the late longtime Sevastopol art teacher and theater director, whose legacy continues through an annual gift.

Award winner Gianna Roman said the piece highlights her creativity and perspective.

“I really didn’t have a specific direction when I started, my art teacher, Mr. Kindt told me to keep going and it really turned out amazing, I think it's cute.” Roman said.

Roman looks to keep her passion for art going after her graduation this summer. “I think I’ll keep art as my hobby as I pursue my future career in fire prevention and firefighting.”

The exhibition remains on view through May 23. Admission is free and open to the public.

It is hard to believe that summer is right around the corner. The Door County YMCA has announced dates for the upcoming summer camp sessions. Door County YMCA summer camps will run June 8 through Aug. 21, offering day camp programs across Door County for children ages 5–12 and teen leadership opportunities.

Summer camp session are now open for registration as the Door County YMCA began accepting participants on March 9th.

“At the Y, summer camp is about more than just a drop-off site,” said Aaron Phillips, aquatics and youth director at the Kane Center YMCA in Fish Creek. “It’s about building confidence, friendships and skills that last well beyond the summer season.”

At the Sturgeon Bay Program Center, campers ages 5–12 can participate in full-day camps featuring games, S.T.E.M. activities, arts and crafts. A half-day Camp in the Park, at the newly renovated and upgraded, Otumba Park runs 9 a.m. to noon, focusing on outdoor recreation and beach activities.

In Northern Door, the Kane Center at Kane Center YMCA offers camps for ages 7–12 from June 8 through Aug. 14, with hiking, beach trips and outdoor exploration near Peninsula State Park. Full-day camps run 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while half-day options run noon to 5 p.m.

All campers receive free breakfast and lunch through the Summer Foods Program and extended care is available. Teens in seventh grade and up may apply for the Leaders in Training program.

Phillips said, “We meet kids where they are and give them choices through clubs in sports, science and leadership.”

For more information or to register, please visit the Door County YMCA’s website.

A Door County sheriff’s deputy, a Nasewaupee first responder, and several bystanders helped to save a person from a burning pickup truck in the Town of Nasewaupee on Tuesday evening.

Emergency personnel were sent to County Road S near Tagge Road shortly after 5:20 p.m. According to the Door County Sheriff’s Department, the driver was towing a trailer and heading north when the vehicle crossed into the southbound lane of traffic, left the roadway, and struck a tree.

The first deputy on the scene discovered the driver lying on the ground outside the vehicle while the passenger remained inside. Chief Deputy Kyle Veeser confirmed a witness report that a sheriff’s deputy, a Nasewaupee first responder, and other bystanders assisted in removing the passenger from the vehicle shortly before it became fully engulfed in flames.

The driver and passenger were taken to Green Bay for treatment of their injuries.

County Road S was reopened before 9 p.m. after additional investigation and cleanup took place.

The incident, which was listed as a DUI incident according to a dispatch report, remains under investigation.

More than 100 business leaders gathered Tuesday evening at The Lodge at Leathem Smith for Destination Sturgeon Bay's annual meeting, marking the official start of the 2026 tourism season in Sturgeon Bay.

The meeting opened with remarks from outgoing board president Josh Cory-Yaeggi, followed by the adoption of the agenda and an update on what’s ahead for 2026 from Executive Director Cameryn Ehlers-Kwaters. The organization also introduced staff and highlighted upcoming initiatives aimed at supporting local businesses and enhancing visitor experiences.

“We had over 100 business members in attendance, which is a wonderful kick-off to the 2026 season,” Ehlers-Kwaters said.

A key portion of the evening included the presentation and approval of the 2026–27 slate of directors, featuring representatives from a wide cross-section of the local business community, including hospitality, retail, arts and nonprofit sectors. Incoming board president Julie Wilson delivered closing remarks after the election was finalized.

The organization also took time to recognize outgoing board members for their years of leadership and service. A list of sponsors and community partners was acknowledged during the program.

Ehlers-Kwaters hinted at potential developments on the horizon, drawing attention from attendees.

“We teased some news tonight about the possibility of the return of the tall ships,” she said, referencing a popular maritime attraction that has drawn significant crowds to the waterfront in past years.

She also emphasized the strength of local support behind the organization’s mission. “We are so thankful that our business community and our over 250 members support our organization,” Ehlers-Kwaters said.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of key seasonal initiatives, including the Sturgeon Bay Farmers Market and ongoing efforts within the city’s entertainment district.

You know not to use milk, meat and salads past their prime, but what about your children’s car seats? Retailers like Target periodically offer opportunities to trade in car seats to upgrade to a newer version or stock up on other supplies if you no longer need one.

Events like these are encouraged because car seats typically last between six and 10 years before they are considered “expired” due to wear and tear, updated safety regulations and recalls. Expiration dates also factor into national data showing that three out of four car seats are used incorrectly.

Teri Van Lieshout from Door County Public Health says keeping car seats up to date is important to ensure your child is as safe as possible.

You can typically find a car seat’s expiration date in the manual and on the device’s label or plastic mold. You can contact Door County Public Health if you have questions about your car seat, including whether it is installed correctly.

The Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) is inviting bargain hunters and animal lovers alike to Door County this weekend as it hosts its annual rummage sale to support local shelter operations.

The two-day event, organized by the WHS Door County Campus, will take place Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, at Arle Memorial Hall. Proceeds benefit animals and pet owners across Door and neighboring Kewaunee counties.

You can browse a wide range of items, including pet supplies, home décor and household goods. Hours run from noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, with a clearance sale beginning at noon Saturday offering a bag of items for $2.

“The rummage sale is one our best and most popular events of the year.  It plays a crucial role in helping us provide care for animals,” said Corey Viars Media Specialist for WHS in Door County and Green Bay. “Every purchase directly supports the animals, from medical care to adoption programs.”

Those unable to attend can still support the effort by donating new or gently used items. Donations will be accepted at Arle Memorial Hall from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 30 and from 8 a.m. to noon Friday, May 1. Donors can also receive a tax-deduction receipt for their contributions.

“The community support is what make these events happen and keeps us going,” Viars said. “Whether you donate, shop or volunteer, you’re making a real difference for local animals and the families who care for them.”

For more information, including additional donation details, visit the WHS website.

A second former Democratic lawmaker could join the bench of the state’s highest court after state appeals court Judge Pedro Colón announced his candidacy for the Wisconsin Supreme Court on Tuesday.

The announcement comes just over a week after Clark County Judge Lyndsey Boon Brunette announced her bid to replace retiring Justice Annette Ziegler, who said in March that she would not seek another term.

Colón represented Milwaukee in the state Assembly as a Democrat for more than a decade before being first appointed as a judge in Milwaukee County in 2010. Gov. Tony Evers appointed Colón to the state Court of Appeals in 2023.

Colón is following the path of newly elected Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Chris Taylor, who represented the Madison area in the state Assembly for a decade before her appointment as a Dane County circuit court judge in 2020. Taylor defeated conservative-backed candidate Maria Lazar in the spring election.

Photo from Judge Pedro Colón Facebook page 

Farmers were able to get into their fields last week, but Mother Nature is not making it easy. According to the weekly USDA Crop Progress and Conditions report, Wisconsin farmers had 3.3 days suitable for fieldwork last week, with local operators slightly behind that average at 2.8 days.

Above-average temperatures allowed some farmers to complete tasks such as fertilizing, spreading manure, spring tillage and planting in certain areas. Oat planting (14%) and spring tillage (17%) remain far behind the five-year averages of 27% and 28%, respectively. It is even worse in northeast Wisconsin, where those numbers sit at 3% and 5% complete, respectively.

With temperatures hovering in the low 50s through Saturday and more rain in the forecast for Monday, Salentine Homestead Dairy owner Josh Salentine says the wind will have to do the heavy lifting this week to dry out his fields in Luxemburg, but also stresses that patience is key at this time of year.

The USDA reports there is still plenty of water in the fields, with topsoil moisture levels at 67% surplus and subsoil moisture levels at 57% surplus. Despite the cool and wet start, Salentine adds that alfalfa fields are off to great start, which is good news for farmers who grow the crop to feed their cows.

United Way of Door County is seeking volunteers to assist with its annual Spring Jeep Run fundraiser scheduled for Saturday, May 2, an event supporting local mental health programs.

The fundraiser, which sends participants on a countywide scavenger hunt, raises money for the organization’s annual campaign. Proceeds are distributed as grants to agencies providing mental health services throughout Door County.

“This event started as a poker run, and it has grown so much that we’ve added additional stops,” said Amy Kohnle. “We made it a scavenger hunt this year through an app-based system, but we are still keeping the poker run. At those stops, we are looking for volunteers.”

Kohnle says they are seeking help at multiple locations throughout the day. Volunteers are needed from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. and again from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Door County Fire Company to assist with registration, merchandise sales and raffle tickets. Additional volunteers are also needed at designated poker run stops, where participants collect playing cards and take part in games or raffles.

“This is a fun, engaging event, but it also serves a very important purpose,” Kohnle said. “Every volunteer helps us expand our impact.”

Participants may purchase poker scorecards for additional activities during the run. More information, including how to volunteer or donate, is available on the organization’s website.

The Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5K return to Peninsula State Park on Saturday, May 2, drawing runners and spectators for one of Wisconsin’s most scenic spring races.

The half marathon begins at 10 a.m., followed by the 5K at 10:15 a.m., starting near Nicolet Bay Beach and the Runner’s Concourse area. Roads into the park will close at 9 a.m., after which entry is restricted to shuttle service only. Parking inside the park is limited, attendees are strongly encouraged to carpool or use the designated park-and-ride shuttles running from Fish Creek locations.

Spectators are encouraged to use designated viewing areas along the course, maps are available at packet pickup and park entrances. Popular spots include the start/finish area and points along Shore Road and Sunset Trail where runners loop through the park’s wooded and lakeside sections.

No pets are allowed at Nicolet Bay Beach, the Runner’s Concourse, on shuttles or along the race course. Leashed dogs are permitted in other areas of Peninsula State Park.

Organizers urge visitors to plan ahead due to limited parking and heavy race-day traffic.  For more information, please visit the Door County Half Marathon website.

Local and regional partners gathered April 16 for a meeting of the Wisconsin Nutrition Incentive Network (WINI), focusing on upcoming changes to federal food assistance programs (SNAP), (EBT) and efforts to expand access at farmers markets.

The meeting brought together organizations working across Door, Kewaunee and Manitowoc counties to increase access to EBT services and promote the growing Double Up Food Bucks program, which allows SNAP recipients to stretch their food dollars on eligible purchases.

Amy Kohnle, United Way of Door County Executive Director, said the changes are part of a broader effort to improve access while maintaining program integrity.

“We’ve always had the support of the Door County Medical Center doing a match program at farmer’s markets in Sturgeon Bay. They match dollar for dollar.” Kohnle said. “Now we are trying to get more cities and communities that can help those in need in places like Manitowoc and Kewaunee Counties.”

Wisconsin currently has one of the lowest SNAP error rates in the nation, and Kohnle says that maintaining compliance will be critical as new rules are implemented. Some changes include updated guidelines on eligible foods and how incentives can be offered.

Kohnle said farmers markets are adapting to the changes as markets begin to start opening this month. Kohnle said continued outreach will be paramount as the changes roll out.

“Not being able to use these benefits for candy and soda, and they are also looking at other restriction at farmer’s markets” she said. “When that first farmer’s market opens here in Sturgeon Bay later this month, we will make sure that our volunteers and workers will be up to date on those changes and how they impact customers.”

The Sister Bay Historical Society (SBHS) and the Village of Sister Bay have signed agreements moving forward with plans to transform the Bunda Boathouse into the Sister Bay Waterfront Museum, a project aimed at preserving and showcasing the village’s maritime history.

Under the agreement, the boathouse will be renovated into a waterfront museum operated by the SBHS and supported by the newly formed Sister Bay Marina Club.

SBHS President John Lijewski said the project represents an important expansion for the organization.

“The Shadow, which is our most important artifact, will be on prominent display,” Lijewski said. “The museum will be on two levels, with the Shadow on the lower level and we have some renovations to do, so we are looking at summer of 2027 to open.”

President Lijewski says that the project will highlight the community’s maritime heritage in a highly visible location.

“The waterfront is so important to the development of Sister Bay and its history,” Andrews said. “We are continuing to raise money for it; it will be a wonderful opportunity for the Historical Society as this is our first foray off of our campus.  This will be an amazing addition to the village and will be in the heart of Sister Bay.”

The museum will feature exhibits and artifacts, including the historic 1929 Chris-Craft boat Shadow, which has long been tied to Sister Bay’s waterfront history. The museum is expected to open in 2027.

For more information, or to donate to the Sister Bay Waterfront Museum, please visit the Village of Sister Bay’s website.