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CHESTERLAND NEWS Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Your Community Newspaper Since 1967 West G Alum’s Geauga Roots Helped Him Fly By Kristin LeFeber editor@karlovecmedia.com Matt Tuffuor may have gone from rural Geauga County to California — working for companies like Google and Eventbrite — but the 32-year-old hasn’t forgotten the roots that fed his entrepreneurial spirit. A West Geauga Schools alum, Tuffuor moved to Russell Township from Shaker Heights when Tuffuor he was 10 years old — a move that would change his life in many ways. Shaker, known for its racial and socioeconomic diversity, was quite a different atmosphere from Russell, and Tuffuor, whose mother is Black American and father is from Ghana, was one of only two students of color in his fifth-grade class at West Geauga Schools. “I thought, ‘This is going to be different,’” Tuffuor recalled during a recent interview. “My parents spent a lot of time teaching me about race and about being a minority.” However, according to Tuffuor, the kids at West Geauga were merely curious and life went on. “I took school seriously. I hit the ground running. I was tight in everything I did,” Tuffuor said. His work ethic paid off. After his junior year at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., Tuffuor was offered a summer internship in marketing at Google in California, which eventually turned into a full-time job. In 2011, Tuffuor moved to the west coast, where he still lives today — currently doing global community marketing for Eventbrite. See Tuffuor • Page 7
Newbury Residents Appeal to West G BOE to Continue Negotiations By Valerie S. Clause editor@karlovecmedia.com
A number of Newbury Township residents pleaded with West Geauga Schools Board of Education May 9 to resume negotiations with Newbury trustees regarding the fate of the former school campus. “I love the West Geauga schools. My daughter went to high school and graduated from here and I was very excited for the (Newbury Schools) transfer to take place,” said Janice Stefancik. “I spent many years volunteering at the Newbury Schools — my son graduated from there — and that is the heart of our community. And for this to just end, with nothing coming of the building or that property, breaks my heart.
Jr. Fair
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West Geauga Schools Board of Education member Christina Sherwood reads a prepared statement May 9 from the board in response to residents’ comments, reiterating the district has been patient with Newbury trustees, but has a commitment to all of its resident and could no longer afford to continue negotiations indefinitely.
I’m hoping that negotiations will somehow continue and we can work this out.” Last week, board President Kathy Leavenworth issued a letter to Newbury trustees informing them the board had decided to
cease negotiations, indicating both parties could not reach an agreement on material terms and conditions and West Geauga Schools could not afford to continue maintaining the property. See Negotiations • Page 4
New Chester Police Chief Sworn In
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Chester Township Trustee Craig Richter, right, swears in new Chester Township’s Police Chief Craig Young at a recent trustees meeting. Young began his service as chief on May 2, following the retirement of former Chief Mark Purchase.
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Chesterland News
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Wednesday, May 25, 2022
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Town Crier Food Pantry Open
May 27, 10 a.m. to noon The food pantry at Chester Christian Center church will be open to the community. The pantry is open to anyone who is 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
May 27, 5-6:30 p.m. Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting a frittata dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available upon request.
Garden Club Hosts Plant Sale
May 28, 8 a.m. to noon Gates Mills Garden Club hosts its annual plant sale at the club’s Esquire’s Cottage & Barn, 1280 Chagrin River Road, Gates Mills. Admission is free. The sale features wide variety of annuals, perennials, shrubs and herbs. The event will also feature a vintage boutique with gently-used gardening related items for sale. For more information, call 440-423-4555 or visit TheGatesMillsGardenClub.com.
Young Of Heart
June 3, 11:30 a.m. Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm’s Parish Center in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Dessert and coffee will be provided. Entertainment will be by Julie Slattery with her keyboard and vocals. The group is going to Villa Croatia in Eastlake on June 16 for an Elvis Tribute with Walt Sanders & The Cadillac Band. Lunch and show is $70. It is a drive-yourself trip. A trip is planned for July 9 to see ABBA Fab at the Ohio Star Theatre in Sugarcreek. Cost of $85 includes show, dinner, transportation and fun. For more information and trip reservations, call Kimber at 440-668-3293.
Pancakes and Planes
June 4, 8 a.m. to noon Chapter 5 of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) will host its 12th annual pancake breakfast and Young Eagles event at Classic Jet Center located at the Lake County Executive Airport, 1969 Lost Nation Road, Willoughby. Pilots from the non-profit organization will donate their time, fuel and aircraft to fly kids ages 8-17 at no cost; parental permission is required. There will also be hands on youth stations for a variety of activities. Breakfast is $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 3 to 12 and free for children under 3. Cash only, please. All proceeds benefit EAA Chapter 5 programs. For information, call 440-321-9036.
Community Cleanup Day
June 4, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pledge to participate in the first annual Chesterland Volunteer Cleanup Day. Register to clean up litter and debris along roads, rights of way, public spaces and parks at wgkiwanis.org. Register to clean one’s own street or join with others in the community – or both.
FGP Explorers Series
June 4, 10:30 a.m. Kayak with a Geauga Park District naturalist in search of ospreys and bald eagles at Headwaters Park, 13365 Old State Road in Huntsburg Township. For information, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440-564-1048.
Wool Hollow Fest
June 5, 12-4 p.m. The Chesterland Historical Foundation will host the annual Wool Hollow Fest on the village green located at the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township. Admission is free. All buildings will be open to tour. See Town Crier • Page 6
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Negotiations from page 1
Those who spoke up Monday night, however, believed a hope was not lost and emphasized the significance of the property to the community. “The Newbury school was the center of the Newbury community, not only geographically, but also an activity center for township residents,” said Newbury resident Roger Mezak. William Schneider, also of Newbury, shared some historical background. “Maybe you know this, maybe you don’t — that auditorium in the middle school was donated,” Schneider said. “It was donated to the people of Newbury Township by Mrs. Frohring. She had an interest in the arts. She had an interest in the people — not just the kids, but the people overall. We always had a place to meet. We can’t even have our Memorial Day services as we used to. And if we had to build another building, I mean that would be ridiculous when we already have a nice building that was built by the people of Newbury, not just to mention Mrs. Frohring’s donations, but I can remember at the time that was built, my parents made donations.” Some took aim at the board members’ legacy. “I originally was going to come here and talk about how ashamed of myself I am that I was so supportive of members of the West Geauga board during this whole process, but this isn’t about me, this is about you,” said Newbury resident Fran Dittrich. “You will always be remembered as the school board that broke the promises to Newbury. You will always be remembered as people who lied because I was told right to my face that the property was coming back to Newbury. You’ll always be remembered as the school board that didn’t even honor your own timeline, and, unfortunately, the superintendent will be remembered the same way. I really think it’s not a good move for you. “You’ll also be remembered as the school board that denied Newbury the right to make a decision,” she continued. “If we have the opportunity and you stick to your timeline, we can actually put it to a vote and then you’ll know whether Newbury can support this issue or not. I think we will. I don’t think you want to be remembered the way that you’re headed, so please reconsider.” Other frustrations centered around the negotiation process. “I find it totally incomprehensible how eight elected officials cannot sit down and get this done,” Mezak said. “Two years, this is ridiculous. I feel both boards — both Newbury and you folks have not made a very good effort.” Schneider added, “Maybe if the negotiations would have been more transparent, I think that could have been worked out a long time ago.” Leavenworth and board Vice President Ben Kotowski were not present at the meeting. However, board member Christina Sherwood, who had been appointed as presiding officer “pro tempore” for the meeting, read a prepared statement in response to the public comments. “The board has an anticipatory response in regards to the concerns being expressed this evening, so I’m just going to read this on behalf of all the board members,” said Sherwood.
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Newbury resident William Schneider was one of eight people who spoke during the West Geauga Schools Board of Education meeting May 9, expressing disappointment with the board’s decision to cease negotiations with Newbury Township Trustees over the fate of the former school campus.
The statement recapped the board’s decision to terminate negotiations with Newbury Township and included the following: “Sensitive to the historical and emotional attachment of the Newbury community to the site, the West Geauga board of education heard and listened to the (Newbury) task force’s proposal to use part or all of the Newbury campus to house a community center,” said Sherwood. “Various iterations of a plan were discussed, but none provided specifics related to usage, a timeline or financial feasibility. After two years of discussion, 13 written communications, meetings, two face-to-face executive sessions with Newbury Township Trustees, and offers by the West G board, all of which were subsequently rejected by the trustees to lease the property to the township at a nominal fee of $100, the West Geauga board of education is ending the dialogue.” The statement also cited Newbury’s responsibility for decisions regarding the property. “If the former Newbury board of education or the Newbury Township board of trustees were committed to the establishment of a community center in the smaller school, they could have established one prior to the transfer of the property to West Geauga Schools,” said Sherwood. “Nothing would have prevented them from doing so. Instead, they waited until Newbury was part of the West Geauga school district and asked the West Geauga board of education to shoulder the corresponding costs. It is an undisputed fact that the Newbury township board of trustees lacks the unanimous decision required by law to purchase the Newbury campus for even a nominal sum. Furthermore, it does not currently possess the funds to maintain the property. “The West Geauga board of education has exercised patience and allocated over $400,000 to continue discussions while maintaining the Newbury campus during these negotiations. It cannot do so indefinitely, nor should it be expected to. The West Geauga board of education remains committed to all of its residents. The future of the Newbury property must be one that benefits both the residents of Newbury and the students of the entire West Geauga community.”
Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Newbury Township
Tropf Refuses to Explain His Stand on School Property By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com As the walls of Newbury High School come down and the future of the intermediate school remains in limbo, some Newbury Township residents want answers. Newbury Township Trustees are fresh out. Not as many visitors were present at the trustees’ meeting May 18 compared to the May 4 meeting, but they were vocal, asking for the current status of negotiations between trustees and the West Geauga Schools Board of Education. They also wanted to know why Trustee Greg Tropf has been opposed to letting township residents vote on a levy to support a community center at the remaining school. Tropf said Trustee Bill Skomrock sent a list of questions to the township’s attorney to share with West Geauga’s board after it voted to cease negotiations last month and has received no response. “I hope something comes from the questions,” Skomrock said. “(The board) own(s) the property — they are the ones who have the say-so.” The schools and 39 acres became the property of West Geauga Schools through a territory transfer in 2018. The school board and the trustees have been in occasional negotiations until last month when the board issued a statement that negotiations had been abandoned. One reason stated was the lack of a consensus among township trustees on placing a levy on the ballot to financially support a community center. Skomrock and Trustee Glen Quigley were in favor of placing a levy on the ballot to support a community center. Newbury resident Linda Retych addressed that fact. “Why, Greg? Nobody knows why you were against this,” she said. Tropf refused to answer. “I’m not going to get into that,” he said. “If it gets to legal … I’m not going to get into this.” Retych was insistent. “I have never heard an explanation,” she said, adding she had asked Skomrock if he knew why Tropf opposed a levy. “Bill said to ask Greg,” she said. At the beginning of last Wednesday’s meeting, Tropf said he had work-related obligations and would not be able to stay at town
hall if the meeting was long. “There are no updates on (the letter),” Skomrock said. “The attorney is sharing questions and there’s been no reply from anybody. I guess there’s nothing to report.” Shortly after Retych’s demand for answers, Tropf left the building. He did not respond to a request for comment on his position. Skomrock alluded to the school board’s apparent desire to keep control of the parcel of land the wastewater treatment plant is on, but said he didn’t know why or if the board is considering his letter. “I’m assuming some things are happening,” he said. “Right now, they are tearing (the high school) down. I don’t have answers.” The intermediate school, which Skomrock envisioned as a community and arts center/township office facility, would need preparation before being torn down, such as removal or containment of asbestos, so it is unlikely it will be demolished immediately after the high school demo is completed, he said. In other business, the trustees voted unanimously to give all employees a 7% wage increase and to pay stipends of $20 per meeting to members of the board of zoning appeals and the zoning commission. Employees will only be permitted to carry over 80 hours in unused vacation time and they will no longer be compensated for unused vacation time over 80 hours, said Fiscal Officer Beverly Sustar. At the end of the meeting, Newbury Fire Chief Ken Fagan asked if the contracts between Infinity Construction Company of Warrensville and the township had been completed yet. A 5.5-mill continuing levy passed in November is providing funding for a $4 million fire station addition and renovation. An architect is working on the plans and a contract should be forthcoming. Skomrock said he has not heard back from the township’s attorney, Tom Fitzsimmons, about the contract. “I don’t know how much longer they will work without a contract,” Fagan said, adding the process with the attorney was initiated two weeks ago. Skomrock said Fitzsimmons emailed him on May 5 that he is waiting for the contract. “Greg was the lead on that,” Skomrock said.
Community Meetings Listed are public meetings and executive sessions for the coming two-week period, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices. Geauga County: May 25, 5 p.m., Board of Health, at 470 Center St., Bldg. 8; June 2, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; June 7, 9:30 a.m. – Geauga County Commissioners, regular session with public hearing at 10 a.m. for the Department of Development (Building) for proposed changes to the permit fee schedule, 5:45 p.m. – Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve, at 8221 Auburn Road, Concord. All county com-
missioners meetings are held at 470 Center St., Bldg. 4, Chardon, unless otherwise noted. Chester Township: June 1, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; June 2, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. Russell Township: May 25, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; June 2, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 6, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. (NOTE: Trustees new meeting dates are first and third Thursdays.)
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Obituaries Gina Lorenzo
Gina Lorenzo (nee Frager), age 63, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family; loving mother of Corri Kowaleski (nee Zaller), Dan Zaller Jr. (wife Kate) and Kayla Lorenzo; devoted grandmother of Louie, Lola, Dylan, Harper, Danny and Benny; cherished daughter of the late Phil and Terri (nee Reich) Frager; dearest sister of Ben Frager (wife Naissa) and Marla Badowski (husband Thad); companion
Town Crier from page 3
Geauga Skywatchers Club
June 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join Geauga Skywatchers for “Sun 101” in person at the Middlefield Library. Get closer to Earth’s nearest star through a review of facts, folklore, theories, inquiries and everything under the sun. Registration is required; visit www.GeaugaLibrary.libcal.
GCRTA To Meet
June 7, 11:15 a.m. The Geauga County Retired Teachers’ Association will meet at Mary Yoder’s, 14743 North State St., Middlefield. The business meeting will start at 11:30 a.m., followed by a lunch of roast beef and turkey at noon. Randy Overbeck, former teacher, principal, superintendent, past ORTA president and author of “The Haunted Shores Mysteries” will present a program called “Things Still Go Bump in the Night.” A 50/50 raffle
and good friend of Nick Lorenzo; dear aunt, great-aunt, cousin, in-law and friend of many and Bentley, her canine counterpart. Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. Family receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Gina on May 21, 2022, from 9-11:30 a.m., with the Celebration of Life Service at 11:30 a.m., at The DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center of Chesterland, 12811 Chillicothe Road. Online obituary, guestbook and order flowers at www.DeJohnCares.com.
and free lunch raffle will follow the program. For reservations, send a check made out to GCRTA for $19 per person to Judy Miller, Treasurer, 17130 Kinsman Road, Middlefield, OH 44062 so that it arrives no later than May 30. Inform Judy of any dietary restrictions. Bring paper products or canned goods for Geauga County Job and Family Services. Membership in GCRTA is open to any retired school employee.
Community Garage Sale
June 11, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A community garage sale is being held in the parking lot of the Metzenbaum Center, 8200 Cedar Road in Chester Township. Local residents may rent a space to sell gently used items from their “Trunk to You.” Proceeds benefit the Metzenbaum Foundation community and recreation programming. For information on renting a space, call Marsha Marin at 440-729-9406, ext. 2502.
Caveman Crawl
June 12, 7-11 a.m. Experience a one-of-a-kind 5K trail run and 1 mile fun walk through the wooded hills of The West Woods, co-presented this year by Geauga Park District and the Foundation for Geauga Parks. Early registration is $20 at bit. ly/2022CavemanCrawl. Day-of registration begins at 7 a.m. There is a costume contest at 8:30 a.m. The race steps off at 9 a.m. Unique awards will be handed out for winning runners and most creative costumes. Call 440564-1048 with any questions.
Christian Women’s Connection
June 22, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Join Christian Women’s Connection for lunch and a program at Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Road in Bainbridge Twp. Featured speakers Linda O’Brien, founder of Liberty Camp USA, will present “Making America’s Next Generation of Great Patriots,” and Bea Clements will present “Renovations: Can You Really DIY-Do It Yourself?” Cost is $16 at the door. Call or text 440-2131205 to RSVP by June 15. Visit www.stonecroft. org for more information. All are welcome.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Geauga Park District For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Climb, Ride, Glide & Play The park district reopens its ropes and boats recreational offerings for the season on May 28. High ropes will be open for hour-and-ahalf-long sessions Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; and Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays at 12:30, 2, 4:30 and 6 p.m. Access is free to all Geauga County residents (ID required) and $20 for out-of-county residents. To learn age requirements, weight restrictions and more, visit the park district website before heading out to Claridon Woodlands. Reservations are highly recommended.
There is also a 12-foot-high, 900-squarefoot freeform boulder wall, complete with new routes and special new rock holds for those who do not want a scheduled adventure. For those craving a warm-weather adventure on the water, head to Headwaters Park’s boathouse for kayak and canoe borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. New this year, two paddleboats seating up to four people are also available to borrow for one hour at a time. The park’s limited number of kayaks, canoes and paddleboats will be available to borrow Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last boats out at 4 p.m.; and Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 7 p.m., with last boats out at 6 p.m. Geauga County residents can borrow boats for free (ID required). Provided life vests must be worn at all times.
Chesterland Composer wins HerVoice Competition Inna Onofrei, a resident of Chester Township and graduate of Cleveland State University, is a winner of Chicago a cappella’s HerVoice competition and mentorship program for emerging women composers. Born in Azerbaijan, Onofrei’s work will be performed next season in Chicago. Onofrei’s catalogue as a composer includes music for piano, voice, chamber ensembles and symphonic works, as well as electronic and electro-acoustic works.
Tuffuor from page 1
But Geauga County remained on his mind. He remembered seeing the backs of sports jerseys filled with the names of local businesses. Those small businesses were the backbone of the county community, he said, adding he passed by them every day and those businesses inspired him. “I got the bug to be an entrepreneur,” Tuffuor said. “Geauga fed into me. I knew lots of parents who had started businesses. I had seen a lot of entrepreneurs. I realized I didn’t always want to work for someone. I wanted to build something.” So, a few years after moving to California, Tuffuor and his friend, Warren Jones, started Toasted Life, an entertainment brand that cultivates community for young professionals of color through music, travel, volunteer and
other social gatherings. “Our goal is to be a glue for people to help build their network,” Tuffuor said, adding he had witnessed first-hand how young professionals would move to his area pursuing their careers, would struggle to find community and then move away. Both college and Geauga County had taught Tuffuor the importance of people and that is what Toasted Life is about, he said. While he has no plans to move back to Ohio just yet, he spent a lot of time in Geauga County over the last few years and said the grass isn’t always greener somewhere else. “I realized during the pandemic I took the area for granted,” Tuffuor said. “There is a peace and beauty in this area. Going back gave me a lot of energy and I saw the beauty of where I grew up in a different way. “People chase these big cities and think they need to be in New York or something,” he added. “People don’t realize that the people there are chasing what you just left.”
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
West G Prom 2022
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West Geauga High School students celebrated “One Night in Paris” at the 2022 WGHS Prom. The event was held at Guido’s Generations Event and Reception Center in Chester Township. Students enjoyed an evening of good food, music and dancing with their friends. This year’s prom queen was Isabella Maguire and the prom king was CJ Timm.
Letters to the Editor Thank You For Your Support During this time of high school graduations and the beginning of summer vacation, the Happy Tail Cat Sanctuary board of trustees commends the National Honor Society students, as well as the 7th graders from Girl Scouts Troop 70823, for volunteering their time and energy at the recent Happy Tails benefit at the Orchard Hills Party Center in Chesterland. Not only did they assist in so many ways at the fundraiser, they were also personable and helpful to the event’s attendees. Those volunteers included: Tori Wiece from West Geauga High School; Abigail Carson, Molly Evans, Savannah Flesher, Charlotte Herbruck, Faith Kilfoyle, Liam
Ptaznik, and Maija Thomas from Chardon High School; and Girl Scouts Sidney Mobley, Sydney Smith, and Caroline Yeager from West Geauga Middle School. We would also like to thank five other National Honor Society students from Chardon High School who volunteered their time at last year’s Happy Tails benefit at the VFW Hall in Chardon. They are: Charlotte Bennett, Quentin Fedak, Sebastian Marker, Matthew Organiscak, and Jessica Zalar. We’re very grateful to all the above-mentioned students, and we’re confident that they will continue to enhance the lives of others in their communities! Sincerely, Tom Vasko President, Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary
Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
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West Geauga Schools
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ACE Award winners for the third quarter at Westwood Elementary School.
Westwood ACE Awards
Congratulations to the Westwood Elementary School ACE Award winners in kindergarten, first and second grades. Two students from each class earn the award given by their teacher for demonstrating a positive attitude, citizenship and effort in the classroom. Patterson Farms donated donuts to assist in honoring the students. More students will earn the recognition for the fourth quarter in the upcoming weeks. Students earning the ACE award for the third nine weeks are: Tommy Mooney, Cole Carcioppolo, Ella Branch, Harper Hanley, Landen Gecewich, Grace Fleisch, Michael Dzurilla, Efrain Morales, Asher Flowers-Partee Meghan Northup, Reagan Marshall, Henry Mikolay, Luke Garisek, Sydney Albers,
Ellie Vidonish, Leo DiFranco, Madilyn Arrigo, Franklin Demas, Violet Hale, Aven Rodstrom, Elliotte Laramee’ August Cullen, Bridget Walsh, Ryan Leonardi, Lucas Oklander, Ava Walker, Juliette Kaye, Elena Paterniti, Logan Schreiner, Faith Clark, Callie Blakeley, Olivia Oriani, Connor Moritz, Casey Rogaski, Abby Lee, Mack O’Loughlin, Kenzi Spencer and Luca DiFranco.
Electrical “Engineers”
Pictured right: Lindsey Elementary School students recently completed a science lesson on electricity. Proving that learning can be fun, students built and tested parallel and series circuits, adding buzzers, switches and motors to launch little “helicopters” in the hall outside Mr. Gordon Petronsky’s classroom.
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Senior Wins International Honor
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West Geauga High School senior Ryan McGinnis earned two top awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta.
West Geauga High School senior Ryan McGinnis participated in the International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta, Ga., where he was awarded the YM American Academy first place Special Award in chemistry, He also received a second place Grand Award for Chemistry, thus qualifying him as one of the top award recipients among an international
group of competitors. Ryan was a 2022 STEM Fair project winner at the West Geauga Kiwanis-sponsored science fair. He generously donated his winnings back to the West G Science Department. Ryan received a fully expense paid trip to the Atlanta competition for taking first place at the Northeast Ohio Science and Engineering Fair.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
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Geauga Public Library Geauga West Library 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 440-729-4250. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.GeaugaLibrary.net.
Summer Reading Challenge
Beginning June 1, sign up for the challenge to read books, log progress and be entered into raffles of various prizes.
Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange
May 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exchange jigsaws for new ones.
Online Library Resources
May 28, 2 p.m. Discover the many online resources available from the library website.
Teen Tech Tutor Orientation
May 31, 2:30-4 p.m. Rising high school juniors and seniors earn service hours by helping senior citizens become more comfortable with technology.
Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending May 6 and May 13, 2022, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only. CHESTER TOWNSHIP Elaine Bastick, 11761 Summers Road, to Lifang Zhang, $340,000. (1.08 acres) Karen Michel (trustee), 13406 Hickory St., to Timothy E. Szczepinski, $257,300. (1.01 acres) Susan M. Congdon, 11400 Kristine Drive, to Patricia A. Yost and John M. Levan, $486,000. (3.13 acres) Pamela J. Bruner, Susan A. Fani, et. al, 7305 Mulberry Road, to Pamela J. Bruner, $68,900. (1.50 acres) Marian L. Matsko (TOD), 9630 Marsh Hawk Run, to Cindy Michelle and Garrett Schreier, $546,500. (5.06 acres) RUSSELL TOWNSHIP Michael Crowley, 7944 Fairmount Road, to Julie A. Lowry, $700,000. (6.34 acres) Judy A. Vild, 13983 Caves Road, to Douglas Northcutt, $245,000. (1.50 acres)
The orientation for teens in grades 6-12 will provide scheduling and expectations.
Film Discussion Club
June 2, 2 p.m. Join to discuss “Gaslight.”
Summer Reading Kickoff
June 4, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join at the Geauga County Fairgrounds, 14373 N. Cheshire St. in Burton to celebrate the 2022 Summer Reading Kickoff.
The Negro Leagues in Ohio
June 8, 7 p.m. Learn about the Negro Leagues, presented by Dr. Leslie Heaphy, associate professor of history at Kent State University, Stark Campus and author of “The Negro Leagues.”
The community is invited to the Memorial Day observance ceremony being held May 30 at 10 a.m. at Chester Township Cemetery, 12573 Chillicothe Road. The remembrance service will include singing the national anthem, placing of the wreath, Taps, 21 gun salute and salute to fallen comrades. Following the ceremony, there will be a program and walking tour of the Chester Cemetery visiting gravestones with historical signs telling the personal stories of fallen heroes. Signs and flags will be up the week before Memorial Day. There will be re-enactors from the Revolutionary War telling the stories of the brave men who came after serving in the Revolutionary War and settled in the Western Reserve as their reward from the United States as well as re-enactors telling stories of the Chester men who served in World War II and Vietnam. For more information, contact Chester Town Hall at 440-729-7058.
Chesterland News
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Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Local Girl Scouts Build Homes for Bats By Grace Hare editor@geaugamapleleaf.com The High Adventure Girl Scout Troop #70334 recently built houses for bats in Geauga County to provide the endangered animals safe havens for respite. “It was fun making bat boxes because it’s important for bats to be given a place to rest,” said Scout Sarah Miller. The troop connected with the Geauga County Soil and Water Conservation District to build the houses after connecting with the organization at The Great Geauga County Fair. For several years, the GCSWCD has offered educational programs to the public about the importance of bats and how to preserve their homes. Bat populations are plummeting and species that were once very common, like myotis lucifugus — better known as the little brown bat — have decreased to the point of endangerment. Little brown bats, specifically, have suffered from white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that affects hibernating bats and causes death, according to the National Wildlife Federation. Deforestation and infectious disease have taken away a lot of available habitable space, which is vital for bats, explained Scout Serena Squires. The troop built the homes with recycled wood pallets used from a previous project and designed them to provide a safe environment for female bats to raise their young and for other bats to rest. “These Girl Scouts are proving that
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The High Adventure Girl Scout Troop # 70334 teamed up with the Geauga County Soil and Water Conservation District to learn about the importance of bats and their ecologically essential role of consuming agricultural and forest pests. After discussing habitat requirements, management strategies and threats to Ohio bats, the troop built bat houses to enhance bat habitat in their own backyards.
everyone can do something to help bats,” said Gail Prunty, education communication specialist for the GCSWCD. The Scouts, ranging from ages 12 to 18, plan all the events that take place each year, said Kathy Newman, troop leader. Serena chose this program for her troop and oversaw the event. Newman started HAGS 23-years ago because she wanted to expand upon traditional Girl Scout activities by implementing new adventures. “Our troop does a high adventure activity every month,” said Newman. “June is a trip to
Puerto Rico, July is spelunking, August is white water rafting and October is a stone slab.” Being a Girl Scout leader for 52 years, Newman and her co-leader, Sue Stone, who has been involved in Girl Scouts for 25-years, both want to implement new experiences for their troop, which takes in new Scouts every year and is always looking for more to join, Newman said. The troops’ events are mentioned in their newsletter, as they do not have regular meetings. For more information on how to get involved, email Newman at kathynewman20@ gmail.com.
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Chesterland News
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4-H SPOTLIGHT Want to see your photo in our BARNS, FARMS & FAIR Special Section for FREE? Maple Leaf
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Middlef ield Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas
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t h g i l t o p S r i a F Junior
his third year of in is n, to ur B of , 13 s, Benny Jone include market duck, ar ye is th ts ec oj pr is 4-H. H r the first time, a fo d an g ho t ke ar m , market turkey ed with Allen. starter calf. He is pictur
hardon, is a Addison Smith, 9, of C H and will be first year member of 4ns. showing market chicke
Chesterland News
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Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Help Wanted Help Needed occasionally for yard work in Chardon area. Call 440-226-6053. Cleaning horse stalls, miscellaneous work at Novelty Farm. Part-time, Yearround, after school and summer. 5 minutes from West G high school. Call 440338-1537.
15864 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield (440)632-9310 themarketplacemall@yahoo.com Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Advertising Office 8389 Mayfield Road, B-5 Chesterland, OH 44026 Fax: 440-729-8240
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Marketplace Mall & Marketplace Cafe
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
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Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS For sale: four 18-inch tires and wheels for 2013 Chevrolet half-ton truck. Good condition. $550. 216-469-3208.
SALE! Tools, Glassware, Baskets, Tons of stuff! May 27, 28, 29, 30. 9a-6p. 18071 Tilden Road., Troy Township. Something for Everyone!
1976 Honda 750F Super Sport. Good Runner. Many new parts. Very good condition. 11,205 miles. Make offer. 440-2863295.
Gigantic Garage Sale. Moving & Downsizing. Furniture, Linens, Tools. Too much to list, something for everyone. 7276 Wilson Mills Road, Chesterland. June 2-3-4 9a-5p. No Early-birds please.
$Wanted Junk Vehicles$ Muscle Cars, Dump Trucks, Construction Equipment, Running Vehicles, etc. Scrap Metal. Free Removal. Call 440-679-7293.
Estate Sale Jun 10th-11th 9a-3p. 8701 Mayfield Road #149-Maywood Community, Chesterland. Priced to sell – everything must go. No early-birds. Cash only.
EVENTS Calling all vendors. Join the Metzenbaum Foundation Community Garage Sale. June 11 9a-1:30p. E-mail marsha@ metzenbaumfdn.org to rent a space.
FOR SALE Motor Coach. 1983 Chevy 350 cubic inch, built-in generator. Mechanically A-1. Sleeps 6. Many upgrades. $9500 OBO. Call 440-636-5456. Ford 9N rebuilt engine new clutch assembly & flywheel. Lots of new parts and paint. $2,800 OBO. 440-313-5896.
MISCELLANEOUS FREE fact: Today’s marijuana has been genetically engineered to have much higher potency. Especially dangerous to young people under 25 years!
Forty-inch round cast aluminum hightop table w/4 chairs, cushions and umbrella $400. 440-223-6055. Did you know that Maple Leaf subscribers are entitled to one free classified line ad for each week of their subscription? Up to 20 words - perfect for selling personal items, vehicles or anything else you might have! An in-county one-year subscription is only $50 ($45 for seniors). Only $65 for those who live outside Geauga County or snowbirds. Call 440-7297667, email ads@karlovecmedia.com or write to Geauga County Maple Leaf, 8389 Mayfield Road, Ste. B5, Chesterland, OH 44026. Shop AVON at home or office. Delivery and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Bev Thompson Avon Independent Sales Representative Call: 440-708-8045 Visit my Web site: https://www.avon.com/ myavon/bthompson8804
WANTED TO BUY Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-3138331.
Antique clocks, antique crank wall phone $369, humpback chest $79, large wooden rocking horse $79, antique sewing cabinet $89. 440-338-3563.
Wanted. Riding Lawn Mowers. 4 Wheelers. Mini Bikes. Go-Karts. Farm Tractors. Construction Equipment. Paying Cash. Call 440-352-7372.
Saddles, barrel racing $300. Antique collector Weston N.Porter $1000. Horse shoeing tools & equipment $300. Call 845987-0079. 6foot Landscape/York Rake, 3 point hitch $600. 8foot Dunham culti-pack, double roller $800. 400-478-2218. Text best. Large workbenches, 4-drawer file cabinets $15. Large oak desk $50. Power hand-tools, frame mat cutter, double hammock w/frame $100. Hammock chair $65. 440-729-4242.
Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.
SERVICES Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552. Van Taxi Service. All Hours. Crews Welcome. Call 440-321-7555.
190+ good used cement patio stones 15.75”L x 7.75”W x 1.75”H $0.50 cents each or $90.00 for all. 440-834-8943.
Taking down dead and unwanted trees, and doing small tree trimming. Clean-up is optional. 440-313-8522.
Vintage 1920’s Remington portable typewriter $400. Philco cathedral radio $100. Old oak kitchen chairs, make offer. 440564-1172.
John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.
Six 6 dozen golf balls $25. Cash. 216-2186211.
Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.
3/4” drive tools. Williams 18” slider breaker bar. $30. Wright 24” rachet $55. Snap-on 8” ext $20. 1-3/8” socket 12pt. $15. Bob 440-548-5801. Columbia Northway Fe Female Bicycle, K2-44-ZED Male Bicycle, and a Allen Sports 3- Bike Truck Rear hitch carrier. $450. (216)469-2993.
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES May 26-28. 8:30am-4pm. 6867 Route 6 (Gar Hwy) Hartsgrove. Multi-Family. Young girl’s clothing. Household items. Miscellaneous. Estate Sale. 18 years of history in this home. For sale: Bed-room, Living-room, Dining-room Furniture. Antiques. Decorative items. Dishes. Kitchen gadgets. Clothing. Motorcycle accessories/parts. Floral/craft items. 11375 Kristine Drive, Chesterland. June 2-3-4-5. 8a-4p. Cash only. Marketplace Mall in Middlefield is looking for vendors, retailers, artisans and crafters with unique and quality merchandise. Call 440-313-8147 for more information.
Stained glass repairs. 28 years experience. Free pickup and deliveries. Custom designs also available. Call 440-6365484.
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, May 25, 2022