2015 Fall Tower Times

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The

Tower TimesCity of Stoughton Issue 5, Fall 2015

*** NOTICE – CITY OF STOUGHTON TAX PAYERS ***The City of Stoughton held a Public Hearing onNovember 10, 2015 to review the proposed 2016City budget. A copy of the proposed budget willbe available for review at City Hall and at theStoughton Library.

Tax Billing

The Treasurer’s Office will send out bills

by December 21st. Tax payments canbe mailed using the pre-addressedenvelope provided to you withyour tax bill, or made in personat Stoughton City Hall Deputy

Treasurer’s Office. Pleaseinclude the bottom portionof your tax bill with yourpayment. First installmentpayments are due byFebruary 1 (January 31 fallson a Sunday). Please makefirst installment checkspayable to the City of

Stoughton Treasurer. Pleasenote, NO CASH PAYMENTS will be accepted. We are nolonger able to accept cashpayments for real estate andpersonal property tax bills.

We continue to encouragetaxpayers to make theirpayments through the mailwith the return envelopeprovided. If a written receiptis needed, a self-addressed

stamped envelopemust accompany

the payment.

Contact the Treasurer’s office if you have a questionregarding your tax bill.

Lottery Tax Credits

Did you move into your home during 2015? If youowned your home on January 1, 2015 and use itas your primary residence, you are eligible for a LotteryCredit on your property tax bill. Each year homeowners

are able to claim a lottery tax credit on the firstinstallment of their property tax bill. To be eligible fora lottery tax credit this year, you must have owned andresided in your home on January 1 of the current year.This residence also must be where you live for morethan six months of the year. Vacation homes, rentalhomes, businesses and bare land do not qualify for thiscredit. If you purchased your home after January 1,there are a limited number of circumstances that willallow you to receive the credit this year.

The credit amount varies by year and will not bedetermined until the beginning of December. Forquestions, to sign up for the credit or if the creditis not showing on your tax bill, please contact the

City Treasurer’s office (873-6677) or the Office of theCounty Treasurer (266-4151).

If the lottery credit is not on your tax bill, pleaserequest a “Lottery Credit Claim Form” before you payyour taxes and your bill will be reduced.

Dog Licenses

Taxpayers who traditionally come to City Hall inDecember to purchase dog licenses will still be ableto do so, although licenses may also be convenientlypurchased through the mail by sending a separatecheck payable to the City of Stoughton, to the attentionof 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 personcan be purchased in the Receptionist’s Office.The rates have remained the same for 2016:

$16.00 unless the dog is spayed or neuteredin which case the fee is $12.00.


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2 Fall 2015 The Tower Times

VOTER ID: WHAT TO EXPECTFor the 2016 elections the presentation of VoterID will be required to vote. To make sure thatyou have everything you need to vote and havea smooth voting experience, please make surethat you have one of these items for Voter ID:

• A Wisconsin DOT-issued driver license

• A Wisconsin DOT-issued identification card

• An identification card issued by a U.S. uniformed service

• A U.S. passport

• (Identifications above must be unexpired, or if expired, have ex-pired after the date of the most recent general election [Novem-

ber 4, 2014].)

• A certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier thantwo years before the date of an election at which it is presented

• An unexpired driving receipt issued by Wisconsin DOT.

• An unexpired identification card receipt issued by WisconsinDOT.

• An identification card issued by a federally recognized Indiantribe in Wisconsin

• An unexpired identification card issued by a Wisconsin-accredit-ed university or college that contains the following:

• Date of Issuance

- Signature of Student

- Expiration date not later than two years after Date of Issuance

Don’t have one of these? Not a problem! The Wisconsin Depart-ment of Transportation is offering free identification cards for vot-

ing purposes available at DMV locations around the state. Learnabout getting a free Wisconsin ID card on the Wisconsin Depart-ment of Transportation website: http://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/how-to-apply/id-card.aspx

When do we vote in 2016? Here are the datesFebruary 16, 2016 - Spring Primary

April 5, 2016 - Spring Election and Presidential Preference

August 9, 2016 - Partisan Primary

November 8, 2016 - Fall General Election

As always, feel free to call your Municipal Clerk with any ques-tions you may have!

Happy Voting!

ELECTION DAY POLL WORKERS NEEDEDCompensation$8/hr

Hours6:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.1:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Position Objectives

The City of Stoughton Clerk’s Office is looking for individuals tohelp us to serve the public by providing the most fair and effi-cient elections possible. By serving as a poll worker, you have thechance to give back to your community and to meet the citizens ofthe City of Stoughton.

Why do we need poll workers?Without the help of poll workers, the election cannot be held. Pollworkers assist with registering new voters, administering ballotsto voters, and ensuring that the election laws of the state are fol-lowed precisely.

What are the requirementsto be a poll worker?• Must be a registered and qualified voter of Dane County

• Must enjoy working with the public

• Must be able to work for an entire election day shift (7-8 hours)

• Must help with all setup/ reconciliation of election (dependingon shift worked)

All City of Stoughton Poll Workers are compensated $8.00/ hourfor their time at the polling place. The Clerk’s office will make surethat you are trained on all election laws and procedure. A trainingsession is held before every election.

If you are interested in helping the City of Stoughton’s voters,please complete an application and mail to 381 E Main St, Stough-ton, WI 53589. Applications for the position of poll worker can befound on the City of Stoughton website.Please call the StoughtonCity Clerk’s Office at 608-873-6677, if you have any questions.

REMAINING HOLIDAY PICK UP SCHEDULE 2015

Thanksgiving Day - Thursday, November 26, 2015Collections Thursday and Friday will be delayed by one day

Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, 2015Friday collections will be delayed by one day

*The Holiday collections may be at an earlier time of the day thannormal. Please be sure to put your refuse and recycling out the nightbefore your scheduled collection day.

If you have any questions, please call Johns Disposal at 888-473-4701 or email at [email protected]

YOU CAN HELP LAKES AND STREAMS DURING WINTERIt’s very important to continue to pick up afteryour pet all year long, especially during win-ter. If you don’t pick up pet waste right away,it can soon be encased in snow and ice, readyto be carried away with melt water when itwarms up. Grassy areas that would normallyallow water to soak in are frozen during win-ter, so they’re more like a parking lot greatlyincreasing the surface area from which runoffflows. So, the bacteria and nutrients found in pet waste are muchmore likely to make their way to the nearest storm drain. Andcontrary to common belief, rain and melting snow that goes intostorm drains does not go to the sewage treatment plant. Rather, itgoes to the nearest lake or stream.

So, be sure to continue to scoop the poop this winter and do yourpart to help keep lakes and streams free of pet waste. For moreideas on how you can help lakes and streams near you, go towww.myfairlakes.com.

DON’T KNOW WHO TO CALL?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 & feefrom 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 (WastewaterDivision)

• Street Lights

• Water Service Applications

Media Services Department/WSTO TV:(608) 873-7523• Cable Channel 981

• WSTO Webstream

• DVD/Duplication

• Event Coverage

• Media Transfers ( MiniDV, VHS, DVD, CD etc.)

SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL REQUIREMENTSSec. 64-13. Snow and ice removal.(a) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting on a publicsidewalk shall remove therefrom by 9:00 a.m. on the second day fol-lowing a snowfall, all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter, and sprin-kle ice with a material to prevent slipping. (For example: a snowfalloccurs on Monday, the occupant or owner would have until 9:00a.m. Wednesday). If the occupant or owner does not comply withthis section, the street commissioner or designee may issue a cita-tion and may cause the work to be done and the expense reportedto the city finance director, who shall annually enter such expenseon the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. Theowner or occupant shall also be subject to a forfeiture for each viola-tion of this section, with penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Eachday a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation.

(b) No snow or ice removed from private property shall be depositedin the public ways in areas expected to be cleared by the city. This

would include, but would not be limited to, pushing snow or iceacross a public roadway or sidewalk; pushing or carrying and de-positing snow or ice on a public way expected to be maintained forpedestrian or vehicular traffic; and the blowing or throwing of snowor ice onto a pedestrian or vehicular area. Violation of any of theseprovisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Eachday a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. Ifthe occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the streetcommissioner may cause the work to be done and the expense re-ported to the city clerk who shall annually enter such expense onthe tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

(c) No snow or ice shall be deposited on private property withoutthe owner’s consent. Violation of this provision may result in pen-alties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day the violation continuesshall constitute a separate violation.

For questions related to this ordinance, contact the Zoning Admin-istrator at 608-646-0421

Chalet Veterinary Clinic Family Pet Care at its Best

1621 E. Main St., Stoughton

(608) 873-8112

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

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

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Computer

• Computer Set-up

• Data Backup & Transfer

• Virus & Spyware Removal

• Computer Training

• Computer Repair

• Wireless Networking

Cell phone

• Broken Screens

• Charge Ports

• Water Damage

• Cell Phone Repair

• And Much More

On-site or in store!

2384 Jackson St., Stoughton

877-9548M-F: 9-8; S: 9-5: Sun. 10-5

613 E. Main St., Evansville

882-0680M-F: 9-7; S: 9-5; Sun. 10-5

Drop-Off Location

1015 North Main St., Oregon835-2980

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Computer & Cell Phone Services

Celebrate the Holidays withFriends and Family

3097 Sunnyside St., Stoughton

(608) 205-9300

Take the stress out of

the holidays by

enjoying a night out

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CITY OF STOUGHTON HOLIDAY HOURS

To better serve our community, The City of Stough-ton offices will be open all day, New Years Eve, De-cember 31, 2015. The Library will be closed on NewYear’s Eve Day.

ThanksgivingCity Offices are CLOSED Thanksgiving Day, Thurs-day, November 26th and all day Friday, November27th. The Library will be open on Friday, November27th.

ChristmasCity offices will be CLOSED all day, Christmas EveDay, Thursday December 24th and Christmas Day,Friday, December 25th. The Library will be closedall day Christmas Eve Day, Thursday December 24thand Christmas Day, Friday, December 25th.

New Years DayCity offices will be OPEN all day, New Years Eve Day,Thursday, December31st, 2015 - 7:30am – 4:30pm.The Library will be closed all day on Thursday, De-cember 31st, 2015

All offices (including the Library) will be CLOSED onNew Year’s Day, Friday, January 1, 2016

*All emergency services will observe regular hours*


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The Tower Times Fall 2015 3

DRUG DROP-OFFBrought to you by: Stoughton Wellness Coalition

Get Unwanted Meds Out...Of your homesOf our waters & landfillsOf the reach of children!!Keeping unused, unwanted and expired prescription and over-the-counter drugs in your home poses a risk to you, your family andyour community.

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

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

Drop-Off ProceduresPlease follow these instruc-tions for free disposal of yourunwanted medications:

1. Gather all unwanted medi-cations from where you havethem stored.

2. If possible, leave all medi-cations in their original con-tainers. You may black outany personal information thatis on the bottle.

3. Bring the medications tothe secured drug collectionbox.

4. Questions about droppingoff medications can be di-rected to the Stoughton Po-lice Department. Please call:(608) 873-3374

Did You Know64% of kids age 12 to 17 whohave abused pain relieverssay they got them from theirfriends, relatives or peoplethey know, without their knowledge.

Accepted SubstancesPrescription medications and medication samples

Over-the-counter medications

Inhalers

No Sharps

No Syringes

No Needles

No Lancets

Safe Storage and TipsAlways store medications in the original containers.

Never keep medications past their expiration date.

Always store separately medications for family members.

Never guess on how much medication to take.

Read the label before you open the bottle to ensure the right dos-age is taken.

Never let young children take medicine by themselves.

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

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

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

The drug drop-box isanonymous and available

24 hours per day, 7 days a week.Stoughton Wellness CoalitionThe Stoughton Wellness Coalition was formed in 2006, throughcollaborative efforts of Stoughton Hospital, the Stoughton SchoolDistrict and the City of Stoughton. The coalition promotes acollaborative approach to personal and community wellness throughhealth promotion, educational programming and service to theStoughton Area Community.

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.

Day or Night (800) 235-9681www.CressFuneralService.com

McFarland ~ Deereld ~ Stoughton

East Madison ~ West Madison

Middleton ~ Waunakee ~ Sun Prairie

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Stoughton’s Only Locally Owned Pharmacy!

Competitive Prices & Free Delivery(within the city limits & a small fee outside city limits)

100 E. Main Street in Stoughton

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

Ou P Makh Dffn

L IFT C HAIRS!FREE Delivery! Within city limits. Small fee outside.

Several models in stock! Come try one today!

C H EC K OUT

OU R L I N E

O F DU R A B L E

M E D IC A L

EQU I P M E NT

TOO!

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Join Us In Celebrating 53 Years!

A wonderful holiday awaitsyou at Stoughton Floral.

Beautifully designed wreaths,arrangements, swags, garland andhundreds of ornaments on display.

STOUGHTON FLORAL168 E. MAIN STREET

FLOWER PHONE: 873-6173 or 866-595-6800Mon.-Fri. 8am to 5pm; Sat. 8am to 3pm

http://www.stoughtonfloral.comadno=435584-01


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PRIVATE PROPERTY PARKING STANDARDS FOR RECREATIONAL VEHICLESNOTE: THESE STANDARDS ARE ONLY FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY, NOT FOR PARKING ON PUBLICLANDS OR ANYWHERE IN THE STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY.

A RECREATIONAL VEHICLE IS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: MOTOR HOME, JET SKI, BOAT, ALL TRAIL-ERS, CAMPERS, SNOWMOBILES, OFF-ROAD MOTORCYCLES, ATV’S AND SIMILAR VEHICLES.

PARKING AND STORAGE OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS 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 dustfree, continual hard surface such as concrete or asphalt pavement and shall be a minimum of five feetfrom any private property line or right-of-way line. Permeable pavement including turfstone is alsoallowable. The side yard shall end at the rear of the home.

(b) May be parked in the rear yard, beyond the rear of the home without the need for a hard surface,subject to all other conditions. Note: Corner lots have two fronts.

(c) Shall be owned by the resident who is occupying the property on which the vehicle or trailer isparked or stored.

(d) Are permitted only for storage purposes except mobile homes and campers may be used for over-night sleeping for a maximum of 14 days in one calendar year.

(e) May not be connected to wastewater or sanitary sewer lines, or electricity except for charging ofbatteries.

(f) May not be used for storage of goods, materials or equipment other than those items consideredto 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 anyeasement.

(h) Maximum number allowed outside of a building per property is three unless the property is zonedand approved for such outdoor storage.

(i) A trailer with multiple recreational vehicles on it shall be considered one recreational vehicle, butall recreational vehicles on the trailer shall be owned by the resident occupying the property on whichthe trailer is parked.

(j) Individual canoes, kayaks and similar vehicles not on a trailer are exempt from these requirements.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS REGULATION PLEASE CONTACT THE ZONINGADMINISTRATOR AT 608-646-0421.

PUT YOUR SIDEWALK AND DRIVEWAY ON A LOW-SALT DIET*For safety reasons, we need to keep driveways and sidewalks clear of ice and snow. However, choos-ing the right product and using it correctly is important to help protect our water resources.

1. Shovel early, shovel often. There’s no substitute for muscle and elbow grease for snow and ice re-moval. Remove as much snow as you can during the storm if possible. Use a hoe or other tools to chipor scrape ice off the surface before any deicers are applied. Deicers work best when there is only athin layer of snow or ice that must be melted. Divert the melting snow away from your sidewalk anddriveway to an area where ice won’t be a problem.

2. Buy early. Make sure to buy your deicing product well before the big storm hits, otherwise you willbe looking at empty shelves, and have few, if any, environmental choices to make at the store.

3. Check the label. The table below shows how the main ingredients of common de-icing productscompare. Check the package closely to see what you’re buying—often a product may contain severalof the ingredients listed below, but the first one listed is usually the main ingredient.

On the la bel: Wor ks Down to: C ost Envir onmental Concer ns

4. Apply salt early, but sparingly. No matter which chloride product you choose, a little goes a long way.Additional salt won’t speed up the melting process, so follow directions for application carefully andremember to first remove as much snow and ice as you can. The recommended application rate forsodium chloride is about a handful per square yard. Calcium chloride works at much colder tempera-tures and you need a lot less (about a handful per three square yards—about the area of a single bed).Choose calcium chloride over sodium chloride when you can.

5. Avoid kitty litter and ashes. Although these products may seem environmentally friendlier, they don’twork to melt snow and ice—they merely provide some traction and make a mess on your floors. Stickwith sand for traction, which is cheaper and easier to clean up.

6. Avoid Products that Contain Urea. Urea has been recommended as a safer alternative, reasoning thatit does not contain chlorides and, as a form of nitrogen, will help fertilize your yard when it washesoff. However, urea-based deicing products are a poor choice as it is fairly expensive and performspoorly when temperatures drop below 20 degrees F. The application rate for urea during a single de-icing is ten times greater than that needed to fertilize the same area of your yard, and ultimately, verylittle of the urea will actually get onto your lawn, but will end up washing into the street and stormdrain and eventually to the nearest lake or stream. Given that nitrogen is a problem for surface waterresources, it doesn’t make sense to use nitrogen-based products for deicing.

*Adapted from Snow, Road Salt and the Chesapeake Bay by Tom Schueler, Center for Watershed Protection

Ship Early For Christmas Delivery

Wisconsin Style! We ship anywhere. Stop in or call today!

• 140 Unique Varieties of Cheese• Cheese Gi Boxes - Always Enjoyed, Never Returned

• Artisan Cheese Trays to Complete Any Holiday Party/Occasion• Fresh, “Squeaky” Curds Every ursday • Fresh Lefse

Hours: M-F 9am-530pm, Sat 9am-4:30pm,Sun 12pm-4pm (seasonally)

183 E. Main St., Downtown Stoughton

(608) 873-1777Order online at cheesers.com

The Ultimate Holiday Gift…

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TRAFFIC VISIBILITY AREAS

INO OBSTRUCTIONS)

sfiRE'Loci'

TREE & SHRUBBERY PLANTING & GROWTH• Tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 9 feet above a public sidewalk and shrubbery/plantings

are not allowed to encroach into the public sidewalk area.

• At corner lot where streets intersect, there is a 10-foot triangle where clear vision is required from2.5 feet to 10 feet. This also applies to driveways at the public sidewalk. See diagram for trimmingat intersections.

It is a good idea to check with the Stoughton Street Department for the best time to trim treesand shrubs because some tree species should be trimmed at certain times of the year to maintain

health. Also, the Street Department picks up limbs at certain t imes of the month.

Contact the Street Department at 608-873-6303 or check their website at www.cityofstoughton.com/streets

If you have any questions regarding this article, contact the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421


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NEWS FROM THE STOUGHTON AREA SENIOR CENTEREDUCATIONALLow Vision: Talking with your DoctorThursday, Nov. 19, 1:00 PM

Amy Wurf, Low Vision therapist for the Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired will beproviding information about questions you might want to ask your eye doctor at your next appoint-

ment. What information should you have? What are some good resources for you?

Amy provides low vision evaluations at the Council in Madison and works with clients in their homesfocusing on daily living concerns.

Comprehensive Medication ReviewsFriday, Nov. 20, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Call to schedule your appointment with a pharmacist to review all your cur-rent medications. This will include all your over the counter and prescribedmedications. You might even save some money! 873-8585.

How my Vision Loss Impacts Others, and How do I RespondThursday, Dec. 17, 1:00 PM

Jean Kalscheur, Vision Rehabilitation Teacher from the Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Im-paired, will lead a discussion of how vision loss affects family, friends, and strangers around us. Howcan you respond when others don’t understand your vision loss? What strategies do you use to beyourself when with others? Jean will bring examples, and your experiences will guide the discussion.

Memory ScreeningThursday, January 14 from 12:30-3:30

Are you concerned about your memory? A memory screening consists of a series of questions andexercises designed to identify cognitive problems associated with dementia and other medical condi-tions. Each screening takes about 15 minutes to complete, and will be administered by Dementia CareSpecialist Joy Schmidt from the Dane County ADRC. Call to make your appointment

Healthy Aging – Nordic WalkingTuesday, January 20, 1:00 PM

Stop in for this session on the overall benefits of Nordic Walking, or “Walking with Poles.” Join JanThiel of Exerstrider Products, Inc., and learn about this excellent form of exercise.

Parkinson’s GroupNo group meetings the months of Nov. & Dec.

Parkinson’s Q&A with the WPAWed. Jan. 27 at 1:30 PM

Jeremy Otte, Director of Outreach & Education at the Wisconsin Parkinson Association will be visit-ing from Milwaukee to answer questions and share updates about Parkinson’s disease and the WPA.Our out-of-town speakers appreciate an approximate group count. Please call Hollee if you plan toattend, 873-8585.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTClassic Movie Friday, Nov. 20, 1PMThe Dirty Dozen (150 Minutes)

A US Army Major is assigned a dozen convicted murderers to train and lead them into a mass assas-sination mission of German officers in World War II. Starring: Lee Marvin, Ernest Borgnine, CharlesBronson

Christmas Tree DecoratingTuesday, December 2, 9:00-11:00 AM

Come and help St. Anne’s Second graders in making ornaments, decoratingour Christmas Tree, and making the Stoughton Senior Center festive for allour Holiday events and activities.

Learn to FeltWednesday, December 2, 1:00 PM

Join Felting Artist Peter McMasters, of Spry Whimsy, to learn about this beautiful and practical art.

Madrigal Lunch ShowTuesday, December 8, 12:00 PM

The Stoughton High School Madrigal singers and musicians present their annual dinner show for theStoughton Area Senior Center on Tuesday December 10th at Noon. Please make reservations by noonDec. 4th. Watch the Yahara Senior News for details. Come and enjoy some holiday cheer! Wassail!!

Be an Artist for DayWednesday, December 9, 1:00 PM

Let’s gather for a f un social experience and an opportunity to explore your creative side. Come createa beautiful and unique piece of art with the help of artist/instructor Sara Lenz. We will work withacrylic paint on a 16 x 20 canvas. Sara will provide easy step-by-step instructions and by the endof the class you will have completed your own rendition of the masterpiece below to take home. Allsupplies will be furnished, just come, relax, and discover your inner artist! No previous art skills nec-essary, this is for all levels! Cost to take this class is $35. Let’s make this an afternoon of creative fun!

Classic Movie Friday, Dec.18,1PM,It’s a Wonderful Life (130 Minutes)

An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life wouldhave been like if he never existed. Starring: James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore

Holiday Sing-A-LongWednesday, December 23, 1:00 PM

Join local musician Cindy Harrington in sharing some of our favorite Carols, general holiday merri-ment and some light refreshments.

Elvis is in the BuildingTuesday, January 5, 1:00 PM

Join us as we celebrate Elvis’ Birthday with musician Alan Graveen.

Zumba Gold NewsWednesdays at 5:00 PM

During the month of November, instructor Jackie Richardson will lead us in a special series of ZumbaGold Toning. Join us and learn strategies to tone muscles during the winter months. Wednesdays at5:00 pm. Cost is $4.00. There will be no class on November 25th due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.Come Join the Fun!

Have Extra Time? Be a Friendly Visitor and…• Have fun, make a friend

• Connect with someone in need and provide a critical local service

• Share your skills and interests

No experience needed, flexible hours, training and ongoing professional support provided. Friend-

ly Visitor Volunteers are matched with homebound or isolated older adults identified through theStoughton Area Senior Center. For more information call Teressa Pellett at 873-8585.

Golden Pass for Seniors:All seniors age 60 or older in the Stoughton Area School District are eligible for Golden Pass from theschool district. This pass will allow you to attend athletic games at the high school free of charge.(This does not include tournaments.) Please stop in at the Senior Center for your pass.

Coming Soon: Additional Meal Site OptionsThe Senior Center received a State Revitalization Grant to fund an additional weekly meal option tobe catered to our meal-site by a local restaurant! Watch our Yahara Senior News for details to becoming soon.

STOUGHTON YOUTH CENTERDear Stoughton,

As the temperatures begin to fall, and

the sun sets earlier in the day, The

Stoughton Area Youth Center’s num-

bers have increased dramatically

from the summer. We feed the stu-dents, we listen to their school sto-

ries, we advise them, we provide programs through which they will learn and

grow, and we offer them an opportunity to relax and unwind socially, all in a

safe, secure, and caring environment. The Youth Center is supported by a not-

for-profit organization, so we are dependent on securing grants, fundraising and

the generous donations from the Stoughton community. We thank the communi-

ty for their continued support of our youth, grades 5-8. We owe a huge round of

applause, standing ovation and thank you to Christ Lutheran Church, Stoughton,

WI, for a summer fundraiser they held benefiting the Stoughton Youth Center.

Ladies, you might remember the Ladies Night Out this past June. Approximately

twenty businesses on Main Street in Stoughton donated to the youth center.

The evening’s weather was absolutely perfect and many ladies turned out who,

for a donation, were given “passports” for each of the participating businesses

to stamp. The businesses enjoyed the number of customers visiting them on a

Thursday evening and the ladies were treated to specials, samples and, in somecases, wine as they strolled up and down the street. All returned to the center

to enjoy DJ music and to await the big drawing for prizes. The grand prize was

for a weekend stay at Sandarac SPA in Wisconsin Dells. Everyone enjoyed the

outing and camaraderie. The endeavor raised $6000 for the programming at the

Youth Center!

The youth who come to the center, their parents and guardians, Friends of the

Stoughton Area Youth Center and the staff owe a huge debt of gratitude to Christ

Lutheran Church, its members and Pastors. The committee generously offered

much time and effort into the idea’s conception, planning, funding, organizing,

and conducting of this fundraiser. Stoughton businesses and citizens then gener-

ously supported the fundraiser. All of this makes it possible for us to continue to

feed, encourage, and care for these children of Stoughton, both for their future

and ours. However, we need the community’s continued vision and support.

The Stoughton Area Youth Center is located at 567 E. Main St. near the railroadtracks. We are open from 3:00-6:00 pm Monday-Friday during the school year,

and 12:00-4:00 pm on non-school days and during the summer. Please feel free

to stop in and visit for a tour of the facility. We are always looking for volunteers

to spend time with our kids.

If any other organization, group, or church would like to come alongside us to

benefit the Stoughton youth we serve, please contact us at 608-877-9980. We

would welcome all help that the community is willing to provide. There is an old

phrase that applies well here: “…it takes a village.” It takes the city of Stoughton!

I want to offer a personal blessing to all who have so generously offered their

support during this most recent Ladies Night Out, as well for the Stoughton Com-

munity as a whole, “May all the desire of your heart and all your plans succeed.”

Respectfully,

Greg Hoyte Director, Stoughton Youth Center

For more information on these and otheractivities please contact the

Stoughton Area Senior Center at

248 W. Main Street, Stoughton WI, 53589(608) 873-8585

www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior


6/12


UPCOMING YOUTH ACTIVITIESLittle Viking Basketball - 1st GradeThis session will cover basic fundamentals and work on develop-ing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. Thefirst session will involve more teaching the fundamentals and thesecond session will involve more small sided games. A certifiedcoach will be teaching the class. Parents are welcome to volunteerand assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involvedand learn about basketball coaching. Participants will receive a25 inch basketball. The classes are for this age group is for bothgirls and boys.

Gym: Yahara School

Fee: $40 – Residents, $48 – Non-Residents

Registration Deadline: 12/27

Days Dates Program CodeSaturdays 1/9-2/13 1120.405

Little Viking Basketball - 2nd GradeThis session will cover 10 classeswhere players will learn the ba-sic fundamentals and work ondeveloping movement skills thatare necessary to play basketball.A certified coach will be teachingthe class. Parents are welcome tovolunteer and assist with coach-ing activities if they would like tobe involved and learn about bas-ketball coaching. Participants willreceive a 25 inch basketball. This program is two days per week.

Gym: Yahara – Weekdays, Community Building - Saturdays


Registration Deadline: 12/27Gender Days & Times Dates Program Code

Boys Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 pm & 1/9-2/11 1120.410Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am

Girls Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 pm & 1/9-2/9 1120.411Saturdays, 10:05-11:05 am

Junior Viking Basketball - 3-4th GradeThis session will cover 12 classes where players will learn the ba-sic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that arenecessary to play basketball. The first session will involve moreteaching the fundamentals and the second session will involvemore small sided games. A certified coach will be teaching theclass. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coachingactivities if they would like to be involved and learn about bas-ketball coaching. Participants will receive a 27.5 inch basketball.Weekday classes are the evening times and Saturday classes arethe morning times.

Gym & Days: Girls - Thursday and Saturdays at River Bluff,Boys - Thursdays at Community Building,Saturdays at River Bluff



Gender Days & Times Dates Program Code

Boys Thursdays, 6:45-7:45 pm & 1/9-2/11 1120.416Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 am

Girls Thursdays, 6:45-7:45 pm & 1/9-2/11 1120.417Saturdays, 10:05-11:05 am

Youth Open GymWe will be having open gym on Monday evenings this fall and win-ter. It is on Monday evenings from 6:30-7:30 pm at the CommunityBuilding. Please bring your own ball if attending. A gym supervisorwill be present. This is for children in grades 3-8. Younger childrenmay attend, but must be accompanied by an adult. Please checkour website - cityofstoughton.com/rec for the open gym calendar.

It is $2 per person to attend or $20 for a season pass.

High School Recreational Basketball LeagueWe are once again offering a basketball league open to all highschool students except players involved on high school teams.Season length this season has been extended to nine games. Play-ers will sign up individually and teams will be created through adraft process.

Days: Tuesdays

Game Dates: 12/8, 12/15, 1/5, 1/12, 1/19, 1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/16

Times: 6:00-9:00 pm, game times will vary

Location: Sandhill Gym

Program Code: 1122.400


Draft: 12/1 at 5:00 pm at the Youth Center

FutsalFutsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around theworld. Players participate in “open-play” games that encouragecreativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches willgive tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in devel-oping soccer talent in Brazil. A drop-in fee of $5 is also available.Please contact the Recreation Department if you would like to usethis option as there might be changes to the classes.

Place: Fox Prairie Gym

Days: Tuesdays – Grades 1-2 and 5-8, Thursdays – Grades 3-4


Deadline: One week before session starts

Max class size: 16

Grades Program Code Dates Times

1-2 1131.404 2/2-3/8 6:15-7:15 pm3-4 1131.405 2/4-3/18, No 2/25 6:15-7:15pm

5-8 1131.406 2/2-3/8 7:20-8:20 pm

Learn to SkateOur Learn to Skate program haschanged for this coming fall andwinter. The program will followthe US Figure Skating curriculum.There will be two levels of skatingto sign up for; Snowplow Sam andBasic Skills.

Snowplow Sam is for childrenwho are new to skating. Childrenwill progress from learning tostand on their skates to learninghow to do snowplow stops. Basic Skills is for children who wouldlike to advance their skating ability. Children in Basic Skills willlearn more advanced skills such as backward stroking.

Our head instructor this winter will be Bernadette Baccheschi.Bernadette and her sister who will also be helping have experi-ence being members of the US Synchronized Skating team andalso teaching learn to skate in their hometown of Fond du Lac.

Helpful Tips- A limited amount of daily skate rentals are available at the Mandt

Center (873-7528) and long-term rentals are available throughMiddleton Sport & Fitness (838-3931).

- Arrive a few minutes early to sign-in and put skates on.

- Wear gloves, pants, and a light jacket. The temperature in theMandt Center is cooler than the typical gym.

- Children are encouraged to wear a helmet. A bicycle helmetworks fine.

Location: Mandt Community Center

Days & Times: Saturdays, 11:00-11:45 am

Dates: 1/9-2/20, No Class on 2/6Ages: 4+

Program Code: 1240.400 - Snow Plow Sam,1240.402 - Basic Skills



Ski Club TripsWe will be once again offering tripsto local ski hills this winter. Trips takeplace on Friday evenings in Januaryand February. We take multiple trips toCascade Mountain, Devils Head, andTyrol basin. More information will beavailable in late December.

Active Jump StartJump start your child’s love of physical activity by having them

participate in this program. Kids will play games that teach physi-cal literacy skills like running, jumping, throwing, agility, balance,and coordination. Introducing kids to these skil will get them mov-ing and on their way to becoming active for life. There will also betime set aside for free play.

Days: Saturdays

Dates: 1/9 – 2/6

Times: 9:00 - 9:45 am

Location: Yahara Gym

Who: Ages 4 - Pre K


Fee: $30 - Residents, $38 - Non-Res.


The Kids Chef - Holiday Treats PartyJoin instructor Lily Kilfoy in thiscooking class for kids ages 6-12.Lily introduces kids to less fa-miliar ingredients, basic cook-ing techniques, tools and kitchensafety-all while having hands- onfun! In this class, participants willmeasure, mix, and bake up someawesome holiday treats!

Ages: Children Ages 6-12

Times: 12:00-1:15 pm

Location: Stoughton Youth Center

Date: 12/19

Main/Max Participants: 6/10

Fee: $17


Let it Snow…time to createsome beautiful winter art!For this class the children willbe doing a painting of a darlingwinter snowman scene. They willbe using acrylic paint on a 16X20inch canvas. Throughout thispainting we will be working onshading and blending along withbackground, middle background,and foreground. The instructorwill be walking them through stepby step but each child will be ableto put their own personal touchon the project. These paintingsturn out beautiful and will work

as a wonderful holiday gift or atreasured piece to hang in yourhome for the winter!

Ages: Children Ages 7-12

Times: 9:00-11:00 am

Location: Stoughton Youth Center

Date: November 21st

Fee: $40


Min/Max Participants: 10/20

UPCOMING ADULT ACTIVITIESPickleball Open GymPickleball is a fun game for all ages. It is

a racquet game that combines elementsfrom table tennis, tennis, and badmin-ton. We will be providing nets, balls,and court markers. Please bring yourown racquet.

Who: Adults

Fee: $40 season membershipor $2 drop-in

Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays Times: 9:00-11:00 am

Location: Yahara Gym

Adult Open Gym BasketballIt is only $2 to attend an open gym. Pleasepay the on-site supervisor as you enter thegym. Basketballs are not provided.

SaturdaysTimes: 12:00-1:30 pm in December,

1:00-2:30 pm in January-March

Location: Community Building Gym

SundaysTimes: 12:30-2:00 pm

Location: High School Field House

Please check our website for the open gym calendar www.cityofstoughton.com/rec

Go to our website,www.cityofstoughton.com/rec

for winter sportsand activities!


7/12


Chicago Holiday Shopping TripJoin us on a trip to Chicago on our holiday shopping trip! Avoid thehassle of driving and parking in Chicago and enjoy a stress free coachbus ride. Michigan Avenue will have everything on your holidayshopping list. For more information on the stores and restaurants onMichigan Avenue, visit http://www.themagnificentmile.com/.

Who: Adults (children may go, but must be accompanied by anadult)

Day & Date: Saturday, December 12

Day: Saturday

Pick-up/Drop-off Time: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

Pick-up/Drop-off Location: City Hall


Min/Max Registrations: 35/54

Fee: $35

PiYoPiYo isn’t likestandard Pilatesand yoga classesthat make youhold long, intenseposes, or lead youthrough dozens ofrepetitive, micro-scopic core move-ments. PiYo speeds everything up, including your results, by intro-ducing you to dynamic, flowing sequences that can burn seriouscalories at the same time as they lengthen and tone your musclesand increase your flexibility.

With every action-packed PiYo session, you can burn excess fat

and sculpt and define your whole body, as you minimize the achesand pains that can come along with high-impact workouts. Nomatter your age, no matter your body type, PiYo will help give youdramatically visible, incredibly beautiful results.

Days & Times: Tuesdays, 9:00-9:45 am

Dates: 12/8-1/5

Location: Level-Up Gym (225 Hoel Ave)

Ages: 16+

Fee: $30 - Resident, $35 - Non-Resident

Full Body FitnessThis class offers a variety ofexercises to target all areas ofthe body. With a circuit type offormat involving short intervalsfor each exercise, you will havethe opportunity to work on yourstrength, agility, cardio and core

all during one class. Exercisescan be performed with altera-tions to fit your specific level offitness. This Wednesday eveningclass is a great way to break upyour work week by having a lit-tle fun while exercising!

Days & Times: Wednesdays, 6:15-7:00 pm

Dates: 12/9-1/13

Location: Level-Up Gym (225 Hoel Ave)

Ages: 16+

Fee: $30 - Resident, $35 - Non-Resident

Vinyasa YogaYoga generates motion withoutcausing strain and imbalance inthe body. A consistent yoga prac-

tice can quiet the mind and re-fresh the body, improve flexibility,strengthen and tone muscles andmost importantly relive stress.Classes are taught by our certi-fied instructor who specializes inVinyasa style yoga. Wear loosefitting clothing, bare feet or socks.Please bring a yoga mat as they’renot provided. This class is open toanyone. The instructor is helpful in making adaptations for indi-viduals in the class.

Days & Times: Sundays and Wednesdays, 6:15-7:15 pm

Dates: 12/2-1/10

Location: Stoughton Youth Center (567 E. Main St)

Ages: 16+

Fee: $30/$35 for either Sundays or Wednesdays, or$55/$65 for Sundays and Wednesdays

Beginner YogaYoga generates motion with-out causing strain and imbal-ance in the body. A consistentyoga practice can quiet themind and refresh the body,improve flexibility, strengthenand tone muscles and mostimportantly relieve stress. Thisclass is ideal for people who

are new to yoga, who prefera less strenuous workout, orthose wanting to return to thebasics. Our instructor is a certified yoga instructor. This class isopen to anyone. The instructor is helpful in making adaptationsfor individuals in the class. Please bring a yoga mat as they’re notprovided.

Days & Times: Sundays, 5:00-6:00 pm

Dates: 12/6-1/10

Location: Stoughton Youth Center (567 E. Main St)

Ages: 16+

Fee: $30/$35

Lowell Park Community Garden2015 will be our fourth yearof having a community gar-den at Lowell Park. Garden-ing is a great family recre-ation activity and promotes ahealthy lifestyle. The plots atour community garden are 15feet by 20 feet and they are$35 apiece. Garden rules andapplications are available onour website, www.cityof-stoughton.com/rec, underpark links. Please call or stop by our office for more information.

How to Reserve a Park ShelterPark shelters in thecity can be reservedtwo different ways.The first way is to goto our website and gothrough the online res-ervation process. Thisprocess will allow in-dividuals to search for

open dates and seekamenities that theyneed for their gather-ing. The other way isto fill out a Park Shelter reservation forms. These forms can befound at our website or at the Recreation Department office. Formore details, see our website, www.cityofstougton.com/rec.

How to Register for an ActivityOnlineWe have online registration available. Please go to https://apm.activecommunities.com/stoughtonrec/Home and click on ‘ViewActivities’ for a complete listing of classes.

Paper RegistrationPaper registration forms can be found in our seasonal activity guidesthat are inserted into the Great Dane in March and August. The formcan also be found on our website - www.cityofstoughton.com/rec

Go to our website,www.cityofstoughton.com/rec

for winter sportsand activities!


8/12


Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

SECOND FLOOR RENOVATION NEWSWelcome to the newly renovated StoughtonPublic Library! The second floor and the front

desk area havebeen totally re-done. The firstfloor restroomshave been ex-panded to meet

modern ADArequirements,and the frontentrance doorshave been en-larged. Therehave also beena number of be-hind the scenesimprovementssuch as a newHVAC system, anew boiler, and a

security camera system.

Thank you to everyone who planned andworked so long and so hard to make this

renovation a success. And thank you somuch to everyone whose donations andfinancial support made the renovationpossible.

New lights, new carpet, new furniture,new shelving… There’s so much newthat we can only begin to tell you aboutit. That’s why you need to come by. Visitthe renovated Stoughton Public Libraryand see for yourself. Best of all, the fullcollection and all the computers are backand fully available.

The Stoughton Public Library, located at304 S. Fourth St., at the corner of 4th &

Main, just west of the clock tower in downtown Stoughton.

Hours are Monday-Thursday 9-9, Friday & Saturday 9-5. Closed Sunday. There is no charge for a li-brary card – just bring in picture identification with proof of current address. If your ID does not showyour 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 returnedto any library. Call the Library at 873-6281 or visit online at www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org and onFacebook.

BE A LIBRARY BOARD TRUSTEEThe Stoughton Public Library Board of Trustees is a nine member group appointed by the Mayor. Asa policy-making body, it guides the development of Library services. Library Board terms are threeyears, and the Board meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. You are welcome toattend a meeting to see what it’s like – meetings are open to the public.

The Stoughton Public Library Board is an active Board, that recently formed a Building Committeethat planned the renovation; lobbied the City of Stoughton to provide more than $600,000 to supportthe project, and completed a $250,000 fundraising campaign to add to the City funding.

If you are interested in serving with this dynamic group, please ask for an application at the Library.This expression of interest will make your name available for consideration when a vacancy occurs,but does not guarantee appointment.

LIBRARY VICTORIAN WEEKENDIt’s not yet the weekend, but the Stoughton High SchoolMadrigal Singers directed by Ryan Casey will be perform-ing a Music on the Mezz concert on Wednesday, December2 at 6:30 p.m. Many thanks to this fine group for sharingtheir talents.

Join us Saturday December 5for several holiday eventsThis will be the final day for the Friends of the Library booksale. See below for more information

There will be a short Music on the Mezz concert in themorning featuring the Stoughton High School MadrigalSingers directed by Ryan Casey. This performance will beginat 10:00 a.m.

The final performance will be a Music on the Mezz after-noon concert at 2:00 p.m. featuring classical guitarist ex-traordinaire Christopher Allen. The performance is spon-sored in part by a grant from the Dane County Libraries’Beyond the Page Grant.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARYThe Friends of the Stoughton Public Library invite you to theirHoliday Lunch on November 21st at BBG’s. Social hour startsat 10:30 a.m. Event includes lunch, centerpiece auction, busi-ness donation raffle and event raffle. Contact Cynthia Schlegelor Richard MacDonald at the Library , if you would like tohost a table. Tickets are $20 and will be on sale at the library.Contact the Library at 873-6281 for more information.

Thursday, December 3, Book Sale-Friends Night, 5 to 7

p.m. The Book Sale will be open to the public on Fridayand Saturday, December 4 and 5. If you are interested inhelping with the book sale, contact the Library at 873-6281.

February 10, 2016, Friends Annual Meeting in the LibraryCarnegie Meeting Room, 6 p.m. Enjoy snacks, door prizes,and greet new and old friends. Learn how your donationshelp the library improve services. The Friends are in need of members to step forward and serve onthe board. Two current board members have moved away, and with the passing of Marilyn Granrud,the Friends need new board members to help with their activities that support the Library. The boardcurrently meets 6 times per year for an hour or two on a Wednesday evening.

LIBRARY EVENTSNovemberFamily Game NightTuesdays at 6:30pm

Come to the Children’s Department to enjoy games such as Scrabble, Monopoly Jr., Hi-Ho Cherry Oand our newest favorite, The Chicken Game! All ages. No registration required. We have these games

available all the time so you can have your own Family Game Time whenever you like!

Parachute DaysFridays, November 20 or December 11, 9:30am

Spend the morning playing with the parachute! We’ll have fun while working as a group to play co-operative games. Ages 2-5. Due to the number of parachute handles, class sizes are very small so weare only allowing signup at one of the two sessions. Drop by the Children’s Desk or call 873-6281 topre-register. Pre-registration is required.

Family Movie Afternoon: Inside OutFriday, November 27, 2-3:30pm

Looking for something to do on a day off from school? Enjoy free popcorn and juice while you watchthis animated film about a girl who experiences wild emotions when her family moves to a new city.Sponsored by the Stoughton Optimists Club. Rated PG.

December“The Foundation” – Science Fiction/Fantasy Book GroupWednesday, December 2, 6:30pm

The Science Fiction & Fantasy of Ray Bradbury

Teen Chess ClubThursday, December 3, 3:15pm

Meet in our newly-renovated Teen Area where volunteers from the Stoughton Area Senior Center willbe on hand to teach you how to play chess. Already know how to play? Challenge others to a gameinstead. For ages 10 and up. No registration required.

Adult Craft ClubFelt CraftsThursday, December 3, 6:30pm

Simple sewing to create a holiday ornament. Materials provided or bring that sweater that shouldNOT have gone in the dryer. Call 873-6281 to register.

LinkCat Library Catalog TrainingWednesday, December 9, 3:30pm

Learn how to look up books and materials, log in to your account, place holds and more with ouronline library catalog. Space is limited. Registration required. Signup begins November 18. For ages9-14. 8 and younger welcome with adult assistance.

Writing Series: What Comes Next?Saturday, December 12, 10am

We’ll discuss how to take the next steps on your writing path, whether you want to traditionallypublish, self-publish, find a literary agent or explore your writing in another way. Enjoy a free cup ofcoffee or cocoa. For adults as well as teens in grades 6 and up. No registration required.

Art Club: Finger Knitting Monday, December 14, 3:30pm

Learn how to knit using yarn and your fingers—no needles required! We’ll teach you how to make asmall holiday gift for someone special. Ages 9-14. Ages 8 and under welcome with adult assistance.No registration required.


9/12


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 Stoughtoncommunity for 126 years, and have always promised our neighbors a few things. Clean, affordablepower; giving back through public investment; scholarships and education; helping folks with ener-gy-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 neigh-bors. That’s why, through WPPI Energy, were partnering with other local not-for-profit utilities toshare resources and lower costs.

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

SUPPORT STOUGHTON NON-PROFITS BY ENROLLING IN PROJECT ROUNDUPStoughton Utilities began our Project RoundUP program in2006 as a way to further assist local non-profit organizationsin our community. Currently 374 of your neighbors participatein the program with voluntary monthly contributions. In 2014

alone, we collected and awarded $2,000 in funds to two lo-cal non-profit. The customers that participate in this programare continuing the “neighbor helping neighbor” concept thatfounded Stoughton Utilities over a century ago.

About Project RoundUPStoughton Utilities customers can opt to enroll in the vol-untary 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 monthto you, but the dollars add up quickly when many customersparticipate. All contributions are tax-deductible and a sum-mary for the prior year is mailed each January.

Customer ContributionThe typical contribution per program participant is approximately $6.00 per year. Amongst all par-ticipating customers, over $2,000 is raised each year and awarded by the Stoughton Utilities Commit-tee twice annually to local community service organizations.

How It Works

Contributing through the RoundUP program is really very simple. Each month Stoughton Utilities willround up your utility bill to the next full dollar. For example, if your bill is $41.17, it would be roundedup to $42.00 and your monthly contribution will be $0.83. Your maximum contribution per yearcould be $11.88, but generally will be less than that and averages around $6 per year.

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

Major Funding CategoriesCollected funds are administered by the Stoughton Utilities Committee and overseen by the StoughtonCity Council. Donations are awarded bi-annually to qualifying registered applicants selected by theStoughton Utilities Committee. Selection is based upon the merits of the application and the intendeduse 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 disasterrelief. Although there are many worthy charitable and educational projects and community needs inour local area, the limited availability of funds requires us to establish these funding priority catego-ries.

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

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

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

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

CREATE A BETTER FUTUREAs a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you can pur-chase renewable energy blocks to offset a part orall of your electrical usage through our Renew-able Energy Program.

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

Purchasing one block of renewable energy eachmonth for one year has the equivalent impacton the environment as not driving a car for sixmonths and avoids emitting over three tons ofcarbon dioxide.

In Stoughton, 422 customers purchase a total of 1,068 blocks of renewable energy each month. That’sa customer participation rate of over 4.9%, and the 320,400 kWh or renewable energy generatedand sold is enough to power 458 average-sized homes in Wisconsin without using any fossil-fuels.

To learn more about the utility’s Renewable Energy or Green Power for Business programs, pleasecontact us at 873-3379 or visit us online at renewable.stoughtonutilities.com. To enroll your home orbusiness, please visit epay.stoughtonutilities.com.

ONLINE E-BILLING AND E-PAY…GO GREEN, GO PAPERLESS!Paperless E-Billing is simple, convenient, and smart. With pa-perless billing, there are no bills to mail, file or to clutter yourmailbox. You can manage the entire bill-paying process onlineusing our E-Pay system, including access 24 hours a day toview past bills and payment activity and flexible payment op-tions. It also puts you in control of your personal informationand reduces your impact on the environment.

In addition to E-Billing, you can also manage other paymentand billing options through our online E-Pay system. You canreceive an instant Budget-Billing payment amount quote, andenroll right there on the spot. You can also enroll right in Re-newable Energy or Project RoundUP, and current enrollees can view information regarding their con-tributions. Customers signed up for our AutoPay program can view their payment account details,and will soon be able to make instant updates. If you’ve recently changed your contact informationor mailing address, you can also now update that online.

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

Visit epay.stoughtonutilities.com to get started.

SAVE TIME AND MONEY WITH AUTOPAYHow would you like to never have to write another check to Stoughton Utili-ties? You can, by enrolling in our Autopay payment program. Each month, thebilled amount due will be deducted from your checking account or charged toyour credit or debit card. All banking information is securely stored within oursystems, and you will never have to transmit your sensitive account numbersthrough the mail again.

You can add, cancel, or change your automatic payment program participationat any time. Simply log in to your account online at epay.stoughtonutilities.com, or give us a call at (608) 873-3379.

WINTER SHOULD BE A TIME FOR COMFORTS,NOT HIGH ENERGY COSTSWisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) providesfor assistance with heating costs, electric costs, and energy crisissituations. The program is operated by local social and human ser-vices, and is available to income-qualified households. Energy as-

sistance is a one- time payment each heating season (October 1through May 15). The amount of the heating assistance benefit var-ies according to household size, income level, and household heat-ing costs.

If you qualify for heating assistance, you are also eligible to receive apayment for non-heating electric energy costs through our Custom-er Credit Program, without having to fill out additional paperwork.

For information on how to apply for energy assistance, call toll-free1-

866-432-8947 (1-866-HEATWIS).

CHRISTMAS LIGHT EXCHANGE!This holiday season, Stoughton Utilities is re-minding homeowners and businesses aboutthe benefits and advantages of energy efficientlighting options to help customers stretch theirholiday dollar and trim their holiday energy bill.

To help you get started, Stoughton Utilities willbe having their Christmas light exchange pro-gram again this year. Details are to be deter-mined at this time, please watch for more infor-mation with your November billing statement.

Stoughton Utilities also wants customers to beaware of safe operating practices for all typesof holiday lighting.

• Always remember to turn off tree and decorative lights, both indoors and outdoors, before leavinghome or going to bed.

• Always check last year’s leftover lights for cracked or broken sockets, frayed insulation or barewires, or loose connections. Throw away damaged cords.

• Before you buy lights for use outdoors, read the packaging and the tag on the cord to make sure theyare approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lighting outside!

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

For more holiday energy-saving ideas, contact us at (608) 873-3379.Stoughton Utilities wishes you and your family a healthy, happy, and safe holiday season!


10/12


STREET TALKSHope you all had an enjoyable summer; construction season is over and now it’s time to get readyfor the next season: WINTER

A lot of the information in this article has been mentioned before, but we feel it is worth mentioning itagain as it provides important information on services provided by the Street Department.

We want your feedback, is this information beneficial? What else will you like to see published inStreet Talks? Lets us know by calling 873-6303 or email at [email protected]

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

• To report a pothole, please call the Street Department 873-6303

• Yardwaste Site closes Tuesday November 24th for the year. Site will re-open on Saturday April2, 2016 – weather permitting

• Brush Collection has been completed for the year. Next scheduled brush collection is MondayApril 4, 2016

LOOKING FOR A TREE COMMISSION MEMBERHave you ever thought about volunteering some time and making a difference? Now you can, theCity of Stoughton is looking for a city resident to serve a 3 year term on the City Tree Commission.With the assistance from the Tree Commission, the City of Stoughton has been Tree City USA for 21consecutive years.

If you are interested, please contact the Street department office at 873-6303 or Mayor Donna Olson

Tree Commission meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month, starting at 4:30 PM,Ed Overland Room, City Hall.

The Tree Commission duties includeTo study the problems and determine the needs of the city as they relate to the tree planting, protec-tions and maintenance program.

To recommend to the proper authority, the type and kind of trees to be planted upon such municipalstreets or parks as designated.

To assist the city with the dissemination of news and information regarding the selection, plantingand maintenance of trees.

To help educate the public on the value of trees.

To pursue grant monies to promote a healthy urban forest.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETYPedestrian Flags Over Dane CountyWe want Stoughton to be a safe place for pedestrians, please be aware of pedestrians at all cross-walks and slow down and pay attention to your driving. The following information is from Safe Com-munity and provides safety tips for crossing for both pedestrian and motorists. It also talks about theflag program when crossing, the City of Stoughton has 2 locations with flags.

Have you seen those red flags posted at pedestrian crossings around Dane County? These flags aretools that pedestrians can use to signal motorists of their intention to cross the street, in keeping withWisconsin state law requiring cars to yield to pedestrians. Neighborhoods, business districts, policedepartments, and others can “adopt” these sites with support from Safe Communities. Currently 50sites are up and running at pedestrian crossings throughout Dane County thanks to adopting orga-nizations.

Tips for assertive but safe pedestrians• Point to the other side of the street with the flag high, while standing with at least one foot in the

street (the legal trigger for drivers to yield). Look assertive!! If there’s an empty parked car that canprotect you, cross the parking lane in front of it so you are more visible to drivers.

• Gauge the traffic in the lane nearest you, and make and maintain eye contact with the first driverwho has time make a gradual stop (Cars take a long time to stop; a t 25 mph allow 75 feet or aboutfive car lengths, up to double that if you’re doing this for the first time, if you’re a slow walker, forspeeders, or for bad weather conditions). Let cars who are too close to stop go on by.

• Maintain eye contact with your selected driver; step out into his lane only when you are sure thedriver is going to stop.

• Safely cross the lane in front of the stopped car while looking for the first car in the next lane whosedriver can easily stop. Then maintain eye contact with that driver. Move carefully in front of the newcar across the lane as it stops. Repeat lane by lane until you have crossed all traffic lanes.

• IMPORTANT: Whenever you can (without being distracted) give drivers a smile, a wave, or“Thanks!” to demonstrate to drivers that pedestrians appreciate their courtesy! Remember that theflag is a helpful tool, but you still have to use normal caution. Don’t ever step into the path of a carwhen you are not sure the driver will stop.

Tips for responsible drivers• Obey the speed limit and keep well behind cars in front of you, so you can easily stop for pedestri-

ans, and be well-positioned when the car ahead of you does stop.

• Watch street edges and sidewalks AHEAD carefully for pedestrians and when you see someoneobviously ready to cross, apply your brakes early and gently so the car behind you can stop, too.

• Always assume a pedestrian is crossing the street whenever a driver in front of you, or in the lanenext to you, slows down or stops. Never pass a slowed or stopped car until you are sure no oneis crossing the street. Fine: $222.50! It’s extremely dangerous! Stop for the pedestrian at least acar length or two short of the crosswalk so cars behind you and the pedestrian can more easilysee each other around your car. Remember that the next time you may be the pedestrian, and thispedestrian may be the driver waiting for you. And thanks for stopping!

For more information about Pedestrian Safety, visit www.safercommunity.net

PORTABLE BASKETBALL HOOPS ARE NOT PERMITTED IN STREET OR CITY RIGHT-OF-WAYWe have noticed many portable basketball hoops in the street or city right-of-way. Per City Ordinance, they are not allowed to be placed in street or cityright-of-way. We have sent letters out to homeowners to not ify them of thisordinance and violation. We may have missed a few and would appreciate itif you read this, that you remove it from the street or city right-of-way.

The basketball hoops interfere with garbage collection, street sweeping, leafcollection and snow removal operations.

SNOW EMERGENCYA snow emergency is handled differently in the City of Stoughton.Most area communities have alternate side parking daily from midNovember to mid April. Stoughton institutes alternate side park-ing only when a snow emergency is called. A snow emergency iscalled when 3 inches or more of snow is forecasted or 3 inches ormore has fallen or as conditions warrant (ice storm, etc). The snowemergency lasts for 3 days and vehicle owners must abide with al-ternate side parking during this time frame. Notifications are made

on the three (3) local television channels, most local radio channels, posted on city web page, andmessage on street department voice mail system. You can also sign up for direct email notificationson city web page. It’s really helpful to move your vehicle(s) completely off the street if possible; itmakes for a better plowed street and improves plowing time efficiency and you don’t have to shovelsnow to get your vehicle out.

SNOW REMOVAL FROM DRIVEWAYS/SIDEWALKSOur snow plow operators take a lot of pride in cleaning the snow off the streets. Nothing looks betterthen a freshly plowed street! So please, when you clean your dr iveways and sidewalks of snow do notblow or throw snow back into the street (city ordinance 64-13 (b) prohibits this). Please deposit yoursnow on your front yard; it can use the extra moisture and keeps it off the street. Let us know if youwitness anyone violating this ordinance.

SAND/SALT MIXTUREA salt/sand mixture is available only for city residents at the Street Department at 515 S. FourthStreet. Bring your own small container/pail. The salt/sand box is located in the Street DepartmentParking Lot.

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION SCHEDULECrews will be out from Monday January 4th to Friday January 29th collecting Christmas Trees. Makesure tree stand, all lights and ornaments are removed. Trees must be at the curbside and not buriedin the snow. Wreaths and roping must have all wire removed.

E-WASTE DROP-OFFThe E-waste collection has been a very successful program, thanks tothe residents for bringing in their E-waste items to be properly disposed.This service is available only to City of Stoughton residents only. City residents need to bring their e-waste items to Street Departmentduring normal business hours to be properly disposed. City residentsneed to check in first at the Street Department office and show ID toverify city residency and make payment if they are disposing TV’s

or Computer Monitors. If you have any questions, please contact us at(608) 873-6303.

There is a $10 dollar fee for TV’s and Computer Monitors. All other items are free disposal.

List of Acceptable Items• Televisions

• Desktop Computers

• Laptops

• Printers, scanners, copiers

• Fax machines

• Video display devices, monitors

• Keyboards, mice, hard drives, flash drives, external modems & other computer devices

• DVD, VCR, DVR & Video

NOTE: With computers make sure to remove all personal information or take out the hard drive anddestroy it.

NOTE: No Microwaves- they can be placed out at the end of the month for bulky item collection.

ENCUMBRANCE PERMITSAn encumbrance permit is required if you are going to leave a dumpster, POD, landscape materi-als, un-licensed trailers, etc. in the street or city right-of-way for more than 2 hours. Permits canbe obtained at the Street Department office or online at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us and click on streetdepartment tab and then permits link. Cost is $25 dollars and the permit is good for 30 days, when itcan be renewed for another $25 dollars.

MAILBOX PLACEMENTTo reduce the chances that your mailbox may be hit by a snow plow during winter, you still have timeto move your mailbox and follow US Postal regulations and place your mailbox 40-42 inches abovethe road surface and back 6 inches from the curb with the door down. Following these guidelines willincrease productivity by snow plow operators.

REFUSE & RECYCLING CART PLACEMENTStill have a few residents that don’t follow guidelines for proper cart placement. John’s DisposalService Inc. and the City of Stoughton request and require that carts not be placed in the street,but instead place refuse carts on the terrace or your driveway approach. Please place cart(s) aminimum of 2 feet apart at the end of your driveway or terrace area. Please do not set carts to closeto mailboxes, trees, and light poles. Keeping the carts out of the street a lso allows street crews to ef-fectively sweep streets, vacuum leaves and plow snow during the fall and winter season.

These articles are published in Tower Times issues and placed on the city Street Department web siteat www.ci.stoughton.wi.us with time related information. While on the web site, check out FrequentlyAsked Questions.

Feel free to call me with any questions; I hope you find some helpful information.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

Sincerely,Karl Manthe

Street Superintendent Karl Manthe608-873-6303

[email protected]


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12 - The Tower Times - Fall 2015

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2015 Fall Tower Times