Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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CHESTERLAND NEWS Friends of the Library to Become GCPL Foundation and Partners By Kathy McClure editor@geaugamapleleaf.com Geauga County Public Library and its foundation have been busy. They’ve completed renovations of the Middlefield Branch, are opening the newly-constructed Thompson Branch Oct. 29 and are due to complete the brand new Bainbridge Branch before year’s end. But that’s not all GCPL has in the works. In keeping with its long-range plan of integrating the library system to better serve every corner of the county, the former Friends of the Library groups are being asked to form a new service arm called “Geauga County Library Foundation and Partners,” said the Geauga County Library Foundation Executive Director Rebecca Gierman. The Friends of the Library See Foundation • Page 4
Friends Groups Push Back By Kathy McClure editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
SUBMITTED
Annual GCLF Mini Golf in the Library event at the Geauga West Library. The library is turned into an 18-hole mini golf course for families to play for a $5 donation. Watch for it in the spring.
While some people are excited for the Geauga County Library Foundation’s consolidation of individual Friends of the Library groups, others are dismayed — believing they were kept in the dark and disrespected in the process. The plan to create a unified fundraising arm for the Geauga County Public Library called the Geauga County Library See Friends • Page 5
Great Clips Opens New Store By Cassandra Shofar cassandra@geaugamapleleaf.com
SUBMITTED
Samantha Ward, a stylist at the new Great Clips in Chester Township, recently gives the salon’s first customer, Dennis Nagel, a haircut.
Great Clips has risen to the challenges of 2019, recently opening a new salon in Chester Township and providing its customers with as much comfort as possible, said owner Mark Wardeiner. “With COVID-19, we have had the increased challenge of having customers trust in us that we have gone beyond the recommendations for reducing the risk of COVID-19 exposure,” Wardeiner said. “We clean the chairs and disinfect the stations between each customer. Each customer receives a freshly-washed cape, as well. This is all
in addition to what the state cosmetology and barber board mandates.” Great Clips, 12662 West Geauga Plaza, opened for business in October and is excited to be a part of the Chester community, Wardeiner said. “Chester Township has that rural feel with good family values and residents that are extremely loyal to local businesses,” he said. “Although Great Clips is a corporation, they are still individually run by local business people.” Wardeiner said all the “fantastic business owners” in the West Geauga Plaza made it an easy decision to set up shop there. “I was able to meet with the
owner of Palma’s Hair Salon and develop strategies to allow our businesses to complement each other,” he said. “The owners of Prestige Jewels, Turney’s Hardware and the Silver Skillet have also been extremely helpful with advice and willingness to cross promote our business. And, most importantly, the landlords, Tom and Ron Basista, have gone above and beyond to help us get off to the best start possible.” Great Clips offers shampoos, styles, conditioning treatment, as well as neck, bang and beard trims (though Wardeiner said they have See Great Clips • Page 7
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Wolverine Seniors Set the Standard in Soccer By Haley Adams sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
decent amount of opportunities, and we did a good job of that.” After an offsides call was made where it Because of senior standouts Nicola Eh- looked like the Pirates might break away, the rbar, Aubrey and Bailey Zanella, soccer will Wolverines were rewarded with a free kick afnever be the same for the Wolverines. ter a foul was called on Ehrbar — a shot that With them, the Wolverines went 45-20-7 hit the top of the post, but failed to go in. in a span of four years. With two minutes remaining in the first “This team is so special,” Zanella said. half, the Pirates connected on a free kick and “We work until there are zero minutes left on led 2-0 heading into the half. They would then the clock. We do not stop.” take a 4-0 lead at the start With 38 minutes on of the second half with ONLINE VIDEO the clock, the Wolverines back-to-back goals. Bailey Zanella, looked to score right away. The Wolverines were A diving effort from Rocky able to get a shot deflected Aubrey Zanella and River’s defense halted the off a Pirates defender; EhNicola Ehrbar dangerous offense perrbar recorded a goal with GeaugaMapleLeaf.com formed by West Geauga. A seconds remaining in the Rocky River goal had the contest. Wolverines playing from “We all played as a fambehind early on in the first ily, and we played togethhalf. er,” Aubrey Zanella said Ehrbar did her best to answer, but fell of what she liked from her team despite the short when the Wolverines lost 4-1. heart-breaking loss. “We didn’t give up at all, “Tonight, coming into the game, we knew and our last goal in the minute shows that. they were going to be a phenomenal team,” Everybody did their part, and they knew what Ehrbar said. “We talked a lot about their they had to do, and they gave it their all.” “In practice we work hard, and push each three back, and being able to work the ball out wide, and look for those crosses, and other, and play as a family,” Bailey Zanella added. playing simple and quick. The Wolverines were crowned Chagrin “We did a decent job of that. We weren’t necessarily able to finish, but we created a Valley Conference Champions a season ago.
BILL FUGATE/KMG
Frankee Flesher, left, and Bailey Zanella after the Wolverines season ended last week with a 4-1 loss to Rocky River in the Div. II regional semi-finals. The Wolverines are 45-20-7 in a span of four years under Bailey, her sister Aubrey Zanella and Nicola Ehrbar.
“Winning the CVC was really special because it hadn’t been done in so many years,” Aubrey Zanella said. “That brought us even closer together, and it made us want to win districts this year, and go even further.” The Wolverines started last season 9-0 before losing to Twinsburg, and won districts
this season. Despite losing Ehrbar and Aubrey and Bailey Zanella, West Geauga will bring back Rae Ehrbar, the younger sister of Nicola, as well as Frankee Flesher and Lillian Meyer, all who contributed significant minutes this season.
Help Help ForFor The The Holidays Holidays Available is Sponsor-a-Family is a holiday proAvailable gram that provides food and gifts to low
Sponsor-a-Family is aCounty holidayfoster proincome families, Geauga gram that provides food and gifts to low children and seniors in Geauga County. income families, Geauga County foster Geauga County Job and Family children in Geauga County. Services and hasseniors coordinated the SponGeauga County Job and Family sor-a-Family program during the holiday Services coordinated the Sponseason forhas 48 years. Applications are sor-a-Family program during the mailed to lower income families holiday receivseason for 48 years. are ing assistance through Applications Geauga County mailed to lower income families receivJob and Family Services, such as SNAP. ing To assistance through Geauga County inquire about receiving help, conJob and Family Services, such as SNAP. tact Sara Shininger, community support To inquireatabout receivingext. help, concoordinator, 440-285-9141, 1263. tact Sara Shininger, community support coordinator, at 440-285-9141, ext. 1263.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Town Crier Chardon VFW Pancake Breakfast
Nov. 15, 8 a.m. to noon Chardon VFW Post 6519 will host a pancake breakfast with french toast, sausage and ham. Senior and kids menus are available. To go orders accepted; call 440-285-3699. The post is located at 752 Water St.
Red Cross Blood Drive
Nov. 16, 1-7 p.m. American Red Cross will host a blood drive at Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800733-2767.
Audubon Visits State Park
Nov. 15, 9 a.m. Blackbrook Audubon will catch up with former field trip coordinator Jim McConnor when he leads the hike at Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pa. RSVP via email at blackbrookaud@aol. com. The meeting location will be given to everyone who has contacted Blackbrook. Participants should bring binoculars and a spotting scope. Face masks are recommended.
Audubon Hosts Dan Best
Nov. 17, 7 p.m. Blackbrook Audubon welcomes Dan Best as he presents “Parked: A Rearview Mirror Retrospective” as a virtual program. A retired naturalist and raconteur, Best looks back on his 33 years with Geauga Park District, recalling his adventures with wildlife and people. Trevor Wearstler, host and president of Blackbrook, will allow people into the meeting about 6:30 p.m. to familiarize themselves with the software features and chat with other attendees. Register on the event page of blackbrookaudubon.org or geaugaparkdistrict.org. A link will be sent to each registrant’s email address.
Geauga Co. Tea Party Meets
Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m. Geauga County Tea Party will meet at the Metzenbaum Center, 8200 Cedar Road, Chester Township. Professor John Plecnik, of the Cleveland Marshall Law College, will be speaking on bias in American education. For more information, visit www.geaugacountyteaparty.com.
Operation Christmas Child
St. Mark Lutheran Church, 119OO Chillicothe Road in Chester Township, is an area collection center for Operation Christmas Child. The community is invited to fill shoeboxes with new gift items for either a boy or a girl, ages of 2 to 14. Clothing and accessories, hygiene items, school supplies and small toys are requested. The boxes will be delivered by Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization, to children overseas who live in poverty. A Gospel booklet will be included in each box. Any shoebox may be used or pick up a box from St. Mark. Drop off a filled box at the church, Sunday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to noon. Masks must be worn in the building. Call 44O-729-1668 for contactless delivery. The final date for box drop-off is Nov. 23.
GCP Holiday Networking Event
Dec. 10, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Geauga Growth Partnership will host a virtual holiday networking event via Zoom. Join for conversation, games and prizes. Upon registration, guests will receive goodie bags filled with gifts from fellow members. Call 440-564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth.com to register.
10th Annual Operation Santa Sleigh
Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Officers from the Chester Township Police Department, their families and Santa will be collecting new, unwrapped toys in front of the Chester Township Town Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road. No toy guns, please. All donated toys will be given to Geauga County Department of Job and Family Services to benefit local families.
Holiday Meal Drivers Needed
Volunteer drivers are needed Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26 and Christmas Day, Dec. 25 to deliver meals to seniors who are alone for the holidays. All meals are delivered from the Chardon Senior Center, 12555 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon. Volunteers pick up the holiday meals at the Chardon Senior Center and deliver them to the assigned seniors’ homes. For more information or to volunteer, call Deana Catucci at the Geauga County Department on Aging, 440-279-2145.
Senior News & Events Home Delivered Holiday Meals The Geauga County Department on Aging will offer a free traditional meal to any Geauga County seniors, age 60 and older, who will be home and alone on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26 and/or Christmas Day, Dec. 25. The meals are provided in by University Hospitals Geauga Medical Campus and the Geauga West Rotary, who sponsor Thanksgiving meals, and Ohman Family Living, who
donate the Christmas meals. There will be no regular Home Delivered Meal delivery or congregate meals on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day. Instead, holiday meals are available by preorder only. Thanksgiving Meal requests for Thanksgiving are due by Nov. 17 and for Christmas by Dec. 17. For more information or to sign up for a meal, call the department on aging at 440279-2130.
www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Friends from page 1
Foundation and Partners, which began back in 2019, aimed to offer assistance to libraries all across the county, according to the foundation. The foundation approved the new bylaws by unanimous vote at their Sept. 8 meeting, said Foundation Executive Director Rebecca Gierman. She said the operations policy of the library is currently under review. This policy, which includes the foundation’s practices, will require a GCPL Board of Trustees vote once it is presented. The Friends groups for each branch have been successful at raising money and providing goods and services to local branches, as well as acting as a liaison between patrons and the community. Some members of these groups have not liked the idea of breaking the ties that motivate them to serve — namely working within their own communities and having autonomy. Kathy Delaney, president of the Geauga West Friends of the Library — which serves Chester and Russell townships — said her group was not informed of any change until January 2020. The library foundation held a meeting hinting at a collaboration and Delaney said it was not until August of 2020 that Friends groups were told all money in their treasury would have to be spent, designated before year’s end or turned over to the foundation. At that time, there would be no more individual branch Friends groups, but rather one large Foundation and Partners group, she said, adding autonomy was gone. “They want to spend the money as they see fit rather than for our library for which it was raised,” said Delaney. Geauga West Friends of the Library has engaged an attorney to represent their position and is not going to be part of the consolidation. Delaney said her group was incorporated in 1988 as a nonprofit organization so, they are fully able to continue to function independently. She said, however, GCPL Executive Director Ed Worso told them none of the Friends group activities nor meetings would be able to be held on library property in favor of the establishment of the Foundation and Partners as a collaborative. “Library resources such as materials and space that may have previously been available to the existing Friends organization for fundraising will now be made available exclusively to the Foundation and (Partners) or the (Partners) Committee,” the foundation board said in a letter. Delaney and her board are exploring the option of continuing without the sanction of the GCPL Board of Trustees. Linda Smallwood, president of the East Geauga Friends of the Library — which serves the Middlefield and Huntsburg area — has similar feelings. “We are not dedicated to other libraries and I don’t want our funds to go to a library where I will never go,” she said in a recent interview. She said her Friends group will disband and not join the partners. The East Geauga group plans to spend down their treasury before the end of 2020 as directed. “My take on this is that it is a money grab. It seems like Socialism to me … create a pool of money to support all libraries equally, regardless of our hard work,” said Smallwood. Gierman said the Friends groups had four months to spend down their funds on
their own libraries. “It’s not about the funds, it’s about the future,” she said. “Friends were given the opportunity to designate the money they had raised on behalf of their respective branches and designate it be spent in the future on those very branches. They can make a designated gift to the foundation or to the library directly. In fact, Thompson did just that by turning over their treasury to the foundation for future spending on Thompson library.” Both East and West groups said one reason they were given as a need for change is the Friends group members are aging out. The foundation wants to attract a newer, younger audience of participants, both parties said. Gierman said she has not seen any initiative on new member recruitment. “Some resignations due to busyness have occurred, leaving reduced officers,” she said. “We are not disrespecting those experienced volunteers due to age. Seniors are our very best volunteers. They have passion, work ethic, resources, wisdom and experience.” Some Friends group members said they are also burdened under the weight of the fact when their libraries were built, local funds from their communities paid the cost through levies and bond issues. The Chester and Middlefield branches were built before the latest library bond issue was passed, although Middlefield was the beneficiary of recent improvements from it. “It is unclear what form the collaboration would take,” Geauga West Secretary Trudy Gordin said of the Foundation and Partners group, adding conversation has been very sketchy. Between the original inkling in January and the presidents’ meeting in August, there was no communication, she said. In the past, there had been Friends newsletters, symposiums offering help and meetings, Gordin added. “If the administration was capable of having other Zoom meetings (during COVID-19), they could have had Zoom meeting for Friends,” she said. “There has been no communication or outreach for Friends’ input. We are still unclear about what a collaboration would look like or how we might offer suggestions.” Gierman said there is no legal nor contractual obligation to work exclusively with Friends groups for fundraising or support. However, she said in her effort to be respectful of past practices, she has personally spoken to past and present members of various Friends groups. She said it seems some members are more focused on the loss they might experience rather than building for the future, but welcomes their continued help. Delaney, Gordin and Smallwood said several letters, emails, calls and invitations were extended to the foundation and to Gierman specifically and all of them went unanswered. “… The foundation serves primarily as a fundraising and support organization for the Geauga County Public Library district,” said foundation board member and library board member Ray Runelli in a letter to all Friends members. “… The library has consciously operated and marketed itself to the community as just that, a county-wide library district with facilities throughout the county. This integrated approach represents a stark change from my early years on the library board where the emphasis was much more on each community library building or facility as a stand-alone resource… . “All community fundraising will have to See Pushback • Page 5
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Foundation from page 1
originated with a centralized group. In 1973, each branch of the library formed their own Friends groups. Their primary fundraiser for the GCPL has been their famous book sale at the Great Geauga County Fair. As a reflection of branch size, location and the clout of the patrons, some Friends’ groups were extremely active and flush with funds, while others struggled. This disparity became more obvious as a result of the mobile services (Bookmobile) lacking a Friends group, the Newbury branch of the library closing, Thompson and Bainbridge beginning to show more growth and Friends groups struggled with attrition. These factors caused the need for a re-examination of the structure of Friends groups, Gierman said. Foundation Board President Cathy Leary said county voters passing the library’s bond issue in 2017 pointed to the need to bring Friends groups back together to serve the county as a whole. “I had trouble understanding how allegiance to one branch could be redirected. My own West G branch was so devoted to its particular library,” she said. “I happen to be a person who embraces change and I see the great wisdom in doing this.” Plans for consolidation began with discussion in early 2019. But autonomy made the transition hard and emotional for members. “Some fear this change and fear they may not have a role in it in the future,” Leary said. Thompson Friends member and Treasurer Audrey Kerr did not feel insulted nor despair about the change to consolidate the groups. She believes the plan and the leadership is wonderful and full of enthusiasm. “People don’t like change, but change can be good,” Kerr said. “The directors have the say. We are all volunteers, after all. Although
Pushback from page 4
flow to the library district through this centralized organization,” Runelli added. “All fundraising will be for the benefit of the district as a whole.” Runelli said both West Geauga Schools and Cardinal Schools were the vehicles for funding the construction of their libraries with local tax money. The passage of the county-wide bond issue to construct the Thompson, Bainbridge branches and renovate the Middlefield branch has changed that method. “There needs to be one overarching Friends organization with a common purpose and vision instead of a group of organizations each with a more local focus,” he said. “However, we fully understand if you decide this new model is not for you and we thank you for your past service if that is the case.” Delaney, Gordin and Smallwood emphasized their main issue has been the lack of communication and transparency. “We are angered by how this was presented and frustrated about being ignored,” Gordin said. “We don’t know the rationale, but if the foundation was proactive to meet, we could ask questions and get clarity. I would like to see and understand their vision.”
Chesterland News
our treasury is smaller, much smaller that the likes of West G and Bainbridge for example, we will pool our current funds, but can earmark the funds for items we still value.” Gierman confirmed no branch will struggle with not having the funds they need to function due to combined fundraising and the fact the new association will operate with no competition. They adopted this approach using examples of other systems that have met with great success, such as the Medina County Library, Gierman said, adding their assimilation in 2011 from four groups to one has worked well and even raised $30,000 for a recent summer reading program, a writer’s series and more. Leary said some of the positives anticipated include volunteer sharing, vendor sharing — and possible cost savings as a result — having a combined newsletter going out to all 400 plus friends, sharing ideas, working together on fundraising and making new friends. Membership is only $5 per year. Leary has been working on some possible future enhancements to entice new members and reward current ones. In addition to having a preview to every GCPL sale, other incentives might include special partner discounts at book sales and online, exclusive preview meetings with visiting authors, special membership cards, decals and newsletters, and participation in advocacy and awareness events. Gierman and Leary stressed benefits will now be across all branches, not just limited to the branch to which a member belongs. Previously, members had to belong to each individual Friends group to participate in activities. Gierman said the new association will help build a sense of community. COVID-19 has interrupted some of the communication effort to bring the Foundation and Partners to completion, but plans are progressing, Gierman and Leary said, adding they see this as a great opportunity for a better future. She said knowing details could change their minds. Foundation Vice President Erwin Leffel commended Friends group members for all they do, and echoed members’ wishes that this process be slowed down a bit. “Friends are professional volunteers,” he said. “They are a very precious commodity and important.” Leffel made it clear the foundation board is only 13 people, but the Friends groups represent over 400. Both Gordin and Leffel believe delaying the roll out of such a plan might be helpful, perhaps tabling it until COVID-19 has passed and making meetings more feasible. “Not everyone is so tech savvy and everyone wants to be safe,” Gordin said. Smallwood added, “It will be up to the individual members as to who moves over to the new group. I really enjoyed working in our book sale store and we made $10,000 each year or more. This won’t change my attitude about my library, but my attitude is very unfavorable toward the administration.” Delaney said the transition will not impact her attitude toward her library, either. “But it could have been so easy to say, ‘How about you lend us a hand,’ rather than say we no longer exist,” she said. “With that, we could have worked this thing out.”
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Letters to the Editor Incredible Support Dear Chester Residents, Thank you for the incredible vote of confidence and support with regards to the passage of our recent Police Renewal Levy. On behalf of my entire staff, we very appreciate your continued and unwavering support, and we will continue to provide the very best services to all of you, our community. The amount of cards, emails, telephone calls, visits, food and kind words that we have received from all of you for the past eight months has been absolutely incredible and your actions have most certainly had a powerful and sincere impact on all of us. I would also like to introduce our department’s newest police cruiser, along with our new look! I very much understand and appreciate the responsibility and accountability that I have to all of you, our residents. The board of trustees, fiscal officer and I remain fiscally responsible in order to maximize the longevity and reliability of our police cruisers. This year I planned and budgeted to replace two police cruisers, which were delayed in production for a few months, but on Nov. 5 our first cruiser went into service. Special thanks to all of you! Chief Mark Purchase Chester Township Police Department
Library Agenda Not ‘Friend-ly’ We would like to thank reporter Kathy McClure and the Geauga County Maple Leaf for the recent article concerning the Geauga County Public Library and its proposed dissolving of current Friends of the Library groups. Individual Friends groups would cease to exist and instead be formed into a “Foundation and Partners” group. One member will represent their library and serve on a Foundation-sponsored board as part of the “Foundation and Partners” proposed entity. This “unified fundraising arm” was proposed by the Foundation in February 2019. At the Sept. 8, 2020, meeting, the Foundation approved new by-laws by unanimous vote to accompany their plan. At present, all funds raised for Geauga West Library (GW) by the Geauga West Friends of the Library prior to the new organization shall be designated for GW regardless of the time frame. A time frame was discussed, however, using Dec. 31, 2020, as the date. Questions must be asked: How was this plan set in motion without initial input from the very groups the Foundation wishes to abolish? Where was the communication
between Administration, Foundation and Friends? If the Foundation considered this plan in 2019, were Friends groups informed of this? And, if they were not informed back in 2019, why not? Board President Kathy Delaney of Geauga West Friends of the Library has pointed out that their group was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization in 1988 which enables them to function independently. GCPL Director Ed Worso responded “none of the Friends group activities nor meetings would be able to be held on library property . . . .” The Foundation in a letter said, “Library resources such as materials and space that has been previously available to . . . Friends . . . will now be made available exclusively to the Foundation and Partners or the Partners Committee.” Is that how “Partners” are treated? Plainer language should be: comply — or else. If, as Foundation Vice President Erwin Leffel stated, “Friends . . . are a very precious commodity and important,” then where was the communication between Friends and Foundation? Each Friends group has its own character and history. They exist because of local volunteers in service to that library and that community. The results of our highly successful book sales at Geauga West Library is a testimony to not only the dedicated volunteers who worked over the years, but also to the generosity of patrons who donate their articles to provide a steady means of supporting their community library. Here is a short list of what book sales have been able to provide to Geauga West Library: • Monies to fund both children’s and adult programs (speakers, materials, prizes, etc.) • Monies to invite speakers to the longtime popular “Look, Lunch and Listen.” • Monies to enhance the library experience by underwriting some special events such as nationwide traveling exhibits like Many Realms of King Arthur and the Columbus exhibit. • Friends’ support and participation in many venues during the Bicentennial Celebration of 2001. • Monies to enhance the outdoor areas
(such as the Keyhole Garden at Geauga West, totally funded by the Friends that included drainage correction not considered in the original building). • Monies to enhance many events in and outside of the library venues. Think pizza, pop, singers and musical groups, for example. • A scholarship program for college-bound students who will enroll in Library Studies, initiated by the WG Friends to encourage students considering a library career. This shows the continuous support the Geauga West Friends have given through the years — from the “baby carriage book cart” of Mary Eykyn in the early 1950s to the present. Will this same volunteerism happen under the “Partners” agenda? The nine pages of by-laws constructed by the Geauga County Library Foundation and Friends appears to have a top-heavy management agenda — more “Manage” than “Friend-ly.” As Life Members, Past Presidents and Past Officers of the West Geauga Friends, we urge interested Geauga Countians to consider: Friends groups deserve to be and should be separate entities within the hierarchy of the total GCPL library system. Amy L. Kenneley Chapman Award (2002) Chester Township Mary Ann Moczulski Chapman Award (2013) Chester Township
Thank You for Opportunity Thank you to everyone who voted to provide me the opportunity to continue to serve as Geauga County’s probate/juvenile court judge. It is an honor and a privilege. I will continue to work hard, with the support of the court’s dedicated staff, to protect our county’s youth, families and seniors. Such goals sometimes require tough judicial decisions which, while based on family therapy professionals, may still be unpopular, but are necessary to protect the best interests of the children, or safety of the seniors, who are involved with the probate/juvenile court. Such is the solemn reality of judicial office, and I am honored to continue to serve Geauga County through fair and equitable administration of justice. Judge Timothy J. Grendell Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court
Humbled and Honored I am humbled and honored to have received the support of over 40,000 voters in the Ohio House 76th District. I am grateful to God, and to everyone who helped my campaign during this challenging election year. As your elected representative, I promise to continue to do my best to be a strong voice in Columbus for all residents of the 76th District in Geauga and Portage counties. Rep. Diane V. Grendell 76th House District
Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
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Community Meetings
SUBMITTED
Pictured, left to right, are Great Clips owner Mark Wardeiner, manager Toni Hull, Jessica Page, Samantha Ward, Cheryl Bobik, assistant manager Brittany Fiktus and assistant manager Jeff Pierce.
Great Clips from page 1
temporarily stopped doing beard trims due to COVID-19 precautions). Wardeiner lives nearby in Mentor — where he was an elementary teacher for 31 years — with his wife and co-owner, Nada; four children, Danielle, Alan, Andrea and Danny; and their dog, Mars. When asked what sets Great Clips aside from other franchises, Wardeiner said consistency has been key. “Great Clips does a fantastic job of being a consistent franchise where a customer is able to receive their favorite haircut at any Great Clips across the country due to the utilization of Clip Notes, which was developed by Great Clips Corporation,” he added. “Clip Notes are a record of the haircut each customer received and their preferences. Another incredible fact is that Great Clips stylists are very experienced at what they do. A fulltime stylist at a busy salon may complete over 3,000 haircuts in one year.” Wardeiner said he hopes their salon becomes a fixture in the community and that they develop great relationships with their
Prices for Haircuts
Nov. 7-20: $5.99 Nov. 21-Dec. 4: $6.99 Dec. 5-Dec. 18: $9.99 Dec. 19: Full price $15 for adults and $13 for adults over 65 and kids 10 and under.
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. customers, emulating what other local business have done. “Once we get our feet on the ground, we would like to become involved in community events and fundraisers,” he said. Currently, the salon has 10 stylists, but they only have a maximum of six working at any one time. “We are super excited about our grand opening and will be having some fantastic savings on haircuts from now until mid-December,” Wardeiner said. “We will be mailing out many coupons to Chester Township residents over the next several months.”
Letters to the Editor Explanation Needed Now that the Circle K redevelopment of the northeast corner of state Routes 87 and 306 is nearing completion, the facts on the ground need to be explained for all the taxpayers of Russell Township. Did you know that the little 0.41-acre greenspace lot right on the corner where the crews have been parking their vehicles and equipment isn’t Circle K’s? We, the taxpayers, own that lot. It does make the Circle K development look a lot nicer, but at what expense? Recently, as Circle K was acquiring the various small parcels around their old existing facility, they approached our township trustees and made an offer to buy that little lot to fill out their plans for the corner. From what has been discussed, they offered in the neighborhood of $100,000 for that little lot, knowing that there are some EPA restrictions on what can be done , if anything, with that lot due to some ground contamination from the BP station that used to reside there. No matter, they wanted it anyway. Did our trustees jump at the chance to get that little piece of land back in private hands, generating property tax revenue to help out the taxpayers of Russell? Nope. I suggested that if our trustees wanted to keep that little
piece of land in greenspace, they could sell it to Circle K with, for example, a 30-year deed restriction on it preventing any development. Do our trustees have plans for that little piece of land? Nope. As explained above, there is some sort of restriction on what can be done with that little piece of land. So why hang on to it if you have no plans for it? Don’t know. Plus, now with Circle K encircling it with their facilities and equipment, what could the township use it for going forward? Not much. So, we the taxpayers of Russell will keep mowing and maintaining that little piece of land for the benefit of Circle K and not much else. Does this make sense to you? Keep this in mind the next time the trustees come to you asking for new levy monies, remember that they turned their thumbs down at an opportunity with no logical downside to help the coffers of the township. Charlie Butters Russell Township
Toni Wesen
MAYER INSURANCE
AUTO - HOME - LIFE - BUSINESS
8386 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, Ohio 44026
216-645-9008
toniwesen@gmail.com
Chester Township: Nov. 12, 7 a.m., Board of Trustees, special meeting; Nov. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals, rescheduled meeting; Nov. 18, 6 p.m. – Park District, at CG Accounting, 7840 Mayfield Road, 7 p.m. – Zoning Commission; Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. (Meetings are open to public, but seating limited to 10. Trustees, fiscal officer and department heads, if in attendance, are practicing social distancing.)
Russell Township: Nov. 18, 7 p.m. – Board of Trustees, 7:30 p.m. – Zoning Commission. (Trustees have opted to resume their regular meeting schedule but has changed the location of future meetings to the Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road. Meetings will be held in the Town Hall until further notice. The location is changed to the Town Hall to better accommodate physical distancing advisories.) West Geauga BOE: Nov. 16, 7 p.m., virtual regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
Scott A. Larrick ATTORNEY AT LAW
WILLS • TRuSTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PROBATE • TAX • ELdER LAW scott@scottalarrick.com www.scottalarrick.com
Bus: (440) 729-3770 Fax: (440) 729-3772
8442 Mayeld Road Chesterland, OH 44026
Chesterland News
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American Roofing & Construction ROOFING SPECIALIST Richard Mott - Owner (440) 729-7040 • (216) 276-4001 www.Americanroofingoh.com 1--americanroofing@sbcglobal.net
FINANCING NOW AVAILABLE
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department Oct. 27 – Nov. 4, 2020. ANIMAL PROBLEM Oct. 30 4:53 p.m., Marilyn Road. Neighbor’s dog keeps getting loose and attacking caller’s dog. He just attacked the dog again. Male spoke to someone from the dog warden’s office. He’s upset they didn’t do anything earlier. Officer is calling dog warden’s office. CITIZEN DISPUTE Nov. 4 3:52 p.m., West Geauga Plaza Drive. Caller owns local store. A lady will not leave and will not put on a mask. LITTERING Nov. 3 5:23 p.m., Mayfield Road. Three teenage boys in a burgundy Ford pickup truck were throwing trash into the blue dumpster at the house next to Sunoco. Caller followed them and last saw them going west on Sherman. Checked area. UTL/GOA. SUSPICIOUS Nov. 4 3:58 p.m., Sherman Road. Caller has found a deceased deer at the end of his driveway. It appears to have been shot to death. Caller has had political signs stolen from his yard previously and believes this deer may have been left on his property in response to his support of a certain political party. Information also forwarded to county game warden. Officer advised. THEFT Nov. 2 1:02 p.m., West Geauga Plaza Drive. Several thefts have occurred. They believe they know who it is from the video. Officer spoke with complainant. Business is in Russell and complainant advised to make report there. VANDALISM Oct. 30 5:42 p.m., Parkside Drive. Someone smashed the hand sanitizer inside bathroom at Chester Township Park. Officer responded. Both soap dispensers were dismantled, but not broken. Fixed without issue.
Nov. 1 5:36 p.m., Mayfield Road. IR requested. Levy sign spray painted.
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Department Oct. 22 – Nov. 4, 2020. FRAUD Oct. 22 3:05 p.m., Fairmount Road. Complainant came to station to report a telephone call she received regarding a fraudulent sweepstakes reward. Report taken. SUSPCIOUS Oct. 22 11:45 a.m., Chillicothe Road. Complainant called station to report he received a phone call, with a recorded message, a male voice explaining he would be arrested for Social Security fraud if he did not speak to an associate. Complainant is aware of the current scams and hung up the phone. Caller ID showed number to be from New Jersey, 609-300-4670. Complainant requested report on file. 11:45 a.m., Hillbrook Drive. Complainant called to report she received several phone calls from a male, who claims to be from the IRS, and informs complainant his Social Security account has been breached. Complainant aware of various scams and hung up phone. Caller ID recently showed the phone number as 440242-3265 and location as El Paso, Texas. Complainant requested report on file. Oct. 24 4:20 p.m., Fairmount Road. Resident reported she has been getting scam phone calls and now caller said they were coming to her house to collect money. Advice given and a special attention on home was entered. Oct. 25 11:08 a.m., Watt Road. Caller reported hearing yelling and dogs barking in area. They also saw three women run through their yard. Officers located the females who advised they were running beagles to chase rabbits and didn’t realize they were on caller’s property.
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Obituaries JoEllen Dardis
JoEllen Dardis (nee Koontz), 65, of Russell Township, passed away peacefully at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center on Oct. 23, 2020. She was born in Salem, Ohio, on Oct. 17, 1955, to John K. and Arthene J. (nee Johnson) Koontz. JoEllen is once again reunited with her loving husband of 34 years, Garry Dardis, who died April 19, 2013. She enjoyed being at the pool, equestrian and spending quality time with her family and friends. JoEllen will be missed by her son, Chase
(Danielle) Dardis; parents, John and Arthene Koontz; brother, Doug (Cheryl) Koontz; brother-in-law, Ken (Irene) Dardis; sistersin-law, Patti Dardis and Dana Clark; nephew, Jeff (Stephanie) Dardis; niece, Lisa (Andy) Dawson; and many friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Garry Dardis; and brother-in-law, David Dardis. A memorial gathering and service was held Oct. 30, 2020, from 4-7 p.m., at DeJohn Funeral Home, 12811 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Arrangements have been entrusted to Best Funeral Home, 15809 Madison Road, Middlefield, 440-632-0818. Online condolences may be sent at www.bestfunerals.com.
Chester Government Update The Chester Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting at 4 p.m. Oct. 20 for an executive session regarding conferences with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are subject to pending or imminent court action. Trustees met in regular session on Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting opened with an executive session conference call with an attorney regarding a dispute involving the public body concerning pending court action. The board came back into session and approved $25,000 to retain McDonald Hopkins LLC as legal counsel. Minutes from the meetings on Sept. 24 and 29 and Oct. 8, 14, 19 and 20 were approved. In road department business, the board approved up to $37,000 to Empire Paving for repairs on County Line and Heath roads. On a recommendation from Chester Road Superintendent Joe Fornaro, the board hired Peter Oravecz as road worker 2 at $23.47 per hour pending the outcome of a drug test and background check. Trustees accepted the resignation of Steve Voigt, of the road department, effective Oct. 23 and thank Mr. Voigt for his years of service for the township. The board approved the purchase of 7,000 gallons of diesel fuel in the amount $14,560 from Chardon Oil and approved an after the fact expense to Herda’s Truck Service for new compressor for brake system on truck #8. In fire department business, the board hired Salli L. Mehall as part-time administrative assistant at $16 per hour contingent on a background check and drug test. The board also approved $3,000 toward the purchase of eight tires for fire engine 3424 and tanker 3434 from Kolsom Tire. In police business, the board approved two after the fact purchases for 10 riot helmets from the Geauga Sheriff’s Office for $1,400 and for Truck MD to set up the two
new police cruisers with equipment for $4,200. In zoning, trustees approved to reappoint Kathy Fadorsen for a five-year term to the Chester Board of Appeals and Andrew Chess for a five-year term on the Chester Zoning Commission, both ending Dec. 31, 2025. Trustees thank them both for their continuing service to the Chester residents. Trustees accepted the resignation of Christina Crews as zoning commission administrative assistant effective Oct. 7. In new business regarding CARES funds, the following items were approved: motion sensor switches and replacement of carpeted areas in town hall, police portable radios, remodeling the fire station for permanent quarters for the staff and additional cleaning solutions for fire and police. The board approved a change order and final payment from Ronyak Paving Inc. on the recommendation of Geauga County Engineer’s Office for an OPWC project in the amount of $516,915.70. The park board will be holding a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at the park gazebo. All are welcome. The special meeting on Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. included members of the Chester Township Planning Committee and Cleveland State University for review of the community questionnaire, including open discussion with the public in attendance and attending via Zoom. Details of the questionnaire can be obtained on the Chester Township website. Submitted by Joseph C. Mazzurco, Chester Township Trustee
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Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS
PETS & ANIMALS
2010 Chrysler Town-n-Country van, stow-n-go, heated seats, movie screens, roof rack. $1,700. Bill 440-564-9154
Seeking indoor winter boarding, December through March for (1) horse. Self care, indoor arena, daily turnout a must. Chardon Area. 440-286-3840.
2010 Toyota Sienna XLE. Low mileage 89/k. Loaded, leather, DVD system, CD player, heated captain chairs. Tan. $11,000. 216-387-2999 2005 Mercury Montego Premier. Good condition, new brakes, loaded, 98k. $2,200 or best offer. 440-729-1821. Cash for Junk Vehicles: running or not, classics/big trucks/etc., free removal, call/text Zac 440-679-7293.
FOR RENT Chardon, 3 BR, 1 1/2 BA house, 3-car garage. Refrigerator and stove included. No smoking, no pets. $975/month+utilities. Chardon Schools! 440 285 2247.
FOR SALE
4-month-old sister cats need new indoor home, hopefully together. Shy but very sweet, spayed, vaccinated. Rebecca 440321-2485.
MISCELLANEOUS Craft Show Amish Mennonite. 60+ Vendors. Food, Fry Pies, Soft Pretzels. Friday Nov. 13 4-8:30pm, Sat. Nov. 14 9-2pm. Buster Miller Farm, 17719 Newcomb Rd 44062. 548.2608
REAL ESTATE NEW PRICE - 2 bdrm. condo, Colonial Park, Chardon city. New carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl. Private end unit. $79,900 Call 440-632-8334.
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Help Wanted Farm help in Huntsburg. 440-636-5747. Bookkeeper, flexible PT, QB, budgets, contract knowledge. Send resume to BVFD, POB 468, Burton, OH 44021 or donnaauber@yahoo.com. No phone calls.
MANCAN IS NOW HIRING GENERAL LABOR AND SKILLED TRADES IN LAKE, GEAUGA, CUYAHOGA AND ASHTABULA COUNTIES To apply, stop into the office Monday - Thursday, 9am to 3pm. Be sure to bring 2 forms of ID. A resume is encouraged.
220 Center St. Ste B-2 Chardon, OH 44024 440-285-5627
Thompson Twp – 1 acre scenic rolling building lot, side street lots of privacy. $12,900. 440-289-0708.
SERVICES Buckeye Stoneworks: we specialize in Amherst sandstone, we custom cut all projects for masons, landscapers, builders, contractors, and residential, by appt only, call 440-632-0188 leave message. John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.
Vintage Air Hockey table 1970s, includes pucks and pushers, 5’ wide, $40 and it works, call 440-729-4134 or SLW4134@ att.net. Cyclone rake leaf vacuum model Z10 extra hoses & parts included. $2,200. Cash only. 440-286-7200 Echo backpack leaf blower. times. $200/OBO. 440-488-8407.
Used
3
Osburn wood stove 40,000btu., $700.00. Four winter tires 205/55/16. $100.00. Brown eggs from free range hens, no antibiotics, no hormones. 440-636-5747 Delta 10” table saw w/extend table, mobile base, duck & geese decoys, Coleman stove, heater, waders, hunting boots, RC plane w/accessories. 440-834-1850. Four cemetary plots at Lakeside Cemetery (section 16) - 2 side-by-side: cemetery price for all 4 is $19,580, selling for $16,000. One double side-by-side: cemetery price $9,790, selling for $8,500. 440729-0070
Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20 years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan, 440-342-4552. Transportation: Passenger Van w/hitch available for over ther road work crew. 330-978-0367 Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything, Call between 8am and 4pm, 440813-4272. No answer, leave message.
WANTED Looking for snowplower for handicap driveway this winter. 216-235-0032 Retired nurse looking for employment. 440-834-8416.
WANTED TO BUY Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), tackle boxes, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee at 440-313-8331. Wanted ‘65-‘67 Mustang Convertible, and other muscle cars needing repair, call/ text 440-832-1465.
Poly water storage tanks: 654 gallon for $500, 255 gallon for $200. 440-729-0070. Glider/rockers $69-$89, Kerosene heater, old oil lamps, old humpback chests $99, $198, and many old clocks, call 440-3383563.
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale call Kathy Willis at 440-8403226, partial estate buyouts also.
• CLASSIFIEDS • 440-729-7667 •
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Mechanic I/Road Worker Applications for the position of Mechanic I in Chester Township will be accepted by the Chester Township Board of Trustees until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 20, 2020. The positions serve under the direction of the Road Superintendent. Employees will follow the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and rules as established by the Board of Trustees and Road Superintendent. The Mechanic I will repair all diesel/gas mechanical equipment used by the Road Department. Expert knowledge required, Fuel Operator AB license a plus. Must be able to work with crews to identify and troubleshoot upcoming issue, maintain a plow route, knowledge of plows and deicing equipment, and maintain computerized equipment log. Application forms are available at The Town Hall, or on the website at www.chestertwp.org/jobs. Applications and resumes may be dropped off at or mailed to: Chester Township Board of Trustees, 12701 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026 and must be received no later than 4:00 PM on Friday, November 20, 2020. CHESTER TOWNSHIP IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Chesterland News
Page 11
Service Directory
MASTER PAINTERS
Family owned & operated since 1976
INTERIOR - EXTERIOR
• Cedar Siding Stained • Vinyl Aluminum Refinishing • “Cool” Roof Coatings
CLASSIFIEDS 440-729-7667
“Do It Right The First Time” Call Eric 440-729-2646
www.masterpaintersinc.com ask@masterpaintersinc.com
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, November 11, 2020