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Proud Boys Announce Plans to Disrupt Chester Drag Storytime Plans for Brunch in Chardon Unknown; Law Enforcement Ready

By John Karlovec john@karlovecmedia.com The Proud Boys, a far-right extremist group, apparently announced they will be gathering at a drag queen story time event in Chester Township April 1.

The Drag Brunch & Story Hour is scheduled to be held at two Geauga County locations. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., a drag brunch is taking place at Element 41, a Chardon Square restaurant, with a drag show slated for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event is sold out, including a second drag brunch from 2-4 p.m.

The brunch is a fundraiser, sponsored by the Community Church of Chesterland to raise money for its safe space program and to fund programming for PRIDE. At 4 p.m., the church is hosting a drag story hour at its Chester location, 11984 Caves Road. Ohio performers Empress Dupree, Ava Aurora Foxx, Monica Mod and Veranda L’Ni will be reading chil-

State Rep., Senator Witness Salt Contamination CHURCH FACEBOOK PAGE

The Community Church of Chesterland suffered acts of vandalism on March 25 after receiving threats since announcing an April 1 Drag Brunch at Element 41 in Chardon and Drag Story Hour that evening at the church

dren’s stories at the event.

At this point, The Proud Boys only announced a rally at the Chester event.

The church — which came under

fire on social media and received threats after it announced the story hour event — was vandalized last weekend by what church officials See Drag • Page 4

page 4

Opinion page 10

Obituaries pages 18-19

Sports pages 20-21

Coroner Releases Cause Of Death for Missing Woman

By John Karlovec john@karlovecmedia.com Susan G. Taylor, 76, whose body was found last week in a wooded area near her property in Thompson Township, is believed to have died from a combination of natural and accidental factors, according to Geau- Taylor ga County Coroner John Urbancic.

Taylor, who was reported missing March 17 and was found March 22, had become ill over the past See Coroner • Page 5

Adams: Schools Can and Should Plan for Traumatic Events Former MH Director’s Expertise Helps Districts Prevent, Intervene and Recover from Shootings

By Amy Patterson

start on page 24

Classifieds start on page 27

INSIDE

amy@karlovecmedia.com

Many of us have become used to the phone alerts or Twitter trends alerting of yet another school shooting. For most, news of such an event brings a moment of sadness, despair, or even gratitude that no one in the family is involved.

But for Jim Adams, former executive director of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services, the Feb. 13 shooting at Michigan State University brought a new level of terror when he found himself in the harrowing position of using his expertise to help his own daughter as she was barricaded in a darkened classroom with 14 other students.

Adams is the author of the 2021 manual, “Preventing, Intervening, See Shootings • Page 6

Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices

Single Edition $1.00

SUBMITTED

A memorial at Michigan State University honors three students killed in a Feb. 13, 2023, shooting.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Thursday, March 30, 2023

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Community Meetings Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted.

Geauga County: April 3, 6 p.m., Airport Authority, Hangar 3 Pilot Lounge at 15421 Old State Road, Middlefield; April 4, 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: April 3, 7:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Burton Township: April 3, 7:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Administration building, 14821 Rapids Road, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon Township: April 3, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; April 5, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees.

All meetings are held at Township Hall, 9949 Mentor Road, unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: April 5, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; April 6, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Claridon Township: April 3, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees. 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: April 3, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission; April 5, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.

Huntsburg Township: April 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Montville Township: April 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Road, unless noted.

Newbury Township: April 5, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, unless noted.

Parkman Township: April 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: April 3, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; April 6, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Russell

Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Thompson Township: April 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees, at Thompson Branch of Geauga Public Library, 6645 Madison Road.

Troy Township: April 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 6, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Troy Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, unless noted.

Kenston BOE: April 4, 6 p.m., work session. All meetings held at Auburn Bainbridge Room at Kenston High School, 9500 Bainbridge Road, Bainbridge.

West Geauga BOE: April 6, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

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•Copyright © 2023 Geauga County Maple Leaf LLC. All rights reserved. Material published in Geauga County Maple Leaf is prepared at substantial expense and is for the sole and exclusive use of the subscriber. It may not be republished, resold, recorded or reused in any manner, in whole or part, without the publisher’s written consent. Any infringement will be subject to legal redress.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Parkman Township

State Rep., Senator Witness Salt Contamination

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

Nearly two dozen Parkman Township wells contaminated by the Ohio Department of Transportation salt depot on Tavern Road have attracted the Ohio Statehouse’s attention.

Ohio House Rep. Steven Demetriou (R35) and Ohio Sen. Vernon Sykes (D-28) visited with township trustees Joyce Peters and Henry Duchscherer, as well as some county officials March 17 and viewed the damage done by decades of salt shed run-off at the home of Mike Derifield.

“Mike took them to the salt dome and got permission from (a neighbor) to look at the run-off,” Duchscherer said in a phone inter-

Drag

from page 1 described as a Molotov Cocktail, according to its Facebook post.

“I was asked to hold off posting about the damage done to @chesterland_ucc, so I took down Saturday’s post,” Minister Jess Peacock said. “Info is out now so yeah, our sign was destroyed, outdoor light fixtures broken and Molotov cocktails thrown at the church, which houses a pre-school. So they’re obviously ‘thinking of the children.’ We were fortunate that when this hate crime occurred, it was raining, which probably prevented the fire from catching. Small mercies.”

The Chester Township Police Department released a statement that said at least one incendiary device had struck the exterior of the church, resulting in minor damage.

“No portion of the structure appeared to have ignited; however, scorching was noted on the building’s exterior,” Chief Craig Young said in a statement. “Officers also noted that one of the church signs had also been damaged. Several items of evidentiary value were located at the scene and subsequently secured for further processing. The church was unoccupied at the time of the incident and there were no injuries.”

Anyone with information concerning the incident is asked to contact the Chester Township Police Department at (440) 7291239 or (440) 729-1234.

Rumors have circulated about protests at both events involving the Proud Boys, described online as an “exclusively male North American far-right neo-fascist organization that promotes and engages in political violence in the United States.”

An apparent Proud Boys social media post reads “Rally Against Groomers” at 4 p.m. April 1 in Chesterland. It included “It’s Gonna Be Wild,” an apparent reference to Jan. 6. Former Pres. Donald Trump had called on his supporters to attend a rally on Jan. 6, 2021, promising it would “be wild!”

Law Enforcement Prepared

On Monday, City of Chardon Police Chief Scott Niehus, Young and Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand issued a joint press release as a result of inquires their departments have received from the public and media asking about the private drag events.

“We are aware that protests, demonstrations and other activities have occurred at

view March 24. The evidence was on display.

“Mike had three tables full of stuff rotted out at his house,” he said.

The informal group also visited the site of the new well on Derifield’s property, the trustee said. It had to be drilled far deeper than his old well to avoid the contamination of the 100-foot-deep aquifer.

It is one of seven wells already drilled with at least 17 more needed but, so far, unfunded.

“The representatives were very interested in doing whatever they can,” Peters said during the trustees meeting March 21, adding both said they would work together to help the residents.

“They were pretty shocked at the situation,” he said. “They are looking into possible similar events in other communities,” the release said.

“We are working collaboratively among ourselves and with other law enforcement agencies across Northeast Ohio to ensure order and safety in the community, and we will be prepared to respond to any breach of the peace if necessary,” it added.

The three declined to comment on specific security measures that are in place or are being planned, because “to do so could negatively impact our ability to protect the public during the events.”

Earlier this month, hundreds of protesters, including armed white supremacists and LGBT-community supporters gathered in Wadsworth’s Memorial Park as a group tried to put on a drag queen storytelling event for children. Protesters against the event far outnumbered supporters, according to news reports.

White supremacist and white nationalist groups, including at least one participant wearing a Proud Boys hoodie, shouted racist and homophobic slurs at onlookers and others, including “Heil Hitler,” and a man on a loudspeaker chanted “Sieg” as protesters responded, “Heil!”

Toward the end of the four-hour event, two people charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct were arrested after a series of melees involving pepper spray, the violent use of a flag pole as a weapon and a protester who unnerved witnesses when he pointed a pepper-spray gun at the crowd.

Hildenbrand said they have been working for two weeks with police department all over Northeast Ohio preparing for these events.

“Our goal is to protect the public and make sure there’s a peaceful demonstration,” he said. “If there isn’t one, we’re ready for it.”

Added Hildenbrand, “We are well prepared for any disturbance that may occur — and have people in reserve.”

The sheriff said command posts will be set up in Chardon and Chester, and numerous extra resources are coming in.

Event Organizer Asks Supporters To Donate, Stay Home

Event organizer Molly McMaster, president and CEO of The Fairmount Group, a new Chardon-based event production, marketing and communications company that produces LGBTQ and social justice events, posted on her Facebook page she was helping the church keep everyone safe at the upcoming drag events.

funding to finish the well restorations for our residents.”

Also present for the tour were Cyndi Derifield, Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder, Geauga Public Health Administrator Adam Litke, GPH Environmental Administrator Dan Lark and Geauga County Board of Health member Dr. Mark Hendrickson. ODOT was not represented on the tour.

The meeting, set up by Mike Derifield, is just the beginning of what Duchscherer said he hopes starts “momentum to get the facility moved. We are very adamant about that.”

“I will tell everyone who will listen – it should be gone now,” Duchscherer said, adding ODOT will not return his calls or take action to assist the township. ODOT chipped in to pay for the drilling of the first seven wells.

“ODOT’s bullet-proof,” Duchscherer said, adding he hopes Demetriou and Sykes are able to help get funding for future well drilling.

Sykes, who visited the Derifields’ home a few hours after the first tour, felt the need was immediate and started making contacts in the field.

“Sykes made three or four calls while he was there,” the trustee said.

He joked Parkman may never see funding for road paving again because the trustees are backing the Derifields, but the possibility that fresh water is not available for residents makes him determined to see the removal of the salt shed completed.

“We can’t gamble with Parkman’s future,” Duchscherer said.

CHURCH FACEBOOK PAGE

The Community Church of Chesterland after being damaged by Molotov cocktails over the weekend.

“We DO NOT need people on the ground to help us. What we need is money to pay for physical barriers and security guards,” she wrote, asking followers to share her link widely. “We need to raise $10,000 by April 1.”

She added, “And I’m completely serious when I say we do not need boots on the ground. Please, please, please, please, please do not make my job harder than it already is by adding to the confusion and the chaos. If you don’t have a ticket for the events and you haven’t been directly asked by an organizer to attend, I need you to stay home.”

McMaster said she hopes people take her words seriously.

“I am confident in my ability to get everyone in and out of the building safely, but I am only one person and I can’t spend all day breaking up fights between punk-ass progressive kids and Nazis with assault rifles in my back yard while my kid is 3 feet away. Give money and stay home.”

McMaster told the Geauga County Maple Leaf on Monday they are “significantly” short of their goal, but was hopeful they could meet

it by week’s end. Anyone wishing to donate can do so through: https://tithe.ly/give_new/ www/#/tithely/give-one-time/69308?widget=1.

“After what happened in Wadsworth, I don’t know what these Proud Boys are going to do,” she said. “As many security precautions as we’ve taken and as firm as I have been that’s everything’s under control, maybe The Proud Boys won’t do much, which would be wonderful, but we have no way of knowing.”

While McMaster said she isn’t aware of any planned Proud Boys rally in Chardon, she said she is aware of threats being made against Element 41.

“They did get one call from someone who said they were bringing 100 armed protesters to the restaurant,” she said, adding if the protesters are coming from out of town, she would not be surprised if they hit both events.

McMaster said she personally reached out to several local people who commented on social media they were coming out to protest.

See Protest • Page 5

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 5

Kenston Schools Names Cales As New Treasurer

By Brian Doering brian@karlovecmedia.com The Kenston Schools Board of Education was thrilled to announce March 24 the hiring of Seth S. Cales as its new treasurer.

During the special meeting, board members unanimously voted to give Cales a three-year contract beginning Aug. 1, 2023, through July 31, 2026, at an annual salary of $135,000.

“I am very excited to be cho- Cales sen as the next treasurer of Kenston Local Schools,” Cales said. “Kenston has a long tradition of academic excellence and strong extra-curricular activities that provide stu-

dents with many great opportunities. I look forward to working with the district’s faculty, staff, community members and students to continue building upon this tradition.”

Cales will serve as interim treasurer from July 10-July 31, after which he will leave his current position as treasurer of Cardinal Schools.

“We are thrilled to welcome Seth to the Bomber family,” said board President Jennifer Troutman. “His vast experience in corporate financing, forecasting, cash management and reporting dovetails with the responsibilities he will undertake as Kenston’s treasurer. Even more impressive is his eagerness to elevate his team’s

knowledge and skill set as it applies to their careers. He is passionate about mentoring his team.”

Kenston Schools contracted with Finding Leaders to conduct an executive search for the treasurer, according to the district’s press release.

“The district extends its gratitude for the outstanding services Finding Leaders provided during the search,” the district said.

Cales will enter the position having over 12 years of experience in financial analysis, modeling, forecasting, cash management, fuel/fleet management, capital allocation, project management, budgeting and financial reporting.

Cales received his Master of Business Administration degree from Texas A&M

University, holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with a concentration in economics from Kent State University and is an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

Cales will replace Ryan Pendleton, who has served as interim treasure since the departure of Paul Pestello back in January.

“The board is really looking forward to the partnership Seth will have with Mr. Sayers and their collective efforts to develop a healthy and sustainable financial future for the district,” Troutman said. “Seth is incredibly talented in financial forecasting and we are confident that he will assist in developing a financial strategy for the district that maintains our excellent educational success while being a good steward of tax dollars.”

Coroner from page 1

several weeks due to an undiagnosed blood clot, heart disease and a pulmonary embolism, which is known to cause “a lack of oxygenated blood to the brain,” Urbancic said in his report.

“A lack of oxygenated blood to the brain can cause mental confusion or a change in cognitive abilities,” he said. “While working in the woods, Susan also sustained an accidental injury which led to blood loss, further compounding her condition. Susan had walked off of her property through a wooded wetland area and was located on the far property line of a neighboring parcel of land.”

Urbancic said there was no foul play suspected at this time and the case remains under investigation.

A NEWS 5 Cleveland helicopter crew flying over Taylor’s property March 22 as part of a search party spotted Taylor’s body in a wooded area around 11:25 a.m., roughly 1,600 feet from her home.

“We found Susan in the woods deceased,” Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand said. “She was not even on her property, she was on the property behind her.”

Taylor lived in a cabin at 7454 Sidley Road, a 22.73-acre parcel she bought in August 2021.

According to a sheriff’s office incident report, Taylor’s son reported her missing at 8:36 p.m. March 17. He told the dispatcher he found a pile of wet clothes at the end of her driveway and said there is a pond on the property.

Hours earlier, Taylor had told her son she was going to clean out a culvert, the report stated. A rake was found by the culvert.

“Coals in the stove are still warm,” the report stated. “Her car is there, her phone is in the car. The house is empty.”

Protest from page 4

“I personally reached out and begged them as a neighbor . . . to reconsider because it’s not about drag anymore, it’s about our community versus Nazis and I don’t want anyone to get hurt,” she said. “I don’t want our community to be synonymous with that type of violence.”

Added McMaster, “Even if folks are upset in Geauga County, even if folks really, really don’t like drag, want to call me a groomer

SUBMITTED

More than 400 people — most dressed in hunting and outdoor gear — heeded the Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand’s call and showed up at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church to help search for Susan Taylor.

The report also stated Taylor’s purse was at the house and the gate was found locked — which it usually is not.

Hildenbrand said area law enforcement, employing K-9s and drones, and first responders began searching for Taylor, who the sheriff said did not suffer from dementia, Alzheimer’s or any other cognitive condition.

“Everyone we talked to said she was very sharp and very mobile,” he added. “She didn’t have any trouble walking, she was very intelligent, she was a nurse. They said she was sharp for her age.”

A dive team searched the pond March 18 as investigators conducted background checks, including a search of financial records. Nothing suspicious was found, the sheriff said.

A snowstorm and cold weather halted search efforts last Saturday night and Sunday.

Hildenbrand said plans were made March and all of that, I think we care enough about our county, our community and our neighbors. Folks here are not the problem. I am not scared of my community, I’m not scared of my neighbors and I’m not worried about anyone locally causing trouble.”

McMaster also said her firm has organized a “very significant and robust private security detail.”

“We are confident law enforcement agencies have public areas under control and we are taking every precaution to protect our event inside our private property,” she said.

20 to organize a community-wide search party — a first for Geauga County — to assist with searching the wildness area surrounding Taylor’s home. A call went out on the sheriff’s office Facebook page for volunteers to meet at 8 a.m. March 22 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church on Rock Creek Road. They were told to bring appropriate clothing and gear to remain self-sufficient in rough terrain for four hours.

“We wanted to do a thorough search of not only her property, but the surrounding properties, all the up to Ledge Road,” the sheriff explained.

More than 400 people — most dressed in hunting and outdoor gear — heeded the call and showed up to help search dog and drone teams, as well as first responders find Taylor.

Around 9:20 a.m., the volunteers boarded five school buses — that Berkshire Schools had donated the use of — and were transported to Sidley Road.

“We pretty much lined them (volunteers) all up along Sidley from Route 166 to al-

most Peters Road,” Hildenbrand said. “They walked from Sidley Road west to Ledge Road through the woods. We had enough people that we could do one line and walk the entire way in one shot.”

Once Taylor’s body was found, Hildenbrand said the Ohio Attorney General’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation was called out.

“The outcome is unfortunate, but at least the family has closure,” Hildenbrand said.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Shootings from page 1

and Recovering from School Shootings and Other Traumatic Events,” by Hazelden Publishing. The book — which is intended for use by schools and public institutions — includes school violence prevention recommendations, crisis response planning, and shortand long-term responses to traumatic events.

“I actually found myself telling her what they could do to be as safe as possible — right out of my own damn book and from my own previous research projects,” Adams said. “It was surreal. I was struck while all of this was happening that even with my ‘expertise’ in the area of mass school shootings, I couldn’t protect my own family member from being in the middle of a crisis.”

Throughout the day, Adams’ daughter was desperate to get a hold of one of her best friends.

She kept trying, hoping her friend’s phone had lost power while he was sheltering in place.

On Feb. 15, his daughter found out her friend was one of the three victims.

“She is devastated,” said Adams, who, himself, is no stranger to school shootings.

On the morning of Feb. 27, 2012, his sister-in-law had just dropped his niece and nephew off at Chardon High School and was trapped in the school office during a shooting, hidden under a desk and sheltering in place as she wondered whether her children were safe. That shooting claimed three lives.

“Unfortunately, we have now become a family with members involved in two different mass school shootings. Not a club I would recommend to anyone,” Adams said.

At least two students involved in the MSU shooting had been in two mass school shootings before — including one who, according to news reports, was a first-grader at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., and survived a December 2012 shooting in which 20 children and six adults were murdered.

As he jumped into the crisis response in Chardon, Adams said he was already thinking about what the community’s needs would be over the next hours, days, weeks, months and years.

“Very quickly, I started calling national contacts that I had to find help — who had done this, who should I be talking to,” Adams said. “What I found out was there was

FILE PHOTO

After the February 2012 shooting at Chardon High School in which three students were killed, former executive director of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services Jim Adams was tapped to write a manual detailing how schools and communities can plan for and overcome traumatic events.

no specific plan about how to deal with the immediate issues — the immediate recovery, the immediate trauma and crisis.”

He connected with a survivor of the 2007 mass shooting at Virginia Tech, as well as the principal of Columbine High School, where in 1999, two students shot 13 of their classmates. An interactive project from the Washington Post updated to include the MSU shooting shows more than 348,000 students have experienced gun violence at school since the Columbine shooting.

Since that event, there have been 376 school shootings, according to data gathered for the project.

“When you hear about these school shootings or even a community shooting, a lot of times people think it’s very localized, that it’s within the school or (church or) whatever,” he said. “But very quickly I realized the kids involved in Chardon also had friends and family members in other schools.”

Adams said communities are affected by these events for years after they occur.

“Probably the thing I see the most consistently in these events is that people think it’s over and done quickly,” he said. “And the impact of these events can go on for years and years and years. Especially for the survivors, but (also) for the community. Some of these schools have been torn down and rebuilt. So that is a long process and it’s a healing process for these communities.”

Expertise

As Adams continued to research shootings and other traumatic community events, his focus on the “minutes, hours, days, weeks and years” of recovery drew attention. After presenting his research, conducted in five different schools that had experienced a mass shooting, Adams presented his response model at several national conferences, which piqued the interest of Hazelden Publishing.

Research for Adams’ book was conducted through the National Institutes of Health and a grant through Duke University. It focused on interviews with community leaders, students and faculty that had direct experience with each shooting.

Adams said the manual includes planning sheets for school districts to fill out to try and preempt violent events or respond effectively if they happen.

“The manual doesn’t neces- Adams sarily say, ‘This is what you do, check it off,’ it says these are the options you have,” he said. “It is not a ‘do this and you will be safe.’ It is a ‘have you thought of this in order to be safer?’”

A heartbreaking weak point in emergency planning is the idea of a single entry point into school buildings, creating a bottleneck of students that could provide a target to someone intending to commit violence, Adams said.

Similarly, once a traumatic event happens — including an injury during an athletic event — school districts that have not planned for emergency vehicle traffic may find themselves unable to evacuate wounded students or staff.

After a mass shooting last year in Uvalde, Texas, Adams said ambulances were not able to get to the school building and some victims lay outside untreated.

“I heard the new school they’re going to build is actually going to have an access road built just for ambulances,” he said.

That event spurred an inquiry into the response of the local police force, as Adams said confusion about the chain of command caused problems at the scene.

“You saw all those law enforcement officers standing in the hallway and nobody was going into the room, nobody was making a decision to move forward and kids died probably because of that,” he said. “I do a training for crisis intervention training for police officers

and one of the things I talk to them about is command and control. Who is in charge the moment they get there?”

Additionally, Adams said school resource officers must do more than simply learn the layout of the building in case of an emergency.

The point is for SROs to build relationships with students, he said. “it’s not even just about a relationship where kids will come up and talk about somebody that might be violent. It’s relationships where kids come up to officers and talk about other kids who are depressed, or maybe suicidal, or have family problems, or may have been abused by their parents or somebody in the community,” he said. “Those interactions can be life-changing for these kids that are identified and somebody can reach out to them.”

Several states now require schools to file emergency response plans, which Adams said is a good first step.

However, such plans need to be continually revisited and updated, especially as technology changes, he said.

In his daughter’s case, Adams said while MSU did many things right, one oversight that could be addressed with newer mass-texting technology was that students were not told how to contact police or administration to tell them where they were sheltering — some for as long as four hours.

“Some people were hiding in buildings for much longer than the threat actually lasted.

This could be critical if they were hiding with a person who had been shot and was injured, but receiving no medical attention due to an oversight,” he said.

After the shooting, MSU installed locks in buildings and rooms which were not previously secured and announced new rules about how public buildings would be locked in the future.

However, Adams said as a parent, he feels the school did very well in communicating throughout and after the crisis.

But the moments of fear when he was texting his daughter impacted him most, he said.

“After all the trainings on this school shooting stuff I’ve done over the years, I found myself trying to help keep my own daughter safe in real-time. (I) pushed all the parent fears and pain for my daughter’s fear to the side so I could be as focused as possible with my instructions,” Adams said. “Then later, after she was safe, I lost it.”

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 7

Chardon Schools

BOE Moves to Fund Capital Improvements

By Amy Patterson amy@karlovecmedia.com The Chardon Schools Board of Education approved a plan March 20 to free up about $800,000 per year for capital improvements without increasing property tax collection.

At their regular meeting March 20, the school board unanimously approved a plan to convert 1 inside mill of its general fund to an unvoted permanent improvement levy. The law authorizes conversion of levies under 10 mills.

The funds, once converted, must be spent on permanent improvements, District Treasurer Deb Armbruster said, adding the district could have continued to spend directly from the general fund, but opted for the conversion in the interest of openness.

“We could have just spent this out of the general fund, but dedicating (the converted millage) to capital improvement is more transparent,” she said after the meeting.

Armbruster reiterated the millage, which will first be collected in 2024, will not result in an increase in property taxes levied by the district.

After a pledge of allegiance led by fourth-grader Emma Pettit, the board recognized several students for academic achievements, including perennial speech and debate all-star Charlotte Jons, a Chardon High School junior.

Charlotte was celebrated for two first-ever wins by a Chardon student — as the Ohio Speech and Debate Association State Champ in Program Oral Interpretation, and as a National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament Program Oral Interpretation qualifier.

The board also recognized CHS Speech and Debate Coach Amy Roediger — also Charlotte’s mother. Roediger established the Speech and Debate Club at CHS in 2020 and has over 30 years of speech and debate coaching experience.

Some of the 20 members of the CHS Academic Decathlon Team were recognized, along with coach Al Herner and state tournament advisor Rebecca Schneider, for achieving 28 state medals at the tournament held March 10-11 at John Carroll University. The team also won 26 regional medals, including 10 gold medals.

CHS Junior Keely Jackson was recognized for her achievement of the Girls Scout Gold Award through a project to renovate the concession stand at CHS Memorial Field.

“This award is the highest award in Girl Scouting and is awarded to seniors and ambassadors that develop and carry out lasting solutions to issues in their neighborhoods and beyond,” Superintendent Michael Hanlon said.

In a report to the board, Armbruster said the passage of House Bill 1 which, according to an analysis by the Ohio Legislative Service Commission, would decrease from 35% to 31.5% the percentage of real property’s value that is subject to taxation. The 31.5% rate would be indexed to decrease in proportion to the increase in inflation.

The bill as introduced would also repeal the 10% tax rollback on nonbusiness property, modify the 2.5% homestead tax rollback to equal a flat $125 property tax credit for all owner-occupied homes and establish an enhanced homestead exemption for certain

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Chardon Schools Academic Decathlon coach Al Herner, left, joined Superintendent Michael Hanlon in congratulating some of the 20-member team at the March 20 Chardon Schools Board of Education meeting. The team won 28 state medals at a tournament held March 10-11 at John Carroll University.

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Chardon High School junior Keely Jackson was recognized for her achievement of the Girl Scout Gold Award through a project to renovate the concession stand at CHS Memorial Field during the March 20 Chardon Schools Board of Education meeting.

Chardon High School junior Charlotte Jons, second from left, was recognized by the Chardon Schools Board of Education March 20 for her achievement as the Ohio Speech and Debate Association State Champ in Program Oral Interpretation, and as a National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament Program Oral Interpretation qualifier. Her mother and Chardon Speech and Debate coach Amy Roediger were also recognized by the board. The two are pictured with BOE President Keith Brewster, left, and Superintendent Michael Hanlon.

long-term homeowners who qualify for the general homestead exemption, Armbruster said.

“We must invest to enhance Ohio’s economic competitiveness and we must also invest in our children’s education — but we cannot sacrifice one for the other,” Armbruster said in her presentation, adding homeowners and farmers could see property tax bills increase automatically by $929 million statewide if HB 1 passes.

“Faced with these historic losses and revenue instabilities, schools will be left with three choices: cut services for kids, cut staff or increase taxes. School districts will be forced to return to the ballot sooner than they promised their communities in order to offset the losses and guard against the financial uncertainties,” she said.

Armbruster’s previous reports to the board indicated the district is in a strong financial position, meaning an operating levy is not in sight for the near future. However, HB 1 could move consideration for a levy into the nearer term, she said.

After an executive session, all five members of the board approved a five-year

extension of Hanlon’s contract, with a 4% increase in salary.

Hanlon was appointed by the board in

March 2013 and first took the role in August of that year after the retirement of the late Superintendent Joe Bergant.

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Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

GPH Layoff Deadline Extended to April 1 Board Answers Questions About LCGHD Agreement

By Brian Doering and Amy Patterson editor@karlovecmedia.com

A week after voting in a special meeting to lay off a majority of its employees, the Geauga County Board of Health moved March 22 to extend the termination date in order to accommodate healthcare coverage.

The initial layoff announcement came as the board proposed, and unanimously adopted, a cross-jurisdictional agreement with the Lake County General Health District March 15. Employees were told that day their employment would be terminated effective March 31, but the board extended that date until April 1 to allow for continued insurance coverage.

“The contract you signed had the last day of employment of March 31,” Geauga Public Health Administrator Adam Litke said. “If the board would be so inclined to make that April 1, their health insurance would cover (employees) all the way through April.”

Carolyn Brakey, who now serves as health board president after the Geauga County Health District Advisory Council voted March 22 to replace previous board President Rich Piraino, asked Litke whether GPH employees hired on for equivalent positions in Lake County would have any lapse in healthcare coverage with the new termination date.

Litke said with the new termination date of April 1, employees who accepted positions at the LCGHD would be dually employed for one day, but their new health insurance plans should kick in May 1, after a 30-day waiting period has elapsed.

Litke then addressed questions the board received regarding the LCGHD agreement.

“I think the statement was, everyone is getting a pay decrease. To my knowledge, that is incorrect. The average increase is between 29 cents an hour, to $1.50 an hour being the maximum,” said Litke. “The other question was vacation accrual. Would Geauga employees start at zero again? The answer is no.”

Litke said after conversations with the union at LCGHD, former GPH employees hired in Lake County will enter the system with their original GPH start dates — meaning, they will retain their sick and vacation accrual rates. Remaining vacation time will be paid out to employees transferring to Lake, he said.

Board member Ashley Jones asked how the employment package will work regarding sick days until former GPH employees begin accruing time at LCGHD. Litke said sick time will transfer and with rare exceptions, every employee should earn more vacation at LCGHD than at GPH. “I just want to make (sure)…, like, somebody’s not going to fall ill and have something punitive happen for that,” Jones said.

“If someone comes in and says they have a family emergency or something like that, we can do unpaid leave, we can do flexible hours if they can work from home,” Litke responded.

BRIAN DOERING/KMG

Claridon Township Trustee Jonathan Tiber asks the public to support GPH and stand behind the LCGHD agreement.

BRIAN DOERING/KMG

Dr. Mark Rood informs the public that GPH employees have been the lifeblood of the organization and would like to see that continue.

Board member Lynn Roman asked Lake County Health Commissioner Ron Graham, who was seated in the audience during the meeting, for an update on the number of GPH employees who have applied with LCGHD. Graham said he has discussed LCGHD employment options and benefits with GPH employees, but several have not yet reached out for applications. Graham said it is the intention of LCGHD to hire as many GPH employees as possible within the limits of the agreement between the health districts.

“And Ron, are there offers out right now for some,” Roman asked.

Graham said offers were on hold pending the extension of the layoff date, but would go out the next day.

“How many offers are out, can you say,” Roman asked.

“None until now,” Graham responded.

“Probably seven to nine that are ready to roll.”

Board member Dr. Mark Rood said he met with the employees to discuss severance and issues pertaining to termination at 8 a.m. the day after the March 15 GPH and HDAC meetings.

The intent of the meeting, Rood said, was to reassure current GPH employees they are welcome to stay under the staffing agreement with LCGHD. Rood said the employees have been the lifeblood of the organization and he would like to see that continue. “(Graham) was very supportive of that.

He was at that meeting as well and expressed a desire for everyone who was in the room at the time to find a place for them as an employee,” Rood said. “I left feeling confident that the best of intentions in terms of retaining our current staff was in the room and there and I welcome any existing employee if they would like to stay.”

The health board approved a motion to terminate the contract with Geauga Health Commissioner Jeffery Cameron and officially closed the search to fill the role of part-time health administrator, which became open when LCGHD announced last December it would rescind an agreement for Litke to serve both county health districts.

“The service you have provided to our community has been done with the utmost professionalism and care for our residents here. It’s been a pleasure to have you,” Jones told Cameron.

More questions arose about the nature and timing of the agreement during the public comment portion of the meeting, including from South Russell resident Newell Howard, who asked the board to explain the timeline of the agreement and who drafted it. “(The agreement) didn’t come out overnight. When did it start and who put it together? We don’t know,” he said. “When was the decision made? Who in Geauga County authorized this? Does anybody know? How much did the contract cost? This was done not by the prosecutor’s office, this was done by an outside law firm and they were paid a lot of money for it. Why did Geauga County have only hours, the board here, to decide?

Did anybody see this before last week? Yes or no?”

Howard also asked about the financial shortfalls cited as the reason for the agreement.

“They may want to talk to their legal — I think what they’re saying is they want to talk to (legal counsel),” Litke told Howard, adding the board’s attorney Brian Kostura was unable to attend the meeting.

Claridon Township Trustee Jonathan Tiber, who previously served as HDAC chair, told the board the agreement is not a bad one.

“My biggest contention was, why didn’t you come and ask for a levy a while ago,” Tiber said. “And (the GPH board) said, ‘Well, look, if we could do something that could be efficient and save money, without asking taxpayers, then that’s what we should do.’ I respect that. I don’t agree with it, but I respect it.”

Tiber said now is not the time to “burn down the house, but (to) lift it up,” and unite behind the agreement with LCGHD. “Because if this agreement’s successful, GPH is going to be successful and that’s going to be a benefit for our residents,” he said.

Rood also took the time to respond to a comment made by Piraino during the HDAC meeting March 15. While campaigning to retain his seat on the board, Rood said Piraino “inarticulately” made a comment that population health is less important than environmental health for Geauga County.

“I regret that he made that statement. I think he was trying to use it as an argument for why he, having had some experience in environmental health, might be preferentially elected by the HDAC instead of the colleague that I now have on the board to the left of me,” Rood said, referring to Dr. Mark Hendrickson, a surgeon HDAC appointed to the board to replace Piraino. “So, it was not in the context of saying that we devalue and don’t have passion to support population health and nursing at this board. Quite to the contrary.”

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 9

Mental Health Board Formally Introduces New Director

By Brian Doering brian@karlovecmedia.com The Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services welcomed a new executive director on March 15.

Christine Lakomiak, who was appointed by the board on Feb. 15, began her tenure March 13 after working with the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board as director of quality and clinical operations for 16 years.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve

as the director of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services.

I’m very familiar with the services that are expected to be provided,” Lakomiak said.

Lakomiak said Lakomiak she informed the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services of her appointment.

“I was excited about their response be-

cause I have worked in the field for so long,” Lakomiak said. “Many of the people that work there already knew me.”

Lakomiak said she looks forward to getting to know the agencies and specific programs in Geauga County.

“I came from Lake County and every county is different,” she said. “That’s why they have a board in every county in the state of Ohio, so that we can plan very specific things that are needed in each county.”

In other business, board members passed:

• An allocation of in-state opioid and stimulant response project funds in the amount of $399,194 awarded to the county by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services; • The reimbursement of $12,420 to the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office for costs associated with psychotropic drugs administered to inmates at the Geauga County Safety Center for the first half of 2023; • The renewal of grant agency contract funding allocations for the 2024 fiscal year.

Alusheff Wants Better Communication Between HDAC, GPH

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

In the wake of the Geauga County Board of Health’s decision to contract nearly all its services with Lake County General Health District and lay off 17 of its employees, Chris Alusheff thinks the Geauga County Health District Advisory Council should improve communication with the health board.

But Alusheff, new HDAC president, also thinks it’s in the best interests of the county to give the new arrangement a few months to resolve and not throw more fuel on the anger some township trustees have displayed over the changes sprung on them at the March 15 health board meeting.

“Any further fight only divides the county and hurts the residents,” he said during an interview last week, referring to Russell Township Trustee Jim Mueller’s plan to have four health board members recalled. Mueller referenced the Ohio Revised Code section 3709.35, which outlines the reasons board members may be replaced by the HDAC. The HDAC, made up of township, village, city and county officials, hires the five health board members and approves the annual GPH budget. Unless a seat on the board becomes open unexpectedly, the HDAC meets once a year.

So, the announcement of the contract and the lay-offs was a surprise to most of the HDAC members, who subsequently elected a new board member, unseating the former president who came up for reelection hours after the contract was approved.

Alusheff said in a phone interview last week he wants the HDAC to meet more often and for the health board to be more transparent in their actions. He also said committee members should attend some of the board meetings.

“They have a vested interest in septic and water,” he said.

The change-over from one county health administration to another may be seamless, Alusheff said, adding he has been told the same services will be available from LCGHD that Geauga residents have had over the years.

“The residents’ experience is not going to change – that’s my understanding,” he said.

GPH employees who were terminated are able to apply for their previous jobs. The agreement between the two boards was a cost-savings arrangement to “eliminate redundancies,” according to GPH. However, Alusheff said he understands GPH will continue to have control over policies for Geauga County and over taxes received from Geauga property owners. Those tax dollars were not enough to keep the department running in the future, the board

SCREENSHOT

Chris Alusheff, president of the Geauga County Health Department Advisory Council, said he supports the agreement between Lake County General Health District and Geauga Public Health, but urges improved communication between them. Alusheff, standing, speaks before the HDAC at its March 15 meeting.

previously said.

Per the contract, GPH will be paying LCGHD about $1.3 million a year, billed monthly, for staffing and services, but accounts will be kept separate, he said.

Having seen GPH’s budget forecast, Alusheff said he believes the agreement was necessary and he supported it.

“There were money issues facing the department. I agree with the budget. We were facing a deficit,” he said. “As far as the board pushing the agreement through, I did not agree with that.”

HDAC’s ousting of former board president Richard Piraino and the ensuing protest from council members sent a clear message to the other four board members they need to be more transparent, he said, repeating HDAC members should be more involved.

“We can start with a meeting in three months. The goal is to further communication between HDAC and GPH. The meeting will be to review the implementation of the agreement,” Alusheff said. “If HDAC is going to take a more active role, we have to develop mutual respect with GPH. This has to be a two-way street.”

If HDAC members take the hard line and seek to replace four board members, not including the newest appointee, Dr. Mark Hendrickson, it will not necessarily benefit the terminated GPH employees, he said.

“By the time Jim gets the board out, the people will be gone. They’re not just sitting at home waiting for a court decision,” Alusheff said.

The current health board needs to go through with the implementation of the agreement and see how it affects residents,

he said, adding, “Firing the entire board is not good for anybody.”

Alusheff said he became involved with GPH activities when the masking mandate was imposed. His son is in grade school and he saw the negative effect masking in school was having on him.

“I’ve been to about 70% of the GPH meetings,” he said, adding the board members

dedicate an enormous amount of time to GPH matters.

Alusheff credited GPH for becoming involved in the issue of Parkman Township’s salt-contaminated residential wells.

He is also a member of Aquilla Village Council, which he represents on HDAC, and is the zoning inspector for Claridon Township.

Page 10

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Letters to the Editor Speaking in Defense of Children In a recent Letter to the Editor, the letter writer has asked that Skip Claypool be removed from the Geauga Board of Mental Health because of remarks he made regarding SOGI and children who want to change their gender.

There is a need to provide support for youth who are unsure of their sexuality. The first place for this support should come from the families of these youths. Families should never be left out of the discussion.

There are proposed amendments to the Ohio Constitution now that would eliminate parents from their child’s decision to use medication or surgery in an attempt to change their gender. If you go to the SOGI website, you will see they are opposed to bills now in the Ohio Senate that would prohibit certain procedures to alter a minor child’s sex, and they oppose the bill that would exclude transgender males from participating in girls’ sports. For these reasons, Skip Claypool questioned the Board of Mental Health’s involvement with groups that support SOGI. Science is not settled on the efficacy of gender transforming drugs or surgery. There are studies that show suicides do not go down when youths begin a regimen of gender transformation.

Puberty can be a very unsettling time for youths and making the decision to change one’s gender during this time can have consequences that cannot be changed. No parent wants his child to suffer, and children should not be bullied or stigmatized for their sexual identity. All Skip Claypool was doing was asking the questions that need to be asked.

Questions like, Are parents a vital part of the equation? Is this a true case of gender dysphoria? What are the long-term physical and emotional effects of gender transformation?

We support Skip Claypool, who has always asked the tough questions despite the backlash he receives. Skip is not speaking for himself, he is speaking in defense of children.

Christie Hall Newbury Township Stephanie Snook Bainbridge Township Elsie Tarczy South Russell Village

Two-Party System?

The County Republican Party leadership is called “Central Committee.”

Step 1, understand the issue.

According to lore, the U.S. is a “two-party system.” With two parties, there is competition for ideas and your affection. Having only one party is a monopoly; no one effectively works for you because no one need care. I believe we are perilously close to a “uni-party.”

Central Committee is comprised of two parts: County & State. Did you know? You have a Rep in each level. In theory, they should listen to and advocate for you. In reality, the Republican Party has morphed into a top-down structure, changing from “of, by, and for the People” into something that more closely resembles a top-down dictatorship.

Unfortunately, Geauga’s Central Committee decided some time ago to switch to closed meetings, blocking their occasional actions from public view. A few County Central Committees in Ohio have opened themselves to public scrutiny and have been met with shock at just how far

Left parts of the Party have become.

In Geauga, it was decided that secret votes are the preferred means of deciding issues, so no one can ever know how any of Geauga’s 78 elected representatives is performing. A few of us advocate for exactly the opposite: transparency and accountability.

Step 2, envision the possible.

Some areas of Ohio enjoy a robust Republican Party. They have Young Republican clubs, recurring meetings that are open to the public, speakers series, a newsletter, website and even an up-to-date contact list of elected representatives.

An active Republican Party might counter the siren-song, Lurch-to-the-Left of the Democrat Party, championing traditional values and leaving room for ALL types of people. We might draw attention to issues such as School Board races, encourage Patriotism, and embolden young generations to be more Liberty Camp and less Social Justice Activist. We might also have a HQ that is open, inviting and full of all sorts of visitor and promotional material, and on election day we could have signs out at voting locations promoting Republican candidates.

A strong Republican Party in Geauga might even educate on significant issues such as NOACA’s Climate Action Plan, which has implications for roughly every aspect of life in Geauga, including agriculture.

Instead, each effort to open meetings to the public has been blocked, every attempt to record vote information is overridden, efforts to open the floor to important new issues is

shouted down, and we have lawsuits and assault charges instead of all the great things that are possible. I’ve personally been involved in efforts to highlight Democrat influence on the County Republican Party, only to be shouted down.

The answer is two-fold: FortifyGeauga.org (citizen action group) and Precinct Strategy (bringing traditional Republican values back to Central Committee).

I join the growing list of people calling for new leadership for Geauga’s Republican Party, and I am far from alone on this. I encourage you to join the movement.

Jonathan Broadbent Newbury Township

OAG David Yost Good Start for East Palestine!

I’d like to thank Ohio’s Attorney General, David Yost, for suing Norfolk Southern Corporation for their operational gross negligence.

The train derailment in East Palestine caused untold damages to Ohio’s natural resources and residents. An excerpt from the case states, “untold volume of hazardous materials, hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, and/ or other harmful pollutants to be released into the air and water and onto the ground.”

The information incorporated into the case demonstrates a close partnership between Ohio’s EPA and AG offices. The extensive record of chemicals causing long term damage to

Earth should fume every environmentalist and climate activist, not just a lifetime Republican.

Sadly, local activist organizations like NOACA must think carbon emissions are more deadly than dioxins as they have been silent on this real threat to NE Ohio.

Although the case has strong merit, I believe the government needs to do more for the people of East Palestine. Here are 4 suggestions: 1. Create a fund for the people funded

by Norfolk Southern to ensure Ohioans are rightfully and fully covered for their personal, business damages and healthcare costs caused by hazardous chemicals.

2. Ensure mineral rights stay with the rightful owners. Nobody should be forced to sell their house and forfeit their mineral rights.

3. Provide tax incentives for businesses to stay in East Palestine and additional ones for those who relocate in the proximate area.

4. Provide a means to detox from dioxins, such as chlorine dioxide, which I’ve been told destroys dioxins.

In closing, I would like the state to be very aggressive against Norfolk Southern.

In its latest financial filings, Norfolk has $2B in current assets. Let’s go after $300M and split it three ways: $100M for Ohio’s EPA efforts, $100M for a fund for the residents and $100M for new infrastructure improvements.

Ohioans deserve justice.

Joe DeBoth Geauga County Republican Committee Member Precinct #1: Auburn Township A

Viewpoint A Real Tragedy: Chains Saws Topple Giant Trees for Monetary Gain

By John Augustine Parkman Township If any of you folks have walked any of the trails along the west side of East Branch (Geauga park’s Headwaters Park), you might have heard the whine of chain saws and giant trees slamming into the ground on the other side of the lake. What gives?

The Geauga Park at East Branch is known as Headwaters Park. The land is owned by the City of Akron, but was leased to Geauga Parks during the directorship of John O’Meara.

About six years ago another lease was signed

by GPD Director John Oros.

I’m presently trying to find out why and to acquire a copy of the original lease. It appears Akron has the right to do logging on the property, even though the land on the east side of the lake has been designated as a “ wildlife preserve” by Geauga Parks (an earlier park biologist designation) and access is only allowed by permit. One might easily surmise it is ecologically special and needs special protection by that designation.

Akron started acquiring land in Geauga County back many years ago to provide and protect water supplies for its growing city and industries. There was so much concern from Akron regarding its water quality that one could not even trespass on most of their property in Geauga without a permit, and special law enforcement officers patrolled to enforce their rules.

It seems in recent years due to the loss of industries in Akron, and decreasing need for water, they no longer put such a high value on these lands as sources of clean water.

Not long ago they did some serious logging near LaDue Reservoir for monetary gain. They pretty much trashed the area. It appears this logging at East Branch is going on for the same reason with the same results.

Logging is going on along the entire length of the east side of the lake with 200-plus-year-old trees coming down. A real tragedy!

We don’t know for sure what is going on, as numerous phone calls to the person in charge of this operation at Akron have not been returned. I have called a number of people at Geauga Parks and the only one that has been returned was one responding to my request for a permit to walk the trail/ road on the east side of the lake. The request was denied. Why the secrecy? What are they trying to hide?

Perhaps the park director and commissioners should read the enabling legislation passed early in the last century that enabled the creation of county parks. The primary purpose was to protect fast disappearing natural areas, not to increase lumber production or turn forests into tree farms, or promote and economically benefit any religious group, as Director Oros seems to think.

It appears none of the Park Commissioners even knew of the impending logging at East Branch. There was no mention of planned logging at any monthly commissioners meetings. Check it out for yourself by viewing commissioners meetings unedited at protectgeaugaparks.us.

One would think the park biologist/ natural resource management department at the parks would be notified and invited

to comment and make suggestions. Were they? We don’t know.

Did they produce an environment impact study on the proposed logging ? We don’t know.

One might think the Park District might have offered to purchase a conservation easement on the property to prevent logging. Did they? We don’t know.

Since it seems that Akron at this point has less regard for water quality and looks at the property as mainly an income source, one would think they would be happy to sell a conservation easement to the park district for the value of the timber — an easement that would prevent any logging in the future.

In addition, no future logging would give much greater protection for Akron’s water supply well into the future. A win, win for Akron. . . funds and protection!

This logging is occurring at the worst possible time of the year when the ground is just thawing out from winter. The area, I am sure, is being turned into a trashed area with much sediment washing into the lake and damage to the forest floor that may take 200 years or more to recover.

A mystery person (a biologist who lives close by I am told) who walked the entire length of the east side of East Branch said much sediment is washing into East Branch and the area looks like a disaster.

John Oros may call it management, but many of us call it an obscenity. I’ve requested again a permit for a naturalist-led hike on the east side to view the damage. I was told they only issued permits for naturalist-led hikes.

Will that be issued? Fat chance and so sad!

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 11

AMY PATTERSON/KMG

The Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards dinner on March 21. Pictured, from left, are Marci Mondello-King, owner of Marci’s Hair on the Square and recipient of the Legacy award; Jake Kouwe of the Chardon Polka Band and Chip’s Clubhouse, named Business Person of the Year; Christine Blythe, President of Destination Geauga, named Organization of the Year; Chamber President Susan Parker; Destination Geauga Executive Director Kathy Shimer; Business of the Year winner Sylvia McGee, owner of Beans Coffee Shop & Bistro and Olivia Holbrook, also of Beans.

AMY PATTERSON/KMG

Jake Kouwe, right, of the Chardon Polka Band was named Business Person of the Year by the Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce at their annual awards dinner held March 21 at St. Denis golf course. Kouwe is pictured with Chamber President Susan Parker, who said his hard work has made the band an international phenomenon.

AMY PATTERSON/KMG

The Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce awarded three $1,000 scholarships to local students at its annual awards dinner held March 21 at St. Denis golf course. Receiving the awards were Chardon High School seniors Eric Sivula, Julianne Sweet and Natalie Zemba.

Chardon Chamber Celebrates Business Winners

By Amy Patterson amy@geaugamapleleaf.com The Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce sock-hopped into 2023 with its annual awards dinner, held March 21 at St. Denis golf course.

This year’s theme was the rockin’ and rollin’ 1950s, with five locals honored for their chart-topping successes in the community.

Chamber President Susan Parker, of Artemis Property Ventures, announced 2022 winners, with Business of the Year — Beans Coffee Shop & Bistro — taking the first award.

Parker said Beans owner Sylvia McGee is generous with her time and resources to local charities and organizations, and the coffee shop is “ground zero” for collaborations that result in positive impacts in Chardon.

“No matter the cold temperatures in the middle of winter, once you leave Beans, you feel the warmth of Chardon. The community is lucky to have a business that cares so much

about the individuals and the city as a whole,” Parker said.

Next up was Organization of the Year, awarded to Destination Geauga. Executive Director Kathy Shimer and President Christine Blythe accepted the honor.

Chamber Vice President-Elect Julia Dolsen, of Shiffler Equipment Sales, Inc., told attendees the mission of Destination Geauga is to stimulate economic growth in the county while promoting its events and businesses with year-round tourism.

Shimer sends out weekly emails full of local events, which are packed full of events even in the middle of winter, Dolsen said.

The 2022 Business Person of the Year went to Jake Kouwe, of the Chardon Polka Band. Parker said the group has grown to an international phenomenon, with Kouwe working to make sure every member of the band can live comfortably and happily doing what they love most.

“Jake and his wife, Emily, have also recently purchased the Chip’s Clubhouse,” Parker said. “And this is yet another way to entertain our great community.”

Mariann Goodwin, of The Carriage Trade Boutique, was awarded the Maple Leaf Community Impact Award. Goodwin has owned several businesses in Chardon over the years, including a tea parlor, Parker said.

“She currently chairs the Chardon Square Association's art festival that was established in 1980. This single event brings close to five thousand people to our community and hosts over 100 artists and allows those to experience the beautiful Chardon Square,” Parker said, adding Goodwin is always accepting and encouraging new ideas and is wonderful at mentoring newer volunteers.

Finally, Marci Mondello-King, of Marci's Hair On The Square, was given the Legacy Award. Dolsen said Mondello-King has maintained her salon business on Chardon Square for 30 years and has actively built up the

square as a shopping community.

“She stood her ground over 30 years being not only a talented hairdresser, but a savvy businesswoman and one of the most emotionally intelligent people we have met,” Dolsen said.

The Chamber awarded three $1,000 scholarships to local students — Chardon High School seniors Eric Sivula, Julianne Sweet and Natalie Zemba.

The chamber received 21 applications, said McGee, who announced the scholarship winners, and this year’s selection process was very difficult.

“Out of those 21 applicants, we painstakingly narrowed it down to six. And if we could have given away six scholarships, we would have,” McGee said.

The three ultimately selected through an interview process exemplified not only academic achievement, but achievement in extracurricular activities, as well as community service and participation, McGee said.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga Park District Ranger and K9 Partner Retire

By Rose Nemunaitis editor@karlovecmedia.com Geauga Park District Ranger Denise Weisbarth and her K-9 partner, Sniper, have seen countless sunrises and sunsets over the county’s many parks.

Recently, at Observatory Park in Montville Township, they experienced the dawning of a new day as they approached March 31, the day they both retire from the park district.

This year is Weisbarth’s 32nd year in law enforcement, 22 of those years as a K9 officer.

“Many of our regular park guests know her well,” GPD Executive Director John Oros said. “In recent years, her being accompanied by her K9 Sniper made her even more recognizable and loved. Denise was a ranger who was very good at community-based policing. She could regularly be seen checking on individuals, families and those at park gatherings to say hello. I think this approach goes a long way in law enforcement. Not only does it develop valuable relationships — as is evidenced by the countless relationships Denise developed over the years — her approach to being seen played a vital role in our park guests feeling safe.”

Her long law enforcement career includes serving Hocking College, Middlefield, Burton and Geneva City police departments, the private sector and GPD, where she helped to create and implement the first K9 unit and was promoted to full-time ranger in 2003.

From 2013-2016, she served as GPD mountain bike patrol and from 2012 to the

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Geauga Park District Ranger Denise Weisbarth and her K9 partner Sniper will retire on March 31 from the park district after a long career connecting with the community.

present, as terrorism liaison officer for the park district. In 2018, she received the Community Mentor Award from Cleveland Heights High School Private Security Class.

“The last seven years of my career as a K9 officer have been very rewarding,” Weisbarth said. “The community policing and public relations with K9 Sniper have opened up a newfound love and appreciation for teaching.”

Sniper and Weisbarth have participated in many local events over the years, building on community relations between law enforcement, parks and other patrons through parades, safety towns, community picnics, pancake breakfasts and other community programs.

Weisbarth attended many K9 conferences in the last 22 years as a K9 officer.

“It was important to me not just as an officer, but also a K9 officer, to keep my skills and knowledge up to date,” she said, adding she is excited for her newest law enforcement role.

“I will be starting my new career April 10, 2023, at Lakeland Community College as a campus police officer,” she said. “I fully intend to put my community policing/public relations skills to use at the college. I feel my vast background and skills will be put to good use.”

Sniper came from Europe and has been Weisbarth’s K9 partner for seven years at GPD. “He was a very wild and crazy puppy at 16 months, but has matured into a great confident K9 over the years,” she said.

Sniper travels with her a lot and has his

own bed in the back seat of her truck.

“Sniper is 8 years old now and it’s no secret he has had many medical issues,” she said. “The arthritis has set in and with retirement, he can relax on his favorite couch and not worry about his joints hurting. He will miss working every day and miss his treats from the (GPD) office girls, but rest assured he is just as spoiled at home.”

On their final day with GPD, Sniper and Weisbarth plan on celebrating by going for a walk at one of the parks and later giving Sniper a juicy steak.

“I want our fans and readers to know that we will truly miss you,” Weisbarth said. “We are especially grateful to all our donors and supporters over the years. We will miss creating a funny Sniper calendar and seeing your smiling faces.”

She added, “The last 22 years working, handling and training dogs has been so rewarding. I have learned a lot about dogs and myself personally. Not many people can say they achieved their career goals, but I did and more. Trust me when I say … I’m not done, yet. I have more to do as a law enforcement officer.”

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Page 13

Cardinal Updates Fleet, Plans for the Future

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

Cardinal Schools Treasurer Seth Cales focused on transportation during a school board workshop March 22.

It was the beginning of a discussion about the district’s five-year plan that includes projects such as the high school roof, climate control at the high school and the necessity of replacing vehicles to transport students over the 79-square-mile area from Huntsburg Township to Parkman Township.

“Our fleet is aging,” Cales said.

He showed a spreadsheet to the board that included the number of miles each vehicle has covered in its lifespan. One bus has more than 246,000 miles on the odometer. Older vehicles require increased maintenance, which is expensive and doesn’t always happen quickly because parts delivery is unpredictable.

“With supply chain issues from COVID, it is very important to plan ahead,” Cales said.

Cardinal has five new buses on order that should be delivered between May and October, he said.

The full-sized vehicles will need to be outfitted with cameras, etc., so they won’t be on the road immediately, Cales said, estimating the new buses will be collecting students by January 2024.

The district has a total of 13 regular buses in the fleet.

“We will have a relatively new fleet, which will minimize repairs over the next five years,” he said.

The district has three small buses used to transport students with special needs.

“Some are really on their last legs,” he said, adding two of the buses have more than 240,000 miles on them and only one has a lift for students in wheelchairs.

“Some of our vans are getting up there, as well,” he said.

Adding in the odometer readings from the district’s eight vans, Cales figured school vehicles have traveled a total of more than 1 million miles.

Superintendent Jack Cunningham said a small bus holds five students and the district needs one small bus with wheelchair access.

Vans cost about $36,000 each and a small

Cat Sanctuary Holding Benefit Staff Report Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary is hosting a dinner April 23 at the Banquet Center of St. Noel in Willoughby Hills to help the nonprofit organization continue to handle the impact of inflation.

“We are providing for the cats’ needs, but our budget continues to take a big hit from inflation. Costs for food, litter, cleaning supplies, and veterinary care are challenging,” said Happy Tails President Tom Vasko in a statement. “It will be great if a lot of people attend our event to help us raise funds.

If folks can’t attend, we hope they will still consider making a tax-deductible donation to the sanctuary, where cats reside in a mostly cage-less, no-kill, indoor environment. When possible, we place them in foster or adoptive homes, but a number of them are senior and/ or special needs cats who will remain at the sanctuary for the rest of their lives.”

The $50-per-person benefit, held from 2-5 p.m. at 35200 Chardon Road, will include a family-style dinner of beef, chicken or pasta entrees (with vegan options available with advance notice); salad; vegetable side dishes; desserts; coffee and tea; soft drinks; wine and beer; and more, said media contact Doreen Lazarus-Harris, adding registration for the event will begin at 1:30 p.m.

SUBMITTED

Pictured is Mickey, a 2-year-old orange cat with a severely shrunken eye, during a recent veterinary exam. Abandoned near an apartment building, Mickey has been neutered, vaccinated and tested negative for feline diseases. He is extremely shy and frightened, and needs a patient adopter.

There will also be silent and Chinese auctions, as well as a 50-50 raffle and reservations are due by April 16, she said.

“We thank the Cynthia Slezak Charitable Trust for its generous support of this event,” Vasko. said. “We’re also grateful to the businesses, organizations and individuals who are donating items and services for the silent and Chinese auctions.”

Vasko mentioned donations of cat food and kitty litter brought to the event would be appreciated, but aren’t required.

Checks or money orders for tickets to the April 23 event and/or donations can be mailed to: Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary, P.O. Box 581, Chesterland, OH 44026. To use PayPal, go to www.HappyTailsCatSanctuary.org.

For more information, email HappyTailsCatSanctuary@gmail.com or call or text Doreen at 440-759-0076.

bus costs about $117,000, Cales said.

He recommended the board address the five-year plan in the next workshop at the end of April.

In other business, Cunningham said no calamity days have been used in the 20222023 school year. He proposed moving the last day of school up four days to May 23 and using those four days without students on campus for staff professional development.

“We’re getting ready to adopt a new math curriculum,” he said, adding the teachers in grades kindergarten through fourth could be introduced to the new system.

“I’d like to get the information to the teachers so they have the summer to dive into the new curriculum. There’s plenty of things we’d like to get done before the teach-

ers leave,” he said.

Teachers usually spend time during summer vacation to prepare for the following year, Cunningham said.

The plan to hire a full-time cafeteria manager rather than contract with the Educational Services Center of Western Reserve for a part-time manager was discussed.

“We think we can do it in-house. We’d rather have somebody here full-time so we have more control and consistency,” Cunningham said. “We believe we can do it for close to the same amount of money we are spending with ESC.” He also said the district would benefit from a part-time grant writer.

The position may pay $30 to $40 an hour and would pay for itself in the long run, he said.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

GPD Summer Day Camp Registration Open Submitted

WWW.GEAUGAMAPLELEAF.COM

Attention young people craving outdoor adventure: Geauga Park District is gearing up to host its 11st annual summer day camps, and we want you to explore with us! (Parents, that goes for you, too: don’t delay to get your young person signed up for some fun time with their peers outdoors this summer!)

Opportunities for fun are available for youth entering grades 3 and 4 the weeks of July 10 and August 7; for youth entering grades 5 through 7 the weeks of June 5, 12 and 26 and July 17, 24 and 31; and for teens entering grades 8 through 10 the weeks of June 19 and July 10, plus “X-TREME” adventures for these ages on July 26 (kayak) and August 2 (evening).

Some camps enjoy one park all week long, while others explore a new park each day, with activities including biking, fishing, kayaking, archery and stream exploration, depending on your choice.

Registration opened March 20 for Geauga residents and March 27 for others at www. geaugaparkdistrict.org or 440-286-9516. Find more detail on each opportunity, including pricing and information on financial assistance, at http://bit.ly/gpdcamps.

For more on Geauga Park District offerings, please call 440-286-9516 or visit Geauga Park District online via www.geaugaparkdistrict.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube.

ELLIE BENEDICT

A student enjoys a day camp hosted by the Geauga Park District.

Summer Camp By the Numbers Here’s a deep look at some of the statistics surrounding summer camps.

• 1,467: The number of day camps in the United States run by the YMCA. - YMCA • 14 million: The average number of American summer camp registrants each year. - American Camp Association • 1 week: The most popular session length for summer camp, although the majority of independent camp operators offer four-, six- and eight-week sessions. - American Camp Association • 50: The percentage of respondents whose camps charge $1,000 or more per session, with most programs costing between $1,000 and $1,500. - CampMinder • 58 to 63: The percentage of female staff members at overnight and day camps, respectively. - American Camp Association • 7 in 10: The number of camps that run 10 or more different programs. - CampMinder • 79: The percentage of camps that maintain a screen-free environment. - CampMinder

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Camp Burton Offers Adventure, Faith and New Experiences Submitted Camp Burton invites children to have a great summer experience on its 120 acres just 45 minutes east of Cleveland.

Adventure-seekers can sore to new heights by trying the camp’s zipline, rockwall and giant swing.

Those looking for a fun way to cool down from the heat can spend their week at the pool, sliding down the thunder tube and making a splash competing in epic water war games.

For campers who want to experience fun new challenges, they can try their hand at the low ropes course, archery field and riflery range.

Camp Burton also offers children a chance to grow closer to the Lord and experience, explore and engage with Christ through activities, chapel, quiet times or large group bible studies.

“Your children will be surrounded with opportunities to deepen their faith. Our staff and on-site pastors are ready to answer any questions that they may have,” according to the camp, adding it is a place where Christ’s love is demonstrated from the moment camp-

ers walk onto the property until the second they leave.

For high school students who love to have fun and serve, Camp Burton’s S.W.A.T. program may be the perfect answer. S.W.A.T. stands for Serving, Working And Teaching and is open to children currently enrolled in ninth-12th grade.

The S.W.A.T. program helps encourage and develop the next generation of leaders as they explore more about Jesus and themselves, engage with campers and friends, and experience life-changing moments with the Lord by serving alongside the camp’s summer staff.

“The S.W.A.T. program is a great way to see how God has gifted you,” according to the camp, noting camp is not just for children, but families, too. “Come and meet other families for a great family fun week at Camp Burton.

Family camp is a great way to reconnect and strengthen your relationship through unique games, activities and group bible studies. Parents also have the opportunity to be in fellowship and encourage one another during our parent sessions and nighttime coffee house.

Create lifelong memories by coming to Camp Burton this summer.”

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Rabbit Run Offers Camps For Variety of Age Groups Submitted It’s not too soon to think about plans for kids for the summer.

Youth of all ages have tons of fun discovering hidden talents in various fine arts camps at Rabbit Run Community Arts Association in Madison.

Art camp is for anyone who likes to be creative and maybe make a mess in the process. In these one-week camps, participants ages preschool to 16 get elbow-deep in paint, pastels and other mediums as they create original two- and three-dimensional works of art.

Youth art camp meets Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Art camp for ages 7 through 10 is June 20 through June 23, and camp for ages 11 through 16 is June 12 through June 16. Preschool Art Camp meets Monday through Friday from 10-11 a.m., Aug. 7 through Aug. 11.

Pop Star Camp, June 12 through June 16, gets youth ages 5 to 10 up and moving as they

learn to sing and dance like their favorite pop star. This one-week day camp is from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Campers delve into all areas of the theater arts, including drama, music, dance, costumes, make-up and stage craft in the junior theater camp for ages 4 to 8 and the explorer’s theater camp for ages 8 to 12.

Campers also participate in arts and crafts and age-appropriate games. At the end of each theater camp, actors share their talents with parents in an end-of-week program.

Explorer’s camp is for those who are new to theater and are looking for a great introduction to the world of drama. The camp meets from 1-4 p.m., Monday through Friday, June 26 through June 30.

Just for juniors camp runs from 9 a.m. to noon. Just for juniors is a one-week camp, June 26 through June 30, introducing young children to the world of theater through song, dance and lots of imagination.

For more information, call RRCAA at 440428-5913 or visit rabbitrun.org .

Dance, Music, Theatre, & Visual Arts SUMMER CAMPS Half & Full Day Options Preschoolers through Grade 8

Registration is OPEN NOW! Camps offered June-July FairmountCenter.org 440-338-3171 Camps located minutes from Bainbridge/Chagrin Falls/Chardon/Kirtland/Solon

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Obituaries Katherine Anne Woods

Katherine Anne Woods, age 78, passed away peacefully March 17, 2023.

Kathy, as she preferred to be called, was born Jan. 25, 1945, in Warren, to Frank Stephen and Mary Anne (nee Belich) Handsel. She grew up in Parkman Township and was a 1963 graduate of Cardinal High School.

Kathy most recently worked as an athome caregiver to clients who became family — as many who knew her did. She previously was employed at Blossom Hill Retirement Home.

A former stylist, salon owner, Mary Kay representative and avid craftsperson, Kathy was known for her ability to make everything pretty.

She was kind, social and always willing to help others. Because of these qualities, she found and/or made friends everywhere she went. She was an active member of the Geauga County Dolphins, a local women’s group, and enjoyed spending time with loved ones, particularly spoiling her grandchildren, Mitchell, Lauren, Charlotte and Jocelyn as “Grammy.”

She was one-of-a-kind and will be deeply missed.

Kathy is predeceased by her parents, Frank and Mary; brother, Frankie; husband, William “Bill” Woods; and nephew, Darren.

She is survived by her children, Mike (Tami) Skolaris, of Mooresville, N.C., James (Melissa) Skolaris, of Aurora, Marla (Jamie) Hocutt, of Brecksville; and siblings James (Audrey) Handsel, of Mitchell, S.D., Fran (James) Wesseling, of Cincinnati, and Barb (George) Graham, of Dublin, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved.

Memorial calling hours will be held April 28, 2023, from 5-7 p.m., at Sly Family Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield.

A Memorial Mass will be held April 29, 2023, at St. Edward’s Church, 16150 Center St., Parkman, at 11 a.m. Burial to follow at Parkman Cemetery.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com.

David J. Eardley

David J. Eardley, age 91, a lifelong resident of Chardon, passed away on March 24, 2023, at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center.

He was born in Cleveland on Jan. 17, 1932, to Wilbur and Rose (nee Dragonette) Eardley.

Survivors include his son Thomas (MaryEllen), of Loveland, Ohio; son James (Christy, deceased), of Benbrook, Texas; son Joseph (Kelley), of Bath, Ohio; son Lawrence (Rose) Eardley, of College Place, Wash.; daughter Machelle Williams, of Dublin, Ohio; son John (Joyce Ann), of Waynesville, Ohio; daughter Pamela Osler (Joe, deceased); and son Brian Eardley, of Chardon; grandchildren Bradley (Katherine) Eardley [great-grandchildren Lanna, Elena, Antonio], of Andover, Mass.; Brianna (Roger) Eardley Pryor [great-grandchild Isabel], of Santa Rosa, Calif.; Alissa (Jason) Cossman [great-grandchild Felicity], of Bellingham, Wash.; Jennifer (Matt) Davis [great-grandchild Mackenzie], of Fort Worth, Texas; Danielle (Steve) Berris [great-grandchildren Ethan, Logan], of Sagamore Hills, Ohio; Spencer (Allison) [great-grandchildren Emory, Avi], of Solon; Elise Williams (Brandon Hurst), of Lyndhurst; Scott Eardley (Steven Evans), of Dayton, Ohio; Zachary Eardley, of Oakwood, Ohio; Stuart (Sojin) Eardley [great-grandchild Luna]; Haleigh Osler (James Buckingham), of Clearwater, Fla.; and John Osler, of Wickliffe.

Dave attended the University of Notre Dame, in South Bend, Ind., where he was a ‘Double-Domer,’ earning both his undergraduate business and law degrees.

He was a longtime practicing attorney in Chardon, for 66 years, where he and his wife, Charlotte, raised their (baseball team) nine children.

Dave was an amazing man and a wonderful provider for his family. He and Charlotte devoted their entire lives to caring for all of their children and grandchildren.

He was an attorney and counselor at law, but mostly a counselor and consoler for his clients. In addition to serving the legal needs of Geauga County, Dave was a humble, gentle and generous soul, having a profound impact on his Chardon community. He served on the Chardon School Board and made time for everyone he would come in contact with.

As a lifetime parishioner of St. Mary Catholic Church, he was a Daily Mass Lec-

tor, served on the Finance Council, active participant in the Lady of Fatima Holy Hour, ministry leader of Eucharistic adoration, and Rosary Crusader.

Carrying on the legacy of his Mother, Rose, Dave and Charlotte were founders of Lake-Geauga Birthright, an organization offering support for pregnant women in need.

In recognition for his years of service for the Boy Scouts of America, Dave received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.

Dave will be sorely missed by his family and community.

The Eardley Family would like to thank the entire community for all of your love and support. The community truly rallied around our family during this difficult time. We cherish all of your prayers and consideration for our Dad/Grandpa. For now, we hug and say goodbye to our Father, Grandfather and Friend, until we meet up with him again in the Golden Rays of God’s Universal Light.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte (nee Bink) Eardley; and son David J. Eardley Jr. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. April 1, 2023, at Church of St. Mary, 401 North St., Chardon, with Rev. Scott Goodfellow officiating.

A visitation for family and friends will be from 1-3 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. on March 31, 2023, at DeJohn Funeral Home, 12811 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland.

Grandson of H. Marc and Frances (nee Hoch) Burr, who were longtime friends of Dave and Char, Marc F. “Burrly” Burr is handling the arrangements. Donations are suggested to The Church of St. Mary in Chardon.

Ralph Edward Rousch

Ralph Edward Rousch, age 68, of Chardon, peacefully passed away on March 19, 2023.

He was born July 23, 1954, to Edward J. and Kathleen (nee Jones) Rousch.

He was more than a Father/Grandfather.

He was very sarcastic, loving, cared about the tiniest animal in the world and loved his job. He believed life was meant to be enjoyed and not rushed. He knew no one was perfect and forgave people instead of holding grudges. He enjoyed learning the history of Native American Heritage. He enjoyed tinkering with many projects to keep himself busy.

Ralph worked at Punderson Manor and Lodge as a night dishwasher. The nights he wasn’t working, he was outside by a small fire in the pit enjoying a beer and telling stories about his life. His nickname was Black Wolf and he would howl at the moon on many occasions.

He had been battling many health issues for about two years. He is loved and will be missed by many. His heart was always in the right place when it came to his family and friends. Now he is with his family members that have passed and is watching over us now.

He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Rousch; father, Richard McMaster; grandsons, Gryphon Phillips and Xavier Rousch-McCabe; granddaughter, Sydney Cheryl Lyon Phillips; brother, Ron (Pam) Smith; and

niece, Rachel Smith, and nephew, Matthew Smith.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen McMaster, who passed away in 2018.

There will be a Celebration of his Life on April 2, 2023, from 4-7 p.m., at Punderson Manor and Lodge, 11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury.

Cremation by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 116 South St., Chardon.

Information and condolences online at www. burrservice.com.

Dale Leadenham

Dale Leadenham, 68, of Burton, for the last two years and formerly of Elyria for 66 years, passed away March 18, 2023, at his home surrounded by family after a yearlong battle with ALS. He was born Jan. 30, 1955, in Elyria, to Richard and Lucille Leadenham, and received his master’s degree from Kent State University.

On April 5, 1980, he married Robin Miller and together they shared 43 years of love and memories.

Dale was an art teacher at Midview Schools for about 35 years. He was commissioned to create several paintings, some of which still hang in the public library in Bedford, in the Terrace Club at Progressive Field and at Oberlin College.

In his spare time, he loved to volunteer as a Bible educator and enjoyed sharing his faith with others as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

He also loved guitars and cars, but his most enjoyable role was that of a husband, father and doting grandfather.

Dale is survived by his wife, Robin Leadenham; children, Ryan Leadenham, of South Euclid, Tiffany (Steven) DiFranco, of Chagrin Falls, and Donovan Leadenham, of Burton; grandchildren, Vincenzo DiFranco, Rocco DiFranco, Luca DiFranco, Leo DiFranco, Sylvia DiFranco and Mauro DiFranco; brother, Douglas Leadenham; aunt, Carol Arndt.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Diane Tsui.

A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. April 8, 2023, at the Double Tree-Independence, 6200 Quarry Lane, Independence, with a memorial talk and visitation immediately following.

Memorial contributions can be made to ALS Association, Northern Ohio Chapter, 6133 Rockside Road #301, Independence, OH 44131.

Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Road, Geneva, assisted the family with arrangements, www.

LakeErieCrematory.com.

Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 440245166, or faxed to 440-285-2015. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $75 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Obituaries Jacqueline Swanda

Jacqueline “Jacie” (nee Bennett) Swanda, age 94, passed away March 14, 2023, at her home in Hiram, surrounded by her loving family.

Jacie was born Jan. 27, 1929, in Hiram, to Gerald E. and Mildred (nee Leach) Bennett. She was a lifelong resident of Hiram.

She was a member of Hiram Christian Church and a dedicated teacher of 22 years at James A. Garfield Elementary.

Jacie was an avid reader. She enjoyed cutting and arranging flowers, especially her beloved roses. She also enjoyed playing the piano and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In retirement, Jacie learned to paint, took up bird watching, audited classes at KSU and enjoyed beach vacations with her family.

She married Bryson H. Swanda on Aug. 18, 1951. They were married for close to 66 years before his passing in 2017.

Survivors include her children, Pamela (Robert) Maynard, Timothy (Carolynne Sendry) Swanda, Lorraine (Anthony) Calapa and Garth (Donna) Swanda; grandchildren, Nathan (Amy) Calapa, Tyler (Lisa) Maynard, Cody (Carli) Calapa, Brenden Swanda, Whitney (Joe Knautz) Adams, Troy (Sarah Skodopole) Calapa and Travis (Ashley) Swanda; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother, Gordon Bennett; sister, Norma Sargent; and daughter-in-law, Debra Swanda.

Service information is forthcoming.

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

Rosalie Cox

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Rosalie “Ann” Cox, age 87, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on March 2, 2023.

She was born May 19, 1935, to James and Opal (nee Scott) Leetch.

Ann married the love of her life, Gerald Cox, in March 1952. They were together for more than 67 years of marriage.

She was known for her quiet and gentle nature, and forever smile and chuckle.

She enjoyed her family and had many interests, including quilting, crossword puzzles and board games. She was a fixture at Gate 5 at The Great Geauga County Fair as a ticket seller for 30 years.

Ann had a passion for her animals, including horses and dogs. She was a faithful member for over 50 years of the Chardon Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Ann is survived by her children, Barb (John) Neely, of Newbury Township, Georgia (Wayne) Luoma, of Burton, Jesse (Sandi) Cox, of Columbus, and Adam (Maria) Cox; grandchildren, Tim Neely, Travis Neely, Autumn Martin, Monica Kemp, Rebecca Magill, Sheila Drollinger, Julia Valentine, Sabrina Riley, Casandra Mittleset, Emiliee Vehorchek, Loni Linton, Sonya Dellinger, sisters, Doris and Lela; 35 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband; parents; an infant son; siblings Katie, Winnie, Shirley, Joyce, Nancy, Alice and brother Jim. Calling hours will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2023, followed by a 3 p.m. service at the Chardon Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 110 Woodiebrook Road, Chardon.

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

Donald J. Reis

Donald J. Reis, of Newbury Township, formally of Maple Heights, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023.

Donald was born Dec. 19, 1941, to the late John and Helen (née Soltis) Reis in Cleveland.

He graduated from Maple Heights High School and got a B.A. in accounting from Dyke College.

Donald was a member of AA for 26 years, and on the Newbury Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years.

He loved going to Kelley’s Island and playing golf.

Donald will be greatly missed by his wife, Judy; children, Lisa (Ken) Krolikowski, of Streetsboro, Donald (Julie) Reis, of Lakewood, Joseph (Leslie) Reis, of Newbury; sister, Janice (Jim Pluta) Brooks; and grandchildren, Ashley, Kailyn, Donald, Michael, Kelley and Stephen.

Calling hours will be on Friday, March 31, 2023, from 2-4: p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at Sly Family Funeral Home Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield.

Funeral Service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2023, at the funeral home with Father Jay McPhillips officiating.

Burial will be at Munn Road Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Newbury Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 255, Newbury, OH 44065, in Donald’s name.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com.

www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com

Bulletin Board 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

March 31, 4:30-7 p.m.

St. Mary Catholic Church will host its final Lenten fish fry at the church located at 401 North St., Chardon 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.

Munson Indoor Flea Market

merce is hosting a free egg hunt for children 10 and under in the park. Bring a basket.

Montville FD Easter Egg Hunt

April 8, 10:30 a.m.

Montville Fire Department will hold a community Easter egg hunt for children ages preschool through 10 at the Montville Community Center pavilion. Easter Bunny arrives at 10:30 a.m. with the egg hunt to follow.

Dress for the weather; event will be held snow, rain or shine. Bring baskets for gathering eggs. Donations will be accepted at the event.

April 1, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Munson Township’s indoor flea market will be held at the Munson Town Hall and Fire Station Bay, 12210 Auburn Road. The $1 entrance fee for shoppers will go toward the Munson Township Scholarship Fund.

Youth 12 and under are free.

Contact the township office at 440-2869255 for more information.

FGP Explorers Series

Geauga Dems Collect Signatures

April 15, 6-9 p.m.

Friends of WomenSafe is hosting its first annual Night at the Race at Centerville Mills, 8558 Cracker Road, Bainbridge Township. Participants can become horse owners for an evening, bet on races, win money and watch racing action on big screens.

Tickets are $40 each and include dinner and entry into the event. Tickets are limited; visit www.friendsofwomensafe. com or call 440-285-3741 for more information.

April 1 and 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Geauga Democratic Party will hold a drive-thru event to collect signatures on the petition to restore reproductive rights in Ohio. Stop by party headquarters at 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township to support reproductive care for women.

Chesterland Village Open House

April 2, 2-4 p.m.

Chesterland Historical Village will host an open house featuring the Interurban Railroad. All vintage buildings will be open for tours. The village is located at the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township.

G.A.R. Highway Presentation

April 3, 6 p.m.

Come to Hambden Town Hall to learn the history of U.S. Route 6, the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, the longest, oldest and highest transcontinental highway in the country. Gary Hunter, with the U.S. Route 6 Tourist Association, will take attendees on a 3,652-mile adventure.

Geauga Skywatchers Club

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

Join Geauga Skywatchers Club for “A Trace of Space” at Chardon Public Library.

Discover the impact of space exploration on everyday lives. Visit www.geaugalibrary. net or call 440-632-1961 to register.

Breakfast With Easter Bunny

April 8, 9-11 a.m.

Chardon Square Association hosts a pancake breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Pilgrim Christian Church on Chardon Square from 9 - 11 am Cost is $9 for adults $9 and $7 for children payable by cash only at the door.

There will be photo opportunities.

At 11 a.m., Chardon Chamber of Com-

April 8, 10-11:30 a.m.

Join Foundation for Geauga Parks for a hike at Oberland Park, 14899 Auburn Road in Newbury Township.

For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440564-1048.

FOW Night at the Races

Veterans Resource Fair

April 19, 3-6 p.m.

Geauga County Veteran Services is hosting a Veterans Resource Fair in room 168 of the new Geauga County Offices, 12611 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon.

Speak with a Veterans Affairs representative about a VA claim, obtain a Geauga County veterans ID card, receive a biometric screening from University Hospitals Geauga, learn about the new VA Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins (PACT) Act and conditions that are covered and much more.

To register by April 14, call 440-2791860 or email Geaugavet@CO.GEAUGA. OH.US.

Mentor HS 50th Reunion

July 22, 6 p.m.

Mentor High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion at Toth’s Place, 6966 Heisley Road in Mentor. Enjoy catered food, desserts, DJ and cash bar. Cost is $35 per person; send nonrefundable checks to Mrs. Vickie (Ensign) Kuhn, 6196 Tall Oaks Drive, Mentor, OH 44060. A block of hotel rooms in Mentor have been reserved. Contact Vickie at 440-477-4784 for information

by May 10.

There will be a tour of the high school at 1 p.m. July 21 led by the principal. Call Jim Karda at 216-396-7813 to RSVP.

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Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

West G Track Short on Girls, But Hopeful

By Rich Kelly sports@karlovecmedia.com

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

The Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin boys lacrosse team won their first game March 25 against Willoughby-South, 13-2. Pictured from left Luke Miller, Charlie Johnson (2 goals) and Ryan Shemitz (2 assists).

Paulic Nets 5 as NDCL Boys Lacrosse Dominates South

By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com As the 2023 campaign began for NDCL boys lacrosse, Joe Muscatello entered his first season as varsity head coach — and on March 25, Muscatello got his first varsity victory when his Lions defeated the Willoughby South Rebels, 13-2.

“This is just great,” said Muscatello. “We always play Willoughby South, and they always come in tough, and they have a really good goalie.”

The Lions provided that Willoughby South goalie with a flurry of shots on goal throughout the game.

“We really tried to get as many shots off as we could,” Muscatello said. “The kids played great and moved the ball around, and we managed to get everyone into the game.”

Consistent with coach Muscatello’s observations, statistics showed the Lions tallied 60 shots on goal.

Leading the Lions with 20 shots on goal was Paulic, who also scored five goals throughout the game.

After the contest, Paulic described the goals he accumulated. In particular, he described himself as needing to be a catalyst to get things started.

“The first one, it was 0-0 already two minutes into the game,” he said. “So Shemitz (#25) and I started to play the two-man game.

He passed it up, I got an open shot, (and) it was a three-quarter bouncer into the goal.

That just got things rolling.

“Then I had a hat trick in the first quarter, and that really helped us get moving in the game and helped us with our 13-2 win.”

Other multiple-goal scorers for the Lions included Ryan Shemitz with three and Charlie Johnson adding two.

Shemitz discussed scoring three: “I just try to work the two-man game,” he said. “I just try to dodge around in the crease.

If the guy slides, I just try to find the open lane. If he doesn’t, I am going into the crease.

“I like the step down, too, you know, from like the 20. The ball is coming down, I like to

flash up, get it and just rip it down and see what happens.”

In addition, goals were scored by Charlie Johnson (2), Nate Price (1), Domenick Nero (1) and Chase Mrofchak (1).

The Lions were led in assists by Ryan Shemitz (3), Wyatt Dynes (2) and Ryan Smith (1).

But again, one of the main metrics Coach Muscatello emphasizes is shots on goal, meaning that his offense was moving the ball and creating the necessary space to take good shots.

In addition to Paulic getting 20 shots on goal, NDCL was also led here by Shemitz (13 shots on goal), Johnson (10), Nate Price (10), Ryan Smith (6), and Luke Miller (5).

NDCL also excelled in ground balls. Leading the Lions in that realm were Charlie Johnson (14), Paulic (9), Smith (6) and Dynes (4).

Muscatello would shoot for second and third varsity wins with his Lions against March 28 agains Glen Oak and March 29 facing Boardman.

With the advent of another spring season of sports, some teams are feeling rejuvenated by an influx of new faces and talent, bringing an air of optimism to coaches and teammates alike.

Optimism is a virtue to be sought for any team, for sure, but it takes bodies willing to make sacrifices to succeed. For West Geauga Wolverines girls track, this is beginning to look like possibly the leanest of seasons.

Still, the cause is not lost.

“This looks like it’s going to be one of those seasons for us,” Coach Mike Taurasi said after a recent practice. “We’ve only got 18 girls out this year. Things change from year to year, and some of the girls we had thought would come out for our track program decided to try lacrosse or softball. That said, we’ll just need to do with what we have here now and hope for the best.

“The girls will give it their best, for sure — they always have — but it’s not so bad for young people to look at other sports, too. Some have the skill sets to achieve great things, but from time to time, the scenarios change and kids aren’t sure what they like best or are best at, so they need to give other things a try. I can’t begrudge them that.”

When the number of bodies is limited, other things also come into play, particularly injuries. That bug has hit the Wolverines hard in recent years, and already has hammered Coach Taurasi’s team.

Senior sprinter Grace Laster — who has put speed on any playing field she has set foot on since her freshman season at Newbury High, before she assimilated into being a Wolverine — finished off her senior basketball season by arriving for track practice with one foot in a walking boot.

Laster has played a major role in sprint events and the Wolverines 4x400 relay team, so missing her will make West G's shortage even greater.

Since there's nothing Coach Taurasi can do about it, he'll look to those who still are able to compete to achieve.

Two of those athletes, carrying a load of the Wolverines' minimal experience, are Megan McGinnis and Taylor Deets. Both have had some successes for West Geauga, but unless some very young athletes step up in a major way in a hurry, the Wolverines won’t provide much competition for opponents this season.

In the meantime, the girls will give it their best shot.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin’s Emily Foley, a senior captain, scored five goals in her Lions’ 12-5 win over Mentor in their March 25 match.

Foley Nets Five, Hinkle Adds Four to Lead NDCL

By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com Emily Foley and Grace Hinkle led the way in scoring March 25 to propel the NDCL girls lacrosse team to a 12-5 victory over the Mentor Cardinals.

The Cardinals got off to a fast start as they took a 2-0 lead over the Lions.

However, in extremely quick fashion, the Lions netted two goals within the span of 12 seconds.

First, Foley scored with 8:35 left in the first half.

Almost immediately after that, the Lions won the draw, and drove right down the field.

Then Foley, again, put the ball in the back of Mentor’s net to tie the score at two with 8:23 left in the first half.

“We were down 2-0 and I had that first goal and I was excited,” Foley said. “I knew what we needed to do and just took it to the goal again.”

Not long after that, though, a rain delay lasted close to 45 minutes.

“It was a pretty rough start,” said NDCL Head Coach Alexandra Manfroni. “The girls really showed up in the second half. We really worked hard in the corner sets. The possession off the draw was huge for us; we scored a lot of our goals off the draw.”

Foley acknowledged a little weather-related, weekend-related fatigue.

“We started out slow; it’s Saturday, it’s the weekend,” she said. “I think we were really affected by the wind, and the conditions made it hard to pass and catch in the first half. We finally came out with two goals, then we had the rain delay, and then we knew what we needed to do after that.”

Hinkle expanded on how the rain delay helped the team become more focused on what needed to be done.

“I think the rain delay definitely helped us,” she said. “We talked strategy, we got our

stuff together. Our momentum was so much better.”

Coming back after the rain, the Cardinals took a 3-2 lead within the first half. Because of the lengthy delay, the officials decided to forgo halftime and the second half started right away.

The Lions wasted no time regaining the lead at the start of the second half. In fact, they scored two goals within six seconds, bringing it up to 4-3 with 23:39 left in the game.

Foley scored first, and Hinkle scored six seconds later.

For the game, the senior captain, Foley, had five goals, while Hinkle, a sophomore, had four goals.

“Emily has really stepped up,” Coach Manfroni said. “She is one of our senior captains. Her goals recently, not just this game, (but) the other two games as well, (have had excellent) placement of her shots. That’s

what sets her apart.

“Grace Hinkle, she is a returning sophomore to varsity. Also (a) great scorer, she knows how to navigate around defense very well. And in pressure situations, she knows how to get out of them.”

McKenzie Nixon (2 goals), and Ava Abounader (1) also contributed to the scoring.

The Lions are off to an excellent start this season at 3-0. They’d next face Hoban on March 30.

No Pushovers at West Geauga

By Rich Kelly sports@karlovecmedia.com

In his first season leading the Wolverines on the baseball diamond, Coach Derek Buell was dealing with youthful players in a tough league who were still early in the learning process for both the game and what he would bring as coach.

Finishing with a 5-18 overall record, including 0-10 in the CVC Valley division, the Wolverines took their lumps.

This new season brings a totally different outlook for the team, though, and a packed practice gymnasium on a cold spring afternoon, with more than 40 players taking their hacks from tees and rubber armed pitching coaches, provided evidence of that. The Wolverines will play at a much different curve this season.

“We’re going to make a big transition this year on the field,” Buell said while watching his players work. “We’ve got a lot of new players starting this year. We lost six starters

from last year, and while we didn’t have the best season last year, this group gained a lot of experience in the game, and they are starting out this year with a great attitude.”

Solid pitching is always a good place for any team to start at any level, and Buell feels good about his group of starting pitchers.

“Our pitching, especially the starters, will be one of our biggest strengths this season,” he said. “We start with senior Bo Dolecek as our top guy.”

Other seniors toeing the rubber will include Nick Donofrio, Richard Kretschman and Jeremy Abdelmalak. They will be joined by juniors Brody Gruber, Johnny Julian, Nate Mikonsky, Anthony Lucci and Brett Ringenbach.

Keeping those players in the lineup will be important. Ringenbach figures to be the starting catcher, Gruber will spend a lot of time at first base, Mikonsky will settle in at shortstop, and Julian will shore up the middle defense from his position in center field.

The infield will be manned much of the

time by juniors. Carson Weisman will anchor second base, Gareth Reeves will see a lot of time in right field, Ringenbach will also see time behind the plate and at shortstop, sophomore J.T. Javorek will tend the hot corner at third base, and senior Stone McKissick will be solid covering left field.

“Our entire outfield and every infield position except shortstop will be new starters this year,” Buell said. “That said, they are all good athletes who look to learn as they go along, which is a good thing. Our starting pitching also should be good from one through four, so finding the right place for the other pitchers to build our bullpen is going to be possibly the toughest thing to do.”

West G’s lineup will be solid. Johnny Julian puts his speed to work leading off. The athleticism of Weisman is in the two spot. Ringenbach puts some pop into the first innings, and will be followed by senior Travis Veleba in the DH role. He also can pitch, catch, and fill spots in the outfield while providing serious power to the middle of the order.

Reeves will hit fifth, Mikonsky sixth, Javorek seventh, Gruber eighth, and McKissick, who can handle any outfield spot with equal skill sets, ninth.

Developing players for roles will be key for Coach Buell this season, and the outlook for doing that draws optimism from everybody.

Another key factor, and cause for optimism, is that for the first time in a while, the Wolverines will field a freshman baseball team as well as junior varsity team.

“I’m really excited to see that we will have a freshman team this year,” Buell said. “We have 18 freshmen out, so we are going to be able to develop a serious freshman team for a change, and that will mean more playing time for everybody if they want to work for it. The kids who want to play will show it in practices, and that has been very solid so far since we started.”

In short, expect West Geauga’s season and prospects to be vastly improved from previous year.

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Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Chardon Toastmasters Club Holds an Open House Submitted Since its inception in 2002, the Chardon Toastmasters Club has helped people improve their leadership and speaking skills.

The Feb. 16 open house featured a humorous speech of childhood memories by Jim Murphy and a Table Topics session that invited visitors to practice their extemporaneous speaking skills. The open house concluded with refreshments.

Guests were encouraged to mingle and ask questions to see if Toastmasters membership could help them reach their personal and professional goals. With the theme of Valentine’s Day, the room was decorated with hearts and guests received colorful fan and goodie bags filled with sweet Hershey Kisses.

Chardon Toastmasters meets regularly Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on the square in Chardon. Through the years,

Burton Health Care

March 31, 10 a.m. to noon Burton Health Care is offering free drive-thru pancake breakfasts. RSVP to Kimberly at 440-834-1084.

American Legion Post 459

April 2 and 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 at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton. Eat in or take out. For information, call Skip at 440-313-2095.

SUBMITTED

Sharon Cooper, VP Membership greeting attendees of the February Open House.

members have won multiple speaking and leadership awards. The group focuses on raising confidence through support and con-

structive feedback.

For more information please visit chardon.toastmastersclubs.org.

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

Nature Writing Contest

Geauga Park District is now accepting entries into its 28th annual Nature Writing Contest – nature-inspired poetry and prose by creative writers of any age.

Download a contest application from the

park district website under News & Updates or pick one up at The West Woods Nature Center, Big Creek Park’s Meyer Center or any in-county library.

Entries must be received by Earth Day, April 22, to qualify. Age categories in both poetry and prose are adult ages 18 and older, adolescent ages 12-17 and child ages 11 and under.

Upon winning, writers earn cash prizes,

which are significantly boosted in 2023 by a sponsorship by Foundation for Geauga Parks. In addition, they earn an invitation to a special winner’s celebration July 19 at Claridon Woodlands, publication in the park district’s winners chapbook and on the website and naming in the park district’s summer activity guide.

Questions? Email Sandy at sward@geaugaparkdistrict.org

Burton Public Library Burton Library is located at 14588 W. Park St. No registration is required unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 440834-4466 or visit burtonlibrary.org.

Edible Book Fest

Movin’ and Groovin’ Storytime

April 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10-10:30 a.m.

All ages may join for a musical story time with Mr. Eli. Feel free to bring instruments and come ready to dance.

April 1, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Make an edible book and bring it to the library. Prizes will be given for the most unique, funniest and most realistic. Books will be eaten at noon.

Mark the Magician Magic Show

Baby/Toddler Storytime

Get to Know Hoopla

April 4, 11, 18 and 25, 10-10:30 a.m.

Join for music, sensory activities and stories. Ages 0-3.

Preschool Storytime

April 5, 12, 19 and 26, 10:30-11 a.m.

Join Ms. Amy for stories, song, dance and bubbles. Ages 3-5.

Avoiding a Medicaid Spenddown

April 6, 2-3 p.m.

The workshop will explore the various options to protect one’s nest egg through trust planning strategies using real life examples and a hands-on approach. Registration is required.

April 11, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Mark Miller has been doing Las Vegas styled card magic and sleight of hand since 1992.

Lego Tournament

April 15, 11 a.m. to noon All materials will be provided. Show up by 11 a.m. to be entered.

Magic Lessons

April 18 and 25, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Join Mark the Magician for lessons in the art of illusions. The three-part class runs Tuesdays, April 18, 25 and May 2. Registration is required.

April 12, 2-3 p.m.

Learn about the digital media service that allows library patrons to borrow movies, music, audiobooks, eBooks, comics and TV shows on their computers, tablets or phones.

Project Kindness: Rock Painting

Egg Hunt Storytime

Arbor Day Storytime

Book Club

Golden Age of Hollywood

April 13, 10-11 a.m.

All ages may take part in a special library egg hunt Storytime. Prizes will be available.

No registration is required.

April 13, 1:30-3 p.m.

Discuss “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley.

April 19, 6-7 p.m.

Paint cheerful messages on rocks to give to others or place on trails where people can find them. Registration is required.

April 24, 10-10:30 a.m.

Celebrate the trees with a storytime featuring a performer from the Holden gardens. Registration is required.

April 26, 2-3 p.m.

Registration is required.

Chardon VFW Pancake Breakfasts

April 2, 8 a.m. to noon Chardon VFW Post 6519 is serving its final pancake breakfast of the season 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 440-285-3699 for takeout orders.

Health & Wellness Bloodmobile

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 1-800-733-2767. Power Reds are available.

April 4, Chagrin Valley Jaycee’s/Bainbridge Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

April 4, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, 13207 Ravenna Road, Claridon Township, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 5, Geauga Library Administration, 12701 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

April 12, Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Bainbridge Township, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 14, Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, Munson Township, 12-6 p.m.

Grief Support Group

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office LOSS Team will be offering weekly bereavement companionship and grief support Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m., beginning April 4, for 10 weeks in Middlefield. The free group meetings will be peer supported social gatherings designed to offer companionship and support.

For more information, contact Tracy Jordan at 440-279-2062 or email tjordan@ co.geauga.oh.us.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

St. Helen

Chardon

SUBMITTED SUBMITTED

St. Helen School kindergartners (l to r) Jamie Schubert and Ari Cramer use prisms to learn about rainbows.

Weather Investigation

St. Helen kindergartners have been investigating all types of weather during the month of March. They have been recording daily weather observations, seasonal changes and temperatures. At the beginning of the month, they learned about the history behind

the saying, “March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb.”

They are currently learning about wind and rainbows. They enjoyed investigating rainbows using a prism to try and bend the white light. It was a perfect science experiment for the month of March.

Kenston

SUBMITTED

Kindergartners in Mrs. Betsy Hope’s class recognized World Syndrome Day. They wore “super cool” unmatched socks for the rock your socks initiative. They also talked about being kind, brave and being who they are.

Timmons Lunch Bunch

Congratulations to Timmons Elementary students selected for Lunch Bunch honors in April. Kindergartners honored with positive attitude awards were Harlow Kozel, Caroline Mackey, Cole Nutter, Lively Reed, William Rockwell, Xavier Schneider, Tatum Siegler and Madelynn Szabo.

First-graders honored were Ava Albino, John Henry Butler, Nathan Delly, Joseph Frankfort, Ella Lukas, Brooke Miker, Emery Pol, Kenneth Rondo and Audrey Swift.

Second-graders were Emily Aspromatis, Gianluca DiDona, Grace Hromada, Elena Lan-

za, Gianna Logozar, Michael Sebastiano and Alexander Stover. Third-graders were Braden Bennett, Rachel Braginsky, Evianna DiFranco, Dahlia Freeman, Michael Hallisy, Raygan Hudson, Bentley Kay and Lillian Lindberg.

KHS Students of the Month

Kenston High School is pleased to announce its Students of the Month for April.

Students selected are ninth-graders Keira Caprette and Graden Kucharson; 10th-graders Alessia Cassina and Mason Schurr; 11th-graders Ryan Manning and Serafina Novak; and 12th-graders Abby Ohlsen and Jack Skufca.

The Chardon High School Chorale, joined by the school’s eighth-grade boys choir, takes time out for a group photo at the Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Event at Mentor High School on March 6.

Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day, established by the United Nations in 2012, was well celebrated at Chardon High School on March 21 thanks to a successful communications initiative spearheaded by sophomore Trevor Wascovich.

“Trevor did a fantastic job in promoting World Down Syndrome Day at CHS,” stated intervention specialist Amanda Bunker.

“He emailed Principal Murray, encouraged classmates to create and hang posters, and addressed the entire student body over the public announcement system.”

Mrs. Bunker reported that Trevor’s campaign at CHS was highly successful.

“He was excited to find so many people wearing their crazy socks today,” she stated.

“And we are grateful for the class set of socks generously donated by the Wascovich family.”

The Lots of Socks — or Crazy Socks campaign, which has globally become an integral part of World Down Syndrome Day, is a spirited and connection-filled activity that generates fun and serves as a catalyst for starting the important conversations about Down syndrome.

State Science Day

Chardon Middle School student Natasha Sutter achieved a Superior rating and state qualification after competing in the in-person format of the Ohio Academy of Science District Science Day at the University of Akron on March 18. Her science experiment, “Cultivating with Sutter Compost,” earned second place in the CMS judged science fair on Jan. 25, which qualified her as a district competitor. Natasha is a student in Mrs.

Efantis’ seventh-grade science class.

CMS and Mrs. Efantis are thrilled for Natasha and her achievement with Mrs. Efantis hitting the ground running in helping Natasha now prepare for this next level of competition.

As a State Science Day competitor, Natasha will be among over 1,000 grades 5-12 students at The Ohio State University on May 13, each presenting their research for the opportunity to win from nearly $400,000 in scholarships and awards. Congratulations to Natasha on her state qualification and best wishes at the State Science Day.

Choirs Shine at OMEA

Over 100 Chardon High School choir students had the honor of performing at the Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Event at Mentor High School on March 6.

Chardon’s eighth-grade boys choir joined Chorale and eighth-grade girls joined the Treble Choir for the honorary experience. Each ensemble was directed by Chardon choir director Fritz Streiff and his student teacher Gavin O’Keefe from Case Western Reserve University.

The event entailed each ensemble performing three pieces for judges as well as a sight-reading experience wherein each was given a new piece of literature to learn with only five minutes of preparation.

“The choirs did a wonderful job in their preparation and performance,” stated Mr. Streiff. “Chorale received the top rating of one (on a scale of one to five), receiving straight ones from all three of the judges.

Chorale earned a two on sight reading but brought home a composite score of one for the day. Treble Choir earned a two and had a strong sight-reading culminating with a rating of one for that piece. Congratulations to our CHS choir students on their outstanding commitment to excellence through performance.”

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Legal Notices Sheriff ’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 21-F-000230 The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: CHRISTOPHER P. HITCHCOCK, TREASURER OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO, Plaintiff vs. UNDER THE HOOD, LLC, 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 13th day of April, 2023, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the City of Chardon to wit: Situated in the City of Chardon, County of Geauga and State of Ohio being part of Original Lot 129 of said Village and part of land in Lot 147 annexed to said Village by Ordinance Number 503 and recorded in Volume 9, Page 74 of Geauga County Records of Plats and further described as follows: Beginning in the centerline of Mentor Rd (Center Street) at a point which is North 46 degrees 24 minutes 30 seconds West along said centerline a distance of 375.00 feet from the most Westerly corner of land conveyed to the Sabin Development Co, by deed recorded in Volume 496, Page 720 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds. Said point being the principle place of beginning. Thence continuing North 46 degrees 24 minutes 30 seconds West along the centerline of said Center Street, a distance of 269.09 feet to a point; Thence North 31 degrees 44 minutes 37 seconds East and passing through an iron pipe set 30.64 feet therefrom, a distance of 839.13 feet to an iron pipe set in the South line of land in the name of H. Cooley, as recorded in Volume 423, Page 911 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds; Thence South 86 degrees 49 minutes 19 seconds, East along the Southerly margin of said Cooley lands a distance of 579.60 feet to an iron pin found at the Northwest corner of lands in the name of Dauntless Leasing Co., as recorded in Volume 537, Page 1197 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds; Thence South 43 degrees 35 minutes 20 seconds West along the Westerly margin of said Dauntless Leasing Co. lands, a distance of 1197.00 feet to the principle place of beginning and passing through an iron pin found 30.00 feet therefrom, containing 8.6000 acres of land, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways.

Said Premises Located at: 500 CENTER STREET, CITY OF CHARDON, OH. INSIDE APPRAISAL COMPLETED COMMERCIAL PROPERTY Permanent Parcel Number: 10-087295 DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

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

Said Premises appraised at ($1,000,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($666,667.00). 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 Kirk W. Roessler, attorney Mar16-23-30, 2023 Sheriff ’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 21-F-000586 The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: TANGLEWOOD GREENE CONDOMINIUM UNIT OWNERS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNS AND CREDITORS OF MICHAEL RAND FORBES, 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 13th day of April, 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 27th day of April, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Legal Notices are also posted to www.geaugamapleleaf.com and www.publicnoticesohio.com

State of Ohio, and in the Township of Bainbridge to wit: Situated in the Township of Bainbridge, County of Geauga and State of Ohio: And known as being Unit No. A-4 of the Tanglewood Greene Condominium, as shown by the Declaration and By-Laws recorded in Volume 532, Pages 1268 thru 1292 of Geauga County Deed Records, and Drawing recorded in Volume 9, Pages 114 thru 137 of Geauga County Condominium Map Records, with Amendments, if any, be the same more of less, but subject to all legal highways.

The improvements thereon being known as 17507 Fairlawn Drive, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023.

Said Premises Located at: 17507 FAIRLAWN DRIVE, (UNIT NO. A-4 OF THE TANGLEWOOD GREENE CONDOMINIUM), BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, OH. Permanent Parcel Number: 02-261400 DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $5,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

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

Said Premises appraised at ($160,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($106,667.00). 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 Ellen L. Fornasch, attorney Mar16-23-30, 2023

Sheriff ’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 22-F-000202 The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF SOUNDVIEW HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-D01, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-D1, Plaintiff vs. MICHAEL J. FECKANIN, 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 13th day of April, 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 27th day of April, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Montville to wit: Situated in the Township of Montville, County of Geauga, and State of Ohio: And known as being part of Section No. 12 in said Township and further described as follows; Beginning at a point in the centerline of east and west Center Road, known as GAR Highway at the southeasterly corner of a parcel of land deeded to H.W. Bacon as recorded in Volume 205, Page 294 of Geauga County Records of Deeds. Thence Westerly along the centerline of said east and west road, 194.00 feet to the principal place of beginning.

Course No. 1: Thence Northerly at right angles to said East and West Road, 363.00 feet to an iron pipe.

Course No. 2: Thence Westerly and parallel to said centerline of East and West Road, 120.0 feet to an iron pipe.

Course No. 3: Thence Southerly along a line parallel to Course No. 1, 363.00 feet to the centerline of East and West Road.

Course No. 4: Thence Easterly along the centerline of East and West Road, 120.00 feet to the principal place of beginning. Containing 1.00 acre of land according to the survey of W.E. Holland Engineering Co., Chagrin Falls, Ohio, March 1964, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways.

Said Premises Located at: 15794 GAR HIGHWAY, MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP, OH. Permanent Parcel Number: 20-009600 DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $5,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

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

Said Premises appraised at ($75,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($50,000.00). 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 Peter L. Mehler, attorney Mar16-23-30, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO 23-F-000103 - Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, as Trustee for the benefit of the Freddie Mac Seasoned Loans Structured Transaction Trust, Series 2021-1 vs. Carol Dean, et al.

Unknown Heirs at Law, Devisees, Legatees, Administrators, and Executors of the Estate of Michael Carothers, whose present place of residence is unknown, will take notice that on February 17, 2023, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, as Trustee for the benefit of the Freddie Mac Seasoned Loans Structured Transaction Trust, Series 2021-1, filed its Complaint in Foreclosure in Case No. 23F000103 in the Court of Common Pleas Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, alleging that the Defendants, Unknown Heirs at Law, Devisees, Legatees, Administrators, and Executors of the Estate of Michael Carothers, have or claim to have an interest in the real estate located at 11658 Pekin Road, Newbury, OH 44065, PPN #23-297500 and 23297600. A complete legal description may be obtained with the Geauga County Auditor’s Office located at 231 Main St., Chardon, OH 44024-1293.

The Petitioner further alleges that by reason of default of the Defendant(s) in the payment of a promissory note, according to its tenor, the conditions of a concurrent mortgage deed given to secure the payment of said note and conveying the premises described, have been broken, and the same has become absolute.

The Petitioner prays that the Defendant(s) named above be required to answer and set up their interest in said real estate or be forever barred from asserting the same, for foreclosure of said mortgage, the marshalling of any liens, and the sale of said real estate, and the proceeds of said sale applied to the payment of Petitioner’s claim in the property order of its priority, and for such other and further relief as is just and equitable.

THE DEFENDANT(S) NAMED ABOVE ARE REQUIRED TO ANSWER ON OR BEFORE THE 4TH DAY OF MAY, 2023.

BY CLUNK, HOOSE CO., LPA, Ethan J. Clunk #0095546, Attorneys for Plaintiff-Petitioner, 495 Wolf Ledges Pkwy, Akron, OH 44311, (330) 436-0300 - telephone, (330) 436-0301 - facsimile, notice@clunkhoose.com.

Mar23, 30 Apr6, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE Geauga County Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners at 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 350, Chardon, Ohio 44024 until 1:45 PM official local time on April 19, 2023 for The Asphalt Resurfacing of Sections C-E of Washington Street, CH-0606 (REBID) in Auburn Township and Bainbridge Township. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 2:05 PM in Room B303. The estimated construction cost for this project is $1,600,000.

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

Geauga County Sheriff – Scott A. Hildenbrand

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 Davis Bacon Act WD#OH20220001.

DOMESTIC STEEL USE REQUIREMENTS AS SPECIFIED IN OHIO REVISED CODE §153.011 APPLY TO THIS PROJECT. COPIES OF §153.011 CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ANY OF THE OFFICES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES OR THROUGH http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/153.011.

Bids may be held by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners.

BY THE ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Christine Blair, Clerk Mar23-30, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE Geauga County Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners at 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 350, Chardon, Ohio 44024 until 1:45 PM official local time on April 19, 2023 for The Asphalt Resurfacing of Sections A-B of Washington Street, CH-0606 (REBID) in South Russell Village and Bainbridge Township. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 2:00 PM in Room B303. The estimated construction cost for this project is $925,000.00.

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 notice.

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 Davis Bacon Act WD#OH20220001.

DOMESTIC STEEL USE REQUIREMENTS AS SPECIFIED IN SECTION 153.011 OF THE OHIO REVISED CODE APPLIES TO THIS PROJECT. COPIES OF SECTION 153.011 OF THE REVISED CODE CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ANY OF THE OFFICES OF THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES. Bids may be held by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners.

BY THE ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Christine Blair, Clerk Mar23-30, 2023

Thursday, March 30, 2023 LEGAL NOTICE Geauga County Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite #350, Chardon, Ohio 44024 until 1:45 P.M. official local time on Wednesday April 12, 2023 for the 2023 Lawn Maintenance of the North and South Areas, Geauga County Department of Water Resources.

Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 2:00 P.M in Room B303.

Copies of the Specifications may be obtained at the Department of Water Resources Office, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 390, Chardon, Ohio, or by contacting Kathleen Miller by phone (440) 279-1971 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or email kathleenm@gcdwr.org.

A copy of this legal notice is posted on the County’s website. Go to http://bocc.geauga. oh.gov/public-notifications/bid-openings.

Envelope containing the bid and other documents shall be sealed, addressed (with bidder’s name) envelope and clearly marked “2023 Lawn Maintenance of the North and South Areas, Geauga County Department of Water Resources, Attn: Clerk, Office of the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 350, Chardon, Ohio 44024.”

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.

Bids may be held by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners 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 Geauga County Board of Commissioners.

BY ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Christine Blair, Clerk Mar23-30, 2023

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING ANNUAL TAX BUDGET HEARINGS GEAUGA COUNTY BUDGET COMMISSION The Geauga County Budget Commission will hold a special meeting for the re-hearing of the 2021 Tax Budget for Russell 1545 Park District beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023 at the Geauga County Offices, 12611 Ravenwood Dr. Suite A 333-334, Chardon, Ohio 44024 for the following taxing districts: Russell 1545 Park District Charles E. Walder, Auditor Secretary/Budget Commission Mar30, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE Sale of Property by Sealed Bid Montville Township, Geauga County Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Montville Township Board of Trustees, C/O Equipment Bids, P.O. Box 116, 9755 Madison Rd., Montville, Ohio 44064 until 7:00 p.m. official local time on April 4, 2023. Bids may be hand delivered on April 4, 2023 to the Township Office from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud at 7:35 p.m. the same day at the Montville Community Center for the sale of: • (1) 1995 Kobelco Excavator Model SK60 LC, SN# LEJ0210; This machine moves, runs and operates as it should; hour meter shows actual 4550 hrs.; track and some bearings recently replaced; final drive oil recently changed; steel tracks in good condition; cab is missing some glass; has been stored inside a heated garage; attachments included: 1ft trench bucket, 3 ft trench bucket, 42” ditching bucket, hydraulic thumb and straight blade. **A minimum bid purchase price of $15,000.00 has been placed on this excavator.

• (1) Flatbed tag along pintle tri-axle electric break trailer, 18 ft x 96” wide wood decked/ dove tail with folding ramps/358” total length; deck-good condition; paint-average; tires-good; electric breaks may not operate as they should. **A minimum bid purchase price of $2,200.00 has been placed on this trailer.

Geauga County Maple Leaf The items are no longer needed in daily operation of the township and shall be sold “Where-Is” and “As-Is” with NO warranty, guaranty, or representation of any kind, expressed or implied as to the merchantability or fitness for any purpose of the property offered for sale. NO refunds attached. Upon removal of the property all sales are FINAL. Removal is by appointment only by calling the Road Department 440-226-2203 to leave a message. No assistance will be provided for the loading or transportation of the property.

PREVIEW DAYS: Saturday, April 1st 9:00 - 11:00 AM, Tuesday, April 4th 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Road Garage.

Bids shall include the name/phone of the person submitting it, and bids may be held by the Montville Township Board of Trustees for a period not to exceed (60) days from the date of opening, for the purpose of reviewing the bids.

The items shall be sold to the highest bidder; however, the Montville Township Board of Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids received, all in accord with the applicable provisions of laws of the State of Ohio governing the conduct of the Montville Board of Trustees.

This notice is posted on the Township website (Montvillegeauga.com), under the Road Department tab.

BY THE ORDER OF THE MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES Karen Hawkins, Fiscal Officer Mar30, 2023

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING ANNUAL TAX BUDGET HEARINGS GEAUGA COUNTY BUDGET COMMISSION The Geauga County Budget Commission will hold a special meeting for the 2024 Tax Budget Hearings beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023 at the Geauga County Offices, 12611 Ravenwood Dr. Suite A 333334, Chardon, Ohio 44024 for the following taxing districts: Geauga Health District Charles E. Walder, Auditor Secretary/Budget Commission Mar30, 2023

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING APPEAL FOR A VARIANCE TO THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application identified as number Z-2023-2, on an appeal for a use variance to the Chester Township Zoning Resolution on the 10th day of April, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at Metzenbaum Center – Small gym; 8200 Cedar Rd., Chester Twp., OH. (Enter building at second blue awning.)

The application, submitted by Armand DiNardo, requests that he may build 37 detached condos/homes in a “R” One Family Residential District.

Kathleen McCarthy Administrative Assistant Mar30, 2023

NOTICE TO BIDDERS STATE OF OHIO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Columbus, Ohio Division of Construction Management Legal Copy Number: 230280 Sealed proposals will be accepted from prequalified bidders at the ODOT Office of Contracts until 10:00 a.m. on April 27, 2023.

Project 230280 is located in Geauga County, TSG FY2023 and is a SIGNALIZATION project. The date set for completion of this work shall be as set forth in the bidding proposal. Plans and Specifications are on file in the Department of Transportation.

Mar30 Apr6, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP DUST CONTROL BID The Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees will receive sealed proposals until 3:00 p.m. on April 18, 2023, proposals will be opened and read aloud at 8:15 pm during the Trustees’ meeting on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 for the Spraying of MC70, CRS OR AEP and the spreading of washed #8 limestone on Township Roads in Huntsburg Township, during the 2023 construction season.

Bid proposals may be obtained by calling the Huntsburg Township Fiscal Officer at 440636-5486 or mailing to P.O. Box 280, Hunts-

burg, Ohio 44046. All bid proposals shall be submitted on forms provided by the Board of Trustees.

A bid bond or certified check, cashier’s check, or money order, on a solvent bank or savings and loan association, in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid amount, and liability insurance for injury to persons and/ or damage to property in an amount not less than $1,000,000.00 and property damage liability insurance in an amount not less than $500,000.00, shall accompany each bid. The bid shall be let on a unit price basis.

The Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any or all bids, 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 the laws of the State of Ohio governing the conduct of the Board of Trustees.

Legal notice shall be considered as part of the bid specifications.

Address all bids to The Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees, P.O. Box 280 Huntsburg, Ohio 44046, and identify sealed envelopes as “Proposal for the Spraying of MC70, CRS OR AEP and brooming off stone if requires for CRS applications, Spreading of #8 washed Limestone on Various Roads during the 2023 Construction Season”.

By Order of the Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees.

Michele A. Saunders, Fiscal Officer Mar30 Apr6, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE Public Hearing To approve 2023 Permanent Appropriations Middlefield Township Geauga County, Ohio Notice is hereby given that the Middlefield Township Trustees will be holding a special session public hearing to pass a resolution accepting the 2023 permanent appropriations on Friday, March 31, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. in the Middlefield Township office located at 15228 Madison Road.

Mary Ann Pierce, Fiscal Officer Mar30, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE Chester Township Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Chester Township Board of Trustees, c/o Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer, at 12701 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, OH 44026 until 11:00 AM official local time on April 14, 2023 for The Asphalt Resurfacing of Various Roads in Chester Township. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 11:05 AM. The estimated construction cost for this project is $575,000.00.

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, OH 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.

Bids may be held by the Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester Township Board of Trustees.

BY THE ORDER OF THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer Mar30, 2023

Page 25 LEGAL NOTICE Chester Township Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Chester Township Board of Trustees, c/o Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer, at 12701 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, OH 44026 until 11:00 AM official local time on April 14, 2023 for The Chip Seal of Various Roads in Chester Township. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 11:10 AM. The estimated construction cost for this project is $165,000.00.

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, OH 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.

Bids may be held by the Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester Township Board of Trustees.

BY THE ORDER OF THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer Mar30, 2023

Page 26

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Mar. 17, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AQUILLA VILLAGE Roger Mezak, Berkshire Drive (s/l 17 C- 21 C), to Max Galen Palmisano, $32,000.

(0.35 acres)

AUBURN TOWNSHIP John Paul May and Rebecca Ann Messner, 17775 Ravenna Road, to KZ 01 Corp Inc., $70,000. (0.90 acres) Eric Evans, 20 Windward Way, to Karen Hattendorf, $387,500. (0.00 acres) BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP Canyon Lakes Colony Company, 7970 Canyon Ridge, to Abhiram Malathesha and Nandam Neeharika Kondajji, $150,000. (0.42 acres) Sara G. Harris and Aurora Carlina, 17633 Merry Oaks Trail, to Gabriella D. Suglia, $255,000. (0.47 acres) CHARDON CITY Stephen P. Ischay, 447 North St., to Charles F. Birchall Jr., $320,000. (1.95 acres) Stephen J. Wendell (TOD), 290 S. Oval Drive, to Barbara B. Walter, $244,000. (0.00 acres)

Jon M. and Jennifer L. Shaffer, 311 Downing Drive, to Michael J. Auth, $240,000. (0.49 acres) CHARDON TOWSHIP John R. Konchan, 9799 Stukey Lane, to Western Reserve Investment LLC, $112,200.

(1.00 acres) CHESTER TOWNSHIP Matthew B. and Jennifer Gilmer, 7566 Oak Hill Drive, to Dylan and Samantha Zurcher, $365,000. (1.00 acres) Dylan Evan Zurcher and Samantha Lee Jones Zurcher, 8962 Wyandot Road, to Byron R. and Marilyn Moore Tabbut, $525,000.

(1.73 acres) CLARIDON TOWNSHIP Rene A. Weems, 12628 Taylor Wells Road, to Ashley Jordan Richardson, $180,000. (1.68 acres) HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP Christopher and Dana M. Virgo, 9820 Tudor Place, to Anthony S. and Kimberly L. Difranco, $475,000. (3.55 acres) Patricia A. and Joseph Pleichner, 10540 Penniman Drive, to Jameson Selvaggio, $575,000. (3.78 acres) HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP Rollin E. and Susan L. West, Mayfield Road, to Heritage Hills Campground LLC, $75,000. (12.47 acres) Harry K. George III, 11323 Kile Road, to

Earl Woodrow Griffin, $33,000. (6.14 acres) Lawrence R. Podojil (trustee), 15639 Windmill Point Road, to Thomas J. and Jennifer L. Vanek, $23,000. (1.77 acres) MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE Kimberly A. Mcquade, 14875 Glen Valley Drive, to Alexandria G. Watson, $216,000.

(0.23 acres) MUNSON TOWNSHIP John M. Sr. and Patricia A. Beischlag, 12900 Greenbrier Drive, to William N. and Natasha R. Vuletich, $370,000 (3.00 acres) Eleanor G. Kenny (trustee), Auburn Road, to Allen K. Finley III, $352,500. (5.25 acres) PARKMAN TOWNSHIP Robert N. and Mary P. Miller, 17895 Farmington Road, to John J., Lovina A., and Robert J. Byler, $330,000. (9.97 acres) Marvin M. and Clara Byler, 16509 Bundysburg Road, to Matthew M. Hostetler and Katelynn Troyer, $140,000. (1.61 acres) Robert E. and Patricia A. Miller (trustees), 17775 Hosmer Road, to Arden D. Ahnell, $420,000. (3.24 acres) RUSSELL TOWNSHIP Mossberg Holdings LLC, 15061 Russell Road, to Arthur Andrew and Kristen Wells, $340,000. (2.89 acres) Christopher Francis and Heather Skye Paterniti, 14483 West Ridge Drive, to Heather Skye Paterniti, $234,800. (3.62 acres)

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Page 27

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Classifieds FOR RENT Burton Ranch Condo: 2/BR, 2/Bath, AC, laundry, 2-car attached garage. No pets/smoking. $1,600/month. Includes snow plowing, lawn, trash. 440-221-0649.

Rental Home: Berkshire Schools, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, laundry, family and living rooms, basement, large garage. No pets, non-smoking. 440-636-5747.

Wanted: Retired person to drive one man painter to work and possibly work with me 2-3 days a week. 440636-5348.

Suburban Driving School-Chesterland, looking for individuals to teach driver’s education. Paid training. Call 440-729-4360 or 216-536-6708 or email resume: contact@suburbandriveohio.com.

COMMERCIAL RENTALS FOR LEASE: 120x60 arena barn with pastures for agricultural use or storage and grounds for nursery/landscape operation. Newbury. 440-564-7363.

FOR SALE Windsor road-bike $500. Horse-drawn sleigh $500.

Western saddle $500. Honda push-mower $300. (8) Fishing poles $200/for all. 845-987-0079.

Couch w/love-seat $200. Old table $75. Cedar chest $40. Large cabinet $40. Old fashioned mirror $40. Single bed $40. 440-632-9675.

Free: Melodigrand Upright Spinet Piano, good condition.

Chardon. Call 440-286-1617.

Antique clocks, many. Oak crank wall-phone $369.

Humpback chest $79. Wooden rocking horse $79. Kids spring rocking horse $49. 440-338-3563.

FREE: old stamp collection, US and international stamps. 440-564-9221.

Gun rack, sofa, toddler toys, large aquarium with stand, vintage coffee mill, Billiard weight set. Cheap. 440-7291082.

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

Elliptical Exercise Machine: with books, tools, and pulse monitor; $20. 440-313-1178.

SERVICES Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.

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

WANTED TO BUY

Classifieds 440-729-7667 20 words for $12 Deadline: Friday at Noon GARAGE/ESTATE SALES Estate Sale: Fri 3/27-Sat 4/1, 10am-6pm. 11811 Joy Acre Lane, Chardon. Everything must go! Furniture, tables, lamps, housewares, candles, knick-knacks.

PETS & ANIMALS Bunnies for sale. 440-632-9651.

HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE

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.

Maverick Environmental Equipment hiring Heavy-Haul Driver! Class A-CDL required. FULL TIME, great benefits, great team! Call Tim at 440- 488-7880.

LOT FOR SALE: .34 acre lot in Bainbridge with Lake Lucerne amenities. Make offer before I list with realtor!

440-596-2608.

We buy Houses and Land. Any condition or situation.

Fast, friendly, local. Westwind Property Solutions. Text/ call Wayne today at 330-269-9595.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools.

Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.

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.

Will pay cash for sports cards & collectibles. Entire collections or individual cards. Organized or unorganized.

Call or text Rich at 440-552-0691.

Page 28

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Geauga County Sheriff ’s Report The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office March 17-23, 2023.

CITIZEN ASSIST March 21 3:08 p.m., Merritt Road, Munson. Caller would like a deputy to call him. He let his 27-year-old nephew borrow a gun. He was told his nephew was drinking and he was carrying around a firearm. Caller does not know his nephew’s address, they just moved here. Deputy advised. Left messages for nephew and complainant about returning the firearm.

7:49 p.m., Bud Drive, Middlefield. Caller’s

wife cosigned for her friend when she purchased a car and just received traffic tickets in the mail from North Carolina and Florida. They have not seen the friend in a long time. Deputy advised. Male stated his wife co-signed but somehow was listed as primary owner. There are plates on the car that friend put on it but they are under his wife’s name. Deputy responded and spoke with complainant. He was thinking this would be identity theft as friend has unpaid tolls and the car is not being paid.

DRUGS March 22 5:19 p.m., Mayfield Road, Munson. Third shift worker left her coat in a resident’s

room at Joy’s Place. Resident sat on it and broke a meth pipe. There also is meth inside a Tylenol bottle. Deputy advised.

Report to follow.

JUVENILE PROBLEM March 21 3:46 p.m., Kinsman Road, Newbury. There are four boys in restaurant that are acting out. They are harassing the waitress and have done so several times. They’ve been asked multiple times on different occasions to stop. They boys have left.

Juveniles left prior to deputy’s arrival.

Manager will call if they return.

SUSPICIOUS March 17 1:09 p.m., Mayfield Road, Huntsburg. Report of a person dumpster diving at Huntsburg Township recycling area.

Deputy located female collecting items from recycling bin. She stated she is going through difficult times and needed the recyclables for extra money for medication. Deputy spoke with township employee who asked that female be told to not take items from the bins again. He stated she could keep the items she already collected. Female advised. Deputy cleared without incident.

March 18 4:33 p.m., Nash Road, Parkman. Calle let a friend use his red truck and he moved to Florida. Caller states the friend used his vehicle in a crime to steal a

trailer. Caller allowed him to use the truck because he was down and out.

Another friend texted caller and said friend was using the trucks for thefts.

Advice given on getting his truck back.

Advised to call back if he needs further help.

March 22 1:43 p.m., Butternut Road, Newbury. Female believes she’s been hacked and people are listening through the phone. Female wouldn’t give any information and just said get her now. Female reported she was being scammed by someone on the phone. Deputy arrived and listened to the conversation. It was confirmed the person was trying to scam complainant into giving personal information. Complainant said she did not remember giving any personal information, but she did download a program onto her computer. Deputy assisted female with turning off her computer and ending the phone call. She was advised to go to her local banks and make sure there was no fraudulent activity. She also was given information about credit monitoring.

TRAFFIC CRASH March 19 11:48 p.m., Hayes Road, Middlefield. Two buggies collided. Intoxicated subjects.

Buggy that had possible intoxicated occupants has left the scene, being towed by another buggy. Buggy being towed was pulled into Hayes Road driveway.