FROM THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT
SPRING CLEANUP
We will be having a spring clean-up day for Village residents on Saturday, May 7th. Your throw-a-ways will be picked up at the curb of your residence. The pick-up will start at 6:00 am and they will only make one pass through your neighborhood. They are usually out of the Village by 9:00 am.
Place your items out earlier through the week to give recyclers and salvage folks a chance to take what can be reused, which in turn saves tax money.
No batteries, tires, chemicals or hazardous materials will be accepted. No paint or yard waste is acceptable either.
Any refrigeration appliances must have freon removed and a vendors certificate attached.
HYDRANT FLUSHING
Hydrant flushing will take place in the Village on March 22. 23 & 24, weather permitting. Users will experience discolored water during this period and are advised to run the cold water only until clear.
Perhaps it would be a good idea to put off doing laundry for those couple of days until the system is back to normal.
BRUSH PICK-UP
The brush collection program for 2005 will commence in May and continue monthly until and including October. Pick-up will be on the second Monday of the month except Village holidays. If a holiday, the brush pick-up will begin on the next day, Tuesday. Please help us continue this successful program by following the regulations below.
Residents may place brush at the curbside for collection, taking care not to block sidewalk areas. Only brush and branches shall be placed with the cut ends at the curb, with length not to exceed ten (10) feet, and diameter not to exceed three (3) inches. Large diameter branches and trunks will not be taken. Chipping crews will spend a maximum of 20 minutes chipping at each residence.
Piles of brush should be on tree lawn or close to curb with cut side facing the street. This allows the crew to work more efficiently and safely. Avoid stacking brush too high as it may pose a traffic hazard. If brush is too long, it may be placed lengthwise on the tree lawn, cut ends facing same direction. Bagged yard waste (i.e. grass clippings, flowers, briars, thorny bushes, etc.) will not be picked up.
Chipping is intended for brush collection that has been trimmed by homeowners during routine maintenance. The homeowner will be responsible for the disposal of brush/limbs from removal of tree(s), lot clearing, clearing along fence line or property boundaries and it is not to be placed at the curb. If a contractor has been hired to perform the work, the contractor is responsible for brush/limb removal and it is not to be placed at the curb.
If anyone has any questions regarding the brush pick-up or would like to obtain free wood chips, please call the Village of Mantua Service Department at 330-274-8188.
CEMETERY CLEANUP
Christmas and other winter decorations need to be removed from Hillside Cemetery by April 15, 2005. All remaining Christmas decorations will be discarded, as we begin to clean up the Cemetery for spring and Memorial Day.
THANK YOU!!
The Village Service Department received many compliments on our snow and ice control this winter. We take great pride in trying to do our best and hope that it is reflected in our service to you.
We are very grateful for the courtesy and understanding that has been extended to us by the Village residents.
……………....Ed Trego, Village Administrator
SHOPPING SAFELY FROM HOME
While shopping from home allows you to shop at your own convenience, that convenience does not come without risk. Follow these tips to help you shop safely from your home.
Know who you’re dealing with
Your best protection when shopping from home is to do business with companies you know to be legitimate. If you’re not familiar with the company’s reputation, it’s important to check up on it.
Look for a company’s online privacy policy
Many companies with privacy practices post their privacy policy on their Web site. A company’s privacy policy should disclose what information is being collected on the Web site and how that information is being used. Before you provide a company with personal information, check or request its privacy policy.
Pay by credit or charge card
If you pay by credit or charge card online, your transaction will be protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act. Under this law, consumers have the right to dispute charges under certain circumstances and temporarily withhold payment while a creditor is investigating them. In the case unauthorized use of a consumer’s credit card, consumers are generally held liable for the first $50 in charges.
Checking shipping and handling fees
Retailers often add a shipping and handling fee to the price of an item, based on where the order is shipped, the cost, or weight of the goods. Online buyers generally can select from several delivery options at various costs. Be sure to find out about the options and costs and then chose the delivery method you prefer or the retailer may decide for you. Also check return and restocking policies before you order. Because items such as software or CDs can be copied, they are sometimes not returnable. Companies also may charge a restocking fee if you return an item.
Keep records of your purchases
When ordering by phone or computer, write down or print out information related to the transaction, including the seller’s name, address, and telephone number; the name of the person you spoke with, if applicable; a description of what you ordered; and the seller’s delivery date, terms, and return policies.
Seek help if you run into a problem
If you can’t resolve your problem by working directly with the company, contact the Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-282-0515, your Better Business Bureau, or the Federal Trade Commission’s toll-free helpline at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).
These tips are important because while just four years ago, 27 percent of computer users were using the Internet, now 81 percent of the computer users are online. And North Americans represent 43 percent of the online population with the Internet waves spreading rapidly beyond its U.S. origins, according to the Computer Industry Almanac.
It is important for all of us to look not only for our own safety when shopping from home but also for the safety of our elderly and other vulnerable populations because they are often the target of con artists and swindlers.
By arming them with the proper tools and knowledge, we can prevent consumers from losing more money to deceitful sweepstakes solicitors and telemarketers.
…….……………………H.W. Buchert, Chief of Police
MANTUA VILLAGE ZONING
With Spring just around the corner (we hope), it’s time to start thinking about cleaning up around the old homestead. If you are not sure if your project requires a zoning permit, call first. Call 330-274-3199, leave a message and your call will be returned promptly.
Allow adequate time to obtain required permits prior to starting your project. It will save you time in the long run. Permits are required for signs - please apply in advance.
CRESTWOOD LIONS CLUB NEWS
Thanks to all who purchased Christmas trees from the Lions and thanks to the Mantua-Shalersville Fire Department for allowing the Lions to sell trees at the new fire station. Congratulations to the winners of the Giant Eagle gift certificate drawing: Don Seither of Mantua and Erica Tyree of Ravenna. Each won a $20 gift certificate from the drawing at the tree sales.
………John Evans, PR Chrm.
THE FOLDED FLAG
Most of us have seen the folding of an American flag during a military funeral or other ceremony. But, you may not be aware that each fold has a special significance.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust”.
SOME SAFETY TIPS FROM NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Leaving your garage door open is an invitation for the professional criminal, or for the first-timer to take a bike, a lawnmower or other things that can easily be sold. Even if you are going to be gone only a minute, close and lock the door. It doesn’t take a thief more than a minute to ride off on that bike. Criminals know that you have other things on your mind and count on you not being on the lookout for them.
The majority of thefts reported from garages occurred where the door was left open or unlocked. Don’t forget that an open or unlocked garage door can also lead thieves right into your home.
Attached garages with wireless door openers provide a thief with easy access to your home. When parking your car, always carry your garage door opener in your purse or briefcase. If you car is stolen and the opener is left, it is easy for a burglar to determine your home address from your car registration. Burglars use garage door openers left in parked, unlocked cars to open garage doors and enter the home through adjoining doors. They open the garage, pull in their vehicle and work in complete privacy.
There are two methods available for the technically equipped thief to open your garage door. They can watch your home and using a radio receiver - like a scanner - which will record the transmission from your hand-held transmitter when you leave or return to your home. He now has the keys to your home!
An even easier approach is to purchase a generic replacement hand-held garage door opener. This units sell for less than $20 and can be purchased at your local shopping mart. These units have a small DIP SWITCH that programs your opener’s secret code into the remote unit. In a matter of minutes, a hacker with a remote unit can transmit EVERY code combination possible.
REMEMBER - your garage door is also a fire exit, so keep this in mind when planning a locking method.
NEWS FROM THE PARK
The ice rink was again put up at the park, but with this crazy up and down weather, has not been very usable.
On February 1, 2005, CT Consultants submitted 2 grant applications with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. If received, this money will be used to construct a Boardwalk along the river behind Mantaline, as part of the Headwaters Trail. It will take approximately a year and a half before these grants will be approved, but plans are already underway for this project.
The Village will be responsible for 25% of this project, but this share can be covered by volunteer help and donated supplies and equipment.
We will keep you informed of further developments.
MANTUA POLICE DEPARTMENT
YEARLY REPORT - 2004
The MPD handled a total of 226 cases during the last year. A few of these cases are still under investigation, but most have been cleared.
The Department has dealt with assaults, burglaries, criminal damaging, disorderly conduct, fights, phone harassment, drug-related problems, theft and vandalism, just to name a few.
There were 31 criminal arrests, 45 accidents, 1,446 warnings and the cruisers were driven a total of 50,077 miles.
The 45 accidents involved a total of 71 vehicles, 2 injuries and no deaths. Most occurred on Main Street or private property, and most occurred between noon and 8:00 pm. Causes were Improper backing, failure to control, driver inattention and failure to yield. There was 1 motorcycle accident, the others were all motor vehicle.
Total phone calls handled by the MPD Dispatchers, including 911 calls, was 8,180. There were 462 mutual aid calls for other departments, plus over 75 meetings, training sessions and seminars attended by various officers.
Other statistics include:
Some of the activities of the Department that you may not be aware of are security for parades & races, patrol at school zones, foot patrols in the downtown area, plus checking lift stations, reservoir and the water and sewer plants.
There are many community-oriented programs established to better serve the citizens of Mantua. Programs such as Seat Belt Safety Program (teaching seat belt safety at the 3rd grade level), Helmet Smart/Bicycle Safety (education on bike safety and the need to always wear a helmet), House Checks (the Police Dept., upon request, will make regular checks on a home when the resident is on vacation or out of town), Business Checks (done on a daily basis) Safety Town (assists the League of Women Voters teaching safety, helping children to become familiar with police equipment and to know that the police are their friends), Juvenile Diversion Program (handles juvenile crime within the community and teaches that every action has a consequence), Hug-A-Bear Program (all officers have a stuffed bear in the patrol car to be given to a child who has been through a traumatic experience or is otherwise in distress),
Neighborhood Watch (holds regular monthly meetings, addresses the issues of crime and safety in our neighborhoods and is a link between the residents & Police Department) Foot Patrol (done in both residential and commercial areas on each tour of duty), Bicycle Patrol (currently with 4 OPOTA officers certified in urban mountain bicycle tactics).
Presently, the Mantua Police Department consists of 4 full-time and 10 part-time Officers, 3 full-time and 4 part-time Dispatchers.
It is the policy of this department to provide the best possible assistance to our citizens, to meet your needs with courteous and professional service, to Serve and Protect.
If you would like additional information regarding any of these programs, or have any questions or concerns, please call the Police Department at 330-274-2251.
ROTARY CLUB NEWS
Mantua Rotary Club will again sponsor a FARM BREAKFAST on Memorial Day, May 30th, from 7:30 to 12:00 noon, at the High School cafeteria. Plan to have breakfast with your family and friends before or after the parade.
Proceeds will go to the Club Fund for the Centennial sign to be installed near the new Village offices on High Street. (Rotary International will be 100 years old in February of 2005.)
Rotary will be holding a COMMUNITY YARD SALE on Saturday, August 1st. Watch for applications to participate.
The FARMER’S MARKET is again being planned for August, September and October. If there is enough interest, the Market may open earlier than August. Watch for further information later in the Spring.
This is Mantua’s year for the CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES to be held on the first and second weekends of November. Four lovely homes decorated for the holidays, a craft show at the Masonic Temple, a Candlelight Tour on the opening night of November 3rd, and much more.
GOODELL FARMS PANCAKE BREAKFASTS
Sundays, March 6th, 13th and 20th, 8:30 till 2:00. Come to “sit down and be served” all you can eat, pancakes, country sausage, real maple syrup and beverages.
Nobody likes them, but we all have to pay them. And it is that time again.
Anyone, age 18 or over, who resides, works or operates a business in whole or in part, for any part of a tax year within the Village of Mantua, must file an individual tax return.
Your taxes pay for a lot of services within the Village including police protection, park and street maintenance, snow removal, leaf bags and pickup and the Spring clean-up.
A new addition to the Income Tax Ordinance is that winnings from gambling, lottery or any game of chance amounting to more than $1,000.00 must be reported on your Village income tax form.
If you did not receive a form in the mail, please call the Hall at 330-274-8776 and we will see that you get one.
MAN’S BEST FRIEND
A REMINDER TO ALL DOG OWNERS IN THE VILLAGE: Ordinance (505.01)requires that all dogs be licensed and are to be leashed at all times. This is not only for the safety of others, but for your dog’s safety as well.
The Ordinance also provides for impound and fines, should your dog be found loose, unleashed and/or unlicensed.
In addition, Ordinance 2000-14, provides for mandatory clean-up after any and all animals. Mutt Mitts are available at locations in the park and along the trail. For walking on the street, carry a supply of small plastic bags in your pocket.
A few simple steps helps to keep our community cleaner and healthier for everyone. Thanks for your cooperation.
VILLAGE PARK LODGE
Lodge rentals have been fast and furious according to Asst. Clerk, Mary Pallone, who is in charge of those rentals. If you are planning an event and need the Lodge, please call early to be sure to get the date you want.
Compliments to Mary and Clerk-Treasurer Betsy Woolf for a super job of painting and cleaning at the Lodge. It looks really great!
For information and to reserve the Lodge or other Park facilities, call Village Hall at 330-274-8776.
BUCHERT PARK TRAIL LEG
This proposed trail will connect the Village’s recreational park to the existing Headwaters Trail.
Headwaters trail traverses primarily along an abandoned railroad bed and currently extends approximately seven miles from just west of the Village at Mennonite Road east to the Village of Garrettsville. Five miles of the eastern portion of the trail from the Village’s eastern corporation limit to Garrettsville were installed under contract by the Portage County Parks District with financial assistance from Recreational Trails Grants.
The western portion of the trail through the Village and extending west into Mantua Township was recently completed by the Village with financial assistance from a Recreational Trails Grant and a substantial contribution from the Portage County Commissioners. A key feature and critical link to the larger trail system was installation of a ninety foot span bridge over the upper Cuyahoga River adjacent to Buchert Park. The bridge and the resting areas on each side provide a rustic view of the river and the Berdina Marsh and Mantua Bog.
The proposed Buchert Park Trail Leg will allow users of the trail and park access to each without having to traverse along East High Street. Users coming into the park from the east end of the trail must cross the two lane bridge of East High Street over the Cuyahoga River. This street has a lot of tandem truck traffic from the many stone quarries in the area and the bridge has no pedestrian lane.
The Mantaline Corporation has agreed to donate an easement on the south side of their property along the river’s edge from the existing trail to the park. They ask only that the Village provide easement description and filing fees. A portion of the easement is along their employee parking and already has stone base. Means will be provided to separate the trail from the parking areas.
The river’s edge is in close proximity to one corner of the building. In order to accommodate the trail without placing embankment in the floodplain and to reduce costs, a boardwalk with rub rails is proposed in this area. The east end of the trail leg will connect to an existing stone trail on the south perimeter of the park along the river’s edge.
Buchert Park is used not only for daily family recreation, but it is host to the Village’s annual fall Potato Festival, the Portage County Soap Box Derby, and the annual River Scape. The River Scape event provides a day long educational program on habitat in the river and surrounding marshes.
Headwaters Trail is in close proximity to the local grade school and high school. As funds become available, the Village has access to other real property for future legs off Headwaters Trail for expansion of the trail system to enhance the accessibility of the trail and accessibility to surrounding wetland areas which could provide educational opportunities on bio-habitat.
….…………Brian Rogers, CT Consultants
SHADE TREE COMMITTEE
Shade Tree has been on hiatus for the past few months - not much to do in the winter. However, beginning in March they get back to work. They are still working on the Tree Inventory and will be planning for Arbor Day.
As of January 1st, Chuck Englehart has resigned as chairman of Shade Tree due to family responsibilities. The committee is in need of 1 resident to fill this spot. If you are interested, please call Village Hall at 330-274-8776.
ARTICLES WANTED
As I remind everyone, in each issue, this is YOUR paper. It is about Mantua, its people, places and events.
If you have anything you would like to hear about, any ideas or suggestions, please let me know. Write to me c/o Village Hall, 4736 E. High St., Mantua, OH 44255. Or you may call at 330-274-8737.
If you belong to an organization or club, I would be happy to print any information on your meetings or upcoming events.
Bye for now, see you in June!
Diane Hura, Editor
PS: Two antennas met on a roof, fell in love and got married. The ceremony wasn’t much but the reception was excellent.