The
Tower Times
City of Stoughton
Issue 3, Fall 2016
***NOTICE – City of Stoughton Tax Payers *** The City of Stoughton held a Public Hearing on November 1, 2016 to review the proposed 2017 City budget. A copy of the proposed budget will be available for review at City Hall and at the Stoughton Library. Tax Billing The Treasurer’s Office will send out bills by December 21st. Tax payments can be mailed using the preaddressed envelope provided to you with your tax bill, or made in person at Stoughton City Hall Deputy Treasurer’s Office. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment. First installment payments are due by January 31, 2017. Please make first installment checks payable to the City of Stoughton Treasurer. Please note, NO CASH PAYMENTS will be accepted. We are no longer able to accept cash payments for real estate and personal property tax bills. We continue to encourage taxpayers to make their payments through the mail with the return envelope provided. If a written receipt is needed, a self-addressed stamped envelope must accompany the
payment. Contact the Treasurer’s office if you have a question regarding your tax bill. Lottery Tax Credits Did you move into your home during 2016? If you owned your home on January 1, 2016 and use it as your primary residence, 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. To be eligible for a lottery tax credit this year, you must have owned and resided in your home on January 1 of the current year. This residence also must be where you live for more than six months of the year. Vacation homes, rental homes, businesses and bare land do not qualify for this credit. If you purchased your home after January 1, there are a limited number of circumstances that will allow you to receive the credit this year. The credit amount varies by year and will not be determined until the beginning of December. 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 (873-6677) or the Office of the County Treasurer (266-4151). 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. Dog Licenses Taxpayers who traditionally come to City Hall in December to purchase dog licenses will still be able to do so, although licenses may also be conveniently purchased through the mail by sending a separate check payable to the City of Stoughton, to the attention of Dog License, City Hall (381 E. Main St., Stoughton, WI 53589), along with proof of rabies vaccination (which will be returned to you) and a self addressed stamped envelope. Licenses obtained in person can be purchased in the Receptionist’s Office. The rates have remained the same for 2017: $16.00 unless the dog is spayed or neutered in which case the fee is $12.00.
2 Fall 2016
The Tower Times
Don’t Know Who to Call?
Private Property Parking Standards For Recreational Vehicles
City Hall: (608) 873-6677
• Building Complaints-Department of Planning & Development (Building Inspector) 873-7626 • Building Permits-Department of Planning & Development (Building Inspector) 873-7626 • City Licenses-City Clerk • Sidewalks-Department of Planning & Development (Assistant Planner) • Recycle Containers • Signs/Permits-Department of Planning & Development (Assistant Planner) • Taxes-Finance Department
Street Department: (608) 873-6303
• Cemeteries-Only Riverside & Wheeler Prairie • Dumpster Permits • Street Complaints • Street Lights-Downtown Page Street to Fifth Street • Street Opening Permits • *NOTE: if it involves Water or Sanitary Sewer a permit & fee from Stoughton Municipal Utilities also: 873-3379 • Street Signs • Traffic Signals • Trees-Park Row
Stoughton Municipal Utilities: (608) 873-3379 • Bulk Water Sales • Drinking Water Questions • Electric Service Applications • Sewer Backups-Stoughton Municipal Utilities (Wastewater Division) • Street Lights • Water Service Applications
Media Services Department/WSTO TV: (608) 873-7523 • Cable Channel 981 • WSTO Webstream •D VD/Duplication • Event Coverage • Media Transfers ( MiniDV, VHS, DVD, CD etc.)
Note: these standards are only for private property not for parking on public lands or anywhere in the street right-of-way.
Remaining Holiday Pick-up Schedule 2016 Thanksgiving pickup
Thursday, November 24, 2016 Collections for Thursday and Friday will be delayed by one day
Christmas pickup
Monday December 26, 2016 Routes will remain on schedule
A recreational vehicle is any of the following: motor home, camping trailer, travel trailer, boat/trailer, snowmobile/trailer, atv/trailer or similar vehicles/trailers. Parking or storage of recreational vehicles in residential, office, and business districts are permitted in the following manner:
Recreational vehicles and trailers:
(a) Parked or stored within the front yard or side yard must be on a driveway that is made of a dust-free, continual hard surface such as concrete or asphalt pavement and shall be a minimum of five feet from any property line or right-of-way line. Permeable pavement including turfstone is also allowable. For this section, the side yard shall end at the rear of the home.
*The Holiday collections may be at an earlier time of the day than normal. Please be sure to put your refuse and recycling out the (b) May be parked in the rear yard, beyond the rear of the home without night before your scheduled collection day. the need for a hard surface, subject to all other conditions. Note: corner If you have any questions, please call Johns Disposal at 888-473- lots have two fronts, one side and one rear. 4701 or email at office@johnsdisposal.com (c) Shall be owned by the resident who is occupying the property on which the vehicle is parked or stored.
Outdoor Firewood Storage Requirements
Sec. 78-723. Outdoor storage of firewood standards. (1) 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.
(d) Are permitted only for storage purposes except mobile homes and campers may be used for overnight sleeping for a maximum of 14 days in one calendar year. (e) Shall not be permanently connected to wastewater or sanitary sewer lines, or electricity except for charging of batteries. (f) Shall not be used for storage of goods, materials or equipment other than those items considered to be part of the unit or essential for its use. (g) Shall be placed a minimum of five feet from all property lines and shall not be parked within any easement. (h) The maximum number of recreational vehicles and trailers allowed outside of a building per property is three unless the property is zoned for such outdoor storage.
(3) All brush, debris and refuse from processing of firewood shall be promptly (i) A trailer with multiple recreational vehicles on it shall be considered and properly disposed of and shall not be allowed to remain on the premises. one recreational vehicle, but all recreational vehicles on the trailer shall be owned by the resident occupying the property on which trailer is (4) Woodpiles that contain diseased wood that is capable of transmitting parked. 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 (j) Individual canoes, kayaks and similar vehicles not on a trailer are exempt from these requirements. 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 If you have any questions regarding this regulation please contact the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421. storage of firewood at any one time. If you have any questions regarding this issue please contact the Planning Department at 608-646-0421.
People You Know & Trust - We Are Your Neighbors
Cress Funeral & Cremation Service is more than just a funeral home, we are people you know and trust. For generations, providing the Circle of Care, before, during and after the loss of your loved one.
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The Tower Times City of Stoughton Holiday Hours City of Stoughton Holiday Hours
Thanksgiving Hours
City offices are CLOSED Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24th and all day Friday, November 25th.
Christmas Hours
City offices will be CLOSED all day Friday, December 23rd and Monday, December 26th. The Stoughton Public Library will be OPEN on Friday, December 23rd. The Stoughton Public Library will be CLOSED on Saturday, December 24th, Sunday, December 25th and Monday, December 26th, 2016.
New Years Hours
To better serve our community, The City of Stoughton offices will be OPEN all day on Friday, December 30th, 2016. The Stoughton Public Library will be OPEN, Friday, December 30th and CLOSED on Saturday, December 31st, 2016. City offices will be CLOSED all day, Monday, January 2nd, 2017. The Stoughton Public Library will be CLOSED on Sunday, January 1st and Monday, January 2nd, 2017. If you have any questions, please call the City Hall Receptionist at 873-6677. Happy Holidays *All emergency services will observe regular hours*
Snow & 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 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 street commissioner or 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 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 street commissioner may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city clerk who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. (c) No snow or ice shall be deposited on private property without the owners consent. Violation of this provision may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day the violation continues shall constitute a separate violation.
Tree & Shrubbery Growth
Fall 2016 3
You Can Help Lakes and Streams During Winter It’s very important to continue to pick up after your pet all year long, especially during winter. If you don’t pick up pet waste right away, it can soon be encased in snow and ice, ready to be carried away with melt water when it warms up. Grassy areas that would normally allow water to soak in are frozen during winter, so they’re more like a parking lot greatly increasing the surface area from which runoff flows. So, the bacteria and nutrients found in pet waste are much more likely to make their way to the nearest storm drain. And contrary to common belief, rain and melting snow that goes into storm drains does not go to the sewage treatment plant. Rather, it goes to the nearest lake or stream. So, be sure to continue to scoop the poop this winter and do your part to help keep lakes and streams free of pet waste. For more ideas on how you can help lakes and streams near you, go to www.myfairlakes.com.
Traffic Visibility At Intersections If you own a corner lot within the city of stoughton, the following ordinance section may apply to you: Sec. 78-703. Visibility standards. (1) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to alleviate or prevent congestion of public rights-of-way so as to promote the safety and general welfare of the public by establishing minimum requirements for the provision of vehicular visibility. (2) Requirement. In order to provide a clear view of intersecting streets to motorists there shall be a triangular area of clear vision formed by the two intersecting streets and a chord connecting said centerlines, as determined by the director of planning and development. Generally, the following standards shall apply: Table 78-703: Vision Clearance Triangle Standards Right-of-Way Width
Distance from Right-of-Way Intersection
66 feet or less
10 feet
more than 66 feet
20 feet
Within said triangular area, no signs, parking spaces, structures, or earthwork in excess of 30 inches, and no vegetation, fencing, nor other such obstructions between 30 inches and eight feet in height shall be permitted which exceeds 30 inches in height above either of the centerline elevations of said two streets. * THIS REQUIREMENT ALSO APPLIES TO SNOW. Vision may be restored by: • trimming shrubs or hedges to a maximum height of 30 inches.
If you have any questions regarding this issue, contact the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421
To provide you with an anonymous, easy, secure and responsible way to properly dispose of these drugs, the Stoughton Wellness Coalition has established a permanent pharmaceutical drug dropoff box for area residents. The drop off location is outside at the Stoughton Police Department, 321 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, WI 53589, (608) 8733374
Drop-Off Procedures
Please follow these instructions for free disposal of your unwanted medications: 1. Gather all unwanted medications from where you have them stored. 2. If possible, leave all medications in their original containers. You may black out any personal information that is on the bottle. 3. Bring the medications to the secured drug collection box. 4. Questions about dropping off medications can be directed to the Stoughton Police Department. Please call: (608) 873-3374
Did You Know
64% of kids age 12 to 17 who have abused pain relievers say they got them from their friends, relatives or people they know, without their knowledge.
Over-the-counter medications
Clean Water Starts at Home: Winter Walkways Worth Their Salt?
Prescription medications and medication samples Inhalers No Sharps No Syringes
As snow season draws near, consider this: sodium chloride (NaCl) is the most common form of salt used for de-icing roads and walkways. It is used so much that it has become a water pollutant. It is very difficult and costly to remove it once it is in the water, so prevention is very important.
No Needles
Here are ways to reduce winter salt use and still have safe walking areas:
Never keep medications past their expiration date.
• Remove snow during a snowstorm instead of waiting until the end. • Think “anti-icing.” • Treat before a storm to help prevent ice buildup so less de-icer is needed. Alternatives: • Sand - for traction is safe and effective, but sweep up excess
• Do Not apply if ice has already formed, or in rainy, sleety, blowing conditions, nor if snowfall is more than 1-inch per hour.
If you are planning on doing yard care, 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.cityofstoughton.com/streets or call 608-873-6303.
Keeping unused, unwanted and expired prescription and over-thecounter drugs in your home poses a risk to you, your family and your community.
If you have any questions regarding this issue please contact the City Planning Department at 608-646-0421
Why?
By City Ordinance, tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 9 feet above a sidewalk, and shrubbery/plantings are not allowed to encroach into the sidewalk area.
Get Unwanted Meds Out... Of your homes Of our waters & landfills Of the reach of children!!
• removal of obstruction.
• Liquid magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride (all 3 work better than regular salt in colder temps), calcium magnesium acetate and potassium acetate.
• Trees and shrubs can cause a vision issue between pedestrians and traffic
Brought to you by: Stoughton Wellness Coalition
Accepted Substances
• trimming low hanging tree branches to a minimum height of 8'.
Fall is a good time to trim any low hanging tree branches or overgrowth of shrubs that are in the public sidewalk area. • Trees and shrubs may become a safety hazard if allowed to grow into pedestrian walkways
Drug Drop-Off
• Concrete may require specialized use or product Brand name alternatives are: Zero Ice Melt, Quik Joe’s Ice Melt, Ice Away, Hydro-melt, Ace Hardware’s salt mix. Too costly? • Try using sand for traction as an alternative After storms; use as little de-icer as possible: • The closest salt substitute is potassium acetate • Sand - safe for pets and children (but sweep up excess whenever possible). Remember, regular salt is not effective at temperatures -15°. Sand, liquid magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride work at colder temperatures. Agencies are actively using new methods on roads like anti-icing using liquid chemicals that lower the freeze-point and so delay the formation of ice. This requires knowing how cold the pavement will get and if it will freeze in order to determine the best time for chemical application. The chemicals then remain effective until washed away by rain, fog, or humidity. Chemicals used for anti-icing include magnesium chloride and potassium acetate. Each has different environmental impacts. Research continues for new cost-effective ways to have safe roads in winter.
No Lancets
Safe Storage and Tips
Always store medications in the original containers. Always store separately medications for family members. Never guess on how much medication to take. Read the label before you open the bottle to ensure the right dosage is taken. Never let young children take medicine by themselves. Don’t store medications in areas that are hot and humid, such as the bathroom medicine cabinet. Lock your medicine cabinet. A cabinet or a drawer with a lock on it would also work. Do talk with your children about the dangers of drug abuse!
The drug drop-box is anonymous and available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Stoughton Wellness Coalition The Stoughton Wellness Coalition was formed in 2006, through collaborative efforts of Stoughton Hospital, the Stoughton School District and the City of Stoughton. The coalition promotes a collaborative approach to personal and community wellness through health promotion, educational programming and service to the Stoughton Area Community.
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The Tower Times
Youth Activities Learn to Skate
Active Start, FUNdamentals Our Learn to Skate program has changed for this coming fall and winter. The program will follow the US Figure Skating curriculum. There will be two levels of skating to sign up for; Snowplow Sam and Basic Skills. Snowplow Sam is for children who are new to skating. Children will progress from learning to stand on their skates to learning how to do snowplow stops. Basic Skills is for children who would like to advance their skating ability. Children in Basic Skills will learn more advanced skills such as backwards stroking.
Helpful Tips
Little Viking Basketball – 2nd Grade
Junior Viking Volleyball
Gender
The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming up with Stoughton Girls Volleyball Coach Kelly Sorensen to offer volleyball instruction for girls in grades 2-8. Participants will learn proper fundamentals and techniques of volleyball. There is a major emphasis on sportsmanship, teamwork and having fun! No equipment is necessary besides gym clothes and shoes (may wear kneepads). This is a great introductory program for volleyball, as well as a way to improve current skill levels.
Each session will cover 10 classes where players will learn the basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involved and learn about basketball coaching. Participants will receive a 25 inch basketball. Weekday classes are the evening times and Saturday classes are the morning times. Days
Dates
Times
Program Code
Boys Thursdays & 1/12-2/11 6:50-7:50pm Saturdays 9:00-10:00am
1120.410
Girls Tuesdays & 1/10-2/11 6:50-7:50pm Saturdays 10:05-11:05am
1120.411
Learning to Train
Grades 4-6
Where: Yahara Gym Days & Dates: Sundays, February 19 – March 19
A limited amount of daily skate rentals are available at the Mandt Community Center (873-7528) and long-term rentals are available through Middleton Sports & Fitness (836-3931). Sign up for the first two sessions and save $15!
Gym: Yahara – Weekdays, Community Building - Saturdays
Instructors: Varsity Volleyball Coach and past/current Viking volleyball players
Fee: $45 – Residents, $53 – Non-Residents
Time: 2:00-3:30 pm
Registration Deadline: 12/27
Fee: $30 (T-shirt included)
•
Arrive a few minutes early to sign-in and put skates on.
Junior Viking Basketball – Grades 3 & 4
Registration Deadline: 2/10 or class is full
•
Wear gloves, pants, and a light jacket. The temperature in the Mandt Center is cooler than a typical gym.
•
Children are encouraged to wear a helmet. A bicycle helmet works fine.
Each session will cover 10 classes where players will learn the basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involved and learn about basketball coaching. Participants will receive a 27.5 inch basketball. Weekday classes are the evening times and Saturday classes are the morning times.
•
Times 10:45-11:30 am Days: Saturdays Dates: 1/7-2/18, No Class on 2/4 Location: Mandt Community Center
Gender
Ages: 4+
Days
Dates
Times
Program Code
Maximum Participants: 30 Code: 1170.101
Grades 7-8
Where: Tuesdays- River Bluff Gym, Sundays - Yahara Gym Dates: February 19 – March 21 Days & Times: Tuesdays 3:30-5:00 pm and Sundays from 3:45-4:45 pm Instructors: V arsity Volleyball Coach and past/current Viking volleyball players
Boys Thursdays & 1/12-2/11 6:45-7:45 pm 1120.416 Saturdays 9:00-10:00 am
Registration Deadline: 2/10 or class is full
Fee: $60 – Residents, $70 – Non-Residents Level & Program Code: Snowplow Sam – 1240.400 Basic Skills – 1240.402
Girls Thursdays & 1/12/-2/11 6:45-7:45 pm 1120.417 Saturdays 10:05-11:05 am
Code: 1170.102
Sports Sampler for Kindergartners
Gym: Girls at River Bluff on Thursdays, Boys at Community Building on Thursdays, River Bluff - Saturdays
Days: Tuesdays
For this class the children will be doing a painting of a cute Mr. or Mrs. Snowman. They will be using acrylic paint on a 16 x 20 canvas. Throughout this painting we will b e working of shading and blending along with background, middle ground and foreground. I will walk them through step by step but each child will be able to put their own personal touch on their project. These paintings turn out beautiful and will work as a wonderful holiday gift or a treasured piece to hang in your home for the winter!
Team Practice Day & Time: 12/1, 6:00-8:00 pm
Day & Date: Monday, November 28 (No School Day)
Game Dates: 12/6, 12/13, 12/20, 1/3, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/7
Time: 9:00-11:00 am
Times 6:00-9:00 pm, game times will vary
Ages: 5 to 12 year olds
Location: Sandhill Gym
Location: Stoughton Youth Center
Program Code: 1122.400
Fee: $40
Fee: $50 – Residents, $60 – Non-Residents
Program Code: 1383.302
Draft: 11/30 at 5:00 pm at the Youth Center
Minimum/Maximum Participants: 10/20
Youth & Adult Open Gym Basketball
Adult Activities
In this program kindergartners will be introduced to six different sports. The different sports could include floor hockey, indoor soccer, basketball, tennis, t-ball, and dodgeball. This is a great way for your child to sample a sport and see what they like the best.
Fee: $45 – Residents, $53 – Non-Residents Registration Deadline: 12/27
High School Recreational Basketball League
Times 9:00-9:45 sm Days: Saturdays
We are once again offering a basketball league open to all high school students except players involved on high school teams. Players will sign up individually and teams will be created through a draft process.
Dates: 1/7-2/11 Location: Yahara Gym Grades: Kindergarten Program Code: 1300.400 Fee: $30 – Resident, $38 – Non-Resident Registration Deadline: 1/4
Futsal
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 will give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in developing soccer talent in Brazil. A drop-in fee of $5 is also available. Please contact the Recreation Department if you would like to use this option as there might be changes to the classes. Place: Fox Prairie Gym Fee: $30 – Residents, $38 – Non-Residents
This is a great way to get active this summer. The cost is $2 per person. Please go to our website for an up to date open gym schedule - http://stoughtonrec.com/opengym
Deadline: One week before session starts
Mini-Volleyball
Days: Tuesdays – Grades 1-2 and 5-8, Thursdays – Grades 3-4
FUNdamentals
Max class size: 16 Program Code
Dates
Times
1-2
1131.404
1/10-2/14
6:30-7:30 pm
3-4
1131.405
1/12-2/16
6:30-7:30 pm
5-8
1131.406
1/10-2/14
7:30-8:30 pm
Grades
Little Viking Basketball – 1st Grade
Each session will cover six weeks where players will learn the basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involved and learn about basketball coaching. Participants will receive a 25 inch basketball. The classes are for this age group is for both girls and boys. Sign up for both sessions and save $10.
Mini-Volleyball is a program being offered all across the United States. The program is designed for children ages 7-9 who are interested in improving their athletic ability as well as learning basic skills and concept in volleyball. The program will focus on developing fundamental movement skills and beginning volleyball skills. The program is intended to be fun, challenging, and educational. This class will be taught by current and former Stoughton High School volleyball players.
Maximum Participants: 30
Youth Painting – Mr/Mrs Snowman
Vinyasa Yoga
Yoga generates motion without causing strain and imbalance in the body. A consistent yoga practice can quiet the mind and refresh the body, improve flexibility, strengthen and tone muscles and most importantly relive stress. Classes are taught by our certified instructor who specializes in Vinyasa style yoga. Wear loose fitting clothing, bare feet or socks. Please bring a yoga mat as they’re not provided. This class is open to anyone. The instructor is helpful in making adaptations for individuals in the class. Participants may also do a drop-in class for the dates below for $10. Times 6:15 – 7:15 pm Max/Min Participants: 20/6 Location: 2nd Floor of Youth Center
Who: Grades 2-3
Ages: 16+
Where: Yahara Gym
Session III
Days & Dates: February 19 – March 19
Days: Saturdays
Time: 12:30-1:45 pm
Dates: 1/14-2/18
Fee: $30 (T-shirt included)
Times 10:00-10:45 am
Registration Deadline: 2/10 or class is full
Gym: Yahara School
Maximum Participants: 30
Fee: $40 – Residents, $48 – Non-Residents for one session or $
Program Code: 1171.100
Day
Program Code Dates Fee (Res. /NR)
Sundays
2204.403 1/8-2/12 $30/$35
Wednesdays
2204.404 1/11-2/15 $30/$35
Wednesdays & Sundays 2204.405
Session IV Day
1/8-2/15
$50/$60
Program Code Dates Fee (Res. /NR)
Sundays
2204.406 2/19-3/26 $30/$35
Program Code: 1120.401
Wednesdays
2204.407 2/22-3/29 $30/$35
Registration Deadline: 12/30
Wednesdays & Sundays 2204.408
2/19-3/29
$50/$60
The Tower Times
Fall 2016 5
Zumba
Our Zumba classes are taught by certified instructor Heidi Schenkenberg. Heidi is constantly changing up the routine to make the class fun and fresh. Zumba takes the “work” out of workout, by mixing low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness party. Once the Latin and World rhythms take over, you’ll see why Zumba Fitness classes are often called exercise in disguise. Super effective? Check. Super fun? Check and check.
Zumba Drop-In Classes
We will be having a few drop-in classes in early March before our class sessions start. Sunday classes are from 4:00-5:00 pm and Thursday classes are from 6:10-7:00 pm. The drop-in dates are 11/10, 12/1, 12/8, and 12/15. The cost to attend is $5. Please pay and sign-in with the instructor. They are located in the second floor of the Youth Center (567 E. Main Street).
Chicago Holiday Shopping Trip
How to Reserve a Park Shelter
Join us on a trip to Chicago on our holiday shopping trip! Avoid the hassle of driving and parking in Chicago and enjoy a stress free coach bus ride. Michigan Avenue will have everything on your holiday shopping list. For more information on the stores and restaurants on Michigan Avenue visit http://www.themagnificentmile.com/.
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. Shelters are reserved on a first come, first served basis starting the first business day of 2017.
Who: Adults (children may go, but must be accompanied by an adult) Date: December 10 Day: Saturday Pick-up/Drop-off Time: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Zumba Class Sessions
Location: 2nd Floor of the Youth Center
Pick-up/Drop-off Location: City Hall
Who: Ages 16+
Program Code: 3260.400
Min/Max Participants: 10/25
Min. Registrations: 25
Times Thursdays – 6:10-7:00 pm, Sundays – 4:00-5:00 pm
Fee: $40
Fee: $25 – Residents, $30 – Non-Residents Thursday Sessions
Dates
Program Code
Session 2
12/15-1/19
2211.400
Session 3
1/26-3/2
2211.402
Session 4
3/16-4/20
2211.404
Dates
Program Code
Session 2
1/8-2/12
2211.401
Session 3
2/19-4/2, No Class 3/5
2211.403
Sunday Sessions
Stoughton Parks & Recreation 381 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 608-873-6746 • www.stoughtonrec.com
Lowell Park Community Garden 2017 will be our fifth year of having a community garden at Lowell Park. Gardening is a great family recreation activity and promotes a healthy lifestyle. The plots at our community garden are 15 feet by 20 feet and they are $35 apiece. Garden rules and applications are available on our website, www.stoughtonrec.com, under park information. Please call or stop by our office for more information.
Go to our website, www.cityofstoughton.com/rec for winter sports and activities!
City of Stoughton - Department of Public Works
Garbage and Recycling Cart Placement
Shoveling Snow
Christmas Tree Pick-Up
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:
Christmas tree pick-up begins the week of January 9th and will conclude the week of January 23rd. Please have your tree out Monday at 6:30 am during the weeks of scheduled collection. Please make sure all ornaments, lights, tree stands and tree bags are removed.
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 responsibility of the homeowner to replace.
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Stretch and warm up your muscles and joints before shoveling.
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Use a good shovel that is the right size. A shovel that is too short or too long may cause overextension.
Driving on Snow Covered or Icy Roads
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Push snow instead of lifting. If you must lift a loaded shovel, use your legs. Consider taking smaller scoops to avoid heavy lifting.
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When travel is not necessary, Stay Home!
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Take breaks to avoid overexertion.
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If travel is necessary, give yourself extra time as traffic will be moving slower than normal when there is snow and icy road conditions.
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Be especially cautious if you are at risk due to heart disease.
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Do not push snow into the street.
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Stay back a safe distance from plow trucks and do not pass them.
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Clear snow around fire hydrants and sidewalk ramps.
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Clean off windows and scrape windows and mirrors to make sure you can see. Use the defroster to keep windows clean.
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Salt sidewalks and driveways as needed. A little goes a long ways.
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Turn your lights on. Be visible.
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Take extra care when driving on bridges and overpasses, which can freeze before other road surfaces.
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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.
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SLOW DOWN!
Winter Preparedness Love it or hate it, winter is on our doorstep. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the impending snow season:
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. 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 mid-night 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”.
When ice and snow are present on roadways, follow these safety tips to ensure your safety:
For more information, please visit the city webpage at www.cityofstoughton.com
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Norwegian Heritage The The Norwegian Heritage Center isfor the whole family! Center is for the whole family! addition In addition tohundredsIn of artifacts and vintagetoimages, hundreds of artifacts and vintage images, westorybooks havewith we have exciting interactive kiosksand exciting interactive kiosks short accounts of Norwegian Immigrants and storybooks withwhosettled short in accounts of Norwegian the Stoughton area. We havewho a “Mapsettled Wall’ where you Immigrants incan the Stoughton area. We build a sample auditorium have a immigrant “Mapjourney. Wall’Ourwhere you can build a sample offersa large selection ofjourney. videos.Please Our call usat immigrant auditorium offers a large 608-873-7567 formoreofinformation or visitour website: selection videos. Please call us atwww.livsreise.org 608-873-7567 for more information or visit our website: www.livsreise.org
6 Fall 2016
The Tower Times “The Immortal Irishman: The Irish Revolutionary Who Became an American Hero” by Timothy Egan
Stoughton Public Library: Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!
Open Sundays This Fall Thanks to your support, the Stoughton Public Library will continue its Sunday hours through December 18. Hours will be 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you like Sunday hours at the Library, please visit on Sundays and fill out a comment card to let us know. See you (Sundays) at the Library!
Sunday Music on the Mezz Drop by Sunday, December 18 for an afternoon of music by members of the Madison Classical Guitar Society. The concert begins at 2:00 p.m. and refreshments will be served.
Art in the Library Thank you to Martin & Carolyn Dargevics for recently sharing their art at the Library! If you have hangable artwork that you would like to share for a month or two at the Library, please visit our website www.stolib.org. Look on the first page under Popular Forms for “Art Display Guidelines and Forms.” Coming up in December will be artwork from students from Stoughton High School.
Victorian Weekend at the Library Join us Saturday, December 3 starting at 9:45 a.m. for a visit by the Stoughton High School Madrigal Singers. High school wind groups will be also performing between 10:30 and noon.
Winter Book Sale The Friends of the Stoughton Public Library will hold their winter book sale Thursday – Friday, December 1-3. Sale hours are Thursday 6-9, Friday 9-5, and Saturday 9-noon. There will be a special preview sale for Friends members only on Thursday, December 1 from 3-6. Not a member? You can join at the door. See you at the sale! (See below for more Friends information.)
Here is the story of Thomas Francis Meagher who led a failed uprising against the British in 1840s Ireland. He was sentenced to the Tasmanian prison colony, escaped after six months, went to New York City, became a hero for the Irish in America, and eventually settled in Montana becoming its territorial governor. If tales of Irish history and great events move you, try reading “The Greatest Brigade: How the Irish Brigade Cleared the Way to Victory in the American Civil War” by Thomas Craughwell.
“The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World” by Peter Wohlleben
Trees talk to each other, look out for each other, and tree parents raise their children. Let the trees in this book speak to you and you will know them in new unimaginable ways. If this book moves you to concern for the trees near you, take a look at “Remarkable Trees of the World” by Thomas Pakenham.
“Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis” by J. E. Vance
This book tells of growing up in a poor rust belt town, the struggles of America’s white working class, and the loss of the American dream for a large segment of our country. If this book raises concerns for you, see what you think of “Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America” by Barbara Ehrenreich.
“Killing the Rising Sun: How America Vanquished World War II Japan” by Bill O’Reilly
Here is the newest book in the collection of O’Reilly’s readable histories and moving accounts of significant historical events. If this book moves you, try reading (or reading again) “The Greatest Generation” by Tom Brokaw.
“Mockingbird: A Portrait of Harper Lee, from Scout to ‘Go Set a Watchman’” by Charles J. Shields
Most of us have read “To Kill a Mockingbird.” After all, it was the 20th century’s most widely read American novel. Originally published in 2006, this revised biography finishes the story of Harper Lee’s life and includes insights into her keenly anticipated “Go Set a Watchman.”
Friends of the Library Thank you to everyone who made the Friends’ Fall Fundraiser on October 15 a success! 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 its facilities, materials and services. The Library relies on money raised by various Friends events to supplement the library 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 classic books and DVDs, and provide more magazine subscriptions for the collection. These are just a few of the ways the Friends benefit the library.
Free Library Cards! Visit the Stoughton Public Library, 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. And Sundays 1-5. There is no charge for a library card – just bring in picture identification 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, lease agreement, etc…. Parents must sign the registration form for children under age 18. Your library card can be used in any public library in Adams, Columbia, Dane, Green, Portage, Sauk, or Wood counties, all members of the South Central Library System, and materials may be returned to any library. Call the Library at 873-6281 or visit online at www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org and on Facebook.
Library Events (Check the Library website for more information.) www.stolib.org
November
Getting to Know Medicare Monday, November 21, 6 pm
If you find this book to be a moving account, try reading “My Father & Atticus Finch: A Lawyer’s Fight for Justice in 1930s Alabama” by Joseph Madison Beck; or from 2014, “The Mockingbird Next Door: Life with Harper Lee” by Marja Mills.
Whether you are approaching Medicare or already enrolled, attend this glass to gain a thorough understanding of the Medicare system and keep up with its changes. The class will provide a broad, non-biased overview of Medicare coverage options. Presented by The Retirement Classroom.
All too often, “the goals of medicine seem frequently to run counter to the interest of the human spirit.” This is Dr. Gawande’s account of how the medical profession can not only improve health, but can also vastly improve the experience of approaching death. Extending life should not mean extending suffering; for with all our medical advances, the death rate has not changed – It’s still one per person.
“The Name of God is Mercy” by Pope Francis
Library Closed
This is a conversation between Pope Francis and Vatican reporter Andrea Tornielli. If you’ve ever contemplated the nature of God, the universe, life, and whether or not the church (any church) should be inclusive or exclusive, this book may speak to you. If you find these to be moving conversations, challenge yourself with “The Seven Storey Mountain” by Thomas Merton.
Thursday, November 24
If you find this to be a moving book, read “When Breath Becomes Air,” the story of 36 year old neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi who was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer.
“White Trash: The 400-Year Untold History of Class in America” by Nancy Isenberg
Polymer Clay Gifts Thursday, December 1, 6:30 pm
Ten Moving New Books “Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End” by Atul Gawande
“The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World” by the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Both authors won the Nobel Prize, both are among the world’s greatest spiritual teachers and leaders, and both are two of the happiest people on earth. Learn how, despite great adversity, they have anchored their spiritual and emotional lives in simple daily practices. If this book moves you to joy, read “Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife” by Eben Alexander; or “Surprised by Joy” by C. S. Lewis.”
“The Gene: An Intimate History” by Siddhartha Mukherhee
A classless society, with liberty and hard work? Sadly, often not. Harkening back to the Founding Fathers, a highly classed society has always been with us, even giving rise to the eugenics movement of the 1920s. If this book moves you to social action, you can learn more from, “Imbeciles: The Supreme Court, American Eugenics, and the Sterilization of Carrie Buck” by Adam Cohen.
Library Closed December 24, 25, 26; and December 31, January 1, 2 The library is closed for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Enjoy the holidays with your families!
Sounding like technical science – it does include some history of genetics – this surprisingly readable book will move you to consider what it is to be human, and the complex moral ground on which we may soon, or even now find ourselves treading.
2017 Children’s Programs Check the Library website in mid-December for more information: www.stolib.org
The library is closed for Thanksgiving. The library will be open Friday, November 25. Enjoy the holiday with your family!
December
Adult Craft Club
We are breaking out the polymer clay and library toaster oven to help you make a variety of quick holiday gifts. Chose from ornaments or beads and pendants to create one-of-a-kind things to give or keep. Materials provided. Registration required.
Victorian Holiday Weekend
Friends of the Library Book Sale Thursday-Saturday Saturday, December 3, Stoughton High School Madrigal Singers and instrumental groups. Music from approximately 9:45 to noon.
The Foundation: Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Group “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss Wednesday, December 7, 6:30 pm
Sunday Music on the Mezz December 18
Stop by today to enjoy our final open Sunday of 2016 with performances from members of the Madison Classical Guitar Society. Music begins at 2:00 p.m.
Whatever way this book may move you, you may be interested in “I Contain Multitudes: The Microbes Within Us and a Grander View of Life” by Ed Yong.
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The Tower Times
Fall 2016 7
News from the Stoughton Area Senior Center
November is National Caregiver Month: Take Care to Give Care!
During this month, we remind family caregivers that to be strong enough to care for your loved one, you must, Take Care to Give Care! The stress of care giving impacts your own health. Remember: “Rest. Recharge. Respite.” People think of respite as a luxury, but caregivers’ are at higher risk for health issues from chronic stress, and those risks can be a lot costlier than some time away to recharge, take a breather, and take the opportunity to re-energize. This is vital in order for you to be as good a caregiver tomorrow, as you are today. Take Care!
Medicare Part D Annual Enrollment Period Each year from October 15 - December 7, there is an Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also known as the Open Enrollment Period, for Medicare Beneficiaries to change their Part C and/or Part D plans. During the AEP, a person can make any of the following changes: •
Join a Part D plan (if not already enrolled);
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Drop a Part D plan;
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Switch to a new Part D plan;
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Drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare;
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Join a Medicare Advantage plan with or without drug coverage.
Changes made during the AEP will be effective on January 1, 2017. Even if Medicare beneficiaries are happy with their current Part D plan, they should still re-evaluate that drug plan to determine if it will best meet their needs for 2017. Because Part C and Part D plans are privatized, they are allowed to change the terms of coverage every year. New Part D plans become available, and some Part D plans stop offering coverage in the state. Even if a plan continues to offer coverage for the following year, its monthly premium, formulary, pharmacy network, deductible, and copay amounts could all change! It’s important that Medicare beneficiaries review their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which arrives in the mail on or before September 30th. This document notifies Medicare beneficiaries of the changes to their Part D plan that become effective January 1, 2017. The most effective way to choose a Part D plan is by going on the www.medicare.gov website and using the “plan finder” tool. The plan finder asks a person to enter his or her zip code, prescription medications, and preferred pharmacies. Based on this information, the plan finder will list the plans that would be most cost effective for that person. Unfortunately, research shows that fewer than 10% of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in the most cost-effective Part D plan. Name recognition or looking at a plan’s monthly premium alone are not good ways to choose a plan. If a person is unsure how to pick and evaluate a plan, the person can utilize the following resources:
Art Program with Michael Hecht: The Elvis Christmas/Gospel Show Degas & Life Magazine Friday, November 18, 9:00 AM Join Michael Hecht as he discusses Edgar Degas and examine the camera culture artists including Renoir, Pissarro and the photographers of Life magazine.
Classic Movie Friday Friday, Nov. 18, 1:00 PM Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner When Joanna (Katharine Houghton), a free-thinking white woman, and black doctor John (Sidney Poitier) become engaged, they travel to San Francisco to meet her parents.
Dance Class Sundays, Nov. 20, Dec. 4, 11 & 18, 1:00-2:00 PM at the Stoughton Youth Center Join Marlene Cordes for dance lessons. You’ll learn the Foxtrot and Swing styles. The cost is $60 per couple. Sign up with Tricia Nicoll at 873-8585 by November 10.
Travelogue: Germany and Austria Wed, Nov. 23, 3:00 PM Globe-trot your way to Germany and Austria this month. View offbeat ways to enjoy Germany and Austria, making stops at such cities as Berlin, Munich and Salzburg and at the much sought-after destinations of Bavaria and the Danube.
Through The Ages – Intergenerational Event Monday, Nov. 28, 3:00-4:30 PM Bring your families for an intergenerational program. Truly Remarkable Loon has been performing as a comedy juggler for almost forty years. Yes, Truly Remarkable Loon is his real and legal name! His comedy and juggling show, “Merry Anticipation of Disaster” is a great variety of technical juggling and balancing feats, non-stop comedy patter and a big dose of foolishness. The best thing about the show, is its very wide audience appeal. Adults and children alike will be amused, amazed and entertained! Open to all!
Christmas Tree Decorating
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Local benefit specialist.
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Case manager or social worker.
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Board on Aging and Long-Term Care Part D helpline (ages 60+) at (855) 677-2783.
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Board on Aging and Long-Term Care Medigap helpline at (800) 242-1060.
Come and help St. Anne’s Second graders in making ornaments, playing games, decorating our Christmas Tree, and making the Stoughton Senior Center festive for all our Holiday events and activities.
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Disability Rights Wisconsin Part D helpline (ages 18-59) at 800-926-4862.
Art Program with Michael Hecht:
Reprinted with permission: GWAAR Legal Services Team The Stoughton Area Senior Center offers Stoughton residents assistance with the Medicare Part D plan finder during the open enrollment period to December 7. Please call 873-8585 to schedule an appointment.
Thanksgiving Day Meal We are partnering with Stoughton Hospital, On Track Communications and McGlynn Pharmacy in providing a noon meal for homebound individuals 60 years and over who live in the Stoughton Area School District. If you are homebound and are in need of a Thanksgiving Day meal with all the trimmings, please call the Stoughton Area Senior Center 873-8585, by November 22.
Home Energy Assistance Schedule an appointment with Energy Services, Inc. at (608) 3330333. For all other questions call 608-267-8601. They hold office hours at the Stoughton Area Senior Center on the following dates: Tues. Nov. 22 & Friday Dec. 9.
Aprons, Aprons and More Aprons! Wed. Nov. 16, 9:00 AM If you would like to take a trip in history, come into the Senior Center on November 16th. We will be showing a collection of over 100 aprons of Ruby Hauge’s. The display will start at 9:00 AM and Ruby will tell you about the history of the aprons she has collected from friends and family.
Friday, December 2, 9:00-11:00
American Impressionists and the 19th Century Friday, December 16, 9:00 AM Join Michael Hecht as he examines artists Sergeant, Homer and Whistler. Writers include Whitman, Irving and Cooper.
Madrigal Lunch Show Tuesday, December 6, 12:00 PM The Stoughton High School Madrigal singers and musicians present their annual dinner show for the Stoughton Area Senior Center on Tuesday December 8th at Noon. Please make reservations by noon Dec. 5th. Cost for the dinner and show is $8.00. Come and enjoy some holiday cheer! Wassail!
Craft Club: Polymer Clay Gifts Wednesday, December 7, 2:00 PM We are breaking out the polymer clay and toaster oven to help you make a variety of quick holiday gifts. Chose from ornaments or beads and pendants to create one-of-a-kind things to give or keep. Materials provided. Registration required.
Thursday, December 22, 1:00 PM Hear Elvis’s Christmas favorites as well as his greatest Gospel songs. Some songs included will be: “Blue Christmas”, “Here Comes Santa Claus”, “Silent Night” and more. Gospel songs included will be “How great Thou Art”, “Amazing Grace”, “His Hand in Mine” and more!!! Enjoy an hour of memories fit for a special Christmas Season.
Massage Therapy Services Tuesday, December 20, 10:00-12:00 This month we will be working with a familiar therapist as Lisa Resch returns to offering massages services to the Senior Center. Massage will be offered in the annex, the office space next to the Senior Center. Sign is required in advance by calling 873-8585. Massage prices are: $35 for 30 minutes, $65 for 60 minutes Chair Massage prices are: $1.00 per minute (15 minute minimum)
Want to Make a Difference for Local Seniors? Consider giving us a hand... The older adult population is increasing; its members are living longer; and their projected needs are becoming more pronounced and diverse. Consequently, time and budget constraints force us to be creative in stretching our resources to continue to provide complete, comprehensive services for this expanding population. Below are ways we encourage the community to help.
Committee Projects Our Commission on Aging has come up with some great goals for the next five years, but in order to give each project the attention it deserves we need help! Time commitments can range from a couple times a year to once a month. Friendly Visitor Program Have fun, make a friend, share your skills and interests with someone in need. The Friendly Visitor Program connects compassionate volunteers with homebound or isolated older adults to provide needed support and encouragement. Volunteers receive training and ongoing support from Senior Center staff. Hours are flexible.
Support in Schools Work directly with children, ages 6-14 at our local schools to share your passion, hobby or profession. Teachers and other staff support would be provided.
Meal Site Assistance Assist in the packaging of meals to be delivered to homebound older adults; assist in serving and clean up after our onsite noon meal on weekdays, 10am – 1pm.
Meals on Wheels Delivery Deliver an afternoon meal from the Senior Center to homebound older adults in the Stoughton area on weekdays 1-2 hours/week; or on a substitute basis.
Senior Center Fund Raising The Stoughton Area Senior Center is required to fund raise $29,500 per year to help with our operating costs. We are currently about half way there for 2016. Please consider donating to the Senior Center. Any donation amount is greatly appreciated. All donations are tax-deductible, please indicate if you would like a receipt sent. Staff thanks you for your support! 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
Consider giving us a hand... The Stoughton Area Senior Center is in need of: Meal Site Assistance
Assist in the packaging of meals to be delivered to homebound older adults; assist in serving and clean up after our onsite noon meal Wednesdays 10am – 1pm; or on a substitute basis.
Meals on Wheels Delivery
Deliver an afternoon meal from the Senior Center to homebound older adults in the Stoughton area approx. 10:45am12pm; once/week or on a substitute basis.
Other area in need of volunteers include: Friendly Visitor Program
Committee Projects
Support in Schools
Fundraising
If interested, please contact Tricia Nicoll (608) 873-8585, tnicoll@ci.stoughton.wi.us
8 Fall 2016
The Tower Times
City of Stoughton - Stoughton Police Department Coffee With A Cop
Child Safe
Lieutenant Daniel Jenks djenks@ci.stoughton.wi.us
You may be proficient at loading, aiming and shooting your firearm, but are your safety precautions on target? Project ChildSafe disseminates firearm safety kits (which include a gun lock and safety education brochure) through law enforcement agencies across the country. For a free gun safety lock and brochure, stop by the Stoughton Police Department front lobby.
Coffee with a Cop...what is it? It’s a simple concept. Police and community members come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. Be a part of Wisconsin’s First Coffee with a Cop in the city where “the coffee break started.” If you are interested in participating, look for our monthly announcements on our Facebook page or please contact Lieutenant Daniel Jenks for more information on this program.
School Resource Officer
Med Drop
Officer Todd Dovichi tdovichi@ci.stoughton.wi.us
Detective Brandon Hill bhill@ci.stoughton.wi.us
The School Resource Officer (SRO) program, which started in 2013, is a newer position in Stoughton. Officer Todd Dovichi works closely with Stoughton School District students, grades Kindergarten through 12. The main emphasis of this position is to build positive relationships with the students and to help maintain a safe learning environment in our schools.
K-9 Unit
In 2012, the Stoughton Wellness Coalition sponsored the Medication Disposal Program by installing a permanent and secure drug disposal site in front of the Stoughton Police Department. This provides 24/7 access to the public in disposing of their unused or unwanted medications (liquid, pills, gel, patches, aerosols). Please leave all medica-
Citizens Police Academy
Officer Chad O’Neil & Ole coneil@ci.stoughton.wi.us K-9 Ole started his career in Stoughton in March 2013 as a dual purpose patrol dog; trained in narcotics detection and tracking. Ole also enjoys interacting with children during school presentations with his handler, Officer Chad O’Neil. The purchase and upkeep of Ole has been made possible by donations to the Stoughton K-9 Fund. If you would like to make a donation or purchase a K-9 T-shirt, please contact Officer Chad O’Neil.
Shop With A Cop Local families experiencing economic hardships can’t always provide their children with their own celebration of Christmas. The Shop With a Cop program joins these underprivileged children with local police officers, providing the children with money to shop for Christmas presents. If you would like to participate or make a donation, please contact Officer Hector Covarrubias.
Chief Gregory Leck gleck@ci.stoughton.wi.us The role of Police has always been an interest to the average citizen. The objective of the Citizens Police Academy is not to train an individual to be a “reserve police officer,” but to produce informed citizens. The academy is generally an eight week course, meeting one evening per week. By allowing citizens a firsthand look at rules, regulations, and policies police have to follow, some misunderstandings may be alleviated. The Academy is held each fall. Please look for announcements on our Facebook page about the next upcoming academy.
Safety Camp Detective Allen Adams aadams@ci.stoughton.wi.us Safety Camp is a fun-filled camp geared towards children going into the 3rd grade. The two day camp started in 1994 and is held in the summertime from 9 am until 4 pm. The children are taught numerous aspects of safety such as: bike safety, gun safety, boat safety, electrical safety, fire safety, farm safety, and animal safety. Detective Adams also instructs the children in basic first aid and rock-wall climbing
Neighborhood Watch Officer Nathan Hartwig nhartwig@ci.stoughton.wi.us
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Police Bike Patrol Stoughton Patrol Officers The STPD Bike Patrol originated in 1995 consisting of two officers whose focus was on bicycle and pedestrian safety, especially in the downtown area. Currently there are five officers trained through the International Police Mountain Bike Association who continue to patrol the downtown area along with the bike trails and parks. The use of bikes instead of cars can make police officers more easily approachable and visible while on patrol or at community events.
START Program Sergeant Brian Gowan bgowan@ci.stoughton.wi.us The Stoughton Area Resource Team (START) provides a safety net for families in crisis. It links Stoughton families with community resources and provides support in housing, health, employment, and financial assistance. The program started in 2001 and played a significant role in providing support to tornado survivors in 2005 and 2006. If you need assistance or would like to make a donation, please contact Sergeant Andy Johnson or call 608.577.5650.
Madison Area Crime Stoppers 1.608.266.6014 If you have information about a crime, submit an anonymous tip which could earn you a cash reward. You can also support Crime Stoppers by making a donation that funds the cash rewards. If you have any tips, please call the above listed number or text “DANE” plus your tip to 274637 (CRIMES).
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The Neighborhood Watch Program, which started in 1972, takes a proactive approach to prevent crime. Its community-oriented endeavor provides a unique infrastructure that brings together local officials, law enforcement, and citizens for the protection of their communities. If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch Group or a Business Watch Group, please contact Sergeant Nathan Hartwig.
tions in their original containers and use a marker to cross off any personal information.
Visit us on Facebook at: Stoughton PD & Stoughton K9 or visit our website at: www.ci.stoughton.wi.us Stoughton Police Department 321 S. 4th Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 Emergency: 911 Non-Emergency: 608-873-3374 Fax: 608-873-0286
The Tower Times
Fall 2016 9
Go ahead, deck the halls!
Give the Gift of Light
This holiday season, Stoughton Utilities is reminding homeowners and businesses about the benefits and advantages of energy efficient lighting options to help customers stretch their holiday dollar and trim their holiday energy bill. Compared to standard incandescent holiday lights, LED holiday lights use up to 90 percent less energy to produce the same amount of light, cost significantly less to operate, and last longer than standard lights.
This holiday season, you can give the gift of light to a neighbor or loved one. Stoughton Utilities is offering gift certificates which can be used towards any customer’s utility bill. Gift certificates may be purchased for any amount. Stop by the utility office at 600 South Fourth Street, call us at (608) 8733379, or email us at CustomerService@StoughtonUtilities.com for more information.
Celebrate the Holidays Safely Keep your family safe during the holidays by keeping electrical safety in mind and by following these simple safety tips...
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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.
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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.
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It is important to turn off all electrical light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
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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.
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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!
Winter Utility Bills 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, SU has to pay our wholesale power provider for the electricity that we distribute to Stoughton homes and business, even if those customers don’t pay us. Unpaid bills contribute to increased utility rates for all customers. 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.
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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.
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Stoughton Utilities may choose take you to small claims court for any delinquent balance, where we may seek damages of up to three times the unpaid balance.
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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.
To help customers start saving, we are giving customers one strand of LED holiday lights for free throughout the month of November! Stoughton Utilities customers can receive one strand of LED holiday lights when they exchange one strand of older incandescent holiday lights. Not only are LED holiday lights energy efficient, but because they also emit much less heat than traditional lights, they greatly reduce the risk of fire hazards. Since they do not have the same components that cause traditional lights to burn out or combust, they also last for many holiday seasons. Stoughton Utilities also wants customers to be aware of safe operating practices for all types of holiday lighting. •
Always remember to turn off tree and decorative lights, both indoors and outdoors, before leaving home or going to bed.
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Always check last year’s leftover lights for cracked or broken sockets, frayed insulation or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw away damaged cords.
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Before you buy lights for use outdoors, read the packaging and the tag on the cord to make sure they’re approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lighting outside!
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Follow the use and care instructions that accompany your electrical decorations.
For more holiday energy-saving ideas, visit us online at www. stoughtonutilities.com. Stoughton Utilities wishes you and your family a healthy, happy, and safe holiday season!
Create a Better Future As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you can purchase renewable energy blocks to offset a part or all of your electrical usage through our Renewable Energy Program. Renewable energy is generated from clean, green energy sources such as wind, biogas, and the sun, and is purchased in 300 kilowatt-hour (kWh) blocks; each block costs $3. Purchasing one block of renewable energy each month for one year has the equivalent impact on the environment as not driving a car for six months and avoids emitting over three tons of carbon dioxide. The customers of Stoughton Utilities recently earned national recognition for their use of renewable energy. SU ranked tenth in the nation for customer participation rates on the U.S. Department of Energy National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) annual list of leading utility green power programs. In 2015, over 5% of customers purchased green power, including five businesses that source 100% of their power from renewable energy sources. To learn more about the utility’s Renewable Energy or Green Power for Business programs, please visit online at www.stoughtonutilities.com. You can easily enroll your home or business online by logging in to My Account.
Outdoor Lighting •
Before you buy lights for use outside, read the packaging or the tag on the cord to make sure they’re approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lighting outside.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.
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Don’t overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Indoor Lighting •
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Check all tree lights-even if you’ve just purchased thembefore 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.
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Pets and toddlers sometimes become attracted to electrical cords. It’s a good idea to secure cords so that they are not easily reached.
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Don’t use electrical ornaments or light strings on artificial trees with metallic leaves or branch coverings. This could create an electrical shock.
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.
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When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.”
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.
10 Fall 2016
The Tower Times
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance 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.
Tree Branches vs. Electric Wires
Be Prepared for Power Outages
Tree limbs that come in contact with power lines are a major cause of electrical outages, and limbs that touch electric power lines can become energized or even break and fall, bringing the lines down with them. This risk is increased over the winter months due to the heavy weight of snow and ice accumulation, as well as the high winds that frequently accompany winter storms.
Wisconsin winters always seem to bring very unpredictable weather, and even a small snowstorm can result in a large power outage. Our overhead power lines and poles are directly exposed to the wind, snow, sleet, and ice, all of which have the power to cause severe damage. Once the lights go off it’s too late to prepare for a power outage, so don’t get caught searching in the dark for a flashlight or candles.
Medical Equipment
If you or a family member relies on medical equipment powered by electricity, create an emergency plan and create a designated neighbor, friend, or family member that you can temporarily relocate to during prolonged outages. We cannot assure any customer that a storm or equipment problem will not interrupt power, so you should consider purchasing a battery backup system to keep your critical needs equipment running during brief outages.
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 $26,176 per year;
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A couple without children with an annual income below $34,228;
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A family of three with an annual income below $42,284;
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A family of four with an income of up to $50,336;
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Guidelines for additional household sizes can be found online at www.stoughtonutilities.com.
To determine eligibility, applicants must provide the following to their local social services or energy services office: •
Proof of income for the past three months for all household members 18 years or older;
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Social Security cards for everyone in the household;
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Utility bills (heating and electric) for the past 12 months;
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If applicable, a rent certificate or landlord’s statement verifying that heat is included in the rent.
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 contact Energy Services Inc. at (608) 267-8601 to schedule an appointment. You may apply anytime from October 1 through May 15.
Remember: Keep emergency numbers near medical equipment and regularly test the equipment’s back-up power sources. If your condition warrants immediate attention, always contact 911 for assistance. To reduce outages caused by tree contact, Stoughton Utilities prunes trees away from its power lines on a planned five-year cycle. Our line clearance program is one of many efforts we employ to help ensure the reliability of your electrical service, and for many years, our program has been honored with the Tree Line USA award. Like the majority of utilities nationwide, Stoughton Utilities does not routinely trim around service drops. The service drop is the wire that runs from the pole to your home or business. This line serves only you, and each individual property owner is responsible for keeping it clear of trees and branches. These overhead service lines have insulation on them to protect the wires from incidental contact with energized lines so individuals who are comfortable and responsible around electric wires can easily and safely remove the branches with appropriate tools and equipment for the job. Individuals that don’t feel safe or comfortable around electric wires should always hire a professional tree trimming contractor. When lights flicker during storms and on windy days, it can usually be explained by trees making contacts with overhead power lines located throughout our service territory. This may be happening on the wires between poles located along streets, alleys, or back and side yards, and may not necessarily be happening in front of your homes or on your service drop wire. Please alert us to any line issue that requires immediate attention, such as broken or dead limbs hanging on or over power lines. Also, remember to take a look up while planning to plant a tree on private property. If you see power lines where the tree will eventually grow, please plant a type of tree that is appropriate for the location and has a limited maximum height. For more information on our line clearance program or information on maintaining your service drop, please contact us.
Look for Air Leaks & 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
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- depend on it! •
Keep a safe distance from traffic barriers, construction equipment, utility workers, and other traffic.
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Always slow to work zone speed limits, or slower.
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Pay attention. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed and people and vehicles may be working near the road.
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Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.
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Watch for and follow all warning, lane closure, and construction detour signs.
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Plan ahead and give yourself time to reach your destination.
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Always buckle up.
Your sump pump runs on electricity, so consider a battery back-up. Choose one that will switch on automatically if an outage occurs. Your cordless phone will not work during a power outage; consider a spare plug-in telephone, or keep your cell phone handy for emergency situations.
Generators
Test your generator every 30 days to make certain that it is in good operating condition. Always follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation. If back-feeding your generator into your home’s electrical system, ALWAYS use a transfer switch or disconnect your main breaker switch. Failure to do so could injure or kill our lineman working to restore our system, or bystanders who come into contact with wires on the ground.
Assemble An Emergency Kit
Prepare one today by gathering a few basic emergency supplies and placing them in an emergency kit that’s easy to locate in the dark. We suggest including these items: •
Working Flashlights
• Battery-Operated Radio for news & weather reports •
Batteries for Flashlights & Radio
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Candles & Matches
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Blankets! This is extremely important during the winter since your furnace can not run without electricity.
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Bottled Water (City customers will still have water to their faucets, rural customers may not)
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Canned or Dried Food
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A Corded Telephone (cordless phones don’t work when power is out.)
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Give Them A Brake! Working outdoors in Wisconsin’s harsh winters 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.
Sump Pumps and Cordless Phones
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Remember that electric garage door openers will not function during a power outage. Place your unit on “manual” if possible.
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Electric sump pumps and pumps used for rural customer’s wells also will not work during a power outage.
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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.
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A power outage may affect the operation of security and alarm systems.
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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.
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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.
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If you leave your home or business, switch on a light that can be seen from the street. Our crews often “spot check” to ensure all customers have their electricity back on. Try to shut all other appliances and electrical equipment off.
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For the safety of everyone, stay clear of crews, vehicles and equipment in the area.
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After the power is restored, you can safely reconnect appliances and equipment, and reset devices that operate on timers.
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Stoughton Utilities’ drinking water and wastewater treatment processes will be active during an outage.
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.
Create a Family Plan
Parents: make sure your children know what to do if an outage happens while they are home alone or with a caretaker. Make sure they know how to stay warm, and check in with them frequently.
The Tower Times Support Stoughton Non-Profits by Enrolling in Project RoundUP 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. The customers that participate in this program are continuing the “neighbor helping neighbor” concept that founded Stoughton Utilities over a century ago.
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
Collected funds are administered by the Stoughton Utilities Committee. Donations are awarded bi-annually to qualifying registered applicants selected by the Stoughton Utilities Committee. Selection is based upon the merits of the application and the intended use of the funds. 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 www.stoughtonutilities.com, or contact us by phone.
Online E-Billing 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 AutoPay 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 AutoPay, 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 www.stoughtonutilities.com to go paperless today. In addition to payments and E-Billing, My Account also allows you to manage other payment and billing options, including Budget Billing, RoundUP, and renewable energy. We have 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.
Fall 2016 11
Is it Really Flushable? A lot of personal hygiene products claim to be sewer and septic safe, but before you actually flush them down the toilet, think again. There are only two items that should ever be flushed: human waste and standard toilet paper. All other products such as baby wipes, moist towelettes, “flushable” wipes, paper towels, rags, cloth diapers, cleaning pads, and more should always be discarded in the trash, not the toilet. These products do not break down in the sanitary sewer system, and can clog laterals, sewer mains, pumps, all of which can lead to sewer backups into homes and businesses. What we put down our drains and toilets can not only clog our sanitary sewer and septic systems, but they also can negatively impact our environment and put our health at risk. Hazardous materials such as motor oil, antifreeze, paint and paint thinners, mercury, and even unused pharmaceutical drugs can remain in our waterways even after treatment. If you need to discard hazardous materials, visit the Dane County clean sweep collection site. You can find more information at www.danecountycleansweep.com. If you need to dispose of unused prescription pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamins, you can safely do so at any MedDrop site, including the drop box located outside the Stoughton Police Department’s main entrance. More information, as well as a listing of other MedDrop sites can be found at www. safercommunity.net/meddrop.php.
There’s No Natural Resource Like Community At Stoughton Utilities, “local” isn’t a buzzword. It’s a promise. We’ve been a part of the Stoughton community for 126 years, and have always promised our neighbors a few things. Clean, affordable power; giving back through public investment; scholarships and education; helping folks with energy-saving advice and ways to lower utility bills. And to put Stoughton’s future – your future – first. Stoughton Utilities believes affordable public power strengthens our community and helps our neighbors. That’s why, through WPPI Energy, we’re partnering with other local not-for-profit utilities to share resources and lower costs.
With public power from Stoughton Utilities, the decisions we make, and the good we do for the environment happens right here. To learn more, please visit us online at www.WhyPublicPower.org or at www.stoughtonutilities.com.
Go to our website, www.stoughtonutilities.com for more information.
12 - The Tower Times - Fall 2016
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Things we want you to know: New Shared Connect Plan, Retail Installment Contract, Device Protection+, port-in and Smartphone turn-in required. Credit approval also required. A $25 Device Activation Fee applies. A Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee (currently $1.82) applies; this is not a tax or gvmt. required charge. Additional fees (including Device Connection Charges), taxes, terms, conditions and coverage areas apply and may vary by plan, service and phone. Offers valid at participating locations only and cannot be combined. See store or uscellular.com for details. Half off Smartphones: 50% off rebate on base model Smartphone devices. Rebate fulfilled in the form of a U.S. Cellular® Promotional Card issued by MetaBank,® Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Valid only for purchases at U.S. Cellular stores and uscellular.com. Devices $399 or higher are eligible for $200 Promotional Card at the point of sale and remaining balance in arrears. Devices $200–$398.99 are eligible for $100 Promotional Card at the point of sale and remaining balance in arrears. Devices $200 or less are eligible for $100 Promotional Card at the point of sale. For Promotional Cards in arrears, allow 8–10 weeks for processing after final submission.Up to $650 Switcher Promo:Each line requesting Up to $650 Switcher Promo must port in current number to U.S. Cellular, purchase a new device through a Retail Installment Contract on a Shared Connect Plan with Device Protection+ and turn in their device. If device turn-in is not received before bill submission, or no device is turned in, Switcher Promo will be capped at $350 per line. Submit final bill identifying Early Termination Fee (ETF) or final device balanced owed within 60 days of activation date to uscellular.com/contractpayoff or via mail to U.S. Cellular Switcher Promo Program 5591-61; PO Box 752257; El Paso, TX 88575-2257. Customer will receive credit equal to the lesser of the ETF or remaining device balance reflected on final bill or $650 subject to the conditions of the offer. U.S. Cellular Promotional Card issued by MetaBank,® Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Valid only for purchases at U.S. Cellular stores and uscellular.com. Allow 8–10 weeks for processing after final submission.Turned-in Smartphone must be in fully functional, working condition without any liquid damage or broken components, including, but not limited to, a cracked housing. Smartphone must power on and cannot be pin locked. Device Protection+ (DP+): Minimum monthly price is $8.99 per phone. A service fee/deductible per approved claim applies. You may cancel anytime. Property insurance is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida and provided under a Master Policy issued to U.S. Cellular. You will be the certificate holder on U.S. Cellular’s Master Policy for loss/theft benefits. Service Contract Obligor is Federal Warranty Service Corporation in all states except CA (Sureway, Inc.) and OK (Assurant Service Protection, Inc.). Limitations and exclusions apply. For more information, see an associate for a DP+ brochure. Limited-time offer. Trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.©2016 U.S. Cellular P4A_2016_LeadOffer_ Print_6x9 adno=490055-01
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Stoughton 2384 Jackson St., 608-877-9548