In the throes of collecting sap again this year — our sixth season — I’ve come to the realization that every single season is different.

Early in February our buyer sent us a text from Florida: “When u tapping?”

“When are you opening?”

“When u have sap!” he retorted.

FRIDAY, FEB. 27

KESHENA: Winter Farmers Market, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., College of Menominee Nation Cultural Learning Center, N172 State Highway 47-55. Presented by CMN Sustainable Development Institute. Local vendors, healthy food, artisan crafts and more.

OCONTO: Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Farnsworth Public Library, 715 Main St. Story and crafts for preschool children. A caregiver must stay with the child.

UW-Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point conferred degrees to 534 graduates for the fall 2025 semester.

Birnamwood: Amanda Notinokey, bachelor of science, elementary education; Amanda Notinokey, bachelor of science, wildlife ecology and management; Ray Notinokey, bachelor of science, early childhood education; Leah Schultz, bachelor of science, health information management and technology.

University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus in Adelphi, Maryland, graduated more than 6,400 students worldwide in the fall 2025 term.

Among them was Justin Fisher, of Keshena, who earned an associate of arts degree.

UW-River Falls

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls 2025 fall semester dean’s list has been released.

I recently attended a birding festival in California. My week was filled with adventure, appreciation, laughter and learning. I thought I’d share some of the highlights with you.

No matter your garden style, you are likely to find a place for this year’s Perennial Plant of the Year: blackhawks big bluestem. You’ll enjoy the beauty it adds to your gardens and the low maintenance it requires to thrive.