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Volume 53, No. 8
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CHESTERLAND NEWS
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Your Community Newspaper Since 1967
Anti-Mask Protesters Heckle West G Officials By Diane Ryder editor@geaugamapleleaf.com A sign-carrying crowd began gathering in front of the West Geauga Schools Board of Education office more than an hour before the Aug. 23 meeting began. Someone had covered the official BOE sign with a big neon green one that read, “Welcome to West GITMO,” but the atmosphere of the determined crowd seemed almost festive as people milled around, talking. By 6:30 p.m., the crowd swelled to more than 50 and a group of about 20 equally-determined people, wearing face masks quietly gathered nearby. None of them carried signs. On Aug. 13, West Geauga Superintendent Richard Markwardt announced in a four-page letter to parents the district will require masks to be worn indoors for the first quarter — Aug. 25 to Oct. 22. “We’re here to support the board,” said Sarah Koenigseker, a nurse from Chester Township who has a son in first grade and a daughter in preschool at West Geauga. “I’m glad the board decided to mandate masks. Last year, my son needed to go into school and did very well with masks. I’m glad how they handled everything last year. They need to follow the science.” “I’d rather have my children in school than in quarantine,” added John Cowles, also from Chester Township and the parent of two high school students. “My two children wore masks the whole year and did fine with no breathing problems. “
DIANE RYDER/KMG
Nita Cavelli and her daughter, Mia, 8, protest mask mandates as they stand outside the West Geauga Schools Board of Education office Monday. BELOW: Protestors posted their own sign over the West Geauga Schools Board of Education sign.
Cowles said all four members of his family have been vaccinated, but still use masks as a precaution. “We still keep masks on in public to protect each other,” he explained. A protester on the other side of the mask issue, Nita Cavelli, also of Chester Township, was there with her daughter, Mia, 8, who is homeschooled. They carried a sign that read, “Let kids be kids.” Other signs were not so subtle — “You are not my child’s doctor,” read one. Several others read, “Let them breathe” or “Freedom of choice.”
Fifteen minutes before the board meeting was to start, a school official announced the meeting location had been changed from the usual meeting room to the middle See Meeting • Page 4
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Town Crier GEL Breakfast
Sept. 3, 8-9 a.m. Dr. Eric Beck, chief operating officer for University Hospitals Health System, will be the guest speaker at the next Geauga Economic Leadership (G.E.L.) breakfast. Join the Zoom webinar to hear how recent changes in healthcare are affecting UH and local care, as well as UH’s strategic vision. To register, email info@geaugagrowth. com or call 440-564-1060.
Young of Heart
Sept. 3, 11:30 a.m. Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm’s Parish Center. Bring your brown bag lunch. Snacks and coffee will be provided. Chester Township Police Chief Mark Purchase, who will be retiring next year, will be our speaker. Meetings will again be 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 this year may join for $10.
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.
Geauga Veterans Sport Fest
Sept. 11, 3 p.m. The third annual Geauga Veterans Sport Fest will be held at the Great Lakes Outdoor Supply parking lot at 14855 N. State Ave. in Middlefield. For more information, call Chardon VFW Commander Bill Richardson at 440-285-3699.
Lions Club Raffle
Sept. 11, 6 p.m. to midnight The Chesterland Lions Club will host its annual Poor Man’s Raffle at SNPJ Hall, 10946 Heath Road, Kirtland. Join for a night of dinner, dancing and live music by Top Dog. Cost is $70 per couple or $45 for a single ticket. Ticket includes a drawing in the $500 prize raffle as well as roast beef and pork dinner, beer and wine. For information, call Mike Stark at 440666-5600, email Stark6@aol.com or visit chesterlandlions.org.
Art Show
Sept. 12, 1-4 p.m. find art studio is hosting an art show featuring the work of Tim Hughes and Vincent Gwirtz at the studio located at 8430 Mayfield Road, Chester Township. Refreshments will be available. For information, call Carol Yuko at 440-321-1700.
Red Cross Blood Drives
Sept. 9 and 10, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A free community giveaway of clothing for the family, bedding, housewares, books, puzzles and games will be held at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road, Chardon.
The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types are urged to make an appointment to give now. Donation appointments may be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767. Sept. 15, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 2-7 p.m. Sept. 20, Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 1-7 p.m.
Kiwanis Leave and Take Event
Fall Fish Sale
Dorothy’s Porch Giveaway
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.
Sept. 16, 1:30-3:30 p.m. The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District’s annual fall fish sale will be held on the midway at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. Order deadline is Sept. 10. Visit the district website at www.geaugaswcd.com or call 440-834-1122 for more information or to place an order.
Girl Scout Info Session
Sept. 22, 6:30 p.m. An information session for Girl Scouts will be held at West Geauga Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township. All grades are welcome.
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Chesterland News
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Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Meeting from page 1
school gym to accommodate the crowd, which had grown to more than 100. Inside, a long line formed at a sign-in table for anyone wishing to speak at the meeting, while others took seats in the gym. Protesters appeared to take seats on one side of the room, while those with masks sat on the other side of the aisle. All five West Geauga school board members, Superintendent Richard Markwardt and Treasurer Karen Penler wore masks as they took their seats at the front of the room. When Board President Chet Ramey called the meeting to order, several in the audience yelled, “We can’t hear you! Take your masks off!” Ramey moved to change the agenda to allow for 45 minutes of public comment instead of the usual 30 allowed in most school board meetings. The motion passed unanimously. Ramey then called for civility, no profanity or abusive language, and respect for all speakers. “If you are disruptive, or disrupt the progress of the meeting, you may be asked to leave,” Ramey told the crowd. “We understand that we may not be able to get to everyone who signed up to speak.” Chester Township Police Chief Mark Purchase was in the room, as was a uniformed Chester police officer. Another officer in a police car sat outside in the parking lot. Ramey first called on Jonathan Broadbent, of Newbury Township, who said he and his family had just moved into the district because of the schools. He said the board’s mask mandate deviates from the district’s one main task of bettering and enriching the lives of children who live in the district. Broadbent’s wife, Tiffany, called mask mandates a “medical intervention” that blocks children’s ability to breathe and that masks trap germs the child then inhales. “Not one study shows that it helps anyone,” Tiffany said. However, the school district’s mask mandate is in accordance with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Ohio Department of Health, Geauga Public Health and others. According to the CDC, masks trap respiratory droplets which carry the virus. The federal agency’s five key prevention strategies to reduce COVID-19 in schools lists correct mask-wearing first, as well as physical distancing; handwashing and respiratory etiquette; cleaning and maintaining healthy facilities; and contact tracing in combination with isolation and quarantine. “Universal and correct use of masks should be required (and) physical distancing
DIANE RYDER/KMG
A group of people stand with signs at the West Geauga Schools Board of Education meeting Aug. 23 to protest the district’s mask mandate during its regular meeting.
should be maximized to the greatest extent possible,” the CDC states. “All prevention strategies provide some level of protection, and layered strategies implemented at the same time provide the greatest level of protection. Schools should adopt prevention strategies to the largest extent practical — a layered approach is essential.” Former Ohio State Treasurer Josh Mandel, who is currently running for U.S. Senate, said he lives in Beachwood and has three children. He called masks a “form of child abuse.” “Kids are used as human shields to protect adults,” Mandel said. “Allow them to have a childhood and socialize.” Mandel added that COVID-19 death rates among school-aged children are lower than from accidental drowning. “There are moms and dads here tonight to ask you to remove the mask mandate,” Mandel said. “I beg you to listen to them.” Mandel left shortly after giving his remarks. Kayla Flowers, of Chester Township, said her 6-year-old son passed out last year in school from oxygen deprivation and carbon dioxide inhalation while wearing a mask all day. Chester resident Maria Gerard blessed the school officials and told them she takes the U.S. Constitution seriously after becoming a naturalized citizen and urged the board members to uphold the Constitutional rights of parents and children.
Mary Moriarty, also of Chester Township, brought up several points about cross contamination, unsanitary mask use and what she said was a federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration recent finding that masks do nothing to keep out COVID-19 germs. “These kids are entitled to breathe free air. Let them,” she told the board. However, according to Reuters’ fact check, “A number of social media posts attribute a fabricated quote about the dangers of wearing face-coverings to … OSHA. OSHA does recommend the use of face-coverings per the (CDC) guidance.” A spokesperson for the Department of Labor told Reuters that OSHA “has made no determination regarding face-mask impact on oxygen levels.” Guidance on OSHA’s website adds: “Face coverings are intended to prevent wearers who have (COVID-19) without knowing it (i.e., those who are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic) from spreading potentially infectious respiratory droplets to others.” Chester resident Bruce Randau said the board does not have the legal authority under the Ohio Revised Code to mandate masks. When Ramey asked Randau to address his comments to the board rather than the audience, Randau replied, “I’ll address who I wish.” He added if the board mandates masks, he will sue the district.
“At the last board meeting, none of you wore masks and all of you survived,” said Anthony Zaffiro, also of Chester. “You have taken my parental duty away from me. I do not assent. Not one of you has a child in the district.” His daughter, Isabella, a West Geauga High School student, said wearing masks makes it difficult to detect someone’s facial expression and she can’t hear the teacher clearly when the teacher is wearing a mask. “I trust you’ll do the right thing,” she told the board. At the conclusion of the allotted time for public comments, Ramey said, “In the end, we all want the same thing: school open, in-person instruction, maximum participation and we all want our students to flourish.” As the board tried to run through the rest of their agenda, protesters heckled them with increasing volume. Several shouted “communists” and “fascists” at board members. At one point, Girard stood in front of the board and shouted to the crowd. Ramey asked her to sit down. “Take your masks off so we can hear you,” Moriarty shouted and others began chanting, “We the people.” One father shouted when classes start, his children will be attending school without a mask. The board quickly completed their agenda and adjourned into executive session to discuss purchase or sale of property.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
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Letters to the Editor COVID Exhausted? I Hear You The first thing that I did after I was fully vaccinated in April was to put our masks in storage. It had been a year of socially distancing and mask wearing, and I was relieved to go back to normal. It felt great and all the signs around me were pointing to the end of this pandemic. But now we have the Delta variant and those in our community who are unvaccinated are at risk. And those of us who are vaccinated are at risk of spreading it. Thankfully, we now know how to lessen the spread of this virus and it is so easy. Get vaccinated if you are able and wear a mask. I know that we are all exhausted with COVID, but it is not exhausted with us. Remember our 12 and under population is not yet vaccinated and is at risk of being exposed to COVID. Without protections in place, some may become ill. The West Geauga and Kenston school boards have updated their masking policy to require masks in all school buildings. This is a great step, but we must all do our part. So weary traveler, I see you and I understand, but please mask up again and get vaccinated if you haven’t had a chance. The children are relying on us to do the right thing. Heather Fisher Chester Township
Complaints Untruthful, Personal Henry House complaints are untruthful and personal. Skip Claypool is doing a truly commendable job for Chesterland residents as our trustee and as liaison to zoning. Trustee Claypool is a very hard-working man, a family man and an ardent supporter of our U.S. Constitution. His first consideration is for our safety, property rights and to make sure we do not get taxed out of homes. Political supporters of Joe Mazzurco and Craig Richter are attacking Skip over “Henry House” issues. Henry House was purchased under ousted Trustee Judy Caputo’s administration, more than 10 years before Skip Claypool was ever elected. Joe Mazzurco, Craig Richter, Ken Radtke and Frank Kolk were never attacked like this or blamed for their failings to deal with Henry House, not one word. At a recent meeting, there were questions about the website and Trustee Claypool reported that the Geauga County ADP addressed those issues. He also gave an update on the razing of Henry House and the scope of work that has been completed. All trustees meetings are taped/recorded and, if you listen to them, you will hear that
Skip Claypool has responded to all issues, especially those concerning zoning. These attacks on Trustee Skip Claypool are political, personal and if you ask me, it all sounds a little Grimm! Judy K. Zamlen-Spotts Chester Township
Bad Manners, Threatening Behavior The West Geauga school board meeting held on Aug. 23 was a display of bad manners and threatening behavior. The board indicated that face masks would be worn in school buildings during the first quarter of school, and I support this decision 100%. I went to the meeting to show my support of the board for trying to keep our kids safe. I prepared a speech thanking the board for following the recommendations of health officials. But when I got to the meeting, all the speaking spots were already taken up by anti-maskers. They pushed people aside, ran through the school and filled the speaking spots before anyone else could get there. The first three speakers didn’t even live in West Geauga school district. The anti-mask crowd cited bad science, they chanted rambling prayers and, overall, made very little sense. They called the school board communists several times, to great applause from half of the audience. One man threatened to call CPS on any parent who sends their kids to school in face masks. Another man pointed at the board and said, “You are communists, we know who you are, and I can tell you where the next protest will be . . . in front of your sidewalks.” Another taunted the board, saying he would send his kids to school maskless, daring them to discipline his kids. Then, after the public-speaking time was completed, the anti-science crowd continued to shout and threaten the school board. No one in the audience could hear the remainder of the board’s business because of all the shouting and chanting. It was an obscene display of unhinged behavior. I beg of the rest of the parents out there — show up to these meetings. The anti-science crowd is small, but they are loud. We need to speak up for science and for sanity. Nicole Mulloy Russell Township
A True Public Servant To be a police officer in today’s world is a difficult and, at times, an unrewarding job. People call the police when something is not as it should be: a deer is found killed on the highway, a couple of suspicious guys
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are hanging around the neighbor’s house, a domestic fight has occurred, a traffic crash has happened and people have been injured or killed. The officers often have only a split second to respond in some life and death situation. Having a professional, well-trained, service-oriented Russell Police Officer who can provide a human and compassionate response to any situation is what our citizens want and deserve. Our Russell Police Officers are fine examples of what many communities across America are trying to achieve. It takes years of establishing a culture of mutual citizen respect and true affection for the community they serve. To gain the type of rapport is the hall mark of our Russell police. It has been the result of one man’s devotion and guidance that the Russell Police are so respected and admired. For 32 years, Tim Carroll has been a patrolman, sergeant and, for the past 15 years, Chief of the Russell Police. He has carefully created a culture of respect and service with a smile in our township. His philosophy and approach to community policing is in perfect concert with what the people of Russell want for their police.
Chief Carroll orchestrated this philosophy that keeps Russell one of the safest communities in the county. Back in 2014 Russell was named the safest community in Ohio with a population under 10,000 people. Last year 2020, an organization that rates public safety for the real estate industry rated Russell as the seventh safest community under 10,000 people in the entire United States. As the result of Chief Carroll’s 32 years of conscious effort in knowing what our community needed in law enforcement and tirelessly working to give it to us. The Police, Fire, EMTs and the Road Departments all contribute to the overall safety of our community. It is with a great tribute and honor that Chief Carroll has completed his service to our community. His voluntary retirement was not unexpected, but we wish him well, God speed and, as the Irish Blessing, says: “May the sun always shine upon your face, and God carry you in the palm of his hand.” You will be missed Tim Carroll, but always loved by the people of Russell. Jim Mueller Russell Township Trustee
Chesterland News
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Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Letters to the Editor Isn’t it Ironic I once asked a World War II veteran how America has changed and his response back in the 1990s was rather prophetic. He said America has lost the collective ability to make sacrifices when necessary for the good of the country. I was reminded of this observation while reflecting on the sweeping organization of opponents to masks in our community and across the country. It is quite ironic that the very people protesting masks and vaccines would say they support and honor our veterans for making the ultimate sacrifice to protect American lives. Meanwhile, these same people are unwilling to don a simple mask and get vaccinated to protect their community from an enemy that has killed more Americans in a single year than the combined losses of any hostile government throughout our history. What troubles me as a scientist and educator is the profound ignorance that feeds the hysteria over what seems like nothing more than a simple act of civic duty. The science demonstrating the efficacy of masks goes back centuries and I wonder, are those that believe masks to be ineffective going to ask their dentist to remove them at their next visit? Research also shows that masks do not cause long-term phycological damage to children, but was does is the reactions people have toward those wearing them. Additionally, despite what you have heard, RNA vaccines are not new. I share with my students a 2012 review paper on the technology and remind them that each year a new flu vaccine is developed more rapidly than COVID vaccines were. I find it especially ironic that those who
express concern about the vaccines’ emergency approval are also the same people that complain about bureaucratic red tape slowing innovation and progress in all other aspect of the government. The greatest irony of them all is that these people that are fed up with all of this don’t seem to realize that they are the breeding population that sustains this virus and permit it to evade out defenses. The cognitive dissonance of these people is both remarkable and disturbing, and I wonder if I should laugh or cry when a banner plane sails over Geauga County protesting masks at our schools. Steven Vieira, PhD Chester Township
Claypool Pleased To Serve I haven’t written an editorial for a while out of respect to the citizens of the township. However, recently, Ms. Linda Gifford made a number of claims in an editorial, which provides a reason for an update. Thanks, Linda. Ms. Gifford has some challenges with the facts and I won’t dwell on those, but let me provide these general points, which may help. The trustees make up a Board of Trustees (BOT). All of our meetings are in the public and all decisions require at least two trustees. All trustees have equal authority and responsibility for all activities. No one of us is in charge. We assign a liaison from time to time. Being a liaison means nothing more than a trustee taking the lead on communications with a department. That does not relieve any other trustee from responsibility. This year, I am a liaison with the fire department and the zoning department. Last
year, I was the liaison for the police and zoning departments. Each of the trustees tend to focus our attention on those things that play to our strengths. For example, my profession, before retiring, was technical (computer industry), therefore, I am able to bring those skills to the table. The result, I have identified about $30,000 worth of savings possible in communications. I was responsible for bringing recommendations to lower phone costs, which will result in approximately $20,000 in savings. I am now working on changing internet circuits that will save approximately $7,000. I am evaluating other opportunities to save tax dollars which can now be used in other ways. My objective is to make your hard-earned tax dollars work harder for you. After I was elected, I noticed that zoning had not been updated for some time. I set about trying to figure out why and how. COVID hit us about that time and things became much more difficult. Your township never shut down. We continued to meet live through the year and worked hard to maintain services. During this period, our zoning inspector resigned for another position. This gave us an opportunity to review the actual needs of the position and the board of trustees decided to make this a part-time position. We continue to monitor the needs of the zoning department and will make adjustments if needed. Due to the COVID factor, it was very difficult to find qualified interested people to fill the inspector position, but we now have a good individual who is in training. All zoning is up to date and our staff is prepared to keep it up to date. Moreover, we are working on improvements. Given all the other important issues the trustees deal with, the demolition of the Henry House is NOT a front burner issue; however, that project is moving forwarding also. I am pleased to serve the people of Chesterland and welcome the many challenges and am open to questions and comments. Walter “Skip” Claypool Chester Township Trustee
‘Back to the Future’ On Wednesday, 28 July, I went to our park to listen to the summer concert series sponsored by Kiwanis. It was a perfect evening under a beautiful early evening sky, light warm breeze and families enjoying the event. It felt like a scene out of “Mayberry RFD.” It was surreal and underlined the rural atmosphere that the majority of residents want to maintain, as expressed in the questionnaire sent out by the trustees back in 2019. However, it seems at least one of those
who issued the questionnaire does not share this view. On a couple of occasions and contexts, I’ve heard Joe Mazzurco say that we need to take Chester forward. I’ve asked him what he means by that statement. We’ve been happy in this location since 1801, are we going somewhere? During the report out of the responses to the questionnaire to the trustees from CSU’s Urban Development Department, Mr. Mazzurco mentioned our aging population and need for young folks. The question still remained unanswered until recently, when I pressed again for clarification; the word “village” came out as maybe the next step. This is in sharp contrast to the expressions gathered in the questionnaire as well as those that I’ve heard directly from neighbors amongst the township. This future direction seems to be in direct conflict to defending our rural atmosphere. Also one of the primary reasons folks moved to Chester, most certainly expressed by young adults who described how hard they have worked to be in our community and don’t want to lose the freedoms rural living provides. At the trustees’ meeting on July 29, the American Rescue Plan Act was discussed and possible funds available to Chester. Mr. Mazzurco indicated he wishes to accept those funds for the township. Generally, accepting federal funds has strings attached. I asked Mr. Mazzurco directly if he had personally done the due diligence to understand his support of accepting those funds, to which he affirmed. However, he was unaware of the relationship those funds have to the Community Development Block Grants for Urban Entitlement counties (ref: NACO.org), which receive greater amounts based on population density. The other board members have since looked into the potential ramifications, concluding no such risk of zoning over ridden for increased density housing. Skip Claypool opposes the funds because they mask poor spending habits and create a dependence on the federal government. My experience suggests there are always strings attached and I, too, would oppose accepting the funds. Mr. Mazzurco’s impulse to accept ARP funds reveals a lack of depth in considering unexpected outcomes. Even if accepting ARP funds is unimpaired, the immorality of our community contributing to the national-debt servitude of our great-grandchildren should put that impulse in check. A true leader would know this. So, it is back to the future for Chester to remain rural for now. Go enjoy the summer concerts while parking is still free. Eric Wittine Chester Township
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Chesterland News
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Chester Government Update The Chester Township Board of Trustees meeting on Aug. 12 began with an executive session regarding employee matters and the purchase of property. No actions were taken upon return to public session. In road department business, Superintendent John Onyshko provided an update on that assessment of the “Heath Road dip” and the need to identify a solution and implement the repairs. Two large trees at the salt dome near Miss Pat’s Day Care will be removed and Truck #2 will be placed on govdeals.com for auction with a minimum starting bid of $22,000. There was discussion about accepting asphalt grindings from paving projects going on in the township. Onyshko responded that the township has plenty of grindings, but will attend. Expenditures of $8,500 were approved for road drainage projects on Rand and Woodside drives to Podojil Excavating and the board also approved advertising for another road worker, with applications due Oct. 15. The board unanimously agreed to participate in the National Opioid Settlement Agreement, which may result in a settlement between $35,000 to $50,000, depending on
municipality participation. A charity car wash by the West Geauga High School Girls Soccer Boosters on Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. was approved. Trustee Skip Claypool commented that a number of landscape companies have been parking on busy roads without proper traffic control and flagging where needed. Police Chief Mark Purchase will prepare a letter explaining the requirements, which will be distributed to landscapers as unsafe conditions are encountered. Trustee Joseph Mazzurco is working with the Chester Park Board to identify some priorities for Parkside Park, including year-round restroom use, improvements to the parking lot and installation of bocce courts. Cost estimates for the projects will be developed. Upon exiting an executive session at the end of the meeting, a memorandum of understanding between the board and the Teamsters to increase road employee Tom O’Brien’s compensation was approved followed by a second executive session concerning the purchase of property. Upon return, no actions were taken, and the meeting was closed.
The Truth about MRIs And X-rays for Back Pain By Dr. Adam Cramer, DPT I meet many people who come to me with x-ray or MRI results from a orthopedic surgeon and a laundry list of diagnoses that often have little to do with their symptoms. I want to shed some light on how significant these results actually are to help you become better informed to avoid being manipulated by results and from being driven by fear into inappropriate testing and poor outcomes. Let’s clarify some things to help you save time, money, stress and to get you effective treatment more quickly. MRIs and other imaging advancements are absolutely invaluable in diagnosing, treating, monitoring, and managing numerous diseases. They have improved medical knowledge and interventions. They are absolutely necessary in many instances. However, it may surprise you to learn that Medical guidelines “strongly” discourage the use of MRI and X-ray in diagnosing low back pain, because they produce so many false alarms. Ever wonder why surgeons may say “we won’t know fully until we get in there” despite the fact we have this awesome imaging? Well, interpreting imaging can be complicated. Even though we have this amazing technology, it is still difficult to determine with 100% certainty what an image shows. When it is read appropriately and there are very clear positive findings that even a layman could identify (i.e. a big ol’ disc bulge)? Does that mean we’ve identified the cause of the pain? Unfortunately, no. “Positive” findings on an MRI are extremely common, to the point where they aren’t significant in diagnosing the cause of the back pain. If you took a random group of people who felt great, with no back pain whatsoever, and made them get an MRI just for kicks, well over half of these pain-free people would have “positive” findings. Just having a “disc bulge”, “disc protrusion”, “degenerative disc”, or other “positive” finding on an MRI does not mean this is the cause of your symptoms and pain. This is even more true with each
passing decade of life. The likelihood there will be a “positive” result on your MRI increases as you age, regardless of symptoms. Knowing this, the worst thing I’ve seen people do is get an MRI because of their back pain, receive the impression from the doc that they have “facet degeneration, degenerative disc disease, etcetera, etcetera” and assume they are broken and that’s that, they will have back problems forever. Absolutely not! The findings on imaging do not always correlate with symptoms, and it doesn’t do you any good to make back pain pathology a part of your identity. Embracing the idea that “there is something mechanically wrong with my back” can lead to fear of movement, a hypersensitive nervous system, and chronic pain. The fact is most low back pain can be diagnosed with a thorough history and physical examination, and treatment can begin quickly when performed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Imaging is indicated in certain situations, which a good provider will easily recognize, such as when you are not responding to treatment after the expected amount of time, the Doctor of Physical Therapy suspects a serious underlying condition, or there are worsening or unrelenting neurological symptoms. Otherwise, the imaging is not likely to help you, more likely to make someone profit, and more likely to delay your recovery. So, I encourage you to seek care from a Doctor of Physical Therapy at MyoFit Clinic who can work with you to treat you as an individual, addressing your injury and symptoms, and not solely treat your imaging, because you are not your imaging. If you don’t want surgery don’t see a provider that offers surgery, see a physical therapist that accepts in-network insurance benefits which will enable you to receive the highest quality care to help you avoid surgery and help return you to normal pain free, this is what MyoFit Clinic offers you. Dr. Adam M. Cramer, PT, DPT, is a licensed physical therapist, pain specialist and founder CEO of MyoFit Clinics. MyoFitClinic.com
On Aug. 16, the trustees held a special meeting in Chardon with the Geauga County Budget Commission. All members of the board were present as was Fiscal Officer Patricia Jarrett. Chester’s 2022 temporary appropriations were approved. The Budget Commission provided some additional comments concerning carryover and planning to help improve the forecasting accuracy. On Aug. 19, another special meeting was held regarding employee matters and the purchase of property. Melissa Fisco and Mike Esposito along with Fire Chief John Wargelin participated in the executive session. Upon exiting the meeting, a resolution was approved to hire outside legal counsel David ‘Chip’ Comstock, of Bonezzi Switzer Polito & Hupp Col L.P.A., to provide legal advice
on matters relating to the Chester Township Fire Department. The board also passed a motion to hire Matthew Collins as a fulltime firefighter/paramedic. Several motions were passed regarding some financial matters, including approving $97,799 to OTARMA Service Center for renewal of property and liability insurance. The payment represents a premium increase of about $6,000, which was attributed to the township’s purchase of new equipment, the increased cost for building replacement and an increase by OTARMA. By majority vote, application for funds to the American Rescue Plan was approved with trustees acknowledging the future debt burden Congress is creating by their present actions. Submitted by Ken Radtke Jr., Trustee
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Obituaries Marilyn Ann Russell
Marilyn Ann Russell, age 88, of Chester Township, passed away on Friday, Aug. 13, 2021. She was born August 27, 1932, in Newbury Township (Fullertown). Marilyn was the beloved wife of Robert (deceased); loving mother of Patti (Robert) Boyles, Susan (Joe) Konieczny and Robert (Linda); devoted grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of 13; and dear sister of John Jackson (deceased), Dorothy Papp, Lucille Burrell (deceased) and Bob Jackson. Marilyn loved her family and her church. She and Bob were charter members of Christ Presbyterian Church in Chesterland. She was a 50+ member of the church choir and served on most committees in the church during her walk of faith. Gardening was her other joy. She was a 50+ member of the Perennial Garden Club in Chesterland and spent many hours enjoying her gardening. Family and friends gathered for a memorial service Aug. 28, 2021, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 12419 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110-2602, or online at hospicewr. org/tribute; or Christ Presbyterian Church, www.christpcusa.org. Online condolences at www.gattozziandson.com.
Notices should be sent in writing to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166, or faxed to 440285-2015. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $75 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.
Philip Janki
OAKWOOD VLG. – Philip Janki, age 72, of Oakwood Village, passed away Aug. 20, 2021, at University Hospitals in Cleveland. Phil was born Sept. 2, 1948, in Solon. He came from a family of seven. He married Kathleen Stanton on Dec. 23, 1975. They had eight children, four boys and four girls: Phil, Michele, Cheryl, Kim, Pat, Clare, Peter and Paul. Phil served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was the beloved companion of Patricia Justice; loving father of Philip (Amanda), Michele (Jeff) Zamecnik, Cheryl (Jeremy) Hilton, Kim (Kevin) Rees, Patrick (Tiffany), Clare (Chris) McHugh, Peter (Stephanie Peng) and Paul; dearest grandfather of nine; dear brother of Kathleen (Terry) Bryce, Chuck (Marge) Janki, Mary Jane Janki, Fran (Dick) Innes, Robbie (Coy) Simpson and Bernie (Mike) Higgins. Phil owned a car wash in Chester Township called “Phil’s Auto and Van Wash.” He worked seven days a week and worked very hard. He took his business to heart and loved all of his customers. He knew everyone’s names; he was known around Chesterland by everyone. All his children worked for him throughout the years. He owned the car wash for 30 years and then sold it. And continued to work for several years at Schwebel‘s bread company. Finally, a few years ago he retired. He loved to watch NASCAR racing on Sunday. And sometimes a good Browns game and always the 5 o’clock news. Always loved giving the thumbs up! Cremation took place. Friends received at St. John Funeral Home, 923 Broadway Ave., Bedford, Aug. 29, 2021, from 2-5 p.m., with a closing service at 5 p.m.
Community Meetings Chester Township: Sept. 1, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Sept. 9, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Sept. 13, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; Sept. 15, 7 p.m. – Zoning Commission, 7 p.m. – Park District, at Volleyball Pavilion. 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: Sept. 1, 2:30 p.m.,
Board of Trustees; Sept. 13, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; Sept. 15, 6:30 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: Sept. 13, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
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From The Police Chief Dear Chester Residents, Timing. It’s an important word that I think we would all agree can be incredibly difficult to perfect. We gauge it, plan for it and then we must act on it. In this case, as we consider a new proposed police levy, timing is never taken lightly. To the contrary, I am confident, we actually overthink it and test one another’s philosophical views and opinions until we find, what we think, is the best timing. As elected officials and department heads, timing is never just about an individual levy for an individual department. If we are to truly examine the timing of a potential new levy, we have to consider the revenue and levy status of all three departments, and the status of the township’s general fund. When their levies expire or when they might require additional revenue is all timed. The police department alone has five active levies currently providing varying amounts of revenue. Three of the five levies are continuing in nature, which means they automatically renew and do not require a vote every five years. The other two levies do require your support every five years, in order for us to continue to collect on them. What this means is that over the next five years, the police department will require your support for renewal levies in 2023 and 2024, which also means those two years are not good choices for adding a new levy to the ballot. This brings us to either 2021 or 2022, and the issue of timing goes right to the forefront. So, do I need the revenue this year? If I needed now, then it’s too late and we
would already be in fiscal trouble. This is exactly my point; we cannot wait until we are out of revenue or even near that state in order to request a new levy. That would be irresponsible of me, as your police chief, and once again in complete conflict with our auditor’s directive and requirement for adequate carry forward revenue. It all boils down to choice: Do I ask you to consider passing a small 0.5-mill levy this November, at a time that I can begin collecting it and saving it, before we desperately need it? Or, do I wait another year or two, when the desperation/need is greater and, instead of a 0.5- mill levy, we ask you for your support of a larger tax increase? I am asking you to trust me and my vision. I believe for all these years, I have demonstrated good fiscal responsibility and accountability to our township. I do not waste your money. You are welcome to visit to the police department which, I believe 100%, will help to confirm this statement. I am simply asking you to please consider voting for this smaller tax increase now, before we are desperate, rather than waiting for an even larger increase. You, the residents of Chester Township, have always been there to support your police department. Come November, I ask for your support with this new 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
Chesterland News
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Cub Scout Pack 3193 Open House Cub Scout Pack 3193 is holding an Open House Sept. 12, from 1-3 p.m., outside of Chesterland Baptist Church. The event is open to all boys and girls interested in Cub Scouting. There will be a rock climbing wall, wrist rockets and other activities for families to sample some of the fun things to do in Cub Scouting. Those interested in joining Cub Scouts, but unable to make the event, should email joinpack3193@gmail.com. Even though last year was challenging with COVID, Pack 3193 has done a lot within the community, including creating giftbags for seniors, making centerpieces for local shut-ins in Geauga County and pulling Garlic Mustard (an invasive weed) in local parks, Pack 3193 Committee Chair Rachel Pall said. “We’re looking forward to another productive and busy year in our town,” she added. SUBMITTED
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Help Wanted Help wanted, cleaning person. 440-4639388. DRIVER WANTED: Seeking part-time driver for animal rendering business. Call 440-635-6378.
Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department Aug. 13-29, 2021. ANIMAL PROBLEM Aug. 16 7:42 p.m., Cedar Road. Neighbors animals are running all over my place again. Would like them to be educated about livestock and how they need to stay on their yard, not mine. Officer spoke with home owners. Chickens returned to property. CITIZEN ASSIST Aug. 24 8:50 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Caller was assisting a customer and she set her keys in the car and the customer left with her keys. Dollar General staff unable to obtain information on the female. Asked to return in morning to speak with the manager. Aug. 27 8:04 a.m., Opalocka Drive. Subject in lobby regarding a complaint about masks and board of education. CITIZEN DISPUTE Aug. 13 7:20 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Customer ordered food and now is refusing to pick it up or pay for it. See report. Aug. 18 9:20 p.m., Wilson Mills Road. Neighbor was taking photos of caller and her son. Neighbor has gone back home. See report. INJURED PERSON Aug. 29 12:18 p.m., County Line Road. 10-year-old male head injury, football head collision. Hawken Upper School football field. Squad did not need assistance. LOST PROPERTY Aug. 22 4:54 p.m., Chardon Windsor Road, Chardon. Rode trail from Mel Harder Park to Middlefield. Lost a set of keys with NY Jets and NY Yankees keychains. Would
like a call if turned in. CHPD has keys and en route to return them. SUSPICIOUS Aug. 18 10:35 p.m., Mayfield Road. Customer came in about 20 minutes ago and seemed suspicious. Face was covered, bought two waters and then stood there at cashier. Continued to ask cashier questions. Believe he may be at CVS and he is non bicycle. Male was located behind the Rise & Dine sleeping. Male checked through LEADS and advised not to be sleeping in area. Sent on his way to Mayfield. THEFT Aug. 22 8:54 a.m., Caves Road. PRIDE flag stolen. See report. TRAFFIC HAZARD Aug. 21 12:49 p.m., Chillicothe Road. About eight people on the corner disrupting traffic. One has a bull horn, yelling about masks. Officer responded. Group protesting mask mandates for WGHS. Protesters were not a hazard to traffic; they were advised to remain out of the street. Nothing further. TRAFFIC STOP Aug. 20 10:49 a.m., Mayfield Road. Driver cited for 70 mph in 45 mph zone.
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Department Auf. 10-20, 2021. INFO RECEIVED Aug. 12 2:53 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Complainant reported over the past two days he had received approximately 37 phone calls from Dayton, Ohio, reporting a suspicious charge on his Amazon account. He believes these calls are related to a phishing scam and he wants to report it. Report taken.
Outside Sales
Submit resumes to editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
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 would have at least two years of sales experience. This is an independent contractor (1099) position. There is an established client list included.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
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Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS
PETS & ANIMALS
Wanted junk vehicles & scrap. Call 440679-7293.
Rescued sweet 8 week old brother & sister kittens, looking to be adopted together. Kathy 440-862-0610.
FOR SALE (1) year old male lab/Shepard mix, very friendly, $100. Approx. 80 baseball cards, make offer. 440-635-0077. Singer sewing machine, double ladder, exercise equipment, gun cabinet, log chain, log splitter, ceiling fan new in the box, crosscut saw, heaters. 440-867-1514. 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. 440-338-3563. 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. Millcreek Manure Spreader $1,500. Presto 16qt pressure canner/cooker 01745 $100. Excalibur food dehydrator 3926 $250. All American pressure canner/cooker 930 $430. Call 440-537-7185. Troy area. Four (4) new 5500 series Simonton Double-Hung Windows. Low E. Grids. Screens. Tempered glass. Pd. $550/each. Selling $350/each. Joe Emery, 216-570-4998.
REAL ESTATE Thompson Twp - 1 acre scenic rolling building lot, side street lots of privacy. $12,900. 440-289-0708.
SERVICES Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552. John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800. Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message Will do interior painting. Also, paint, stain, varnish trim and doors. 440-6239663 or 440-313-2110. 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.
WANTED TO BUY Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392. Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), tackle boxes, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
For sale single and double cemetery plot, Western Reserve Memorial Garden, Chesterland. Call 440-298-1555 for info. Please leave a message. Doors: Solid Oak six panel. Assorted sizes. $100 each. Cherry Crown molding 5.5 Inch unfinished. $3 per foot. Burton 440221-0649. Wicker patio furniture, 5 chairs, tables. New twin bed, mattress & box spring, never been slept on. Call 440-729-1719. Two adult size Mickey Mouse ponchos $10.00 each. 35th anniversary. Disneyland watch $8.00. 440-286 4772. Brown eggs from free range hens, no antibiotics, no hormones, $3/doz. Farm help wanted. 13137 StRt 608 Claridon. 440-636-5747.
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES Estate Sales, liquidations, and buy-outs. Bill Herrick, Associated Liquidators. 440-834-2787. MIDDLEFIELD: September 2-4, 9a-4p; 14995 Lenny Drive. Clearing out 60-yrs of construction business and misc. Bifold doors, windows, office supplies, file cabinet, and household items. 440-6321955 Ike. NOVELTY: Estate Sale - 8484 Silver Creek off 306, Sep 2-3 9a-3p Make an offer! Everything must go! Tools, chain saws, grinder, table saw, snow blowers, air compressor, woodworking tools, wood chipper, leaf blower, fishing and golf equipment and various household items. If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale. Call Kathy Willis at 440-8403226.
You are invited to visit us at
www.geaugamapleleaf.com • CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS FRIDAY AT NOON • 440-729-7667 •
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 1, 2021