Around the Clock: Winter 2022

City of Stoughton News Winter 2022-23

Mayors Corner

As we enter the holiday season, it is a great time to be thankful for everything Stoughton has to offer. We have some ongoing improvements occurring to our website, making it more user friendly. WSTO has been recording the Finance Committee meetings and “Council Catch-Up” a video summarizing City Council meetings is available for your viewing pleasure. http://stoughtoncitydocs.com/city-council

Additional community based videos are on WSTO and through our new downloadable Apps. https://wsto.tv/

The Preliminary Plat for one hundred units of single family homes and duplexes south of Stoughton, called Magnolia Springs is approved with conditions. The 51 West Eastside apartments, duplexes and Kettle Park West (KPW) Phase 2 single family homes are under construction, as well as numerous homes at Nordic Ridge.

The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) is under contract with Madison developer Curt Brink for the Riverfront Project. A Financial Gap Analysis is under way in order to keep project moving forward. The Material Maintenance Plan for remediation required by the DNR has been approved. Several Main St. businesses have or will be building, opening, moving, or expanding including; Ginger Bread Preschool and Child Care, Dairyland Desert Café, Stoughton Area Resource Team (START), Community Living Connections (CLC), Revival, Eat at Joe’s, Russell Law Offices, Sinobec Resources, Jung Seed and Kraemer Development, LLC is developing the former Pizza Hut building site, which will include T-Mobile, Noodles, and Cousins Subs. The Senior Center expansion in the “Annex Building” is ready to begin. The City of Stoughton 175th Anniversary is wrapping up with the local events and streaming videos of our history https://www.visitstoughton.com/stoughton-celebrates/175-events .

Other notable accomplishments include:

• Emmi-Roth- Cheese processing facility under construction

• Duplex lots at 51 West, Westside development approved

• Cell Tower Ordinance updated

• Settlement with Tru-Hotel property tax assessment

• Rowe St. sidewalk and tree issues resolved

• DOT Corridor project Main St. lane reconfiguration in endorsed

• 2023 Budget approved

• Riverfront bridge and trail installed

• Food Pantry joined 2nd Harvest Food Bank

• Officer Promotional Pinning

• Street Safety Improvements

• River Park 90% Design under review by DNR

Please join me for “Coffee with the Mayor” at The Senior Center and follow us on Facebook-City of Stoughton, WI

Tim Swadley Mayor

nance & A oun ng ci.stoughton.wi.us/ nance

David P. Ehlinger, CPA - Director of

nance / Comptro er

ATTENTION CITY OF STOUGHTON TAXPAYERS

With the goal of keeping everyone safe and healthy, please consider using one of the first 3 convenient options to pay your taxes:

• Mail –You are encouraged to pay your property taxes by mail using the pre-addressed pink envelope provided to you with your tax bill. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment. No cash payments will be accepted.

• Online - Once again this year you are able to pay online with a credit card or e-check. Please note online payments are through a third party vendor and a convenience fee will be charged. You will be informed of the amount prior to authorizing the charge. To make either a credit card or e-check payment visit our website at https://client.pointandpay.net/web/CityofStoughtonWI

• Dropbox – There is a drop box located in the 3rd drive-thru lane behind City Hall (One Community Bank). The drop box is open 24/7 and will be emptied daily. There is video surveillance and a light directly above it for security purposes. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment and no cash payments will be accepted.

• In person – City Hall at this time will be open for in person payment. No cash payments will be accepted. We will be closed on December 23rd, 26th, and January 2nd and 17th. The above 3 options are available for payments during this time.

• A receipt will be returned to you only if the payment is accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope or if you provide an email address for an emailed receipt.

• Payments postmarked on or before December 31, 2022 will be credited as paid in 2022.

• Refunds on overpayments of taxes are mailed out weekly after your check has cleared our bank. Refunds will not be issued on amounts under $5.00 unless requested.

Lo ery Tax Credits

• Did you move into your home during 2022? If you owned your home and use it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2022, you are eligible for a Lottery Credit on your property tax bill. Each year homeowners are able to claim a lottery tax credit on the first installment of their property tax bill. You generally should have lived in this residence for more than six months of the year. Business property, rental units, land, and garages do not qualify for this credit. If you purchased your home after January 1, 2022 there are a limited number of circumstances that will allow you to receive the credit this year.

• If the lottery credit is not on your tax bill, please request a “Lottery Credit Claim Form” before you pay your taxes and your bill will be reduced if you qualify. For questions, to sign up for the credit or if the credit is not showing on your tax bill, please contact the City Treasurer’s office (608) 873-6677.

For all other questions check out our website under FAQ’s or call (608)873-6677

Stoughton’s Co unity Media

NOW AVAILABLE IN HD!

TDS Cable Subscribers in the Stoughton Area can now watch WSTO programming in HD! WSTO has been producing HD content since 2019 posting and streaming online in HD but now you can watch it on your television with TDS TV. We are also in HD on our Apps!

Check out our NEW APPS!

WSTO TV is now on Roku and AppleTV! Search for WSTO TV on either platform. We also have Fire TV, Android and iOS Apps in development. At the time of publications they are not live yet. For the latest updated tune in to WSTO TV or watch our Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates!

W kly Show mes

City Council Meetings LIVE

2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 7pm

Plan Commission LIVE 2nd Monday at 6pm

Friday Night Movies Fridays 5pm - Midnight Getting Healthy with Holly Daily at 7am

Knowledgable Aging Daily at 7:30am

Video On Demand

WSTO TV has extensive HD Video-on-demand on our website at https://www.wsto.tv as well as our YouTube channel. Subscibe to the YouTube channel for the latest content!

Shop Local Promotions

WSTO TV worked with the Stoughton Downtown Merchants Assocation to creation many promotional videos to shop local this holiday season. Check them out on Facebook, YouTube, or the WSTO Apps

Council Catch-Up Launches

WSTO TV is now producing Council Catch-Up to help keep you informed on what happens at City Council Meetings. Host Derek Westby talks with Mayor Swadley about what was on the agenda, what got approved and what it all means. Check it out on WSTO TV with all of our ways to watch or on the WSTO Facebook.

What else does WSTO do?

WSTO TV is a product of the city’s IT/Media Services Department. In addition to the television programming we maintain the city’s computer network, hardwire and cellular phones and data, security cameras, A/V systems, websites, social media, this publication and MUCH more.

City Social Media A ounts

Facebook: City of Stoughton Wisconsin, Police, Fire, EMS, Library, Stoughton Opera House, WSTO TV, Utilities, Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Recreation, Troll Beach, Gazebo Musikk, Youth Center

Twitter: @StoughtonRec @WSTOTV

Instagram: Library, Stoughton Opera House, Recreation, Utilities

YouTube: WSTO TV, Senior Center

Roku: WSTO TV AppleTV: WSTO

Democracy Now! Mon - Fri at 2:00pm

Carl Sampson Sun & Wed at 5pm

United Methodist Church Sundays at 10am Lakeview Church Sundays at 11am History Thursdays at 5pm

The Witching Hour Saturdays at 9pm

Creature Features Saturdays at 10pm

Full Schedule at https://schedule.wsto.tv

Ac vi es & Events

Volleyball BIG10 Travel League

The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming up with other Dane County area recreation departments to bring a travel volleyball league for participants in grades 5-8. The program will focus on the FUNdamentals of volleyball and emphasize good sportsmanship and teamwork. We have a Head Coach and Assistant Coaches, but Volunteer parent coaches are needed!

Practices on Friday, and games on Sunday

Volleyball BIG10 – 5th Grade

Volleyball BIG10 – 6th Grade

Volleyball BIG10 – 7th Grade

Volleyball BIG10 – 8th Grade

(YEL!) Junior Dance

Glissade, pirouette and chasse´ your way across the floor as you learn fundamental dance repertoire while preparing for the end of session recital. Each Junior Dance class follows four basics •Teach It! Each class students are taught dance fundamentals. •Practice It! Students practice those fundamentals as a group and individually. •Move It! They implement what they’ve learned into across-the-floor and bar routines. •Dance It! Finally, students put it all together in a choreographed routine in preparation for the recital.

Grades: K-5th • Dates: January 7-February 25 • Days: Saturdays • Time: 5:00–6:00pm

Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $90

Futsal (Indoor Soccer) – 1st/2nd Grade

Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Players participate in "open-play" games that encourage creativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in developing soccer talent in Brazil.

Days: Wednesdays • Dates: January 11-February 8 • Times: 6:15-7:15pm

Location: Yahara Gym (900 W Wilson St.) • Fees: $35

Futsal (Indoor Soccer) – 3rd/4th Grade

Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Players participate in "open-play" games that encourage creativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in developing soccer talent in Brazil.

Days: Wednesdays • Dates: January 11-February 8 • Times: 7:30-8:30pm

Location: Yahara Gym (900 W Wilson St.) • Fees: $35

Youth Painting Class – Holiday 2022

For this class the children will be doing a painting of a cute snowman. They will be using acrylic paint on a 16 x 20 canvas. Throughout this painting we will be working on shading and blending along with background, middle ground and foreground. I will walk them through step by step but each child will put their own personal touch on their project. These paintings turn out beautiful and would be wonderful to hang on your wall for the holiday season or give as a holiday gift! December 22nd is a NO SCHOOL DAY.

Ages: 5-12 years old • When: Thursday, December 22nd (No School Day)

Time: 9:00-11:00am

• Location: Stoughton Area

Youth Center • Fee: $50

{YEL!} for Kids

{YEL!} Mad Scientists Training Academy

In this class, you won’t just learn science…you’ll DO science. Make and take home a lava lamp, hover disc, explosive volcano, and...of course...SLIME! Use all of these experiments to explore and discover the scientific method. Don your white coat and goggles…it’s time to begin your own journey to becoming a mad scientist (cue maniacal laugh)!

NOTE: All experiments are physical experiments, not chemical. Students will be provided safety goggles to wear during class.

Grades: 2nd-5th • Dates: January 7–February 25 Days: Saturdays • Time: 6:15–7:15pm Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center Fee: $120

{YEL!} Coding – Video Games

STEM Video Game Enrichment for the 21st Century learner. Each (YEL!) Video Game class follows four basic components: Teach It!....Students learn different video game design techniques (movement blocks, control blocks, basic animation, adding scores, level up, etc.) Code It!...Students use Scratch to code their own video games: i.e. maze runner, asteroid smash and more. Explore It!...Students can write their own video game code, experiment with it and test new options. Our collaborative learning environment encourages students to learn from each other. Keep It!....Students can keep their video games online with Scratch and can access it and expand upon it at any time.

Grades: 2nd-5th • Dates: January 3–February 7 Days:Tuesdays • Time: 5:50–6:50pm

Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center Fee: $80

{YEL!}

Chess – Youth Camp

These budding grandmasters start the program learning the basics of piece movement, capture, check, piece value, and of course, sportsmanship. Grades: K-5th • Dates: February 2–March 23 Days: Thursdays • Time: Stoughton Area Youth Center

T n & Adult Programs Stoughton Area Youth Center

Teen and Adult Painting Class – Frosty Birches

In this beginner-level class, you will use oil pastels and watercolors to create beautiful wall art for you home. By instructor, Rhiannon Gurley, founder of our Vibrant Community.

Date: Sunday, January 22nd • Time: 10:00-11:30am

Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $35

Teen and Adult Art Class – Your Inner Diva Collage

Collage your inner diva with clippings, sparkles, and drawings while listening to music and making new friends/catching up with old friends. By instructor, Rhiannon Gurley, founder of Our Vibrant Community.

Date: Sunday, February 5th • Time: 10:00-11:30am

Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $35

Teen and Adult Pastel Class – Expressive Pastel Landscapes

A beginner-level class with movement, music and using chalk pastels in various motions to create an expressive landscape in a relaxing and playful environment. By instructor, Rhiannon Gurley, founder of Our Vibrant Community.

Date: Sunday, March 5th • Time: 10:00-11:30am

Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $35

Fitness Class – Strength and Sweat

STRENGTH AND SWEAT consists of a series of strength, cardio, and core exercises performed consecutively during each training session. Class format is easy to follow and will change from week to week to keep the body guessing. Exercise modifications will be provided to challenge all fitness levels.

Dates: January 23rd-February 27th • Days: Mondays • Time: 5:30-6:15am

Location: Level-Up Gym (225 Hoel Ave.) • Fee: $50

Fitness Class – Spin

SPINNING is a fun, athletic workout that closely mimics a true biking experience, all from the comforts of an indoor studio! Speed, terrain and intensity vary in each class, improving cardiovascular endurance and boosting lower-body strength. This class will be taught by Michele Helland.

Dates: January 24th-February 28th • Days: Tuesdays • Time: 5:45-6:45pm

Location: Level-Up Gym (225 Hoel Ave.) • Fee: $50

Fitness Class – Country Heat

COUNTRY HEAT is a high energy, low-impact, country dance-inspired workout! Step in tune to the hottest country hits and quickly forget you are torching calories, while getting a total body workout. No complicated moves, no weights, no worries! You do not need a dance background, just a love for dance and country music.

Dates: January 28th-March 4th • Days: Saturdays • Time: 8:45-9:30pm

Location: Level-Up Gym (225 Hoel Ave.) • Fee: $50

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 in 5th-8th grade during after-school hours, the program has expanded to include high school students with great programming that is both fun and educational.

Art Programs

Stoughton Youth Center is offering an Art Program on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:00pm-5:30pm. Anyone is welcome to come in and create anything they want. Whether it is painting on a canvas, making jewelry, or drawing. On special occasions we will do different art projects for holidays or events!

Gym Space

The second floor of the Stoughton Area Youth Center is the active floor of the building. This floor has a basketball hoop and plenty of space for Basketball or Football. This floor also contains games such as pool, Foosball, ping-pong and Carpetball.

Video Games

The Stoughton Area Youth Center has an Xbox 360 and a Playstation 4 with age appropriate games and controllers that can be checked out for use. Donations of money, Games rated E to T and controllers are always needed. Also if you have a game system you would like to donate we would me more than happy to take it.

Board

Games

game closet at the Stoughton Area

Center has a huge stockpile of board games. These games are available for use and there is plenty of table space for these games to be played.

Virgin Lake Trail Project

The Virgin Lake Trail will undergo a reconstruction and extension in 2023. In 2018 the City updated its Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP). The public input process for the CORP included a public survey where 711 individuals responded. The most requested new facility were multi-use pedestrian trails. The survey also a highlighted a need for greater American with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility. The project will address both of those needs. There are four segments of Virgin Lake Trail: Jackson Street to Buckingham Road, Buckingham Road to Roby Road, Roby Road to 51 West Development, and the 51 West Development. The 51 West Development segment was handled by the developer and was completed this past fall. The other three segments are scheduled for construction in 2023 and details on each segment are below. If your property is adjacent to the trail, you will be contacted directly at a future date.

Jackson Street to Buckingham Road

The existing section of trail between Jackson Street and Buckingham Road will be widened to 10 feet and paved.

Buckingham Road to Roby Road

The section of trail between Buckingham Road and Roby Road will be paved and realigned so that the trail goes through Virgin Lake Park. This will provide an ADA compliant pathway to the playground and soccer field in the park. The trail width through the park will be 10 feet wide. The section of trail that is existing between the park and Buckingham Road will be 8 feet wide.

Roby Road to 51 West

The existing trail in this area is a nature trail and it will be converted into a 10 foot wide paved pedestrian trail. The existing trails slopes and surface are not compliant with ADA. It also does not legally connect to anything. The trail extension will provide an ADA compliant trail surface and the trail will be graded to be ADA compliant. It will connect through to the 51 West development. There are site considerations in this area including mature oak trees. We have been working with the adjacent condo owners on an easement that would provide an alignment for the trail to preserve and protect the mature oak trees.

Trail Surface Options & Considerations

There are typically three trail surfaces to choose from: gravel (limestone screenings), asphalt, and concrete. Each have their benefits and drawbacks. Asphalt was the choice for this project for three reasons.

1. An asphalt trail surface is easier to maintain for our parks maintenance staff. The City has two full-time parks maintenance staff. An asphalt surface has less day-to-day maintenance needs than a gravel surface. The trail will also be widened and thus become accessible via truck for any downed trees resulting in easier maintenance. Lastly, the trail will be plowed during the winter months.

2. An asphalt trail surface is a better surface to ensure ADA compliance. ADA guidelines require trail surfaces to be firm and stable. While a gravel trail is considered compliant, it is not compliant after rain events when the surface becomes soft. It would likely be soft for extended times in this area due to the tree canopy. Additionally, if erosion occurs and causes the gravel surface to have ruts, then it would also not be considered compliant. The City doesn’t have enough maintenance staff to constantly check to see if the trails are compliant.

3. An asphalt trail surface would accommodate more use. We anticipate the trail to be more heavily used in the future due to it being extended. An asphalt surface will allow for things like skateboards and rollerblades in addition to walking, jogging, and biking. The firmness of the surface will also allow for pushing of strollers after rain events. The City will plow the trail during the winter for increase year-round use while gravel trails are often muddy during the winter.

Roby Road to 51 West Segment

Department of Public Works

Bulk Waste Co ec on

Under the ‘bulk-on-call’ program, you have more flexibility to choose when you want your bulk items collected.

Whenever you have bulk items to dispose of, simply call Johns Disposal to schedule a pick up. You are allowed one bulk item collection per month. Please call 262-473-4700 to schedule the collection of your bulky items. You can schedule your collection anytime during the month.

Bulk items will be collected within 7-days of when you place your call.

Acceptable Bulk Items:

• Furniture, Appliances, Large metal items

• Carpeting (no wider than 4ft and rolled)

• Extra garbage bags or garbage in personal cans

• Tires (2 per home per month – 8 per year)

• Cardboard (flattened & empty)

• Drain oil & antifreeze (sealed in 1-5 gallon containers)

• Paper & other recyclables should be in clear plastic bags

• *NEW* Electronics (see approved list)

• Humidifiers/De-humidifiers, Air Conditioners, Water Softeners

Unacceptable Bulk Items:

• Yard waste

• Hazardous materials

• Liquid paint

• Loose bulk construction materials

All items for bulk pick up should be placed within 2 feet of curbside and 6 feet from the carts. If you have a question about a specific item, please call Johns Disposal at 262-473-4700.

E-waste

Downtown Holiday Decora ons

Stoughton residents can dispose of up to two (2) qualified household electronics at the curb each year as part of the bulk on-call program. Residents are currently afforded one bulk items collection per month for a total of 12 collections per year. Residents may substitute up to two (2) bulk item collections for qualified electronics collection. For example, a resident can set out 10 bulky items for 10 months and they can put out one (1) electronic item each of the other two months.

Just like the bulky collection, each e-waste collection must be scheduled by calling Johns Disposal at: 262-473-4700

Approved E-Waste Items

• televisions

• computers (desktop, laptop, netbook and tablet computers)

• desktop printers (including those that scan, fax and/or copy and 3-D printers)

• computer monitors

• other computer accessories (including keyboards, mice, speakers, external hard drives and flash drives)

• e-readers

• DVD players, VCRs and other video players (i.e., DVR)

• fax machines

• cell phones

If you have any questions about if an item can or can’t be set out, or to schedule a collection, please call John’s Disposal at 262-473-4700.

Office hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm & Saturday 8:00 am to Noon

Christmas Tr Co ec on

Christmas trees must be put out on the terrace by 7:00am on the Monday of the collection week listed below. Please remove all bags, stands, lights, decorations, etc. from the tree before you set it out for collection.

January 3rd January 10th January 17th

From Leaves to Usable Compost

Each year city crews collect roughly 930 tons of leaves curbside from homes and businesses in Stoughton. So what do we do with all those leaves? Well, we turn them into usable compost. The composting process takes about a year depending on weather conditions. We then run the composted material through a trammel screen to remove any rocks, trash or other inorganic material. Finished compost is then made available to city residents to use. We also have wood chips available from our treecycling program. It is first come, first serve and you must supply and load your own containers.

You can get compost and wood chips from the yard waste site located at 1101 Collins Rd during the sites normal business hours. We also have wood chips available at Racetrack Park in the north parking lot off of Racetrack Rd. You do not need a yard waste permit to get compost or wood chips. You just need to be a Stoughton resident.

Around the Clock Winter 2022-23

Winter is on our D rstep - What can you do to prepare?

Garbage and Recycling Cart Placement

To avoid broken carts and to aid in the clearing of snow from the entire roadway, please place your garbage and recycling carts in your driveway apron or on the terrace. When carts are placed in the roadway, they may get damaged and would be the responsibili ty of the homeowner to replace.

Love it or hate it, winter is on our doorstep. In Wisconsin, just like death and taxes, I can guarantee you that that it’s going to get cold, and at some point, it is going to snow. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the impending winter weather:

Driving on Snow Covered or Icy Roads

When ice and snow are present on roadways, follow these safety tips to ensure your safety:

• When travel is not necessary, Stay Home!

• If travel is necessary, give yourself extra time as traffic will be moving slower than normal when there is snow and icy road conditions.

• Stay back a safe distance from plow trucks and do not pass them.

• Clean off windows and scrape windows and mirrors to make sure you can see. Use the defroster to keep windows clean.

• Turn your lights on. Be visible.

• Take extra care when driving on bridges and overpasses, which can freeze before other road surfaces.

• Brake with care. Avoid jamming on the breaks. Use a “light touch” on the brakes to have a controlled deceleration and stop. Even if your vehicle has anti-lock braking, you should brake lightly to avoid skidding.

• SLOW DOWN!

Shoveling Snow

Snow shoveling and heavy lifting can cause strains and sprains to the back, shoulders and wrists. Follow a few simple rules to be safe while shoveling snow:

• Stretch and warm up your muscles and joints before shoveling.

• Use a good shovel that is the right size. A shovel that is too short or too long may cause overextension.

• Push snow instead of lifting. If you must lift a loaded shovel, use your legs. Consider taking smaller scoops to avoid heavy lifting.

• Take breaks to avoid overexertion.

• Be especially cautious if you are at risk due to heart disease.

• Do not push snow into the street.

• Clear snow around fire hydrants and sidewalk ramps.

• Salt sidewalks and driveways as needed. A little goes a long way.

Snow Emergency

The declaration of a snow emergency will occur when three inches or more of snow is forecasted or three inches have fallen, or as conditions warrant. Notice will be given to the police department and to the same Madison news outlets that the Stoughton Area School District uses for school closings. Notice will also be posted on the street department web site and the local cable TV station (See WSTO section for ways to watch). During a snow emergency declaration, vehicles shall park only on the even side of the street on even-numbered days, and on the odd side of the street on odd-numbered days from midnight to 8:00 am. Remember that the date changes after midnight.

You can sign up to get an email notification when snow emergencies are declared. Type “Snow Emergency Notification” in the search box on the main page of the city website. Enter your email address and click “Submit”.

Pla ing & Development

Rodney J. Sch l - Director •

(608) 873-6677 • ci.stoughton.wi.us/pla ing

Seasonal Ordinance Reminders

PRIVATE PROPERTY SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 64-13. Snow and ice removal.

(a) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting on a public sidewalk, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall remove therefrom by 9:00 a.m. on the second day following a snowfall, all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter, and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping. (For example: a snowfall occurs on Monday, the occupant or owner would have until 9:00 a.m. Wednesday). If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works or their designee may issue a citation and may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director, who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. The owner or occupant shall also be subject to a forfeiture for each violation of this section, with penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation.

(b) No snow or ice removed from private property, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall be deposited in the public ways in areas expected to be cleared by the city. This would include, but would not be limited to, pushing snow or ice across a public roadway or sidewalk; pushing or carrying and depositing snow or ice on a public way expected to be maintained for pedestrian or vehicular traffic; and the blowing or throwing of snow or ice onto a pedestrian or vehicular area. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

(c) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting a public sidewalk in the downtown corridor, specified below, shall remove therefrom all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter to the curb line and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping within 24 hours after the conclusion of a snowfall. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

"Downtown corridor" defined: Main Street-Railroad Track to S. Page Street Water Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Division Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Forrest Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Fourth Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street

PLEASE CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT 608- 646-0421.

OUTDOOR FIREWOOD STORAGE REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 78-723. Outdoor storage of firewood standards.

(l) No person shall store firewood in the front yard on residentially zoned property, except that firewood may be temporarily stored in the front yard for a period of 30 days from the date of its delivery.

(2) Firewood should be neatly stacked and may not be stacked closer than two feet to any lot line and not higher than six feet from grade, except adjacent to a fence where firewood can be stacked against the fence as high as the fence.

Fences as used in this section shall not include hedges and other vegetation.

(3) All brush, debris and refuse from processing of firewood shall be promptly and properly disposed of and shall not be allowed to remain on the premises.

(4) Woodpiles that contain diseased wood that is capable of transmitting disease to healthy trees and woodpiles that harbor or are infested or inhabited by rats or other vermin are public nuisances and may be abated pursuant to the provisions of this Code of Ordinances.

(5) Not more than 20 percent of the side and rear yard may be used for storage of firewood at any one time.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING OUTDOOR FIREWOOD STORAGE PLEASE CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT 608-646-0421.

TREE & SHRUBBERY TRIMMING ON PRIVATE PROPERTY:

Fall is a good time to trim any low hanging tree branches or overgrowth of shrubs that are in the public sidewalk or street right-of-way.

• Trees and shrubs may become a safety hazard if allowed to grow into the public sidewalk or street areas.

• Trees and shrubs can cause vision issues between pedestrians and traffic.

By City Ordinance, tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 9 feet above a public sidewalk, and shrubbery/plantings are not allowed to encroach into the sidewalk area. Additionally, tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 14 feet above a public street.

If you are planning on doing some trimming, check with the Stoughton Public Works department for the best time to trim trees and shrubs. Some species require trimming at certain times of the year, and the Public Works department has a schedule for brush collection throughout the year. Check their website for more information at: www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/publicworks and look under services or call 608-873-6303. Notify the Public Works Department for issues with plantings within the terrace, parkrow or any City owned properties.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AT 608-646-0421.

Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week is Back WI Salt Wise Partnership Educates Public on the Growing Costs of Road Salt Pollution

The Wisconsin Salt Wise Partnership gears up to spotlight the threats that road salt poses to our rivers, lakes and drinking water. All the salt that we apply to pavement ends up in our water, making our freshwater less and less fresh each year. Just a teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes five gallons of water.

Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week

Monday, January 23rd to Friday, January 27th Daily livestreams 12:30-1pm

Featuring five speakers over five days, daily livestreams will address the environmental toll of deicers, salts in our drinking water, actions the Wisconsin DNR is planning, and how residents can get involved. Online registration: www.wisaltwise.com.

Using more salt than is necessary doesn’t actually make our roads or sidewalks safer. Excess salt does prematurely age infrastructure and damage freshwater resources. Municipalities across the state are dialing in salt use through improved mechanical removal, calibration, and the precision application of deicers. By focusing on first removing as much snow as possible and then right-sizing salt use when necessary, residents and businesses can cut down how much we spend on salt, protect our freshwater lakes and rivers, and keep pavements safe.

City of Stoughton, a member of the WI Salt Wise Partnership.

Rethink Salt Use This Winter

THE CITY OF STOUGHTON CELEBRATES WI SALT AWARENESS WEEK.

Salt is a pollutant that degrades infrastructure, soils, and our freshwater.

The City of Stoughton, WI, All the salt that we apply to roads and sidewalks ends up in our freshwater. Salt can be an effective deicer, but more isn’t always better. Salt prematurely age’s roads and bridges and degrades freshwater lakes and streams. The City of Stoughton is working this winter to implement the following smart salting practices calibrating equipment, incorporating the use of salt brine and educating operators to avoid the overapplication of salt.

Like the City of Stoughton, dozens of Wisconsin municipalities are striving to improve the winter maintenance programs and slow down the salting of our lakes, streams, and drinking water. Many citizens, however, are not aware of the issue. It’s for this reason that the Wisconsin Salt Wise Partnership, a coalition of organizations across the state working together to reduce salt pollution in our lakes, streams and drinking water, is hosting “Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week” from Monday, January 23rd Friday, January 27th.

Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week aims to educate citizens on the issue of salt pollution: how salt impacts freshwater ecosystems, the role of water softening, ideas for teaching kids about salt pollution, and other ways to get involved. Speakers will stream live over YouTube from 12:30-1PM Monday through Friday to share their knowledge and field questions.

Speakers include Sujay Kaushal (University of Maryland), Charlie Paradis (University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee), Allison Couture (UW Health), Shannon Haydin (Wisconsin DNR), and Allison Madison (WI Salt Wise). To tune in starting Monday, January 23rd at 12:30PM, check out the WI Salt Wise YouTube channel or register at https://www.wisaltwise.com.

Every year Wisconsin uses over half a million tons of road salt to deice our roads, and every year thousands of residents use road salt to deice their sidewalks and driveways. Why? It is simple. Road salt is effective at melting ice. But after salt does its job, it doesn’t go away.

Every ounce of salt we put on the ground stays in the environment, and our rampant and unregulated use of salt has major consequences:

1. Road salt is polluting our drinking water. Municipal drinking water and private wells across the state are exhibiting elevated levels of sodium and chloride. Unchecked, this will become dangerous for human health.

2. Road salt is polluting our rivers and lakes. High salt concentrations are bad for native freshwater species, create habitat for invasive species, and are linked to harmful algal blooms. Just 1 teaspoon of salt is enough to pollute 5 gallons of water.

3. Road salt destroys infrastructure. The corrosion and rust from road salt costs the state millions of dollars in the premature aging of roads and bridges.

4. Road salt is expensive. The state of Wisconsin spends over $40 million a year on material costs. With no salt mines in Wisconsin, all of that money is leaving the state.

5. It hurts your furry friends!

What is the solution? Use less salt!

Wisconsin DOT and municipalities across the state are taking steps to maximize mechanical removal and calibrate equipment to enable precision applications of salt. Additionally, the incorporation of liquid brine before - and in conjunction with - rock salt has been shown to reduce total salt use by 25-50% with no reduction in level of service. This switch will have significant economic and environmental impacts.

Homeowners: Rethink your need for salt. Shovel and use an ice scraper. Put down outdoor carpet to make stairs safer. Use sand for traction. If you decide to use salt, scatter it so that there is space between the grains. One coffee mug of salt is enough to treat a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares. If you hire a professional, talk with them about their salt use. Your neighbors and future generations thank you!

For more information on salt use (both outside and in your water softener) visit: https://www.wisaltwise.com

Around the Clock Winter 2022-23

Your resource for saving energy & money

Online E-Bi ing and E-Pay

Go green, go paperless!

How would you like to never again open your mailbox to receive your Stoughton Utilities statement, or to never have to write another check to pay your bill? You can make this happen, simply by enrolling in paperless E-Billing, making your payments online using My Account, or enrolling in our Auto-Pay program.

These choices are 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, including access 24 hours a day to view past bills, payment activity, and flexible payment options. Going paperless also keeps you in control of the security of your personal information, as well as reduces your impact on the environment. By enrolling in Auto-pay, the billed amount due will be deducted each month on the due date from your checking or savings account, or charged to your credit or debit card.

Log in to My Account Online at stoughtonutilities.com to go paperless today.

In addition to payments and E-Billing, My Account allows you to manage other payment and billing options, including Budget Billing, RoundUP, and renewable energy. You can also 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.

Is it Flushable?

What we put down our drains and toilets can negatively impact the environment and our wastewater system. Even items labeled as “flushable” can clog pipes, tangle pumps, and result in messy and costly sewer backups into homes and businesses. Help us avoid unnecessary maintenance and prevent sewer backups by not putting any product other than toilet paper in toilets or down drains.

Please do not flush any of the following products down toilets, or put them down the drain: • “Flushable” wipes • Disinfectant wipes

Holiday Season O ice Hours

The Stoughton Utilities office will be closed to walk-in and telephone customers during the upcoming holiday season on the holidays or observed holidays when they fall on a weekend. Office hours are as follows. Christmas Eve, Friday, December 23: Closed Christmas Day, Monday, December 26: Closed New Year’s Day, Monday, January 2: Closed

In case of an electric, water, or wastewater emergency, please contact our after-hours call center at (608) 873-9322 at any time 24/7 to have our on-call staff dispatched.

You can still view and pay your utility bill online, as well as review and compare your energy and water consumption, by logging in to My Account. To make a payment by phone, please call us at (608) 873-3379 during normal business hours.

You can also drop off check payments using our night deposit box which is located near the curb at 600 S. Fourth St., in front of the Stoughton Utilities building. Please be sure to include your payment stub (located on your bill).

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Holiday Dona on Drive a Su e

From November 21 through December 2, Stoughton Utilities collected donations of non-perishable food items for local food pantries. Customers making donations were given a free string of LED holiday lights and an energy efficient gift. Customers were also entered into a drawing to win utility bill credits, smart thermostats, and energy efficient home products.

This year, the program distributed 180 strands of new energy efficient LED holiday lights, and collected 1,782 pounds of non-perishable food that was donated to the Stoughton Food Pantry. Stoughton Utilities also donated an additional $400 from its Community Contributions fund to the City of Stoughton Food Pantry, $300 to the United Methodist Food Pantry, and $300 to the Stoughton Personal Essentials Pantry.

Thank you to everyone in our community who helped make this event a success once again!

Around the Clock Winter 2022-23

Celebrate the Holidays Safely

Keep your family safe during the holidays by keeping electrical safety in mind and by following these simple safety tips...

Outdoor Lighting

• If your outdoor decorating requires a ladder, always look up first before raising it. Don't raise ladders or other extended objects into or near power lines.

• Planning to string lights in outdoor trees? Make sure tree limbs haven't grown into or near electric lines. Branches and even entire trees can become energized if they contact the line.

• Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples, not nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove them.

• Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.

• Don't overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.

• Don't staple or nail through light strings or electrical/extension cords-you could damage the wire or insulation, which could lead to an electrical shock or fire.

Indoor Lighting

• Check all tree lights - even if you've just purchased them - before hanging them on your tree. Make sure all the bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections.

• Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.

• Inside your home route cords so they won't trip anyone. Additionally, don't place them under rugs, appliances or other objects, as they may overheat if covered or become worn and cause a fire.

Trimming the Tree

• Whether artificial or freshly cut, a tree should be kept a safe distance away from all sources of heat, including fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters.

• When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant."

• Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood. This allows for better water absorption and will help to keep your tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Be sure to keep the stand filled with water, because heated rooms can dry live trees out rapidly.

• Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.

• It is important to turn off all electrical light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

• For both inside and outside lighting projects, follow the rule of using no more than three sets of lights on a single extension cord to prevent overheating and reduce the chance of fire.

• Follow the use and care instructions that accompany your electrical decorations.

Stoughton Utilities wishes you and your family a healthy, happy, and safe holiday season!

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.

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.

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

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

Around the Clock Winter 2022-23

L k for Air Leaks, and Stay Warm

You tell your kids they’re heating 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. Your heated indoor air could be leaking out of your house through the tiny cracks and holes around phone lines, electrical outlets, plumbing pipes, and around windows and doors.

Now that the warm weather of summer and autumn is giving way to the cooler temperatures and harsh winds of winter, it’s important to prepare your home for the change in seasons. Finding and sealing the air leaks that create drafty cold spots in your home is a simple home maintenance chore that can potentially save you 5% to 30% in heating costs over the winter.

Take a walk around the outside of your house and you may see little gaps where the inside light shines through around window frames, wall-mounted air conditioners, exhaust vents and more. To find the cracks and holes too small to see, close all your windows and doors, turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, and then hold a smoke stick or lit incense stick near each door, window, and exterior wall outlet. If the smoke rises undisturbed, then you are leak free, but if the rising smoke is noticeably disturbed, then you have a small hole or crack to fill.

Once you find the locations where cold air is leaking in, seal them with caulk or weather stripping to keep your warm air indoors where it belongs.

K p Your re Hydrants Clear

Help protect your home and neighborhood by clearing around fire hydrants after every snowfall. Snow accumulation is the result of plowing and snow clearing, and can completely cover or restrict access to fire hydrants. Although we haven't yet had much snow, it'll come eventually -- after all, it is Wisconsin. When the snow does start to fall, cold temperatures can limit melting, which may result in snow-covered hydrants throughout the city. Hydrants covered in snow means a slower response time when responding to and extinguishing fires. This can result in catastrophic consequences if firefighters have to spend time locating a buried hydrant and/or clearing snow away from it, especially if the snow is heavily compacted from snow plowing and frigid temperatures. Keep in mind that firefighters need to access the sides of the hydrant, not just the top. A hydrant covered in snow like the one pictured is not usable and will require the firefighters to dig it out, which wastes valuable time when responding to a fire.

What should you do?

If you have a fire hydrant in front of or adjacent to your home or business, please clear all the snow at least three feet around it on all sides after every snowfall. Make sure that the hydrant is easily visible from the road, and that there is enough room for firefighters to maneuver around it to easily connect fire hoses to it. The more often the snow is cleared, and the sooner it is cleared after a fresh snow, the easier it is.

Adopt A Hydrant

Remember, it's the entire neighborhood's responsibility to keep their hydrants clear, since all properties benefit from the protection they provide. If there is a hydrant in your neighborhood that isn't being cleared by the homeowner, or if you know of an elderly or disabled homeowner that struggles to clear snow, then "adopt a hydrant" and make it part of your shoveling and snow clearing routine. It will only take a few extra minutes, and is a quick and easy way to help the Stoughton Fire Department help you and your neighbors should a fire ever occur.

Around the Clock Winter 2022-23

Winter U lity Bi s

With winter rapidly approaching, Stoughton Utilities would like to remind our customers of the importance of paying their monthly utility bills during the winter months. Each month, Stoughton Utilities has to pay our wholesale power provider for the electricity that we distribute to Stoughton homes and businesses, even if those customers don’t pay us. Unpaid bills contribute to increased utility rates for all customers.

Making an effort to keep your account balance under control during the winter months is very important. Here are some tips to help keep your winter electric costs manageable:

• If you are finding it difficult to make the monthly payment, please keep in mind that even partial payments will help keep your balance from growing out of control. Try to pay as much of your bill as you can each month. You can also make weekly payments to keep the payment amounts manageable. Paying online is quick and easy using My Account.

• We can work with you to establish a deferred payment agreement to address your balance. These agreements require a down payment, and then regular installment payments until the balance is paid.

• Please continue reading below to obtain contact information for winter Energy Assistance. Eligible customers will receive a one-time benefit to help cover their winter electrical expenses.

• Contact us to enroll in our Budget Billing program to avoid bill fluctuations and have a predictable monthly bill. With this program, your utility bill is a fixed amount each month, with a payment amount equal to the average of your monthly charges. The amount will be reviewed and adjusted twice a year to be sure that the monthly payment stays similar to your monthly usage. You can find out what your Budget Billing amount would be, and easily enroll or cancel by logging in to My Account online, or by giving us a call.

• Consider enrolling in AutoPay and having your monthly bill automatically deducted each month. Enrollment is simple, and can be done online by logging in to My Account.

Failing to keep up with your account during the winter months can have serious repercussions, potentially including one or more of the following:

• By not paying during the winter, you will inevitably find yourself with a very large balance due in the spring. If the average customer with a $150 monthly bill goes all winter without paying, they will owe over $1,000 in April, and that balance may be required to be paid in full or result in a disconnection of service.

• Failure to pay your winter bills may cause Stoughton Utilities to require a mandatory security deposit to be posted on your account. The deposit required for customers who do not pay during the winter will be the total of the four highest consecutive month’s bills during the last 12 months of service. Using the average $150 monthly bill, you may be required to pay a security deposit of $600 in April, and that’s in addition to your full past-due balance.

• Stoughton Utilities may choose to take you to small claims court for any delinquent balance, where we may seek damages of up to three times the unpaid balance.

• Stoughton Utilities may submit your account to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) for collections through the State Debt Collection Initiative. The DOR will attempt to deduct payment from your state tax refund, garnish your wages, or place a bank levy on the funds in your checking or savings account. In addition, the DOR will charge an additional fee of 15% of the unpaid balance.

If you have questions about your bill, would like to sign up for our Budget Billing program, or need to establish a deferred payment arrangement for your delinquent balance, please give us a call at (608) 873-3379.

Wisconsin Home Energy A istance Program

As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you may be eligible for the State of Wisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). This program was established to help members of our state with limited financial resources to cover their winter energy costs, including both electricity and natural gas or other heating fuels.

WHEAP electric (non-heating) assistance is a one-time benefit payment during the heating season of October 1-May 15. The funding pays a portion of the household’s costs, but the payment is not intended to cover the entire cost of the non-heating costs, and will not cover any part of your water or wastewater charges.

The amount of the non-heating assistance benefit varies depending on a variety of factors, including the household’s size, income, and non-heating costs. In most cases, the non-heating assistance benefit is paid directly to Stoughton Utilities, and is applied to future bills to reduce the required monthly payment.

If you live in a dwelling that is heated using electricity instead of gas or oil, then you are may also be eligible for WHEAP heating assistance. This is an additional one-time payment during the heating season that pays a portion of your heating costs.

Under the eligibility requirements, customers at or below 60 percent of the state’s median income may qualify for WHEAP assistance, including:

• A single person with an annual income below $32,103 per year;

• A couple without children with an annual income below $41,981;

• A family of three with an annual income below $51,859;

• A family of four with an income of up to $61,738;

• Guidelines for additional household sizes can be found online at www.stoughtonutilities.com.

If you are approved for energy assistance through WHEAP, you will receive bill payment assistance for both your Alliant Energy natural gas bill (or other heating provider), as well as your Stoughton Utilities electric bill.

To apply for energy assistance, please visit energybenefit.wi.gov, or contact Energy Services Inc. at

Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

304 South Fourth Str t, Stoughton, WI 53589 • 608.873.6281

StoughtonPublicLibrary.org • Open Monday - Thursday 9am - 8pm • Friday 9am - 6pm • Saturday 9am - 5pm • Sundays 1pm - 5pm

New programs and events are being added all the time! For the most up-to-date information, visit our online calendar at https://www.stolib.org/calendar/month

2023 Winter Reading Program!

January 3 through January 31

Introducing our new 2023 Winter Reading Program for all ages! Starting January 3, kids can stop by the Children’s desk to pick up a reading challenge Bingo card. Teens and adults can pick up a reading log at the 2nd floor information desk. Just like in summer, you can enter to win great prizes simply by reading at home!

Writing Critique Group

Second Saturday of each month, 10-11 AM, at the Library Are you a writer looking to connect with your local community and receive constructive criticism to improve your work? Join our writing critique group on the second Saturday morning of each month. Writers may bring a 6-page (12 pt, double-spaced) sample to share. No registration required. If you’d like to receive an email reminder about the group please email us at storef@stolib.org

Yoga Sundays

Jan 8, Feb 5, Mar 5, Apr 2 & May 7 - 10am - Stoughton Yoga, 101 Silverado Dr. In partnership with the library, Stoughton Yoga is offering free all-levels flow yoga classes for ages 16 and up. Detailed instructions make these classes accessible to all. Space is limited and registration for each class is required. Please email storef@stolib.org or call 608-873-6281 to register.

Virtual Author Talk: Namina Forna’s The Gilded Ones series

Thursday, January 12, 1 PM

Join us for an action-packed conversation with New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Ones Series in a discussion about her second installment in the series, The Merciless Ones. During her village’s Blood Ceremony, 16-year-old Deka’s blood runs gold, the color of impurity–and she knows she will face a consequence worse than death. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/21723

Teen Theater Games

Thursday, January 12, 4-5:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Improv & other theater games geared for ages 11-16. No registration required.

Decluttering to Start Your New Year: Virtual Author Talk w/ Dana K. White

Tuesday, January 17, 1 PM

Ge ing a Library Card

There is no charge for a library card – just provide a picture ID with proof of current address. If your ID does not list your current address, please provide 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.

Now you can apply for a library card online! Go to stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/get-library-card, complete our secure online form and we’ll let you know when your card is ready to pick up. Inquiries about library cards can be emailed to storef@stolib.org

For more information, visit us online at www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org, on Facebook and Instagram, or call our information desk at 873-6281.

Library Features

Start your New Year calm and collected by learning to become better organized and clutter-free with Dana K. White as she imparts tips from her books Organizing for the Rest of Us and Decluttering at the Speed of Life. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/21930

Libby eBook and Audiobook Basics

Friday, January 27, 10 AM, in the Carnegie Room

Do you want to try downloadable eBooks and audiobooks, but don’t know where to start? Bring your smartphone, tablet, and/or laptop to the library and receive Libby and Overdrive training on the device you plan to use. By the end of the class, you’ll know how to search, place holds, and access books on your device!

xkcd Webcomic and What if? Series Creator : Virtual Author Talk with Randall Munroe

Tuesday, January 31, 1 PM

Join us for an online conversation filled with bonkers science, boundless curiosity, and the answers to the weirdest questions you never thought to ask with author Randall Munroe as he talks about his newest book What If? 2: Additional Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/22137

Genealogy Basics

Tuesday, January 31, 6:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Are you interested in exploring your family history but aren’t sure where to start? Learn about genealogy best practices and reliable sources for beginners who are just diving into their family’s past. Dana Kelly of the Norwegian American Genealogical Center will lead this program and answer your questions. Bring your own laptop or tablet if you like. The library will have a limited number of laptops for use as well. A follow-up session about Norwegian Genealogy will be held on March 8.

Introduction to Norwegian Genealogy

Wednesday, March 8, 6:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

We will take a look at what makes Norwegian genealogy different from other ethnic groups, such as Norwegian naming traditions and how the Norwegian Lutheran church created research records. Dana Kelly of the Norwegian American Genealogical Center will lead this program and answer your questions. Bring your own laptop or tablet if you like. The library will have a limited number of laptops for use as well.

Story mes & Kids Ac vi es

Story Times Twice a Week!

Mondays and Thursdays, January 9 – March 23, 9:30 AM, in the Carnegie Room

Story time will continue INDOORS this winter! Join us on Monday and/or Thursday mornings for stories, songs, activities, and a simple craft. No registration required. Recommended for ages 2-6, but older and younger children are more than welcome!

Baby Story Time Tuesdays

January 10 - March 21, 9:30 AM, in the Carnegie Room

Join us for rhymes, fingerplays, songs and stories and activities! Ages 0-2.

Indoor Play Time

Fridays, January 6 & 20, February 3 &17, March 3 & 17, 9:30-11 AM

Drop in to the lower-level Carnegie Room for open playtime and to make new friends! Geared to ages 0-5.

Graphic Novel Book Club - Yummy: A History of Desserts

Tuesday, January 3, 3:45 PM (Future meetings on Feb 7, Mar 7, Apr 4 & May 2)

Join us in the library’s Carnegie Room to discuss a graphic novel and do a related activity. Books will be available a month before we meet. Geared to Ages 6-11

Stoughton Teen Advisory Board (STAB)

Thurs, January 5, 4-5:30 PM (Future meetings on Feb 2, Mar 2 & Apr 6)

Would you like to help plan and present teen library events? Join the Stoughton Teen Advisory Board, a super fun group of teens who love to laugh and get creative! Ages 11-16. No registration required.

Open Gaming

Thursday, January 19 & February 23, 4-5:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Hang out and play some video games and tabletop games. Eat snacks, have fun! Ages 8-16. No registration required.

Crafty Kids: Paper Lanterns

Wednesday, January 25, 3:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Drop in to decorate a paper lantern. Ages 6-10

Pokemon Club

Wednesdays, January 11, February 8, March 8, and April 12, 3:30 PM

Join fellow Pokémon fanatics in the library’s Carnegie Room for Pokémon related activities and meet-up. Ages 6-11.

Hour of Code with Minecraft

Tuesday, January 31, 3:45-4:45pm

Code your way through a Minecraft Adventure! Beginners welcome. Participants are welcome to bring their own tablets. The library will provide laptops. Ages 8-10.

Teen Valentine’s Day

Tuesday, February 14, 4-5:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Help us celebrate Valentine’s Day at the library with snacks and actvities! Ages 11-16. No registration required.

Checkout our new mural in the 1st floor Children’s Area! Artist Emily Balsley has created an amazing woodland-themed mural on the west wall of our Children’s Area. Stop by and check it out the next time you’re in the library!

B k Discu ion Groups

Our three monthly book discussion groups have resumed in-person meetings! As the weather warms, we may occasionally hold book discussions outdoors in some of the beautiful parks our city has to offer. Depending on local case rates, masks may be required at indoor discussions. For details on meeting locations and book selections, please check our events calendar at stolib.org/calendar/month

Page Turners – This group reads a variety of general interest titles both nonfiction and fiction. It usually meets the 4th Tuesday or Wednesday of the month at the library and the Stoughton Senior Center. Please see the library’s online calendar for more details.

The Foundation – 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 PM

Thursdays With Murder is the Library’s mystery and crime fiction book discussion group. Now in its eighth year, the group reads mostly crime and murder mystery novels, but also dabbles in short stories and true crime. Meetings are the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 PM, with no meeting in December.

Crafty Kids: DIY Journals

Wednesday, February 22, 3:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Make a DIY notebook for journaling or doodling! Ages 6-10.

Crafty Kids: Stuffed Bunnies

Wednesday, March 22, 3:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Make an adorable no-sew stuffed bunny out of a sock! Ages 6-10.

Crafty Kids: Candy Sushi, in the Carnegie Room

Wednesday, April 26, 3:30 PM

Make mini-sushi creations from your favorite candies! Ages 6-10.

A i onal Library Services

Streaming Video from Kanopy

Introducing Kanopy: a video streaming service available to all Stoughton Public Library cardholders. Stream over 30,000 films instantly. No holds lists, no waiting. All you need is a your library card. Hit movies, classics, award winners, world cinema, indies, documentaries, and more! Plus Kanopy Kids and lectures in the Great Courses™ series.

For more information on how Kanopy works and how to create an account, visit stolib.org/kanopy

Libby

The Digital Library is always open! Download the free Libby app on your phone or mobile device to start downloading eBooks and audio books from the Wisconsin Public Library Consortium’s Collection. You can also browse the collection of nearly 100,000 downloadable eBooks and audio books at wplc.overdrive.com.

Users of Libby also have access to thousands of magazine titles! Click or tap on the Collections option at the top of the screen to browse periodicals in over a dozen categories.

Titles include: Better Homes & Gardens, Bon Appétit, Clean Eating, Cook’s Illustrated, The Economist, Harper’s, HGTV Magazine, House Beautiful, In Touch Weekly, The New Yorker, Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Rolling Stone, Us Weekly, Vogue and more!

If you need help obtaining or renewing a library card to use Libby, please call the library’s information desk at 608-873-6281 or email storef@stolib.org

Access any of the following resources by visiting stolib.org/resources. Many of these sites require you to enter a valid Stoughton Public Library card number.

Library cardholders have full subscriber access to thousands of product reviews and buying guides through ConsumerReports.org.

Find detailed auto repair information for almost any make and model car, foreign and domestic, 1974-present. Includes step-by-step repair service instructions as well as detailed photos and diagrams. And check out the Small Engine Repair Reference Center for service and repair info on marine/boat motors, motorcycles, outdoor power equipment, and more.

Transparent is a free online language learning resource featuring:

• Courses, grammar materials, and more in 110 languages (and growing!)

• Extensive English-as-a-second-language (ESL) materials for speakers of over 30 languages

Stream hundreds of art & craft classes for free anytime from the comfort of your home. Go to creativebug.com/lib/stoughtonlibrary and enter your library card number and PIN to get started.

• Reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities help you learn the vocabulary and skills needed to communicate effectively in a foreign language

• Age-appropriate courses for young learners with KidSpeak, an immersive, animated language-learning program in 6 languages for grades K-2 (and growing!)

Recollection Wisconsin brings together digital cultural heritage resources from Wisconsin libraries, archives, museums and historical societies and shares them with the world in partnership with the Digital Public Library of America. Hundreds of thousands of photographs, maps, letters, diaries, oral histories, artifacts and other resources from over 200 Wisconsin libraries, museums and other cultural heritage institutions.

Thanks to Recollection Wisconsin, many resources from Stoughton Public Library’s Kvamme Local History Collection are available online, including telephone directories, local histories, vertical files, and collections of newspaper clippings. Explore our library’s collection at: content.mpl.org/digital/collection/SPL

City Clerks O ice

Cand J. Christen, WCMC - Stoughton City Clerk • h ps://ci.stoughton.wi.us/clerk • 608.873.6677

2023 Dog License Available Now

NEW DOG LICENSE PROCESS

State Statutes and the City of Stoughton Ordinances require all dogs five (5) months of age or older, to be vaccinated for rabies and licensed. Licenses are valid as of January 1st and expire on December 31st of each year and need to be purchased annually. The City of Stoughton will soon be offering an online option to apply and pay for their dog license directly on the City website.

Dog owners who need to purchase a dog license simply go to dogs.cityofstoughton.com to submit an application. All applications must include a current copy of the rabies certificate, which can be easily uploaded into the owner’s account. After the application is reviewed by City staff and payment has been made, the dog license(s) are mailed to the owner.

For those who are unable to obtain a license online, the City also offers mail in, drop off, or in person options. A dog license application can be found on our website or it can be picked up at City Hall. Once the application is complete you can mail it or bring it to City Hall, or place it in the City Hall secure dropbox. All applications need to include payment and a current copy of the rabies certificate, an invoice or receipt is not as proof of a rabies vaccine.

Fees:

• Neutered or spayed dogs - $17.00

• Unaltered dogs- $21.00.

• A service fee of $1.50 will be added to all applications regardless of how they are submitted.

• $5.00 late fee will be assessed to each dog not renewed prior to April 1st each year. (Per Statutes)

• Dogs that are too young to be vaccinated by April 1st are exempt from this late fee.

When should you get a license?

New to the City/New Dog

• Within 30 days of obtaining your dog OR

• Within 30 days of moving into the city OR

• When the dog turns 5 months old and has received a rabies vaccination

Licensing and Payment Options

1. Online via Point and Pay: Click Here to Apply and Pay Online. Obtain your dog license online 24 hours a day. You will need the following items to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/receipt). A scan or clear photograph is acceptable to upload.

• Payment Online via card/echeck or you may elect to mail in/drop off payment at the City Hall.

The estimated turnaround time is immediate if paying online. You will be emailed a receipt that will provide proof of licensure/dog park access. Your documentation and dog license tag(s) will be mailed to you within 3 to 5 business days.

2. In-Person: Obtain your dog license in person at Stoughton City Hall during normal operation hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will need the following items to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/receipt)

• Payment

3. Via Mail: For your convenience, you may obtain your license via mail with the attached dog license application (PDF). You will need to mail the following items to the City of Stoughton to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/ receipt)

• Dog License Application (PDF).

• Check payable to the City of Stoughton for the correct amount Your documentation and dog license tag will be mailed back to you.

Spring Elec on - April 4th, 2023

NOTICE OF SPRING ELECTION

State of Wisconsin

April 4, 2023

Election Details

An election is to be held in the towns, villages, cities, wards, and election districts of the State of Wisconsin, on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. The following officers are to be elected:

Judicial Officers

One (1) Justice of the Supreme Court, for the term of ten (10) years, to succeed the present incumbent listed, whose term of office will expire on July 31, 2023:

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT - Patience Roggensack

One (1) Court of Appeals Judge, for the term of six (6) years, to succeed the present incumbents listed, whose terms of office will expire on July 31, 2023:

COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE DISTRICT IV

- Michael R.

Fitzpatrick

Municipal Judge

A Municipal Judge, serving more than one municipality, for a term of four years, to succeed the present incumbent listed, whose term of office will expire on April 30, 2023:

For the Village of Dane & Towns of Blooming Grove, Bristol, Burke, Sun Prairie and Westport - Dennis J. Sieg

For the Towns of Middleton and Verona - Todd E. Meurer

For the Village and Town of Oregon - Beth L. Cox

For the Villages of DeForest and Windsor - Jason J. Hanson

For the Villages of Cambridge, Deerfield and Rockdale - Rand Wind Milsap

For the Villages of Black Earth and Mazomanie - Isaiah W. Crow

District Boundaries

Information concerning multi-jurisdictional municipal judge district boundaries may be obtained from the Dane County Clerk, 210 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Rm 106, Madison, 53703.

Municipal Judge

A Municipal Judge, serving more than one municipality, for a term of four years, to succeed the present incumbent listed, whose term of office will expire on April 30, 2023:

For the Villages of Sauk Prairie and Prairie du Sac and Town of Roxbury - Rick M. Koeck

Information concerning this multi-jurisdictional municipal judge district boundary may be obtained from the Sauk County Clerk's Office, 505 Broadway, Rm. 144, Baraboo 53913.

For Candidates

The first day to circulate nomination papers is December 1, 2022, and the final day for filing nomination papers is 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 3,2023. Candidates for Justice of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals file with the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

Primary Election .

If a primary is necessary, the primary will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.

Additional Information

Acceptable Photo ID will be required to vote at this election. If you do not have a photo ID you may obtain a free ID for voting from the Division of Motor Vehicles.

DONE in the City of Madison on November 11, 2022

Megan Wolfe Administrator

Wisconsin Elections Commission 201 West Washington Avenue, 2nd Floor

P.O. Box 7984

Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7984 - 608-261-2028

City M ngs

The City of Stoughton has 36 board, Commissions and Committees that meet regularly or as needed. Official notice of the meetings can be found on the bulletin board at City Hall. Generally the meetings are also listed on the City Calendar on the City Website. Packet and Agendas can be found at StoughtonCityDocs.com

City Council, Finance Committee, Plan Commission and Committee of the Whole are carried live on Stoughton’s Community Media Channel WSTO TV (See page 5 for ways to watch) as well as posted for on-demand viewing. This is a great way to stay informed on what is happening within the City of Stoughton!

Stoughton Area Senior Center

Social & Recrea onal Ac vi es

Bridge

Tuesdays, 9:30 AM

Chess Fridays, 10:00am - Noon

Cribbage

Mondays, 1:00 PM

Euchre, cost $1 to play

2nd Friday, 1:00 PM

Handiwork Group Mondays, 1:00 PM

Mahjong Mondays, 1:00 PM

Movie

3rd Friday, 1:00 PM

Pinochle

Wednesdays, 1:00 PM

Pool Tables

Available daily, 8:00-4:30 PM

Sheepshead

Thursdays, 1:30 PM

Train Dominoes

Thursdays, 1:30 PM

Stamp Club

2nd Tuesday, 1:00 PM

Winter Highlights

Bringing Some Fun into 2023

Get your 2023 Stoughton Senior Center fundraiser calendar, with themes of famous movie scenes staring local friends and neighbors. Enjoy the fun all year long! Calendars are $25, proceeds going to the Senior Center’s annual fundraising goal.

We would like to extend a big thank you to Mary Onsager, Mary-Carel Verden and Linda Kunz for their idea, hard work and creative energy to make this project a reality. Many thanks go to the many models for their time, and willingness to join in on the fun!

Kim’s Home-Cooked Meals

Kim Whitford, the Senior Center’s Nutrition Coordinator cooks her delicious home-cooked meals on Thursdays to those aged 60 and older. Suggested donation is $4.50, pay what you can afford. Dine-in is available every Thursday at 11:30 AM; Pick-up options are available two Thursdays per month from 11 AM – noon. Dates and full menu are listed in our monthly Yahara Senior News. Call (608) 873-8585 at least one day in advance to reserve your meal.

Share Ideas and Enter to Win $25

The Stoughton Area Senior Center is up for national and state re-accreditation and could use your feedback. The Commission on Aging, SASC’s advisory committee, is working on a survey to gather information from the community. Watch upcoming newsletters for more information on the survey and how you could enter to win a $25 Walmart gift card.

Stoughton Memory Café

1st Tuesday of the month, 9:30 – 11:00 AM Stoughton Health, 900 Ridge Street, Stoughton Bryant Health Education Center

What is a Memory Café? A Memory Café is a place where individuals with memory loss and their care partners can get together in a safe, supportive and engaging environment. It is a time and place where people can interact, laugh, find support, share concerns and celebrate without feeling embarrassed and misunderstood. The Memory Café encourages friendship and acceptance. Participants share conversation in a relaxed atmosphere that can include music, art or other forms of activity.

Who should attend? Memory Cafés are designed for people with memory loss, mild cognitive impairment, early Alzheimer’s or other dementias. The Memory Café is open to anyone without a formal referral or assessment. Those with dementia or memory issues may attend unaccompanied when appropriate, or with family, friends or care partners. This group is not suitable for people with dementia to attend alone if they have specific care needs such as problems with incontinence, mobility issues that require aid, high levels of anxiety, disorientation or history of wandering.

Upcoming Topics…January 3: Pet Therapy; February 7: Drum Circle with Jim Turk If you want to give us a heads up that you're coming, if you have questions, and/or if you would like to receive a monthly email or postcard reminder of future Memory Café meetings, please call the Stoughton Senior Center at (608) 873-8585.

FREE Welcome to Medicare Seminars

What you need to know about enrolling in Medicare!

If you are turning age 64 this year, the Dane County Area Agency on Aging wants to help you make informed choices about your Medicare options! Do you understand what Medicare is and isn’t...how to avoid penalties for late enrollment in Medicare...and how to get the most out of your health and prescription benefit plans? Some decisions and actions about Medicare can take place 3-6 months before you turn 65, so don’t wait until you are turning 65 to understand all you need to know about this important benefit. Want easy to understand answers to all of these complex questions? Sign up to attend the following Free Welcome to Medicare Seminar. By attending a seminar, you’ll walk away with the accurate and detailed information you need from unbiased experts in benefit programs.

Virtual Event via Zoom: Saturday, January 14, 9-11:30 AM • Email aaa@countyofdane.com to register by 1/6/23

In-Person Event: Saturday, March 18, 9-11:30 AM • Location: TBD; Email aaa@countyofdane.com to register by 3/10/23

tne and We ne Ac vi es

Blood Pressure Screening, FREE

See our Yahara Senior News newsletter for dates.

Chair Exercise

Mon., Wed., Fri., 8:15 AM

Cost: $2/class

Line Dancing, FREE Tuesdays, 2:00 PM

Ping Pong, FREE

Mon. & Wed. 3:00 - 4:00 PM Fridays, 10:30 AM

Wii Bowling, FREE

Mondays & Fridays, 10:00 AM

Thirteen Moves Tai Chi Monday Drop-in Class

Beginners: 10:30 -11:30 AM

Advanced: 1:00 - 2:00 PM

Senior Center Yahara Room

Cost: $10/per class or 4 classes for $36.

QiGong

Fridays, 1:00 PM (no class on 1/6)

Cost: $42 6-weeks/$9 drop-in Registration required: 873-8585

Reflexology with Heidi Fromi

1st Thursday & 3rd Tuesday afternoons

Cost: $35/30 mins. Or $60/hr. Registration required: 873-8585

SomaYoga, FREE

1st Monday, 1:00 PM

Card Making Session

Friday, January 20, 1:00-2:00 PM

Events This Winter

Woodcarving Class

Thursdays, January 12 – April 20 • 8:15 AM - Noon

Learn various techniques of woodcarving in a 15-week class taught by instructor, Ada Klute. Projects based on participant choice, which could involve wood burning and painting. Flexible class times available between 8:15 AM – Noon. Cost: $150 paid to the instructor. Kits available for purchase from instructor at an additional cost. Call the Senior Center at 608-873-8585 to register.

The Gut & Parkinson’s

Monday, January 9, 12:15-1:15 PM Stoughton Health’s Community Health & Wellness Center - 3162 County Rd. B, Stoughton

Do you or someone you care for have Parkinson’s? Attend the Stoughton Parkinson’s Support Group to talk with others about common concerns and experiences. This month’s topic will be on the link between the gut and Parkinson’s. For more information about this group contact the Senior Center at 608-873-8585.

SOMA YOGA – FREE SESSION!

Monday, January 9, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Join instructor Suzanne Larson, a Yoga Alliance certified teacher with over 20 years of experience, for a free Soma Yoga session! Soma yoga uses small, prescriptive movements along with restorative breath work to help relieve stress and improve functional movement. All skills levels are welcome and props are provided if needed. Come see why those who have taken this class find it so helpful!

Coffee with the Mayor Friday, January 13, 10:00 AM

Mayor Tim Swadley of the City of Stoughton holds monthly meetings with the public at the Senior Center. In January he will host a discussion with leaders from the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, Stoughton Area School District and Stoughton Health. Join in on the discussion of the latest news.

Music with John Solis Wednesday, January 18, 1:30-2:30 PM

John has been playing guitar and singing since the age of 14 and loves sharing his gift of music with others. John plays familiar classics that everyone knows and enjoys. He has performed in a variety of venues and is a local favorite. Don’t miss out and bring a friend for a fun afternoon of music!

Hardanger Embroidery with Donna M. Olson Wednesdays, January 18 – April 26 8:15-10:15 AM or 10:15-12:15 PM

Classes are designed for beginner through experienced stitchers of this thread count Norwegian technique. Cost for the 15 week class is $50 and payment is made directly to the instructor on the first day of class. Call the Senior Center at (608) 873-8585 to register. Kits are available from the instructor for all levels for $25 - $35. Kits include fabric, thread, needles and pattern. Please register by 1/4/2023.

Movie: Elvis

Friday, January 20, 1:00 PM

The life of American music icon Elvis Presley (Austin Butler), from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950s while maintaining a complex relation ship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks).

If you enjoy creating hand-made cards, sign up today for this fun card making session. Each participant will make two Valentine’s Day cards and one greeting card. Cost is $4/person. Pay the group leader. Space is limited so reserve your spot now by calling (608) 873-8585.

NEW! Group Trivia

Wednesday, January, 25, 1:00-3:00 PM

Have you ever been accused of being a know-it-all? Well, put your skills to the test by joining in a fun round of group trivia! Group trivia is a game where teams compete to correctly answer questions on a variety of topics. You can create your own team of 3-5 players or if you don’t have a team, we will find one for you to join. Win prizes while having fun and learning a little about a lot of different topics – from history to current events. Don’t miss out on this free event! Please RSVP by calling (608) 873-8585.

Intro to Ukulele Lessons Join us on Tuesdays!

February 7, 14, 21, and 28, 1:00 – 2:30 PM - Cost: $20 Learn the basics of ukulele playing, including learning chords and strumming techniques. Taught by Yahara Strummers members. An instructional book is included with the cost of this class and you pay the instructor on the first day of class. Bring your own ukulele if you have one but a limited supply of rental ukuleles will be available. Space is limited so RSVP now by calling 608-873-8585. Starting in February, the first Thursday of the month, ukulele group will concentrate on newer ukulele players by working on 2 and 3 chord songs that are fun for all. New players, and those who love to sing along, are welcome.

BINGO!

Wednesday, February 15, 1:00 PM

Reduce Falls with Stepping On Class

Tuesdays, March 7 - April 18, 12:30 - 2:30 PM

One in four older adults has a fall each year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Wisconsin leads the nation in fall-related deaths for people age 60 and older. But the good news is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented. The Stepping On program has been researched and proven to reduce falls by 31%.

In just 7 weekly, 2-hour sessions, Stepping On gives participants strategies for avoiding falls including balance and strength exercises, home safety check suggestions, medication review, and more. Guest experts including a physical therapist and pharmacist and others visit over the course of the seven sessions providing falls prevention information and strategies for avoiding a fall. The workshop is designed specifically for people who age 60 or older and have fallen and have a fear of falling. Participants can expect to leave with more strength, better balance, and a feeling of confidence and independence. Cost: FREE To register, contact Julia at 608-873-8585.

Write Your Own Obituary

Wednesday, March 8, 1:00 PM

Want to have the last word? Then write your own obituary. Learn to highlight the little and big things that matter to YOU the most. Make sure people read what YOU think is important. Melissa Theisen and Nickie Gard from Gunderson Funeral Home will be here to talk about writing your own obituary and the last impression you would like to give to your family and community.

Rag Rug Crocheting Class

Thursday, March 9, 16, 23, 30, 9:30 – Noon

Join others in this relaxing 4-week craft class where you can create items from sheet yarn. Crochet knowledge is a plus but not necessary. For new students, the cost of the class is $20 payable to the instructor on the first day of class and this includes a starter kit – crochet hook and materials. No cost for returning students – just bring your current project, hooks and new ideas!

Music by Tom Waselchuk

Wednesday, March 15, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Tom Waselchuk has made music his profession for over 30 years. The list of the many bands he’s worked with over the years reads like a who’s who of Southern Wisconsin groups, with styles ranging from folk and bluegrass to jazz and swing. His mix of songs ranges from sing-a-longs and standards to humorous and off-beat numbers, all of which he delivers with strong voice and guitar virtuosity. Don’t miss out on this wonderful entertainer and bring a friend!

Volunt

Cla es & Ski Development

Computer/Tech Help or Coaching Sessions, FREE

Registration required: 873-8585

Hardanger Embroidery Wednesdays, begining Jan. 18

Registration required: 873-8585

Cost: $50 and kits available for additional charge

Rosemaling or Painting Social Group, FREE Wednesdays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Wood Shop, FREE Daily, must take a safety course to use

Woodcarving

Thursday mornings

Registration required: 873-8585

Cost: $50 and kits available for additional charge

Writers Group, FREE 2nd Monday, 3:15 – 4:15 PM Last Tuesday, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Yahara Strummers Ukulele Group, FREE Thursdays, 1:00 PM

Congradula ons Lt. Frisch

Welcome O icer ers

Lieutenant Patrick Frisch is retiring on December 31st, 2022 after 26 years of service.

Lieutenant Frisch has served as a Field Training Officer, Sergeant and Instructor. Pat’s knowledge and expertise will be missed.

On January 3rd, 2023, Joseph Fitters will be joining our department as a full time officer. Fitter previously was employed at the City of Brodhead Police Department.

Shop with a Cop 2022

On Saturday, December 17th, 2022, we once again conducted our annual “Shop with a Cop” where numerous children spent the morning with our staff eating breakfast, shopping for family members, gift wrapping and finally pizza. A generous donation by Steller Services makes this happen each year.

Technical Upgrades in Progre