Chesterland News 8-16-2023

C H E ST E R L A N D N EWS

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Garage Fire Causes $600,000 in Damages

A garage fire in a Ferry Road home in Chester Township caused an estimated $600,000 in damages to the structure and its contents Aug. 2, according to a Chester Township Fire Rescue Facebook post.

Firefighters staffing a pumper and tanker responded to the home at 4:34 p.m. Upon arrival at 4:43 p.m., they were met with a significant amount of fire in the garage encroaching on the home. Crews deployed two hand lines to begin extinguishing the fire, the Facebook post stated.

Automatic aid from Munson and Russell township fire departments also was dispatched.

Mutual aid was also received from Mayfield Village, Kirtland, Chardon and Gates Mills with pumpers; Bainbridge and Auburn township fire departments with tankers, and Willoughby Hills Fire Department with a paramedic squad.

The homeowner and pets were all accounted for and uninjured, the post stated, and there were no injuries to firefighters.

The Geauga County Fire Investigation Unit is conducting the investigation at this time.

Former West Geauga SRO Accused of Sexual Battery

Case Transferred to Lake County Due to Potential Conflict of Interest

By amy patteRSon amy@kaRlovecmeDia com

Chester Township police officer Nicholas Iacampo, 29, of Painesville, was arraigned Aug. 7 in Chardon Municipal Court on a third-degree felony charge of sexual battery against a 16-year-old.

Iacampo was arrested Aug. 6 and taken to a Lake County jail overnight.

A press re lease from Ches ter Police Chief Craig Young said during the evening of Aug. 6, the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office received a report involving serious allegations against a Ches ter Township police officer.

“These allegations involved a teenage complainant while the officer was on duty,” Young said.

The sheriff’s office contacted Young’s department, triggering an immediate investigation. In collaboration with Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz, Young said the Chester Township Police Department requested assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a third-party investigation.

That investigation, conducted by a Lake County sheriff’s detective,

found Iacampo engaged in sexual conduct with a minor who at the time of the incident was 16 years of age.

“Futhermore, the accused admitted to the offense while speaking with detectives,” the detective stated in a complaint filed with the court.

The conduct took place while Iacampo was on duty as a police officer and is alleged to have occurred Aug. 6 in the parking lot of the Church of the Blessed Hope on Wilson Mills Road in Chester Township.

Iacampo, who is the son of Char-

West G Football Preview

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Obituaries

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Town Crier

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Police Blotter & Real Estate Transfers

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don Municipal Court Judge Terri Stupica, helped thwart a potential shooting April 3 at West Geauga High School, where he served as a School Resource Officer from January through June. He is being represented by attorney Ian Friedman and co-counsel Madlyn Grant, both of Friedman, Menashe, Nemecek & Long LLC.

“The facts of this case are just beginning to come in. We will review all claims and respond accordingly at the appropriate time,” they said in a

School Board, Bus Drivers Reach Agreement

By BRian DoeRing BRian@kaRlovecmeDia.com

West Geauga Schools agreed to pay bus drivers $4,055 in a settlement agreement Aug. 7 with the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Local 255 union.

Superintendent Richard Markwardt said there was no negotiating involved, the West Geauga Schools Board of Education simply made the situation right.

“The settlement reached with OAPSE is a fair resolution to the claim by a very small number of bus

drivers that they might have lost wages due to work that was given to another driver. In examining the claim, I agreed with the drivers and advised the board of education accordingly,” Markwardt said. “The board agreed to pay the drivers making the claim for the dollars they may have lost from the work that was assigned to another driver.”

In the winter of 2023, the district was in desperate need of an on-bus instructor to train new drivers during weekdays due to a bus driver shortage.

As a result, the district reas-

signed a food services worker on Feb. 6 who had OBI certification to perform the work because other potential candidates were either on leave or expressed disinterest in the OBI work.

On March 1, the union filed a class action grievance challenging the propriety of the district’s decision to assign the hours to a food services worker. The parties are currently tied to a collective bargaining agreement for the period of July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2024.

The union objected to the reassignment of duties and alleged the

district created a new position without following proper job posting procedures in the negotiated agreement.

“After discussions between representatives of the parties, the parties desired is to resolve the grievance,” the resolution read.

“To avoid the time and expense of continuing to litigate the grievance through arbitration and beyond, the parties now wish to memorialize their agreement relative to a resolution applicable to the disputed issues involved in the grievance.”

According to the settlement,

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Seeking Sales Rep

Karlovec Media Group is hiring commissioned account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the eastern part of the county and in the Amish community. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation.

All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must.

Submit resumes to editor@karlovecmedia.com

Staff RepoRt

AMY PATTERSON/KMG Chester Township police officer Nicholas Iacampo, right, is arraigned Aug. 7 in Chardon Municipal Court on a third-degree felony charge of sexual battery against a 16-year-old.

Obituaries

Robert Lane

Robert Lane, of Chester Township, passed away July 25, 2023, at 93 years of age.

The son of the late Walter Lane and Lucille Carlson, he was born in Cleveland, on Aug. 14, 1929.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Kaschalk Lane; and his siblings, Chuck, Ruth, Ray, Lucille, Gilbert, Roland, Donald, Jay and Jerry.

He is survived by his youngest siblings, Audrey and Bill.

Bob was a devoted father to Monica (Richard) Mahla and Juliann Thompson; and a cherished grandfather to Christine (Matt) Brinson, Katherine (Teal) Stellfox, Robert (Bonnie) Mahla, Cesira (Dan) Koning, Phillip (Ivy) Mahla, Clark (Kelly) DeCapite, Michael (Maggie) Mahla, Elizabeth (Chris) Johnson; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Bob was proud of his two tours of duty as a U.S. Marine and subsequent tour of duty in the U.S. Coast Guard.

He loved telling stories about his military experience, especially about being aboard the USS Mackinac and USCGC Mackinaw WAGB-83.

He formed countless friendships during his supermarket and merchandising careers. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.

With his wife Pat, he served as a volunteer adult advisor for the St. Anselm CYO for many years.

Friends are welcome to join the family at a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anselm Catholic Church located at 12969 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on Monday, Aug. 14, 2023, at 10 a.m.

Burial will follow at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Township.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s name to Rescue Village, 15463 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072, in honor of his love for animals, great and small.

Voters to See Additional 1.5-Mill Police Levy on Nov. 7 Ballot

By BRian DoeRing BRian@kaRlovecmeDia com

The Chester Township Police Department will be asking voters to support an additional five-year, 1.5-mill police levy on the Nov. 7 ballot.

Township Administrator Mark Purchase said the levy would help increase longevity and retain current department employees and staff.

“This tax levy would begin collection in 2024. We have a longstanding history of budgeting and being so tight,” said Purchase, formerly longtime police chief for Chester. “This is to continue and maintain the department as we move forward.”

The 1.5-mill additional levy, if passed, would generate an estimated $623,000 per year and would cost homeowners $53 per year per $100,000 property valuation, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.

“It is much needed to maintain (current staff levels),” Purchase said. “If it's not approved, we would reevaluate everything and come back before the voters and ask them to reconsider at the very next possible opportunity, which would be the spring of 2024.”

Chester Township Trustees approved putting the levy on the ballot Aug. 7, Purchase said, adding the Geauga County Prosecutor’s

Office has given tremendous guidance to the township in complying with the requirements of House Bill 140 regarding levy campaigning.

“The township has always typically maintained a good posture of making sure that we are not promoting levies when our personnel are on duty. You won't see on-duty personnel in any of our departments putting up signs or working on ads for the newspaper. It just doesn't happen,” Purchase said. “We've already tried to make sure that is a longstanding practice for the township. That we avoid that in every instance.”

Purchase said the police department has only had one levy fail and the community has historically been supportive.

“The community has always supported all of our departments very well, so we hope for that support to continue,” he said. “We hope that we can make sure we supply the information to the community as a whole so they are well educated on the budget of the police department.”

Purchase said the township wants to be as transparent as possible and make sure they have all the answers if the taxpayers and residents have questions.

“Stability, longevity and the retention of people are really what I'm looking forward to the most,” Purchase said.

Arts and Entertainment

Fairmount Art Exhibition

The 47th annual Fairmount Art Exhibition is free and open to the public, viewable now through Aug. 25. Nearly 400 works were entered – the largest number in recent history - and 141 were accepted by the three-person jury panel. The Best of Show winner was “Anticipation of a Moment” by Joe Stavec in the watercolor category. A community closing reception and awards presentation will be held on Aug. 26 from 6-8 p.m. at Fairmount Center for the Arts in Russell Township. Viewing hours for the exhibition can be found at fair-

Federico Qualifies for Nationals

mountcenter.org or by calling 440-338-3171.

New this year are a variety of complementary programs to the exhibition, including Fridays at Fairmount, a happy hour event with live music and gallery viewing on Aug. 18 from 4-6 p.m. There will also be an ekphrastic poetry workshop with poets Barbara Sabol and Marion Starling Boyer on Aug. 19. Registration is required.

Fairmount Center for the Arts offers a variety of programs year-round, engaging toddlers through seniors in dance, theater, music and visual arts classes and activities. Registration is currently open for fall classes.

Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals

8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5 Chesterland, Ohio 44026

Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor

Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter

Brian Doering, Staff Reporter

Amy Patterson, Staff Reporter

Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Deadlines

Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design Emma McGuire, Paginator Regina Swinerton, Classifieds

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Circulation

• The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in the communities of Chester Township and parts of Russell Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

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Help Support the Chesterland News and Local Journalism

The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and essential in protecting the vibrant community in which we live.

The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply affect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage.

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subscription. If you value strong community journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500.

For any donation of $40 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation:

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SUBMITTED

Ryan Federico, a West Geauga 5th grader, traveled to Utah for the USA Wrestling Freestyle and Greco Youth Nationals. Federico qualified for nationals at the Regional tournament in Indiana. He brings home two 3rd place national medals in freestyle and Greco.

The Geauga County Department on Aging is in need of Home Delivered Meal drivers in Chester Township. The meal routes start at the West Geauga Senior Center, 8090 Cedar Road, Chester Township. The Home Delivered Meal program delivers warm, nutritious lunches between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, to homebound senior citizens in the community. The department on aging is looking for area agencies, organizations, church and individuals 18 years old or older, with a valid driver’s license, who are interested in volunteering for this program. Training includes filing department on aging Home Delivered Meal volunteer paperwork and a short orientation about the program. Volunteers can deliver meals on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or as needed/substitute basis. To sign up or for any questions, please contact Nathan Gorton at 440-279-2138 or email at NGorton@co.geauga.oh.us.

To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper

As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s financially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News.

Jeff and John Karlovec

Outreach Spaghetti Dinner

Aug. 17, 6-7 p.m.

Christ Presbyterian Church offers free drive-thru spaghetti and meatball dinners the third Thursday of each month. Salad and dessert are included. The church is located at 12419 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.

Young of Heart

Aug. 18, 11:30 a.m.

Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Snacks and beverage are provided. Ron Papaleo will entertain with his vocals and keyboard.

A Crystal Clear day trip to Tiffin is planned for Aug. 30. The group will visit Hawks Crystal Glass, the Glass Museum, the Ritz Theater and Pioneer Mill for lunch. For trip information, call Kimber at 440-6683293.

Twilight Soiree

Aug. 18, 5:30-9 p.m.

Tickets are on sale for Foundation for Geauga Parks’ Twilight Soiree at Meadow Ridge Events, 17305 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg Township.

The event features a catered dinner, beverages, live music, and live and silent auctions featuring unique and nature themed experiences.

Proceeds benefit the Foundation’s support of land conservation, park improvements

Town Crier

and nature education in Geauga County. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 440-564-1048 or visit www.foundationforgeaugaparks.org.

Flea Market on the Greens

Aug. 19, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Chesterland Historical Village will host its annual Flea Market On The Village Green featuring treasures galore, flowers, music and food booths.

Join in a great time of treasure hunting. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children. The village is located on the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township.

Free Fresh Produce

Aug. 19, 9-11 a.m.

Newbury Community Church is hosting a fresh produce giveaway at 14916 Auburn Road. Cleveland FoodBank provides the service to low income Geauga County residents the third Saturday of each month through October.

Please bring ID and bags.

Geauga Dems Steak Roast

Aug. 20, 4 p.m.

Geauga Democratic Party is hosting a steak roast at the Metzenbaum Center, 8200 Cedar Road, Chester Township. Speaker is David Brock, Cuyahoga County Democratic Party chairperson. Visit geaugadems.com to RSVP.

Lions Club Meeting

Aug. 22, 7-8 p.m.

Chesterland Lions Club holds meetings the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at the Lions Shed located on the east side of the West Geauga Board of Education building.

The club welcomes new members.

Geauga PERI Meets

Aug. 23, 11 a.m.

The Geauga County Public Employee Retirees, Inc. (PERI) No. 86 will meet at St. Mary’s Banquet Hall in Chardon. Guest speaker is Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand. Lunch is at noon.

Call 440-226-4491 to RSVP by Aug. 18.

Kiwanis Summer Concert Series

Aug. 23, 7-9 p.m.

The Kiwanis Club of West Geauga concludes its summer concert series at the Chester Township Park gazebo with the Great Geauga County Fair Band.

Visit www.wgkiwanis.org to view the summer concert schedule.

Rockin’ with Resources

Aug. 24, 4-7 p.m.

The community connection event on Chardon Square includes music, food, giveaways and kids activities.

Join for the New Leaf Program graduation and resource fair featuring more than 30 local community organizations.

Food Pantry Open

Aug. 25, 10 a.m. to noon

The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend.

Chester Christian Center is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township

Free Community Dinner

Aug. 25, 5-6:30 p.m.

Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting a free community dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available.

Free Pickleball Lessons

Aug. 26 and 27

The West Geauga Pickleball Club will hold free pickleball lessons at the Chester Township parking lot on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.

All ages are welcome; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Pickleball paddles and balls will be provided. Join and learn how to play

West G Unity Day

Aug. 27, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The West Geauga Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Chester Township Police Chief Craig Young and West Geauga Schools, is hosting West Geauga Unity Day at West Geauga High School. The event highlighting local companies and organizations in and around the Chester, Newbury and Russell township area will feature games, live music, food trucks, inflatables, touch a truck, vendors and more. Sponsorship and vendor space opportunities are available. Visit wgchamber.com for information.

Vendor Space Available

Sept. 7-9

St. Mark Lutheran Church Women’s League hosts its annual This and That garage and estate sale at the church located at 11900 Chillicothe in Chester Township. Hours are Thursday, 5-8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon.

Dealer and vendor booth space is available at $25. To reserve an 8-foot space, email mail@stmarkchester.org or call Edie at 440667-5996.

Letters to the Editor

Thank You Parkside Perennial Gardens

The Chester Township Park District Commissioners wishes to thank The Perennial Gardeners for your generous time and expertise to Parkside Park.

The beauty and enjoyment that this park brings to Chester Township is a highly visible statement of our community’s passion and commitment to both residents and visitors alike. The Park is not only a very highly used park for both activities and events year around, but also for the beau-

ty and identity that is brings to our community’s most prominent location.

The Perennial Garden provides the introduction to Parkside Park and to Chester Township in the highest professional quality of design and completion.

Should you have any questions/comments/suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact any of the grateful Park Commissioners.

Thank you again.

Sincerely,

Albert H. Parker II, 2023 Chairman Chester Township Park District

advising any investigatory agencies; prose cuting any proceedings in the common pleas court; and handling any appeals,” Paschke said.

The complaint against Iacampo cites a violation of Ohio Revised Code section 2907.03, which states, in part, that no person shall engage in sexual conduct with another if “the other person is a minor, the offender is a peace officer and the offender is more than two years older than the other person.”

The arraignment was interrupted by a roughly hour-long recess during which court staff and Friedman contacted a prosecuting attorney to represent the state’s prosecution and speak on behalf of the victim.

Under Marsy’s Law for Ohio, victims must be given the right to be present at court proceedings and provide input to a prosecutor before a plea deal is struck, as well as the right to be heard at plea or sentence proceedings, or any process that may grant an offender’s release.

After the recess, Bosco appeared via speakerphone to discuss the terms of Iacampo’s bond.

“My recommendation, your honor, is $50,000 at 10% (surety) with all of the standard conditions that this court imposes on a bond, including no contact with the alleged victim,” Bosco said.

Friedman did not object.

“I appreciate the recommendation. I think it takes into account my client’s residence here, lack of prior criminal history of any sort and his roots,” he said.

Friedman said Iacampo’s wife, who was in the courtroom along with his brother, confirmed he would be maintaining his residence at his home in Painesville, where he lives

with her and her 19-year-old sister.

“Based upon that, (with) the allegations in the case, I do think $50,000 (and) 10% is a fair recommendation,” he said, and Wiest set bond accordingly.

Friedman also asked if a psychological screening required by the court could be performed by an agency other than the local mental health agencies listed in the court’s standard bond conditions. He specified Advanced Psychotherapy Systems in Mentor, which Grant said is state-certified for court-ordered risk assessments.

“The reason being, in our experience, some of the questioning that’s done on the risk assessment of the places named get into the merits of the case and this becomes a problem from time to time,” he said.

Iacampo posted his bond and Friedman said after being processed in Lake County, he would be free to return home that evening.

AMY PATTERSON/ KMG Attorney Madlyn Grant, left, and Nicholas Iacampo appear Aug. 7 in Chardon Municipal Court.

Police Blotter

CITIZEN DISPUTE

Aug. 3

6 p.m., Sperry Road. Package was delivered to the neighbor two days ago and they are refusing to give it back. Caller has proof it was delivered to the neighbor’s house. He has attempted to make contact with them and they are not answering. Officer on scene. Package was returned with no issue. No items missing or opened. Caller stated he thinks it was an honest mistake.

SMOKE IN STRUCTURE

July 29

4:14 a.m., Wellswood Trail. Water tank caught on fire. Male extinguished fie but it is still smoking. Wife and two pets in the home. They are evacuating. No injuries. Fire was put out before arrival of FD. No further police assistance required.

SUSPICIOUS

Aug. 8

10:09 p.m., Rockhaven Road. There is a

bicycle in the front yard and a man lying under a blanket. Contact was made with male from Wyoming who is passing through on his way to Boston. He was advised he cannot sleep on the side of the road on people’s property. Male packed his sleeping bag up and continued on his journey.

THEFT

Aug. 8

10:35 a.m., Carmichael Drive. IR requested by officer. See report for a family member who allegedly stole a firearm from her father.

TRAFFIC OFFENSE

July 28

10:54 a.m., Mayfield Road. Caller states the truck is all over the road. Caller reporting the truck is going over the yellow line. Vehicle was located and stopped. Driver said he had a sneezing fit of 7-10 sneezes and that’s why he may have swerved a bit. No signs of impairment or medical distress.

Bus from page 1

the district’s payment was calculated by multiplying the number of hours worked for the OBI training during the disputed period by an agreed upon rate of pay.

“The board is giving the disputed dollars to the union for distribution to the claimants. There are no next steps,” Markwardt said.

In other business, school board members also accepted the resignation of High School Assistant Principal Victor Puskas effective July 31.

“Mr. Puskas is only 33 years old — he’s way too young to retire — he resigned to accept the lead principal position at Kirtland High School,” Markwardt said. “Basically, he accepted a promotion.”

In an email dated July 26 to West Geauga parents, Puskas explained the reason for his departure from the school district.

“Please know that I was not searching for a new job and was looking forward to starting

my third year as your high school assistant principal. This opportunity in Kirtland was presented to me and I simply could not pass it up,” Puskas said.

He said leaving West Geauga is difficult because he adored the people he worked with, enjoyed mentoring its students and felt great fulfillment in serving the community.

“I am thankful to the board of education, Dr. Markwardt and the rest of the administrative team for awarding me my first administrative job, as well as supporting me as I take this next step in my career,” Puskas said. “Finally, I’d like to thank all of you for your support these past two years and wish you and your children nothing but the best going forward. I hope I had a positive impact on your child in some way. Perhaps our paths will cross again.”

A resolution to appoint Julie Moeschberger to the position of high school assistant principal at a salary of $90,500 for the 2023 through 2025 school years was also approved by school board members.

Community Meetings

Chester Township: Aug. 16, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Aug. 24, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: Aug. 17, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

West Geauga BOE: Aug. 21, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

Real Estate Transfers

James W. Hart (trustee), 12951 Lynn Drive, to Quail Creek Renovations LLC, $110,000. (1.00 acres)

Our Porch LLC, 12589 Ward Drive, to Rosario Ceraolo Jr., $207,000. (0.49 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Susan M. and Mary P. Beck, 12817 Westchester Trail, to Susan M. Beck, $113,500. (2.81 acres)

Lois J. Maxim, 8365 Lincoln Drive, to Stanley T. Kublin, $145,000. (1.02 acres)

Paul E. and Diana C. Adam, 8479 Wilson Mills Road, to Christina L. and Thomas J. Fazekas, $250,000. (2.57 acres)

M & N Real Estate LLC, Chillicothe Road, to Amanda and Matthew Bromelmeier, $291,000. (3.13 acres)

Susan M. Beck, 12817 Westchester Trail, to Mateja and Robert Fiorille, $367,000. (2.81 acres)

Richard and Matthew Rybka, 9287 Sherman Road, to Peter J. and Judith A. Garncarek, $399,000. (3.16 acres)

Mary Ann Moczulski, 8421 Wilson Mills Road, to Kathleen Basta and Jeremy Grassel, $335,000. (4.57 acres)

Anthony and Margaret Pinzone, 8089 Sherman Road, to MAAS Properties LLC, $89,450. (1.00 acres)

DRP Homes LLC, 12482 Harold Drive, to Andrea Pollock, $400,000. (1.00 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Regena M. Davis, 7632 Birchmont Drive, to Rasmus Boje Nielsen and Averi M. Sauder, $231,000. (0.47 acres)

Dale A. and Mary C. Balkovec, 14688 Shire Court, to Andrea Kaye Emch and Donald J. Griffeth, $600,000. (3.00 acres)

Irena Bartosiewicz, Hazelwood Drive, to Barbara Leehan, $335,000. (0.19 acres)

Holly and Terrance Foessett, Cypress Pond Lane (s/l 3), to Anthony and Lisa Dobbert, $275,000. (5.00 acres)

Kelly Stanek, 15725 Harmony Falls Lane, to Mark Kusner (trustee), $1,265,000. (3.29 acres)

Cicirello Celebrate Diamond Anniversary

Longtime Chester Township residents Sal and Helen Cicirello celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary on Aug. 1,2023, at a dinner with family members at Bass Lake Inn.

Putting down roots in Chesterland in 1950, Sal and Helen raised their four daughters — Nancy, Barbara, Joanne and Helen — in the home where they still live.

In his younger years, Sal (now 98) was active in the community through Kiwanis, Chester Township Board of Zoning Appeals and as a West Geauga Schools Board of Education member.

Helen (99 1/2) volunteered as a nurse at the county fair, at bloodmobiles and for the West Geauga High School marching band, as a Campfire Girls group leader and as a docent at Holden Arboretum.

They also served on the West Geauga

change students.

They are members of St. Christopher’s by the River Episcopal Church in Gates Mills.

Community Building Preliminary Plan Approved

By ann WiShaRt ann@kaRlovecmeDia com

Russell Township Trustees found the balance between functional, attractive and affordable when discussing the new community building Aug. 4.

They met with project manager David Roose and Greg Strollo, principal of Strollo Architects, to review changes to the plans for the structure. Fiscal Officer Karen Walder joined the meeting virtually.

“The floor plan is not too different from before,” said Roose, referring to the June 8 meeting when trustees learned their $500,000 project budget would be insufficient for the building they originally planned.

Friday, Roose presented a plan that enlarged the vestibule, downsized and raised windows, and showed a straight run roof and a portico leading to the entrance — changes trustees proposed at the earlier meeting.

“It couldn’t be a lot more simple,” Strollo said. “The construction makes it easy for lots of people to bid.”

They discussed siding options and noted

shingles on the roof will be more economical than steel.

“I know budget is a huge concern,” Roose said, suggesting white vinyl siding with accent colors for the window frames.

The building is planned for the south end of the parking lot of the administration building on Kinsman Road.

After about an hour of discussion, Trustee Matt Rambo said, “I like it. I’m happy with what we’ve got on paper now.”

Trustees Jim Mueller and Kristina Port concurred.

Roose said once the surveyor provides the location of the utilities, he can determine exactly where the building will set.

For several years, trustees debated building a storage garage for police and fire departments behind the police station, but the cost of materials skyrocketed during the pandemic and the lowest bid was more than $700,000 for the project in 2021.

The shared storage project idea was abandoned and trustees started planning a community building earlier this year. The meeting room will seat about 50.

Trustees requested on the plans for a community building during a special meeting Aug. 4.

By ann WiShaRt ann@kaRlovecmeDia com

Bradford “B” Kinney is a self-described wine geek who collects typewriters and enjoys the occasional pun.

So, when he bought Colonial Wine and Beverage in Chester Township earlier this year, he combined all three in its new name: vino_type.

“It’s a multi-layered pun. I love typewriters and writing about wine tasting,” he said. “I put typewriters around the store.”

Some of his customers share fond — or maybe not so fond — memories of typing term papers on the antique models while other, younger customers are often fascinated by the archaic machines. Kinney said the typewriters add a different twist to his establishment and open up conversations about wine.

“I dig into talking about what they are drinking,” he said.

Kinney’s experience is in retail activity and creating an environment where people are comfortable.

Although he owns a wine store, he said his contribution to the operation is managerial design, so he hired Ken Bement as his curator of wine and a couple of salespeople as hostesses for his “bar nights.”

Those events start around 6 p.m. Fridays and include music or entertainment, as well

as a charcuterie of meat, cheese, berries and nuts, Kinney said.

“I think wine is due for a resurgence in popularity,” he said when asked why he invested in 4,000 bottles of wine from far and wide. “Wine is as old as civilization and it’s beautiful.”

Kinney said he was exposed to fine wines as a youth growing up in Hudson.

“My parents have been lovers of wine and entertainers,” he said.

So, he hired on at Colonial Wine and Beverage last summer and dove into the culture.

“I’m fascinated by wine,” he said. “Wine is the intersection of a ton of things — geography, agriculture, history — all those things come together.”

When the opportunity to buy the store arose this year, Kinney jumped on it and reopened in February under the new name, pleased that area wine lovers continued to flock through the doors.

“We inherited a community that already loves this shop. It’s inviting and accessible,” he said.

He and Bement choose wines that are in demand by their local customers and some uncommon brands that will titillate palates.

“We move a lot of Italian wines. Italian wine is pretty different from wines in the rest of the world,” Kinney said, adding the Italian style of winemaking is responsible for that.

“I’m really excited to be able to bring these in,” he said.

Much of his wine is imported from Europe, but South Africa has a growing wine culture.

“We have a lovely light, sweet wine from Africa. They are doing creative things,” he said.

Kinney admires the wine-making process as much as the product itself, hence the similarity between vino_type and phenotype, which is defined as a set of observable features of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genetics with its environment.

“When people say wine is alive, they’re not speaking metaphorically,” he said. “Lots of complicated things happen, so we get to have these simply wonderful things in bottles.”

West Geauga 2023 Football Preview

More Bite for Wolverines This Year in 2nd of Rebuild

By Rich kelly SpoRtS@kaRlovecmeDia com

Head Coach Matt Rosati built a solid program for the West Geauga Wolverines before stepping into Lake County to guide the Perry Pirates program.

When he returned to West G last year, injuries and youth played a large role in the team’s limp to a 2-8 season.

Taking lumps along the way, however, has built a new outlook under Rosati for new players, and expectations this year follow a typical Rosati direction: Stay positive, support each other every play of every game and practice, and be responsible for your own actions.

“There really hasn’t been much change in the community here over the last 17 years,” Rosati said after a recent practice. “People came together then to support the kids and our staff, and it’s still that way today.”

Sixteen seasons with Perry saw quality athletes come and go, and that is also the case for Rosati in Chesterland once again. An important part of the process is getting to know new faces.

“It took a lot of time to get to know so many kids last year, to know them and for them to get to know me,” Rosati said. “Now they have a full season with our system, and a full off-season as well, to prepare themselves for what lies ahead this year.

“Last year we had to put a freshman quarterback into the mix early when Travis Veleba had problems. Ben Keenan stepped up as a freshman and learned a lot. Now, in a very important position for any team, at this stage, he may be one of the best pure passers I’ve ever coached, and that’s a good place to start.”

The trenches usually play a big role for a football team, and that figures to be one of the better places to assess the Wolverines, too.

“Our defensive line has the most experience for us this year,” Rosati said. “We have some good athletes, but they may have the most overall talent. Junior Shawn Leonard and senior Niko Kless are cousins, and they will give us a solid spot in the middle to set things up for the other kids on defense.”

Seniors C.J. Baker at strong safety and Paul Flowers will help force the action to the ball behind those linemen.

As Keenan has grown in both stature and confidence since his baptism-by-fire last year, a solid band of linemen in front of him will

2023 Schedule

Aug. 18 Chardon

Aug. 25 Kenston

Sept. 1 @Aurora

Sept. 8 Madison

Sept. 15 @Lakeside

Sept. 22 @Hawken

Sept. 29 Chagrin Falls*

Oct. 6 @Lutheran West

Oct. 13 Perry

Oct. 20 @Orange

*Homecoming

All games start at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

play a big part of West G’s successes this year.

Seniors Brody Gruber at right guard and Elijah Milnar at left guard bring speed and power to the running game, inside and out side. Positivity flowed from all players inter viewed for this article.

“We learned a lot last year, both about each other and about ourselves,” Gruber said. “I think we may be more bought-into what Coach Rosati is teaching us now than we were. I think everybody just cares more. We don’t like to lose, and at times last year, we may have hung our heads too much.”

Milnar agreed, with emphasis.

“I think we have a lot of talent on this team, and great skill sets,” he added. “We’re more up-tempo now in what we’re doing, and our seniors as a group are more focused on things as well.”

Senior David Piekarski will be a big part of the offensive line, mostly taking his turns along the games to give teammates a break.

“I haven’t really earned a starting spot yet,” he said. “At the same time, going be tween several positions, I think we’re going to be a lot better this year. We’re getting the same focus and direction as the team had the year before last when we went 7-4 and had a playoff game. That’s what we want again now, and at times last year, we didn’t have that fo cus to succeed.”

Senior Andrew Marino will be a wide re ceiver on offense.

“One of the big things this season for we seniors is to leave behind a legacy of hard work and total team togetherness,” Marino said. “That will be important, but we have the talent to pull it off.”

After a recent practice, as his players ran

Matt Rosati

Players to Watch

Team Profile

Nickname: Wolverines

Colors: Blue & White

Home: Howell Stadium

Conference: Chagrin Valley Conference (Chagrin)

OHSAA: Div. III, Region 9

Playoff History: 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2020, 2021 (3-10)

OHSAA Adj. Enrollment: 288

2022 season: 2-8

Coaches: Jerry DiPofi, Ryan Kleve, Rodney Leonard, Bob Leppla, Aaron Perusek (def. coordinator), Wes Rogge, Eric Stendalen, Kevin Sonnie (off. coordinator), Brad Kidwell, Brad Thompson

Trainer: Samantha Adkins

Roster: : 63 total (13 seniors, 11 juniors, 23 sophomores, 16 freshmen)

Pay to play fee: $195

Follow the Team: @WestGAthletics

Cheerleaders: Maritza Maksoudian (captain), Marisa Vecchio (captain), Audriana Linek, Jenna Spisak, Elena Rodriguez-Pata, Ava Popovich, Jenna Mazzurco, Brynn Vura, Krista Mirabile

gassers that had everybody pushing hard into tough conditions, a few words may have been said among players. Rosati quickly put a stop to it to emphasize building the team first.

“Guys, enough of internal bickering or complaining,” he said clearly and loudly. “You

can only take care of what YOU are doing each play or moment in life. Mind your own business, encourage each other all the time, and keep the team atmosphere in front of you as you move along. That’s how you build a

FOR RENT

Burton Ranch Home: 2/BR, 2/Bath, AC, laundry, 2-car attached garage. Less than a mile from Burton square. Private Patio, Vaulted Ceilings. Wonderful private setting surrounded by hundreds of acres of conservation land. No pets/smoking. $1,550/month. Includes snow plowing, lawn, trash. Senior discount. 440-221-0649.

FOR SALE

Firewood: seasoned red maple. Average length 18”. Free delivery within 10 miles of Heath Rd & 322. 4’x8’x18” $100. 440-687-5404.

Drive Spitfire 4-wheel power scooter. Can be disassembled for transportation. Asking $800. 440-286-4772.

Daylilies: over 450 varieties, $8 to $10 per large clump. Call 440-543-9303 or 440-570-1377.

NEW Panasonic cordless phone, still in box, 2 additional handsets, can expand. White w/blue trim. 440-2239471. Also Wanted: Level/Transit.

Antique clocks, many. Oak crank wall-phone $369. Humpback chest $79. Wooden rocking horse $79. Kids spring rocking horse $49. 440-338-3563.

Mini horse harness, GC $350. 2 hickory rockers $85/ each. 2 big roasting pans $7/each. Cedar chest, mint condition $95. 440-313-1804.

FREE CROSS-STITCH pattern books (40+) with purchase of floss (290+), Aida cloth, frames. $235. Must see. Call or text 216-403-2312.

For Sale: Graco Magnum DX Electric Paint Sprayer. Like new, $275. New screens 49”x81” FREE. 440-5482657.

ANTIQUES: Humpback chest, pitcher &bowls, copper kettle, clocks, sewing cabinet, wood rocking horse, wood crank wall phone, wood rockers. 440-338-3563. His & Hers Golf Clubs: bag cart included, clean. $75 each. Great Deal! 440-632-0060, leave message.

Vintage China tea cups $5, 2X Tees $1, Vintage AMF Firefighter truck, Tonka, Hot Wheels, others. Call 440354-8155 after 10am.

Beautiful handcrafted Amish queen sized bed frame. Must see! Includes two nightstands, $350. Nordic Track treadmill, $300. Call 440-214-2646.

Beautiful rhubarb for sale, large bunch $5, Near Troy/ Burton. 440-834-1177.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

11867 Hervie Drive: Aug 18, 8a-5p; Aug 19, 8a-3p. Night stands, TV Trays, Clothing, Vintage Collectibles, File Cabinet, Vintage Clocks, Lamps, NIB Lighting. Assorted Day Lillies and much more!

Tent Sale still going on at 9575 Mulberry with additional items being added daily from attic, barn, and former collectibles shop. Nothing is priced-just pay what you want and Take It Away! Open daily.

Sales: Many miscellaneous items! Thurs. Fri. Sat. 10a-4p. 9098 Rt. 608 Old State Rd., Chardon. Rain or Shine.

Aug 17-20, 10a-6p, 8883 Fairmount Rd, Novelty. 4 generations. Vintage antiques, uniques, tools, bikes, canoe, pedestal sink, folding beds, Marti-Gras costume, rocking chairs, oak ice-box doors, file cabinets, cranberry lamp, construction extras. Much, much more, 4 tents and garage full!!

Multi-family sale: Aug 18-19, 9a-3p, 7516 Devon Lane, Chesterland. Collectables, rugs, tools, desk, lamps, households, gardening, clothing, books, holiday décor.

HELP WANTED

Caregiver Needed: around the clock or split shifts, in Chesterland. Able to operate Hoyer. References required. Wages, R&B. 440-339-0519.

PETS & ANIMALS

MS Kennels on the Farm, LLC offers in-home pet care. Call 440-636-2421.

Purebred Beagle puppies: great with children, shots and dewormed; $75/each. Dutch Rabbits: $5/each. Bantam Hens: $5/each. Bantam Roosters: free. 440321-8251.

English Mastiff puppies. Born 6/16/23. Ready approx. 8/15/23. Beautiful markings. Parents on premises. $1,400. Call Gerri 440-474-2142.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE fact: 10,000 in U.S. died of a drug overdose last year!!! Many started with marijuana.

REAL ESTATE

LOT FOR SALE: .34 acre lot, Bainbridge, Lake Lucerne amenities! Gas, electric, sanitary sewer & well-water all available. $99.9k. 440-596-2608.

Lot for sale. Thompson Township. Buildable. 1 acre. Wooded, scenic, quiet side street $15,900. 440-2890708.

RENTAL WANTED

Want to rent: modest home with extra storage space, minimum 2-car garage. I will repair if it needs work. 440-687-5404.

SERVICES

Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.

Revision Construction LLC doing Home Improvement Repairs, Replacement Windows, and General Construction. Call Steven at 440-321-5771.

Grand Valley Tree Service offering complete tree removal, trimming, cleanup and lot clearing. Free Estimates. Fully Insured. 440-307-0996.

WANTED TO BUY

4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.

Will pay cash for sports cards & collectibles. Entire collections or individual cards. Organized or unorganized. Call or text Rich at 440-552-0691.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.