Geauga Maple Leaf 4-6-23

Thursday, April 6, 2023

Vol. 29 No. 14 • Chardon, Ohio

www.geaugamapleleaf.com

$1.00

Despite Threats, Drag Events Go Smoothly

Large Police, Security Presence as Protesters Face Off

The only drag show drama happening April 1 was inside Element 41, where three queens sang and danced for two crowds of brunch-goers.

Both the restaurant performances and an afternoon story hour at the Community Church of Chesterland went off with no signs of trouble after weeks of build-up and threats to organizers.

The event drew press from across the country and around the world, with CCC Pastor Jess Peacock telling a reporter from the UK it was important to push back against protests in tended to inspire fear and silence people.

“We didn’t intend this to be a cause or a movement, or a social justice thing, but it became that,” Peacock said.

Event organizer Mal lory McMaster said she and others were happy to have support in the weeks leading up to the event, in cluding well-wishers who sent flowers to drag queens Veranda L’Ni, Carmen La’Shon, Monica Mod and The Empress Dupree.

“Love is outshining hate in every way,” she said.

Security was ratcheted

By Amy PAtterson

After Gun Incident, West G Parents Demand Change

By BriAn Doering BriAn@kArlovecme

After a student’s arrest for fire arm possession April 3 raised fears of another school shooting, parents crowded the West Geauga Schools Board of Education meeting that evening to express concerns about how the situation was handled.

That morning, West Geauga High School was put on lockdown after an 18-year-old student was found to be in possession of a fire arm while on campus.

The student was taken into custody by the Chester Township Police Department while an investigation was conducted, and high school students were dismissed for the rest of the day.

Board Vice President Christina Sherwood read a statement to the public at the start of Monday’s meeting thanking teachers, staff and local law enforcement for their help that morning.

“The events of today have reinforced that West Geauga is not insulated from the troubles that surround

us. The events of today have also reinforced that our kids, staff and administration understand the absolute need to communicate concerns to one another,” Sherwood said.

Recent headlines make school safety the gravest concern of any school district, she said, adding efforts to maintain safety and security would continue.

“I would like to thank the student

Student Arrested for Firearm Possession

com

West Geauga High School closed its doors for two consectutive days as school officials continued to work with law enforcement on their investigation of an 18-year-old student who brought a firearm

Alliance Man Arrested for Church Attack page 7

McMullen Accused of Bias Against Munson Fire Dept. page 9

Opinion page 10

Obituaries pages 11

Sports pages 12-13

who initially alerted an adult,” Sherwood said. “Without his immediate action, this could have ended very differently.”

However, Chester resident April Orloski, who said her son was the student who found a bullet in the high school bathroom Monday morning, criticized the district’s response to the situation.

The student was taken into custody by the Chester Township Police Department, according to an emergency alert sent out to parents at about 10 a.m. April 3.

“There is an elevated police presence in our schools. No threats have been made against any of our buildings,” said Superintendent Richard Markwardt in the email to parents. Out of an abundance of cau-

Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices start on page 16

Classifieds start on page 18

PHOTOS BY BILL FUGATE/KMG

A protester April 1 in Chardon holds a sign in opposition to a drag brunch hosted at Element 41, and a drag story hour held later that day at the Community Church of Chesterland. RIGHT: Drag queen Veranda L’Ni performs during a drag story hour held at the Community Church of Chesterland Saturday.

on safety protocols during their meeting April 3.

8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5

Chesterland, Ohio 44026

Phone 440-729-7667

FAX 440-729-8240

ads@karlovecmedia.com

Phone 440-285-2013

FAX 440-285-2015

editor@karlovecmedia.com

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher

John D. Karlovec, Editor

Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor

Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor

Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter

Amy Patterson, Staff Reporter

Brian Doering, Staff Reporter

Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative

Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative

Gayle Mantush, Sales Representative

Jayne Kracker, Sales Representative

Barb Fontanelle, Sales Representative

Regina Swinerton, Classifieds

Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design

Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

Emma McGuire, Paginator

Submissions and Deadlines

• Editorial submissions are printed as space is available, at the publisher’s discretion, and may be edited for length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by Monday at noon for consideration for that Thursday’s edition.

• Email all editorial submissions and questions to editor@karlovecmedia.com.

• The space reservation deadline for paid advertisements in that Thursday’s Geauga County Maple Leaf is the preceding Friday by noon. Late ads may be accepted at the discretion of management.

• Email advertising requests and questions to ads@karlovecmedia.com.

Subscription Rates (valid through 12/31/23)

Weekly Issue (in Geauga County)

One year: $50 • Two years: $90

Senior Citizens one year: $45

Single copy: $1

Weekly Issue (outside Geauga County)

One year: $65 • Two years: $120

Weekly Issue (snowbird/seasonal address)

One year: $65

Online Only (No Mailed Copy) $50

NewspaperandOnlineSubscriptions are Non-Refundable.

YoucanviewtheRefundPolicybyvisiting: www.geaugamapleleaf.com/refund-policy/ orbyusingthe“More”menuonthewebsite.

•Geauga County Maple Leaf is a newspaper of general circulation published weekly. Contains general, legal, real estate, insurance and commercial news.

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

•Geauga County Maple Leaf (USPS 011-535) is published weekly by Geauga County Maple Leaf LLC. 8389 Mayfield Road, Ste. B5, Chesterland, Ohio 44026. Periodicals postage paid at Chardon, Ohio 44024. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH 44024-5166. Subscribers should notify the publisher in writing of address changes or unsatisfactory delivery.

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

•Attorneys placing legal advertisements are responsible for payment.

•The publisher is not responsible for errors in advertisements after first publication if not advised by the advertiser.

Burton Village Council Considers Suggestion to Clarify Permit System

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmeDiA com

Property owners in Burton Village determined to tap into the water line, plant a tree or install a fence may soon find the clear and detailed information they need on the new village website.

Village Mayor Ruth Spanos told council March 27 she would look over dozens of documents sent to her by Nick Rundo, chairman of the Burton Village Board of Public Affairs.

The documents include blank applications for zoning variances, engineer’s permits, point-of-sale inspections and work on buildings in the village historic district. It includes blank permit certificates and an explanation of the processes for getting through what some might consider village red tape.

“With the new website, we could add some of that information for people about processes,” Spanos said, describing the information as: “If you want to do this, go here, if you want to do that, go there. I don’t think we want to add anything new.”

Fiscal Officer Jennell Dahlhausen said Rundo’s work doesn’t change much.

“The point of this was to clarify, make it a little easier to know what they have to go through to get certain approvals,” she said.

Zoning Inspector Rick Gruber said Rundo’s clarification of the processes is a

positive thing.

“I think it would make some of the processes much easier for everyone to follow,” he said.

Among the process documents is a new one giving information about replacing village utilities, driveways and sidewalks. Rundo recommended village council consider requiring both a zoning permit and a mayor’s permit for those projects.

Council President Skip Boehnlein was opposed to Rundo’s proposal.

“This is not simplifying anything — it’s just making it worse,” he said. “I don’t think our system is bad. If it works, don’t fix it.”

Dahlhausen noted the village does not require any permits for a driveway replacement unless the contractor is cutting the curb, and then only a mayor’s permit is required.

A mayor’s permit is secured by depositing $1,000 to ensure there is money available to make any repairs to village property damaged during the work, Rundo said in a follow-up interview April 2.

The deposit is refundable after an inspection is done to make sure no repairs are needed, he said, adding a mayor’s permit is required for any work done in the right-of-way or around utilities, but currently, no zoning permit is needed for some of those projects.

“Right now, a mayor’s permit is a little bit undefined. It can cover a lot of things,” he said.

Because of that, it makes the jobs of the street commissioner and the utilities supervisor more difficult, Rundo said.

For instance, to plow snow in the village, a contractor pays a $5 application fee and makes the $1,000 deposit.

When Rundo addressed the other processes, he said he broke down the steps needed for a positive outcome for the property owner and/or the contractor, then added pictures and diagrams as appropriate.

He recommended an amendment to the mayor’s permit use.

“My recommendation was to have the council amend the use of the mayor’s permit for purposes only pertaining to work being done beyond the sidewalk, in the right-of-way and/or to utilities and collecting the required deposit as currently written,” Rundo said. “But, for any work to be done, such as a fence, new driveway or any other project requiring a permit, a zoning permit should be filled out. The mayor’s permit should only come into play if the project exceeds the sidewalk and/or is in the right-of-way and/or working around utilities. In that case, a zoning permit and mayor’s permit would be required. This is only a recommendation from my perspective and it is ultimately up to council to decide how they would like to proceed.”

Spanos told village council she would meet with Rundo to discuss his proposal.

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.

Geauga County: April 11, 7:30 a.m. – Geauga SWCD, Ste. 240, 7:30 a.m. – Planning Commission, Ste. A334, 9:30 a.m. – Geauga County Commissioners. All county meetings are held at the Geauga County Administrative Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive (Ste. #), Claridon, unless otherwise noted. County commissioners meetings are held in Suite 350.

Aquilla Village: April 11, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 65 Turner Drive, unless otherwise noted.

Auburn Township: April 11, 7 p.m., Board of

Zoning Appeals; April 13, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Bainbridge Township: April 10, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

Burton Township: April 10, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Administration building, 14821 Rapids Road, unless otherwise noted.

Burton Village: April 10, 7 p.m., Village Council; April 11, 7 p.m., Public Library Trustees. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon City: April 13, 6:30 p.m., City Council. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: April 6, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 10, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning

Appeals. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Township: April 10, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All trustees meetings are held at Township Office, 15228 Madison Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Village: April 11, 5:30 p.m. –Streets, Sidewalks & Utilities, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission; April 13, 5:30 p.m. –Recreation, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance, 6:30 p.m. – Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Munson Township: April 10, 6:15 p.m., Park & Recreation Board; April 11, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 12, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: April 6, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: April 10, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

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

Berkshire BOE: April 10, 6 p.m., regular meeting followed by Town Hall Meeting. All meetings held at BOE auditorium, 14155 Claridon Troy Road, Burton, unless otherwise noted. Facebook Live Berkshire PRIME.

Cardinal BOE: April 12, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

Kenston BOE: April 11, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at Auburn Bainbridge Room at Kenston High School, 9500 Bainbridge Road, Bainbridge.

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

Drag from page 1

March 31 for attempting to burn down the church in opposition to the event (See related story on page 7).

On March 30, Chardon and Chester Township police departments and the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office asked organizers to cancel the events, but both Peacock and McMaster declined to do so.

The church was not made aware of specific threats, Peacock said, but told Chester police they would monitor the situation and cancel if things got out of hand.

“After we told them that, then they did assure us that they were going to, you know, do everything they could, that they’re going to have their people here,” he said, adding organizers were not aware at the time how many resources law enforcement planned to bring to the area.

“We don’t feel like we got the full details from them … but again, having said that, after we confirmed with them that we’re continuing, it does seem like they are doing the job that law enforcement is supposed to do,” he said.

Although online accounts had earlier shared information the Proud Boys — a farright extremist group — planned to protest the drag event, they did not show up Saturday in Chardon to protest the 18-and-over event

aggressive, less intense protest than any of us could have expected,” McMaster said during an interview April 1. “It’s a little pathetic.”

‘Judgment Day is Coming’

With media, police personnel and bystanders milling around, it was not immediately apparent how many supporters were gathered on each side of the issue.

About a dozen showed up to visibly — and vocally — oppose the event, lining up on Chardon Square opposite the restaurant and addressing those in front of the restaurant through an electric megaphone.

Much of the messaging through the megaphone was religious in nature, with calls to prayer and to those attending and supporting the drag shows to turn to the Bible instead.

“Judgment day is coming. And if you die as a homo, you will go to hell,” one protester shouted through the megaphone. “No heaven for you.”

On the sidewalk in front of the restaurant, one woman knelt with her hands raised, singing “Amazing Grace” while the protester spoke.

On the opposite side of the street, about two dozen masked counter-protesters, clad in black with rainbow scarves tied around their arms, gathered behind temporary concrete

barriers. The group remained largely silent, occasionally streaming Disney songs, which one counter-protester said would trigger copyright-related shutdowns of any accounts attempting to livestream the protest.

In addition to the megaphone, the late morning and early afternoon peace on Chardon Square was periodically punctuated with car alarms and revving engines.

An array of clergy stood quietly in front of the restaurant, most wearing rainbow colors and several holding signs in support of the drag event.

A small group of protesters affiliated with the white supremacist group Patriot Front marched onto the square at about 11:45 a.m. The 10 members arrived at the same time as predicted high winds, which left two of the white-masked, khaki-wearing squad struggling to support a banner reading “STRONG FAMILIES STRONG NATION.”

The group chanted a few times before departing at about 12:10 p.m., as the wind picked up and a light rain began to fall.

Neither the Patriot Front nor the masked counter-protesters were eager to speak to the media. However, two of those present — one from each side — indicated most in their group were not local residents.

As the weather worsened, some counter-protesters stayed, with nearby lightning strikes not enough to drag them away from the barricades. Others huddled against shop windows on Main Street, while a handful on

the opposing side of the street sheltered under the roof of the Heritage House.

Protesters were unable to attend the church story time, as parking at the CCC building was limited only to those with tickets or press passes and private security personnel.

McMaster said she paid for some security expenses in Chardon and private security at the church through her company The Fairmount Group, a firm that specializes in marketing and strategic communications for social justice issues. She will be reimbursed for what she said was about $20,000 in expenses when a current fundraising drive is complete.

McMaster said she believes groups who protested the drag shows should be responsible for the costs to the public, adding supporters of the drag show and story time were asked to stay home and away from the events that day unless they had tickets.

A vigil was held the evening of March 30 on Chardon Square to give supporters a chance to be heard without the risk of violence, McMaster said, adding she requested no police presence for that event.

The police presence on the square April 1 was “textbook,” McMaster said, adding she did not want to see an instance of police being under-prepared for a protest.

“They did a phenomenal job,” she said. “They weren’t just protecting me. They were protecting the entire community from hate groups.”

PHOTOS BY BILL FUGATE

West G

from page 1

“As with every parent here tonight, I had many questions regarding the procedures that took place today. In the sequence of events, as I was told them, my (son) found a bullet halfway through first period. He alert ed the resource officer and the office staff as he was supposed to do,” Orloski said. “My (son) was then sent back to the class and in formed his teacher why he was gone for so long … which the entire class, including the student with the gun, overheard — making my child a target.”

Orloski said her son was pulled back out of class to answer more questions and then again sent back to class.

“The shelter-in-place did not occur until halfway through the third period, almost two complete periods later. Why was my child sent back to class after finding the bullet, making him a target?” she asked the board. “What if the student with the gun had an accomplice who was not in that classroom and was notified of my son’s discovery?”

Orloski added she was told the school re source officer contaminated the scene of the crime by touching the bullet without gloves. She asked board members what the school did to protect her child.

“My child protected the other students, but what did you do to protect my child to

Firearm

from page 1

tion, West Geauga High School students were dismissed for the duration of the day and at about 8:30 p.m., Superintendent Richard Markwardt sent another email to parents to tell them the whole district would be closed April 4.

“Thank you again for your cooperation today,” he wrote. “We greatly appreciate your support.”

Chester Township Police Chief Craig Young said April 3 they received the call about the student at 9:30 a.m. and he was immediately detained at the school and is currently in the custody of his department’s detective bureau.

“We really looked into every component, every friend he had and we can’t determine

there’s anyone else involved. There was no actual threat made to anyone at the school,” Young said. “At that point, a determination was made that we were going to place the school on lockdown.”

Young said officers conducted two security sweeps of the building to make sure the school was safe after conducting a well-coordinated release of students. The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office explosives detection K9 also conducted a precautionary sweep of the school, which was found to be secure.

“For not having worked with other agencies, it absolutely went as good as it could have possibly gone,” Young said, adding school faculty and staff members handled the situation well.

Young said the investigation is in the initial stages and the individual will be charged appropriately.

“We’re really just trying to determine everything we can about the events leading up

Park ES Lockdown A ‘Miscommunication’

stAff rePort

Park Elementary School in Chardon went into a brief lockdown at approximately 1:15 p.m. on April 4 due to a miscommunication related to a drill in a nearby school.

“A miscommunication concerning a drill being conducted at St. Helen’s School caused

Park staff to believe that there was an intruder at the school based on a broadcast on the shared emergency radio system,” Superintendent Michael Hanlon said in a statement sent to parents.

Park staff, he said, believed the information they were hearing on the radio was related to their building and immediately activated the lockdown.

Although there was no emergency event at the school Chardon police and other law enforcement immediately responded to the scene, the statement said.

“While this presents a training opportunity, I am glad that our staff members activated lockdown rather than not acting on the information,” Hanlon said. “We will continue to work toward the goal of a safe and secure campus environment for students, staff and community members.”

“Just because you find something in a bathroom doesn’t mean you immediately know who that person is. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy,” Young said. “It is impossible for law enforcement to just know who left an item until they investigate who was actually in and out of the bathroom. We have to investigate that appropriately, meaning there’s a lot of work that goes into determining who could have left an item such as that.”

Young added he could not comment on the handling of the bullet as he was not yet familiar with all of the details of that portion

Resident Amanda Eiermann also took the podium to say she has a student starting at Westwood Elementary School in the fall and it pains her children no longer feel safe at school, in the community and across the country.

“Our reality is, we hear school shootings and casualties weekly, sometimes even daily it feels like. Today, I know that changes for the West Geauga community,” Eiermann said. “I’m a certified child passenger safety technician. I know how to keep kids safe in a car, but I don’t know how to keep them safe at school. I’m not coming up here acting like I have all the answers and I’m not gonna pretend I do. All I know is that we cannot afford to sit back and not change.”

Eiermann said the district needs additional protection in the form of metal detectors and school resource officers at every building, as well as a working relationship with law en-

to this and once we gain all that information, we will really be able to put together what exactly occurred,” the chief said.

Markwardt thanked the school administration and staff for keeping the students safe and calm in a letter updating parents on the situation April 3.

“I also want to thank our high school students for their exemplary behavior. They are a credit to their families and their school,” Markwardt said. “Last, but certainly not least, I want to express my deep gratitude to the local law enforcement agencies: the Chester Police Department, the Russell Police Department and the sheriff’s office, for their immediate response and heavy police presence.”

forcement agencies to promote proper and responsible gun ownership.

“There’s so much we can do as a township to protect our vulnerable children and their teachers — we just have to act. The days of sending thoughts and prayers one day and forgetting about it the next are over for us,” Eiermann said. “Our children rely on us as parents and community members for their safety. I cannot spend the next 18 years, until my children are out of the house, worrying about if the hugs and ‘I love you’s’ I gave them that morning were the last.”

During his superintendent’s report, Richard Markwardt said the district has a safety plan in place that addresses a plethora of issues. The district’s number one priority is to keep people safe, he said.

“We are an educational institution, so obviously we try to educate students,” Markwardt added. “But learning only matters if you’re in a safe environment.”

Markwardt said the district recently discussed ways to improve the current safety plan with local law enforcement.

The plan is a huge document that is submitted every year to the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, he said.

“I do have to say today, with great pride in the actions of people here, that this situation went as pretty much as well as it could have gone, so I was very grateful for the outcome,” Markwardt said, adding, however, the district can do a better job of updating teachers in terms of the safety protocols with the buildings.

Markwardt said the vigilance of a student brought the matter to the attention of administrators, who immediately involved law enforcement, isolated the student found to possess the concealed firearm and interviewed others who might have had some knowledge of the matter.

“The student who had the firearm is now in police custody as the investigation progresses. West Geauga Middle School was placed on shelter-in-place status April 3 as a precaution and police presence was elevated at West Geauga Middle School and both elementary schools. However, there was no perceived threat to any of those buildings,” Markwardt reiterated.

EASTER EGG HUNTS

Burton Chamber of Commerce

April 8, 11 a.m.

Burton Chamber of Commerce is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt at the former Burton High School, 14510 N. Cheshire St. in Burton.

Chardon

April 8, 9-11 a.m.

Chardon Square Association hosts a pancake breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Pilgrim Christian Church on Chardon Square from 9-11 a.m.

Cost is $9 for adults and $7 for children, payable by cash only at the door. There will be photo opportunities.

At 11 a.m., Chardon Chamber of Commerce hosts a free egg hunt for children 10 and under in the park. Bring a basket.

Middlefield UMC

April 8, 2 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Middlefield will host an Easter egg hunt in its pavilion located at 14715 Old State Road.

Montville Fire Department

April 8, 10:30 a.m.

Montville Fire Department will hold a community Easter egg hunt for children ages preschool through 10 at the Montville Community Center pavilion. Easter Bunny arrives at 10:30 a.m. with the egg hunt to follow. Dress for the weather; event will be held snow, rain or shine. Bring baskets for gathering eggs. Donations will be accepted at the event.

Munson Township

April 8, 10:15 a.m.

Munson Township will hold its annual Easter egg hunt, rain or shine, at Munson Township Park, 12641 Bass Lake Road. The Easter bunny will arrives at 10 a.m.

Bring a basket or bag to collect the eggs, which will be turned in for a bag of goodies. There will be two age groups: 2-5 years and 6-9 years.

Alliance Man Arrested for Chester Church Attack

By Amy PAtterson Amy@kArlovecmeDiA com

Aimenn D. Penny, 20, of Alliance, was arrested March 31 on one count of malicious use of explosive materials and one count of possessing a destructive device, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Court documents allege Penny used Molotov cocktails during a March 25 attack on the Community Church of Chesterland in what the DOJ said was an attempt to burn the church to the ground.

Burn marks were left on the doors to the church preschool and shards of glass remained at the site from a broken bottle Penny allegedly used in the attack.

CCC Pastor Jess Peacock said in an interview April 1 that while the church suffered no major damage due to rainy weather preventing the fire from spreading, the goal of the attack was to make people afraid in what should be a safe space.

“If someone just threw a Molotov cocktail at your house and it didn’t do a lot of damage, but, you know, there were some burn marks, that would make you feel unsafe in your own home. That would make you feel violated,” he said. “Whether the church burned down or not really isn’t the issue. It’s the intent behind the attack.”

In a statement, Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the DOJ National Security Division said Penny allegedly used an explosive device to cause harm to a church he found objectionable.

“It is the solemn duty of the Department of Justice to safeguard the right of all Americans to free expression and I commend the work of law enforcement in this matter,” Olsen said.

According to Agent Lane Thorum, author

of the filing, White Lives Matter is “a group with racist, pro-Nazi and homophobic views.” Members of the group showed up to a March 11, 2023, drag queen event in Wadsworth where they carried swastika flags and shout ed racial and homophobic slurs, as well as chants of “Heil Hitler,” Thorum’s report said.

The Wadsworth Police Department identi fied Penny as one of the WLM members pres ent at the drag event March 11. Thorum’s re port also said the Alliance Police Department interacted with Penny in October 2022 after he was found distributing flyers throughout the city that were racial in nature, calling Af rican Americans the “problem.”

“Penny stated that he believed African Americans were solely responsible for the high crime rate across the country,” the re port said. “Penny further made it clear that he believes — and looks forward to — the civil war coming between races. Penny expressed his belief that the United States will not prosper until all the other races, or ‘weaknesses’ as he called them, are gone.”

Law enforcement used Penny’s phone to trace him to the CCC where, based on an investigation and patrols by Chester police on the night of March 24, it is believed the arson and other damage occurred March 25 between approximately midnight and 2 a.m., the report said.

“On March 31, 2023, a duly authorized search warrant was executed at Penny’s residence, vehicle and his person,” the report said. “The FBI conducted a recorded interview, during which Penny admitted to building the Molotov cocktails and deploying them at CCC with the intent to burn the structure. … (He) stated that he would have felt better if the Molotov cocktails were more effective and burned the entire church to the ground.”

A search of Penny’s residence revealed,

Roads, Roads and More Roads

Commissioners Approve 3 Resurfacing Projects

By BriAn Doering BriAn@kArlovecmeDiA com

Geauga County Commissioners once again paved the way for a trio of road resurfacing projects April 4.

During their regular meeting, Commissioners Ralph Spidalieri, Jim Dvorak and Tim Lennon unanimously approved the project bids for a total amount of $1,786,798.

“All three of these projects were opened on March 22. Those projects were part of our 2023 paving program,” said Geauga County Engineer’s Office Deputy Engineer Shane Hajjar. “The bids were all lower than our estimate and the contractor that will represent the lowest bid is being recommended for the award for each of those three projects.”

The first bid was awarded to Karvo Companies, Inc. for the asphalt resurfacing of Fairmount Road in Russell Township in the amount of $614,593.

Hajjar said the project will cover 2.2 miles from County Line Road to state Route 306.

“That’s part of our ongoing bid procedures. Karvo represented the lowest and best bid. The next action is to request the board to approve the award and then we move through the contract phase of the project,” Hajjar said.

The second and final projects were both awarded to Ronyak Paving, Inc. for the asphalt resurfacing of Clay Street in Huntsburg Township at $431,600 and in Thompson Township in the amount of $740,605.

“Section C and D were done in 2010 and Section K and L were last done in 2011. They represent some of the older sections and the surfaces had deteriorated to the point where maintenance was more involved and more frequent, so they became a priority to resurface,” Hajjar said, adding a total of 4.6 miles will be covered.

All three projects will have a tentative start date in early June and completion by early August.

“Most of them have a 28-day duration. We’re hopeful that they’ll be less than that, but that’s what we have stated in the bidding documents,” Hajjar said.

Commissioners also approved a unit price contract with Woodford Excavating, LLC., for the replacement of the Washington Street Bridge in Auburn Township in the amount of $312,416.

“This would be the final step prior to moving forward with construction. It’s in desperate need of major rehabilitation to the point the cost of rehabilitation is very close to replacement,” Hajjar said. “We opted for a replacement and this bridge is a four-sided box culvert. You won’t see it, but the structure underneath the road is decaying and kind of crumbling and needs to be replaced.”

The project for the concrete bridge will have a tentative start date of April 3, with completion expected by June 2.

“We gave them a two-month window to do the work, but we only expect it to take about three weeks at that location,” Hajjar said.

the Community Church of Chesterland in what the US Department of Justice said was an attempt to burn the church to the ground. Penny is pictured at a March 11 protest of a drag event held in Wadsworth, Ohio.

among other things, a handwritten manifesto that contained ideological statements, a Nazi flag, Nazi memorabilia, a White Lives Matter of Ohio T-shirt, a gas mask, multiple rolls of blue painter’s tape and gas cans.

If convicted, Penny faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison, or up to 20 years, for the malicious use of explosive materials charge, and up to 10 years in prison for the possession of a destructive device charge.

Peacock said he hoped the government would pursue hate crime charges against Penny, who became enraged after watching internet videos of news feeds and drag shows in France and decided to attack the church, according to Thorum’s report.

“Penny stated that he was trying to protect children and stop the drag show event,” Thorum said.

“It’s not difficult to connect the dots,” Peacock added. “We’re constantly being called groomers, satanists, child molesters and then someone tries to burn our church down. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to connect those two issues.”

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler for the Northern District of Ohio said violence and destruction are never an acceptable way to express a disagreement with a particular viewpoint.

“While, as Americans, we enjoy the right to disagree, doing so peacefully is the only appropriate option,” Baeppler said. “The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio remains committed to protecting the rights of all citizens to express their viewpoints peacefully.”

Diesel Program Speeding Along On Berkshire’s Career Pathway

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmeDiA com

Anyone who says young people don’t want to work hasn’t visited Berkshire Schools’ diesel mechanics classes.

Monday through Thursday, nearly two dozen young men and women spend part of their school day in hands-on learning in the bus garage on Claridon Troy Road in Middlefield Township. Each young person has plans that involve hard work.

The group is split into halves that alternate mornings and afternoons, gaining skills under the tutelage of instructor Jim Marsic.

Marsic is particularly suited to instruct on diesel operations and repairs since he owns Countryside Truck Repair on GAR Highway in Montville Township, where he also serves as a township trustee.

As a business owner he understands the need for skilled workers in his field, so when he heard Berkshire Schools and Auburn Career Center were collaborating to set up a diesel mechanics program, he offered his expertise.

“I said, ‘I won’t sit down and write a big check out for the diesel program, but I can donate my time,’” he said in a recent interview at the Kuhnle Building, formerly the Berkshire Schools administration building.

He added ACC gives him a stipend. “It costs nothing for Berkshire to have me here.”

Morning Report

The instruction begins in the classroom at 8 a.m., where the students gather at a U-shaped table arrangement and Marsic tells them

what they will be doing — singly and in groups — for the day.

When one student is told he will be washing parts, the others scoff.

Marsic shuts them down, emphasizing there are no lesser jobs.

“I keep notes on who does what. I know cleaning is boring,” he says, adding cleaning engine parts is just as vital as measuring cylinders with a dial indicator prior to reassembly. Both will ensure an engine that will, someday, run flawlessly.

“His job is as important as his job, his job and his job,” he says, pointing to other future mechanics.

His students clearly know what he is talking about when Marsic says the cylinder is ready for assembly; the front gear case cover is off and not going back on, yet.

“All gears must have back lash,” he says. “Gears can’t be tight, they’ll overheat. They have to have some slop in there.”

Another team will be putting O-rings on the liners and one student is assigned to the service section.

“Paul, Joey, make sure you understand the schematic before going out,” he directs, warning them against shooting from the hip. “I’m not going to pay you to guess.”

Paul asks a question about routing the air line and is told to take the shortest route.

“We are going to run this engine. Don’t damage it,” Marsic says.

He talks about torque specifications and keeping the surfaces spotless.

“When you are working inside an engine, don’t use shop rags, use blue towels,” he says, because they are lint-free.

Marsic deals with some youngsters who are novices to the garage while others have been around shops most of their lives.

“Some of these kids work on farms. They are familiar with equipment. A few are working with excavators or their families have trucks. They understand the basic principals,” he said.

High school students are within a few months of completing their first year of the diesel program and some plan to take the second year. Others will move in other directions, but they all look to the skills they are learning as being part of their future, in some way.

Isaac Solko, 15, expects to use what he has learned at home and in a career. The instruction is important to him, as well as the ordered atmosphere in the garage.

ites,” he says, adding he works on trucks and

ics is high, Isaac says he isn’t aiming for a

“It will take a while before they know,”

No Shortage of Opportunities

Internships are part of the program that is still evolving, says Matt Morbeto, director of curriculum.

“It will be built into (the intern’s) schedule,” Morbeto notes, adding interns will be spending part of the day in a business to learn and help.

Marsic says when the students toured various diesel shops earlier in the course they were welcome with open arms.

“Managers and owners asked, ‘You want to take a job application home? How soon can we sign them up?’” he says. Two of his students are already employed and half a dozen have shadowed mechanics in different places. It is a field wide open with many opportunities, he adds.

See Program • Page 10

McMullen Accused of Bias Against Munson FD

Letter from MFD Attorney Threatens Legal Action

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmeDiA com

Munson Township Trustee Irene McMullen has been accused of bias against the Munson Township Fire Department treasurer and having a conflict of interest.

On behalf of the MFD, attorney Charles P. Royer emailed a letter March 27 to township trustees requesting McMullen step back from the department’s mission to have a fire levy placed on the November ballot.

“Please accept this correspondence as Munson fire’s request that Trustee and current chair, Irene McMullen, recuse herself from consideration of voting, discussing, deliberating, lobbying, or otherwise participating in any way regarding Munson fire or a potential levy to support Munson fire,” he wrote, arguing that because of her actions, McMullen shows she has a conflict of interest with the fire department.

Anonymous Letter Issue

“At the Feb. 14, 2023, trustees meeting, Ms. McMullen chose to offer and insert into the public record an anonymous letter raising questions about Munson fire. It should be noted that Trustee Jim McCaskey said there was no reason to respond to the anonymous letter. Further, Ms. McMullen has said on at least two public occasions that others have inquired about the same issues. A public records request, however, reveals that claims are patently untrue,” Royer wrote.

He quoted a section of the Ohio Administrative Code Rule that reads: A conflict of interest exists when the personal or professional interests of a trustee affect his or her ability to be objective.

He also mentioned other alleged incidents he said were evidence of her bias and claimed there are further incidents to prove his case to be revealed at a later time.

“Ms. McMullen’s personal feelings about Mr. (Rich) Ferlin (MFD secretary/treasurer) prevent her from treating Munson fire or Mr. Ferlin objectively,” he wrote. “Unless Ms. McMullen steps aside, any discussion about Munson fire will not occur on a level playing

field. Therefore, on behalf of Munson fire, we request that Ms. McMullen recuse herself from any voting, discussions, deliberating, lobbying, or otherwise participating in any way regarding Munson fire or a potential levy to support Munson fire.

Legal Remedies Threatened

“We would be pleased to discuss this request in detail in any executive session scheduled upon reasonable notice,” Royer continued. “If Ms. McMullen refuses to recuse herself, we reserve the right to seek all available legal remedies including, but not limited to, termination of the contract between Munson fire and the township upon a 90-day written notice.”

Royer attended the March 28 township trustees meeting, sitting with Fire Chief Mike Vatty, as McMullen tried to ascertain how raises are determined for the fire department board of trustees.

She read a statement claiming Trustee Andy Bushman, MFD liaison to the township trustees, told her they voted for their own raises, a claim Bushman denied.

“I never said they vote for their own raises,” he said. “They vote for raises for the membership – not themselves. Raises for the board go through a different channel.”

Clarity, however, was not achieved during the meeting.

“I’m confused — I thought the members of the (MFD) board were also employees,” McMullen said, adding, if a levy is placed on the ballot, she would have to answer residents’ questions about the operation of the department.

Ferlin referred her to the updated MFD bylaws, which McMullen said she did not have.

The bylaws do not appear to reveal the process by which MFD board members receive pay raises.

MFD Salary Process

Because the MFD is a private corporation, not a township fire department, it is up to the board and chief to determine raises, but there is a pay schedule for each position,

Ferlin said via phone interview April 1.

The chief, who is elected by the membership, is the only one who has to abstain from voting on his own pay raise, Ferlin said, adding the chief is the president of the corporation and chairman of the board, and chooses a vice president and a secretary/treasurer to help him run the corporation.

The president also makes recommendations in the form of motions to the board, which then votes on them, Ferlin said.

In a March 31 conversation, Ferlin said the MFD board of trustees votes on the salary of the chief and assistant chief, who abstain from that vote, and the chief approves the rest of the salaries at the recommendation of the board.

MFD Minutes Requested

During the March 28 meeting, McMullen said she has asked to have the minutes from the MFD trustees’ meetings emailed to her so she can track who voted for what measures.

“I’m still asking to see the (MFD) board meetings records,” she said. “It seems clear to me they are public records and our residents have a right to see them, as well. I’m waiting for a written response. It would be easier if I read the minutes. They might say who voted for raises.”

At that point, Ferlin asked if Royer could explain the matter, but McMullen, as trustee chair, was hesitant.

“I frankly do not know the procedure when a member of the audience takes over the meeting,” she said.

Vatty echoed Ferlin, requesting Royer to answer the question.

“Why should the fire department be denied a representative?” he said.

“I’m concerned about the First Amendment,” McMullen said. “I’m not stopping you from speaking. I’m just concerned about procedure. We have an agenda.”

Royer said his concern is about personal bias the township trustees may have toward the fire department.

“My suggestion is we just move on to the chief’s report on storm damage,” McMullen said, noting it was time for the opening of road bids, set through advertisement for 6:45 p.m.

Ferlin said McMullen may have access to the meeting minutes at the fire station.

“You are welcome to read the minutes. Everybody has the same right, (but) no one is allowed to take them out. We won’t redact them,” he said.

In a text April 1, McMullen said she believed Royer’s letter was in error.

“I just reviewed Mr. Royer’s letter to (Township Office Manager) Ms. (Paula) Friebertshauser,” she wrote. “Beside attributing allegations to me that I have no involvement with, I note that Mr. Royer may have meant to refer to someone else in his letter. I have not been involved in much of what was alleged, so I cannot speak to the situations he described. As I stated previously, I believe a levy for the November ballot can be supported and I am working toward putting such a measure to a vote by Munson voters.”

McMullen

Program from page 8

And, for most high school graduates, passing the diesel course will allow them to avoid or delay two to four years in college and at least $30,000 in student loan debt.

Morbeto says the diesel course is a big part of Berkshire’s Prime Initiative to give students real skills they can take into the real world of work. Having 23 sign up for the course was just about right for the first year.

“It was a real big step for us to roll this out,” he says, adding Diesel II will be an advanced mechanic’s class that is taking shape since Marsic’s group is on the track to succeed.

“We are offering something new,” Morbeto says. “We weren’t sure.”

Marsic credits Berkshire Schools Board of Education President John Manfredi with bringing Kuhnle on board as a sponsor providing the space and equipment.

Hands-on, Real World Work

Berkshire Superintendent John Stoddard said the Prime Initiative was included in the plans for the new all-grade school on the Kent State University campus in Burton Township.

The idea is to focus on the trades or career pathways, he says. He was new to the job when he polled local business owners about what kind of employees they need.

“Diesel mechanics kept popping up,” he says, adding that concept fit right in with the district’s project-based learning trajectory.

Using the old board office, with its two

bus-sized bays as a classroom, was possible once the new school was occupied in 2021. Then ACC, also realizing the need for diesel mechanics, stepped up to help with the program and Marsic attended the community meeting where he volunteered, Stoddard recalls. ACC helped Marsic get licensed.

The high school students who pass the class will receive one elective credit hour on their records and he was enthusiastic about the internship part of the program.

The opportunities were offered last year through an email asking parents and students to sign up for the meetings. This year the classes are being offered in the school course catalog that was recently approved, Stoddard says.

“This is part of our over-all core values — hands-on, real-world work,” he says, adding Berkshire also has rolled out a medical assisting curriculum for high school students.

“We want to continue to evolve these types of career pathways,” says Stoddard.

They will introduce students to job opportunities and give them the skills to qualify in those fields. “We want all our kids to see great employment opportunities and, ultimately, go work for businesses and factories.”

Marsic notes his students are in class for different reasons. One wants to go into engineering, another wants to go into the family business. He doesn’t care where the class leads them, he just wants them to carry on with what they have learned.

“As long as everybody leaves here with an education they can use. This is experience and knowledge they can never get from a book,” says Marsic.

Letters to the Editor

With Gun Ownership Comes Responsibility

With gun ownership comes responsibility. In light of the recent mass shooting taking the lives of children and faculty at yet another U.S. school, the voice of more gun owners is desperately needed in promoting safe gun ownership and sensible gun safety measures.

Firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. These deaths are entirely preventable. Sensible gun laws slow the surging uptick in gun deaths by allowing time and distance between a person showing signs of being a threat to themselves or others and a firearm, strengthening background checks on all firearm sales, and ensuring secure storage of firearms to prevent access by children. The majority of gun owners support these simple policies and their voices are needed in these conversations. By failing to act on sensible gun safety laws, we are failing our children . . . one young and innocent death at a time.

Rebecca Gorski Chester Township

Help Available to Quit Smoking

Did you know that about one in four Americans suffer every day from some form of mental illness? Additionally, those with a mental illness are more than twice as likely to use nicotine products. Nearly 40% of all cigarettes are smoked by adults with either a mental health or

substance use disorder.

Currently, 1 in 4 Americans suffer from some form of addiction to nicotine while fighting a chronic behavioral health issue such as substance abuse. These individuals are likely to suffer the same effects of tobacco use — like heart disease, cancer and respiratory diseases — as those who smoke without having a mental illness. However, those with a mental illness can die as much as 24 years earlier than others, and often contributed to a tobacco-related illness.

Due to the mood-altering effects of nicotine, individuals with mental illness have a higher risk for cigarette and nicotine addiction. Despite these issues, smokers with mental illness want to quit, can quit and can be helped through established stop-smoking treatments.

There is free help available through the Ohio Tobacco Quit Line at 1-800-QUITNOW. Quitting smoking is rarely easy. However, it can be done.

Quitting smoking is the single most important step people can take to protect their health and the health of their family. There are also local resources available from Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers, (440) 255-0678.

Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers is a private, nonprofit agency providing continuous service to the community since 1971. Services at Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers are made possible due to the generous support of the Lake County ADAMHS Board, the Geauga Board of MHRS, and United Way of Lake & Geauga Counties.

Melanie Blasko, LPC-S, LICDC-CS President & CEO Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers

Obituaries

Jeanette Mabel Alvord

Jeanette Mabel Alvord, age 87, passed away unexpectedly on March 24, 2023.

She was born Nov. 9, 1935, in Montville Township, to August and Tillie (nee Srp) Haase.

Jeanette fell in love with and married James Alvord on June 30, 1956.

Jeanette was a vibrant person who lit up a room wherever she went. She was a lifetime member of the Chardon United Methodist Church and an active member of the United Methodist Women’s Group. She was involved in the Chardon Schools, worked at First County Bank, and volunteered at the Geauga University Hospital gift shop.

She enjoyed playing bridge, sewing, needlework, cooking and reading, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survived by her husband of 66 years, James Joel Alvord; children, Beverly Sue (Kevin) Chuha, William James (Dawn) Alvord, James Paul (Kimberly) Alvord and Jennifer Joyce (Michael) Gambale; eight grandchildren, Benjamin Joel (Tamara) Chuha, Lucas Paul (Elizabeth) Chuha, Daniel William (Sara) Alvord, Julie Lynn (Leland) Thomas, Amanda Jane (Aaron) Gartner, Cody Michael Alvord, Brandon Michael Gambale and Brian Michael Gambale; eight great-grandchildren, Ava Mae Chuha, Cheyenne Marie Conkey, Brooke Autumn Thomas, Olivia Rae Gartner, Ivan Maddox Chuha, Landon Thomas Tucker, Ashton Rhys Chuha and Hunter Daniel Thomas; and siblings Louise Pillars and Joyce Dale.

Jeanette is preceded in death by her parents, August and Tillie Haase; sisters Florence Warner and Marilyn Robich; and brother Clifford Haase.

Jeanette will be dearly missed but was a shining light to all who knew her.

Our family invites you to join them, as they celebrate Jeanette’s life. Celebration of Life will be held April 6, 2023, from 2-4 p.m., at Chardon United Methodist Church, 515 North St., Chardon,.

Burial will take place at a later date.

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

Dale L. McGurer

Dale L. McGurer (nee Pizzi), age 77, of Chardon, passed away peacefully sur rounded by her loving family.

Dale was born Feb. 22, 1946, and is the daughter of the late Marion Jr. and Helene (nee Van Daele) Pizzi. She is the wife of the late Fred D. McGurer, for 48 years (deceased in 2020).

She is the loving mother of Kimberly Levick (husband, Michael) and Kelly Ramsey (husband, Paul); adored grandmother of Taylor Solvey ( husband, Aaron), Kelsey Coss (fiancé, James Leanza), Chase Levick, Rosalee, and James; cherished great-grandmother

of Maxwell; sister of Bonnie Detzel; aunt of many. Beloved by so many more family members and friends who became family.

Dale served her community as a letter carrier for the Chesterland United States Postal Service for 30 years.

She is remembered by her kind, caring heart, her sense of humor, baking, and love for animals and semi-trucks. She will be dearly missed in the days to come.

Dale was laid to rest following the service at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The First Church Of Warren or The American Heart Association in Dale’s memory.

Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, handled arrangements.

Dean Joseph Charvat

Dean Joseph Char vat, 82, of Burton, passed away Tues day, March 28, 2023, at Hospice House in Cleveland.

He was born Sept. 12, 1940, in Cleveland, to the late George F. and Anne (nee Prochaska) Char vat.

Dean served in the U.S. Navy. He was a firefighter for Shaker Heights Fire depart ment until he retired in 1992.

Dean was a member of St. Helen Catholic Church, a lifelong member of the V.F.W., a member of the Eagles, Pope & Young, and Buck Masters. He was also a member and official scorer of Buckeye Big Buck Club, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, and had a great love of the outdoors.

He had many interests and innate abilities as a craftsman and enjoyed helping others.

Dean will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 60 years, Marion M. (nee Zakrajsek) Charvat, having celebrated this milestone surrounded by loving family on Jan. 26, 2023; daughters, Kelly (Robert) Mintz, of Hudson, Kimberly Todd, of Concord Township, and Karen Charvat, of Burton; grandchildren Catherine, Samantha, Adam, Calvin; great-granddaughter, Isabella; brother-in-law, Andrew (late wife, Barb) Zakrajsek; nephews, Jason (Kim) and Chris Zakrajsek; great-nephews, Cameron, Andrew and Charlie Zakrajsek; and many other relatives and friends.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter Abigail and brother, George.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 4-7 p.m., at Atwood Mauck American Legion Post, 14052 Goodwin Ave., Burton, where Military and Firefighter Honors will be held.

The family requests no flowers or plants, but if you wish, a memorial donation can be made in Dean’s name to the Burton Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 243, Burton, OH 44021.

Sly Family Funeral Home assisted his family with arrangements. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com.

S P O R T S

Hilltoppers Boys Lacrosse Undefeated to Start Season

By AlAn kornsPAn sPorts@kArlovecmeDiA com

Chardon Hilltoppers boys lacrosse is off to a great start. On March 28, the team defeated Willoughby South, 15-2, then won over Canfield two days later, 12-6.

The Hilltoppers are now 3-0 on the season.

Chardon Head Coach Andy Caballero discussed his team’s victory over Willoughby South.

“It went well,” Caballero said. “We just needed to keep the tempo up.

“It was a good competition, though. It definitely kept our boys on our toes. South, you know, stayed in there, and they were definitely playing some hard defense, which kind of gave us a wake up call.”

The Hilltoppers got ahead early and did not look back, scoring 11 unanswered goals in the first three quarters.

They added four additional goals in the fourth quarter, while the Rebels added only two to make the final score, 15-2.

Leading scorers for the Hilltoppers were Nick Snyder and Edyn Haueter, who both netted three.

“The game today, we fought really hard,” Snyder said. “I had a couple good goals today. As long as I am cutting and moving, the goals will happen.”

Added Haueter, “It was a good game all around.”

Also contributing to the scoring were Nick DeMore, Ethen Jackson and Daniel Humphrey, all of whom scored twice. Caleb Foster, Anthony Raines and Jason Rus also scored for the Hilltoppers.

Leading the Hilltoppers in assists in the victory were Snyder (4 assists), Jackson (3), Haueter (2), Vincent Schmidt (2) and Adam

Zielinski

(2).

The Hilltoppers were dominant both on the offensive and defensive sides of the field against the Rebels. They produced 26 shots on goal, and scored on 15 of those shots for a 57 percent conversion rate.

Leading Chardon in shots on goal were Jackson (5 shots on goal), Snyder (4), Nick DeMore (4), Foster (3), Haueter (3) and Rus (3). Also, contributing shots on goal were Meyer, Raines, Schmidt, and Zielinski.

Just as strong on the defensive side of the field, the Hilltoppers allowed the Rebels only nine shots on goal. The Rebels did not capitalize on these shots, either, until late in the game, when they scored twice in the fourth quarter.

Another important metric contributing to Chardon’s dominance was its fielding. The Hilltoppers successfully fielded 33 ground balls with 13 players contributing.

Leading in the field were Jacob Heintz (7 ground balls), William Vucetic (5) and Jackson (3). Eight Hilltoppers had two ground

balls apiece: Snyder, Nick DeMore, Foster, Michel Oh, Schmidt, Daniel Humphrey, Zachary Heintz and Sam Sacerich.

Rus and Raines also fielded ground balls for the Hilltoppers.

On March 30, then, the Hilltoppers extended their winning streak to three.

Canfield took an early 2-1 lead over the Hilltoppers in the first quarter. However, Chardon scored seven goals in the second quarter to take an 8-3 halftime lead.

The Hilltoppers outscored Canfield, 4-3, in

the second half to make the final score 12-6.

Leading the way for the Hilltoppers against Canfield were Snyder, Foster and Jackson. All three had hat tricks, scoring three goals apiece.

Jackson led the Hilltoppers with three assists against Canfield. Nick DeMore, Foster, Haueter and Snyder also had an assist each for the Hilltoppers.

The Hilltoppers will try to extend their winning streak to five as they face Holy Name on April 5 and Hawken on April 8.

BILL FUGATE/KMG

Chardon’s Nick Snyder scored three goals in his Hilltoppers’ 12-5 win over Willoughby-South in a home match. The Hilltoppers started the season at 3-0.

NDCL Takes Positive Approach Towards Success

By AlAn kornsPAn sPorts@kArlovecmeDiA com

The NDCL boys volleyball team is currently in its first season of existence, and since OHSAA-sanctioned boys volleyball is new, many of the NDCL players are also new to the sport.

However, at NDCL, although many of the players have not been training specifically for volleyball throughout high school, there is a wealth of athletic talent on the team. In fact, the team is captained by two football players and has seven seniors on its roster.

The Maple Leaf recently caught up with the team out at Mentor High School to discuss its season so far.

On March 25, NDCL traveled to Mentor. Although the Lions lost 3-0, all the games were close.

The Lions lost the first game, 25-19. They stayed close in the second game, but lost 2520. Finally, they lost the third set, 28-26.

After the game, players talked about being a first-year program and developing a culture focused on having fun and focusing on the process of improvement.

“We played a tough game, we lost in three, but close game all around,” Declan Nosse said. “We lost some easy points, but were all good.”

Added Joey Valentino, “You know, we got to fix up the little things and make sure we don’t mess up, get some easy points, get the serves over, and maybe we’ll get them next time.”

Senior Medo Abumathkour discussed the importance of communicating to develop the

cohesion necessary for success.

Abumathkour believes the team needs to continue focusing on improving communication by talking more often to each other while on the court.

“We do drills where we have to communicate,” Abumathkour said. “I think we just need to learn how to work as a team a little bit more.”

Valentino and Nosse discussed their roles as captain and senior leaders during NDCL’s inaugural boys volleyball year.

“We just try and build people up and bring people into the sport for next season,” Nosse said. “We’re all very new, we’re learning. We are playing good, we are trying our best here.”

“You know, there is going to be some struggles,” Valentino also acknowledged. “You just got to be ready for the next day and hope to pick it up next time.”

However, despite the lumps, both captains emphasized the fun that everyone is having playing volleyball.

“(We’re looking forward to) just having a fun time the rest of our last couple months of high school,” Nosse said. “We are playing because we want to have fun, and that’s all that matters.”

Added Abumathkour, “I am just here for fun; I’m having a fun time.”

Offensively, the NDCL boys volleyball team has been led in kills so far this season by Nosse (42), Valentino (31), Timmy Sargi (24), Jack Mulchin (18) and Tim Nieto (15).

Leading the Lions in serving aces and assists is freshman Brennan Kogovsek, who has 17 serving aces on the season. Also leading in serving aces are Nosse (10), Nieto (10), Sargi (8) and Valentino (8).

As the main setter for the Lions, Kogovsek leads the team with 74 assists.

NDCL boys volleyball returns to the court to take on Chardon on April 3 and Independence on April 5.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

NDCL’s Ty Nieto, left, during the team’s 3-0 loss to Mentor. The NDCL boys volleyball team is currently in its first season, and since OHSAA-sanctioned boys volleyball is new, many of the NDCL players are also new to the sport.

4-H News

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.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover

April 7, 2-4 p.m. • Chardon

Kids ages 3-7 may drop off their stuffed best and then join the next day to pick them up and see what kind of mischief they got caught up in overnight.

Easter Egg Hunt

April 8, 10 a.m. to noon • Thompson

Children ages birth to 10 will celebrate the Great Easter Egg Hunt.

Follow the Money

April 11, 7 p.m. • Chardon

The Geauga County Genealogical Society and certified genealogist Cynthia Turk will discuss how a family’s mysteries or elusive ancestors may be brought to light thanks to old courthouse ledgers.

Amphibian Awakening

April 12, 2 p.m. • Thompson

Join the Geauga Park District to explore the fascinating world of amphibians during their most active and productive time of the year - spring.

Bulletin Board

Good Friday Meal

April 7, 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Chardon VFW Post 6519 is serving up a Good Friday meal at the post located at 752 Water St. Menu items include fish, shrimp, chicken, pierogies and sides. The public is welcome.

NEOCAG Meeting

April 8, 9:15 a.m.

The NorthEast Ohio Computer-Aided Genealogy Society, Inc. (NEOCAG) monthly meeting will be held online via Zoom.

Genealogist lecturer Ari Wilkins will present “How the Weather Affected Your Ancestor.” The presentation begins at 9:45 a.m. For more information and registration, visit www.neocag.net or email webmaster@neocag.net.

Book Groups

No registration required.

• Virtual, April 10, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., “The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company by Robert Iger.

• Geauga West Branch, April 11, 6:30 p.m., “West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge.

• Middlefield, April 13, 5:30 p.m., “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

• Chardon, April 18, 6:30 p.m., “Maus” by Art Spiegelman.

• Bainbridge & Virtual, April 18, 7 p.m., “The Measure” by Nikki Erlick.

• Chardon, April 19, 7 p.m., “The Feather Thief” by Kirk Wallace Johnson.

Crafting Nights

April 13, 7-8:30 p.m. • Chardon

Unite with other needle-based artists in a friendly, communal environment to craft.

Passport Fair

April 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Chardon

GCPL has partnered with the Geauga County Clerk of Courts to provide a one-stop shopping experience to help one complete the necessary steps to get a passport. No registration required.

Geauga Amish History

April 18, 2-3 p.m. • Bainbridge

Join John Gingerich, librarian at the Geauga Amish Historical Library, to learn all about Amish history, everything from its origins in Europe, migration to America, settlement in Ohio and Geauga County, to the challenges facing the culture in modern times.

Bluebirds 101

April 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. • Virtual

Learn more about bluebirds and other secondary cavity-nesting birds.

FGP Explorers Series

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

Join Foundation for Geauga Parks for a hike at Oberland Park, 14899 Auburn Road in Newbury Township. For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks. org or call 440-564-1048.

Passover Seder

April 11, 6:30 p.m.

Geauga Democratic Women’s Caucus will host a traditional Passover Seder at the party headquarters located at 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township. All are welcome. Suggested donation is $5. RSVP to gcdwomenscaucus@gmail.com.

Have A Heart Spay/Neuter

Valley Save-A-Pet’s Have A Heart program offers cat and dog sterilizations at a discounted rate. Call 440-232-2287 any Monday, Wednesday or the first Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for information and to apply for a spay/neuter certificate. For more information, visit www. valleysaveapet.org.

Gardening Helpline

Gardeners may send their gardening questions to the Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers helpline at mggeauga@yahoo.com.

The Ohio State University Extension volunteers are trained to educate others with timely research-based gardening information and are available April through October. Include a detailed description of the problem along with one’s full name, address and phone number in the email. Feel free to send a photo of the gardening problem. Email will be checked Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 440-834-4656 for more information.

to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com

Composting Basics

April 11, 4-5:30 p.m.

The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District presents “Composting Basics for Backyards and Schoolyards” at the Bainbridge Public Library.

Learn about composting basics and benefits, different composting methods and how to avoid common composting problems. Kenston High School student Madeline Ramsey will present how she successfully started a composting program at her school. Enter a chance to win a free compost bin. To register for the free program, call 440-543-5611 or visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

FOW Night at the Races

April 15, 6-9 p.m.

Friends of WomenSafe is hosting its first annual Night at the Race at Centerville Mills, 8558 Cracker Road, Bainbridge Township. Tickets are $40 each and include dinner and entry into the event. Tickets are limited; visit www.friendsofwomensafe.com or call 440-285-3741 for more information.

CWC Lunch and Program

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

Join Christian Women’s Connection for lunch and a program at Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township. Auburn Pointe Greenhouse will present the 10 best annuals to grow. Featured speaker Tiffany Blevins will deliver her message, “A young man, a mother-to-be and a successful woman and her choices all collide on one fateful night.” To RSVP by April 14, email cwcchavgrin@gmail.com or call/text 440-213-1205.

Veterans Resource Fair

April 19, 3-6 p.m.

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

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

Taste of Leadership

April 20, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Join Leadership Geauga for its annual Signature Adult Program recruitment event at Lowe’s Greenhouse in Bainbridge Township. The evening will consist of Leadership Geauga alumni, board members and staff mingling with potential members for the class of 2024.

The event is free and open to the public. To register, call 440-286-8115 or visit www.leadershipgeauga.org.

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

award recipients from each county will be recognized by their peers and state education leaders.

Camp Fitch

The sixth-grade class recently enjoyed a rather chilly, but fun-filled three days at Camp Fitch in North Springfield, Pa. Activities led by the teachers included outdoor cooking and games, pioneer crafts, a group challenge course and archery. The camp filled the remaining time with a Lake Erie study, horsemanship and fire building.

Students enjoyed the special trip. A big thank you to everyone involved in making sixth-grade camp a success.

College and Career Night

West Geauga High School recently hosted the Ohio Association for College Admission Counseling (OACAC) CLEast College and Career Fair, which was open to all area high school students. The high school

NDCL

Lewis Wins Speech Contest

Sophomore Olivia Lewis won the firstplace prize in the Chardon Rotary speech contest on March 20 at The Lodge at Bass Lake.

For her top-ranked speech on eating disorders, the Rotarians awarded Olivia $300 and other gifts. She will advance to the district competition in Akron next month.

Olivia’s parents as well as speech teacher Leo Bond and play director Shirley Ivancic Stall cheered her on at the annual competition.

Governor’s Art Show

In a competition that included more than 8,300 entries from Ohio’s 1,112 high schools, junior Gabriella Garcia and seniors Liam Filson, Mohammed Abumathkour and Paige Fisher are among 325 state winners in the Annual Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition. Their outstanding achievement places them in the top 4 percent of student artists statewide.

Judges selected Gabriella’s photo titled “A New Era” for the Governor’s Award of Excellence, a distinction earned by only 25 artists statewide.

The works of Gabriella, Liam, Mohammed and Paige will join other state winners to be showcased in a exhibit that runs from April 23 to May 18 at the James A. Rhodes State Office Tower in Columbus.

All four NDCL winners are the students of art department chairperson George Yaniga.

Diocesan Youth Advisory Council

The Diocese of Cleveland recently announced that juniors Lucy Joyce and Anthony Roach have been named to the Diocesan Youth Advisory Council.

According to Diocesan Director of Youth Ministry Francine Costantini, Lucy and Anthony will serve with other young people in the diocese to be the voice of the young Church to Bishop Edward Malesic. They will offer guidance to the Office of Youth Ministry, develop their leadership abilities and grow as missionary disciples.

St. Helen

kindergarten students are invited to an informational meeting at 6 p.m. April 12 at Westwood Elementary School. Students must be registered for kindergarten in order to attend. Visit www.westg.org for student registration and event details.

Facility Master Planning

The West Geauga Facility Master Planning Committee has been sharing its progress with the West Geauga Local School District Board of Education during regularly scheduled board meetings on March 13 and April 3.

The community has another opportunity to learn more about the facility master planning project that is currently underway by attending the board meeting on April 24.

Open to the public, the meeting will be live-streamed on YouTube and posted to the West Geauga Local School District website.

For more information, visit www.westg.org and click the link directly on the homepage.

SUBMITTED

Students in St. Helen Preschool’s Little Hornets class huddled under a lean-to at Swine Creek during their maple sugaring field trip. They learned the historical methods of making maple syrup and sampled some of Geauga County’s finest.

SUBMITTED

Leo Bond, left, and Jeff Suszynski, right, of the Chardon Rotary Club, congratulate Olivia Lewis on her speech contest win.

Legal Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

23-F-000103 - Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, as Trustee for the benefit of the Freddie Mac Seasoned Loans

Structured Transaction Trust, Series 2021-1 vs. Carol Dean, et al.

Unknown Heirs at Law, Devisees, Legatees, Administrators, and Executors of the Estate of Michael Carothers, whose present place of residence is unknown, will take notice that on February 17, 2023, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, as Trustee for the benefit of the Freddie Mac Seasoned Loans

Structured Transaction Trust, Series 2021-1, filed its Complaint in Foreclosure in Case No. 23F000103 in the Court of Common Pleas Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, alleging that the Defendants, Unknown Heirs at Law, Devisees, Legatees, Administrators, and Executors of the Estate of Michael Carothers, have or claim to have an interest in the real estate located at 11658 Pekin Road, Newbury, OH 44065, PPN #23-297500 and 23297600. A complete legal description may be obtained with the Geauga County Auditor’s Office located at 231 Main St., Chardon, OH 44024-1293.

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

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

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

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

Mar23, 30 Apr6, 2023

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

STATE OF OHIO

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Columbus, Ohio

Division of Construction Management

Legal Copy Number: 230280

Sealed proposals will be accepted from prequalified bidders at the ODOT Office of Contracts until 10:00 a.m. on April 27, 2023. Project 230280 is located in Geauga County, TSG FY2023 and is a SIGNALIZATION project. The date set for completion of this work shall be as set forth in the bidding proposal. Plans and Specifications are on file in the Department of Transportation.

Mar30 Apr6, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP DUST CONTROL BID

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

Bid proposals may be obtained by calling the Huntsburg Township Fiscal Officer at 440636-5486 or mailing to P.O. Box 280, Huntsburg, Ohio 44046. All bid proposals shall be submitted on forms provided by the Board of Trustees.

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

The Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any or all bids, waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids received, and to accept any bid or bids which are deemed most favorable to the

Board at the time and under conditions stipulated, all in accord with the applicable provisions of the laws of the State of Ohio governing the conduct of the Board of Trustees. Legal notice shall be considered as part of the bid specifications.

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

By Order of the Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees.

Michele A. Saunders, Fiscal Officer Mar30 Apr6, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE

Munson Township Board of Zoning Appeals Munson Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on April 19, 2023 at 6:30 pm at the Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Rd., Munson, OH to consider the following appeals for a variance and conditional use.

CASE 23-04: FMGC, LLC (Mike Mucciarone, Officer) 13095 Rockhaven Rd., Chesterland OH – Conditional Use renewal – Sec. 8012n (in part) a conditional zoning certificate for any of the uses provided herein shall be valid for a period not to exceed five years from the date of issuance.

CASE 23-05: LLGC, LLC (Mike Mucciarone, Officer) 11135 Auburn Rd., Chardon OH – Conditional Use renewal – Sec. 8012n (in part) a conditional zoning certificate for any of the uses provided herein shall be valid for a period not to exceed five years from the date of issuance.

CASE 23–06: Todd Carroll 11865 Julie Dr., Chardon OH – requests to construct a new residence 60’ from the front road right-ofway with a driveway 10’ from the west side property line. Violates SEC. 411 Minimum Dimensional Requirements-minimum setback from the road right-of-way is 80’; and SEC. 511 Driveways (in part) driveways shall be a minimum of 15’ from any lot line. Paula Friebertshauser, Secretary Apr6, 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

Application Received for Air Permit Chardon Metal Products 206 Fifth Ave, Chardon, OH 44024 ID #: A0074155

Date of Action: 03/16/2023

Renewal application for an open top vapor degreaser

Draft NPDES Permit Renewal - Subject to

Revision Tarkett North 16910 Munn Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Facility Description: Individual Receiving Water: Bridge Creek, Eggleston Creek ID #: 3IF00010*LD

Date of Action: 04/03/2023

Apr6, 2023

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

BURTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPLICATION FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT

Notice is hereby given that the Burton Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application for a conditional zoning certificate to the Burton Township Zoning Resolution on the 18th day of April, 2023 at 7:00 o’clock p.m. at the Burton Township Administration Building, 14821 Rapids Road, Burton, Ohio 44021.

This application #1585-22, submitted by Western Reserve Land Conservancy, requests a conditional use certificate for land to be used as a Passive Public Park with hiking trails, restroom facility, park shelter, and wetland observation deck/boardwalk. Fishing will be allowed but no hunting or ATV or other motorized vehicle usage except for maintenance activities. Park anticipated to be open during daylight hours (which may vary). The park will be staffed and may host educational groups and other Land Conservancy sponsored events to aid in the engagement of their mission. This request is made in an R-3 (Medium Density Residential) district located at: 14757 Ravenna Road in Burton Township, Ohio. Parcel #04-707255 & #04-707256.

Additional details are included in the application, a copy of which may be requested by contacting the Burton Township BZA Secretary at Katie.BurtonTownship@gmail.com.

Following the public hearing, any other business as it relates to the responsibility of the Board, will be discussed and action taken as needed. You can keep up to date with the status of this public hearing on our website www.burtontownship.org

Kate O’Neill, Secretary Apr6, 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

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;

02-202070

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 fi-

nal 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

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Proposals will be received by the Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste Management District, 5138 Enterprise Dr. NW, Warren, OH 44481, UNTIL APRIL 19, 2023, AT 3:00 P.M., to provide consulting services for an updated Solid Waste Management Plan following Ohio EPA Format 4.1, meeting requirements of ORC 3734.54.

Request for Proposal (RFP) documents are on file at, and may be obtained from, the Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste Management District. Contact Jennifer Jones at jenn@ startrecycling.com to obtain proposal documents.

Proposals must be received in a closed folder/binder or similar container and bear on its face the name and address of bidder and be plainly marked “PROPOSAL FOR SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT SERVICES – PLAN UPDATE”. After review and recommendation by a Policy Committee and the Board of Directors, a contract may be awarded by the District, to the responsible firm whose proposal is most advantageous to the District, with price and other factors considered.

The proposal review process will begin on or after 3:00 P.M. on April 19, 2023, in the Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste District Office. In order to ensure fair and impartial evaluation, proposals and any documents or other records related to negotiation for any contract shall not be available until after the award of that contract. Thereafter, such records will be made available for inspection and copying, upon request, after the District has an opportunity to review such records and redact all information that is prohibited from being released by law.

The District reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive any defect in a proposal unless waiver of that defect would materially alter the RFP requirements.

You may view this notice on the District’s website by going to www.startrecycling.com and clicking on the About drop-down menu, District Management link, or you may enter https://startrecycling.com/district-management/.

Apr6, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO PROPERTY OWNER (APPLICATION FOR A VARIANCE)

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

The Huntsburg Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application, identified as number 202302, for a Variance, on Monday the 24th day of April 2023 starting at 7:00 pm. at the Huntsburg Town Hall located at 16534 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg, Ohio.

The application submitted by Aaron A. Yoder to request he be granted a variance for area to allow for the creation of a rear lot at 13120 Clay Street, Parcel No. 16-078735, Huntsburg Township.

Persons affected or wishing to comment may speak for or against either in person or by an attorney at said hearing.

Chairman

David Peterson,

Apr6, 2023

NOTICE OF SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT

22-A-000243 - Dangelo LTD., et al. vs. Bainbridge Township, et al.

The Bainbridge Township Board of Trustees gives notice of its intent to file a settlement agreement and consent agreement in Geauga County Court of Common Pleas case 22-A-000243, Dangelo LTD., et al. v. Bainbridge Township, et al. v. The Chagrin Knolls Condominium Association, Inc, et al. The judgment entry agreements, signed by the parties, settles and releases all claims related to the Bainbridge Township Board of Zoning Appeals’ decision concerning Application 2020-35 and provides that the parties agree that the appeal concerning case no. 22 A000243 is settled. In addition, the judgment entry agreements also settle all pending matters with respect to a related case, Knowles Building Company et al. v. The Township of Bainbridge, et al., case no. 97-A000537.

The property at issue is identified as permanent parcel number 02-025500, which is described at Volume 1753, Page 2480 of the Geauga County Record of Deeds as follows:

Situated in the Township of Bainbridge, County of Geauga, State of Ohio, and known as being part of Original Bainbridge Township Lot No. 30, Tract No. 1 and is more particularly described as follows;

Beginning at a 5/8” Iron pin found in a monument box at the centerline intersection of Park Circle Drive (60 feet wide) and Hilltop Park Place (60 feet wide) in Knowles Industrial Park Phase 1 as shown on the recorded plat in Volume 15, Page 69 of Geauga County Map Records;

Thence South 88° 01’ 20” West, along said Park Circle centerline, 120.00 feet to a P.K. nall set at the west terminus of said Park Circle and the Principal Place of Beginning of the parcel of land herein intended to be described;

Course I Thence South 01° 56’ 40” East, along said west terminus, 30.00 feet to a 5/8” Iron pin found (ID E.B. Dudley 6747) at the southwest corner of said terminus;

Course II Thence North 88° 01’ 20” East, along the south right-of-way line of said Park Circle Drive, 60.00 feet to a point at the northwest corner of a parcel of land conveyed to PMD Group, Inc. by deed recorded in Volume 1346, Page 739 of Geauga County Records (witness a 5/8” Iron pin found 0.27 feet south and 0.12 feet east);

Course III Thence South 01° 44’ 54” East, along said PMD Group’s west line 397.96 feet to a point at the southwest corner thereof, and in the north line of a parcel of land conveyed to the Village of Chagrin Falls by deed recorded in Volume 135, Page 418 of Geauga County Deed Records and also in the south line of said original Lot No. 30 (witness a 5/8” iron pin found 0.09 feet south and 0.22 feet west);

Course IV Thence South 88° 54’ 16” West along said Chagrin Falls’ north line and said south line of O.L. 30, 996.65 feet to a 5/8” iron pin found in the centerline of a creek at said Chagrin Falls’ northwest corner and at the southeast corner of a parcel of land conveyed to Harris W. and Margaret Smith by deed recorded in Volume 911, Page 459 of Geauga County Records;

Course V Thence North 00° 44’ 55” West, along said Smith’s east line, and the east line of a parcel of land conveyed to Julius L. and Mary A. Vemyl by deed recorded in Volume 491, Page 449 of Geauga County Records, 577.68 feet to a 5/8” iron pin found at said Vemyl’s northeast corner and also being the southeast corner of a parcel of land conveyed to Richard C. and Norma Wise by deed recorded in Volume 1682, Page 264 of Geauga County Records;

Course VI Thence North 00° 37’ 41” West, along said Wise’s east line 121.19 feet to a point at the southwest corner of common area lands in Chagrin Knolls Condominiums Phase 1 as recorded in Volume 29, Page 99 of Geauga County Map Records (witness a 5/8” Iron pin found 0.11 feet south and 0.06 feet east (ID Braun-Prenosil));

Course VII Thence North 89° 13’ 59” East, along said Chagrin Knolls Condominiums’ south line and the south line of a parcel of land conveyed to Chagrin Knolls LLC by deed recorded in Volume 1175, Page 964 of Geauga County Records, 722.44 feet to a point at the southeast corner of said LLC and being in the west line of Sublot 5 in Knowles Industrial Park, Phase II as recorded in Volume 16, Page 1 of Geauga County Map Records (witness a 5/8” iron pin found 0.16 feet north (ID

Braun-Prenosil));

Course VIII Thence South 01° 58’ 40” East, along the west line of said Sublot 5 and the west line of Sublot 3 in said Knowles Industrial Park, Phase 1, 240.83 feet to a 3/4” Iron pin set at the southwest corner of said Sublot 3;

Course IX Thence North 88° 01’ 20” East, along the south line of said Sublot 3, 200.00 feet to a 5/8” Iron pin found (ID E.B. Dudley, 5747) at the northwest corner of said westerly terminus of Park Circle Drive;

Course X Thence South 01° 58’ 40” East, along said west terminus, 30.00 feet to the Principal Place of Beginning and containing 14.3108 Acres (623,378 square feet) of land as surveyed and described in January, 2005 by Joseph Gutoskey, P.S. 7567, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways. Bearings used herein are based on Knowles Industrial Park Phase 1 plat.

Prior Deeds of Record

Volume 469, Page 95

Volume 469, Page 137

Volume 469, Page 139

Apr6, 2023

Geauga Sheriff’s Report

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office March 24-30, 2023.

AGENCY ASSIST

March 25

5:07 p.m., Caves Road, Chesterland. Deputy and K-9 en route to Community Church of Chesterland. K-9 was employed to search the church, searched all rooms and did not alert to anything. Chester PD chief advised of search results.

ANIMAL ABUSE

March 24

brother’s account. He received a bill in March for $12,500. Account was opened using his personal information. He advised he did not open the account and that the activity with the card was fraudulent. Requested a report and stated Wells Fargo will be investigating incident.

LEGAL NOTICE

Burton Township and Newbury Township

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Burton Township Board of Trustees, c/o Shelley McDermott, Fiscal Officer, at 14821 Rapids Road, Burton, Ohio 44021 until 11:00 AM official local time on April 21, 2023, for The Asphalt Resurfacing of Various Roads in Burton Township and Newbury Township. Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud the same day at 11:05 AM. The estimated construction cost for this project is $460,000.00.

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

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

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

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

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

BY THE ORDER OF THE BURTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES Shelley McDermott, Fiscal Officer Apr6, 2023

9:26 a.m., Nash Road, Parkman. Caller believes this residence runs a puppy mill and is concerned for the safety and welfare of the dogs. She’s filed a report with Rescue Village but doesn’t think it’s properly being investigated. She would like a deputy to investigate further. Responding officer left voice message for complainant to contact supervisor from Rescue Village or the Geauga County Dog Warden’s Office for her complaints involving the dogs at that location.

CITIZEN DISPUTE

March 24

6:45 p.m., Regal Place, Auburn. This morning caller’s neighbor tried to hit caller with her car. Deputies met with complainant who advised she has been having issues with her neighbors and believes it stems from a deed restriction she had changed on her property. She said their neighbors have run her brother-in-law and her son off the road in past six months. She said this morning she went to walk her dog and as she was getting ready to step on the road her neighbor sped up and flew by her. Deputy asked if neighbors swerved at her and she said no. Complainant requested deputy speak to neighbors. Deputy responded to neighbor’s and received no answer and left a notice for them to contact deputy.

March 25

11:12 a.m., GAR Highway, Hambden. Will be out with a dispute. Members bringing in friends without paying. Advice provided.

EXTRA PATROL

March 26

7:17 p.m., Patch Road, Parkman. Caller was walking on Patch between Newcomb and 168, and a male with glasses stopped and stated, “I want to see your p&%#$.” He was driving a small black car. Caller is requesting extra patrol. Incident occurred 15 minutes ago.

FRAUD

March 27

10:54 a.m., Basswood Road, Munson. Complainant filed a report for identity fraud. He received a credit card in January in his name. He thought it was for his

3:45 p.m., Walden Oaks Drive, Munson. Complainant received a scam phone call from someone claiming to be with Stark County Sheriff’s Office. Said he was told he had a warrant for his arrest for failure to appear in court. He was instructed to purchase two “Money Packs” for a total of $500. He provided the codes on the back of the cards to the male. He was instructed to come to GCSO to verify a signature. He was advised incident was scam.

INTOXICATED PERSON

March 29

1:01 a.m., South State Avenue, Middlefield. Intoxicated male was located walking westbound on East High Street. He stated he just left the bar and wanted to go get a drink from Circle K and then go home. He admitted he was drunk and agreed to allow deputy to give him a ride home to village apartments. Male transported without issue.

MEDICAL

March 24

7:30 a.m., Madison Road, Middlefield. Male in his 30s at Mercury Plastics got liquid plastic on face and arms and chest. Small pieces stuck to him. Male in front first aid office. Community Care transported one male.

THEFT

March 29

10:02 a.m., Claridon Troy Road, Claridon. Stack of cash taken by caller’s ex. About $15,000 when he moved out at the house about a week ago. Female last talked to male on Friday. Female will be in front office. See report.

March 30

5:09 a.m., Castlewood Drive, Newbury. Ladder stolen from the side of caller’s shed. Caller has neighbor on camera yesterday taking it. Neighbor is outside lighting a bonfire. Neighbor believed step ladder was his. Returned the ladder. No charges will be filed.

WEAPON OFFENSE

March 24

3:34 p.m., Cross Creek Parkway, Newbury. Caller works at VanCuren and he can hear the bullets whizzing by and ricocheting off stuff. Shooting coming from Munn. Father and son targeting shooting. Sufficient backstop noted, however, bullet may have been ricochet. Shooter will reposition target. Complainant advised.

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

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

Windsor road-bike $500. Horse-drawn sleigh $500. Western saddle $500. Honda push-mower $300. (8) Fishing poles $200/for all. 845-987-0079.

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

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

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.

Celli Spading Machine: 55” wide, will spade up to 12” deep, had had very little use. $5,000 OBO. 440-5482414.

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

Teeter Inversion Table: as seen on TV, relieves all back pains, older model, excellent condition, $100. 440-431-6944.

Free: Melodigrand Upright Spinet Piano, good condition. Chardon. Call 440-286-1617.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Multi-family Yard Sale: Wed. 4/19. 15298 Shedd Rd. Lots of “Stamin-up”. New DeWalt chargers. Fresh Homemade Donuts. Call to pre-order 216-410-3265/440554-9195.

HELP WANTED

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

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

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.

PETS & ANIMALS

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

Bunnies for sale. 440-632-9651.

MISCELLANEOUS

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

REAL ESTATE

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

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

Lot for sale. Thompson Township. Buildable. 1 acre. Wooded, scenic, quiet side street $15,900. 440-2890708.

SERVICES

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message. Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.

WANTED TO BUY

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.

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

WORK WANTED

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

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

GEAUGA

440-729-7667

20 words for $12

Deadline: Friday at Noon

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Mar. 24, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AQUILLA VILLAGE

Michael T. Diemert Jr., Goredon Drive, to Paw Places Limited LLC, $59,000. (0.40 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

JSK Management, Chillicothe Road (s/l 17 N.), to Nicholas Kimble, $19,200. (0.34 acres)

VPC Development LLC, Tulip Lane (s/l 17), to Chad and Kelly Van Dusen, $265,000. (3.03 acres)

Adam P. Kohn (trustee), 8125 Woodberry Blvd., to Jimmy T. Pham and Pham Le Tram Ngoc, $1,240,000. (1.04 acres)

Justin T. and Emily L. English, 17871 English Drive, to Susan Wieland, $293,000. (2.00 acres)

BURTON TOWNSHIP

Janet M. Cale, 16240 Georgette Drive, to Adam C. Klonowski and Brittany Strickland, $116,000. (0.32 acres)

Timothy D. Takacs, 13985 Aquilla Road, to Gary and Diana Tabbert, $749,000. (6.38 acres)

CHARDON CITY

Paul J. Mooney (trustee), 211 S. Oval Drive, to Jennifer Greskovich, $87,500. (0.00 acres)

Real Estate Transfers

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Megan Himmel and John T. Justus, 12150 Heath Road, to Thomas Mark and Stephanie Ann Kaufman, $280,000. (1.60 acres)

Kylene M. Duaso, 7150 Wilson Mills Road, to REO Investments LLC, $90,000. (6.95 acres)

Robert L. and Sarah J. Doll, 12943 Opalocka Drive, to Anthony Decapite, $220,000. (1.03 acres)

CLARIDON TOWNSHIP

Rene Weems, Taylor Wells Road, to Jens Peter and Winni Clausen (trustees), $240,000. (24.10 acres)

Marilyn J. Oakford, 14349 Mayfield Road, to Connor E. Oakford, $123,500. (5.00 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

Denice J. Laderman, Rock Creek Road, to Ryan Michael Mcneilly and Katharine Grace Begin, $349,000. (54.00 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Richard M. Petrick, Crestwood Drive (s/l 3-4), to Kathy M. Gibbs (TOD), $228,000. (1.50 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Valerie A. Huffman, 15967 Johnson St., to Laura A. and Michael J. Stepic, $150,000. (0.19 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Aaron A. Miller, 12662 Auburn Road, to Sean C. Perry, $235,000. (1.50 acres)

Cyrus Lux Estates and Services LLC, 12263 Woodiebrook Road, to David Stringer and Kaeli Gallagher, $380,000. (1.60 acres)

NEWBURY TOWNSHIP

The Newbury Investment Company, 11272 Kinsman Road, to Newbury SH LLC, $380,000. (9.31 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Paul M. and Esther S. Kauffman, 17640 Hosmer Road, to Steven E. and Linda L. Miller, $386,000. (14.20 acres)

Steven E. Miller, 17270 Hosmer Road, to Joseph D. and Leah H. Miller, $225,000. (5.78 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Mary A. Miser and Albert K. Randall, 8457 Ridgewood Lane, to Roya Rafieh Bagheri and Ritesh Kumar Sharma, $340,000. (2.17 acres)