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Volume 52, No. 9
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CHESTERLAND NEWS Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Your Community Newspaper Since 1967 Russell Township
Trustees Consider Land for 511 Park Board By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com Russell Township Trustees made it clear Sept. 2 they want to get going on a new six-bay storage building behind the fire station, but they said delays are anticipated. Plans to put up the structure, budgeted for 2020, were put on the
At the Sept. 2 meeting, Trustee Jim Mueller said trustees were in a “trick box,” concerned about spending money when they didn’t know how the coronavirus was going to affect the township. “Part of the responsibility was mine,” he said. “We didn’t know what was going to happen next.” Townships received funds from
back burner when COVID-19 arrived in March. Six months later, the Geauga County Budget Commission told township officials in a budget hearing Aug. 31 trustees need to spend down more than $500,000 in the township general fund or the commission may reduce the township’s tax revenue in 2021.
the state to help them deal with virus-related costs and, with some degree of fiscal stability, progress on the storage garage, estimated to cost $375,000, will commence. “I agree with the budget commission. It’s time to put the hammer down on the new facility,” See Russell • Page 5
Feeding the Force
Chester Native Starts Business Amid Pandemic By Emily Crebs editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
Miranda Young’s father always used to tell her she would be happier being her own boss rather than working for someone else. Young would roll her eyes, as teenagers do, but when the coronavirus pandemic gave Young the opportunity to be her own boss, she took it — and the marketing business My Media was born. Young “After working for somebody for a year and a half, I did realize that if I could be my own boss and make my own schedule, and not in a way that sounds lazy, I just think I would have a much happier life,” said Young in a recent phone interview. Young, a native of Chester Township, graduated from the University of Mount Union in December 2018 with a public relations and sport business double major. She found an internship shortly after, which transformed into a full-time job. But due to the financial impacts of the See Business • Page 3
SUBMITTED
On Sept. 10, BadaBing Pizza and The Luczkowski Agency provided lunch to the Chester Township Police Department, pictured, and the fire department as a thank you to Chester’s first responders.
Happy Tails Holds Annual Fundraiser Oct. 10 Staff Report To meet “social distancing” guidelines during the current COVID-19 pandemic, Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary has relocated its fundraising event to a larger venue. The Happy Tails Halloween Benefit, previously planned to take place at Colonial Beverage in Chester Township, will now take place both indoors and under a large tent outdoors Oct. 10 from
3-6 p.m. at Billy’s A Cappelli Martini Bar in Mentor. “Due to COVID-19’s negative impact on the economy, donations to our sanctuary have drastically diminished,” Happy Tails President Tom Vasko said in a statement. “Thus far, we have been able to maintain a high quality of care for the cats, including many who are old and/or have special needs. We are optimistic that this See Happy Tails • Page 4
SUBMITTED
Happy Tails is holding a benefit Oct. 10 in Mentor to continue helping cats like Asia, pictured.
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Chesterland News
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Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Town Crier Get SepticSmart
Sept. 17, 6-7 p.m. The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, Geauga Public Health and Geauga West Library will host a free online SepticSmart program. Join for an informative presentation with Dave Sage and Zach Myers, registered sanitarians with Geauga Public Health, to discuss how a home septic system works, how to maintain a home sewage treatment system and what to do when it appears to not be working properly. The program is free, but reservations are required by Sept. 16. Call 440-834-1122 or email gprunty@geaugaswcd.com.
Join Blackbrook Audubon Hike
Sept. 20, 9 a.m. Blackbrook Audubon invites birders to its fall migration hike at Cuyahoga Valley National Park Sunday. Meet at the Ira Trailhead parking lot at 3801 Riverview Road in Peninsula to begin the hike at Beaver Marsh. Wearing face masks and keeping physical distance are encouraged. Bring lunch and a beverage. Visit Blackbrook Audubon Society on its Facebook page or email blackbrookaud@aol. com to register. Park details can be found at www.nps.gov/cuva.
Bloodmobile
Sept. 18, 5-7 p.m. Help support the Geauga Faith Rescue Mission and join at Parkman Congregational Church, 18265 Madison Road, Parkman for a drive-thru carry-out meatloaf dinner. Cost is $12 per dinner. All proceeds go to the Mission.
Sept. 21, 1-7 p.m. The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800733-2767.
Trump Road Rally
LWVG’s Voting 2020
Meatloaf Dinner
Sept. 19, 9:30 a.m. Geauga County Tea Party is sponsoring a Trump Train road rally. Line up at 9:30 a.m. at the south side of Giant Eagle parking lot in Bainbridge Township for a 10 a.m. departure. Join a caravan of cars, trucks and motorcycles decorated with flags, magnets and Trump signs. A limited number of signs and magnets will be available. RSVP via email to admin@ geaugacountyteaparty.com.
Sept. 22, 7 p.m. The Social and Environmental Justice Group of Federated Church will host the League of Women Voters of Geauga’s presentation, “Voting 2020: Everything You Need to Know.” The program is presented on National Voter Registration Day, a nonpartisan civic holiday celebrating democracy and raising awareness of voter information. The community discussion will help vot-
ers navigate the uncertain environment and create a voting plan for the 2020 general election. From registering to vote to casting a ballot, LWVG will clarify the options for safe and informed voting. The virtual event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.lwvgeauga.org or www.fedchurch.org.
Geauga Co. Tea Party Meets
Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m. Geauga County Tea Party is sponsoring “Rescuing American Civics: Truths No Longer Taught in Our Schools and Universities” at the Geauga Parks West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell Township. George Cstary, CPA and host of “Monday Night Roundtable” on Cleveland’s WHK 1220 AM, and John Plecnik, law professor, Cleveland State University Marshall College of Law, will speak on the origins and history of Communism leading up to the U.S. November election. This is a timely short study (40 minutes) of the implications of the radical leftist views held by many current Democrat Candidates. For more information, call 440-313-7262 or visit www.geaugacountyteaparty.com.
Free Meal Kits
Sept. 26, 11 a.m. to noon Free meal kits will be available at the Community Church of Chesterland, 11984 Caves Road. Each kit includes an entree for two that includes a protein, fruit, vegetables and a breakfast item. A recipe accompanies each kit, which is packaged in a bag that can be given contact free to individuals and families. The church plans to continue providing kits every other Saturday through October. For more information, contact the church at 440-729-7898.
Sip & Shop at Marketplace Mall
Sept. 25, 6-9 p.m. Marketplace Mall is hosting a Sip & Shop special event. Wine and appetizers will be available while browsing a selection of antiques, crafts and resale items. Marketplace Mall is in the Heritage Marketplace, 15864 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield.
Common Ground Discussion
Sept. 29, 4-5:30 p.m. Co-hosted by Geauga County Public Library, Geauga Growth Partnership, Kent State University Geauga and Leadership Geauga, the “Count Me In” conversation will focus on equity and inclusion in Geauga County’s workforce and business community. Join virtually for a diverse panel discussion where each panelist will talk about his or her personal and professional accomplishments, struggles and ways everyone can join together and help. For information or to register by Sept. 23, call 440-564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth. com.
Operation Christmas Child
St. Mark Lutheran Church, 119OO Chillicothe Road in Chester Township, is an area collection center for Operation Christmas Child. The community is invited to fill shoeboxes with new gift items for either a boy or a girl, ages of 2 to 14. Clothing and accessories, hygiene items, school supplies and small toys are requested. The boxes will be delivered by Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization, to children overseas who live in poverty. A Gospel booklet will be included in each box. Any shoebox may be used or pick up a box from St. Mark. Drop off a filled box at the church, Sunday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to noon. Masks must be worn in the building. Call 44O-729-1668 for contactless delivery. The final date for box drop-off is Nov. 23.
Flying Club Hosts Swap Meet
Oct. 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Geauga Radio Controlaires is hosting the ninth annual Jim Gardner Memorial Radio-Controlled Modeling Swap Meet in the school gymnasium at Willo-Hill Baptist Church, 4200 state Route 306, Willoughby. Seventy-seven exhibitor tables of radio controlled planes, helicopters, drones, cars, boats, radios, tools and accessories will be displayed for sale, barter and trade by regional modelers. There will be an auction of RC planes and equipment at 12:30 p.m. The event is open to the public. Admission is $5. Youth 11 and under are free. Hot food will be available. Parking is free. Proceeds support the club’s RC flying education programs and maintenance of its flying field in Burton. For information, visit www.GeaugaRC. com or contact Tim at 440-785-9519 or Treasurer@GeaugaRC.com.
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Business from page 1
COVID-19 pandemic, Young was laid off. “I finally had myself established. I was heading in the right direction with a full-time job and was starting to make plans based off of having a stable income and then that was gone,” Young said. She returned to the serving job at a restaurant she had since high school and began job searching. However, having been beaten down from the un-hirable state of the world, Young ended up taking about a month off from the search. She was scrolling through the video sharing app Tiktok when she found out about the website Upwork. Upwork connects clients seeking freelancers for work. Young said she used Upwork to find freelance work for clients such as Austin’s Restaurants — which has locations in Brecksville, Mayfield Village and Mentor. She began running Austin’s social media campaign and designed the restaurant group’s new happy hour menus, which helped them regain customers during the coronavirus pandemic. Regina Ziccardi, the front house manager of Austin’s Restaurants in Mentor, said the restaurants closed down for two months during the pandemic. They have since reopened and are following safety guidelines and their customers are returning, she said. Ziccardi praised Young’s work in promoting Austin’s on Instagram and Facebook with pictures of the food and restaurant. “Social media is super important, especially today in this day and age, so getting the word out about our company is exactly what she has been doing,” Ziccardi wrote, adding the coronavirus pandemic has reinforced the importance of a successful social media page. After freelancing for a bit, Young said her dad and friends asked her why she wasn’t starting her own business for her marketing work. “I really took July and early August and just delved into that,” Young said, adding she created the website and logo My Media.
Chesterland News
Young’s currently working on building My Media’s client base. She hopes to transition freelance clients she finds from Upwork to My Media. Currently, My Media is focusing on providing work for small businesses. As Young grew up, she noticed more small businesses popping up in the area and said she thought starting local was a good place to make connections. It also allows Young to help the businesses in her own community. “I just really have a passion for learning all the social media trends and helping small businesses in the area achieve marketing and social media success,” Young said. With the financial hit COVID-19 has had on many businesses, Young said she expects many to shift from hiring a full-time employee to hiring individuals on a project-by-project basis in areas such as marketing. While the income isn’t guaranteed, Young sees benefit in working on a project-by-project basis. “While it’s not a full-time position, if you can get enough clients on a project-by-project basis, I could be making even more money than I was with a full-time job,” she said. It also allows Young liberty in the type of content she produces. “I like to have the freedom to decide the work I want to do and kind of search that out,” Young said. She said for those who’ve lost a job because of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s okay to mourn what normal used to be. But eventually, it might be time to make a change. “As cheesy as it sounds, don’t get comfortable. There’s always an opportunity out there,” Young said, adding perhaps making changes will result in a better product, service or experience than was in place before. “Just think about how your life could change for the better. I definitely see me being laid off, it has the potential to elevate my life if I could really just work for myself in the future,” Young said. “There’s definitely times where I’m missing the stable income or the health insurance … But I just have try to think for the future and say that it’ll all pay off after I’m where I want to be.” To contact MyMedia for marketing work, go to itsmymedia.net.
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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 Brittany Knife, Sales Representative Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Beverly Thompson, Front Desk Amy Patterson, Staff Reporter Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design 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.
Chesterland News
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American Roofing & Construction ROOFING SPECIALIST Richard Mott - Owner (440) 729-7040 • (216) 276-4001 www.Americanroofingoh.com 1--americanroofing@sbcglobal.net
FINANCING NOW AVAILABLE
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Notes of Gratitude Thank you, Chester Twp. Residents Thank you for your prayers and support and for being so kind and gracious to us when we lost our little Tiddly Winks on Aug. 29. She has been found and is doing well. We could not have done it without all your help. Thank you to our relatives and friends in the Wedgefield development as well as our church parishioners, US Post Office em-
ployees, police, merchants, service workers, Facebook followers, Lisa from Ashtabula and Amy, who found our dog and went far and beyond our expectations in finding her. We are so very grateful to all of you and we will never forget your kindness and support. Chesterland is a truly caring community. God bless. Don and Karen Hahn Chester Township
Geauga Public Library Geauga County Public Library is offering virtual programs via Zoom. For registration, visit www.geaugalibrary.net. Provide an email when registering; instructions for picking up craft materials and joining the Zoom meeting will be provided upon registration.
Noodles/Ramen Tasting 101
Sept. 17, 6 p.m. Each participant will pick up a packet of instant noodles a week before the session to prepare just before meeting online. Virtually, everyone will eat together and discuss facts about the noodles and/or the ingredients.
Quilt Block Party
Sept. 19, 10 a.m. Discover how fast and easy it is to cut perfect quilt block pieces with an Accuquilt die cutter. Sample quilts will be shown and use of dies will be demonstrated to create a variety of pieced and appliqued quilt blocks. There will be show and tell for participant projects.
Free Genealogy Education Our purpose is to help you and your family get well and stay well.
Sept. 19, 2 p.m. Discover online places to learn or improve genealogy skills at no cost.
Backyard Chickens 101: Part 2 YOUR WELLNESS CARE
If you’re living in pain, you’re not really living. Gentle and Effective Care for Pain. NECK • HEADACHE • NUMBNESS • ARTHRITIS • BACK PAIN WORK INJURIES • AUTO ACCIDENTS • LEG & ARM PAIN Most insurance plans accepted. Worker’s Comp, Personal Injury
Dr. Catherine A. George-Parisi, Chiropractic Physician
8211 Mayfield Road, Chesterland OH 44026 • 440-729-6566 • FAX: 440-729-7224 geaugawestchiro@sbcglobal.net • GeaugaWestChiropractic.com
LESS PAIN - IMPROVED MOBILITY - POSTURAL EXERCISES - VITAMINS - NUTRITION
Sept. 22, 5 p.m. Join Alex Fogle to discuss keeping backyard chickens. Topics will include recap of
Happy Tails from page 1
event will help us continue to meet our ongoing financial obligations in a timely manner for sheltering, veterinary services, medical maintenance supplies, etc.” The fundraiser — at 7338 Industrial Park Blvd. behind TGI Friday’s on State Route 306 — will include a buffet dinner, silent auction and a 50-50 raffle, and will cost $35 per person, said Doreen Lazarus, who does media relations for the nonprofit, no-kill, mostly cage-less cat sanctuary. “Reservations are recommended by Oct. 2,” Lazarus said. “Tickets will be held at the door unless requested in advance. Billy’s servers will safely accommodate attendees in the buffet dinner area, and in case it’s chilly that day, there will be heaters to keep people comfortable under the tent.”
Toni Wesen
MAYER INSURANCE
AUTO - HOME - LIFE - BUSINESS
8386 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, Ohio 44026
216-645-9008
toniwesen@gmail.com
basic chick and chicken care, coop and run design, how to put chickens to work in one’s yard and garden and more.
Preschool Storytime with Craft
Sept. 23, 10:30 a.m. Join us for our usual storytime, modified slightly to accommodate a fun craft project. There will be craftwork that needs to be done before storytime, then the group will meet on Zoom for storytime and to complete the craft project together.
Rascal Readers Book Discussion
Sept. 24, 4 p.m. The online monthly kids book group will feature “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey.
Book Discussion
Sept. 24, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join Lynn Vandevort for a rousing and enthusiastic conversation about “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.”
Library Shred Day
Sept. 26, 9 a.m. Prevent identity theft on free shred day held on-site at GCPL Administrative Center, 12701 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon. Patrons may bring up to five standard sized bags or boxes of sensitive documents to be shredded on site by Protect-N-Shred. Lazarus said the buffet will include beef, chicken, pasta and roasted vegetables, and there will be cake and Halloween candy for dessert. Coffee, tea and water will be included, and there will be a cash bar for both alcoholic and soft drinks. “We also hope that people who can’t attend the event will still find it in their hearts to send a tax-deductible donation for the sanctuary’s ‘furry residents’ who depend on us to take good care of them,” Vasko added. He expressed gratitude to the event’s primary sponsors, AmeriPawn (Eastlake and Painesville) and Billy’s, as well as to supporting sponsors, Pet Wants, of Chardon; Kramer’s Printing Co., of Mentor; Shetler’s Office Solutions, of Chardon; and Campbell & Co. Cartooning, of Chagrin Falls. To make reservations for the Oct. 10 event, call or text Lazarus at 440-759-0076; send an email to HappyTailsCatSanctuary@ gmail.com; utilize PayPal; or send a check or money order (made out to Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary) to Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary, P.O. Box 581, Chesterland, OH 44026. Tax-deductible donations to the sanctuary can also be mailed to the post office box address or transmitted via PayPal.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Obituaries Jason Thomas Stevens
Jason Thomas Stevens, age 41, beloved husband of Kelly Ann (nee Fisher); loving father of Emma, Joey, and Jack; son of Rebecca Campbell and the late Marshall Stevens; cherished stepson of Karen and Jim Ciminello and son-in-law of John and Lori Fisher; treasured grandson of Barbara Campbell and Janet Rush; dearest brother of Jason Thornley (Robyn Brigiotta), Jonathan Thornley, John Newman (wife Kelli), and Jesse Johnson; loyal brother-in-law of Katelyn and Kevin Clarke, and Kristen Fisher; dear nephew of James and the late Mary Stevens, and nephew, cousin, and friend of many others. Jason was born on Feb. 11, 1979, in Jamestown, N.Y., and passed away suddenly on July 22, 2020. He grew up in Jamestown and resided in Chester Township with his family. Jason proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school and then
Russell from page 1
Mueller said, recommending a department head meeting be held for updates every two weeks. The structure will house four police department vehicles, provide a secure evidence area and include space for fire department storage. Trustee Gary Gabram has been working with the police and fire chiefs and others on the project. “We just have to fine-tune (the plan). We’ve had five or six months to think about it,” he said. Although trustees agreed last week to hire Larsen Architects of Cleveland to design the building, actual construction before the end of the year may be a problem. Besides the short time before winter sets in and closes down building activity, trustees are concerned about getting materials. “The construction industry is all messed up,” Mueller said. Gabram agreed, noting the gate for the recycle yard hasn’t been built yet because treated wood is not readily available. Resident Chuck Campbell asked why the township needs an entire garage space for evidence and proposed, if the police need to keep a whole vehicle as evidence, they take it to the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office impound yard. “We don’t take anything to the county. All the townships (police departments) keep their own evidence,” said Chief Timothy Carroll. In other business, Perry Howland, of the Russell Township Citizens’ Park Board asked trustees for advice about funding for future park land opportunities. When he attended the park board’s budget hearing, the budget commission members recommended they talk about funding with the trustees since the trustees created the park board. Howland said the park board’s 1-mill levy failed, so they didn’t have the matching funds for a grant that would have funded purchase
received his associate’s degree. He was a Chief Operations Officer at Waste King LLC. Jason’s love of his life and best friend was his wife, Kelly. Jason was a devoted father and hero to his children. He was social, fun-loving and known as a “Party In A Box.” He was hard working, generous and always willing to help others. His spirit and energy will be greatly missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Jason to The Jason T. Stevens Children Scholarship Fund, c/o Fifth Third Bank. Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. Burial with Military Honors will take place on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020, at 9:30 a.m., at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 10175 Rawiga Road, Seville, Ohio. (Please meet at the gate at 9:15 a.m.) Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, from 1-3 p.m., with a closing service at 3 p.m., at The DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center of Chesterland, 12811 Chillicothe Road. Online obituary, guestbook and order flowers www.DeJohnCares.com.
of 64 wooded acres on Music Street. The board has a small budget for 2021 that was approved by the commission, he said. “If that (situation) should happen again, what is the protocol you want us to follow?” Howland asked trustees. “I’m open to suggestions,” Mueller said, then added he’d be fine with giving about 125 acres of wooded land into the control of the park board. The acreage consists of five parcels off Beechwood Drive donated to the township in the 1970s, Mueller said over the phone Sept. 3. There is no access to the land in Russell Township, but one of the parcels has a right-of-way access off Cedar Road in Chester Township, he said. The land is in the Western Reserve Land Conservancy and can be used for nature education under the donation agreement, Mueller said. Trustee Kristina Port said she would like the park board to have more communication with the trustees in the future, including copies of their meeting minutes and correspondence to keep the trustees updated on park board activities. During a phone interview Sept. 3 Gabram said the other projects trustees want to restart include work at the cemetery, maintenance at the administration building and restoring and relocating the old town hall. The old church at the cemetery has received new shutters custom-made by Amish craftsmen and there are plans to plant some trees as well, he said. The old town hall on the northwest corner of Chillicothe and Kinsman roads needs to be moved back to the corner of the township property, Gabram said. That involves a series of projects including a new foundation and siding replacement, he said. Trustees have tentatively earmarked about $100,000 a year for the work which will be spread out over several years, Gabram said. He has urged the demolition of the old fire station, a project estimated to cost $25,000, but Mueller and Port oppose that project.
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Chesterland News
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Wednesday, September 16, 2020
West Geauga Schools In-Person School Begins
On Sept. 8, the West Geauga Local Schools began in-person classes. Approximately 70 percent of the district’s student chose the option, while the rest of the students in the district will remain virtual for the first semester of the school year. Students, families and staff were glad to have students back in the buildings.
JIM KISH, WGLSD
Students arrive at Westwood Elementary School on Sept. 8.
JIM KISH, WGLSD
JIM KISH, WGLSD
West Geauga Middle School Principal Ron Dahlhofer welcomes students back to school.
Senior night for the Wolverine volleyball team was held Sept. 10. Seniors (l to r) Carleen Stilliana, Lauren Lance, Erin Piczer and Brooke Henriksen were honored prior to the West Geauga victory over Painesville Harvey at the high school gymnasium known to fans as the “Wolvarena.” They were recognized with their parents.
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Chesterland News
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Football Week 1
Slow Start Awakens Wolverines in Conneaut By Rich Kelly sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
The West Geauga Wolverines respected a Conneaut Spartan team that was 9-1 last year, but wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. After a muff on the opening kickoff, then an illegal blocking penalty on that same kickoff set-up, the Wolverines on their own eight yard line, Conneaut big plays put the Wolverines on their heels briefly. But they made enough big plays as the game developed to take a solid 24-7 non-conference victory over the Spartans, moving to 2-0 in this ever-strange 2020 season. Setting up the offense from the eight, Nick Henry raced to his right on the first play. Tellus A n d rew s read it perfectly, broke through the blockers to stop Henry at the one yard line. Daniel Stewart completed all nine of his first half passes for WG, but his first attempt was completed to Conneaut sophomore Zack Rice, who cut in front of a receiver to get the ball at the 11, and he dashed to the corner of the end zone for a lightning-quick Spartan lead. It got the attention of the visitors in a hurry. Relying on the running of Trae Zimmerman, as expected, the Wolverines went 68 yards in nine plays to tie the game at 7-7. Signs of the near future were about to
begin, though. DiLalla drilled the next kickoff deep toward the end zone. Andrews got hold of the pigskin at his own 1 yard line, but speeding up the sideline untouched, he finally was halted at the Wolverine 23 as Henry showed his blazing speed to catch up with him and push him out of bounds. The Wolverine defense, sparked by big plays from Angelo DeSciscio, Markos Leonard and Luca Gasbarrino, stopped further Conneaut efforts, taking over the ball at the 20 yard line on downs. Zimmerman capped an 80-yard drive from the 2 for his second score. And, as the Conneaut defense showed that it, too, would not be pushed back too much, the Wolverines took over with 2:13 left before halftime on their own 39 after a punt took some dipsy-doodle bounces in West Geauga’s favor. A 52-yard screen pass up the middle from Stewart to Zimmerman set up a 16-yard scoring pass from Stewart to Torry Stazzone with 20 ticks left before intermission for a 21-7 lead for the Wolverines. “We’ve got a good blend of kids this season,” West Geauga coach Adam Sopkovich said. “Due to corona concerns, we have to change up our practicing, but the kids are really stepping into their roles nicely. Older kids help the younger ones, everybody is learning what is needed, and even though we
made a lot of mistakes last week in beating Lakeside, we saw what we had to do and got a lot done to get ready tonight. “Conneaut is a scrappy bunch of kids; they’ve been really tough in their Pennsylvania league, and have a reputation for being hard-nosed. They were tonight.” Zimmerman has come back from last year’s ACL tear to look solid so far. He gained 122 yards with two touchdowns in this game on 24 carries, and Stewart complimented those efforts with 10 completions in 15 tries overall after that big first half helped push the Wolverines into the lead. Two second-half interceptions by the Wolverine defense in the second half, by Chris Ranallo and Luke Musser, with a fumble recovery tossed in for good measure by Peter Sanelli, combined with the only second half scoring, a 32-yard field goal from Joseph DiLalla, to stifle any Spartan ideas of winning. Their seven-game home winning streak on Joslin Field came to a halt.
This week, Geneva presents a tougher challenge, but continued hard work should make for an interesting contest with the Eagles. West Geauga continues to grow in transition on the gridiron. Julian Cichella, a Wolverine newcomer in the Newbury transition, sees good things happening. “It’s been loads of fun so far playing here,” he said. “I loved my time with Newbury, but it’s a different world here with so many kids on the team. I don’t play every down, I get some breaks along the way, and everything has gone well so far.” “We’ve got some new kids this year,” Zimmerman added. “We’ve made some mistakes that need to be still cleaned up, but everybody is having fun. Last week was a reality check for us. We think we have the talent to be much better, and now we just need to get it done.” It’s always nice to be on the positive side of a 2-0 record in any season.
www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com
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Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Football Week 2
Eagles Sink Talons Into Wolverines in Third By Rich Kelly sports@geaugamapleleaf.com For most of the first half in a battle of 2-0 teams, the West Geauga Wolverines had the upper hand over the Geneva Eagles. They moved the ball better and stuffed everything the Eagles tried to do. But a single factor led to a scoreless first half. The Wolverines couldn’t finish scoring opportunities, and they paid for it in the third period, especially as Geneva dominated with a smothering defensive effort and relentless offense to take a 28-14 Chagrin Valley Conference victory Friday at Howell Field. Geneva has a powerful running game that features at least four backs much of the time. But after being shut down for a total of just 85 yards in the first half, things changed dra-
matically on the opening drive of the third period. Quarterback Ben Scibona broke around left end on the first play of the drive for 34 yards to the 23 yard line, Clayton Queen ran two straight times for a first-and-goal situation at the 10 yard line, and thundering fullback Charles Taylor carried several Wolverines into the end zone for the first points of the game. Trae Zimmerman had marched for 112 yards in the first half for West Geauga, easily cutting through the Eagles defense. Yet mistakes thwarted everything the home team tried. On its first time with the ball, a long field goal try went wide left, and the next to possessions were stopped on downs. Finally, with 2:58 left before halftime, West Geauga had a first-and-goal at the seven, but a runner was separated from the ball. “We just didn’t do too well in the first half
tonight,” said Adam Sopkovich of West Geauga. “We were moving the ball well, but we just didn’t finish what we started. Geneva has some players, and that (Charlie) Taylor is just a dominant player on both side of the ball. Then, late in the first half when our Mike linebacker, Luke Sadler, got hurt and had to leave the game, it put us in a big hole the rest of the night. He’s a great player, but other kids had to step up. “They did their very best, but Geneva fixed some things in the second half and we couldn’t respond.” Taylor pounded away at the Wolverine defense in the third for 86 of his total 148 yards and a trio of touchdowns, using both brute force and breakaway speed to demolish tacklers. The Eagles feature several runners,
and after the tough Wolverine defense held all of them to just 85 first-half yards, things changed in a hurry. Zimmerman finished with 162 yards on 29 well attended carries of Geneva tacklers. As the Wolverines fell behind, they had to pass, just as they did last week in Conneaut. Daniel Stewart had some success, but it was too little too late. After Taylor’s first score, Zimmerman went around left end for 45 yards more and, two plays later, Stewart found Torry Stazzone deep in the end zone for a leaping grab to tie the score. Taylor reached pay dirt twice more to open a 21-7 lead, but with 8:02 left in the contest, West Geauga took over on downs at its own 35 yard line. A personal foul penalty put the ball at midfield, and Stewart hit Michael Cavasinni for 23 yards, then Stazzone again from the 27, to cut the gap to 21-14. That would be the last gasp of energy for West Geauga. Geneva quarterback Ben Scibona went in from the eight yard line with 2:26 to play to settle the matter. “You can’t lose a player like Sadler,” Sopkovich said. “He was having his way in the first half, but in the second half, Geneva just played their brand of football and we couldn’t hang in there.”
Health Bloodmobile
The American Red Cross needs people of all races and ethnicities to give blood to help ensure a blood supply as diverse as the patients who depend on it. Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood. org or calling 1-800-733-2767. Sept. 17, Adam Hall, 11455 E. Washington St., Auburn Township, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 17, Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, Munson Township, 1-6 p.m. Sept. 21, Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 1-7 p.m. Sept. 30, Notre Dame Preschool, 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon, 12-6 p.m.
Geauga SOGI Support Network
Sept. 22, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Geauga Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Support Network, a newly formed nonprofit that works with individuals, families, friends and the Geauga County community to embrace sexual orientation and gender identity, is hosting a virtual gathering to introduce the organization to interested youth/young adults and parents. Following the introductory presentation, there will be separate breakout sessions for parents and youth. Participating anonymously is an option. For more information and to register for the ZOOM event, email GeaugaSOGI@gmail.com. For questions call Christine Steigerwald, president, Geauga SOGI Support Network, at 440-476-3352.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Department Aug. 25 through Sept. 11, 2020. ILLEGAL DUMPING Sept. 3 12:45 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Several pieces of furniture were left at recycling center. Owner of the vehicle and trailer who were at the recycling center was contacted and advised to return to the recycling center to retrieve the items. Officers met the subject while he returned his items. SUSPICION Aug. 25 10:05 a.m., Fairmount Road. Complainant reported a bag with gifts was left on her front porch yesterday. Complainant checked with friends, coworkers and neighbors and was unable to find out who left the bag, and asked if anyone else reported a similar bag left at residences. Extra patrol was requested for the area and report on file. 2:40 p.m., Kinsman Road. Complainant called to report two suspicious phone calls. First call was received with caller ID showing 559-862-0332. Caller told complainant $1,028 had been charged to her Amazon credit card account. Complainant hung up on caller and checked her accounts. There were no fraudulent charges on her accounts. Complainant also received a call earlier in the day with caller ID 3868135 and the call was the grandparent scam. Complainant is aware of the scam and hung up the phone. 11:20 p.m., Cloveridge Road. Dispatch received a call from a resident that stated she received a suspicious text and wanted to speak to an officer. Officers responded to the residence and met with complainant. She said she and all her friends got a text from an unknown number. She opened the message and it directed her to an internet site that would not load. She said she closed the site and was concerned about her safety. Advice given on junk mail and officers checked area per caller’s request.
Sept. 3 9:25 a.m., Hemlock Road. Complainant received a voicemail message with caller advising a charge for $12,499.99 would be charged on her Visa for an Amazon purchase if she did not return the call immediately, the product would be shipped. Complainant is aware of the current scam and did not return the call. There was no phone number left on the caller ID. Sept. 4 10:59 a.m., Skyline Lane. Complainant called to report he received a suspicious call. Male caller said he was from the Social Security Administration. Complainant was told he had to call today regarding a social security breach with his account and if he did not the police would be at his house to arrest him. Complainant is aware of the scam and hung up the phone. Caller ID showed the number as 440-637-3853. THEFT Sept. 1 9:55 a.m., Northwood Road. Complainant reported a Trump political sign was taken from his yard on Aug. 30 at 3:10 p.m. Complainant’s son witnessed a young female, about 20 years old, driving a smaller silver Honda, no passengers visible in the car, stop in front of complainant’s house, pull out the sign near the driveway apron and drive away slowly with the sign. Complainant was advised a report would be on file. Sept. 4 2:40 p.m., Fairmount Road. Complainant came to the station to report a theft of two Trump political signs, taken from his front yard. TRESPASSING Sept. 8 11:58 p.m., Hillbrook Lane South. Officers responded to the listed address for a report of a vandalized political sign. Two suspects were apprehended and charged.
Community Meetings Chester Township: Sept. 16, 7 p.m. – Zoning Commission, 7 p.m. – Park District, at Parkside Park volleyball pavilion; Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees;. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. (Meetings are open to public, but seating limited to 10. Trustees, fiscal officer and department heads, if in attendance, are practicing social distancing.) Russell Township: Sept. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. (Trustees have opted to re-
sume their regular meeting schedule but has changed the location of future meetings to the Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road. Meetings will be held in the Town Hall until further notice. The location is changed to the Town Hall to better accommodate physical distancing advisories.) West Geauga BOE: Sept. 29, 7 p.m., virtual regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
Scott A. Larrick ATTORNEY AT LAW
WILLS • TRuSTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PROBATE • TAX • ELdER LAW scott@scottalarrick.com www.scottalarrick.com
Bus: (440) 729-3770 Fax: (440) 729-3772
8442 Mayeld Road Chesterland, OH 44026
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Chesterland News
Page 10
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Ballerinas are Back
JEANNIE FLEMING-GIFFORD
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Ballerinas are back in the studio working with dance faculty member Kate Webb at Fairmount Center for the Arts. The Russell Township arts center opened its door for the fall session of programs on Aug. 31.
Diane Grendell Aims to Eliminate ‘Dark Money’ Staff Report State Rep. Diane Grendell (R-Chester Township) announced Sept. 10 her plan to introduce the ‘Light of Day’ bill, which would require nonprofit entities, organizations and corporations to file a disclosure that shows sources of all funds received and used for or against an issue or candidate on the ballot for any election in Ohio. In a press release, Grendell said the bill seeks to shine light on campaign funding so that there is no more dark money. “It is time to get rid of dark money influence in Ohio,” Grendell said. “My legislation focuses on removing dark money in Ohio’s politics and increasing our political donation transparency. Issues surrounding undisclosed funds for or against political candidates has remained an issue in our state for far too long. The present Ohio laws are outdated.” Under her plan, the disclosure would be filed with the Secretary of State and groups would face a criminal penalty for noncompliance. Grendell’s press release outlined key provisions of the legislation, including: • Separating the definitions of Political Action Committee and Political Contributing Entity; • Removing the exception for continuing association from current law; this will require that 501(c)(4)s, unincorporated groups and
LLCS file political expenditure disclosures; • Disclosure of any and all political contributions regardless of dollar amount, donors and donations; • Expanding the definition of Political Contributing Entity. A PAC is formed for purely political purposes, while a political contributing entity is an organization that is engaging in political donations, but the creation of such organization is not for political purposes; • Requiring Political Contributing Entities to keep separate accounts earmarked for political expenditure purposes; • Disclosure of individuals donating to Political Contributing Entities for political expenditures. Individuals donating to an organization for charitable purposes or purposes unrelated to political expenditures are not required to be disclosed; and • Requiring Political Contributing Entities that refuse to create a separate account for political expenditures and donate to political causes out of their general funds to disclose all donations and donors. According to the press release, Grendell introduced a resolution in August urging Congress to pass legislation that requires corporations and labor organizations that make political expenditures to disclose the identities of their donors. Grendell is currently seeking cosponsors and will introduce the bill next week.
Chesterland News
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Service Directory
Page 11
Help Wanted MANCAN IS NOW HIRING GENERAL LABOR AND SKILLED TRADES IN LAKE, GEAUGA, CUYAHOGA AND ASHTABULA COUNTIES To apply, stop into the office Monday - Thursday, 9am to 3pm. Be sure to bring 2 forms of ID. A resume is encouraged.
220 Center St. Ste B-2 Chardon, OH 44024 440-285-5627
MASTER PAINTERS
Family owned & operated since 1976
INTERIOR - EXTERIOR
• Cedar Siding Stained • Vinyl Aluminum Refinishing • “Cool” Roof Coatings
“Do It Right The First Time” Call Eric 440-729-2646
www.masterpaintersinc.com ask@masterpaintersinc.com
handyman services kitchen & bath remodeling power washing siding roofing Free Estimates / Senior Discounts
Outdoor Handy Man & Yard Help: not afraid of heights, weed whacking (your equipment). $18/hour. Call 440-729-2632.
Chesterland News
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Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS
SERVICES
2007 Pontiac Grand Prix 4-door sedan, 147,000 miles, runs good. $2,400 OBO. 440488-8407.
WANTED TO BUY
(2) Kayaks, 3.5 tractor implements, boat motor, kitchen and end tables, table saw. 440-901-4026.
Buying Scotts Lawn Mowers. Maytag Washing Machines.Tools, Antiques and more. Call 440-548-2133.
Cash for Junk Vehicles: running or not, classics/big trucks/etc., free removal, call/text Zac 440-679-7293.
Wanted ‘65-‘67 Mustang Convertible, and other muscle cars needing repair, call/ text 440-832-1465.
COMMERCIAL RENTALS Commercial building for lease: 5,200 sqft with office, ample parking, 2 minutes East of Chardon Square on Rt 6, 440-3137626.
FOR SALE Duck hunting package: 14’ camouflage John boat with electric motor, decoys, Coleman stove, heater, waders, boots, life vests and much more. 216-406-0424 Primitive drying rack, Graniteware, maple side table, quilting frame, wooden high chair, paperbacks, walker with wheels. 440-729-1082.
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), tackle boxes, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee at 440-313-8331. Woodworking power equipment& misc tools. Cub Cadet w/small trailer, Ariens snow thrower. 440-974-9363. Clean dining room set. Table, six chairs, teacart, hutch and dry sink. 440-974-9363.
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale call Kathy Willis at 440-8403226, partial estate buyouts also.
Math - Tutoring Pre-Algebra Thru Calculus. 440-338-3563 Buckeye Stoneworks: we specialize in Amherst sandstone, we custom cut all projects for masons, landscapers, builders, contractors, and residential, by appt only, call 440-632-0188 leave message. Will grind small tree stumps, $40 each, call Robert 440-286-5065 or 440-520-6573.
Gravely attachments in good shape, tillers, snow blowers, sulkies, L-8, much moree. Make offer, Must Sell. 440-5489831.
John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.
Greenhouse Equipment for Sale
Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20 years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan, 440-342-4552.
Four metal-halide lamp fixtures 21” long x 7” high with balasts, extra bulbs. Phytotronics six zone timed misting system. Cedar potting bench on wheels. Elevated shelf, bottom shelf, storage drawer, removable metal sink, framed wire mesh back for hooks. Like new. 41”w x35”h x 25”d. Framed wire back 17”4 x 41” w.
Make offer.
440-785-1590
Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything, Call between 8am and 4pm, 440813-4272. No answer, leave message.
PETS & ANIMALS Lacey is an adorable, playful 3-month old spayed & vaccinated female gray tiger kitten who needs indoor home. Rebecca 440-321-2485.
REAL ESTATE Thompson Twp – 1 acre scenic rolling building lot, side street lots of privacy. $12,900. 440-289-0708.