Mantua Twp. – In days fraught with divison and derision, one group is making an effort to build community by throwing a summer celebration. The free, community-focused event is funded through a grant, with the same goal in mind.
According to Carole Pollard from the Mantua Restoration Society (MaRSI), the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) has made grants available to local municipalities for several years. In previous years, grants were available to help fund energy saving projects within communities. In the past, Mantua Township has used those funds toward replacement window at the Township Hall. This year’s grants, titled ‘Powering Our Communities’, have been focused on local events that foster a sense of community. While other communities have used funds to help finance local food festivals, Mantua Township will be hosting a free summer celebration on Saturday, July 28th.
Pollard shared, “Trustee Jason Carlton passed the grant information along to us at MaRSI, since the township was not permitted to apply for the grant directly. He thought a community event was a nice idea and encouraged us to apply.”
“We’re happy to receive this grant,” she continued. She went on to explain that the event will celebrate the completion of the building’s bell tower restoration project as well as the much-anticipated completion of the elevator that makes the township’s historic schoolhouse accessible to those of all abilities. Pollard noted that the elevator itself is installed, however, the elevator’s fire recall system will soon be completed.
Pollard noted that the bell tower project was begun by Cal Brant, who had inspected the tower to access the repair needs, then wrapped it in plastic as protection from the elements. Unfortunately, Brant passed away before the restoration project would be completed. Eric Hummel from the Hummel Construction Company completed the project on behalf of the township.
In gratitude to the Brant family, Nora Brant will be the first to ring the bell to signify the start of the day’s celebration at noon. The free, family-friendly event will also feature a variety of activities for children, including face painting, balloon animals, and outdoor games (weather permitting).
Indoors, at 12:15 pm, DJ Chuck will host karaoke for any aspiring vocalists. Afterwards at 1:45 pm, Get Hep Swing from Lakewood will offer instruction to those wishing to learn how to swing dance. At 3:30 pm, dancers from the Walnut Hill Cloggers in Garrettsville will perform. The Mantua-Shalersville Fire Department will be also bringing some vehicles so that kids of all ages can get a closer look. It will be a fun-filled event for the whole family that you won’t want to miss.
Pizza will be provided by Italian Garden in Mantua; pop, soft drinks, and coffee will be provided, as well as a cake to make the celebration complete. The event will take place from noon until 5 pm at the Mantua Center School Building (11741 Mantua Center Road). The event is made possible by a grant from NOPEC.
