Presidential Posts

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Artist Walkabout Thur. - More DMN News


                        
Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood e-News  
                                                     
May 28, 2013

The DMN e-News and an occasional hard copy DMN News are published by the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association (DMNA) on an “as-needed” schedule.  The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association, Inc. has been working to unite neighbors to solve mutual problems and promote fellowship among neighbors since 1973.  Our neighborhood is in Madison & Fitchburg.
               President, Bob Hague, bphague@tds.net   218-1760
               News contact, Mary Mullen, mmullen@chorus.net  298-0843
               Website: http://www.dunnsmarsh.org (under construction)
               On Facebook:  Just type Dunn’s Marsh into the Facebook search box.
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Whoa!  It’s a long newsletter, but there’s some important information here and many photos on the attachments.  You are especially invited to the May 30 walk around the neighborhood with mosaic artist Marcia Yapp - article #1.
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CALENDAR (with reference to article numbers for further information)
Items in red are sponsored by the DMNA

Wed., May 29, 7 pm - Mayor’s “Eat/Play & Enjoy” Budget Conversation, #15
Thur., May 30, 3 pm - Walking Tour With Artist, #1
Sat., June 1, 10:30 am - National Trails Day Bike Ride, #3
Tues., June 11, 6:30 pm - Agrace Q&A about Planning a Funeral, #23
Thur., June 13, 11 am - Talk about FoodShare, #17
Thur., June 13, 7:30 p.m - DMNA Council Meeting, , Prairie UU, #9
Fri., June 21, 4-8 pm - Make Music Madison at Prairie UU,  #11
Tues., July 9, 6:30 pm - Agrace Q&A about Spiritual Needs at End of Life, #23
Thur., July 11, 1-4 pm - Art Cart in Marlborough Park, #12
Tues., Aug. 13, 6:30 pm - Agrace Q&A - Discovering Messages of the Dying, #23
 
Tuesdays, 10 am-1 pm - Freshmobile, #10
Thursdays, 3-6 pm - Fitchburg Farmer’s Market, #26
Fridays, 3 pm-6 pm - Freshmobile, #10
-------------------------------

ARTICLES in the 5/28/13 DMN e-News
 
      IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
1 - Mosaic Artist to Tour Neighborhood May 30: You Come Too
2 - Garden Plots Still Available
 (Attachment: “1 pics garden.jpg”)
3 - Join Bike Ride  Sat., June 1 - No Fees on Bike Trails National Trails Day
4 - Blast from the Past
 (Attachment: “2 pics Then and Now.jpg”)
5 - Verona Road Project Managers Visit DMNA Council Twice
6 - You-Tube Videos Explain Verona Road Project
7 - Underground City Getting Renewed
(Attachment: “3 pics demolition and reconstruction.jpg”)
8 - Neighbor Dave Martin Honored in Rain Garden Dedication (Attach:  “4 pics April 20, 2013.jpg”)
9 - Next DMNA Council Meeting is Thursday, June 13
10 - Freshmobile Serves Neighborhood & Nearby Areas
11 - Mark Your Calendar for Music in the Neighborhood, June 21
12 - Art Cart Coming to Marlborough Park, Thur., July 11
13 - Car-Owners, Be Aware of Midnight Prowlers
14 - Police Calling Priorities Clarified

     VARIOUS
15 - Share Your Ideas for a Better Madison! Final Budget Conversation with Mayor Soglin May 29
16 - Submit Your Ideas and Vote on the Madison City Budget Ideas Online  
17 - FoodShare: Would You Cut out a $16 Coupon?
18 - Get Paid for Not Using Your Air Conditioner
19 - Do You Have a Photo of a Fallen Vietnam Vet?
20 - Mail Order Companies Take Advantage of Latinos
21 - Phone Scams Trick the Unwary
22 - Agrace Hospice Offers Many Options
23 - Monthly Q&A Opportunities Offered at Agrace Hospice
   
            OUTDOORS
24 - Camp Green Star Teaches Kids About Sustainability and Urban Agriculture
25 - Mosquito Advice:  Don’t Leave Water in Containers Outside
26 - Fitchburg Center Farmer’s Market Open from 3 to 6 pm every Thursday
27  - Fitchburg Becomes a “Bird City”
28 - Great Backyard Bird Count 2013 Summary Available
29 - The Falcons are Back!
30 - Fitchburg Ash Trees in Danger: Help is Available
31 - City of Madison Has Plan for Emerald Ash Borer Infestation
32 - Urban Forestry Grants Help Madison and Fitchburg Fight the EAB
33 - 2013 State Trail Passes available at Fitchburg City Hall

            RECYCLING
34 - Compostable Plastic Bags Available at Many Stores
35 - Co. Exec. Joe Parisi Lauds Clean Sweep
36 - Clean Sweep Relocated to New Recycling Center  Across from Yahara Hills Golf Course
37 - Product Exchange Program Located at Clean Sweep
38 - Madison Freecycle Has Free Stuff and Stuff for Sale up to $99
39 - Madison Stuff Exchange Offers Free Items
---------------------------------------
 
IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

1 - Mosaic Artist to Tour Neighborhood May 30: You Come Too

Marcia Yapp, the mosaic artist chosen to do artwork to be paid for as part of the Verona Road project, will tour the neighborhood with residents on Thursday, May 30, starting at 3 p.m.   If you wish to join the group, be at Prairie UU Society at that time.
 
Marcia is also willing to do a second walk-around later in the day, if interested people so desire.  If you want to take part in a later tour, contact Mary Mullen (contact info is in masthead), and she will make the arrangements for an exact time of a later walkabout.
 
The purpose of the tour is to help the artist get a better sense of the neighborhood’s geography, the things we appreciate about the neighborhood, and the values that we hold.
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen


2 - Garden Plots Still Available  (Attachment: “1 pics garden.jpg”)
 
As of May 28, there were still 2 garden plots available in the Marlborough Park Community Garden in the neighborhoood. Contact Community Action Coalition Garden Specialist Micah Kloppenburg if you are interested: 608) 246-4730 ext. 236 micahk@cacscw.org



3 - Join Bike Ride  Sat., June 1 - No Fees on Bike Trails National Trails Day

The bike trails leaving the neighborhood for points out of town normally require a fee.  But on National Trails Day, June 1, Wisconsin DNR waives the fee on trails such as the Badger State Trail, the Military Ridge Trail, and the Capital City Trail.
 
Why not take advantage of this special day by joining a group of bike riders that will leave from Prairie UU Society, 2010 Whenona Drive, at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 1?
 
The group plans to ride over to the Southwest Trail, go south to its intersection with the Capitol City Trail, and then east on that trail to where it cuts north to  Olin Park on Monona Bay.  At Olin Park bikers can share a picnic lunch.
  
If you don’t want to carry your own food and utensils, they can be ferried by car from Prairie.
 
Anyone is welcome to join the ride.  In case of rain, the event will be cancelled.
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen
 


4 - Blast from the Past
 (Attachment: “2 pics Then and Now.jpg”)
 
Some years back the Wisconsin Historical Society commissioned a “re-photography” photo project.  Photographers were assigned to find the exact location of historical photos and “rephotograph” the site.
 
Occasionally, I include in our newsletter an old and a new photograph.  This issue contains two such pairs.  One pair shows Marlborough Park in 1977 and now.  The other shows the big cottonwood at the Verona Road entrance to the neighborhood in 1982 and now.
 
The park is much changed.  The tree is not although the landscape and infrastructure around it has changed.
Take a look and see what you can see.
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen


5 - Verona Road Project Managers Visit DMNA Council Twice
 
Verona Road project managers and the City of Madison’s Arts Program Administrator have attended the last two meetings of the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Council.  
 
Attending were Mark Vesperman of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and Joe Bunker from Strand Associates, the consultant for WisDOT on this project.  In addition, Karin Wolf, Madison’s Arts Program Administrator has attended both the  April 3 and May 1 Council meetings.
 
 
 
 All neighborhood residents were also invited to these meetings.  Nine came each time.
 
Well, it’s those who take an interest who can help influence what happens.  At the second meeting, residents favored Marcia Yapp as the artist to do artwork for the Verona Road Project.  
 
It’s still not too late to have some influence on this art project.  Show up for the May 30 tour of the neighborhood with Marcia.  See the first article in this issue of the newsletter for details.
            
                                                                       by Mary Mullen

 

6 - You-Tube Videos Explain Verona Road Project

Project staff recently created three overview videos about the Verona Road (US 18/151) reconstruction project available on the project website, www.VeronaRoadProject.wi.gov <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3720/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3720/0/> > . The links are provided below for your convenience.
  • Overview video <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3723/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3723/0/> >  - broad overview on the major reconstruction project
  • Stage 1 video <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3724/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3724/0/> >  - detailed view of the project between Raymond Road and the Beltline
  • Stage 2 video <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3725/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3725/0/> >  - detailed view of the project from County PD (McKee Road) to Raymond Road.

Construction is scheduled to start in July 2013. For more information about the upcoming activities, view the 2013 and 2014 construction events brochure <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3722/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3722/0/> > . Be sure to contact the project team <mailto:VeronaRoad@dot.wi.gov?subject=Verona%20Road%20%28US%2018/151%29%20Project%20questions <mailto:VeronaRoad@dot.wi.gov?subject=Verona%20Road%20%28US%2018/151%29%20Project%20questions> >  with any questions.
 
Do you know someone who lives, works or travels on Verona Road? Make sure they visit the project website, sign up for email updates and LIKE the project on Facebook, www.facebook.com/WIVeronaRoadProject <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3721/0/ <http://lists.wi.gov/t/820760/1837417/3721/0/> > .
 
For more information contact:
 
Mark Vesperman, WisDOT Project Manager
 mark.vesperman@dot.wi.gov <mailto:Kris.Schuller@dot.wi.gov <mailto:Kris.Schuller@dot.wi.gov> >  (608) 246-7548
 
Steven Theisen, WisDOT Communications Specialist
 steven.theisen@dot.wi.gov <mailto:steven.theisen@dot.wi.gov <mailto:steven.theisen@dot.wi.gov> >  (608) 246-3818
                                          from WisDOT and the Verona Road Project Team
                                          www.veronaroadproject.wi.gov <http://www.veronaroadproject.wi.gov>



7 - Underground City Getting Renewed (Attachment: “3 pics demolition and reconstruction.jpg”)
 
You may have wondered why all the trucks and workers have been milling about on the Verona Road Frontage Road for the last week or two.  It’s the underground city that’s being either moved and renewed.  
 
Right now it’s the telephone lines and the gas lines that are the subject of this work. The underground telephone wire work is being done because of the Verona Road reconstruction project, but the gas pipe replacement is totally separate maintenance project .
 
Water and sewer pipes will also have to be reconstructed to accommodate the Verona Road project, particularly on the west side of the road.
The telephone wires - both copper and fiber-optic - are being moved from the west side of Verona Road to the east side. A 24-inch diameter hole is being bored by the big boring machine that can extend the hole at least 1,400 feet in one reach.  Eight 4-inch pipes and two smaller ones to house the  wires will then be strung through the hole.   A worker explained also that the trenchless hole is nearly 15 feet below the sidewalk in the vicinity of Atticus Way.  
 
Another worker explained how the hole is bored. First a very small hole is bored. Then bigger reamers widen the diameter until the largest drill-head can be put on the borer.  On May 28, passersby could see a very large reamer - a steal double-ended cone with many protruding knobs on it.
 
The other project is a natural gas pipe routine replacement job.  J&S Electric Service, contractor for MG&E, is replacing the pipe in the vicinity of Thurston Lane and Allied Drive.  The flexible pipe that will carry the gas is 12 inches in diameter.
                                                                                                by Mary Mullen
 
 

8 - Neighbor Dave Martin Honored in Rain Garden Dedication
(Attach:  “4 pics April 20, 2013.jpg”)

Long-time resident and Fitchburg environmental activist Dave Martin was honored on April 20 prior to the Dunn’s Marsh cleanup.
 
A group of well over 40 gathered at 9 am at Apache Pond for the celebration.  The rain garden planted last year between the Dunn’s View condos and Apache pond was dedicated to Dave.  He had served for decades on Fitchburg environmental committees before he retired from the Natural Resources Commission this spring.
 
Martin was honored with a framed plaque made of used materials.  A plastic plaque was attached to the rain garden sign erected at the rain garden.
 
The framed plaque says:
 
Be it hereby known that David Martin served with outstanding commitment and dedication while serving on Fitchburg’s Recycling Committee, and Resource Conservation Committee and Commission from January 1986 to April 2013.  David effected numerous contributions to this City, especially through his leadership in recycling enhancements, waste reduction initiatives, and preservation of Dunnn’s Marsh and other water resources in Fitchburg.  Therefore in recognition for his outstanding service to the City of Fitchburg, we hereby grant this Certificate of Appreciation on this 20th day of April, 2013.
 
The other plaque attached to the rain garden sign echoes that information and also shows pictures of the planting of the rain garden and the dedication of  pond including cutting the ribbon.
 
The framed plaque is signed by Fitchburg Mayor Shawn Pfaff, Fitchburg Engineeer Paul Woodward, and the Resouce Conservation Chair Diane Streck.
 
Mayor Pfaff, RCC Chair Streck, and DMNA Council member Mary Mullen all spoke briefly about Dave’s contribution to the City of Fitchburg’s environment and to the Dunn’s Marsh neighborhood as a whole. Dave has been active in the DMNA at least since 1973 and managed the Marlborough Park community garden for 14 years.  He was one of the early activists who spearheaded the initiative that saved Lots 19 & 20 from being built on.  These are the lots where Apache Pond is now.
 
After the dedication ceremony, part of the crowd including Dave dispersed with garbage bags to pick up litter in the area below Crescent Road.  Other Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood people who helped with the cleanup  were Donna Sarafin and Susan Kilmer, Mary Mullen, Joe Maldenado and his young son Aiden, and perhaps others.  In addition, an intern with Fitchburg and a mother and her son from out of town filled their garbage bags
 
A treat for all was the sunny though brisk day, the spring songs of birds, and sighting an oddly-colored robin.
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen                                                                                                                                                                                                

 
 
 
9 - Next DMNA Council Meeting is Thursday, June 13
 
The Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Council will be on Thursday, June 13, 7:00 pm at Prairie UU Society, 2010 Whenona Drive.  This is a change to the second Thursday and to half an hour earlier than meetings in earlier months of this year.  
 
During the rest of the summer the Council will continue to meet on the second Thursday at 7 pm:  June 13, July 11, and August 8.

 
 
10 - Freshmobile Serves Neighborhood & Nearby Areas

Our neighborhood is classified as a “food desert.”   That’s because it has little or no access to foods needed to maintain a healthy diet but may be -  is - served by fast food.
 
The “Freshmobile,” a bus full of fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and other staples makes an effort to remedy this situation twice a week in the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood.  And if you count its stops in Arbor Hills and Meadowood, there are two more opportunities to get good food.
 
Here’s the schedule
 
Allied Drive area, at 4619 Jenewein near Boys and Girls Club
Tuesdays, 10 am-1 pm
Fridays, 3-6 pm
 
Arbor Hills, at 2700 block of McDivitt Road near intersection of Todd Drive, a block off the Beltline Frontage Rd.
Fridays, 10 am-1:00 pm

Meadowood, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 5701 Raymond Road, across from Meadowood Community Center
Saturdays, 10 am-1 pm


 
11 - Mark Your Calendar for Music in the Neighborhood, June 21

Like music?  Most of us do.   Make Music Madison is a one-day, citywide, free outdoor event which will occur at many places.  Madison will be filled with beautiful sounds on Friday, June 21.  Two of the many, many outdoor venues will be in the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood.
 
Thanks to the cooperation between the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood Association and Prairie UU Society, we will have 4 hours of music on the grounds of Prairie UU Society starting at 4 pm and running until 8 pm on that day, the longest day of the year.  In case of bad weather, the musicians and audience can move inside the church at 2010 Whenona Drive.
  
We have a full complement of musicians, as follows.
  • 4:00-4:30 pm – Ron Frye, acoustic guitar and vocals of classic jazz from Broadway, blues, and standards
  • 4:30-4:45 – Rosemarie Lester, a native of Germany, sings in French and German while playing accordion.  Some will be cabaret tunes.
  • 4:45-5:00 – Continental Drifters – Rosemarie Lester on guitar & accordion with Ruth Calden on recorder.  They will be playing and singing folk music from European and Latin American sources.
  • 5:00-5:30 – Grandpa Squeezit – Mike Briggs playing solo button accordion.
  • 5:30-6:00 – Cindy Harrington – Songs of Strength (singer).  Cindy is from the neighborhood and performed at our August 2012 picnic.  Some of this could be a sing-along. http://www.songsofstrength.com/
  • 6:00-6:45 – Dark of the Moon Contra-Band – playing traditional music for dancing and listening:  polkas, waltzes, jigs, reels (Mary Mullen plays guitar and harmonica in this band.) http://www.mad-wi.net/darkofthemoon/
  • 6:45-7:15 – Guitars for Vets – Veterans who learned to play the guitar through Guitars for Vets program sing and play folk, country and other well-known tunes.  (could be a sing-along)
  • 7:15-7:45 – Amy Heartsong - Creole-American mezzo soprano, trained in classical, world/folk, cabaret, and jazz.
We also have a request for a performance of the Allied Gospel Choir.   If they perform, it would be at 7:45, after Amy Heartsong.   
 
A second venue in the neighborhood is Belmar Park. Three artists/groups are scheduled, as follows.

·      4:00-4:15 pm - Doc Foxington - electronic, experimental music
·      4:30-4:45 pm - Allied Gospel Choir
·      5:00-6:00 pm - Sly Mohomes - songs and rap
 
Remember, it’s outdoors on Friday, June 21, and it’s free!
                                                                                    by Mary Mullen


12 - Art Cart Coming to Marlborough Park, Thur., July 11

The Art Cart will be at Marlborough Park on Thursday, July 11, from 1-4p.m.  It will also be at the Vilas Park Shoe - Zoo grounds -  on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, July 23-25, where particpants will paint the Shoe.
 
The Art Cart is a FREE, drop-in traveling art program that provides creative, outdoor art-making experiences to children ages 3+ and their families. Activities include both group and individual projects with a variety of materials lasting 15-45 minutes.
 
Children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
 
Groups larger than 8 participants are limited to one visit per summer and MUST pre-register at 608-204-3021.
 
If you want to participate in painting the Vilas Park Shoe, these are hours the Art Cart will be there on the zoo grounds:
            Tues., 7/23 - 9 am-12 noon & 1-4 pm
            Wed., 7/24 - 1-4 pm & 5-7:30 pm
            Thurs., 7/25 - 9am-12 noon.
 
The Art Cart is sponsored by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and Madison School & Community Recreation.
                                                information from Aria Walsh-Felz
                                                Madison School Community Recreation
                                                
 
 
13 - Car-Owners, Be Aware of Midnight Prowlers

Seems like there’s been a rash of car break-ins lately, particularly in the Crawford area.   The take-home from these events is to be sure that your garage is locked if you are lucky enough to have a garage and to keep your car locked whether it is parked on the street or in your driveway.
 
Here are the first-hand reports.
 
On 5/5/13, this is the first report I learned of, on De Volis Parkway
In the last week, my car, which sits unlocked in the driveway, has been rifled through twice, last night being the most recent. It occurred sometime after I got home (at 1:30am) and this morning. All of the compartments opened, petty cash taken. Please be aware and keep an eye out for midnight prowlers.

5/4/13 - on Crawford Drive
Sometime between 10:30 p.m. on May 4th and 6:00 a.m. on May 5th, my garage was entered through an unlocked side door and my car compartments were rifled through. They may have gotten a couple of CDs. I think they accidentally hit my garage door opener, because my garage door was open and the side door when I noticed this at 6:00 a.m. on May 5. That must have scared them off. Nothing else was taken from garage. Good idea to keep cars locked and doors to garage locked.
 
5/6/13 - from Crawford Drive
We too found that our van was opened up and rummaged through. Nothing of importance was in the van so nothing was taken. It is typically locked in the driveway. Just not this time. I am concerned that the garage door opener could be used when not at home. It is built into the car and can't be removed. We will report this to the police officer as mentioned above. Please everyone, let's keep a close watch on our homes / properties for each other.
 
5/6/13 - on De Volis
turns out that my neighbor's car was rifled through last week, too. got ourselves a case sticky fingers in these here parts. :/
 

 
14 - Police Calling Priorities Clarified

After the April 11 e-News which featured some law enforcement articles, I learned of a refinement about contacting the police.
 
A neighborhood resident explained that “Actually people are supposed to call 911 for emergency or  255-2345 for non-emergency and follow the menu….For ongoing problems that need special attention” and for contact with our community liaison officer Ed Marshall, use the West District number, 243-0500. Otherwise… use the self-reporting procedure.”
 
Officer Ed Marshall explained further.  He said, “Calling the West District (243-0500) for non-emergencies will prolong our response.  West District's phone number is only staffed during "banker's hours".  But [the West District number 243-0500] is still the appropriate number to call regarding getting updates on ongoing investigations, reporting or adding to an ongoing issue, etc.  Non-emergency calls should go to the non-emergency dispatch number, 266-4275.”  

Officer Marshall added that the 255-2345 number given by the neighborhood resident was “a secondary dispatch number that is rarely used. It’s still good though.”   He seemed to be recommending using the 255-4275 number.
 
If this is an on-going case appropriate for West District attention such as a location where illegal or disturbing activity is happening on a regular basis, the caller should contact the District number 243-0500 and  leave a message for Ed Marshall  or another officer such as the Lieutenant or Detective Lieutenant.
 
If you can’t reach Officer Marshall, ask the officer to update Mr. Marshall with whatever happened even if the police did not do a report.  Marshall says, “This makes it easier for me to stay on top of what's going on. I can also track case numbers and reports as they come in.”
 
So here’s the review:  
 
911 - Emergencies.  You believe there’s a threat to life life or limb, or property damage is occurring or about to occur.  Typical emergencies are domestic fighting, burglaries, anything involving a gun, thefts in progress, vandalism in progress, or similar incidents.
 
266-4275 - Non-emergency dispatch.  This number is used when there is no suspect on the scene and the suspect is not likely to return or isn’t known, no-one is injured, and there’s no threat to life or limb.  Typical non-emergency incidents are overnight vandalism found in the morning, parking complaints, neighbor trouble, and fraud.
 
243-0500 - On-going issues/cases. This is the West District number and is to be used for ongoing issues that don’t require an officer to respond. This could include issues that are continually a problem at a particular address or an invitation to a meetiing.
 
Better yet, for that kind of on-going issue, e-mail  to Ed Marshall "Marshall, Edward"  EMarshall@cityofmadison.com <mailto:EMarshall@cityofmadison.com>  is the way to go.  But, Marshall says, “Sender has to leave a name and a reply email address or phone number.  I just received some information about an address … that may be involved in illegal activity.”  
 
Photos can be sent too. “However,” he says, “I can't use that information unless I know what my sender's motivation is, and when the photos were taken.  Anonymity is fine, but I still have to know what I'm looking at, when a photo was taken, etc.”
                                                            by Mary Mullen

 
 
 
VARIOUS

15 - Share Your Ideas for a Better Madison! Final Budget Conversation with Mayor Soglin May 29

Madison’s Mayor, Council, and city staff want to hear your ideas for a better Madison.  Several of these budget “conversations” have passed, but there’s one left.  
 
The “Eat / Play & Enjoy” conversation takes place next week on Wednesday, May 29. at 7 pm.  The place is The Villager Atrium Community Room, 2300 S. Park St.   This conversation will/could include community gardens and healthy eating policies and projects.
 
The ideas will be used in developing the 2014 City of Madison budget.
 
If you can’t make this meeting or have any ideas related to making Madison better, read the next article for how to suggest ideas and vote on others’ ideas online.
                                                                                    based on City of Madison e-mail from Jule Stroick
 

 
 
16 - Submit Your Ideas and Vote on the Madison City Budget Ideas Online  

Residents can also submit their suggestions about the Madison budget on the “IdeaScale,” at http://madison.ideascale.com/   On this site people can also vote on ideas submitted by others.
 
It’s a fun site.  
 
The most popular ideas so far are curbside composting, expanding Sector67 collaborative workspace at 2110 Winnebago St., connection through public transportation, more affordable housing, early childhood education, affordable after school programs,  short-term living unit/shelter for youth, limited stop Metro bus routes, and a 365 [days a year] Homeless Shelter.  
 
Other interesting ideas are adding small cafes/restaurants in some popular parks, starting a Madison Mural Program for under-achieving students, eliminating food deserts in Madison [Editor’s note: the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood is one of these food deserts.), and promoting rooftop gardens.  Several others relate to the bus system: expanding night bus service, having fare card machines at bus transfer points, make bus transfer points safer, and increasing the number of real-time Metro kiosks.
 
Several other ideas have negative votes.
                                                                                                            by Mary Mullen



17 - FoodShare: Would You Cut out a $16 Coupon?

Hear from Stephanie Isaak, Second Harvest Project Coordinator for FoodShare Outreach to Older Adults, on Thursday, June 13 at 11 am at the Madison Senior Center, 330 Mifflin Street, downtown Madison.
 
Qualify if your total monthly household income is less than: 1 person: $1,862 or 2 people: $2,522.
 
FoodShare gives you monthly deposits to help with food purchases, freeing up money for bills, medications and other necessities. The USDA estimates that for every $5 spent in FoodShare benefits, about $9 circulates through local businesses and to our farmers.
 
It’s easy to apply and you can get free, confidential assistance. Call 266-6581 to register. [call symbol] For info, call the FoodShare Helpline at 1-855-366-363
 


18 - Get Paid for Not Using Your Air Conditioner

MG&E will reward customers who are willing to put their air conditioners on hold during an energy emergency.  The pay?  $8 per hour for every hour the air conditioner is shut off during such an emergency.
 
The “Power Control” program allows MG&E to shut off participating customers’ central air conditioners when the utility needs emergency power.
 
Lest anyone think that the household has to totally forego air conditioning during a heat wave, know that your air conditioner won’t be shut off after 10 pm or on Sundays or holidays.
 
For more information or to sign up, call MG&E’s Home Energy Line at (608) 252-7117 weekdays between 8 am and 4:30 pm
                                                                        from insert in MG&E bill

 

19 - Do You Have a Photo of a Fallen Vietnam Vet?

There are 1,244 Wisconsinites listed on the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C.  Wisconsin Public Radio, Wisconsin Public Television, Milwaukee Public Radio and Milwaukee Public Television are partnering with Wisconsin veterans organizations and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to spread the word and find a photo of every Wisconsin service man or woman listed on the Wall.
 
We are asking you to help put a face to these names and honor those who lost their lives by joining the effort to collect and preserve photographs of every service member whose name appears on the Vietnam Memorial Wall.  The images will become part of the "Wall of Faces" - a lasting tribute planned for the Vietnam Memorial Education Center near the mall in our nation's capital.
 
If you have such a photo, conatct either the Wisconsin Veteran’s Museum, 30 W. Mifflin Street, 267-1799, or Judith Kovalic, Wisconsin Public Radio Marketing Manager, or call 608-263-9525.
 
 

20 - Mail Order Companies Take Advantage of Latinos

Over the past two years, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has seen a steady increase in calls from Latino consumers complaining of unscrupulous practices by mail order companies. Hispanics statewide have been specifically targeted in scams that began as phone, online or mail-based purchases of goods, but that turned into aggressive and threatening demands for additional money or purchases.
 
Here are three examples of mail order scams reported to DATCP by consumers:
 
A Milwaukee man ordered vitamins that were advertised in Spanish on the radio. He felt that the vitamins did not live up to the promises in the ad. Although the consumer wanted to cancel future orders, the company continued to send vitamins and expensive bills each month. A company “lawyer” then called, threatening to sue for $10,000 if the man did not continue to purchase the product.
 
A Madison consumer received a sales call where a Spanish-speaking salesperson offered two cell phones and a calling plan at a great price. When the package arrived, the consumer found only two perfume bottles inside the box, each filled with water. The company will not answer her calls.
 
An elderly couple from Madison received a sales call offering books for English learners. They did not want to purchase the books. The company continued calling, claiming that they had recorded the consumers saying “yes” to the sales offer and therefore they had to pay. The company threatened to sue for thousands of dollars if the couple did not send a money order.
 
What you need to know about unordered merchandise:
 
Make sure the merchandise you receive in the mail is something you actually ordered. You are not responsible for any unordered goods you receive in the mail.
 
It is illegal for someone sending unsolicited goods to try to collect payment. However, be careful – by taking an action such as signing a postcard or making an oral agreement over the phone, you may have agreed to buy the goods without realizing it.
 
A negative option plan is a sale in which products are automatically sent on a periodic basis after an initial purchase. To protect yourself, contact the company in writing to cancel any future orders and return all unwanted goods.
 
The three-day right to cancel may apply to certain transactions such as phone, mail order and door-to-door sales. In those transactions, sellers must give consumers three days to cancel a purchase and must notify consumers of this right in writing. The three-day cancellation period does not begin until the seller has furnished written notice of this right. Call the Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection for more information on which purchases are covered by this protection.
Remember:
 
Write down the name and address of the company and the date of your purchase.  Keep all ads, canceled checks and any other pertinent information.
 
In most of the mail order scams reported to DATCP, sellers have specifically requested payment by money order upon delivery of the item.  Beware of companies that demand a money order or cash on delivery (COD) as the sole form of payment.
 
If you encounter problems with a mail order purchase, visit the Bureau of Consumer Protection at http://datcp.wisconsin.gov, send an e-mail to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call the Consumer Protection Hotline toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.
                                                            from Wis. Dept. of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection
 
 
 
__._,_.___

21 - Phone Scams Trick the Unwary

A number of West Police District citizens have been the victims of financial scams in recent weeks. These scams can take several forms:

  • A stranger calls and notifies the citizen that he/she has won a large prize (cash, a car, etc.), but that they need to send in a fee to collect their prize. The victim is instructed to send the money via Western Union or through a Walmart Moneygram.
  • A stranger calls and identifies themselves as a law enforcement officer. The citizen is informed that he/she is the subject of a civil judgment or collection, and that they have a short time (a few hours) to satisfy the judgment or else an arrest warrant will be issued. The payment instructions are also typically through Western Union or Walmart Moneygram.
  • A stranger calls and indicates that a family member is out of the country and in some type of trouble (typically medically or legal). The citizen - often a grandparent - is told that they need to wire money immediately to help the family member.

Please be aware of these scams and avoid being victimized. For the first version, remember the old adage that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It is very unlikely that you will win a prize for something you haven't entered, or that you would have to pay a fee to collect a prize. As for the second version of the scam, law enforcement personnel will not behave in this way...we do not assist with debt collections, and would not seek payment in lieu of an arrest warrant being issued.

The perpetrators in these cases are difficult to identify and are often out of state, so it is unlikely that money lost as a result will ever be recovered. Be skeptical of strangers calling and asking for money. If you think such a call might be legitimate but aren't sure, ask to call the person back at a verified number to confirm their identity.

                                                                        Madison West District “Blotter” from 4/1/13

 
22 - Agrace Hospice Offers Many Options

More than Hospice: New Service Helps People Receiving Curative Care
Every day, Agrace gets calls about people who are struggling with the challenges of a serious or life-limiting illness. While most of these calls lead to hospice care, we also hear from families whose loved ones are ill, but are not eligible for hospice.

Now, there’s more we can do to help those families. Because now, Agrace is providing more than hospice care.

Beginning April 1, Agrace will offer a Palliative Care Consult Service. We’ll be helping people with chronic or serious illnesses explore what more could be done to relieve their discomfort, symptoms and stress. The term “palliative (pal-lee-uh-tiv) care” is used to describe several kinds of specialized comfort care, including hospice. But hospice is only available to people who are in the last six months of life and who are no longer receiving curative treatments. Other palliative care services can be provided earlier—at any point in a person’s illness—and are available while the person is also receiving treatments meant to cure their illness.

Andrea Wipperfurth, RN, Agrace’s palliative care program manager, explains, “If you can supplement the care from your doctor, who is working to manage the progression of your illness, with someone who specializes in managing the troubling symptoms of disease, you have the best of both worlds.”

How will the new consult service work?

 An Agrace nurse practitioner will visit a patient where they live* to have an open discussion about their condition. We’ll conduct a physical exam and spend as much time as it takes to fully understand the patient’s symptoms, and how medications and other treatments are working. We will ask about their goals for care and learn what’s interfering with their ability to meet those goals.

What happens after this advisory visit?
Agrace will share our recommendations with the patient and their health care provider. Suggestions might include medication changes or advice on changing the patient’s daily routine to improve their energy and comfort. The patient and their doctor can then use Agrace’s findings to consider changes that may help the patient feel and cope better.
Who could be helped by a palliative care consultation?
People who are struggling with physical and emotional challenges related to ANY serious illness, including (but not limited to) cancer; diseases of the heart, liver, kidneys or lungs; rheumatoid arthritis; lupus; multiple sclerosis; Parkinson’s disease, ALS, stroke and dementia.
A palliative care consultation can be an important step toward living better with serious illness. Please visit agracepalliativecare.org <http://www.agrace.org/palliativecare>  to learn more about this and other palliative care services from Agrace.
*Patient must qualify for home visit based on medical necessity. Typically, patients will be referred to Agrace for this service by their primary care physician or specialist, but anyone can contact Agrace at (800) 930-2770 to learn more.

 

23 - Monthly Q&A Opportunities Offered at Agrace Hospice

You can learn about common end-of-life concerns at Agrace’s monthly question-and-answer talks, which are free and open to the public. Each topic below is presented from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at both our Madison and Janesville locations; please call (608) 327-7202 to register.

June 11 – What You Should Know About Planning a Funeral. Learn about the many aspects and choices involved.

July 9 – Spiritual Needs and Questions at the End of Life. Learn how to address spiritual questions and concerns of the dying.

August 13 – Final Insights: Discovering the Messages of the Dying. Learn to pick up on and interpret statements or gestures that are often missed or misunderstood.

Visit agrace.org <http://www.agrace.org/>  for details on these topics and other educational programs and grief support groups.

 
 
 
OUTDOORS

24 - Camp Green Star Teaches Kids About Sustainability and Urban Agriculture

 
First Step Renew, LLC is proud to offer a kids summer camp—Camp Green Star—to teach kids, ages 7-13, about sustainability and urban agriculture.  
 
The camp is a secular (non-religious) camp held at Madison Christian Community (MCC) on Old Sauk Road in Madison.  
 
In Camp Green Star’s outdoor classroom, kids will gain hands-on experience with gardening and raising chickens.  They will also learn about making butter and soft cheeses, bees, prairies, composting, rainwater harvesting, permaculture, and water and energy conservation.  
 
The camp is a half-day camp, with four one-week sessions, from mid July to mid August.  Camp fees are $150 per session, with a $10 discount for additional kids from the same family.  www.camp-green-star.com <http://www.camp-green-star.com/ <http://www.camp-green-star.com/> >
                                                                        by Mary Eberle,  First Step Renew

 
 
25 - Mosquito Advice:  Don’t Leave Water in Containers Outside

Mosquito season is approaching.   There are several ways to lessen the chance of being bitten.  
 
Our society tends to go for the chemicals. “Kill ‘em all dead” is a commonly voiced strategy. Yet that can’t be done without affecting many other organisms and the entire ecosystem.  There are other ways to reduce the numbers of mosquitoes more safely.
 
“The Centers for Disease Control stress the importance of reducing mosquito abundance through site management and removing artificial containers in which mosquitoes can breed,” said Celeste Mazzacano, aquatic program director for the Xerces Society and lead author of a report called “Ecologically Sound Mosquito Management in Wetland.”
 
“Public education about eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home and taking personal protective measures is an effective way to prevent being bitten.”
 
In other words, don’t let tin cans, pails, flower pots, or other containers sit around with water in them during the spring, summer, and fall.   Mosquitoes will breed in them.  Under the personal protection strategy, cover up or use a mosquito repellent on yourself and your clothes.
 
from a notice from the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
http://www.xerces.org/2013/04/03/new-report-mosquito-management/ <http://www.xerces.org/2013/04/03/new-report-mosquito-management/>



26 - Fitchburg Center Farmer’s Market Open from 3 to 6 pm every Thursday

The Fitchburg Center Farmer’s Market is held every Thursday from 3-6 pm at the Agora Pavilion, 5511 E. Cheryl Pkwy. That’s the “tent” you can see from Fish Hatchery Road.   Shoppers can find a host of Wisconsin grown produce, fruits, flowers, cheese, meats, organic options, baked goods, preserves, fiber and gluten-free items. through October 24.  Read More <http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/documents/GreenE-NewsBlast25.pdf <http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/documents/GreenE-NewsBlast25.pdf> > ...  Save Gas. Buy Fresh. Buy Local. Contact Steven.leverentz@fitchburgcenter.com or 608-277-2592 for further details.
                                                            from Rick Eilertson, Fitchburg Environmental Engineer



27 - Fitchburg Becomes a “Bird City

Fitchburg just became 1 of 66 Bird Cities in Wisconsin and is now both a Bird City <http://www.birdcitywisconsin.org/ <http://www.birdcitywisconsin.org/> >  and a Tree City <http://www.arborday.org/programs/treeCityUSA/index.cfm <http://www.arborday.org/programs/treeCityUSA/index.cfm> >
 
Other bird cities in Dane County inclued Middleton, Shorewood Hills, and McFarland.
                        from Dana Dentice, Fitchburg Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department



28 - Great Backyard Bird Count 2013 Summary Available

Our summary of the 2013 Great Backyard Bird Count is now available online, put together by scientists from the National Audubon Society, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and Bird Studies Canada. For details, see http://www.birdsource.org/gbbc/science-stories/2013summary
 
A few highlights from the report underscore the magnitude of this first-ever global GBBC. In four days, observations were collected from 111 countries, on more 134,000 checklists. Even more amazing is that bird watchers reported 4,004 species, which is 39 percent of all species in the world!
 
Some findings:

Top species reported for the entire count were Northern Cardinal, Dark-eyed Junco, and Mourning Dove, reflecting the high participation in the United States and Canada, where the GBBC has been established for more than a decade.
 
Top species reported outside of the U.S. and Canada were Eurasian Blackbird, Black Kite, and Great Tit, reflecting greater participation from India, where these species are often found.
 
The largest flock was reported from Mark Youngdahl Urban Conservation Area in St. Joseph, Missouri, where observers saw an estimated 5 million Red-winged Blackbirds.
 
White-winged Crossbills were reported in 20 states, with large numbers in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, and southerly sightings in Arkansas, Kansas, and Kentucky.
 
Cedar Waxwings were reported in surprisingly low numbers in the northeast quadrant of North America, likely because there was not enough winter fruit crop to sustain birds in the region.
 
GBBC data show more insect-eating birds, such as swallows, are now spending the winter months farther north than in the past.
 
These are just a few of the findings gleaned from the massive amount of information collected in this year's GBBC. Thank you again to all who participated in this historic count!

 

29 - The Falcons are Back!

For the fifth consecutive season, peregrine falcons have taken up residence in the MGE nesting box high atop Blount Generating Station.

Trudy again laid four eggs and took turns incubating the eggs with father Vern. The eggs hatched around Mother's Day and will be named and banded in a few weeks.

MGE has a video camera installed inside the nesting box and regularly posts video clips of the falcons during the nesting season. Click here <http://www.mge.com/about/falcon/index.htm> to see the most recent video. Click the 2013 Season <http://www.mge.com/about/falcon/2013.htm> link to see video clips from earlier this season. (If you these links don’t work, try http://www.mge.com/about/falcon/2013.htm)

The peregrine falcon is listed as endangered in Wisconsin. Due to pesticide use in the 1960s, peregrines were declared extinct in the state. Falcons were reintroduced in the 1980s. In 2012, 83 falcons hatched at 27 known nesting sites in Wisconsin.

                                                            from Madison Gas & Electric

                                    

30 - Fitchburg Ash Trees in Danger: Help is Available

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an bright metallic green insect that can kill ash trees by boring under the bark.    As mentioned on the Fitchburg websitte, the “EAB is  spreading throughout Wisconsin and is 100% lethal if the tree is not treated with the appropriate insecticide..”  
 
Trees die from the top down.  Once the EAB makes its way into an area, “all untreated trees will eventually be infested and will die in three to five years.”
 
Fitchburg now has a program in its budget to treat 160 of the approximately 800 public ash trees with treatment beginning this May and June.  “Public” trees are trees in parks and in the terrace along streets, not trees in front, side, or back yards on private land.   Some of the public trees are in the Belmar section of the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood.  
A map on Fitchburg’s website shows where the public trees are and which are slated for treatment in 2013 and 2014.  The red dots on the small map at left show which public trees will be treated in the Fitchburg part of our neighborhood.  The green dots show other ash trees that won’t be treated.  The full map is available on the Save-An-Ash webpage  on Fitchburg’s website. www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/departments/cityHall/parksRecreationForestryNaturalResources/forestry/Save-an-Ash.php <http://www.city.fitchburg.wi.us/departments/cityHall/parksRecreationForestryNaturalResources/forestry/Save-an-Ash.php>
 
Through its “Adopt an Ash” program it is offering the public the opportunity to fund treatment of more of these trees. The program already has  resulted in adoption of nearly 50 additional trees. Not all Fitchburg’s public  ash trees in neighborhood are slated for treatment. Many untreated trees will be scheduled for removal.
 
The deadline is past for first round of adoptions and treatment this spring, but a second round of treatments will be offered in the early fall.  You can apply now to adopt a specific tree or make a donation to the Save-An-Ash Fund.
 
Check out the webpage mentioned above if you are interested in knowing more.  One interesting thing you will learn is that it costs $1.60 per inch of circumference to treat a tree and only trees that are at least 13 inches in circumference and in good condition are eligible for treatment.  A tree with a 30-inch circumference (about 10-inch diameter) costs about $50 to protect for 2 years.
 
For additional information, contact Ed Bartell at 270-4289 <ed.bartell@city.fitchburg.wi.us <mailto:ed.bartell@city.fitchburg.wi.us> > or Dana Dentrice at 270-4287 dana.dentice@city.fitchburg.wi.us <mailto:dana.dentice@city.fitchburg.wi.us> > of the Fitchburg Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department.
                        by Mary Mullen, based on Fitchburg website and e-mails
 
 
 
 
31 - City of Madison Has Plan for Emerald Ash Borer Infestation

If and when the Emerald Ash Borer gets to Madison, the effects could be devastating.  According to a report issued in September 2012, Madison has an estimated 21,700 terrace ash trees along city streets, an unknown number in parks, and many thousands more on private property.  Ash trees account for about 22% of Madison’s street trees.
 
A very dramatic streetscape of ash trees can be seen just across the Beltline from the Dunn’s Marsh Neighborhood on Warwick Way. In the fall, they are spectacular. Autumn colors can range from bright yellow to deep purple.
 
To see the ash borer report, called “City of Madison Emerald Ash Borer Plan,” go to http://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/services/forestry/pests/EAB/documents/2012SeptemberEABPlan.pdf
 
The plan lists the final recommendations that were approved unanimously by the Madison Common Council.  A chemical treatment plan for terrace trees would begin when the Emeral Ash Borer is detected within 15 miles of Madison.  Like the Fitchburg plan, removal of ash trees is part of the plan, and an Adopt-a-Tree program was approved by the City Council.
 
A map in the report, shows that as of June 2012, the EAB has been found in 3 counties in western Wisconsin, 9 in eastern and southern Wisconsin, and in Brown County (Green Bay area).  The closest infestation to Madison is in Janesville (Rock County), approximately 28 miles away.  Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana as well as a number of other eastern states are also infected.
                                   by Mary Mullen, based on based on Madison plan document
 
 

 
32 - Urban Forestry Grants Help Madison and Fitchburg Fight the EAB

In April 2013, the State of Wisconsin made urban forestry grants to both Madison and Fitchburg to fight the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB).
 
Madison was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Wisconsin DNR for calendar year 2013.  It will contribute $43,585.70 in city funds for the project.  
 
Madison’s project is called “Urban Wood Utilization Pilot - Madison and Dane County.”  It is for “EAB preparation and response, public awareness, staff training, and management including handling and marketing urban wood.”
 
Fitchburg received $21,940 with a required $21,940 local match for “Implementation of EAB rediness and response plan, public awareness campaign, staff training, operations and management”
                                    by Mary Mullen, based on DNR grant document
 


33 - 2013 State Trail Passes available at Fitchburg City Hall

Biking season is Here!  Yippee!  Remember that anyone 16 years and older biking on State Trails needs to have a valid daily or annual State Trail Pass.  Annual 2013 State Trail Passes can be purchased at several area locations, including City Hall for $20 each.    
                                                from Rick Eilertson, Fitchburg Environmental Engineer
 


RECYCLING

34 - Compostable Plastic Bags Available at Many Stores

Most plastic bags hang out in the environment for a very long time, but these days many stores carry bags that will degrade/decompose very quickly.  Compostable bags are made of organic plant materials such as cornstarch or potato starch.   They decompose much more quickly than “biodegradable” bags.
 
For those who wish to  buy compostable bags, here are the local stores that carry them. Prices are current as of May 21, 2013.
 
Target, McKee Road - Bag to Nature (33 gallons) brand, $7.99/box, 10 bags/box
 
Copps: Available at most Copps locations, including Copps @ Cahill Main and Copps @ McKee Road.
Large garbage (13 gallons) size, Bag to Nature brand: $5.99/box, 15 bags/box
 
Woodman’s West: Small kitchen countertop (2.6 gallons) size available. Glad brand: $3.99/box, 20 bags/box
 
Whole Foods:  Small kitchen countertop (3 gallons) size available.  If You Care brand: $5.99/box, 30 bags/box
 
Willy Street Co-op East:  Small kitchen countertop (3 gallons) size available. Bio-Bag brand: $4.99/box, 25 bags/box
 
Online: www.homedepot.com <http://www.homedepot.com>   Bag to Nature Bags.  3 gallons/100-pack/$14.99. 13 gallons/50-pack/$22.97 . 33 gallons/50-pack/$44.97
 
http://fresh.amazon.com/ EcoSafe Compostable Bags (2.5 gallons) Mini Kitchen Organics, 25- pack
- $6.06
 
Brown paper bags are also compostable.
 
There are many biodegradable and compostable bag options available for your pet waste.
Target stores: Greenbone Biodegradable Dispenser and Bags
https://www.poopbags.com/
                                                                        from City of Fitchburg
 
 
35 - Co. Exec. Joe Parisi Lauds Clean Sweep

For many people the long wait for Winter greys to fade into Summer sunshine goes hand in hand with waiting to de-clutter until the county’s Clean Sweep hazardous waste collection site opens.
 
With Clean Sweep’s new “green” facility and year-round schedule, the wait isn’t just over for the year – the wait is over forever.
 
Households, farms, and businesses will no longer have to hold on to unused oil-based paints, poisons, pesticides, car batteries, gasoline, or aerosol cans. Just bring your unwanted items to Clean Sweep for easy and safe disposal.
 
And for the first time in Clean Sweep’s history, electronic waste – broken or unwanted TVs, computers, cell phones, and more – will be accepted.
 
The Clean Sweep program has helped keep our community safe and healthy for nearly two decades by preventing an estimated 10 million pounds of hazardous household waste from entering our water and soil. It’s also expanded the county’s recycling efforts and extended the life of our landfill.
 
Fittingly, our new Clean Sweep facility contains a number of “green” features to reduce its footprint on the environment and reduce operational costs. For example, in colder months, the building will be warmed entirely by heat generated from on-site engines that convert gas from decaying landfill trash into renewable electricity for the grid.
 
We hope you’ll visit Clean Sweep at it’s new location, the county landfill (7102 US Hwy 12, Madison), Tuesdays – Fridays from 7:00am - 2:45pm, or Saturdays from 8:00am - 10:45am. Clean Sweep will be closed Sundays, Mondays and Holidays.
 
Dane County households and farms will be asked to pay $10 per drop-off, out-of-county households and farms will be asked to pay $75. Please call 608-838-9555 or visit www.danecountycleansweep.com for additional details, including a full description of products and electronics that will be accepted, fee structure, and exceptions.
                                                            by Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. 5/15/13


 
36 - Clean Sweep Relocated to New Recycling Center  Across from Yahara Hills Golf Course

 
Dane County Executive Joe Parisi recently announced that construction has been completed on the county’s new recycling center – a $4 million dollar facility with ‘green’ features that will extend the life of the county’s landfill and expand the popular Clean Sweep program year-round.
 
“This amazing new green facility will expand the county’s recycling efforts and prevent a sizable chunk of construction materials from topping off our landfill,” said Parisi. “By preserving the quality of our land and water, we’re extending the life of our landfill and saving taxpayer dollars.”
 
Construction and demolition waste currently accounts for 40% of the space in the county’s Rodefeld Landfill. At the new facility, C&D waste is consolidated, compacted, and then loaded onto larger semi-trailers to be hauled to the recycler, instead of in the landfill.
 
The transfer station will also allow the popular Clean Sweep program to operate year round, beginning this spring. Clean Sweep helps area residents safely dispose of hazardous materials like paint and cleaners that would otherwise sit in a home, or if not properly disposed of, make their way into area waterways.
 
The facility is located at 7102 US Hwy 12, Madison WI 53718, (Beltline/12/18 East toward Cambridge) across from the Yahara Hills Golf Course at the Dane County Landfill.
http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/loc_gov.aspx <http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/loc_gov.aspx>
 
Brochures include: a new fact sheet about household hazardous waste disposal guidelines which lists the items accepted and those that aren’t, special waste disposal guidelines. and one on small business hazardous waste collection.
  
Our schedule, contact information, etc. can be found on our portal page: http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/default.aspx <http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/default.aspx>
  
Please note that the Clean Sweep program has moved from Public Health Madison and Dane County to Dane County Public Works and the physical location of the collection facility has moved to the Dane County Landfill.

The recycling building contains many green features that will reduce storm water runoff from leaving the grounds, and translucent light panels that will reduce the need for electric light. The building will also be heated with the waste heat generated by the landfill’s generator engines that convert landfill gas to renewable electricity for Dane County homes and businesses.

The facility is a key component of the County Executive’s comprehensive solid waste strategy that will extend the life of the county’s current landfill site another three decades. Avoiding the process to site a new landfill will save 200 acres of valuable farmland and save county taxpayers $100 million.


 
37 - Product Exchange Program Located at Clean Sweep

The product exchange program  at Cleean Sweep allows you to bring in chemicals that are still useable, including paint, thinners, solvents, and pesticides. We make these products available free to the public at our on-site product exchange store.

Please note that in accordance with Dane County ordinance Chapter 80 and City of Madison ordinance MGO 7.48, Clean Sweep cannot provide phosphorus containing lawn fertilizer in the Product Exchange. If you're looking for any other free materials that Clean Sweep has on its shelves, stop by and see what may be useful to you.

The Product Exchange is open during normal Clean Sweep program hours, currently Tuesdays - Fridays: 7:00 - 2:45 and Saturdays: 8:00 - 10:45.   See http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/default.aspx <http://www.danecountycleansweep.com/default.aspx> for other information.

The City of Madison/Dane County Clean Sweep Facility cannot, and does not, guarantee the integrity, safety, usability, or effectiveness of the products taken from the Product Exchange. When you take products from this facility, you do so at your own risk. Every product is provided “as is”, and there are no express or implied warranties, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability and fitness for particular purpose.


38 - Madison Freecycle Has Free Stuff and Stuff for Sale up to $99
Madison Freecycle <http://groups.yahoo.com/group/madisonfreecycle/> , http://groups.yahoo.com/group/madisonfreecycle/ <http://groups.yahoo.com/group/madisonfreecycle/>  is an email list and Yahoo! group whose purpose is to "reduce waste by providing an alternative to sending unneeded, but still usable items to the landfill." Check them out if you've got something of use that you don't want to throw away or if you're looking for free items.


39 - Madison Stuff Exchange Offers Free Items
The Madison Stuff Exchange <http://www.madisonstuffexchange.com/> , http://www.madisonstuffexchange.com/ <http://www.madisonstuffexchange.com/>  ”provides area residents and businesses with a convenient way to exchange, re-use, or sell items they no longer need or want." The difference between the Stuff Exchange and the Freecycle is that some items on the Stuff Exchange may be sold for up to $99.


 
-----    End of the 5/28/13 DUNN’S MARSH NEIGHBORHOOD e-NEWS    --------
                                              Thanks for reading.

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