Mantua Matters
November, 2010

GREETINGS

Well folks, Fall is almost done and here comes ‘Old Man Winter’. Fall didn’t seem to last as long as it usually does, but the weather was great, the color and smells were a welcome change from the very hot summer. It may be a while before all the leaves are down, but I for one, am not anxious for the snow to start flying.

This issue covers August, September, and October, plus upcoming events. Please read and enjoy!

MAYOR’S CORNER

Congratulations to the Downtown Mantua Revitalization Committee for achieving their 501c3 status. The recent Walk Through Mantua’s Past was again a success thanks in large part to the many volunteers and their co- chairs Melanie Miracle and Mantua Historical Society president Linda Elhert. Their combined efforts brought a new dimension to the event, with the horse drawn carriage ride, ladies tea and period fashion show. At Village Hall, we dressed in period costumes and displayed many old photos of the Village as well as scrap books provided by Diane Hura. These scrap books belonged to Diane’s mother who over the years cataloged and preserved vast information and memories for us to reminisce and learn from.

Our Crestwood young people are busy making us proud. Recently, the Crestwood Scarlet Guard earned the coveted Band Of America Award. And thanks to approximately 50 students from Crestwood’s Honor Society, our Main Street was freshened up. These students worked hard cleaning, weeding and washing storefront windows, to give our Downtown Main Street a clean and crisp appearance as we went into Autumn.

On October 30th the First Annual Great Pumpkin Roll took place on E. Prospect Street. I must admit that when a group of us joined forces just 2 months ago I wasn’t sure how quickly or just what the ad hoc Event Planning Committee’s first event would be. However, it didn’t take long before we gained momentum and went to work to bring Mantua Village it’s first event ever organized and held by the Village Administration.

The ad hoc Event Planning committee members are Aaron Snopek, Randy Weaver, and my family, Councilman Roger Hawkins, our son Wes and his wife Ashlee. With Halloween right around the corner Aaron Snopek suggested a pumpkin roll. The idea immediately took off and with the help of the Mantua Yacht Club and Boy Scout troop 570 we held a wonderful event that was enjoyed by well over 400 people. Old and young alike were rolling pumpkins, donated to the Scouts by Pochedleys, into the mouth of a 16x15 foot pumpkin complete with swinging pointed teeth, made and created by our own Paul Brannon, an Assistant Scout Master for troop 570. The interior of the mouth of the jack-o-lantern was a front end loader so large it required a police escort into town and furnished by Lakeside Sand and Gravel. Todd Brugmann and the Portage County Soapbox Derby provided the hay and large piping to keep the pumpkins contained as they rolled down the hill till nearly 10:00pm to the sounds of live entertainment. Through the use of the scale on the front end loader it was determined that 5.2 tons of pumpkins came down E. Prospect Street. Thank-you to the many local businesses who provided prizes, and to Sandra Brannon who made it her mission to insure that everyone received a prize. Thank-you to the business owners who donated materials as well, without you this event would not have been the success that it was.

The goal of the Mantua Village Ad hoc Event planning committee is to bring excitement to our Village and to showcase and share the many wonderful attributes of our charming Village Community. From the smiles on the faces and the overall enthusiasm of the event and the anticipation already for next years event, I am certain that we did achieve this. I would like to thank this committee for remaining focused, for setting and reaching their goal, for persevering through the many obstacles and challenges that an event like this possesses. A handful of focused hard working individuals gave cherished family memories to so many, and I believe gave to the Village of Mantua, an event that will be enjoyed and remembered for years to come. Thank-you.

We would love for you to become a part of this committee so please don’t hesitate to contact one of us. You can always call me at 330-274-8776, Ext. 155 or email me at mantuamayor@sbcglobal.net. Together there is no limit to what we can achieve.

Mayor Donna

P.S. as we head into the winter, please remember that Santa will be arriving via Fire Engine on Dec 3rd at 6:00pm to the Mini Park located at Main and Prospect. Bring your ornament to Decorate our Village Christmas Tree. See you there!

A NOTE FROM JENNY

Soon there will be a finished nature trail in the Village called the “Glacial Esker Trail” just by the Water plant off Orchard Street. There are several observation decks available to take a rest and enjoy the beauty we have right here in our Village!

The leaves are really pretty this year, but they are falling fast. Speaking of leaves, if you use leaves for treating your garden or mulch pile, our Service department does not mind if you take the bagged leaves that the residents place along the curb throughout the fall season. Please be safe about stopping along the road to collect them.

Winter is sneaking in fast, and I just thought I would remind you about a few things you can do to save on your winter utility bills. Installing a programmable thermostat is a good idea. Turn the heat down while you are at work, and again when you go to bed, and throw on an extra warm blanket. Set the heat to kick up about 30 minutes before your alarm goes off in the morning, and 30 minutes before you get home from work. Plasticizing your windows is a one day project that will save you lots of money! Of course, you want to check around for drafts that can be sealed or caulked. The biggest thing is to adjust your body temperature to a cooler setting. I always thought we stayed healthier in the winter because the house was cooler and germs can’t breed as easily.

Holiday spending- It feels really great to give nice gifts, so remember, home-made gifts are always treasured the most. If you aren’t sure what to make, visit a craft show for ideas. It is just too easy to whip out the charge card and spend money that will take you until next Christmas to pay off! Don’t let yourself do it! If you aren’t real crafty, or simply just don’t have time, at least try to shop locally to stimulate sales in our own Village. You can find anything from gas gift certificates to homemade treats. Check local bulletin boards for some of these talented people that make pumpkin cream cheese rolls or cookie trays, which are great gifts.

Last of all, a special CONGRATULATIONS to our own Hank Freeman, Yo-Yo extraordinaire. Hank and his friend Eric machined a brand new yo-yo called the “Freebird”, which he actually used to win the first place Championship in the United States and third in the world! Way to go, Hank! If you want to see Hank work his yo-yo talents, type his name in Youtube or Google and you can follow the links to watch him in action!

Jenny August, Clerk/Treasurer

LOAVES AND FISHES

The monthly Loaves and Fishes Free Community Meal will be held on the third (3rd) Monday of each month from 5:00 to 6:30 pm., at the Christ Lutheran Church on Main St. in Mantua. Please come and join us to share a meal with your neighbors.

Electric Aggregation Program- Have you received your “opt-out” letters?

In May 2010, the Mantua Village voters approved an Electric Governmental Aggregation program for Village residents. This program allows the Village to contract for an electric generation supplier on their behalf. The price you pay for electric generation supply is guaranteed to be 6% lower than those that are not part of the aggregation program, and 4% for those that have all electric homes and are already getting a discounted rate. I personally feel that this is a great opportunity to save at this time of the year.

To be a part of this program, you need not do a single thing. However, if you choose to NOT be a part of this program, you should have received at least one “OPT OUT” letter by now giving you the opportunity to decline participation.

Did you receive your “opt-out” letter from First Energy? If you did not, and you choose not to participate, you can call 1-866-636 3749. They will ask for a copy of your electric bill. If you are already participating in HEAP or PIP, you are not eligible for the aggregation program and that is why you may not have received the opt out letters. Another reason could be a “mapping issue” according to the helpful lady at First Energy that I spoke with. They used areas of the Village mapped out by the census, and there may have been errors. We have had a few residents report that they have not received their letters and this could be why.

Jenny August, Clerk/Treasurer

CAR SAFETY FOR THE WINTER

“Ohio’s winters are known for their unpredictability,” commented Chief Buchert. “I suggest you take the following precautions in order to stay safe on the road:”

Chief Buchert mentioned that preparing an emergency kit for your car is also a good idea. Include items such as: blankets, extra clothing, dry rations (raisins, nuts, candy), a flashlight with extra batteries, flares, a steel shovel and sand in case you are stuck, and waterproof matches with candles.

The Chief said that the best protection from problems with winter driving is winterizing your car—get a tune up, consider snowtires or chains. Chief Buchert concluded that winter driving does not have to be a hazardous undertaking. A few simple precautions can prevent accidents from happening and keep you prepared just in case they do occur.

H. W. Buchert, Chief of Police

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Congratulations to the Community Journal and editor, Christine Pitsinger on their 100th Issue! Available to residents since November 2006, the Journal provides information on Mantua Village, Mantua Township, Shalersville, Hiram Village and Township, Freedom Township and Garrettsville.

The Journal’s coverage includes Crestwood and Garfield schools, local government updates, info on local businesses, clubs and organizations and local events. So, we can not only keep up with what’s going on in our Village, but with our neighboring communities, also.

The Journal welcomes any questions, comments and suggestions. Feel free to call 330-414-6486 or email communityjournal@yahoo.com Keep up the good work and we look forward to the next 100.

CRESTWOOD COMMUNITY ART CLASSES

If you are interested in learning ceramics or digital photography, Crestwood is offering classes in both hobbies. Classes are held on Tuesday & Thursday evenings from October 26th through December 9th, from 6-8 pm.

The photography class will include using a digital camera, Photoshop, creating and printing poster size photos. You will need a digital camera and a 1 GB flash drive. The course fee is $75.00.

In ceramics class, you will learn basic and advanced techniques in hand-crafted pottery and learn to us a potter’s wheel. You will also learn the techniques for glazing. Supplies needed are a work smock and a large plastic bag. Course fee is $50.00.

For more information or to register, call the Board of Education office at 330-274-8511.

AUTUMN LEAVES RUN/WALK

Beautiful weather greeted the participants of all ages and fitness levels, for the second annual “Autumn Leaves Run/Walk”, on Sunday October 10th. This event is sponsored by Advanced Rehabilitation & Health Specialists in Mantua. Those participating in this event could walk, jog or run the 3.1 mile distance.

10 year-old Georgio Miceli was the first to finish with a time of 23:37 min. and hopes to have a bright future in running.

For more information on future events and classes offered at Advanced Rehab, visit their website at www.arhs.us

CRESTWOOD SCARLET GUARD

The Crestwood Scarlet Guard Marching Band traveled to Akron on October 16th, to compete in the Bands of America Regional Championships. This is a national level competition featuring some of the best bands from Ohio, Michigan, Georgia, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia.

For the second time in the same season, the Scarlet Guard was named Bands of American Regional Class Champions! They were also awarded Outstanding Visual Performance and Outstanding General Effect in Class A. For the band to be a two-time regional class champion in the same season is a remarkable accomplishment!

This now places the Crestwood Band program as one of the top bands of America Class A band programs in the entire country. They also scored the highest score and remarks ever received from a panel of adjudicators at a Band of America Regional Championship.

The band members put in many, many long hours practicing (when the wind is just right, I can hear them from my kitchen) plus time and work into fund raisers for uniforms and travel expenses. Gratitude also goes to the parents who worked very hard, in many ways, to contribute to the success of the band.

Congratulations to the Scarlet Guard and keep up the great work. You make us all proud!

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE

St. Joseph’s Garden Club are hosting their 26th Annual Christmas Boutique on Sunday, November 14th from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, at St. Joseph’s Church on Pioneer Trail. This is one of the area’s very best craft shows.

They will have many, many hand-crafted items, breakfast and lunch will be available. Admission and parking are free.

Raffled items include a decorated Christmas tree, holiday decorations, handcrafted bird feeder and $100 cash/plush toy.

Please plan to attend this fabulous event and get a head start on your Christmas shopping.

NEWS FROM SHALERSVILLE TOWNSHIP

This summer has been very productive. Can’t say that any grass grew under our feet! The cemetery mowers have been moving right along, as the grass never seemed to slow down on its growing, that is, until this last week.

The Crestwood Lions Club donated their labor and painted the Park Pavilion. It sure looks much better. Thank you Lions Club members.

Improvements to the cemetery included: 1) New brick name sign at Hillside Cemetery 2) Tree removal 3) Drives in Riverside Cemetery were re-sealed 4) Installed 28 monument foundations. Total cost $11,568.78

Improvements to the roads included: 1) 3.0 miles chip and seal with lines 2) 1.8 miles chip and seal with no lines 3) 1.87 miles paved with lines 4) 2.2 miles lines repainted Total of 8.87 miles of improvements plus roadside trees removed. Total expense for all road improvements - 55,728.38. None of these figures include township employees labor.

Before too long the leaves will all be down and then you know what comes next. Yes, time and money will go for snow removal. Life is good!

Dorothy Caldwell, Fiscal Officer
Shalersville Township

Students and Community Come Together

On October 7, approximately 46 students from CHS joined efforts with the Mantua Revitalization Committee to help clean up the downtown area in preparation for “A Walk Through Mantua’s Past” held October 9. The students were members of FCCLA, the Leadership class, and Senior Seminar class, all of which focus on creating future leaders and providing opportunities for students to become actively involved in giving back to their school and their community.

Edie Benner, President of the Mantua Revitalization Committee, stated that the students who attended “were all very focused, respectful and motivated to do their assigned tasks. When a group finished a task, they eagerly found one of the teachers or committee members to see what new task they could complete.”

“All in all,” said Benner, “the group completed over 192 person-hours of work sprucing-up downtown Mantua. The students and leaders pulled and scraped weeds, washed windows, distributed flyers, swept the sidewalks, picked up litter and cigarette butts and prepared the Hilltop Church, Livery and Grain Buildings and Mini-park for the event.”

Thank you to all who helped in this effort and to all who provided this opportunity for students and community members to work together!

Jennifer Zajac, Editor
Crestwood Comments

MANTUA VILLAGE GARDEN CLUB

With winter coming, gardeners are thinking ‘houseplants’…..gardening in containers indoors. Join us in deriving pleasure and peace of mind that comes from being surrounded by green, growing plants. They will enrich your life. Plants are an experience to enjoy….watching the leaves unfolding and flowers coming into bloom.

Plants are easy to grow, they just need care. If you purchase plants, look for the directions on or in the container. If friends give you starters, our library offers great information books. We also have sales three or four times a year, with reasonable prices. One plant on a window sill is attractive, a group of them makes a picture.

Our meetings are held monthly, the time varies. Sometimes at noon for lunch and sometimes at 6:30 for dessert. Everyone is welcome to join. Come and learn with us, we would love to meet you. Watch Channel 25 for more information.

Emma Leferink, Publicity
(330-274-8749)

NEWS FROM HILLSIDE CEMETERY

We would like to let everyone know that the ‘tuck point’ work has been completed on the mausoleum at Hillside. (This involves replacing the mortar between the bricks which has deteriorated over time.) The work was done this past August by the Stamm Contracting Company., Inc, located at 4566 Orchard Street in Mantua. We would like to thank them for the wonderful job they did.

The Mantua Cemetery Board
John Hall, Cookie Vanek and Lisa Zamecnik

WALKING THROUGH MANTUA’S PAST

On October 9th, I had the opportunity to co-host this event at the Village Hall, along with Sandy Englehart and Mayor Donna Hawkins. I took my mother’s (Wilma Whaley) scrapbooks, which I borrowed from the Historical Society. She had kept these books for approximately 25 years, preserving any items of interest concerning Mantua. Births, deaths, engagements, marriages, anniversaries, etc. She would also insert articles about celebrities that she admired and other national and world events that caught her eye. Over the years, these books have brought back memories and have, more than once, settled arguments. After her passing, my brothers and I donated these scrapbooks to the Mantua Historical Society, where they continue to be enjoyed.

We were joined at the hall by Norman Park, and Shorty and Ione Guyette who very graciously consented to be there to answer questions and chat with visitors. We had many, many pictures and artifacts from Mantua’s younger days, that sparked memories and a few interesting anecdotes. The many visitors we had not only asked questions, but contributed information and stories passed down through the years.

We were also privileged to hear two concerts from “Clear Choice“, the Barbershop Quartet, who had come to entertain for the event. All in all, a very enjoyable day!

Editor

NEWS FROM CACT

New Members equal new ideas and we missed you at our recent meeting. Maybe you forgot! Our meeting time is 6:30 every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at Crossroads Community Church, 9018 S.R. 44 in Shalersville.

We were at the Woodside Campground on Labor day weekend and you probably saw us at the Potato Festival. Our next project is turkeys for the 4-Cs Christmas meal packs. Donations may be dropped off at Middlefield Bank or Hunters 3, both in Mantua.

Our other programs include: Vehicle Donation Program, Wheelchair Share Program, Eyeglasses, School Supplies and Hunger/365.

Presently our officers are: President - Harry Hunter, Vice President - Bob MacLearie, Secretary - Diane Fortuna, and Treasurer - Lynn Wright.

Continue to check us out on the web at www.crestwoodcact.com

Nancy Whaley, Publicity

Portage County Soap Box Derby –Fall 2010       

Portage County Soap Box Derby had a fall rally race this year in Akron on September 25th and 26th.    Our local race will be June 18th with a rain date of June 19th.  The All American race is July 23rd. We are always looking for more racers and sponsors. 

The rally races are a good opportunity for the kids to get some practice and do some tuning up before the local race.  Rally racing is one of the ways the racers qualify for the All American Soap Box Derby race if they collect enough points by racing at the different rally races in different cities.  We had some of our local racers participate in our fall rally and they were:  Gregory Martin, Teghan Reed, Jordan Carlton, Bryson Carlton, Jeffrey Lorence, Conner Nemec, and Steven Beck. Our local race is held on High Street in Mantua.  The kids race down right past Buchert Park.  The winners of the three divisions (Stock, Super Stock, and Masters) will be invited to compete in Akron at the All American race as local champs.

The All American race week is filled with activities for the entire local and rally champs to enjoy.  The big race will be held on Saturday, July 23rd, 2011 at the Akron hill.  Champs come from all around the world like United States, Germany, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and several other countries.

To be able to race in the Stock division the child needs to be from age 8 to 14 by our local race date or first rally race.    The Super Stock division they would need to be 10 to 17.  Masters is for racers that have some experience racing with the age being 10 to 17 also.

Anyone interested in sponsoring our race, a child, or buying a car that would have your logo on it for advertising, please let us know.  It is tax deductible and would be greatly appreciated by everyone involved!!

Every one of all ages is welcome to come and observe any one of these derby functions.  Admission is free to the rally and local races.  For anyone with any questions or suggestions, please call Kelly Heritage @ 330-296-4679 or Barb Corbett @ 330-296-9117.

NEWS FROM ROTARY CLUB OF MANTUA

The Rotary Club of Mantua continues its tradition of hosting an international student, who attends Crestwood High School for the year. This year’s student is Corentin Mercier of Theix, France. His is being hosted by the Gary and Candace Parr family, on Chamberlain Road in Mantua. The family is composed of sons, Joshua and Jacob and an older sister, Ashley, who is a junior in college and away most of the time. The Parrs have recently been given custody of Luke Hillier, adding another teenage son to the family mix. This home seems to be a place to which high school boys gravitate and is a constant source of activity and support.

Corentin has been well accepted by the students at the high school. He was chosen by the students to be on the Homecoming Court, representing the Junior class. He has also been playing soccer and was on the field for the play-offs in October. When soccer is finished, he will begin practicing with the basketball team. He worked many extra hours at home to do well and is excited to begin participating in his first love, which is basketball.

The Mantua Rotary Club's Annual Variety Show will be held in the early spring again this year and we are looking for acts to fill the roster.  If you are a performer or know of an act that would like to audition for the show, please contact Helen Hazlett at 330-274-2231 or Susie Heintzelman at 330-760-0835.

Virginia Goodell
Rotary Club of Mantua

AMERICAN LEGION AND AUXILIARY

Congratulations to Mantua American Legion Post 193 for the excellent showing in the Mantua Potato Festival parade. They won First and Second place trophies for their Color Guard. Those marching were, John Kowalchik, Bonnie Louk, Eric Six and Bill Vassileff. Leading and calling cadence was Mike Lowe. A great job done by our veterans, you make us all proud!

Don’t forget - Soup Supper is back! The first Friday of every month, at 6:00 pm at the Post Home. Cost remains the same at $6 for adults and $3 for children under 12. If you are unable to pay, no problem, just let us know.

They would like to return to the original menu of soups, salads and desserts. Hot dogs with all the trimmings, coffee, tea, lemonade and/or water are provided. Pop is 50 cents a can. (A crockpot of homemade soup will get you one free meal ticket.) This is a great opportunity to show of your special soup recipe.

Please plan to join us for an evening of good food, fun and fellowship.

CRESTWOOD LIONS CLUB NEWS

The Crestwood Lions Club will be selling Christmas trees at the Mantua Shalersville Fire Department (MSFD) starting on November 26th.  This year, Santa will be making a stop on December 4th at the MSFD to help sell trees and visit with the children.  Every tree sold will qualify entrance into the annual holiday raffle.  Raffle items will be announced at a later date.  Trees will be on sale till they are all sold.  A variety of different trees has been selected for sale.  Contact Harold Ullman for more information at 330-274-2516.

New this year is the sale of holiday gift baskets.   A variety of items is packed into each basket.  Each basket is beautiful and different.  The cost starts at $5 on up.  They make great last minute gift ideas.  See any Lions club member if you are interested.  They will also be available at the 4C's craft show on November 13th in Shalersville.  Contact Mary Hannah at 330-883-9297 for more information.

Our candle sale is currently going on.  An assortment of fragrances are available again this year.  The price is $7 for a large candle that burns an average of 100 hours.  These candles can be compared to the always popular Yankee Candle.  These are great stocking stuffers.  Contact Tom Mesaros at 330-527-4600 or Mary Hannah at 330-833-9297 for more information. 

Save your used eyeglasses and sunglasses and drop them off at various locations around the community.  The boxes are clearly marked with the Lions logo.  They are recycled in places that can use them by willing volunteers.  The amount of glasses recycled by just the Crestwood Lions Club alone per year is over 1,000 pairs or more.  It is truly amazing.

Remember, if you are in need of an eye exam or glasses, the Crestwood Lions Club can help.  Certain income qualifications apply and all information is kept confidential.  Contact Michele Evans at 330-297-7947 for an application or more information.

Thank you to all who have supported the Crestwood Lions Club again this year in helping us raise funds for eyesight needs in the Crestwood community.  We could not do this without the help of the community.

John Evans, Publicity
Crestwood Lions Club

NEWS FROM ST. JOSEPH’S

RESPECT LIFE WALK On October 21st, PSR students, catechists, staff and families walked the perimeter of the parking lot, participated in small group instruction, played guessing games, glowed in the dark with their glow-necklaces and enjoyed snacks and water. The evening ended with an assembly awarding those from each class for the most laps and prizes for the guessing games. Everyone from PSR sends a huge Thank You to the leaders of the small group discussions, the staff and parents who helped to make this event a success.

So far, the Respect Life Walk has raised close to $1500.00 with donations still coming in. This money will be used for a donation to a Respect Life Organization, the Lenten Retreat in March, new textbooks, plus receptions and activity nights throughout the year. Appreciation goes to all the families who brought in donations for 4C’s, a card for someone in the hospital or homebound, and/or baby clothes.

Our prayer is that all of the experiences from this program will become part of our children’s life-long habits.

BIBLE STUDY

A Bible Study on the Gospel of Matthew will be offered on Monday mornings, with the start of Advent, from 10:00 to 11:30 am, and possibly Monday evenings, 6:30 to 8:00 pm. We will discuss the implications that Matthew’s account has for us today. You will come away from this better able to “take the word of God with you as you go” about your life. To register, please see or call Sr. Joyce (330-274-2253).

Kathi Trares, Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s of Mantua

SENIOR CITIZENS THANKSGIVING DINNER

The Knights of Columbus of Mantua, Council #3766, will be hosting their 27th Annual Senior Citizens’ Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, November 21st, at the K of C Hall on S. R. 44.

Doors will open at 12:30 pm with a short program beginning at 1:00 pm. All seniors are welcome, however, reservations are required for this free event.

Please call Cyndi Keefer at 330-274-2600 to make your reservations.

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, suggestions or criticisms, please let me know. Write to me c/o Village Hall, 4750 W. High St., Mantua Ohio 44255, Call me at 330-274-8737 , or email at mantuamatters@gmail.com.

If you belong to an organization or club, I will be happy to print any information on your meetings or upcoming events.

Bye for now, see you in February

Diane Hura, Editor