Summer 2018 Tower Times

The

Tower Times

City of Stoughton

Issue 2, Summer 2018

A Note from the Mayor

The first several months as mayor have been very rewarding. Thank you to all of you that have stopped in to say “Hi”, sent me a note, or called to welcome me to my new position.

As you may imagine, there is much to learn. The amount of support from our dedicated staff has made the transition smooth.

Speaking of transitioning, I hope to welcome a new member to our finance team soon.

We have been working on restructuring the Finance Department as well as the Clerk’s Department, to better serve and position us for the future.

We have also updated our dress code, break policies and numerous job descriptions. Our revamped Web Site has been launched.

Opening East South St. in front of the Highway Trailer Building Complex has been a priority. A plan to reschedule the order of the buildings demolitions has resulted in the road being opened.

A new TID District is scheduled in the

Riverfront Redevelopment area. This will give the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) more time and flexibility to find developers. We are awaiting the results of grants that were written for the RDA and the Whitewater Park.

Addressing current and future space needs and use for city staff has been an ongoing topic relating to the donation of the iconic McFarland State Bank building to the City of Stoughton.

Phase 1 of Kettle Park West (KPW) continues with the construction of the Iconica Assisted Living and McFarland State Bank along with the opening of Dunkin Donuts. After securing an access road from Highway 138 into KPW, a new housing proposal for Phase 2 of KPW will be up for review in the near future.

I have attended numerous trainings, dinners, and seminars to become engaged with local, county and state representatives as well as our trade associations. Conversations with the school district continue. Stoughton is poised to provide quality and strategic growth for our present and future needs.

Thank you again to everyone who has given me help and support.

Tim Swadley, Mayor

2 Summer 2018

The Tower Times

2018 Fall Elections

Deck Information

Stoughton Recycles

The Partisan Primary is Tuesday, August 14, 2018. Polling places are open 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. on Election Day. The City of Stoughton has 4 polling locations:

Before installing a deck, there are a few requirements that need attention.

Everyone Must Do Their Part

• District 1: First Lutheran Church

1. Obtain a permit: no deck shall be erected or replaced within the city until a permit is obtained from the Department of Planning & Development at City Hall. A completed deck framing worksheet and a detailed plan showing location of the proposed deck in relation to the lot lines and the house is required prior to approval. Lot stakes may need to be located then city staff will verify the stakes prior to permit issuance.

• District 2: Stoughton Fire Station • District 3: United Methodist Church • District 4: Lakeview Church Voters can cast an absentee ballot in the City Clerk’s Office July 23- August 8, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and August 9-August 10, 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Absentee ballot requests can also be made online at www.myvote.wi.us. Sample ballots and other election information can be found on the City’s website ci.stoughton.wi.us/vote.

The 2018 General Election is Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Absentee voting hours and sample ballots will be posted on the City’s website as soon as they are available.

If you have any questions about voting or elections, please contact the City Clerk’s office at 873-6677.

Prohibition of Illicit Discharges

2. Placement: decks for one and two-family residences must adhere to the setback requirements for the specific zoning district where located. Contact the zoning administrator to find out the specific setback for your situation.

3. Construction requirements: for attached decks, it is required to use 48-inch deep footings to prevent heaving. A guardrail is required for decks more than 2-feet above ground. The minimum height for a guardrail is 3-feet and the guardrail must restrict the passing of a 4-inch or larger sphere through spacing.

Discharge of any material other than stormwater into the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) is prohibited in the City of Stoughton. Stormwater refers to surface runoff and drainage of rainfall and snow or ice melt. The storm sewer system includes roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, and constructed channels or storm drains.

4. Contact Diggers Hotline: prior to construction at 1-800-242-8511.

City of Stoughton Municipal Code section 10-136(e)(1) states, “No person shall discharge or cause to be discharged into the MS4 or waters of the state located within the city any materials, including, but not limited to pollutants or waters containing any pollutants that cause or contribute to a violation of applicable water quality standards, other than stormwater. The commencement, conduct or continuance of any illicit discharge to the MS4 is prohibited.

The following non-stormwater discharges or flows are generally not considered illicit discharges if done in a non-polluting manner: water line flushing, landscape irrigation, diverted stream flows, uncontaminated groundwater infiltration, uncontaminated pumped groundwater, discharges from potable water sources, foundation drains, air conditioning condensation, irrigation water, lawn watering, individual residential car washing, flows from riparian habitats and wetlands, dechlorinated swimming pool water, street wash water and fire fighting.”

These requirements are not all inclusive. If you have any questions regarding decks please call the Building Inspector at 873-7626 or the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421.

Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this ordinance shall forfeit no less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00 and also pay fees and disbursements incurred in the prosecution of such violations. Each and every day during which a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.

If you have any questions regarding this ordinance, please contact the Building Inspector at 608-873-7626.

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 and fencing in relation to the lot lines is required prior to approval.

The applicant will need to locate lot stakes and Planning Department staff will need to verify the stakes have been located prior to permit issuance.

2. Placement: Pools may be installed on rear or side lots only and shall not be closer than is permitted in the zoning code for an accessory building and in no case shall the water line of any pool be less than 6 feet from any lot line. Per code, no pool shall be located under or over electrical services. Pools and fencing shall not be installed in utility easements designed to convey electric distribution, water distribution, wastewater, or stormwater drainage and shall be prohibited from dedicated greenways.

3. Fencing: Pools that are not enclosed by a permanent building and have a water depth greater than thirty-six inches shall be completely enclosed by a fence to prevent access. Such fence shall not be less than five 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 self-latching 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

5. Call for an inspection: it is your responsibility to call for an inspection. An inspection is required after digging the holes for the footings, prior to pouring concrete. The Building Inspector can be reached at 608-873-7626.

Fence Installation Before installing a fence, there are a few requirements that need attention.

We all need to do our part to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill. Diverting as much recyclable material as possible should be a goal we all share. Not only is it the law, but it is also our moral obligation to be good stewards of our environment. When you put waste in the recycling bin instead of the trash, new products are created from recycled material instead of harvesting raw materials. Harvesting raw materials takes an incredible amount of fuel, energy and natural resources that can be reduced through our recycling efforts. Composting food is also a great way to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill. Food waste produces methane, which is a powerful greenhouse gas that is harmful to the environment. In this article, you will find tips and trick to help improve recycling in Stoughton. We all must do our part.

Ask Yourself, Is it Recyclable?

Some household items look recyclable, but they can actually contaminate the batch of recyclables which may then end up in the landfill. We all must do our part to ensure that our community maximizes our recycling effort. Below is a short list of common items that should and should NOT be placed in your recycling cart:

Recyclable Items (Not all inclusive)

- Aluminum Cans/Foil - Tin - Aerosol Cans - Empty and Dried Paint Cans - Glass Bottles and Jars - #1-7 Plastic Containers - Brow Corrugated Cardboard - Cereal and Shoe Boxes - Brown Paper Bags - Newspapers - Books, Magazines, Mail, Shredded Paper, Craft Paper

Do Not Place in Recycling Cart (Not all inclusive) - Pizza Boxes - Plastic Bags - Styrofoam - Plastics that are not #1-7

- Compost - Construction Materials - Hazardous Waste - Toys

Note: Shredded paper should be the only recyclable that should be placed in a clear plastic bag. The plastic bag will be removed during the sorting process.

1.

Locate your lot lines: there should be metal stakes buried at each corner of your lot. Talk with your neighbors and/or use a metal detector to help find the stakes. Copies of any lot within the City of Stoughton can be attained from the Planning Department which will aid in finding stakes and to draw a site plan. If lot stakes cannot be located, it may be necessary to hire a surveyor. There is a verification inspection of the lot stakes required by the Department of Planning and Development staff prior to permit issuance.

At Home Food Composting

2. Obtain a permit: no fence shall be erected within the city until a permit is obtained from the department of Planning & Development at City Hall. A detailed plan showing where your fence will be located is necessary, including distances from lot lines and any structures. A sample site plan is provided with the zoning permit application.

• All your vegetable and fruit wastes, (including rinds and cores) even if they are moldy and ugly

3. Placement: fences may be installed a minimum of 3 feet from side and rear lot lines, unless the adjacent owner consents in writing to the entrance upon such owner’s land for the purpose of maintenance; or a maintenance free fence is being installed, in which case the fence may have a minimum setback of 6 inches from the lot lines. Side and rear yard fences in residential districts shall not be more than 6 feet in height from grade.

Front yard fences shall not exceed 4 feet in height from grade.

4. Easements & greenways: fences shall not be installed in utility easements designed to convey wastewater, electric distribution, water distribution, or stormwater drainage and shall be prohibited from dedicated greenways. There are also distance requirements from electrical transformers.

5. C ontact Diggers Hotline: prior to placement at 1-800-242-8511.

These requirements are not all inclusive. If you have any questions regarding fences please call the City Zoning Administrator at 608646-0421.

Unlicensed and Inoperable Vehicles • Are not allowed to be stored outside on private property unless zoned for such storage.

• 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.

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

Some Available Options Are: • The vehicle may be placed in a closed garage.

• The vehicle may be made operable.

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

• 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.

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.

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

According to the New York Times, forty percent of wasted food is thrown out by consumers. Why is this? Couple reasons. We buy too much food. Our portions are way too big. We don’t finish our plates. We have lots of food options. Wasting all this food contributes to 3.3 billion tons of carbon equivalent. Only buying what you need and composting the waste can help to reduce our carbon footprint. Below is a chart of what foods should and shouldn’t be composted. Food composting should be done in a bin suitable for such an activity. Leaving food out in an unprotected container will attract rodents and other vermin that may become a nuisance.

Do Compost

• Old bread, donuts, cookies, crackers, pizza crust, noodles: anything made out of flour!

• Grains (cooked or uncooked): rice, barley, you name it • Coffee grounds, tea bags, filters • Fruit or vegetable pulp from juicing • Old spices • Outdated boxed foods from the pantry • Egg shells (crush well)

Don’t Compost

• Corn cobs and husks (cobs breakdown very slowly) • Meat or meat waste, such as bones, fat, gristle, skin, etc.

• Fish or fish waste • Dairy products, such as cheese, butter, cottage cheese, yogurt, cream cheese, sour cream, etc.

• Grease and oils of any kind

Why can’t you compost these food wastes?

• They imbalance the otherwise nutrient-rich structure of other food and vegetation waste and breakdown slowly • They attract rodents and other scavenging animals • Meat attracts maggots • Your compost bin will smell to holy hell and back!

E-Waste

The City of Stoughton Public Works department offers electronics recycling during our business hours. This service is available to city residents only. Please do not leave items outside of the gate when the office is closed as the area will be monitored for illegal dumping. City residents will need to check in at the Public Works Department office and show ID to verify city residency. If there are questions please contact us at (608) 873-6303.

Business Hours

Mon–Thurs. 6:30 am to 3:30 pm Fridays 6:30 am to Noon Closed on Holidays

Acceptable items include

Desktop computers, laptops, printers, scanners, copiers, fax machines, keyboards, mice, hard drives, flash drives, external modems, routers & other computer devices, cordless phones, DVD players, VCRs, BlueRay players, televisions ($15 fee per television, and monitors ($15 fee per monitor). All items (other than those noted) are free to recycle if you are a resident inside the City of Stoughton Municipal Boundary.

Note: Microwaves and dehumidifiers are not accepted at this site.

The Tower Times

Summer 2018 3

Outdoor Storage of Unsightly Items Sec. 10-318 Outdoor Storage of Unsightly Items.

No person shall store or accumulate outdoors on his own land any of the following unsightly items unless such land is zoned to permit such storage or accumulation:

News from the Stoughton Area Senior Center

Welcome to Charlene Malueg

QiGong with Friends, Free

The Senior Center’s new Volunteer/Program Coordinator!

Tai Chi, $7/class

Mondays & Thursdays, 9:30 AM

Do you have extra time during the week and looking for ways to Mondays, 10:30 AM meet new people? Do you have a hobby or interest that you want to share with others? If so, consider volunteering at the Stoughton Tai Chi –Advanced, $10/class Area Senior Center! We currently have openings in the kitchen, Mondays, 1:00 PM reception desk, and could use drivers for our Meals on Wheels Wii Bowling & League, Free program (mileage can be reimbursed-ask us how). All training is Mondays & Fridays 10AM, 2nd Fri.10:30AM provided. We also want to hear your volunteer ideas—no idea is too small. Contact Charlene at 608-873-8585. Come join us!

Programs For Your Mind & Body See the Senior Center’s Yahara Senior News for dates and registration.

• Motor Vehicles, Boats, or Aircraft Not In Operating Condition.

• Junk, Salvage, Old Machinery or Fencing Materials.

• Commercial Trucks, Tractors or Trailers.

• Building Materials, Construction or Earth Moving Equipment Not Being Used on A Building Project Currently in Progress.

If you have any questions regarding this issue please contact the Building Inspector at 608-873-7626.

Healthy Yards… Healthy Lakes and Streams What we do in our yards can directly affect our lakes and streams.

Before using fertilizer on your lawn or gardens, test your soil. A $15 soil test will show if your soil is lacking anything and if fertilizer needs to be applied. Instructions and forms from the UW Soil and Plant Analysis Lab are online at https://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/ soil-samples/lawn-garden/. Results will tell you exactly what you need for healthy lawn and gardens.

If your test shows you do indeed need fertilizer, be sure to clean up any that lands on your sidewalk, driveway or other hard surfaces.

If left on paved areas, it can easily make its way to the nearest lake or stream with the next rainfall. Keeping leaves, grass clippings and other yard waste, which contain nitrogen and phosphorus, out of the street also help prevent lakes and streams from becoming green and scummy. When these nutrients wash into lakes and streams, they can promote algae blooms and excessive weed growth (which can lower oxygen levels in the water) and may release ammonia (toxic to fish).

An IRA Law Related to Tax Deductions May Allow You to Donate More

Donors age 70½ can ask their IRA custodian to transfer up to $100,000 in 2018 and thereafter, to qualified not-for-profit organizations, like the Senior Center. Distributions are made only from a personal Individual Retirement Account or a Roth IRA. The benefit is that the value of these gifts are pre-tax. Their value will not be counted as a part of your adjusted gross income. They do not go into your 1040 “deductions” because they are pre-tax. The amount is up to the full value of our mandatory distribution for each year.

If your 2018 distribution has not yet been taken, you may designate some of it to be sent to the Senior Center for your Building Fund Contribution and/or for your Estimate of giving fulfillment. A letter of notification should be sent by you to all recipients of the donations. In that letter ask for a receipt when the donation is received.

This is not tax or legal advice. Contact your IRA administration on how to direct your wishes.

Ongoing Groups/Classes at the Stoughton Area Senior Center Fitness & Wellness

Reflexology

Heidi Fromi provides this form of massage that applies deep pressure to reflex points on the feet. It opens nerve pathways to increase circulation and create a sense of balance within the body.

Prices are $25 for 30 minutes or $45 for 60 minutes.

Chair Massage Therapy Services

Lisa Resch, LMT offers massages in the office space right next to the Senior Center Building. Massage prices are: $20 for first 15 minutes then $1 per minute.

Skill Development

Computer/Tech Help, Free

Tues. & Thurs., 9:00 - 11:30 AM or by appointment.

Come with your computer or tech questions. We have 4 computers, 3 iPads & Wi-Fi. AND, Classes on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 3:00 PM. Various Tech Topics will be covered. Check Newsletter for exact topic.

Creative Writing Class, Free Last Tuesday of month at 1:00 PM

Handiwork, Free

Mondays, 1:00 PM Bring your current handiwork project & join the conversation.

Norwegian Language Class, $10/class

Wednesdays, 9:00 - 11:00 AM No registration needed. New students welcome!

Chair Exercise, $2/class

Healthy yards add to the beauty and value of your home. They can Mon. Wed. & Fri. 8:00 AM also help our lakes and streams by allowing rainwater to soak into the soil rather than running off to the nearest storm drain. So, do Line Dancing, Free your part and keep your lakes and streams healthy by using fertil- Tuesdays, 2:30 PM izers only if and where they are needed.

Rosemaling Group, Free Wednesdays 9:15AM

Wood Shop, Free/Daily

Ping Pong, Free

Mondays & Wednesdays 3:00 PM; Fridays 10:30 AM

Must take a safety course to use the shop.

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More Senior Center News on page 4

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“You Are The Point In All That We Do”

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6021 University Avenue Madison, Wisconsin 53705 (608) 238-8406 ___________________________

Cress Stoughton

206 W. Prospect Street, P.O. Box 231 Stoughton, Wisconsin 53589 (608) 873-9244 ___________________________

201 Bue Street, P.O. Box 376 Deerfield, Wisconsin 53531 (608) 764-5369 ___________________________

Cress East Washington Avenue

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4 Summer 2018

The Tower Times Classic Movie Friday

Packer Game: Save the Date!

Friday, July 20, 1:00 PM Two financially desperate Americans, Fred C. Dobbs (Humphrey Bogart) and Bob Curtin (Tim Holt), who in the 1920s join oldtimer Howard (Walter Huston) in Mexico to prospect for gold.

Come and cheer on our very own Green Bay Packers as they take on the Minnesota Vikings. We will watch the game on the big screen and enjoy a few snacks!

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre

Social & Recreation Bridge, Free

Mondays & Thursdays, 9:30 AM

Bunco, $1.00

Every 1st Tuesday, 1:00 PM

Chess, Free

Sunday, September 16 at Noon Senior Center (main room)

Coming in October…

Let’s Celebrate National Hot Dog & Ice Cream Month!

Fridays, 10:00 AM

Community Bingo, $1

Healthy Living with Diabetes Workshop

Watch the Senior Center’s Yahara Senior News or Stoughton Hospital’s Class & Events webpage for details on how to register for this evidence-based class for adults of all ages who have type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, or who live with someone that does.

Wednesday, July 25 12:00PM

Every 3rd Wednesday, 1:00 PM

What’s better than a freshly-grilled hot dog with the fixings and a tasty ice cream sundae with your favorite toppings?

We think, not much! That’s why we are inviting you to join us for lunch! We will eat at noon. Cost is $5:00 Call to reserve your spot at (608) 873-8585, by 1pm July 24.

Cribbage, Free

Every Monday 1:00 PM

Dime Jingle

Every 2nd Wednesday, 1:00 PM

Euchre

Tuesdays, 1:00PM Every 4th Saturday, 7:00 PM

Coming in November…

AARP Driver Safety Class

Thursday, November 1, 9:00AM-1:00 PM Refresh your driving skills with this course. You will learn defensive driving techniques, proven safety strategies and new traffic laws and rules of the road. No tests to pass, just sign up and learn! $15 AARP members; $20 Non-AARP members

Page Turner’s Group

Over the Hill Bingo

Wednesday, July 25, 1:00 PM 2nd Floor, Mandt Room

Every 4th Tues. 1:00PM Bring a “White Elephant” prize

Support Groups Held at the Senior Center

This month’s book is Columbine by Dave Cullen.

Come join us for an afternoon discussion group with support from the Stoughton Public Library.

Questions? Call (608) 873-6281.

Pinochle

Wednesdays, 1:00 PM

2 Pool Tables, Free/Daily

Stoughton’s Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Appetite for the Arts: sign up by July 31

Sheepshead

Thurs. 1:30 PM- 4:15 PM

4th Wednesday of the month, 1:30-3:00PM Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Room

Thursday, August 2, 11:30 AM Lunch, 12-12:45 PM Program

Train Dominoes, Free Thursday 1:00

Upcoming Events Monthly Computer Class: Calendars and Reminders

Thursday. July 19, 3:00 PM 2nd Floor, Mandt Room Calendars and task lists on phones, tablets, and computers not only keep track of events and tasks. They also notify you in advance with helpful reminders. This presentation explains how to set up and use calendars and task lists on Apple iPhones, iPads, and Macs; Microsoft Windows computers; and Google Android devices. No prior experience is needed. View the slides at: goo.gl/6V56WC

Join Michael Hecht for an interesting art lesson about Rembrandt. Enjoy discussion of his selected artwork including his self-portraits, biblical pieces and Nightwatch, as well as learn about his influence on artistic peers like Vermeer, Picasso and Andy Warhol. Sign up by July 31 by calling 873-8585.

July 25: Relationships & Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s brings life changes, and not just physical changes.

Those who care about you are impacted as well. Jean Daute, Licensed Counselor and Clinical Director from OceanHawk Counseling Alternatives of Stoughton will be leading us in the discussion of how chronic conditions can affect relationships, how to deal with role changes among family and friends and tips for good communication.

QiGong: sign up by July 31

Tuesdays, starting August 7 at 1:00 p.m., at the Senior Center

Multiple Sclerosis Caregivers Support Group 2nd Tuesday of the Month, 10:00-11:30 AM Stoughton Area Senior Center, Mandt Room

Memory Loss Caregivers Support Group 2nd Thursday of the Month, 2:00-3:30 PM

Stoughton’s Memory Café

Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Room

1st Tuesday of the Month, 9:30-11:00 AM Stoughton Public Library Carnegie Room

Chalet Veterinary Clinic Family Pet Care at its Best

1621 E. Main St., Stoughton (608) 873-8112

Grief Support Group

Social gatherings for individuals with memory impairments and their care partner.

3rd Wednesday of the Month, 2:00-3:30 PM Stoughton Area Senior Center, Mandt Room

If you have questions, please contact the Senior Center at (608) 873-8585. Stoughton’s Memory Café is coordinated, sponsored and facilitated by members of Stoughton’s Dementia Friendly Coalition. Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/StoughtonDFC.

Low Vision Support Group

August 7: Drum Circle with Jim Turk September 4: Honeyworks Bee & Honey Presentation October 2: Stoughton Police K-9 Program

Little Wisconsin: Forgotten Stories

Tuesday  Saturday 9:30am  4:30pm

Free Admission Like us on Facebook

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Friday, August 24, 10:00 AM

Mon. - Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat. 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

August 22: Nutrition & Parkinson’s

Join us for a discussion with Autumn Kumlien, Nutritionist from Stoughton Hospital.

QiGong is a holistic system of coordinated body posture and movement, breathing, and meditation. Join instructor, Jo Chern, MA, ACE-CPT Owner of Small Change Personal Training and director of The QiGong Center of South Central Wisconsin for this 6-week class! The cost is $42 ($7/week).

You do not want to miss out! Sign up by July 31 by calling 873-8585.

Melinda Roberts, of WisconsinHistoricalMarkers.com and author of the forthcoming book, Little Wisconsin (histories and stories of 100 Wisconsin communities of around 600 or less), shares the forgotten stories of Wisconsin murders, disappearances, scandals, mayhem, and madness of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Learn about Norwegian immigration to America from the period of 1825 to 1910 through displays in our exhibit hall. Trace the journey from Norway to America using an interactive, high tech map wall. With the assistance of our helpful staff, trace genealogy and immigration routes using tools directly connected to the Norwegian American Genealogical Center and Naeseth Library in Madison.

Learn about personal immigration stories featured in the interactive ioss. Dont miss the quilting display currently on loan for a limited time from the Vesterheim Museum in Decorah, Iowa. View videos in the handicapped accessible, hearing loop enabled, auditorium that seats 68 people.

3rd Thursday of the Month, 1:00-2:30 PM Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Room

For more information on these and other activities please contact the Stoughton Area Senior Center at 248 W. Main Street, Stoughton WI, 53589 (608) 873-8585 www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior

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Senior Center New continued from page 3

The Tower Times

Summer 2018 5

Department of Public Works You May Not Know We Were There, But You Would Know If We Weren’t.

Dams are not a Place to Play

E-Waste Drop-off

Yard Waste Site

Every year people are killed or seriously injured at dams. Most of these accidents could have been avoided by simply not getting close to the dam, understanding the potential dangers, and obeying the warning signs. The Fourth Street Dam is not a place to play around.

This service is available only to City of Stoughton residents. There is a $15 fee per TV or computer monitor no matter the size. All other items listed below are accepted free of charge. City residents can bring their e-waste items to the Department of Public Works during normal business hours. City residents will need to check in at the Public Works office and show proof of city residency. If you have any questions, please contact us at (608) 873-6303.

The current just upstream of the dam can be very strong, especially during the high flows that we have been experiencing and can pull watercraft or swimmers into and through the dam.

• Televisions ($15 per item)

The yard waste 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 is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The yard waste site will remain open until Tuesday, November 21st (weather permitting). A $20 Permit (window decal) is required to use the site and is good for the entire season. Permits can be purchased at the Department of Public Works located at 515 S. Fourth Street during normal business hours or at the yardwaste site during hours of operations. Note: The yard waste site may close at any time for inclement weather (thunderstorms, tornado warnings, etc). Safety for the public and our employees is taken very seriously.

List of Acceptable Items • Computer Monitor ($15 per item) • Computer Tower

The turbulent discharge, sometimes called the “boil”, can trap swimmer under the water. If you should happen to get caught in the boil, you should curl up, dive to the bottom, and swim or crawl downstream as shown in the picture.

• Laptops

The diagram below shows the areas that should be avoided by boaters and swimmers. The headwater, boil, and headrace pose a potential danger to human health and safety. If you are going to portage around the dam, please use the designated “take out” area just south of the dam and re-enter downstream of the Fourth St bridge.

• Video display devices

Fourth St Dam Critical Danger Zones A. Headwater of the dam can create dangerous currents that can pull boats and swimmers into the dam.

B. The turbulent dam discharge, or “boil” can trap swimmers under water.

C. The headrace, which flows through the old power house, could pose a threat to safety if a person were to go over spillway.

Driving in Work Zones The safety of our staff and the contractors that work in our community is paramount.

The workers aren’t there to try to inconvenience you or impede your travels. Rather, they are there to improve the roadways we all depend on to get where we need to go.

When you see construction signs and orange barrels, take your foot off the gas, get off the phone and keep your eyes on the road.

Remember, when you enter a work zone, be patient. Worrying about the time and traffic won’t get you anywhere faster. Instead, slow down and pay attention to your surroundings. These tips can help you get in and out of a work zone safely: • Don’t Text and Drive. It can wait and it’s against the law.

• Stay Alert. Eliminate distractions like eating, drinking, fiddling with the stereo.

• Expect the unexpected. Speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed, and people and vehicles may be working on or near the road.

• Slow down. The faster you go the longer it takes to stop.

• Give yourself room. Rear-end collisions are the most common work zone crashes, so don’t tailgate.

• Allow about three seconds of braking distance. Look for signs.

Orange, diamond-shaped signs usually give you ample warning of lane closings, construction areas, and flaggers and other workers ahead.

• Be patient. If you don’t see workers, that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Observe the signs until you see one that says you’ve left the work zone.

• Plan ahead. Leave early or map out an alternate route.

• Follow the law. Slow down and move over, if possible, when you see flashing lights

Mailbox Placement To reduce the chances that your mailbox may be hit by a snow plow during winter, you still have 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.

• Printers, scanners, copiers • Fax machines • Keyboards, mice, hard drives, flash drives, external modems & other computer devices • DVD, VCR, DVR & Video NOTE: No Microwaves, dehumidifiers or household appliances will be collected at the e-waste drop off. They can be placed out at the end of the month for bulky item trash collection by John’s Disposal.

The Public Works Department does not collect hazardous household materials at our facility, but the following information will assist you with proper disposal of hazardous household materials utilizing the clean sweep program at the Dane County Facility.

Additional fees may apply.

Web Site: http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/ Clean Sweep provides an opportunity for residents of Madison and Dane County to safely dispose of hazardous waste.

Hours:

Monday - Friday: 7:00 - 2:45 Saturday: 8:00 - 10:45 Closed Sunday and Holidays.

7102 US Hwy 12 Madison WI 53718 (Beltline/12/18 East toward Cambridge) across from the Yahara Hills Golf Course at the Dane County Landfill.

Upcoming Brush Collection Schedule Monday, August 27th, 2018 Monday, October 22nd, 2017 Brush must be set out on the terrace by 7:00 am the Monday of brush collection. Crews will work through the city as fast as possible. Plan your trimming around the scheduled pickup to eliminate having brush out for long periods of time. Once an area has been collected, the crews will not return to that area until the next scheduled collection.

In order to keep the city looking at its best, please do not place brush on the terrace more than 10 days prior to the collection day.

Per City Ordinance 62-2 -- Dumping in Park Row Prohibited.

“Brush or leaves may be stored in the park row no more than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled collection time authorized by the city”.

Permits All permit forms can be found on the City website at www. ci.stoughton.wi.us by clicking “I Want To”, then “License, Permits, Forms and Applications”. Permit forms may also be picked up at the Public Works Department office located at 515 S. Fourth St. Please return all completed permit forms to the Public Works office.

Encumbrance Permits

An encumbrance permit is required if you are going to leave a dumpster or POD in the street or city right-of-way for more than 2 hours. Cost is $25 dollars and the permit is good for 30 days, when it can be renewed for another $25 dollars.

Street Opening Permits

A street opening permit is required if you or a contractor works within the city right-a-way. Permit costs range from $50 dollars to $175 dollars depending on the type of work being done.

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 to the Public Works Department 30 days prior to the event.

Refuse & Recycling Cart Placement John’s Disposal Service Inc. and the City of Stoughton request that carts not be placed in the street, but instead be placed on the park row or in your driveway approach.

Please place cart(s) a minimum of 2 feet apart. Please do not set carts to close to mailboxes, trees, light poles or any other objects. Keeping the carts out of the street also allows street crews to effectively sweep streets, vacuum leaves and plow snow.

Bulk items are collected once a month

Bulk items will be collected on the last service day of the month.

Bulky pick up is for any extra garbage or recycling you have or for items that are too big to fit into the carts.

Weekly from October 15th to November 21st (Depending on weather)

Place all large items including furniture, carpeting, large metal items, large cardboard boxes (emptied and flattened) and appliances 6ft. away from your trash or recycling cart. Small items such as automotive batteries, tires (2 per home per month – 8 per year), and drain oil (in sealed 1-5 gallon containers) should also be 6ft. away from the carts. Construction materials should be in 32 gallon cans and weigh less than 60 lbs. Extra paper or other recycling should be in clear plastic bags and placed at the street 6ft. away from the carts. Bulk Collection does not include yard waste or hazardous materials.

The Department of Public Works provides fall curbside leaf collection for city residents. Leaf collection is subject to change depending on the weather conditions and when leaves start to fall.

Please call John’s Disposal at 888-473-4701 for any questions or concerns related to solid waste collection or missed trash or recycling pick-up. Please place all materials out the night before or by 6 am on your day of service. For more information regarding collection schedules, please visit John’s Disposal website: www. johnsdisposal.com

It is important to make sure leaves are placed in the terrace (area between curb and sidewalk) for collection. It is against city ordinance 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.

Please feel free to call the Department of Public Works at 608-8736303 with any questions or concerns you may have. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Fall Leaf Collection Schedule

Grass Clippings 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. It is against city ordinance to place yard waste in the street which will be strictly enforced.

For more information, please visit the city webpage at www.cityofstoughton.com

6 Summer 2018

The Tower Times Thursdays With Murder

Thursdays With Murder is the Library’s mystery and crime fiction book discussion group.

In its seventh year, this group explores themes and authors of crime fiction. Meetings are the second Thursday of the month, with no meeting in December.

Join the Friends of the Library Adopt-A-Magazine at the Library

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

It’s Time for Summer Reading: Libraries Rock!

Looking for a way to honor an important person in your life, or memorialize a loved one who has passed on?

Sponsor a yearly subscription to a magazine enjoyed by Stoughton Public Library patrons.

We will acknowledge your kind donation with a personalized nameplate displayed on the magazine’s cover for a year. Please contact Jane Groshan at (608) 873-6281 or email jgroshan@stolib.org to ask about magazine adoption availability and subscription cost.

The Summer Library Program is in progress.

Children ages 0-11: Come to the volunteer desk on the first floor to register.

Teens and adults: Visit the 2nd Floor Information Desk on the top floor to learn more.

Teens entering grade 6 in the fall: it’s your choice whether to do the Children’s program one more year, or start the Teen program this summer.

Donation acknowledgment plates will run October-September or April-March depending on when the donation is received.

Earn prizes for reading, attend fun activities, and keep your skills in excellent shape during the summer break from school.

Looking for book suggestions? Looking for local music events?

Check out our lists on our website: www.stolib.org

Credit Cards Now Accepted

Stoughton Art Walk at the Library The Art Walk is Saturday, July 21, from 9am – 3pm

It’s also a musical day:

Add a Friends of the Library tote bag for $3.00.

The Blue Moon Klezmer Band and folksinger Roxanne Neat will be performing between 2:00 and 3:00 that afternoon.

Buy a pair of earbuds for $2.00.

Round up to $5.00 and donate to the library.

Stoughton Public Library: The Basics

Klezmer is the celebratory musical tradition of the Ashkenazi Jews of Eastern Europe. The genre originally consisted largely of instrumental dance tunes for weddings and other celebrations. In the United States the genre evolved as Yiddish-speaking Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, who arrived between 1880 and 1924, heard and assimilated American jazz. The Blue Moon Klezmer Band consists of clarinet, violin, trumpet, piano, bass, and drums.

The Stoughton Public Library is located at 304 S. Fourth St., at the corner of 4th & Main, just west of the clock tower in downtown Stoughton.

Hours are Monday-Thursday 9-9, Friday & Saturday 9-5. Closed Sundays until September 9. There is no charge for a library card – just bring in picture ID with proof of current address.

If your ID does not show your current address, please bring another proof of address such as a piece of mail, personal check, utility bill, etc. Parents must sign the registration form for children under age 16.

In addition to offering books, eBooks, DVDs, audio books, magazines, newspapers, and programs for people of all ages, the Library also has meeting rooms, a copy machine, and can offer you one-on-one help with your eBook reader.

For more information, visit us online at www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org, on Facebook, or call at 873-6281. The Library will be closed Thursday, November 23 for Thanksgiving.

It’s Survey Time In preparation for updating its strategic plan, the Library will be conducting a survey of library users. Please watch for it during selected weeks of July, August, and September.

Roxanne Neat performs traditional and contemporary folk music and ballads. Accompanying herself on guitar, piano, mountain dulcimer, or five-strong banjo, Roxanne draws from Appalachian, Scottish, Irish, and English traditions. Roxanne has been performing since 1974.

Turn the Pages!

There are immediate openings for readers in the Stoughton Public Library’s book discussion groups. Join us as we turn the pages and talk about books!

Cli-fi deals with climate change and global warming. Some of these novels take place in the near future, or even contemporary times. Some are clearly science fiction, but others have none of the typical science fiction elements. It’s a broader genre than you might think since it includes not only tales that deal with human-made climate change, but also many stories that deal with climate change as a natural disaster. Many of the novels are set in a future world in which climate change has happened, and we see how people have adapted, or how they are suffering.

Page Turners

The Foundation

More recently, Kim Stanley Robinson’s “New York 2140” published just last year, is set in a 22nd century New York that’s more like Venice of today. Robinson is not new to cli-fi writing. He published a popular cli-fi trilogy with” Forty Signs of Rain” (2004), “Fifty Degrees Below” (2005), and “Sixty Days and Counting” (2007).

It’s great as a series, or you can enjoy each novel as a stand-alone (which means you don’t have to read all three).

This group reads a variety of titles both nonfiction and fiction. It meets the 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Library, and the 4th Wednesday of the month at 1:00 p.m. at the Senior Center.

This is Library’s science fiction/fantasy book group, named in honor of science fiction grand master Isaac Asimov’s famous Foundation Trilogy. The Foundation explores themes, authors, short stories, and novels. The group meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. A trip to the Madison Metropolitan School District Planetarium is planned for Wednesday, October 3.

Another flood-waters-are-rising book is “Mr. Eternity” by Aaron Their. This book combines humor, rising seas, the fall of civilization and a man who lives thousands of years. Talk about a book that has it all! It’s a worthwhile read by an author who is making has name as a literary humorist.

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The term “cli-fi” was coined in 2006 by journalist Dan Bloom after reading a report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. He wanted a short term that would work easily in newspaper headlines. After thinking of “sci-fi” for science fiction he decided on “cli-fi.” As the 21st century progressed, the term has been used more and more and the stores have become more popular.

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Climate Change Fiction

One such early work is “The Drowned World” by J.G. Ballard, published in 1962. In this story, the polar ice caps have melted and flooded most of the Earth. Ballard’s novel is considered one of the best examples of early climate change fiction.

Lovely as a Summer’s Day!

168 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI Flower Phone: 873-6173 or 866-595-6800

The next event will be the Fall Fundraiser on October 13. More news about this fun event soon!

More and more novels about climate change and its effects are being published. So many in fact that they are now comprise a new genre of their own called Climate Change Fiction or “cli-fi” for short.

Local favorites Mike and Jamie McCloskey will rock the library at 11:00 a.m. Enjoy their blend of popular blues, rock, country, jazz and occasional Irish tunes.

Want to pay a fine or fee under $5.00?

The Library relies on money raised by various Friends events to supplement the budget. Without these funds, the Children’s Summer Library Program would not be able to afford many of the presenters for programs, as well as purchase supplies and reading incentive prizes. The Adult Summer Reading Program and the Adult Craft Club receive their funding from the annual Friends donation.

The Friends donation is used to purchase high-demand DVDs and books for the Lucky Day collections, replace worn or lost copies of books and DVDs, and provide more magazine subscriptions for the collection. These are just a few of the ways the Friends assist the Library.

Friends’ membership levels range from $10 to $100 a year. In addition to becoming a member, you can help out with book sales, fundraisers, and more. More information at the Library!

You can view displays by local artists throughout the downtown area. Artist Julie Raasch will be exhibiting her photography and jewelry on the Library Mezzanine.

You can now pay your fines and printing fees at the Circulation desk using your debit or credit card! Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted ($5.00 minimum charge).

The Friends of the Stoughton Public Library is a non-profit organization devoted to promoting and improving library services, materials, and facilities for the Stoughton community; encouraging gifts and bequests to the library; and promoting the broadest possible use of Library facilities, materials and services.

The Tower Times

Two other well-known authors of climate fiction are Barbara Kingsolver and Margaret Atwood. Kingsolver’s “Flight Behavior” from 2012) shows us a very unusual, but significant effect of climate change in a rural environment. As most of her books, it’s literary, complex, and worth your time to read.

Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam Trilogy, is a dystopian series and includes the novels “Oryx and Crake” (2003) “The Year of The Flood” (2009) and “MaddAddam” (2013).

Library Events Check the Library website for more information. www.stolib.org

July

Guessing Game Jar Now through July 31

Guess how many items are in the jar in the Children’s Department.

If you’re one of the five closest guessers to the actual number, you’ll win a prize!

Stoughton Art Walk

Saturday, July 21, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Page Turners Adult Book Discussion

Saturday, July 21, 11:00 am

Rock the library with local favorites Mike and Jamie McCloskey.

Enjoy a blend of popular blues, rock, country, jazz and occasional Irish tunes.

Music on the Mezz – The Blue Moon Klezmer Band with Roxanne Neat, Folksinger

Thursday, September 13, 6:30 pm

Discover, compare and contrast Los Angeles of the 1940s as portrayed in the mysteries of Raymond Chandler with those of Walter Mosely.

In this National Book Award finalist, an aging itinerant news reader agrees to transport a young captive of the Kiowa back to her people in the aftermath of the Civil War. School Library Journal noted that this slim Western novel is both “brief and expansive.”

Page Turners Adult Book Discussion

Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal Tuesday, September 25, 6:30 pm at the library Wednesday, September 26, 1:00 pm at the Senior Center

September

The Foundation: Science Fiction/Fantasy Book Discussion: Science Fiction or Politics?

Wednesday September 5, 6:30 pm

“1984” by George Orwell, “Brave New World”

by Aldous Huxley, “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury, plus “The Man in the High Castle” by Philip K. Dick.

Hopefully we’ll all agree with Amazon, BookPage, LibraryReads, and NPR, who named this one of the best books of the year when it came out in 2016. If you like food and family relationships, we think you’ll like this novel, described

by People magazine as a “sweet and savory treat.”

Music on the Mezz: Todd Hammes, Tool & Drum Music Sunday, September 9, 2:00 pm

Among the world’s percussionists, Todd Hammes of Madison is a singular individual. Through his music – a fascinating, eclectic blend of classical, world and improvisational styles – Todd presents to the world his own unique inner vision of sound and music.

Enraptured audiences, fellow musicians and participants in his engaging workshops experience a special connection to the raw energy and sensitivity that Todd possesses.

View displays by local artists throughout the downtown area, including Julie Raasch at the Library. Ms. Raasch will be exhibiting photography and jewelry.

McCloskey’s on the Mezz

Sunday Hours Resume ~ Sunday, September 9, 1-5pm Thursdays with Murder: Mystery Book Discussion: 1940s Los Angeles

News of the World by Paulette Jiles Tuesday, August 21, 6:30 pm at the library Wednesday, August 22, 1:00 pm at the Senior Center

For more information, visit us online at

www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org,

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Lake Mills Cleaners offers FREE Pick-up & Delivery through our Pharmacy!

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on Facebook

100 E. Main Street, Downtown Stoughton

www.facebook.com/StoughtonPublicLibrary

or call at 873-6281

873-3244 Hours: Mon-Fri 8 am-6 pm; Sat 8 am-5 pm; Sun 8 am-12 noon

Saturday, July 21, 2:00 – 3:00 pm

Klezmer music highlights the Jewish musical tradition from Eastern Europe – instrumental dance tunes for weddings and other celebrations. Roxanne Neat, folksinger, has been performing since 1974, presenting traditional and contemporary folk music and ballads.

Dance Party

Tuesday, July 24, 10:00 am Listen to music, dance, and be silly! Ages 3-5 (younger and older siblings welcome). No registration required.

Page Turners Adult Book Discussion

Columbine by Dave Cullen Tuesday, July 24, 6:30 pm at the library Wednesday, July 25, 1:00 pm at the Senior Center We will be discussing this remarkable nonfiction account of the 1999 school shooting by one of the first reporters on scene. Dave Cullen spent ten years on this book, which Entertainment Weekly notes “reads like the grisliest of fiction.

Would that it were not true.”

Stories to Tell: Memoirs and More Thursday, July 26, 6:00 pm

Are you interested in starting a blog, a keepsake letter for your grandchildren, or writing an entire memoir? Join three memoirists (Amy Laundrie, Rose Bingham, and Matt Geiger) who will provide writing prompts to help you on your way. We’ll start with a panel discussion and then break into a short workshop geared toward beginners. Remember, if you don’t tell your story, who will?

August

The Foundation: Science Fiction/ Fantasy Book Discussion Wednesday August 1, 6:30 pm

Popular science fiction short stories including: “Nightfall” by Isaac Asimov, “The Golden Apples of the Sun” by Ray Bradbury, “Inconstant Moon”

by Larry Niven, and more.

Thursdays with Murder: Mystery Book Discussion

Thursday, August 9, 6:30 pm – The crime fiction of S. J. Rozan Share the adventures Lydia Chin, a 30-something Chinese American private eye, and Bill Smith, a 40-something Army brat private eye in New York City.

Summer Library Program Finale: The Magic of Matthew Tuesday, August 14, 6:30-7:40pm Christ Lutheran Church, 700 County Rd B Celebrate your reading achievements! Join us in the garden for free sundaes provided by Culvers from 6:30-7pm. Then enjoy “The Magic of Matthew” with a family show from magician Matthew Teague from 7-7:40pm. No registration required. Completion of Summer Library Program not required. All ages.

see Wonders of the Musical World The Amazing, Thrilling 2018–2019 Season ✦

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Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore:

Stage Together • Sept 7

On

An Evening with Junior Brown • Sept 8 The Harold Lopez-Nussa Trio • Sept 15 Garnet Rogers & Archie Fisher • Sept 22 Sean Rowe • Sept 27 Billy Strings • Sept 28 Peter Mulvey • Sept 29 An Evening with the Julian Lage Trio • Oct 4 Charlie Hunter • Oct 5 Sammy Miller & The Congregation • Oct 6 Choir! Choir! Choir! • Oct 11 Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley and Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen • Oct 12 Josh Rouse & Grant Lee Phillips • Oct 18 Bettye LaVette • Oct 19 Shawn Colvin • Oct 20 Dom Flemons • Oct 25 An Evening with Hawktail • Oct 26 Charlie Parr • Oct 27 Loudon Wainwright • Nov 1 Kruger Brothers • Nov 2 Brubeck Brothers Trio • Nov 3

(Robert Ellis supports) • Dec 7

The Pauper • Dec 8

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Lee Ann Womack • Nov 7 Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder • Nov 8 Scott Mulvahill • Nov 9 Hal Ketchum • Nov 16 Words & Music by Dan Wilson • Nov 17 Mike Farris • Nov 29 Suzy Bogguss: A Swingin' Little Christmas • Dec 1 The Lone Bellow Acoustic Tour

✦ Playtime Productions:

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The Prince &

Michael Perry & the Long beds • Dec 8 Stoughton Festival Choir & City Band Christmas Concert • Dec 9 The Cactus Blossoms • Feb 8 Steely Dane • Feb 9 Davina and the Vagabonds • Feb 15 Gaines & Wagoner • Feb 16 Robbie Fulks • Feb 22 Sierra Hull • Feb 23 Marcia Ball & Sonny Landreth: Two Great Bands, One Great Night • Feb 28 The Milk Carton Kids • Mar 1 Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives • Mar 2 Tom Sharpe • Mar 8 The Gibson Brothers • Mar 9 Eilen Jewell • Mar 16 Michael Perry • Mar 21 Rodney Crowell • Mar 22 The Subdudes • Mar 23

Tim O'Brien Bluegrass Band • Mar 28 Roy Rogers and the Delta Rhythm Kings • Mar 29 Leo Kottke • Mar 30 Michael Hecht: What I Learned from Wendell Berry • Apr 3 Robyn Hitchcock • Apr 4 Carlene Carter • Apr 5

E A SO S 9 –1 8 1 20

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Harp Twins • Apr 6 Opera for the Young: • Apr 7 Chris Smither • Apr 11

Rhonda Vincent & The Rage • Apr 12 Asleep At The Wheel • Apr 13 & 14 Crystal Bowersox • Apr 18 The Quebe Sisters • Apr 25 An Evening with Leftover Salmon Acoustic Living Room Tour • Apr 26

✦ Playtime Productions:

• Apr 27

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Super Storm

The Red Shoes

Riders In The Sky • Apr 27 MadFiddle & Highway 151 • Apr 28 Hot Club of Cowtown • May 2 Del McCoury Band • May 3 The Steel Wheels • May 4 Della Mae • May 11 Syttende Mai • May 18 Stoughton Chamber Singers • May 31 Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society • June TBA

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Most climate-fiction focuses on the US or the UK, but one recent popular book is set in Thailand. It’s “The Windup Girl” (2009) by Paolo Bacigalupi. This is a bio-punk thriller about a genetically modified woman set in a rather desolate, climate-damaged future.

According to the liner notes, “the oil age is passed and the side effects of bio-engineered plagues run rampant across the globe.”

Bangkok is one of only a few south-east Asian cities left after all the flooding.

Summer 2018 7

8 Summer 2018

The Tower Times

Activities & Events

Youth Ultimate Frisbee League Learning to Train

Youth Activities

Youth Lacrosse Summer Skills Camp FUNdamentals, Learning to Train

This program is for children in grades 1st-4th and all skill levels.

The philosophy behind the program is to teach basic skills and fundamentals, develop athletic skills, make new friends, and most importantly have fun! The camp is coached by Stoughton High School Coach Josh Wollin and assistants. All equipment will be provided.

Ultimate Frisbee is a fast-paced, self-officiated game that combines elements of football, basketball, and soccer played with a disc. In this 6 week league, players will first receive instruction from National Championship level players as well as local high school team members and then will play 5v5 games against each other. All children grades 5-8 are welcome.

Who: Coed, Grades 5-8 Days & Dates: Tuesdays beginning July 17th until August 21st Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Location: Racetrack Park

Days: Monday-Thursday

Fee: $40

Dates: August 6-9

Program Code: 1357.200

Time: 6:00-7:00 pm

Racetrack Park, Tuesdays 1-3 pm, from July 17th - August 21st (6 weeks)

Location: Racetrack Park (near batting cage)

Fall Miniball Soccer

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

Active Start

Registration Deadline: July 5 1-2 1301.200

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!

3-4 1301.201

Days: Sundays

Youth Tennis Lessons (Ages 3-18)

Dates: September 9 – October 14

Active Start, FUNdamentals, Learning to Train

Location: Racetrack Park

Stoughton Parks and Recreation Department and Premier Tennis and Fitness are working together to bring top notch professional tennis lessons to Stoughton area children and adults. Skills that will be covered consist of serving, forehand, backhand, and footwork, along with learning the rules of the game and how to score.

Fee: $40 – Resident, $45 – Non-Resident

Grades

Program Code

Registration Deadline: September 1 Coaches: Volunteers are needed. Coaches training will take place on August 31 .

Ages 3 – 4 year olds 3 – 4 year olds 5 year olds

Barry Hankel, the Tennis Director at PTF, will be overseeing the program.

Program Code 1130.300 1130.301 1130.302

Times 2:00-2:45 pm 3:00-3:45 pm 4:00-4:45 pm

NFL Youth Flag Football

Barry is a former three-time all-conference Division 1 tennis player at UW-Green Bay, and he has taught tennis for 14 years. He was Director of Junior Tennis at Western Racquet and Fitness in Green Bay and before that was Director of Tennis at Green Bay Tennis Center for three years. He has had well over a hundred students qualify for the state tournament during his teaching days and has taught many players that have gone on to play all levels of college tennis. *Session 1 is a 4 week spring seminar

Ages 3-6 Using Quick Start approach, children are taught using balls that bounce lower and move slower than regular tennis balls so they are easier to hit.

FUNdamentals, Learning to Train 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 and be active. Each player will receive an authentic reversible NFL Flag Football jersey.

NFL Flag (Grades K-3) – House Leagues The grades K-1 and 2-3 programs are house leagues that will always play other Stoughton teams at Racetrack Park. The K-1 league will feature the coach playing quarterback to make the games run smooth. Games will be played on Saturday mornings. Teams for this age group typically practice one day a week during the season. Practice night is at the discretion of the coach.

Children will further develop tennis strokes, ground strokes, volleys, and the serve. Footwork drills and point playing will be introduced.

League/Grade K-1 2-3

Ages 9-12

Game Dates: Saturdays, September 8 – October 20 (September 8 is an official practice day)

Students will refine stroke mechanics with major emphasis on improving the consistency and accuracy of ground strokes, volleys, overheads, and learning the rules of the game.

Practice Starts: August 14

Ages 7-8

Ages 13-18 This group is designed for the high school players and/or advanced middle schoolers. Drills become more intense and focused on strategy, point play for singles and doubles.

Age Group

Game Times 9:00 am 10:15 am

Place: Racetrack Park Fees: Resident - $65 Non-Resident - $73 Deadline: Register by August 1 Coaches: Volunteers are needed. Coaches meeting will be August 11 at 5:30 pm.

Lesson Details Session

Program Code 1150.300 1150.301

Dates

Program Code Fee

NFL Flag (Grades 4-8) – Travel Leagues

Session 3

Ages 3-6 July 21-August 18

1180.202

$25

Learn to Train, Train to Train

Session 3

Ages 7-8 July 21-August 18

1180.205

$25

Session 3 Ages 9-12 July 21-August 18

1180.208

$50

Session 3 Ages 9-12 July 21-August 18

1180.208

$50

The grades 4-8 programs are local travel leagues. Other communities involved with the leagues are Cross Plains, Fitchburg, Verona, McFarland, Monona, Cottage Grove and Mount Horeb. Teams will play seven regular season games and an end of season tournament. Teams for these age groups typically practice 1-2 times per week. Practice night(s) are at the discretion of the coach. There is no make-up date for the tournament if it is rained out.

*There are summer session dates. Please go to our website, www.stoughtonrec.com, for more information.

Days: Saturday Mornings Times: Adults 8:00-9:00am Ages 3-6 - 9:00-:9:45am, Ages 7-8 – 9:45-10:30 am, Ages 9-12 – 10:30-Noon, Ages 13-18 – Noon-1:30 pm

League/Grade Program Code 4 1150.302 5 1150.303 6 1150.304 7-8 1150.305 Game Dates: Saturdays, September 8 – October 20 Tournament Date: Saturday, October 27

Registration Deadline: July 16 or when full

Game Times: Vary throughout the season. Games are typically in the morning and early afternoon.

Location: Session 1 - Norse Park, Sessions 2 & 3 – High School Tennis Courts

Place: Racetrack Park for home games. Road games will be played at various Dane County communities.

Min/Max Participants/Class: 6/16

Deadline: Register by August 1

Rain Make Up: The following Friday will be used for any classes rained out.

Coaches: Volunteers are needed. Coaches meeting will be August 11 at 6:00 pm.

Fees: Resident - $75 Non-Resident - $83

The Tower Times

Summer 2018 9

Adult Activities

Gazebo Musikk

Active for Life

This will be our fourth summer of offering Gazebo Musikk! Gazebo Musikk are weekly concerts at Rotary Park in the summer. These shows wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors and help from Tricia Suess. Check out the Gazebo Musikk Facebook page for the latest information - https://www. facebook.com/gazebomusikk/

Tennis Lessons for Adults Premier Tennis & Fitness Club coaches will be providing tennis lessons this summer with us. All levels are welcome from Beginner to Advanced. Drills will work on technique, strategy, and point play.

Drills will be fast paced and keep you moving.

When: Thursdays evenings from 6:00-7:30 pm starting May 31st

Dates

Program Code

Fee

Where: Rotary Park (next to the fire station)

Session 1

April 28-May 19

2180.209

$30

Cost: Free!

Session 2

June 16-July 14

2180.210

$35

2018 Lineup

Session 3

July 21-August 18

2180.211

$35

Session

Date Band May 31

Stone Barone & The MadTones

June 7

Peter Kocher

June 14

Mike & Jamie McCloskey & Friends

June 21

Kelsey Miles

June 28

Madtown Mannish Boys

Min/Max Participants/Class: 6/16

July 5

Old Tin Can String Band

Fall 3 on 3 Basketball

Days: Saturday Mornings Times: 8:00-9:00 am Registration Deadline: One week before class or when full Place: Session 1 – Norse Park, Sessions 2 & 3 – High School Tennis Courts

July 12

RetroBus

Active for Life

July 19

The Rotation

Grades: High School (Currently) - Adult

July 26

Blue Spruce

Dates: September 10– October 29 (8 weeks)

August 2

The Dirty Groove

Days: Monday Nights

August 9*

Craig Mason Combo

Time: 6:00–9:00 pm

August 16

JP Cyr & The Midnightmen

Place: Yahara School Gym

August 23

All That Jazz

Fee: $90/ team (Register by August 28)

August 30

The Grouvin’ Bros.

Adult Flag Football League

Prior to the start of the August 9th performance, Stoughton born William Parry Murphy will be inducted into the Stoughton Hall of Fame. Mr. Murphy won a Nobel Prize in 1934 in medicine based on his work on anemia and the treatment of it.

Active for Life

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. Players sign up as a team. If you would like to get on a free agent list, contact the Recreation Department.

Who: Men Age: Adult When: Thursday’s, September 6 – October 25 (8 weeks) Time: 6:00-10:00 PM Where: Racetrack Park Registration: $250/team Fees and roster are due at the Recreation Department by August 21st or until league is filled. Schedules will be made and emailed to managers.

Troll Beach – Stoughton’s Norwegian Fun Park Visit our award winning aquatic park. Enjoy the best beach of beach experiences that includes clean city water, sandy zero depth entry, and large inflatable play structures!

Troll Beach is the result of a complete makeover of the Mandt Park Pool. New innovative play structures, a rebuilt full concession stand, pool chairs and umbrellas, are just a few of the updates for this historic pool.

Our trained lifeguards are ready to welcome your group for a day of great swimming and Norwegian-like hospitality.

Winner of the 2012 Wisconsin Parks & Recreation Association Outstanding Aquatic Facility Design Award.

Open: Everyday beginning June 9, 2018 Hours: 12-5 PM

Adult Coed Fall Kickball League

Daily Rates

This is the sixth 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 21st or until league is filled. Schedules will be made and emailed to managers.

This league will be self-officiated. The kicking team will provide the pitcher.

Resident 15U - $3.00

Who: Men & Women

Resident Single Pass - $65.00

Age: Adult

Non-Resident Family Pass - $110.00

When: Friday’s, September 7 – October 19

Non-Resident Single Pass - $80.00

Time: 6:00-10:00 PM

How to Reserve a Park Shelter

Active for Life

Where: Racetrack Park Registration: $150 per team

Pickleball Summer Membership Active for Life

Pickleball is a fun game for all ages. It is a racquet game that combines elements from table tennis, tennis, and badminton. Summer membership includes access to the storage shed near the East Park pickleball/tennis court. The storage shed is stocked with balls, nets, and wooden racquets. The fee helps us purchase and replace equipment for the program.

Program Code: 3355.200 Dates: May – September Place: East Park Fees: $20

Intro to Pickleball Clinics

We are partnering with veteran Pickleball players to offer introductory clinics for new pickleball players. There will be one clinic a month during the summer on a Saturday morning. The veteran players will go over the basics of game play including the rules, equipment, and techniques.

Days & Dates: Saturdays, 5/12, 6/9, 7/14, 8/11 Times: 10:00-11:00 am Location: East Park Pickleball Courts

Resident 16+ - $4.00 Non-Resident 16+ - $5.00 Non-Resident 15U - $4.00 Group Rates (15+ People) - $3.00 Birthday Parties – Please contact us for more information.

Season Pass Rates

Resident Family Pass - $90.00

Park shelters in the city can be reserved two different ways. The first way is to go to our website and go through the online reservation process. This process will allow individuals to search for open dates and seek amenities that they need for their gathering.

The other way is to fill out a Park Shelter reservation forms. These forms can be found at our website or at the Recreation Department office. For more details, see our website – www.stoughtonrec.com

Stoughton Area Youth Center 2017-2018 Programs The Stoughton Area Youth Center (SAYC) is open and better than ever! The SAYC will be a leader in youth development and healthy lifestyle choices. Not only is the center “the” place to be for students 5-8 during after-school hours, the program has expanded to include high school students with great programming that is both fun and educational.

Regular hours: 3:00-6:00 PM after school 12:00-5:00 PM during the summer and non-school weekdays Location: 567 E. Main Street Phone: 608-877-9980 Staff: Greg Hoyte, ghoyte@ci.stoughton.wi.us

Who: All Ages Fee: Free – No advance registration is required.

Stoughton Parks & Recreation, 381 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 608-873-6746 • www.stoughtonrec.com • www.facebook.com/stoughtonrec • www.twitter.com/stoughtonrec

10 Summer 2018

The Tower Times

Giving Back to the community with Project RoundUP

Be Prepared for Power Outages

Stoughton Utilities began our Project RoundUP program in 2006 as a way to further assist local non-profit organizations in our community. Many of your neighbors participate in the program with voluntary monthly contributions. Each year, over $2,000 is collected and awarded to local non-profits. Most recently, $1,000 was donated to Personal Essentials Pantry, which provides personal and household products, such as toilet paper, tooth paste and laundry soap to those in need. The organization served over 1000 Stoughton residents last year.

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 $2,000 is raised each year and awarded by the Stoughton Utilities Committee twice annually to local community service organizations.

Major Funding Categories

Selection for funding is based upon the merits of the application and the intended use of the funds.

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.

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.

If you are a customer and would like to sign up to participate in the program, please log in to My Account online at stoughtonutilities.com, or contact us by phone.

Stoughton Utilities Director Robert Kardasz Receives WRWA Lifetime Achievement Award Robert Kardasz, Utilities Director of Stoughton Utilities, recently received the Wisconsin Rural Water Associations (WRWA) Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is presented to individuals who have shown a high level of dedication to their field and have worked throughout their careers to support WRWA and the water and wastewater industries.

Kardasz was selected to receive the award for the progressive leadership he has shown throughout his 37-year career at the utility, and his continued involvement in the utility industry. His service to utility groups such as WRWA, Municipal Environmental Group (MEG), Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin (MEUW), WI Wastewater Operators Association (WWOA), ATC, and WPPI Energy have made him widely recognized among utilities in Wisconsin and the Midwest region.

Stoughton Utilities has benefited in many ways from Kardasz’ involvement in the water and wastewater industry. He has created a working environment that encourages safety, progress, technological advances, and efficiency. Under his direction, Stoughton has implemented numerous programs to make significant improvements in these areas, and Stoughton Utilities continues to thrive as a valuable community asset.

Summertime in Wisconsin can bring very unpredictable weather, and even a small storm can result in a large power outage. Severe storms are inevitable and may strike at any time. Once the lights go off, it is too late to prepare for a power outage, so don’t be caught searching in the dark for a flashlight or candles.

Medical Equipment

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.

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 is easy to locate in the dark. We suggest including these items: • Working flashlights • Battery-operated radio for news & weather reports • Batteries for flashlights & radios • Candles & matches to provide emergency lighting • Blankets • Bottled water (city customers will still have water to their faucets, rural customers may not) • Canned or dried food • A corded or cellular telephone (cordless landline phones do not work when power is out)

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Avoid any downed power lines, and never attempt to touch or move one, even if you are certain it is not live.

A shock from a downed line can easily kill or severely injure – avoid the line and contact us immediately!

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

• Electric sump pumps will not work during a power outage. If you live in a low-lying area, you may want to consider purchasing a battery backup for your sump pump to keep your basement dry, even during a prolonged outage.

• Pumps used for rural customer’s wells will not operate during a power outage. Be sure to have a supply of drinking water ready.

• 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 air-conditioning is off you should keep your windows covered.

• If you leave your home or business, switch on a light that will be able to be seen from the street once power is restored. 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. Make sure children know what to do if an outage happens while they are home alone or with a caretaker.

As Temperatures Rise, Your Utility Bill Doesn’t Have To

Work Safely with Digger’s Hotline

Heating and cooling make up more than half the average electric bill – and that’s why controlling the summer heat without constantly using the AC can make a difference.

With the return of beautiful weather, your plans for outside work may be starting to grow -- build a deck, plant some trees, or install a gym set for the kids. If your list includes any digging, state law (Wisconsin Statute 182.0175) requires you to notify Diggers Hotline at least three days in advance.

Locally owned, not-for-profit Stoughton Utilities recommends the following ways to use energy wisely during the summer months:

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.

• For homes with central air, keep the area around the AC unit clear of grass, branches, leaves and shrubs. Make sure the compressor and condenser are clear of debris.

You may contact Diggers Hotline at 811 from any phone year round.

You must allow three working days (excluding weekends and holidays) notice for the location of the underground facilities prior to digging.

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.

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

• Replace the filter on your window air conditioner or in your home’s heating/cooling system.

• Central air units should be checked and cleaned annually by a trained professional.

• Fix air leaks. First, find the leaks using the “smoke trick.” Light a stick of incense and hold it where a window AC unit and window frame meet. For a home with central air, hold the incense stick near duct connections. Blowing smoke indicates a leak. Use foil tape for small gaps; foam and tape for window AC units.

• Set your programmable thermostat up or down for eight hours at a time to reduce cooling expenses.

A level of 78 degrees while at home and 85 degrees while away will help maintain comfort.

• Make the most of the cool air in the home. Use ceiling fans or whole-room air circulation fans.

The air movement in the room can make it feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Keep blinds or shades down during the day.

• Maintain air flow throughout the house by keeping doors open. Shutting off rooms can throw off your AC system.

The Tower Times

Summer 2018 11

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 worker’s lives at risk.

UTILITY WORK AHEAD

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!

• Always buckle up.

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

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

• Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.

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

Online E-Billing and E-Pay… Go Green, Go Paperless!

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

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

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.

In addition to E-Billing, you can also manage other payment and billing options through our online E-Pay system. You can receive an instant Budget-Billing payment amount quote, and enroll right there on the spot. You can also enroll in our Choose Renewable program or Project RoundUP, and current enrollees can view information regarding their contributions. Customers signed up for our AutoPay program can view and update their payment account details. You can also view and update your contact information, such as phone number and mailing address.

We’ve also added new and improved ways to monitor and review your energy and water consumption. You can compare your bills to those of other customers near your neighborhood, analyze your present and past bills to learn more about how your usage has changed over time, see how the weather may be affecting your consumption patterns, and more!

Visit epay.stoughtonutilities.com to get started.

Reading Your Utility Bill Energy Charge: This is the actual cost you pay per kilowatt-hour for your electric energy.

Customer Charge: The required fees that help us recover part of the costs for meters, meter reading, billing, and other costs associated with providing reliable service to your home. This is the minimum charge for each service that is provided to your residence.

Commitment to Community (CTC): The state of Wisconsin requires all utilities to collect $16.00 per customer per year to provide both energy conservation and income-based assistance. Half of the money collected is designated for energy conservation and the other half is for low-income assistance.

Power Cost Adjustment Clause (PCAC): The charge per kWh that varies monthly. This is designed to make wholesale power costs a pass-through cost to customers. It is equivalent to the current per-unit cost of wholesale power that is greater or less than base per-unit cost of power. This can either be an extra charge or a credit on your bill depending on the wholesale power cost at that time and can fluctuate based on the season and temperature.

Stormwater Utility Charge: This is a City of Stoughton charge that is billed monthly to property owners to fund maintenance and improvements to the city’s stormwater management system, including cleaning, repairing, and replacing storm sewer manholes, inlets and pipes.

Public Fire Protection: This is the cost to every water customer for maintenance of fire hydrants throughout the city.

For more information visit our website, www.stoughtonutilities.com

12 - The Tower Times - Summer 2018

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