In a split vote, Geauga County Commissioners voted against reappointing Gerry Morgan as county administrator at their Jan. 7 meeting.
Both commissioners Jim Dvorak and Carolyn Brakey voted “no” on reappointing Morgan, with Commissioner Spidalieri as the sole vote in favor.
Beloved Restaurant
Passes to New Generation
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Beloved local restaurant Stockers on the Park is under new management, with Anne Pohto taking over from previous owner Anita Stocker Jan. 1.
The Stocker family, who owned the restaurant for around 40 years, announced the change in a Facebook post Dec. 26.
“We are putting this building into the best of hands and we know
sure the tires of their vehicles are in good shape, echoing advice trol and Governor Mike DeWine,
Experts Offer Tips on New Year’s Goals
The spirit of the new year often brings with it a desire for change or growth, whether through setting goals for physical, mental or emotional wellbeing, learning a new skill or finally finishing a long overdue project.
Area experts chimed in with some feedback on how people can best support their new year’s intentions, goals or resolutions.
“Moving into the new year is always an opportunity to renew and to, you know, maybe not only renew, but restart again,” said Denise Musgrave, of Sunshine Yoga in Chester Township. “But not necessarily change who you are … a lot of people focus on changing like a new you and a new this.
“No, what we want to do is maybe just move in (to the new
In the picture above, a driver thought the ice- and snow-covered pond in front of Geauga Auto Repair on Ravenna Road in Munson Township was part of the driveway. GCSO reported everyone was safely removed
Toyota Highlander without injuries.
FACEBOOK PHOTO
Pictured, from left, are new owner Anne Pohto, former owners Anita Stocker and Barbara Stocker, and Tom Robison, the nephew of a former owner.
Thompson Township
Morgan
Morgan • Page 5
Community Meetings
Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted. To have a public meeting included in this section, fax information to 440285-2015 or email editor@karlovecmedia.com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.
Geauga County: Jan. 13, 11 a.m. – Board of Revision, Organizational Meeting, Auditor’s Appraisal Conference Room, 2 p.m. – ADP Organizational Meeting, Auditor’s Appraisal Conference Room, 5 p.m. – Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services, Programs and Policies Committee, at the Board offices, 13244 Ravenna Road; Jan. 14, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; Jan. 15, 6 p.m., Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services, Board of Trustees, at the Board offices, 13244 Ravenna Road. All county meetings are held at the Geauga County Administrative Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive (Ste. #), Claridon, unless otherwise noted. County commissioners meetings are held in Suite 350.
Aquilla Village: Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 65 Turner Drive, unless otherwise noted.
Burton Township: Jan. 13, 7 p.m. – Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. – Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Burton Township
Stockers
from page 1
you will show Anne the same community support we have always received, as she faces the challenges and rewards of being a business owner in a small town,” they wrote, thanking the community for their support and teasing Pohto’s plans for the future.
Upon the first of the year, a second change to the business was announced via Facebook — Pohto updated the name to reflect both her new management and the history of the business.
Administration building, 14821 Rapids Road.
Burton Village: Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Village Council; Jan. 14, 7 p.m., Board of Public Affairs. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.
Chardon City: Jan. 9, 6:30 p.m., City Council. All meetings are held at the Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.
Chardon Township: Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 9949 Mentor Road, unless otherwise noted.
Chester Township: Jan. 9, 4 p.m., Board of Trustees; Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Hambden Township: Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.
Middlefield Township: Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All trustees meetings are held at Township Office, 15228 Madison Road, unless otherwise noted.
Middlefield Village: Jan. 9, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance Committee, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are held at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave. Munson Township: Jan. 13, 6:15 p.m., Park
Being a part of the business’s long history herself, Pohto said she was and wasn’t nervous to be be stepping into Stocker’s boots.
“I feel a little intimidated, but I feel like I’ve got a really good support system backing me up,” she said.
Pohto recalled starting at the restaurant as a dishwasher before eventually getting two more jobs and then going on to college.
“Within the next few weeks, you may notice a slight name change. I really wanted to keep it the same with my own, as I plan to do with the entire restaurant,” Pohto wrote of the change.
The restaurant now goes by Stockers by Anne. The logo features a flower design, meant to harken to flower displays Stocker created in the front of the restaurant around Labor Day.
“I just feel like if I could piece (former owner Barbara) Stocker’s last name with my name and Anita’s flowers, it kind of holds us all together,” she said in a Jan. 6 interview.
Pohto expressed her gratitude for the opportunity.
“I am very thankful I had the opportunity to get the restaurant,” she said, recalling asking Stocker several years ago if she was interested in selling.
“Anne has been with us since she was a girl,” Stocker said in an interview Jan. 6. “She was 14 years old when she first started working for us. She’s been with us 16 years. She’s part of the family.”
They couldn’t have been more thrilled when she said she was interested and wanted to be considered as a buyer, Stocker said.
“We are just thrilled. My mom and I, the girls who work there, the customers, everybody’s very happy that she’s making the plunge,” she said.
and Recreation Board; Jan. 14, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.
Newbury Township: Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.
Russell Township: Jan. 9, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees; Jan. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
South Russell Village: Jan. 9, 7:30 p.m., Planning Commission; Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Village Council; Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at the Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Thompson Township: Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees, at the Geauga County Public Library – Thompson Branch.
Kenston BOE: Jan. 13, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at Auburn Bainbridge Room at Kenston High School, 9500 Bainbridge Road, Bainbridge.
West Geauga BOE: Jan. 13, 6:30 p.m., Organizational Meeting followed by regular meeting at 7 p.m. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
didn’t want to reveal them just yet.
Stocker praised Pohto’s work ethic and called her a wonderful soul.
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“I went to college for parks and recreation management and I just realized I loved it so much more here,” she said. “The family, the background of all of it, and just that comfort and closeness with everybody involved. I wouldn’t have gotten that by myself in the park district.”
Customers can expect to see changes to the hours and some small remodeling changes, Pohto said.
The business announced Jan. 5 it would once again be open Wednesday and Saturday evenings, and the men’s bathroom is currently being renovated.
While Pohto said she has some ideas in the back of her head regarding the menu, she
“You know, you worry when you have a lot of people and a community that wants everything to continue and no change,” she said. “But, you know, it has to change, things have to go on. I don’t know if we’d have sold it to somebody who didn’t think of the town and of the community and the people in it as a real important component, as opposed to a fancy menu.”
Pohto will run it knowing it is a community resource, Stocker said.
While the restaurant may be under new management, the Stocker family will be sticking around per Pohto’s request.
“We don’t want there to be a disruption in either recipes or the food preparation or the service or anything. We don’t want any interruptions,” Stocker said. “We will stay until everything is passed down to her satisfaction.”
Other members of the family are not ready to retire and will stay on, she noted.
They have enjoyed having the restaurant, Barbara Stocker said.
“It was the best thing that happened to me,” she said.
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New Year, New Brew
Chester Brewery Set to Open in July 2025
By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com
Scott Hemrock, of Aurora, is bringing his brewing skills to Chester Township with Purpose Brew Works, slated to open this summer.
“There'll be a restaurant inside of it with a sort of staple menu and then some rotating specials,” Hemrock said. “I've got a five-barrel brew house, so we're going to have 12 to 14 beers on tap that we make there on the premises.”
Hemrock — who is partnering with Terry Nagy, whose family owned the former House of Nagy restaurant in Parkman Township — hopes to start renovations at the brewery in March.
The restaurant, at 8737 Mayfield Road, is currently set to open in July.
“There aren't really any other breweries
Resolutions
from page 1 year) from a healthy state of mind and whatever that means — whether it's emotional, physical, or, you know, spiritual, physical … it all matters,” she added.
Musgrave emphasized the word “health” encompasses many things, not just physical wellbeing.
"Being healthy is not just going and exercising or just eating the right thing … it's all of it, you know, it's coming from a place that heals us, as well,” she said. “If it … helps us at the beginning of a year to kind of restart and renew and commit to, for me personally, a yoga practice on my mat, on our mat, then, you know, that can be a solution at any age, at any level.”
Her studio reminds students there’s always time to renew and start again.
"It's never too late to, you know, be not only healthy, but be happy,” she said.
For those focusing on physical health — be it weight-loss, strength-building, or improvement in mobility or flexibility — Paul Porter, owner of Fitness Plus in Middlefield Village,
in that area, you know, (on the) east side of Cleveland, over there,” he said. “So, I think … there's a — in our opinion — a need, sort of a gap in breweries.”
Hemrock has won medals in home-brew competitions and has been brewing at his house for 12 to 15 years, he said, adding he did a collaboration with 8th Day Brewing Company in Auburn Township last year.
Hemrock wants to provide a place for the community to gather.
“We want to be very active in the local community and the schools and charity work and things,” he said. “And again, just like I said, being a gathering place, a hub for the community, essentially.”
Purpose Brew Works will provide a rotating menu of craft cocktails, as they’ll have a liquor license, Hemrock added.
“(There will be) live music, entertainment, trivia, you know, all sorts of things
recommends people take the long view.
Achieving fitness is a lifetime goal, not an overnight make-over, he said.
“Be consistent. Do not start too fast,” Porter said, adding newly-invigorated week end warriors who “hit the gym” too hard of ten find it hits back.
“That’s not sustainable,” Porter said, hav ing seen many beginners overdo their work out and fade away from his gym.
“Start slow — 30 minutes a day, three days a week,” he said. “You have to build your fitness level. It’s not something you can ac complish in two, four, six weeks.”
Success depends on having a lifelong plan and being persistent in getting to the gym, Porter said.
“If you want results, have long-term goals,” he advised.
Porter also noted physical movement is only half the equation — nutrition is another key ingredient.
Rather than eat a huge meal and resist the urge to eat the rest of the day, Porter recommended eating smaller portions more often.
happening on a daily basis there,” he said. “We're in the process now of … getting the plans to the building department to get approved for permits to start the work and things. So, we can do minimal stuff in there right now. I mean, we can, you know, paint and do some other stuff, but they won't let us do … mechanical stuff, or, you know, HVAC or whatever.”
Hemrock is leasing a little over half of the building with the bottom two units, he said,
adding he is giving up his 25-year-career in insurance to manage the brewery.
He's had experience in the service industry throughout high school and college, he said.
“I own an insurance agency, but, you know, previous to that, in college and things, I worked in restaurants and worked in the service industry when I was in school and I've got a culinary arts background,” Hemrock said.
“Eat smaller meals,” he said. “You’ll be a lot further ahead if you break up your (intake) into four or five meals a day. Your body can only absorb so much at any one time. Fuel your body every four to five hours.”
Carbohydrates — starchy foods like pasta, breads and potatoes — should be minimized and sugar limited, he said.
“Sugar is a killer,” Porter said, explaining it leads to inflammation throughout the body and, besides weight gain, can result in diabetes, cancer, arthritis and heart disease.
“Eating too many starchy carbs and sugar is like jumping off a cliff,” he said. “I’ve been telling everybody that for 30 years.”
His philosophy on diets boils down to three words: “Eat real food.”
“At the end of the day, you have to get moving and push your plate away,” Porter said.
Directors at the Geauga Family YMCA in Munson Township also chimed in with some advice for maintaining a strong mindset in the new year.
"Focus on the positive each day when you get up,” said Michael Rendlesham, director of youth and family programming. “Let the past go and be more ‘present’ today.”
Amanda Doty, director of aquatics, also encouraged goal-setting.
“Set the goal, make a concrete plan and soon you will reach the finish line,” she said. “Also, having a partner to keep you accountable really helps keep you going."
Self-care is an important aspect of fulfilling personal goals, said Executive Director Ben Altemus.
"Be sure to take the time to care for yourself both mentally and physically so you are better equipped to tackle the goals you have set,” he said. “When you burn the candle at both ends, you are less able to focus on the things that are important to you.”
Diane Gorom, active older adult coordinator, encouraged people to find exercises they enjoy that get their bodies moving.
“If you have to drag yourself to do it, you won't,” she said. “Make it part of your daily routine. Whatever new year’s resolution you set for yourself, don't get discouraged if you let a few days go by and you don't keep it up. You can always restart, even if it is February. Give yourself some grace and keep pushing forward.”
For those who find the phrase “new year’s resolution” to feel daunting or be associated with restriction or failure, Jennifer Emch, co-owner of Ubuntu Wellness in Char-
don, offered a different perspective.
“We often associate resolutions with giving something up — like weight loss or cutting out soda or alcohol — rather than adding what we truly need, such as more healthy foods, exercise or water,” said Emch, a supervising licensed professional clinical counselor. “Shift your focus toward adding to your life, not subtracting from it.”
Focusing on deprivation can fuel your desire for those things, she said.
Adopting a mindset of addition can help
You can always start again after a failure, Emch added, encouraging people to change the language they use if “resolution” proves to be too discouraging and use “intention” or other similar synonyms instead.
“It offers a softer, more empowering perspective, reminding us that we always hold the power to shape our success,” she said.
Breaking down your intentions into actionable steps can also be helpful, Emch said.
“Write down your intentions and then work backward. What are the specific, small action steps to help you attain your vision? Taking this approach helps us to ‘program’ new automatic behaviors,” she said.
Emch encouraged those struggling with starting something to engage in “choice architecture,” using questions like, “What’s the most loving thing I can do for myself right now” and “what will my future self thank me for?”
“These questions help hold us accountable and clarify our intentions. Ideally, the answers should align, ensuring we're on the path to the well-being we seek,” she said.
Building community can also help with accountability.
“Find an accountability partner or group to support you, remind you of your strengths and help you stay on track when motivation wanes,” Emch suggested. “We are stronger together and building community will enhance your life in more ways than one.”
But, perhaps most important of all, is having patience, she said.
Be patient with yourself and try something new — often the anxiety around starting will be worse than just doing it, Emch said.
“Change takes time,” she said. “Show yourself grace along the way, remembering that patience is key to lasting transformation.”
Paul Porter, owner of Fitness Plus in Middlefield Village, recommends people take the long view when approaching new year’s resolutions or fitness goals.
Lights Still Out at Russell Community Center
By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com
The new Russell Township Community Center, originally slated to open last September, has gone temporarily dark, as it awaits an integral component for completion — electricity.
“Most things are done, but some things need to be completed after we get permanent power installed,” said township administrator Melissa Palmer in an interview Jan. 2, adding she’s not sure how long that will take.
The last items on the project’s checklist, which include a security system, are contingent on permanent power, Palmer said.
The center’s new target opening date is Jan. 30, said Russell Township Trustee Kristina Port in a phone interview Jan. 2.
“It's just mostly smaller items (left) and we still have ADP to hook up the cameras, but that's again, contingent on having power right established to the building,” Port said.
When township officials first discussed the project in 2022 , Palmer said the historic town hall, on the corner of Kinsman and Chillicothe roads, was not usable for community gatherings like Boy Scouts.
The new community center would provide a public meeting space, Rambo said back then.
Officials gave an update on their website in late November 2024 that said the bathroom and counter tiling, event room light fixtures and parking space bumper blocks were complete.
“Coming up on the construction agenda is more tiling, more flooring, floor boxes, plumbing fixtures and AV/IT work,” they added.
The project was projected to cost $1,095,905 and so far, has cost the township $1,195,802, said township Fiscal Officer Karen Walder.
Port said they will have more updates on the community room at the next trustees meeting, which will take place at 10 a.m. Jan. 9 at the Russell town hall.
Snow and Cold Using Up Salt Supplies in Claridon Township
By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com
As snow continues to fall and temperatures stay below freezing, salt has become an essential ingredient in keeping roads clear in Geauga County.
Claridon Township Maintenance Director Joe Stenger told township trustees Jan. 6 he needed to order another 100 tons of road salt from the Geauga County Engineer’s Office.
Stenger said he ordered 250 tons of the material earlier this year, but it won’t be enough to keep the township roads safe.
“We need it. We’ve already used 100 tons,” he said, adding he has made calls contingent on trustees’ approval and ARMS Trucking
Storm
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who advised people in a recent press release to slow down.
“Snowy, icy weather is a fact of life in Ohio,” DeWine said. “If you have to travel when the weather is bad, it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going so you can take it slow.”
The winter of 2023-2024 was fairly mild, but the wrecks piled up across the state.
There were 8,104 crashes on snow, ice
Morgan from page 1
Dvorak voted similarly regarding Morgan’s appointment in 2024, citing communication issues at the time.
“Gerry’s served this county for quite a number of years, both as the director of water resources (and as administrator), he’s been engaged in so many different projects and I feel this is an unfortunate situation that we be doing this,” Spidalieri said following his vote. “However, two to one, I lose.”
Spidalieri apologized to Morgan and his family, calling him a huge asset to the county and remarking on his knowledge. He said Morgan would be missed.
“I’ve got a lot of respect for you and I
will deliver it to the township garage.
“We’re using a lot of salt,” he said Stenger assured trustees his trucks are being as efficient as possible when spreading salt, but he was not sure what the cost per ton is now.
“We’ve got to get a cost on this,” said Trustee Jonathan Tiber.
By the next morning, Tiber said he believes salt will cost about $46 a ton and the engineer’s office has reassured trustees salt is available.
Monday, Stenger said adding Aquilla Village to the plowing schedule has been successful despite hydraulic problems with one of the trucks.
“Quite a few residents have stopped us
or slush-covered roads in Ohio. Of those crashes, 15 were fatal, resulting in 15 deaths, OSHP said in the release.
“Many of these crashes are avoidable if drivers would slow down and leave extra distance between them and the vehicle ahead,” the patrol said.
According to last year’s stats, 21% of crashes on snow, ice or slush-covered roads were the result of an unsafe speed by the atfault driver. Patrol statistics also show that 13% of crashes were caused by a driver following too closely to the vehicle ahead.
“Safety is especially important during in-
think that you’ve absorbed a tremendous, tremendous amount of pressure that has been placed on you, in so many ways, I consider unfairly,” Spidalieri said. “I think you will move on to whatever you decide to do and you’ll look back a year from now and probably be very content of this date.”
Morgan thanked Spidalieri for his words.
“I can honestly say thank you … to the commissioners. This will probably be the first time in the years I’ve been appointed county administrator that I’m truly, actually, really saying thank you because it takes a huge load off my back,” he said.
Morgan left the meeting table to applause from the audience and took a seat in the front row. Assistant County Administrator Linda Burhenne was appointed back to her position and as acting county administrator
and thanked us for doing a good job. A bus driver said the (Aquilla Village) hills are the best ever,” he said.
In other business, Tiber raised the question of who should maintain Durkee Road.
“Burton Township is going to be on us about Durkee Road,” he said. “Does anybody here think we should help them?”
The short road and right-of-way is just inside Burton Township, but some homes in Claridon access it.
Burton Township Trustee Ken Burnett said Claridon should help surface the unimproved road at a Claridon Trustees meeting in December. Tiber noted historic documents show the road is in Burton Township, so they are responsible for its maintenance.
clement weather,” said Col. Charles A. Jones, OSHP superintendent, in the release. “Motorists are encouraged to slow down and use extra caution. Leaving more space between vehicles and staying patient can help ensure a safer trip for everyone.”
Safety measures include leaving headlights on when using windshield wipers, per state law; clearing the tailpipe of a vehicle stuck in the snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning; and putting on flashers if your car stalls out, according to OSHP.
“If your vehicle breaks down or you are involved in a crash, turn on your hazard lights,
in Morgan’s absence. The two shook hands as she passed him on her way to the front of the room.
Morgan took time during the public comment section of the meeting to thank Spidalieri and former Commissioner Tim Lennon for his time serving with them.
“The county’s in good hands with Ralph (Spidalieri) going forward,” Morgan said, also thanking the citizens of the county for trusting him for the past six years.
Multiple members of the audience expressed dissent at Morgan’s lack of reappointment.
Former Director of Water Resources Steve Oluic called the event a black mark on the county’s history.
“I think it needs to be looked into,” he said, adding it smacks of petty politics, pay-
“We’re not contributing $250,000,” he said.
Stenger said the road will need more than an asphalt or a chip-and-seal surface.
“Extensive drainage would be needed,” he said, adding an impermeable surface would add to drainage problems.
“Water would just run down the road faster than now,” he said.
Trustees also voted to appoint Karen Hawkins as deputy fiscal officer until elected Paula Heitanen, on medical leave, can resume her duties.
Hawkins is fiscal officer for Jefferson Village in Ashtabula County.
“I want to thank Karen very, very much,” Tiber said. “We’d be in a pickle without her.”
safely move your vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, remain in the vehicle and safely call #677 or 9-1-1,” Jones said in the release.
Vehicles should also be stocked with a winter car kit that includes an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, cell phone charger, first-aid kit, tow rope, water and food for longer trips, he said.
Tires should have plenty of tread, the battery should be well-charged and the windshield washer reservoir full.
Drivers leaving the area can visit www. ohgo.com/ for real-time traffic conditions from the Ohio Department of Transportation.
back and personal grievances.
Resident Newell Howard echoed Oluic and pressed the commissioners as to why they didn’t reappoint Morgan.
They did not respond.
In a followup interview, Dvorak and Brakey gave similar answers for their decision.
“If I learned one thing about the (Geauga County) dog warden discussion, it was that people don’t particularly like hearing those personnel decisions handled out in public,” Brakey said, adding she felt change was needed.
“I voted no last year and I still feel the same, that we’re going to go in a new direction and we’re going to put the ad out there that we’re seeking an administrator for the county and we’ll hire the most qualified,” Dvorak said.
A Job Well Done, Tim Lennon
As my husband, Tim Lennon concludes his final term as Geauga County Commissioner, I would like to take a moment on behalf of my family to express our heartfelt gratitude for Tim’s dedication and hard work. His service to the county has been nothing short of inspiring and we are immensely proud of all he has accomplished during his time in offce.
It is important to acknowledge that some may not fully understand the responsibility of a county commissioner. I, myself, am embarrassed to say that I did not, initially. However, I quickly learned just how crucial this role is in shaping our community, managing county budgets and allocating resources, as well as advocating for essential services to address the needs of the residents of Geauga County.
Tim is a devoted dog lover — we currently have three! His most recent advocacy for the Geauga County animal shelter is a passion for which I admire him deeply. His proposal to allocate $250,000 of assistance to the shelter was brave and very necessary. This assistance will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless animals. It is evident that this cause is near and dear to his heart. I am so happy for him that he was able to achieve this goal during his term.
Another footprint Tim is leaving behind is his effort in promoting Geauga’s new administrative buildings. These buildings have modernized our local infrastructure and provided a vital space for our community to gather and thrive. The positive feedback from Geauga residents is a testament to Tim’s vision and leadership.
During my husband’s first term he was faced with the challenges of Covid lockdowns. Tim navigated our community through such uncertain times with compassion and strength, ensuring everyone felt supported and informed. His communication and information helped the county stay healthy and emerge stronger than
ever. Geauga’s resilience set a powerful example for surrounding communities.
Guest Column Chardon Township Still In Search for Sexton
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Chardon Township is still in search of a cemetery sexton following Ken Chuha stepping down from the position in November after 44 years.
Chuha, who has been charged with multiple felony counts related to the possession of child pornography, wrote in his resignation letter the decision to step down had been a “long thought out and difficult” one to make.
During the Jan. 2 Chardon Township Trustees regular meeting, they once again renewed their sexton ads and debated about expanding where they advertised to.
they do burials.”
Chuha had made bases for the tombstones, which is an aspect a lot of people forget about, McKenna said.
The job now is scaled back in hours from what Chuha would have been responsible for, he added.
With the township also starting a search for a part-time laborer and snowplow driver, McKenna advised combining the jobs with the sexton position.
Trustee Jacob Cimperman suggested expanding advertising to Ashtabula. McKenna told Nelson to look into the cost of advertising in a mainstay paper in that area.
during his campaign was his role as com missioner would not be a lifelong career for him, but instead he welcomed the opportu nity to step aside, when appropriate, to al low another resident to assume office with a new perspective. It is admirable that Tim was loyal to his word and delivered what he promised the residents.
As this chapter comes to a close, we are excited to see what the future holds for us as a family. My husband’s passion for public service is evident and I am confident he will have many more opportunities to serve. I write this letter to celebrate Tim’s achievements and reflect on the positive changes he has made while serving our Geauga residents.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Geauga County for welcoming our family with open arms. The countless letters my husband received over the years, expressing gratitude and appreciation, made all of his effort and dedication worthwhile. It reaffrmed the positive impact he has had on our community.
Tim, you have truly made a difference and we could not be prouder. I could not ask for a better role model for our children. Thank you.
With all our love and admiration,
Abbey, Jimmy & KK Lennon
“A couple people have emailed and I sent them applications. I did get one application back,” Administrative Assistant Lisa Nelson said when asked by trustees if there had been any responses.
A member of the audience asked if cemetery sexton positions are vacant in other communities, or if the problem is unique to Chardon Township.
Trustee Tim McKenna said Auburn Township had their position open, but recently filled it.
“The job is not going to be what it was when Ken did it,” he noted. “We’re going to incorporate the grass cutting and the weed whipping with the landscaper now. So, the guy’s going to have to meet with the funeral directors, meet with the people that want to buy cemetery plots, possibly be there when
Nelson also suggested ramping up advertising in Lake County.
In other township business, trustees entered into an $11,000 contract with Millwork Design Solutions, of Willoughby, for three new tables that will replace the current desk and folding table setup currently in the township hall. The amount includes delivery and installation.
John Nowicki, who designed the tables, described them during the Dec. 18 meeting as a center table that will have a radius at the back while the other two will have a radius on the ends.
So, they’ll form a curve when pushed together, Nowicki said.
All the tables will be wrapped with a quarter inch thick edge of maple and possess an electric outlet and outlet box.
Grendell Request for County To Pay Legal Fees Denied
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Geauga County Commissioners denied Juvenile/Probate Court Judge Tim Grendell’s request the county pay $300,000 of his legal fees stemming from a disciplinary case and his request for outside counsel at their Jan. 7 meeting.
Newly-elected Commissioner Carolyn Brakey and Commissioner Jim Dvorak voted no, while Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri abstained.
Grendell appeared at a November meeting to make his case, explaining that because he is a Geauga County officer and employee, he is entitled to defense in any action, with no exceptions for disciplinary action.
No action was taken at the time, with Commissioner Jim Dvorak wanting to do more research and then-Commissioner Tim Lennon wanting to seek legal counsel.
In September, the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct found Grendell engaged in blatant, deliberate and egregious misconduct related to his handling of juvenile cases, specifically involving a situation where he ordered two teenage brothers into juvenile detention for refusing to visit their father. The board recommended he immediately be removed from the bench and the matter is now in the hands of the Ohio Supreme Court.
Newly-elected Commissioner Carolyn Brakey said she had asked for Grendell’s requests to be on Tuesday’s agenda.
“I think there’s a lot of unrest in the county about this issue and that people would like
to see it resolved,” she said.
Brakey referred to the section of the Ohio Revised Code cited in Grendell’s request, 2744.07(A)(1).
“Just the plain reading of that statute, it refers to ‘any civil action or proceeding which contains an allegation for damages’ and then it goes on from there. Clearly, this is not a civil action or proceeding, this is a disciplinary proceeding, and there’s no allegation for damages,” she said. “What’s at stake is Mr. Grendell’s legal license — his law license and his ability to continue as a judge.”
The law is inconsistent with the request, she said.
County Administrator Gerry Morgan explained the outside legal opinion he had been given on the matter.
“Basically, the reply was, the board has the authority to provide the funds, but there’s no requirement for them to provide the funds,” he said. “And with regards to the request for outside counsel, that would actually not be approving the hiring of the outside counsel, that would be approving a request from the prosecutor to seek a joint application with the court to approve hiring outside counsel.”
Brakey called the procedure with the already-incurred legal fees out of whack.
“The request has come after this $300,000 in legal fees have been incurred and the commissioners have had no ability to decide what the proper rate should be of this attorney, who the attorney is, it’s kind of coming in after the fact and asking for a See Grendell • Page 9
Kitchen On the Corner Smashes in Popularity
By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com
The Kitchen on the Corner at the Sunoco gas station in Russell has been a smashing hit since it opened in November 2022.
At the intersection of Chillicothe and Kinsman roads, the convenience restau rant attached to the gas station is especial ly known for its smash burgers, said owners Steve and Kristen Gaetjens during a recent interview.
“It seems like the kitchen has been re ceived really well by the community,” Steve said, adding they’ve sold 13,000 smash burgers since the kitchen opened in May 2023, which equates to around 200 burgers per week.
“The other thing that we started doing early on was we created a smash counter. So, ‘How many burgers do we sell?’ Kind of like what McDonald's used to do on their sign,” Steve said. “I think we're over 13,000 in just our little place. It's kind of fun to have that. We try to change it every week or so.”
The Gaetjens do not use frozen patties for the burgers, Steve said.
“We start with fresh, ground beef and we portion it and press it, and we do that pretty much every day because of how many we sell,” he said. “The ‘smash sauce’ is our own recipe and we make that, as well, and we're going to start selling that to customers directly because it's been requested because people really like it.”
While their pizzas are also popular, they don’t sell as much as their burgers, Steve said.
“I'm surprised we don't sell more pizza, but it's partly because we compete with ourselves with the burger,” he added. “The whole thing is spread (by) word of mouth. We've done very little advertising.”
The restaurant has 56 Google Reviews giving them 4.8 stars. However, their success didn’t come easy.
Kristen told the Maple Leaf in 2022 they had to resolve well and septic tank issues and replaced the interior. They had to close from May to October 2021.
More recently, the kitchen has had its challenges in retaining employees.
“The biggest struggle for us really has just been in keeping good staff and getting busier,” Steve said.
They are closed one day a week due to their limited staffing.
“We had to shorten our week. We actually closed on Mondays, not because it wasn't — it was popular,” he said. “Everybody wanted us to be open for Mondays, but we just needed to have one day where we didn't have the staff because we just didn't have the staff to do it.”
The Kitchen on the Corner is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
KITCHEN ON THE CORNER/FACEBOOK
Cece and Nancy stopped by the Kitchen on the Corner for smash burgers after snowshoeing Jan. 5.
Arts Bloom in Chardon As New Year Arrives
Curtain 440 Set for Full Season at Geauga Theater
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA.com
The lights are once again on at the Geauga Theater, with Curtain 440 set to perform their full six-show season on the historic stage.
“Curtain 440 is so happy to announce that our entire 2025 season will be at the Geauga Theater in Chardon,” the company wrote in a recent newsletter announcing the season lineup.
In addition to the six mainstage productions, C440 will also be performing their summer workshops, classes and Rep 440 productions at the theater.
“We cannot wait to bring light and life to the theater that means so very much to many of us,” the company wrote.
The announcement comes on the tail of C440’s return to the Geauga stage with a wildly successful production of “Beauty and the Beast.”
“Thank you, B&B 2018, for being such a magical last show in (the Geauga Theater) and then thank you, B&B 2024, for making this very emotional return so triumphant and meaningful,” director and owner Angela Miloro-Hansen wrote on Facebook following the production’s opening weekend.
Despite an abundance of snow, “Beauty and the Beast” sold out every show, with an additional Thursday performance added to keep up with demand.
C440’s upcoming season will open February with “Murder on the Orient Express,” directed by Mark Cipra. Auditions took place at the end of December and requested actors brush up on their European accents.
The official cast list was announced in early January and will star Jason Monsman as leading man and Belgian detective Hercule Poirot.
Accompanying him on board the train will be Lace Williamson as Samuel Ratchett, Evan Graham as Colonel Arbuthnot, Ashley Cunningham as Countess Elena Andrenyi, Tavis Quiggle as Monsieur Bouc, Melanie Angell as Mary Debenham, Tina Burgett-Krause as Princess Dragomiroff, Todd Sarbach as Michel, Caroline Mansfield as Helen Hubbard, Joseph Pucella as Hector MacQueen and Kelly Tapager Fox as Greta Ohlsson.
The ill-fated train’s journey will be followed by “Godspell” April 4-13. “Beetlejuice Jr.” will stage a takeover June 6-15, with “Seussical the Musical” succeeding it July 25Aug. 10. “The Crucible” will then see trial Oct. 17-16. A final December musical has yet to be announced.
C440 will not be alone on the stage this season either. Russell Township-based arts organization Fairmount Center for the Arts will make an appearance March 8 in their first ever multi-discipline faculty showcase, in which members of their music, dance, theatre and visual arts teams will perform.
See Theater • Page 9
selling out every show despite the cold weather, rain and snow.
Grendell
from page 6
reimbursement,” she said.
Spidalieri said the Ohio Supreme Court appointed the counsel and the commissioners do not have negotiating rights, which Morgan confirmed.
“We have never received anything from the probate court on whatever might have been signed off by the judge prior to that counsel being appointed,” he said.
Morgan confirmed Brakey was correct in saying this should have been done two years ago, when counsel was no longer being covered by supreme court funds.
There had been a large miscommunication with the invoices, Spidalieri added.
“As Judge Grendell stated when he was here, the bills were not coming to us and from what I understand, according to what his statement was, is that they basically were surprised by the bills showing up at their office at a later date,” he said.
They are probably going to have to pay
Theater
from page 8
Arts education is also alive across the road at 106 Water Street, where the Chardon Arts Center — run by the Fine Arts Association of Willoughby — has a range of music, dance and art-based classes lined up through January and February.
While classes are primarily aimed at toddlers and young children, options for teens and adults are available.
“We’ve continued programming for children and adults since May, we had summer camps over the summer, but we’re mostly preschool focused,” FAA CEO Paul Holm said in a Jan. 6 interview, noting the organization is trying not to overlap with other organizations as they settle into the space.
The Chardon Arts Center is a newcomer to the scene, having taken over the building following the departure of Thrive Performing and Visual Arts from both the theater and annex. The theater was left open to rent, with Chardon City Council voting Nov. 14 to lower rent prices from a weekly rate of $2,000 to $1,000 and implementing a daily rate of $500.
“We’re learning the market, so to speak, it’s a little different in Chardon, and trying to get into the rhythm of the community, build relationships and so on,” Holm said.
Art therapy is unique to FAA as an organization, as is some of their early childhood programming and adult dance programming, he noted.
“It just takes some time to cut through and people to find you and you to find people, and really best understand what they need and what they’re looking for,” he said.
Offerings have been tweaked based on feedback around timing, Holm said.
Going into 2025, FAA wants to be more in touch with other local arts organizations, he said.
“I think if we’re a little bit more in tune, we can figure out ways that we can support each other or recognize each other’s strengths and go accordingly from there,” he said.
FAA has also been in meetings with the local elementary schools, he said.
“We’re just taking it a step at a time,” he said.
While there has been less of a response
the fees one way or another, Spidalieri said, adding it’s more about whether they do it now or after a suit is filed against them.
“I think at best, it’s our discretion whether to pay for it and I think it sets a dangerous precedent for taxpayers to be subsidizing elected officials’ wrongdoing,” Brakey replied. “If we’re forced to do this by the court, then that’s one thing, but voluntarily entering into it at this time, I think it sets a dangerous precedent.”
Brakey also said she considers Grendell’s assertion he is a “county employee” a gray area.
“My understanding is he is partially paid by the state and partially paid by the county,” she said. “I didn’t really get into the weeds of that analysis, but as far as, does the statute he cites say what it does, it absolutely does not. And a first-year law student could figure that out.”
Dvorak stated if they are made to pay a portion of it through the courts, then he will wait for that day.
Grendell did not respond to a request for comment prior to press deadline.
to the opening of the CAC than he would like, Holm noted this could be for a variety of reasons the organization is still working out, ranging from what’s being offered and the time it’s available to the same events being offered from other organizations people are already comfortable with.
Building up in Willoughby took a number of years and CAC has only been around for six months, he said.
“I don’t know when we’ll know what the final answer is, it may take us a few years to really settle in and for people to really find us and decide where they want to go,” he said.
While the organization had previously discussed the possibility of using the theater post Easter 2025, Holm said that option is still up in the air.
“We haven’t necessarily decided not to do anything with the theater at this point, but what we’re waiting to see is how it goes with C440,” he said, adding FAA hasn’t yet had a chance to get a solid look at the theater’s calendar.
“The good news is that the theater is scheduled and it sounds like a lot of good things are happening in the theater again, so we’re excited about that and excited that C440’s in a place that they’re able to do that and the city is supportive of that,” he said.
S P O R T S
Russell’s Game-Winning 3 Gives Tigers’ Victory
By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com
A thrilled contest came down to the final seconds Jan. 4 between the Chagrin Falls Tigers and their cross-county rival Chardon Hilltoppers.
With 1:03 left in the game, senior Spencer Kaas connected from beyond the arc to bring the Tigers within three points of the Hilltoppers, 62-59.
Then a furious pace of play — loose balls, diving on the floor and steals — encapsulated the dramatic final minute, both squads offering all-out effort.
With 27.2 seconds left, and trailing 6261, the Tigers ran a play that involved all five players touching the ball.
First, Jacob Kay inbounded the ball and found Kaas open at the top of the key.
Kass then passed right to Brad Russell, who quickly found Ryan Curtiss open at midcourt.
Curtiss handed the dribble off to Kay, who then passed quickly to Evan Castelluccio.
Castelluccio alertly found Russell open beyond the arc on the right corner of the baseline for a catch-and shoot-three point attempt.
With less than 15 seconds left, Russell's game-winning shot hit “nothing but the bottom of the net” to make the final score 64-62 Tigers.
Afterwards, Russell said he had no doubt he would make it.
“Right when Coach put me in with the last 20 seconds, I had immediate confidence that I could hit the shot for us,” Russell said.
Chagrin Falls Head Coach Dave Bargar also expressed his confidence in Russell's
abilities.
“He's our best 3-point shooter,” Coach Bargar said. “Last year he shot close to 40 percent (from beyond the arc). “It was great to see him hit a big shot. Of anybody that wants it, there is not anybody on our team that wants it more than Brad Russell.”
In addition to their amazing and intense final play, the Tigers played with a high level of intensity the entire time.
Kaas, who had seven crucial points in the final 1:30, referred to their effort as being focused on “making winning plays.”
“Coach always talks about making winning plays,” Kaas said. “It's diving on the floor like we did. In time-outs, he was always saying ‘make the winning plays,’ and we ended up doing that and came out with the W.”
Coach Bargar expounded on this philosophy. He said this style of play emphasizes playing hard with great effort throughout the game.
“We want those guys to go out with a sense of urgency from the very beginning,” he said. “You got to have that sense where every possession matters.
“And if you play like that, you're going to be a hard team to beat.”
Leading the Tigers offensively were Kaas (25 points), Curtiss (13), Russell (10), Jacob Kay (6), Robby Mignogna (6) and Quin
Bargar (4).
Although the Hilltoppers lost by two points, Chardon Hilltoppers Head Coach Chad Murawski felt really proud of how his team played.
“That's a great high school basketball game of two teams that played really hard, that are very well coached and well prepared,” Murawski said. “In a game like to-
night, no team deserves to lose because both teams played to their capabilities. So,I am not disappointed — we're going to learn from it, we're going to get better.”
Leading all scorers for the game was the Hilltoppers’ Luke Galfidi, who scored 36 points. Also leading Chardon offensively were Stone Fawcett (11 points), Rocco Tarantino (9 points), Bailey Mann (4) and A.J. Petrella (2).
Close Contest Leads to Bombers’ 1st WRC Win
By JAck Gillespie sports@kArlovecmediA com
The Kenston Bombers picked up a 46-41 home win Jan. 4 against Eastlake.
It was the first WRC action for the Bombers this year, putting them at 1-0 in conference play.
“We said you can’t get number two until you get number one,” Kenston Head Coach Kevin Hinkle said. “Ten of our last 11 games are in the conference. We got one, and now we focus on two and don’t look past that.”
The first quarter was all Mariela Marcias, who notched six of her eight first-half points in the period.
”In certain situations, you have to step up as a player,” Marcias said of her offensive explosion as a natural pass-first guard. “With Aurora having to sit with fouls and Morgan getting face-guarded, I knew I had to step up and score.”
The Bombers jumped out to a 6-0 advan-
tage, but North chipped back behind Kaitlin Dobida, who scored or assisted on each Rang er basket to make it 12-8 at the quarters end.
Kenston got off to another quick start in the second. Marcias found Regan Trusley at the top of the arc, who knocked down the three, followed by an Emily Grubich layup to balloon the lead back to eight.
North again rallied to close the quarter. Alex Hamilton knocked down a mid-range jumper and found Annie Gillespie – who was pure with the corner three – to cut the lead down to three at the half.
are going at all times has been so helpful to me.”
trouble early – made her presence felt in the third with four points, a steal and an assist.
As they had all game, the Bombers began the third quarter with a barrage, and Marcias continued to show her mastery of the offense, picking up four assists and hitting a long two.
“I think it’s just all the practice I’ve put in, and being so close with the girls I play with,” Marcias said of her ability to set up her teammates. “I’ve grown up playing with all of them since about fourth grade, so knowing how to play with each other and where they
Kenston’s defense forced multiple Ranger turnovers, including a Trusley steal leading to a coast-to-coast layup.
“I loved how we were able to pressure the ball for 32 minutes,” Coach Hinkle said of the defensive performance. “We want to be able to rely on our man and not sit back in a zone, and I think playing a tough stretch of games to start the season helped us understand what it takes to play a complete game.”
Aurora Young – who had to manage foul
The biggest difference-maker in the third, however, was Morgan Cicek. She collected eight of her game-high 17 points in the quarter and helped the Bombers take their largest lead of the day at 34-20.
“All the offseason work transferred onto the court,” Cicek said of her performance. “I just want to do anything I can to help the team win and step up in these big games.”
Brad Russell, right, hit a 3-pointer with less than 15 seconds left to beat the Chardon Hilltoppers Jan. 4, 62-59. Luke Galfidi, guarding Russell here earlier in the game, led all scorers with 36 points for Chardon.
Grubich Macias Paystrup Trusley
Mann the Man in Clutch for Toppers
By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA.com
You don't usually find a packed gym on Monday nights, especially between Christmas and New Years holidays. But you definitely could Dec. 30 at the West Geauga's Wolvarena as the Wolverines honored all their youth basketball teams, players and coaches — all the parents were there to see their kids on the big floor.
Adding to the festivities were the neighboring rival Chardon Hilltoppers, who provided opposition for all the boys and girls teams, both JV and varsity, beginning at 3 p.m.
The intense competition all came down to the final seconds of the boys game as Chardon won a thrilling contest in nonconference action, 53-48 score. The game-winning shot was made from the left corner by Hilltopper substitute Bailey Mann.
Energy levels pushed to a crescendo pace only a couple of minutes into the game, and in a tight second half that featured five ties and eight lead changes, Mann broke the 48-48 tie with 23.7 seconds to play. He took a pass from Ty Roediger in the left corner, and his high, arching shot hit nothing but net for a 51-48 edge. It was enough, barely, but with 5.6 ticks left to play, top scorer Rocco Tarantino sealed the verdict with a pair of free throws for the final score.
year. This is such a selfless group of kids who really care about each other in every way, they're so much fun to coach, and that's what it takes to beat a team like West Geauga — because Micah (Young) is a great coach who is leading his program the way it should be led.
“This is just such a great team here, it was such a super moment for Bailey to come in and hit a big shot, and that's what it took against a good team with one of the best players in the area in Landon (Lear).”
Most coaches agree that defense wins most games, and that held true in this game as well. The active players altered many shots, and a key factor for Coach Young of the Wolverines was that between his top two returning scorers, Lear and Colin Whiting, the home nets were not kind.
"We had every time to take good shots in many opportunities tonight," he said.
"They weren't dropping tonight, and Chardon was doing just the little things a little better than we did, it's that simple.
“Coach Murawski always has them ready to play us, and it all boils down to them being a little bit more ready tonight than we were. It's not often you can have your top guys in scoring to go 11 of nearly 40 shooting and expect to win."
The season is still in its early stages, so mistakes were also part of the contest for both teams. The biggest lead of the night was six points, on two occasions in the opening period, both in favor of the Wolverines, at 9-3 and 11-5.
As a cold front approached the area outside, indoor conditions were also chilling for both teams as well.
For Chardon, Tarantino had a hot hand early with 13 first-half points to keep his team in the game; West Geauga (6-3) held a slim 25-24 lead.
In the second half the Hilltoppers (4-1) got post player Stone Fawcett more involved in the offensive end, and he tallied 10 of his 12 points on the night after intermission.
The Wolverines battled for good shots, most of which were not dropping most of the night. Fawcett hit all three shots he took in the fourth period to keep things close, and finally Mann hit his only basket of the night when it counted most.
"I just don't know how to describe it," Chardon Head Coach Chad Murawski said. "This is how it goes every time we get together with West Geauga — it's just a battle you have to see to believe. At the end of the day, all that matters is that we had a point more at the final buzzer.
“We did some things well at times. Others not so well, too. But this may be one of the most fun seasons for me as a coach this
Chardon was not exactly torching the cords, either, but did hit on 22 of 58 shots for 37.9 percent from the floor. The Wolverines were actually a tad better, hitting on 38 percent of their 50 attempts at baskets.
One key factor was the free throw line. The Hilltoppers nailed only six of 15 from the line, and the Wolverines shot themselves in the foot just as often, hitting only three of eight.
Tarantino had a big night, leading the Hilltoppers with 20 points. Fawcett's second-half surge was second on the team, as expected leading point-producer Luke Galfidi hit on only four of 15 shots, but he had a huge part of the win anyhow with 12 rebounds and four assists.
Lear did get some shots to drop, but not in his normal rapid-fire conditions. He finished with 18 points, seven boards and a trio of assists.
Finn Keenan was the Wolverines' top shooter; he hit on six of seven shots for 16 points, four from beyond the arc.
In the girls game, which preceded the boys contest, the Wolverines fell behind by double digits early and dropped a 56-34 decision to the Hilltoppers. West Geauga had fallen behind in similar fashion two days earlier at Geneva, but an 18-1 run to close the game gave the Wolverines a thrilling 54-51 win there.
The Hilltoppers must have had scouts at that game, as their pressing defense cut off all passing lanes for West Geauga to prevent another big comeback. Cameron Gerlica led the scoring for the game with 17 points.
Bulletin Board
For-profit and nonprofit organizations or groups will need to purchase a paid advertisement for an event anytime tickets are sold, a fee is charged or a freewill donation is taken. If an organization or group does not wish to buy an ad to promote their event and connect with our readers, Karlovec Media Group will print a simple liner-type ad identifying the event, date/time/place and a number to call for more information. Email submissions to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com
GEL Breakfast
Jan. 11, 8-9:30 a.m.
Drs. Erin Bailey and Sanhita Gupta, professors at Kent State University at Geauga, will present “Occupational Safety and Health Hazards for Women Workers” at the next Geauga Economic Leadership breakfast at Kent State University – Geauga, 14111 Claridon Troy Road, Burton. Breakfast and networking begin at 8 a.m. Free and open to the public. For information or to register, call 440-564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth.com.
Genealogical Society Meets
Jan. 14, 7 p.m.
Retired GCPL genealogist Cheryl McClellan will present "Growing Your Family Tree in 2025: Setting Goals" via Zoom at the next meeting of the Geauga County Genealogical Society.
The program begins after a brief business meeting. Registration is required; visit gcgsoh.org.
Democracy Dialogues
Jan. 15, 6:30-8 p.m.
The League of Women Voters of Geauga kicks off a new educational series, Democracy Dialogues, to continue its mission of nonpartisan voter education at Geauga County
Library Administration Center, 12701 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon. Keynote speaker Dr. Douglas Brattebo, professor of political science and director of the James A. Garfield Center for the Study of American Presidency at Hiram College, will present “The Electoral College - A Pillar of Democracy or Relic of the Past?”
The program is free and open to the public. One does not need to be a LWVG member to attend. Registration is required at www.lwvgeauga.org
VFW Wednesday Dinners
Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m.
Chardon VFW Post 6519 will serve beef taco and rice dinners every Wednesday in January at the canteen located at 752 Water St. The public is welcome. Call 440-2853699 for carryout orders.
Beyond Plastics
Jan. 22, 7-8:30 p.m.
Concerned about plastic pollution? Join the local chapter meeting of Beyond Plastics at Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, to connect with others and explore solutions to make a difference. For information, contact Kevin at hickpryman@gmail.com and visit beyondplastics.org.
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Square Dance Experience!
Jan. 11, 3:30-5:30 p.m.
The West Woods, Nature Center
Drop in and join the HUBS Square Dance Club to learn square dance basics and watch the club perform. No registration is required.
Travelogue: Cambodia
Jan. 12, 1-2 p.m.
The West Woods, Nature Center
Join accomplished photographer Doreen Sockel as she takes guests on a visual tour of Cambodia. She will also share heartwarming images and interesting stories of the people of Cambodia. No registration is required.
Bombers from page 10
The Rangers fought back, utilizing the outside shot. Mir Ashley and Dobida each knocked one down before Gillespie hit her second lifeline of the day to close out the quarter and cut the lead to five.
Flourishing in the role of facilitator, Marcias found Kait Paystrup early in the fourth for three to kill the Ranger Rally.
A Marcias steal led to a trip to the line for Paystrup, who hit both, bringing the
Coffee with the Birds
Jan. 12, 9-10 a.m. and 10:30-11:30 a.m.
The West Woods, Nature Center
Join Naturalist Renell for some close-up bird viewing and identification of winter birds at the feeders while enjoying a hot beverage.
‘Yarn Over’ in the Park
Jan. 14, 1-2:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m.
The West Woods, Nature Center
Join this new group to crochet or knit in the parks. Each quarter, the group will gather in a different park to work a project using colors reflecting the season. To begin, bring four colors of yarn that depict winter: blues, grays, whites, and cream. Participants must have knowledge of crocheting or knitting, as this is not a “learn-to” group. Project details sent upon registration. Participants may also choose to bring their own projects to work instead.
lead back to 10.
“That comes from not only the bench, but the coaches,” Marcias said of her unit’s ability to display full effort on both ends of the court. “They are hyping us up, and that support allows us to keep working on offense and defense.”
Maddy Ferrari and Hamilton would deliver from deep for the Rangers, but Cicek steal-and-score prevent edNorth from getting back within five before the final buzzer. Kenston would return to the floor Wednesday and look to remain undefeated in WRC play at Riverside.
Sharon D. Gingerich
Sharon Gingerich, age 75, of Geauga County, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Dec. 11, 2024, after a long illness.
She was born on March 14, 1949, in McMinnville, Tenn., to Dorssie and Georgia McBride.
Sharon was a devoted homemaker who took great pride in caring for her family. She also worked at MD Realty in Middlefield, where she made many lasting connections.
A servant of God, Sharon’s faith was at the center of her life. She was faithful in serving in her church, Huntsburg Baptist. She served in the children’s ministry along with singing in the choir. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and her unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and faith in Jesus.
Sharon is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Mahlon Gingerich, and their three sons, Bob (Amy), Eric (Debbie) and Aaron (Judy). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Kendall, Kelsie, Kaden, Ethan, Lily, Ashton, Arius and Elijah; as well as four adorable great-grandchildren, Roman, Georgia, Penelope and Nevada.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who knew her, especially by her church family of Huntsburg Baptist and Hope Baptist; and her loving siblings, Frank McBride (Jean), of Burton, Joan Carpenter, of Middlefield, Gladys Komandt (Roger), of Winterhaven, Fla.; and several wonderful nieces and nephews.
Sharon was preceded in death by three infant brothers, Robert McBride, of Colorado, Evelyn Tonkery, of West Virginia, Wayne McBride, of Ohio, and Shirley Elcho, of Ohio.
A memorial service to celebrate Sharon's life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at Huntsburg Baptist Church, 16401 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg Township. All of Sharon’s family and friends of Northeast Ohio are invited to celebrate Sharon’s life at that time.
Robbie Hart Bannan
After spending a beautiful Christmas day with her family, Robbie Hart Bannan, 66, of Chardon, was called home. She passed away peace fully in her sleep, sur rounded by love, fol lowing a valiant 34-year battle against cancer.
Robbie was born in Durham, N.C., in 1958 to adoring parents Dwight and Billie Hart. The family moved to Columbus, where Robbie grew up in a household full of love and laughter. She had many fond memories of summer trips to the beach, family parties and adventures with her older brother, Dee. She graduated in 1976 from Worthington High School, where she met her lifelong friends Kristi, Diane, Leanne, Dean and Brooke, all of whom she considered a second family.
Obituaries
legal, the couple married in 1985.
Excited to start a family, Robbie and John had two children, Molly and Ryan, who quickly became the center of Robbie’s world. Her kid’s friends fondly referred to her as “Saint Robbie” due to her selfless nature and her all-encompassing love for those lucky enough to be in her life.
Robbie retired last year from Dinsmore and Shohl after a long career working as a paralegal. She enjoyed many years with her work “family,” who graciously supported her battle until the end. Robbie will always be remembered for her selfless, supportive and loving soul. She lived by her own creed that, “If you think about doing something nice for someone else, actually do it. Walk the walk.”
Robbie spent exponentially more time doing for others than doing for herself and her memory will undoubtedly live on in the countless lives that she touched. Her empathetic heart knew no bounds, and her generosity for those big and small was contagious and something we should all strive to emulate.
Robbie was preceded in death by her parents, Dwight and Billie Hart; and brother, Dwight Hart Jr.
She is survived by her husband, John Bannan; daughter, Molly Bannan; son, Ryan Bannan; nephew, Sean Bannan; niece, Erin Bannan; and her aunts, uncles and cousins from North Carolina.
A visitation for friends and family, and a memorial service was held Jan. 4, 2025, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com
Jacqueline Irwin
Jacqueline Irwin, age 94, of Chardon, passed away peacefully on Dec. 29, 2024.
She was born in Moffit Heights, Ohio, on March 5, 1930, to loving parents George and Clerma DeBos (nee Manneveiler).
Jacqueline graduated from Washington High School in 1948.
In 1950, Jacqueline met the love of her life, Frank Irwin, while working as a proofThe Evening Independent. They married on April 13, 1950, and moved to Cleveland, where Jacqueline worked at Kresge's Department Store.
In July 1969, the couple made their home in Chardon, where Jacqueline began her dedicated career at the Chardon License Bureau before transitioning to the Chardon Schools Board of Education. There, she served as the main secretary for 25 years before retiring in 1993.
Jacqueline’s family, friends, and colleagues will remember her as a kind, thoughtful and caring person, whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of everyone she encountered.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Irwin; daughter, Barbara; and her parents, George Debos and Clerma Manneveiler.
Jacqueline is survived by her stepdaughters, Rose (Gil) Rowe, Sharon (Ed) McKenzie; stepson, Jim Irwin; grandsons, George Hissa and John Wilson; many great-grandchildren; and a large circle of family and friends who will cherish her memory.
Visitation and funeral services were held Jan. 6, 2024, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. Jacqueline was laid to rest at Larned Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com
Carolyn Louise Karnosh (nee Wat son), 101 years old, peacefully passed away at Geauga As sisted Living on Dec. 31, 2024.
She was born Nov. 30, 1923, to Ralph and Florence (nee Koeppen) Watson in East Cleveland (her grandparents’ home) and was a lifelong area resident.
Carolyn was a member of Grace Evangeli cal Lutheran Church in Thompson Township.
Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. The funeral service will be held at 12 noon at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 8091 Plank Road, Thompson, followed by burial at Montville Cemetery.
The family suggests donations to Geauga Assisted Living, 16065 GAR Highway, Montville, OH 44064; or Rescue Village, 15463 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072.
Arrangements by Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
Barbara Kleve
Barbara Kleve, beloved wife, moth er, grandmother and friend, passed away on Dec. 31, 2024, at the age of 79. Her vibrant spirit and un wavering kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
During World War II, she worked at Parker-Hannifin assembling parts for airplanes as “Rosie the Riveter.”
During the mid 1960s, Carolyn and her husband owned and operated Hei Haven Egg Farm selling them to grocery stores and local families.
She was an avid baker; she spent many hours crocheting Afghans, baby blankets, dish “scrubbies,” which she gave away to many! Her crafts were not just gifts but symbols of her love and care.
Carolyn had a lifelong bond with animals, reflecting her nurturing and empathetic nature.
Carolyn was a woman of many talents and passions, including numerology and astrology. She had an innate curiosity about the mysteries of the universe and a gift for interpreting the stars and numbers to help those around her find guidance and meaning in their lives. She and her husband were active at various fairs and festivals giving readings.
Always up for an adventure, Barb em braced life with laughter and joy, finding beauty in music, dancing with her husband and being outdoors. She especially treasured taking trips with her family, creating cherished memories and sharing in new experiences together.
A dedicated nurse for over 40 years, Barb devoted her career to helping others. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, inspiring her actions and guiding her through every challenge. She found joy in the simple pleasures — spending time with her dear friends, getting lost in a good book and creating lasting memories with her family. Her legacy of love, laughter, and selflessness will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
Barb is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth William Kleve; her parents, Ruth Ellen (Pritchard) Beck and Louis Heston Beck; and her brother, Charles Richard Beck. She is survived by her brother, Walter Heston Beck; her son, Kenneth Kleve, and his wife, Lorie Kleve, and their children, Kenneth Dane Kleve and Kyson Robert Kleve; and her daughter, Karen Burns, and her husband, Michael James Burns, and their children, Riley Sarah Burns and Ethan Michael Burns.
She will forever be remembered in our hearts.
A funeral service will be held at 11a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at Valley Lutheran Church, 87 E. Orange St., Chagrin Falls, with burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery in Munson Township.
In 1978, while earning her bachelor’s degree in journalism at Ohio University, she met the love of her life, John Bannan. After Robbie graduated and began work as a para-
Throughout her life, Jacqueline was known for her love of reading, solving puzzles and passion for baking. She generously shared her baked goods with family, friends and neighbors, always brightening the day of those around her.
Jacqueline also took great joy in sending cards for every occasion, staying connected with loved ones near and far.
Carolyn is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Watson, of Chardon Township; grandchildren, Melissa (Joe) Dunn, of Powell, Ohio, John Mausling, of Orlando, Fla., and Michelle Lazarus, of Boston, Mass.; great-grandchildren, Nathan and Mackinze Lazarus, and Connor and Maggie Dunn. She also leaves several nieces and nephews.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, William P. Karnosh, in 1994; son, William L. Karnosh, in 2015; and sisters, Florencie Corey and Heather Long.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, from 9:30-11:30 a.m., at
Visitation will be on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., at Potti & Marc F. Burr Funeral Homes, 126 South St., Chardon (within DeJohn Funeral Home), and again from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Geauga County Rescue Village and the American Cancer Society.
Services entrusted to the Potti & Marc F. Burr Funeral Homes of Madison, Chardon, Painesville & Fairport Harbor. Obituary, online condolences and memorial gifts available at www.marcfburrfuneralhome.com
Carolyn Louise Karnosh
Obituaries
Thelda May Owens
Thelda May Owens, age 92, of Newbury Township, passed away Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center.
She was born May 16, 1931, in Bergoo, W. Va., to the late Russell Addison and Bessie A. (Higgins) Hamrick.
Thelda dedicated her life to childcare. She had her own home day care and assisted with the Chesterland Christian Center Church and the Community Church of Chesterland in their childcare centers.
She loved to take walks, being outdoors, reading books about history, and followed NASA and their upcoming missions.
Thelda will be sadly missed by her loving children, Ronald W. (Kathy) Miller, of Aurora, Anne M. (Bill) Anderson, of West Farmington, George W. (Lori) Owens, of Windam; sister, Thurlene Hyre; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Miller, of Bridgeport, W. Va.; grandchildren, Kristina, Kodie, Audrey, Kara, Joshua, Paul, Jacob, K’Cee, Noah; seven step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and nine step-great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, from 5-8 p.m., at Sly Family Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield.
A Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at Newbury United Community Church, 14916 Auburn Road, Newbury Township.
A private family burial will take place at a later date in Overlook Cemetery in Parkman Township.
The family would like to express their thank you to the wonderful step-down nursing staff at UH Geauga for the compassion and care, and also to the Retina Associates of Cleveland for their care.
Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com
Geauga County Sheriff’s Report
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Dec. 27, 2024 to Jan. 2, 2025.
ANIMAL PROBLEM
Dec. 30
12:57 p.m., Kinsman Road, Middlefield. Dog is on a "four foot chain and in quite a bit of mud." Called into Middlefield Village offices. I checked on the dog and found it had food and shelter. The dog appeared to be healthy. It was muddy on the dogs area but we recently had rain. I spoke to the owner and explained the complaint. I called the complainant back. I explained my findings and he told me that I was a waist of time and hung up.
ASSAULT
Jan. 1
9:07 p.m., Sidley Road, Thompson. 17 year old male was just assaulted. He has left the area and will meet an officer on the Square. 21 year old male punched him, pushed him to the floor and pulled a knife on him. Caller's intervened when the knife was pulled. Parties involved came to an agreement that they will stay with father's in Madison for the night. Was also spoken too about his emotions, behavior and consequences for his actions.
CITIZEN ASSIST
Dec. 27
8:28 p.m., Helmut Drive, Chardon. Was transported yesterday to the hospital. Just returned and found that her living room was tossed around by paramedics. The fan was thrown on top of her oxygen and her cane is under stuff. She is unable to get up or put on oxygen. The back door was breeched by rescue, so it is unlocked. She is not injured but is sitting in a chair in the dark unable to get up. Fire department requested deputies arrive to pink slip. Deputies could not pink slip due to living conditions. Observed able to walk from bathroom to her chair in living room. Residence
was observed to be very cluttered and that of a hoarder. Geauga Job and Family services was contacted and notified of situation.
CITIZEN DISPUTE
Jan. 2
12:47 p.m., Thompson Road, Thompson. Threatened me. Said “he knows where I live and it's my fault his dogs went to the dog warden.” Threat was made directly to me in person. He is no longer here. Two dogs went onto caller's property and killed her chickens. No direct threats were made, only calling her a bad person because the dogs might be put down. Caller made report with dog warden about the killing of her chickens. Caller only wanted this incident documented.
Jan. 2
6:08 p.m., Rock Creek Road, Thompson. Friend moved out of the house while the caller was out of town. She took auto titles, keys and other various papers and items that belong to the caller. Girlfriend said to the caller's brother: "I took his titles and all his stuff. I'd give them back for 10 grand." Lived together as a couple and cohabitating for the last 12 years. Deputy will attempt to contact her and ask for her to return the property, however, due to their situation it will most likely have to go through civil courts. He will contact attorney. Message was left.
HARASSMENT
Jan. 1
11:12 a.m., Crestwood Road, Newbury. Female in the lobby to report harassment. Complainant's daughter's ex-boyfriend sent an unsolicited picture of his penis and an unsolicited video of him masturbating in the early morning. Complainant and her husband want the incident on record in case he escalates his behavior. Advice given to block his number and stop any contact with him.
SUSPICIOUS
Dec. 28
10:32 a.m., Bundysburg and Kinsman Roads, Middlefield. Caller states that he is an Amish driver and last night two girls he picked up told him that around 11 p.m. someone attempted to kidnap them. It was a blue Suburban. No further description. Told him a vehicle followed them while they were operating a horse drawn cart at approximately 11 p.m. Complainant will attempt to contact them and have them call the Sheriff's Office.
Dec. 28
10:49 p.m., Downing Drive, Chardon. Advised there is a male running around chasing people with a shovel. Reported she was chased my a male holding a shovel while walking her dog. She described the male as mid-20s with dark messy hair and facial scruff wearing a dark hoodie and jeans. Deputy checked area. Nothing suspicious was observed.
WEAPON OFFENSE
Dec. 28
3:16 p.m., Bass Lake Road, Newbury. Caller believes someone is shooting off a cannon. Caller would like a deputy to stop at her house. She has a long drive and will be waiting outside. Another caller from Pekin and Bass Lake advising very loud explosions. Homeowner stated tannerite was being shot. Advised many complaints and it is illegal in the state.
WELFARE CHECK
Jan. 1
6:17 p.m., Lois Lane, Hambden. Request a check on 80 year old female. She resides alone. She has called Copeline several times screaming she's going to burn her trailer down. She doesn't want her daughter to have her trailer. Contact was made. She checks OK. Stated she is not going to burn her home down she is just infuriated with her daughter's husband. Advised to avoid speaking with her daughter or her son in law due to the increased tension and disagreements.
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of real estate transfers for Dec. 30-31, 2024, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.
AUBURN TOWNSHIP
Auburn Pines LLC, 9936 Washington St., to Landscape Management and Design Incorporated, $675,000. (5.40 acres)
CHARDON CITY
104 Water Properties Ltd., 102 Water St., to 102 Water Street Properties LLC, $185,000. (0.08 acres)
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Stephanie Marie Rukule, 8475 Mulberry Road, to Venessa S. Gendron, $275,000. (1.00 acres)
Roland Foliart, 8374 Wilson Mills Road, to Christopher James and Grace Murray Willer, $492,500. (4.38 acres)
CLARIDON TOWNSHIP
Denise L. Miller, 13036 Taylor Wells Road, to Brian M. Hart, $100,000. (2.69 acres)
HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP
Walter L. Wallace, Venus Road, to Jim and Lissandra Mikolajski, $56,500. (1.00 acres)
HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP
Countryside Lumber Properties LLC, 11179 Madison Road, to Nicholas Chronister, $240,000. (3.63 acres)
MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP
Joseph O. Lobdell and Elizabeth A. Gierlach, 16075 Gar Highway, to Julia Mariano, $249,000. (4.80 acres)
MUNSON TOWNSHIP
Audrey Taylor, 9720 Mayfield Road, to Margaret and Zachary Suba, $230,000. (1.50 acres)
Jacquelyn Fienga (TOD), 12170 Fowlers Mill Road, to Cameron C. and Sarah Fisher, $375,000. (3.18 acres)
NEWBURY TOWNSHIP
Rollin G. Cooke III, 15799 Grace St., to Douglas Battisti, $238,800. (1.55 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
Sarah M. Rayburn (trustee), Kinsman Road, to Todd C. Korner, $125,000. (5.35 acres)
SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE
Emilie Unkrich (trustee), 131 Fairview Road, to Stewart Mattuck Meacham, $273,800. (0.34 acres)
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP
Harold W. Pfouts, 16819 Thompson Road, to Adam C. Lausin, $110,000. (1.82 acres)
Legal Notices
Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 21-F-000660
The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK, Plaintiff vs. BARN STAR PROPERTIES, LTD., ET AL., Defendants
In pursuance of an Alias Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 30th day of January, 2025, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 13th day of February, 2025 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Hambden to wit:
Situated in the Township of Hambden, County of Geauga and State of Ohio: And known as being Sublot No. 2 in the Sunset Ridge Subdivision, as shown by the recorded plat in Volume 39, Pages 97-98 of Geauga County Records, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways.
Said Premises Located at: 13480 WALKING STICK LANE, HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP, OH. Permanent Parcel Number: 15-102534 DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.
The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover. Said Premises appraised at ($500,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($333,334.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.
TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.
SCOTT
A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio Paul M. Nalepka, attorney Jan2-9-16, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE SALE OF REAL ESTATE
In the State of Ohio, County of Geauga, Case No. 24-F-000281 - Servbank SB (Plaintiff) vs. Daniel Sullivan, et al, (Defendants) In pursuance of an Order of Sale directed to me in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public online auction the following described real estate:
Property Address: 15030 Bates Creek Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024
Legal Description: A full legal description of the property may be obtained at www.buddybartonauctions.com.
Parcel Number: 15-102391
Said Premises Appraised: $495,000.00
Minimum Bid: $330,000.00
Location of Sale: Online Bidding at www.buddybartonauctions.com
Bidding Open Date: January 29, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Bidding Closes Date: February 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM
2nd Provisional Open Date: February 12, 2025 at 9:00 AM
2nd Provisional Close Date: February 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of $10,000 is due by wire transfer within 48 hours upon conclusion of the auction. Funding must take place within 30 days of confirmation of sale. A 5% Buyer’s Premium shall apply. The auction is subject to postponement and cancellation. Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient.
Ross Barton III, Private Selling Officer, info@buddybartonauctions.com, 330-4641375 Jan2-9-16, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
Case Number 24-F-000815 - THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-3, Plaintiff, vs. Nickolas II Linden, Fiduciary of the Estate of Donald Joseph Linden, et al., Defendants. The Defendants, Unknown Heirs, Legatees, Devisees, Executors, Administrators and Assigns and their Spouses, if any, of Donald Joseph Linden, whose current addresses are unknown, will take notice that on December
Public Notices Belong in Newspapers, Where People Will See Them.
6, 2024, the Plaintiff, THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-3, filed its Complaint in Case No. 24-F-000815, in the Court of Common Pleas of Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court, Suite 300, Chardon, OH 44024, seeking a foreclosure of its mortgage interest in the real property located at 16729 Savage Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023, Permanent Parcel No. 02-219100, (“Real Estate”), and alleged that the Defendants have or may have an interest in this Real Estate.
The Defendants, Unknown Heirs, Legatees, Devisees, Executors, Administrators and Assigns and their Spouses, if any, of Donald Joseph Linden, are required to answer the Plaintiff’s Complaint within twenty-eight (28) days after the last date of publication of this notice.
In the event that the Defendants, Unknown Heirs, Legatees, Devisees, Executors, Administrators and Assigns and their Spouses, if any, of Donald Joseph Linden, failed to respond in the allotted time, judgment by default can be entered against them for the relief requested in the Plaintiff’s Complaint.
By Carrie L. Davis (0083281); Michael R. Brinkman (0040079); Yanfang Marilyn Ramirez (0074242); Aaron M. Cole (0091673), Attorney for Plaintiff, Reisenfeld & Associates, LLC, 3962 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227. voice: 1-513-3227000; facsimile: 513-322-7099. Jan2-9-16, 2025
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK
Geauga County Public Library
The Geauga County Public Library Board of Trustees is requesting statements of qualifications pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 9.33, et seq., from firms to provide construction manager at risk services for its New Chardon Branch Project. Questions may be directed to, and Requests for Qualifications may be obtained by written request from Lisa Havlin, Fiscal Officer at lhavlin@geaugalibrary.net. Qualifications will be accepted until 4:45 p.m. local time, February 11, 2025. Lisa Havlin, Fiscal Officer Jan9, 2025
NOTICE OF AGREED JUDGMENT ENTRY CASE NO. 24-A-000208 - JACQUES MHC, LLC VS. CLARIDON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, ET AL.
The Claridon Township Board of Trustees hereby gives notice of its intent to file a settlement agreement in Geauga County Court of Common Pleas Case No. 24-A-000208, Jacques MHC, LLC vs. Claridon Township Board of Zoning Appeals, et al. to allow (i) two monument signs located on the Property as shown by the Agreed Judgment Entry; and, (ii) the two monument signs to be illuminated at night. The property at issue is known as 12860 Mayfield Road, Claridon, Ohio 44024 and identified as PPN 13-009300 which is described at Volume 2175, Page 2510 of the Geauga County Record of Deeds as follows:
Situated in the Township of Claridon, County of Geauga, State of Ohio, being part of Range 7, Town 8 of the Connecticut Western Reserve Survey, part of Original Claridon Township Lot Numbers 12 and 13, Holmes Trac~ being part of a 110.90 deed acre parcel of land known as Geauga County Auditor’s Parcel No. 13009300, now or formerly owned by Jacques Mobile Home Park, LLC a Michigan limited liability company, as recorded in Official Record Book 2066, Page 2126 (Deed Parcel 1) of Geauga County Deed Records and being more completely described as follows: Commencing at a 1-inch rebar found in a monument box (buried 12 inches deep) at an angle point on the original center line of Mayfield Road, U.S. Route 322 (variable width) and at the overall compound curve point of intersection of the current centerline of said Mayfield Road; thence South 88 ° 01’ 36” West, along the original centerline and the overall compound curve tangent of the current centerline of said Mayfield Road, passing over a 5/8 inch rebar with a broken identification cap at the intersection of said original centerline and the east line of said Original Lot Numb er 12 at 73.63 feet, a total of 561.57 feet, to a mag nail set at the southwesterly comer of a parcel of land known as Geauga County Auditor’s Parcel Number 13-015300, now or formerly owned by Thomas J. and Laura L. Ross, as recorded in Official Record Book 2098, Page 3337 of Geauga County Deed Records, and being the PLACE OF BEGINNING, for the parcel herein described; Course No. 1: thence South 88° 01’ 36” West, continuing along the original centerline, the overall com-pound curve tangent. of current centerline, and the current centerline of said Mayfield Road passing over the current cen-
terline point of curvature (PC Sta 458+24.24) of said Mayfield Road at 192.79 feet a total of 2029.91 feet to a mag nail set at the centerline intersection of said Mayfield Road and Aquilla Road, County Highway 5S (66 feet wide), witnessed by an iron pin set at the right-of-way intersection of said Mayfield Road and said Aquilla Road, North 46°’ 26’ 45” East, 45.20 feet; Course No. 2: thence North 00° 26’ 40” West, along the centerline of said Aquilla Road, 1386.00 feet, to a mag nail set at the southwesterly comer of a parcel of land known as being part of Geauga County Audi-tor’s Parcel Number 13-001100, now or formerly owned by Jo Ann and Ellen Sue Berman, Trustees of the Berman Living Trust, Dated May 29, 1992, as recorded in Official Record Book 2153, Page 3260 of Geau-ga County Deed Records;
Course No. 3: thence North 88° 31’42” East, along the southerly line of said Berman parcel and the southerly line of a parcel of land now or formerly owned by Jacques Mobile Home Park, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, as recorded in Official Record Book 2066, Page 2128 (Deed Parcel 2) of Geauga County Deed Records, passing over an iron pin set at 33.01 feet and an iron pin set at 841.19 feet, a total of 885.38 feet, to a mag nail set on the centerline of Spencer Street, Township Road 345 (formerly known as County Highway 45) (66 feet wide);
Course No. 4: thence South 43° 10’ 10” East, along the centerline of said Spencer Street, 662.98 feet, to a 1-inch rebar in a monument box found;
Course No. 5: thence South 55° 48’ 42” East. along the centerline of said Spencer Street, 940.48 feet, to a mag nail set at the northwesterly corner of said Ross parcel;
Course No. 6: thence South 13° 17’ 16” West, along the westerly line of said Ross parcel, passing over a 5/8-inch rebar with identification cap stamped “Temple 4761” found at 32.32 feet, an iron pin set at 35.32 feet, a 5/8-inch rebar (bent) found at 288.62 feet, and an iron pin set at 289.89, feet, a total of 335 .78 feet to the PLACE OF BEGINNING, containing 50.1349 acres, more or less, of which 24.6247 acres exist in Original Lot Number 12 and 25.5102 acres exist in Original Lot Number 13, 1.4777 acres exist in the present right-of-way of Mayfield Road, 1.0272 acres exist in the present right-of-way of Aquilla Road, and 1.2334 acres exist in the present right-of-way of Spencer Street, but subject to all highways, cove-nants, and easements of legal record as surveyed in June 2023 by Kyle R. Danals, Registered Professional Land Surveyor No. 8704 on behalf of McSteen Land Surveyors under Project No. 23115.
Bearings are based on the Ohio State Plane Coordinates System, North Zone (3401), NAD83 (2011), 2010 .0 Epoch, as derived from GNSS Observations per the ODOT CORS/VRS Real Time Network. Distances are given in feet and decimal parts thereof. All iron pins as set are set are 30” long 5/8” rebar with an identifi-cation cap stamped “McSTEEN CA 02236” A copy of the Agreed Judgment Entry is available for review at the Claridon Township Administration Building, 13930 Mayfield Road, Claridon, Ohio 44024 during normal business hours beginning January 9, 2025. Jan9, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SELL UNNEEDED, OBSOLETE, OR UNFIT TOWNSHIP PERSONAL PROPERTY VIA INTERNET AUCTION
Bainbridge Township
Resolution number 01062025-A adopted by the Bainbridge Township Board of Trustees on January 6, 2025 authorizing the disposal of unneeded, obsolete, or unfit township property, including motor vehicles, road machinery, car parts, equipment, tools, and office equipment or supplies by Internet Auction in accordance with O.R.C. section 505.10. Internet auctions will be conducted through www.govdeals.com with whom Bainbridge Township has contracted.
All items will be offered for sale “as is, where is” with Bainbridge Township making no warranty, guarantee, or representation of any kind expressed or implied, as to the condition of said items.
Items will be listed for a minimum of ten (10) days.
This notice is posted on the website of township which can be found at www.bainbridgetwp.com. This notice and a link to the GovDeals website can be accessed by clicking on the designated tab GOVDEALS AUCTION. BY ORDER OF THE BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES Janice Sugarman, Fiscal Officer Jan9, 2025
AUTOS & PARTS
2007 Ford Focus: wheels with 4 lug nuts, mounted snow tires, used only one season, $200/OBO. 440431-6944.
FOR RENT
Auburn: 1BR apartment, includes laundry room and attached garage. No pets. $975/mo. Call 440-2210649.
FOR SALE
Vintage Withington wood, snow toboggan, model Pursuit: 95”L x 14.5”W x 9”H, with pad 70” long. 440-2239471. Great Family Fun!
Firewood: mixed hardwoods, 4’x8’x16-inch pieces, $135. Delivered within 15 miles of Chardon. 440-6875404.
CAMERAS: Praktisx, Minolta, Nikon, Polaroid One Step. Electric log splitter, copper kettles, many aquariums, clocks, kerosene lamps, pottery jugs. Inquire 440-3383563.