Wishing you and your family a safe, happy and prosperous New Year! 

Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month
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Impaired driving accidents are most prevalent during the holiday season; these incidents can be easily avoided by creating a plan for safe travels home. Here are a few tips from the US Army for safe holiday celebrations: 

  • Designate a driver: whether you're attending or hosting a holiday gathering, you can designate a driver to ensure you and your loved ones make it home safely. 
  • Make sure to alternate alcoholic beverages with soda, juice, or water, and eat food before and during drinking.   
  • Don't mix alcohol with other drugs, including prescriptions or over-the-counter medications. 
  • If you're hosting, consider collecting your guests' keys in a safe, designated basket. Only return keys to non-impaired/designated drivers. 
  • Don't have a designated driver? There are many safe-ride options in the community from Uber and Lyft to SafeRides. Click here for a list of bars in Marathon County participating in the SafeRides program. Alternatively, download the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's Drive Sober Mobile App, which has a function to help drivers find safe rides home. 
First Day Hikes 

For the ninth year, Wisconsin is participating in the nationwide First Day Hikes campaign. In 14 locations statewide, there will be hikes on New Years Day. Last year, over 1,500 people hiked nearly 3,000 total miles in different Wisconsin State Parks. Check out this link for the list of locations and more details. 


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Candlelight Events

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Not feeling up for a hike on New Years Day but still wanting to enjoy Wisconsin's winter beauty? Check out this list of candlelight events that are happening this winter throughout the state. Most events begin around sunset and end around 8:30 or 9:00pm.

Two events are happening right here in our community on January 18th and February 15thCandlelight Snowshoe Hikes in Rib Mountain State Park from 6-8pm. There will be hot chocolate, hot cider and marshmallows to roast around a fire. Start at the new Friends Gathering Space, just past the park office. It is recommended that guests bring snowshoes, though some will be available to borrow. Flashlights or headlamps are recommended. An annual or daily admission park sticker is required. 

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