2013 summe rtower times

The

Tower Times

City of Stoughton

Issue 2, Summer 2013

Swimming Pool Information

Before construction or assembly of a pool, there are a few requirements that need attention.

1. Obtain A Permit Above ground pools having a water depth greater than thirty-six inches at any point shall not be constructed or assembled within the city until a permit is obtained from the Department of Planning & Development at City Hall, 381 E. Main Street. All in ground pools require a permit.

A dimensioned plan showing the location of the proposed pool in relation to the lot lines is required prior to approval.

2. Placement Pools may be installed on rear or side lots only and shall not be closer than six feet to any lot line or building unless designed and approved as an addition to the building. Pools shall not be installed in utility easements designed to convey electric distribution, water distribution, wastewater, and stormwater drainage.

3. Fencing Pools that are not enclosed by a permanent building and have a water depth greater than thirtysix inches shall be completely enclosed by a fence to prevent access. Such fence shall not be less

than five feet nor greater than 6 feet in height and shall be placed not less than four feet from the pool edge, constructed so as not to have holes or openings larger than four inches in one dimension. Gates and doors shall be equipped with self-closing and selflatching devices, located near the top of the gate, on the poolside of the enclosure.

4. Electrical conductors The following clearances must be adhered to and shown on the plan: • Underground electrical conductors shall be a minimum of 5 feet from the outer edge of the inside of the pool. If closer than 5 feet, the conductors shall be in conduit; • Overhead electric conductors shall be a minimum of 22.5 feet in any direction to the water level, edge of water surface, base of platform, or permanently anchored raft. • The horizontal limit of clearance measured from the inside wall of the pool shall not be less than 10 feet.

Contact Diggers Hotline at 1-800-242-8511 or 811 prior to placement.

These requirements are not all inclusive. If you have any questions regarding pools please contact the City Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421 or email to mstacey@ci.stoughton.wi.us

2 Summer 2013

The Tower Times

Don’t Know Who to Call?

City Hall: (608) 873-6677

Unlicensed & Inoperable Vehicles Street Signs

• Are not allowed to be stored for more than 15 days on private property unless zoned for such storage.

Building Complaints – Department of Planning & Development (Building Inspector) 873-7626

Traffic Signals

Building Permits – Department of Planning & Development(Building Inspector)873-7626 or (Zoning Administrator) 646-0421

Stoughton Municipal Utilities: (608) 873-3379

• May pose a danger due to loose, sharp, or jagged parts, to the public, particularly small children who are often attracted to junk motor vehicles.

City Licenses – City Clerk’s Office (Deputy Clerk 646-0423)

Drinking Water Questions

• May contain fluids that, if leaked, may contaminate the environment or may be a fire hazard.

Sidewalks – Department of Planning & Development (Zoning Administrator) 646-0421

Electric Service Applications

Some options are:

Recycle Containers - 873-6677; John’s Disposal 1-888-473-4701 Signs/Permits – Department of Planning & Development (Zoning Administrator) 646-0421 Taxes – Finance Department 646-0420

Street Department: (608) 873-6303 Dumpster – Permits Street Complaints Street Lights – Downtown Page to Fifth Street Opening Permits *Note – if it involves Water or Sanitary Sewer a permit & fee from Stoughton Municipal Utilities also. 873-3379

Trees – Park row Bulk Water Sales

Sewer Backups – Stoughton Municipal Utilities (Wastewater Division)

• The vehicle may be placed in a closed garage.

Street Lights Water Service Applications

• If unlicensed (registration has expired), a license may be obtained.

Media Services Department/WSTO TV: (608) 873-7523

• Local salvage yards often pay cash for motor vehicles with a title, or make a donation to St. Vincent de Paul or other non-profit organization.

Cable Channel 98 or 981

• The vehicle may be made operable.

Some property owners store inoperable or unlicensed vehicles on their property with the eventual plan to make them road worthy. Unfortunately, they may reduce property values and can pose a threat to the public.

WSTO Webstream DVD/CD Duplication Event Coverage Media Transfers (MiniDV, VHS, DVD, CD etc.)

If you have any questions regarding this issue contact the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421 or email mstacey@ ci.stoughton.wi.us.

Make a Difference — Plant a Rain Garden Rain gardens (shallow depressions planted with native wildflowers) soak up rainwater or melted snow from your rooftop, driveway and lawn. They are positioned to collect water from downspouts or at a low-point in the yard where drainage naturally occurs. The gardens allow water to soak into the soil rather than running off to the nearest lake or stream.

A rain garden can soak up to 30% more water than a traditional lawn. Why is that important? Because the water from rain and snow that runs off our roofs and driveways to the streets and through the storm drain system to our lakes carries with it all sorts of pollutants like fertilizers, oil, pet waste and more. Whatever is in the street—garbage, pet waste, oil, etc.—gets washed to the nearest lake or stream.

Remaining Holiday Schedule 2013 Labor Day

Mature rain gardens are easy to maintain. Once plants get established, very little weeding Monday, September 2, 2013 is needed. Do not install a rain garden in any easement designed to convey underground All collections will be delayed by one day. electric, water, wastewater and stormwater.

Besides helping our lakes and streams, rain gardens are aesthetically pleasing and provide Thanksgiving Day habitat for birds, butterflies and beneficial insects—including dragonflies that eat mosqui- Thursday, November 28, 2013 toes. You can make a big difference by devoting a small amount of space, time and money Collections Thursday and Friday will be delayed by one day. to the creation of a rain garden.

Visit www.myfairlakes.com to learn more about rain gardens.

Stoughton Wellness Coalition Medication Disposal & Sharps Collection October 26, 2013, 9 a.m. to noon

Christmas Day

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 Wednesday – Friday collections will be delayed by one day.

The holiday collections may be at an earlier time of day than normal. Please be sure to put your refuse and recycling out the night before your scheduled collection day.

Please contact Johns Disposal with any questions.

FREE drive-through service

Stoughton Fire Department (enter from Main Street) • Bring all medications in original containers (if possible) and cross out personal information with a black marker • Sharps must be dropped off in a registered sharps container or thick plastic laundry detergent bottle • The Lions/Lionesses will also be collecting used eye-glasses and hearing aids For additional information, please contact Stoughton City Hall at 873-6677 or the Stoughton Wellness Coalition at stoughtonwellness@hotmail.com.

What Can You Do With A Television You No Longer Want?

Johns Disposal, www.johnsdisposal.com, will collect televisions; however, they cannot take them as part of their regular collection services. You must call to arrange a special pick-up. Telephone 262-473-4700

Graduation Parties, Bridal Showers, Baby Showers, Block Parties…

Ahh…the Culinary Ease of Cheese!!

• 120 Varieties of Cheese • Cheese Trays • Fresh Curds • Cheese Gift Boxes - Always Enjoyed, Never Returned 183 E. Main Street, Downtown Stoughton www.Cheesers.com • 608-873-1777

The Dane County Clean Sweep Program, www.danecountycleansweep.com, now accepts televisions. There is a $10 fee per television. The Clean Sweep Program is located at the Dane County Landfill, 7102 US Highway 12, Madison, Wisconsin 53718; they are open Tuesdays through Fridays, 7:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. They are closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays, and they have a mandatory furlough day on August 30, 2013. Telephone 608-838-9555 or 608-243-0368.

Rabies Clinic Small Animal Advocates is hosting a rabies clinic on Saturday, October 5, 2013, at the Stoughton City Garage, 515 South Fourth Street. You may bring cats only from 10:00 to 10:30, and cats and dogs from 10:30 to noon. The cost is $11 per animal. For more information, call Kathy Thode at 873-9851.

The Tower Times

Summer 2013 3

Department Of Planning & Development Information The following information can be found at this website: www.cityofstoughton.com/planning

Use the APPLICATIONS AND INFORMATION link for:

Property Information

Use the Public Access link at the following website for Dane County property information: http://accessdane.co.dane.wi.us • Current Property Owner and Address • Parcel Number

• Permit Fee Schedule

• Plat Name

• Building/Zoning Permit Application

• Lot Number

• Commercial Buildings Information

• Legal Description

• Stormwater and Erosion Control Applications

• Property Acres

• Fire Sprinkler/Alarm System Permit Application

• Assessed Land Value

• Annual Average Daily Traffic Maps for Stoughton

• Assessed Improvement Value

• Residential Building Trends 2000 - 2012

• Estimated Fair Market Value

• Fencing Permit and Placement Information

• Tax Information

• Detached Garage and Accessory Structure Permit and Placement Information

• A Mapping Feature That Will Show Where the Property is Located

• Deck Addition Permit Information and Construction Guide

• A List of Restrictions for the Plat/Property.

• Swimming Pool and Antenna Permit and Placement Information

Property/Assessment Information

• Driveway and Sidewalk Application Information

The following information can be found at this website: http://www.accurateassessor.com

• Zero Lot Line - Duplex Information

• Site Data

• Variance Application

• Dwelling Data

• Administrative Appeal Application

• Assessed Value

• Conditional Use Permit Procedural Checklist

• Parcel Number

• Amendment of Zoning Map (Rezoning) Procedural Checklist

Diggers Hotline

• Keeping of Chickens Licensing Information

Always call DIGGERS HOTLINE before digging at: 1-800-242-8511 or simply 811

There are also links to the following, using the above website:

There is no charge to you for this service

• Landmarks Commission Information

Have Questions?

• Stormwater Utility Information

Contact the City Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421, or email to mstacey@ci.stoughton. wi.us

• Comprehensive Plan • Zoning Map, Extraterritorial Jurisdictional Boundary Map and Floodplain Maps • All City Ordinances • Current Development Information

Drug Drop-Off Brought to you by: Stoughton Wellness Coalition

Never let young children take medicine by themselves.

Get Unwanted Meds Out...

Of your homes Of our waters & landfills Of the reach of children!!

Don’t store medications in areas that are hot and humid, such as the bathroom medicine cabinet.

Keeping unused, unwanted and expired prescription and over-the-counter drugs in your home poses a risk to you, your family and your community.

To provide you with an anonymous, easy, secure and responsible way to properly dispose of these drugs, the Stoughton Wellness Coalition has established a permanent pharmaceutical drug drop-off box for area residents.

The drop off location is outside at the Stoughton Police Department, 321 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, WI 53589, (608) 873-3374

Drop-Off Procedures Please follow these instructions for free disposal of your unwanted medications: 1. Gather all unwanted medications from where you have them stored.

2. If possible, leave all medications in their original containers. You may black out any personal information that is on the bottle.

Lock your medicine cabinet. A cabinet or a drawer with a lock on it would also work.

Do talk with your children about the dangers of drug abuse!

Accepted Substances

Prescription medications and medication samples Over-the-counter medications Inhalers No Sharps No Syringes No Needles No Lancets

Safe Storage and Tips

Always store medications in the original containers.

Never keep medications past their expiration date.

Always store separately medications for family members.

Never guess on how much medication to take.

Read the label before you open the bottle to ensure the right dosage is taken.

Our People Make the Difference

3. Bring the medications to the secured drug collection box.

4. Questions about dropping off medications can be directed to the Stoughton Police Department. Please call: (608) 8733374

Did You Know

64% of kids age 12 to 17 who have abused pain relievers say they got them from their friends, relatives or people they know, without their knowledge.

Stoughton Wellness Coalition The Stoughton Wellness Coalition was formed in 2006, through collaborative efforts of Stoughton Hospital, the Stoughton School District and the City of Stoughton. The coalition promotes a collaborative approach to personal and community wellness through health promotion, educational programming and service to the Stoughton Area Community.

Make That Someone’s Birthday Even Brighter!

Stoughton’s Only Locally Owned Pharmacy!

Competitive Prices & Free Delivery CHECK OUT OUR LINE OF DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TOO!

(within the city limits & a small fee outside city limits)

100 E. Main Street in Stoughton

873-3244 • www.mcglynnrx.com Monday-Friday 8 am-6 pm, Saturday 8 am-5 pm, Sunday 8 am-noon

LIFT CHAIRS!

FREE Delivery! Within city limits. Small fee outside.

Several models in stock! Come try one today!

• Family Owned and Operated for Over 50 Years • Stop In During Happy Hour Fridays 3-5pm 1/2 Price Single Stem Flowers (Cash & Carry)

STOUGHTON FLORAL 168 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI Flower Phone: 873-6173 or 866-595-6800 Mon.-Fri. 9am to 5pm; Sat. 8am to 3pm www.stoughtonfloral.com

4 Summer 2013

The Tower Times Friends of the Library Meet & Greet Saturday, September 7 from 11am-2pm

Stoughton Public Library: Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

Not long ago, the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) formed an advisory committee aimed at building awareness for local government leaders of the critical role public libraries play in supporting community vitality and sustainability, plus the important role local government leaders have in supporting libraries.

Meet the Friends of the Library, get information about what the Friends do to support the library and become a Friend!

While you’re here, say hello to our Children’s Librarian, Amanda Bosky, who was hired in March 2013. Refreshments will be available.

Tickets will be available for the upcoming “Friends Fall Fundraiser” event along with raffle tickets.

The Friends Fall Fundraiser Sunday, September 15th, 2013, 1:30-4:00 pm

Formerly known as the “Autumn Gala”, this event has been revamped to add a few new twists to the program while keeping the most important reason for the event, a celebration of the library. This year, the event will be held on a Sunday afternoon at the Library and will feature two raffles, food and music, along with readings from local authors and a special thank you for attendees.

“One of our core responsibilities within a community is to connect the dots horizontally and vertically to achieve the community’s strategic objectives,” according to committee member Ron Carlee, county manager of Arlington County, Virginia. More and more local government leaders, as well as everybody else, realize that public libraries can be very much an integral part of this process.

One of the results of this committee was the publication of “Local Government Managers and Public Libraries: Partners for a Better Community.” This article features ways that libraries can address economic, educational, and social issues that challenge their communities. Examples include: • Public libraries are civic and economic anchors that strengthen traditional downtown areas. The Stoughton Public Library attracts as many people to downtown Stoughton as would a medium sized department store.

• Public libraries provide a destination for creating community and civic engagement. People of all ages say, “Meet me at the Library,” attend Library programs and workshops, or just pick out their favorite movies or books together.

• Libraries offer services for hard-to-reach populations, including teenagers, immigrants, and senior residents. The Stoughton Public Library has welcoming places, services, and activities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.

• Public libraries provide internet access for those without computers or internet connections.

More and more often our world requires online transactions for jobs, schools, and social services.

Those without computers or internet connections rely on public library computers and wireless networks.

• Libraries make online databases available that support start-up businesses and job hunters. In addition to the free information available to anyone online, the Stoughton Public Library subscribes to databases that offer information for business, for consumers, for students & teachers, information for wellness, for readers, and information about genealogy.

If you’d like to read the entire four page article, ask for a copy at the Adult Services desk at the Library. See you at the Library!

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Library Meeting August 14th, 2013, 6:00 pm at the Library

The public is welcome to attend to learn more about the Friends group and their activities. Come join us!

Coffee Break Festival Book Sale & Raffle Saturday, August 17th, 2013 At Mandt Park from 9:00 am-4:00 pm

The proceeds of this event will help the Friends support the library by way of purchasing new materials, as well as to help support the summer reading program. Our raffle offers all handcrafted items created by local artists. The prizes include a framed watercolor of a poppy, a heart-shaped keepsake box carved from a single piece of wood, a heart-shaped pendant and a Rosemaled plate. Tickets and the items will be available for viewing at the library.

More information about the Friends of the Library and these activities will be available on the library website as each event approaches. http://www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/friends.html

Upcoming Library Programs Truck Day Mandt Park Parking Lot Wednesday, July 24 at 2-2:45pm (Rain date Wednesday, July 31 at 2-2:45pm)

Take a tour of trucks provided by community helpers here in Stoughton. Be sure to bring your camera! All ages. No preregistration is required.

Summer Family Movie: Oz the Great and Powerful Thursday, July 25, 2-4:10pm

When Oscar Diggs, a smalltime circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot— fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora, Evanora and Glinda, who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Enjoy popcorn and juice provided by the Stoughton Optimists Club while you watch a movie on our big screen. All ages. No registration required. PG

Last Day of Summer Library Program Saturday, August 10

Make sure you turn in your final hours by 5pm today! Did you read above and beyond? Get your entries in our random prize drawing to win a Kindle Fire, sponsored by Conant Auto Repair and Nelson Global Products.

Upcycle It! Trash to Treasure Adult Crafts – T-Shirt Thursday, August 8 at 6:30pm

Challenge yourself to create a treasure out of trash. Each month will have a new “trash” to upcycle and turn into something new! No crafting skills or materials needed, we provide the “trash” and all the supplies. Registration is required and begins June 26. Call 873-6281 to register.

Teen Movie Night Thursday, August 22 5:30pm

Watch a movie and enjoy popcorn, pizza and drinks provided by the Stoughton Optimists Club.

We recommend bringing a pillow so you can stretch out on the floor. For teens entering grades 6 and up. No registration required.

American Girl Tea Party Saturday, August 24, 2-3pm Bring your favorite doll or stuffed animal. Dress up if you like! Enjoy tea, juice and light refreshments, then make World War II-era crafts. We will be selling raffle tickets to win a Molly American Girl doll (prize drawing on Sept.

15). For ages 7-11 and family members. Registration begins August 1. Call 873-6281 to register.

August Adult Book Discussion Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier Tuesday, August 27 at 7pm

Rebecca is a much loved classic set atop the windswept Cornish coast. As a new bride, the second wife of Maxim de Winter comes to Manderley, a house full of dark secrets, and is confronted with the ghosts of the past, including Maxim’s mysterious first wife, Rebecca.

Thursdays with Murder The Russian Connection Thursday, September 12 at 6:30pm

“There is no shame in not knowing; the shame lies in not finding out.” - Russian Proverb. Copies of the books are available at the 2nd floor Reference desk.

The Wisconsin Historical Society Library and Archives: What is in it? Everything!

Thursday, July 25 at 6:30pm, Presenter: Lori Maintain Brain Health: Bessler Staying Sharpe at Any Age The Wisconsin State Historical Library and Archives are one Thursday, September 19 at 6:30pm of the five largest genealogy collections in the country. Lori Bessler, certified genealogist, will guide you through a variety of records to help compile your family history.

Thursdays with Murder We’ll Always Have Paris Thursday, August 8 at 6:30pm

“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”

– Ernest Hemingway. Copies of the books are available at the 2nd floor Reference desk.

Summer Library Program Finale: Doug the Jug Christ Lutheran Church, 700 County Hwy B Thursday, August 8, 6:30pm.

Enjoy a humorous juggling extravaganza that includes a touch of magic. Whether keeping five colorful rings in the air, manipulating top hats and boxes, or juggling three small children(!?), you never know what amazing feat Doug will attempt next! Custard provided by Culvers. All ages. No pre-registration is required.

Learn about how your brain works and the latest tips on improving brain health, whether you are 16, 60 or 96. This program features brain basics as well as scientifically-rooted nutritional and lifestyle advice, fun brain teasers and materials to take home for further exploration. Presented by the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin.

September Adult Book Discussion The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman Tuesday, September 24 at 7pm

A novel set on a remote Australian island, where a childless couple live quietly running a lighthouse, until a boat carrying a baby washes ashore. Copies of the books are available at the 2nd floor Reference desk.

Trivia Night!

Saturday, October 5th Doors open at 6:00 pm, the contest starts promptly at 7:00 pm.

Join the Stoughton & Fitchburg Public Libraries for the “Dane County Libraries Trivia Night” at the Stoughton VFW. Whether you’re a novice at trivia or an old hand, it promises to be a funfilled evening for adults! Tickets will be available at either library.

The Tower Times

Summer 2013 5

Celebrate Summer

Volunteers Needed in Stoughton

Handiwork

Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social and Stoughton City Band Concert Thursday, August 1st at 6::30 PM September is National Senior Center Month!

Peer Support of Dane County connects older adults with volunteers to provide needed support through friendly home visits. We need volunteers who have an interest in helping to keep older adults in their own homes by providing emotional support to promote wellness and reduce social isolation. This is a flexible opportunity for adults 55+ in the Stoughton area, mental health or social work experience is helpful but not necessary.

Norwegian Language Class

Look for special events and activities in our newsletter, including celebration of Grandparents Day.

Open House September 17th 6:30 PM

For more information please contact Anita Brown-Huber, 608-846-9469.

Did You Know???

Yes…You Can Join Us! Stop in and learn about all we have to offer, and share your ideas about additional programs and activities we might start in the future.

• The Stoughton Area Senior Center provides Information and Assistance to help you access area resources and services!

There are no membership fees or residency requirements to participate in the programs at the Stoughton Area Senior Center.

• Most of our programs are open to all ages and free of charge!

There are age and residency requirements for certain services including case management services, transportation, and meals on wheels. For additional information, please call us at 873-8585.

Entertainment

• We offer ongoing exercise classes, including Chair Stretch, Tai Chi, Yoga and Zumba!

Senior Center Ongoing Programs

• Lunch Time Laughs at Noon. Enjoy Classic Comedy over the Lunch hour.

Fitness and Wellness

• Free Move and Popcorn the first Friday of every month.

Chair Exercise

• Salem Witch Trials performance at 1:00 PM on 10/29.

$2/class, Mon. Wed. Fri. 8:00 AM

Classes & Events

Chair Massage

Technology Expo

Call to schedule appointment.

Wednesday, August 7th, 1:00-3:00 PM

Understanding Scams Seniors Face Wednesday, August 14th, 10:00 AM

Exploring World Cultures Series 9/17 - Congo 10/15 - Indonesia

Quilt Expo Day Trip

Friday ,September 6th , call for details.

We all Forget

Wednesday, September 11th 1:00 PM Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin

Wed., 9:00 - 11:00 AM. No registration needed. $10. New students welcome!

Painting Group

Sept-May Thur., 9:30 AM - 11:30 PM Free at Vennevoll Clubhouse

Rosemaling Group

Free Wed., 9:15 AM Norwegian painting

Wood Carving, Thru MATC Thur., 8:00 - 12:00 PM

Wood Shop

Free. Mornings Must take a safety course to use the shop.

Social and Recreation Bridge

Free. Mon. & Thurs. 9:30 AM

Bunco

1st Tuesday, $1.00

Tuesdays, $10/15 minutes.

Chess

Free, Fri. 10:00 AM

Line Dancing

Every other Tues. 2:30 PM Check Calendar

UW Nutrition Education Free, 2nd Thursday, 11:30 AM

3rd Tuesday of the month: 8/20 - Nepal

Free, Mon., 1:00 - 3:30 PM. Bring your current project & join the conversation.

Ping Pong

Free, Doubles: Wednesday. 3:00 PM, Singles: Friday. 10:30 AM

Community Bingo $1, 3rd Wed. 1:00 PM

Cribbage

Free, Every Monday 1:00 PM

Euchre

4th Saturday 7:30 PM Call for other times

Tai Chi - Beginners

$5/class or $27 for 6 classes, Mon. 10:30 AM

Tai Chi

Over the Hill Bingo

4th Tues. 1:15 PM. Bring a “White Elephant” Prize for the games

Mon. & Th. 9:00 AM $5/class

Pool Table Tai Chi – Advanced

Free Daily

$10/class, Mon. & Thurs. 1:00 PM

AARP Driver Safety Program

Thursday, November 14th, 9:00 AM—1:00 PM, Mel Stark

Live Music at 1:00 PM

• Catfish River Revue 8/13, 9/10, 10/8 • Cowboy Bob & Buddy 9/24

Music Appreciation Coming In November That Dreaded Season Is Coming!

Get vaccinated at our annual Flu Shot Clinic. Friday October 4, 2013, 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM Medicare B and Medicaid accepted.

You must be symptom free to receive a flu shot.

Wii Bowling

Sheepshead

Free, Main Floor- Call for times

Thurs. 1:30 PM to 4:15 PM Lessons available when called in advance.

Yoga for Over 50 - OFF SITE

Ping Pong

Suggested donation $3-$10, Tue. & Fri. 9:00 AM at the Covenant Lutheran Church

Zumba

Friday 9:15 to 10 AM, $3. New participants welcome!

Classes & Skill Building Computer/Tech Help

Tues. & Thurs., 9:00 - 11:30 AM or by appointment, morning or afternoon. Come with your computer or tech questions. We have 4 computers, 3 iPads & WiFi.

Free Monday 3:00 PM Doubles: Wed. 3:00 PM. Singles: Friday. 10:30 AM

248 W. Main Street, Stoughton WI, 53589 (608) 873-8585 Visit our website at: www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior

6 Summer 2013

The Tower Times Fall Mini Ball Soccer

Fall 3 on 3 Basketball

Start your little Pele on his or her way to a lifelong love of recreation activities. Nothing compares to soccer for an introduction to structured team sports.

The emphasis on this program is having fun, getting your child to like sports, and developing their physical literacy. This program isn’t intended on teaching high level soccer skills to your child because of the ages of the participants. Volunteer coaches needed!

NFL Flag Football

The program provides young players a fun and exciting opportunity to engage in non-contact, continuous action while learning lessons in teamwork. This is a great way to introduce your child to the basic fundamentals of football.

Our 3 on 3 basketball league is self officiated. Teams play a 7 week regular season with 3 games each week and one night end of season tournament. Standings are kept and league champion receives an award.

Grades: High School (Currently) - Adult Dates: September 9 – October 28 (8 weeks) Days: Monday Nights Time: 6:00–9:00 pm Place: Yahara School Gym Fee: $80/team (Register by August 29)

Adult Flag Football League

This will be the sixth year of our adult flag football league. The league features a 4 on 4 passing style that is action packed.

A seven week regular season is played with a one night playoff for the top four teams.

Games are officiated, standings are kept, and a champion is crowned.

Days: Sundays Dates: September 8—October 13 Location: Racetrack Park Fee: $35 – Resident, $43 – Non-Resident Registration Deadline: August 30

The grades 1-2 and 3-4 age levels are house leagues and the grades 4-6 level is a cooperative league with the Fitchburg, Verona, and Mount Horeb Recreation Departments. Some travel will be required for that age group.

Ages/Grades

Program Code

Times

3 year olds

1130.307

3:00-3:45 pm

4 yrs—K

1130.308

4:00-4:45 pm

Who: Men Age: Adult When: Thursday’s, 8/29 – 10/17 (8 weeks) Time: 6:00-10:00 PM

Adult Fall Sports Leagues

Where: Racetrack Park

Adult Coed Fall Kickball League

Parks and Open Space Survey

Fee: $35 – Resident, $43 – Non-Resident

This is the fifth year of our kickball league. Teams will play a seven game schedule.

The league will be on Friday nights.

This is a great social activity.

Please go to our website for a team registration form.

Fees and roster are due at the Recreation Department by August 23rd or until league is filled. Schedules will be made and emailed to managers.

Registration Deadline: August 19

Who: Men & Women

Grades

Stoughton Public Library, 304 S. Fourth St

Age: Adult

K-1st 1150.313

Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, 532 E. Main St

When: Fridays, September 6 – Oct 18 (7 weeks)

2-3rd 1150.314

Time: 6:00-10:00 PM

These are only a sampling of our activities. Look for our Fall & Winter Activities Guide in the 8/21 Great Dane for a more complete listing.

All players receive a reversible NFL Flag Football jersey and flags. Volunteer coaches are needed!

Days: Saturdays Dates: September 7—October 19 Time: 9:00-Noon Location: Racetrack Park

Program Code

4-6th 1150.315

Let Stoughton Hospital Show You How We Earned Top 20 in the Nation for Patient Satisfaction

As part of the Parks and Open Space Plan update, we want to know what you think of our parks and how you want to see them grow in the future. The survey has been available for several months and we have over 500 responses so far.

We want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to tell us what you think.

The survey will take no more than 5 minutes to complete.

Your participation will help us create the types of parks and amenities that Stoughton values.

You can find the survey in several places: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ParksSurvey2013 Stoughton Parks and Recreation Department, 381 E. Main St Stoughton Area Senior Center, 248 W. Main St

Celebrate Summer With Us On Hometown Lake Kegonsa!

“Great waterfront dining, drinks & fun!”

Nightly Specials Sunday Breakfast 3097 Sunnyside St., Stoughton • (608) 205-9300 springersonthelake.com

24 Hour Emergency Service Science Diet Pet Food

StoughtonHospital.com

Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

1621 E. Main St., Stoughton 873-8112

UN299082

Stoughton Hospital Emergency & Urgent Care 900 Ridge Street - Stoughton 873-6611 Urgent Care 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Office hours by appointment

The Tower Times

Hello again, time for the third article of “Street Talks”. You may ask: “What is Street Talks? Why should I read this article?” Street Talks provides you with all the information you need to know about the services the Street Department provides. This information will benefit both you and the city so we can continue to excel with customer service.

Wow, a lot of residents must not have taken the time to read the first two articles of Street Talks; otherwise they would have known that there is No Brush Collection during the summer months (June-September).

If you have brush out to the curb for collection now, it will not be collected until October. You can either haul your brush to the yardwaste site located at 1051 Collins Road or hire a lawn care service/contractor to haul your brush.

Any brush placed in street will result in a citation for littering (Sec 50-5).

****PLEASE READ – IMPORTANT INFORMATION****

Curbside Brush Collection – NEW Schedule for 2013 The curbside brush collection has some changes to the schedule this year. The Street Department has normally picked up brush curbside on the first full week of the month from April thru November. Due to promoting best pruning practices and summer projects, we will only be collecting

brush in the months of April, May, October and November. It is not healthy to prune trees in the summer heat, open wounds attract insects that can spread diseases to your trees. If you need to prune or remove a tree during the summer months, brush can be hauled to the yardwaste site (permit needed). Please have brush placed in the parkrow on the Monday of collection by 6:30 am during months of collection.

Yardwaste Site The site is located at 1051 Collins Road (off County Hwy A) in the Township of Dunkirk. The site accepts yardwaste (grass clippings, leaves, garden waste, and sod), shrubbery, and brush. The site will remain open until November 19th this year. The site is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. A Permit (window decal) is required for the site and the cost is $20 dollars and is good for the entire season. Permits can be purchased at the Street Department during normal business hours at 515 S. Fourth Street or at the yardwaste site during hours of operations.

Fall Leaf Collection The Street Department provides curbside leaf collection for residents of the City of Stoughton. Leaf collection will start the week of October 14th and continue until November 22nd.

It is important to make sure leaves are placed in the terrace (area between curb and sidewalk) for collection. It is a violation to rake leaves into the gutter/street. Leaves raked into the street often wash into the stormwater system and pollute our lakes and rivers. Our leaf vacuums need to be close to the curb line of the street and it really helps if you can keep that area free of parked vehicles and trailers. Do not mix any brush with leaves. Do not place any junk or rocks with leaves.

Summer 2013 7

Street Talks

Grass Clippings

Encumbrance Permits

When mowing your lawn, make sure to keep the grass clippings on your property and do not blow or sweep clippings from the driveway or sidewalk into the street. There is a city ordinance prohibiting yard waste in the street which will be strictly enforced.

An encumbrance permit is required if you are going to leave a dumpster or POD in the street for more than 2 hours. Permits can be obtained at the Street Department or online at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us and click on street department tab and then permits link.

Cost is $25 dollars and the permit is good for 30 days, when it can be renewed for another $25 dollars.

Sec 50-5.

Offense against public peace, order and other public interests (h) Littering Prohibited (1) No person shall throw any glass, garbage, rubbish, waste, slop, dirty water, brush, yard waste, dirt, rocky materials or noxious liquid or other litter or unwholesome substance upon the streets, alleys, highways, public parks, or other property of the city of upon any private property not owned by him or upon the surface of any body of water within the city. This violation is subject to fines from $50.00 to $1,000.00.

Street Construction Schedule The major street constructions are completed, but the city has some yearly preventive maintenance to complete with boiler chip slag sealer. Streets to be completed include; Kvalheim St (Marie Drive to Termini), Marie Dr. (Page St to Termini), Marie Dr (Lincoln Ave to Termini), Nordic Trail (Page St to Termini), Greig Trail (Norse Parkway to Lincoln Ave), Norse Parkway (Greig Trail to 120 Feet South), Stiklestad Ct (Greig Trail to Termini), Kriedeman Dr (Van Buren St to Termini), High Point Circle (Kriedeman Dr to Termini), Skyridge Court (Kriedeman to Termini), and Furseth Road (Lincoln to Sundt) Residents affected by this work will be notified by door hanger/letter of scheduled work (work scheduled for late July/early August).

Parkrow Trees & Planting Permits

Street Closing Permits Public streets may be closed (block parties, running events) for the use of private citizens and non-profit organizations provided said individual organization applies for a Street Closing permit and the completed application is submitted in time frame needed to Street Superintendent Karl Manthe.

Refuse & Recycling Cart Placement John’s Disposal and the City request that carts not be placed in the street, but instead place refuse carts on the terrace or your driveway approach. Please place cart(s) a minimum of 2 feet apart at the end of your driveway or terrace area.

Please do not set carts too close to mailboxes, trees, and light poles. Keeping the carts out of the street also allows street crews to effectively sweep streets during the summer and fall.

Mailbox Placement To reduce the chances that your mailbox may be hit by a snow plow next winter, now is a good time to move your mailbox and follow US Postal regulations and place your mailbox 40-42 inches above the road surface and back 6 inches from the curb with the door down. Following these guidelines will increase productivity by snow plow operators.

Up Coming Changes The Street Department is still pursuing the creation of a “Green Waste Recycling Center” that residents would be able to come to and pickup up compost, fire wood, and other recycled products for a small fee.

It is important to plant the proper tree in the parkrow to assure a long-lived and healthy tree (Fall is a good time to plant a tree). Also the size of the tree is important to insure that it will not have to be trimmed due to power lines. Permits are required to plant or remove parkrow trees. There is no charge for these permits; however we need this information in order to keep our tree Inventory up to date. These permits can be obtained at the street department or online at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/streets&parks/TreeCommission

Future Articles Will Include Information On The November issue will include information on procedures for Parking during Snow Emergencies, Information on Snow Removal from Sidewalks and Driveways, and Proper Tree Pruning.

These articles will be published in Tower Times issues and placed on our web site at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us with time related information. While on the web site, check out Frequently Asked Questions.

List of tree specifications are also available or you may view these on the web site.

Feel free to call with any questions, hope you find some helpful information with this article

Remember to call Diggers Locate at 811 or 1-800-242-8511 or email them at diggershotline.com at least 3 days prior to planting.

Until the next time, enjoy the summer

Street Opening Permits A street opening permit is required if you or a contractor works within the city right-a-way. Permits can be obtained at the Street Department or online at www.ci.stoughton. wi.us and click on street department tab and then permits link. Cost range from $50 dollars to $150 dollars.

Sincerely, Karl Manthe Street Superintendent Karl Manthe 608-873-6303 kmanthe@ci.stoughton.wi.us

8 Summer 2013

The Tower Times Be Prepared for Power Outages Summertime in Wisconsin can bring very unpredictable weather, and even a small storm can result in a large power outage. We’ve already seen quite a bit of rain so far this summer, but not too many severe storms. But stay alert… severe storms are inevitable, and may strike at any time. Once the lights go off it’s too late to prepare for a power outage, so don’t get caught searching in the dark for a flashlight or candles.

Medical Equipment (608) 873-3379 •

www.stoughtonutilities.com

E-Billing… Go Green, Go Paperless!

Paperless E-Billing is simple, convenient, and smart.

With paperless billing, there are no bills to mail, file or to clutter your mailbox. You can manage the entire bill-paying process online using our E-Pay system, including access 24 hours a day to view past bills and payment activity and flexible payment options. It also puts you in control of your personal information and reduces your impact on the environment.

Log in to your account online at epay.stoughtonutilities.com to get started.

Work Safely With Digger’s Hotline…

It may be hot outside, but that list of outdoor improvements may still be incomplete - build a deck, plant some trees, install a gym set for the children, or more. If your list includes any digging, state law (Wisconsin Statute 182.0175) requires you to notify Diggers Hotline.

Diggers Hotline is a statewide notification system developed to provide excavators and the general public with the ability to inform multiple owners of underground facilities of intended non-emergency excavation via a single telephone call.

If you or a family member relies on medical equipment powered by electricity, create an emergency plan. We cannot assure any customer that a storm or equipment problem will not interrupt power.

Remember: Keep emergency numbers near medical equipment and regularly test the equipment’s back-up power sources.

Sump Pumps and Cordless Phones

Your sump pump runs on electricity, so consider a battery back-up. Choose one that will switch on automatically if an outage occurs. Your cordless phone will not work during a power outage; consider a spare plug-in telephone, or keep your cell phone handy for emergency situations.

Generators

Test your generator every 30 days to make certain that it is in good operating condition. Always follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation. If back-feeding your generator into your home’s electrical system, ALWAYS use a transfer switch or disconnect your main breaker switch. Failure to do so could injure or kill our lineman working to restore our system, or bystanders who come into contact with wires on the ground.

Assemble An Emergency Kit

Prepare one today by gathering a few basic emergency supplies and placing them in an emergency kit that’s easy to locate in the dark. We suggest including these items: • Working Flashlights • Battery-Operated Radio for news & weather reports

You may contact Diggers Hotline at 811 from any phone year round. You must, however, allow three working days (excluding weekends and holidays) notice for the location of the underground facilities prior to digging.

• Batteries for Flashlights & Radio

Diggers Hotline will process three types of calls: 1) excavation 2) planning of excavation and 3) safe working clearance information for overhead lines. The call center will ask for an address or location information. Specific marking instructions also will need to be provided.

Once the locate is completed, you have ten calendar days to begin your excavation work before you must call to have the underground facilities relocated.

• Bottled Water (City customers will still have water to their faucets, rural customers may not)

Please note that there are no charges to individual customers for this service. For more information on Wisconsin’s Digger’s Hotline program, please visit www.diggershotline.com

Create a Better Future with Renewable Energy Stoughton’s renewable energy participation rate ranks 9th in the country!

As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you can purchase renewable energy blocks to offset a part or all of your electrical usage through our Renewable Energy Program.

Renewable energy is generated from clean, green energy sources such as wind, biogas, and the sun, and is purchased in 300 kilowatt-hour (kWh) blocks; each block costs $3.

Purchasing one block of renewable energy each month for one year has the equivalent impact on the environment as not driving a car for six months and avoids emitting over three tons of carbon dioxide.

In Stoughton, 607 customers purchase 1,163 blocks of renewable energy each month. That’s a customer participation rate of over 5.1%, which according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), gives Stoughton the distinction of being the utility with the ninth highest participation rate nationally! In addition, the 348,900 kWh of renewable energy generated and sold, enough to power 4924 average-sized homes in Wisconsin, accounts for 2.9% of our electric sales, which also earned Stoughton another ninth-place spot on the NREL’s top-10 ranking of total sales.

This is the second time Stoughton has earned national NREL recognition for its successful green power program performance. NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development.

For more information, see www.nrel.gov.

To learn more about the utility’s Renewable Energy or Green Power for Business programs, or to enroll your home or business, please call (608) 873-3379 or visit us online at renewable.stoughtonutilities.com.

• Candles & Matches • Blankets

• Canned or Dried Food • A Corded Telephone (cordless phones don’t work when power is out.)

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Remember that electric garage door openers will not function during a power outage. Place your unit on “manual” if possible.

• Electric sump pumps and pumps used for rural customers’ wells also will not work during a power outage.

• Protect electrical equipment from possible surges when power is restored. Use surge suppression devices to protect sensitive equipment such as computers, fax machines, answering machines, televisions, stereos and major appliances - or simply unplug them.

• A power outage may affect the operation of security and alarm systems.

• Protect food from spoiling by keeping freezer and refrigerator doors closed as much as possible. Food will stay frozen up to 48 hours if the door is not opened frequently.

• Blinds and curtains will help shield against the heat of the sun, so while the airconditioning is off you should keep your windows covered.

• If you leave your home or business, switch on a light that can be seen from the street. Our crews often “spot check” to ensure all customers have their electricity back on.

• For the safety of everyone, stay clear of crews, vehicles and equipment in the area.

• After the power is restored, you can safely reconnect appliances and equipment, and reset devices that operate on timers.

• Stoughton Utilities’ drinking water and wastewater treatment processes will be active during an outage.

Create a Family Plan

Parents: make sure your children know what to do if an outage happens while they are home alone or with a caretaker.

The Tower Times

Summer 2013 9

Stoughton Utilities continued Save Money by Looking For Air Leaks You tell your kids they’re cooling the Great Outdoors when they don’t keep the windows shut or close the door behind them. You could be doing the same thing without even knowing it.

What is clear water?

Clear water is a source of unwanted water that enters the sanitary sewer system. Clear water enters into the sanitary sewers through leaky manhole covers, broken sewer mains or laterals and sump pumps.

Your cooled indoor air could be leaking out of your house through the tiny cracks and holes around phone lines, electrical outlets and plumbing pipes, as well as around windows and doors.

Why is “clear water” a problem?

Take a walk around the outside of your house and you’ll see little gaps around window frames, wall-mounted air conditioners, exhaust vents and more. Those leaks can increase your cooling bill 5 – 30 percent. Seal the leaks with caulk and keep the air-conditioned air indoors where it belongs.

Give Them a Brake!

Slow down, and drive safely in utility work zones.

Working outdoors during Wisconsin’s hot summers and unpredictable storms is hard enough, but when utility crews have to deal with dangerous drivers in work zones, it only makes it that much more difficult. Whether it’s around electric linemen restoring a power outage or a water crew repairing a water main break, work zones are no place for impatience or aggressive driving. The added seconds you may save while speeding through a work zone are not worth placing your utility’s workers’ lives at risk.

Tragically, over 1,000 people die across the nation every year in road work zones. Please follow these important tips for safely driving in road work zones.

Your life, and ours, depends on it!

Help Us Keep Sewer Costs Down

By Reducing Clear Water Treatment

Clear water does not belong in the sanitary sewer system. It needs to be conveyed through storm sewers or drainage ditches, or absorbed into the ground. If it enters the sanitary sewers, clear water mixes with the sewage and takes up much-needed capacity in the system. The mixture must be conveyed and treated just like sanitary waste. When sanitary sewers fill to capacity, (like traffic backing up on the freeway), waste backs up into residents basements or possible over flows into the river.

How can I, as one property owner, make a difference?

Improper connections allow water from sources other than sanitary pipes to enter the sanitary sewer system. By eliminating the improper connections you will significantly reduce the flow of clear water to the sanitary system.

Consider this: An eight-inch sanitary sewer can handle wastewater from up to 200 homes.

However, it takes only eight sump pumps connected to the sewer to overload this same eight-inch sanitary sewer.

My basement’s never flooded because of a sewer backup, so why should I bother?

UTILITY WORK AHEAD

If plumbing on your property convey clear water into the sanitary sewer, it may be causing flooding in your neighbor’s basement. It may also add to sewer overflows, polluting local rivers.

How do I know if my home has improper connections?

• Always buckle up.

The Stoughton Wastewater Utility encourages you to call us or work with a licensed plumber to inspect your property and locate any source of clear water improperly entering the sanitary system.

If problems are detected, it is up to each property owner to have the problems corrected.

• Pay attention. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed and people and vehicles may be working near the road.

What other steps can I take to decrease the risk of basement backups and damage to my property?

• Always slow down, and travel at posted work zone speed limits.

• Adjust the grade around the foundation to slope away from your home.

• Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.

• Install downspout extension six feet from the foundation.

• Keep a safe distance from traffic barriers, construction equipment, utility workers, and other traffic.

• Install sump pump discharge line extensions and increase sump pump capacity.

• Watch for and follow all warning, lane closure, and construction detour signs.

• Install backflow prevention devices and contact your local plumber.

• Plan ahead and give yourself time to reach your destination.

Annual Drinking Water Quality Report Stoughton Utilities issues an annual water quality report with important information about the source and quality of your municipal drinking water. In the past, this report was mailed to all households within the City of Stoughton. In an effort to lower our environmental impact, beginning in 2013 this report will be published online.

We are proud to report that your local drinking water meets or surpasses all federal and local standards set for quality and safety under the Safe Drinking Water Act. You can view the full report online at CCR.stoughtonutilities.com.

If you do not have internet access, or if you prefer a physical copy of the annual report, please contact our office at (608) 873-3379 and we will mail a paper copy to your home or business.

There’s No Natural Resource Like Community At Stoughton Utilities, “local” isn’t a buzzword.

It’s a promise. We’ve been a part of the Stoughton community for 126 years, and have always promised our neighbors a few things. Clean, affordable power; giving back through public investment; scholarships and education; helping folks with energy-saving advice and ways to lower utility bills.

And to put Stoughton’s future – your future – first.

Stoughton Utilities believes affordable public power strengthens our community and helps our neighbors. That’s why, through WPPI Energy, we’re partnering with other local not-for-profit utilities to share resources and lower costs.

With public power from Stoughton Utilities, the decisions we make, and the good we do for the environment happens right here. To learn more, please visit us online at www.WhyPublicPower.org or at www.stoughtonutilities.com.

• Repair or replace sanitary sewer laterals connected to your home if leaks are found.

Appliance Recycling Program Are you stuck with older, inefficient appliances that are still in use? Did you know they’re costing you extra money on your energy bills? We think it’s time to break free. When you’re ready to get rid of your old refrigerators or freezers still in working condition, Stoughton Utilities will arrange for, and cover the costs of pick-up, haul-away and responsible recycling. We’ll even pay you up to $100!

Refrigerators built before 1993 can use two to three times more energy than newer, high-efficiency models. Many homeowners keep a second fridge or stand-alone freezer in their garage or basement. Recycling these appliances can save you approximately $150 a year on your energy bills.

Cash-back rewards through the Appliance Recycling Program are available to residential customers and subject to the following criteria: • $50 for each refrigerator and freezer (limit 2 per customer per calendar year).

• Refrigerator or freezer must be: o Between 10 and 30 cubic feet in size. o Clean and empty on the day of pick up, and in working condition. o Accessible with a clear and safe path of removal.

• The removal team will not risk injury; remove personal effects or modify your home (e.g. remove doors or railings) to have the unit(s) removed safely Scheduling a pick-up is fast and easy. To start saving money on your energy bills, simply call the appliance turn-in center’s toll free number at (855) 398-5226 to schedule a pickup.

Customers may also sign up for appliance pickups online at incentives.stoughtonutilities. com.

If you are just disposing of a dehumidifier, air conditioner unit, or other small appliance and live inside the City limits, you can simply put it out with your trash on the last garbage pick-up day of each month. John’s Disposal will collect any small appliances and responsibly recycle them. Please note that this does not include televisions or other electronics. If you have a non-working unit, please contact John’s Disposal to arrange a pick-up for a fee.

10 Summer 2013

The Tower Times

Stoughton Utilities continued Support Stoughton Non-Profits

by Enrolling in Project RoundUP

Major Funding Categories

Collected funds are administered by the Stoughton Utilities Committee and overseen by the Stoughton City Council. Donations are awarded bi-annually to qualifying registered applicants selected by the Stoughton Utilities Committee. Selection is based upon the merits of the application and the intended use of the funds.

Stoughton Utilities began our Project RoundUP program in 2006 as a way to further assist local non-profit organizations in our community. Currently 374 of your neighbors participate in the program with voluntary monthly contributions. In 2012 alone, we collected and awarded $2,200 in funds to two local organizations. The customers that participate in this program are continuing the “neighbor helping neighbor” concept that founded Stoughton Utilities over a century ago.

To qualify for funding, organizations and projects must generally be related to community service, economic development, education and youth, environment, emergency energy assistance or disaster relief. Although there are many worthy charitable and educational projects and community needs in our local area, the limited availability of funds requires us to establish these funding priority categories.

Contributed funds will be used geographically within the area served by Stoughton Utilities and will include the City of Stoughton and the Townships of Dunn, Dunkirk, Pleasant Springs, Porter, and Rutland. Organizations which provide programs and benefits to people who live in this geographic area are eligible for funding consideration, even if the organization is headquartered elsewhere.

We are always looking for new non-profit organizations that could benefit from a donation from our Project RoundUP program!

Contact us to register your organization today.

We always welcome new applicants, so if you are aware of any local non-profit organization that would like to be considered for future donations, please have them contact us for an application.

Past Recipients

About Project RoundUP

Stoughton Utilities customers can opt to enroll in the voluntary RoundUP program. Each month, your utility bill will “round up” to the next highest dollar amount. This small tax-deductible contribution may seem like only pennies a month to you, but the dollars add up quickly when many customers participate. All contributions are tax-deductible and a summary for the prior year is mailed each January.

Customer Contribution

The typical contribution per program participant is approximately $6.00 per year. Amongst all participating customers, over $3,000 is raised each year and awarded by the Stoughton Utilities Committee twice annually to local community service organizations.

How It Works

Contributing through the RoundUP program is really very simple. Each month Stoughton Utilities will round up your utility bill to the next full dollar. For example, if your bill is $41.17, it would be rounded up to $42.00 and your monthly contribution will be $0.83.

Your maximum contribution per year could be $11.88, but generally will be less than that and averages around $6 per year.

If you also participate in our Budget Billing program, the actual costs of your monthly service will be rounded up and not your monthly payment. Your budgeted payment will not change as a result of enrollment in Project RoundUP.

Past recipients of funds include the Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center, Shalom Holistic Health Services, American Legion Post 59, Stoughton Wellness Coalition, Martin Luther Christian School, Stoughton Lions and Lionesses Clubs, Stoughton Holiday Fund, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, and the Friends of the Stoughton Public Library, and the Stoughton Area Resource Team (START).

If you are a customer and would like to sign up to participate in the program, or if you’re a non-profit organization that could benefit from a donation from Stoughton Utilities’ RoundUP program, please contact us at (608) 873-3379 or online at roundup.stoughtonutilities.com.

Save Time and Money With Automatic Payments How would you like to never have to write another check to Stoughton Utilities? You can, by enrolling in one of our automatic payment programs. Each month, the billed amount due will be deducted from your checking or savings account, or charged to your credit card. All banking information is securely stored within our systems, and you’ll never have to transmit your sensitive account numbers through the mail again.

You can add, cancel, or change your automatic payment program participation at any time. Simply give us a call at 873-3379 or send an email to CustomerService@StoughtonUtilities.com and one of our customer service representatives will help get you started.

People You Know & Trust - We Are Your Neighbors

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service is more than just a funeral home, we are people you know and trust.

For generations, providing the Circle of Care, before, during and after the loss of your loved one.

McFarland ~ Deerfield ~ Stoughton East Madison ~ West Madison Middleton ~ Waunakee ~ Sun Prairie Day or Night (800) 235-9681 www.CressFuneralService.com

The Tower Times

Summer 2013 11

Stoughton Utilities continued Tree Power Cash-Back Incentives

o Sentry Gingko, Honeylocust o Kentucky Coffeetree

Smiling is easy when things cost less. That’s why you’ll have a huge grin on your face when you plant your new shade tree—at half the cost. Right now, we’re giving cash rebates equal to 50% of the price of a new tree, up to $50 per shade tree. So while you enjoy a new favorite spot to read, you’ll also be enjoying extra green above your head and in your wallet.

o Sycamore o Oak (white, swamp white, pin, red) o Linden (american, littleleaf, redmond) o Hybrid Elm o Birch (river, paper, whitespire)

Planting trees can save money and energy in heating and cooling. Shade trees on the south and west sides of your home make hot summers cooler and let in warming sunlight when the leaves are gone in winter. Trees are also a natural air filter, removing dust and greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, while adding oxygen.

o American Yellowwood o Maco Amur Corktree • Must be nursery grade stock.

• Must have the potential to attain a height of at least 25 feet when mature.

Stoughton Utilities offers cash incentives for planting shade trees to conserve energy. You may be eligible for up to $50 per qualifying tree if you follow our eligibility guidelines. Residential customers of Stoughton Utilities can apply for an incentive to plant qualified shade trees in locations that will reduce their air conditioning costs. Each qualified tree receives an incentive of 50% of the purchase price, up to $50 per tree, and each customer can apply for incentives on up to three trees.

Shade trees must meet the following criteria:

• Must have a caliper of at least 1 1/4 inches at time of planting.

• Must be planted in a location that provides significant shading of an air conditioning unit or the south, southwest or west exposure of a home upon tree maturity. Stoughton Utilities recommends planting shade tree(s) approximately 25 to 35 feet away from the house/area to be shaded.

• Must be located away from underground and overhead utility lines.

• Applicant must call Digger’s Hotline at 811 prior to planting tree(s). The hotline ID number must be reported on the application.

• Any of the following are approved:

o Maple (freeman, norway, red, sugar, black, silver)

To download a Tree Power incentive application, please visit us online at incentives.stoughtonutilities.com.

o Common Hackberry o American Beech

These local businesses are proud to be

powered by renewable energy.

THANK YOU!!

We would like to recognize the following area businesses and organizations for supporting renewable energy through Green Power for Business.

Thank you to these other Renewable Energy Purchasing Businesses!

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Oceanhawk Counseling Alternative }}Woodland Studios }}Saving Thyme

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Universal }}Covenant Lutheran Church }}Dance Dimensions }}Home Savings Bank

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Famous Yeti’s Pizza }}Shaw Builders & Design Inc. }}Brown’s Boat Landing }}Stoughton Utilities The UPS Store }}Claws 2 Paws }}Cress Funeral Home

At Stoughton Utilities, we believe affordable public power strengthens our community and helps our neighbors. That’s why, through WPPI Energy, we’re partnering with other local not-for-profit utilities to share resources and lower costs.

The Green-e Energy logo helps consumers easily identify environmentally superior renewable energy options. For more information on Green-e Energy certification requirements, call 1-888-63-GREEN or log on to www.green-e.org

12 - The Tower Times - Summer 2013

YOUR WIFE IS Come in and get her vehicle’s A/C inspected $

39.95

Includes our 5 point test • Performance Test • Test & Record Vent Temperature • Inspect Components for Visible Leaks

• Gauge & Record Freon Pressures • Inspect Hose Fittings and Compressor * Excludes any additional repair work or refrigerant*

Free Pickup & Delivery Loaner Cars Available by Appointm ent Free Wash & Vacuum

We take care of your family by taking care of your family’s car.

1324 Hwy. 51-138, Stoughton • (608) 873-8800 Hours: M-F 7:00 am-6:00 pm, Sat. Closed

www.conantauto.com