Geauga Maple Leaf 2-23-23

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Vol. 29 No. 8 • Chardon, Ohio www.geaugamapleleaf.com

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MH Board Optimistic With New Director

By Amy pAtterson Amy@kArlovecmediA com

After months of searching, the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services has named a new executive director.

Christine Lakomiak, a Geauga County resident, was named to the role at the regular board meeting Feb. 15.

“I just wanted to say thank you so much. I’m thrilled to be appointed as the executive director of the Geauga County Mental Health and Recovery Services,” she said. “Mental health and recovery is my passion.”

Lakomiak thanked the board for the opportunity to take on the new

See Director • Page 6

Bicyclist Killed After Running Stop Sign

stAff report

A bicyclist riding the Maple Highlands Bike Trail in Middlefield Township died Feb. 14 after he failed to stop at the post trail stop sign and was hit by a sport utility vehicle, the Ohio State Highway Patrol said.

Steven Arnold Hirsh, 60, of Middlefield Township, died at University Hospitals Geauga Medica Center in Claridon Township, where he was taken after the 3:18 p.m. crash.

Hirsh was riding west on the bike trail when he pedaled through a stop sign at the intersection of state Route 528. He was hit by a southbound 2015 Chevrolet Equinox that 38-year-old Erika Hardee, also of Middlefield Township, was driving on Route 528, the patrol said.

Hirsh did not have a helmet on, the patrol added, and alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor in the crash at this time.

The crash remains under investigation, the patrol said.

Cardinal School Board Opposes Amendment to Title IX

Federal Proposal Would Change How Public Schools Treat Gender Identity

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Despite objections from four area residents, Cardinal Schools Board of Education voted unanimously Feb. 8 to stand with the State Board of Education against changes in Title IX proposed by the U.S. Board of Education.

The amendment, proposed by the Biden administration and currently in the courts, would — some critics say — abridge parental rights as it seeks to address gender identity and sexual orientation issues in public school sports and restrooms across the country.

The four speaking against Car-

dinal BOE’s resolution addressed a crowd of about 200 in the Cardinal High School cafeteria who had mostly gathered to hear the board’s decision regarding its previous 3-2 vote to cancel the spring musical — a decision they reversed.

The board’s resolution supporting the SBOE resolution was earlier on the agenda. It outlines the problems Cardinal BOE has with the amendment to Title IX.

“(T)he proposed regulations pertaining to athletics would require sports teams to be based on gender identity rather than biologi-

G-TV

Middlefield Village resident Jeffrey Bell spoke in favor of the Biden administration’s amendment to Title IX during the Cardinal Schools Board of Education meeting Feb. 8.

Sweetness Starts with 1st-Gen.

Maple Sugaring Family

By rose nemunAitis editor@kArlovecmediA com

Newbury Township’s Peter and Samantha Hanley know something about sweet beginnings.

The pair are high school sweethearts, husband and wife, parents of three — Harper, 7, Ava, 5, and

Peter Jr., 1 — and continue to pour the same love and devotion that brought them together at Notre Dame - Cathedral Latin School into first-generation farming and maple sugaring.

As you roll down their driveway, dotted with sap buckets and

evergreens, you arrive at Hanley Sugar Camp, 11699 Bell Road in Newbury Township.

The farm, officially established in 2015, will be hosting two upcoming open houses in early March.

“My dream all started about

See Family • Page 4

facebook.com/geaugamapleleaf @geaugamapleleaf

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Peter and Samantha Hanley, of Newbury Township, are a first-generation maple sugaring family enjoying their first batch this season. They’re pictured with their son, Harper, 7, daughter, Ava, 5, and son, Peter Jr., 1.

See Cardinal • Page 5

Middlefield Village Planning Commission Voices Reservations About Airbnbs

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA.com

As demand for short-term rentals – like Airbnbs – increases across the country, Middlefield Village Planning Commission is looking at ways to regulate their establishment in the village.

Ohio House Bill 563, which would not allow municipalities to control short-term rentals, was not passed and signed before the end of 2022, so cities and villages are free to set guidelines for the short-term rental of homes.

On Feb. 7, planning commission Chairman Scott Klein recommended the commission pursue some regulations for homeowners already operating Airbnbs or who are considering the money-making idea.

Klein said he has stayed at Airbnbs when traveling and likes them, but he said he has reservations about leaving them unregulated in the village.

“I don’t want an Airbnb next door,” he

said, recommending the village only allow them in areas zoned for multifamily residences or general commercial use, which would rule out opening short-term rentals in subdivisions.

Most of the village is zoned to allow multifamily residences, Klein said.

The property owner should also be required to get a permit from the vil lage to operate a short-term rental, he said, adding he would like the own er to report what days someone is staying at the property, so the police department knows why cars with out-of-state licenses are parked there.

Keeping up the appearance of the village is also a goal, Klein said.

“They need to be well maintained and looked after,” he said, adding if the property is not well maintained or the neighbors complain, the permit could be pulled.

Ideally, the house would be owner-occupied, so part of it would be rented out while the owner remained in residence, Klein said.

If that is not acceptable, the village needs to have the owner’s contact information on file in case there is a problem, he said.

Commission member Dave Dietrich urged caution.

“Let’s start out conservatively and see how it works,” he said. No action was taken following the conversation.

However, regulations on parking spaces for electric vehicle supply equipment may go to village council soon.

Changes to the proposed ordinance included sizing EV spaces at least 10-feet-by-20-feet and landscape screening.

Klein said the fire department should weigh in on the installation of the equipment.

The proposed ordinance recommended limits on the number or percentage of EV parking spaces in a commercial lot, but commission members noted the supply equipment is expensive to install and limits might not be necessary.

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@geaugamapleleaf. com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: Feb. 23, 9:30 a.m. – Geauga County Commissioners, 2 p.m. – Automatic Data Processing Board, at Auditor’s Office Appraisal Room; Feb. 27, 1:30 p.m., Family First Council; Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners. 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.

Auburn Township: Feb. 23, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Bainbridge Township: Feb. 27, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 28, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

Burton Village: Feb. 27, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon City: Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m., Planning Commission, joint meeting with City Council. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.

Chardon Township: March 1, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 9949 Mentor Road, unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; March 1, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Claridon Township: Feb. 27, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All trustees meetings are held at Administrative Building, 13932 Mayfield Road, unless otherwise noted. All Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meetings are held at Town Hall, 13930 Mayfield Road.

Hambden Township: March 1, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.

Montville Township: Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Road, unless noted.

Munson Township: Feb. 28, 5:30 p.m., Board of Trustees, special meeting for workshop with road department followed by regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.

Newbury Township: March 1, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, unless noted.

Parkman Township: Feb. 28, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: March 1, 9 a.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: Feb. 27, 10 a.m. – Treasury Investment Board, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Troy Township: March 2, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Troy Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, unless noted.

West Geauga BOE: Feb. 27, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

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Park District Rejects Bids for Swine Creek

By BriAn doering BriAn@kArlovecmediA com

Asphalt improvements to the Swine Creek Reservation in Middlefield will be put on hold after Geauga Park District Board of Commissioners rejected all bids on Feb. 21.

Deputy Director Matthew McCue said in an interview after the meeting the motion to reject

all bids and rebid the project with new specifications was because the cost will likely be lower.

“We will look at new specifications to see if portions of the project can be streamlined or include certain efficiencies that could reduce the overall project cost,” he said.

Six total bids were received for the project with Chagrin Valley Paving, Inc. being the lowest bidder at $217,465. Other entities who

bid for the project included Cole Burton Contractors, LLC, at $259,535, Geauga Highway at $254,094, Carron Asphalt Paving, Inc. at $239,990, Ronyak Paving at $225,185 and Karvo Paving Company at $246,000.

Repairs to the park would include areas of the parking lots and entryway where the asphalt is weakening.

“The asphalt at this location has been

deteriorating,” said Executive Director John Oros in a follow-up interview. “We have maintained the asphalt at this location over the years by seal-coating and crack-sealing. Now, it is time to install new asphalt.”

Oros added the park district will work to prepare a new bid package as soon as possible.

“We expect to keep the project on track for paving this year,” he said.

Commissioners Consider Resource Officer for County Building

By BriAn doering BriAn@kArlovecmediA com

A new face could greet members of the public entering the Geauga County office building after commissioners proposed hiring a deputy to man the reception desk at their meeting Feb. 14.

Commissioner Jim Dvorak brought up the topic of having a resource officer to commissioners Ralph Spidalieri and Tim Lennon.

“We have 240 employees here and a lot of buildings like this have a resource officer. I would like to make a motion to have the (Geauga County Sheriff’s Office) and their system come in here and control it,” Dvorak said. “We would just add to their budget and they take care of the resource officer here for 10 hours a day.”

Dvorak proposed the cost for the officer be limited to less than $150,000 per year, adding he would like to see a resource officer in the building after being approached by Destination Geauga about having a flier station in the lobby.

“After the resource officer is in place in a couple of months, we can have somebody come in like Destination Geauga and help

Family

from page 1 seven years ago when I would see other sugar houses making steam and making syrup,” Peter Hanley said. “I find the whole process so fascinating. And yes, it sure is a lot of work to make a little amount of syrup.”

Peter grew up in a close family.

“My father, Mark Hanley, was a lumberjack and owned a company called Geauga Hardwoods and Fuel Company,” he said. “My dad always had a love for trees —cutting them, burning them and planting them. Dad eventually had a tree farm in Newbury where we spent countless hours planting pine trees … Hemlocks, Blue Spruce and Norway pines. I always thought it would be fun to start the process of making maple syrup.”

Peter took it upon himself to learn about the process from the Geauga Park District.

When his dad retired, they built a sugar house on his property for a fun hobby to get

with directions and maps of the intriguing things in Geauga County,” Dvorak said. “I think this opens up a lot of good positive things.”

He said he had already spoken with Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand and Prosecutor Jim Flaiz, who told him the county would not need to draft a memorandum of understanding to move ahead with the plan.

Lennon said he would like the position to have clearly defined responsibilities.

“Obviously, we just don’t want somebody just sitting there burning time all day,” Lennon said. “I don’t know if there’s a way to do dual-purpose there, where they are doing some other type of responsibility or job function throughout the day.”

Dvorak said the county building currently has over 160 cameras and nobody is viewing them.

A deputy hired as a resource officer could arrive in the morning and check all building entrances and review camera footage from the night before, he said.

“The potential of something going very negative is there,” he added.

Lennon asked Hildenbrand, who was sitting in the back of the room, what his impression was of the idea of hiring a deputy as a

the family and kids involved. They started out with about 100 taps and are now up to about 1,400 taps.

Sadly, in November 2022, Peter’s dad died, but their dream continues to live.

Bottles of fresh maple syrup for sale line the shelves at their sugar house.

“I feel the massive amounts of mature maples, the strong soil content makes for such rich maple syrup,” Peter said. “I absolutely feel there is a difference in taste between wood-fired evaporation versus fuel-oil evaporation.”

On a recent Saturday, the Hanley kids and dogs scampered in and out of the sugar house, as Peter expressed pride over his inaugural hard work.

He said his syrup this year has been gorgeous.

“Mostly due to the beginning of the season and how fast we process the sap from the time we collect the sap to boiling the sap,” he said. “Right now, as of a few weeks ago, we are making amber, but as the season moves forward, I am sure we will get more robust flavors.”

resource officer for the building.

“I know you do it at the courthouse, which is kind of a different animal there,” Lennon said.

Hildenbrand said the deputy would need a computer and phone, as well as a monitor installed in the front desk area.

“The idea is when you walk in that front door, they’re going to see a deputy there and that’s going to make them change their mind,” Hildenbrand said. “I think it’s a good thing and we will figure it out.”

Spidalieri asked Hildenbrand if he envisioned a metal detector being used in the building, adding there are similar security concerns in the auditor’s office and prosecutor’s office.

“At the end of the day, if somebody walks past the deputy with a firearm in their pocket and comes up here, it’s like what’s the checks and balances?” said Spidalieri. “There’s gotta be a process that makes sense.”

Hildenbrand said everyone — including employees — must pass through the magnetometer at the courthouse, which would be difficult to do at the county building.

“You’ve got so many employee entrances and more than half of the time when there’s a disruption, it’s because of an employee,”

Peter shared some of his favorite ways to enjoy their finished project — including smoking meats with their syrup and the family having it on their breakfast meats and pancakes.

For Peter and his family, carrying on a tradition in honor of his dad’s love of the woods is meaningful.

“My father taught myself and siblings so many life lessons,” he said. “I would say that Dad always told us to chase our dreams and work for them. Nothing is given to you. That only the strong survive. This doesn’t just mean physically, but mentally, challenging yourself, staying healthy and keeping the outdoors in your life. To create strong networks and to always keep true to your values, faith and your word.”

Peter is committed to the hard work of seeing his dream come to fruition.

“It truly is a family affair,” he said.

The Hanleys only produced maple syrup this season, but would eventually like to produce candies.

“We have not participated in the Geauga County Maple Festival yet, but this year, we will be entering our syrup,” Peter said. “We are truly so lucky to have these trees in our backyard.”

He wants his family to carry on the enthusiastic love of nature his dad gifted him.

“I find it important to get the kids outdoors, from farming, hunting, working outside,” Peter said. “In today’s world, children are very dependent on technology and screens. Maple syrup is a great way to get outside and enjoy mother nature. It helps with curing the winter cabin blues.”

A Hanley open house will be held from 10

Hildenbrand said.

A metal detector would be possible, but costly and difficult, he said, adding the resource officer is a good place to start.

Spidalieri said he was concerned about having only one deputy in the area and did not want to make a bad decision.

In the case of a confrontation in the lobby, the area may not be safe, he said.

“Then what? There’s no magical answer to it,” Spidalieri said. “I think there’s got to be a complete plan in place.”

The sheriff’s office is 100% capable of handling the task, he said.

“I wouldn’t want to have anyone else here,” Spidalieri added. “I know some of the county offices hire security departments. That’s not the way we are going to do this. This is going to be in coordination with the sheriff’s office.”

Dvorak said he would like to research the availability of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to cover the salary of the law enforcement officer.

“If that is the easiest route to take, then I would like to research that,” Dvorak said.

The commissioners hope to have a motion for the county building to have a resource officer at the Feb. 23 meeting.

The Hanley Sugar House in Newbury Township is making maple syrup and starting new traditions, inviting the public to upcoming open houses on March 4 and March 11.

a.m. to 5 p.m. March 4 and March 11 at the farm on Bell Road.

“We want people to see our process and how fun it is,” Peter said, adding his sister, Kelli Hanley Potts, owner of a Cleveland Field Kitchen catering company, will have her food trailer at the open houses making maple-inspired dishes and gourmet grilled cheese.

SUBMITTED

Sparks Fly Over Munson’s Proposed Fire Levy

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Questions in a letter from a resident regarding a potential fire levy sent sparks flying at the Feb. 14 Munson Township Trustees meeting.

In an email sent Jan. 29, Donna Christley, who was not present at the meeting, asked more than 20 questions about the department’s operation and finances, as well as its relationship with the township.

Specifically, Christley wanted to know how the fire department is organized, who is in charge of its organization, how they are chosen, what the organizational chart looks like, and how wages and benefits are set.

She also inquired about who negotiates the contract between the township and fire department, whether the trustees receive an annual budget from the department and whether the department’s finances are audited.

“This corporation is now asking the trustees to put another levy before voters in May. How do we know what they are asking for is legitimate? Who checks the figures?” she wrote. “With this corporation, we have added another layer of management and reduced the transparency of daily operations to the trustees and residents.

“I understand that Bainbridge Township recently terminated the contract they had with a separate company and put the EMS/ fire department under trustee supervision.

from page 1 cal sex, causing biological women and girls to compete on an unfair basis against biological males. Further, schools would be required to grant access to sex-separate facilities based on gender identity rather than on biological sex,” it reads. “(A)pplicable (U.S. Department of Education) guidance documents have been enjoined by a U.S. District Court and are, therefore, unenforceable at this time.”

During public input, Ruth Spanos, of Burton, said she supports the USBOE’s amendment to Title IX.

Maybe we should consider doing the same.”

Christley’s letter comes on the heels of recent discussions township trustees have had regarding placing a levy on an upcoming ballot. However, during a phone conversation following a workshop in January, Trustee Andy Bushman said he felt placing a levy on the May ballot would not provide enough time to inform voters about the issue.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Assistant Fire Chief Brian Gray voiced frustration, which

“I am concerned that passing the (Cardinal) resolution will demonstrate a hostile environment for children who are LGBTQ at the school,” she said before reading an alternate resolution passed by the Cuyahoga Falls Schools Board of Education in December 2022.

“I respectfully suggest that you consider a resolution that was passed by the Cuyahoga Falls City School District. They had submitted it in their testimony against the state board of education resolution,” she said.

Lindsay Pollack said she is the parent of two children in the county and wants them to be healthy, happy and safe.

South Russell Township Hires Administrative Assistant

By BriAn doering BriAn@kArlovecmediA.com

South Russell Village Fiscal Officer Danielle Romanowski will receive a helping hand after the recent hiring of part-time administrative assistant Debra Lackey.

During its regular meeting Feb. 13, South Russell Village Council appointed Lackey at an hourly rate of $20 to assist the village with clerical and financial tasks, as well as data entry and personnel activities.

“When South Russell began in 1923, the position of clerk was a part-time elected position,” said village Mayor Bill Koons in a follow-up interview. “Over the years, it became a full-time position. Sixteen years ago, we switched from a clerk to a fiscal officer, so the village could hire the person they wanted, not someone who was elected.”

Koons said during the interview process, Lackey demonstrated the experience and personality needed to flourish in a position

that would see constant change, and finding a qualified and talented person with experience is what council has been looking for in a part-time employee.

“She brings experience and the ability to act independently once assigned a task. The village will be able to take work from the fiscal officer and turn it over to Debra without a lot of training or explanation needed for her to complete the job,” Koons said. “She will also be asked to staff the building department when needed.”

Koons said an elected person might not be qualified to be the clerk and Bainbridge Township ran into a similar problem a few years ago.

“Over the last 15 years, additional parttime help has been hired,” he said. “Some worked out well, others did not. The parttime position has now grown to full-time. We still have a need for certain projects that require additional personnel.”

apparently stemmed from both Christley’s letter and an anonymous letter similar to hers that were recently received.

Gray, who appeared to be furious at the allegations in the letters, defended fire department Treasurer Rich Ferlin and the department’s mission.

“We are here to serve the public. We’re not here to actually hide anything, to do anything to be berated by emails due to anonymous comments,” he said, adding he has worked with trustees Bushman and Jim McCaskey, so they understand the operation of the department.

Trustee Irene McMullen, however, may not have that knowledge, he said.

“You don’t know how this fire department works,” Gray said.

McMullen said she hasn’t looked at all the questions in the anonymous letter, but wants to be prepared for the Feb. 28 meeting and wants to talk to Fire Chief Mike Vatty first about Christley’s questions.

“I want to meet with the fire chief,” she said. “I have gotten a request to try to make comments regarding my interpretation of my responses to the questions at the next meeting.”

McCaskey said the anonymous letter does not require a response.

“There’s no reason to answer anonymous questions. File it and it goes away,” he said.

McMullen said Christley could not attend the meeting Feb. 28, but she understood

“I’m hopeful that we can all agree that LGBTQ+ people exist — gay, trans, queer, what-have-you — and I’m pretty sure that any of those gay or trans or queer people started out as kids,” she said. “Each and every student deserves to feel safe regardless of how many of you there are. Please consider the message you’re sending to the community by your actions regarding this resolution you’re looking at tonight.”

She cited the Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ youth mental health figures that indicates 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and non-binary youth.

Auburn Township resident Anissa Smith, a Cardinal graduate and a veteran teacher, weighed in against the Cardinal board’s resolution.

“Public schools accept all God’s children. And if any of these children have no one to

some residents were interested in the answers to her letter.

“We want to explain where we are on the levy,” McMullen said, adding trustees have information that may help residents understand the department’s finances and the need for the proposed additional levy.

“Do other trustees want it on the agenda?” she asked.

McCaskey said he had only received the information a few days before.

“I’d like a little time to digest (it) and come back to you with some questions,” he said.

McMullen pressed about the agenda for Feb. 28.

“I am contemplating putting a subject on the next agenda on finances,” McMullen said. “Maybe it will just be me talking about the levy.”

There was some discussion about the financial needs of the department if additional personnel are hired to cover local calls and calls for mutual aid.

“I think we are very fortunate. We will see about putting a levy on the ballot,” McMullen said.

When asked Feb. 18 about the proposed size of an additional fire levy, Ferlin replied: “Based on Munson getting $275,000 for 1 mill exclusive of the collection fee, the township and fire department will most likely need to decide on between 0.75 mills and 1.25 mills.”

look up to, they often feel unwelcome and not good enough. I have personally known students who have attempted suicide because they were different and not accepted,” she said. “America is changing. We are a diverse nation and yet, we all still want our kids to be successful and our families to be healthy and to treat each other with respect and kindness. Representation does matter.”

Middlefield resident Jeffrey Bell said he supports the Cuyahoga Falls BOE’s resolution.

“I just want to say that the LGBT community has never been very prominent in Middlefield, in Geauga County, but it has been here,” he said. “I am proud to say that I am part of that community and I do know a lot of young people who also are in that community and I can see how they are affected by the everyday things that we just take for granted, as in going to school and being safe, being able to enjoy their lives.”

ANN WISHART/KMG Munson Fire Department Assistant Chief Brian Gray objected to a letter containing questions about the fire department during a township trustees meeting Feb. 14.

County Auditor Makes Case for IT Spending

By Amy pAtterson Amy@kArlovecmediA com

Geauga County Commissioners are open to spending over a million dollars on information technology upgrades after a conversation with Auditor Chuck Walder Feb. 14.

Over $1 million in budget requests from the Geauga County Automatic Data Processing Board were eliminated or reduced from the budget process late last year, Walder said during the commissioners’ meeting, adding this imperiled plans for IT improvements.

Walder — whose office oversees the ADP board — went down a list of items with commissioners that were intended to be included in last year’s budget requests, adding he thought ADP had answered the county’s questions when the budget was submitted in the spring of 2022. The list of upgrades includes fixes to outdated servers, switches and cabling in county offices.

“Just like any other computer, these servers have life expectancies,” Walder said. “We tend to update the operating system until the hardware can no longer support the update. That is why those servers need to be updated.”

Hardware upgrades on Walder’s list came in at around $575,000, with contracts for security, maintenance and cloud-based services adding roughly $460,000. Commissioner Tim Lennon, who now sits on the ADP board, asked which of those costs are reoccurring and which would be one-time capital expenditures.

“That’s a real hard question to answer,” Walder said. “It depends on what new projects are on the horizon.”

Only about 60% of the items in the first list would be reoccurring, Walder said, adding that could change as the project to renovate the county courthouse in Chardon gets underway. Every year, the county will have physical infrastructure – capital – that must be replaced, Walder added.

One benefit of moving to cloud-based

Director

from page 1 role and for the time they spent searching for the right fit.

“I know that that took a lot of time,” she said. “But you know, throughout your tenure, there’s never been a time where there hasn’t been recovery services in this county — both mental health and recovery services.”

Lakomiak said the leadership of the board and its dedication to working with county mental health agencies means there has always been direct service available in the county.

“You should be applauded for that,” she said. “The work that you do is volunteer and I appreciate what you’ve done as a community member.”

Lakomiak comes to the role after working for 16 years as the director of quality and clinical operations at the Lake County ADAMHS Board. In addition to her passion for mental health, which started with a career in homeless outreach, Lakomiak said she and her husband spend their free time riding motorcycles and dirt bikes.

After a discussion with the heads of various agencies in the county, including

services when allowable is the county can reduce its dependence on physical servers, which have life expectancies and must be maintained and replaced regularly. Moving to cloud services makes maintenance a problem of the cloud service provider, he said.

“We’ve already gone from almost 200 servers to down to 120-ish and we’d like to get below 100,” he said. “There will always be some servers, but we need to get rid of any server that is not necessary because every time that life expectancy comes up, we’re paying that bill rather than just subscribing to a cloud service.”

One hang-up in predicting future spending is the presence of some offices remaining at 470 Center St. in Chardon, where most county offices were housed before they moved to the new building in Claridon Township.

The Geauga County Board of Elections is still housed entirely in the building and County Administrator Gerry Morgan said they are, by law, prohibited from moving within 120 days of an election. This year’s spring primary is set for May 2.

Morgan added the BOE cannot move until mediation in a lawsuit between the board and county commissioners is complete.

Walder said for three years, the plan was for the entire complex to be offline by this point. However, the building is still “fully lit,” he told commissioners.

Lennon said spending to maintain equipment still at the 470 Center St. location is not a permanent situation.

“But as far as, you know, plowing money back into that — the whole point of us getting out of there was to get out of there,” Lennon said.

Lennon thanked Walder for taking time over the previous weeks to walk him through the issues and give him a tour of equipment the county currently owns.

“This to me, this request, when you say it was ‘taken out of the budget,’ it may have felt that way, but to me it was — this is a kind of a capital improvement project, the backbone investment to go leaping forward,” Lennon said. “Now, will your budget requests in 2024, 2025 be different? Probably. You know, I mean, nothing’s getting cheaper. But this

is somewhat of a big step to go in that direction.”

Walder said he does not see the requested spending as a capital project.

“I mean, these things are gonna happen no matter what. Servers are gonna get old and you’re gonna have to replace them and that’s the bulk of this,” he said, adding the investments really come in on the contract services, which, while costly, will continue to reduce the county’s dependence on physical devices and reduce future spending.

“And that’s the key to all of this,” Lennon said. “Because there should be a payoff to this, right?”

Lennon added the county has “underinvested” in IT for years.

“We’re hitting this at a good time because IT’s changing in the last two, three years,” he said. “We’re kind of hitting it at the right time, but we’re also playing catch-up, I think, from some standpoint.”

Although the conversation appeared to be a constructive one, Commissioners took no vote on the issue at the Feb. 14 meeting.

Ravenwood Health, Family Pride, WomenSafe, Catholic Charities, National Alliance on Mental Illness Geauga and Lake/Geauga Recovery Centers, Lakomiak proposed they meet with her as she comes into the role to discuss how the board can better collaborate on issues of funding and staffing.

“I’m really looking forward to having a collaborative relationship with you,” she told the group. “I can tell you that, at least the board members who interviewed me, they’re ready to go. They’re full of energy and expect great things.”

Board chair Steve Oluic said it was a good day for the board and for Geauga County.

“Over the last six months or so, we’ve been moving forward and trying to overcome what was reported yesterday as dysfunction,” Oluic said, referring to a Feb. 14 article in the Geauga County Maple Leaf.

Oluic described the hiring process that led to Lakomiak’s selection. A committee of five board members — himself and Linda Miller, Alberta Chokshi, Michael Petruziello and Kathy Johnson — were approved by the full board to consider 20 applications for the position.

Only nine of those were good, Oluic said, adding the committee whittled the list down further to three finalists.

One was Lakomiak, the other, a candidate currently employed in a clinic. The third was former state Rep. Diane Grendell.

The absences of three board members — Walter “Skip” Claypool, Carolee Lesyk and Ryan Mekota — meant 10 of 14 members of the board were present, after the resignation of board member Jennifer Malainy effective Feb. 8.

Oluic said Malainy’s obligation to the board caused too much competition with her work and personal schedule; however, the board will have openings in seats appointed both by the state and by Geauga County Commissioners this June.

AMY PATTERSON/KMG

Christine Lakomiak, center, thanks members of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services after she was named the new executive director at their regular meeting Feb. 15.

AMY PATTERSON/KMG

Geauga County Commissioner Tim Lennon discusses technology costs with Auditor Chuck Walder at the Feb. 14 county commissioners meeting.

Auburn Township Seeks Applicants for Fiscal Officer

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Auburn Township Trustees will be advertising for applicants to fill the fiscal officer’s position following Fred May’s departure from the role.

The township received a letter of resignation Feb. 7 from May, who has been fiscal officer for eight years. Trustees have 30 days to advertise for and hire a replacement, said Trustee

Pat Cavanagh during the Feb. 20 meeting.

“His resignation starts the 30-day clock,” he said, adding that is the length of time the Ohio Revised Code allows trustees to replace an elected official before the probate court judge appoints one. Trustees have to advertise for 10 days, then they will interview the candidates and make their decision at the March 6 meeting, Cavanagh said.

“Fred had been in that spot about eight years,” he said. “Some personal matters came

up and he just thought this was time. He was great to work with. He also served on the zoning commission and the board of zoning appeals. Fred’s been a real asset to this township for quite some time.”

May’s letter read, “Please accept this letter as my formal, immediate resignation from the position of fiscal officer for Auburn Township, Geauga County, Ohio. Please let me know if anything else is needed to facilitate the transition to a new fiscal officer.”

On Nov. 29, May was booked into the Geauga County Safety Center for a probation violation related to a charge of driving under the influence and failing to control a vehicle.

On Dec. 1, the trustees appointed Assistant Fiscal Officer Daniel Matsko to the position of interim deputy fiscal officer. Matsko had been employed as assistant fiscal officer since July 2022 on an as-needed basis.

“I hope Mr. Matsko will be interested (in applying for the position),” Cavanagh said.

Chester 12-Year-Old Stars in ‘Jungle Book’ Production

By cAssAndrA shofAr cAssAndrA@kArlovecmediA com

Despite a nearby building fire in Willoughby causing performances to be rescheduled last week, Blake Jeffrey-White, of Chester Township, is excited to finish strong as the lead in Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” at the Fine Arts Association this weekend.

Blake, a seventh-grader at St. Francis of Assisi in Gates Mills, is playing Mowgli in a dramatic version of the show written by Joseph Robinette, which will hold its final run Feb. 23-26.

“This is my second time working with Blake,” said production Director Sandy Peck. “I directed him as Eddie in ’13,’ the musical, at Fine Arts Association this past fall, and now as Mowgli in ‘The Jungle Book.’ He’s shown an incredible amount of growth in his skill level as an actor in just a short time.”

Blake said in this production, he was challenged to make a connection with two other actors who played his mothers.

“It was difficult for me to feel a mother-son connection with other actors that are basically my age and my friends,” he said, adding he had to work really hard and focus on ensuring

the audience felt that connection.

“I also felt a tremendous reward from (performing in) this production was the wonderful applause and attendance in the audience, appreciative fans and all the support that I received from my friends, family and teachers attending the show,” he said, adding it made him feel like he matters and gave him great pride and joy.

Blake understood and connected with his character and the problems he was facing in the storyline.

“I felt like the story is a wonderful story that shows the triumphs over evil forces and the love of family,” he said.

Cynthia Jeffrey, Blake’s mom, said her family knew Blake had the “acting bug” when in the second grade, he asked to be in the school talent show.

“He dressed in costume and acted and performed a Shel Silverstein poem,” she said. “His performance had the kids cheering and laughing. He demonstrated poise and composure for a 7-year-old in front of 250 or so kids at his school.”

Blake began taking voice lessons at age 8 at the Fairmount Center for the Arts in

Residents Reassured Over Train Crisis

Ohio Attorney General Threatens Suit

stAff report

Geauga County residents have been asked not to tie up emergency response lines with calls about the derailment of a Norfolk Southern train in East Palestine Feb. 3 that led to the release of toxic chemicals.

Local fire departments, along with the Geauga County Department of Emergency Services and Geauga Public health, are monitoring the situation, according to multiple public statements.

Chardon Fire Department has received no warnings or indicators related to poor air quality, the department said in a social media post Feb. 16.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and notify the public should the need arise. Please do not call 911 or non-emergency lines in reference to this situation,” the CFD post said.

CFD Chief Justin Geiss told the Geauga County Maple Leaf a tanker from Troy Fire Department and Burton Fire department were dispatched to respond to the incident.

The state is only testing wells within a half-mile of the train derailment, GPH said, adding the county health department is currently in discussions with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to determine if any testing is necessary for wells in Geauga County.

Federal Emergency Management Agency

Regional Administrator Thomas C. Sivak and

Over East

Palestine

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine issued a joint statement Feb. 18 regarding the derailment.

“FEMA and the State of Ohio have been in constant contact regarding emergency operations in East Palestine. U.S. EPA and Ohio EPA have been working together since day one,” they said. “Tomorrow, FEMA will supplement federal efforts by deploying a senior response official along with a regional incident management assistance team to support ongoing operations, including incident coordination and ongoing assessments of potential long-term recovery needs.”

The state emergency management agency has gathered information regarding the incident and response at ema.ohio.gov/eastpalestine.

According to a report from Dayton 24/7 NOW, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost wrote to Alan Shaw, CEO of Norfolk Southern, on Feb. 15 informing him Yost’s office is considering taking legal action against the company and advising him to retain all records related to the derailment.

Yost said if he receives a litigation referral from Ohio EPA or other agencies, his office will pursue all legal remedies available under the law.

“I may seek injunctive and equitable relief, damages and/or civil penalties, costs and fees and any other relief a court may deem proper,” Yost said, adding contamination from the incident has damaged natural resources and caused environmental harm.

Russell Township until his teacher moved on from the center, Cynthia said.

“He then performed in two shows with The Fairmount Center for the Arts. He was in ‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’ as a narrator and fisherman. He then was in Fairmount’s production of ‘Honk Jr.,’ initially paused by COVID, but then revived in 2021. He was Greylag, commander of the Goose Squadron and Father Swan.”

Mowgli isn’t Blake’s first rodeo in a starring role. He played Edmund Pevensie in “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” for the Fine Arts Association and Daddy in the historical Rabbit Run’s youth theater production of “Junie B. Jones Jr.,” Cynthia said, also touching on Blake’s performance last fall as

Eddie in “13.”

“The show had a 10-performance run and all praised the music and the talent of the all-teen cast,” she said. “Many of (Blake’s) classmates and friends came to see the show and could not stop singing the songs from the musical. He was also the understudy for the main character and another character. Understudying is no small task, as he had to learn his role and the roles that he was understudying.”

The final performances for “The Jungle Book” will be held at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24., 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25, and 2 p.m. Feb. 26. Visit www.fineartsassociation.org/performance/ for more information or call 440-951-7500.

During their final dress rehearsal, Blake Jeffrey-White, of Chester Township, practices his role as Mowgli in “The Jungle Book” alongside Logan Kessler, of Chardon, who plays Messua.

Board!

Imagine you have an idea for a nonprofit or company. The first thing you’d do is gather the brightest people around you to help you launch and run. Eventually, some of them will likely comprise your board. This board will make or break your venture.

People like to think there is some huge personality who runs large companies and charities. There isn’t. It’s the board. Everything begins and ends with the board . . . then the board tells the public spokesperson — typically the CEO — what to say and do.

There are numerous examples of bad and corrupted boards. Stories abound of mega companies being destroyed from within by someone neutering a board. In fact, there is a large Wall Street firm that’s reported to have paid an obligatory $80 million bonus to a departing chairman of its board after the chairman systematically replaced all of the members who would challenge him with yesmen and then bankrupted the company.

By removing the fail-safes, this chairman was able to take on unreasonable debt and take extraordinary risks. Since he controlled the board — and all the people who might have been critical of him had been removed — he got away with it for years. He got rich while millions of people lost massive amounts of money.

As you might imagine, conscientious boards put tremendous thought and time into finding and training good members. Critical to this process of checks-and-balances oversight is the ability of everyone to speak. After all, sometimes all it takes is one person with a different perspective to speak up for the direction of a conversation to change, possibly averting crisis.

In other words, boards must be filled with competent, assertive, knowledgeable people, preferably with strong moral character. And without fail, all must be permitted to speak.

This brings me to the Geauga County Republican Party Central Committee and school boards.

If you’re far-left and dislike the values represented by Republicans, you’re probably thrilled that the County Central Committee is a parade of failure. However, anyone who

might want county Republicans to have a website, office, current list of members, speakers, recruiting, legitimate endorsements of Republicans, actions like putting signs up at polling locations on election day, a financial report, votes that aren’t hidden, open meetings, or even just the basic opportunity for elected members to speak at meetings without being shouted down, then be prepared to work on the derelict, nearly defunct Geauga County Republican Party Central Committee.

I’ve heard the GOP Central Committee referred to as the “Board of the GOP.” Rife with lawsuits, accusations of violations of conduct, an alleged assault, derelict financials, not allowing members to speak (some for years!) and having roughly zero concept of Roberts Rules of Order, ours is a board that needs a complete overhaul.

If you care, I encourage attention to the matter.

Jonathan R. Broadbent Newbury Township

It’s Time for a Change

Unless you’ve been in a coma, folks, I’m sure you have heard of the train derailment in East Palestine. Seems like any times these sort of things happen in Ohio you hear all sorts of assurances from the Ohio EPA about them doing tests and the air is just fine.

Can we believe them? So far thousands of dead fish, other dead and sick animals, and complaints from folks with rashes, feeling sick, etc.

A number of those spilled and burning chemicals at the site are both highly toxic and carcinogenic. There is, frankly, no safe level of a carcinogenic chemical. As the exposure is decreased, the incidence of cancer will decrease, but it will not reach zero.

We in Geauga County are only about 50 miles from the disaster and wind has been blowing from the south/east for a considerable time since the disaster started. You can bet we have been breathing in some of those chemicals and we don’t even know what all of them are because as they mix and burn new nasty chemicals are created.

It is simply unacceptable that disasters like this continue to occur. If regulations were strict and strictly enforced they would not. It seems all we hear from the Republican party in charge of just about everything in Ohio is that we need less regulations and let’s cut, cut, cut and starve the agencies that are already understaffed.

To give you an idea of ineptness, here in Parkman Township there has been a problem with salt contaminating domestic water wells for years now. Opinion is that the contamination is coming from the ODOT salt dome

near the center of the township. Seems nearly impossible to get any information from the Ohio EPA. ODOT or the governor’s office.

Has a study been done to source the problem? We don’t know. If the salt dome is the problem, are there plans to correct the problem? We don’t know. Who exactly is in charge of this problem? I don’t know; it seems like it is impossible to find that out. The Geauga County Health Department is as frustrated as many of us residents.

Time to fire the heads of some agencies and put people in as heads who would be responsive? You bet!

John G. Augustine Parkman Township

Claypool Not Fit to Serve

Is there only one “correct” way to be a proper woman? Is there just one way to be a “real man?” Is there only one way to fall in love? Is there only one way to be a family?

Skip Claypool says yes — and it’s his way. You see, Claypool has a very narrow definition of who he believes is allowed to exist in Geauga County. Furthermore, Claypool wants to impose his narrow definition on all of us.

Claypool serves on Geauga County’s Board of Mental Health and Recovery. His recent comments about the LGBTQ+ community in Geauga County are baffling and backwards, leaving me to wonder, what purpose does he serve on the board?

Claypool’s comments are the usual discriminatory ones. They are not kind. In fact, they encourage bullying. Most importantly, they do not follow the guidelines set by medical professionals.

The mission of the mental health board is clear: Improving public health services by monitoring, educating, and promoting community and environmental health services in Geauga County.

The board has one job: improve public health…for everyone, not just those people that Claypool deems worthy.

He is clearly not helping to fulfill the mission of the board. Claypool’s recent comments show that his personal beliefs make him a mere distraction, inconsistent with the board’s mission.

Claypool’s tenure expires in June, and he has shown that he is not fit to serve again. As a replacement, I encourage the County Commissioners to appoint someone who follows the advice of medical organizations.

I encourage them to appoint someone who believes in the mission of the board.

Finally, I encourage them to appoint someone who believes that every single person in Geauga County has value and deserves county services.

Nicole Mulloy Russell Township

Claypool Rants

How do you know if a news article is fair and represents the truth or is simply attempting to promote an agenda? You might ask did the author ask questions of the subjects about content, context, motive, etc. I received no such call and I was not questioned at the MHB meeting. It seems odd Ms. Steigerwald was called. You can decide, but I will tell you there were misrepresentations.

Let me offer this for your consideration. The mental health board is a volunteer position. Those that serve do so for a variety of reasons. I serve to try to make a positive difference. Based on what I see, I believe every taxpayer in the state of Ohio should be angry and concerned enough to do some “ranting.” Millions are being spent on failing programs and there is more money being allocated to setup new programs that I believe will waste your hard-earned tax dollars.

Results/outcomes are getting worse in every category! It is said we should make evidence-based decisions. Well, the evidence is clear. Money is not solving the problems, many programs don’t work and our strategies are focused on the wrong things. Drug addiction is increasing, depression is increasing, suicides are increasing, and on and on.

Moreover, if you look at the data, I mean really look at the data, being used to make decisions you can see problems. Look at the strategies created by the state mental health board and you see a focus on things like equity. There is not enough space in an editorial to provide details, but ask me.

I have 10 grandkids and I am concerned our culture is not headed in a good direction. But you know this. Our board funds programs and approaches that I think should be evaluated very carefully. Some do work, others don’t.

As I said, many programs are leading to poor outcomes. Changes should be made and I think we should discuss them. I believe programs such as SOGI/GSSN should be evaluated very carefully. I have seen evidence of impacts to children that are concerning. If true, then I believe there should be steps taken to mitigate the harm.

In the meeting referenced in the article we were meeting our obligations to seek solutions. So what is the answer? I think we must have board members who are willing to have adult conversations about the problems. We need board members that are not afraid to take bold action. Too often public board members are timid and/or are aligned with agencies they fund.

The board meeting that Amy wrote about was an attempt to start a conversation about policies. I am one person with one vote. But I can start a conversation. Conversations about difficult topics sometimes get messy. But, these are important issues which deserve the effort. Articles such as this tend to stymie fruitful conversation. If the board stopped doing our jobs out of fear of the press that would be very sad.

Walter “Skip” Claypool Chester Township

S P O R T S

Huskies Stop Badgers in 3rd Period

By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com

After spoiling the Berkshire Hall of Fame induction ceremonies recently at Berkshire High with a solid thumping of the Badgers in boys action, the Badgers came into their regular season finale with a chance to get even and salvage a split of their season series of Route 87 neighbors.

For one quarter, the teams battled on even terms, then exchanged 11-0 runs to take a close contest into the halftime locker room.

Then came the third period, often times pivotal in any game. The Badgers couldn’t get shots to drop, the host Cardinal Huskies did just enough to pull away, and Cardinal extended a lead to the final horn in a 48-35 victory to conclude the regular season for both teams.

Shooting and rebounding have been tough for the Badgers from time to time over the season, and those factors loomed large in this contest. The third period was the difference. With a 21-19 lead at the half, the Huskies used the first half of the third period to go on a 7-0 run with 4:01 left.

Berkshire’s Mason Mendolera nailed a three-pointer to stop the bleeding, but that would be the only successful field goal for the Badgers in the period as they went one for 10 in the quarter.

The Huskies did not exactly torch the nets, either, going five of 13 in the period. But two of those successes were three-pointers from Ty O’Brien, and another pair of buckets came from Paul Gall.

All four of those baskets included assists, and

the other hoop for Cardinal (14-8) came on a fast break by Troy Domen after a steal near midcourt.

“Our defense always works hard for us,” Berkshire Head Coach Joe Montanaro said.

“We just have stretches where we don’t make shots, and it hurts us every time. We’re not the biggest team in the world, either, so rebounding is really important. You have to box out well to

control the ball, and we’ve had issues all season long in that area as well.”

Having hit on 12 long shots in a recent overtime loss to Grand Valley, the long balls just weren’t falling this time. Miles Miller paced the attack for Berkshire with nine points on a trio of long balls. The Badgers hit on only six of 21 in this game overall, and

other than an 11-0 run to close out the first half, a steady flow was not in their cards.

The Huskies are loaded with athletes, too, but the stiff Berkshire defense forced them to be more patient.

“There are times when we need to practice more under game conditions,” Cardinal Head Coach Jon Cummins said. “We knew we could have a tough time when they went to a 2-3 zone on us. Cuyahoga Heights did the same thing, and we had problems. We needed to have a good team effort, and we got it. We have several kids who can score, which makes us tough to defend, especially if we are shooting well. Tonight we had to work for good shots, but we got them and hit them.”

O’Brien’s four 3-pointers led to 12 points. Jake Bean and Paul Gall added 11 each, and Troy Domen made 10 more. Gall led the rebound effort with eight boards as the Huskies won that battle, 25-18.

Gall also did a good impersonation of a point guard with three assists. When the Huskies were able to get the ball inside to him, as the Badgers collapsed on him, Gall fired the ball back out in a hurry. O’Brien hit on two of his assists, Domen on the other, and the Badgers (9-13) could not get the offense going enough to respond.

Now it’s on to tournament action for both teams. The Badgers travel to Kirtland Friday night in a battle against a solid Hornets team. They split their series during the season.

Cardinal hosted St. John Tuesday night.

As usual, the neighbors worked hard in their games this season, but the Huskies got the better of things each time.

Badgers Senior Night a Point Short

By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com

It was a joyful celebration of senior night for the Berkshire Badgers as they hosted Chagrin Valley Conference foe Grand Valley. With six senior cheerleaders introduced before the game, plus players Joey Czekaj and Apollo Percic, the atmosphere had tons of energy for everybody.

Then, under a barrage of long-range shooting the likes of which few professional teams can match, the Badgers and Mustangs went toe to toe until a late pair of big plays from sophomores sent the game to overtime.

Said sophs then made some big free throws in overtime, and Grand Valley escaped with a thrilling 57-56 CVC victory.

Berkshire had a 28-23 lead at the half. Then the Mustangs (6-15) opened the third period with a 10-0 run, fueled by senior forward Nate Boiarski’s pair of three-pointers from the left and right corners, respectively, along with a short jumper in between.

The Badgers never let that spurt stop them, but the Mustangs — with post player Jerry Schultz getting big rebounds to provide more scoring chances for his team, along with powerful inside work that did the same from sophomore Braden Hart — gradually took control of the backboards, leading to the photo-finish in regulation.

Berkshire (9-12) had a 50-45 lead with 1:17 to play as Miles Miller nailed the sixth of his seven three-pointers. Boiarski followed with a trey of his own, and after multiple turnovers and timeouts in the last regulation minute, Grand Valley sophomore Sammy Goforth took a pass from Schultz and hit a short baseline jumper with 2.1 ticks left to send the game to overtime.

“You can’t take away the super effort we gave tonight,” Berkshire Head Coach Joe Montanaro said. “It all came down to a few little things. We were out-rebounded tonight, Grand Valley got multiple shots several

BILL FUGATE/KMG

Cardinal students rejoice after the Huskies beat rival Berkshire 48-35 in the final game of the regular season for both schools. Cardinal played its first tournament game Tuesday night against St. John in a game that finished after deadline.

BILL FUGATE/KMG

Berkshire’s Gavin Hipp scored 10 points in the Badgers 57-56 loss to Grand Valley in a Chagrin Valley Conference contest. See Badgers • Page

Hilltoppers Drained 3s to Finish Regular Season Strong

By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com

Hilltoppers boys basketball has battled hard all year, and the last week of the regular season was no exception.

After an 81-55 loss Feb. 14 to Mayfield, the Hilltoppers bounced back with a senior night 81-44 victory Feb. 17 over Kenston and a 95-77 win Feb. 18 against Beachwood.

The Feb. 14 game against Mayfield started out at a fast pace as the Wildcats took an early 20-12 lead going into the second quarter.

Chardon was led in the first quarter by senior Noah Gerlica, with six points, and fellow seniors Ethan Faber, Dylan Fletcher and Kyle Palovich, all who added two points in the first.

The Hilltoppers outscored Mayfield 1713 in the second quarter to go into halftime down by four, 33-29. In the second quarter, the Hilltoppers were led by Faber (8 points), Andrew Bruce (4) and Palovich (2).

After halftime, the Hilltoppers continued to work hard and were successful at cutting into the lead. In fact, with four minutes left in the third, the Hilltoppers evened up the game at 39.

However, the Wildcats hit a three-pointer with 3:53 left in the quarter that seemed to shift the momentum in the Wildcats’ favor. From that point on, the Wildcats went on a 16-4 run to lead 55-43 at the end of three.

In the fourth, Mayfield outscored Chardon 26-12 to make the final score 81-55.

For the game, the Hilltoppers had three players in double digits: Faber (16 points), Fletcher (13) and Gerlica (10). Also contributing to their scoring were Bruce (6 points),

Palovich (4), Sammy Sulka (4) and Caleb Hewitt (2).

Afterwards, Gerlica and Fletcher talked about the game and their senior year.

“Gotta play hard to the end,” Fletcher said. “Everybody kind of counted us out at the start of the year. But our motto is, like,

we’re down big tonight, we’re just going to keep playing hard.

“We’ve really surprised a lot of people, and we just got to keep going.”

And that is exactly what the Hilltoppers did.

Feb. 17, on senior night, the Hilltoppers took an early lead and were up 40-19 over the Kenston Bombers at halftime.

Then Chardon continued its dominance and great inside-out game, scoring 41 points in the second half to defeat the Bombers 81-46.

After only making one three-pointer against Mayfield, the Hilltoppers drained 13 three-pointers on the Bombers.

Fletcher and Gerlica led the way from a long distance on senior night, connecting on five three-pointers each.

For the game, the Hilltoppers were led by Gerlica with 21 points and Fletcher with 20.

The next day, the Hilltoppers played their last regular season game against Beachwood, defeating the Bison 95-77.

Like their game against Mayfield, Chardon vs. Beachwood was extremely close in the first half. The Hilltoppers took a 40-36

lead into halftime and were up 67-60 at the end of the third quarter.

However, in contrast to their Mayfield game, the Hilltoppers outscored the Bison, 28-17, in the fourth to earn the victory. They continued their excellent shooting from the outside as they drained 14 three-pointers.

Leading the Hilltoppers from long range was Sulka, with five three-pointers, and Gerlica and Leibhardt, both with four three-pointers. Fletcher also added a three-pointer.

Against the Bison, the Hilltoppers were led by Sulka (22 points), Leibhardt (21), Gerlica (20), Bruce (15) and Faber (12). Also contributing to the scoring were Fletcher (3) and Palovich (2).

“It’s been a great week. Senior night was good,” Fletcher said.

“On Tuesday we just didn’t shoot well,” said Faber. “We made maybe one three-pointer — (Fletcher) made the three-pointer, by the way. Now that we’re going hot, the last two nights we put up I think 81, and 95 tonight, so now we’re moving again, and we got Mayfield again right here. So we’re where we want to be now.”

The Hilltoppers completed their regular season 15-6 and take on the Mayfield Wildcats Feb. 22 in the OHSAA sectionals.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

The Chardon Hilltoppers played Mayfield in a tournament game Feb. 22 in a game that finished after deadline. Here, Kyle Palovich scores a layup in the team’s 81-55 loss to Mayfield Feb. 14.

Toppers Grapplers Victorious in Regular Season Finale

By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com

Chardon wrestlers took on the Orange Lions on Feb. 17 for their regular season finale.

In a quick dual match in which all but one bout was decided by a fall, the Hilltoppers defeated the Lions, 48-33.

Gaining individual victories for the Hilltoppers were Alex Ash, Dylan Kick, Aidan Croyle and Will Vucetic.

“I thought our kids came out pretty aggressive, and I was happy with the way they wrestled,” Chardon Head Coach Nick Salatino said.

In the 150-pound match, Alexander Ash pinned his opponent in the second period.

“Tonight’s match went pretty well,” Ash said. “Took a little bit longer than expected. I had him stuck on his back almost the whole time.”

After Ash pinned his opponent, the Hilltoppers won the next three straight matches at 157, 165 and 175 pounds.

Dylan Kick (157 pounds) pinned his opponent in the third round of his match.

“It went really well,” Kick said. “The kid didn’t score a single point, so I am pretty proud of that.

“My strategy, well, it was mostly (focused) on takedowns, get takedowns, get takedowns, and hold him down — and hopefully pin him at the end.”

Next up, in the 165 pound match for the Hilltoppers, was Aidan Croyle, who also earned a third-period pin.

“It was a good match, it was a good fight,” Croyle said. “It was pretty even up until the end, but I ended up pinning him. I’m pretty happy about that.”

Croyle’s main strategy for the bout was to focus on takedowns and accumulating points.

“I just looked for takedowns and tried to

Badgers

from page 9

times, and when you look at it, rebounding has been our Achilles all season long.”

Miller had a hot hand from beyond the arc, as did the Badgers as a team. Miller hit on seven long shots for a game-high 21 points. The Badgers as a team hit on 12 of 26 three-point attempts, and finishing at the basket came up huge for both teams.

The Mustangs had 18 assists on their 21 baskets, usually a winning percentage. Berkshire also completed plays, netting 20 shots with 17 assists.

As Coach Montanaro alluded to, rebounding came up huge. The Mustangs, paced by the 14 boards for Jerry Schultz, took that battle by a 40-22 count, with 15 of Grand Valley’s caroms being of the offensive variety.

As the Badgers celebrated their seniors, a pair of sophomores made huge plays for Grand Valley at the end of regulation with Goforth’s

get as many points as I could, tried to keep him down, and was looking for pins,” Croyle said.

His coach thought Croyle’s performance was significant in helping Chardon win the dual match.

“I thought Aidan wrestled really well,” Salatino said. “He just kept coming forward. He got to the legs quite often. He turned him at the end — turned a tight match into a pin.”

The Hilltoppers’ final individual victory of the night was obtained by junior Will Vucetic in the 175-pound match.

Vucetic, one of the top wrestlers in the state, is currently ranked 23rd in the 175-pound weight class.

Vucetic pinned his opponent in the second period of his bout.

“Tonight’s match went pretty good for me,” Vucetic said. “I was just really working

bucket, and then in overtime as sophomore Braden Hart hit a pair of free throws with 53.7 ticks left, giving Grand Valley a 56-51 lead.

After Boiarski split a pair of freebies with 21.1 seconds left for a 57-51 lead, the Badgers got a pair of free throws from Mason Mendolara to cut the gap to four points. But after a timeout from the Badgers, a Miller three-pointer at the buzzer only accounted for the final score.

Miller’s 21 points paced the scoring for the game. Gavin Hipp added 10; Jack Hastings had eight to go, with a team-leading eight rebounds; and Mendolara was a force all over the court with seven points, six boards, seven assists and a trio of early steals. For much of the night, those steals forced the Mustangs to avoid attacking the paint.

Boiarski led Grand Valley (6-15) with 19 points and eight rebounds, and Schultz had a double-double with 16 points, 14 boards, and a trio of blocked shots. Landon Spencer added nine points on a trio of long-range shots to accompany five assists.

on my shots, something I don’t hit all of the time, but came out with the win. It felt good.”

After the dual match, Coach Salatino talked about the great season Vucetic is having.

“Will, he’s our best wrestler,” Salatino said. “He’s almost flipped the switch completely from where he was last year. He’s got 32 wins. He’s looking forward to sectionals.

“We wrestled really well back in January, running through the beginning part of February. He hasn’t had a lot of competition lately, but next week will be different.”

The Hilltoppers begin postseason competition Feb. 25 at the OHSAA sectionals tournament.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

Chardon’s Aidan Croyle wins his 165-pound match against Orange with a pin. In a quick dual match in which all but one bout was decided by a fall, the Hilltoppers defeated the Lions, 48-33.

Physical Therapy First: Avoid Surgery

How can physical therapy improve your quality of life? Physical therapy is the field of medicine that is devoted to restoring and improving human movement. Physical therapists achieve correct posture and spinal alignment by reducing pain and using physical methods such as strength training, massage and using the body’s natural healing processes. Physical therapists are experts in movement, kinesiology (study of human movement) and functional independence. Physical therapists help people of all ages and skills to improve strength, restore mobility and reduce pain.

Nobody wants surgery, so then why do individuals consult with an orthopedic surgeon? Surgery is a surgeon’s specialty. Sure, they will offer costly imaging, ineffective injections and tell you to “rest and see how it feels. ” Then, in 4 weeks of “letting it rest,” it’s worse! So when your symptoms are worse, of course, the only option left is surgery.

Avoiding surgery takes an independent Doctor of Physical Therapy who’s only focus is helping people avoid surgery. In many cases, physical therapy has been shown to be just as effective as surgery when treating a wide variety of conditions from low back pain, shoulder issues and knee arthritis. How wonderful to be able to participate in several weeks of non-invasive therapy to get the same outcomes as an invasive, costly and risky surgery.

Unfortunately, there are misconceptions about physical therapy that may discourage people from seeking the skilled guidance of a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy. Some misconceptions include: insurance coverage, physician involvement, preconceptions about pain, not understanding what physical therapists are capable of treating, clinical indications and therapists’ education.

In the U.S., a physical therapist can perform a physical therapy evaluation without a physician referral. By participating in a physical therapist evaluation, you will learn what physical limitations you have and how they relate to your pain or limited independence and how to correct them. Physical therapy is typically a covered service by most insurance policies. For people that have Medicare, services are covered at 80% and the other 20% is covered by a supplemental policy, if you have one. Other insurance policies may even cover physical therapy costs at 100% making it an affordable alternative to costly surgeries.

Physical therapy is not only for injuries or accidents. The skilled physical therapist is able to evaluate and diagnose potential issues before they lead to more serious injuries or falls. A physical therapist can improve the joint function in one joint to impact the functional performance of another. For example, if you are having pain in your back related to vertebral dysfunction, the therapist can improve the joint mechanics and muscle action of your low back, and further improve the joint mechanics of your hips and knees, reducing potential complications down the road. All treatments are specific to the individual needs and vary person to person with the ultimate goal of eliminating pain and restoring natural movement.

Doctors of Physical Therapy are capable of and license to treat numerous physical disabilities from orthopedic conditions such as: pre- and post- joint surgery, chronic pain to Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.

Doctors of Physical utilize our body’s natural healing abilities by incorporating state of the art treatment techniques including laser therapy, trigger point dry needling, manual hands-on skills, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization and private education/training so clients understand exactly what is occurring and how they can alleviate symptoms by themselves.

A licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy or physical therapist assistant can only deliver and provide physical therapy services. Physical therapists are highly educated Doctors of Physical Therapy that possess a thorough understanding of the human body’s anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and health conditions. All therapists participate in yearly continuing education to maintain their state license to practice. Many therapists hold board certifications for specific areas of medicine including: neurology, orthopedics, geriatrics, pediatrics, cardiovascular-pulmonary, sports enhancement, research and women’s health.

Physical therapy is not something that can be done on your own or by any other health/medical practitioner. You need the critical and trained eye of a licensed doctor of physical therapy in order to assess and determine appropriate diagnosis, limitations and treatments. So, if you want to avoid surgery and become pain free consult with a doctor of physical therapy first!

Dr. Adam M Cramer, PT, DPT is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy and the owner of MyoFit Clinic in Ashtabula, Chardon & Middlefield, Ohio.

dr. AdAm m crAmer, pt, dpt

Cramer

Obituaries

Jeanette Cheh

Jeanette Cheh (nee Brichacek) died peacefully at the Inn at the Pines in Troy Township on Feb. 14, 2023.

The family is joyful she went to be with her husband for Valentine’s Day.

Jeanette was born on Sept. 19, 1926, in Cleveland, to Jacob and Ottilie (nee Suchel) Brichacek. She married Elmer Cheh on May 30, 1947. They were together for 62 years until his death in 2009.

She is survived by daughter, Carol Hosmer, of Niles; son Dennis Cheh, of Savannah, Ga.; grandchildren Lauren Cheh, of Huntington Beach, Calif., Dennis Cheh Jr.. of Savannah, Ga., Danny Radcliffe, of Atlanta Ga., Patti Radcliffe, of Atlanta, Ga.; and seven great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by husband, Elmer Cheh; son Glen Cheh; and granddaughter Theresa Smith.

Jeanette has been a resident of Troy Township for 69 years, where she was very involved, along with her husband, in community clubs and organizations. She was employed for 25 years at the Burton Public Library, where she was able to pursue her love of knowledge and reading.

She is lovingly remembered by many for the numerous letters and cards she sent to friends and family around the country.

Cremation will be handled by Staton-Borowski Funeral Home. Services will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made in her name to Rahab Ministries, 3480 W. Market St., Suite 303, Fairlawn, OH 44333.

Christine McGuire

Christine “Tina” McGuire (nee Shively), age 78, of Chagrin Falls, passed away peacefully on Feb. 11, 2023.

Tina is survived by her husband of 55 years, Michael G. McGuire; son, Geoff McGuire (Colleen). of West Farmington; and daughter, Sarah Bogen (David), of Madison, Wisc.; grandchildren, Kyle McGuire, Garrison Bogen and Dinah Bogen; as well as many cousins and friends.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents, Robert B. and Dorothy M. Shively, of Chambersburg, Pa.

Tina was born and grew up in Chambersburg, Pa. She graduated from Chambersburg Area High School in 1962 and Goucher College in 1966.

She met her lifetime sweetheart, Michael McGuire, in eighth grade. They dated in high school and again in college before marrying on Sept. 3, 1967. They lived in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and New York before settling in Avon Lake, and later in Bentleyville and Chagrin Falls.

Early in her career, Tina taught fourth grade and elementary reading; she earned her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of New Hampshire.

When her children arrived, Tina was a stay-at-home parent for many years. She kept her teacher’s spirit alive as a Girl Scout leader, Sunday school teacher and teacher of arts and crafts classes.

Tina found her life’s work in her 40s, when she earned her real estate license. Matching a family with their new home al-

ways made her happy.

Tina was a people person. She always had a story to tell and was adept at striking up a conversation even with a stranger. She also enjoyed outdoor activities like skiing, nature walks, gardening and birding with Michael, as well as crafting.

She was a volunteer with the Geauga Park District and a member of the Garden Club of Bentleyville.

Tina was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will live on in our hearts.

Services were held at the Murphy Funeral Home, 95 S. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, with interment in Evergreen Hill Cemetery.

Please sign funeral home Tribute Wall at murphyfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Joan A. Yokules

Joan A. Yokules, age 84, died peacefully in her home on Friday, Feb. 17, 2023.

She was born Sept. 14, 1938, in Cleveland, to the late Peter J. Scott and Vera M. Scott (nee Basco). She graduated from East High School, in Cleveland, in 1956 and then from St. Vincent Charity Hospital School of Nursing, and became a Registered Nurse at St. Vincent Charity Hospital and Geauga Community Hospital, where she retired after 40 years of nursing.

Joan married Anthony “Tim” Yokules on Dec. 29, 1960, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Euclid, with Nuptial Blessing in Ft. Benning, Ga

When she retired from nursing, Joan spent time with her husband at antique shows and vacationing in the Outer Banks with her family. She was a devoted Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother.

Joan was an active parishioner of St. Helen Church in Newbury Township.

Memories of Joan will be carried on by her loving family, including her two daughters, Sue Yokules, of Newbury, and Barb Bradley, of Batavia, Ohio; son, Tim (Cindy), of Burton; grandchildren, Erin (Donald) Wolf, Emma Yokules, Alex Yokules, Jake Bradley and Zach Yokules; and great-grandchildren, Carter and Sadie Wolf; brother Tom Scott, (Jackie); and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, at 10 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., at St. Helen Church, 12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury.

Contributions may be made in the memory of Joan to the Newbury Volunteer Fire Department; and Kathy Deptola Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 132, East Claridon, OH 44033.

Cremation by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.

American Legion Post 459

Sundays, Feb. 26 – April 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atwood-Mauck American Legion Post 459 is serving its annual all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and scrambled eggs breakfasts every Sunday through April 16, except for Easter, at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton. Eat in or take out. For information, call Skip at 440313-2095.

Auburn Pancake Breakfast

Feb. 26, 8 a.m. to noon.

Auburn Boy Scout Troop 101 will host its annual all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast at the Auburn Fire Station, 10950 E. Washington St., Auburn Township. Cost is $10 for adults and $7 for seniors, kids 12 and under, first responders, veterans and active military.

Chardon VFW

Pancake Breakfasts

Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon

Chardon VFW Post 6519 will be serving its annual pancake breakfasts every Sunday through April 2 at the post located at 752 Water St. in Chardon. Breakfast features three flavors of pancakes, French toast, eggs made to order, bacon, sausage, ham, home fries, toast and beverages. Call 440285-3699 for takeout orders.

Parkman Chamber Pancakes

Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Parkman Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual pancake breakfasts every Sunday in March at the Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road. Enjoy the special recipe sausage and local pure maple syrup. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-10. Eat in or drive-thru/carry out.

Seldom Seen Farm

March 4 and 11, 8-11 a.m.

Seldom Seen Farm is hosting pancake breakfasts during the Maple Tour at the farm located at 10055 Madison Road in Montville Township.

WG Kiwanis Pancakes

Sundays in March, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Kiwanis Club of West Geauga is hosting its 70th annual all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and French toast breakfasts every Sunday in March in the cafeteria at West Geauga High School, 13401 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for children 6-11. Children under 6 are free. Early bird special is from 8-9 a.m. Curbside pickup is available.

The club welcomes groups and individuals that would like to volunteer for the community event. For more information, visit the Kiwanis website wgkiwanis.org or call Jeff Kershaw, pancake breakfast chairperson, at 440-812-3564.

Arts & Entertainment

Notices should be sent in writing to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166, faxed to 440-285-2015 or emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $100, including a photograph.

Curtain 440 Presents

‘The Women of Troy’

Feb. 22 and 23, 7:30 p.m.

Curtain 440 REP Co. presents “The Trojan Women,” at the Bond Building in Century Village, 14653 East Park St. in Bur-

ton. Written by Greek playwright Euripides, the play explores the subject of women in war and still rings true in worldwide conflicts today.

Tickets are $10 general admission, online at www.curtain440.com/tickets or at the door.

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Ava Carbone, Regan Cole, Abby Colbow (Women of Troy), Michaela Snider (Cassandra), Sabrina Clinger (Helen of Troy), Loren Sciulla (Hecuba), Riley Matchinga (Andromache), Amber Goff and Cara Stone (Women of Troy) perform in Curtain 440’s production of “The Trojan Women,” Feb. 22 and 23 at the Bond Building in Century Village.

Chardon

Science with Mr. Z

Claire Zurbuch (Mr. Z) recently conducted a science experiment with the first-grade students in Mrs. Horvath’s class at Jordak Elementary School. The students put warm water that was colored red in two clear containers and cold water that was colored blue in the other two containers. They then put a warm water container on top of a cold water container and vice versa.

Since cold water weighs more than warm water, it always goes down. When warm water is on top, it stays there and does not mix. When cold water is on top, it goes down and mixes. The kids loved the experiment.

A Jordak Elementary School first-grader completes a science experiment testing how warm water weighs less than cold water.

St. Helen

at Rescue Village on Feb. 15 as they filled Kong chew toys with peanut butter and kibble for the shelter’s dogs, one of several service projects the students completed as part of the after-school field trip.

CREW Celebrates Milestones

Congratulations to Chardon High School CREW senior Carson Beard and freshman Jack Foradis on career-learning milestones they each achieved earlier this month. The students were celebrated by photo opportunities with CREW staff and students at the high school on Feb. 7.

Through his CREW Practical Work Experience course, Carson has secured a student internship with Jade Products, Inc. of Mentor, a family-owned business specializing in machining, fabrication and welding. Carson is working on-site at Jade and acquiring real-world job experience under the supervision of Jade manufacturing engineer Joe Erickson. The course is an independent study offering wherein students have opportunities to gain exposure and experience in a career field of their choice through job shadowing, on-the-job study and individual work experience.

CREW student Jack Foradis also had reason to celebrate this month, earning his 10-hour OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety card via the CREW Foundations course. CREW Foundations explores a closer look at identifying potential career opportunities. Among other course content, the class guides students in developing a solid foundation of employability skills, including safety, ethics, readiness, customer service, communication, teamwork and problem-solving.

Buckeye State Delegates

Chardon High School juniors Julia Ellington, Rebecca Fullerman, Lia Gutierrez, Jen Kogovsek, Grace Romanoff, Joseph Grano and Madison Primc (alternate) have been named Buckeye State Program 2023 delegates. The students will travel to Bowling Green State University (girls) and Miami University - Oxford (boys) June 11-17 to collaborate with incoming seniors from other Ohio schools.

Delegates will learn about duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of good citizenship, ultimately conducting a state and local government simulation.

Special thank you to Chardon American Legion Post 167 for its unwavering generosity in sponsoring our students each year, a long-standing history of Buckeye State Program sponsorship that allows Chardon students to attend the program at no cost to their families.

Rescue Village Visit

The Chardon Middle School Builders Club ventured on an after-school field trip to Rescue Village in Russell Township on Feb. 15, touring the facility and learning all about the organization and its impact on the community. The club is advised by CMS faculty member Amanda Weaver.

Following a guided tour by RV staff and volunteers, club members had the opportunity to complete on-site service projects, including interacting and playing with the cats, dogs and horses, making fleece tie blankets filling toys with treats and more.

Teatime

Over the past few weeks the halls of St. Helen School have transformed to 17 Cherry Tree Lane and other importance places from the book, “Mary Poppins,” as part of a reading initiative to help promote family literacy called Connect. The parents and teachers collaborated to create special activities, lessons and projects to help the students connect their learning from the book to school, community and beyond.

Each family was given a copy of the book along with a pacing guide to read along at home. Each chapter brings on new themes and learning experiences for the students and families. Chapter three, “Laughing Gas,” encompasses a special teatime with Uncle

Albert on his birthday. To help connect to the book and learning, the students enjoyed a special tea party at school together. Students dressed up for the fancy occasion as they sipped lemonade, iced tea and enjoyed delicious pastries together while getting a lesson about the history of afternoon tea and etiquette.

The tea party is one of several activities planned for the students. The culminating activity is the production of “Mary Poppins Jr.,” the musical put on by the students in grades five to eight. The students will then have an opportunity to analyze the differences between the book and the musical. The integration of learning across the curriculum has been an exciting adventure for the families, students and teachers.

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St. Helen School students Connor McArdle and Evelyn Williford enjoy teatime together.

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Chardon Middle School Builders Club students were all smiles

[Photo credit: Claire Zurbuch]

Kenston

Kindergarten Registration

Kindergarten registration is underway for children entering kindergarten in August. Children must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 30. Complete the online registration by visiting Kindergarten Registration at kenstonlocal.org and then schedule an in-person appointment to complete the paperwork and turn in supporting documentation.

2023-24 School Calendar

The 2023-24 school calendar is available on the district’s website: www.kenstonlocal. org. The link is on the right side of the page in “Quick Links” and select District Calendars.

Rotary Senior

Emily Kratzert was selected Kenston’s Chagrin Valley Rotary Club Student of the Month. She maintains a 4.44 grade point average. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction and has been recognized with the President’s Award for Educational Excellence. In addition, Emily has earned 11 class honor awards and recognition as a Western Reserve Scholar Athlete, Soccer Scholar Athlete and the Golden Bomber award in soccer.

Emily’s leadership and participation extends beyond the classroom; she is a member of the Spanish Club, Envirothon, Math Club, Student Voices for Social Justice, National Honors Society and Bomber Bash Lead Crew. In addition, she is a dual sport athlete, receiving her varsity letter in both soccer and basketball.

Currently, she is a co-candidate representing Kenston in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Student Visionaries of the Year campaign. She has also volunteered and shared her love of sports at multiple soccer and basketball camps.

Outside of school, Emily enjoys babysitting. She has also been a Heiman Basketball Camp counselor for several summers.

Emily plans to study sports management and business analytics or finance at either Indiana University or the University of Tennessee.

All-State Choir

Kenston High School students Jacob Spencer, L Denno, Lily Tatara and Kylie Moore, participated in the 2023 OMEA AllState Choir on Feb. 4 in Columbus. They recorded and submitted a vocal audition last

spring and were selected through a rigorous evaluation process. In addition, all selected singers attended regional and state rehearsals and worked many hours independently to prepare for the concert under Dr. Julie Yu’s direction from Kansas State University.

The Ohio Music Education Association sponsors the All-State Choirs. OMEA is the third largest of the 52 federated state affiliates of NAfME, The National Association for Music Education. OMEA members are involved at all levels of music education, serving more than 1.8 million public school students in 612 public school districts and 51 colleges and universities in Ohio.

All -State Children’s Choir

Three Kenston Middle School sixth-graders Lily Shumaker, Juliana Shumaker and Kiefer Schatz and Kenston Intermediate School fifth-grader Anya DeWitt, participated in the 2023 OMEA All-State Children’s Choir on Feb. 2 in Columbus. They recorded and submitted a vocal audition last spring with the help of district music teachers. All selected singers attended regional and state rehearsals and worked many hours independently to prepare for the concert. One hundred sixteen fifth- and sixth-grade students from across the state were chosen to participate in the choir.

KMS Speech and Debate

Kenston Middle School’s Speech and Debate team was recognized as Cleveland’s outstanding middle school program of the year. Consistent with the award, KMS had the tournament champion in five of the six events held at Rhodes High School.

Placing first were Zoe LeFeber in Oratory, Brooke Carlson in Congressional Debate, Georgia LeFeber in Interpretation, Pearl Johnson in Declamation, and partners Reagan Carnes and Grace Voudris in Public Forum Debate, now winning 16 debates in a row over four tournaments. Additionally, Ben Yamsek placed fourth in Congressional Debate, and Elyssa Gatto placed sixth in Oratory. In Extemporaneous Debate, Charlie McBride placed seventh, and Jilly Ragsdale placed eighth. Amelie DeBoth beat a debater from Revere, and Will Turner did a great job in Congressional Debate. Avery St. John and Emma Fernandez participated in their first tournament.

Blood Typing Activity

Berkshire High School students in anatomy and physiology recently completed a simulated blood typing activity. Students used fake blood to determine the blood type of the class’s accident victim, John Phranks, and compared it to four individuals who were “blood donors” at the American Red Cross. The students determined that the victim needed a transfusion and identified the two possible donors that exhibited blood compatibility.

Blood typing is completed by observing the agglutination or non-agglutination of the known antiserum with the unknown blood sample. Participating students did an excellent job completing the simulated lab test which is used to save countless lives each day.

Photosynthesis Exploration

Students in all levels of biology courses at Berkshire studied photosynthesis in plant cells by observing leaf tissue disks. Photosynthesis is the process of plants making

their own food and creating oxygen gas as a byproduct.

During the experiment, the disks are placed in a sodium bicarbonate solution that produces the carbon dioxide needed for photosynthesis to occur. The air is removed from the disks by creating a vacuum using a syringe. The disks sink to the bottom of the solution and over time, with a light source, create oxygen bubbles that allow the disks to rise to the surface according to the photosynthesis chemical equation: sunlight plus carbon dioxide plus water produces sugars plus oxygen gas.”

Mr. Keller’s AP biology students had to create and conduct experimental procedures using different variables to test the rate of photosynthesis. Variables include, but are not limited to, the effects of different plant types, temperature and other solutions. The leaf disk experiment is not only an engaging exploration of the process that makes life on Earth possible, but it has also gained popularity on social media.

West Geauga

Westwood Culture Projects

Westwood Elementary School second-graders recently presented their culture projects to classmates, friends and family. Students chose a country where their ancestors were from and completed a research project to learn about things such as the location, food, people, clothing and pastimes. Students did an excellent job sharing their new knowledge.

100 Days of School

West Geauga elementary students recently celebrated 100 days of learning this school year. To commemorate the day, some students and their teachers aged to 100 years old, while others wore festive hats and T-shirts. No matter how they celebrated, it was a fun day for everyone.

WG Registration Now Open

Incoming kindergartners and new students for the 2023-24 school year may register online through the West Geauga website: www.westg.org. Early registration is requested.

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West Geauga elementary school students and their teacher have fun celebrating the 100th day of school by dressing up as 100-year-olds.

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Berkshire biology students learning problem solving and critical thinking skills in biology class using various types of experimentation.

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Kenston High School students (l to r) Jacob Spencer, L Denno, Lily Tatara and Kylie Moore, participated in the 2023 OMEA All-State Choir on Feb. 4 in Columbus.

Bloodmobile

Health & Wellness

Kehres, Geauga Family First Council coordinator, at 440-285-1201.

Bulletin Board

American Red Cross urges people to make and keep appointments to help avoid a blood shortage.

Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-7332767. Power Reds are available.

Feb. 23, Middlefield Library, 16167 East High St., Middlefield, 12-6 p.m.

March 9, Cardinal High School, 14785 Thompson Ave., Middlefield, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

March 9, Bainbridge Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township, 12-6 p.m.

Family First Council

Feb. 27, 1:30 p.m.

Geauga Family First Council meets the third Monday of the month at the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services building located on 13244 Ravenna Road in Chardon. Meetings are open to the public.

For more information, please contact Tim

Life Recovery 12 Step Meeting

Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m.

The open group for men and women meets weekly at Horizons Christian Assembly, 14920 White Road in Middlefield and welcomes anyone struggling with grief, alcoholism, addiction, depression, co-dependency or any other habit that lessens the quality of life. The group offers support, encouragement, fellowship and discipleship.

Learn more at www.Horizons4you.com/ LifeRecovery.

FA Twelve Step Meetings

Wednesdays, 6:45-8:15 p.m.

Obsessed with food, weight, dieting or body image? Join every Wednesday for a Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meeting at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 11519 Wilson Mills Road, Chardon. Meetings are open all. There are no dues, fees or weigh-ins.

For more information, visit www.foodaddicts.org.

Geauga Park District

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

What’s In The Sky Tonight?

Sign up for a sign up for an upcoming monthly installment of The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show with “Astro-Nat” Chris Mentrek at Observatory Park in Montville Township. Using the planetarium dome in the Robert McCullough Science Center as his stage, Mentrek will guide guests through the current night sky and preview things to watch for in the coming month.

Registration is currently open for 45-minute shows on Sundays, Feb. 26 and March 26, both either 2 or 3 p.m.

Scout Days

Dress for the weather and explore Geauga parks to earn scouting credit during programs hosted by naturalist Karie Wheaton.

High School Scout Snowshoe for scouts in grades 9-12 will be held on Feb. 25 from 2:30-4 p.m. at The West Woods. Discover a new way to enjoy the winter season by learning the basic use of snowshoes, which may meet some requirements for Girl Scouts’ Snow Adventure or Boy Scouts’ Snow Sports badges.

Cadette Girl Scouts will meet on March 4

from 9-11 a.m. at Swine Creek Reservation to cover some of the requirements for the Trees Legacy Badge.”

On March 4 from 12-2 p.m., Wolf Scouts will work on the requirements for Call of the Wild Adventure at Swine Creek Reservation.

How Sweet It Is

March 5, 12 and 19, 12-4 p.m.

The park district’s annual Sap’s-a-Risin’ celebration returns to Swine Creek Reservation in Middlefield.

Festivities include sap-gathering in the sugarbush with a horse-drawn sap sled, sugar house tours with sample tastes of fresh syrup and historical stations with costumed interpreters displaying and demonstrating maple sugaring methods from prehistoric to modern day. Plus, visit Swine Creek Lodge, which opened last year, to warm up with free maple treats and live music featuring Mr. Haney String Band on March 5, Oak Island Skunk Jumpers on March 12 and The Real Deal String Band on March 19.

Swine Creek Reservation is a featured stop on two drive-it-yourself tours on March 5 and 12: the Ohio Maple Producers’ Maple Madness Tour and the local Northeast Ohio Maple Tour. Tour maps with complete lists of participating sugar houses are available at ohiomaple.org and mpneoh.com.

The Maple Leaf Community Bulletin Board is a public service of the Geauga County Maple Leaf. Notices of nonprofit organizations, schools, and churches will be published without charge. The Maple Leaf cannot guarantee publication, and reserves the right to edit, condense, cancel, or refuse any notice at any time. E-mail submissions to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com

St. Mary’s Fish Fry

Fridays in Lent, 4:30-7 p.m.

St. Mary Catholic Church, 401 North St., Chardon, will host its annual fish fry Fridays in Lent, Feb. 24 through March 31.

Pricing for dine-in guests is $17 for adults, $8 for children 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Carryout pricing is $15 for adults and $7 for children 6-12. Children 5 and under choose two items free.

All proceeds benefit St. Mary School’s Adopt-a-Student scholarship.

For more information, call Mike Boehnlein at 440-286-8879.

Free Community Dinner

Feb. 24, 5-6:30 p.m.

Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting a chili dinner along with cake at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.

Spaghetti Fundraiser

Feb. 26, 12-2 p.m.

First Seventh-Day Adventist Community Church is hosting a spaghetti fundraising event for the Chesterland Champion’s Pathfinder group attend an international campout. Lunch will be served from noon to 2 p.m. and dinner from 4-7 p.m.

Cost is $20 for adults and $16 for children 13 and under. Eat in or take out.

The church is located at 7480 Mayfield Road, Chester Township.

Have A Heart Spay/Neuter

Valley Save-A-Pet will open its 2023 Have A Heart low cost spay/neuter program on March 1. The program offers cat and dog sterilizations at a discounted rate to pet owners.

Call 440-232-2287 any Monday, Wednesday or the first Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for information and to apply for a spay/neuter certificate. Feral cat caregivers are also encouraged to call.

To learn more about the organization, programs and events, visit www.valleysaveapet.org.

Master Gardeners

Offer Free Class

March 4, 9 a.m. to noon

Geauga County Master Gardeners volunteers Chris Pappas and Matt Valencic will present “Birds, Butterflies, and Pollinators” at the Geauga County Extension Office, Patterson Center, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton. Advance registration is appreciated for the free class by calling 440-834-4656; walk-ins are welcome.

Montville Chili Cook-Off

March 4, 5-7 p.m.

Montville Firefighters’ Association will host a chili cook-off at the Montville Community Center. To enter, leave message at 440-968-3779 or email mrsb53@hotmail. com before Feb. 28. There is no fee to enter. A sample of each entry, crackers, beverage and dessert is $10.

St. Patrick’s Day Party

March 11, 5-7:30 p.m.

Geauga Democratic Party will host a St. Patrick’s Day corned beef dinner at the party headquarters located at 12420 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township. Cost is $24. Seating is limited; take-out is available.

For more information, make reservations and prepay by March 8, visit www. geaugadems.com or call 440-218-2747.

GOP Lincoln Day Dinner

March 11, 5:30 p.m.

The Geauga County Republican Party’s annual Lincoln Day dinner will be held at The Tanglewood Club, 8745 Tanglewood Trail, Bainbridge Township. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.

Keynote speaker will be newly elected Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou. Cost is $75 per person; VIP tickets are $125.

Visit www.GeaugaGOP.com/events to RSVP by Feb. 28. No walk-ins will be admitted.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities and program ads, call 440-2539677 or email info@geaugagop.com.

American Legion Fundraiser and Gun Raffle

April 22

Burton American Legion Atwood-Mauch Post 459 is hosting two fundraisers and gun raffles on the same day at the post located at 14052 Goodwin Ave., Burton. All proceeds benefit the post to add a wheelchair accessible ramp entrance and ADA compliant upstairs bathroom.

An Amish barbecue luncheon and bluegrass band concert featuring The Country Strings will be held from 2-6 p.m. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Lunch ticket is $25.

Then, from 6-9 p.m., attend a World War II U.S.O. big band dinner dance featuring dinner by Mangia Mangia and music by Dan Zola Orchestra. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner ticket is $35. Event also features a silent auction and photo booth.

All day there will be basket and 50/50 raffles, four gun raffles and games.

For tickets, call James at 440-477-2956 or Jim at 440-478-2459.

Legal Notices

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate

General Code, Sec. 11661

Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26

Case No. 21-F-000652

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN ADMINISTRATOR, EXECUTOR OR FIDUCIARY, UNKNOWN HEIRS, NEXT OF KIN, UNKNOWN SPOUSES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES D. STONEMAN, DECEASED, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an 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 16th day of March, 2023, 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 30th day of March, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Chardon to wit:

Situated in the Township of Chardon, County of Geauga and State of Ohio:

Being part of Lot No. 27, Tract No. 2, within the said township, and described as follows:

Beginning in the center line of Ravenna Road at a point which is South 21 deg. 22’ East along said center line 307.88 feet from its intersection with the center line of Woodin Road; Thence North 69 deg. 45’ East through an iron pipe 25.0 feet from said place of beginning a total distance of 288.3 feet to an iron pipe; Thence South 14 deg. 08’ East 160.89 feet to an iron pipe; Thence South 69 deg. 45’ West 268.04 feet to the center line of Ravenna Road; and through an iron pipe 30.0 feet therefrom; Thence North 21 deg. 22’ West along said road center line 160.0 feet to the place of beginning, containing 1.021 acres, as surveyed in October, 1958, by T.R. Root, be the same more of less, but subject to all legal highways.

Said Premises Located at: 9895 RAVENNA ROAD, CHARDON TOWNSHIP, OH.

Permanent Parcel Number: 06-050150

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be CASH or CERTIFIED CHECK, payable to the Geauga County Sheriff.

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 ($225,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($150,000.00). 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 Austin R. Decker, attorney Feb16-23Mar2, 2023

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26

Case No. 22-F-000141

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK, Plaintiff vs. SAMIRA SALIM, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an 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 16th day of March, 2023, 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 30th day of March, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Chester to wit:

A copy of the complete legal description can be found in the Geauga County Recorder’s Office, 231 Main Street, Suite 1-C, Chardon, Ohio 44024, OR Volume 2043, Page 1431

SHORT LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 9 TR 3

Said Premises Located at: 13295 SPERRY ROAD, CHESTER TOWNSHIP, OH.

Permanent Parcel Number: 11-330550

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be CASH or CERTIFIED CHECK, payable to the Geauga County Sheriff.

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 ($395,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($263,334.00). 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 Maureen Zink Delaney, attorney Feb16-23Mar2, 2023

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661

Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26

Case No. 22-F-000546

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: THIRD FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION OF CLEVELAND, Plaintiff vs. PATRICIA A. PFEIFFER, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an 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 16th day of March, 2023, 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 30th day of March, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Chardon to wit:

A copy of the complete legal description can be found in the Geauga County Recorder’s Office, 231 Main Street, Suite 1-C, Chardon, Ohio 44024, OR Volume 1744, Page 1191

SHORT LEGAL DESCRIPTION: S/L 27^

BERKSHIRE HEIGHTS ESTATES #2

Said Premises Located at: 11025 HENNING

DRIVE, CHARDON TOWNSHIP, OH.

Permanent Parcel Number: 03-017600

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $5,000.00. Said deposit shall be CASH or CERTIFIED CHECK, payable to the Geauga County Sheriff.

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 ($200,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($133,334.00). 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 Maureen Zink Delaney, attorney Feb16-23Mar2, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA County Foreclosure Auction

Case# 22-F-000361 – U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION vs JEFFREY SLATER, et al.

The description of the property to be sold is as follows:

Property Address: 137 FERRIS AVE, CHARDON, GEAUGA, Ohio, 44024;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 10-004500

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 3/7/2023 at 10:00 AM for a minimum of 7 days.

Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time.

Provisional Sale date: 3/21/2023 at 10:00

AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 22F000361 into the search bar.

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Case No. 22-F-000728 – First National Bank of Pennsylvania vs. The Estate of Margaret E. Wrightsman, et al.

Defendants Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Legatees, Assignees, Executors, Administrators and/or Assigns of Margaret E. Wrightsman, whose last known address is 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064; and Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Legatees, Assignees, Executors, Administrators and/or Assigns of Willie Wrightsman, whose last known address is 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064 will take notice that on December 15, 2022 First National Bank of Pennsylvania filed a Complaint alleging that Margaret E. Wrightsman breached a promissory note and mortgage to Plaintiff First National Bank of Pennsylvania and is in default under the terms of the note and mortgage for the property described as follows:

Property Address: 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064

Permanent Parcel Number: 20-068600

The above named defendants are hereby notified that they are required to answer the Complaint within 28 days after last publication, which shall be published once a week for three consecutive weeks.

The name and address of the court is: Geauga County Common Pleas Court, 100 Short Court Street, #300, Chardon, OH 44024. By

Attorney for Plaintiff First National Bank of Pennsylvania, 127 Public Square, Suite 2825, Cleveland, OH 44114; 855-544-4500. Feb9-16-23, 2023

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Notice is hereby given that the Annual Financial report for Newbury Township , Geauga County, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, is completed and is available for public inspection in the Township’s Administrative office located at 14899 Auburn Road, Newbury, Ohio 44065. Please call 440564-5997 to view a copy of the report. A copy of the report can also be provided upon request.

Beverly Sustar, Fiscal Officer Feb23, 2023

In the Matter of Foreclosure of Liens and Forfeiture of Property for Delinquent Land Taxes by Action in Rem. Christopher P. Hitchcock, Treasurer of Geauga County, Ohio vs. Parcels of Land Encumbered with Delinquent Tax Liens. 23-F-000058

Stephen J. Crawford,

Crawford Law LLC, Attorney for Plaintiff First National Bank of Pennsylvania, 127 Public Square, Suite 2825, Cleveland, OH 44114; 855-544-4500. Feb9-16-23, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA County Foreclosure Auction

Case# 22-F-000361 – U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION vs JEFFREY SLATER, et al.

The description of the property to be sold is as follows:

Property Address: 137 FERRIS AVE, CHARDON, GEAUGA, Ohio, 44024; Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 10-004500

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 3/7/2023 at 10:00 AM for a minimum of 7 days.

Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time.

Provisional Sale date: 3/21/2023 at 10:00

AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 22F000361 into the search bar.

FEB9-16-23, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Case No. 22-F-000728 – First National Bank of Pennsylvania vs. The Estate of Margaret E. Wrightsman, et al.

Defendants Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Legatees, Assignees, Executors, Administrators and/or Assigns of Margaret E. Wrightsman, whose last known address is 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064; and Unknown Heirs, Devisees, Legatees, Assignees, Executors, Administrators and/or Assigns of Willie Wrightsman, whose last known address is 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064 will take notice that on December 15, 2022 First National Bank of Pennsylvania filed a Complaint alleging that Margaret E. Wrightsman breached a promissory note and mortgage to Plaintiff First National Bank of Pennsylvania and is in default under the terms of the note and mortgage for the property described as follows:

Property Address: 15991 Hart Road, Montville, OH 44064

Permanent Parcel Number: 20-068600

The above named defendants are hereby notified that they are required to answer the Complaint within 28 days after last publication, which shall be published once a week for three consecutive weeks.

The name and address of the court is: Geauga County Common Pleas Court, 100 Short Court Street, #300, Chardon, OH 44024.

By Stephen J. Crawford, Crawford Law

LLC,

COMMON PLEAS COURT OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Notice of foreclosure of liens and forfeiture of property for delinquent land taxes, by action in rem by Treasurer of Geauga County, Ohio.

Public Notice is hereby given that on the 24th day of January, 2023, the Treasurer of Geauga County, Ohio, filed a Complaint in the Common Pleas Court of Geauga County, Ohio, at Chardon, for the foreclosure of liens and forfeiture of property for delinquent taxes, assessments, charges, penalties, and interest against certain real property situated in such county, as described in that Complaint in case number 23-F-000058.

The object of the action is to obtain from the court a judgment foreclosing the tax liens against such real estate, forfeiting the property to the state, and ordering the sale of such real estate for the satisfaction of the tax liens on it.

Such action is brought against the real property only and no personal judgment shall be entered in it. However, if, pursuant to the action, the property is sold for an amount that is less than the amount of the delinquent taxes, assessments, charges, penalties, and interest against it, the Court, in a separate order, may enter a deficiency judgment against the owner of record of a parcel for the amount of the difference; if that owner of record is a corporation, the Court may enter the deficiency judgment against the stockholder holding the majority of the corporation’s stock.

The permanent parcel number of each parcel included in such action; the full street address of the parcel, if available; notice of where a complete legal description of the parcel can be obtained; a statement of the amount of the taxes, assessments, charges, penalties, and interest due and unpaid on the parcel; the name and address of the last known owner of the parcel as they appear on the general tax list; and the names and addresses of each lienholder and other person with an interest in the parcel identified in a statutorily required title search relating to the parcel; all as more fully set forth in the Complaint, are as follows:

The last known owner for all of the following parcels is Mary A. Briggs, P.O. Box 910, Lot 1081 Columbus, Ohio 43216:

1. PPN 02-000200: V/L Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $113.13; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1081.

2. PPN 02-000300: V/L Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $113.13; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1079.

3. PPN 02-159200: V/L Findlay St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $314.74; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1445, Page 795.

4. PPNs 02-159400 and 02-159500: V/L Findlay St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023;

amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcels is $314.74 and $314.74, respectively; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1445, Page 795.

5. PPN 02-183100: V/L Findlay St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $314.74; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1083.

6. PPN 02-183200: V/L Findlay St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $314.74; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1085.

7. PPN 02-183300: V/L Findlay St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $314.74; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1089.

8. PPN 02-288700: V/L Huron St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $531.57; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1852, Page 2329.

9. PPN 02-288800: V/L Huron St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $531.57; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1852, Page 2327.

10. PPN 02-419526: V/L Kent St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $113.13; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1852, Page 2325.

11. PPN 02-419527: V/L Kent St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $113.13; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1852, Page 2323.

12. PPNs 02-289800, 02-289900 and 02290000: V/L Geneva St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcels is $531.57, $531.57, and $531.57, respectively; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1445, Page 801.

13. PPNs 02-368900, 02-369000 and 02-369100: V/L Geneva St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcels is $531.57, $531.57, and $531.57, respectively; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1445, Page 798.

14. PPN 02-306800: V/L Akron St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $531.57; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1091.

15. PPN 02-306900: V/L Akron St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $531.57; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1093.

16. PPN 02-307000: V/L Akron St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $531.57; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1087.

17. PPN 02-420358: V/L Country Lane Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $215.09; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2096.

18. PPN 14-024600: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $91.37; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga

County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2473.

19. PPN 14-028300: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $369.93; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2479.

20. PPN 14-044600: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2493.

21. PPN 14-083800: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2489.

22. PPN 14-017800: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2487.

23. PPN 14-017900: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2485.

24. PPN 14-046100: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2483.

25. PPN 14-046200: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2481.

26. PPN 14-044500: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2477.

27. PPN 14-067700: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2475.

28. PPN 14-083900: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2471.

29. PPN 14-084000: V/L Cornelia Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1749, Page 2469.

30. PPN 14-041100: V/L Goredon Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $326.58; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1095.

31. PPN 14-072800: V/L Goredon Dr., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $326.58; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1397, Page 1077.

32. PPN 23-338000: V/L Idlewood Dr., Newbury, OH 44065; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $386.71; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1268, Page 483.

33. PPN 14-084400: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal

description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2108.

34. PPN 14-084300: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2106.

35. PPN 14-070600: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2104.

36. PPN 14-070700: V/L Aquilla Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2102.

37. PPN 14-043400: V/L Cuyahoga Blvd., Chardon, Ohio 44024; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $43.46; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2100.

38. PPN 23-204100: V/L Main St., Newbury, Ohio 44065; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $621.83; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1852, Page 2321.

39. PPN 23-385525: V/L Main St., Newbury, Ohio 44065; amount of taxes, assessments, charges, penalties and interest due and unpaid on the parcel is $370.19; legal description can be obtained from the Geauga County Recorder in the deed recorded at Vol. 1777, Page 2110.

Any person owning or claiming any right, title, or interest in, or lien upon, any parcel of real property above listed may file an answer in such action setting forth the nature and amount of interest owned or claimed and any defense or objection to the foreclosure and forfeiture. Such answer shall be filed in the office of the undersigned clerk of court, and a copy of the answer shall be served on the prosecuting attorney, on or before the 30th day of March, 2023 (twenty-eight days after the date of final publication of this notice).

If no answer is filed with respect to a parcel listed in the complaint, on or before the date specified as the last day for filing an answer, a judgment of foreclosure and forfeiture will be taken by default as to that parcel. Any parcel as to which a foreclosure and forfeiture is taken by default shall be sold for the satisfaction of the taxes, assessments, charges, penalties, and interest, and the costs incurred in the foreclosure and forfeiture proceeding, which are due and unpaid.

At any time prior to the filing of an entry of confirmation of sale, any owner or lienholder of, or other person with an interest in, a parcel listed in the complaint may redeem the parcel by tendering to the treasurer the amount of the taxes, assessments, charges, penalties, and interest due and unpaid on the parcel, together with all costs incurred in the proceeding instituted against the parcel under section 5721.14 of the Revised Code. Upon the filing of any entry of confirmation of sale, there shall be no further equity of redemption. After the filing of any such entry, any person claiming any right, title, or interest in, or lien upon, any parcel shall be forever barred and foreclosed of any such right, title, or interest in, lien upon, and any equity of redemption in, such parcel.

Sheila M. Bevington, Clerk of Courts Court of Common Pleas

Geauga County, OH Feb16-23 Mar2, 2023

BIDS FOR ROAD MATERIALS

Russell Township

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Russell Township Board of Trustees (“Board”) at the office of the undersigned until 11:00 am, March 24, 2023, for furnishing township road material. Quantities given are approximate, and the Board retains the option of ordering larger

or lesser quantities at bid prices as required. Detailed specifications and a bid blank may be obtained digitally online at http://russelltownship.us/departments/administration/ fiscal-office under Legal Notices 2023 or a hardcopy is available at the Russell Township Fiscal Office, 8501 Kinsman Road, Novelty, OH 44072.

FOR PICKUP AT SUPPLIERS:

HOT MIX - No. 448-Type 1 6422 - 800 Tons; HOT MIX - No. 448-Type 2 6422 - 100 Tons. Bidders are required to note on the envelope “SEALED BIDS FOR ROAD MATERIALS”. Proposals for the above shall not be combined with any other bid(s). Bidders may elect to bid on all items listed or on any portion thereof; however, the Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to accept a primary and an alternate supplier or suppliers, and to waive any irregularities. A bid bond or certified check in the amount of five hundred dollars ($500) must accompany any proposal for the above items only. Proposals must be valid for 30 days. Bid received will be publicly opened and read aloud at 11:05 am on March 24, 2023, at the Russell Township Administration Building.

A copy of this legal notice is posted on Township’s internet site on the World Wide Web. Go to http://russelltownship.us/departments/administration/fiscal-office and click on link under Legal Notices 2023.

Karen Walder, Fiscal Officer Feb23, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE

Claridon and Hambden Township

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Claridon Township Board of Trustees, c/o Paula Hietanen, Fiscal Officer, at P.O. Box 66, East Claridon, OH 44033 until 10:00 AM official local time on March 10, 2023, for The Shoulder Widening and Asphalt Resurfacing of Sections B-C of Taylor Wells Road, TR-0113. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 10:15 AM at the Claridon Township Administration Building, 13932 Mayfield Road, East Claridon, OH 44033. The estimated construction cost for this project is $1,350,000.00.

Copies of the plans and/or specifications may be obtained digitally online at https://www. geaugacountyengineer.org/projects-bids/online-plans-and-specifications/ or a hardcopy is available at the Geauga County Engineer’s Office, 12665 Merritt Road, Chardon, Ohio 44024.

A copy of this legal notice is posted on the County’s website. Go to https://www.geaugacountyengineer.org/projects-bids/legal-notices/ and click on the project name to view this legal.

A bid guaranty in the amount of one hundred (100%) percent of the bid amount or a certified check, cashier’s check, or letter of credit pursuant to Chapter 1305 of the Ohio Revised Code in the amount of ten (10%) percent of the total bid amount shall accompany each bid. The bid shall be let upon a unit price basis.

All contractors and subcontractors involved with the project will, to the extent practicable, use Ohio products, materials, services, and labor in the implementation of their project. Bidders must comply with the prevailing wage rates on Public Improvements as determined by the Ohio Department of Commerce.

Bids may be held by the Claridon Township Board of Trustees for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days from the date of opening, for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the qualifications of bidders, prior to awarding the contract.

The Claridon Township Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids received, and to accept any bid or bids which are deemed most favorable to the Board at the time and under conditions stipulated, all in accord with the applicable provisions of laws of the State of Ohio governing the conduct of the Claridon Township Board of Trustees.

BY THE ORDER OF THE CLARIDON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Paula Hietanen, Fiscal Officer Feb23, 2023

Geauga County Sheriff’s Report

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Feb. 10-16, 2023.

AGENCY ASSIST

Feb. 14

5:11 p.m., Quail Ridge, Bentleyville. Two white males left on foot, ran out of the house toward the access road that comes out on South Franklin Street. White sweatshirt, bandanas, ski masks and baseball hats. Males were armed with guns. Burglary. Bainbridge PD advised. Chagrin Valley Dispatch requests a K-9. Officers held perimeter at South Franklin and River Road at request of Bentleyville PD for an active burglary. No other assistance needed or actions taken my officers.

ANIMAL ABUSE

Feb. 12

6:45 p.m., Old State Road, Hambden. Caller advised he can no longer take the animal abuse going on at farm. Caller states cows have been screaming for three days because they are so hungry. They have no food or water and advised the pigs are so hungry they are literally eating each other. Caller states they have been reported multiple times and nothing is done. Deputies checked the location and did not hear any animals in distress. Property owner responded to location and provided access to the barn. Deputies observed numerous cows and pigs that appeared to be healthy. Deputy observed feed for both animals inside the barn. Deputy spoke with Geauga Humane Society and they are familiar with the location and have been working with

owner to make sure animals are being taken care of. No signs of animal abuse or neglect.

ANIMAL PROBLEM

Feb. 16

3:25 p.m., Hermitage Road, Chardon. Horse stuck in the mud up to his chest. Mountain Glen Stables. He is in the swamp by pasture area. Horse has been stuck for at least an hour; horse is in distress. Horse has been removed from the mud, no need for assistance.

CITIZEN ASSIST

Feb. 15

7:05 a.m., Merritt Road, Munson. Needs to speak to a deputy regarding a letter an inmate is sending her daughter. Related to a reported incident. Letter entered into evidence under that case.

2:43 p.m., Merritt Road, Munson. Male arrived at GCSO to report his cell phones and electronics are being hacked in his house. He stated he used meth yesterday and he believes his paranoia is stemming from the meth. He wanted this documented.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Feb. 16

11:34 a.m., Kinsman Road, Burton. Caller advised male assaulted female with a glass bottle to her face. Face is cut and swelling. Male left the house. Caller does not want female to know she called. One male arrested for DV. Report taken. JFS notified. Female responded to the lobby to see the male. Advocate on scene with female. Charges completed.

FIRE

Feb. 10

9:42 a.m., Old State Road, Hambden. Landscaper’s mulch pile just “blew up” and caught fire. Pile is a couple hundred feet from a structure. Will respond if needed.

FRAUD

Feb. 14

2:11 p.m., Stoney Springs Drive, Claridon. Caller received a phone call stating her son was in a vehicle accident and an attorney would be calling her so she could get her son out of jail. Another male got on the phone and acted as her son. Caller asked the male claiming to be her son a family question he would not answer. Call disconnected.

Feb. 16

9:46 a.m., Center Street, Chardon. Male attempting to cash fraudulent check, considered armed and dangerous. Black Escalade northbound on 44. UTL subjects, left area prior to arrival.

HARASSMENT

Feb. 12

8:43 a.m., Kinsman Road, Middlefield. Male states a female continues to harass caller. States the female has photos of his juvenile kids. Believes she hacked his phones. Female apparently took screenshots of caller’s photos and videos and sent them to his fiancé. Male does not know the female’s last name. States that deputy has advised the female not to contact him in the past. Also states the photos are of his “private parts.” Complainant stated female has been sending his fiancé text

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Feb. 10, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AQUILLA VILLAGE

Susan Weibley, Turner Drive, to Teresa A. Keller Casto (TOD), $62,500. (0.26 acres)

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

Richard James Jr. and Nora S. Boland, 220 Heather Hill, to Robin Lee Cubberley, $349,000. (0.00 acres)

John G. Walker, 106 Signal Hill, to Joanne and Marisa Ann Mandato, $333,000. (0.00 acres)

John D. and Dorothy M. Szoka, 17720 Ravenna Road, to T & B Development LLC, $190,000. (0.68 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Richard J. and Collette M. Sheely, 9540 Nighthawk Drive, to Scott J. and Renee E. Milinovich, $680,000. (5.02 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Daniel S. Nar, 12052 Parker Drive, to LKF Homes LLC, $102,398. (1.35 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

Joseph and Patricia A. Pleichner, Penniman Drive (s/l 18), to Thomas P. Bacon, $125,000. (3.28 acres)

Van Boxel Rentals LLC, 9760 Old State Road, to Jason Van Boxel, $124,500. (3.03 acres)

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

Myron L. Watts (TOD), 17130 Huntley Road, to Marlin M. and Malinda R. Yoder, $88,000. (22.78 acres)

Diane Baumgartner and Charles Wright, 11739 Clay St., to Charles Wright, $30,000. (7.00 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Jeffrey A. and Bethany L. Drebus, 15103 Timber Ridge, to Jacqueline C. Filby, $305,000. (0.21 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Beth J. Williams, 13064 Ravenna Road, to Marci L. Leeper, $233,000. (1.55 acres)

John J. II and Holly McCreery, 12695 Klatka Drive, to Peter J. Formica, $218,000. (1.50 acres)

Robert and Eric Reynolds, 10794 Mayfield Road, to Vanz Industries LLC, $70,300. (0.26 acres)

NEWBURY TOWNSHIP

David Paul Saunders, 15376 Munn Road, to Douglas Ule, $180,000. (2.33 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

William C. Jr. and Cynthia P. Hatch, 15370 Russell Road, to Nancy H. and Ivan S. Zenovic (trustees), $885,000. (5.37 acres)

SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE

Donna Kelce and Donald Blalock Jr., 111 Hazelwood Drive, to Donald Blalock Jr. and Joan Bender Rice, $94,300. (0.30 acres)

TROY TOWNSHIP

Daniel W. and Nora Mae Hershberger,

messages and photos. Complainant was advised to have his fiancé block number as well.

Feb. 14

5:46 p.m., Gingerich Road, Burton. Caller states male continues to call the phone even after they’ve asked him to stop calling. He is becoming vulgar and using profanities. Deputy advised. Male lives in North Carolina. Sergeant spoke with male and recorded the conversation. Male advised to have no further contact with caller, her husband or the home, or he may be charged. Male stated he understood and would not call again.

PURSUIT

Feb. 11

11:52 p.m., Taylor Wells Road, Claridon. Deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a vehicle for a speeding violation. Vehicle attempted to flee from the deputy and was located after a short pursuit. Male was the operator and was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He refused SFSTs and breath test. He was arrested and transported to the jail and booked for multiple traffic violations.

WARRANT SERVICE

Feb. 15

2:34 a.m., Bundysburg Road, Huntsburg. Male drive into a pond, being checked out by squad. Jail advised they will still take him. ACSO advised male may have thrown something out of the car window. They are looking for that as well as waiting for tow. Male picked up from ACSO and transported to jail.

17760 Jug St., to Nathan D. and Marcia Hershberger, $230,000. (3.15 acres)

FOR RENT

Room for Let, $600, Russell. Call for details 440-3385201.

Auburn Twp: Studio Apt. No Smoking. No Pets. Heat, trash, lawn, snow-removal included. Quiet Country Setting, Kenston Schools. $750/Month. 440-336-3537.

EVENTS

An Al-Anon meeting is held at 10:15am Wednesdays at St. Martin’s Church, 6295 River Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH.

FOR SALE

NEW Panasonic cordless phone, still in box, 2 additional handsets, can expand. White w/blue trim. 440-2239471. Also Wanted: Level/Transit.

Industrial Sewing Machine: with table, Kwonglam model KL-303, excellent condition, heavy duty machine, can handle canvas, jeans, leather; $1,200. 440-834-8943. Couch w/matching love seat. Old table. Bench. Cedar chest. Cabinet. Wall plate rack. Window mirror. 440632-9675.

Kayak: Pungo140/14ft, like new $500. Windsor roadbike $500. Horse-drawn sleigh $500. Western saddle $500. Honda push-mower $300. (8)Fishing poles $200/for all. 845-987-0079.

FREE storm windows with metal frames: (8) 56.5” x48.5”. (4) 59” x48”. FREE ping-pong table 54” x120”. 440-488-2851.

Antique clocks, many. Oak crank wall-phone $369. Humpback chest $79. Wooden rocking horse $79. Kids spring rocking horse $49. 440-338-3563.

ALPACA FIBER for hand-spinners, crafters. Natural colors. Grades 3-5, mixed. Huacaya. 1.5” to 3” staple. Call/ Text 216-403-2312 for price.

Four Tires For Sale: Two LT225/65R17. Two LT245/75R16. Good tread, like new. Cash Only, $60/ each. 440-554-5731.

REAL ESTATE

We buy Houses and Land. Any condition or situation. Fast, friendly, local. Westwind Property Solutions. Text/ call Wayne today at 330-269-9595.

SERVICES

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

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440813-4272. No answer, leave message.

WANTED TO BUY

4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

Will pay cash for sports cards & collectibles. Entire collections or individual cards. Organized or unorganized. Call or text Rich at 440-552-0691.

Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440313-8331.

HELP WANTED

Veterinary Assistant Position available at West Geauga Veterinary Hospital. 440-729-9584. Full or part-time experience helpful, but not required.

Full-time and part-time positions available for infant/ toddler preschool and school-age teacher. Experience preferred, but not required. Call Audrey 440-729-8255.

GEAUGA MAPLE LEAF 440-729-7667

20 words for $12

Deadline: Friday at Noon

PETS & ANIMALS

Lilly: 9-10yo lap cat, spayed, vaxxed, feleuk/FIV negative. She loves to cuddle! But she doesn’t like other cats. Rebecca 440-321-2485.

Puppy for sale. AKC Brittany Spaniel female. Vet checked & shots. $100. 440-321-8152.

Puppies for sale: Elkhound mix, very cute and playful! Shots and wormed. 9 weeks old. $50 each. 440-5482484.