Dear Community Friends,
With some competing record hot temperatures already in the books, I want to offer some simple tips to avoid complications from excessive heat, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions:
- Please look out for each other by checking on family and friends, especially the elderly.
- Make sure that your prescriptions are up to date, you have adequate food and water in the house, and avoid going outside during undesirable temperatures.
- Talk to your physician about the prescriptions you are taking. Certain medications can increase the risk of heat related illnesses.
- Stay in the air conditioning. If you must venture into the heat, stay properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- If you lose power or electricity and are oxygen dependent, you can call 911 for help.
- Wear loose and light colored clothing, and wear a hat outside.
- Be extra cognizant of young children, the elderly and pets. Avoid high energy activities and working outdoors.
Our emergency personnel are always willing to assist you during your time in need, and are available 24 hours a day by dialing 911.
During the month of June, the Mantua Township Police Department (MTPD) handled 3,118 calls for service, made 90 arrests, issued 180 tickets, handled 207 investigation reports and investigated 38 motor vehicle crashes.
You may know Lt. Bill Donahue of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) and have seen him around the township with his trusted horse, Elvis. Elvis sadly passed away on Tuesday, July 2 at the age of 30. Elvis served the NJSP Mounted Unit for five years. He was known for his tranquil, steady and gentle demeanor and was used to train other NJSP mounts.
The township committee and I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to Lt. Donahue and his wife, Renee and family. Elvis resided at Donahue Stables here in Mantua and was a valued member of our community. He was always a favorite at community events.
On Sunday, July 7 the MTPD apprehended five suspects in Philadelphia after committing crimes in our community. The suspects committed numerous car burglaries to unlocked motor vehicles in both the Snowy Owl and Royal Oaks sections of the township. During the commission of these crimes, the perpetrators stole a resident’s car from Snowy Owl and fled to Philadelphia where they were arrested by Detective Sergeant Rob Layton and Detective Corporal Jeff Krieger. Great job MTPD!
On Monday, July 8 the township committee approved by resolutions the authorization of two grants. The first grant was for the MTPD for $1,960 to participate in the “Click It or Ticket” seatbelt enforcement campaign. The second grant was for the “Clean Communities” Program to receive $42,363.44. These grant funded programs save taxpayer dollars, and help to keep services in check.
On Tuesday, July 9 the township partnered with the American Red Cross for our annual blood drive at the administration building. Numerous people participated by rolling-up their sleeves to help save lives. I’d like to commend our team member, Leah Clemenson for organizing this event for the second straight year, and congratulate her on another successful campaign. I’d also like to thank all those residents and employees, etc. who donated.
The township committee and I would like to recognize resident Patty Woodworth who is also the owner of the Action Wheels Bicycle Shop on Route 45 in Wenonah. Patty was recently chosen for induction into the New Jersey BMX Hall of Fame. Congratulations Patty on this well-deserved honor.
Our heartfelt condolences are extended to long-time resident Daniel N. Smith Sr. who recently lost his wife, Therese (Terri) on June 21. Dan and Terri were high school sweethearts at Clearview and were married for 50 years. Dan is the owner of Smith’s Funeral Home. Please keep Dan and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Upcoming Township Meetings and Events:
- Thursday, July 11 Historical Commission Meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 1 at 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, July 16 at 5 p.m. is the next Municipal Utilities Authority Meeting
- Tuesday, July 16 at 7 p.m. is the next Land Use Board Meeting
- Thursday, July 18 at 7 p.m. is the next Fire District Meeting
- Saturday, July 20 is the next Convenience Center Drop-Off at our Public Works Facility between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Tuesday, July 23 at 6 p.m. is the next Senior Dinner at the Community Center.
On behalf of Deputy Mayor Pete Scirrotto and myself, and the entire Township Committee – we look forward to continuing our service with honesty, integrity and trustful leadership!
Respectfully,
Mayor Robert T. Zimmerman, MAS
