The 80-year-old Thordarson Gate on Rock Island, which was scheduled to be taken down this summer because of its deterioration, will continue to be a photo opportunity for the visitors of Rock Island.

  

On April 10, 2015 the Wisconsin DNR announced that the Thordarson Gate was coming down due to safety issues. Five days later the decision was reversed.

"Social media lit up after the press release came out. The DNR and parks bureau heard the public," said Randy Holm, ranger at Rock Island State Park. "We need to re-evaluate this, but the gate's not coming down."

Holm, who stated that there is a definite safety issue with the gate also recognized the iconic nature of it as well.

  

Spring is the time of year that many of us look forward to after a long winter cooped up in the house.  We can get out and go exploring in the woods looking for those much welcomed first signs of spring.  Soon the wild asparagus will be poking their little heads above ground and finding their way into many fresh spring dishes.  If you are among the few lucky ones, you may even find a Morel mushroom or two to use as well.  Another wonderful addition would be some freshly cut ramps.

  

Try this recipe for a fresh and easy Spring lunch or light dinner.  Serve with green salad and crusty French bread and Voila !

  

INGREDIENTS:

  

1 Tblsp. butter

3 Tblsp. olive oil

1/2 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed & cut into 1"pieces

1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, cleaned and sliced

6 eggs

1 Tblsp. water

1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

3 Tblsp. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded fresh mozzarella cheese

  

DIRECTIONS:

  

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.  Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.  Stir in olive oil and asparagus and cook until asparagus is tender, about 10 minutes.  Stir in the mushrooms, and continue cooking about 5 minutes.  In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, water and thyme. Pour into the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 5 minutes.  Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.  Bake 10 to 15 minutes, until eggs are no longer runny  Top the mixture with the cheeses.  Turn on the broiler and broil until cheeses are melted and lightly browned.