Chesterland News 9-28-22

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Over 90 Days in, New Chief Passionate About Role

Since being sworn in last spring, Chester Township’s new police chief, Craig T. Young, knew he would have some big shoes to fill after the retirement of long-time Chief Mark Purchase.

Young said leading a police de partment in a community like Ches ter is both an honor and a privilege.

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com “Law enforcement is the most fulfilling and rewarding profession because it is so dynamic, unique and ever-changing. The ability to help others through stressful and often life-changing events is a feeling that can’t be put into words.”

“Each day that I come to work is a new challenge and a new opportu nity,” said Young. “That is perhaps what I love most about this profes sion. We are continuing to progress as an agency and working with such a great group of officers has made this transition much easier.”

Young was appointed as chief of police in May, taking the place of Purchase, who spent his entire 35year career as a police officer work ing in Chester and the last 16 years serving as chief.

Young said as is the case with

Dahlhofer Resigns as WGMS Principal

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia.com

Following a two-month inves tigation into possible misconduct, the West Geauga Schools Board of Education vot ed Sept. 15 to accept the resignation and related separation agreement and release of Middle School Principal Ron Dahlhofer.

“As many may know, I have recently re signed from my position at West Geauga. It has been a great pleasure serving the students and families of West Geauga for the past 22 years,” Dahlhofer said in

a statement Sept. 16. “My resigna tion was due to my participation in and forming of a company, VapeEd ucate, which seeks to provide edu cation and training to students and families on the dangers of vaping. The company was founded a few years ago and works with schools and communities across the nation.

“At the end of last school year, it was brought to my attention that the West Geauga high school principals were using VapeEducate as a re source to help with student vaping concerns,” Dahlhofer continued,

adding he immediately informed the district of his ownership in Va peEducate.

“Despite the actions that have led to this, I just want to thank Mr. Dahlhofer as a former employ ee under him and as a parent. He showed dedication to our students and for that, I am grateful.” said board member Christina Sherwood during the meeting Thursday.

Since July 11, Dahlhofer had been on a paid administrative leave.

Dahlhofer was ordered to work remotely on home assignment, ac cording to a letter from Superinten dent Richard Markwardt obtained

See Dahlhofer

Jay Bishop Resigns from West Geauga Schools

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia.com

West Geauga Schools Board of Education will be looking for a new director of operations and capital improvements after the Sept. 12 school board meeting.

School board members passed a resolution accepting the resigna tion of Jay Bishop and adopted a related separation agreement and release.

According to the res olution, Bishop submit ted a letter to the board indicating his intent to resign from his position with the district effec tive immediately due to personal reasons. A representative acting on behalf of Bishop negotiated the separation agreement and release with board representatives and Bishop accept ed the terms.

A source familiar with the situation said Bishop and Mid dle School Principal Ron Dahl hofer allegedly were involved in a side business that created a potential conflict of interest with West Geauga Schools.

Dahlhofer was put on paid administrative leave in July for a pending investigation into possi ble misconduct.

The Geauga County Maple Leaf

Dahlhofer

Bishop

Town Crier

Free Community Dinner

Sept. 30, 5-6:30 p.m.

Mayfield United Methodist Church is host ing a free dinner featuring grilled sausage, pepper and onion hoagies at the church lo cated at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Town ship. Carry-out is available upon request.

FGP Explorers Series

Oct. 1, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Join naturalist Dottie Drockton for an offtrail hike in Geauga Park District’s newly ac quired Gallo property. Meet at the Affelder House, 15139 Chillicothe Road, Russell Township.

Preregistration is required; visit founda tionforgeaugaparks.org or call 440-564-1048.

Chesterland Village Open House

Oct. 2, 2:30 p.m.

Former Geauga County Library staff ge nealogist Cheryl McClellan will present a program about the Quirk Cemetery during an open house held in the olde town hall at Chesterland Historical Village in Chester Township. Come learn the history of the lit tle-known cemetery and mausoleum from the 1800s. All are welcome.

Geauga Skywatchers

Oct. 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Join Geauga Skywatchers for “Animal As tronauts” at Bainbridge Library. Discover an imals’ place in the exploration of space.

Visit www.GeaugaLibrary.libcal.com to register.

GEL Breakfast

Oct. 7, 8-9:30 a.m.

Jason Glowczewski, chief operating of ficer, University Hospitals Geauga Medi cal Center, will be the guest speaker at the next Geauga Economic Leadership (G.E.L.) breakfast taking place at Kent State Univer sity – Geauga, 14111 Claridon Troy Road, Burton. He will discuss the current state of healthcare, including issues such as the ris ing costs and lack of staff, especially nurses. In addition, Kent State will talk about the new nursing lab in partnership with UH.

Breakfast and networking begin at 8 a.m. Free and open to the public.

For information or to register, call 440564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth.com.

Fairmount Speaker Series

Oct. 9, 3-4 p.m.

Art historian Felicia Zavarella Stadelman will present “Through the Eyes of the Artist: Henri Matisse” at the next Pull Back the Cur tain speaker series at Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road in Russell Township

Light refreshments will be served. Ad vance reservations are recommended for the free lectures by calling 440-338-3171 or visit ing fairmountcenter.org.

WGRC Wrestling Interest Clinics

Oct. 10 and 17, 6-7:30 p.m.

West Geauga Recreation Council is offer ing free wrestling interest clinics for boys and girls in grades 1-6 at the Westwood Elemen tary School gym. Meet the WGRC wrestling

coaches and learn some basic skills from the West Geauga varsity team. Come to one or both days. No registration is required.

Registration for the WGRC wrestling pro gram is now open. Season runs November through January.

Learn more at WGRC.org/wrestling.

FOW Amish Wedding Dinner

Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m.

Friends of WomenSafe will host their an nual Amish wedding style dinner at the home of Mary Miller, 13301 Princeton Road in Mid dlefield. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner being served at 6 p.m.

Dinner is $38 for adults and $18 for chil dren under 10. There will be a gift card raffle.

Space is limited and available by reserva tion only. Register online at friendsofwomen safe.org or call 440-285-3741.

Creations Boutique Sale

Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Children’s Guild of Cleveland is hosting its annual Creations unique boutique featuring jewelry, fiber arts, seasonal decor, children’s items, vintage treasures and more at The Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Road in Bainbridge Township.

Admission is $5. All proceeds benefit se lected Cleveland area children.

Geauga SWCD Dinner

Oct. 18, 6 p.m.

Geauga Soil and Water Conservation Dis trict celebrates 78 years of conservation at its annual dinner and election at the Claridon

Woodlands Lodge, 11383 Claridon Troy Road in Chardon.

Join for food, conservation awards, paint ed rain barrels and raffle items. Cast a vote to fill two open positions on the Geauga SWCD Board of Supervisors. Candidates are Lorrie Benza, Tracy Engle and Jeff Huntsberger.

The election is from 6-7 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Cost is $13 per person.

Visit geaugaswcd.com or call 440-8341122 for more information and registration by Oct. 3.

CWC Lunch and Program

Oct. 19, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Join Christian Women’s Connection for lunch and a program at Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Town ship.

Lowes Greenhouse will present “Decorat ing Now Through Thanksgiving.”

Featured speaker Amy Gardner will pres ent “Laughter to Joy.”

Cost is $16 at the door; lunch catered by Hungry Bee.

To RSVP by Oct. 12, email cwcchagrin@ gmail.com or call/text 419-544-7032.

Bloodmobile

Oct. 19, 1-6 p.m.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at Mayfield Church, 7747 May field Road, Chester Township. Power Reds are available.

Appointments may be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767.

Toen Crier

Dahlhofer from page 1

through a public records request.

A representative acting on behalf of Dahl hofer negotiated the separation agreement and release with board representatives and Dahlhofer accepted the terms, according to the resolution.

Dahlhofer leaves the district after having spent nine years as a teacher and four years as the assistant principal for the middle school.

In June of 2014, Dahlhofer was named assistant principal of the high school under former Principal Jay Bishop. Dahlhofer then returned to the middle school to become its principal in June of 2019.

A source familiar with the situation said Bishop and Dahlhofer allegedly were involved in a side business that created a potential con flict of interest with West Geauga Schools.

The board of education also passed a resolution accepting the resignation of Bish op as director of operations and capital im provements and adopted a related separation agreement and release during its Sept. 12 school board meeting.

Markwardt was approached for comment regarding Dahlhofer’s resignation and elect ed to decline.

Bryan Lowrie, who has two children in the school district, expressed his frustration over the board’s treatment of Dahlhofer in a letter to the editor.

“I feel as though the school board and su

from page 1

reached out to Bishop for comment about his resignation and he provided the following statement:

“I have tendered my resignation after in forming the West Geauga school district of my ownership in VapeEducate, an entity that focuses on educating youth about the dan gers of vaping, an epidemic in our schools.

“The company was founded in 2018, and since that time, it has served districts and communities throughout the nation, outside of the West Geauga School District. Late in the 2021-2022 school year, I learned that the West Geauga High School principals were commencing utilization of the VapeEducate curriculum for students and families. Based on that information, I immediately informed the West Geauga school district about my ownership interests in VapeEducate.

“I have since decided to resign from my administrator position to avoid either any further appearance of a conflict of interest or a conflict of interest should West Geau ga School District or its students decide to utilize VapeEducate as a curriculum and re source to tackle students’ usage of vaping materials. I am grateful to have served the students and families of the West Geauga School District for the last two decades, and I

Town Crier from page 2

Christmas Boutique

Nov. 7, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The St. Anselm Women’s Guild annual Christmas Boutique will be held at St. An selm School, 13013 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Admission is $1.

Anyone interested in vendor space should contact Shirley Chambers at 216-832-5158.

perintendent are not treating Mr. Dahlhofer with the respect he deserves. Our superinten dent and our school board seem to act and do as they want without any regard for the taxpayers that put them in the positions they currently have,” said Lowrie. “Our board and superinten dent are running our district like a dictatorship, not a democracy. They seem to care less than what the taxpayers think because they are just gonna keep getting reelected anyways. None of them care what happens because it doesn’t affect them. This situation with Mr. Dahlhofer was the final straw for me and many others.”

Lowrie added he knew Dahlhofer back when his son started sixth grade, calling him a great administrator and leader for the mid dle school.

“My son was an average student at best and under Mr. Dahlhofer and the excellent teachers at the middle school, his grades have taken off. He is now a straight ‘A’ stu dent and has not missed the honor roll one time,” said Lowrie. “Every concern or ques tion I would have, Mr. Dahlhofer was there to answer it with a personal phone call. That’s more than I can say about our school board or superintendent, who send out generic emails if you’re lucky to even get a response.”

When asked for response to Lowrie’s comments, Markwardt said he and the school board act to promote the interest of the stu dents and residents of the school district.

“No decisions are made and no actions taken that are inconsistent with that guiding principle,” he said.

am thankful to all of those who have aided in my growth within the district.”

VapeEducate is a Solon-based company formed to help families, communities and schools know the dangers associated with vap ing. According to the Ohio secretary of state’s website, the trade name was registered with the Ohio secretary of state in January 2019.

In his email, Bishop explained that throughout the operation of his business, he never intended to sell the product to West Geauga Schools or its students, and did not profit from West Geauga or its students.

The Maple Leaf approached Markwardt for comment and he elected to decline.

Bishop began his career in the district at the high school in 1995 as a teacher of technology education, where he instructed courses in architecture, computer drafting, engineering and electricity.

After serving four years as the assistant principal, Bishop took over as principal in 2013 after David Toth left the district to become su perintendent of Crestwood Schools in Mantua.

Back in June of 2021, the board approved administrative changes for the hiring of new high school Principal Ryan Patti, shifting Bishop to the new position of director of op erations and capital improvements at an an nual salary of $114,522.

A public records request has been made for the separation agreement. This article has been updated from the version originally posted online.

Wellness & Recovery Group

Red Tulip Project of Geauga and the Geauga Family YMCA are offering an eightweek wellness and recovery group program for persons in recovery.

The program runs Tuesdays, Oct. 4 to Nov. 22, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

The focus will be on exercise, wellness and nutrition followed by a recovery topics meeting. Fee is $5 per session.

Call 440-488-2908 for more information and to register or visit www.redtulip.com.

8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5 Chesterland, Ohio 44026

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Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Gayle Mantush, Sales Representative Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor Regina Swinerton, Classifieds

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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.

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• The Chesterland News, LLC reserves the right to reject or revise any advertisement or news item for publication. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Chesterland News, LLC, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned.

• The opinions and representations contained in advertisements are those of the advertiser. They have not been verified by the Chesterland News, LLC, nor should they be construed to represent the position or viewpoint of this newspaper or its publisher.

• Under no circumstances will any record filed in the county be suppressed at any time for anybody, except by order of court.

Help Support the Chesterland News and

The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and es sential in protecting the vibrant communi ty in which we live.

The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply af fect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage.

The cost of publishing this newspaper — editorial, printing, mailing and other production costs — is accomplished pri marily through the support of generous advertisers. These advertisers are com munity leaders who understand the value of a stronglocal newspaper. We appreciate each and every one of them.

To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper

subscription. If you value strong commu nity journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500.

For any donation of $40 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation:

1. FREE one-year online-only subscrip tion to the Geauga County Maple Leaf, a six-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of the Year, OR

2. Six FREE 20-word classified ads over the next year.

As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s finan cially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News.

Jeff and John Karlovec

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CHESTERLAND,

Excel in Guild Auditions

Staff report

The annual piano recital was held July 12 for the students of Joanne Ruppe at Mayfield United Methodist Church.

The students participating were Luke Ti rabassi, Dane Schinness, Lila Ruggeri, Mira Megla, Darcy Megla, Atlas Megla, Anna Hill, Gianni Fleck and Xavier Babic.

Numerous classical pieces were played as well as themes from popular movies. Five duets peppered the program. Approximately 50 guests were in attendance and enjoyed the evening, in cluding parents, grandparents and siblings.

In addition to these performances, awards were given to the students who had participated in the auditions held by the

National Guild of Piano Teachers in the spring. All students received a superior rating. At that time, eight students played programs with required scales and chords.

National programs consisting of 10 memo rized pieces were presented by Luke Tirabas si, Dane Schinness, Lila Ruggeri, Mira Megla, Darcy Megla and Atlas Megla. A district pro gram of four memorized pieces was played by Xavier Babic. Gianni Fleck played a hobbyist program of four pieces. Dane Schinnesss and Luke Tirabassi also received “composer pins” for having completed national programs for seven and six years, respectively.

Congratulations are in order for all of these accomplishments in the area of piano study.

Geauga Park District

For more information and registration, con tact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.

Spider Saturday

Oct. 15, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Naturalist Nora “the Explorer” Sindelar will lead three different spider-themed pro grams at The West Woods Nature Center in Russell Township.

From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., youth ages 10 and older can join arachnologist and au thor Dr. Sarah J. Rose during Spectacular Spiders to learn about the wonderful world of spiders. A limited supply of Spiders of North America field guides will also be available to

purchase, and the presenter will be available for a book-signing after the program.

From 1-2 p.m., Eight-Legged Fun will offer an hour of all-ages discovery featuring spider books with Geauga County Public Li brary, a spider craft, a spider-themed indoor scavenger hunt and time observing live exam ples of some spiders found in Geauga County.

Then, from 2-3:30 p.m., Dr. Rose will re turn, alongside Naturalist Nora, to guide a Spider Search and Exploration Hike through forest and field in search of spiders, webs and more.

Registration is required attend Spectacu lar Spiders and the Spider Search and Explo ration Hike.

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions for the coming two-week period, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: Sept. 28, 5 p.m., Board of Health, Suite 333; Sept. 29, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners, including budget hearings from 12 noon to 4:30 p.m.; Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m. – Geauga County Commis sioners, including budget hearings from 12 noon to 4:30 p.m., 5:45 p.m. – Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve, at 8221 Auburn Road, Concord; Oct. 6, 8:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners, budget hearings until 4:30 p.m.; Oct. 11, 7:30 a.m., Geauga SWCD, Ste. 240. All county meetings are held at the Geauga County Administra tive Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive (Ste.

#), Claridon, unless otherwise noted. County commissioners meetings are held in Suite 350.

Chester Township: Oct. 5, 7 p.m., Zon ing Commission; Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Oct. 10, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at the Town ship Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless oth erwise noted.

Russell Township: Sept. 28, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Oct. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; Oct. 6, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

West Geauga BOE: Oct. 10, 7 p.m., reg ular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

Obituaries

Joanne Chambers

Joanne Chambers, age 87, passed away peacefully Sept. 14, 2022, in Newbury Township, surround ed by her daughters.

Born March 11, 1935, in Williamsfield Township, Ohio, she lived in Chester Township before moving to Newbury.

Joanne worked for Johnson and Johnson as an administrative assistant.

She enjoyed knitting, sewing and crafting of dolls. During the Christmas season, which she adored, Joanne also loved crafting Christ mas ornaments.

Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, often playing cards and other games with them.

Joanne was quite the cookie maker, which her family all enjoyed.

(Doug) Benson, Maureen Atchley, Laurie (Bill) Roth and Kathy (Vince) Kaucic; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Jim Chambers; and brother, William Grabert.

Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road,

Chesterland, on Sept. 19, 2022.

A Celebration of Life service was held Sept. 20, 2022.

Interment at Chester Township Ceme tery.

Online tribute video and condolences at www.gattozziandson.com.

Muriel June Golz

Muriel June Golz, age 83, beloved wife of Lud Golz for 63 years, was welcomed into the loving arms of her Savior on Sept. 20, 2022, with her husband at her bed side.

The family is having a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 23, 2022, at Fel lowship City Church, 16391 Chillicothe Road,

For full obituary, please visit www.gattoz

Local Girl Scouts Earn Silver Award

SUBMITTED

Six Girl Scout Cadettes from West Geauga received their Silver Award, the highest Girl Scout award for middle schoolers, on Sept. 18. From left, Lena Lombardo, Christina Je throw, Scout Harvey, Josie Mislay, Emily Fousek and Liliana Colecchia earned their awards through 50 hours of community service including tutoring elementary-aged students via Zoom during the pandemic, creating a four-elements activity course for fellow scouts attending camp and building a library of instrumental music books for band students to borrow.

Geauga Y Senior Health & Wellness Fair is Back

By caSSanDra Shofar caSSanDra@karlovecmeDia com

The Geauga Family YMCA is excited to bring back its full-scale Senior Health and Wellness Fair Oct. 3 with over two dozen ven dors who will be chock full of information.

“My role as the active older adult coordi nator here at the Y is to design programming to keep seniors active and healthy,” said Di ane Gorom. “This health fair is one of the many ways I can do that. I have been working with University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center since 2015 to put this fair on every year in October. Because of the pandemic, we had to miss 2020 completely and just had a very small fair in 2021. This year so far, we have 28 vendors signed up to attend.”

The fair, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Geau ga YMCA, 12460 Bass Lake Road in Munson Township, is free and open to the public with no registration required.

“Partnering every year with the YMCA on this wonderful health and wellness fair is just one way to connect and provide resources, ed

ucation and screenings for older adults,” said Dawn Damante, coordinator of UH-Geauga Medical Center’s geriatric program. “It’s an event that should not be overlooked.”

Damante said her focus is on enhancing the aging population’s health and wellness through advocacy, connection to vital resourc es and support that provides and strengthens the overall quality of life for these communi ties.

“UH-Geauga will be providing biometric screenings — blood pressure, glucose, cho lesterol and body mass index — preventative risk screenings, along with balance and grip screenings,” Damante said. “UH clinical pharmacy specialists will be available to an swer questions about medication manage ment, side effects and safe practices.”

New this year will be providers from the UH wound care and hyperbaric medicine cen ter, who will offer educational information on foot health and wound prevention, Damante said.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for seniors,” said Dale Konrad, 74, of Munson Township.

“I’ve gone in years past and it was just great.”

Huntsburg Township resident Kathy Atwell, 73, added, “It’s a good way to ask questions and find out information about your health … and it’s all done in one spot.”

Other services provided include Salty of Chardon bringing a portable salt booth tent for people to try out.

“Attendees can spend five minutes in the salt ‘cave’ to see what salt therapy can do for them,” Gorom said.

Free mini chair massages and reflexology will be offered by Living Well Holistic Health, of Middlefield, and Arbonne will have sam ples of their latest products, she said.

The Geauga Park District will also be on site offering county park maps, program ac tivity guides and birding checklists.

For those with questions about Medicare, Ginny Calvey, an independent certified li censed Medicare insurance agent, will be on hand to answer questions.

“Knowledge is power,” she said, adding she will help people navigate everything Medicare related.

Holly’s Hearing will conduct hearing screenings, and Chardon and Chesterland Family Eyecare will provide information on the importance of eye health as it relates to the whole body, and will give out lens cloths, cleaner and artificial tear samples, Gorom said.

What: Senior Health and Wellness Fair

When: Oct. 3, 9 a.m.-noon

Where: Geauga YMCA, 12460 Bass Lake Road, Munson Township

In addition to the above, Second Sole of Lyndhurst will explain the importance of footwear, bringing samples of different ath letic shoes and talking about their benefits, Gorom said, adding they will have some dis counted shoes to sell.

Other vendors include Crossroads Nu trition, Dr Cherie Lechner-Lunato DC, Alert Care Medical, FirstLight Homecare, Geauga Public Library, the Geauga Farm Bureau, Geauga Veterans Services and Geauga Tran sit, the Geauga County Department on Ag ing, United Way Services of Geauga, Devot ed Health, Claudia Brown, members of the Alzheimer’s Association, the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office and Bathsaver.

Gorom also extended a thank you to Sage’s Fruit Farm in Chardon for donating 250 apples to hand out, and to CCM Rent al, of Chardon, for donating 20 tables for the vendors.

page

as well as some personnel changes,” he said. “It is my goal as an administrator to identify the individual strengths of each officer and to apply those to the department so that we are providing the best possible service to this community.”

Supply and demand issues concerning new police vehicles, equipment and other necessary components within the depart ment have been a high priority following COVID, he said.

“It has caused me to plan and budget dif ferently based on these delays and uncertain ties,” said Young.

The department currently has 15 fulltime officers ranging in age from 26 to 53.

“We have interest in adding a K-9 posi tion, as well as a digital evidence officer and an investigator position over the course of the next few years,” said Young, adding the recruitment and retention of police officers is the single biggest challenge facing admin istrators today.

“Seasoned officers are extremely sought after and departments routinely offer signing bonuses and other incentives to attract valu able candidates. Academy class enrollments are the lowest we have seen in decades,” said Young. “Therefore, students are often hired by departments before they even graduate.”

Every task is important in a small depart ment like Chester Township, the chief said.

“I really feel as though I practice ‘servant leadership.’ I am determined to create an en vironment where our officers can thrive and receive the training and experience to excel within this profession,” Young said. “In Ches ter Township, service to the citizens of our community is everything. Our residents are the single most important component of this township.”

Young said being a police officer is not just about providing safety and security to citizens.

“We strive to be a part of the community we serve,” he said.

A Look Back

Young began his career in law enforce ment in 1999 with the Centerville Police De partment and then worked for many years at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, where he was a SWAT officer, field training officer, de tective and crime scene investigator.

Young said the most important qualities

when establishing a positive and professional culture include attention to detail, integrity, empathy and communication.

“My time in the detective bureau of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office was most instru mental in developing those traits and show ing how important they are in developing an effective and efficient unit or police depart ment,” he said.

In 2012, Young was hired by Key Bank as a senior investigator in the financial intelli gence unit, where he specialized in anti-mon ey laundering and terrorist financing investi gations.

“I was employed by financial institutions that worked in concert with federal law en forcement agencies primarily tasked with complex financial crimes,” Young explained.

“While this was an extremely interesting and fulfilling career change, I never felt like I made a difference each day, like I did as a police officer.”

Young accepted a position with the Ches ter Township Police Department in 2017, where he was promoted to sergeant in 2019 and then captain in 2020.

“That role was instrumental in preparing me for the day-to-day operations of the police department,” Young said. “It also allowed me to become more immersed in the financial and business side of running a police depart ment.”

During his tenure with Chester Town ship, Young was employed as a part-time criminal investigator with the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office.

The best thing so far about his tenure has been the support received from staff mem bers, officers and the community, he said.

“In my opinion, law enforcement is the most fulfilling and rewarding profession because it is so dynamic, unique and ev er-changing,” Young said. “The ability to help others through stressful and often life-chang ing events is a feeling that can’t be put into words.”

Police Blotter

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Depart ment Sept. 12-25, 2022.

ANIMAL PROBLEM

Sept. 14

3:53 p.m., Pear Tree Drive. Neighbor has a wolf-hybrid that is loose in caller’s yard. It has killed the birds. Animal secured and returned to owner on Summers Road. Agreement made between parties that dog owner would pay $40 for the dead bird. No charges pursued for dog at large. Dog warden canceled.

FRAUD

Sept. 13

2:30 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Two males at tempting to buy prepaid Visa cards at Dollar General and CVS with fraudulent $100 bills.

Sept. 21

11:52 a.m., Laurel Road. Email fraud and re ceived something from PayPal advising she owed $400. Caller advised she does not even have a PayPal account and did not provide anyone with her information. Just wanted to inform police.

6:10 p.m., Wilson Mills Road. Buying auto parts and got scammed.

LOITERING

Sept. 13

12:55 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Male playing his violin and has a sign asking for money. Officer advised. Store owner requested officer ask him to leave. Male left without incident.

SUSPICIOUS Sept. 13

8:12 a.m., Mayfield Road. Caller states her

32-year-old son works at a restaurant in Chesterland; she isn’t sure of the name of it. States her son did not return home last night. Would like an officer to check and see if his car is still at location. While on the phone dispatch told officer male was at Hillcrest Hospital from an incident involving Mayfield Heights police. Mother was notified, cleared.

THEFT

Sept. 23

12:28 p.m., West Walnut Ridge Road. Bird bath stolen last night.

WELFARE CHECK

Sept. 13

4:31 a.m., Mayfield Road. Employee wouldn’t leave and wouldn’t do his job for four hours. He told other employees he was going on a spiritual journey. Caller and employees don’t think he is safe to drive. Unknown where he lives. Has been at the restau rant for a month and nothing like this has happened before. He was acting strangely throughout the day, including standing out in the road for a while. Leaving out of the parking lot on Mayfield. UTL.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Depart ment Sept. 7-19, 2022.

SUSPICION

Sept. 17

8:29 p.m., Chillicothe Road. While on patrol of ficer located a vehicle with two occupants after hours at West Geauga Commons. Both juveniles checked OK and were watching a movie while on a first date. Of ficer contacted both parents and then they were released and advised of park hours.

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate trans fers for the weeks ending Sept. 6 and Sept. 16 2022, provided as a public service by the Geau ga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may in volve the sale of land only.

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Frank Daddario, 13187 County Line Road, to Jeremy L. and George W. Jr. Bare, $672,500. (1.93 acres)

Nancy H. Lyons, 13262 Hickory St., to Matthew J. Mckinley and Kaylin D. Williams, $490,000. (1.09 acres)

Darcy A. Anderson and Jay A. Orzan, 12751 Manchester Drive, to Michael Kleppel and Joshua Mansfield, $182,000. (1.00 acres)

Blue Sky Property Solutions LLC, 9432 Wilson Mills Road, to RB Trout LLC, $180,000. (1.93 acres)

Sean P. O’Malley, 9580 Shadow Hill Trail, to

TRANSFERS

Brady and Jennifer Cabe, $397,000. (1.76 acres)

Michael P. Mincin and Kasey Zaremba, 12826 Morning Glory Trail, to Trisha N. and Tyler Monroe, $315,000. (1.40 acres)

Laser Boulevard Holdings LLC, 12880 Laser Drive, to Angelo and Anna Maria Cian ci, $170,000. (3.00 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Gary J. Bargiel, 13591 Cuyahoga Trail, to John and Lori Knoble, $205,000. (7.19 acres)

James E. Link (trustee) (TOD), 8318 Mu sic St., to Jean Mackenzie, $175,000. (3.00 acres)

Colleen Mckenna and Kathy Frost Mck enna, Pekin Road, to Margaret Pinzone, $115,200. (1.69 acres)

Colleen Mckenna and Kathy Frost Mck enna, Pekin Road, to Anthony Pinzone, $45,900. (1.61 acres)

The Chester Township Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 8 opened at 6 p.m. with the appointment of Evan Byrum to fill the vacant position on the West Geauga Community Joint Recreation District Board. Byrum had provided a letter of interest including the rea sons he would like to serve the community.

After approving meeting minutes, the board entered executive session to discuss compen sation and employment as well as negotia tions with public employees.

Upon re-entering public session, Tonya Peto, of the newly formed West Geauga Cham ber of Commerce, stated that the goals of the chamber are to promote and enhance strong businesses in the West Geauga community. The chamber is working on developing and fostering partnerships with the West Geauga school system, local businesses and both Char don and Chagrin chambers. The first network

Chester Government Update

ing event was a huge success and 84 local busi nesses have already signed up. The chamber will waive the fees for the remainder of 2022. The next chamber meeting will be held at 8 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Geauga West Library.

Next, trustees were provided an update by Township Administrator Mark Purchase. Although the board has approved the pur chase of a new tack machine, Purchase ex plained the critical need for the machine and that both Road Superintendent John Onys hko and the township wanted to thank Joe Fornaro from Kirtland’s Service Department for loaning the township their tack machine to perform needed road repair. Purchase gave an update on the pickleball court, the gazebo painting and that work will be start ing soon on the new bocce ball court. He also discussed the need for pond maintenance to control the algae buildup and asked trust

ees to consider allocating the expense from the general fund park account. Finally, he informed the trustees that Kelly Paulic, the new administrative assistant, is progressing well as she has completed her first week.

The board then moved on to road busi ness and Trustee Richter discussed the new cost associated with obtaining a commercial driver’s license CDL and how it may deter new hires. He also added that the Ohio De partment of Transportation has offered a reimbursement for new hires and Chester may have to look at developing a new policy, although additional research is needed.

After approving various road department expenses, the board moved on to the fire de partment. Tyler Hoberg, from the Milestone Management Group, along with Fire Chief William Shaw were present to provide an up date on the fire department rehab and ask for

additional contingent funding.

Trustees then approved the Geauga County winter snow-plow contract, Hallow een “Trick or Treat” night on Oct. 31, from 6- 8 p.m. and various financial transactions before closing the meeting at 7:26 p.m.

The Chester Township Board of Trustees meeting on Sept. 21 was held at 7 p.m. for a spe cial meeting with the Chester Zoning Commis sion. Topics discussed included: accessory build ings, both size and height; signage, the counties draft guidance and how to move forward; the addition of parks into the Chester Zoning Reso lution and updating the zoning map to identify all parks; short-term rentals; the status of the Ohio House Bill; and if zoning should allow for office space in the industrial district.

Trustees closed the meeting at 7:50 p.m.

Submitted by Craig S. Richter, Chester Township Trustee

Classifieds

AUTOS & PARTS

$Wanted Junk Vehicles$ Muscle Cars, Dump Trucks, Construction Equipment, Running Vehicles, etc. Scrap Metal. Free Removal. Call 440-679-7293.

FOR RENT

Upstairs apartment, Chesterland: 2 bed room, 1 bath, all appliances included, no pets, no smoking, $750/mo. 440-729-4054.

FOR SALE

Old Oak rough-cut lumber: different siz es or custom cut. $5 per foot. 216-456-7199.

Asphalt grindings for sale in Auburn Township, call for prices and delivery options 440-665-9477.

Giant Vac Whisper Jet leaf blower, Briggs & Stratton engine, $200. Allis Chalmers riding lawn-mower, 23HP Hy dro Tractor, $400. 440-635-0223.

Firewood: Split, mostly Ash, pickup only, Auburn township, $100/truckload. Call 440-865-8162, leave message.

Dresser: French Provincial, 2-door, 3-drawer. You pick up. $800 OBO/cash. 440-321-0537.

2017 Forest River Wildwood Travel Trailer: 17-feet, sleeps 4, like brand new. $14,000. 440-829-1856.

FREE Hostas. Dig your own. Different varieties. 440-834-8943.

Aluminum 20 foot folding ladder $100; CHAPIN 25 gal. clean tank spraying system Model 97562, new in 2020, excel lent condition, includes new concentrate tank, boomless spray kit, $250 ($400 val ue). 440-338-4334 Russell area.

His & Hers Golf Clubs: bag and cart in cluded. 440-632-0060, leave message.

Shop AVON at home or office. Delivery and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Bev Thompson Avon Independent Sales Representative Call: 440-708-8045 Visit my Web site: https://www.avon.com/ myavon/bthompson8804

Drive Spitfire 4 wheel power scooter. Can be disassembled for transportation. Used 5 times. $850. 440-286-4772.

Bedroom Suite: dark pine, 8pcs, double/ full canopy/poster bed, dresser, chest, desk w/chair, nightstand, $400/OBO. Dining Set: dark pine, 7-8pcs, 6-8foot trestle table, 4 chairs, hutch, add’l bench available, $300/OBO. 440-729-0663.

Tires: 2 Artic Claw Winter WX1 245/70R16 studded steel wheels, 5-hole, like new: $250 total. Truck-bed Tool Box: $65. 440-338-8282.

Rubber Sheeting, for ponds or pools, slate gray, 5 1/2 feet by 8 feet, make of fer. 440-834-8416.

Spinning wheel, yarn winder, Royal 1900’s typewriter, Polyroyal-TRF radio, IRC-Kadette radio, Victrola oak floor model, table-top hand-crank paper-roll organ. 440-533-5292.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Estate Sale Oct 1-2, 9a-5p. Bedroom furni ture, hutch, couch, Christmas decor, inc multi artificial trees. Come & see. 7781 Mulberry Rd, Chesterland. Sept 30 - Oct 1 9a-4p. Cash Only. Personal inventory of fabrics for sewing, quilting, hooking, braiding, applique, penny rug, crafts, 4-H projects. 13440 Taylor-Wells Rd, Claridon (Chardon zip 44024).

MISCELLANEOUS

Free line ads are Sweet! Sweet!

Maple Leaf subscribers are entitled to One FREE classified line ad for each week of their subscription

Up to 20 words - perfect for selling household items, vehicles or anything else!

One Year Subscription:

In Geauga County $50 (Seniors $45) Outside Geauga County or Snowbirds $65

Call: 440-729-7667 email: ads@karlovecmedia.com or write to: Geauga County Maple Leaf 8389 Mayfield Rd, Ste. B5 Chesterland, OH 44026

PETS & ANIMALS

Two 3-month-old very social female cali co kittens, spayed & vaccinated, need an indoor-only home. Call Rebecca 440-3212485.

5yr-old neutered Australian Shep herd-Boxer mix. Very friendly: loves people, kids and attention. Reason for selling: kids are grown and he is lonely! Will make a wonderful pet for someone. 440-834-8104.

MCOUNTY

Laple eaf

REAL ESTATE

Trailer: 3 bedroom, 1 bath, all appliances stay, new hardwood and carpet flooring, Dacraft metal roof, finished landscape. Terrance Glen Trailer Park, Hambden. 440-307-4013.

SERVICES

Estate, garage, & building clean-outs. Also, scrap metal wanted. Call 440-4133119.

John’s Plumbing: Affordable and re liable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.

Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20+ years experience. Profes sional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remod eling, cleanout houses, we do most any thing. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.

SNOWPLOWING: Looking for contrac tors to take over my residential custom ers in Chesterland area. Will provide contact details. Call 440-532-3232, leave message.

WANTED TO BUY

Need a painted MURAL for bedroom/ barn/business? Email Grace at gra cieprexta99@icloud.com.

4 wheelers, 3 wheelers, dirt bikes, gocarts, mini bikes, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers. Paying cash. 440-413-3119.

Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-3138331.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

Help Wanted

Middlefield Great Clips is hiring great stylists. Built-in clientele, great pay, benefits package and much more. Must have valid Cosmetology license. Visit our site Talent.RLOinc.net or call Tere sa 937-974-4376.

Yard worker wanted part time for Fall. Starting @$16/hr cash, more with expe rience. Driver’s license preferred. 440338-3563.

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. 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. Submit resumes to editor@karlovecmedia.com

To advertise in the Classifieds, contact the advertising department at 440-729-7667 ext. 500 or email your ad directly to ads@karlovecmedia.com