Volume 53, No. 7
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Your Community Newspaper Since 1967
West G Mandates Masks for 1st Quarter of Year Staff Report West Geauga Schools will mandate the wearing of masks or face shields at its indoor facilities for the first quarter of the 2021-22 school year, said Superintendent Richard Markwardt in an Aug 13 statement. Markwardt said the change to mandating masks at West Geauga is intended to reduce, to the extent possible, the need for students and staff members to quarantine from school and activities if exposed to the virus. “Masks and/or face shields will
not be required at the district’s outdoor facilities, but it is strongly recommended that individuals who are not fully vaccinated continue to follow federal, state and local health authority guidance regarding masking and social distancing, including but not limited to CDC recommendations that in areas of substantial to high transmission such individuals wear a mask in crowded outdoor settings or during activities that involve sustained close contact with other people who are not fully vaccinated,” he said. Students will also maintain a
minimum of three feet social distancing, as recommended by the Ohio Department of Health, his statement said, and masks will continue to be required on school buses in all districts, due to an order from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Markwardt said the mask guidance is intended to conform to local, state and federal legal requirements and health authority guidance. “Like the School Restart Plan designed to reopen West Geauga’s school buildings in August 2020,
these superintendent’s guidelines related to face masks represent a fluid document that is subject to change reflective of the recommendations of local, state and federal experts,” Markwardt said. “The need to relax or tighten these provisions will depend on a number of factors, including community spread of the virus, vaccination rate in the community, medical expertise, recommendations of the state and local health departments, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and any local, state or federal mandates.”
Board of Elections Hopes to Attract Young Poll Workers By Diane Ryder editor@geaugamapleleaf.com Teens ages 17 and older have an opportunity to learn the election process first hand, serve their community, earn $130 for a day’s work and qualify for scholarship money, Geauga County Board of Elections member Joan Windnagel told the West Geauga Schools Board of Education Aug. 9. Windnagel presented the board with a flyer from Kids Voting Ohio, a Worthington-based organization that provides public schools with curriculum and activities geared to inform young people about voting. According to its website, Kids Voting Ohio is a free, non-partisan, voter preparedness and civic education program with a mission to improve voter turnout in the 18 to 29 age group. According to U.S. Census figures from 2017, Americans 18 to 29
are the least likely to register and vote, with less than 50 percent participating in elections. In comparison, the voting rate for people in the 30 to 44 age group is about 60 percent, just under 70 percent in the 45 to 64 age group and more than 70 percent for those over 65. Windnagel said she is reaching out to all area high school principals to spread the word about the Kids Voting Ohio program, part of Kids Voting USA and supported by the Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Association of Election Officials, the Supreme Court of Ohio, the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio and Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. “It’s gonna get 17-year-olds and seniors in high school to register to vote and get involved,” Windnagel said. “This program introduces them at a young age to the voting
DIANE RYDER/KMG
Geauga County Board of Elections Member Joan Windnagel describes the Kids Voting Ohio program to the West Geauga Schools Board of Education Aug. 9.
process in the state of Ohio.” An added benefit, she told the board, is a much-needed new source of potential poll workers. “Our poll workers (tend to be)
70 years old or older and when they sit in front of a computer, they’re petrified,” she told the board. “Kids aren’t afraid of computer technology and they may like to learn how government works.” Windnagel said helping out at the board of elections may fulfill some school programs’ requirements for community service, may qualify them for scholarship money through the Ohio Kids Voting program and pays $130 per day for working at the polls. “Poll workers are always needed,” she told the board, as she handed the Kids Voting Ohio flyer to West Geauga High School Principal Jay Bishop. For more information on becoming a poll worker, contact the Geauga County Board of Elections at 440-279-2030. For more information on the KidsVotingOhio program, visit kidsvotingohio.org.
LocaL PostaL customer ecrWss/eDDm
stanDarD Postage & Fees PaiD WiLLoughby, oh Permit 42
CHESTERLAND NEWS
Page 2
Chesterland News
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Chesterland News
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Town Crier Kiwanis Summer Concert Series
Aug. 18, 7 p.m. The Kiwanis Club of West Geauga’s 38th annual summer concert series at the Chester Township Park gazebo concludes tonight with Great Geauga County Fair Band. In the event of rain, the concert will be canceled. Visit www.wgkiwanis.org for information.
Outreach Spaghetti Dinner
Aug. 19, 6-7 p.m. Christ Presbyterian Church offers free outreach spaghetti dinners the third Thursday of each month. Dinners are drive-thru only. The church is located at 12419 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Young Of Heart
Aug. 20, 11:30 a.m. St. Anselm Young of Heart will resume regular meetings again at the parish center. Bring a brown bag lunch. Refreshments will be limited and there will be no entertainment. Meetings will again be held on the first and third Friday of every month. Members from 2020 do not have to pay dues; however, anyone wishing to join for the remainder of the year may join for $10.
CV Herb Society Meets
Aug. 20, 12:30 p.m. Laura Matulac and Kaie Cenkus will talk about propagating plants at the next meeting of the Chagrin Valley Herb Society at the Bainbridge Library. The program will begin after refreshments and business meeting. Email chagrinvalleyherbsociety@gmail. com to RSVP. Prospective members can learn about the group at chagrinvalleyherbsociety. org or on Facebook.
LGC Heritage Program
Leadership Geauga County is offering special community classes for retirees regarding community engagement and networking opportunities. Retirees will learn how to define their next life chapter while engaging with like-minded individuals in making a difference in the community. Classes meet weekly from Aug. 24 through Oct. 5. Visit leadershipgeauga.org for more information on how to register.
Free Fresh Produce
Aug. 21, 9-11 a.m. Newbury United Community Church will host a fresh produce giveaway at the church located at 14961 Auburn Road. Cleveland FoodBank provides the service to low income Geauga County residents the third Saturday of each month through October. Please bring ID and bags.
Twilight Soiree
Aug. 21, 5:30 p.m. The Foundation for Geauga Parks’ signature event, Twilight Soiree, returns to Big Creek Park Donald Meyer Center in Chardon Township. The indoor/outdoor celebration of Geauga County’s parks and preserves features catered food, beverages, live entertainment by Harvest, as well as a silent auction, Best of Geauga raffle and more. Proceeds benefit Foundation programs and educational initiatives. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 440-564-1048 or visit www.foundationforgeaugaparks.org.
This and That Sale
Sept. 9-11 St. Mark Lutheran Church Women’s League hosts its annual garage sale at the church located at 11900 Chillicothe in Chester Township. Hours are Thursday, 4-7 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Booth space is available at $25 for all three days. Call Edie at 440-667-5996 to reserve a space.
Kiwanis Leave and Take Event
Sept. 10, noon to 8 p.m. Sept. 11 and 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Kiwanis Club of West Geauga is offering an alternative recycling event at Chester Recycle Park. On Friday and Saturday, drop off useable items in good, working condition that are no longer needed or wanted, including housewares, small appliances, tools, toys, sporting goods, tables, school supplies and more. On all three days, take anything for free. The community event is free to all with no residency requirement. Anyone interested in volunteering to help, or for more information, contact Ken Mantey at 440-729-2869 or visit wgkiwanis.org.
Community Recycling
Sept. 11, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kiwanis Club of West Geauga is again providing electronics and scrap metal recycling along with document shredding at Chester Recycle Park. Clean out the house, garage and filing cabinets of unwanted items and responsibly recycle them - anything electronic, anything metal and any personal documents. Bicycles will be repurposed. The event is free to all with no residency requirement. Anyone interested in volunteering to help, or for more information about the event or joining Kiwanis, contact Ken Mantey at 440-729-2869 or visit wgkiwanis.org.
Page 3
karlovec Editorial Office 101 South Street P.O. Box 1166 Chardon, Ohio 44024 Phone 440-285-2013 FAX 440-285-2015 news@chesterlandnews.com Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday
group Advertising Office 8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5 Chesterland, Ohio 44026 Phone 440-729-7667 FAX 440-729-8240 ads@chesterlandnews.com Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Closed Wednesday
Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Beverly Thompson, Front Desk Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design Amy Patterson, Staff Reporter Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor
Deadlines • Editorial submissions are printed as space is available, at the publisher’s discretion, and may be edited for
length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by noon on the Friday prior to the Wednesday publication date for consideration for that edition. • Email all editorial submissions to news@chesterlandnews.com. • The space reservation deadline for paid advertisements in that week’s Chesterland News is 4 p.m. on the Thursday prior to publication. Late ads may be accepted at the discretion of management. • Email advertising requests and questions to ads@chesterlandnews.com.
Circulation • The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in the communities of Chester Township
and parts of Russell Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service. • Copies are also available at more than 10 rack locations within Chester and Russell townships. • Circulation in excess of 5,700.
• Produced by the Chesterland News, LLC. • In case of error, we will re-print that portion of an advertisement that was in error. Notification of error should be made within three days of published date.
• The Chesterland News, LLC assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein.
• The Chesterland News, LLC reserves the right to reject or revise any advertisement or news item for publication.
Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Chesterland News, LLC, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned. • The opinions and representations contained in advertisements are those of the advertiser. They have not been verified by the Chesterland News, LLC, nor should they be construed to represent the position or viewpoint of this newspaper or its publisher. • Under no circumstances will any record filed in the county be suppressed at any time for anybody, except by order of court.
Help Support the Chesterland News and Local Journalism The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and essential in protecting the vibrant community in which we live. The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply affect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage. The cost of publishing this newspaper — editorial, printing, mailing and other production costs — is accomplished primarily through the support of generous advertisers. These advertisers are community leaders who understand the value of a stronglocal newspaper. We appreciate each and every one of them. To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper
YES!
subscription. If you value strong community journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500. For any donation of $40 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation: 1. FREE one-year online-only subscription to the Geauga County Maple Leaf, a six-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of theYear, OR 2. Six FREE 20-word classified ads over the next year. As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s financially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News. Jeff and John Karlovec
I Want to Invest In My Community
Here is my donation of $____________ Donations of $40 or more includes a choice of:
☐ 6 FREE Classified Ads in Chesterland News ($60 value) ☐ 1 YR. Online Subscription to the Maple Leaf ($45 value) Name: ____________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________, Ohio
ZIP: ________________
Phone: ____________________________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________________ Please send this form and your contribution to:
KARLOVEC MEDIA GROUP 8389 MAYFIELD ROAD, STE. B-5 CHESTERLAND, OH 44026
Chesterland News
Page 4
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. To find out whether a government meeting is in person or virtual, contact the appropriate township or school district office for meeting information. Chester Township: Aug. 18, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Aug. 26, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Sept. 1, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. 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: Aug. 18, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Aug. 21, 9 a.m., Zoning Commission, special meeting with BZA and Board of Trustees to discuss topics of importance to township, share ideas for the good of township, share views and information, and facilitate communication; Aug. 25, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Sept. 1, 2:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. (Trustees have opted to resume their regular meeting schedule but have 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.) West Geauga BOE: Aug. 23, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
From the Chester Township Road Department Chester Township Drive Pipe Replacement Policy
We frequently get asked questions regarding the policies and procedures for replacing resident drive pipes. There are three different scenarios in which drive pipes are replaced. At the township’s discretion: If Chester Township is replacing a drive pipe at the township’s discretion, the property owner is invoiced for the cost of the pipe and estimated amount of aggregate to be used. Labor and equipment costs are the responsibility of the township. Payment for pipe and aggregate is required to be paid in full in advance of the work to be performed except under emergency circumstances, as determined by the Road Superintendent. When drive pipes are replaced at the township’s discretion, it is generally because the pipes are old, failing and/or in overall poor condition. Old and failing drive pipes cause,
or contribute to, many problems. When drive pipes do not maintain proper capacity, they undermine the sub-base of the driveway, causing it to fail. Roads also get flooded as a result of old and failing pipes. Drainage problems on resident properties can occur. At the resident’s request: If a resident is requesting Chester Township to replace a drive pipe, the driveway aprons will only be replaced with aggregate limestone or other like material. It is the property owner’s responsibility to install other materials (asphalt, concrete) at his or her own cost and expense. The time frame for completion of the work is at the discretion of the township. Alternatively, the property owner may contract privately for this work at his or her own total expense with no reimbursement. In either case, before the project begins, property owners are required to obtain drive pipe replacement permits from the Geauga County Engineer and at their own expense. As part of a road resurfacing project: If
Chester Township is replacing a drive pipe as part of a resurfacing project, the property owner will be invoiced for the cost of the pipe and estimated amount of aggregate. Payment for the pipe and aggregate is required to be paid in full in advance of the work to be performed. The property owner is not responsible for a drive pipe permit under this situation. Prior to a resurfacing project, all residents of the street will receive a letter notifying them of the project. Hopefully this article has provided some helpful information regarding drive pipes and the importance of replacing them when needs be. Another action residents are encouraged to take in order to keep their drive pipes functioning properly is to refrain from blowing leaves or putting lawn debris into the ditch. This leads to blocked pipes, which restricts the flow of water. Properly functioning drive pipes are an essential component in maintaining Chester Township’s roadways.
Geauga Park District For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or 440226-4695 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Homeschool Learning Fair Returns
Aug. 27 Participate in fun activities and gather information from Geauga County organizations that offer educational opportunities for homeschool students at Homeschool Days:
Family Learning Fair at the West Woods. All attending must register and sign up in advance, including adults and siblings, to drop in anytime during one of two sessions: either 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 1:30-3:30 p.m. Program activities will be mostly outdoors.
Trail Horse Nature Challenge
Aug. 28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those with horses are invited to join the
park district’s annual Trail Horse Nature Challenge at The West Woods, featuring a one- to two-hour challenge course with natural trail obstacles and nature trivia. Participants will be assigned departure times upon arrival in order of registration, and will ride out individually or in pairs at a leisurely pace. Helmets are recommended and bring a shovel to clean up after one’s horse in the parking lot. Registration is required; space is limited.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Gardening Aquilegia Garden Club
On Aug. 7, several Aquilegia Garden Club members gathered their favorite blooms from their own gardens and met to create 15 beautiful floral arrangements. The works of art were placed on picnic tables at the 30th annual Big Creek Park Nature Arts Festival. The talented ladies also created 20 arrangements for delivery to Meals-on-Wheels recipients as random acts of kindness. A second activity is a tour on Aug. 19 to
Windswept In Time Orchids in Broadview Heights. Award-winning owner Edgar Stehli will present a program titled “Orchids 101.” He will cover what makes an orchid different from other plants and discuss how to grow and bloom them. There will be time for questions and answers as well as assistance with problem plants that members may bring. Plants and supplies will be available for purchase. Visit the website at www.windsweptorchids.com.
Campus Chatter Magdalen Canitia, of Chester Township, earned a place on the dean’s list for the spring semester at Canisius College. Canitia is majoring in business economics. McKenzie Pile, of Chester Township, graduated magna cum laude from Wheaton College with a bachelor of science in biology and a minor in Spanish. Grace Keiper, of Russell Township, was named to the fall and spring president’s list at the University of South Carolina.
Zak Rutherford, of Russell Township, and Bryce Hofstrom, of Chester Township, were named to the dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the spring semester. At University of Kentucky, James Pusterhofer, of Munson Township, graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of science in computer science and a minor in math. Pusterhofer is a graduate of West Geauga High School.
Chesterland Historical Society Flea Market Extravaganza
Aug. 21, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chesterland Historical Village will host its annual flea market where bargain hunters can find vintage jewelry, old and new books, housewares, glassware, kitchen items, clothing, crafts, toys, antiques, yard art, painted furniture and more. The event also includes guitar music by Dean Brady along with food and beverages. Limited vendor reservations are still available; contact Sue Ingrassia at 440-478-3462 or email sueingrassia@gmail.com. Entry fee of $3 supports the upkeep of the historical village located at the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township.
Chester Government Update The Chester Township Board of Trustees met in special session on July 26 at 6:01 p.m. with an executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 121.22 (G) to consider the dismissal, discipline, demotion or compensation of a public employee and (2) to consider the purchase of property for public purposes. No action was taken after the executive session. The trustees meeting on July 29 opened at 5:30 p.m. with an executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 121.22 (G) to consider the dismissal, discipline, demotion or compensation of a public employee and to consider the purchase of property for public purposes. On returning to public session, no action was taken. The board approved the meeting minutes dated July 1, 15, 22 and 26, as presented by Fiscal Officer Patricia Jarrett. In road department business, discussion was held about developing standard letters to residents for replacement of drive pipes, which the road superintendent will oversee. Wyandot Road alternate estimates were received from the Geauga County Engineer to fix a crossover pipe under the road. Trustees approved $10,712.52 to Winter Equipment Company for four truck carbide plow blades; $1,975.50 to DJL Material & Supply Co. for two pallets of Federal crack
sealer; and $7,000 to Rush Truck Center for various truck parts. The board accepted the resignation of part-time seasonal worker David Dodd effective July 30. In new business, the board moved to approve after the fact to sign additional paperwork for Drop-Off Improvement Grant agreement between Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste Management District and Chester Township effective May 25, 2021. Trustees approved the police department assisting with pedestrian traffic from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the upcoming Chesterland Historical Foundation flea market community event on Aug. 21. They also approved the use of the Chester Recycle Park field for grades three and four flag football practices taking place Monday through Friday, Aug. 9 to Sept. 29, from 5-6:30 p.m. A cemetery deed was approved, and the board approved the West Geauga Kiwanis’ use of the Chester Recycle Park on Sept. 10, 11 and 12 for a leave and take event. In Chester Township Park business, the Kiwanis Summer Concert Series runs Wednesdays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 18 at the gazebo; please park in the proper parking areas. Submitted by Joseph C. Mazzurco, Chester Township Trustee
Page 5
Chesterland News
Page 6
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
From the Desk of the Police Chief Dear Chester Residents, Thank you for the outpouring of support I received from my first of several upcoming editorials regarding the proposed new levy. I also very much appreciate your questions and for allowing me an opportunity to explain in more detail our plan and intention with the proposed new levy. Chester Township became my home in 1971 when family moved here from Bedford. I began my career with the Chester Township Police Department in 1987 and Purchase this year I am closing in on 34 years of dedicated service to our community. The last 15 years, I have had the absolute privilege of serving as your police chief and, about a year from now, I will be retiring from this profession and community that have given me and my family so much. As I reflect on the fiscal strength of our
department, it includes input from a great many elected officials and residents who have helped me establish a fiscal plan, by using extremely detailed budgeting. This is a far cry from where things were 34 years ago. As a young officer, I worried every single year that I would be laid off, if a levy didn’t pass. Back then, almost every member of our department would come into the police station on the night of the election. We would drive to all seven polling locations in the township, write down the results that were posted on the windows at each location and quickly return to the police department. There, we would write all the results down on the chalkboard and hopefully young officers, like me, could breathe a little easier knowing that we were going to be OK to work for another year. The lack of planning and communication
30 years ago created an environment of uncertainty and the reality that, if I lost my job, there just weren’t other jobs available. As my career advanced and I attained the positions of lieutenant, captain and police chief, I learned how to budget, I asked questions and I spoke with our township trustees, county auditor, fiscal officer and staff at the board of elections. I wanted (needed) to know how to budget and plan. I also made a promise to myself that I would do my very best to ensure a secure environment for the officers that work for me and, ultimately, all of you. What I mean is, I never want them to feel like I did, always worrying and always scared of losing their jobs, year after year. I needed them to feel secure in their futures and to be focused on their jobs and carrying out their duties safely. I believe it is my personal responsibility to leave this agency better than I found it and to provide financial stability, a plan and a secure future for the men and women of our police department, and to ensure the safety and confidence of our township residents. I have been following and updating my financial plan for well over 10 years. As I bud-
get, my focus has and will always be to maximize, optimize and accurately forecast. I am constantly reviewing my plan with our Board of Trustees, our fiscal officer, our county auditor and the county Budget Commission. I am confident with the timing of this request, as well as the amount. Our county auditor requires a sufficient carry forward of money into the first quarter of the New Year. That equates to 25% of my annual budget. In round numbers, if I propose a $2,000,000 annual budget, I need $500,000 of immediate available revenue (remaining from the previous year). This must be a consideration when budgeting, if I am to be to be responsible to my staff, the trustees and the township residents. You, the residents of Chester Township, have always been there to support your police department and this November I will be asking for your support with this levy. Thank you for your time, consideration and loyal support of your police department. If you have questions, I can be reached at 440-729-1239 Mark A. Purchase Chief of Police
Obituaries Donald Richard Kristo
Donald Richard Kristo, age 79, passed away peacefully Aug. 2, 2021, in Madison. Born Jan. 28, 1942, in Cleveland, he lived in Chester Township and Orwell prior to moving to Mentor five years ago. Don was a printer with The Cleveland Plain Dealer for 35 years, retiring in 1998. He was a U.S. Army veteran, a member of Chesterland Fire Rescue, the Masons and the Northeast Ohio Buick Club. Don is survived by his wife, Linda (nee Foy); sons, Kevin (Beth Viscomi) and Jason; daughter, Karen (Kyle) Laywell; grandchildren, Jordan, Chance, Lauren, Aidan, Paige, Tristian, Patrick, Morgan, Bridget, Jack and Olivia; and great-granddaughter, Anastasia. Friends called at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on Aug. 6, 2021. Private services and interment at a later date in Chester Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Online tribute video and condolences at www.gattozziandson.com.
Elsie Karic
Elsie Karic (nee Kerniskey), age 93, passed away at Haven Home Assisted Living on Aug. 3, 2021. She was a longtime Chester Township resident and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Elsie is preceded in death by her husband, Frank C. Karic; son, Frank A. Karic; brother, Donald Kerniskey; and sister, Loretta Kerniskey. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Tom) Damukaitis; grandchildren, Tom Damukaitis (Christine), Kelly Karic, Frank Patrick Karic and Krystal Karic; great-grandchildren, Logan and Lucas Damukaitis, Frank Z. and Addison Karic, Penny and Ella Copeland, Alexander and Lucy Thornberry; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation wqas held at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, on Aug. 8, 2021. Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Aug. 9, 2021, at St. Anselm Church, 12969 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Interment Western Reserve Memorial Gardens, Chester Township. Online condolences at www.gattozziandson.com.
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, August 18, 2021
Chesterland News
Page 7
Chesterland News
Page 8
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Letters to the Editor Police Funding Not a Variable Chester Township Police Chief Mark Purchase is a fierce defender and protector of his staff and residents. He also collaborates effectively to support the safety of our surrounding communities. And, it was a brilliant move to recruit Ms. Lisa Braemer to manage the administrative office. She is a dedicated and beloved public servant. The police department budget has been managed and maintained in keeping with the highest standards of responsibility and utilization. When questions or inquiries arise, Chief Purchase responds immediately and with complete transparency. Purchase has an obligation to advocate for secure funding. A tentative budget that relies on fund transfers from “extra” or unexplained surplus funds could never provide the solid funding needed to operate the department we depend on for life-saving protection and support. On a daily basis, members of law enforcement face imminent danger, threat of loss of life and other untenable variables. Funding should not be a variable. I am so grateful for our Chesterland Police and staff, and I thank them for their service. I will be voting in support of the Nov. 2, 2021, Chester Township Police Levy. Judy K. Zamlen-Spotts Chester Township
Wake Up Chester Residents Last November we lost our zoning inspector after about 10 years of service. The Board of Trustees (BoT) seemed in no hurry to hire a replacement. For over 30 years, the zoning inspector’s job has been a full-time position, but the BoT has now determined that part time is sufficient. It seems they do not want to spend the money for a full-time zoning inspector, even though there were several qualified applicants. Mr. Claypool is the liaison for the Zoning Department. In February, the BoT hired a part-time replacement who lasted two weeks. Also in February, they hired our former zon-
ing inspector, Mr. Joyce, to fill in until a permanent replacement was on board. Mr. Joyce was confronted with a large number of zoning applications that had not been processed. Also, the file on one BZA case had mysteriously disappeared so he had to start over. The BoT hired a part-time person on June 29 and Mr. Joyce is in the process of training her. There were three zoning amendments passed in 2019. It took 1-1/2 years to update the Zoning Resolution on the Chester Township website. There were six amendments passed in 2020 and, to date, the Zoning Resolution has not been updated and the zoning inspector has not been provided with copies of the 2020 amendments. How can he enforce the zoning regulations and assist residents who have zoning questions if he doesn’t have current information? Every time I have asked why the amendments have not been posted on the website I have been told “Mr. Claypool is handling that.” His latest excuse was the fact they had hired a new zoning department administrative assistant. Yes, they did – in January 2021. What’s taking so long? Since January 2021, Mr. Claypool has also been handling the arrangements for the demolition of the Henry House located on Mayfield Road, immediately east of the park. Three bids were received for the demo in December 2020. The March 25, 2021, BoT minutes state that “two companies had cancelled” their bids. Mr. Claypool denied knowing anything about that and he’s in charge. In the meantime, Chester Township is paying utility bills for that house! Again, what’s taking so long? It’s time Chester residents wake up and find out what is happening at Town Hall. BoT minutes of public meetings are posted on the Chester Township website at www.chestertwp.org. Better yet, attend township meetings and judge for yourself. Chester is a wonderful place to live. I am a life-long Chester resident and I am very concerned about the future of our township. You should be concerned, too. There is an election in November when you can vote on two township trustees. I hope you will vote responsibly and save Chester Township. Linda Barnes Gifford Chester Township
With Gratitude On May 16, 2021, Vinko “Vic” Paulic passed away at the age of 56. My children and I want to share our sincere thanks for the many acts of kindness, overwhelming generosity and sympathy expressed during this difficult time. To our families, the doctors and nurses at the Cleveland Clinic, neighbors, co-workers,
local businesses and the WG School System, including faculty and staff, as well as the many friends of the late Vinko “Vic” Paulic, we wish to extend our sincere thanks for the continued support and condolences. With gratitude. The Paulic’s Kelly, Nicholas and Anthony Chester Township
Election Letters Policy Karlovec Media Group welcomes and encourages letters to the editor as well as residents’ opinions and endorsements related to primary, special and general elections. • We reserve the right to edit all submissions for accuracy, taste and grammar. We reserve the right to condense letters for space purposes. • Letters are limited to 250 words in length, excluding headline and name. Extra words will not be published. • Letters will be published as space permits. If more letters are received than can be published in any issue, we will publish a representative sample. • Letters pertaining to the election MUST include an endorsement. Letters attacking a candidate without endorsing another candidate, letters repetitive in content or in poor taste will not be published. Accusations made against a candidate that are not easily verifiable will require accompanying documentation. • The Letters to the Editor section is not a battleground for repeated arguing between opposing candidates or proponents/ opponents of particular issues. Rebuttals are welcome; successive volleys are not. • Letters to the Editor supporting or opposing a candidate will be accepted. However, we will not run letters with deliberate or vague negative remarks or references about an opponent or another candidate. • No letters from candidates will be accepted. This leaves the space open for residents to comment on the candidates as well as non-election issues of community interest. However, candidates are allowed to respond in letters, to editorials, news articles and columns in which they are the primary focus. • In all other cases, opinions of the candidates may be published in a PAID
advertisement. Candidates wishing to publish paid advertisements should call 440729-7667 ext. 500 or email ads@chesterlandnews.com. • Letters are due no later than 5 p.m. Friday for publication in the following week’s edition. The final deadline for election letters will be published prior to the election date. Candidate endorsement letters will not be printed in the issue prior to the election. • Letters from candidates in response to letters specifically critical of them will be accepted for publication in the immediate issue prior to the election date. • Writers may submit one election letter regarding an issue and one about a political race, for a total of two letters during the acceptance period. All letters must include the writer’s name, address and daytime and evening telephone numbers. If the letter is published, only the name and town will be used in the paper. • We do NOT publish form letters or letters written to other publications. • With regards to statewide or congressional races, only letters from Geauga County residents will be published. These above policy applies only to election-related letters. The rules for general, non-election letters are separate and still apply during this period. Unless otherwise noted, columns on the editorial page reflect the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Karlovec Media Group, its newspapers or employees.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Page 9
Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department Aug. 2-12, 2021. ANIMAL PROBLEM Aug. 3 3:30 a.m., Cedar Road. Two dogs won’t stop barking at the address. Caller believes the owners are not home. Homeowner will be home in a few hours to quiet dogs down. CITIZEN ASSIST Aug. 3 1:09 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Elderly female told manager someone stole her handicap placard while she was in the store. She is now out front in her car. FRAUD Aug. 11 4:18 p.m., Sherman Road. Caller needs to make a report regarding a remediation company not finishing a job at her home. Caller contacted insurance company who asked her why she signed the checks to pay for the work if it wasn’t completed. She advised she did not sign it. INJURED PERSON Aug. 9 5:22 p.m., Winding Brook Lane. Male trapped under lawn mower. Mower is not running. Caller advised the seat is across his chest. Caller is in the front yard, on the ravine. Caller does not feel any severe pain. Assisted FD with lifting mower off
male’s chest. Towing en route to get mower out of ravine. SUSPICIOUS Aug. 5 10:04 a.m., Chillicothe Road. Male walking with wagon. Male stated he is walking from Rhode Island to Canada. No issues and everything checks OK. Aug. 9 5:12 a.m., Woodcrest Lane. Caller says a bunch of cars pulled into caller’s house, sat for a few minutes, then left when caller asked them what was up, cutting “wrong address.” They then went to one house south. Five cars were there, five people got out with flashlights at the house and shined flashlights around the house. When caller asked them what was up, they said it was for a “school event.” Caller says all the lights are now on in the house. Spoke with home owner of other house. Marching band doing freshman wake up. 5:38 p.m., West Walnut Ridge Road. Male was walking down road and started cussing me out and spitting at me and calling me names. Officer advised. TRAFFIC OFFENSE Aug. 7 12:42 a.m., Pear Tree Drive. 911 caller on Pear Tree reporting he can hear people drag racing on all the streets around him: Wilson Mills, Caves and Mulberry.
Service Directory
Chesterland News
Page 10
Help Wanted Housecleaning in Highland Hts., needs transportation, weekly Friday preferred but not must. Full housecleaning. Replacing someone after 17 years. Please call Rosanne at 440-336-0390. DRIVER WANTED: Seeking part-time driver for animal rendering business. Call 440-635-6378.
karlovecmediagroup NOW HIRING!
karlovec mediagroup Outside Sales
Karlovec Media Group is hiring account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland areas. We are seeking self-motivated and aggressive salespeople who aren’t afraid of a challenge. Karlovec Media Group publishes the Geauga County Maple Leaf, Chesterland News, Middlefield Post, Kirtland Chronicle and Geauga Now. Sales areas will include both print and online media. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must. The ideal candidate Karlovec Media Group hiring representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around would have at least twoisyears of account sales experience. Geauga County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland areas. We are seeking self-motivated and Required aggressiveskills: salespeople who aren’t afraid of a challenge. Karlovec Media Group publishes the Geauga County •Maple Professional appearanceNews, and strong interpersonal skills. Chronicle and Geauga Now. Sales areas will include Leaf, Chesterland Middlefield Post, Kirtland • Maintain generatemust new ad both print established and online clients media.and Candidates be accounts. able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have • Attain new business accounts andstaff sponsorships. reliable transportation. All of our must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our • Generate revenue and to meet sales targets. newspapers. The ability understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must. The ideal candidate •would Establish, maintain andisyears grow relationships with client base andprint agencies. have at least two of sales experience. Karlovec Media Group hiring account representatives to sell and online advertising in and around •Geauga Familiarity with online advertising and social media platforms aareas. plus. We are seeking self-motivated and County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland Required skills: aggressive salespeople who aren’t afraid of a challenge. Media Group the Geauga County is an independent contractor (1099) position. There is an established clientpublishes list included. •This Professional appearance and strong interpersonal skills.Karlovec Leaf,established Chesterland News,and Middlefield Chronicle and Geauga Now. Sales areas will include •Maple Maintain clients generatePost, new Kirtland ad accounts. both print onlineaccounts media. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have • Attain newand business and sponsorships. reliable transportation. All of sales our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our • Generate revenue and meet targets. newspapers. The ability understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must. The ideal candidate •Driver Establish, maintain andtogrow relationships with client base and agencies. needed to drop newspapers at retail locations throughout Geauga County. Delivery must be done would have with at least twooff years of sales experience. •on Familiarity online advertising and social media platforms a plus. Wednesdays and Thursdays during regular business hours – completed by Thursday at noon. This is not Required skills: delivery individual subscriptions. This is anof independent contractor (1099) position. There is an established client list included. • Professional appearance and strong interpersonal skills. haveestablished own vehicleclients and valid license. Based out of Geauga Maple Leaf’s Chardon office. •Must Maintain anddrivers’ generate new ad accounts. • Attain new business accounts and sponsorships. • Generate revenue and meet sales targets. needed to drop offgrow newspapers at retail locations throughout Geauga County. Delivery must be done •Driver Establish, maintain and relationships with client base and agencies. Wednesdays Thursdays during regular business –acompleted by Thursday at noon.to, This is not •on Familiarity withand online advertising andAreas socialinmedia plus. Must have print writing experience. need platforms of hours coverage include, but are not limited Chester delivery of individual subscriptions. Township, West Geauga Schools,(1099) Geauga County Commissioners, Chardon City Council and Planning This is an independent contractor position. There is an established client list included. Commission, Montville and Thompson Township government meetings, local events. Must have own vehicle Township and valid drivers’ license. Based out of Geauga Maple Leaf’s features Chardonand office.
NOW HIRING!
Outside Sales karlovec mediagroup NOW HIRING!
Outside Sales
Newspaper Delivery Newspaper Delivery Freelance Writer
Newspaper Submit resumes toDelivery editor@geaugamapleleaf.com Freelance Writer
Driver needed to drop off newspapers at retail locations throughout Geauga County. Delivery must be done Must have printand writing experience. inbusiness need of hours coverage include, but are not limited Chester on Wednesdays Thursdays duringAreas regular – completed by Thursday at noon.to, This is not Township, West Geauga Schools, Geauga County Commissioners, Chardon City Council and Planning delivery of individual subscriptions. Commission, Montville Township and Thompson Township government meetings, features and local events. Must have own vehicle and valid drivers’ license. Based out of Geauga Maple Leaf’s Chardon office.
Middlef ield
Submit resumes to editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
Freelance Writer
Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas
POST
Must have print writing experience. Areas in need of coverage include, but are not limited to, Chester Township, West Geauga Schools, Geauga County Commissioners, Chardon City Council and Planning Commission, Montville Township and Thompson Township government meetings, features and local events.
• CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS FRIDAY AT NOON • 440-729-7667 • Middlef ield Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas
Submit resumes to editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
POST
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Wednesday, August 18, 2021
Chesterland News
Page 11
Classifieds CHESTERLAND: Aug 20-21, 9a-4p. 7863 Birchwood Dr. TroyBilt riding mower, some books, RC Airplanes, quilts, floral arrangements, craft items, fabric, lots of collectibles, puzzles.
AUTOS & PARTS Wanted junk vehicles & scrap. Call 440679-7293.
FOR SALE
If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale. Call Kathy Willis at 440-840-3226.
Brown eggs from free range hens, no antibiotics, no hormones, $3/doz. Local beef. 13137 StRt 608 Claridon. 440-6365747.
Mange Electric Ironrite Ironer with original booklet. Excellent condition. 440-523-1995. $65.
John Deere powered lawnmowers, $49/ ea. working; tempered glass panes 25”x30.5” many $9/ea.; humpbacked chest $89; Antique butter churn $96; glider/rockers $69, $89, new $675. 440-3383563. Piano: excellent upright piano with humidifier to prevent drying in winter, perfect for small spaces, includes bench, $600/OBO, 440-729-4134. Two used JL Audio 12W6v2 Subs, Two used Pioneer Mono PDX-M6 amps. All wiring included. Excellent condition. Priced to sell. $250. Text 440-552-4400. Scheid’s steel carports are the ultimate cost effective option to shield your vehicle against the natural elements. Call 440-632-6321, www.scheidsent.com.
CLASSIFIEDS 440-729-7667
WANTED TO BUY Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), tackle boxes, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331. Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.
CHESTERLAND. (4) Thule 450 Crossroad railing feet. Fits most cars, working locks, 4 keys, load bars not included. $150. 808-281-9453.
Husqvarna Model 266 chainsaw. Good shape. Equivalent model costs about $800 today. First $300 takes it. 440-5482414.
Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.
PETS & ANIMALS GARAGE/ESTATE SALES CHARDON: 5 family garage sale! Aug 12-31 10a-?. 12804 Chardon Windsor Rd. CHESTERLAND: Aug. 20-21 9a-5p; Aug 22 12p-5p 12908 Westchester Trl (off 322). Multi-family. Something for everyone!!! Good stuff!!! Power, hand, & garden tools, small kitchen appliances, office supplies & equipment (inc. Computer & printer), organizers, household items, and vintage & antique collectibles. CHESTERLAND: Aug. 19-20, 10a-2p., 7295 Surrey Ln off Wilson Mills. 2-day sale tools, chainsaw, compressor, drafting table & supplies, new rug, table lamps, household items, blankets, artwork, vintage children’s chairs, 2-foot tall hourglass, Warhammer gaming stuff, 1969-110 John Deere garden tractor & implements, and more. THOMPSON: Grace Lutheran Church Rummage Sale. Aug 28 8a-4p. Guy’s stuff, multiple families, something for everyone. NOVELTY: Aug 20-21, 9a-3p. 13582 Fox Hills Dr. Lots of this and that for everyone, men’s shirts (size xs), Christmas, household, antiques, furniture, woman’s clothing.
Sammie: Beautiful 1 year old female calico cat, spayed & vaxxed, purr-pot, biscuit-maker, likes to head-butt. Needs quiet home. 440-321-2485.
SERVICES John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800. Mobile Notary Loan Signing Agent. I come to you! Certified, insured, background screened. Contact Andrea Scheid at 440-343-2576, andrea44062@gmail.com, www.scheidsent.com. Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message
Page 12
Chesterland News
Wednesday, August 18, 2021