Geauga Maple Leaf 4-20-23

Leaf

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Vol. 29 No. 16 • Chardon, Ohio

www.geaugamapleleaf.com

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Water Resources’ Email Server Breached Prosecutor,

Admin

Exchange Verbal Blows at Emergency Meeting

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

A breach of the Geauga County Department of Water Resources’ email server last week caused tem pers to flare during an emergency Automatic Data Processing board meeting April 13.

“On Wednesday, April 12, around 4 a.m., a product called CrowdStrike Falcon … began notic ing possible nefarious scripts and command line activity on a critical water resource server,” said Geau ga County Auditor and ADP Chief Administrator Chuck Walder, ad dressing Geauga County Commis sioners, Prosecutor Jim Flaiz and Water Resources representatives who were present for the meeting.

“Shortly before 8 a.m., ADP staff began receiving a series of serious high-priority alerts through ADP Cybersecurity Center, from CrowdStrike, indicating what ap peared to be a significant and per sistent threat attack on this water

Morrissette Held Without Bail, Hearing Set for May 3

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

The 18-year-old student charged with bringing a handgun to West Geauga High School with plans to shoot multiple students appeared before Chardon Municipal Court Judge Terri Stu pica on April 12.

Stupica or dered Brandon Michael Mor rissette be held without bail.

ADP Steps In to Help with Russian Cyber-Attack

By amy Patterson amy@karlovecmeDia com

After a recent cyber-attack on its email server, the Geauga County Water Resources Department has surrendered authority over its information technology systems to the county Automatic Data Processing board.

The ADP board approved the move during an emergency meeting on April 17.

At another emergency meeting April 13, board members argued with County Administrator Gerry Morgan and water resources personnel about the conditions leading up to the attack,

See Russia • Page 5

Commissioners Drop Lawsuit Against ADP Board page 5

See Breach • Page 4

Park District Celebrates Earth Day

Veterans Legacy Woods will be the site for Geauga Park District’s ‘1,000 Trees Earth Day Reforestation Initiative’

West G Supt Details Security Updates After ‘Terrifying’ Incident page 8

Childcare Center to Open New Branch In Chester page 12

Opinion page 9

Obituaries page 13

Sports pages 14-16

By rose nemunaitis eDitor@karlovecmeDia com

Geauga Park District decided to celebrate Earth Day in a big way this year — by planting 1,000 trees.

Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices page 21

Classifieds start on page 22

Morrissette

The Lynd hurst resident faces two felony charges and one misdemeanor stemming from the April 3 incident. Attorneys representing Morrissette, who earlier in the day was released from a mental

“This is actually a brand new initiative for Geauga Park District,” GPD Biologist Paul Pira said of the 1,000 Trees Earth Day reforestation initiative which will be held April 20, 21, 22 at the park district’s Veterans Legacy Woods, formerly Wicked Woods Golf Course, in Newbury Township. “Natural resource

See Earth • Page 6

from page 1

health facility, pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor offense by reason of insanity.

Morrissette appeared in court via jail video. He attempted to speak but was quickly silenced by Stupica.

“You have very competent counsel,” Stupica said. “The court does not want to violate any of your rights.”

Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz, in his motion to have Morrissette held without bail, argued he poses a risk to the community.

“He took a substantial step toward the commission of aggravated murder in that he planned out his crime and brought a fire-

ment, the defendant would have carried out his crime to its conclusion.”

Flaiz noted that Morrissette “has demonstrated the ability to gain access to firearms and ammunition and has the desire to commit murder.”

Court records show that when interviewed by Chester Township Police Chief Craig Young and Captain Jeff Sherwood, Morrissette admitted he planned to open fire on students in the school library and chose that location because of the large number of students who would be there at that time.

Found in his book bag was a 9mm handgun with three loaded magazines. He also had a lock blade-style knife secured to the

assure the safety of that person or the community. His actions already demonstrate a willingness to violate the law, and no-contact orders, GPS monitors or house arrest could be easily violated by him,“ Flaiz wrote. “Law enforcement and court officials would only be notified after the fact if he were to leave his residence and return to the school or go to another populated area to carry out plans to conduct a mass shooting.”

Morrissette is charged with attempted aggravated murder, a first-degree felony; illegal possession of a deadly weapon in a school safety zone, a fifth-degree felony; and inducing panic, a first-degree misdemeanor.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. May 3.

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted. To have a public meeting included in this section, fax information to 440285-2015 or email editor@geaugamapleleaf. com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: April 25, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; April 26, 5 p.m., Board of Health, Ste. 300. 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 27, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Bainbridge Township: April 20, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; April 24, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 25, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

Burton Village: April 20, 7 p.m., Public Library Trustees; April 24, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon City: April 25, 6:30 p.m., Planning Commission. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: April 20, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 26, 7 p.m., Park District, at 7840 Mayfield Road. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Claridon Township: April 24, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All trustees meetings are held at Administrative Building, 13932 Mayfield Road, unless otherwise noted. All Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meetings are held at Town Hall, 13930 Mayfield Road.

Montville Township: April 27, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Road, unless noted.

Munson Township: April 25, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.

Newbury Township: April 26, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, unless noted.

Parkman Township: April 25, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: April 20, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 26, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Russell Town

Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: April 24, 7 p.m. Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: April 26, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

Chardon BOE: April 24, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at Ira A. Canfield Building, 428 North St., Chardon, unless otherwise noted.

West Geauga BOE: April 24, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

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and put in motion a series of procedures and instructions for ADP to further isolate and protect the county’s network infrastructure.

“ADP personnel immediately notified water resources of the attack, blocked all inbound water resource domain traffic, removed water resources from all shared ISP switches and began a deep scan of all county systems to ensure that the county’s environment under ADP control was secure and not affected,” he said.

Walder said the server in question is an “end-of-life, end-of-support server,” meaning it is running an operating system from 2012 and software from 2016 that has not been properly service-patched.

That vulnerability likely allowed an outside actor to penetrate the server through Exchange — an email program — and attempt to run a series of commands.

“The server was ultimately powered off by water resources staff, preventing further analysis by ADP or CrowdStrike,” Walder said.

CrowdStrike and ADP were successful in containing the attack with no disruption to other county services or systems under ADP control, he added.

However, the infected email server is one of five servers the water resources department operates without ADP’s oversight.

Walder said the department has also neglected to keep its other vulnerable servers patched and up to date.

Fingers Pointed

Water Resources Director Steve Oluic said he had no email access and had not seen any information regarding the server.

“I got an email at eight o’clock and then shortly thereafter, we were shut down. No phone calls or anything, so I don’t know (what happened) because we haven’t got any report,” Oluic said.

“It’s your server,” Flaiz responded. “Water resources is running it. I would expect water resources to come to this meeting and explain to us what’s going on.”

Flaiz asked water resources Network Administrator Michael Kurzinger what he knew about the attack.

“When (CrowdStrike) sees an attack, it will go in and shut that server off from the network or from any other access … so that threat ended at that point until remediation can take place,” Kurzinger said.

Kurzinger said he made many attempts to contact ADP Chief Deputy Administrator Frank Antenucci but did not receive an answer.

“You guys were busy,” he said. “They said to call back in a couple of minutes. I called back. I was told by your help desk, ‘Call Frank at this extension.’ I cannot give you any more information.”

Flaiz asked Kurzinger why water resourc es was running an Exchange server and hadn’t yet switched to Microsoft 365 — an update of their current software that is still covered by service patches.

Kurzinger said he was instructed not to switch to the new software by County Admin istrator Gerry Morgan.

Flaiz presented a Feb. 2 email in which Morgan told Kurzinger not to move forward with a switch to the more secure Microsoft 365 until mediation between the commission ers and ADP was finalized. (See related story on page 5)

Walder asked what mediation had to do with the department running its email server — Morgan replied commissioners were under a “gag order” and could not talk about what happened.

“If you had migrated to Microsoft 365, would you be having this problem right now?” Flaiz asked.

“I don’t know,” Oluic quickly responded.

In response to a comment from Commis sioner Tim Lennon, who said the county has been in discussions regarding interactions between water resources and ADP, Flaiz said the ADP board is used to the department blaming them.

“This is Gerry’s fault,” Flaiz said.

Flaiz asked Morgan if he would allow the migration to Microsoft 365 and Morgan agreed to move forward with it, saying he already spoke to water resources about implementation.

“Well, you didn’t talk to ADP or the board, did you? Apparently, you run the whole county,” Flaiz shot back, adding Morgan has only given his blessing now that there’s been a cyber-attack.

“Gerry, you lie to me all the time,” Flaiz said. “When you sat in this meeting almost two years ago and told us that water resources was going to completely come under ADP, do you remember sitting there telling us that?”

Morgan responded the department was working toward that goal.

“When you haven’t done it in two years, I will say that you are lying,” Flaiz said. “You stopped the migration and now they don’t have email. I know you’re anxious to blame

Frank and Chuck, but it’s your fault.”

Walder said ADP has installed Microsoft 365 everywhere in the county except for water resources because of the difficulty ADP has had in dealing with the department, especially after an issue last year at the McFarland Wastewater Plant.

Morgan asked if water resources could transfer to Microsoft 365 themselves without ADP.

“ADP does IT,” Flaiz responded. “We are not doing these games anymore.”

Morgan pushed his point, saying the department could solve the current issue by moving to Microsoft 365 on its own, then converting to ADP administration of IT services at a later date.

“Why would we do a later date, Gerry? It’s been two and a half years migrating water resources supposedly into ADP,” Walder said.

Resolution

After a lengthy discussion, the ADP board passed a motion to migrate the water resources email server to Microsoft 365 and perform any other services necessary to get the department operational.

Water resources will cover any costs incurred and ADP will attempt to recover

historical email data if possible.

After the motion, Lennon asked about the possibility of designating a person to serve as a liaison between ADP and water resources.

“It doesn’t have to be the directors or whatever, but whoever is comfortable being able to communicate together and talk to each other,” Lennon said. “Is that possible?”

Antenucci suggested designating Budget and Finance Manager Adrian Gorton because of his experience with water resources.

Oluic quickly disagreed while Walder added it is difficult to volunteer someone for a position which could make them subject to being named in a lawsuit.

“If any of you walk in those shoes for a minute, I get to pick the next person who could be subject to have his name put on a lawsuit. I’ve never in my life experienced a county naming a person (in a lawsuit),” Walder said, referring to a lawsuit filed last September by county commissioners personally naming him, Antenucci and an ADP employee.

Morgan left the room as Flaiz said that lawsuit was “classless” and uncalled for.

“(The lawsuit) was vindictive by the guy who just walked out of the room,” said Flaiz. “It is what it is.”

County Commissioners Drop Lawsuit Against ADP Board

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

After being embroiled in a legal dispute for the past year, Geauga County Commissioners made the decision April 4 to drop a lawsuit against the Geauga County Automatic Data Processing board.

In August of last year, the ADP board unanimously moved to take commissioners to a free mediation through the Ohio Supreme Court to determine whether ADP or the county’s maintenance department, operating under the authority of the county commissioners, had the power to assign and distribute electronic keycards.

However, in September 2022, commissioners filed a temporary restraining order against Geauga County Auditor and ADP Chief Administrator Chuck Walder, Deputy Administrator Frank Antenucci and Chief Technology Officer Allen Keener, accusing them of denying county maintenance staff access to part of the new building.

“I have been disappointed in the board of county commissioners’ filing of this lawsuit since they did so last year. Particularly troubling is their naming of two Geauga County employees who were simply doing their jobs,” Walder said. “It is increasingly difficult to attract and retain competent, hardworking employees into government service and the board of county commissioners’ naming of

Russia

from page 1

which left the department unable to operate.

During the April 17 meeting, Information Security Analyst Zach McLeod reported that, according to a report from CrowdStrike, a third-party security vendor, the attack on water resources’ email server originated in a computer located in Russia.

As of the time of the meeting, the affected server was still in quarantine from the rest of the network at CrowdStrike’s suggestion, he said.

“They have completed their investigation,” McLeod said while presenting their report. “Just before the detection (of the malware), they see logs where a network request was made between the server and somewhere in Russia.”

CrowdStrike successfully identified the malware used to attack the server and did not find any further malicious activity in the department’s network after the server was put in containment, he added.

Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz asked McLeod to weigh in on a rumor he said was repeated by several county employees since the attack was exposed — that the hack was “concocted by ADP.”

“Apparently, water resources employees were told, or are under the belief, that this is all made up, this isn’t a real thing, this is something that’s been concocted by ADP and the people running ADP. I’ve heard that from a number of different people in the county,” he said. “Is that possible, or is this real ransomware?”

McLeod said CrowdStrike is a national company and that ADP was not responsible for the initial detection — that information was brought to them by a CrowdStrike alert.

“They were able to identify the exact type of malware that was used, and, you know, what it was attempting to exploit,” he said. “There’s not a way that we would have been

specific employees was, in my opinion, hit ting below the belt and retaliatory.”

Walder said for elected officials, being named in lawsuits comes with the territory.

“To do this to employees is unconsciona ble and caused unnecessary stress and anx iety to these employees and their families. Both employees deserve a public apology,” he said.

A notice of voluntary dismissal filed April 4 asks for the case to be dismissed without prejudice.

“Pursuant to Rule 41(A)(l)(a) of the Ohio Rules of Civil Proce dure, Plaintiff Geauga County Board of Commissioners hereby provides notice of the voluntary dismissal of this action, and all claims alleged against the Defendants in this action, without prejudice,” the filing states.

Walder said April 6 he was first made aware of the commissioners’ intent to drop the lawsuit in a letter sent by County Administrator Gerry Morgan.

The Supreme Court mediation was ongoing when the dismissal was filed, he added. Progress was being made, and significant time and energy was invested by ADP staff members and County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz.

“Significant taxpayer money was spent by the board of county commissioners who hired outside counsel,” Walder said. “While I appreciate the commissioners’ decision now to do right by the taxpayers, it comes with

incredible tangible and intangible costs.”

In his letter, Morgan said he was writing to request the ADP board approve two proposals the commissioners intend to present at the next ADP meeting — one relating to the operation of the keycard system purchased by commissioners, the other pertaining to technology he said has long been used by the Geauga County Department of Water Resources to operate its water treatment plants.

“The board of county commissioners has directed its legal counsel to dismiss the pending lawsuit against the ADP board and intends to attend your next ADP board meeting to request your approval of two proposals that would allow the Geauga County BOCC to comply with its legal obligations to secure county official buildings and to run the water resources plant in a manner that complies with Ohio law and does not result in any further legal disputes with the ADP board,” Morgan said.

Morgan added the commissioners believe it would be in the best interest of Geauga

County and its residents to avoid the time and expense of any further litigation, and would like all elected officials to work together to advance the interests of the county.

“In this regard, all three members of the BOCC and myself all intend to attend the next ADP board meeting and to make a full and complete presentation of the BOCC’s proposals to the members of the ADP board,” Morgan said. “In so doing, we are hopeful that the members of the ADP board will grant its approval of both proposals at the end of the BOCC presentation, which, if granted, would eliminate any further legal disputes between the ADP board and the BOCC.”

Commissioner Jim Dvorak said in a follow-up interview it was best for commissioners to drop the lawsuit with ADP and Walder.

“The mediation time period is over with, and we collaborated with our attorney,” Dvorak said, adding a lot was accomplished during mediation.

“We are requesting a meeting so hopefully we can settle this and move forward,” he said.

After the meeting, Walder said while password protocols and outdated software issues have come to the foreground after last week’s attack, alarms were raised last summer when the McFarland Wastewater Treatment Plant was found to have a vulnerability in its security cameras.

able to duplicate that with a connection going to Russia from our end.”

Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder — who acts as chief administrator of the county’s IT department under the umbrella of ADP services — said the move to bring water resources into compliance with the county’s IT operating standards comes after years of pushback.

In an April 18 interview, Walder said even before he took office, previous county auditors attempted to bring the department into alignment with the county’s IT security protocols and were rebuffed.

ADP Chief Deputy Administrator Frank Antenucci said county IT staff were having difficulty restoring access and function to the water resources department because of pushback from Network Administrator Michael Kurzinger. At the meeting April 17, Antenucci said while Kurzinger maintained he could not provide a list of all users who would need new email accounts because ADP had locked access to their servers and files, there should be a backup device somewhere with that information on it.

ADP Systems Administrator Corey Thompson said he believes there is a backup, but it may not have been properly configured.

“Information we received said it might have been just basically stuck in a loop and just bloating the mailbox, and it might not be usable. However, even if we had that, we could have made a better list (of email addresses) than what we have,” Thompson told the ADP board.

Walder said as county IT staff worked

through the weekend to restore the department’s access, employees of his office pulled payroll records early Saturday to try to reconstruct an email user list. Antenucci said even an outdated backup list would be useful because it would include non-user accounts like alert systems that sent notifications when there was an issue at a water plant.

“So all you have are the employee names from payroll,” Flaiz said. “They didn’t even give you a list of employees that have email?”

“Well, we just assumed everybody was getting a paycheck is gonna have email,” Walder said.

“I’m not an IT guy but … let’s say I can’t connect to my network. I can still open up my computer at my desk and get in there and pull (email contacts),” Flaiz added.

An email exchange forwarded to the Geauga County Maple Leaf shows Antenucci asked Kurzinger for a list of email accounts that need to be restored. Kurzinger, from a Gmail account with a water resources username, said he could not provide the information.

“As you are aware, I/we have not had access to anything. No network, no Internet, no files, nothing. So please tell me how we are supposed to get you all the files and documents you keep insistently asking for,” Kurzinger replied. “This kinda seems like intentional harassment. If I can help productively, please let me know.”

Antenucci said after that exchange, he consulted Walder and Flaiz, who gave him permission to cease further interaction with Kurzinger.

According to reporting from the Chagrin Valley Times, in August 2023, security cameras installed by water resources IT staff were sending video footage from the McFarland Wastewater Treatment Plant to multiple computers in China for an unknown period of time.

In an April 18 interview, Antenucci said while alarming, public infrastructure data being scraped by Chinese computers is more common than the public realizes. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency considers the wastewater systems sector to be one of 16 critical infrastructure sectors “whose assets, systems and networks, whether physical or virtual, are considered so vital to the United States that their incapacitation or destruction would have a debilitating effect on security, national economic security, national public health or safety, or any combination thereof.”

Antenucci said China is an “expert” in scraping data from public infrastructure, mostly via technology manufactured in their country and sold to users in the U.S.

At the meeting, Walder said water resources will continue to have control over their operational technology, which will be housed at the McFarland plant — the county’s largest wastewater processing plant — located at the southern end of the county, which has its own staff to monitor its functions.

ADP employees are working to rebuild and restore email accounts and access for water resources employees, he said, adding users should regain access to previous emails within the next week or so, as files affected by the attack are cleaned up and restored.

Dvorak Spidalieri Lennon Morgan

Walder

“They have completed their investigation. Just before the detection (of the malware), they see logs where a network request was made between the server and somewhere in Russia.”

-Information Security Analyst Zach McLeod

Day Care Company Transforming Former School

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

Progress on the former Cardinal Interme diate School’s transformation by All Around Children includes major work on the interi or, said Middlefield Village Council President Scott Klein.

“They’ve dumped a ton of money into that building,” he told village council April 13.

The brick structure at 16000 East High Street — which Cardinal Schools no longer needed — was auctioned off about a year ago for $600,000 to All Around Children, includ ing the bus garage.

Klein reported Middlefield Village Plan ning Commission approved the consolidation of the 17 parcels to two parcels and a condi tional use permit at its April 11 meeting.

“Nothing’s really changing there. (The property has) been rearranged so it’s condu cive to everyone’s use,” he said, adding All Around Children, based in Bedford Heights, has a business plan for its ninth daycare fa cility.

The company has another in the former Ledgemont Elementary School building in Parkman Township.

“They are planning to use the whole building and bus maintenance garage after a while,” Klein said.

The garage, originally expected to be torn down, may be converted into a gymnasium for the children and there will be a playground

Earth

from page 1

management here at the park has for many years done lots of tree planting/reforestation for ecological restoration, but this year, we decided to start something a little different, which is the 1,000 trees Earth Day event.”

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Today, Earth Day is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than a billion people every year as a day of action to change human behavior and create global, national and local policy changes.

“Earth Day is a special time each year when people think more about their connections to the Earth,” Pira said. “We humans are so interconnected with the Earth. We are just one small piece of a much larger puzzle. We all get so caught up in our own lives and the hustle of daily routines that we forget about this sometime. Earth Day is a time to slow down, connect and appreciate the environment. Clean air, clean water, wildlife, trees, etc.”

Over the course of the three-day events, more than 300 volunteers will help plant trees and build protective fencing, rain or shine.

Earth Day - Invest in Our Planet 2023’s theme is designed to persuade businesses, governments and citizens around the world of the need to invest in the planet to improve the environment and give descendants a better and safer future.

“The goal is to plant 1,000 trees (Ohio native) over the next three years at one of our more important restoration sites — the new Veterans Legacy Woods Park, which is just a wonderful park,” Pira said. “Unique to this effort is the fact that these efforts are totally funded by donations from lots of wonderful

behind the building, he said.

The need for parking will be minimal because parents are expected to park out front on the street and bring their children inside, Klein said.

A suggestion from council that the front yard of the building be used for parking met with opposition.

folks like corporations, nonprofit organiza tions, Rotaries, small businesses and private citizens. People really want to do something good for Earth Day and Geauga Park District and our partners help people feel like they can make a difference and make a connection to better our environment.”

Pira said they are thankful for these partnerships — which include several large donations from nonprofit organizations such as One Tree Planted, The Cleveland Muse um of Natural History’s Trout Club, Donate a Tree to the World, Western Reserve Land Conservancy, Davey Tree, as well as others who will be recognized with plaques, signage and the like.

Roy Phelan, a retired technology execu tive who now works full-time raising money to plant trees to fight climate change, co-found ed Donate a Tree to the World, a nonprofit organization based in Pepper Pike and Guadalajara, Mexico.

In addition to supporting planting events in Northeast Ohio, the organization helps small, under-resourced communities in Mexico to restore the forests that surround them to help prevent soil erosion and replenish underground water reserves.

“Geauga parks is doing an important and beautiful job returning Veterans Legacy Woods back into a natural forest,” Phelan said. “We at Donate a Tree to the World are passionate because we know that deforestation and climate change is devastating our planet and it will only get worse if we don’t do something. We know the important thing is to stop emitting greenhouse gases, but the second best thing we can do is plant trees. Earth Day is an opportunity for all to recognize the importance of these efforts and to get more people involved.”

Pira said VLW is really coming along nicely.

“Last year, we started reforestation in earnest on Earth Day and it was a nice suc-

“It looks good as grass,” Klein said.

In other business, village Fiscal Officer Nick Giardina said expenses for the new village water well were expected in 2022, but work was delayed for legal reasons, so the funding will be coming out of the 2023 budget.

The village business sector was not as ro-

bust in the first quarter of 2023 as in the last few years, so fewer taxes and fees flowed to the village, Giardina said.

“Net profits are less than in COVID. Money’s not as cheap as it was because of the higher interest rates and there is not as much free money available,” he said. “We need to be careful.”

In addition, funding from water, sewer and village income tax is down, but Giardina said the village has nearly $12 million invested yielding about $750,000 per year in inter-

The village will be able to weather the next few years, he said, crediting wise fiscal management and village Administrator Leslie McCoy with winning grants and securing 0% loans.

“I think this is probably the high point of the year,” Giardina said. “If we break even for the year, that would be good.”

Ordinances for short-term rentals and solar farms were placed on first reading.

Garlich said the bed-and-breakfast ordinance needs to be streamlined.

Village Solicitor Luke McConville said if council passes the ordinance for solar farms, they will be permitted in industrial zones with 50-foot setbacks and screened for aesthetics to prevent glare from panels that would affect traffic. Any developer would be required to deposit 120% of the value of the project to decommission a solar farm and bring the property back to its original condition.

readies the fairways at Veterans Legacy Woods to plant donated native trees for its 1,000 Trees Earth Day Reforestation Initiative.

cess,” Pira said. “This year is a little more ambitious. The goal is to restore many of the former grass fairways of the old Wicked Woods golf course.”

Plantings, in about five fairways, include different kinds of oak, maple, birch and dogwood trees, which will return the area back to a more natural state for ecological sustainability and resilience while providing wildlife habitat.

“Trees are so darn important for a variety of reasons. First off, they help to both clean (the air) through the capture and sequestration of excess carbon in the atmosphere (and) they help stabilize the soils and soak up rainwater with their roots, which allow for better water quality. They also provide food and important nesting sites for a rich diversity of wildlife and, last but not least, who doesn’t like looking at a beautiful sugar maple in the fall?” Pira said. “They are just beautiful. This

park in particular is spectacular, especially in the Autumn, with great tree colors.”

GPD will also be giving away hundreds of native wildflowers to the public, which had to sign up beforehand to receive plants by way of a drive-through.

“This is another spectacular part of our Geauga Park District Earth celebration that I really think is important,” Pira said. “People really like feeling that they can make a difference in some way. My advice, start in your own backyard and you will begin to see that together, we really can change things to better heal our Earth.”

Geauga Park District’s Veterans Legacy Woods will be the site for Geauga Park District’s 1,000 Trees Earth Day Reforestation Initiative, with more than 300 volunteers teaming up to reforest the fairways with native trees.

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Matt Kneitel, Geauga Park District land steward,

Munson FD Boycotts Township Trustees Meeting

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

Munson Township Fire Department officials boycotted the Munson Township Trustees meeting April 11 following legal wrangling over a demand for Trustee Irene McMullen to recuse herself from any matters regarding a proposed fire levy in November.

When related questions were asked during last Tuesday’s meeting, McMullen asked Trustee Jim McCaskey to answer them, but she did not formally recuse herself.

The last few trustees meetings have seen numerous inquiries from the audience about how the fire department will financially justify a levy.

Letter Queries Revisited

Some of the questions go back to a letter written to the trustees in January from Donna Christley, questioning the department’s operation and finances, as well as its relationship with the township. She also asked how the fire department is organized, who is in charge of its organization, how they are chosen, what the organizational chart looks like, and how wages and benefits are set.

McMullen said she would like to know more about how fire department officers, trustees and members are compensated and has asked to see the MFD trustee meeting minutes because they may provide the answers. She said in a follow-up text the fire board has invited her to view the minutes on May 2.

In a text April 17 asking her if she has reviewed the minutes, McMullen replied, “Not yet.”

MFD Treasurer/Secretary Rich Ferlin said McMullen could read the minutes at the fire station, but to email them to her would open them to public records requests and the department doesn’t believe the minutes should be public since it is an independent corporation, despite being funded primarily through levies.

However, the MFD legal counsel, Charles Royer, sent a lengthy letter to the township

March 27 saying the department requests McMullen recuse herself from anything having to do with the levy and accused her of a conflict of interest involving her personal feelings toward Ferlin.

McMullen denied the allegations April 1, asserting she is working toward putting the levy in front of Munson Township voters. She suggested Royer might have been referring to someone else in his letter.

MFD Attorney Responds

On April 7, Royer responded to her comments.

“I wanted to let you know that I have read the (April 6 Geauga County Maple Leaf) article and Trustee McMullen’s text response. I want to confirm that Munson Fire stands behind each claim in our correspondence. We did not intend to refer to anyone else other than Irene McMullen in the correspondence,” he wrote.

In his letter, Royer said MFD might resort to legal remedies if McMullen doesn’t formally recuse herself from the levy process, possibly including the termination of the MFD contract with the township.

In a text April 10 to Trustee Andy Bushman, liaison to MFD, the department said they will not be attending the April 11 trustees meeting.

“Andy, in view of the township and the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office’s failure to acknowledge receipt of or address our concerns over Ms. McMullen’s conflict of interest, Munson Fire will be submitting a written report to you, as liaison, instead of attending the board of trustees meeting scheduled for April 11, 2023. Respectfully, The Munson Fire Department,” the text read.

During the April 17 trustees meeting, Bushman said the department apparently had not submitted a report on activities in March. He later said they emailed him the report at 4:38 p.m. and he was already at the town hall by then, so he didn’t see them before the meeting.

In a phone conversation April 16, Ferlin noted one reason the department officials may boycott future meetings, as well.

“If we show up, we have to answer the

Paving of Claridon’s Taylor Wells Road Starts in May

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

The widening and paving of Taylor Wells Road north of state Route 322 will begin sometime in May following Claridon Township Trustees awarding a contract to Cole Burton Contractors LLC at their April 17 meeting.

Trustee Jonathan Tiber said the contract, signed Monday by a Cole Burton representative, will be executed by trustees at the May 1 meeting.

When the last yard of asphalt is rolled out by the Highland Heights-based company, the last chapter of a years-long struggle to improve the narrow residential road will be over. Cole Peters, project manager, said it will take about a month to widen the pavement and pave the aprons of about 70 driveways.

Depending on weather, the job should be done by August at the latest, he said.

Flaggers will be present to direct traffic when the road is limited to one lane, Peters said.

Cole Burton submitted the apparent low bidder at $1.1 million.

Last winter, the Geauga County Engineer’s Office estimated the paving project could run upwards of $1.4 million, much higher than the 2022 estimate of $1 million, due to rising costs. The estimate in 2021 was about $900,000, the fiscal officer said in February.

The township expects to receive a $300,000 Ohio Public Works Commission grant for the project. Hambden Township will be paying about $100,000 for a short portion of pavement at the north end of Taylor Wells, but that won’t reduce Claridon’s bill, according to information provided in February.

After Monday’s meeting, Tiber said the project will essentially drain the road and bridges fund. The current budget provides only enough funding for maintenance.

“There will be no more major projects until we get a (roads and bridges) levy passed,” he said.

questions we have already answered,” he said.

Ferlin also noted Bushman voted “No” when Fiscal Officer Todd Ray called the role to approve the minutes from the March 28 township trustees meeting.

When Ray asked Bushman later in the meeting why he had voted no, the trustee said the minutes are wrong and they included some things that were not said during the meeting.

“Those should be struck,” he said.

Ray said he would have made those corrections before the vote if alerted to them.

When Bushman said the minutes were sent to trustees later than usual, Ray said he did the best he could.

Once meeting minutes are approved by a majority of trustees, they cannot legally be altered.

During public discussion, resident John McCauley asked when the questions in the Christley letter would be forthcoming.

Bushman said his version of the answers to the questions was sent to the prosecutor’s office and legal counsel recommended they be answered in a different way.

She requested a copy of the contract between the township and the fire department.

More Information Sought

“There’s a little more information we are gathering. We have to pull all the numbers from the minutes and get them back to the prosecutor’s office,” he said.

When McCauley pushed for a more timely process, trustees said they are working as

fast as possible.

The township trustees will propose the millage of a fire levy during their first meeting in July, Bushman said.

The Geauga County Budget Commission will determine if the millage is appropriate and trustees will vote on the final amount at the second meeting in July, he said.

Justification for the levy will be made available between now and July, he said.

“There will be numbers presented (explaining) why we support the levy. We usually do that on all the levies,” Bushman said.

Ray said the fire department makes its initial assessment of need and presents it to the trustees who verify the need.

“The trustees have an obligation and responsibility to vet it,” he said, adding they also decide if it should be put in front of the voters.

“The trustees determine what is a reasonable request,” Ray said.

Bushman said he is communicating with the fire department on the need for a levy and amount of millage.

“They have to look forward for years,” McCaskey said. “When we send it to the budget commission, they don’t approve it — they certify (the amount) to the penny.”

Monday, Bushman said he has met with fire department representatives three or four times to discuss the proposed levy. Once levy millage is agreed upon, it will need to be approved by the MFD board of trustees and then the township trustees, he said.

McMullen

Kenston Schools Addresses Safety & Security

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

The topic of school safety was once again front and center at Kenston Schools Board of Education meeting April 17.

“I want to get the message out that even though there’s a national incident or a local incident like we’ve had here recently, that kind of heightens the awareness,” said Jeremy McDevitt, assistant superintendent of business operations and strategic initiatives. “Behind the scenes, we are working yearround evaluating our procedures, evaluating our plans and looking for funding sources to add to our security here at the district.”

McDevitt said he and Kenston Superintendent Steve Sayers met with Bainbridge Township Police Chief Jon Bokovitz to debrief after the shooting scare at West Geauga High School April 3 in which a student was

arrested for bringing a handgun to school with intent to shoot multiple students.

“Anytime this stuff happens, Chief Bokovitz has been very supportive — he comes in and spends some time with us to talk through some of the things that happen locally and nationally,” McDevitt said.

The district has also had vulnerability assessments conducted by outside agencies in the last five years, he added.

“A lot of this we don’t make public all of the time. They come in, they assess each building, they assess our campus and give us a full report on where our vulnerabilities are,” McDevitt said. “You can imagine why we don’t share that report publicly because we don’t want to advertise our vulnerabilities, but those types of reports and those types of assessments help us as a school district take a hard look at ourselves and kind of focus where we want to make improvements.”

McDevitt said an annual review of the district’s emergency operation plan, which has to be submitted to the state, will be coming up.

“That is not a public document, but it gets reviewed annually and is a very large document that the state has on file from our school district talking about various safety security procedures,” McDevitt said, adding, “The submission happens every three years” and the district receives feedback on whether they are in compliance with state requirements.

“They point out areas where it’s not meeting their standard, but we’ve been in compliance every year since this started,” he said. “The newest thing actually announced two or three years ago was House Bill 123, which had the requirement that all school districts establish threat assessment teams.”

McDevitt said the threat assessment

teams are for grades six through 12.

“In this district, we’ve trained and now have a threat assessment team at the middle school and also in this building here at the high school,” he said. “All of the threat assessment information will also be submitted to the state for review.”

McDevitt said he spoke with training officer Doug Smith of the Ohio Safety Center last month for feedback.

“Him and I just dialogued about what services he can offer the school district from the Ohio Safety Center,” McDevitt said. “We’re going to pursue some of the stuff with him coming up down the road.”

He said the biggest message he can get across is safety and security are being looked at constantly.

“It’s always in the back of our mind and it’s something that we work on behind the scenes continuously as a district,” he said.

GPD Recognizes Retiring Park Ranger

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

It was all smiles April 17 when Geauga Park District Board of Commissioners recog nized retiring Park Ranger Denise Weisbarth with a resolution of ap preciation.

Executive Director John Oros said Weisbarth has been a Geauga Park District ranger for over 30 years and was good at communi ty-based policing.

“Many of our regular park guests know her well. In recent years, her being accompanied by her K9, Sniper, made her even more recognizable. She could regularly be seen checking on in dividuals, families and those at park gatherings to say ‘hello.’ I think this approach goes

Weisbarth

a long way in law enforcement,” Oros said.

“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.”

Weisbarth began her career with GPD in maintenance in 1989 and 1990, and worked as a seasonal ranger in 1992 and 1993. Weisbarth was hired as a part-time ranger in 1997 and was promoted to a full-time ranger in 2003, the district said in its resolution.

Weisbarth achieved her dream of becoming a K9 officer when she created and implemented Geauga Park District’s first K9 unit in 2001 with K-9 Sammy, a black lab certified in tracking, narcotics and area search, according to GPD.

Weisbarth traveled to Europe in 2016 to acquire and team up with Sniper, a German shepherd certified in narcotics through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy and Northern American Police Work Dog Association.

Weisbarth has served with K9s for 22 of her 32 years in law enforcement and she and Sniper educated countless park patrons on leash laws and child-dog etiquette, acted as ambassadors of the parks often at community safety towns, pancake breakfasts, parades, picnics, libraries, senior centers, The Great Geauga County Fair, Geauga County Maple Festival, Chardon National Night Out, the Cleveland Police Memorial Parade/Remembrance, Taborville Harvest Festival, Nightmare at Pioneer Waterland and numerous events within Geauga Park District, according to the district.

Weisbarth has worked since 2016 to culti-

vate supporters of GPD’s K9 Fund by deferring K9-related expenses from taxpayers with calendars, trading cards, stuffed Snipers and the like. She has served as GPD’s terrorism liaison officer since 2012, assumed oversight of the its volunteer bike patrol from 2013 to 2016, and has left an indelible mark on GPD’s community-based policing and public relations practices, the district said.

“The Geauga Park District Board of Commissioners extends its gratitude to Denise Weisbarth for her contributions to preserve, conserve and protect the natural features of Geauga County and to provide outdoor recreational experiences to our residents of every age, every ability and at all times of the year,” the resolution read.

Park commissioners also passed a resolution closing the district’s K9 Fund with Weisbarth’s retirement.

West G Supt Details Security Updates After ‘Terrifying’ Incident

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

West Geauga Schools Superintendent Richard Markwardt laid out safety plans for the district in a letter to parents April 11 after an 18-year-old student was arrested last week for bringing a handgun to school, reportedly with plans to shoot multiple students.

Markwardt said West Geauga Schools has been in conversation over the last several months with the Chester Township Police Department to explore ways in which they

can expand the school resource officer presence in their buildings.

“That will include a more visible police presence, enhanced school safety plans, and safety-related training for staff and students,” Markwardt said in the letter.

Casey Orloski was the 17-year-old student who found a bullet in the boys’ restroom and alerted the school resource officer, ultimately leading to the gun being found and 18-yearold Brandon Morrissette being arrested.

Morrisette has been charged with attempted aggravated murder, a first-degree felony; il-

legal possession of a deadly weapon in a school safety zone, a fifth-degree felony; and inducing panic, a first-degree misdemeanor.

Markwardt said the West Geauga Schools Board of Education plans to expedite the process of purchasing the necessary repairs and equipment to correct any issues after a recent discovery showed the PA systems were not working properly during the incident last week.

“Currently, we are working with several IT consultants to identify the cause of the public address system outage and phone system issues at the middle school and high school on the morning of April 3 and prevent their recurrence,” Markwardt said.

During a special meeting April 11, the board of education passed a resolution de claring an urgent necessity to replace the PA systems in both buildings with a new system, which is critical to maintaining a safe and secure building. Repair was not a cost-effective option for the old systems due to their age and obsolete technology, according to the resolution.

The cost of new PA systems is estimated to exceed $50,000.

“What happened last Monday was a very frightening event. Equally as frightening as the hour between the discovery of the bullet

during first period and the arrest of the student during second period is contemplating what could have happened if the gunman had been able to execute his plans,” Markwardt said. “As a parent and grandparent, these thoughts are terrifying.”

Markwardt said the district has support in place for students and staff to help address and alleviate such fears.

“These include, in addition to our five regular school counselors, three full-time school psychologists, a social worker and a strong community partnership with Ravenwood Health,” Markwardt said. “The latter provides therapeutic-support personnel for all of our school buildings. The point of contact to access these supports is any one of our school counselors.”

Markwardt added the district has spent more than $1.3 million on security enhancements in the last five years.

“Some, like the relocation and or reinforcement of visitor entry points, are obvious. Others, such as new and additional cameras, radios, alarms, new doors, etc., are less apparent,” Markwardt said. “All help to keep our buildings’ inhabitants safe, but the events of last week indicate that our work is never done. This work is and will continue to be our priority.”

Markwardt

OpiniOn

Letters to the Editor

Trustee McMullen, Give the Township a Treat and Temporarily Step Aside

By glenn kinter munson toWnshiP

A Recap to the Munson Township Trustees and the Munson Fire Department Conflict:

As I see it, there is enough blame to go around.

As a Munson resident and as somebody who has attended the bi-monthly meetings of the Munson Township Trustees for some time, I have seen the biases of individuals on both sides of the aisle.

In the past six months, the greatest issue that affects our township government is the conflict between the Fire Department and Trustees. It should be known that Trustees Bushman and McCaskey are level-headed and are open to ideas and concerns.

It is Trustee Chairperson McMullen who has allowed herself to become embroiled in conflict. She leaves her objectivity at home when it comes to township business. I have personally spoken to the trustees during “hearing of the public” that there is animosity toward the fire department, and I felt it to be inappropriate.

In December of 2022, the Fire Department came to Munson Township with the concern that added funding for the Fire Department was needed. The Fire Department made a preliminary proposal to the Trustees. As a spectator, a township resident and as a registered voter, I felt the Fire Department’s need to be legitimate, worthy and valid. I spoke up at this meeting and noted there was no media coverage present to document what I made a great appeal for the Fire Department’s needs.

Two things happened after the meeting. The Fire Department went back to their home to develop a precise list of needs and expenses for the Trustees to dutifully evaluate their proposal.

In the meantime, an anonymous letter complaining about the Fire Department appeared. Instead of discarding the anonymous letter as per township policy, it found its way through the chain to all Trustees and the Fire Department. Of course, this enflamed the underlying issues. At the next Trustees’ meeting, trustees disregarded this anonymous letter per township policy.

This issue did not end here. Another township resident authored a similar letter/ email asserting the same allegations. However, this ordeal has led Trustee McMullen to start another one of “her witch hunts.” It is asserted that Chairperson McMullen has approached department heads prior to a meeting and has asked for them ‘to keep their presentations short as she wanted to get the meeting over quickly.’ These comments only serve to enflame these individuals.

Trustee McMullen abruptly leaves the

town hall once the meetings are adjourned and never allows herself time to speak to anybody after the meeting. It leaves one thinking that Trustee McMullen really does not like her job.

Inappropriate behavior has derailed the process. Things have deteriorated so badly that we now have attorneys talking to attorneys. Recently, Trustee McMullen opened a public meeting and rambled on for over 20 minutes with accusatory indictments relating to the Fire Department and its township liaison. After indicting these folks, and when they ask to respond to her uninformed and ill-informed statements, she responded, “these are my statements and don’t require a response.”

Once again, she was able to enflame ill feelings. Trustee McMullen’s accusatory indictments have left residents with a sense that the Fire Department’s monetary soundness needs to be questioned.

The real wants and needs of Munson Township have been allowed to suffer. There have been no serious public conversations relating to the Fire Department and its need for added funding since the debacle began. It seems like Trustee McMullen is an anti-Fire Department individual and has lost all objectivity.

There also appears to be a group of residents who have issues with the Fire Department. However, these issues should not derail the real concern as to the need for necessary funding for our Fire Department.

There are real issues facing our township. However, Trustee McMullen has lost her objectivity. If Trustee McMullen stays as the Township Trustees’ chairperson, there will be conflict. Things will continue to be halted. All parties will hide behind their attorneys and the poor residents of Munson will suffer.

Both parties need to get rid of their legal attorneys. Chairperson McMullen needs to step aside.

Trustees Bushman and McCaskey both need to sit down together with Chief Vatty and call a truce. The Fire Department representatives should feel comfortable attending township meetings and then real discussions can start again on their needs for added funding.

As a 35-year resident of our great township, I have never had to question my faith and belief in our township’s governance until recently. If Trustee McMullen genuinely cares about Munson Township and the different departments, she must willingly recuse herself from the current Fire Department issues. She should not hide behind the township’s legal entity. Nor should she go about trying to insinuate that baked goods or other treats given to the Township’s employees, that same should be considered as bribes. Seriously, Trustee McMullen, give the township a treat, and temporarily step aside the negotiations with the Munson Fire Department.

Grateful

Reflecting on the recent events of the past several weeks, I would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the folks who devote their careers in the service of others.

I would Like to thank Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, City of Chardon and Chester Township’s road, fire and police departments for their efforts in preparing for and, more importantly, managing the drag brunch and story hour that fortunately did not result in any serious incidents.

I’d like to thank the other law enforcement bodies who helped in this as well.

Much of the public does not realize what it takes to prepare for and manage a situation that could have very serious consequences.

A special thanks to Sheriff Hildenbrand, Chief Niehus of Chardon and Chief Young and Captain Sherwood of our police department for their efforts, as I know they were working seven days a week for the past several weeks focused on contingency planning for these events.

On the morning of April 1, I sat in on preparatory conversations with Chester Fire Chief Shaw and appreciated the seriousness he and his crew took this matter. I’d also like to thank township Administrator Mark Purchase and Road Superintendent John Onyshko who were at town hall during the story hour.

After the drag events, what I had hoped would be a quiet Monday for our township certainly wasn’t that, with what could have a situation reminiscent of the Chardon Schools shooting. I am thankful that a student who saw something said something,

that our School Resource Officer Nick Iacampo and the school took immediate and necessary actions to address the situation, and thank God that no one was injured in what could have been a very tragic situation.

I’d also like to thank Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz and his office for assisting our communities throughout both challenging situations. I am grateful for the outcomes and glad Mr. Flaiz, Chief Young and Dr. Marquardt represented us well with the media.

With the increasing divisiveness and lack of civility toward one another, I realize that some events and the potential counter-protests that may arise create a tremendous local burden of time, personnel and equipment, and at a significant expense to the taxpayers in our municipalities and the county.

Chester and Chardon are fortunate to have some resources, but many other townships I am certain do not. I have initiated conversations with our state Rep. Steve Demetriou regarding how townships can prepare for such situations, the associated risks and liabilities, and how and who should pay for the related expenses in managing public safety in these special circumstances.

Most important, I just wanted to publicly recognize and thank those who dedicate their lives in serving others. We are fortunate to have such people and we should all be grateful.

Ken Radtke Jr. Chester Township Trustee

The Many Faces of Human Trafficking in NE Ohio

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

Human trafficking in Northeast Ohio is more common than most people think.

Laura Bartchak talked April 12 about the different facets of human trafficking and what can be done to help its many victims.

An advocate for the Harriet Tubman Movement, Bartchak said her organization operates in this region of Ohio, a state that has the fifth highest number of reported cas es of human trafficking in the U.S.

She spoke to a crowd of roughly 100 peo ple at the Geauga County Township Associ ation quarterly meeting in Thompson Town ship about HTM’s mission and goals, and how members apply them to people who are under the control of another person through force, fraud or coercion.

“I want to disband the myth around traf ficking,” she said. “Very rarely do we see kid napping involved in human trafficking.”

The most common kind is sex trafficking, where a person takes money for performing sexual acts; however, a person who is made to unwillingly provide labor because they be lieve they have no choice is also a victim of trafficking, Bartchak said.

“Human traffickers prey on vulnerabili ties. Young people are easy to control — kids in foster care (and) LGBTQ kids are at the biggest risk of human trafficking,” she said.

If a person has no support system and can’t depend on family for help, they are easy marks, but vulnerability can show many faces, she said.

“Addictions play a big part in controlling people,” Bartchak said, adding a human trafficker will manipulate a vulnerable person to obtain sex, labor or materials.

“(Victims) become dependent on that person for emotional support,” she said.

The trafficker’s next step is to convince a victim to move into the same home and become dependent on them for physical needs.

“It’s a web people get sucked into,” she said, adding the victims believe they owe their trafficker and they can’t leave.

“Women don’t identify themselves as victims. They are saying ‘This is my fault,’” Bartchak said. “There’s no safe home for them to go back to.”

If law enforcement rescues a victim, the individual may be sent to a domestic violence shelter. In Northeast Ohio, that could be in Youngstown, Warren or Painesville.

Domestic Violence Expanding with Social Media

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

Domestic violence has evolved in ways Andrea Gutka, CEO of WomenSafe in Geauga County, never expected.

When she joined the organization 18 years ago and helped to create The Green House on Ravenna Road, the effect of social media was still on the horizon, she told Geauga County Township Association members April 12.

“We know in our community, there has been mental and financial abuse, people controlling people in many ways,” she said during the GCTA quarterly meeting.

She listed email, social media and e-stalking as technological ways people intimidate others.

“These are things I never thought I’d be discussing with a group,” Gutka said.

The Green House, built in 2007, is an emergency shelter that also houses all area WomenSafe administrative personnel, shelter staff and outreach programs, according to the website. Numerous donors have made the 401c3 nonprofit organization possible.

human trafficking at the Geauga County Township Association quarterly dinner April 12 at the Geauga Innovation Center, the former Ledgemont Elementary School, in Thompson Township.

“When they come to us, there are multiple levels of need — medicine, detox, food. One hundred percent need safe shelter,” she said. “Our advocacy team goes in and tries to form a trusting relationship. Then, we start working on a long-term plan.”

That includes the restoration phase, during which the victim learns, through counseling and being in a safe environment, to find a healthy lifestyle.

Ohio has four programs to help human trafficking victims and some of those programs are in their infancy, Bartchak said.

“It’s important for people like you to become aware,” she told the audience.

HTM advocates are bringing awareness to communities by talking to civic groups, such as the room full of township trustees and numerous other public officials listening last Thursday evening.

In Geauga County, human trafficking “is not the white van in a Walmart parking lot waiting to steal your children,” Bartchak emphasized.

It’s more subtle, but those who are aware

of the existence of human traffickers can spot a situation and get help for the victims, she said.

Typically, individuals are manipulated to work in agriculture, landscaping, nail salons, restaurants, as nannies or at other low-paying jobs where they can fly under the radar, Bartchak said.

Prevention of human trafficking requires voters to elect officials who are aware of human trafficking in the area and are willing to address the issue.

“By helping us, the chances of getting to long-term restoration improve,” she said.

Bartchak said the HTM has deputies on its task force.

“Last year, we rescued 86 victims (in NEO),” she said, adding as word gets out, advocates are called in to help more often.

“We’re getting busier. Our phone doesn’t stop ringing,” Bartchak said.

She asked listeners to sign up for the HTM newsletters and to help sponsor its steak roast in August.

Unlike many shelters, The Green House is not in an anonymous location.

“There are about 65 domestic violence shelters in Ohio. The Green House is one of seven that actually has its address out front,” Gutka said. “Our sheriff’s office is a mile down the road. Every single day, an officer drives by and sits in the parking lot. That provides safety for our team and those living at WomenSafe.”

The staff provides counseling, advocacy, therapy and emotional support for those going through court proceedings. If necessary, clients can stay at The Green House and feel safe, she said.

She introduced the evening’s main speaker on human trafficking, Laura Bartchak, CEO of The Harriet Tubman Movement.

“Domestic violence and human trafficking intersect sometimes,” Gutka said. “Human trafficking is one of the most lethal cases that cross our doors. We understand (victims) have multiple layers of risk. I hope you are proud to know we are serving our community the best way we can, every day.”

Dawn Sweeney Named Full-Time Fiscal Officer

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

The term “interim” was removed from Dawn Sweeney’s title as of April 17 after the Geauga Park District Board of Commissioners unanimously named her full-time fiscal officer and treasurer.

Sweeney has served as a member of the district’s finance department since 2013 and was appointed as interim fiscal officer and treasurer in October of 2022.

“I’ve had 10 years’ experience working in the finance department. During that time, I have been able to experience all aspects of public finance from accounts payable to budget development,” Sweeney said. “I have worked

alongside some great leadership who helped build up my confidence and skills in finance.”

Sweeney, who has been managing the dayto-day fiscal operations of the organization, enters the role at an hourly rate of $43.66, said GPD Executive Director John Oros.

Sweeney completed her Certified Public Investment Management certification March 3, which was provided by Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and substantiates her skill and knowledge in managing the district’s treasury, Oros said in a memorandum to park commissioners.

Sweeney has been an active member of the Government Finance Officers Association, Oros said, adding the organization is recognized as the foremost professional orga-

nization for those in government finance.

She has also ap plied to the GFOA Women in Public Fi nance Network Men torship Program, which will allow her to connect with other finance professionals and build a network of support to gain the skills needed to excel in the public finance industry, Oros said.

In addition, Sweeney is also working on the training requirements of the auditor of the state’s Fiscal Integrity Act, which raises the bar of accountability for fiscal officers

across the state and helps deter accounting errors, Oros added.

“I look forward to expanding my knowledge in this role. Specifically with the budget process,” Sweeney said. “I have been involved with budget in the past and look forward to heading up the process from start to finish.”

Oros said Sweeney has demonstrated financial capabilities and strong aptitudes throughout her career with the district and that she is well-suited for the position.

“Dawn has proven to be an effective member of our finance department and the entire Geauga Park District team,” he said. “She has demonstrated an ability to work collaboratively with park staff and staff at the county auditor and treasurer office.”

NOACA Road Funds Come up Short for Chardon

By amy Patterson amy@karlovecmeDia com

Chardon City Council got good news and bad news about future road projects at their meeting April 13. City Manager Randy Sharpe said Chardon recently received notification from the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency that North Street has been selected for a resurfacing project in fiscal year 2025.

“It is not in the current capital improvement plan because it was not a project that we had on our agenda,” he said.

In 2016, the city identified reconstruction of the road — a process that involves digging up and replacing the entire road surface — as its third-highest priority at the time.

Sharpe said with NOACA’s funding, the

resurfacing project with buy the city 10 to 15 years to put off reconstruction.

In 2016, the total estimated project for the reconstruction came in at around $3.1 million. The grant from NOACA will provide about $435,700 for resurfacing.

The fate of another project — the realignment of Park Avenue and the improvement of its intersection with Wilson Mills Road — does not look as bright.

Sharpe said while the project was identified as the number one project for NOACA’s long-range transportation plan in 2016, no additional grants were awarded other than a federal grant in 2010.

He said he was initially excited when he saw the project was included in NOACA’s plan.

“(I was) thinking we were going to get

80% funding towards this project, we can finally get it done, it’s only been talked about maybe 40 years? And then I looked at the numbers and realized they weren’t giving us any more grant money other than what we received from Steve LaTourette’s office as a federal appropriation back in 2010,” he said. “So that project will not be going forward.”

Sharpe said the city would continue to work with NOACA to see if the project could be added to a future list.

Council member Heather Means — who sat in the mayor’s spot as Chris Grau was absent from the meeting — asked Sharpe how much the project would cost.

“The estimated cost that we had in our capital improvement plan, which was ... to be engineered in ‘24, and constructed in ‘25,

was $2,093,200,” he said. “Of which we were expecting about 80% of construction (costs covered by) federal money.”

“It’s a two-million-dollar project and we have a hundred thousand dollars,” Means said.

Council member Dave Lelko said when he first started as a city employee in 1989, he was told the project was imminent.

In positive news, Sharpe said Phase II of the Maple Highlands Trail project is finally complete.

“The Ohio Department of Transportation Division of Finance provided the final cost breakdown,” he said. “The total cost for the project was concluded at $2,011,322, and the balance that the city owed $18,032. And again, we can say the project’s complete, after a long and arduous time to get there.”

Sweeney

Childcare Center to Open New Branch In Chester

By allison Wilson eDitor@karlovecmeDia.com

Love’s Learning Loft is blooming and come May, the Mentor-based childcare center will be planting new seeds in Chester Township.

“I love kids and I’ve always wanted to work with them. Making a difference in their lives is important and this is the best age to do it,” said Anna Love, owner of LLL, which has a new branch currently under construction at 7976 Mayfield Road, with an opening date planned for next month.

Love, who spent most of her childhood traveling, relocated to Ohio as a teenager as a part of her father’s work. After graduating from South High School in Willoughby, she remained in the state, eventually getting married and starting a family.

She began taking care of children while pregnant with her first son in 1994 and has been in the childcare business for close to 29 years.

Love was pulled to expand her business into Chester due to the limited number of childcare centers available in the area.

“There’s not many centers out here,” Love said. “We’d like to open one more at some point, towards Willoughby, Willowick, that area.”

Love’s Learning Loft offers programs for

children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old, and bases its programs around the Creative Curriculum, an early childhood curriculum that focuses on “... project-based investiga tions as a means for children to apply skills and addresses four areas of development: social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and lan guage,” according to the U.S. Department of Education.

Love’s programs are very individualized and will be tailored to the student, she said.

“It’s involving play and learning in a fun environment, and we are able to specify spe cific needs that each child might have,” she said. “One might be better at one thing and the other one might need a lot more help and we try to accommodate to make sure that each child learns in their way.”

Activities will be based on attention span and each age group’s ability to learn, she said.

“Pre-school, they’re learning how to write their names, they’re cutting paper with scissors, they’re getting ready to go into the pre-K program, which gets them ready for school. Our infant room is all based on their developmental goals for each month,” Love said. “Their attention spans are a lot shorter, so we might do five or 10 minutes with an activity, versus pre-school that can focus on something for 20 minutes.”

The family atmosphere is what sets LLL

a Christmas dinner at the old Patrician (Party Center), families were able to get tickets and we had Santa Clause come, and it was just a family event with staff and the families and all the kids.”

Parents who are interested in enrolling their children will have a chance to tour the facility and speak with the director and teach-

While the exact price of tuition is not yet set, it is likely to be between $280-$300 per week for infants and $200-$230 for preschool-aged children, Love said.

The center will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, visit www.loveslearninglofts.com or follow them on Facebook.

Thompson Fire Levy on Ballot

By ann Wishart ann@karlovecmeDia com

Thompson Township residents are being asked to vote for an additional fire levy in a primary special election May 2 to provide better availability of emergency medical services during the daytime, said township Trustee Erwin Leffel.

The population of Thompson is getting older and there is more demand for EMS, he said in a phone interview April 18.

However, the TFD is staffed entirely by volunteers and many have jobs outside the township and, therefore, can’t respond to calls during regular working hours five days per week, he said.

The levy, if passed, would yield about $157,722 per year, according to the Geauga

County Auditor’s Office, to help pay to staff the station during the day.

“The bottom line is we are trying to increase (revenue) so we can put a duty crew on,” Leffel said.

The 2.5-mill, five-year levy would cost homeowners $87.50 per year per $100,000 property valuation and would commence in 2023, beginning collection in 2024, according to the auditor’s office.

Fire Chief Dorothy Battles said there

See Thompson Levy • Page 13

Chardon Township Asks Residents to Pass 2.75-Mill Levy

By Brian Doering Brian@karlovecmeDia com

Chardon Township voters are being asked to support an additional five-year, 2.75-mill streets, roads and bridges levy on the May 2 primary special election ballot.

If passed, the levy would cost homeowners $96.25 per $100,000 property valuation and yield $508,450 annually, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.

“This is a new 2.75-mill road and bridge fund levy that will be used in conjunction with our existing 2-mill levy. The 2-mill levy was last increased in 2001 and has been in place ever since,” said Chardon Township Trustee Michael Brown. “In that time, the cost of road and bridge construction has doubled, according to the National

Highway Institute. So effectively, we have half the capability to maintain and repair our 32 mile of roads as compared to 2001.”

Brown said collection for the proposed five-year levy would begin with tax year 2023 next year.

“We have placed this levy on the ballot for the last several years at every opportunity. Last fall, our existing 2-mill levy was up for renewal, so we didn’t place the additional levy on the ballot for fear it would confuse people and risk neither of them passing,” Brown said, adding the additional proceeds will be used specifically for road reconstruction projects if the levy were to pass.

“It is not for hiring additional personnel

See Chardon Levy • Page 13

Katherine Anne Woods

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

Kathy, as she preferred to be called, was born Jan. 25, 1945, in Warren, Ohio, 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 was previously 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 she 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 Friday, April 28, 2023, from 5-7 p.m., at Sly Family Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield.

Thompson Levy

from page 12

are 14 volunteers on the TFD including herself. Their goal is to have two people staffing the station from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days per week with part-time firefighter/EMTs.

A part-time employee is limited to 1,976 hours per year, so a part-timer can work about 30 hours per week, she said.

Although Battles said they have not

Chardon Levy

from page 12

or buying new vehicles or equipment. We have a backlog of roads that needed to be reconstructed or repaved and the new funding will be used exclusively for catching up,” Brown said.

He said the road department would continue to patch and repair roads to the best of its ability and keep them free of snow and safe to travel if the levy were to fail.

“As far as reconstruction and repaving projects, however, we will be limited to only doing them very rarely, maybe every four to

Obituaries

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

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

Dennis Edward Prots Sr.

Dennis Edward Prots Sr., age 81, of Chardon, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 11, 2023.

Born to Joseph and Gertrude Prots, of Newbury Township, on July 9, 1941, Dennis was a Newbury High School graduate and proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Denny owned and operated Prots Food Center with his family for over 55 years.

He is survived by his wife, Irma, of 57 years; sons, Denny Jr., Bill (Nicole), Tom and Tim; grandchildren Anika, Cole, David, Alex, Morgan and Alexander; and sister, Betty Jo (Terry) Hill.

Preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob; granddaughter Marisa; and nephew, David Roberge.

A Celebration of Life was held April 15, 2023, at Chardon VFW Post 6519, 752 Water St., Chardon.

The family requests no flowers. Instead donations may be made in memory of Denny to your favorite charity or organization.

“Live life for today, it’s too short!”

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

Dolores M. Ziska

Dolores “Dee” M. Ziska (nee Bartholomew), age 79, passed away at home surrounded by her family April 13, 2023.

Born Oct. 19, 1943, she was raised in Twinsburg and graduated from R.B. Chamberlin High School in 1961. Later while raising her family, Dee resided in Chester Township and then Russell Township.

Dee was a longtime cook with West Geauga Schools, retiring in 2008.

She was a past president of West Geauga Band-Aides, a Brownie and Cub Scout Leader, and a member of the West Geauga PTA and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Chagrin Falls.

Dee also enjoyed sewing and embroidery, traveling, taking walks on the beach searching for sea glass, and spending time anywhere by the water. One of her greatest joys was really getting to know and taking an interest in many people she came in contact with.

Dee is survived by her husband, Otto J.; son Otto J. Jr.; daughter, Kimberly G. (Robert) Brill; son Joseph R. (Carrie Thorne); grandchildren, Brandy, Heather, Madison and Katherine; great-grandchildren, Layla, Jaxson and Maverick; and loving dog, Ginger.

She is preceded in death by her son Matthew S.; parents, Ray and Hilda (nee Miner) Bartholomew; and brother, Jack Tupta.

Family and friends may call at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on April 20, 2023, from 5-7 p.m., where services will follow at 7 p.m. Private Interment at a later date at Chester Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dee’s name may be made to Rescue Village at www.rescuevillage.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GattozziandSon.com for the Ziska family.

Patricia G. Watson

Patricia G. Wat son, age 80, passed away April 13, 2023, in Chardon.

She was born Nov. 16, 1942, in Union town, Pa., to William and Alice (nee Callah an) Workman.

Pat was a devoted and fun loving mother and grandmother who loved traveling, golf and Yahtzee!

She was a member of the Chardon Eagles Ladies Auxiliary.

Pat is survived by her sons Jack (Lori), of Leroy Township, Bill, of Middlefield, and Don, Bob (Deb) and Paul, all of Chardon; grandchildren, Melissa Nicely, Rachel Watson, Janine Watson, Kaitlyn (Bryan) McNish, John, Daniel, Matthew and Autumn Watson; and six great-grandsons, Noah Nicely, Bentley and Reagan Lemons, Mark Balla, and Tucker and Levi McNish; six great-grandsons, Noah Nicely, Bentley and Reagan Lemons, Mark Balla, and Tucker and Levi McNish; sister, Joyce Bojarski; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son Ronald P. Watson; brother, William Workman; and daughter-in-law, Doreen Watson.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 18, 2023, from 5-8 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, with a private family burial at a later date.

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

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

worked out a schedule, she expects the department would need four to five part-time workers plus volunteers to best serve residents and visitors.

Thompson residents are not billed for those services, she said, adding if a non-resident is transported to a hospital, they are billed.

The last levy on the Thompson ballot was a renewal, not additional, three or four years ago, Battles said.

“For the owner of a $200,000 home, the cost would be about 50 cents a day,” she said.

six years,” Brown said.

Levy information has been released on social media and the trustees speak about it at every meeting, Brown said.

“Last spring, we held an open house at the township hall, which G-TV recorded live, where we spoke about the levy issue and had a very disappointing turnout,” he said.

Brown said renewal levies such as the 2-mill levy usually pass comfortably.

“Renewals of both fire and road levies usually do. In regards to this additional issue, we have put it out there several times,” he said. “Last May, we nearly passed it with the closest results we ever had, losing by just 58 votes, 646 to 704.”

S P O R T S

Badgers Bite Mustangs Early for CVC Win

By rich kelly sPorts@karlovecmeDia com

before a liner to right center with two out in the seventh fell softly into the glove of the second baseman to end the game.

Czekaj sees the trip to Myrtle Beach as a blessing for his team.

“We have a solid core of experienced players on the team this year,” the senior said.

Czekaj’s three-hit day led the offense for Berkshire. He also had a trio of stolen bases as the Badgers used the skill sets they have learned together as a team to read pitchers’ moves.

“We have studied pitchers as a group, our coaches have worked with us a lot, and when we were in Myrtle Beach, we saw some really good pitchers that we watch a lot to learn about their moves,” he said. “When we see something we can take advantage of, we have the confidence to go, and today we did.”

Jacobs agreed.

“We have worked a lot to get out of the gate quickly when we get on base,” he said. “Using our speed is a big weapon for us, so we’ll use it any time we get a chance.”

Coach Nick Burzanko also credited their trip south with inspiring his players to strive for higher levels of play, and as they improve to 5-4 on the season, he said their 1-3 record in that warmer climate does not really indicate where the team is at.

“The kids learned a lot in the trip to Myr-

See Baseball • Page 15

Murray, Zombory Lead Hilltoppers Softball to First Place in WRC

By alan sPorts@

The Chardon Hilltoppers are off to a great 2023 softball season.

In fact, in their last five games, the Hill toppers went 4-1, outscoring their opponents 57-13.

Victories were claimed against NDCL (111), Madison (14-1), Walsh Jesuit (16-11) and Poland Seminary (15-0). Chardon’s only loss came in a 2-1 defeat in the first game of a dou bleheader April 15 against Poland Seminary.

Hilltoppers Head Coach Stuart Landies talked about his team’s excellent performanc es.

“Great week for the Hilltoppers, 4-1 this week, and we did it all at home,” Landies said. “We got 14 kids on the team and they all hit. My biggest challenge is trying to figure out which nine are going to play every day.

“In the circle (we have) Jenna Hendricks, Sydney Murray, and then we also got Amy O’Brien. We’ve got three girls at the JV level that could be pitching for most varsity teams. Again, it’s a tribute to the people working behind the scenes to make this program what it is.”

A large part of this success for the Hilltoppers can be attributed to seniors Sydney Murray and Madison Zombory.

In the last five games, the two have combined for five home runs and 23 RBI.

Murray went 8-15 with three home runs and 11 RBIs, while Zombory went 8-14 with two home runs and 12 RBIs.

Murray and Zombory discussed their performances at the plate.

“This week has been super exciting. We have been full of energy and it’s so much fun competing,” Zombory said. “The home run against Walsh, I think there were two other runners on base, and I just saw the perfect pitch and I just took it right to center. And then the same thing with today (April 15 against Poland Seminary), I took it right down the middle to centerfield.”

Murray also discussed what a great week it was for Hilltoppers softball.

“It has been just truly amazing, the warm

weather and getting to play so many home games; it’s been so fun,” she said. “Everyone’s energy has just been up all week, and it’s been great.”

Murray mentioned that she was not expecting to hit three home runs this week.

“Really you can’t think about it (at the plate),” she said. “You just got to go up there and do your job. Your team is counting on you, so you just got to go up there and hit the ball.

“I just wanted to get my runners in. It was great.”

For the efforts, Coach Landies also credited his coaching staff.

“Coach Tosti, he coaches the hitters, he does a great job,” Landies said. “I don’t know anybody that knows more about hitting than he does. The girls totally buy into what he is coaching.”

So far this season, Grace Legan leads the team with a .512 batting average. Amy O’Brien is batting .500, and Jadyn Tarantino is hitting .474.

Leading the Hilltoppers on the mound, Jenna Hendricks is 4-1 on the season with a 1.79 ERA. She has had 47 strikeouts in 54 innings pitched.

The Hilltoppers would next face Willoughby South (April 17), Eastlake North (April 19), Austintown Fitch (April 20), and Eastlake North again (April 21).

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

Chardon’s Grace Legan leads the Hilltoppers’ softball team with a .512 batting average to start the week. In their last five games, the Hilltoppers went 4-1, outscoring their opponents 57-13. Victories were claimed against NDCL (11-1), Madison (14-1), Walsh Jesuit (16-11) and Poland Seminary (15-0).

Toppers Girls Lacrosse Nets 14 in Victory Over Comets

By alan kornsPan sPorts@karlovecmeDia com

In an effort to create team unity, Chardon Head Coach Alison Platz took her lacrosse team, in its third year, on a spring break trip.

Not to the warmer southern climates, but to Syracuse, N.Y., a trip made possible through fundraising by parents. Platz and the parents hope the experience pays off as the team continues to improve and grow.

Five Hilltoppers girls lacrosse players combined for 14 goals on April 13 to defeat the Solon Comets, 14-7.

“Tonight’s game, it was something we kind of had to fight through,” Platz said. “We grabbed the lead quick. Solon did a nice job of working their way back in, and we kind of had to fight through some of that adversity to get back to where we were.”

As Coach Platz mentioned, the Hilltoppers got out to a quick lead. In fact, Payton Platz scored four first-half goals within the first six minutes of the game. She also netted a fifth goal in the second half to help lead the Hilltoppers to victory.

In defeating the Comets, Hilltoppers players and coaches emphasized the importance of working together as a family and staying cohesive.

“I think it was a really good team effort,” Payton Platz said. “It was a strong start; I could never have done all that without the team.

“I think we played very good as a team tonight.”

In addition to Platz’s amazing offensive performance, the Hilltoppers also received a great offensive game from Lauren Jackson, who had a hat trick with three goals.

Jackson scored twice in the first half, then scored a third goal early in the second half.

“Everything that happened, all the goals, were a team effort, and we just collectively as a team pulled this win off,” Jackson said. “Every goal, everything that I got to score tonight, was because of the team. We all work so hard together. I got good passes from my teammates,

from page 14

Baseballtle Beach,” he said. “We played against two top teams from this area in Padua Franciscan and Medina, plus really solid teams from Baldwin and Lincoln Park, from other states, and we played them well. That has helped us to raise our level of competition ... and we feel we have learned so much, we can play with just about anybody now, if we execute.

“Today that first inning got us going, Ethan did a nice job pitching for us, and we basically made the plays we had to when we had to. This was a good win for us.”

Czekaj paced the eight-hit offense for Berkshire. He also had three of his team’s seven steals. Martin added a pair of hits while fanning nine in his two-hit effort on the mound.

Five first-inning steals set a tone that the Mustangs (2-4) had no response for until it was too late. A liner to right center in the sixth by Payton Plizga was the first Mustang hit. The other was a pinch double from Casey Turner in the seventh, but Martin hunkered in for a strikeout for the second out of the seventh, and a soft liner, which the second baseman leaped for, ended the contest.

so I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Coach Platz discussed the excellent performances of Payton Platz and Jackson.

“She (Payton Platz) is a quick starter, so that helps,” Coach Platz said. “We always tell our kids when you have the opportunity to take the shot, go for it, just be smart about it. And she listened.

“Lauren is new to middie this year. So that was a super cool thing for her to do, to be able to net three. She has put in a lot of hard work during the off season, and it really showed. She’s earned the time she’s gotten.

I am super proud of her.”

In addition to the combined eight goals by Payton Platz and Jackson, the Hilltoppers got an additional six goals from five other players: Stella Parrish (2 goals), Gray Ty -

minski, Sadie Richards, Grace Darone and Kaelyn Cardina.

Five players also combined for eight assists, and 15 players contributed to fielding ground balls throughout the game — all in working together cohesively.

Parrish led the team with three assists, Darone had two, and Cardina, Skylar Duvall-Lewis and Maggie Slack each had one.

Leading the Hilltoppers in fielding ground balls were Darone (eight) and Payton Platz (four). Four players each fielded three ground balls for the Hilltoppers: Duvall-Lewis, Parrish, Slack and Tyminski.

The Hilltoppers’ busy week ahead would pit them against Beaumont (April 17), Kenston (April 18), Canfield (April 20) and Revere (April 22).

Chardon’s girls lacrosse team on its spring break trip to Syracuse, N.Y.

Badgers Apply Pressure In Win Against Wolverines

By rich kelly sPorts@karlovecmeDia.com

Young high school teams usually are built on the experience of some players mixed with the youthful attitudes of less experienced players.

That formula came into play in a big way April 13 as the Berkshire Badgers made plays early, the West Geauga Wolverines couldn’t catch up in later innings, and the Badgers gradually extended their lead to claim a 12-3 Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division softball victory.

Berkshire took advantage of Wolverine miscues in the second inning to take an initial lead. A five-run sixth inning for the Badgers settled the issue.

Five of the first six Berkshire hitters in the bottom of the sixth frame reached base on hits, capped by a line drive to the fence in right center off the bat of Jenna Hornak for a double.

When the frame began, a 7-3 Berkshire lead was firm, but rocky, as the Wolverines showed threats constantly.

After a Julia Clark sacrifice fly in the top of the second scored the first run of the game for WG, Berkshire got two runners on in the bottom of the second with one out. An infield bouncer toward left field was cut off, but the throw from shortstop Shea Malone to third was bobbled, loading the bases.

Julia Young was hit by a pitch to tie the score, and another fielder’s choice gave Berkshire (3-9) a lead they would never give up.

An infield error gave the Wolverines a chance as they tied the score in the third inning, but Maddie Triskett walked in the third for the home team, moved up on a wild pitch, and came home as Olivia Masink drilled a sharp single to right field for a 3-2 lead.

Big hits on offense and solid defensive plays kept the Wolverines from getting any momentum with their own bats.

“This was our fourth game this week,” West Geauga Head Coach Mark Percassi said. “We seemed a little flat, but we’re not really a veteran team yet, and while the girls are really trying hard, inconsistency has been regular for us. We are trying to play hard, but without having played so much and now playing every day, there is a lot to learn for us.”

Julia Clark paced the West G offense with

a pair of hits. She led off the game with a sharp single, and with one out, Berkshire Head Coach Dave List intentionally walked Shea Malone to prevent a possible outburst early on.

The move worked perfectly, as Berkshire starting pitcher Cam Leggett fired a third strike past the next hitter, then induced a popup to the left of home plate that was caught in foul ground for the third out.

Berkshire answered with runners on first and second with one out. But Maddie Triskett sent a sharp grounder up the middle that Malone fielded cleanly, then stepped on second for one out and fired to first to complete a 6-3 double play.

From that point on, though, good defense from the Badgers — with centerfielder Sierra Bermen taking turns with pitcher Cam Leggett to make big plays — kept WG from mounting any rallies, while Berkshire hit the holes with hits to extend the lead to

its final determination.

Leggett scattered five hits for the Badgers. She also walked seven while fanning five, keeping runners on base. But several catches in the outfield by Bermen and balls hit on the infield, corralled by Leggett, avoided further damage.

Berkshire bats warmed up in the third, and from then on, the Badgers simply made more plays.

Olivia Masink had a trio of hits to lead the offense. Another key factor for Coach List was that every player in his lineup hit safely, totaling 14 base knocks. All but one player scored at least one run, and Jenna Hornak drove home three, including one double.

The Badgers ripped four doubles on the day, keeping the pressure on the young Wolverines.

“I’m really proud of how, from top to bottom, we hit the ball today,” List said. “Our top four hitters in the lineup are our only

returning letter winners, so their experience really means a lot. We had a good trip to Myrtle Beach to get started with the season, we played some really good teams there, and that type of competition leads to the experience we need to make plays back here because we are part of a really tough league.

“We want to try to focus on the positives we get out of every game. West Geauga has a really young team, like we do, so taking advantage of every mistake is important. I think we need to do better with our base-running, as we had some big mistakes today. But we got some good plays in the outfield, and while Cam (Leggett) was not her sharpest today, she buckled down to make pitches when she had to.”

List added that he wouldn’t normally intentionally walk a player like Malone, “but I thought it was important to not let her blast one for a lead early, and we got away with it.”

Berkshire’s Cam Leggett, left, and Sierra Berman, both seniors, during the Badgers 12-3 win over West Geauga. Leggett was the Badgers’ starting pitcher in the Chagrin Valley win.

Spring Sports Have Begun

The spring sports season for high school and middle school students is underway. Be sure to catch some Wolverine action by visiting www.westgathletics.org for schedules.

The baseball, softball, track and field, lacrosse and tennis teams would love the community’s support. On April 22, West Geauga is hosting the 32nd annual Kurt Frankel Wolverine Invitational with 24 teams totaling around 500 athletes in the track and field event.

Power of the Pen

Kenston Middle School eighth-graders

Porter Fontana, Grace Voudris, Kherington Swader and Rhys Serquinia have qualified for the State Power of the Pen Tournament at Ashland University on May 18. Guest author justin a. reynolds will give the Power of the Pen keynote address sharing insights about making writing a career and connecting with readers.

Power of the Pen is an Ohio-wide interscholastic writing program. It empowers youth to find and develop their unique creative voice through writing tournaments. Writers craft responses to open-ended prompts during three 40-minute sessions.

Rotary Senior

Hanna Busby was selected Kenston’s Chagrin Valley Rotary Club Student of the Month. She maintains a 4.541 grade point average. She has earned AP Scholar with Distinction honors for scoring a four or above on all eight Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken thus far. She has also been awarded eight course awards for her academic perfor-

West Geauga

Kindergarten Parent Night

Westwood Elementary School was thrilled to welcome new Kindergarten parents for an informational evening. Thank you to those who registered and were able to attend.

Those who have a student eligible to begin kindergarten in the fall and have not yet registered are encouraged to register now. Visit www.westg.org or call 440-729-5900 with questions.

Elementary students packed away their winter coats and rain boots and finally enjoyed some sunshine on the playground. The wonderful week of warm weather provided an opportunity for students to get some extra time outside for learning and playing.

WGMS All-School Assembly

West Geauga Middle School students kicked off spring break with an all-school assembly. Entertainment included the West Geauga High School marching band, teacher Richard Skotzke playing the national anthem on electric guitar, an Irish dancer performance, cheerleaders, prizes and the main event – teachers versus

Kenston

mance. As a member of Bomber Bash Lead Crew, she was recognized with her peers for their service to A Kid Again charity with the Medical Mutual Pillar Award.

As a student athlete, she was named Western Reserve Conference (WRC) Scholar Athlete seven times and Kenston Scholar Athlete twice. In basketball, she also was recognized with the Lady Bomber Award for her character on and off the court and the Most Improved Award. She was also a four-year golf team member and awarded WRC honorable mention honors.

In addition to her participation in sports, Hanna is an active participant in Envirothon and has served as the recycling coordinator for the past two years. In addition, she is a Kenston Academy tutor and a National Honor Society member organizing their Carnival event last year.

Outside of school, Hanna has worked at Punderson Golf Course, where she worked collaboratively to establish a recycling program at the clubhouse and along the course.

Hanna plans to attend Boston University, where she will study biology with a specialization in ecology and conservation. She plans

to minor in Earth and environment sciences and possibly environmental remote sensing and GIS to pursue her doctorate in biology. She is the daughter of Allie and Luke Busby.

Center Stage Presents Newsies

Kenston Center Stage is pleased to present its spring musical “Disney’s Newsies” on April 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. and April 22 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Robert A. Lee Auditorium. Tickets are $14, $12 and $10 and are available via the Box Office link at kenstonlocal.org.

Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, the new Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. But, after publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys’ expense, Kelly and his fellow newsies take action. With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognizes the power of “the little man.”

The cast, crew and orchestra are comprised of Brooklyn Alexander, Addison Alt-

students volleyball games. During the month of March, students in each grade-level had the opportunity to earn tickets by showing empathy, which was the PBIS lesson of the month. The tickets were entered into a raffle to win a spot on the team and represent their grade in the volleyball game. It was a fun-filled afternoon with laughter and friendly competition.

mann, Gaby Bates, Sasha Baum, Jack Beclay, Dom Blogna, Ava Brennan, Naomi Brewer, Natalie Brown, Maylin Bryan, Ella Butler, Marin Carlson, Brooke Carlson, Devin Cinch, Victor Como, Peter Como, Brooke Davidson, Jailyn Davidson, L. Denno, Cayla DiBernardo, Lily Emch, Elise Flinders, Sam Flinders, Jackson Goglin, Tommy Hart, Tommy Hunt, Josie Ianiro, Ava Intelisano, Madeline Jaroch, Sarah Jones, Madeline Kapela, Wilson Kentner, Brett King, Jon King, Andrea Kirschman, Jacob Kovalski, Mitchell Lai, Nick Lai, Justin Link, Eve Lucarelli, Katie Lustig, Devin Macsuga, Lisa Markoff, Megan Master, Erin McFadden, Tyshon McKinney, Lana Mills, Lily Mills, Kylie Moore, Matt Nidy, Madeline Pastor, Elena Perrine, Moraya Piunno, Zach Radefeld, Will Radefeld, Madelyn Rees, Nathan Rolf, Luke Schmidt, Ben Serafin,Maya Simpson, Faith Smith, Sam Spencer, Jake Spencer, Aly Stefancin, Henry Stice, Erriana Strong, Matthew Strong, Wren Swanson, Eden Swope, Charlotte Syslo, Lily Tatara, Payton Timmons, Kate Tobin, Arielle Tobler, Will Turner, Sophie Voudris, Hunter Vrudney, Gavin Watson, Olivia White and Charlotte Witmer-Rich.

The spring sports season for high school and middle school students is underway.

Junior Addison Seese, author of “Wonderful Animals of the World,” earned a state placement in the Educators Rising Ohio 32nd annual State Conference held at Capital University March 8-9. She competed at the state tournament as a first-year Auburn Career Center Teaching Professions Pathway student.

Both Addison and Harvey High School / Auburn Career Center student Deborah Sams — the book’s illustrator — garnered fourth-place state medals in the K-3 Children’s Literature category for their collaborative literary work.

Addison stated, “We decided to write our book to bring light to many of the endangered species we have in the world today. Many kids and even adults, don’t realize where some of these animals come from or that they are endangered. We also wanted children to see that their differences aren’t a bad thing and that we should respect each other no matter how different they are.”

Career interests for Addison include both theater and education with hopes to be able to integrate the two in her pursuits after high school graduation in 2024.

Chardon

vance to the 2023 Educators Rising National Conference June 29-July 2 in Orlando.

District Releases Quality Profile

The district released its 2022 Quality Profile report this month and — for the first time ever — is publishing the report in a print format to more effectively reach school community residents and businesses. The Quality Profile is a compilation of highlights from the 2021-22 school year, offering insight into that snapshot in time of Chardon Schools’ finances, instructional program, extracurricular activities, operations, and other important aspects of the schools.

Chardon Schools, a member of the Alliance for High Quality Education which supports the publication of a Quality Profile, is among approximately 60 school districts in Ohio to annually release this comprehensive, community-oriented companion to the state’s district report card.

Community members are invited to access the 2022 report under the district header at chardonschools.org. Stakeholders can expect to receive the printed report in their home and business mailboxes later in the spring.

SUBMITTED

Auburn Career Center students (l to r) Addison Seese and Deborah Sams each earned a fourth-place medal in the K-3 Children’s Literature category at the Educators Rising Ohio 32nd Annual State Conference for writing and illustrating “Wonderful Animals of the World.”

and shapes puzzle in Miss Camille’s class on April 13.

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

Trash and Treasure Sale

April 21 and 22

Parkman Congregational Church is hosting its annual rummage sale on Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. The church is located at 18265 Madison Road in Parkman.

Grange Rummage Sale

April 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Huntsburg Grange is hosting a rummage sale and open house at Huntsburg Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road. Questions? Call 440-477-2822.

Geauga Dems Collect Signatures

April 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Geauga Democratic Party will hold two drive-thru events to collect signatures on the petition to restore women’s reproductive rights in Ohio. Stop by the South Russell Medical Center parking lot at 5192 Chillicothe Road in South Russell or by the party headquarters at 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township.

Masonic Lodge Open House

April 22, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Western Phoenix Lodge #42, Free and Accepted Masons will host an open house at their lodge located on the third floor at 16196 Main Market Road in Parkman. The lodge will be open to the community for refreshments and a tour.

Trinkets and Treasures Sale

April 26-29

The Federated Church of Chagrin Falls will hold its annual Trinkets and Treasures sale at the Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Road in Bainbridge Township.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 27 and 28, and 9 a.m. to noon April 29, half price and bag day.

Shop the “First Opportunity to Buy”

Huntsburg News

By nancy J. saunDers

Government

event on April 26 from 5:30-8 p.m. Admission is $10 on Wednesday only.

Call 440-247-6490 or visit www.FedChurch.org for more information.

Chicken Paprikash Dinner

April 30, 12-2 p.m.

DTJ Taborville is serving a chicken –chicken paprikash dinner at the corner of Quinn and Bartholomew roads in Auburn Township. Cost is $15 per person; a child’s dinner is $8.

Frank Moravcik will provide music from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Czech beer will be available at the bar.

Call 440-543-8494 for reservations by April 27.

Red Wagon Spring Luncheon

May 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Christ Child Society of Geauga County is holding its 30th annual Red Wagon Spring Luncheon and Chinese auction at St. Noel Banquet Center in Willoughby Hills. Guest emcee is Channel 8 meteorologist Jen Harcher.

The event supports the many programs and activities of the Society that has served at risk children in Geauga for over 40 years.

Tickets are $50 per person. Email Jeanette Bussoletti at jbussoletti@yahoo.com or call 216-401-8190 for more information and reservations.

Chardon VFW Prime Rib Dinner

May 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

Chardon VFW Post 6519 is hosting a prime rib dinner and drawing at the post located at 752 Water St. Donation is $30. Only 100 tickets will be sold for the $500 drawing at 7:15 p.m. Event also features sideboards, 50/50 and mystery ticket. The public is welcome. Call 440-285-3600 for information.

Ag in the Classroom Grants Available

The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is now offering grants for the 2023-24 school year to increase awareness, knowledge and appreciation of agriculture in the youth of Geauga County. The $1,000 grant will be awarded to kindergarten through 12th-grade core education teachers whose innovative classroom projects use agricultural concepts to teach reading, writing, math, nutrition, science and/or social studies as well as to encourage a partnership between the Geauga SWCD and local schools in providing agricultural education.

Grant application information will be sent to all Geauga County schools. The Geauga SWCD has $1,000 allocated for the Agricul-

ture in the Classroom Education project.

The Geauga SWCD will review proposals as they are received. The final deadline is May 31. Approved projects will be notified shortly thereafter. Once awarded, projects must begin within the 2023-24 school year, and all critical activities must be completed within one year of their commencement. Projects must have proof of school board and principal approval.

Email applications to knainiger@geaugaswcd.com or mail or submit application in person to Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, P. O. Box 410, 14269 Claridon-Troy Rd., Burton, OH 44021. Visit geaugaswcd.com or call 440-834-1122 for more information.

All township meetings are open to the public and residents are encouraged to attend. Call 440-636-5486 for more information. The next meeting is May 2. Memorial Day services will be held on May 29. Flags will still be placed on the graves thanks to the Huntsburg Historical Society members.

Cemetery

Maintenance will be cleaning the cemetery and preparing it for Memorial Day. Please remove any items one wishes to keep. All old wreaths and unsightly items left at the graveside will be discarded.

No plantings are permitted. Artificial flowers or ornaments are permitted on the graves until they become weather beaten. The township is not responsible for damage or theft of such items and may remove them if they become unsightly.

Roads

Township maintenance is currently working on pulling in road edges, filling holes and accessing what needs to be done on each road prior to the application of dust control. Bids for dust control were reviewed at the April 18 meeting.

Depending on funds available in the road and bridge fund, a decision will be made on which roads will be treated.

Residents are responsible for keeping their drive pipes clean and free of debris. Clean out pipes to keep the ditches flowing. Please call and report any serious road problem, flooding on roads, fallen limbs or other hazard the township should be aware of. Residents may leave a message at 440-636-5486 option 1.

Zoning

Zoning Inspector Paul Tucker is available by appointment for zoning permits, exemptions, conditional use permits and variances. He may be reached by calling the township offices at 440-636-5486 ext. 3. Leave a message for a return call.

Be advised that zoning permits are required for all building projects, even agricultural buildings. Some may be exempt from fees but still require an application submis-

sion. The township doesn’t know what is being constructed if an application is not submitted. Zoning permit applications are available in the town hall foyer.

Summer Youth Program

Huntsburg Township will once again participate with the Geauga County Summer Youth Program. The program offers summer employment to Geauga County youths between the ages of 14 and 18 for 10 weeks at 40 hours per week. Interested parties should contact the OhioGuideStone Summer Employment Offices at 440-313-4595 to see if they meet the requirements. The program is currently offering $12 per hour.

Spring Cleanup & Tire Recycling

For Huntsburg residents only, tire recycling is scheduled for June 3. Passenger car tire drop-off is June 3 from 8:30-11 a.m. at the Huntsburg Recreational Park, 17085 Mayfield Road. Tires with dirt or mud will not be accepted. Grant funding is provided by Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste District.

Spring cleanup will be held June 5 from 8:30-11 a.m. or when full. Bring items to the township recreational park. No items are to be left before or after that time.

Appliances, computers and television will be accepted and recycled thanks to a Go Green Grant awarded to the township by Geauga Trumbull Solid Waste District. Lawn waste and household garbage will not be accepted. There are no exceptions.

Senior Trash Pickup Days Huntsburg Township Trustees and the road department are joining forces with the Geauga County Department on Aging for the 2023 Huntsburg Township Senior Trash Pickup Days June 1 and 2.

Have items outside the home or garage on May 31, the evening before the pickup.

To sign up, register and complete the trash pickup intake with the Geauga County Department on Aging at 440-279-2130 by May 1 or earlier.

In order to receive trash pickup assistance, one must be 60 years of age or older and live in Huntsburg Township.

Recycling

Cameras record all activities at the recycling bins. The sheriff’s office will issue citations to all violators doing illegal dumping.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office April 7-13, 2023.

EXTRA PATROL

April 8

8:25 p.m., Madison Road, Thompson. Thompson PD is requesting extra patrol through the night and tomorrow. They took a report this evening regarding some Facebook content that was posted about Thompson United Methodist Church. There were some indirect threats regarding them hiring sexual predators and that damage should be done to the church. Extra patrol will be conducted after Thompson PD units off duty.

FOUND PROPERTY

April 8

4:43 p.m., Orange Lane, Auburn. Found $2,000 in cash at the Hitching Post by the gas pumps. Cash wrapped in rubber bands. Money consisted of $100s, $50s and $20s. Deputy observed the $100s and $50s were held together with a rubber band and the $20s were held togeth-

Geauga Sheriff’s Report

er with a rubber band, and then rubber banded together. Deputy counted the money in front of his camera and counted $2,150. Money placed into evidence.

FRAUD

April 7

5:48 p.m., Merritt Road, Munson. Contact was made with female from Painesville. She reported her ex hacked her cell phone and is listening to her phone calls. She also said her ex placed a tracker in her car and stole property from it at night while parked at hospital. Advice given to purchase a new phone and speak with a mechanic to check her vehicle. Advice also given to make reports of theft with her local agency.

INFO REPORT

April 7

5:36 p.m., Taylor Wells Road, Claridon. Caller is reporting he passed a white pickup truck pulling a motorcycle on a trailer and when he passed they shinned a green laser in his mirror. This is not currently happening. It happened 40 minutes ago.

Arts & Entertainment

Fairmount Center Presents Kids’ Country

Fairmount Center for the Arts will present “Kids’ Country” in memory of David Cockley, a well-known Cleveland writer and producer of children’s books and performances. The musical comedy is about a group of children who plan a revolution against the grown-ups making all of the rules.

The production will take place April 21 at 7 p.m. and April 22 at 2 p.m. at Hawken Upper School Auditorium, 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills.

Tickets range from $10 to $12 and can be purchased online at fairmountcenter.org.

April 11

10:49 a.m., Clubhouse Drive, Hambden. Chardon Schools bus employee threatened to beat up a child. Director of Transportation wanted the incident documented if parents were to further pursue charges or report in the future. Information documented.

ROBBERY

April 9

8:01 p.m., Madison Road, Thompson. Someone broke into the house wearing a mask and then assaulted caller, slammed him into the door and knocked him out. Head hurts but is refusing squad. Heavy set male, taller, wearing a mask. He came through the back glass door that was unlocked. Cannot tell if anything is missing. No weapons seen. Caller is putting dogs away. Deputies checked area and did not locate anyone.

THEFT

April 7

2:49 p.m., Henning Drive, Chardon. Caller would like to make a report for theft of an item from her mailbox. She did make a re-

port with the post office, but they stated it becomes a personal item once the package is delivered. The item was a $30 necklace. Deputy advised. Documentation.

April 9

4:08 p.m., Longview Drive, Newbury. Last night a power washer was stolen from his new property that had a tracker on it. Power washer has since been returned because the tracker alerted the suspect. Caller has all tracking information and addresses. Report taken.

April 10

1:19 p.m., Kinsman Road, Burton. Dump trailer was stolen from the lot and now the trailer is on Buy Sell Trade for sale in Alliance. Report taken.

TRAFFIC OFFENSE

April 8

4:14 p.m., U.S. 422, Auburn. Four motorcycles traveling at speeds over 100 mph, swerving in and out of traffic. Travelling together. UTL. No other reports called into dispatch.

Geauga Public Library

Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

2023 Photography Contest

Submissions are now open for the annual photography contest. Visit the GCPL website for more information, including contest rules as well as instructions on how to submit photos.

Community Cookbook

To honor its 60th anniversary, GCPL is looking to its patrons to help us compile a celebratory cookbook full of 60 different recipes. A limited supply will be handed out at the anniversary party being held Aug. 12 at Veterans Legacy Woods in Newbury Township.

iPhone, iPad & Mac Basics

April 20, 2-3 p.m. • Thompson

Learn the basics, including how to access settings, email, apps and the Apple Store, to feel more confident and independent when using one’s devices.

Armchair Tour of National Parks

April 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m. • Chardon

Join a representative from the James A. Garfield Historic Site and learn more about how the National Parks are used to memorialize historic American figures.

Geauga Good Deeds

April 22, 10 a.m. to noon • Bainbridge

Join Geauga County Probate Court Judge Tim Grendell, Magistrate Abbey King, County Recorder Celesta Mullins and Clerk of Courts Shelia Bevington to learn all about estate planning and how to safeguard properties.

Redefining Work & Retirement

April 24, 9:30-11:30 a.m. • Bainbridge

Join Encore NEO and learn the tools and resources to transform life for the better. No registration required.

Adult Coloring Club

April 24, 7-8:30 p.m. • Chardon

Come unwind by coloring stress away.

Arthur Jones

April 27, 7-8 p.m. • Administrative Center

The wreck of the Sultana is the United States’ worst maritime disaster, and many of the casualties were Civil War soldiers and Ohio sons returning home after the war. Learn about one particular solider, Arthur Jones, and his experience aboard the Sultana before, during and after the disaster.

Brain Games

May 1, 2-3 p.m. • Bainbridge

Boost brainpower while slowing age-related memory loss through an assortment of “brain games,” such as Wordle, Rhebus puzzles and more. No registration required.

Sexting Dangers

May 2, 6:30-8 p.m. • Geauga West

Join Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office investigator Rick Warner, defense attorney Todd Petersen and Ravenwood Health Counsel Melissa Bishop and dive into its risks while learning why it’s important to have open, honest conversations about it.

Composting 101

May 3, 6:30–8 p.m. • Middlefield

Join the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District and learn all the details about composting.

Book Groups

No registration required.

• Virtual, April 20, 6:30 p.m., “Nettle & Bone” by T. Kingfisher.

• Geauga West, May 3, 7 p.m., “The Dubliners” by James Joyce.

• Middlefield, April 25, 7 p.m., “Less” by Andrew Sean Greer.

• Bainbridge & Virtual, April 28, 10:30 a.m., “Transcendent Kingdom” by Yaa Gyasi.

• Thompson, April 23, 2 p.m., “When No One is Watching” by Alyssa Cole.

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA COUNTY

Foreclosure Auction

Case#22-F-000339. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2004-6 vs Julia Kolibab aka Julia Kolibab aka Julia J. Nasvytis aka Julia Nasvytis,John Kolibab, et al.

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

Property Address: 8630 TAYLOR MAY ROAD, BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, GEAUGA, Ohio, 44023;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 02-202070

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 5/2/2023 at 10:00 AM for a minimum of 7 days.

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

Provisional Sale date: 5/16/2023 at 10:00

AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5,000.00 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

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

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 22F000339 into the search bar.

Apr6-13-20, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

The following matters are the subject of this public notice by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. The complete public notice, including any additional instructions for submitting comments, requesting information, a public hearing, filing an appeal, or ADA accommodations may be obtained at: https://epa.ohio.gov/actions or Hearing Clerk, Ohio EPA, 50 W. Town St. P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216. Ph: 614-644-3037 email: HClerk@epa.ohio.gov

Final Issuance of Permit to Install

Laleure Vineyards

Facility Description: Wastewater

ID #: 1515476

Date of Action: 04/07/2023

This final action not preceded by proposed action and is appealable to ERAC.

Project: Laleure Vineyards Onsite Sewage

Treatmnet System

Project Location: 17335 Nash Rd, Parkman Twp Apr20, 2023

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

22-F-000671 – Rocket Mortgage, LLC

f/k/a Quicken Loans, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans Inc., Plaintiff vs. Andrew C. Carroscia, et al, Defendants.

ANDREW C. CARROSCIA AND UNKNOWN

SPOUSE, IF ANY, OF ANDREW C. CARROSCIA, whose last known addresses are unknown and all of whose residences are unknown, will hereby take notice that on November 15, 2022, Plaintiff filed its Complaint in the Common Pleas Court of Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court, Suite 300, Chardon, OH 44024 being Case No. 22-F000671 in said Court against ANDREW C. CARROSCIA, et al. praying for Judgment of $73,481.19 with interest at the rate of 5.87500% per annum from June 1, 2020, until paid and for foreclosure of a mortgage on the following described real estate, to wit:

PARCEL NO. 30-077300

STREET ADDRESS: 8259 Plank Road, Chardon, OH 44024

A COMPLETE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PARCEL MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE COUNTY AUDITOR. and that Defendants be required to set up any interest they may have in said premises or be forever barred, that upon failure of said Defendants to pay or cause to be paid said Judgment within three days from its rendition that an Order of Sale be issued to the Sheriff of Geauga County, Ohio, to appraise, advertise, and sell said real estate, that the premises be sold free and clear of all claims, liens and interest of any parties herein, that the proceeds from the sale of said premises be applied to Plaintiff’s Judgment and for such other relief to which Plaintiff is entitled.

Said Defendant(s) will take notice that they will be required to answer said Complaint on

or before twenty-eight (28) days from the final publication run date or judgment will be rendered accordingly.

ROCKET MORTGAGE, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS, LLC F/K/A QUICKEN LOANS INC.

Ellen L. Fornash, Padgett Law Group, 8087 Washington Village Drive, Suite 220, Dayton, OH 45458; 850-422-2520; OHAttorney@padgettlawgroup.com

Apr6-13-20, 2023

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO CASE NO. 23-F-000071 THIRD FEDERAL SAVINGS & LOAN ASSOCIATION OF CLEVELAND Plaintiff vs. STEPHEN A. PULLING, et al. Defendants

To: Unknown Spouse, if any, of Stephen A. Pulling, Name Unknown you will take notice that on the 3rd day of February, 2023, Plaintiff, filed a Complaint for foreclosure in the Geauga County Common Pleas Court, 100 Short Court, Suite 300, Chardon, OH 44024, being Case No. 23F000071, alleging that there is due to the Plaintiff the sum of $98,403.88, plus interest at 4.29000% per annum from June 01, 2022, plus late charges and attorney fees applicable to the terms of a Promissory Note secured by a Mortgage on the real property, which has a street address of 9603 Mayfield Road, Chesterland, OH 44026, being permanent parcel number 11-073800.

Plaintiff further alleges that by reason of a default in payment of said Promissory Note, the conditions of said Mortgage have been broken and the same has become absolute.

Plaintiff prays that the Defendant named above be required to answer and assert any interest in said real property or be forever barred from asserting any interest therein, for foreclosure of said mortgage, marshalling of liens, and the sale of said real property, and that the proceeds of said sale be applied according to law.

Said Defendant is required to file an Answer on or before the 1st day of June, 2023.

Megan J. Katz, Attorney for Plaintiff, Third Federal Savings & Loan Association of Cleveland, c/o Weltman, Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A., 965 Keynote Circle, Cleveland, OH 44131-1829

Apr20-27 May5, 2023

ISSUE # 1

NOTICE OF ELECTION

On Tax Levy in Excess of the Ten Mill Limitation

Revised Code Sections 3501.11(G), 5705.19, 5705.25

Notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a Resolution of the BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, Ohio, passed on the January 24, 2023, there will be submitted to a vote of the people at the PRIMARY SPECIAL to be held at the regular places of voting on Tuesday, the 2nd day of May, 2023 the question of levying a tax, in ex cess of the ten mill limitation:

An additional tax for the benefit of Bainbridge Township for the purpose of providing ambu lance service, emergency medical service, or both that the county auditor estimates will col lect $3,095,674.00 annually, at a rate not ex ceeding 4.75 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $166.25 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2023, first due in calendar year 2024.

The polls for the election will be open 6:30 a.m. and remain open until 7:30 p.m. on election day..

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ELECTIONS, OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

Dennis M. Pavella, Chair Michelle D. Lane, Director Apr20-27, 2023

ISSUE # 2

NOTICE OF ELECTION

On Tax Levy in Excess of the Ten Mill Limitation

Revised Code Sections 3501.11(G), 5705.19, 5705.25

Notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a Resolution of the CHARDON TOWNSHIP, Ohio, passed on the January 5, 2023, there will be submitted to a vote of the people at the PRIMARY SPECIAL to be held at the regular places of voting on Tuesday, the 2nd day of May, 2023 the question of levying a tax, in excess of the ten mill limitation:

An additional tax for the benefit of Chardon

Township for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges that the county auditor estimates will collect $508,450.00 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.75 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $96.25 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2023, first due in calendar year 2024.

The polls for the election will be open 6:30 a.m. and remain open until 7:30 p.m. on election day.

BY

ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ELECTIONS, OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

Dennis M. Pavella, Chair Michelle D. Lane, Director Apr20-27, 2023

ISSUE # 5

NOTICE OF ELECTION

On Tax Levy in Excess of the Ten Mill Limitation

Revised Code Sections 3501.11(G), 5705.19, 5705.25

Notice is hereby given that in pursuance of a Resolution of the THOMPSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio, passed on the January 24, 2023, there will be submitted to a vote of the people at the PRIMARY SPECIAL to be held at the regular places of voting on Tuesday, the 2nd day of May, 2023 the question of levying a tax, in excess of the ten mill limitation:

An additional tax for the benefit of Thompson Township for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, underwater rescue and recovery equipment, or other fire equipment and appliances, buildings and sites therefor, or sources of water supply and materials therefor, for the establishment and maintenance of lines of fire-alarm communications, for the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part-time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical service, administrative, or communications personnel to operate the same, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under section 145.48 or 742.34 of the revised code, for the purchase of ambulance equipment, for the provision of ambulance, paramedic, or other emergency medical services operated by a fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs that the county auditor estimates will collect $157,722.00 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.5 mills for

each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $87.50 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised value, for 5 years, commencing in 2023, first due in calendar year 2024.

The polls for the election will be open 6:30 a.m. and remain open until 7:30 p.m. on election day.

BY

ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ELECTIONS, OF GEAUGA

COUNTY, OHIO.

Dennis M. Pavella, Chair Michelle D. Lane, Director Apr20-27, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Newbury Township

Notice is hereby given that The Newbury Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application, identified as number AV 23-003, for an area variance on the 2nd of May, 2023. The meeting will begin at 7:00 pm, at the Newbury Township Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, Newbury, OH.

The application, submitted by Jeremy Sustar, is requesting a side yard variance as well as a variance for an extension of a non-conforming building structure. The property is located at 11631 Pekin Road in Newbury, OH 44065, in an R-1 residential district.

Lorraine Sevich, Secretary Apr20, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Newbury Township

Notice is hereby given that The Newbury Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application, identified as number AV 23-004, for an area variance on the 2nd of May, 2023. The meeting will begin at 7:00 pm, at the Newbury Township Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, Newbury, OH.

The application, submitted by Holly and John Issa, and the Gatto Group, Inc., are requesting a side and rear setback yard variance as well as a variance for an extension of a non-conforming building structure. For parcel number 23-158500 for the property located at 12375 Kinsman Road in Newbury, OH 44065, in an M-1 Industrial district.

Lorraine Sevich, Secretary Apr20, 2023

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.

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

Teeter Inversion Table: as seen on TV, relieves all back pains, older model, excellent condition, $100. 440431-6944.

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

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

Celli Spading Machine: 55” wide, will spade up to 12” deep, had had very little use. $5,000 OBO. 440-548-2414.

Motorcycle helmet, saddle bag, chaps, jacket, vest, gloves; all XL, like new. $600. 440-285-3114.

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

Electrical Boxes: two 12 circut distribution boxes with breaker. One meter box. $70 each, all for $150. 440834-8943.

Classifieds

Maple Syrup for sale: 1 gal. $38; Half gal. $22; 1 quart $13. 14899 Hayes Road, Middlefield. 440-632-9651.

Two (2) Tires: LT225 / 65R17107 / 1035. Excellent tread. Like new. $60 each. 440-554-5731.

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

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

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

ONE DAY SALE!! Saturday, April 22 8am-4pm at Abundant Life 13724 Carlton St, Burton. Household goods, elementary school books, school desks, office furniture. Proceeds to be used for community outreach.

PETS & ANIMALS

MS Kennels on the Farm, LLC offers in-home pet care. Call 440-636-2421.

Brother & sister cats need an indoor home. Very sweet, affectionate, 9-10 years old, fixed & vaxxed. Call Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE fact: now dealers are putting animal sedatives! in drugs along with fentanyl! Sure to kill you.

REAL ESTATE

We buy Houses and Land. Any condition or situation. Fast, friendly, local. Westwind Property Solutions. Text/ call Wayne today at 330-269-9595. Lot for sale. Thompson Township. Buildable. 1 acre. Wooded, scenic, quiet side street $15,900. 440-2890708.

LOT FOR SALE: .34 acre lot in Bainbridge with Lake Lucerne amenities. Make offer before I list with realtor! 440-596-2608.

SERVICES

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

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

RM Roofing & Construction: Specializing in metal roofs, siding, pavilions, decks, garages and some remodeling. Call Ray at 234-830-1404.

WANTED TO BUY

Level/Transit 440-223-9471.

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

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

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

WORK WANTED

Will do in-home elderly care 24/7. Certified with references. 440-313-1804.

Will do housekeeping and dog sitting. References available. 440-313-1804.

Classifieds 440-729-7667 20 words for $12

Maverick Environmental Equipment hiring Heavy-Haul Driver! Class A-CDL required. FULL TIME, great benefits, great team! Call Tim at 440- 488-7880. Looking for 4-6 experienced campers, preferably friends, to camp on my farm 5/1/23 to 9/1/23 in exchange for 20 hours of light work per month. Text 330-691-7649. Applicants will be vetted.

Help Wanted

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.

Looking to hire? Run a classified line ad in the Geauga County Maple Leaf – only $12 for the first 20 words! 440-729-7667 or ads@karlovecmedia.com

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

George and Carolyn Stadtlander (trustees), Bartholomew Road, to Seth A. and Jennifer M. Zaremba (trustees), $140,000. (15.95 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Brooke and Brett A. Roeper, 17130 Abbey Road, to Brickman Rebuild LLC, $420,000. (1.51 acres)

Dennis and Erin Schonbachler, 8221 Valley Drive, to Joshua B. and Shannon C. Hussey, $716,000. (0.32 acres)

James H. and Colleen E. Duvall, 17400 Lookout Drive, to William L. and Katherine L. Moran, $850,000. (0.73 acres)

BURTON TOWNSHIP

Susan C. Simon, 14544 Broadwood Drive, to Brian Thomas Arnold, $213,000. (0.57 acres)

John Mark and Betty M. Byler, 15806 Jug St., to Martin R. and Ida Troyer, $60,000. (5.17 acres)

CHARDON CITY

Jemm Construction LLC, 200 Windflower Drive, to David J. and Susan C. Constantine (co-trustees), $485,000. (0.39 acres)

Robert W. and Audrey L. Mayer, 200 Park Ave., to Jennifer Foldesi, $155,000. (0.14 acres)

CHARDON TOWNSHIP

Michael J. and Catherine M. Katz, 10722 Thwing Road, to Deborah M. Walsh, $425,000. (10.70 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Susan Markley, 11375 Kristine Drive, to John Gentile, $625,000. (3.05 acres)

DRP Homes LLC, 8163 Cedar Road, to Timothy Mulligan, $392,000. (1.52 acres)

Real Estate Transfers

Nick Soria (trustee), 12158 Shiloh Dr., to John J. and Rose Marie Crotty, $350,000. (1.84 acres)

Victoria L. Soriano, et. al, 8950 Ranch Drive, to Todd B. Dyckes, $10,000. (2.00 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

James M. and Heidi E. English, 10740 Somerset Drive, to Adam Michael and Alanna Erin Hruska, $540,000. (3.40 acres)

Susan Paullin, Connie Oris, and Wayne and Keith Wolfgang, 14929 Gar Highway, to Linda Campana, $150,000. (1.16 acres)

HUNSTBURG TOWNSHIP

16281 Mayfield LLC, 16281 Mayfield Road, to Wayne P. and Lorena P. Miller, $300,000. (20.67 acres)

Paul W. Miller, Chardon Windsor Road, to Myron Miller, $22,000. (1.99 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Thomas J. Vanek and Jennifer L. Reed, 14695 North Meadow Wood Drive, to Joann and Pascal Vincelli, $260,000. (0.28 acres)

Brightwood Lakes Development Company, 14709 Steeplechase Drive, to David T. and Dawnetta S. Wartluft, $39,900. (0.26 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Donald and Terri L. Bear, 11450 Grey Friar Way, to Michael D. and Mary Snyder Addison, $805,000. (6.25 acres)

William B. and Debora K. Schiemann, 11535 Upper Chelsea Drive, to Michael Thomas Curtis, $405,000. (1.50 acres)

Lynn A. Jones, 10931 Nollwood Drive, to Stephanie Judd and Martin Keppler, $550,000. (3.15 acres)

NEWBURY TOWNSHIP

Mondello Investment Group LLC, 14481 Bass Lake Road, to Rhonda G. Spieth, $234,900. (2.15 acres)

Kathleen A. Reinker (TOD), 14926 Munn Road, to Dustin C. Powell, $220,000. (1.10 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Joshua David and Amy Sue Federspiel, 16450 Vernon Drive, to Ashley Marie and Joshua B. Gibson, $375,000. (1.40 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Barbara B. Armington, 14480 Hartwell Trail, to James R. and Colleen R. Miller, $745,000. (5.02 acres)

SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE

Rochelle A. Miller, 118 Fairview Road, to Cameron D. Bagley, $315,000. (0.27 acres)

Patrick J. Holtz and Carlene L. Exline, 31 Gardenpark Drive, to HB Investments Group LLC, $400,000. (1.47 acres)

Alaine Sotera and Michael A. and Alvin J. Smith, 1572 Bell Road, to Figurati Construction Group LLC, $350,000. (2.50 acres)

John J. Freer, 211 Manor Brook Drive, to Barbara B. Armington, $390,000. (0.00 acres)

THOMPSON TOWNSHIP

Justin R. Young and Amelia C. Sidley, 6659 Madison Road, to Countryside Lumbar Properties LLC, $150,000. (0.25 acres)

TROY TOWNSHIP

Paul G. and Joseph Jr. Mayoros, Nancy L. Bair, and Lucy Filipski, 17400 Jug St., to Ryan J. Mayoros, $225,000. (3.75 acres)

Chad J. Sanislo, 18280 Claridon Troy Road, to Caleb Sestak, $223,000. (2.00 acres)