Tower Times - Winter 2010

The Tower Times Issue 3, Winter 2010

n City Of Stoughto

***NOTICE – City of Stoughton Tax Payers *** The City of Stoughton held a Public Hearing on October 26th, 2010 to review the proposed 2011 budget.

The final tax rate for the current year will be $7.49 (City Share). A copy of the proposed budget will be available for review at City Hall and at the Stoughton Library. We continue to encourage taxpayers to make their payments through the mail with the return envelope provided.

Tax Billing:

The Treasurer’s Office will send out bills by December 20th. Tax payments can be mailed using the pre-addressed 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. Please make first installment checks payable to the City of Stoughton Treasurer. Please note, NO CASH PAYMENTS will be accepted. If you normally made a cash payment in the past, you will need to either get a money order or a bank check. We are no longer able to accept cash payments for real estate and personal property tax bills. If a written receipt is needed, a selfaddressed 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 2010? If you owned your home on January 1, 2010 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.

Street Department Reminders:

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 stayed the same for 2011: $16.00 unless the dog is spayed or neutered in which case the fee is $12.00.

Announcement of Snow Emergency Days:

Announcements will be made on the same local radio and TV stations the schools use to announce and Cable 98 & 981.

The announcement will also be available by calling the Street Department at 873-6303 or checking the Street Department Web page.

Street Department using New Procedure for Ice and Snow Removal:

A Personal Message from the Mayor:

The Street Department is taking a proactive and environmental friendly approach to removing snow and ice from city streets this year.

As I think over the past year I am thankful for so many things.

In previous years, street crews would salt streets after snow started accumulating on city streets. This year we will be antiicing certain city street. What does this mean?

I am thankful for city employees that go above and beyond their job descriptions each and every day to serve the citizens of Stoughton.

Street Department crews will apply an 80-10-10 salt brine solution before it starts snowing which then gets activated by snowfall and starts melting the snow right away.

The brine solution can be applied up to four days before a snowfall event. The Street Department will watch the weekly forecast(s) to assist with treating the pavement with brine solution.

I am thankful for all the volunteers, businesses, churches and organizations that give to our community in ways to numerous to list.

The brine solution is being used by many municipalities throughout Dane County with great success in past years. The 80-10-10 brine solution is made up of 80% salt brine (77% water, 23% salt), 10% calcium chloride, and 10% GEO melt (Beet Juice). The blended brine is active to 30 degrees below zero where normal salt is only active to about 20 degrees above zero.

I am thankful that Stoughton is a community that goes the extra mile to provide for all. We have a strong business community providing employment for our residents and neighbors. We have wonderful schools that provide a quality education for our students. We have beautiful parks and a vast variety of recreational opportunities for all to enjoy. We have a local arts community that is surpassed by none in our area. Our Opera House brings a wide variety of music and entertainment for the entire family. We have one of the most beautiful Main Streets as confirmed time and time again by visitors and residents alike. Stoughton truly is a full service community for all ages providing for our medical, retail, cultural, entertainment and religious needs.

The Street Department plans on applying the brine to major streets throughout the city, school routes, and hills to start.

Other streets will have pre-wet salt applied during a snow event.

If you have any questions about this product or new procedure, please call the Street Department office at 873-6303.

I am thankful for all the people and things that make Stoughton a wonderful community to live, work and play.

Parking – Snow Emergency Sec. 70-14:

(c) 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. Parking between 12:00 midnight and 8:00 a.m. shall be prohibited on the opposite (other) side. (d) The last digit of the house numbers for that street shall determine the even or odd side of a particular street.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.

Mayor Donna Olson

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Holiday Safety Tips from Stoughton Fire Department:

Snow Removal - Sec. 64-13:

(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.

• If you did not change your smoke detector batteries during fire prevention week, do so NOW. • Decorating your home or business with Holiday lighting is a great tradition, be sure the lights are in GOOD working order, free of any frayed wires.

• Limit the use of extension cords, multiple, ganged cords connected together may heat and cause a fire.

• Keep open flame candles away from combustible materials.

• Be sure to keep your (live vegetation) Christmas trees watered.

• When the snow falls, please keep the Fire Hydrants clear of snow, a 3 ft circle around the hydrant with street access will assist our ability to use the hydrant.

Sand & Salt Mixture:

There is a mixture of sand & salt available at the Street Department at 515 S Fourth Street if you need some. You will need to bring your own bucket and shovel.

Used Oil Filters & Absorbents Landfill Ban:

Have a Safe Holiday Season from the

2009 Wisconsin Act 86 bans the disposal of used oil filters and absorbents in Wisconsin landfills as of January 1, 2011.

The ban applies to everyone in the state, including individuals, homeowners, farmers, businesses, commercial & industrial facilities, educational institutions and municipalities.

Stoughton Fire Department

Check the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, and search “oil filters” for more information. You can also contact Dan Fields at (608) 266-5334 or Jack Connelly at (608) 267-7574.

Christmas Tree Pick Up: Beginning Tuesday January 3, 2011 through Friday January 27th the crews will be picking up trees that are at the curb.

Please make sure that your tree is not buried in snow to allow for pick up.

Roping or wreaths must have all wire removed.

Give the Gift of Light:

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 or call us at (608) 873-3379 for more information.

Celebrate the Holidays Safely:

Park Row Tree Pruning:

Annual trimming of the park row trees is just around the corner; January thru March 2011, weather permitting. Watch for more information in the local newspapers.

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

For more detailed information, visit the Street Department Web Page at

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.

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

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

www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/streets/

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

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

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

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

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

Winter Stoughton Utility Bills: With autumn nearly complete, and winter rapidly approaching, Stoughton Utilities would like to remind our customers of the importance of paying their monthly utility bills during the winter months.

Indoor Lighting:

• Check all tree lights-even if you’ve just purchased them-before hanging them on your tree.

Make sure all the bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections.

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

• Inside your home route cords so they won’t trip anyone.

Additionally, don’t place them under rugs, appliances or other objects, as they may overheat if covered or become worn and cause a fire.

• Pets and toddlers sometimes become attracted to electrical cords. It’s a good idea to secure cords so that they are not easily reached.

• Don’t use electrical ornaments or light strings on artificial trees with metallic leaves or branch coverings. This could create an electrical shock.

Failing to keep up with your account during the winter months can have serious repercussions; you may find yourself with a very large balance due in the spring which can result in a disconnection of service. Also, failure to pay your winter bills will 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.

During the holidays, as well as throughout the remainder of the heating season, we know it can be very difficult for many families to meet their normal living expenses. Taking advantage of Stoughton Utilities Budget-Billing Option allows you to plan ahead for a utility bill that will be a fixed amount each month.The amount of your payment will be 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.

Trimming the Tree:

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

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

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

• Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens.

Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.

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

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

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

Making an effort to keep your account balance under control during the winter months is very important. If you are finding it difficult to make the monthly payment, please keep in mind that even minimal amounts will help keep your balance from growing out of control by spring. If you have questions about your bill or signing up for the Budget-Billing option, please give us a call at (608) 873-3379.

Customer Credit Program:

As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you may be eligible for our Customer Credit Program. This is a Commitment to Community program that was established to help members of our community with limited financial resources cover their energy costs.

To qualify for our program you must verify through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) that your gross household income from the past three months falls below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

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Go ahead, deck the halls!

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, 2010 through May 15, 2011.

Saving electricity doesn’t mean having to give up your holiday lights.

In fact, LED holiday lights use up to 90 percent less electricity than standard incandescent holiday lights and now, they cost less. Take advantage of a $2 instant reward through ENERGY STAR® at participating retailers, while supplies last.

Representatives from Energy Services Inc. will be taking applications at the Stoughton Senior Center, 248 West Main Street, on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the dates listed below. You must call (608) 267-8601 to make an appointment for these dates at the Senior Center location.

Learn more at www.focusonenergy.com/ holidaylights or at www.stoughtonutilities. com.

December 8, 2010 March 16, 2011 January 12, 2011 March 30, 2011 February 2, 2011 April 13, 2011

Give them a brake!

If you are approved for energy assistance through WHEAP, you will automatically be approved for Stoughton Utilities’ Customer Credit Program without having to complete any additional paperwork.

Working outdoors in Wisconsin’s 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.

Leading by Example efforts

earns recognition:

Thank you Stoughton! By supporting a proactive approach to energy conservation, we’ve earned recognition for Leading by Example. As your locally owned utility, our goal is to demonstrate ways that homeowners and business managers can save on utility bills and reduce our reliance on traditional energy resources. For us, that meant taking steps such as: • Developing a policy to pursue energy efficiency; • Implementing efficiency measures in municipal buildings; • Installing a community-based renewable project; and • Purchasing renewable energy to offset usage in municipal facilities.

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!

• Always buckle up.

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

• Always slow to posted work zone speed limits.

• Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.

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

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

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

For you, our customers, that could translate into steps such as:

• Making a commitment to save energy and trim operating costs in the year ahead; • Requesting an energy audit and taking advantage of technical assistance from our staff to learn ways in which you could achieve those savings; • Taking simple steps that may qualify for energy-efficiency rebates and incentives; • Purchasing renewable energy to offset all or part of your monthly energy usage.

Stoughton Utilities (SU) News Corner:

With cold weather approaching, SU recommends homeowners install insulation around water meters and pipes located in crawl spaces and/or unheated basement to prevent your meter and pipes from freezing. Insulating pipes will also help reduce energy costs related to hot water bills.

Together, we’ll continue to improve energy savings, preserve the environment and contribute to a sustainable energy future.

Your SU received $630,000 in grant monies through the Federal Stimulus Program. This grant was used to offset the costs of the 1.2 million dollar elevated water storage tank located in Race Track Road Park. Thanks to the Parks and Recreations

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Holiday Lighting Decoration Projects:

Department for offering the land and location for this project.

If you are planning to winterize your property as you travel, please contact SU so we can turn off your water service in the street and remove the meter. Depending on your circumstances, you may incur costs for this service.

SU currently owns and maintains 598 fire hydrants located throughout the City of Stoughton. We need your help. For the safety of our customers and the general public, please keep the hydrants clear of snow for our local Fire Department. If a fire hydrant is located in the terrace in front of your property, we encourage the property owner to maintain 4-feet clear space on all sides of the hydrant. Thank you for your continued help.

Please use the appropriate light bulbs for the area you plan to light and don’t overload your circuits. Interior lights should not be used for exterior lighting projects. To reduce energy costs, consider using a timer or unplug the lights when you go to bed.

Wisconsin Focus on Energy (foucusonenergy.com) also has a list of local stores on their web site where you can purchase Light Emitting Di0ode (LED) holiday lights at a discount price while supplies last.

Please help our field crews. As the snow begins to fall and our streets begin to get slippery, we need your help. When you see our bright orange signs that reads “men working ahead”, please slow down and be prepared to stop when passing through the construction zones.

Electric wires located between utility poles and your metering facility are owned by SU. If a tree or branch comes in contact with the electric wire serving your property, the owner of the property is responsible for trimming the tree back. If a tree falls into the wire or a branch has broken off the tree and his hanging on or against the wire, contact SU so that we may safely remove the obstruction.

2011 Reconstruction Project: This project consists of water, sanitary sewer, sidewalk, and curb and gutter along with total street reconstruction along East Main Street from the railroad crossing to Amundson Parkway. The projects will begin in early spring and will start on the West end. Tentatively, we have two phases for this project.

The first phase is from railroad crossing to Lynn Street and the second phase will be from Lynn Street to Amundson Parkway.

The first phase is scheduled to be completed by mid-May.

Street light repairs: If you notice a street light not operating correctly in your neighborhood, please contact SU at 873-3379 or on our web site too report the problem. We normally schedule street light repairs on Fridays.

Please keep current with your utility bills through the winter months. SU staff will be out during the winter months disconnecting water services for delinquent accounts. If you are facing financial challenges in keeping current with your monthly bills, please contact our office at 873-3379 for assistance and potential programs to help you through the difficult times.

Hybrid Bucket Truck: SU received $200,000 from the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence to pay for the incremental costs for two new bucket trucks. One unit was purchased in 2008 and delivered in the fall of 2010 and the other one was ordered in 2009 and is scheduled to be delivered this December. Lead battery packs provide the energy to power the hydraulic pumps used to operate the buckets and tools and significantly reduces noise and our carbon footprint when operating these vehicles.

The batteries also provide the power to operate the electric heater and air conditioning in the cab. The battery packs are charged in the evening during off-peak hours and provide enough power to operate the units during a normal workday.

It is important to understand that the $18.4 Million SU operation is totally funded by user fees and not tax dollars. In 2010, SU paid $524,000 to the City of Stoughton in taxes and economic development funds.

Please contact Stoughton Utilities at 873-3379 or visit us at www.stoughtonutilities.com to remain current on programs and services offered by Stoughton Utilities.

Staff is currently working with the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence in developing a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) Best Practices Manual. SU’s yellow electric car has over 4,000 miles on the odometer and is used year round by staff.

This winter, crews from the SU electric line division will be working on tree line clearance projects East of Page Street and including portions of the Townships of Pleasant Springs and Dunkirk. We will also have a tree trimming contractor working with us in 2011. The Contractor will be working on back lot line trees and trees where climbing and roping skills are necessary to safely remove the branches in conflict with our wires.

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SPRING 2011 SEASON The meticulously restored Stoughton Opera House is one of Wisconsin’s premiere live music theaters.

The 2010–2011 season features legendary performers in the intimate atmosphere of an era gone by.

Pro Arte Quartet JAN 23

Adrian Legg Fingerstyle Guitar APRIL 9

Madison Brass Band FEB 5

Opera for the Young Pirates of Penzance APRIL 10

Dan Newton’s Café Accordion Orchestra FEB 11

Glenn Miller Orchestra APRIL 14

Bonnie Koloc FEB 12

Harry Manx APRIL 15

Four Bitchin’ Babes Hormonal Imbalance FEB 26

Yahara River Show—Syttende Mai Edition APRIL 16

Del McCoury Band MARCH 4

Janis Ian & Tom Paxton Natalia Zukerman opens APRIL 30

The Actors Factory Novel Ideas MAR 11–13

Playtime Productions APRIL/MAY TBD

Chris Smither in Concert MAR 18

Tony Rice Unit MAY 6

Tim O’Brien and Bryan Sutton MAR 25

Michael Hecht presents: Walt Whitman and Norman Rockwell MAY 7

Commonweal Theatre–An Enemy of the People MAR 26

St. Ann’s Drama Department MAY 20 & 21

Branson on the Road with Maggie Mae MAR 31

Stoughton Chamber Singers America Sings! MAY 22

Iris DeMent APRIL 2

Fox Prairie Elementary —A Wisconsin History MAY 25 & 26

The Emmitt-Nershi Band APRIL 8

Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society JUNE 10 & 24

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7/26/10 4:55:32 PM

  Winter and Early Spring Recreation Programs Little Viking Basketball Leagues This a great way to get your child started in basketball. Teams will be picked each week and informal games will be played.

A qualified basketball worker will be there to help assist volunteer coaches. Volunteer coaches are needed.

Days: Saturday Mornings Fee: $30 Residents, $40 Non-Residents Registration Deadline: December 30 Grade

Program Code

1st—Boys 1121.408 & Girls

Gym

Times

Yahara

9:30-11:00 1/8-2/12 am

Ice Skating Lessons Our skating lessons are open to children who are 3 years old and up. The classes will be broken down into groups by skill level once they ‘hit’ the ice. The emphasis with this program is having fun while learning to skate. A limited number of skates are available to rent at the Mandt Community Center (873-7528) and long-term rentals are available through Middleton Sports & Fitness (836-3931), Days & Dates: Saturday Mornings, 1/8-2/19 Times: 11:00-Noon on 1/8 and 1/29, 10:45-11:45 am on 1/15, 1/22, 2/12, and 2/19.

Registration Deadline: 12/30 Program Code: 1240.402 Location: Mandt Community Center Fee: $65 Resident, $75 Non-Resident

Dates

2nd Girls

1121.409

Community 9:00-10:00 1/15-2/19 Building am

2nd Boys

1121.410

Community 10:00Building 11:00 am

1/15-2/19

Sports Sampler for Kindergartners This is a great way to find out what sports your child will like.

The children will be introduced to a new sport each week. The sports will include indoor soccer, basketball, tennis, t-ball, and dodgeball. Please bring your own racquet the week of tennis.

Days & Dates: Saturdays, 1/82/12 Times: 8:45-9:30 am Grade: Kindergarten Program Code: 1300.401 Registration Deadline: 12/30 Fee: $30 Residents, $38 Non-Residents

Junior Viking Basketball Instruction An experienced basketball coach will teach basketball fundamentals through fin and exciting activities. Parents can volunteer to assist the instructor if they would like to be involved and learn more about coaching basketball.

Days: Saturday Mornings Fee: $30 Residents, $40 Non-Residents Registration Deadline: December 30 Grade

Program Gym Code

Times

Dates

3rd Boys

1121.419 Community 9:30-11:00 Building am

1/8-2/12

4th Boys

1121.421 River Bluff 9:00-10:00 am

1/15-2/19

Gym Games for Little Tykes This program will introduce your child to several different games that range from tee ball to animal tag. This is a great way to get your child interacting and socializing with other children their age before they start kindergarten.

Days & Dates: Saturdays, 1/8-2/12 Times: 11:00-11:45 am Location: River Bluff Gym Registration Deadline: 1/3 Program Code: 1270.403 Fee: $30 Residents, $38 Non-Residents

5-6th Boys 1121.423 River Bluff 10:00-11:00 1/15-2/19 am Junior Viking Basketball Leagues This a great way to get your child started in basketball. Teams will be picked each week and informal games will be played.

A qualified basketball worker will be there to help assist volunteer coaches. Volunteer coaches are needed.

Days: Saturday Mornings Fee: $30 Residents, $40 Non-Residents Registration Deadline: December 30 Grade Program Gym Code

Time

Dates

3-4th Girls

1121.412

High School Field House

10:00Noon

1/15-2/26 (No 2/5)

5-6th Girls

1121.414

High School Field House

10:00Noon

1/15-2/26 (No 2/5)

Preschool Open Play This activity is setup to be an unstructured play time for preschool age children. This is a great way to get out of the house in the winter with your child. We will provide balls and other equipment that you can use to play with your child. No advance pre-registration is required.

Days & Dates: Wednesdays, 12/1-2/23 Times: 10:00-11:00 am Location: LakeView Church Gym Fee: $2 per day

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  Winter and Early Spring Recreation Programs Futsal Indoor Soccer Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Ted Judy along with help from Stoughton Area Youth Soccer are once again bringing this excellent skill building program to Stoughton Recreation. Players participate in “openplay” games that encourage creativity and teamwork. Licensed soccer coaches give tips when appropriate. Stay in shape, have fun, and become a better soccer player! Sign-up for the sessions that fit your schedule and desire.

Zumba Certified Zumba instructor Heidi Schenkenberg is bringing Zumba to the Stoughton Recreation Department. Zumba fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a one of a kind fitness program. We offer multiple Zumba sessions during the week to fit your schedule. Please check our online registration website (https://activenet9.active.com/stoughtonrec/) for the latest class listings.

Location: Yahara Gym Registration Deadline: Session 2—1/7, Session 3—2/11 Max Class Size: 16 Fee: $30 Residents, $40 Non-Residents Grades

Program Days Code

Dates

Baton Learn the basics of baton twhirling in our baton class. All students will have the opportunity to march in the spring’s Syttende Mai Parade. Each student is required to bring their own baton.

Days & Dates: Wednesdays, 3/9-5/11 Times: Beginner’s 6:15-7:15 pm, Advanced 7:15-8:!5 pm Grades: 2-7th Location: Kegonsa School Gym Program Code: Beginner’s 1220.105, Advanced 1220.107 Fee: $30 Residents, $38 Non-Residents (add $30 if you need a baton)

Times

Session 2 3-4

1131.416 Thursdays 1/13-2/10 5:30-6:30 pm

5-6

1131.417 Thursdays 1/13-2/10 6:45-7:45 pm

7-8

1131.418 Tuesdays

1/11-2/8

5:30-6:30 pm

High School

1131.419 Tuesdays

1/11-2/8

6:45-7:45 pm For a complete listing of program that we are currently offering, go to our online registration website, https://activenet9.active.com/stoughtonrec/

Session 3 3-4

1131.420 Thursdays 2/17-3/17 5:30-6:30 pm

5-6

1131.421 Thursdays 2/17-3/17 6:45-7:45 pm

7-8

1131.422 Tuesdays

2/15-3/15 5:30-6:30 pm

High School

1131.423 Tuesdays

2/15-3/15 6:45-7:45 pm

2011 Park Shelter Reservations The first day to reserve a park shelter for 2011 is 1/3/2011.

Please reserve your shelter early as the premium dates go early.

The fee for shelter reservations is $30 for City of Stoughton residents and $50 for people who live outside the city. There is also a $25 security deposit for each shelter reservation. Shelters can be reserved on our online registration website or at our office.

Spring Miniball Soccer Start your little Pele on his or her way to a lifelong love of recreation. Nothing compares to soccer for an intro to team sports.

The program will focus on having fun and getting your child to like sports. This program isn’t intended to teach high-level skills to your child, just the basics. Please note that this program will be switching to Sunday afternoons this spring.

2011 Lowell Park Community Garden Plots The first day to reserve a garden plot for 2011 will be 2/1/2011.

All returning gardeners will have until 3/1/2011 to make a decision if they would like their same plot again. Additional plots for returning gardeners will fall into a first come, first served basis. Please go to our website, www.cityofstoughton.com/rec, for garden application, rules, and other details.

Days & Dates: Sundays, 4/10-5/22 (no 4/24) Location: Racetrack Park Fee: $30 Residents, $38 Non-Residents Registration Deadline: 4/1 Volunteer coaches are needed!

Ages/Grades

Program Code

Times

3 year olds

1130.105

3:00-3:45 pm

4 year olds & Kindergartners

1130.106

4:00-4:45 pm

Recreation Department Contact Information 381 E. Main Street Stoughton, WI 53589 Phone: 873-6746 Website: www.cityofstoughton.com/rec Email: stoughtonrecreation@ci.stoughton.wi.us Online Registration: https://activenet9.active.com/

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  

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You Can Help Lakes and Streams during Winter:

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

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.

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 and remember to first remove as much snow and ice as you can. The recommended application rate for sodium chloride is about a handful per square yard. Calcium chloride works at much colder temperatures 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’t work to melt snow and ice—they merely provide some traction and make a mess on your floors. Stick with sand for traction, which is cheaper and easier to clean up.

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, choosing the right product and using it correctly is important to help protect our water resources.

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

1. Shovel early, shovel often. There’s no substitute for muscle and elbow grease for snow and ice removal. Remove as much snow as you can during the storm if possible. Use a hoe or other tools to chip or scrape ice off the surface before any deicers are applied. Deicers work best when there is only a thin layer of snow or ice that must be melted. Divert the melting snow away from your sidewalk and driveway 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 will be looking at empty shelves, and have few, if any, environmental choices to make at the store.

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

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SNOW ENFORCEMENT FOR PUBLIC SIDEWALKS:

Christmas Day S unday, December 25, 2011 In observation of the Legal Holiday being recognized on Monday December 26th, 2011; All collections will be delayed by one day.

Ordinance section 64-13 allows the City of Stoughton Department of Planning & Development staff to issue a citation to any property owner of a parcel where snow and/ or ice have not been removed from the public sidewalk. City staff will inspect properties 2 days after a snowfall has ended and send a notice to the property owner and tenant where a violation exists. One notice will be sent for a specific property per season. City staff will wait until 9:00 am 3 days after the letter has been sent to re-inspect the property and issue a citation where a violation still exists. After a citation is issued, City Staff will wait until 9:00 am 3 days after the citation has been mailed to re-inspect the property and if the property is still in violation and there has been no additional snowfalls, City Staff will either remove the snow or contract to remove the snow and report the expense to the city Finance Director, who shall bill the property owner.

New Year’s Day Sunday, January 1st, 2012 In observation of the Legal Holiday being recognized on Monday January 2nd, 2012; All collections will be delayed by one day.

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

Please contact Johns Disposal with any questions.

Phone: (262) 473-4700 Toll Free: (888) 473-4701 Fax: (262) 473-6775 office@johnsdisposal.com www.johnsdisposal.com

The City of Stoughton will be actively enforcing this ordinance.

The entire width of the public sidewalk is expected to be cleared of snow and ice including ramps.

If you have any questions regarding snow enforcement of public sidewalks, please call the City Zoning Administrator at 608-6460421

Suicide and Mental Health Community Concerns:

In early August, the Stoughton area had a significant increase in attempted suicides and completed suicides.

Mayor Donna Olson brought people together from throughout the community to discuss ideas on how to address these concerns. As a result of these meetings, it was decided to provide free suicide prevention training to those front line people who have daily contact with people that may be thinking of suicide.

Holiday Schedule 2011:

New Year’s Day Saturday, January 1, 2011 All collections will remain the same.

Memorial Day

Monday, May 30, 2011 All collections will be delayed by one day.

Independence Day Monday, July 4th, 2011 All collections will be delayed by one day.

Contact was made with HOPES (Helping Others Prevent and Educate About Suicide) who offers a free QPR (Question Persuade Refer) training where participants learn the warning signs for suicide, how to offer hope, and how to seek help to save a life.

Labor Day onday, September 5, 2011 M All collections will be delayed by one day.

Thanksgiving Day

The QPR training was offered in two sessions on Thursday, October 14th and over 50 people were certified at no cost.

We are currently seeking funds to train at least ten people in teaching QPR in the community.

Thursday, November 24, 2011.

The Monday through Wednesday collections will remain unchanged.

The regular Thursday collections will be on Friday, November 25th and Friday collections on Saturday, November 26th.

If you or someone you know is suffering with depression, crisis, or suicidal thoughts or actions, they should call either:

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December Family Movie:

Dane County Crisis 24 hour hotline at (608) 280-2600

Saturday, December 18th at 10 am The film is rated PG and is 95 minutes. Enjoy juice and popcorn while you watch this recently released DVD on the library’s big screen. No registration required. This program is sponsored by the Stoughton Optimist Club.

24 hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Stoughton Suicide/Crisis Support Agencies:

Teen Crafts: Cassette Tape Wallet:

Stoughton Mayor’s Office, Stoughton Hospital, Stoughton School District, Stoughton Area Resource Team (START), Dane County Human Services, Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Area EMS, Stoughton Police Department, Stoughton Police, Fire, and EMS Chaplains, and Covenant Lutheran Church.

Monday, January 10 at 3:15 pm Ever wonder where all the cassette tapes have gone? They are waiting for you to make them into something else, like wallets!

Use an old cassette tape to make a wallet and have a cool way to store your stuff. For teens in grades 6-12. No registration required.

If you have any questions about QPR or future training, please click on one of these links: www.hopes-wi.org/qpr.htm www.safercommunity.net/suicideprevention. html or to get further information or you can contact Lieutenant Patrick (Pat) Conlin at 608-873-6859 or e-mail: pconlin@ ci.stoughton.wi.us.

Movement in Your World: Family Dance: Wednesdays, January 12-26 at 10 – 10:30 am Join the Madison Ballet for a fun creative movement experience for children ages 2-6 with an adult. Children and parents will dance together and focus on rhythm, movement, music and fun.

Registration is limited to 15 children and begins Wednesday, December 29.

Mother Goose Storytime: Saturdays, January 15, February 12, March 12, April 9 at 10am Fridays, February 4-March 25 at 9:15am Enjoy stories, songs, puppets and activities for children ages 0-2.

Older siblings welcome. No registration required.

Evening Stories: Thursdays, January 20, February 17, March 17, April 21 at 6:30pm Wear your pajamas to the library and enjoy stories, songs, puppets, movies and a craft. Stories are geared for children ages 0-5 and their families. No registration required.

Stoughton Public Library Upcoming Children’s and Teen Programs:

Captain Underpants Party: Saturday, January 22 at 2pm Wedgie Power! Celebrate all things bugger fantastic with Captain Underpants games, crafts and snacks. Watch out for flying underpants! For children in grades K-4. Registration is limited to 20 children and begins Saturday, January 8.

Cookie Decorating: Saturday, December 11 at 1 pm Do you like cookies? If you do, come to the library and to enjoy a couple of cookie stories and decorate your own cookie. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Participation is limited to 20 children and an additional program will be added at 3pm if the initial registration is full.

Call 873-6281 to register beginning Monday, November 29.

Totally Toddlers: Mondays, January 31- March 21 at 9:30 am Join us for stories, songs, puppets, activities and crafts especially for children ages 2-3 and their families. Younger and older siblings welcome. No registration required.

Teen Cookie Decorating: Monday, December 13 at 3:15 pm Do you like cookies? Come to the library to decorate a cookie and enjoy it with hot chocolate and friends. For teens in grades 6-12. No registration required.

Preschool Storytime: Wednesdays, February 2-April 27 at 10am Enjoy stories, songs, puppets, movies and crafts for children ages 0-5. This is a great program for families with kids of multiple ages. No registration required.

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New Services and Programs for Adults:

Story and Craft Time: Fridays, February 4 – March 25 at 10am Enjoy longer stories, songs, puppets, movies and a more difficult craft for children ages 3 ½-5. Parents are welcome to use the library while their child is in storytime, a great way to get ready for school. Siblings are welcome and no registration is required.

Adult Book Discussions: Please Join Us! Discussions are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 7pm to 8 pm.

No registration necessary. Copies of the books are available at the Adult Services Desk.

Valentine’s Day Crafts: Saturday, February 5 at 2pm Create a wide selection of beautiful Valentine’s Day crafts to give or to keep. The program is for children ages 6 and up. Registration is limited to 25 children and begins Saturday, January 22.

Tuesday January 25 The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley Tuesday February 22 My Stroke of Insight: a Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey by Jill Bolte Taylor Tuesday March 22 Last Town on Earth: a Novel by Thomas Mullen

Knit Together: Mondays, February 7-28 at 3:30-4:15pm Learn to knit and work on a project during this 4 week class for children ages 8 and up. Parents who want to learn with their child are also encouraged to attend. All materials provided and no previous experience knitting is required. Registration is limited to 10 children and begins Monday, January 24.

Jerry Apps Program: Thursday, December 9 at 7:00 pm Need an escape from the Holidays? Come to the Library and hear celebrated Wisconsin author Jerry Apps present “The Lighter Side of Life in the Country.” Jerry Apps, born and raised on a Wisconsin farm, is Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the author of more than 25 books, many of them on rural history and country life. Books will be available for purchase and refreshments will be provided.

Teen Tuesdays: Chocolate Party: Tuesday, February 8 at 3:15pm Do you like chocolate? Think you can build the best Oreo tower or win the Hershey Kiss peeling contest? Then come to the library and enjoy many yummy chocolate treats. For teens in grades 6-12. No registration required.

A Mechanic is Setting Up Shop at the Stoughton Public Library!

The Library’s New Online Resource – www. stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/chilton-- provides access to repair, maintenance, and service information for popular vehicles.

Chilton’s database will be available for home access starting in the New Year. This resource compliments the Auto Repair Reference Center which is currently available from home with your library card.

To explore other great online databases please visit www. stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/ and click on the reference databases link on the left hand side.

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party: Saturday, March 5 at 10am Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with stories, games, crafts, a movie and of course, cake. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.

Book Bunch: Flat Stanley: Mondays, March 7-21 at 2pm Listen to the librarian read aloud Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown.

After the reading there will be crafts and games. This program is great for kids in morning 4K and fun for older preschoolers and homeschoolers. This program is for ages 4-8 and is limited to 20 children. Registration begins Monday, February 21.

The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation (WWBIC) and the Stoughton Public Library proudly present the following classes at the Library from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm.

Registration is required. To register, call WWBIC at 608-25705450.

Teen Tuesdays: Teen Tech Week: Tuesday, March 8 at 3:15pm Celebrate Teen Tech Week with a technology themed event (more information to come soon). For teens in grades 6-12.

No registration required.

Understanding & Improving Your Credit Report & Score: Thursday, February 24 Your credit score can affect every part of your life – take control by educating yourself!

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Social Networking: Thursday, March 24 Social networking is easier than you think – learn how to use it today!

While we take pause at this time of the year to give thanks for our many blessings, we would like to also give thanks for the many generous families, dedicated volunteers, individuals and businesses in the Stoughton area. It is truly because of them that the needs of others in our community are fulfilled.

Understanding and Preparing Your Will:

Stoughton is a great community!

Thursday, April 28 Attorney Melinda Gustafson-Gervasi of Gustafson Legal will take through all the steps in preparing your estate.

How could anyone vandalize/or steal from a volunteer?

All adult programs take place in the Stoughton Public Library’s Carnegie Room. If you have questions about library happenings or need accommodations to attend programs, please call 873-6281. For accommodations please call two weeks in advance.

Members of Stoughton Area EMS are volunteers; on call 24/7/365. Since October 30, 2010, our members have responded to over 1,052 calls. These volunteers are dedicated to helping others - they take the time out of their lives to stop whatever they are doing to respond to an emergency. Yet, they have become victims of theft and vandalism!

While on call, or responding to a call, EMTs parking their vehicles on Jefferson Street, next to the fire station, have returned to find items missing. One EMT reported her Garmin was stolen.

Just last week, another EMT who had locked his vehicle, came back to find the door handle was broken off his vehicle.

Stoughton Holiday Fund Needs Your help:

Your help is needed December 10-11, 2010.

Stoughton Holiday Fund is currently taking donations for new children’s pajamas birth - 12 years and books. We are also accepting non-perishable food and hygiene items, monetary donations are always welcome. In 2010 we provided food and other items to 300 of our residents. We have had many more requests throughout the year to provided assistance for utilities.With your help, we can continue to help our neighbors.

Please consider volunteering your time or making a donation to the Stoughton Holiday Fund. For more information contact Janis Wegner 873-5767.

These acts of malice are not limited to the EMTs, as volunteer firefighters have also reported incidents of theft.

Theft is wrong, but it is especially hurtful when it is against another person who is doing his/her part to help the community, to be there in a time when a citizen needs them the most.

For those who are doing these heartless acts, please stop! For those who may have any information, please call Stoughton Police Department at 873-3374.

To the Dedicated Volunteers at the City of Stoughton Food Pantry:

Sincerely,

Cathy J. Rigdon, Director Stoughton Area Emergency Medical Services

The holidays are a time to reflect and give thanks for the many gifts we have received throughout the year. We are truly thankful for the gift of volunteers. Those in need residing in the City of Stoughton and the surrounding area are very fortunate to have a staff of dedicated volunteers working at our Food Pantry. Many put in tireless hours to ensure that the pantry is well stocked and ready to provide for others as needed.

Thank you and Happy Holidays to the many volunteers for the giving of themselves and the dedication of their time to work at our food pantry.

The City of Stoughton Food Pantry wishes to extend the utmost gratitude to all that have given in any way throughout the past year. Food pantry usage throughout Dane County continues to rise. Due to the generosity of those living in and around the Stoughton community we have been able to meet the ever-increasing needs.

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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PD PERMIT #39 STOUGHTON WI 53589

CITY OF STOUGHTON 381 E MAIN ST STOUGHTON WI 53589

ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER STOUGHTON WI 53589

Help the Police – Help Your Community!

SEE IT, HEAR IT, REPORT IT! Stoughton Police Department 873-3374 or 911 if emergency The Stoughton Police Department needs everyone in the community to be aware of their surroundings and REPORT ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS. We have numerous crimes that could have been prevented if someone had called in suspicious persons or vehicles.We need your help to prevent crime and all you have to do is call the dispatcher at 873-3374 and tell them what you are observing and an officer will respond to investigate. Do not place yourself at risk by trying to intervene as the police are trained to do so.

Many people fear their name will end up in a police report so they fail to call the police. If you call the police department, you can request to be anonymous. Make that clear when you call. Just remember if you SEE IT, HEAR IT, REPORT IT.

Please feel free to contact Lieutenant Pat Conlin at 873-6859 direct or e-mail at pconlin@ci.stoughton.wi.us.