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Update on Des Moines WHO Channels
Posted: Friday, July 30, 2010 - 2:43:31 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities is aware that the following channels have been off the air the last few days: 13, 213, 194 and 195.
The issue began when there was inclement weather and equipment damage to SMU’s source for picking up the signal for the Des Moines WHO TV channels.
During the last week there have been several equipment exchanges in hopes of solving the problem. As work continues on this issue, we will have the channel back and running as soon as possible.
Sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience as we work towards a solution.
Channels Expected to be Back Soon
Posted: Thursday, July 22, 2010 - 6:37:49 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities is aware that the following channels are off the air: 13, 213, 194 and 195.
This is due to the weather across Iowa. We anticipate those channels being back soon.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Customer Service Center Hours July 22, 2010
Posted: Monday, July 19, 2010 - 1:47:16 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Customer Service Center will be open Thursday, July 22 from 9:00am-5:00pm and closed from 8:00am-9:00am due to staff training.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
Use Water Wisely This Summer
Posted: Monday, July 19, 2010 - 1:36:02 PM
It's summer, and to paraphrase the 1980's hit song by Glenn Frey, "The Heat Is On". As the warmest weeks of summer arrive, it's important for SMU water customers to keep in mind how to use water most efficiently to keep their lawns green and growing through the stress of summer. Here are some DO's and DON'T's about outdoor water usage in the summer.
DO:
-Water your lawn and plants during the early morning when the sun is low in the sky.
-Use a sprinkler gauge to measure how much water you are putting on your lawn. A healthy lawn needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of moisture a week (rain and irrigation combined).
-Set your mower blade higher to allow the grass to grow a bit longer during the hot months. The higher grass provides more shade for the soil and reduces evaporation.
-Water your lawn as efficiently as possible.
DON'T:
-Water during the middle of the day. Watering when the sun is high in the sky speeds evaporation, and much of the water you're paying to put on your lawn actually ends up evaporating before it reaches the roots of the plant.
-Overwater your lawn. Overwatering leads to shallow roots that makes your lawn more susceptible to weed growth and disease.
-Mow your lawn too low. This puts the grass under more stress and leads to greater loss of soil moisture.
-Water your sidewalks, driveways, and the street. Adjust sprinkler settings to maximize the amount of water going where you want it.
Home Energy Audits
Posted: Monday, July 19, 2010 - 1:21:28 PM
SMU is offering home energy audits to customers who heat their homes with electricity. (If you heat your home with natural gas, contact your provider regarding an audit). During a home energy audit, a trained energy professional will identify steps you and your family can take to reduce your electric consumption and save money. The cost of a home energy audit is $100.00, but if the home owner later implements the improvements outlined in the audit, the fee can be refunded.
Appointments for home energy audits are available on a first come-first served basis. If you'd like to schedule a home energy audit, contact our Customer Service Center at 580.5800.
Customer Service Center Closed July 5, 2010
Posted: Thursday, July 01, 2010 - 12:57:38 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Customer Service Center will be closed on Monday, July 5th in observance of Independence Day.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
Customer Service Center Hours July 1, 2010
Posted: Tuesday, June 29, 2010 - 1:19:33 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Customer Service Center will be closed from 8:00am to 2:00pm on Thursday, July 1st to allow staff to attend a funeral.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
2010 SMU Water Quality Report Available
Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010 - 4:32:53 PM
The latest edition of Spencer Municipal Utilities’ annual Consumer Confidence Report on water quality has been prepared and is being distributed.
The report provides details of drinking water testing conducted during the calendar year 2009. SMU regularly test over 80 drinking water contaminants, and the 2009 data again shows now violations of EPA rules for water quality.
“Our wells are based in an aquifer that is a fairly clean source, we don’t have to do much treatment on the water as some other communities that rely on other sources,” says Amanda Gloyd, SMU Sales & Marketing Coordinator. In addition to showing the result of water testing from last year, the Consumer Confidence Report also gives customers details on SMU’s water source, treatment methods, and other important health information.
During the month of June, SMU will be including a copy of the 2010 report in regular utility bill mailings. Copies of the report are also available at the SMU Customer Service Center at 712 Grand Avenue, and on the SMU Web site at www.smunet.net.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a leading provider of cable, Internet, telephone and cellular service through i wireless in the Spencer community and has been providing water and electric services since 1886.
SMU Cares Raises Funds for Shayla Bee Foundation
Posted: Wednesday, June 02, 2010 - 5:56:10 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) recently raised over $1100.00 for the Shayla Bee Foundation through a garage sale and bake sale. All the proceeds went towards the Shayla Bee Foundation.
“We just gave some funds to a family in need, and this will help us replenish for the next family,” says Jerry Faulkner, president of the Shayla Bee Foundation.
By hosting a garage sale during the city wide sales, SMU employees donated garage sale and bake sale items to raise the funds. SMU Cares decided to support Shayla Bee for the 2nd quarter of 2010. If you’ve visited SMU recently, you may have noticed the donation cans to help raise additional funds for Shayla Bee.
“SMU’s garage sale was a great idea to help raise funds for the families of children with medical conditions that we support,” says Faulkner.
“We’re glad our employees are going above and beyond to support the Shayla Bee Foundation and the families they are able to help,” says Amanda Gloyd, SMU sales and marketing coordinator.
SMU Cares is an employee led group of Spencer Municipal Utility employees who create ways for employees to give back to the community.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a leading provider of cable, Internet, telephone and cellular service through i wireless in the Spencer community and has been providing water and electric services since 1886.
SMU Board Approves Water Rate Increase
Posted: Friday, April 23, 2010 - 7:55:17 AM
Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) Board of Trustees has approved a water rate increase effective June 1, 2010.
The increase, which was approved at the board’s April meeting, is designed to pay for costs current repairs and maintenance needed on the water treatment system. “We want to keep our infrastructure maintained and continue to provide quality water for future generations and the monthly increase will help with that,” says Amanda Gloyd, sales and marketing coordinator.
Customers will begin seeing a $10.00 monthly customer charge per service address beginning with their June electric and water bills. This fixed increase will help to recoup distribution equally among all customers and will not change depending on the time of year. Along with the additional customer charge fee, SMU is eliminating the minimum charge for customer usage while the rate will increase on water usage for up to 100,000 gallons to $2.75 per thousand while usage over 100,000 will increase to $2.15 per thousand beginning on the July statements for usage during June. Customers who have outside water that is metered separately will see the rate increase to $3.90 per thousand also beginning on the July statement.
“The increase in rates was needed for the upcoming construction projects to keep our distribution and water quality to the highest standards. We strive to provide great service and continue to plan for growth for years to come,” says Gloyd.
The replacement of the dome on our finished water tank is a substantial maintenance project scheduled for 2010. The current dome has been in place since the 1960s and the structural integrity has deteriorated over the years. The issues were identified during routine inspections and the new aluminum construction is expected to last for many years.
“As our construction projects take place, we will keep customers informed of the infrastructure and distribution improvements we’re making,” says Gloyd.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a leading provider of cable, Internet, telephone and cellular service through i wireless in the Spencer community and has been providing water and electric services since 1886.
Customer Service Center Hours April 21, 2010
Posted: Thursday, April 15, 2010 - 1:52:38 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Customer Service Center will be closing at 4pm on Wednesday, April 21st due to staff training.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
2010 Water Rate Increase
Posted: Wednesday, April 07, 2010 - 2:46:34 PM
At the March Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) Board meeting, they began looking into increasing water rates during 2010. SMU plans to continue to provide quality water to the residents of Spencer for future generations by continuing to make repairs and improvements to the infrastructure.
“The residents of Spencer are very fortunate their public utility strives to provide the best quality for the lowest price possible,” says Amanda Gloyd, sales and marketing coordinator.
The last major construction projects in the water department took place in 1999 where the plant capacity was doubled to meet the growing demands of the community. A second water softening basin was also added along with covers to both softening basins. At that time, the backwash process was changed to comply with EPA requirements.
Other major water department projects in the last few years include the main near the Spencer Middle School and the water main to the south part of Spencer to improve reliability and to allow for business expansion.
With two major projects needing completion during 2010, customers will see an increase while still benefiting from some of the lowest utility rates in the state of Iowa. SMU continues to monitor how our rates compare to other Iowa cities with a population of 10,000 and over.
The plans for 2010 construction include adding a raw water line and the dome replacement on our finished water tank. Currently with one raw water line, Spencer would be without water if the line were to break as there is no other route to provide water while the repair is being made. This project is being completed to improve the reliability of our water utility throughout the community of Spencer.
The replacement of the dome on our finished water tank is a substantial maintenance project scheduled for 2010. The current dome has been in place since the 1960s and the structural integrity has deteriorated over the years. The issues were identified during routine inspections and the new aluminum construction is expected to last for many years.
“By keeping our system up-to-date, we’ll be able to continue to provide quality water for future generations,” says Gloyd.
ESPN3.com
Posted: Monday, April 05, 2010 - 1:47:26 PM
Customers who have been using ESPN360.com since it's launch in 2001 for additional sports coverage as part of being a cable and high-speed internet customer of Spencer Municipal Utilities will still get the same access benefits with the new address after April 4, 2010 at ESPN3.com. Update your address books and continue to follow the additional sports coverage!
This free application gives subscribers:
-Exclusive and LIVE sporting events
-TV-like crystal clear viewing experience
-Unique behind-the-scenes coverage NOT seen on television
-Premieres of ESPN Original Entertainment series and movies
-Video games and more!
If you haven't had a chance to take advantage of this additional service through Spencer Municipal Utilities, visit www.espn3.com to sign up!
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Baseball Blackouts
Posted: Monday, April 05, 2010 - 1:46:51 PM
The 2010 Major League Baseball (MLB) season has started. And unfortunately, so have TV blackouts for fans of several teams in the Midwest.
Just like previous years, national broadcasts of several teams on ESPN, ESPN2, and TBS will be blacked out. These blackouts are a DIRECT RESULT of MLB rules and are not a choice of Spencer Municipal Utilities or the networks.
Iowa falls in a zone where a total of SIX (6) teams are blacked out under MLB rules. Those teams are: Minnesota Twins, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals. In addition to these teams there may be a handful of other games not available in our area due to blackouts.
Some games may also be blacked out during the season on ESPN Deportes, ESPN HD, ESPN3.com, ESPN Mobile.
While SMU would like to be able to offer these games to our customers, Major League Baseball has decided that you should not be able to watch these games.
KEYC, WHO Will Not Move to Digital on April 6th
Posted: Wednesday, March 24, 2010 - 8:21:26 AM
As previously announced, two of the TV stations that SMU provides as part of our analog Basic lineup will not be moving to new positions on the dial next week, following action by the SMU Cable Programming Committee. KEYC-Mankato, which currently occupies Channel 12 on analog cable, and WHO-Des Moines at Channel 13 will both be available in digital format when the techincal issues are resolved. The reason for the move is to free up room on SMU’s communications system to provide additional high definition services.
When this change takes place, customers will still be able to enjoy these two channels in a couple of different ways. First of all, anyone with Digital Gateway, HiDef Gateway, DVR Gateway or CableCard Gateway can continue to see the channels in their “digital” positions at Channel 194 for WHO and Channel 192 for KEYC. If you don’t have a digital cable box, but you do have a digital TV with a QAM tuner, you will also be able to enjoy KEYC-HD at Channel 12.11 or in SD at 81.13 and WHO-HD at Channel 116.3 or in SD at 81.3. You can also watch each of these stations’ digital multiplex channels…Mankato Fox on Channel 193 (QAM 12.12) and Iowa’s Weather Plus on 195 (QAM 116.4).
SMU will provide a new date for the move when it becomes available.
Sun Outages Expected This Week
Posted: Thursday, March 04, 2010 - 1:29:55 PM
Twice each year, in the spring and in the fall, cable companies experience a phenomenon known as "sun outages". Basically a sun outage occurs when a satellite from which we receive TV programming becomes directly in line with the Sun, and interference from the Sun's electromagnetic rays create reception issues for the satellite signals.
SMU expects to see sun outages on its satellite delivered networks this week and next. During an outage, TV pictures might become filled with static or in some cases disappear completely.
Unfortunately, there's nothing that can be done to prevent sun outages. In most cases, the signals are restored within a few minutes. We appreciate your patience during these sun outages.
Customer Service Center Hours February 12, 2010
Posted: Monday, February 08, 2010 - 3:04:20 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Customer Service Center will be opening at 9am on Friday, February 12th due to staff training.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
Ice Dams? More Insulation Is Only Half The Solution
Posted: Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - 4:15:29 PM
This winter's heavy snow has created a big problem for many homeowners...ice dams.
An ice dam is created when snow melts on your roof, then re-freezes when it reaches the gutter. The "dam" causes melted snow to back up behind it, and that can cause roofs to leak.
"An ice dam is a symptom that heat is leaking from your home," says Curtis Dean, SMU's Resource Conservation Coordinator. "Heat escapes the living areas of your home into the attic, then heats the surface of the roof and causes snow to melt." Usually ice dams occur when the roof is heated unevenly, with the coldest surface temperatures near the gutters.
Dean says many customers who have experienced ice dams have reacted by adding insulation to their attics. While additional insulation will help keep heat in your home and save energy, it may not solve your ice dam problem. "Insulation is only part of the solution. In many homes, the biggest cause of lost heat is not radiant heat that insulation can help with, but heated air that leaks through holes in your living space." Dean says a complete solution to ice dams must include sealing those leaks.
Common locations for air leakage into your attic include the framed opening around a chimney; around plumbing fixtures and especially the vent stack; around attic access hatches, and wherever a recessed light fixture has been installed in the ceiling below the attic.
For 2010, SMU has begun to offer home energy audits. One of the tools that is used during the audit is a "blower door". This device is hooked to an exterior door and depressurizes the home. Measuring the difference in pressure allows the auditor to determine how much air is infiltrating into the house from the outside. The blower door also creates a draft that can be helpful in finding those air leaks.
SMU will begin offering home energy audits in the next few weeks to customers who heat with electricity, including air source or ground source heat pumps. Customers will be charged $100 to perform the audit, but may be eligible for a rebate on that cost if certain energy efficiency measures are taken after the audit.
If you are planning to insulate, SMU has also started offering a rebate for insulation in homes heated by electricity. However, an energy audit from SMU or another qualified professional is required BEFORE the insulation is installed in order to be eligible for the rebate. If you'd like more information on the rebate program, contact our Customer Service Center at 712-580-5800.
Spencer Municipal Utilities Helps Community in Need
Posted: Sunday, January 24, 2010 - 5:06:04 PM
With the recent weather effects on electricity this week in the state of Iowa, Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) was able to send staff and equipment to the community of Atlantic to help restore power to another community.
SMU is a member of the Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities including the Association’s Mutual Aid Program. As part of the program, SMU’s Electric and Communications departments can receive help from other communities if needed, and is available and ready to send crews out to help other communities.
In years past SMU has been asked to help out other communities with weather related problems like ice storms, snow storms, floods and tornados; as well as the large ice storm that hit between St. Louis, Missouri and Memphis, Tennessee last year. “We’re proud to have four of our employees with equipment from Spencer able to go down and help out in Atlantic this week,” says Amanda Paulsen, sales and marketing coordinator at SMU.
SMU was able to help out since Spencer wasn’t affected by the recent weather like other parts of the state. “After seeing the need in the Atlantic area was great, we sent additional staff and equipment to help out.”
If a need were to arise in Spencer while SMU crews are helping other communities, Spencer will receive help from surrounding communities if needed. “Thanks to the mutual aid program, we can all work together throughout the state of Iowa when a community is in need,” says Paulsen.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a leading provider of cable, Internet, telephone and cellular service through i wireless in the Spencer community and has been providing utility services since 1901.
SMU Customers Will Not Experience Interruptions
Posted: Friday, January 15, 2010 - 11:22:50 AM
Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) is pleased to announce their customers will not be seeing any channels go dark in the near future.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a member of the NCTC, which is a national, not-for-profit cable TV cooperative that negotiates programming fees for 1,000 cable companies across the United States. NCTC has reached an agreement with the MTV Networks and has informed SMU their customers will continue receiving channels as scheduled.
“We were confident the NCTC would reach an agreement in the best interest of our cable customers as well as the others affected across the United States,” says Amanda Paulsen, sales and marketing coordinator at SMU.
SMU customers will not see any interruptions in the following Expanded Basic channels: MTV, Nickelodeon, VH1, Spike TV, TV Land, CMT, and Comedy Central. SMU also carries the following MTV Network channels in Digital Basic: Nick Jr., NickToons, TeenNick, MTV2, MTV Hits, VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, and CMT Pure Country and MTVTr3s, is included in the Digital en Español package which will also not experience any interruptions.
“Without knowing details of the negotiation, we wanted to keep our customers informed as some channels could have gone dark for a short time,” adds Paulsen.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is a leading provider of cable, Internet, telephone and cellular service through i wireless in the Spencer community and has been providing utility services since 1901.
SMU at the Northwest Iowa Home Show
Posted: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - 12:07:19 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities will be at the Northwest Iowa Home Show at the Clay County Regional Events Center this weekend, January 15-17th. Stop by and get all the details on our 2010 Energy Efficiency incentive programs. Register to win a free Home Energy Audit, and while supplies last, SMU customers can pick up a FREE three pack of energy-saving CFL light bulbs. We hope to see you there!
SMU at the Senior Center Open House
Posted: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - 12:04:35 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities will be at the new Senior Center Open House in Spencer Thursday, January 14th from 2:00-4:30. Stop by and see our new OneTouch on display and learn more about the services available from SMU!
SMU Reminds Customers to Dig Out Meters
Posted: Monday, December 28, 2009 - 2:20:53 PM
Due to large amounts of snow received in the Spencer area over the holiday weekend, Spencer Municipal Utilities would like to remind customers to dig out their electric and water meters.
We would like to urge customers to clear out the snow around their water and electric meters as well as a path through the yard if at all possible. This will not only assist in reading meters, but help with any maintenance that may need to be done while there are large amounts of snow on the ground.
Over the last year, SMU has begun installing radio read meters in many homes and businesses throughout Spencer and plans to continue in the New Year; however removing snow around the meters will assist with getting accurate readings for those that haven’t been updated.
We appreciate everyone’s effort in making their meters easier to read!
Iowa State and Iowa Bowl Games on SMU Cable
Posted: Monday, December 28, 2009 - 8:51:47 AM
Spencer Municipal Utilities Cable customers can enjoy watching both Iowa State and Iowa finish their seasons.
Iowa State vs Minnesota in the Insight Bowl can be seen on Thursday, December 31 at 5:00pm on the NFL Network which is Channel 30 in standard definition and on Channel 230 in high definition.
Iowa vs Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl can be seen on Tuesday, January 5th at 7:00pm on Fox via KPTH which is Channel 5 in standard definition and on Channel 205 in high definition or QAM channel 44.1.
SMU Prepared for Approaching Storm
Posted: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 - 11:30:37 AM
As the weather reports are forecasting a winter storm to hit the Spencer area over the next few days, Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) is doing what they can to prepare.
Fortunately most of the distribution lines in Spencer are underground; however the weather could affect the lines bringing power into town. SMU’s crews are prepared, and ready to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. If our community isn’t affected by an outage and the surrounding communities are, SMU is ready to help out.
Special Holiday Hours at SMU
Posted: Thursday, December 17, 2009 - 1:24:26 PM
The Customer Service Center will close two hours early on Friday, December 18th at 3:00pm for employees to celebrate the holiday season.
On Christmas Eve Day, Thursday, December 24th, the Customer Service Center will be open from 8am until Noon and closed on Christmas Day.
We will also be closed on New Year’s Day.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
Happy Holidays from Spencer Municipal Utilities!
SMU to Host LED Streetlighting Ceremony Today
Posted: Monday, December 07, 2009 - 10:10:19 AM
After several weeks of darkness, the Grand Avenue boulevard between 8th and 18th Streets will finally begin to “see the light” today. And that light will be green…green as in energy efficient.
Spencer Municipal Utilities is hosting a ceremony to turn on the new streetlights in the 800 and 900 blocks of Grand Avenue today at 4:30pm. The ceremony will be held in the southeast corner of the Hy-Vee parking lot, at the corner of 8th and Grand.
SMU Holiday Open House Today!
Posted: Thursday, November 19, 2009 - 8:07:47 AM
Today is SMU's Holiday Open House, and we hope you'll join us! From 8am to 5pm today we will have goodies and beverages for our customers, and you can register to win a FREE Blackberry Pearl smartphone!
Today is also the launch of our holiday sale. From now until December 23rd when you add select new SMU Communications services to your account, you can pick a gift from under our tree! We also feature free installation and activation on most of our products, so now is the PERFECT time to add a DVR, or thrill the family with an SMU OneTouch!
EARLY Departure for the Hawkeye Road Trip on November 21st
Posted: Monday, November 09, 2009 - 4:00:39 PM
The kickoff for the Iowa-Minnesota game on November 21st has been set for 11am. That means the participants in the SMU Hawkeye Road Trip will be getting up quite early for the trip to Kinnick Stadium.
The Road Trip bus will leave from the front SMU parking lot at 4:30am sharp on that morning.
SMU at the Northwest Iowa Womens Expo
Posted: Saturday, November 07, 2009 - 9:23:56 AM
SMU has a booth at the Northwest Iowa Womens Expo at the Clay County Regional Events Center this weekend.
Stop by to check out our new OneTouch internet computer service, as well as some of our latest iwireless cell phones.
Hours are 9am to 3pm today.
Use Caution During Trick Or Treating Along Grand Avenue
Posted: Friday, October 30, 2009 - 2:49:00 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities want to remind everyone to use extra caution during Trick-Or-Treating hours in Spencer Saturday evening along Grand Avenue between 8th and 18th Streets.
Due to the streetlight replacement project, those blocks do not have streetlights, making it more difficult for trick-or-treaters to be seen. If you children will be trick-or-treating along Grand Avenue, SMU encourages parents to provide children with a flashlight or other form of lighting to increase visibility. We also caution motorists to slow down and watch carefully for children.
We hope everyone has a safe Halloween, and SMU apologizes for any inconvenience the temporary street light outage may cause.
SMU to Cap Public Power Week with Customer Appreciation Day
Posted: Friday, October 02, 2009 - 12:43:18 PM
October 4-10 is American Public Power Week, and to mark the occasion, SMU is giving back to the community and opening its doors to customers.
Tuesday, October 6th will be “SMU Cares” day at the community-owned electric, water, and telecommunications provider. SMU Cares is an employee-driven community giving program established last year. For the 4th quarter of 2009, the SMU Cares employee committee chose Upper Des Moines Opportunity as the beneficiary. So on Tuesday, SMU is asking customers to bring non-perishable food items to SMU to benefit the UDMO food pantry. SMU will in turn be donating $1 to the agency’s crisis fund for each item dropped off that day.
To cap off Public Power Week, SMU will host “Customer Appreciation Day” on Friday, October 9th from 1pm to 5pm. “The purpose of the event is for SMU team members to thank citizens for being our customers, and for our employees to show customers what we do,” says Curtis Dean with SMU. Each of SMU’s utilities will have a display or demonstration designed to give customers an inside look at operations. In addition, there will be displays of energy efficiency technologies, the wireless meter program, and tours of the Operation Center. “Most of our customers have been in our Customer Service Center, but may have never seen what goes on in our Operations Center,” says Dean. “So we are focusing our Customer Appreciation Day activities there, including tours and displays.”
SMU will also be offering tours of the water plant, but because parking at the plant south of Stolley’s Park is limited, bus transportation will be provided from SMU to the plant and back.
Customers may register for door prizes when they arrive, and the first 500 customers will receive a free 3-pack of compact fluorescent lamps (CFL’s). Ice cream sundaes and floats, popcorn, and refreshments will be served.
Customers are asked to enter the SMU property from the Operations Center entrance on 2nd Avenue East, just north of the railroad tracks. Most of the displays and demonstrations will be outside but will be moved inside if the weather does not cooperate.
Spencer Municipal Utilities Makes Resource Conservation a Top Priority
Posted: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 - 11:19:53 AM
New Position Highlights Importance of Energy Efficiency
The need to use Spencer’s energy and water resources more wisely in the future has spurred Spencer Municipal Utilities into creating a new position that will be occupied by a familiar face.
Curtis Dean, who has served as SMU’s Marketing and Community Relations Director since 1998, will be moving into a new role with the publicly-owned electric, water, and telecommunications provider. But while the position and job title will be new, the role will be a familiar one. “Since I began at SMU, I have been coordinating SMU’s energy efficiency program,” says Dean. “In my new role, I will be dedicating my full time and effort into partnering with SMU’s customers to save energy and water and to help prepare our utility for the changes that are sure to come in America’s energy policies.”
In addition to other tasks as SMU’s new Resource Conservation Coordinator, Dean will continue to manage the energy efficiency rebate program. That program, initiated in 1995, gives customers incentives to make improvements in their homes and businesses that save energy. To date, SMU has issued over 2,000 rebates to customers at a cost of over $700,000. And while over ten million kilowatt-hours have been trimmed by customers under the program in the past 15 years, Dean says it’s just the tip of the iceberg of what’s possible-and necessary-for the future. “The Iowa Legislature has directed SMU and other utilities to achieve annual savings of 1.1% of total kilowatt-hour consumption by the end of 2012. While 1.1% doesn’t seem like a lot, in SMU’s best year to date-2007-we only had a 0.7% reduction. So to reach the Legislature’s goal, SMU will need to become more innovative in how we achieve savings. Our customers will also need to become more involved in taking steps in their homes and businesses to save energy.”
Among Dean’s first priorities is to work with SMU staff to develop a comprehensive “roadmap” to achieving the energy usage reductions. He says SMU will be identifying what measures-new and existing-will be most cost effective in reaching the 1.1% reduction. “Our Board of Trustees re-authorizes our energy efficiency program each year. We expect that the 2010 program will see changes to help us reach our objectives.” In addition to customer rebates, SMU will examine other areas where savings can be achieved. “A good example of steps we have already taken is the Grand Avenue Boulevard project. By installing LED streetlights, we’ll reduce the annual energy usage by 30,000 kWh’s on that stretch of highway,” says Dean.
Dean’s former role as marketing director and SMU’s “spokesperson” will be shifting into the hands of a new Sales and Marketing Coordinator. Applications for that position are being accepted at SMU. A job application form can be downloaded at www.smunet.net/jobapp.pdf.
Twist And Save With Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Posted: Monday, September 28, 2009 - 12:27:34 PM
Spencer residents are about to discover that saving energy and money really is as easy as a twist of the wrist. From Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2009, residential electric customers of Spencer Municipal Utilities and many other Iowa utilities are eligible for special pricing that will allow them to purchase ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) for as little as $0.99 at participating retailers. (Limit 12 bulbs per customer, while supplies last.)
The compact fluorescent rebate program is held in conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) national ENERGY STAR “Change a Light” campaign.
ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs use up to 75 percent less electricity than standard incandescent light bulbs, last up to 10 times longer, and produce about 75 percent less heat than incandescents, improving safety. By replacing the five most used bulbs in a home with energy-efficient CFLs, families can save $35 in energy costs during the first year alone.
While these financial savings are a big draw for consumers, CFLs offer environmental benefits as well. “We want to do our part to reduce our country’s greenhouse gas emissions and help fight global climate change,” said Curtis Dean, SMU Resource Conservation Coordinator. “We’re proud to spread the word about the difference that individuals in our community can make by taking energy-saving steps at home and in the workplace.”
As a further show of commitment to the environment, SMU accepts spent CFL’s and other fluorescent lamps for recycling to help keep the trace amounts of mercury they contain from reaching landfills.
Today’s CFLs produce bright, warm light at less cost to consumers and businesses because they use less electricity and last longer than incandescent bulbs, saving time and money on replacements. With the wide range of CFL shapes, sizes and styles now on the market, consumers can find an energy-efficient bulb for every situation and enjoy reduced energy costs all year long.
“Becoming part of the solution to global climate change takes less time and effort than people might think. We can all start by taking simple steps like changing a light or looking for the ENERGY STAR when we purchase new products,” said Kathleen Hogan, Director of the Climate Protection Partnerships Division at EPA. “Together, we can make a difference and protect our environment through simple everyday actions.”
In Spencer, the following retailers have agreed to participate in the “Change A Light” program this year:
Bomgaars 2912 North Highway Blvd
Fareway 104 East Eighth Street
Hy-Vee 819 Grand Avenue
Menards 1301 12th Ave SW
Walmart 500 11TH St. S.W.
For more information about ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs, or to find participating retailers in other communities, call (800) 339-6856 or visit www.iowachangealight.com.
Information on September 13th Power Outages
Posted: Monday, September 14, 2009 - 11:23:08 AM
On the morning of Sunday, September 13th there was a power outage that affected portions of northwest Spencer, including a portion of the Clay County Fairgrounds around the Events Center. The outage began at 8:48am. The cause of the outage was a faulted underground electric cable near the intersection of 11th Avenue West and West 18th street, and a subsequent blown module at 18th Avenue West and 12th Street. SMU crews were on the scene until power was restored at about noon.
Late Sunday evening, a power outage occurred at 11pm that affected a portion of southwest Spencer. Power was restored after approximately 90 minutes.
School Board Candidate Forum Replay Dates
Posted: Tuesday, September 01, 2009 - 10:05:22 AM
Due to technical difficulties, the sound quality on the live broadcast of the Spencer School Board candidate forum was not good. Fortunately, SMU's recording of the forum was good and the event will be replayed several times between now and the school board elections.
Replay times and dates on The Spencer Channel are:
Tuesday, 9/1 @ 7:30pm
Wednesday, 9/2 @ 12:30pm
Thursday, 9/3 @ 9:00pm
Friday, 9/4 @ 7:30pm
Saturday, 9/5 @ 1:00pm
Sunday, 9/6 @ 9:00pm
Monday, 9/7 @ 7:30pm
Storm Causes Power Outage
Posted: Monday, August 03, 2009 - 10:58:39 AM
The severe thunderstorm that swept across the area overnight led to a brief community-wide power outage in Spencer.
During the storm shortly after midnight, a tree branch fell and blew into one of SMU's power lines, causing the entire town to go dark for approximately 10 minutes. While power was quickly restored for most of Spencer, an area of northwest Spencer was out of power for approximately 50 minutes.
NFL Network Pre-Season Schedule
Posted: Friday, July 24, 2009 - 8:09:51 AM
Football season is almost here! NFL Network has announced its schedule of pre-season games. NFL Network is available on SMU Cable channel 30, or in high definition on Channel 230 (requires HiDef Plus)
Date Time* Matchup
8/14/09 6:00pm STL @ NYJ
8/14/09 9:00pm DEN @ SF
8/15/09 3:00pm ATL @ DET
8/15/09 6:00pm CHI @ BUF
8/15/09 9:00pm SEA @ SD
8/22/09 6:30pm PIT @ WAS
8/22/09 9:30pm DEN @ SEA
8/29/09 12:00pm IND @ DET
8/29/09 3:00pm NO @ OAK
9/3/09 6:00pm PHI @ NYJ
9/3/09 9:00pm OAK @ SEA
9/4/09 7:00pm DAL @ MIN
TV Schedule Announced For Iowa Football
Posted: Thursday, July 23, 2009 - 3:46:17 PM
The Iowa Hawkeye Football team will again be getting good television coverage this fall, including at least three games in prime-time.
The season kicks off with intrastate rival UNI on September 5th. The 11am game will be on Big Ten Network. The contest versus Iowa State in Ames will be September 12th at 11am on Fox Sports Net. Arizona visits Kinnick Stadium on September 19th for a 2:30pm game televised by ABC. Iowa travels to Penn State on September 26th for a 7pm game that will be telecast on either ABC or ESPN.
Tentative TV plans for October games include the Michigan game on October 10th, a 7pm kickoff with coverage by either ABC or ESPN; the October 17th game at Wisconsin on either ESPN, ESPN2, or Big Ten Network, and a road game at Michigan State on October 24th at 6pm on Big Ten Network.
The TV schedule for the rest of Iowa's games has not been announced.
Water Flushing Schedule for July 27-31
Posted: Thursday, July 23, 2009 - 1:18:46 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities continues to flush fire hydrants.
Residents are advised to put in their basement sewer plugs.
The schedule for July 27 to July 31, 2009
East and West: 4TH Ave West to 10th Ave East
North and South: East-West Park Streets North to East 10th Street
SMU Water Department will contact you regularly to give the new locations for the flushing as it proceeds.
Electric Outage on 7/23/09
Posted: Thursday, July 23, 2009 - 1:11:27 PM
At 9:30pm on the evening of July 23, 2009, a power outage occurred that affected the entire SMU electric service area. Eventually, it was determined that the outage was caused by a bird that got into transformers at one of the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) substations outside of Spencer. WAPA provides the primary electric transmission feed to Spencer. After the problem was diagnosed, power was returned at approximately 10:16pm.
Tickets On Sale For SMU Hawkeye Road Trips
Posted: Monday, June 29, 2009 - 10:25:33 AM
The SMU Hawkeye Road Trip is returning this fall, but this time we’ll be going to TWO Iowa Hawkeye Football games instead of one!
The first trip will be Saturday, September 5th to see the Hawks tangle with cross-state rivals the UNI Panthers. The second trip will be Saturday, November 21st to witness the battle for Floyd of Rosedale as Iowa hosts Minnesota.
The cost for either game will be $135 per person. That price includes round-trip transportation, a ticket to the game, a ticket on the Hawkeye Express train, and a pre-game tailgate party at the Hawkeye Village next to Kinnick Stadium.
Another difference this year will be the mode of transportation. SMU will be working with Iowa Lakes Charter for both trips. Because seating is limited to 14 for each trip, we expect both games to sell out quickly. As a result, only paid reservations will be accepted.
Stop at SMU to make your reservation and pay for your seat on either Hawkeye Road Trip soon before they sell out!
Deadline Extended for SMU Phone Photo Contest!
Posted: Wednesday, June 24, 2009 - 1:12:13 PM
SMU iwireless customers now have until July 10th to submit their entries in the SMU Phone Photo Contest.
The contest allows customers to send their favorite cell phone photos in and have them judged in one of four categories-people, places, pets, and things. In the first round of judging, a group of local photographers will choose the top five entries in each category. Then everyone will have the chance to vote for their favorites online!
The People's Choice entry in each category will win a $100 VISA gift card, with runners-up each getting a $25 VISA gift card. The judges will also pick a Judges Choice winner from among all the finalists. That person will also win $100 VISA gift card.
To enter, send your photo by picture message to 712-346-7940 by 5pm on Friday, July 10th. Stop at our customer service center or call us if you have any questions!
Updates to QAM Channel Guide
Posted: Friday, June 19, 2009 - 11:59:07 AM
Several additional QAM (unscrambled digital cable) channels have been added to the SMU Cable TV system over the past few weeks. These include the digital signals from WHO-Des Moines and KEYC-Mankato. The updated list follows and is also available at http://www.smunet.net/qam.asp
SMU Cable TV
Available clear-QAM Channels
QAM Ch. Station Network
4.1 KTIV-DT NBC
4.2 KTIV-DT2 CW Network
9.1 KCAU-DT ABC
9.2 KCAU-DT2 Accuweather
11.11 KELO-DT CBS
11.12 KELO-DT2 UTV (My Network TV)
12.11 KEYC-DT CBS
12.12 KEYC-DT2 Fox
13.1 KSFY-DT ABC
14.11 KMEG-DT CBS
14.12 KMEG-DT2 Azteca America
21.11 KTIN-DT IPTV HD
21.12 KTIN-DT2 Learn
21.13 KTIN-DT3 Create
44.1 KPTH-DT Fox
44.2 KPTH-DT2 My Network TV
116.3 WHO-DT NBC
116.4 WHO-DT2 Iowa's Weather Plus
Two New Members Named to SMU Cable Programming Committee
Posted: Wednesday, June 10, 2009 - 1:15:13 PM
Two new faces will be joining the SMU Cable Programming Committee in July.
At this morning's meeting, the SMU Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Amy Noah and Stephen Deutsch to the Committee, which is responsile for selecting SMU's cable TV channel lineup.
Noah and Deutsch replace Candi Whittenburg and Joe Skow, who have each served six years on the committee but are leaving due to term limits.
ALERT: Fake Message Attempts To Get Email Addresses
Posted: Monday, June 01, 2009 - 8:25:25 AM
Many of our customers have received emails recently which say they are from SMU asking for them to confirm their email address.
THESE MESSAGES ARE NOT FROM SMU! They are an attempt by spammers to get your email address so they can spend spam to you!
In fact, some people have already fallen for the scam and that has created issues with SMU customers being blacklisted. Please DO NOT RESPOND to theses messages! SMU is working on a way to block the messages going forward.
Here's what a typical spam email looks like:
Dear Subscriber
TERMINATION OF YOUR Smunet.Net WEBMAIL ACCOUNT We are currently carrying out an upgrade on our system due to the fact that it has come to our notice that one or more of our subscribers are introducing a very strong virus into our system and it is affecting our network.We are trying to find out the specific person.
For this reason all subscribers are to provide their USER NAME AND PASSWORD for us to verify and have them cleared against this virus.
Failure to comply will lead to the termination of your Account in the next 48 hours.
Information to send;
EMAIL ADDRESS:
USERNAME:
PASSWORD:
Hoping to serve you better.
Sincerely,
Smunet.Net mail Support
********************************************************************************************
This is an Administrative Message from Smunet.Net Mail server. It is not spam. From time to time, Smunet.Net mail server will send you such messages in order to communicate important information about your subscription.
********************************************************************************************
New SMU Water Quality Report Available
Posted: Friday, May 22, 2009 - 10:42:45 AM
The 2009 SMU Consumer Confidence Report is now available for review. You can view and print a copy from our website at http://www.smunet.net/2009ccr.pdf, or you can pick up a copy at our customer service center.
A copy of the report will be included with the regular utility billing in June.
Applications Accepted for Cable Programming Committee
Posted: Monday, April 20, 2009 - 11:19:26 AM
SMU is currently accepting applications for two openings on the SMU Cable Programming Committee.
Applications may be picked up at the SMU Customer Service Center, or you can download a copy from the SMU website at http://www.smunet.net/2009_CPC_app.pdf
Notice: Digital Cable Signal Outage
Posted: Friday, April 17, 2009 - 4:04:30 PM
Due to a major snowstorm at the satellite uplink facility in Colorado, several of SMU's digital cable signals are out of operation this afternoon. Technicians at the uplink site are working to restore the service as soon as possible.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Baseball Blackouts
Posted: Tuesday, April 07, 2009 - 4:29:39 PM
The 2009 Major League Baseball season has started. And unfortunately, so have TV blackouts for fans of several teams in the Midwest.
Just like last year, national broadcasts of several teams on ESPN, ESPN2, and TBS will be blacked out. These blackouts are a DIRECT RESULT of MLB rules and are not a choice of Spencer Municipal Utilities or the networks.
Iowa falls in a zone where a total of FIVE (5) teams are blacked out under MLB rules. Those teams are: Minnesota Twins, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and St. Louis Cardinals.
While SMU would like to be able to offer these games to our customers, Major League Baseball has decided that you should not be able to watch these games.
2009 Water Rate Increase
Posted: Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 2:00:49 PM
The SMU Board of Trustees has approved a water rate increase effective with usage beginning April 27, 2009.
Many residential customers will see little if any increase. For the first 10,000 gallons of useage each month, the rate will remain the same at $2.75 per thousand gallons. For usage from 10,001 to 30,000 gallons, the rate will increase from $2.50 to $2.65 per 1000 gallons. For usage from 30,001 to 100,000 gallons, the rate will go from $2.00 to $2.20 per 1000 gallons. And the rate per thousand gallons for usage over 100,001 gallons will go up from $1.60 to $1.80.
Outdoor water usage that is separately metered will increase from $3.00 per thousand to $3.25 per thousand.
The monthly minimum charge per month will remain $8.25.
Music Choice Lineup Changing April 15th
Posted: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 - 7:28:14 AM
Music Choice, which provides digital music on SMU Digital Cable, will be making revisions to their lineup on April 15th. The new lineup is as follows:
903 Hit List
904 Hip-Hop and R&B
905 MC MixTape
906 Dance/Electronica
907 Rap
908 Hip-Hop Classics
909 Throwback Jamz
910 R&B Classics
911 R&B Soul
912 Gospel
913 Reggae
914 Classic Rock
915 Retro Rock
916 Rock
917 Metal
918 Alternative
919 Classic Alternative
920 Adult Alternative
920 Soft Rock
922 Pop Hits
923 90's
924 80's
925 70's
926 Solid Gold Oldies
927 Party Favorites
928 Stage & Screen
929 Kidz Only!
930 Toddler Tunes
931 Today's Country
932 True Country
933 Classic Country
934 Contemporary Christian
935 Sounds of The Season
936 Soundscapes
937 Smooth Jazz
938 Jazz
939 Blues
940 Singers & Swing
941 Easy Listening
942 Classical Masterpieces
943 Light Classical
944 Musica Urbana
945 Pop Latino
946 Tropicales
947 Mexicana
948 Romances
New Rules Restrict Sales of Basketball Playoff Game Tapes
Posted: Thursday, February 19, 2009 - 3:15:22 PM
New rules put in place by the boys and girls Iowa high school athletic associations and their new TV rights holder will restrict the sales of video of the games.
As in the past, SMU's video department will be following the Spencer High School girls and boys basketball team s throughout the post-season. However, this year we will NOT be able to sell VHS or DVD copies of the games to parents and other people. The restrictions are the result of a new contract between the boys and girls associations and the Iowa High School Sports Network.
SMU will be airing the post-season games several times each on The Spencer Channel. We encourage customers to tape the games at home for their own use-something that is not restricted.
New Channels Arrive On SMU Cable TV
Posted: Thursday, February 19, 2009 - 3:14:58 PM
Several new channels joined the SMU Cable TV lineup yesterday.
After several months of delays, Oxygen launched on Channel 58 of Expanded Basci. The channel was originally scheduled to be launched last summer, but was put on hold due to contract restrictions by the network’s owner. Oxygen primarily features programming oriented to female viewers containing a combination of information and entertainment programming that addresses or otherwise relates to issues and themes of interest to female viewers.
Customers with HiDef Gateway, DVR Gateway, or a CableCard are now getting three new high definition channels. Fox News HD (Ch. 229), ABC Family HD (Ch. 252), and Disney HD (Ch. 253) are high-def versions of the channels that are carried in standard definition on Expanded Basic.
Fluorescent Tube Recycling
Posted: Friday, January 23, 2009 - 7:34:32 AM
Response has been great from customers recycling fluorescent lamps, a free service that Spencer Municipal Utilites began offering last fall.
SMU would like to remind customers who plan to bring us 4' or 8' fluorescent tubes to please follow these simple guidelines:
1. Please put the lamps in a box or other container so they can be handled easily without fear of breakage
2. Small quantities of fluorescent tubes (one box) can be brought to our Customer Service Center during normal business hours.
3. If you have more than one box of lamps to recycle, please call ahead to SMU to make arrangements for drop-off. For larger quantities, we will want to arrange for the lamps to be brought directly to our operations center.
Customers who want to recycle compact fluorescent lamps (CFL's) do not need to put the lamps in a container unless they are broken. If they are broken in any way, please place them in a sealed plastic bag.
Spencer Storefront Initiative Enters Final Year For Applications
Posted: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 - 9:19:18 AM
Two years after its launch, dozens of Spencer businesses have benefited from a program designed to spruce up the appearance of the community’s commercial properties.
The Spencer Storefront Initiative was created in 2007 as a joint project of Spencer Municipal Utilities, the Spencer Chamber of Commerce, the City of Spencer, and area financial institutions. Under the program, commercial property owners can apply for grants and zero-interest loans for visible improvements to their buildings. Improvements can range from a new paint job costing hundreds of dollars to a complete exterior remodeling running in the thousands of dollars.
The Storefront Initiative is a four-year program. Property owners have until the end of 2009 to apply for funding under the program. Any projects launched in 2009 must be completed by the end of 2010, when the program comes to an end.
After the first two years of the Storefront Initiative, thirty projects are complete. These projects cost property owners a total of about $3.6 million. Just over $560,000 in grants were applied by SMU to these completed projects, with area banks lending an equal amount in loans that SMU is paying the interest on. A number of other projects that began in 2008 are scheduled to be completed in 2009.
The program is administered by the Storefront Initiative Committee. Since 2009 is the final year to apply for new improvements, the Committee is urging commercial property owners to take advantage of the opportunity to improve their properties. Application materials are available at the Spencer Chamber of Commerce office. Questions about the program should be directed to Bob Rose at the Chamber, 262-5680, or any member of the Storefront Initiative Committee.
SMU, HBO To Provide Coverage of Opening Celebration of Inaugural
Posted: Thursday, January 08, 2009 - 2:40:04 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities will join cable TV companies across the nation in providing a live, free telecast of the Opening Celebration of the 56th Presidential Inaugural on January 18th.
The special event is being televised by HBO, which is giving cable companies permission to provide the feed of the gala event free of charge to all customers. In SMU’s case, the 6pm to 8pm event will be shown on The Spencer Channel, SMU Channel 3.
“A Celebration of America” will be held on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday, January 18th. The Opening Celebration will be a marquee event, featuring some of the biggest acts in the world of entertainment to celebrate our common heritage and our new direction. President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden will both attend the event, which will be free and open to the public.
SMU Approves 2009 Rebate Program
Posted: Monday, December 15, 2008 - 1:54:30 PM
Again in 2009, SMU customers can do their part by saving energy and receiving rebates from SMU for doing so. The 2009 Energy Efficiency Rebate Program is designed to give customers cash incentives to invest in energy-efficient appliances, heating and cooling, and lighting.
*Residential Central AC: $300.00
*Commercial Central AC: $100.00 per ton
*Air Source Heat Pump: $300.00 per ton
*Geothermal Heat Pump: $600.00 per ton
*Window AC: $25.00
Electric Heat: $25.00 per kW ≥ 1,000 watts; must be installed with a heat pump
Programmable Thermostat: $25.00 Any
Electric Water Heater (40 gal. min) $75.00 EF ≥ 93
*Dishwasher: $25.00
*Refrigerator: $25.00
Clothes Washer: $100.00
To receive a rebate on any of these devices, simply fill out a rebate application and return it to SMU along with a receipt that provides proof of purchase. After the rebate is processed, a credit will be applied to your utility account. Before submitting a rebate application, please read the program rules on the back of the application so you are aware of all the requirements.
MOJO Goes Off-Air
Posted: Monday, December 01, 2008 - 1:27:55 PM
MOJO, formerly SMU HiDef Plus channel 214, has officially signed off the air. The channel ceased operations effective December 1st and will not be replaced.
HiDef customers will soon have several new HiDef choices, however. Please see our earlier story "Channel Changes Coming Soon" for updates.
SMU Customers Take Fluorescent Recycling Seriously
Posted: Monday, December 01, 2008 - 1:24:28 PM
This fall, SMU began accepting fluorescent lamps of all sizes and shapes for free recycling. And the people of Spencer have responded in a big way!
Last week, the first load of recycled fluorescent tubes, CFL's, and other lamps was picked up my a recycling company. A total of 812 lamps were recycled, a move that prevented over 9,000 milligrams of mercury from being put in the landfill and becoming a potential groundwater contaminant!
SMU encourages customers to bring their spent fluorescents to SMU for free recycling during our normal business hours. If you have a large quantity of lamps, please call ahead for drop-off instructions. And keep up the good work!
Channel Changes Coming Soon
Posted: Saturday, November 29, 2008 - 12:04:47 PM
Several channel changes will be coming to the SMU Cable TV lineup over the next several weeks.
>>ION will be moving from Expanded Basic Ch. 58 to Digital Basic Ch. 186
>>Fox Movie Channel will be moving from Expanded Basic Ch. 62 to Digital Basic Ch. 118
>>Oxygen will be added to Expanded Basic Ch. 58
Several new channels will be appearing on the Digital Basic lineup (in addition to ION and Fox Movie Channel mentioned above)
>>127 Chiller
>>128 Sleuth
>>129 Fox Reality Channel
>>158 Lifetime Real WOmen
And High Definition Cable customers will be treated to several more HiDef selections over the coming weeks...
>>229 Fox News HD
>>233 ESPNU HD
>>234 ESPNews HD
>>252 ABC Family HD
>>253 Disney Channel HD
>>265 USA HD
>>272 Sci-Fi HD
An updated copy of the SMU Channel Lineup is available on our website at http://www.smunet.net/09lineup.pdf
Several Iowa Men's & Women's Basketball Games Online This Winter
Posted: Thursday, October 30, 2008 - 4:06:45 PM
Several early-season Iowa Hawkeye men’s basketball games not scheduled for TV coverage, and several Iowa women’s games will be available free of charge online.
The Big Ten Network is launching a streaming initiative that will include more than 100 events this year and will nearly double the number of women's basketball games available to fans. The majority of games will be streamed with the assistance of the Big Ten universities through their in-arena video boards and accessing their local radio calls, and will be streamed live at BigTenNetwork.com at no cost to fans.
This season, the network is streaming all men's basketball exhibition games and any nonconference game that conflicts with other live programming on the network – a total of 37 games – while 107 games will be televised. Fifty-six women's basketball games will be streamed and, when combined with the 64 women's games that will be televised, the exposure for women's basketball is nearly doubled. Other sports that could be streamed this year include hockey, wrestling, baseball and softball.
President Mark Silverman said that with overflow channels only available during football season, the network has decided to stream the conflicted games and offer them free to fans. "Next year, we plan to significantly upgrade the quality of our streaming production through enhanced technology while offering more events online," he said.
For Hawkeye fans, the early season mens contests against Wayne State, Charleston Southern, UTSA, and Southeast Missouri State will be available exclusively online at http://video.bigtennetwork.com. A total of 11 Iowa women’s games will also be available via streaming internet video.
MOJO To Cease Operations December 1st
Posted: Friday, October 10, 2008 - 8:14:02 AM
MOJO, Ch. 214 on the SMU HiDef Plus channel group, will be closing its doors as of December 1st.
In an announcement sent to SMU and other cable operators, officials with INDEMAND, the company that operates MOJO, said that the explosion of available HD content has made it difficult for MOJO to continue. "This decision was extremely difficult and was made only after every other alternative was considered, including a sale of the channel. But in the end, MOJO’s future ultimately laid in its past. That is, the precursors to MOJO, INHD and INHD-2, were launched in response to cable operators’ immediate need for high definition programming. When we first launched five years ago, there were only 2 other 24/7 HD channels (HD Net and HD Net Movies). Today, there are literally hundreds of HD services, nearly all of which are offered to the cable industry at no additional charge. Thus, while INHD/INHD-2 (and then MOJO) initially served a critical need for the industry in terms of quenching its sudden thirst for HD programming, that need has since been satisfied by a host of other channels, all of which the cable industry has a long-standing history of carrying on a standard definition basis."
SMU does not plan to replace MOJO immediately, but the SMU Cable Programming Committee is examining several other HD channels for future launch on SMU Cable TV.
2008 Hawkeye Road Trip Scheduled!
Posted: Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 8:50:03 AM
The 2008 SMU Hawkeye Road Trip will take us to the Metrodome one last time to see the Hawks tangle with the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Saturday, November 22nd.. It's the last college football game to be played in the Dome as Minnesota moves to a new outdoor stadium next year.
Reserve your seat on the Road Trip today! Cost is $125 per person, which includes the game ticket, snacks and beverages on the bus, and round-trip coach transportation. Kickoff is at 6pm, so we'll be leaving SMU at noon and will return home late Saturday night.
Stop by SMU to sign up for the 2008 SMU Hawkeye Road Trip!
October 7th is Green Day in Spencer
Posted: Friday, October 03, 2008 - 8:27:36 AM
Spencer citizens are being challenged by Spencer Municipal Utilities and the City of Spencer to save energy and recycle more by observing Green Day on Tuesday, October 7th.
Green Day is a joint effort of SMU and the City to increase awareness among Spencer citizens of the role they can play in saving energy, conserving resources, recycling, and protecting the environment. On October 7th, citizens are being urged to do several things to show their commitment to these goals.
• Walk, ride a bike, or carpool to work. American energy independence will be achieved not only through finding new domestic sources of energy, but by conserving what we have now. Every gallon of gasoline saved by Spencer drivers on Green Day will help reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and saves 20 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
• Start recycling, or recycle more. The Spencer Recycling Committee is launching a major new effort to increase participation in the city’s curbside recycling program. The Committee is designing new informational materials to educate citizens about what can and cannot be recycled, and is launching a new website – www.spencerrecycles.com – to provide citizens with detailed recycling information.
• Change A Light. On Green Day, SMU customers are invited to bring an incandescent light bulb to SMU and receive a free compact fluorescent (CFL) in return. Replacing just 5 light bulbs with CFL’s could save over 250 kWh of electricity a year, and keep over 500 pounds of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
• Recycle fluorescent lamps. Fluorescents of all types contain trace amounts of mercury. If thrown in the trash and sent to the landfill, they could pollute the groundwater. SMU accepts CFL’s and other fluorescent lamps for environmentally-friendly recycling free of charge at their Customer Service Center.
• Pick up an install an energy and water conservation kit. Kits are provided free of charge to Spencer residents and help save energy and water.
Also on Green Day, teams of SMU employees will be visiting several non-profit organizations in Spencer to install energy saving devices.
Green Day will officially kick-off with a ceremony at 10:00am on Tuesday, October 7th. The Spencer Recycling Committee will unveil their new efforts to increase recycling in Spencer. SMU will present a check to the Spencer Community Schools for their energy-efficient lighting retrofit project.
Throughout Green Day, snacks and refreshments will be available at the SMU Customer Service Center at 712 Grand Avenue, and customers may register for door prizes, including an iPod Nano.
New Digital Sports Tier To Arrive This Fall
Posted: Wednesday, August 20, 2008 - 2:10:24 PM
SMU will be launching a new option for digital cable customers this fall. The Digital Sports Pack will include four new channels and will carry four others that are already in Digital Basic.
160 Fox College Sports Atlantic
161 Fox College Sports Central
162 Fox College Sports Pacific
163 Tennis Channel
Subscribers of the Digital Sports Pack will also receive the following channels even if they don't have Digital Basic:
112 ESPNews
123 Fox Soccer Channel
124 Outdoor Channel
130 Versus
The four new channels (Fox College Sports, Tennis Channel) will be available as a free preview to all digital cable customers until October 1st, at which time they will be available only by subscribing to the Digital Sports Pack for $4.00 a month.
Among the highlights: FCS Central will have live coverage of the Iowa State-South Dakota State football team on August 28th.
The New Phone Books Are Here!
Posted: Thursday, August 14, 2008 - 9:04:07 AM
The 2008-09 edition of the SMU Telephone Directory has arrived! The directory will be distributed to area homes and businesses over the next several weeks. Additional copies are available in the SMU Customer Service Center.
Signal Problems with KTIV-DT
Posted: Monday, August 11, 2008 - 8:27:09 AM
KTIV has been experiencing periodic outages of their digital broadcast signal over the past several days. That has affected customers who watch KTIV-DT for NBC high definition programming, and affects all customers who watch Channel 8 Siouxland CW.
KTIV's technical staff is working to resolve the issues so that the signal can once again be on reliably. Unfortunately the problems are beyond SMU's control. We appreciate your patience!
New WiFi Hotspot Available
Posted: Friday, July 25, 2008 - 1:01:55 PM
SMU has installed a new WiFi (wireless internet) hotspot in Pedersen Park. The new area joins hotspots that were put up earlier that cover the Clay County Fairgrounds; the area around SMU; East Leach Park and Campgrounds; and Soutpark Mall area.
Existing SMU Broadband customers can access the WiFi hotspots free of charge. In order to use the wireless internet in those locations, simply call SMU and get a free account username and password. Visitors to the community can access the hotspots on a paid basis using a credit card. Complete information of prices, as well as a printable map of Spencer's WiFi hotspots is available at http://www.smunet.net/internet.asp.
Digital TV Town Meeting
Posted: Tuesday, July 22, 2008 - 4:14:45 PM
Do you have questions about the “digital transition” on February 17, 2009 when TV stations stop broadcasting in analog? Have you ever wondered what the difference really is between regular TV and high definition? SMU has the answers, and we want to share them with you and all our customers at a Digital TV Town Meeting in August!
On Tuesday, August 19th at 7:00pm at the Clay County Regional Events Center, SMU will host the town meeting, designed to explain how SMU is reacting to changes in how TV signals are being broadcast. The meeting, which will last approximately 90 minutes, is free and open to all SMU Cable TV customers. There will be detailed information about the February 17, 2009 digital transition, an explanation of how high definition works, and a discussion of exactly what equipment you will need to enjoy the new and improved entertainment available with digital cable. Beverages will be provided.
In addition to SMU staff, members of the SMU Cable Programming Committee will also be present to discuss how SMU chooses the channels we provide to customers. There will also be a discussion of how your SMU Cable TV service is likely to change in the months and years to come.
Please join us for this informative meeting, and bring a friend! It’s the SMU Digital TV Town Meeting, Tuesday August 19th at 7:00pm at the Clay County Regional Events Center. We hope to see you there!
New Digital, HD Channels Coming This Fall
Posted: Monday, July 21, 2008 - 3:54:42 PM
The SMU Cable Programming Committee continues to beef up SMU's lineup of high definition and digital programming. At a recent meeting, the Committee finalized plans to add FX HD to Channel 266. FX HD will be available as part of the HiDef Gateway channel group.
The Committee also added Fox Reality Channel at Ch. 121. Both new channels should make their debut this fall.
Big Ten Network To Feature Several Iowa Games
Posted: Thursday, July 03, 2008 - 10:25:32 AM
The first three games of the upcoming 2008 Iowa Hawkeye football season will shown exclusively on Big Ten Network, SMU Channel 31.
The lineup includes the big intra-state rivalry between Iowa and Iowa State, which will be played in Iowa City on Saturday, September 13th at Noon. The season opener at Kinnick Stadium against Main on August 30th at noon and the September 6th contest against Florida International at noon will also be available only on the Big Ten Network.
Iowa is also scheduled to play the Minnesota Golden Gophers in a Big Ten Network tilt on Saturday, November 22nd. The season finale for Iowa will kickoff at 7:00pm.
Other Iowa games may be added to the Big Ten Network schedule as the season approaches.
Most of the Big Ten Network games will also be available in high definition on SMU Channel 231.
Bank Pay Drawing Begins In July
Posted: Monday, June 30, 2008 - 8:33:21 AM
Signing up for SMU’s Bank Pay program could REALLY pay off beginning in July!
As an incentive for customers to sign up for Bank Pay, SMU will begin conducting a monthly drawing for $100 credit toward your SMU utility or communications bill. Each month on or around the 15th, one lucky customer who has signed up for Bank Pay will win. And if you are signed up for Bank Pay for both your utility and communications bills, you’ll have TWO chances to win!
With Bank Pay, you authorize SMU to deduct the amount due from your checking or savings account on the bill’s due date. You will still receive a bill in the mail, but you won’t have to worry about missing a payment. SMU and your bank will take care of it for you!
Each month’s Bank Pay winner will be notified by phone, and the winner’s name will be printed in the monthly communications newsletter.
New Programming Committee Member Named
Posted: Wednesday, June 11, 2008 - 4:08:34 PM
The SMU Board of Trustees has appointed Mike Lewis of Spencer to serve a three-year term on the SMU Cable Programming Committee.
Lewis will fill the term being vacated by Steve Trojahn, who has served as Chairperson of the Committee for the past several years. Trojahn is leaving due to term limitations.
Also reappointed to new terms on the Committee this week were Linda Jones and Vern Pepper.
Management Changes at SMU
Posted: Wednesday, June 11, 2008 - 4:08:08 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities General Manager Leon Rodas will be retiring as General Manager on or about May 1, 2009. The news was announced to SMU employees today. Effective immediately, Steve Pick has been named Assistant General Manager at SMU, and will assume the GM duties when Rodas retires.
Rodas began as Assistant General Manager at SMU in 1979, and became General Manager in 2001. Pick has been SMU’s Business Manager since 2001. Rodas will remain at SMU in an electric power supply management role.
More New HiDef Channels Now Available!
Posted: Thursday, May 22, 2008 - 8:44:33 AM
Four new high definition channels were added to the SMU HiDef Cable lineup this week, bringing our total to 34!
The new channels, all available in HiDef Gateway or DVR Gateway, are:
216 Science Channel HD
242 Discovery HD
243 TLC HD
247 Animal Planet HD
Over the past several weeks, a number of other new HD channels have been added. One of those, FSN North HD (Ch. 237) is only available when live events, such as select Minnesota Twins games, are telecast in HD.
One more high definition channel will be coming in the next few weeks as Speed HD makes is debut at Channel 238. It will also be available to HiDef or DVR Gateway.
During SMU's "Let's Get Digital" Sale, it's a great time to start enjoying all the HD that SMU has to offer. Sign up before June 30th and you'll get free installation and new services free until the end of August!
Twins HD Schedule
Posted: Friday, April 25, 2008 - 8:04:32 AM
Minnesota Twins in HD (Ch. 237)
All times Central Time
Fri. April 25 7:05 PM Minnesota @ Texas
Sat. April 26 7:05 PM Minnesota @ Texas
Tue. April 29 7:10 PM Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota
Fri. May 2 7:10 PM Detroit @ Minnesota
Sat. May 3 6:10 PM Detroit @ Minnesota
Fri. May 9 7:10 PM Boston @ Minnesota
Sat. May 10 6:10 PM Boston @ Minnesota
Mon. May 12 6:05 PM Boston @ Minnesota
Sat. May 17 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Colorado
Mon. May 19 7:10 PM Texas @ Minnesota
Tue. May 20 7:10 PM Texas @ Minnesota
Wed. May 21 7:10 PM Texas @ Minnesota
Fri. May 23 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Detroit
Sat. May 24 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Detroit
Tue. May 27 7:10 PM Minnesota @ Kansas City
Wed. May 28 7:10 PM Minnesota @ Kansas City
Thu. May 29 7:10 PM Minnesota @ Kansas City
Fri. May 30 7:10 PM NY Yankees @ Minnesota
Sat. May 31 6:10 PM NY Yankees @ Minnesota
Mon. June 2 6:05 PM NY Yankees @ Minnesota
Sat. June 7 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Chicago White Sox
Thu. June 12 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Cleveland
Fri. June 13 7:05 PM Minnesota @ Milwaukee
Sat. June 14 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Milwaukee
Fri. June 20 7:10 PM Arizona @ Minnesota
Sat. June 21 6:10 PM Arizona @ Minnesota
Fri. June 27 7:10 PM Milwaukee @ Minnesota
Sat. June 28 6:10 PM Milwaukee @ Minnesota
Mon. June 30 7:10 PM Detroit @ Minnesota
Tue. July 1 7:10 PM Detroit @ Minnesota
Fri. July 4 6:10 PM Cleveland @ Minnesota
Sat. July 5 6:10 PM Cleveland @ Minnesota
Mon. July 7 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Boston
Tue. July 8 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Boston
Fri. July 11 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Detroit
Fri. July 18 7:10 PM Texas @ Minnesota
Sat. July 19 6:10 PM Texas @ Minnesota
Sat. July 26 6:05 PM Minnesota @ Cleveland
Mon. July 28 7:10 PM Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota
Tue. July 29 7:10 PM Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota
Wed. July 30 7:10 PM Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota
Thu. July 31 7:10 PM Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota
Fri. August 1 7:10 PM Cleveland @ Minnesota
Sat. August 2 6:10 PM Cleveland @ Minnesota
Fri. August 8 7:10 PM Minnesota @ Kansas City
Sat. August 9 6:10 PM Minnesota @ Kansas City
Mon. August 11 7:10 PM NY Yankees @ Minnesota
Fri. August 15 7:10 PM Seattle @ Minnesota
Mon. August 18 7:10 PM Oakland @ Minnesota
Tue. August 19 7:10 PM Oakland @ Minnesota
Sat. August 23 8:05 PM Minnesota @ LA Angels
Fri. September 5 7:10 PM Detroit @ Minnesota
Tue. September 9 7:10 PM Kansas City @ Minnesota
Wed. September 10 7:10 PM Kansas City @ Minnesota
Thu. September 18 6:10 PM Minnesota @ Tampa Bay
Sat. September 20 6:10 PM Minnesota @ Tampa Bay
New HD Channels Debut On SMU Cable
Posted: Thursday, April 24, 2008 - 7:48:58 AM
Two new high definition channels made their debut today on SMU Cable TV.
TNT-HD (Channel 267) is a 24-hour simulcast of TNT. It is available as part of SMU's HiDef Plus channel group.
FSN-HD (Channel 237) is available on SMU's HiDef Gateway service. FSN-HD is only on the air when live sporting event is being telecast in high definition. For example, a number of Minnesota Twins telecasts are available in high definition this baseball season. When a game is not on, viewers will see only color bars.
Notice Regarding Baseball Blackouts
Posted: Monday, April 14, 2008 - 2:18:58 PM
The 2008 MLB season is underway, but fans of several Midwest-area baseball teams may find themselves frustrated when tuning in to their favorite game.
Major League Baseball rules require mandatory blackouts of games on ESPN, ESPN2, TBS, and other networks for certain teams. For Iowa, the blackout rules apply to the following teams: Minnesota Twins, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Royals, and St. Louis Cardinals. Those blackout rules have been modified this year so that many more games will be blacked out than ever before.
Listings on TV Guide Interactive (Digital Cable onscreen guide) and TV Guide Channel (Ch. 99) may sometimes show that a specific game will be on, but ends up being blacked out. If you tune in to a game and find that its not on, it is likely because of the blackout.
When a game is blacked out, the network will usually provide alternate programming. For example, ESPN blackouts will be covered by ESPNews and TBS blackouts will feature CNN Headline News.
SMU HAS NO CONTROL OVER THESE BLACKOUTS! They are controlled by Major League Baseball and the networks that carry the games. We apologize for any inconvenience these blackouts might cause.
SMU Makes Lieu of Tax Contribution to City
Posted: Friday, April 11, 2008 - 2:05:01 PM
The Spencer Municipal Utilities Board of Trustees has approved the transfer of over $500,000 to the City of Spencer as part of SMU’s annual lieu of tax resolution.
A total of $438,062 is declared to be surplus funds of the electric utility, a figure that represents about five percent of gross electric revenues from 2007. $54,175 comes from the water utility, and $21,000 is distributed from the communications utility. The total of $513,237 is made available to the City to offset property taxes and other revenue sources needed to pay for city services. The 2006 lieu of tax transfer was just under a half million dollars.
Since beginning in lieu of tax contributions in 1943, SMU has contributed over $14 million to the city’s coffers for both general city use and specific projects.
2007 SMU Audit Report Issued
Posted: Friday, April 11, 2008 - 9:20:55 AM
Williams & Company, P.C. today released an audit report on the Spencer Municipal Utilities of the City of Spencer, Iowa.
Williams & Company, P.C. reported that the Municipal Electric Utility’s total operating revenues and non-operating revenues totaled $13,323,803 for the year ended December 31, 2007. The revenues included $3,466,208 in residential usage, $4,869,916 in commercial usage, $1,539,754 in leased facilities, and $1,020,997 in interest on investments. Operating expenditures and non-operating expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2007 totaled $11,819,289.
Williams & Company, P.C. reported that the Municipal Water Utility’s total operating revenues and non-operating revenues totaled $1,283,970 for the year ended December 31, 2007. The revenues included $864,836 in residential usage, $222,309 in commercial usage, $6,196 from developers’ contributions, and $140,981 in interest on investments. Operating expenditures and non-operating expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2007 totaled $1,269,343.
Williams & Company, P.C. reported that the Municipal Communications Utility’s total operating revenues and non-operating revenues totaled $8,903,141 for the year ended December 31, 2007. The revenues included $1,076,380 in cable system, $6,450,718 in telephone system, $984,012 in data services, $187,595 in leased facilities, and $198,954 in interest on investments. Operating expenditures and non-operating expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2007 totaled $5,047,581.
A copy of the audit report is available for review in the office of the Auditor of State and the Spencer Municipal Utilities’ office.
SMU Honored For Economic Development Leadership
Posted: Thursday, April 10, 2008 - 10:16:14 AM
SMU Recognized For Storefront Initiative
(News Release by Iowa Area Development Group)
Commitment to community and creating partnerships with local economic development efforts are at the foundation of Iowa's rural electric utilities' mission. Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) annually recognizes their rural electric utility sponsors for outstanding commitment, contribution, and participation in economic development projects.
At Corn Belt Power Cooperative's annual meeting in Fort Dodge five member electric utility systems were recognized for their economic development accomplishments and commitment to their local communities. With the success of these development projects, the rural electric cooperatives and municipal electric systems are making a significant contribution to the quality of life and the economy of Iowa.
Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU) has been instrumental and supportive of numerous development projects in the Spencer area for many years. In recognition of their leadership and support Spencer Municipal Utilities was presented an IADG System Award for Community Development for their promotion and assistance with the "Spencer Storefront Initiative". The storefront program is a grant and low-interest loan fund administered by the municipal utility. SMU started the program to encourage retail store owners to improve their store fronts with new facades, lighting and sign enhancements. The program has been tremendously successful generating 33 applications totaling over $2.6 million for Spencer's various retail areas.
The Iowa Area Development Group is the marketing and economic development agency for Iowa's member-owned electric cooperatives and select municipal electric utilities. IADG has assisted with over 1,400 successful business expansions and start-up projects. This growth represents capital investment of more than $5.5 billion and 37,000 jobs for Iowa. The Iowa Area Development Group was established in 1985 to promote and strengthen rural Iowa development opportunities.
History HD Now on Channel 244
Posted: Wednesday, April 02, 2008 - 8:08:02 AM
SMU is proud to now offer History HD on Channel 244. History HD is a high definition simulcast of one of the most popular channels on the SMU cable lineup.
History HD is part of the SMU HiDef Plus channel group, available for an additional $8 a month for customers with a high definition or DVR receiver. Other channels in the HiDef Plus group include National Geographic HD, NFL Network HD, Food Network HD, and A&E HD.
Also coming soon to the HiDef Plus lineup will be TNT HD on Channel 267.
SMU To Host Arts On Grand Telethon
Posted: Monday, March 31, 2008 - 4:05:14 PM
SMU Channel 3, The Spencer Channel, will be putting on its first ever telethon April 6th.
"Keep The Dream Alive" is the theme of an effort by Arts on Grand to raise money and increase memberships. On Sunday, April 6th from 1pm to 5pm, SMU will open up phone lines to collect pledges to Arts On Grand. During the live telecast, SMU's Curtis Dean will host live interviews with area residents as well as artists. Also, award-winning singer/songwriter Chad Elliot will perform music from his latest album, "Swiftsure".
Viewers are invited to call in their pledges to Arts On Grand at 712-580-0500, or stop by Spencer Municipal Utilities during the telecast. All proceeds from the telethon will go to benefit the operational funds of Arts on Grand.
SMU encourages its customers to tune in and support this vital community resource!
Programming Committee Approves New Channel Additions
Posted: Friday, March 21, 2008 - 12:54:45 PM
Spring will witness the arrival of several new channels on SMU Cable TV, including one new Expanded Basic channel, two new Digital Basic Channels, and four new high definition channels.
The SMU Cable Programming Committee gave final approval to the changes at a meeting on March 20th.
Oxygen will be added to Expanded Basic at Channel 58. As a result of this move, ION will be moved to Digital Basic Channel 186.
Coming soon to the Digital Basic lineup will be Hallmark Movie Channel at Channel 159 and Great American Country (GAC) at Channel 179. Hallmark Movie Channel features movies and mini-series from Hallmark Entertainment. Great American Country is American's country music source, with its music intensive format and the latest in country news and events, including the legendary Grand Ole Opry.
A total of 5 new High Definition channels will be debuting this spring as well. Science Channel HD (216), Speed Channel HD (238), Discovery HD (242), TLC HD (243) and Animal Planet HD (247) will be available as part of the SMU HiDef Gateway package. Also, HD Theater will be moved to HiDef Gateway on Channel 241.
The changes will be taking place sometime this spring. A new SMU Channel Lineup card will be inserted in customers' May bills.
SMU Board Approves Water Rate Increase
Posted: Thursday, March 13, 2008 - 10:23:33 AM
The SMU Board of Trustees has approved a water rate increase, effective with consumption beginning April 28, 2008.
The new rate structure will be as follows:
(all rates per 1,000 gallons)
Outside meter: $3.00 (all gallons)
Regular usage
First 10,000 $2.75
Next 20,000 $2.50
Next 70,000 $2.00
Balance $1.60
Monthly Minimum Charges:
3/4 or 1" meter: $8.25
1 1/2" meter: $12.55
2" meter $18.80
3" meter $37.60
4" meter $54.80
6" meter $117.50
8" meter $140.95
10" meter $156.75
The first bill with the new charges will arrive in June. Please call us if you have any questions.
Bill Pay the Easy Way!
Posted: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 10:55:58 AM
Do you ever find yourself rushing to SMU to pay your bill to avoid paying late fees? Have you ever run out of check before you’ve paid your communications bill?
If writing checks is NOT one of your favorite pastimes, SMU’s Bank Payment Plan is for you!
When you sign up for SMU’s Bank Payment Plan, your service charges will be automatically deducted from your checking or savings account on the due date. You’ll still receive your bill like always, but you won’t have the hassle of writing a check and mailing a payment.
You can sign up for Bank Payment Plan for your utility, communications, or both. Simply stop at our office and fill out a form. We'll also need a voided check for your account information.
As a special promotion, if you sign up for Bank Pay during the month of March, SMU will give you a $5.00 pre-paid long distance calling card!
Payment Due Date Reminder
Posted: Friday, February 15, 2008 - 10:57:53 AM
SMU wants to remind customers about our policy regarding communications bills.
SMU Communications bills are due when received. In order for a payment to be considered “on-time”, your payment will need to be received by SMU on or before the 15th of the month. If the payment is not received by the 15th, you will be sent a disconnection notice. If you can’t pay the full amount by the 15th, you will need to contact SMU about a payment contract.
Also, if you pay late, your account will be subject to a penalty of 1.5%. If you posted a security deposit when you hooked up, your deposit will be returned to you with interest after 12 months of consecutive on-time payments.
SMU encourages customers to take advantage of our automatic bank payment plan. With the automatic bank payment plan, SMU will withdraw the amount due directly from your bank account on the due date.
If you have questions about any of SMU’s payment policies, call and talk to one of our customer service staff.
Fox Business Network Now On Channel 120!
Posted: Thursday, January 03, 2008 - 4:00:30 PM
Fox Business Network has arrived on SMU Digital Cable!
Fox Business Network is Channel 120 and is part of SMU's Digital Basic channel group. To order Digital Basic, call our customer service center at 580-5800.
Changes to QAM Channels
Posted: Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - 3:11:54 PM
Due to some equipment changes, several of the digital QAM channels have changed positions.
KPTH-DT, which was at 44-1 is now on 82-3. MyNetworkTV, formerly 44-2, is now 82-4. KSIN-DT, the national high definition feed of PBS, has moved from 27-1 to 82-13. And a standard definition feed of Iowa Public Television is now on 82-14.
The changes only affect customers who have an integrated QAM tuner on their TV and use that tuner to view unscrambled digital cable signals. Persons who use a digital, high definition, or DVR settop box are not affected by the changes.
SMU Board Approves Participation In New Power Plant
Posted: Thursday, December 13, 2007 - 12:16:05 PM
The SMU Board of Trustees has authorized an investment in new power generation designed to help meet Spencer’s growing energy needs for many years to come.
The proposed Sutherland Generation Station Unit 4 is proposed to be constructed near Marshalltown. When completed in 2013, the new power plant will generate 630 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 472,500 homes. The new power plant uses a hybrid technology that allows generation from use of coal as well as agricultural related products such as switchgrass and cornstalks.
SMU’s investment in the Sutherland plant will come through its membership in NIMECA, the North Iowa Municipal Electric Cooperative Association. The SMU Board has authorized the purchase of 8 megawatts of plant capacity, or just over 1%, for a total cost of $19.6 million. The energy from Sutherland Unit 4, along with SMU’s ownership and long-term leases with other power sources, means that the utility has enough capacity to meet the projected power needs of Spencer for the foreseeable future.
In addition to SMU’s participation through NIMECA, other owners of the new power plant include Cornbelt Power Cooperative, Central Iowa Power Cooperative, and Interstate Power and Light Company, an Alliant Energy Company. Together, the partner owners have customers in 94 of Iowa’s 99 counties.
The coal and biomass-fired Sutherland plant will be one of the cleanest and most efficient coal plants ever built, and will help Iowa electric companies meet the rapidly growing needs of the state’s ethanol and biodiesel industries.
SMU’s current sources of energy include renewable hydroelectric and wind energy, coal, and natural gas.
Fox Business Network Coming To Digital Cable
Posted: Tuesday, November 20, 2007 - 6:48:39 PM
The SMU Cable Programming Committee has voted to add Fox Business Network to SMU's Digital Basic Channel Group at Channel 120.
Fox Business Network features around-the-clock coverage of financial news . The channel launched October 15th.
Digital Basic is just $2.00 a month, and includes 30 channels. And through December 21st, customers who add a new digital service to their account will get a free gift.
Fox Business Network is expected to be added at Channel 120 around the first of the year.
Special Holiday Hours at SMU
Posted: Monday, November 19, 2007 - 9:15:36 AM
SMU is revising Customer Service Center hours on the day before Thanksgiving and the day before Christmas so our staff may enjoy the holiday with their families.
The Customer Service Center will close an hour early, at 5:00pm, on Wednesday, November 21st-the day before Thanksgiving-and closed on Christmas Day.
On Christmas Eve Day, Monday, December 24th, the Customer Service Center will be open from 8am until Noon and closed on Christmas Day.
On New Years Eve Day, Monday December 31st, hours will be 8:00am to 5:00pm. We will be closed on New Years Day.
Even when our customer service center is closed, SMU has staff on duty 24-hours a day, 365-days a year to answer the phone and help with any service issues that may develop.
Happy Holidays from Spencer Municipal Utilities!
High School Football Championships On SMU Cable TV
Posted: Thursday, November 15, 2007 - 10:01:41 AM
The Iowa High School Football Championship games will all be seen on SMU Cable TV, courtesy of KPTH-Sioux City.
The action begins Friday morning at 9am as Armstrong-Ringsted takes on Stanton in the 8-Player Championship. At 12:30pm Friday, Lawton-Bronson and Wapsie Valley compete in Class A. Friday's action continues at 3:30pm with Council Bluffs St. Albert taking on Iowa City Regina in Class 1A. The final game Friday is at 7:30pm, pitting Bettendorf against Ankeny for the Class 4A Championship.
On Saturday, the UNI-Dome action continues with the Class 2A game at 9:30am as Solon takes on Central Lyon. And the tournament concludes Saturday at 12:30pm as Sioux City Bishop Heelan plays Keokuk for the Class 3A title.
KPTH is available on SMU Channel 5 and HiDef Channel 205. The games will not be telecast in high definition.
Iowa vs. Simpson Game Available Online Only
Posted: Thursday, November 01, 2007 - 9:55:41 AM
The Iowa mens basketball game tonight versus Simpson will NOT be on TV as previously announced.
Instead, the game will be available as streaming video on the Big Ten Network. To view the game, go to http://www.bigtennetwork.com.
SMU apologizes for any confusion this may have caused.
I Wireless Update: Separate Bill for November
Posted: Wednesday, October 10, 2007 - 1:16:02 PM
SMU had planned to include the i wireless billing for our cellular customers in this month's (November's) regular SMU Communications bill. Unfortunately due to a mixup with i wireless, our customers were mailed a separate i wireless bill instead.
The new combined billing will now begin with the December SMU Communications bills, which will be mailed at the end of November. We appreciate your patience!
Iowa Womens Basketball To Be Featured On Big Ten Network
Posted: Friday, October 05, 2007 - 10:28:31 AM
The Iowa Hawkeye Women's basketball team will have more TV coverage during the 2007-08 season than ever before, courtesy of the Big Ten Network.
The Lady Hawks will be featured 8 times on BTN. One Iowa State women's game will also be on BTN when ISU takes on Minnesota.
Here's the complete schedule for Iowa and Iowa State Womens Basketball:
Wed., November 28 9:00pm Georgia Tech at Iowa
Friday, December 21 8:00pm Iowa State at Minnesota
Sunday, January 6 4:00pm Ohio State at Iowa
Thursday, January 10 8:00pm Iowa at Michigan State
Monday, January 21 8:00pm Iowa at Illinois
Sunday, January 27 3:00pm Michigan at Iowa
Thursday, January 31 9:00pm Iowa at Northwestern
Sunday, February 10 12:00pm Iowa at Penn State
Sunday, February 17 4:30pm Minnesota at Iowa
March 6-8 Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament
SMU Offers WiFi Access To Broadband Customers
Posted: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 - 2:07:20 PM
Customers of SMU Broadband have a new benefit for choosing their hometown communications company-WiFi Internet access in various parts of the community.
SMU has installed wireles "WiFi" hotspots in several locations. Coverage is provided on the Clay County Fairgrounds; in the vicinity of the SMU facilities downtown; at East Leach Park and the campgrounds; and in the vicinity of Southpark Mall.
SMU Broadband customers can have free access to the WiFi, but need to register to receive a user name and password. Non-SMU Broadband customers can pay by the day, for 15 days, or 30 days.
For more information, including a WiFi coverage map, visit SMU's internet webpage.
New HiDef Channels On SMU!
Posted: Tuesday, October 02, 2007 - 2:03:21 PM
Several new high definition channels have joined the SMU Cable TV lineup. On October 1st, SMU launched National Geographic HD at Channel 215; Food Network HD on Channel 240; and A&E HD on Channel 268. On Wednesday, October 3rd, HGTV HD debuted on Channel 245.
All four channels are available on SMU's HiDef Plus Channel Group, available to customers with HiDef Gateway, DVR Gateway, or CableCard for an additional $8.00 a month.
With the addition of these channels, SMU now offers up to 26 high definition channels.
2007 Change A Light Program Underway
Posted: Monday, October 01, 2007 - 7:49:10 AM
For the second consecutive year, SMU electric customers can help save energy through the "Change A Light, Change The World" program.
The program, which runs through November 15th, allows customers to receive an instant rebate of $2.00 toward the purchase of compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL's) at participating local retailers. There is a limit of 12 bulbs per household or business.
In order to take advantage of the Change A Light rebates, visit Ace Hardware, Bomgaars, Hy-Vee, or Menards and look for the special "Change A Light" display. Fill out a rebate coupon at the store and bring it to the checkout counter with your purchase. The store will deduct $2 for every CFL purchased (up to the 12 maximum).
Last year was the first year of the program in Spencer, and SMU electric customers responded by purchasing 4,443 CFL's. That resulted in annual energy savings of over 251,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity.
Music Channel Lineup Changes Coming September 18th
Posted: Friday, September 14, 2007 - 1:39:09 PM
Music Choice is making some changes to its lineup effective Tuesday, September 18th.
New channels are Adult Top 40 (Ch. 920) and Kidz Only (Ch. 922), which replaces Radio Disney. In addition, three channels are changing names to better reflect their music mixes.
Music Choice is included free with any SMU Digital Cable package, starting at just $2.00 a month. Details on the new Music Choice lineup will be provided in the SMU Communicator customer newsletter inserted in August bills.
Versus Free Preview This Weekend!
Posted: Friday, September 14, 2007 - 10:03:29 AM
SMU has launched Versus on Digital Basic Channel 130, and to celebrate, we're making the channel available to ALL customers this weekend only!
As part of our Versus Free Preview weekend, Versus will also be available on SMU Channel 3 from 6pm Friday the 14th to 6pm on Sunday the 16th. In addition to the other great sports programming offered by Versus, the Iowa-Iowa State football game will also be featured at 12:30pm on Saturday!
If you like what you see with Versus, give SMU a call to upgrade to Digital Basic.
Hawkeye Basketball Schedule Finalized
Posted: Thursday, September 13, 2007 - 2:31:23 PM
University of Iowa officials have finalized the TV schedule for the upcoming Iowa men's basketball season, and almost all games will be available on SMU Cable TV.
In fact, 21 of the Iowa games will be seen exclusively on Big Ten Network, SMU Channel 31. That includes the first 11 Big Ten contests beginning in January. Other games will be seen on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and CBS.
You can view and print a complete Iowa basketball schedule by clicking the following link: Iowa Basketball Schedule
Big Ten Channel Schedule Now Available
Posted: Thursday, August 30, 2007 - 3:34:46 PM
College sports fans in Spencer have something to cheer about today as Big Ten Network joined the SMU Cable TV lineup today.
Premiering at 7pm today, Big Ten Network will feature extensive coverage of the nation's premiere college athletic conference, including numerous Iowa Hawkeye events.
To download or view a PDF showing the Big Ten Network's complete schedule for September, CLICK HERE
A link to the schedule is also available on the Cable TV page of the SMU website at www.smunet.net/cabletv.asp
Channels On The Move On SMU Cable TV
Posted: Wednesday, August 15, 2007 - 9:30:41 AM
Several SMU Cable TV Channels will be moving to new locations later this month.
On August 27th, CSPAN will move from Channel 30 to Channel 20. CSPAN2 will move from Channel 31 to Channel 21. For the first time, those two channels will now be available to Basic-only customers.
Also on the 27th, NFL Network will be moving from Channel 48 to its new home at Channel 30.
The changes are being made to accomodate the addition of Big Ten Network on August 30th. The new channel premieres at 7pm that day, and SMU is the only cable provider in Spencer that will have the channel from the beginning.
Channel guides with the new channel numbers were sent to customers with their August bills. Additional copies are available at the SMU Customer Service Center.
Big Ten Network To Feature Live, Classic Hawkeye Games
Posted: Monday, August 06, 2007 - 8:22:38 AM
The Big Ten Network will premiere at 7pm on Thursday, August 30th. And the new channel's September lineup includes lots of action for Hawkeye fans.
Iowa's home opener on September 8th against Syracuse will be featured live on Big Ten Network and Big Ten Network HD. It's a night game at Kinnick Stadium, with coverage beginning at 7pm. The game will also be replayed on BTN at 6pm on Sunday, September 9th and Monday the 10th at 11am.
As part of it's series "The Big Ten's Greates Games", BTN will bring a replay of the 1990 contest between Iowa and Ohio State at Kinnick Stadium. Replays of this classic game will be seen Tuesday, Sept. 11th at 5pm; Wed, Sept. 12 at 3am and 2pm; and Thurs, Sept. 13th at 7pm.
Iowa's 1990 victory at Michigan will also be featured. That game can be seen Tuesday the 18th at 7pm; Thursday the 19th at midnight, 3am, and 2pm, Friday the 21st at 5pm; and Tuesday the 25th at 9am.
Part of the Big Ten Network's mission is to provide live coverage of college sports other than football and basketball. On Wednesday, September 26th, the Iowa women's volleyball team hosts Minnesota in a conference matchup. That game will be live on BTN at 7pm, with several replays scheduled.
Big Ten Network will also replay the Iowa-Wisconsin game that will be telecast live on ABC on September 29th. Replays will take place on BTN on Sunday, Sept. 30th at 7pm and Monday, October 1st at 2am.
BTN will also bring you Iowa Football with Kirk Ferentz on Mondays and Tuesdays at 3:30pm with occasional other replays. SMU will also carry Iowa Football with Kirk Ferentz on The Spencer Channel Tuesdays at 10:00pm.
Iowa, Iowa State Football TV Schedule
Posted: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 - 3:51:40 PM
TV plans for the first five Iowa Hawkeye football games have been announced. However at this point only one Iowa State game will be available on TV.
The September 1st Iowa game versus Northern Illinois will be seen live on ESPNU (Ch. 33) at 2:30pm. On September 8th, Iowa takes on Syracuse in a night game. Kickoff is 7:00pm and the game will be telecast on Big Ten Network (Ch. 31).
On September 15th, the Cyclones host Iowa at Jack Trice Field in Ames for a 12:30PM kickoff. This game will be telecast on Versus, which is SMU Digital Cable Channel 130. It will also be seen on The Spencer Channel 3 as part of a special "Sneak Preview" of Versus that weekend.
The Iowa-Wisconsin game on September 22nd in Madison will be live on ABC TV at 7:00pm. And when Iowa hosts Indiana on September 29th, the game will be telecast on ESPN, ESPN2, or Big Ten Network, with kickoff scheduled for 11:00am.
So far, the only Iowa State game with announced TV coverage is the Iowa game on September 15th.
Customer Notice on Account Information
Posted: Monday, July 30, 2007 - 10:13:53 AM
Beginning August 1, 2007 SMU's Customer Service Staff will only provide account information to persons listed on an account.
For privacy protection, a customer's identity must be verified before receivign any account information.
We appreciate your understanding that these policies are to protect your private information.
Change To Saturday Hours
Posted: Monday, July 30, 2007 - 10:12:55 AM
Effective Saturday, August 4th, Saturday hours at the SMU Customer Service Center will change to 9:00am to Noon. Office hours during the rest of the week will remain the same, Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm.
SMU Offers Free WiFi Access For RAGBRAI
Posted: Friday, July 20, 2007 - 5:56:41 PM
Riders on the 2007 edition of RAGBRAI will be able to get "online" free of charge, courtesy of Spencer Municipal Utilities.
SMU has installed several WiFi "hot spots" around the community and opened up the wireless access points to free usage for RAGBRAI weekend. Computers with a wireless internet card will be able to connect to the internet throughout the Clay County Fairgrounds, the center of much of the RAGBRAI activities. SMU also operates WiFi hot spots in the area around the SMU building on Grand Avenue; and in East Leach Park.
To connect to the SMU WiFi, search for the wireless network called SMU RABGRAI. After connecting, open your web browser. At the welcome screen, type in the user name ragbrai (all lower case) and the password ragbrai.
SMU is proud to offer this service to our visitors on RAGBRAI!
Music Choice Announces Lineup Changes
Posted: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 - 1:47:37 PM
Music Choice, the digital music provider for SMU’s Digital Cable, is changing it’s lineup in September.
New channels are Adult Top 40 (Ch. 920) and Kidz Only (Ch. 922), which replaces Radio Disney. In addition, three channels are changing names to better reflect their music mixes.
Music Choice is included free with any SMU Digital Cable package, starting at just $2.00 a month. Details on the new Music Choice lineup will be provided in the SMU Communicator customer newsletter inserted in August bills.
Versus To Join SMU Lineup In September
Posted: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 - 1:46:08 PM
Versus, a channel focusing on outdoor sports, will be joining the SMU Digital Basic Cable lineup in September. Versus will be located on Channel 130 when it is launched in mid-September .
However, SMU has made arrangements to provide a FREE PREVIEW of Versus for all SMU Cable customers during the weekend of September 14-16. During that weekend, SMU will place Versus on Channel 3. That means all SMU cable customers will be able to see the Versus broadcast of the Iowa-Iowa State football game live from Ames on September 15th.
Following the free preview, only Digital Basic subscribers will be able to see Versus. If you’d like to add Digital Basic, stop by our customer service center.
Parade Float Highlights New SMU Channels
Posted: Friday, June 01, 2007 - 8:14:13 AM
SMU will be using it's float in the 2007 Flagfest Parade to highlight an exciting new addition to the TV lineup this August. The Big Ten Network will be launched later this summer, and SMU will carry the new channel on Expanded Basic. SMU's float will depict a group of people watching the Big Ten Network on a large-screen TV, while SMU employees and friends carry flags of each of the Big Ten schools behind the float.
In addition to Big Ten Network, SMU is launching several other new channels this summer, including several new high definition networks.
SMU To Launch Big Ten Network In August
Posted: Monday, May 21, 2007 - 12:22:55 PM
Fans of Big Ten athletics will be happy to find out that the new flagship channel for conference sports will be available in Spencer.
Spencer Municipal Utilities has signed a deal with Big Ten Network to launch the new channel in August when it begins operations. Big Ten Network will occupy Channel 31 on the SMU Cable system, and will be available to customers with Expanded Basic service.
Curtis Dean, SMU Marketing and Community Relations Director, says SMU has been anticipating the addition of the channel ever since it was announced last summer. “We know how important college sports, especially Iowa Hawkeye sports, are to many of our customers. It was a matter of figuring out a place for Big Ten Network in our lineup to accommodate the requirements that it be placed in Expanded Basic.” At a meeting earlier this month, the SMU Cable Programming Committee gave the addition final approval. To make way for BTN, SMU will be moving CSPAN and CSPAN 2 from Channel 30 and 31 respectively to Channel 20 and 21. Those two public service channels will now be available to Basic-only customers for the first time.
Also in August, SMU will be adding Univision to Channel 79. Again, Dean said customer demand was the key to this move by the programming committee. “We have a growing number of Hispanic customers, and Univision was the one channel we don’t have that they wanted. Like Big Ten Network, Univision requires carriage in Expanded Basic, so we’ve been able to accommodate that requirement.”
SMU will also be making numerous other changes to their cable lineup this summer. Dean says the changes are all designed to maximize the amount of space SMU has in its system for channel capacity, and to give customers access to new programming.
• In June, SMU will be adding FSN HD to its HiDef Gateway tier, and moving ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD to HiDef Gateway. Those channels will be available to any customer with a high-definition cable box.
• Also in June, SMU will be adding several new high definition networks: TNT HD, Food Network HD, National Geographic HD, A&E HD, and HGTV HD. These channels will all be placed in SMU’s HiDef Plus tier.
• Coming in August, SMU will also be launching RFD-TV to Digital Basic channel 119. “It’s been a channel that has been requested for the past couple of years, and the other changes we’re making allow us to place it in our Digital Basic tier,” says Dean. Also coming to Digital Basic in August will be VH1 Soul and MTV Hits, two music video channels.
Dean says another big change will affect how customer can view premium channels such as HBO and Showtime. While the vast majority of SMU’s premium channel customers have access to them through the purchase of a Digital Cable package, a single version of each of those channels is also available on analog cable. On July 1st, those channels will be eliminated so that the channel space can be used for other channels in the future. Customers directly affected were mailed a letter last week, and may take advantage of a three-month free offer if they convert to Digital Cable.
SMU Payment Drop Box Moved
Posted: Friday, May 04, 2007 - 8:17:44 AM
The SMU Payment Drop Box has been moved to it's new permanent location in the SMU parking lot! The box, which was temporarily located just outside the new entrance to the Customer Service Center, is now just south of the Tree Of Joy. A separate lane has been designated for drop-box traffic to ease congestion.
Did you know there's an even easier way to pay your SMU bill? It's called Bank Pay, and it will allow you to have your payment automatically deducted from your bank account on the due date. It saves you a trip to SMU (and the gas you burn to get here), it's easy to sign up for, and best of all it's absolutely free. To sign up for Bank Pay, stop by the office.
SMU and i wireless To Offer
Posted: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 - 11:34:15 AM
In an effort to help “educate” customers about their new products and services, i wireless and Spencer Municipal Utilities will be conducting “Saturday School” beginning in May.
The first session of Saturday School will be held on Saturday, May 12th, and is designed to give customers a “tour” of their new cell phones. Classes on May 12th include “Getting To Know Your Nokia” at 10am; “Getting To Know Your Motorola” at 11:30am; “Getting To Know Your Samsung” at 1:00pm; and “Getting To Know Your Sony Ericsson” at 2:30pm. Customers can attend the class for their brand of phone and get an in-depth look at what it can do.
On Saturday, May 19th, two sessions of Saturday School will be held on the topic of digital TV. The 10:00am will focus on the The Digital Deadline. On February 17, 2009, TV stations will stop broadcasting their analog TV signals. This session will explain what the "digital deadline" is and how it will impact different types of TV customers. Later that day, the 1:00pm session of Saturday School will focus on high definition television. You’ll learn about the differences between regular TV and high definition TV and why high definition is the wave of the future.
On May 26th, I wireless will be the host of Saturday School. At 10:00am and 1:00pm, customers can learn more about mobile web service and smart phones.
The classes are free of charge, but registration is requested. Call the SMU office at (712) 580-5800 if you would like to attend.
SMU/i wireless Saturday School
May Schedule:
May 12th—Cell Phones
10:00am—Getting To Know Your Nokia
11:30am—Getting To Know Your Motorola
1:00pm—Getting To Know Your Samsung
2:30pm—Getting To Know Your Sony Ericsson
May 19th—Digital TV
10:00am—The Digital Deadline
1:00pm—The High Definition Revolution
May 26th—Advanced Cellular Services
10:00am & 1:00pm—Mobile Web and Smart Phones
OneWire Anywhere Credit For Cell Phone Customers
Posted: Monday, April 23, 2007 - 4:51:31 PM
Beginning with the May SMU Communications billing, SMU Telephone customer who also have i wireless will be receiving a new benefit from choosing SMU.
The OneWire Anywhere Discount is $5.00 per month, and will be reflected as a discount on a customer's SMU Telephone charges if they also have one or more i wireless cell phone accounts with SMU. The OneWire Anywhere discount applies to both residential and commercial telephone service, and is limited to one $5.00 discount per account.
If you haven't made i wireless your cellular provider yet, the OneWire Anywhere discount is another good reason to make the switch! And with SMU's new extended hour (Monday-Friday 8am to 6pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm), doing business with SMU is even easier than before!
Coming In June: SOAPnet and Toon Disney!
Posted: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 - 1:31:49 PM
The SMU Cable Programming Committee has voted to add two new channels to the SMU Digital Basic lineup, effective in June.
SOAPnet (Channel 126) is the only network devoted exclusively to the soap opera genre. SOAPnet features same-day replays of Port Charles, All My Children, One Life To Live, and General Hospital in prime time.
TOON Disney (Channel 100) features the best of Disney animation, including some of the best known and most loved characters in the history of animation.
TOON Disney and SOAPnet join 25 other channels on SMU’s great Digital Basic lineup on or around June 1, 2007. To upgrade to Digital Basic today, call us at 580-5800.
Changes To SmartScreen Feature
Posted: Thursday, March 22, 2007 - 9:49:21 AM
Some of the options have changed for SMU’s SmartScreen phone feature.
To access the main menu now, press *96. The options within the main menu remain the same.
You may now add the last caller’s
number to your Blocked list by
simply hanging up and dialing *97.
SmartScreen stops many un-
wanted calls, including calls
from telemarketers, by screening
calls and comparing them to
your personal call database.
For more information about SmartScreen, call SMU!
SMU-i wireless Open House
Posted: Thursday, March 22, 2007 - 9:48:26 AM
SMU and I wireless invite you to come take a look at our newly remodeled customer service center during our Open House on Friday, March 30th.
Join us for free beverages and snacks and see our new store! You can browse the great cellular plans and phones from i wireless, get a demonstration of SMU’s HiDef Cable and DVR service, find out how broadband Internet can help your family get online affordably, and learn about how to make your home more energy efficient.
As a special “one-day only” offer, if you sign up for any NEW SMU product or service you will receive $20 in Spencer Chamber Bucks. You can use the Chamber Bucks just like cash at any Spencer Chamber of Commerce member. Limit one per household. Also on March 30th, if you sign up for a new i wireless account, you will receive one free activation (a $30 value).
We’ll also have a drawing for several door prizes, including an official NFL game-day football autographed by Matt Leinart, and a NASCAR keyboard, mouse, and speakers for your computer! We hope to see you on the 30th!
Broadband Technical Support Provider Changing
Posted: Thursday, March 22, 2007 - 9:45:33 AM
In order to improve customer service, SMU is making changes in its broadband internet technical support effective April 4th.
Beginning on that date, SMU’s technical support will be provided by Evertek in Everly. We believe that the change will mean quicker response to calls and better resolution of issues.
As a result of the change, our support hours will also be changing. The technical support line will be answered Monday through Saturday from 7am to 10:30pm. The phone number will remain the same...580-5858.
INHD To Change Name
Posted: Monday, March 19, 2007 - 7:55:59 AM
INHD, SMU HiDef Channel 214, will be undergoing a name change on May 1st. On that date, the channel will be renamed "Mojo". For viewers of that channel, the title Mojo may be familiar already. For the past several months, INHD has been presenting a block of programs each evening called Mojo that targets active males. Officials say the change is part of the channels continued emphasis on providing high definition programming that appeals to active adults.
This is the second recent change for INHD, which dropped its INHD Movies channel at the end of 2006.
NBC Nightly News To Go HiDef
Posted: Saturday, March 17, 2007 - 7:58:36 AM
NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams will become the first network evening news program to be telecast in high definition. The change will take place on Monday, March 26th.
On SMU Cable TV, NBC Nightly News can be seen in HiDef on KTIV-DT, Channel 204.
In addition to NBC Nightly News, both the Today Show on NBC and Good Morning America on ABC (KSFY-DT Channel 210) are also telecast in high definition.
Sun Outages Expected This Week
Posted: Monday, March 05, 2007 - 9:52:20 AM
Twice each year, in the spring and in the fall, cable companies experience a phenomenon known as "sun outages". Basically a sun outage occurs when a satellite from which we receive TV programming becomes directly in line with the Sun, and interference from the Sun's electromagnetic rays create reception issues for the satellite signals.
SMU expects to see sun outages on its satellite delivered networks this week and next. During an outage, TV pictures might become filled with static or in some cases disappear completely.
Unfortunately, there's nothing that can be done to prevent sun outages. In most cases, the signals are restored within a few minutes. We appreciate your patience during these sun outages.
Thank You To Our Tiger Replay Sponsors
Posted: Thursday, March 01, 2007 - 4:07:01 PM
We hope you enjoy SMU’s extensive coverage of high school athletics on The Spencer Channel. Although the winter sports season has wound down, spring sports such as tennis and soccer are just around the corner.
SMU wants to thank the following great Spencer businesses who support SMU's local programming by being Tiger Replay sponsors for the 2006-07 school year.
--Accurate Appliance
--Carroll’s Bakery and Deli
--Community State Bank
--Complete Recovery
--Daily Reporter
--Goal Kick
--H&N Chevy
--Insurance Associates
--KapCo
--KICD/CD107.7/Lite 104.9
--Nelson Jewelry
--Schoenemans
--Speed Printers
--Spencer Auto Parts
--Spencer Main Street Company
--Sports Page Grill and Bar
--Steffen Furniture.
SMU wants to thank these businesses for supporting our local coverage, and we encourage our customers to support these local businesses by purchasing their goods and services.
Daylight Saving Time Early This Year
Posted: Thursday, March 01, 2007 - 10:24:20 AM
Daylight Saving Time will begin earlier this year than in past years.
By order of President Bush, Daylight Saving Time will now begin at 2:00am on the second Sunday in March. That means on March 11th at 2:00am, we "spring ahead" one hour.
In previous years, DST started on the first Sunday in April. The move is designed to save energy nationwide.
This fall, we will move back to Standard Time later as well. Instead of the last Sunday in October, Daylight Saving Time will end on the first Sunday in November.
HDNet To Carry Re-Airs of NASCAR in High Definition
Posted: Thursday, February 22, 2007 - 11:28:13 AM
HDNet, SMU HiDef Channel 218, will be re-airing a number of NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series races this year, beginning in March.
The re-airs will be on Thursday evenings on HDNet, which is available to customers with SMU's HiDef Plus tier of channels. The March schedule is as follows:
--March 1st @ 8:30pm: AutoClub 500 from the California Speedway
--March 15th @ 5:00pm: UAW-DaimlerChrysler 400 from Las Vegas Motor Speedway
--March 22nd @ 9:00pm: Kobalt Tools 500 from Atlanta Motor Speedway
--March 29th @ 5:00pm: Food City 500 from Bristol Motor Speedway
If you'd like to upgrade to SMU HiDef Cable and HiDef Plus, call us at 580-5800 or stop by the office.
2007 Rebate Program
Posted: Thursday, February 22, 2007 - 8:25:28 AM
The SMU Board of Trustees has approved the 2007 Energy Efficiency Rebate program for 2007.
The program offers rebates to customers for the installation of energy efficient heating and cooling equipment, along with water heaters, appliances, and lighting.
Rebate items under the 2007 program are:
--Central air conditioners: up to $300
--Heat pumps: Up to $600
--Electric heat: $10 per kWh
--Programmable thermostat: $25
--Electric water heater: Up to $75
--Dishwasher: $25
--Refrigerator: $25
--Clothes washer: Up to $150
To be eligible for a rebate, items must meet SMU's efficiency qualifications or be EnergyStar certified. Complete details on the program are available on the SMU website at www.smunet.net/rebates.asp
i Network To Change Name
Posted: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 - 7:10:06 AM
i Network, SMU Channel 58, will be undergoing a name change soon.
Effective Monday, January 29th, the channel will officially become ION Television as part of a major rebranding of the company.
i used to be called PAX, but that name was changed about two years ago to i.
Water Rates To Increase Slightly
Posted: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 - 7:02:20 AM
The SMU Board of Trustees has approved a small water rate increase, effective with water consumption on February 26, 2007.
The minimum monthly charge will increase from $6.75 to $7.50 per meter. For the first ten thousand gallons of consumption, the rate per thousand gallons will increase from $2.25 to $2.50. Higher consumption blocks will see similar percentage increases.
Since approximately 60% of SMU's water meters consume the minimum or less, a majority of customers will see an increase of 75 cents.
The new rate will apply to consumption beginning February 26th. The first bills with the new rate will be seen in April.
Big Game Bash CANCELLED
Posted: Friday, January 19, 2007 - 9:07:37 AM
Due to concerns about National Football League copyrights and licensing, Spencer Municipal Utilities has decided to cancel the HiDef Big Game Bash that was scheduled for Sunday, February 4th.
The NFL says that any Super Bowl viewing party arranged in a public place is a violation of their exclusive rights, and that such events cannot be held.
f you would like to enjoy the Super Bowl on CBS in the comfort of your own home, there’s still time to upgrade to SMU HiDef cable. Also, if your high definition TV has a built in tuner, you should be able to view the game in hidef without a converter box. The TV stations that SMU provides in high definition, including KELO where this year’s game is being broadcast, are not scrambled and can be received by any integrated HDTV with a QAM tuner.
Spencer Storefront Initiative Launched
Posted: Wednesday, December 27, 2006 - 9:30:00 AM
 A cooperative effort to beautify Spencer’s commercial properties was announced today at a morning news conference.
The Spencer Storefront Initiative is a joint venture of the Spencer Chamber of Commerce, Spencer Main Street Company, and Spencer Municipal Utilities (SMU). Also participating are several Spencer banks—Bank of America, Community State Bank, Farmer’s Trust and Savings Bank, Northwest Federal Savings Bank, State Bank, and US Bank. The participating entities have been working on plans for the Storefront Initiative for over a year.
The initiative is designed to assist building owners revitalize and refresh the appearance of their businesses, which in turn will build on Spencer’s reputation as a progressive community.
The program consists of both grant and no-interest loan funds. The ratio of grant to loan depends on the size of the project. SMU will provide funding for the grants and for the interest buy-down on the loan portion of a project.
Eligible exterior improvements could include window and door replacements, demolition of non-approved building materials, masonry renovation, storefront renovation, additions, signage, and lighting. In the downtown area, remodeling will be encouraged in a way that complements the downtown’s “art deco” architecture. The program does not cover new construction, roof replacement, or interior remodeling work.
Construction, rehabilitation, or renovation projects started after April 1, 2006 are eligible for the program. Application packets are available at the Spencer Chamber of Commerce office and at participating banks.
A Spencer Storefront Initiative board has been formed to evaluate applications under the program. An informational meeting will be held later this winter to present further details of the program.
National Cable Rates Continue To Rise
Posted: Tuesday, December 26, 2006 - 11:31:24 AM
According to a new report from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), SMU Cable TV remains a bargain compared to most towns in America.
Each year the FCC issues a report on average cable rates across the nation. The report on 2005 rates, released last week, shows that the average rate in 2005 for Expanded Basic cable service, the most popular package of cable programming, was $43.04, an increase of about 5% from the year before. The national average for Basic cable, a small package of channels consisting mainly of off-air TV stations and select satellite channels, was $14.30.
Curtis Dean, SMU Marketing and Community Relations Director, says the FCC report makes it clear that Spencer residents are getting a direct monthly benefit from owning their own communications utility. "Because SMU is owned by citizens, we can keep our bottom line on cable prices as low as possible, and much lower than the national average." Dean says that while SMU's cable rates are likely to go up in the future, they will still be a bargain compared to national averages. "And SMU customers save even more when compared to neighboring towns such as Spirit Lake, where a similar package of channels costs $49.99 a month."
2006 rates for SMU Cable TV are $27.99 for Expanded Basic (about 35% below the national average) and $9.99 for Basic cable (about 30% below the national average).
Universal Service Fund Charge Increasing in 2007
Posted: Monday, December 18, 2006 - 1:42:06 PM
The Universal Service Administrative Company or USAC has changed the Universal Service Fund percentage from 9/1% to 9/7%. This change is effective January 1, 2007 and will be reflected on your February 2007 SMU Communications bill.
The USF charge is applied to services designated as interstate by the FCC and changes from time to time based on the needs of the federal Universal Service Fund.
USAC is an independent, not-for-profit corporation designated as the administrator of the federal Universal Service Fund by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). USAC administers Universal Service Fund (USF) programs for high cost companies serving rural areas, low-income consumers, rural health care providers, and schools and libraries. The Universal Service Fund helps provide communities across the country with affordable telecommunications services.
Space Shuttle Launch in High Definition on SMU Cable TV
Posted: Tuesday, December 05, 2006 - 8:24:45 AM
HDNet, SMU HiDef Channel 218, will provide live coverage of the nighttime launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery on Thursday night.
HDNet has provided live high definition coverage of the past two Shuttle missions. This week's launch is the first nighttime launch since 2002.
Curtis Dean, SMU Marketing and Community Relations Director, says a Shuttle launch in high definition is a sight to behold. "HDNet does a wonderful job of covering the launch from all angles, giving you a front-row seat to the excitment."
HDNet is available as part of SMU's HiDef Plus channel group.
College Football Bowl Games Exclusively on NFL Network
Posted: Tuesday, December 05, 2006 - 6:50:31 AM
Customers of SMU Cable TV will get to see two bowl games that many people in the country will not be able to, thanks to SMU's carriage of the NFL Network.
NFL Network will provide exclusive coverage of the Texas Bowl and the Insight Bowl this year. On December 28th, the Texas Bowl features 10-and-2 Rutgers against 7-and-5 Kansas State from the Big 12 Conference. On December 29th, NFL Network features the Insight Bowl, with the Minnesota Golden Gophers at 6-and-6 taking on 7-and-5 Texas Tech.
NFL Network is on SMU Channel 48. The games will also be available in high definition on NFL Network HD, SMU Channel 248.
In January, two college all-star games will also be featured on NFL Network-the Senior Bowl and the All-American Classic.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO SMU INTERNET CUSTOMERS
Posted: Friday, December 01, 2006 - 2:13:19 PM
Tuesday morning, December 5th, at 5:00am, SMU will be installing a new Mail Server. The new server will enable us to more efficiently handle incoming e-mails, as well as improve the web interface performance. We will keep the outage as short as possible with an estimated downtime of 90 minutes. During this time, you will be unable to send or retrieve e-mail. Your internet access will continue to work while we perform the upgrade.
Please try to plan your schedules accordingly.
SMU Office CLOSED Thursday!
Posted: Wednesday, November 29, 2006 - 9:43:08 AM
Due to the customer service renovation project and employee training, the SMU office will be CLOSED all day on Thursday, November 30th. Please use the night drop for payments. Our phone will still be answered at 580-5800. SMU apologizes for any inconvenience this might cause...pardon our progress!
Rebate Application Deadlines For 2006
Posted: Wednesday, November 29, 2006 - 7:47:52 AM
Customers who made energy efficiency improvements to their homes or businesses in 2006 need to be aware of a couple of approaching deadlines.
For improvements that were made on or before December 1, 2006, the deadline to submit an Energy Efficiency Rebate Application to SMU is December 31st. For improvements made during December 2006, customers will have an additional month-January 31, 2007-to submit their application.
SMU offers rebates on a number of energy efficient devices and appliances, including air conditioners and heat pumps, electric water heaters, electric heat, programmable thermostats, dishwashers, refrigerators, and clothes washers. Certain efficiency standards must be met to be eligible. For many devices, an "EnergyStar" label indicates that the device qualifies.
For more details and information about SMU's rebate program, call our customer service center at 580-5800.
The Spencer Channel To Feature Extensive Coverage Of College Basketball
Posted: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 - 12:02:40 PM
Again this winter, SMU Cable TV customers will have access to extensive coverage of college basketball games on the Spencer Channel, including Iowa and Iowa State games.
The schedule includes the big game between Iowa and Iowa State on December 8th, along with 16 other University of Iowa games, 3 Iowa State games, and 3 Nebraska Cornhusker games. SMU continues to seek carriage of other games and will update the schedule if they are made available.
SMU's college basketball coverage is made possible by the following Spencer businesses: Community Bank and Insurance, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Goal Kick Sporting Goods, Godfathers, KAPCO Pack & Ship and KAPCO Indoor Golf, Insurance Associates, Schoenemans, Spencer Auto Parts, and Sports Page Grill and Bar.
The Spencer Channel To Feature 17 Hawkeye Basketball Games This Winter
Posted: Tuesday, November 07, 2006 - 3:59:06 PM
Spencer Municipal Utilities, in conjunction with ESPN Regional Television, will bring 17 Iowa Hawkeye mens basketball games to customers this winter.
The schedule includes the in-state rivalries between Iowa and Iowa State on December 8th and Iowa vs UNI on December 5th. The Spencer Channel schedule also includes 10 Big Ten matchups.
Here's a look at the complete Iowa schedule on The Spencer Channel:
11/13 7pm The Citadel
12/1 8pm Texas-Pan American
12/2 TBA Coppin State or LaSalle
12/5 7pm UNI
12/8 7pm Iowa State
12/20 7pm Georgia State
12/23 7pm Texas Southern
12/30 7pm Cornell
1/10 7pm @ Illinois
1/13 7pm Minnesota
1/20 7pm @ Ohio State
1/24 7pm Penn State
1/31 7pm @ Michigan
2/7 7pm @ Minnesota
2/14 7pm Northwestern
2/17 1:30p @ Michigan State
2/21 8pm Purdue
3/3 3:30p Illinois
Other Iowa games will be telecast on ESPN, CBS, and other channels. A complete TV schedule will be available on the SMU website as soon as it is available.
on
No TV For State Volleyball
Posted: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 - 3:37:55 PM
The good news is that the Spencer Tiger volleyball team has advanced to the Girls State Volleyball tournament. SMU wants to congratulate the Tigers for a tremendous season!
The bad news is that The Spencer Channel will NOT be able to bring any of the action to you.
The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union has given SMU permission to tape and replay playoff action for any girls playoff games. However, taping and replaying the games from any state tournament game are NOT PERMITTED.
At this time, we do not know if there will be any TV coverage of the state volleyball tournament. If there is, SMU will provide information here on our website as soon as it is available.
Drive Up Window CLOSED
Posted: Thursday, October 19, 2006 - 8:12:31 AM
Work is underway on the SMU customer service remodel project. The first task was the installation of a new, user-friendly drop box on the south side of the SMU building. The new drop box is installed and ready to use!
During the next few weeks, please use the door on the south side of the building to enter our customer service center while construction takes place on the west side of the building.
As a result of the work, the drive-up window is now closed. Signage will be posted showing the new traffic flow in the parking lot.
KTIV-DT Is Now Available On SMU Cable TV!
Posted: Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 12:24:53 PM
SMU is proud to announce the addition of another high definition channel on our cable service. KTIV-DT, the new digital signal from KTIV-Sioux City, is now up and running on SMU Cable Channel 204.
KTIV-DT will feature all of your favorite KTIV programs, including news, sports, weather, and more. Plus, for the first time ever in Spencer, you will be able to enjoy NBC network programming in stunning high definition! NBC hits like The Office, ER, Sunday Night Football, and more can now be enjoyed in high definition by customers with HiDef TV's and SMU HiDef cable.
KTIV-DT is also the provider for Siouxland CW on SMU Channel 8. Previously, SMU received the signal for the CW (and its predecessor, the WB Network) via satellite, but using new digital broadcast technology, KTIV is able to send out both KTIV-HD and the CW on the same frequency.
Dave Madsen, KTIV General Manager, says Dave Madsen, General Manager for KTIV, says his station is pleased to be available on SMU Cable TV. "KTIV is excited that through our partnership with SMU, we're able to bring both the great programming of the new CW Siouxland and the amazing quality of High Definition television to our viewers in the Spencer area."
SMU is the only Spencer cable operator to offer high definition feeds of local TV stations. In addition to KTIV, SMU also carries KELO-Sioux Falls (CBS) and KSFY-Sioux Falls (ABC). Other Sioux City stations are expected to begin broadcasting at full power in the upcoming weeks and months.
In order to receive KTIV-DT, KELO-DT, or KSFY-DT, you will need to have a digital television with an integrated QAM tuner, or you will need to subscribe to SMU HiDef cable. Call our office to find out more about how you can bring HiDef to your family's living room!
iNDEMAND Announces Changes
Posted: Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 7:01:31 AM
The company that provides pay-per-view services and two high definition channels for SMU Cable has announced some changes, effective at the end of the year.
On January 1, 2007 iNDEMAND will reduce the number of pay-per-view channels from 9 to 7. PPV selections will now be available on Channels 301 through 307.
Also, iNHD2, one of the channels on the SMU HiDef Plus tier, will be eliminated. Programs that were on iNHD2 will be placed on iNHD, Channel 214.
Federal Excise Tax Refunds
Posted: Tuesday, October 17, 2006 - 3:04:08 PM
This summer, the Internal Revenue Service repealed the 3% federal excise tax on long distance service. Just recently, the IRS has begun to release information on how allowable refunds from February 2003 to August 2006 would be handled.
The IRS has announced the standard amounts that individuals can use to figure their telephone tax refund. These standard refunds are available to any individual who paid the long-distance telephone tax and can be filed on the 2006 federal income tax return. The standards, which range from $30 to $60, are based on the total number of exemptions claimed on the tax return. In the August 31 announcement, IRS Commissioner Mark W Everson said, “The easiest way for eligible taxpayers to get their money back is to use the standard amounts. These amounts save taxpayers from locating 41 months of old phone bills and analyzing these bills to determine the taxes paid.”
Businesses and nonprofits must base their telephone tax refund on the actual amount of tax paid. According to information from the IRS website, right now the IRS is considering an estimation method businesses and nonprofits may use for figuring the tax paid. If your business is interested in following up on this refund for your 2006 filing, please refer to the IRS website at www.irs.gov.
SMU communications bills have reflected this change in 3% taxation. The IRS ruling does not affect the federal tax on local telephone service or any state and local taxes, which will continue to be collected.
FSN North Announces Schedule Of Minnesota Basketball
Posted: Wednesday, October 11, 2006 - 7:02:56 AM
FSN North, SMU Channel 37, has announced an extensive schedule of Minnesota Golden Gopher basketball this winter. There are a total of 21 contests (mens and womens), including 16 Big Ten games.
Here's the schedule:
2006-07 Minnesota Gopher Men’s Basketball - FSN North Schedule
Date Day Opponent Time Nov. 13 Monday North Dakota State 7 p.m.
Nov. 21 Tuesday Iowa State 7 p.m.
Dec. 2 Saturday Arizona State 12 p.m.
Dec. 9 Saturday Arkansas-Little Rock 12 p.m.
Jan. 3 Wednesday Purdue 7 p.m. (tape delay)¹
Jan. 24 Wednesday at Michigan State 6 p.m.
Jan. 31 Wednesday at Northwestern 7 p.m. (tape delay)²
Feb. 3 Saturday at Illinois 7 p.m. (tape delay)³
Feb. 7 Wednesday Iowa 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 Saturday Michigan 7 p.m.
Feb. 14 Wednesday Wisconsin 7 p.m. (tape delay)¹
Feb. 21 Wednesday at Indiana 6 p.m. (tape delay)¹
Feb. 28 Wednesday at Purdue 7 p.m.
All Times Central
Schedule Subject to Change
¹ Will follow Timberwolves at approximately 9:30 p.m.
² Will follow Timberwolves at approximately 10:30 p.m.
³ Will follow Wild at approximately 10:30 p.m.
2006-07 Minnesota Gopher Women’s Basketball - FSN North Schedule
Date Day Opponent Time
Jan. 8 Monday Wisconsin (1/7) 7:00 PM (tape delay)
Jan. 14 Sunday South Dakota State 2:00 PM
Jan. 18 Thursday at Illinois 9:30 PM (tape delay)
Jan. 21 Sunday Penn State 2:00 PM
Jan. 25 Thursday at Iowa 7:00 PM
Jan. 28 Sunday at Wisconsin 12:30 PM
Feb. 12 Monday Indiana (2/11) 8:00 PM (tape delay)
Feb. 25 Sunday at Michigan State 1:00 PM
All Times Central
Schedule Subject to Change
Drive Up Closing During Week Of October 9th
Posted: Friday, October 06, 2006 - 10:29:31 AM
As SMU moves forward on plans to remodel our customer service center, we are expecting that the drive-up window will be closing permanently sometime during the week of October 9th.
A new drop box will be installed on the south side of the SMU building for your convenience. This is also a great opportunity to begin using SMU's Bank Pay program. With Bank Pay, your utility and/or communications bill is automatically paid from you bank account on the due date. If you'd like to sign up for Bank Pay, call our office for details at 580-5800.
We apologize for any inconvenience the drive-up closure may cause, and we appreciate your patience during our upcoming remodelling project.
Save Money and Energy With Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Posted: Tuesday, October 03, 2006 - 10:43:56 AM
Spencer Municipal Utilities is joining several other electric utilities across Iowa in urging customers to “Change A Light, Change The World”.
The Change A Light, Change The World program is designed to encourage customers to convert from inefficient incandescent light bulbs to energy efficient ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL). It’s a quick and easy solution to lowering utility bills in addition to saving energy and protecting the environment.
From Oct. 1 through Nov. 30, 2006, SMU can receive a $2 instant cash-back rebate on ENERGY STAR qualified CFL purchases of 12 bulbs or less. Curtis Dean, SMU Marketing and Community Relations Director, says the program is a win-win situation. “First of all, it’s a win for customers because by using CFL’s instead of incandcescent bulbs, they will save energy and money. SMU wins because it lowers the amount of electric load we need to have available. And it’s a win for our country because it helps make us more energy independent.”
Dean says if customers were to change out the five most frequently used light fixtures with ENERGY STAR qualified CFL’s, it could save up to $60 in electricity costs. In the average home, the most frequently used fixtures are in the living room, dining room, kitchen, master bedroom and master bathroom.
Lighting products that earn the ENERGY STAR offer extra safety and convenience features. CFLs generate approximately 70 percent less heat than standard incandescent lighting, which means they are cooler to the touch while helping reduce household cooling costs at the same time. With the wide variety of CFL shapes, sizes and styles available, energy-efficient lighting can be used throughout the home and year.
The “Change A Light, Change The World” program is being held in conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) national “ENERGY STAR Change a Light, Change the World” campaign. Participating retailers in Spencer are Ace Hardware, Bomgaars (formerly Shopper’s Supply), Hy-Vee and Menards. Rebates are also available statewide at participating Ace Hardware, Bomgaars, Do It Best, Hardware Hank, HyVee, Menards, Mills Fleet Farm, Shopper’s Supply, Theisens and True Value Hardware locations.
Catch NHL Hockey In HiDef On SMU
Posted: Monday, September 25, 2006 - 8:26:03 AM
Hockey fans can catch over two dozen NHL matchups in stunning high definition this fall and winter, courtesy of HDNet!
HDNet's schedule includes 8 games in October, beginning with the Flyers-Penguin's matchup on October 5th. For a complete listing of HDNet's NHL lineup, visit http://www.hd.net/nhlinhd.html.
HDNet is available on Channel 218 of SMU's HiDef Plus service.
Drive Up Window Closing Soon
Posted: Monday, September 25, 2006 - 7:13:57 AM
As part of a remodeling project in the SMU customer service center, the drive-up window will be closing in the next few weeks. While this may be an inconvenience for some customers, SMU will be making other improvements to enhance your experience when visiting our office:
--A new, customer-friendly drop box will be installed to the south of the customer service center
--The main entrance will be moved closer to the south
--Interior improvements will create a retail environment for all of SMU's products and services, including our new i wireless cellular telephone.
Be watching for more details on the remodeling project!
SMU Hawkeye Road Trip Update
Posted: Friday, September 22, 2006 - 2:08:53 PM
The 4th Annual SMU Hawkeye Road Trip is quickly selling out.
This year, SMU is hosting a trip to see the Iowa Hawkeye football team take on Minnesota at the Metrodome in Minneapolis on Saturday, November 18th. The package includes a ticket to the game, round-trip motor coach transportation, and snacks/beverages on the bus. The price is $115.00 per person.
Only a handful of seats are still available, however a waiting list will be started. If enough interest is shown and tickets are available, SMU will investigate taking a second bus to the game. Contact Curtis Dean at 580-5800 if you'd like to be added to the list.
CW, MyNetworkTV Available on SMU Cable
Posted: Monday, September 18, 2006 - 7:25:27 AM
Two new netwroks are hitting the airwaves this month, and SMU Cable TV customers will have access to both of them. The CW is a new network created by the merger of the UPN and WB Networks earlier in the year. Locally, the CW is operated by KTIV-Sioux City, and is available on SMU Channel 8, the former location of the WB. MyNetworkTV is a new network, and can be seen on SMU Digital Cable Channel 122, the former location of UPN.
SMU, Evertek Announce Wireless Telephone Partnership
Posted: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 - 10:43:11 AM
At a morning news conference, officials of Spencer Municipal Utilities and Evertek announced their partnership to bring a new choice for wireless telephone service to Clay County.
The companies are partnering to bring i wireless service via PCS to the area. The companies are in the process of constructing new towers and putting antennas on new facilities to provide the coverage throughout Clay County. Through the partnership with i wireless and its national affiliation with T-Mobile, customers will have access to an extensive nationwide network.
John Jensen, an Evertek Board of Directors member and Board Vice Chairman of the new joint entity, says that the current relationship with Spencer Municipal Utilities and their desire to provide their customer base with a wireless solution made it an easy choice to partner. “Evertek and SMU have broken barriers that once hindered companies from great relationships such as this. We are thankful for the opportunity to provide a valuable service along with a great company such as SMU and look forward to working together.”
Dave Hultgren, an SMU Board of Trustees member and Board chairman of the new joint entity, says the project is a win-win for both companies and for Clay County residents. “Both of our companies have always focused on providing reliable, friendly, hometown service. Now, we can bring that same customer focus into a new and growing industry. We’re excited that our existing communications customers and new customers will be able to get their cellular service from their hometown provider.”
Chris Dodd, Evertek Sales Manager, explained the advantages of i wireless, powered by Evertek and SMU. “The service will be very competitively priced, will provide nationwide coverage, and will have all of the features such as text messaging that wireless customers demand.” Dodd added that one of the advantages of i wireless is that it provides customers with connection to the fastest growing national and largest international all-digital GSM networks.
The companies are working to provide service as soon as possible, but say the official launch of service is still several months away. New towers will be constructed just north of Peterson and east of Rossie. PCS antennas will also be placed on both of SMU’s water towers in Spencer, and on the Evertek communications tower in Everly. The companies are also working on numerous other details before launch.
A common theme stressed by officials with both companies was to avoid signing new contracts with your existing provider. “We believe that i wireless, powered by Evertek and SMU, will be worth waiting for,” said SMU’s Curtis Dean. “We urge people to preserve their options by not getting into a new cellular contract until we’re ready to go. At that time, you can evaluate which service is best for you. We think i wireless will be a very strong option.”
Both Evertek and SMU will have signup cards available at their Clay County Fair exhibits. People interested in getting more information will be contacted by the companies as soon as service is available. SMU’s exhibit is inside the Depot Building, and Evertek’s booth is in the Event Center.
Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders at SMU Fair Booth
Posted: Monday, August 28, 2006 - 1:35:17 PM
To celebrate the launch of NFL Network on SMU Cable TV, a special visit by the Minnesota Vikings cheerleaders is planned for the Clay County Fair.
Four members of the Vikings cheerleading squad will spend the afternoon of Friday, September 15th at SMU's Fair exhibit booth inside the Depot at the Fair. From 3pm to 7pm that day, the cheerleaders will be available to sign autographs and meet Vikings fans.
Visitors to SMU's Fair booth can also sign up to win NFL Network prizes, including a football autographed by former Iowa Hawkeye great Robert Gallery.
SMU's booth will also have a display of high definition television, Internet computers to use for checking email, and access to a telephone. You can sign up for any of SMU's products and services, and find out more about SMU's exciting new wireless telephone project. We'll see you at the Fair!
2006 SMU Consumer Confidence Report Now Available
Posted: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 - 2:10:11 PM
Customers of the SMU water utility are receiving good news with their monthly billing statements this month. The good news comes in the form of the utility’s annual Consumer Confidence Report on water quality.
The 2006 report, which includes information about water testing data during calendar year 2005, once again shows that there were no violations of EPA rules for water contaminants.
In addition to information about what contaminants were detected and at what levels, the report also includes important health information, and general information about SMU's water source and treatment procedures.
Customers who did not receive a copy of the 2005 Consumer Confidence Report can view and print a PDF copy of the report from SMU’s website at the following address: http://www.smunet.net/2006CCR.pdf
Additional paper copies are also available at SMU's office at 712 Grand Avenue as well as Spencer City Hall, Spencer Public Library, and the Spencer Area Senior Center.
SMU Approves Lieu Of Tax To City
Posted: Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 4:17:00 PM
The SMU Board of Trustees has approved the transfer of nearly a half million dollars to the City of Spencer in lieu of taxes for 2006.
The SMU electric utility will transfer $421,622 to the City, with the water utility contributing $44,939. Both figures represent 5% of the gross revenues from the previous year, minus any property taxes paid on plant outside the city limits. The communications utility will contribute $28,800 to the City in lieu of tax, which represents SMU's contribution toward the Clay County Regional Events Center operations.
Lieu of tax payments may be used by the city for any lawful purpose, and can also be used to offset property tax askings.
Counting lieu of tax payments and other contribution to community projects over the years, SMU has reinvested approximately $13.3 million dollars into Spencer.
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Thursday, August 12
SMU Board Meeting
SMU Board of Trustees will be meeting on Thursday, August 12th at 7:00 am
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Thursday, September 2
Iowa State Football
Versus Northern Illinois
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Saturday, September 4
University of Iowa Football
Versus Eastern Illinois
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Saturday, September 11
University of Iowa and Iowa State Football
In Iowa City
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If you, a SMU customer, feel that you have processed a payment in error, please contact our customer service at 712-580-5800 or email us to request a refund.
