The theme of National Preparedness Month is "Don't Wait. Communicate. Make your emergency plan today." Each week in September focuses on different emergencies.

The national day of action, National PrepareAthon! Day, culminates National Preparedness Month on September 30. Visit the website to learn how you can make an emergency plan for each kind of emergency, including tornadoes and winter storms which are common emergencies here in Northeast Ohio.

Leaf Pickup Starts the End

of October

The annual Leaf Collection Program is conducted during a six-week period beginning on October 26, 2015. The community has been divided into quadrants (northeast, southeast, northwest, and southwest) to coordinate a timely and efficient City-wide program. Each quadrant will receive leaf pickup services three times during the six-week period. The map depicting the quadrants is available here.

Remember, residents are required to rake their leaves to the edge of the street prior to the scheduled pickup date. The leaves must be placed no later than 7 a.m. on the Monday of the scheduled pickup week. The leaves will be picked up between Monday and Sunday of the scheduled week. Please visit the leaf collection page for specific instructions and information.

Green on the Green

Walk, run, or ride your bike to this year's Green on the Green Saturday, September 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Exhibitors from around the region will offer information on tree planting, recycling tips, composting, rain barrels, energy efficiency in homes and organic landscaping.

Register for the Rain Barrel Workshop

Join us for the Rain Barrel

Workshop, part of Green on the Green, on Saturday, September 26 at 10 a.m at the Gazebo Green. Participants will learn how to use a rain barrel and how it is a great way to conserve water. The cost is $35 and includes a rain barrel with an overflow connection. To register, contact Sonya at smottram@hudson.oh.us or call 330-342-1750. Registration and payment are required by September 15. Space is limited.

Rain Barrel Raffle

Win a rain barrel painted by local artists September 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Green on the Green. Each colorful and unique rain barrel will feature a different scene with an important environmental message. Tickets are $1.00 each and will be sold at the event. The drawing is at noon. The two rain barrels were painted by Hudson Middle School students and clear coated by Hudson Collision. Thank you for your contributions!

Watch Out for Deer

The days are becoming shorter as we move into the fall and winter seasons, and deer become more active during this time of year, especially around dawn and dusk. Be cautious and safe while driving to and from work, and always be on the lookout for deer and other animals.

Halloween Trick or Treating Dates

Hudson's official date for trick or treating is on Halloween, Saturday, October 31 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Merchants of Hudson Trick or Treat is October 29 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the downtown storefronts.

Ward 3 Open Forum

Councilman Alex Keleman will host a Ward 3 open forum at Barlow Community Center Monday, September 28 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Ward 3 residents are encouraged to attend and discuss any questions or concerns they may have. Unsure which ward you live in? Check out the map here.